Common harmful ingredients include 

Methylparaben – a preservative used in many beauty products. Use of these chemicals is restricted in the European Union because they’ve been linked to cancer, may disrupt the endocrine system, or be toxic in other ways. The Cosmetics Database labels them a “high hazard.”

Propylparaben – a frequently used cosmetics ingredient that can irritate skin and eyes or cause reactions in those who are allergic. Some studies have also raised concerns about endocrine disruption, cancer and other toxic effects. It is rated a “moderate hazard” by the Cosmetics Database.

Retinyl Palmitate – a synthetic form of vitamin A that may be toxic to pregnant women. It is rated a “moderate hazard” by the Cosmetics Database because limited evidence links exposure to a range of health problems, from cancer to reproductive effects.

Colorants – such as D&C Red 36 (rated “low hazard”), and D&C Red 22 Aluminum Lake(rated “moderate hazard”) are typically tested on animals, and have raised concerns because some research has linked exposure to nervous system damage and other health concerns.

Lake colors – very toxic artificial colouring agents derived from barium potassium, strontium and aluminium. They are sourced from carcinogenic sources and may cause allergies, skin irritations and cancer.

FD & C colors (derived from coal tar – petroleum) – Many of these colors are believed to be toxic (carcinogenic) and when ingested can cause skin irritation, nausea, and headaches.

Carmine – marketed as a natural coloring agent, it comes from the boiling of pigmented beetles, yet it can cause allergies and skin irritations.

Tocopheryl Acetate – also known as vitamin E acetate, is used in a variety of products, including lipstick, moisturiser and foundation. The Cosmetics Database rates it as a “moderate hazard” because it may cause itching, burning, scaling, hives and skin blistering, and may be toxic.

Lead – a common ingredient and can be very harmful when ingested. It has been known to cause health problems such as; cancer, anemia, and infertility. The higher the content the greater chance of causing cancer. It has also been linked to brain and nerve damage and can affect the kidney.

Leonardo Dicaprio’s recent Instagram post explains how Lead poisoning effects the brain.

Cadmium – this is a carcinogen found to increase cancer cells and is a contaminant found in soil.

There are many, many more.  

These are the main elements that make up lipstick, important to know as they can either be derived naturally or chemically. Do not be fooled!

Wax –  is either candelilla wax, carnauba wax or beeswax, this ingredient is needed to help keep it all together and give the lipstick its shape.

Fragrance – should only be a small amount to give the lipstick a nice smell.   Although, fragrance can cause chapped, dry lips and dermatitis.

Oil – can be either vegetable, caster, mineral or lanolin.  A majority of lipsticks will contain lanolin or mineral oil.

Preservatives and Antioxidants – help to preserve the shelf life and prevent it from becoming stale.

Pigment and dyes – makes up many colors, the colors can either be made from chemicals or plants.

Other common ingredients in lipstick are parabens (methylparaben and propylparaben).

At Chique we stock natural lipsticks from Synergie Skin that are not harmful to your health.

All brands do not produce natural lipsticks because natural ingrediants is more harder and expensive to obtain than cheap chemicals mass produced in factories.

The difference between natural and chemical lipsticks, other than health effects and cost, is application doesnt last as long (without lead) in which case all you need to do is apply natural lipstick more often (every few hours or so).

Key Ingredients in Synergie Skin Lipsticks 

Stabilised L-ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) benefits:
• Provides potent antioxidant protection to scavenge ageing and damaging free radicals
• Boosts collagen production in the deeper layers of our lips for a firmer, more youthful look
• Reduces inflammation created by environmental UV stress and pollutants

Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide – provides broad spectrum UVA/B protection from ageing and damaging rays.

Grapeseed Oil/Shea Butter/Lanolin – nurturing natural emollients to lock in moisture and the hydrate lips.

This product contains lanolin and beeswax and is not suitable for vegans.

Application

Apply two coats to the lips for flawless coverage. Re-apply after eating or every 3-4 hours.

Description

Synergie Minerals Lipsync-C lipstick produces distinct cosmeceutical benefits to the lips as well as natural UV protection. Natural lip hydrators and stabilised vitamin C provides collagen support and antioxidant benefits, whilst a sweet hint of natural stevia leaf and mandarin makes this formula so delicious you want to eat it!

Shades available (from left to right):
Opulent-C, Ecsta-C, Fanta-C, Delica-C, Secre-C, Intima-C