Makeup is an essential part of life these days. We know that make-up may not always be safe for the fetus, but what are the particular unsafe ingredients to look for?
Before we get into the names, here are some things to keep in mind. ‘Natural’ and ‘Herbal’ doesn’t always mean that the product contains no harmful chemicals. Our skin has the capability to absorb almost 60% of what we put on it, so before using the product remember to read the list of ingredients which are listed in the order of quantity used – the largest to the smallest. Pay more attention to the first three ingredients as they would be the most active of them all.
Here are some of the most dangerous make-up components that can harm your baby and must be avoided. In fact, you can avoid them even if you are trying to conceive.
1. Parabens
They are preservatives (propylparaben, butylparaben, isopropylparaben and methylparabens) that are used in foundation and lipstick to keep them from harboring bacteria. They have been associated with developmental, reproductive, neurological and immune disruptions in babies because they can be passed on to the fetus.
2. Retinol
Is a form of vitamin A that can be found in foundations and lipstick, specifically those labeled as “anti-aging.” Too much vitamin A has been linked to fetal malformation and even early term miscarriages.
3. Fragrance
Watch out for phthalates associated with reproductive system defects in baby boys; octoxynols, another group of hormone disruptors; citral, eugenol, coumarin and geraniol—chemicals that may increase chances of allergies and contact dermatitis.
4. Preservatives
The stabilizing agents, like phenoxyethanol and benzyl benzoate, don’t pose harm to your reproductive system or to the baby, but they might aggravate your already sensitive skin. So avoid them during pregnancy
5. Artificial dyes
It may result in lead ingestion causing neurotoxicity, fertility issues and hormonal changes, so it is best to steer clear of them.
6. Aluminum powder
It is used make your eye shadow shimmery, but it can be absorbed by skin, causing neurotoxicity and respiratory troubles.
7. Talc
It can contain small amounts of asbestos, a known carcinogen, that may contaminate mined talc deposits and end up in your make up products.
8. Diazolidinyl urea
This antimicrobial preservative is found in mascara and releases formaldehyde causing birth defects and even spontaneous abortion and even cancer.
9. Dibutyl phthalate (DBP)
Exposure to high concentrations may cause hormone production problems in a developing baby.
10. Toluene
It is a neurotoxin that is known to have a severe impact on the nervous system. It is also linked to dizziness and irritation to the body, including causing reproductive issues.
11. Oxybenzone
It is a common sunscreen ingredient that may absorb UV rays, but it is also soaked up by your skin more than other sunscreen ingredients. Studies have shown that it can affect hormones and may act as a weak estrogen, a moderate anti-androgen and may be associated with altered birth weight
12. Avobenzone
It may be able to mimic the female hormone progesterone and conceivably interfere with sperm function.
When using a make-up product, make sure you read the label, especially when pregnant so that you’d be mindful of what you’re putting on your body.
So now that you know what to avoid, do you want to know which ingredients are a must have and the make-up products you can trust? Let us know in the comments section and we will have it ready for you.
