Is Your Makeup Making You Sick?

The Hidden Dangers in Lipsticks and Brow Makeup: Why Permanent Makeup is a Safer Choice!

As a permanent makeup artist based out of the health conscious city of Vancouver Canada, I see first hand the public’s growing desire for safer beauty products. Consumers are becoming more aware of the potential risks lurking in their everyday makeup products. In this blog post, I’ll explore the harmful ingredients commonly found in lipsticks and brow makeup, and explain why opting for permanent makeup, such as lip blush and brow tattoos, can be a safer, more effective solution.

The Dark Side of Lipsticks

Lipsticks are a beloved staple in many beauty routines, but they can contain harmful ingredients that pose health risks, especially if used regularly through out ones life! Also it's important to keep in mind that even luxury makeup brands use harmful ingredients in their products, many people like to think price correlates with healthier cleaner products that is in fact not always the case. Here are a few common toxic ingredients found in lip products:

1. Lead: Some studies have detected trace amounts of lead in lipsticks. This toxic metal is linked to serious health issues, including hormonal disruptions and developmental problems in children.

   
   

2. Parabens: Often used as preservatives, parabens can mimic estrogen in the body and have been associated with certain cancers. While Health Canada regulates their use, many consumers remain cautious about cumulative exposure.

   
   

3. Fragrance: The term “fragrance” can encompass a range of undisclosed chemicals, some of which may cause allergic reactions or sensitivities. This lack of transparency can leave consumers in the dark about what they're putting on their lips.

   
   

4. Synthetic Dyes: Many lipsticks use synthetic dyes that can irritate sensitive skin and may even have long-term health implications.

   
   

The Risks of Brow Makeup

Just like lipsticks, brow products can harbour harmful ingredients. Here’s what to watch for:

1. Formaldehyde: Used as a preservative in some brow gels and pencils, formaldehyde is classified as a carcinogen. Prolonged exposure can lead to severe health issues.

   
   

2. Alcohol: High levels of alcohol in brow products can dry out the skin and hair around your eyebrows, causing irritation and potential hair loss.

   
   

3. Toxic Pigments: Certain brow products may contain harmful pigments that can lead to allergic reactions or long-term skin issues.

   
   

The Permanent Makeup Solution

With growing awareness of these harmful ingredients, many clients are turning to permanent makeup for a safer alternative. Here’s why lip blush and brow tattoos can be a great choice:

1. Long-lasting Results: Permanent makeup provides a beautiful, polished look that lasts for years, reducing the need for daily application and minimizing exposure to harmful ingredients.

2. Safe Formulations: Many professional-grade pigments and products used in permanent makeup are formulated with safe, high-quality ingredients. These products are designed for skin contact and are often free from the harmful chemicals found in traditional cosmetics.

3. Natural Enhancement: As a permanent makeup artist, I work closely with clients to customize their lip blush and brow tattoos, enhancing their natural features in a way that feels authentic and effortless.

4. Time-saving Convenience: With permanent makeup, you can say goodbye to the daily routine of applying and reapplying products, freeing up valuable time in your day.

5. Confidence Boost: Permanent makeup allows clients to wake up feeling confident without the worry of makeup smudging or fading throughout the day. It enhances natural beauty, giving you that “freshly done” look at all times.

5. Saves YOU Money: Buying and re buying makeup products that ultimately are not safe for your health will cost both your wallet and your body! Permanent makeup can be less expensive when you break down the price and consider the lifetime of the results.

Let's use lip blush as an example:

If you were to have lip blush done at $650 and the results lasted you 1.5 years ( the average time frame when my clients return for an annual refresh) until you needed to come in for an annual touch up $350. Here is what you would be paying monthly for the first 1.5 years , and then what you would be paying monthly after that annual touch up session for the next 1.5 years.

(Initial Lip Blush Appointment) $650 / 18 months= $36.11/monthly

(Annual Touch Up Session) $350 / 18 months =$19.44/monthly

Let's Compare this to buying lipstick!

The cheapest lipstick option at Sephora is around $20.00 , the most expensive are around $60.00 that gives us an average price of $40.00. So for around $40.00 a month you can purchase a lipstick that  potentially contains toxic ingredients, or for a cheaper price of $36.11, decreasing to $19.44 after 1.5 years, you can have lip blush done and have beautiful lips without the harmful chemicals. Let's not forget the time you save as well!

Need I say more?

While lipsticks and brow products can enhance your beauty, it’s crucial to be aware of the potentially harmful ingredients they may contain. Stop wasting your money on toxic makeup products that are harmful to your body, the planet and your wallet! As a permanent makeup artist, I believe that your beauty routine should not compromise your health. By choosing permanent makeup options like lip blush and brow tattoos, you can achieve stunning, long-lasting results for less money, less risk and more convenience!

( click this photo to check out this vogue article on toxic beauty!)

If you’re ready to explore safer ways to enhance your beauty, I invite you to reach out and book a consultation, either in person at my studio located in Yaletown, Vancouver, Canada or online via Zoom.  Together, we can create a customized look that enhances your natural features while prioritizing your health and well-being.