The Best Non-Toxic Lipstick You’ll Love
If you’re looking for a cruelty-free, high-performance lipstick that is safe and nourishing, you’re in the right place!
Lipstick is a staple in many women’s beauty routines, adding a touch of color and confidence to any look. However, not all lipsticks are created equal. Many conventional lipsticks contain harmful chemicals, synthetic dyes, and toxic preservatives that you can incidentally ingest. Therefore, it’s important to choose a safe lipstick that prioritizes your health without compromising on performance. In this post, you will learn about a clean beauty, non-toxic lipstick option that I use and love.
The Best Non-Toxic Lipstick I Have Used
After I found out what lipstick is made of, I quit using lipstick altogether. My lipstick-free life lasted several years until I discovered Crunchi and its non-toxic skincare and makeup.
Because of the possibility of ingestion of small amounts of lipstick, I am very picky about lip products I use. Hence, I can testify as to the quality and safety of Crunchi Everluxe® Lip Crayon.
What makes it stand out?
First and foremost, unlike conventional lipsticks, it uses high-purity mineral pigments for color instead of petroleum-based dyes or carmine. To clarify, in addition to heavy metal residues, petroleum-based dyes may contain carcinogenic and endocrine-disrupting byproducts of petroleum. Plus, some dyes are linked to carcinogenicity, genotoxicity, and hypersensitivity (source). As for carmine, this pigment, often used in red shades, is produced from cochineal insects that live as parasites on cactus plants. Some studies revealed severe allergic reactions to carmine, including anaphylaxis (source and source).
Second, its design allows it to function both as a lipstick and a lip liner, making it a versatile addition to any makeup collection. It is made in Germany from sustainable wood, not plastic, and you just sharpen it as needed with a pencil sharpener that you can find on the Crunchi website.
Third, this clean beauty product uses fruit waxes for smooth application, which also makes it vegan friendly. Plus, it is cruelty-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO.
Most importantly, I love its luxurious, creamy formula that glides on effortlessly for long-lasting, comfortable wear with a soft satin finish. Above all, this safe lipstick aligns with my focus more than ever on looking youthful and extending my health span!
What Are Crunchi Everluxe Lip Crayon Ingredients?
To begin with, Crunchi Everluxe® Lip Crayon is crafted with high-quality ingredients, including certified organic ingredients, ensuring safety for everyday wear. For your information, many brands refer to their lip products as “organic lipsticks” while they are not really organic. What they mean is that there is one or some organic ingredients in their product formulation. I find it misleading and commend Crunchi for not marketing their lip products as “organic lipsticks” even though they do contain certified organic ingredients.
Next, the company receives the ingredients from highly reputable, ethically maintained U.S. companies that source them from within the U.S. and globally.
Further, Crunchi uses high-purity mineral pigments, which reduces the risk of presence of petroleum contaminants, typical of petroleum-based synthetic lake dyes. In addition, Crunchi tests for heavy metals by an independent lab because there is a risk that makeup contains heavy metals due to general environmental pollution. The results show that the levels of lead, arsenic, mercury, and cadmium are way under the upper limits of heavy metals in makeup set by the European Union, Canada, and United States.
Notably, the pigments for Crunchi non-toxic lipstick (as well as all their makeup) do not come from China, escaping the high background levels of environmental pollution that can potentially lead to heavy metal contamination.
Most importantly, the formulators carefully select each ingredient to perform its unique function in this nourishing, long-lasting, and safe lipstick formulation. I ran each ingredient through credible sources and databases (listed on my Start here page) and found no concerning ingredients.
Castor Seed Oil
First, castor seed oil is certified organic in this formulation, and it is rich in fatty acids. It is well-known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, moisturizing, hydrating, and cleansing properties. (source)
Please note that “castor oil” and “PEG 40 hydrogenated castor oil” are different ingredients. The latter is an ethoxylated ingredient which I recommend avoiding in all products. In its makeup and skincare formulations, Crunchi never uses ethoxylated ingredients, which is laudable. (To learn about ethoxylation, refer to my blog post on polysorbates.)
