What Are You (really) Using in Your Makeup?

Analyzing your Makeup Bag: Revealing Hidden Ingredients

The Issue with Solvents in Adhesives and Binders Found in Your Makeup

Not everything claimed by your makeup suppliers aligns with the reality of their actual ingredients. The crucial factor is not in the ingredient list displayed on your label, but rather how the raw material for your cosmetic formula is obtained. Many makeup products are formulated using different types of adhesives and binding agents which are commonly found and essential for providing stability and durability to your cosmetics.

The issue lies in the fact that a significant portion of adhesives and binding agents is formulated using various solvents to provide a better dispersion. Many of these used solvents are both carcinogenic and toxic to fertility/reproduction. Notable examples of commonly employed solvents in adhesive preparation are Formaldehyde and N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), among others. These substances are restricted in California under proposition 65, and NMP has been included in the European Union's restricted substance list due to its classification as toxic to reproduction. Below, you will find further information on this matter:

• https://oehha.ca.gov/proposition-65/proposition-65-list

• https://echa.europa.eu/documents/10162/17233/entry_71_how_to_comply_en.pdf/c6e09198-c0b1-44e3-abae-6b3d0bc909a8#:~:text=NMP%20has%20a%20harmonised%20classification,could%20be%20exposed%20to%20it.

What to do about it?

As a Cosmetics Producer, you have the right to request a chemical analysis from your suppliers to ensure that their products are free from these chemicals.

While it may be easy for companies to claim their products are free from hazardous materials, many of these companies lack knowledge about the actual composition of their products thanks to their reliance on overseas manufacturers (China, India, South America) and then they resell cosmetics relying in the claims made by the manufacturing company.

We also set ourselves the task of investigating some adhesives that are considered safe for cosmetic formulas.

Goodwell Science approved adhesives:

• Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)

• Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVOH)

• Hypoallergenic medical acrylic adhesive

• Acrylates copolymers

• PVM/MA Copolymer

• Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose

• Hydroxypropyl Guar

• Cellulose derivatives

• Guar Gum

• Xanthan gum

• Hydrogenated castor oil/sebacic copolymer

By conducting your own research, you can discover alternative adhesives and binders that are widely recognized as safe and suitable for your needs. However, this list serves as a valuable starting point for your formulation journey. We can also assist you in selecting the best ingredients you need.

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