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Best Non-Toxic Foundation in 2024
Updated:
Nov 18, 2024
Written by Camille May
Cofounder & Product Curator
+ 1 more
Medically reviewed by Olushola Awoyemi
PhD Environmental Toxicology
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What you should know when choosing non-toxic foundation on Welpr:
- Only the cleanest products make it onto Welpr.
- We use a score called the Welpr Rating to rank each product.
- The Welpr Rating is based on math, not opinion, ensuring it's free from human bias.
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Find Non-Toxic Foundation
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Skin Twin Featherweight Foundation - Beautycounter
Certifications
Highlights
Est. Price
$32.00
Product Details
- Dermatologist tested for sensitive skin.
- Provides a natural, matte finish.
- Contains hydrating ingredients like aloe vera and glycerin.
- Offered in a wide range of shades to match different skin tones.
- Lightweight, oil-free formula that glides on smoothly.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Coco-Caprylate, Isododecane, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Isostearic Acid, Polyglyceryl-4 Diisostearate/Polyhydroxystearate/Sebacate, Isoeicosane, Propanediol, Jojoba Esters, Glycerin, Magnesium Sulfate, Cera Alba/Beeswax/Cire D'abeille, Dimethicone, Gluconolactone, Sodium Chloride, Calcium Gluconate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Isopropyl Myristate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Lecithin, Sodium Benzoate, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
2nd Skin Lightweight Serum Foundation - 100% Pure
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$48.00
Product Details
- Naturally colored with patented fruit pigmented technology, packed with antioxidants and moisturizing nutrients.
- Offers a feather-like formula that acts as a primer and absorbs excess oil with bamboo silica.
- Provides medium to full coverage with a flawless satin finish that blends seamlessly into the skin.
- Contains olive squalane and calendula for anti-aging benefits, enhancing youthful plumpness and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Cruelty-free, ethically sourced, and free from harsh toxic chemicals, heavy metals, fragrances, or dyes.
- Gluten-free and vegan; made in the USA.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Lightweight
- Smooth
- Even
Cons Mentioned
- Flaky
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Olea Europaea (Olive) Squalane, Pigmented Extracts Of Prunus Persica (Peach), Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot), Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Beans, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate), Rubus Idaeus Fruit (Raspberry), Prunus Serotina (Wild Cherry), Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Beans, Camellia Sinensis (Micronized Black Tea) Leaves, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Starch, Lonicera Caprifolium Flower And Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract, Origanum Vulgare (Oregano) Extract, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Extract, Hydrastis Canadersis (Goldenseal) Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Extract, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Bamboo Silica, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Mineral Foundation SPF 15 - Lily Lolo
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$22.00
Product Details
- Award-winning mineral foundation.
- Free from harsh chemicals, nano particles, parabens, bismuth oxychloride, talc, synthetic dyes, fillers, and fragrance.
- Made with natural ingredients and includes natural SPF 15.
- High performance and water-resistant.
- Silky and soft texture; never cakey or powdery.
- Allows buildable cover while permitting skin to breathe.
- Naturally radiant: light reflecting to minimize blemishes and fine lines.
- Suitable for light skin tones with balanced undertones.
- Smooth and silky, provides a flawless airbrushed complexion.
- Vegan and gluten-free.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Natural
- Long-lasting
- Non-irritating
Cons Mentioned
- Oily
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Mica, Zinc Oxide [+/- CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), CI 77492 (Iron Oxide), CI 77491 (Iron Oxide), CI 77499 (Iron Oxide)]
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Cream Foundation - Kjaer Weis
Certifications
Highlights
Est. Price
$70.00
Product Details
- Silky medium, buildable coverage achieves a semi-matte finish that is long-lasting and lightweight.
- Formulated with natural ingredients such as Coconut Oil for soothing and anti-aging benefits, Sweet Almond Seed Oil to promote skin elasticity, and Sunflower Seed Oil to combat free radicals and firm skin.
- Designed for application on a well-moisturized face to enhance the compatibility of the cream foundation with the skin.
- Features certified-organic ingredients and comes in recyclable, refillable packaging made from recycled materials.
- Endorsed by celebrities and the press, reflecting a fusion of luxury and sustainability in cosmetics.
- All products are cruelty-free, not tested on animals.
- Free from silicones, parabens, and other toxic ingredients, ensuring compatibility with the skin.
