Lipstick is one of the most iconic beauty products in the world. A swipe of color can instantly boost your confidence and pull together your look. But have you ever thought about what’s actually in your lipstick — and how those ingredients might affect your health and skin?
Because lipstick is worn on the lips, it’s not only absorbed through the thin, delicate skin there but is also ingested in small amounts throughout the day. Unfortunately, many conventional lipsticks still contain ingredients that can harm your health, irritate your skin, and even harm the environment.
Here are four common lipstick ingredients to avoid, why they’re problematic, and what to look for instead.
1. Lead
Lead is a heavy metal and a neurotoxin. It builds up in your body over time, and even in trace amounts, it can interfere with hormone balance, fertility, and nervous system function. Studies have found detectable levels of lead in many lipsticks on the market — not because it’s intentionally added, but because it contaminates certain synthetic colorants commonly used in bright reds and pinks.
How to spot it: Lead isn’t listed as an ingredient. Instead, it contaminates certain artificial dyes like Red 6 and Red 7 Lake.
Better alternatives: Look for clean beauty brands that test their pigments for heavy metals and use safer mineral- or fruit-based colorants. Brands like Ilia, Kosas, and RMS Beauty make lead-free lipsticks in a wide range of shades.
2. Petrolatum (Petroleum Jelly)
Petrolatum is a common base in many lipsticks and balms because it’s inexpensive and creates a shiny, moisturizing feel. However, if not fully refined, it can contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are known carcinogens. Even when properly refined, petrolatum creates an artificial barrier that doesn’t truly nourish your lips — and can even lead to dryness over time.
How to spot it: Petrolatum, petroleum jelly, mineral oil, paraffin.
Better alternatives: Choose lipsticks that use natural plant oils and butters like shea, jojoba, cocoa butter, and castor oil to provide true hydration and a healthy sheen.
3. Synthetic Dyes
Many of the vivid reds, pinks, and purples in conventional lipsticks come from synthetic dyes derived from petroleum or coal tar. These dyes, labeled as FD&C or D&C colors, can contain trace amounts of heavy metals and irritants. For those with sensitive skin, synthetic dyes can cause dryness, chapping, or allergic reactions.
How to spot it: Red 6, Red 7 Lake, Yellow 5, Blue 1, and similar colorants.
Better alternatives: Look for lipsticks colored with mineral pigments (like iron oxides and micas) or natural fruit- and vegetable-based pigments from berries, beets, and carrots. These options are not only safer but can also deliver beautiful, natural-looking shades.
4. Fragrance
Fragrance is often added to lipsticks to create a pleasant scent, but the term “fragrance” (or “parfum”) is essentially a catch-all for hundreds of undisclosed chemicals. Many of these chemicals are hormone disruptors (like phthalates) or allergens that can irritate the sensitive skin on your lips.
How to spot it: Fragrance, parfum.
Better alternatives: Look for products labeled “fragrance-free” or scented naturally with essential oils or botanical extracts — and always choose options that specify “phthalate-free.”
A Safer, More Beautiful Choice
When choosing a lipstick, you don’t have to compromise on color, wear, or confidence. Clean, non-toxic lipsticks are widely available now — and they can help you look and feel your best while protecting your health and the planet.
When shopping, look for lipsticks that are:
- Lead-tested and heavy-metal safe
- Free of petroleum, synthetic dyes, and undisclosed fragrance
- Made with nourishing botanical oils and butters
- Colored with mineral or plant-based pigments
Your lips deserve better.
Written By Dr Stephanie Spenny
July 29th 2025
