If you’re considering using cosmetics, thing again.
Legally, the term “cosmetics” represents any product that you apply to your body that isn’t a drug, including toiletries like deodorant and hand soap, as well as makeup items such as nail polish and lipstick. Other items include sunscreen, shampoo and conditioner and hair color.
According to a study by the Environmental Working Group, the average adult uses around nine cosmetic products daily, with a total of 126 various ingredients. Bearing in mind that many of us apply these products directly to our bodies, it’s important to note that the majority of them contain rather harmful chemicals.
Unfortunately, the cosmetics industry is loosely regulated in the US. The FDA neither reviews products before they get put onto store shelves nor do they have the proper authority to remove them from the market — even if and when they are shown to be dangerous.
And that’s not even the worst of it. The cosmetics industry’s deceitful practices often underplay the risks of their use of cheap chemicals and exaggerate the FDA’s involvement in the regulation process.
In recent years, concerns have been raised about several ingredients used in cosmetics, some of which are turning up in our bodies in unexpected amounts. There’s lead in lipstick, formaldehyde in hair straighteners and hormone disruptors in face cream. For the majority of us, especially women, applying cosmetics is a daily ritual.
But what does all of this mean for your health? And how can you start cleaning up your beauty routine?
Don’t Share MakeupDid you know that your friends’ cosmetics are covered in germs? If not, you’re in trouble. Using someone else’s mascara, eyeliner, lipstick or makeup brush may sound like an economical idea at first, but it definitely isn’t the healthiest one. Most beauty experts say no to sharing.
Studies have found bacteria such as E. coli and staph in beauty store makeup testers, so you may want to use those with caution. Actually, don’t use them at all.
Makeup ChemicalsAs mentioned, in recent years the use of chemicals in cosmetics has been a widely discussed issue. Studies have found the top two most harmful chemicals found in makeup are parabens and phthalates. Parabens, which are used in shampoo, lotions, deodorant, and other products, have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, since they can mimic the hormone estrogen. Phthalates (often found in soap and nail polish) have been linked to major health problems and put you at a higher risk for low hormone levels and diabetes.
Hair Dyes Trigger AllergiesThe main ingredient in hair dyes, a chemical called phenylenediamine (PPD), is known to cause allergic reactions along the scalp and around the eyes. If you happen to notice a reaction after using hair dye, you may want to see an allergist to get tested.
Gel Manicures and Skin CancerIn a statement released earlier this month from the American Academy of Dermatology, dermatologist Chris Adigun, MD, FAAD, expressed concern about the trend. Despite the popularity of gel manicures, which last longer than traditional manicures, Dr. Adigun says the UV-lights used to dry the nails can cause health risks.
According to a case study published in April 2012 in the Archives of Dermatology, two women developed non-melanoma skin cancer on their hands from UV rays in nail salons.
Perfumes and LotionsThe two biggest perpetrators in allergic reactions to perfumes and lotions are fragrance and parabens. If you use a particular perfume or lotion and it gives you a rash, see an allergist and bring the product with you, so that they can make sure you avoid any products containing those ingredients. Even some sunscreens, especially ones with octyl salicylate can trigger allergic reactions.
So what’s a body to do?
Since many cosmetic products are necessary (while other are simply desired), it’s best to try and avoid any unnecessary use of any chemical products. Shop carefully: Try selecting safer products that are working towards more regulation and corporate responsibility. You can read labels and avoid obvious labeled hazards and the ingredients listed in the sidebar, but remember that phthalates are rarely identified.
No comments :
Post a Comment