- Presented in stunning, sleek aluminium cases that support sustainability through refill options.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Mica, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Cera Alba (Beeswax), Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Gallic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), CI 77492 (Iron Oxide), CI 77491 (Iron Oxide), CI 77499 (Iron Oxide)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Vital Skin Foundation Stick - Westman Atelier
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$68.00
Product Details
- Cream-based foundation or concealer stick that provides radiance with a natural finish.
- Suitable for all skin types including dry, mature, sensitive, blemish-prone, combination, and normal.
- Contains antioxidants and active ingredients such as vegan squalane to enhance skin suppleness.
- Includes berryflux vita and coconut oil for moisturization.
- Contains camelia seed oil to protect against environmental stressors and pollution.
- Offers medium to full buildable coverage.
- Can be applied directly from the stick or using a foundation brush for targeted or t-zone coverage.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Blending
- Creamy
- Natural
Cons Mentioned
- Damaged
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Isononyl Isononanoate, Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Dicalcium Phosphate, Microcrystalline Wax (Cera Microcristallina), Squalane, Polyethylene, VP/Hexadecene Copolymer, Synthetic Wax, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Silica, Nylon-12, Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Coconut Oil, Phytosphingosine, Butyl Stearate, Isostearyl Alcohol, Alcohol, Water (Aqua), Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Butylene/Ethylene/Styrene Copolymer, Ethylene/Propylene/Styrene Copolymer, Mica, Dibutyl Lauroyl Glutamide, Rubus Idaeus Leaf Cell Culture, Tin Oxide, May Contain: Titanium Dioxide CI 77891, Iron Oxides CI 77491, Iron Oxides CI 77492, Iron Oxides CI 77503
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Organic Essential Foundation - SAPPHO Paradigm
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$54.00
Product Details
- Organic and breathable formula designed for light to medium coverage with a soft satin finish.
- Award-winning, weightless formula made with certified organic ingredients and low heavy metal, ethically-mined minerals.
- Suitable for those with combination skin and provides a light, airy feel.
- Contains 82% certified organic ingredients featuring a skincare-like formula with antioxidants, phytonutrients, and flavonoids.
- Free from parabens and silicones.
- Vegan and cruelty-free.
- All ingredients rate 2 or lower on the EWG SkinDeep Database.
- Packaged in a glass bottle.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Gentle
- Natural
- Non-comedogenic
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil, Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Jojoba Esters, Xanthan Gum, Mica, Azadirachta Indica Seed Oil, Beta-Sitosterol, Sclerotium Gum, Squalene, Tocopherol, Saccharomyces/Agave Tequilana Leaf Ferment Filtrate, Aspalathus Linearis Leaf Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Cistus Ladaniferus Oil, Cedrus Deodara Wood Oil, Boswellia Serrata Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil, Leuconostoc Ferment Filtrate, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil, Daucus Carota Sativa Seed Oil, Chamomilla Recutita Oil, Soybean Peroxidase, Superoxide Dismutase, Linalool, May Contain +/- CI 77891, CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499, CI 77947
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
True Skin Serum Foundation - Ilia
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$54.00
Product Details
- Provides buildable, medium coverage with a natural, skin-like finish.
- Contains active levels of niacinamide and allantoin which smooth and soothe the skin.
- Formulated with skin nourishing ingredients such as aloe leaf, rosehip, jojoba, and marula oils.
- Designed to minimize pores and blur imperfections for a refined and refreshed appearance.
- Recyclable packaging can be processed through most curbside recycling services once clean and empty.
- Vegan and cruelty-free; does not contain fragrances, gluten, and has been dermatologist-tested.
- Safe for sensitive skin and non-comedogenic, ensuring it does not clog pores.
- Winner of 'Best Natural Foundation' by InStyle Magazine in 2019 and 'Best Natural Anti-Aging Foundation' by Business Insider in 2019.
- Can be applied with fingertips, or a dry or damp beauty sponge or foundation brush.
- Contains two types of silicone, dimethicone and capryl methicone, which are clinically tested and found to be non-comedogenic.
