Lipstick is one of the most commonly used makeup products by women. However, several dangerous lipstick are still circulating in Indonesia. Why are these lipsticks considered harmful? The main concern lies in the chemical ingredients that can cause lips to darken or appear dull. Other contributing factors include chemical irritation, pigment buildup, and lack of proper lip care.
Harmful Ingredients in Lipsticks You Should Avoid
| Ingredient / Chemical | Common Use in Lipstick | Potential Health Risks |
| Lead, Mercury, Cadmium, Heavy Metals | Coloring agents, stabilizers | Damage to the nervous system, organ failure, cancer risk, skin irritation |
| Hydroquinone, Textile Dyes (Red K3/K10) | Pigments, color enhancers | Irritation, hyperpigmentation, carcinogenic effects |
| Parabens (Methylparaben, Polyparaben) | Preservatives | Hormone disruption (endocrine system), possible carcinogenic effects |
| Retinyl Palmitate | Synthetic vitamin A | Skin irritation, photocarcinogenic under UV exposure |
| Tocopheryl Acetate | Synthetic vitamin E | May increase skin cancer risk under UV rays |
| Triclosan | Antimicrobial agent | Hormone disruption, antibiotic resistance |
| Artificial Fragrances & Synthetic Dyes | Added scent, coloring | Allergies, skin irritation, buildup of harmful substances |
How to Choose Safe Lipsticks
- Check BPOM Registration
Ensure the product has an official registration number from BPOM or verify through the “BPOM Mobile” application. - Read Ingredient Labels Carefully
Avoid lipsticks containing heavy metals, hydroquinone, parabens, retinyl palmitate, or petroleum-based dyes. - Choose Lipsticks with Natural Ingredients
Look for formulas with natural oils (jojoba, almond), shea butter, natural vitamin E, or SPF for extra protection. - Maintain Regular Lip Care
Exfoliate gently (for example, using sugar and honey), apply lip balm, and always remove lipstick before bedtime to prevent pigment buildup.
Lipstick Brands Recalled or Warned by BPOM
Several lipsticks have been recalled from the Indonesian market due to harmful ingredients, including:
- QL Matte Lipstick
Recalled variants include numbers 07 (Sunset Orange), 08 (Flaming Red), 09 (Pretty Peach), and 10 (Lady Red) for containing non-compliant Red K3 dye. - SANIYE Products (Q1 2025)
Various lip glosses such as Long Lasting Capsule Lip Gloss L1135 14#, Non-stick Lip Gloss L1181 4#, and Fashion Lady Non-stick Lip Gloss L1180 #07. These were found to contain mercury, retinoic acid, hydroquinone, lead, and Red K10 dye. - IMPLORA Lipstick
Several shades of Water Shine Diamonds (1, 2, 3, 5, 6, and Fleur Rouge variant) were listed by BPOM as containing hazardous substances.
Conclusion
Choosing a safe lipstick is not only about beauty but also about protecting your long-term lip health. Always ensure that products are registered with BPOM, avoid harmful formulas, and maintain consistent lip care. This will help keep your lips healthy, bright, and free from darkening caused by dangerous lipstick.
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