For a year, a woman’s body gets on average more than two kilograms of creams, lipsticks, glosses and other beauty products. To be sure of the usefulness of using cosmetics, carefully study the composition.
Experts say that there are no absolutely natural products for the beauty of industrial production – emulsifiers, preservatives, dyes, etc. help to mix ingredients together, increase shelf life, and give the product a pleasant appearance and aroma. As an alternative to industrial production – homemade natural cosmetics. But do not expect such an effect, which is provided by funds produced after many years of high-tech research. True, the price tag for luxury cosmetics will not be small. And budget funds often sin with components that are not only beneficial, but even harmful to health and beauty. There are many chemical additives, let’s dwell on some.
On the label: methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben.
Esters of para-hydroxybenzoic acid (abbreviated as parabens) are very popular as a preservative and antiseptic in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical and food industries due to their low cost and high efficiency. Its natural counterpart does not stand up to competition. Therefore, inexpensive cosmetics (shampoos, creams, foams, lipsticks) often contain a synthetic substitute – parabens.
How is it dangerous? Carcinogen: Highly concentrated parabens have been found in breast cancers, but scientists have not found a direct link between the use of cosmetics and cancer. Therefore, the question of whether the presence of parabens can affect the onset of oncology remains open. But it can cause allergies. And it is better not to use cosmetics with parabens in direct sunlight – this causes aging of the skin.
On the label: Triclosan.
It is included in most antibacterial and antifungal agents: soaps, gels, toothpaste, mouthwashes, deodorants and hygiene wipes. Triclosan has a curious history: after this organic compound was first synthesized in 1965, it was actively used in the United States as a pesticide to fight plant diseases. Then the chemical element expanded its influence – it became indispensable in dentistry, cosmetic and chemical industries (added to detergents and cleaners). And all would be fine, but in the same America they suddenly banned the use of triclosan in consumer products due to severe harm to the body.
How is it dangerous? Negatively affects the endocrine and reproductive systems; in addition to problems with hormones, it affects the functioning of the kidneys, liver, and lungs. In general, a very toxic substance.
On the label: diethyl phthalate, di-n‑butyl phthalate.
One of the most toxic ingredients, information about which is not always present on the label. Although phthalic acid is banned for cosmetic purposes in many countries. Most often added to decorative products: shadows, blush, nail polishes.
Why are they dangerous? They cause disruptions in the work of the endocrine system, can cause genetic disorders of intrauterine development, therefore they are prohibited for use by pregnant women, weaken the effect of testosterone (male sex hormone). Since they can disguise themselves as Parfum on the label, it is better to buy a phthalate-free or fragrance-free product.
On the label: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, SLS.
Without this chemical, which is also called surfactant (surfactant), not a single detergent can do: gels, shampoos, foams, makeup removers. The substance is obtained from coconut oil, which gives some manufacturers the cunning maneuvers – they write on the label that it is made from coconut, natural. Nevertheless, one of the most harmful compounds that can cause real harm to the body.
How is it dangerous? Easily penetrates tissues, is able to linger in the cells of the liver and heart. After cleansing, a film remains on the skin, causing irritation, atopic dermatitis, eczema. After using shampoos with SLS, it promotes dandruff and itching. Hair becomes drier, weakens, splits, falls out. After applying the toothpaste, there is a possibility of stomatitis. If it is not possible to replace the product with SLS, then it is recommended to thoroughly rinse it off the skin with plenty of running water.
On the label: Formaldehyde, Diazolidinyl Urea, DMDM Hydantoin.
Most often it is found in hygiene products (soaps, shampoos, conditioners, foams, creams, lotions) or antiseptics. But it can be used in nail polish and mascara. Formaldehyde is a colorless gas with a pungent odor, highly toxic, but with a strong bactericidal effect. Formaldehyde solution – formalin – is also a good preservative. In the production of cosmetics in a strictly fixed dosage, formaldehyde is not used in pure form, but chemical substances (releasers) containing formaldehyde molecules. If you do not store cosmetics in a dark cabinet, then under the influence of light, the releasers will begin to release formaldehyde, increasing its concentration.
How is it dangerous? In Japan and Sweden, formaldehyde is officially banned for use in cosmetics. In some countries, it is acceptable in cosmetics that do not remain on the skin. In Russia, there are no legal restrictions on the use of this chemical. Means with formaldehyde can theoretically cause irritation of the mucous membranes, allergies, dermatitis, bronchial asthma.
On the label: diazolidinyl urea.
Very primitively and conditionally, we can say this: urea is in the cells of the skin, and one of its tasks is to retain moisture. Therefore, in cosmetics, it carries a lot of usefulness – from moisturizing to antimicrobial action. Urea is also a good preservative. Found in hair dyes, shampoos, hand creams, lotions and toothpastes. It is widely used in medicinal ointments.
How is it dangerous? It should be used with caution in the presence of skin diseases: irritation, rash, wounds. Cosmetics containing urea will only aggravate the disease. Healing ointments contain a high concentration of urea, therefore, it is necessary to apply only to the affected area of the skin, otherwise a burn is guaranteed.
On the label: Aluminium, Aluminium Powder.
Contained in the form of dust or powder as a coloring pigment. It is added to deodorants, decorative cosmetics, especially eye shadows, eyeliners, whitening face creams, sunscreens, toothpastes.
How is it dangerous? Before the aluminum powder got into the formulation of cosmetic products, it, of course, went through research. But still, this metal cannot be called safe: it easily penetrates through the skin into the circulatory system, is capable of causing allergies, accumulating and affecting the nervous system.
On the label: Hydroquinone.
This product has long been used for skin whitening, it is included in creams, ointments, tonics against increased pigmentation. But recently it got on the list of unreliable. In fact, hydroquinone does not remove pigmentation, but stops the production of melanin, which, as a natural barrier, protects the skin from UV exposure.
How is it dangerous? It has the opposite effect: by reducing the production of melanin, it makes the skin vulnerable to UV rays, and increases the risk of new blemishes and skin cancer. With prolonged use, it accelerates the aging process of the skin, imparts a dull color. Affects the work of the endocrine system. There is evidence of a negative effect on the nervous and reproductive functions. Banned in Europe, Japan, Central Asia.
On the label: Talc.
A loose powder of white color, tasteless and odorless, is a natural mineral that is actively used not only in the cosmetic industry, but also in the medical and food industries. It is used to absorb moisture, reduce friction. Talc is the main component of baby powders, it is added to women’s powders, dry deodorants, toothpastes, blush, toning creams.
How is it dangerous? In the early 90s of the last century, a study was carried out – the experiment was carried out on rats, which were forced to inhale the powder for a long period, and then they were diagnosed with cancerous tumors. There is also an opinion that talcum powder can cause lung disease and an allergic skin reaction. Whether this is true or not is a polemical question, there are no serious studies and data on health risks.