The odd ingredient you didn’t know was in your lipstick

But wait, there’s more — if red is your thing, just know that order for red lipsticks to be red red, the cosmetic is made with a dye called cochineal (or carmine), which is produced by grinding the female cochineal parasitic insect (via Allure). The insect is native to Mexico, Central, and South America and has been used for centuries. Cochineal is also a common ingredient in food items like soft drinks (yes, your Frappuccino), candies, jello, and yogurt (via Business Insider). So it is safe, but if you are vegan and/or squeamish, the thought of applying fish scales (or crushed bugs for that matter) may be enough to send you hurtling to the vegan counter of your favorite cosmetics store.