Bare Beauty Journal

Titanium dioxide is commonly used as a white pigment in cosmetics. While legal in makeup, it was banned in the EU as a food additive in 2022 due to uncertainty about the safety of long-term ingestion of nanoparticles. Because lip products are applied close to the mouth, we’ve chosen to avoid titanium dioxide entirely in our lip products. Instead, we use plant-based oils and mineral colourants that deliver vibrant results with carefully selected, safety-reviewed alternatives. How we verify our choices: We follow EFSA recommendations and exclude CI 77891 from products used near the mouth We only use non-nano pigments with documented safety Last reformulated: 2024 📚 Sources:EU Regulation (2022/63/EU) – ban on titanium dioxide as food additive (E171)EFSA – Safety assessment of titanium dioxide as a food additive (2021)European Commission press release (2022)

Talc has long been used in cosmetics for its softness and oil-absorbing qualities. However, as a natural mineral, talc can occur near asbestos in the earth. EU law requires all cosmetic-grade talc to be tested and confirmed asbestos-free. We’ve chosen to fully exclude talc. Instead, we use safe alternatives like silica, corn starch and clay-based powders. How we verify our choices: Each formula is reviewed by an external toxicologist Our talc alternatives are cosmetic-grade and suitable for sensitive skin Last reformulated: 2023 📚 Sources:EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC No 1223/2009) – requires talc used in cosmetics to be asbestos-freeSCCS Opinion on Talc (2021) – confirms only asbestos-free talc may be used in cosmeticsU.S. FDA – Talc in Cosmetics

Silicones are widely used in cosmetics because they create a smooth surface. While some are considered safe in small amounts, others have raised environmental concerns. They are poorly degradable and harmful to aquatic ecosystems. The EU has already limited their use in rinse-off products. We have chosen to avoid all forms of silicone. Instead, we use plant-based emollients that offer the same texture – without the use of ingredients that are poorly degradable or restricted under EU regulations. Our silicone-free formulations are designed for sensitive and breakout-prone skin, as they minimise occlusive ingredients that can contribute to skin imbalance. How we verify our choices: We exclude PEG-siloxanes, cyclomethicone and dimethicone Our sourcing prioritises biodegradability and EU-compliance Last reformulated: 2023 📚 Sources:EU ban on silicones D4, D5 and D6 in cosmeticsEnvironmental impact of silicones  

You’ve probably seen the term “paraben-free” on many beauty products. But what does it actually mean – and why does it matter to us?  Parabens are synthetic preservatives used to prevent bacteria and mold in cosmetics. While effective, some parabens such as propylparaben and butylparaben have raised concerns, as they are suspected to interfere with hormone functions.  In Denmark, certain parabens are banned in products for infants, and the EU only allows low concentrations of specific parabens (e.g. 0.19%).   We believe that daily-use products should be developed with a high standard of safety and transparency. That’s why we formulate all our products without parabens. Instead, we use approved, well-documented alternatives.  How we verify our choices: All ingredients are assessed according to EU SCCS (Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety) We list INCI names and explain the function of each ingredient Last reformulated: 2023 📚 Sources:EU regulation on parabens (2014/100/EU) – defines bans and limitationsEU Commission – Parabens and childrenCosmetics & Toiletries – EU restrictions on propylparaben and butylparaben (2015)    

We believe makeup should feel good – both on your skin and in an ethical sense. That’s why we’ve carefully designed each of our formulas to prioritize safety, performance, and transparency. Allow us to introduce: Our ingredient philosopy! 🌱 Vegan products – alwaysAll our products are formulated with only plant-based ingredients – no animal-derived substances are used. We choose plant-based oils, waxes, and butters instead, reflecting our approach to responsible formulation. 🧴 Paraben-FreeAll our products are paraben-free. Instead, we use EU-approved preservatives which are recognized for their safety and effectiveness. 💧 Silicone-FreeAll our formulas are developed without silicones. Instead, we use plant-based oils and emollients to achieve a smooth, non-greasy feel to achieve breathable textures and formulations. 🌱 Talc-FreeWe don’t use talc in any of our products. Instead we have opted for alternatives such as rice starch, kaolin, and silica. This means that you get a silky, matte finish using plant-derived and mineral-based alternatives to talc. 🌿Prioritizing ingredients of Natural Origin—When It Makes SenseMany of our ingredients are derived from plants, including jojoba oil, almond oil, carnauba wax, and corn starch. We also include safe, functional synthetics where necessary—for preservation, texture, or performance.→ We aim to be safe, effective, and transparent, and include naturally derived ingredients when they meet EU safety and quality standards. 🧪 Microplastic-ConsciousNone of our blushes, highlighters, or lip glosses contain solid, non-biodegradable synthetic polymers (commonly referred to as microplastics).Our mascara and lip tint currently contain small amounts of polymers that fall within the EU’s permitted exemptions. These are used to support product stability and do not behave as traditional microplastics once applied. ⚖️ TransparencyWe don’t use fear-based labels or marketing buzzwords like “clean beauty.” When we say our products are paraben-free, silicone-free, talc-free, vegan, titanium dioxide-free (in lips), and microplastic-conscious, it reflects deliberate and documented formulation decisions. Every product is: Dermatologically tested Developed in the EU under strict regulatory standards Made with ingredients selected for their safety profile and alignment with current EU environmental guidelines 🫶 Safety First, AlwaysWe understand that what you put on your skin matters. That’s why our choice of preservatives, pigments, emollients, and powders is rooted in safety and science.Our goal is to continuously develop our formulations – our choices are made based on new research, changing regulations, and improved raw material options.We work passionately to deliver thoughtful formulations based on responsibility and transparency.