Is There Mercury in Your Mascara?

The Bad News:

Long, luscious lashes may be sexy, but they could also be a hazard to your health. Thimerosal, a mercury-based antifungal and antiseptic compound used in vaccines and, surprisingly, tattoo ink can be found in some cake-type mascaras. Linked to allergies and skin irritation, thimerosal can cause neurological damage even in minute amounts. Because mercury is easily absorbed through the skin, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned the use of mercury in all cosmetics…except those you use around your eyes.

The Good News:

Manufacturers have been quick to remove mercury-containing compounds from most popular products, so chances are your mascara is safe. Although the FDA has yet to publish guidelines governing the use of mercury as an ingredient — or better yet, prohibit its use altogether — most brands no longer contain thimerosal or mercury-based compounds. If you live in Minnesota, you can plump up those lashes in peace; mercury is banned for use in mascara in that state.

The News You Can Use:

Check the itty-bitty print: Manufacturers are required to list every ingredient on the package, with those found in the largest amounts first. (Look for the words: "mercuric" or "thimerosal".) Most brands that include mercury use only traces, but do you really want any of this nasty toxin near your eyes? To make sure your eyes stay mercury-free, visit the Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep cosmetics database to find out which of your favorite brands is safest.