Are Dyes in Skincare Truly Harmful?
By: Shahara Lum
Dyes have been commonly found in many popular skincare and other well-known beauty products. While these dyes do not affect some people, they are known to cause irritation and allergic reactions in those who are sensitive. Furthermore, some of these dyes may cause health concerns such as cancer and hormone disruption.
What are dyes in skincare?
Color additives or dyes are chemical substances used to add color to various materials, including cosmetics and skincare products. There are two main categories of these dyes: natural and synthetic. Natural dyes are derived from plants, animal, or mineral sources and have been used for thousands of years. However, synthetic dyes are artificially created through chemical processes and have become more popular due to their greater variety of colors and stability. [1]
Natural dyes are safer than synthetic dyes, as they are biodegradable and non-toxic. However, they are less stable and may fade over time. Some commonly used natural dyes in cosmetics include henna, turmeric, beetroot, and indigo. Synthetic dyes are more popular in the cosmetic industry because they offer a broader range of colors. However, some synthetic dyes are linked to skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people; in rare cases, they are carcinogenic. As a result, regulatory bodies such as the FDA have set limits on certain synthetic dyes in cosmetics. [1]
What is the purpose of these dyes?
Dyes are commonly used in skincare products to enhance their visual appeal and to distinguish them from other products. They are also used to create colors that convey emotions. For example, a gentle blue color can be used in night creams to induce a calming effect, while an energetic orange hue is used for morning face washes to energize the skin.
Furthermore, dyes can also help to mask the natural colors of some ingredients that may be less appealing to consumers. They can also ensure color consistency in the product to enhance brand identity and encourage consumers to buy more.
Types of dyes commonly used in skincare
Did you know that most synthetic dyes used in skin care products are labeled with names like FD&C or D&C, followed by a color and a number? These labels indicate that the dyes have been approved for use in drugs and cosmetics by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For instance, FD&C Blue №1 is a commonly used synthetic dye in skincare products. [4]
However, some people may be concerned about the safety of synthetic dyes and prefer to use natural alternatives instead. Natural dyes in skincare, such as beetroot, turmeric, and spirulina not only provide color but also offer additional skincare benefits due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, or antibacterial properties. Additionally, natural dyes are less likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions when compared to synthetic dyes.
So, if you are looking for a safer and more natural alternative to synthetic dyes in your skincare products, consider trying those that contain natural dyes. With their added benefits, you can enjoy beautiful and healthier-looking skin without damaging your health or well-being.
The risk of dyes in skincare products
1. It can block your pores: Dyes in skincare products may block your pores and make it hard for your skin to breathe — leading to severe acne problems.
2. Health problems: The dyes in skincare products can also give you health-related and possibly severe problems and long-term issues.
3. Irritation and Rashes: Some people have sensitive skin, and some do not. Hence, some people can get rashes and irritations because of the dye in skincare products, and some may not.
4. You might experience breakouts: Since artificial chemicals or dyes in skincare products can maybe ruin your skin. As mentioned earlier, your skin pores might be blocked, developing acne. And though, many people experienced breakouts from some skincare products with dyes — some did not experience it.
Top 15 skin products without dyes
Thankfully, there are many skincare products available that do not contain dyes. These products are often known as more natural or suitable for those with sensitive skin. Furthermore, it minimizes the potential for skin irritation and those with allergies. Some of these products include:
- Olay Regenerist Collagen Peptide 24 Face Moisturizer Cream
- Versed Smooth Landing Advanced Retinoid Eye Balm
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Lightweight Hydrating Facial Gel Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid
- Aveeno Calm + Restore Redness Relief Moisturizing Cream for Sensitive Skin — Fragrance Free
- Hero Cosmetics Mighty Surface Patch
- Versed Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum — SPF 35
- L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Anti-Wrinkle + Firming Night Cream
- Honest Beauty Hydrogel Cream with Hyaluronic Acid
- Honest Beauty Gentle Gel Cleanser with Chamomile + Calendula
- e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Eye Cream
- Honest Beauty Deep Hydration Face Cream with Shea Butter
- CeraVe Face Wash, Hydrating Facial Cleanser for Normal to Dry Skin
- CeraVe Foaming Face Wash, Facial Cleanser for Normal to Oily Skin
- Hero Cosmetics Rescue Balm
- Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water — For Waterproof Makeup
Can you spot dyes in the ingredients section of a product?
It can be frustrating to read the ingredient list on the back of your skincare or makeup products and not understand what they mean. Often, these lists only show the beneficial elements, leaving out harmful dyes and other ingredients. However, there are steps you can take to ensure the safety of the products you use.
Before purchasing any skincare product, it is essential to conduct thorough research. Start by doing a quick Google search on the product and read reviews from other consumers. This will give you an idea of how the product performs and whether it is worth investing in. You can also look for security certifications to ensure that the product has been verified by the authorities and meets safety standards.
Make sure to check the ingredient list carefully. If you are unsure about a particular ingredient, do not hesitate to look it up online to see if it is safe for you to use. Also, be aware of common harmful ingredients like parabens, phthalates, and sulfates that can cause skin irritation, allergies, and other health issues.
Taking these precautions can help you make informed decisions about the skincare and makeup products you use, ensuring they are safe and effective for your skin
Works Cited
[1] https://beminimalist.co/blogs/skin-care/dyes-in-skincare-products-types-effects
[2] https://www.mdpi.com/2673-4184/1/4/20
[3] https://aprisaskincare.com/blogs/skincare/ingredients-to-avoid-in-skincare-products
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