ShadecubbyTalc-free, fragrance-free and paraben-free makeup: what the labels mean
“Free-from” claims are some of the most common words on makeup packaging, and some of the least consistent. Here’s what each one means, why people look for it, and how to check the ingredient list yourself.
Updated · 5 min read
Talc-free
Talc is a soft mineral used in powders, blushes and eyeshadows to absorb oil and give a smooth feel. The concern is contamination with asbestos, which can occur where talc is mined, and the FDA has proposed rules for testing talc-containing cosmetics for it. Some people also simply prefer powders without it.
On the label: look for “talc” in the ingredient list. Common talc-free powders use mica, silica, corn starch or rice powder instead.
Fragrance-free
Fragrance is one of the most common causes of skin reactions from cosmetics. “Fragrance” or “parfum” on a label can stand for a mix of many ingredients that don’t have to be listed one by one.
On the label: look for “fragrance”, “parfum” or “aroma”, and for named fragrance allergens such as limonene, linalool, citronellol and geraniol. “Unscented” isn’t the same as fragrance-free: it can mean a masking fragrance was added to cover the smell of the other ingredients.
Paraben-free
Parabens are preservatives that stop bacteria and mold growing in a product. The FDA says it has no evidence that parabens in cosmetics, at the levels used, affect people’s health. Some people avoid them anyway, as a personal preference.
On the label: look for words ending in -paraben, such as methylparaben or propylparaben. A paraben-free product still needs a preservative, so expect another one in its place.
Check the list, not the front of the box
A claim on the front is marketing; the ingredient list is the source. Ingredients are listed from most to least, and lists can change when a product is reformulated, so check the current one where you buy.
In Shadecubby, you can filter Discover to avoid talc, fragrance, parabens, essential oils, drying alcohols and more. A filter isn’t a safety test: choosing “avoid parabens” doesn’t mean other products are unsafe.