In 2025, beauty means focusing on health without sacrificing style. As people become more aware of harmful ingredients like cadmium in lipsticks, health-conscious makeup fans are requesting safer, non-toxic choices.
Cadmium, a heavy metal linked to kidney damage, cancer, and hormonal issues, has been found in many lipsticks at levels higher than safe limits.
This guide discusses the risks of cadmium in lipsticks, the importance of clean beauty, and how to select safe lipsticks for a vibrant, worry-free appearance.
Whether you love makeup or are passionate about skincare, here’s what you need to know about embracing non-toxic beauty in 2025.
Photo credit: The Good Trade
Why Safe Lipsticks Matter in 2025
Lipstick is a key part of many makeup routines, but since it goes directly on the lips, it’s often swallowed—up to 24 mg each day for average users and 87 mg for heavy users, according to studies. New research (2023–2025) shows that cadmium, a harmful heavy metal, appears in many lipsticks at concerning levels, often exceeding the FDA’s recommended limit of 3 mg/kg or Health Canada’s guideline of 3 µg/g.
With the rise of health-focused beauty (search interest for “clean beauty” jumped by 20% in 2024), consumers want transparency and safety from cosmetic brands. By choosing non-toxic lipsticks, you can protect your health while looking great.
Photo credit: Little Southern Life
The Health Risks of Cadmium in Lipsticks
Cadmium in lipsticks is concerning because it accumulates in the body and can have serious health effects. Here’s a summary of the risks, supported by recent studies:
1. Kidney Damage: Cadmium builds up in the kidneys, leading to dysfunction and a higher risk of chronic kidney disease. A 2024 study in Environmental Health Perspectives linked low-level cadmium exposure to signs of kidney damage.
2. Cancer Risk: Classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the IARC, cadmium is associated with lung, breast, and kidney cancers. A 2025 study in Cancer Research found cadmium in breast cancer samples, suggesting it may encourage cancer cell growth.
3. Bone Health: Cadmium interferes with calcium metabolism, which can cause osteoporosis and fractures, as highlighted in a 2022 Bone study.
4. Hormonal Disruptions: As a chemical that disrupts hormones, cadmium can harm reproductive health and hormone balance, according to a 2023 Reproductive Toxicology study, increasing risks of infertility or menstrual issues.
5. Nervous System: Cadmium’s toxic effects on the nervous system, noted in a 2024 Neurotoxicology study, might harm cognitive function, especially in children exposed to makeup.
6. Exposure Through Lipstick: Cadmium levels in certain lipsticks range from 4.08–60.20 µg/g (as seen in studies from Iran and Ghana), meaning heavy users often exceed safe daily limits. Since cadmium can stay in the body for 10–30 years, even small amounts from daily lipstick use can build up, adding to risks from other sources like food or water.
Photo credit: Orbasics
Why Clean Beauty Is the Future
The clean beauty trend is changing the cosmetics industry, with brands like ILIA, RMS Beauty, and Beautycounter at the forefront. Consumers are increasingly aware of harmful ingredients beyond cadmium, including lead, parabens, and phthalates, which can also harm health. In 2025, clean beauty is not just a trend; it’s a necessity.
The Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Skin Deep database and certifications like “EWG Verified” help consumers make informed choices. Social media platforms like X, Facebook, and Instagram amplify the demand for transparency, with many posts urging brands to remove toxic ingredients.
Photo credit: Mindful Momma
How to Choose Safe Lipsticks in 2025
Finding non-toxic lipsticks can feel challenging, but these tips can help:
1. Read Labels Carefully: Look for “cadmium-free,” “lead-free,” or “non-toxic” labels. Steer clear of lipsticks with unclear ingredient lists or synthetic colors like Red 6 or Yellow 5, which may include heavy metals.
Guide: Check for certifications from EWG, Leaping Bunny, or USDA Organic to confirm safety.
2. Choose Trusted Brands: ILIA Beauty: Renowned for its clean and vibrant lipsticks, such as the Color Block High Impact Lipstick, which is free from heavy metals and includes natural ingredients like castor seed oil.
RMS Beauty: Offers cadmium-free lip shines with nourishing coconut oil for a glossy, safe look.
Burt’s Bees: Affordable and easy to find, their 100% natural lipsticks and balms avoid toxic metals, making them perfect for daily use.
Beautycounter: Their Beyond Gloss and Sheer Lipstick lines undergo strict testing for heavy metals, focusing on consumer safety.
3. Limit Application Frequency: Reduce lipstick application to 1–2 times a day to lessen intake. Consider tinted lip balms or glosses for lighter coverage, as they often contain fewer pigments and less metal.
