October 22, 2013

How to Keep Your Child Safe from Toxic Halloween Face Paints

Face paints and cosmetics are the perfect way to put the perfect finishing touches on a Halloween costume, but unfortunately, many of the Halloween cosmetics and even everyday cosmetics are packed with chemicals. To help you protect your kiddos, here are the worst toxins found in cosmetics that you’ll want to avoid this holiday.

1. Sulfates - Beware of ingredient names that consist of three words and end with "sulfate" like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate, as sulfates are irritants and believed by some environmental experts to be highly toxic.

2. Phthalates - In animal studies, these chemicals have been shown to cause severe damage to several organ systems, and one study connected the chemical to premature breast development in girls.

3. Artificial fragrances - Many artificial fragrances are allergens and also potential toxins. Look for face paint and cosmetics that are labeled as "fragrance-free."

4. Butylated hydroxyanisole - Sometimes called "BHA," this chemical is listed as "reasonably a carcinogen" by the National Toxicology Program.

5. Parabens - Some studies have linked those ingredients that end in suffix "-ben" with endocrine and reproductive dysfunction. The preservatives are also common allergens.

One of the easiest ways to avoid these types of ingredients is to opt for organic face paints and cosmetics this Halloween. Have a favorite brand? Share it with us in the “Comments” section.