When it comes to cosmetics, there seems to be an endless amount of brand names and types to choose from. One of the newest trending topics when it comes to the industry is choosing cruelty-free brands. While I don’t disagree with the message of cruelty-free makeup; I disagree with the common notion now of buying cosmetics solely based upon the fact. I think there are more reasons we should be wary of buying something to slather over our skin all day.
One of my previous topics comes into play here: the transparency of companies. We have demanded to know as much as we can about the brands we buy. These brands are divulging more of the ingredients they use than ever before. We are starting to become values driven instead of value driven. However, when it comes to cosmetics and women, we seem to be more horrified at what they do to animals during testing than what the makeup is actually made from.
Let’s take a look at three of the most common ingredients found in makeup: carbon black, mica and titanium dioxide. Carbon black is used in eyeliner, mascara, eye shadow and foundation. Originally, the dark pigments from coal and tar were used, but the United States FDA banned them for obvious health reasons. Carbon black is the substance produced by the incomplete combustion of petroleum products like coal tar and ethylene cracking tar. Approximately 70% of the world’s usage of this material is used for the reinforcement of tires. Those working with carbon black are required by law to wear respiratory personal protective equipment to avoid over-inhalation, as it causes upper-respiratory health problems. An extensive review of carbon black was done back in 2011 by the Canadian government which concluded that use of the material should continue. This was because “in most consumer products carbon black is bound in a matrix and unavailable for exposure, for example as a pigment in plastics and rubbers.” As a result, it would not affect consumers or the environment as it would in its raw, powdery state. The second ingredient, similar in respiratory side effects is mica. Mica is a naturally occurring mineral dust found in foundations and makeup powders due to its filler properties as well as its reflective properties. Dry-ground Mica is used in the production of rolled roofing and asphalt shingles as a surface coating to prevent sticking. In addition, it is also used as drywall filler. Wet-ground mica is used in nail polish and latex balloons for a shiny, coloured surface. Mica is used in combination with the third ingredient, titanium dioxide to produce pearlescent paint for vehicles. Titanium dioxide is used primarily for its whiteness and opacity. Paints, plastics, inks and varnishes are the most common uses for the substance. As a powder, titanium dioxide poses a mild respiratory risk. As a topical agent, such as sunscreen, it has been known to cause topical allergies.
Now, these may exist in small amounts within our makeup products, but we wear makeup every day, and even re-apply within the day. It begins to add up in our systems. These products are something we put on our skin, which absorbs most of what is put onto it. So while it’s important we aren’t being cruel to cute little bunnies, it should be as equally important to know what ingredients are going into our cosmetics. Often, the images we see of sick animals in the industry are the result of the ingredients used. If we start with the ingredients, cruelty-free product can begin to follow. The next hurdle to tackle in this industry would of course be the humans mistreating the animals by their own hand. The way to start is by having a unified, consumer voice. An intelligent consumer is a dangerous consumer to the predatory brands of the world. Not buying their brands helps stop the cruelty; helps stop the toxic ingredients. Money is how we speak in this society.
Why are we only focusing on one aspect of the makeup industry? I believe it’s due to people’s attention. If we put a face to cruel events, we are more apt to get involved. The problem with that is that we become focused on one detail, and lose sight of the main focus. We want healthy products, and we want the whole process to be healthy and safe. The faces of animals should serve as our motivators. The next time you are out shopping, pick your cosmetics with this in mind. Kind to your body, kind to the environment and kind to creatures.