4. Pair with Clean Skincare: Use a non-toxic lip scrub (for example, Herbivore’s Coco Rose Lip Polish) to prepare lips, then follow with a clean moisturizer like Drunk Elephant’s Lippe Balm for hydration without chemicals.
5. Research Products: Utilize EWG’s Skin Deep database or apps like Think Dirty to check lipstick safety ratings. Cross-reference with brand transparency reports to confirm there are no hidden toxins.
Photo credit: Pinterest
Top Non-Toxic Lipstick Looks for 2025
Choosing safe lipsticks doesn’t mean sacrificing style. Here are three popular 2025 makeup looks using non-toxic products that fit into your health-conscious beauty routine:
1. Bold Red Lip: Classic and Safe
Why It’s Trending: Red lipstick is a timeless choice, with bold shades taking over the 2025 runways (Vogue reported a 15% rise in red lipstick searches in 2024).
How to Style:
Lipstick: ILIA’s Cinnabar Lipstick, a cadmium-free true red, offers vibrant color with clean ingredients.
Pair With: A mineral-based foundation from BareMinerals and a natural mascara like 100% Pure’s Fruit Pigmented Mascara for a refined look.
Skincare Prep: Use Paula’s Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser for a clean base, helping to reduce chemical buildup.
Why It Works: The striking red lip adds drama without health risks, perfect for evenings or date nights.
Photo credit: Depositphotos
2. Nude Glow: Minimal and Natural
Why It’s Trending: Nude lips fit into the “clean girl” trend, with posts on X showing a 25% increase in natural makeup searches in 2025.
How to Style:
Lipstick: RMS Beauty’s Wild With Desire Lipstick in a nude shade, free of heavy metals and made with organic oils.
Pair With: A non-toxic BB cream from Juice Beauty and a clean highlighter like Kjaer Weis Cream Glow for a dewy look.
Skincare Prep: Apply The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid Serum for hydration to keep lips smooth under minimal makeup.
Why It Works: This subtle look is great for daily wear, focusing on health and simplicity.
Photo credit: TikTok
3. Berry Bold: Vibrant and Safe
Why It’s Trending: Berry shades are a favorite in 2025, offering a splash of color without the intensity of red (Glamour noted a rise in berry lipstick sales).
How to Style:
Lipstick: Beautycounter’s Sheer Lipstick in Rose, tested for heavy metals and providing a rich berry tone.
Pair With: A cadmium-free blush from W3LL PEOPLE and a clean eyeliner like Honest Beauty’s Liquid Eyeliner.
Skincare Prep: Use Cetaphil’s Gentle Skin Cleanser to keep lips and skin free of toxins.
Why It Works: Berry lips bring a trendy and versatile touch for any occasion.
Photo credit: Instagram
Avoiding Toxic Lipsticks: Red Flags to Watch
High-Risk Brands: Stay away from lipsticks with undisclosed ingredients or from unregulated markets, as studies indicate higher cadmium levels in some imported products.
Vivid Pigments: Bright reds and pinks often use cadmium-based dyes (like cadmium sulfide). Choose natural colors like beetroot or carmine instead.
Frequent Reapplication: Heavy users (14 or more applications daily) face greater risks, so opt for safer alternatives like tinted balms.
Building a Health-Conscious Beauty Routine
To fully embrace non-toxic beauty:
Shop Clean: Choose brands that are transparent about testing, such as those mentioned above.
Simplify Skincare: Use products with fewer ingredients (like Herbivore’s Lapis Blue Tansy Oil) to lower chemical exposure.
Educate Yourself: Follow X accounts or check EWG’s updates for the latest on safe cosmetics.
Advocate for Change: Support brands and initiatives that push for stricter regulations, such as the EU’s cadmium ban.
Photo credit: HINDASH
Final Thoughts: Beauty Without Compromise
In 2025, safe lipsticks are pivotal to health-conscious beauty. By choosing non-toxic options from brands like ILIA, RMS Beauty, and Burt’s Bees, you can enjoy vibrant, stylish lips without jeopardizing your health.
With the well-documented dangers of cadmium—including kidney damage and cancer—it’s time to make informed choices.
Check EWG’s Skin Deep database, limit lipstick use, and embrace clean beauty for a look that is as safe as it is stunning.
What’s your go-to non-toxic lipstick? Share your favorites in the comments, and let’s create a healthier beauty community!
Photo credit: Female Network
Blog Author: RAJA BAHAR KHAN SOOMRO
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