Gluten-Free….Makeup?

Article by BR Kellie

I can’t lie, when I first heard the words ‘Gluten Free Makeup’ uttered, I had a wee snort. What? Why? It’s not like you eat makeup! Then it occurred to me, we do! Apparently the average woman consumes between four to seven pounds (that’s approximately 1.8 to 3kgs) of lipstick in her life, and for a person with celiac 
disease or gluten sensitivity, well that wouldn’t be ideal. Far from it. 

So is it only lipstick that a person with a gluten allergy or sensitivity needs to avoid? Or does it extend to lotions, hair product, and all makeup? 

It turns out the answer is…maybe. Scientific studies have shown that gluten needs to be ingested in order to cause any problems, so topical application of gluten products won’t have an affect, but there are occasions, such as when a sufferer has skin lesions, that the gluten can be absorbed into the system. However there are sufferers who’ve claimed that applying products containing gluten onto their skin have triggered their condition. 

So what’s a girl to do? Never moisturise again? Never shampoo or condition your hair in case some seeps into your mouth? Avoid foundation for fear that it will somehow make its way down your esophagus? Luckily, you don’t have to go so far as to give up your beauty regime, as there is now a range of companies who’ve created gluten-free makeup and skincare.

Afterglow – All products are gluten-free, and are made in a gluten-free facility.
Ecco Bella – A range of skincare, haircare, makeup and perfume. According to their website, no Ecco Bella product contains gluten or wheat protein.
Flawless Spa Treatment Mineral Cosmetics –  - offer a whole range of gluten free (as well as cruelty free and vegan) makeup.
Redapplelipstick.com – Gluten-free makeup, and their website has lots of helpful information about their products and philosophy. 

There are other brands out there that offer gluten-free products, such as Dr Hauschka, Bare Minerals, e.l.f, and Murad – however not all their products are, so if you’re determined to be totally gluten-free it’s important to do your research and arm yourself with knowledge. Discover what forms gluten comes in and what their scientific names are. And then? Hit the shops, or the ‘net, for some happy healthy shopping. 

Do you suffer from celiac disease or gluten sensitivity? Have you changed your beauty regime because of this? Are there any other gluten-free products people need to know about? Get talking!