Is makeup safe for children?

Is makeup safe for children? (Photo: iStock)

Here is what you need to know about makeup and the safety concerns you should have for your precious princesses:

1. Children grow up too fast

Children need to be encouraged to be children, regardless of what they see around them. No child should change their appearance, even if they’re using pretend makeup kits to transform themselves. This makes them grow up too quickly and can trigger certain sexual triggers at a very early age.

2. It’s inappropriate

As mentioned above, makeup has a sexual connotation. It can draw attention to the face and hide imperfections, which is why studies have shown that women who wear makeup behave differently than those who do not.

Makeup can become a source of false self-confidence at a young age, affecting a person's self-esteem as they grow up. It also sends the wrong message to those who see young girls and children wearing lipstick and other makeup that should be reserved for adults.

3.  Allergies

Study after study has found that certain makeup brands marketed to children contain harmful ingredients that cause allergies and other skin reactions.

Justice, a makeup brand aimed at tweens, was forced to withdraw its shimmering powder after it was found to contain traces of asbestos.

As if that wasn’t enough, several photos and videos went viral on social media showing children being hospitalised with severe allergic reactions.

4. Dangerous chemicals

Most chemicals in makeup cause irritation, dryness, redness and itching, and prolonged use can damage the skin’s structure and barrier.

Considering that these are young girls, the chances of them completely removing makeup from their faces are next to nil, and the traces of makeup left behind can lead to acne, clogged pores, dermatitis, flaking and the build-up of dirt and bacteria.

What’s more, children’s skin is thinner than that of adults, making it harder to retain moisture and keep out harmful elements.

5. Ingredients to look out for

Just because they’re pink or glittery doesn’t mean they’re safe for your kids. The laws in the countries where most of these products are manufactured do not require brands to list the chemicals that fall under the fragrance ingredient.

However, nickel has been linked to dermatitis, while preservatives such as formaldehyde have been linked to certain cancers and skin diseases.

So is makeup safe for children? That is up to you.

Do your homework and decide before you buy your makeup-obsessed daughter a new eyeshadow palette.