I can’t believe the miracle of finding a line of makeup like this. I have a very rare condition that causes a very specific reaction to benzoates; my lips, face, and throat swell and it causes extreme pain. Benzoates are in just about everything, as they aren’t bad for most people. Before I buy anything such as food, drinks, hygiene, cosmetics, medications, etc., I have to scour the ingredients lists/website/SDS to make sure. Even if a product says there is no benzoates, I might still have a reaction, as that is the nature of autoimmune diseases and extreme sensitivity.
I haven’t worn makeup in years, especially lip products, which are my favorite. Then, I happen upon this line of beauty products; vegan, allergen free, gluten free, AND no benzoates. Am I dreaming? I was definitely skeptical (yet hopeful). The first product I ordered had a gift along with it, the holy grail, lip balm (in an orangish color). I tried it on, and it felt good and looked BABELY. My lips didn’t burn or swell when I had it on. The next day, my lips were swollen and I instantly suspected the lip gloss. As it turned out, I had accidentally eaten cinnamon the day before (in the liver, cinnamon metabolizes into sodium benzoate). It was time to get scientific. So after waiting a week, and not eating any processed food or cinnamon, I tried again. I wore it every day for a week, just to make 100% sure (a true scientist, baby). No swelling, or any reaction of any kind.
WHAT? Could it be? I ordered the shimmery bright pink just to make sure that the pigment and sparkles wouldn’t be aggravating, and they weren’t. I wear it all the time now! The lip balm is hydrating, smooth, vibrant, glossy. It is an immense boost to my self confidence, something as simple as lip balm has such an impact. I feel personally honored.
Thank you, Dr. Liia, team members, and Epilynx.
