3 Shocking Side Effects Of Lipsticks You Should Know

Lipsticks are an integral part of makeup and add dollops of glamour to your looks

They are probably the most important component in a woman’s make-up kit. No make-up kit is complete without one (or many, considering the different shades and brands). They no doubt add beauty to your pout. But, at what cost? Lipsticks come with some unavoidable side-effects.

The lipsticks that we use on an everyday basis – particularly the unbranded ones – contain harmful heavy metals and preservatives. And when you accidentally ingest lipstick, you also ingest and expose your body to these trace metals beyond the “safe” or acceptable limit. Continuous exposure to heavy metals can take a toll on your body and cause serious medical conditions, including cancer.

Below are 5 side effects of using such lipsticks;

1. Preservatives Could Cause Breast Cancer

Well-known lipstick brands are approved by the FDA and are safe. However, unbranded products might contain toxic preservatives that exceed the acceptable limit. Some preservatives like parabens are known to cause cancer, especially of the breast.  Lipsticks that utilize these preservatives can also cause milder side effects like the irritation of the eyes, coughing, wheezing, and skin irritation.

2. Lead Affects Your Heart And Brain

Some lipsticks contain the element ‘lead’. When the lead present in lipsticks is absorbed by your body, it is distributed to your blood, soft tissues, and bones. If there is an excess quantity of lead in your body, it could affect your heart and cause hypertension (high blood pressure), coronary heart disease, and heart rate variability.

3. Cadmium Can Cause Kidney Failure

Another heavy metal that is found in lipstick is cadmium. Since cadmium cannot be easily excreted by your body, it builds up in the kidney. By so doing, it compromises with the kidney’s function and can increase your risk of kidney failure. Another interesting fact to note is that cadmium poisoning and its effects on the kidney are more severe in women than men, as the body burden of cadmium is higher among women.

Note:

Ideally, Apply Lipstick Just Twice In A Day

Ideally, you should apply lipstick no more than twice a day. According to a study conducted by the University of California, lipstick could be dangerous to your health if you apply it between 2 and 19 times a day. So, while re-touching your lips after every meal isn’t particularly harmful, if you find yourself reaching for that lipstick about 15 times a day, you might want to cut back.

Lipstick Can Be Harmful To Kids If Ingested

If your kids accidentally eat or swallow lipstick, they might experience diarrhea or vomiting. In most cases lipstick ingestion causes only mild toxicity to the stomach and intestines. But, to be on the safer side, if your child displays the symptoms of “lipstick poisoning,” it is wise to seek immediate help.⁹

Avoid Unbranded Lipsticks When Pregnant

Additionally, if you’re pregnant, apply lipstick moderately and avoid unbranded products. The toxic lead that you might ingest might get passed on to your baby and result in lead poisoning.

Credit:https://www.curejoy.com/content/side-effects-of-lipsticks/