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Liquid Foundation

Low Risk

Also known as:

BB cream CC cream foundation HD liquid foundation makeup tinted moisturizer

Three bottles of liquid foundation on a white background. Two are overturned and spilling.

Possible Symptoms

  • Oral irritation
  • Minor nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

What to Do

  1. Wipe or rinse out mouth.
  2. Give a serving size of water to drink.
  3. Wash any exposed skin using a generous soapy lather and warm water.
  4. Call 1-800-222-1222 for additional instructions.
If Exposed to Eyes

If someone gets liquid foundation in the eye, there can be immediate burning and stinging, which requires prompt first aid to avoid eye injury.

  1. Start rinsing eye(s) with lukewarm water.
  2. Call the Missouri Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 for further recommendations.

Additional Information

Liquid foundation, also known as BB cream or CC cream, is a cosmetic designed to match skin tone. It is applied to the face and neck to create a smooth, even base and to cover redness or blemishes. Foundation makeup contains ingredients that may be irritating if swallowed, but it is not expected to cause serious poisoning, even if swallowed by young children.

Foundation comes in many forms, including liquid, powder, or stick. Most modern liquid foundations use the same basic formula: water and silicone base with pigments, emulsifiers, humectants, mineral clay, powders, and preservatives. Some foundations may have additional ingredients, such as vitamins, sunscreen, and peptides. None of the foundation ingredients should cause serious harm if swallowed, but they could irritate the mouth or throat. Swallowing more than a taste could cause minor nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Allergic Reactions to Foundation

Another consideration is the rare risk of sensitivity or allergic reactions to liquid foundation ingredients. This can cause skin redness, itching, dry, flaky skin, and irritation. It may also cause bumps on the skin, hives, nasal congestion, sneezing, and puffiness around the eyes. If these symptoms occur, immediately discontinue use of the foundation.

If you find someone has eaten a small amount of liquid foundation or has a sensitivity/allergic reaction, do not panic. Wipe out the mouth with a soft, wet cloth and give them some water to drink. If there is a sensitivity reaction, wash the skin with mild soap and water. Call the Missouri Poison Center right away at 1-800-222-1222. The poison center is open all day, every day, for poisoning emergencies and questions.

**Note: Don’t forget, every case is different. To make sure you are getting the best information for your individual situation, click below to call or chat. It is fast, free, and confidential.

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