Toxic or Terrific? What’s in Your Lip Balm?
Having dry or chapped lips can be uncomfortable. You may find that the dry weather in the winter months makes your skin feel parched, or maybe you've spent too much time in the sun.
When you reach for that lip balm (or any beauty product) it's important to know what you're putting on your lips. Unfortunately, there are some questionable ingredients in conventional lip balms.
That’s exactly where an ultra-nourishing organic lip balm packed with plant-based, sustainably sourced ingredients really shines. Luckily there is an array of natural skincare brands leading the way.
This blog post will dive into some ingredients to be cautious of when shopping for lip products.
Then consider checking out our list of the top organic lip balms!
Are there harmful ingredients in conventional lip balms?
Unfortunately conventional lip balms can feature some potentially harmful ingredients.
Petroleum is a common ingredient found in conventional lip balms. Petroleum is a byproduct of oil which means this is not good for the environment or our skin.
Petroleum can sometimes make people’s lips more chapped and can have PAH contamination which make has been associated with cancer.
Then, we have parabens and phthalates, the endocrine disruptors with the ability to mimic estrogen that has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and malignant melanoma.
Butylated Hydroxytoluene or BHT is also notorious for promoting the development of existing tumors, associated with organ system toxicity, and associated with endocrine disruption.
Menthol, salicylic acid, camphor, phenol, and alcohol are only a few well-known additions that are known for irritating the skin and actually drying your lips out further.
Last but not least, "added fragrances." While these can make lip products smell good, they can also be a cause of eczema and skin irritation.
You'll want to avoid lip balms made with mineral oil or petroleum jelly, and instead look for more natural, gentle ingredients.
Keep your eyes out for nourishing ingredients like shea butter, Coconut oil, and Olive oil! These are cleaner ingredients.
Luckily, we're got some alternative ingredients that are a cleaner option in our Guide to Organic Lip Balms.
Also, consider looking for sustainable packaging! Unfortunately a lot of lip balms come in plastic tubes. Extra points if you can get one that comes in a compostable tube!
Pin the guide for later!
MEET THE AUTHOR
For more ethical & sustainable tips be sure to explore more conscious lifestyle blog posts, follow The Honest Consumer on social media, subscribe to our newsletter, & check out the Ethical & Sustainable Brand Directory.