WHY YOU SHOULD AVOID BISMUTH IN COSMETICS
If you’ve switched to using mineral-based or natural makeup, you’ve likely heard of the unfortunate side effects associated with the ingredient Bismuth.
Bismuth is a heavy metal element often used in cosmetics as a pigment, filler, or preservative. While it is generally considered safe for many individuals, it can pose risks and adverse effects for certain people. This is why many natural makeup companies, including ours, avoid using it in formulations.
Why is Bismuth Used in Cosmetics?
Bismuth oxychloride (often listed this way on ingredient labels) is a pearlescent, shimmery compound derived from bismuth. It is commonly found in mineral makeup to provide a luminous and glowing effect, particularly in foundations, blushes, eyeshadows, and highlighters.
(It’s also used in certain pharmaceuticals, like that pink remedy you take when your stomach feels upset.)
Many cosmetic companies use bismuth as a cheap filler and label their products as “mineral makeup” because it’s a natural compound. They market it as being superior to talc (which has its own concerns). Bismuth is added to cosmetics because it has a silky feel, gives a pearly shimmer, and helps makeup last longer. Its light-reflective properties can also help “hide” wrinkles and age spots.
While these benefits sound appealing, bismuth can cause significant harm to the skin and overall health.
What are the Risks of Using Bismuth in Cosmetics?
1. Skin Irritation & Sensitivity
One of the most common concerns is bismuth’s potential to cause skin irritation and sensitivity. Some individuals may experience itching, redness, rashes, or acne-like breakouts when using products that contain bismuth. This reaction is particularly common for those with sensitive or reactive skin.
2. Clogged Pores & Aggravated Acne
Bismuth particles are large and have a unique structure that can sit on the surface of the skin, leading to clogged pores and trapping bacteria, dirt, and sebum. This can worsen breakouts or trigger more frequent acne flare-ups in individuals with acne-prone skin.
3. Allergic Reactions
In some cases, bismuth can cause allergic reactions. These can range from mild symptoms, like itching and hives, to severe reactions such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis. If you have a known allergy to bismuth or related metals, it’s important to avoid cosmetics containing this ingredient.
4. Skin Discomfort & Sensations
Some users report a sensation of heat, tingling, or discomfort when using cosmetics with bismuth—often referred to as the “bismuth oxychloride itch.” While not harmful, this sensation can be uncomfortable and bothersome.
5. Environmental Impact
Aside from the risks to human health, bismuth in cosmetics raises concerns about its environmental impact. The mining and extraction process can lead to soil contamination, water pollution, and habitat destruction. Improper disposal of bismuth-containing products can further contribute to environmental damage.
What Safer Ingredient is Used in Place of Bismuth?
To achieve the same lustrous, silky, and luminescent finish that bismuth provides without the harmful side effects, we use ethically-sourced sericite mica, a natural mineral from the Earth that is safe to use.
At BunJoin, we’re committed to formulating high-quality, safer cosmetics that don’t compromise on performance. Explore our BunJoin products and discover the benefits of clean beauty with ingredients you can trust.
