Do your eyes water and become irritated at the thought of a mascara wand, but you're not quite ready to give up your long, thickened lashes? Whether you suffer from delicate skin, are a contact lens wearer or simply have allergies you can't control, then it may be time to swap the products in your make up bag for a gentler formula, but where do you start? If your eyes become irritated, or reddened when applying mascara it may be due to the ingredients you are using. As with any product you use, the ingredients you choose are key. Here are a few ingredients you should be avoiding: 1. Propylene Glycol - Propylene Glycol is a liquid that absorbs water, and it can cause dermatological and respiratory issues. Some of the problems it can cause include acne, eczema, and rashes. 2. Retinyl acetate is a form of vitamin A, may seem harmless. You want to avoid retinyl acetate because it is a carcinogen and can cause developmental and reproductive problems. 3. Formaldehyde is sometimes used in mascara as a preservative. Since it is a known carcinogen, formaldehyde is not something you want to put near your eyes. On the ingredient label it can be listed under several different names, including DMDM hydantoin, diazuli dinyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea, or methenamine and quaternium-15. 4. Synthetic fragrance, synthetic glues, parabens, phthalates and mineral oil - For obvious reasons, these are just not good for your lashes or your health. Avoid, avoid, avoid. However, this does not mean you are destined to put down the mascara wand for good as every mascara we stock is suitable for sensitive eyes and are free from all of the above! See below our natural mascara suggestions, from the first ever waterproof natural mascara (Hurray!) to adding a hint of colour to your lashes: If you have a busy lifestyle: Use: Ere Perez Voluminous Waterproof Mascara The search is over; the panda eyed look at the swimming pool is a thing of the past! Ere Perez Volumising Waterproof Mascara is the only natural waterproof mascara on the market! Does it work? Absolutely! Now, there really is no excuse to not go natural. Formulated with organic Avocado Oil and Mamey Oil (an oil taken from a fruit tree native to South America with a sweet almond scent) which nourish and fortify your lashes whilst you carry on with your busy lifestyle. Hit the beach, gym or social events and rest assured that this little miracle will last from early morning, to the end of the night. If you want a healthy, 100% natural look: Use: Living Nature Thickening Mascara For healthy eye lashes with maximum impact this is the mascara for you. With a 100% natural formula, featuring Kaolin (naturally occurring clay found in soils) to thicken your eye lashes without clumping, there's no need to add chemicals. If you are looking for a little luxury: Use: RMS Beauty Volumizing Mascara Created by celebrity make up artist Rose- Marie Swift, this is a firm favourite with beauty editors, as you can instantly add lift to your eye lashes using the smaller spool for precision application and without poking your eyes! Formulated with a combination of organic ingredients (beeswax, sweet almond oil and shea butter) and raw minerals, the 100% natural mascara instantly protects your eyelashes without flaking or smudging. Be warned, this mascara does contain wheat - so if you're avoiding gluten, this may not be the one for you! If you want tried, tested and loved: Use: Green People Volumizing Mascara As one of the most positively reviewed products on our website, this mascara is tried, tested and simply loved by our customers! Condition your lashes with added Vitamin E, whilst adding volume for beautifully defined lashes. A little really goes a long way with this one thanks to the multitude of very thin bristles on the brush. If you want a gentle formula but intense eyes: Use: Borlind Natural Mascara Give your eyes a bright, wide open, effect whilst still remaining completely natural looking with the specially designed brush from Borlind which separates each lash and ensures equal distribution of mascara. The gentle formula contains Jojoba Oil to condition your lashes and Gum Arabic (a natural gum found in the acacia tree) to thicken lashes with a shortened drying time. If jet black is not quite your colour: Use: Dr Hauschka Volume Mascara in Aubergine If the classic black is not quite your thing, and you are looking for a splash of subtle colour for your eyes, try the Aubergine mascara from Dr Hauschka. The deep purplish-brown colour stays put all day and remains thick and intense looking. Apply two coats to both sets of lashes from root to tip for stand out colour, with each lash protected with 100% natural beeswax, candelilla and rose wax. Shop here for more Natural and Organic Mascaras.
