Toxics in LipstickLipstick is essential for most women when it comes to appearance because it simply adds a visually appealing factor. Lipstick is also used to moisturize the lips, keeping them soft and reducing dryness. Most women do not know much about toxic substances in cosmetics because then the cosmetic would be avoided by some if not most. According to pamf.org, a teenager uses 15-25 cosmetics a day. Lipstick is one of the cosmetics that contains very aggressive chemicals. Common ingredients found in most lipsticks are wax (beeswax, candelilla wax, or camauba wax), oil (mineral, lanolin, castor, or vegetable oil), preservatives and antioxidants, pigments, and fragrances. All these common ingredients in lipstick have the effect of making the product rich and effective. These are the ingredients that most people know are in lipstick because they are included on most labels. The hidden ingredients in most lipsticks are Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Retinyl Palmitate, D&C Red 36, D&C Red 22 Aluminum Lake and Tocopheryl Acetate. Most of these harsh chemicals all have a carcinogenic effect or help develop some form of disease. This is why most companies do not disclose this information on the label, because they fear that people would not purchase the item if they knew the effects of harsh chemicals. Many lipsticks have been found to contain traces of lead, this becomes more dangerous after women start licking their lips or eating and drinking something because the lead has been consumed in the body and enters the bloodstream. Obviously a small amount of lead has no major effect or harm at the time, but these little things eventually add up and have a significant effect. Lead…half of the sheet…and MEA. These chemicals are said to be linked to breast cancer, skin rashes, estrogen, hormone disruptors, linked to liver and kidney cancer, and irritate the eyes. Fun fact: Did you know that foundation originated from the ancient Greeks who first used foundation to make their skin appear paler? Having light skin also meant that the person was privileged. Before: The foundation used by the ancient Greeks consisted mainly of white lead powder, chalk and cream. Many people died from the poisonous lead in the product. Safe Alternative: There are several companies that offer safe alternatives to customers. The following companies are said to be reliable, Weleda, Lavera, Ecco Bella, etc. These companies all have safe skin care products that you can trust and that can be used without the harsh chemicals found in common brand foundation products.