MadSci Network: General Biology Query:
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Re: How is bat guano used in the production of cosmetics, particularly eye-make
Date: Wed Aug 9 00:04:48 2000
Posted By: Erin Cram, Grad student, Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of CA, Berkeley
Area of science: General Biology
ID: 956169001.Gb
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Message:
I have scoured the net to find an answer to your question, and I think I may have
found it. I found several references to the presence of guano in mascara, or
other cosmetics, but of course none were documented. I had my suspicions that
guano itself was not being added (allergies, sanitation), but some component of
guano may be added. Turns out, a compound prevalent in guano, guanine (a
nitrogenous base) can provide an irridescent finish to paints and cosmetics.
Here is an
excerpt:
Pearl is the original iridescent additive that customizes a finish. The base
product comes from the interior lining of seashells (Mother of Pearl) or Guanine
crystal, the derivative of sea bird and bat guano. When added to a translucent
paint material, it alters the light ray within the film and bends or refracts the
ray, giving off a secondary color. This action provides a completely new
dimension of color--a refractive effect.
Erin Cram, Admin MadSci Network
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Ali, I found this info real quick. I would say that there are alot of companies out there that want you to think that everything but their product is a hazard to use. Alot of these claims are just straight up lies.
