Rice Powder (Oryza Sativa) in Cosmetics
Rice powder, scientifically known as oryza sativa, has been cherished for centuries as a beauty secret by the geishas of Japan and the queens of ancient dynasties, and for good reason: rice powder finds its place in skincare, haircare, and, of course, makeup:
Rice powder has excellent oil-absorbing properties, making it an ideal choice for controlling shine and reducing unwanted greasiness. It helps to mattify the skin and provide a smooth, velvety finish. Rice powder also possesses a remarkable ability to blur imperfections and even out skin tone. It acts like a soft-focus lens, minimizing the appearance of pores, fine lines, and blemishes, which is why Heal Yes! uses it in our mineral veil and loose powders (but we use only the best rice powder; read on to find out why sourcing the purest rice powder is essential!).
There have been discussions about risks associated with genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in rice powder. Some rice varieties have been genetically modified to enhance certain traits, which raises concerns about potential health and environmental impacts. If you wish to avoid GMOs in your rice powder, look for products that are labeled as non-GMO or certified organic. These options provide reassurance and align with your preference for natural and sustainable choices; Heal Yes! sources rice powder grown without pesticides and genetic modification.
Another concern that has surfaced is the presence of asbestos in rice powder. Asbestos is a mineral fiber that can pose serious health risks when inhaled. To ensure your safety, it's crucial to choose rice powder products that have undergone rigorous testing and adhere to strict quality standards:
Look for brands such as Heal Yes! that prioritize transparency and provide third-party lab testing results to confirm the absence of asbestos or other harmful contaminants. Cosmetic manufacturing and sourcing divisions should ascertain that their cosmetic-grade rice powder passes safety levels. It's important to choose reputable companies that follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) to ensure they retain their Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and Certificates of Analysis (COAs) among other documents that verify levels of potential contaminants in each batch.