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If you’re on a quest for long, luscious lashes, you’re likely no stranger to the vast array of mascaras available in the market. But have you considered the ingredients that go into your go-to mascara? Conventional mascaras are often loaded with synthetic chemicals that can irritate sensitive eyes or even cause long-term damage. Natural mascara, on the other hand, offers a healthier alternative for lengthening those lashes without a side of harmful chemicals.
What’s the Problem with Conventional Mascaras?
Conventional mascaras often contain a cocktail of synthetic chemicals that can cause irritation and other health concerns. Here are a few of the main concerning ingredients to look out for:
- Parabens: These preservatives are commonly used in cosmetics, including mascaras, to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microbes. However, studies have shown that parabens can disrupt hormone function and potentially lead to breast cancer.
- Phthalates: These chemicals are often used as plasticizers to make mascara formulas more flexible. However, they have been linked to endocrine disruption, developmental and reproductive toxicity, and other health issues.
- Carbon black: This pigment is commonly used to create black mascara shades, but it’s also a known human carcinogen and can cause lung damage when inhaled.
- Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives: These preservatives are used to prevent bacterial growth, but they can release formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen, into the air over time.
By opting for natural and organic mascaras instead, you can avoid these ingredients while still achieving beautiful lashes.
What Does EWG Verified Mean?
EWG (Environmental Working Group) is a non-profit organization that aims to inform consumers about the safety and environmental impact of various products, including make-up products like mascaras.
To receive EWG verification, a product must undergo a rigorous evaluation process that includes a review of all ingredients used in the product and an assessment of potential health risks associated with those ingredients. A product that receives EWG verification has been independently reviewed by a team of scientists and meets the EWG’s strict standards for safety and transparency.
In addition to EWG verification, the EWG also provides “hazard scores” for personal care products on a scale of 1-10, with 1 being the lowest hazard score and 10 being the highest. A low hazard score means that a product has been found to contain relatively few ingredients that have been linked to health concerns like cancer, hormone disruption, or reproductive toxicity.
When shopping for mascara, looking for products that are EWG verified or have low hazard scores can help you make more informed choices about the products you use on your skin and near your eyes. It can also help you avoid products that may contain potentially harmful ingredients that could impact your health.
Although a few of the mascaras on our list below have not yet been rated by the EWG, the majority are either EWG Verified or received a “low hazard” score of 2 for their ingredients. That way, you know you are not putting any concerning chemicals right next to your eyes.
7 Best Organic and Natural Mascaras for Gorgeous Lashes
Here are some of the best natural mascaras made of plant derived products and free from concerning chemicals that you can treat yourself to today.
1. 100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Ultra Lengthening Mascara ($28)
This mascara is made with natural fruit pigments, such as blackberry and cocoa, to create rich and long-lasting color. It’s formulated with nourishing ingredients like vitamin E and green tea to strengthen and condition your lashes.
This mascara is free from synthetic dyes, fragrances, preservatives, parabens, phthalates, and carbon black.
As of the writing of this article, this mascara has not been rated by the EWG.
2. W3LL PEOPLE Volumizing Mascara ($20)
This EWG Verified mascara is made with a blend of natural and organic ingredients, including jojoba oil and beeswax, to nourish and protect your lashes. It features a unique brush design that separates and lengthens lashes for a more dramatic effect.
This mascara is free from parabens, sulfates, petroleum-based ingredients, synthetic fragrances, and dyes.
3. ILIA Limitless Lash Mascara ($28)
This mascara from Ilia, who also makes one of our favorite concealers, conditions and strengthens lashes with a blend of organic ingredients like shea butter and beeswax. Its formula is also free from synthetic dyes, preservatives, fragrances, carbon black, and other harsh chemicals.
EWG gives this mascara a rating of 2, or “low hazard” on its scale.
4. Honest Beauty Extreme Length Mascara + Lash Primer ($17)
This two-in-one mascara and primer conditions and volumizes lashes with a blend of natural waxes and oils like shea butter and jojoba oil. Its formula is also free from harmful chemicals like parabens, silicones, and synthetic fragrances.
This mascara is an EWG Verified product.
5. Juice Beauty Phyto-Pigments Ultra-Natural Mascara ($25)
Juice Beauty’s mascara is free from parabens, petroleum, and other harsh chemicals commonly found in conventional mascaras. It’s formulated with a blend of organic ingredients like aloe vera and jojoba oil to condition and strengthen lashes. Users appreciate the mascara’s lengthening and volumizing effect, as well as its long-lasting wear.
EWG gives this mascara a rating of 2, or “low hazard” on its scale.
6. Beauty Counter Think Big Natural Mascara ($30)
This vegan and cruelty-free mascara is free from parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances. It’s formulated with nourishing ingredients like castor oil and vitamin E to promote healthy lash growth and prevent breakage. Users love the mascara’s volumizing effect and its ability to define and separate lashes without clumping.
Beauty Counter’s Think Big mascara is an EWG Verified product.
7. Lily Lolo Natural Mascara ($20)
This mascara is free from synthetic fragrances, preservatives, and dyes, as well as parabens and other harsh chemicals. It’s formulated with a blend of natural ingredients like beeswax and carnauba wax to volumize and lengthen lashes. Users appreciate this mascara’s long-lasting wear and how it adds definition and thickness to their lashes without smudging or flaking.
Lily Lolo’s mascara is not currently rated by the EWG.
Making the Switch to Natural Mascara
Switching to a natural mascara can provide a safer option for your lashes and overall health. By choosing a mascara that is free from harmful chemicals and ingredients, you can avoid potential irritation, allergic reactions, and long-term health concerns.
Fortunately, there are many high-quality natural and organic mascaras available that not only provide full, gorgeous lashes but are also better for you and the planet.
