Every day, the average beauty enthusiast puts a variety of makeup products on their face, from lipstick to concealer. However, what many may not know is that there is a broad difference between organic makeup and conventional makeup - and the consequences for one's health and the environment.
This article will help you understand the differences between organic and conventional makeup, their potential health impacts, and how organic makeup can benefit the environment.
Benefits of Organic Makeup
Organic Makeup is increasingly becoming the go-to choice for beauty junkies and everyday makeup users alike. With the rise of natural beauty products and higher awareness of the harmful ingredients used in conventional makeup, more and more people are switching to organic products.
Organic makeup offers many benefits over conventional makeup, and these include:
- Organic makeup contains natural ingredients that nourish the skin and provide beneficial antioxidant benefits.
- Organic makeup contains fewer irritants, so they’re better for those who have sensitive skin.
- Organic makeup is often made without synthetic fragrances, dyes, and other harsh chemicals that can clog pores and lead to breakouts.
- Organic makeup is often free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, which are associated with endocrine disruption and reproductive health risks.
- Organic makeup is not tested on animals, and are cruelty-free.
Organic makeup is an excellent option for anyone who wants to switch to a safer, more natural product. Whether you want a full-coverage foundation or a nourishing moisturizer, organic makeup has something to offer for everyone.
Drawbacks of Organic Makeup
Organic makeup may feel good to use, but it has its own set of downsides. For one, organic makeup can be more expensive than conventional makeup. The ingredients used in organic makeup typically cost more to produce, resulting in higher makeup prices. Another downside of organic makeup is that it may not be as long-lasting as conventional makeup. Natural ingredients often lack the staying power of synthetic ones found in conventional makeup, resulting in a shorter wear time.
Some organic makeup products may also be less pigmented than conventional makeup, making it harder to create the desired look. Additionally, not everyone finds organic makeup to be as appealing as conventional makeup. Many organic makeup products have a more natural tint and are free of dyes, fragrances, and other additives, which some people don't prefer.
Benefits of Conventional Makeup
Conventional makeup offers a higher level of affordability in comparison to organic makeup. Additionally, conventional makeup has a larger variety of colors and product options. Because of this, it may be easier to find products that match your individual skin tones or provide the specific look desired. Lastly, conventional makeup manufacturers usually have their products tested in a lab before being released on the market, which can help guarantee a certain level of quality.
Drawbacks of Conventional Makeup
Conventional makeup is made using conventional ingredients derived from petrochemicals and synthetic materials. These materials contain toxins, irritants, and carcinogens that can cause skin irritation, breakouts, and other health issues. Additionally, many conventional makeup products have been tested on animals, causing pain and suffering to innocent animals.
The overuse of conventional makeup can also result in long-term health issues that gradually build up over time. While the ingredients present in conventional makeup may not display any immediate impact to one’s health, they can accumulate in the body and begin to take a toll on health over an extended period of time.
Finally, one of the biggest issues with conventional makeup is that it’s difficult to determine exactly what is in the products. Labels are often misleading and can contain incomplete or confusing information. Furthermore, the safety testing and regulation of makeup is often left up to the manufacturers of these products, making it difficult to trust what’s actually in them.
Cost Comparison
When considering the cost of organic makeup versus conventional makeup, the difference can be quite significant. Organic makeup, while typically not found in drug stores, can often be found in health food stores and in specialty stores, or ordered online. This tends to drive down the cost, as packaging and shipping costs are often lower. On average, organic makeup is about 15-20% more expensive than conventional makeup, but when you consider what you're actually paying for, it's worth every penny. Conventional makeup may contain harmful chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin, while organic makeup is free of these toxins, making it a more wise investment.
Another factor to consider when comparing the cost of organic makeup to conventional makeup is that organic makeup products typically last much longer. Organic ingredients are often gentler on the skin, so you don't need to re-apply as often. This means that, over time, you may end up spending less money on organic makeup.
Environmental Impact
When it comes to the environment, conventional and organic makeup can have vastly different impacts. Conventional makeup, considering the methods of production and ingredients used, can have a wide range of environmental impacts. These could include harming marine life, contributing to air pollution, using synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, and more. On the other hand, organic makeup is much gentler on the environment. Companies making organic makeup products tend to use ingredients sourced from renewable resources and use methods that minimize environmental harm. For example, many organic makeup companies harvest grown ingredients without using synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, and some will even donate a portion of their sales revenue to initiatives that help create a more sustainable environment.
In conclusion, while conventional and organic makeup have their differences, the difference in their environmental impact cannot be ignored. With organic makeup becoming increasingly available in the market, the decision between the two becomes all the more important. With organic makeup, you can be sure that you’re doing your part in reducing the environmental impact of makeup.
Dermatological Impact
The debate over organic vs conventional makeup has been preceded in part by research on the skin-related health implications of makeup use. Studies into the short- and long-term dermatological impact of these products should help guide people in selecting the best option for their complexion.
A 2016 paper in the Inernational Journal of Molecular Sciences publiched research on the beneficial effects of organic cosmetic products on the skin. The paper argues that organic makeup has fewer irritants and is associated with improved skin health and reduced skin irritation. The paper also found that organic cosmetics are generally less likely to clog pores than conventional makeup.
Amother 2016 study in the International Journal of Trichology examined common irritants found in conventional makeup products and their potential negative effects on the skin. The research concluded that some conventional makeup ingredients, such as talc, bismuth, and fragrance, can cause skin irritation and can lead to chronic skin conditions.
Conversely, several studies are beginning to investigate the potential benefits of organic makeup on skin health. One such study even suggests that organic makeup can be an effective option for treating certain skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis.
When it comes to the effects on a person’s skin, it is important to understand the differences between organic makeup and conventional makeup. It is also important to note that different people’s skin will react differently to various products, so it is important to do research and find the makeup that is best for you.
Conclusion
Organic makeup and conventional makeup both have their pros and cons. Organic makeup may provide more natural ingredients while being animal-friendly, however, some products may not last as long and may have fewer options in terms of shades and coverage. Conventional makeup typically offers more shades and better coverage at a lower price point, but users may prefer to pay more for natural ingredients and animal welfare. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide which option is best for them.
