Bismuth Oxychloride Free or Not?

BISMUTH OXYCHLORIDE - This is an ingredient you should take note when choosing a mineral makeup. The trend in using mineral makeup is growing but there has been a concern of this ingredient.

Bismuth oxychloride is commonly found in mineral makeup because it gives the silky feel, good slip for easy application, and stays well on the skin. It has also been approved by FDA and listed as a colouring additive - it gives a white colour to cosmetics. Besides that, bismuth oxychloride refracts light to camouflage fine lines, wrinkles and minor discolorations. Thus, diminishing the appearance of imperfections on skin.

 It sounds all good to include this ingredient in cosmetics. However, according to MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) for bismuth oxychloride, there is a risk of it being a potential irritant to humans when it comes in contact with the skin or eyes. It is a by product of lead, copper and other metals. Being a heavy element, it could result in irritated skin.  

“Bismuth oxychloride can aggravate acne, resulting in flare-ups upon use, and even cause the appearance of acne cysts,” says Manhattan-based dermatologist Judith Hellman, MD. “In addition, it may be the source of rashes in patients sensitive to it, especially those with delicate and easily irritated skin, such as rosacea and eczema patients.” 

So should you continue your mineral makeup which contain bismuth oxychloride? Not everyone's skin react to Bismuth oxychloride. If you are happy with your current mineral makeup, of course there is no problem continue using it. But those who are prone to skin irritation should perhaps prevent bismuth oxychloride.