Iridescent eyeshadows, shimmering powders, glitter sprays… As the holidays approach, cosmetics that make the skin shine are more popular than ever. But behind this seductive pearly effect, an association is sounding the alarm. This December 18, the Avicenn association (Association for monitoring and civic information on the issues of nanosciences and nanotechnologies) published the results of a worrying study on the composition of several sparkling cosmetic products for the general public.
Ten cosmetics tested, all affected
For this investigation, Avicenn had ten glittering cosmetic products from major brands analyzed by a specialized laboratory. Result: a very large quantity of titanium dioxide nanoparticles was found in all of the products tested.
The references concerned are in particular:
- Stardust (Nocibé)
- Shimmer Iridescent Bronzer (Sephora)
- Gold powder – Mineral mother-of-pearl (Aroma-Zone)
- Okara Blond (René Furterer)
- Shimmer Spray Gold (LA Girl)
- Wonderful Intense (Adopt)
- Golden glitter powder spray (Si Si la Paillette)
- Mica Gold (Ma Cosmeto Perso)
- Land of Sun Sunbay (Serge Louis Alvarez – SLA)
- Pearly sublimating treatment milk (Le Petit Marseillais)
Widely distributed products, particularly popular at this time of year.
Why do these nanoparticles raise questions?
Glitter cosmetics typically contain mica and titanium dioxide, two minerals used for their reflective properties. This is what gives the skin that pearly or iridescent appearance.
The problem, according to Avicenn, comes from the behavior of mica: when it cracks, it can release titanium dioxide nanoparticles. However, these extremely fine particles are not harmless for health.
“Titanium dioxide nanoparticles, especially when they are very small, are likely to penetrate deeply into the body, particularly when they are inhaled. They can reach the lungs as far as the pulmonary alveoli”alerts Mathilde Detcheverry, general delegate of Avicenn.
Products in the form of powders or sprays are particularly affected by this risk of inhalation.
Substances banned in cosmetics
Crucial point: titanium dioxide nanoparticles are banned in cosmetic products. Their presence in these references therefore raises a question of regulatory compliance.
Following the publication of these results, the Ministry of Health contacted the National Health Security Agency (ANSES) in order to continue the research. Furthermore, Avicenn also alerted the European Commission, estimating that the manufacturers concerned would not comply with the regulations in force.
“We are clearly in favor of the precautionary principle, given the risks for the health of consumers but also for the workers exposed in the workshops manufacturing these powders”underlines Mathilde Detcheverry.
Should we stop using glitter makeup?
Don’t panic: this is not about calling for an immediate ban or needlessly alarming consumers. On the other hand, this survey reminds us of the importance of being informed and adopting prudent actions, particularly for products in powder or spray form.
Some simple tips:
- Avoid applying glitter powders in poorly ventilated spaces;
- Limit the use of glitter sprays near the face;
- Be particularly vigilant in children, who are more sensitive to inhaling fine particles;
- Favor, when possible, alternatives without an iridescent effect or in the form of cream textures.
Better information to better protect
For Avicenn, the main issue remains transparency. The association calls for better public information, strict compliance with existing rules and increased vigilance by the authorities.
This alert reminds us that even in the world of festive makeup, the question of product composition remains essential. Shine, yes — but not at the expense of your health.