Top 10 Ingredients Parents Should Avoid in Kids Makeup Products in 2025
As a parent, you always want the best for your kids, especially when it comes to their health and safety. When it comes to makeup, many products claim to be fun and safe for children, but not all of them are created equal. Some makeup products contain ingredients that can be harsh on sensitive skin, or worse, harmful to your child’s health in the long run. In 2024, it's more important than ever to know what’s inside the products you're putting on your little one's skin. Here are the top 10 ingredients to avoid when shopping for kids' makeup.
1. Parabens (Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben)
Parabens are preservatives commonly used in cosmetics to prevent bacteria from growing. While they do their job, they can also sneak into the body through the skin and mess with your child’s hormones. Long-term exposure to parabens has been linked to developmental and health issues, which makes them a no-go for kids' makeup.
Why avoid it? Parabens can mess with your child’s hormones and may cause long-term health issues.
2. Phthalates
Phthalates are chemicals often added to makeup products to help scents last longer and make plastic more flexible. These chemicals have been linked to allergies, asthma, and developmental problems. Even more concerning, they can affect your child’s growth and hormonal development.
Why avoid it? Phthalates are linked to developmental and reproductive issues and can trigger allergies and asthma.
3. Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents
Formaldehyde is a powerful preservative used in cosmetics, but it comes with risks. It's a known carcinogen and can irritate the skin. For kids, whose skin is much more sensitive, this can be a big concern. Exposure to formaldehyde over time can lead to long-term health problems, so it's better to avoid it in makeup products.
Why avoid it? Formaldehyde is a cancer-causing chemical and can irritate your child’s sensitive skin.
4. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
These chemicals are used to make products foam up, like in shampoos and body washes. While they might make the products feel refreshing, they can also dry out your child’s skin and make it irritated. Over time, they may worsen conditions like eczema or lead to more sensitive skin.
Why avoid it? SLS and SLES can strip away the skin's natural oils, causing dryness and irritation.
5. Talc
Talc is often used in powders and makeup products to keep them smooth and easy to apply. However, talc can sometimes contain asbestos, a harmful substance that can cause serious health problems like lung issues. It’s better to avoid talc to keep your child safe from potential risks.
Why avoid it? Talc can contain asbestos, which is harmful to your child’s lungs and overall health.
6. Synthetic Fragrances
We all love products that smell great, but synthetic fragrances in makeup can be harmful to kids, especially those with sensitive skin. These fragrances often contain hidden chemicals that can cause allergic reactions or asthma. Even if your child doesn’t have an allergy now, repeated exposure can lead to skin irritation.
Why avoid it? Synthetic fragrances can trigger allergies, skin irritation, and even breathing problems in children.
7. BHA and BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene)
These chemicals are used to help makeup stay fresh longer, but they can cause skin irritation and may even have cancer-causing properties. For kids, whose skin is more absorbent, these chemicals can be particularly harmful over time.
Why avoid it? BHA and BHT can irritate the skin and may have long-term health risks, including cancer.
8. Alcohol (Ethanol, Isopropyl Alcohol)
Alcohol is used in many makeup products to help them dry faster, but it can be very drying on your child’s skin. Kids' skin is delicate, and alcohol can strip it of its natural moisture, leading to dryness and irritation. It can also make the skin more vulnerable to absorbing harmful ingredients.
Why avoid it? Alcohol can dry out and irritate your child’s skin, making it more sensitive to other chemicals.
9. Lead
Lead is a toxic substance sometimes found in makeup, especially in products like lipstick. Even small amounts of lead can build up in your child’s system and cause serious problems, like developmental delays and learning difficulties. Lead exposure is dangerous, and there’s no reason to risk it in kids' makeup.
Why avoid it? Lead is toxic and can cause serious health problems, including developmental and neurological damage.
10. Synthetic Dyes (FD&C Colors)
Synthetic dyes give makeup vibrant colors, but these dyes can be harsh on your child's skin. Some dyes have been linked to hyperactivity and allergic reactions. Certain colors have even been banned in some countries because of their potential to cause cancer. It’s best to stick to makeup that uses natural, safer colors.
Why avoid it? Synthetic dyes can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, and some may even be cancer-causing.
What to Look for Instead?
When shopping for kids’ makeup, look for products labeled as “natural,” “organic,” or “non-toxic.” Brands that are free from parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances are often a safer choice. Also, check for products that are hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested, as they’re usually gentler on delicate skin.
Conclusion: Here Comes Mishmash Naturals!
In today’s world, finding makeup products that are both fun and safe for kids can be a challenge. But don’t worry—Mishmash Naturals has got you covered! With their commitment to providing makeup that is 100% natural and free from harmful chemicals like parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances, Mishmash Naturals ensures that your little one can enjoy all the fun of makeup without the worries of toxic ingredients. Their products are dermatologically tested, hypoallergenic, and cruelty-free, making them the perfect choice for parents who want the best for their kids.
With Mishmash Naturals, you can confidently let your child explore their creativity, knowing that the products they're using are safe, gentle, and crafted with love. So, next time you're looking for makeup for your little one, choose Mishmash Naturals—because their natural ingredients are as pure as your child's smile.
Let your child shine with beauty, naturally!
References:
Formaldehyde Exposure among Children: A Potential Building Block of Asthma - PMC
Butylated Compounds - Safe Cosmetics
Know your makeup: Why lead is harmful for your skin | Fashion News - The Indian Express