Also, castor seed oil is organic in this formulation, which means it has no residues of toxic pesticides and solvents.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Second, caprylic/capric triglyceride has moisturizing, smoothing, protecting, and thickening properties. It is common in cosmetics, soaps, and food. In lipstick, caprylic/capric triglyceride functions as an emollient, ensuring smooth application, even color dispersion, and hydration to the lips without a greasy feeling. This makes the lipstick feel comfortable and moisturizing on your lips while locking in color evenly. (source)
Glyceryl Ricinoleate
Third, glyceryl ricinoleate is a blend of glycerin and castor oil, also found in moisturizers, lotions, shampoos, conditioners, and cleansers. Similarly to caprylic/capric triglyceride, glyceryl ricinoleate improves texture of the lipstick, helps it spread evenly, protects skin, and prevents moisture loss. (source)
Candelilla Wax
Extracted from a Euphorbia Cerifera shrub native to Mexico, candelilla wax is authorized by the EU as a food additive and as a glazing agent (source). When used in a lipstick, candelilla wax improves its texture, appearance, and stability. It also makes your non-toxic lipstick vegan friendly. You can see candelilla wax in lip balms, creams, lotions, and other cosmetics as well. (source)
Carnauba Wax
Next, Crunchi safe lipstick uses certified organic carnauba wax, a food-grade ingredient sustainably harvested from Brazilian Palm leaves and used in numerous cosmetic applications. In a lip product, carnauba wax improves its shape and structure, gives it shine, and extends its durability. It also helps keep your lips moisturized and smooth by creating a protective barrier. Just like candelilla wax, carnauba wax makes your clean beauty lipstick vegan friendly and can be part of other skincare formulations, such as lip balms, mascaras, eyeliners, foundations, deodorants, and skincare products. (source)
The fact that carnauba wax is organic in this lip crayon means it has no residues of toxic pesticides and solvents.
Cetyl Alcohol
Acting as a thickener and emulsifier, cetyl alcohol helps your lipstick maintain a smooth, creamy texture and improve color adherence to the lips. Additionally, it ensures stability of the lipstick and easy and even application. In other words, cetyl alcohol contributes to the overall quality and wearability of the lip crayon by enhancing its texture and consistency. Importantly, it is not a true astringent alcohol, which means it will not dry your lips. (source)
Shea Butter
Further, Crunchi non-toxic lipstick’s formulation uses certified organic shea butter, a vegetable fat obtained from the fruit of a Butyrospermum Parkii tree in Africa. In lipstick, shea butter acts as a moisturizer, skin protector, and can even heal your lips, helping them feel supple and smooth. It contains vitamins A and E that help nourish and revitalize your lips. You might have seen shea butter as an ingredient in lip balms, lip glosses, and lip scrubs. (source)
The fact that shea butter is organic in this formulation means it has no residues of toxic pesticides and solvents.
Kaolin
As a mineral pigment and a type of clay, kaolin provides a matte finish to this safe lipstick by absorbing excess oil on the lips. It helps control shine and prevents lipstick from smudging or fading quickly. Plus, by mildly exfoliating your lips, it promotes smoother lip texture. (source)
Tocopherol
Up next is tocopherol, also known as “Vitamin E” and a great antioxidant. It can help with a variety of lip issues when used in lipstick. For instance, as a natural moisturizer, it helps keep your lips supple, prevents chapping, and helps plump your lips. Plus, it can help protect your lips from premature aging and environmental damage. In addition, tocopherol can help speed up wound healing, soothe irritation and redness. (source)
Ascorbyl Palmitate
Another great antioxidant, ascorbyl palmitate provides protection in this non-toxic lipstick, helping to combat free radical damage caused by UV rays and pollution. It can help minimize fine lines and wrinkles by offering a stable form of Vitamin C which, in turn, can help brighten the lip color and potentially even out skin tone on the lips. (source)
Actually, I have written about the use and benefits of Vitamin C in facial serums in my blog post What is a Vitamin C Serum?. Make sure you read it because you will benefit from it immensely.
Mica
A safe mineral pigment, mica adds shine, sparkle, and dimension to lipstick as well as helps it glide on smoothly. Mica is a common ingredient in eyeshadows, blushes, nail polishes, lotions, shampoos, and toothpaste. (source)
Remarkably, Crunchi ensures ethical sourcing for their mica from regions that do not involve child labor practices.
Titanium Dioxide
Furthermore, Crunchi lip crayons contain non-nanoparticle titanium dioxide, a necessary ingredient in safe makeup for its coloring and opacity-enhancing properties (source).
