As parents, we love watching our children explore and play, embracing their creativity and imagination. It's natural for kids to want to emulate the adults in their lives, and for many, this includes playing with makeup. However, when it comes to letting kids play with adult lipstick, there are hidden dangers that every parent needs to be aware of.
A study conducted by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics uncovered alarming findings about the presence of lead in lipstick. Shockingly, more than half of the lipsticks tested contained lead, a toxic heavy metal known to have detrimental effects on health, especially in children. Even small amounts of lead exposure can lead to developmental delays, learning difficulties, and behavioral problems.
Why is lead present in lipstick, and why does it raise concerns?
Lead, of course, is not listed as an ingredient, rather it is a contaminant. It is found in various lipsticks, from budget to luxury brands. According to EWG, lead can contaminate mineral pigments, especially in red lipsticks. The darker the shade, the higher the risk of contamination. It's essential to note that lead is a neurotoxin, posing risks to nervous system and brain development, particularly in young children.
When children play with adult lipstick, they may inadvertently ingest small amounts of lead by licking their lips or transferring the lipstick to their hands and then touching their face or mouth. Over time, this repeated exposure can accumulate and pose serious health risks.
So, what can parents do to protect their children?
- Choose Safer Alternatives: Instead of allowing kids to play with adult lipstick, opt for safer alternatives specifically formulated for children. Look for makeup products made with non-toxic ingredients. Ideally look for third party certifications to validate claims.
- Use EWG’s Skin Deep® database to look for safer alternatives: Manufacturers don’t have to disclose the presence of lead on the label, so consumers who want to avoid it should either skip wearing lipstick or find safer choices using EWG's Skin Deep database, which provides safe options to protect you and your family from everyday exposures to chemicals in personal care and cosmetics products.
- Advocate for Change: Advocate for stricter regulations and transparency in the cosmetics industry to ensure that products marketed to children are free from harmful ingredients like lead. Support organizations and campaigns that raise awareness about the risks of toxic chemicals in cosmetics, like EWG and Campaign for Safe Cosmetics.
- Refrain from letting your kids use lipstick or makeup, if you're uncertain: Trust your instincts; it's wise to abstain. While makeup may naturally intrigue many children as they explore the world around them, lipstick, or makeup overall, is a choice that can wait.
At Jovy, our commitment is to provide parents with the confidence they need when it comes to their children's play makeup. To attain the esteemed EWG VERIFIEDTM mark, we conducted thorough ingredient testing, including heavy metals analysis, a step that brands are not required to take (and most do not). Additionally, we are dermatologist and ophthalmologist verified, proven safe for even the most sensitive skin.
As kids grow up, it's natural for them to become curious about makeup. Luckily, there's now a safe option to satisfy that curiosity. By choosing alternatives like Jovy, you can protect your child's health while still allowing them to explore their creativity with makeup, completely worry-free.
