Are Gluten-Free Cosmetics A Scam?

[JosieToo]

I can find no credible evidence that confirms or even suggests that the use of wheat-containing cosmetics and related products (shampoo, face creams) can cause a reaction in people with Celiac disease.

 

The closest I could find was a theoretical risk with lipstick/lip balm - but even that seemed sketchy at best.

 

I've replaced my lip products as a precaution, but am wondering if anyone can reference any scientific literature about the rest?

[kareng]

The reason most of us use shampoos and lip products and lotions without obvious gluten ingredients is that we get them in our mouths.  I don't use a shampoo that says gluten-free.  I don't use one that says wheat germ oil.  I don't worry about my mascara because I don't see getting that in my mouth. 

 

So... I don't buy specifically labeled gluten-free cosmetics, lotions, shampoos unless its just happens to be something I want.  I do make sure that all the products that might get in my mouth - lotions, lipsticks, shampoos - do not contain any gluten ingredients.

[kareng]

Your "scientific" reference:

 

Open Original Shared Link

 

What ingredients should I avoid in cosmetic products?

Gluten is only toxic to celiac patients and patients with dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) if ingested. Because gluten cannot be absorbed through the skin, the use of cosmetic and shampoos containing gluten has not been shown to be detrimental to patients with celiac disease or DH. However, we do recommend gluten-free lip products, hand lotions and other products that may end up near the mouth. And, in the case of children, a gluten-free shampoo would be wise.

[JosieToo]

Thank you very much!! That is helpful. This newbie appreciates it!

[Celtic Queen]

I think we don't realize how often we put our hands in our mouths.  Hand lotion is an easy one to get in your mouth.  Put some lotion on your hands and then pick up a piece of food and eat it. 

[bartfull]

The same thing can happen if you scratch your itchy face, then pick up some food and pop it in your mouth. I don't use gluten-free foundation, but I DO wash my hands EVERY TIME before I eat anything.