Unlike its nanoparticle counterpart, which raises concerns due to potential skin penetration and inhalation risks, Crunchi’s titanium dioxide particles are larger than 100 nm, making them safe for topical use. Crunchi also ensures consumer safety by avoiding titanium dioxide in loose powder form, where inhalation risks exist.
To learn more about titanium dioxide and its use in sunscreens, visit my blog post The Best Non-Toxic Face Sunscreen Guide.
Iron Oxides
Like titanium dioxide, iron oxides in this safe lipstick provide a range of benefits such as rich, natural color options, long-lasting wear, and smooth application. Just like titanium dioxide, iron oxides are stable mineral pigments considered a safer alternative to synthetic, petroleum-derived lake colorants. Plus, just like titanium dioxide, they can act as sun protection due to their ability to reflect UV rays. (source and source)
Manganese Violet
Lastly, manganese violet is a mineral pigment, also used in eyeshadows and nail polishes, that gives lipstick a vibrant purple, lavender, or violet color. It’s a stable pigment that doesn’t fade or change color over time and can help give lip products a smooth and even texture. (source and source)
Pros And Cons Of This Non-Toxic Lipstick
Personally, I see only benefits of using Crunchi Everluxe® Lip Crayon, but people are different, so some of its features may seem inconvenient to you. Let’s look at this clean beauty lipstick’s multiple pros and just a few potential cons.
Pros
- 2-in-1: a lipstick and a lip liner.
- Made with organic ingredients.
- Petroleum-free and carmine-free.
- Uses only mineral pigments.
- Heavy metal levels way below the acceptable limits.
- Smooth, creamy application.
- Satin finish.
- Long-lasting color.
- Nourishing and hydrating formula.
- Several shades — from neutral to dark.
- Made of wood (not plastic).
- EWG verified.
- Certified 4ocean plastic neutral.
- Non-GMO.
- Vegan.
- Gluten-free.
- Cruelty-free certified.
- Made in Germany (not in China).
Cons
- Smaller shade range compared to mainstream brands.
- Not available in a traditional liquid lipstick form.
- Must be periodically sharpened.
- Satin finish (if you like glossy finish, see the option below).
Conclusion: What Is The Best Non-Toxic Lipstick?
In My Opinion, The Best Toxic-Free Lipstick Is Crunchi Lip Crayons. They Contain No Petroleum-Based Pigments And No Carmine And Can Be Used As Both Lipstick And Lip Liner.
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing a safe lipstick, Crunchi lip crayon is a top-tier option. Indeed, it embodies everything a toxic-free lipstick should be — clean, nourishing, long-lasting, and beautiful. With a formula made with organic ingredients and free from harmful chemicals, it can be your daily wear giving you peace of mind that it supports both your health and the principles of clean beauty.
What I like about this safe lipstick the most is its texture – rich and moist, yet light and not greasy. Also, it is easy to apply, stays on the lips well, and does not smear. Some lipsticks that I’ve used before dried my lips, so I had to apply a lip balm first. But with a Crunchi lip crayon I do not need to take this extra step – what a relief! You can see how the lip crayon shades look on my lips here.
Ultimately, if you’re searching for a cruelty-free, high-performance lipstick that meets the highest safety standards, Crunchi Everluxe® Lip Crayon is a perfect choice for you! (ADVOCATE10 for 10% off on your 1st order of $50+)
For best results, line the lip with the tip of the crayon lead to create a fuller looking lip and then fill in the rest of the lips with the side of the crayon lead. Press your lips together to ensure even coverage and blot if needed. For high-impact shine, top with Crunchi Hydrogloss® Lip Oil – Transparency.
As always, I invite you to visit the I Read Labels For You blog and my shop for non-toxic makeup options. Also, if you need any help with living healthy, please feel free to book a consultation with me and check out my unprecedented e-books.
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I’ve been having so many problems with all my lipsticks! I threw them all out since it seems like I’m reacting to them. Thank you for sharing this information, I can’t wait to try crunchi lipsticks, I wish they had more colors! Is there a link so i can purchase?
