Do you remember that American Express slogan, “Don’t leave home without it”?
That’s pretty much how many women look at their makeup. It’s a huge part of their daily routines. And since women apply it to their skin day in and day out, it’s important to have high-quality products.
The only trouble is that even top brands disappoint. And since beauty products are all about making us look good on the outside, cosmetics also tend to appear good on the outside.
But what’s hidden in your makeup bag will shock you. That’s why some women opt for DIY beauty products.
But do they work? And are they any improvement?
What’s Hiding in Your Makeup
Unfortunately, there are many toxic ingredients concealed in your concealer. That’s because manufacturers aren’t required to comply with many regulations and tough standards. In fact, the beauty industry only tests 11 percent of the ingredients used in their products. So, a lot of bad things slip through the cracks.
Here are just a few of them:
Paraben
This is used as a preservative in cosmetic products, but parabens are actually connected to an increase in breast cancer. Plus, they can disrupt your endocrine system. You’d be surprised just how often this ingredient shows up in beauty products.
Formaldehyde
This widely used ingredient is also a preservative, but the only thing it’s preserving is the beauty product. That’s because the International Agency for Research on Carcinogens (IARC) identified it as a human carcinogen. Like parabens, formaldehyde disturbs the endocrine system, too.
Synthetic Colors
The European Union actually banned this petroleum and tar-based product because it is thought to be a human carcinogen.
These are only three of the many dangerous ingredients used in beauty products. And unfortunately, some beauty brands still test their products on animals, which is just another reason why women steer clear of certain companies.
But there is another reason why women want to change what they’re purchasing.
The Cost of Beauty
InStyle magazine revealed that most women spend an average of $15,000 on makeup in their lifetime. Beauty products can be expensive, but the Pink Tax certainly doesn’t help matters either!
So, what’s a girl to do? Well, some start making their own creams and powders. But even DYI cosmetics can be problematic. Here’s why.
The Dangers of DIY Beauty Products and How to Avoid Them
Even though you have a lot more control over the ingredients going into your homemade cosmetics, it doesn’t guarantee problem-free cosmetics either. So, it’s important to educate yourself a little bit before you get started.
You see, the same preservatives that are used in mainstream makeup help to stave off bacteria and increase its shelf life.
But if you don’t use those harmful ingredients, how will your products stay bacteria-free?
-
Use Clean and Appropriate Containers
The oils and moisture from your skin dampen your products, and this can lead to bacterial growth. So, whenever you can, use sterilized containers. And avoid containers that you have to reach inside. So, instead of tin for your lip balm, it’s better to keep it in a stick form.
-
Preserve and Protect Oils
Oils can also turn rancid, but adding an antioxidant to them can improve their shelf life and quality. By using coconut oil (a common ingredient in many DIY recipes), you add a lot of powerful qualities to your product. Coconut oil is anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal. Plus, it’s an antioxidant, too!
-
Make Small Batches
Since DIY beauty products don’t contain effective (but dangerous!) preservatives, your products will simply not last as long. If that sits on your shelf for too long, they can become harmful. A good rule of thumb is to make small batches that you’ll use up quickly. This way, you can prevent rancidity and bacterial growth.
The Pros of Making Your Own Beauty Products
Making your own products is nourishing, safe, rewarding and empowering. It’s nourishing because your skin is the body’s largest organ and it absorbs whatever you put on it. You probably wouldn’t eat carcinogens, petroleum, heavy metals, and nasty chemicals. But if you put makeup on, that’s actually what you’re doing!
But if you create your own perfect formula, you use ingredients like coconut oil, almond oil, unsweetened cocoa powder, cinnamon, arrowroot powder, Aloe Vera gel and so much more. Don’t these ingredients sound so much better?
DIY beauty products are safe, as long as you do a little research and learn about the different ingredients. With a little know-how, you can ensure that they stay stable and bacteria-free.
You might argue that they won’t last as long as your drugstore favorites, but think of how you’ll protect your skin from dangerous chemicals by making the switch!
It’s rewarding to learn a new skill that truly benefits you. Your body won’t have to absorb so many harmful ingredients, and your liver won’t be working overtime to process all of those toxins. Plus, your body will look great!
Finally, how empowering is it to educate yourself, and then create your own beauty products. That’s what I call a superwoman! Your body is yours to love and cherish, and using your own products does just that.
Beauty Products You Can Make Yourself
There are so many DIY recipes and creative ideas out there. So, we’ve rounded up the best ones for you to check out (click on the title to see the recipe).
1. Foundation Powder
This makes a great base for the rest of your makeup, and it smells great, too! Cocoa powder, cinnamon, Nutmeg, along with Jojoba, Almond and Olive Oil help to create a lovely blend.
2. Lipstick
You can make your perfect shade using beetroot, cocoa powder, cinnamon, or turmeric. The oils are also safe and edible, so it’s okay if you do eat your lipstick!
3. Body Butter
This scrumptious and luxurious cream is both smooth and nourishing. And because you add your favorite essential oil, you’ll create a personalized scent.
4. Hair and Face Mask
You can have baby soft skin and healthy hair with this moisturizing treatment. It’s a gentle blend using honey, organic mayonnaise, and avocado oil.
These are only four of the many easy, DIY beauty product recipes. There’s definitely a learning curve when it comes to homemade cosmetics, so don’t be intimidated and give it a try!
