In the world of beauty and professional lash and brow care, ingredient safety is an absolute priority. We often hear about “cosmetic allergies,” and the main suspect is almost always the same: Nickel.
But what exactly is it? Is it possible to eliminate it completely? In this article we clarify what this heavy metal really is, debunk some common myths, and explain why transparency and clinical testing are essential for brands like My Lamination.
Nickel: An Unexpected Guest, Not an Ingredient
Contrary to what many people believe, nickel and other heavy metals are not intentionally added to cosmetics. It is not part of the formula ingredients, but rather considered an impurity.
Its possible presence mainly comes from:
- Raw material impurities
- Mineral pigments (such as iron oxides)
- Technically unavoidable residues from the manufacturing process
Nickel is most commonly found in pigments (colorants) used to make products visually appealing or in color cosmetics such as mascaras, pencils, and other makeup products.
Because nickel is a natural component of iron oxide, it is technically impossible to eliminate it 100% from mineral-derived raw materials.
Regulation and the Meaning of “Nickel Free”
According to EU Regulation EC No. 1223/2009, nickel and its compounds are prohibited in cosmetics. However, the regulation allows the presence of technically unavoidable trace amounts.
Here is an important fact: with current technology, a cosmetic product that is 100% nickel-free does not exist.
When a product is labeled as such, it generally means that the amount of nickel present is extremely low, so small that it does not trigger reactions in the vast majority of people with nickel sensitivity.
The Importance of Clinical Testing
Why does My Lamination place such strong emphasis on quality?
Because clinical testing is the only real way to guarantee product safety.
Initiatives such as “Toxic Free” campaigns allow brands to demonstrate, with scientific data, that their formulas:
- Are not toxic
- Do not irritate the skin
These tests ensure high safety standards for professionals and end customers alike.
Nickel is Everywhere - Not Just in Cosmetics
It may be surprising to learn that nickel is present in many everyday products, including:
Foods
- Black tea
- Chocolate
- Soy
- Oats
- Buckwheat
Processed foods
- Tuna and canned products
Objects
- Jewelry
- Coins
- Metal accessories
Awareness is the first step toward safe and conscious beauty choices. Choosing tested and certified products means caring for skin health without giving up the outstanding results that only high-quality professional treatments can deliver.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Nickel in Cosmetics
What is nickel called in cosmetics?
Nickel does not appear in the ingredient list (INCI) because it is not intentionally added; it is considered a trace impurity.
However, it is often associated with mineral colorants such as iron oxides, which appear in the INCI with codes like:
- CI 77491
- CI 77492
- CI 77499
On tested products you will usually find the claim “Nickel Tested.”
Which cosmetics are nickel-free?
From a technical perspective, cosmetics that are completely nickel-free (0%) do not exist.
However, there are Nickel Tested cosmetics, which guarantee that the amount of nickel present is below a minimal threshold (usually < 0.00001% or 1 ppm — one part per million), considered safe even for people with contact allergies.
Where is nickel found in cosmetics?
Nickel may be present in:
- Mineral pigments, especially iron oxides
- Color cosmetics such as makeup, mascaras, pencils, and brow products
- Raw material impurities
It is not intentionally added to formulations.
How can you tell if cosmetics contain nickel?
Since it does not appear in the ingredient list, the only reliable way is to check whether the product is labeled “Nickel Tested.”
This claim indicates that the manufacturer has conducted clinical or laboratory tests to verify that nickel traces are below allergenic reaction thresholds.
If you have very sensitive skin, it is advisable to avoid products that do not mention clinical testing or purity certifications.
