What you put on your skin matters. A recent study by researchers at the University of Notre Dame found that more than half of cosmetics sold in the United States and Canada likely contain high levels of a toxic industrial compound known to cause serious health conditions, including cancer and reduced birth weight.

Of the more than 230 commonly used cosmetics tested, 56% of foundations and eye products, 48% of lip products and 47% of mascaras contained high levels of fluorine, a chemical used in nonstick frying pans, rugs and countless other consumer products.

Some of the highest PFAS levels were found in waterproof mascara (82%) and long-lasting lipstick (62%).


Take care of your body inside and out. Check out a few Black-owned beauty brands with health and melanin-rich skin in mind. (Click the names to visit the website.)

Beauty Bakerie – vegan, cruelty-free cosmetics
Unsun – environmentally safe sunscreen for all skin tones
Buttah. – skincare for melanin
Bolden – effective skincare for pigmented skin
B. Simone Beauty – vegan and cruelty-free makeup
Mischo Beauty – safe, non-toxic nail polish
Rosen Skincare – acne skincare for Black women
54Thrones – botanical skin products sourced from Africa
Ayele & Co. – sustainable skincare
Hyperskin – skincare for dark spots
skin Buttr – natural skincare products
Nyakio Beauty – clean and green beauty

Want more skincare tips? Read our tips on getting healthy, glowing skin.

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