- Suitable for all skin types, including mature skin, as it does not settle into fine lines or emphasize dry texture.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Hydrating
- Smooth
- Chemical-free
Cons Mentioned
- Smell
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Coconut Alkanes, Caprylyl Methicone, Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate, Cetearyl Isononanoate, Polyglyceryl-2 Isostearate, Boron Nitride, Dimethicone, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Niacinamide, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Hull Powder, Gluconolactone, Sodium Chloride, Isopentyldiol, Glycerin, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Allantoin, Sodium Benzoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Squalane, Tocopherol, Pentylene Glycol, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Pistacia Lentiscus (Mastic) Gum, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Calcium Gluconate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Jasminum Officinale (Jasmine) Flower/Leaf Extract, Phenethyl Alcohol, Bisabolol, May Contain (+/-): CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499 (Iron Oxides)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Natural Oat Milk Foundation - Ere Perez
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$42.00
Product Details
- Non-greasy, natural finish, buildable foundation offering medium to full long-lasting coverage
- Creates a fresh, dewy finish and melts effortlessly into the skin
- Formulated to be lightweight and free from impurities, allowing the skin to breathe
- Contains natural ingredients such as oat milk, peach, and vitamin E to nourish the skin
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Non-toxic and non-GMO
- Plastic-free packaging
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Natural
- Buildable
- Non-comedogenic
Cons Mentioned
- Inconsistent
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Glycerin, Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinolate, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Prunus Persica (Peach) Fruit Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Biosaccharide Gum-1, Sodium Anisate, Sodium Levulinate, Magnesium Sulfate, Sodium Salicylate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, May Contain +/- CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499 (Iron Oxides), CI77891 (Titanium Dioxide)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Natural Quinoa Water Foundation - Ere Perez
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$36.00
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Natural
- Lightweight
- Dewy
Cons Mentioned
- Drying
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Quinoa (Chenopodium Quinoa) Seed Extract, Blackcurrant (Ribes Nigrum) Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Maltodextrin, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Salicylate, Potassium Sorbate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Coco-Glucoside, Silica
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Soft Focus Foundation - Vapour
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$3.80
Product Details
- Provides a radiant glow and light-to-medium adjustable coverage.
- Designed to be used with Vapour primer for best results.
- Requires shaking before use and should be applied with fingertips, using a circular motion with the Vapour Foundation Brush from the center of the face outward.
- Can build coverage as desired and for all-day wear, it is recommended to set with Perfecting Powder using the Vapour Powder Brush.
- Acts like skincare by soothing and nourishing the skin every time it's worn.
- Contains botanical ingredients like Frankincense, Tulsi, Lotus, and Myrrh that soothe, calm, protect, and nourish.
- Committed to clean, cruelty-free, natural, and non-toxic ingredients.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Natural
- Soft
- Coverage
Cons Mentioned
- Oily
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Organic Camellia Oleifera (Camellia) Seed Oil, Organic Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Silica, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Mica, Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate, Organic Cera Alba (Beeswax), Solanum Lycopersicon (Tomato) Fruit/Leaf/Stem Extract, Canarium Luzonicum (Elemi) Gum Nonvolatiles, Wildcrafted Commiphora Myrrha (Myrrh) Gum Oil, Tocopherol (Non GMO Vitamin E Soy), Wildcrafted Boswellia Carteri (Frankincense) Gum, Organic Ocimum Sanctum (Tulsi/Holy Basil) Leaf Extract, Organic Nelumbo Nucifera (Lotus) Leaf Extract, Pogostemon Cablin Oil, [+/-: Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, 77492, 77499)], *Eco Cert
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Oil-Free Liquid Foundation - Zuzu Luxe
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$34.45
Product Details
- Infused with vitamins A, E, and aloe to support skin suppleness and resilience.
- Designed for medium to full coverage with a sheer finish to enhance natural skin undertones.
- Formulated without parabens and coal tar derivatives.
- Vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free, non-GMO, and natural product.
- Available in 11 shades to suit various skin tones.
- Oil-free formulation beneficial for oily and overactive skin types.
- Can be applied with a non-latex sponge or a brush according to user preference.
- Complements other Zuzu Luxe cosmetic products such as eyeshadow, blush, and mosaic illuminator for a complete makeup look.
- Committed to integrity and transparency in product formulation for 25 years.
- Products are crafted from 100% natural ingredients and are free of synthetic chemicals or animal by-products.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Lightweight
- Smooth
- Blends
Cons Mentioned
- Inconsistent
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aqua (Infusion Of Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice), Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Cellulose Gum, Lecithin, Silica, Mica, Xanthan Gum, Cetyl Alcohol, Kaolin, Iron Oxides, Titanium Dioxide, Potassium Sorbate
Our Product Rating System
First, Camille (co-creator of Welpr) hand picks cleaner product options from a variety of sources.
Next, we collect information about each product's safety, consumer satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing.
Finally, we run all this information through an algorithm that calculates the Welpr Rating.
