Maybelline New York Brow Fast Sculp 04 Medium Brown Wenkbrauwmascara — ingredient safety report

• Irritation:Drying and barrier-disrupting in high-alcohol formulas with regular use.

Denatured ethanol gives products a fast-drying, weightless feel, but as a leading ingredient it degrades the skin barrier with repeated use — a poor match for dry, sensitive or eczema-prone skin.

• Irritation:Milder than SLS but still drying for compromised skin.

The gentler cousin of SLS used in most mainstream shampoos and washes. Its manufacturing can leave trace 1,4-dioxane, which reputable makers strip out — an issue of quality control rather than the ingredient itself.

• Allergy risk:American Contact Dermatitis Society Allergen of the Year 2018.
• Irritation:Can irritate compromised skin at higher concentrations.

A workhorse humectant and penetration enhancer that is fine for most, but a recurring culprit in eczema patients' patch tests.

• Irritation:Occasional stinging and irritation, mostly around eyes and on damaged skin.

Today's most common preservative, considered safe by the SCCS up to 1%. French authorities advise avoiding it in wipes and diaper-area products for children under 3 as a precaution.

• Irritation:Occasional transient stinging or redness on sensitive skin.

A mild food-grade preservative usually paired with sodium benzoate; well tolerated by most skin types.

• Environmental impact:Poorly biodegradable; can remobilize heavy metals in waterways.

A metal-binding stabilizer that is safe on skin at the tiny amounts used; its criticism is environmental persistence.