It’s tough to do a comprehensive chemical analysis of lipstick at home without a lab! However, here are 5 practical methods you can use to get a better idea about the potential for harsh chemicals in your lipsticks:

Read the Ingredient List Carefully:

What to look for: This is the most important step! Become familiar with common harsh chemicals found in lipsticks. Red flag ingredients to watch out for include:

• • • Parabens (e.g., Methylparaben, Propylparaben): Preservatives that can be endocrine disruptors.

    • Phthalates (e.g., DBP, DEP, DEHP): Plasticizers that can also be endocrine disruptors.

    • Lead: A heavy metal contaminant (often not listed, but a concern, especially in older or cheaper brands).

    • Synthetic Fragrances: Can contain a cocktail of undisclosed chemicals that may cause irritation or allergies. Look for “fragrance” or “parfum” without further details. Natural essential oils are generally okay.

    • Coal Tar Dyes (e.g., FD&C Red No. 40, D&C Yellow No. 5): Synthetic colorants derived from petroleum, some of which are linked to health concerns.

    • Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (e.g., DMDM Hydantoin, Diazolidinyl Urea): Release formaldehyde, a known carcinogen.

  • How to do it: Take the time to carefully read the ingredient list on the lipstick packaging or the brand’s website. Look up any ingredients you’re unsure about on resources like the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Skin Deep database (more on that below).

Limitations: Ingredient lists can be incomplete or use confusing terminology. Also, some contaminants (like lead) may not be listed.

• Use the EWG’s Skin Deep Database:

  • What it is: The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has a Skin Deep database (www.ewg.org/skindeep) that rates cosmetic ingredients and products based on potential health hazards.

  • How to do it: Search for the lipstick brand and product name in the EWG Skin Deep database. The database will provide a hazard score based on the ingredients and their potential health effects. You can also search for individual ingredients to learn more about their safety.

  • Limitations: The EWG database relies on publicly available scientific data, which may be limited for some ingredients. The ratings are also based on potential hazards, not necessarily actual risk.

Perform a Patch Test:

• • What it is: A simple test to check for allergic reactions or irritation.

  • How to do it: Apply a small amount of the lipstick to a discreet area of your skin, such as the inside of your wrist or elbow. Cover the area with a bandage and leave it for 24-48 hours. Check for any signs of redness, itching, burning, or swelling. If you experience any of these symptoms, discontinue use.

  • Limitations: A patch test only detects allergic reactions or irritations, not long-term health effects from chemical exposure.

Smell Test:

• • What it is: Assessing the scent of the lipstick.

  • How to do it: Give the lipstick a sniff. A strong, artificial, or chemical-like odor could indicate the presence of synthetic fragrances or other harsh chemicals. A more natural or subtle scent is generally preferable. Be aware that some lipsticks have added fragrance to mask other odors.

  • Limitations: This is a subjective test. Some natural ingredients can also have strong smells.

Observe the Texture and Performance:

• • What to look for: Consider how the lipstick feels on your lips and how it performs over time.

  • How to do it:

    • Texture: A lipstick that feels very dry, waxy, or heavy may contain ingredients that are not skin-friendly.

    • Wear Time: Lipsticks that claim extremely long wear times often contain higher levels of synthetic polymers and preservatives.

    • Lip Condition: Pay attention to how your lips feel after wearing the lipstick. If they feel dry, chapped, or irritated, it could be a sign that the formula contains harsh chemicals.

  • Limitations: This method is subjective and can be influenced by individual skin sensitivity.