Welpr Rating:
5.0/5
Part 1: Product safety
We evaluate safety information from 3rd party organizations (e.g. EWG, Made Safe, etc.). Instead of relying solely on any one of these companies for safety information, we assess all of them.
Part 2: Consumer satisfaction
We scour the web for consumer ratings and reviews to verify products are not only cleaner options, but also effective. Products can either be Above Average, Average, or Below average for their respective category (e.g. cleaning products).
Part 3: Ethics & Environment
When you buy a product, you’re supporting that company with your dollars. We believe it’s important to support ethical companies, so we pool together certifications that verify a company's ethics and environmental impact.
Common Harmful Chemicals in Foundation
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Disteardimonium Hectorite is a versatile ingredient in cosmetics, functioning as a light stabilizer and viscosity controller. It is derived from natural smectite clay and chemically modified for compatibility with formulations. Its primary role is to provide stability, enhance texture, and prevent ingredient separation in cosmetic products, including creams, lotions, gels, foundations, and eyeliners. While generally safe, it can potentially cause skin irritation or rare allergic reactions in individuals with sensitivities or allergies.
Propylene Carbonate
Propylene carbonate, a colorless liquid, is principally used in paints, the pigment and dye industry, and lithium batteries. Human exposure in studies has demonstrated that it can cause moderate skin irritation in its undiluted form, although in diluted form (5 to 10%) and as a component in cosmetic products (0.54 to 20%), it presents no skin irritation. Some products containing propylene carbonate were found to be non-phototoxic, with one potentially causing a low-level photoallergic reaction. Animal studies reveal minimal irritation to skin and eyes. No significant toxic effects were found in rats subjected to high concentrations over an extended period, though some maternal toxicity was observed. Tests also show propylene carbonate is negative for mutagenicity and genotoxicity.
Triethoxyoctylsilane
Triethoxycaprylylsilane is a clear-to-yellow liquid with various functions in cosmetics, including acting as a binder, skin conditioning agent, and surface modifier. Trimethylsiloxysilicate is considered safe for skin and hair at lower concentrations, but it should not be ingested as it can be toxic. A patch test is advisable before full application, especially for individuals with highly sensitive skin.
Butylene Glycol
1,3-Butanediol is a colorless, viscous liquid used in the manufacturing of polyester plasticizers and as a mold inhibitor. It does not irritate human skin or mucous membranes but can cause severe stinging in the eyes, quickly relieved by water. Animal studies showed it has low acute oral toxicity in rodents with no major toxic effects observed. However, when used as an energy source in replacement of carbohydrates, it had central nervous system effects on rats, dogs and calves and decreased glucose while increasing beta-hydroxybutyrate in lactating goats. Also, it was found to be fetotoxic in rats during pregnancy, hinted at reduced male fertility, yet showed no genotoxic effects.
Mica
Mica, a natural mineral dust, is commonly used in makeup, cement, asphalt, and electric cable insulation. It is a color additive in cosmetics and provides a shimmer effect in foundations. Workers exposed to mica, especially in muscovite mills, face health risks like respiratory problems and lung scarring from long-term inhalation. Labels may list "Mica" or "Muscovite." Regulatory agencies have established exposure limits for worker safety.
Pentaerythrityl Tetra Adipate
Pentaerythrityl Adipate/Caprate/Caprylate/Heptanoate is a mixed ester compound derived from pentaerythritol and various acids such as adipic, capric, caprylic, and heptanoic acids. This ingredient is commonly found in products like lipstick, foundation, blush, bronzer/highlighter, and lip balm.
Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate
Calcium aluminum borosilicate, a glass-type material, serves as a bulking agent in the cosmetics and personal care industry. It enhances volume and texture in formulations, generally considered safe with low toxicity and no known cancer-causing properties. Although it's generally safe, individual sensitivities can differ, so patch tests are recommended for those with allergies. Regulatory classification includes a possibility of being carcinogenic and possibly toxic to reproduction, but it is deemed safe for cosmetic use, with concentration or use restrictions.
Alpha-Tocopherol Acetate
Tocopheryl acetate is a compound composed of acetic acid and tocopherol (vitamin E). Alpha-tocopheryl acetate (ATA), a specific form of vitamin E, is commonly found in skincare products and dietary supplements. It is used in various cosmetics and personal care items, including lipstick, eye shadow, blushers, face powders, moisturizers, bath soaps, hair conditioners, and more.
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