There should be one in the blog post. You can use the link in our shop, too: https://ireadlabelsforyou.com/product/crunchi-lip-crayon/
I find your info simply perfect. Thank you. I do have a question…
What safety info can you share about BaeBlu products (the foundation looks great at first glance) and Chargrin Valley Soap and Salves (Family owned in OH)? I am vegan and looking for the best and safest non-toxic skin care. 🙂
Hi, Karen: I can review any products for you by email or in a phone consultation. Here is one of services I provide: https://ireadlabelsforyou.com/services/ingredient-review/ ~Irina
I bet you are busy! And we all admire your comprehensive research. Yes, I use Dr. Bronner’s both- liquid and bar soap thanks to you:) I get it either- Amazon or Ocado. Ocado also stocks up in Weleda baby and Amazon UK has Weleda salt toothpaste. I really wanted to change my make-up stuff- I don’t use much but eyeliner, mascara and lipgloss- would be great to get them locally. If anything on the UK market comes across please let us know:) thank you again, Alex
Greenscents are good to communicate with- I emailed them couple of times, they always reply so I know they are working on the dishwasher liquid- I can’t get Mamasuds here. I have super dry hands and the only thing that helps me is Lavera all-round cream- have you ever looked up that brand? seems too affordable to be perfect but it makes wonders for me… (probably it’s too much for a comment- I won’t bother you anymore). thank you
It is good to know. I opened a new file for UK products and we will see what happens – thanks! ~Irina
Oh and Irina, I’ve tried on multiply occasions to make my amazon purchases via your links from the “Amazon” section but it never redirect me to my local Amazon (as it meant to do)- am I doing anything wrong? xx
Thank you Irina- it seems you care for every single follower 🙂 I recommended your blog to some of my friends (these who are into organic , healthy products). I like reading your posts (even though I find it difficult to get what you recommend)as they give me an idea what to pay attention to. Are here any people from the UK who found a better (less pricey) way of getting Irina’s favorites?Especially cosmetics and kitchenware? I believe because the green brands are a kind of a niche, often family businesses, and the US market is sufficient for them- they don’t expand to Europe. There is my favorite grocery retailer Ocado (they have all the organic food I need and try to stock in “better” cosmetics etc- they could do better though). Maybe they would be interested in adding some of these you recommend to their offer. For the cleaning products I choose greenscents and I really like them and they seem good in terms of ingredients- but I’m not an expert here. Have a lovely weekend too, Alex
Hi, Alex: thank you for responding. I do care about each of you. I wish I could clone myself – so much I want to do and so little time. I see that Ocado sells Dr. Bronner’s bar soap. Have you tried it? And Greenscents products seem to be okay, at least the ingredients that I saw. Let me figure out if I could somebody link with them. By the way, I am signed up for UK Amazon and if a product is available in the UK, you should be redirected. Please keep trying. But because of low volume, they might discontinue my program soon. ~Irina
Thank you Irina. I reached them out, they do ship to the UK but the shipping cost exceeds the worth of the product itself and I would need to pay the duty as well. The same with the Xtrema cookware- I really wanted to get one, as it’s on sale- but the shipping+tax is almost 100$!! I wish we had an easy access to the products you recommend here. Hardly anything is available in England with the reasonable shipping prices. But I’ll keep following your blog- I admire your hard work! Again thank you
Hi, Alex:
It hurts to hear it, not the compliment part. 🙂 I would love to figure out a way to help you even though I do not have a lot of UK followers. Are there UK green brands that potentially can meet my standards? Would any of your friends be interested in buying healthy products? Let me know if you have any thoughts on how I can help you. Thank you! And have a great weekend! ~Irina
Hi Alex! As I leave in Europe too, and it’s difficult for me to find a lot of USA brands, I am just letting you know that I have ordered from Au Naturale site twice. The shipping cost was Usd 20 and I had to pay taxes as well. However, they put their products on sale often and the both times I purchased their products these were on sale. The last time actually the products were 50% off! So it’s good if you subscribe to their emails in order to get notified on their sales! Actually they had 25% off on all their products until yesterday!! Hope this helps!
Hi Elena. It’s good to know- definitely the discount can compensate for the shipping costs. Thank you so much, Alex
Hi Irina. I would like to buy a lipgloss and if I could I would have got the Crunchi one (it’s not possible to have it shipped to the UK). Can you recommend anything else in this matter? thank you
Hi, Alex: my second choice of makeup is Au Naturale and they ship to the UK and worldwide. Their lipsticks are on a dry side and their lipgloss is more like a lipstick. Let me know if you order. Thank you. ~Irina