What is mascara made of?

There are many different types of mascara on the market, but most are made of a combination of waxes, oils, pigments, and preservatives. Here is a general breakdown of the main ingredients found in mascara:

1. Waxes: The most common waxes used in mascara are beeswax, carnauba wax, and paraffin wax. These waxes help to give the mascara its texture and hold, allowing it to coat and volumize the lashes.

2. Oils: Oils like mineral oil, jojoba oil, and castor oil are often used in mascara to help condition and moisturize the lashes, keeping them soft and flexible.

3. Pigments: Pigments are what give mascara its color. Most mascaras contain black pigment, but there are also brown, blue, and other colored mascaras available. The pigments are usually a combination of iron oxides and other colorants.

4. Preservatives: Mascara is prone to bacterial growth because it comes into contact with the eyes, so preservatives are added to prevent contamination. Common preservatives used in mascara include parabens and phenoxyethanol.

In addition to these main ingredients, mascaras may also contain various other additives such as thickeners, emulsifiers, and film-formers to help enhance the performance and longevity of the product. It's important to read the ingredient list on mascara packaging if you have sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients.