Understanding Cosmetic vs. Edible
It's a common misconception that because a cosmetic product is 'non-toxic,' it is therefore 'edible.' The terms, however, are not interchangeable. A product is deemed non-toxic if it won't cause serious harm in small, incidental quantities, such as what might be licked off the lips or swallowed accidentally. Edible products, on the other hand, are intended and regulated for human consumption, meaning they meet specific standards for food safety and nutritional content. Lip balms like Lip Smackers fall into the first category; they are for external, topical use only.
Why You Shouldn't Eat Lip Smacker
The ingredients in a Lip Smacker are chosen for their ability to moisturize and protect the lips, not for their suitability as a foodstuff. The formulation typically includes waxes (like beeswax or carnauba wax), oils (such as castor seed oil), preservatives, and colorants. While these are generally safe for external application, they are not processed or intended for your digestive system. Eating these waxes and oils in larger amounts can lead to mild side effects like a stomach ache or diarrhea.
What Happens During Accidental Ingestion?
Accidentally licking or swallowing a small amount of flavored lip balm is unlikely to cause any significant health issues. The amounts ingested this way are minimal. Your body can typically process and pass these small quantities without a problem. The potential for side effects increases with larger, intentional consumption, though the severity remains mild for most individuals. The primary concern is gastrointestinal discomfort, not a major toxic event.
Potential Health Risks of Intentional Consumption
While the risk is low, intentional consumption presents some minor health considerations. The most common issues are related to the digestive system, as mentioned above. However, flavored lip balms can sometimes contain other ingredients that are not meant to be ingested in larger quantities. For example, some lip balms contain camphor or menthol for a cooling sensation, which can cause more pronounced side effects if eaten in significant amounts, though this is less common in flavored varieties like Lip Smackers.
Comparing Edible and Cosmetic Ingredients
To further clarify the difference, consider the table below, which compares common cosmetic ingredients with their edible counterparts.
| Ingredient Type | Cosmetic Function (e.g., in Lip Smacker) | Edible Counterpart (Food-Grade) | Safety for Ingestion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waxes | Provides structure and acts as a moisture barrier. | Beeswax or carnauba wax used in food coatings. | Safe in small, regulated quantities; can be indigestible in large amounts. |
| Oils | Hydrates lips and improves texture. | Vegetable oils (e.g., coconut, sesame) used in cooking. | Safe in quantities and types approved for human consumption. |
| Flavors & Fragrances | Enhances user experience with pleasant tastes and smells. | Food-grade flavorings regulated by health authorities. | Cosmetic-grade flavors are not regulated for consumption. |
| Colorants | Adds visual appeal to the product. | Food-grade color additives approved by the FDA for food use. | Cosmetic-grade colorants may not be approved for consumption. |
What to Do If a Child Eats Lip Smacker
If a child or adult intentionally eats a large amount of a cosmetic product, it is best to err on the side of caution. Give them some water to drink and observe them for any symptoms. The Illinois Poison Center recommends contacting them for advice, especially if the product ingested contains extra ingredients or if symptoms develop. They can provide specific guidance for your situation.
Safety Tips for Using Flavored Lip Balms
- Explain the difference: Teach children that while the product tastes good, it is not food. This helps them understand it is for external use only.
- Store properly: Keep cosmetic products out of the reach of small children who might mistake them for candy.
- Check the label: Always read the ingredient list. If a product contains ingredients you are unsure about, particularly if you have allergies, research them before use.
- Monitor for irritation: Stop using the product if any irritation, redness, or swelling occurs on the lips. Some individuals can have a sensitization reaction to cosmetic ingredients.
- Do not share: Sharing lip balms can transfer germs, so it is best to use your own.
The Importance of FDA Compliance
Lip Smacker products, like all cosmetics sold in the US, are required to be compliant with FDA regulations. The company states that their balms have been evaluated by a board-certified toxicologist and are safe for use. This evaluation ensures that the product is safe for its intended use, which is topical application, and that small accidental ingestion does not pose a significant health risk. However, this does not mean they are food. The FDA has separate standards for food and cosmetics.
Beyond Lip Smackers: Other Cosmetic Ingestion
This principle applies to other cosmetics as well, such as lip glosses and lipsticks. While some cosmetic companies may use naturally sourced or food-grade ingredients, the final product is not manufactured or regulated as food. The concentration of oils, waxes, and pigments can vary, and intentional consumption of any cosmetic product is not recommended. If you or someone you know has ingested a large quantity of any cosmetic, you should seek guidance from Poison Control.
For more detailed information on cosmetic product safety and regulations, you can visit the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) website.
In conclusion, while the sweet taste of a Lip Smacker might be tempting, it's a product for your lips, not your stomach. Being aware of the distinction between non-toxic and edible is key to safe cosmetic use. Enjoy the flavor on your lips, but leave the snacks for your mouth.
