Useful - harmful cosmetics. Dangerous cosmetics ingredients to avoid. Harmful cosmetics for a teenager - a list of harmful ingredients. Harmful cosmetics for a teenager girl. And what is the way out of the situation

In the category " Harmful cosmetics» You can find many useful information regarding health hazards. After all, when using shampoos, toothpaste, hair dye and all kinds of cosmetics, you need to remember that most of them consist of chemistry (with the exception of some natural products). Researchers in the United States and Canada have found that some diseases are caused by the flushing of waste products from cosmetics factories into rivers. Of course, and common use cosmetics can lead to disease.

You can give as many examples of the harm that it can carry. So mineral oil leads to the effect of "excessive hydration" of the skin. It becomes very wet and in the future this may cause it to dry out quickly. The substance propylene glycol used in cosmetics can cause allergies to it. According to scientists, about a third of all cosmetics contain substances that can cause cancer. To date, manufacturers have not abandoned them. At the same time, the labels usually indicate only 11% of the total number of ingredients. Therefore, the information you read here may encourage you to give up certain types of cosmetics.

Take care of your health!

After reading an article by dermatologist Dr. Jetsky Ulti, you will learn the whole truth about whether mineral oil is harmful or beneficial in cosmetics.

Do you know what unites wet wipes for babies and aviation antifreeze? Both here and there the main component is propylene glycol. What is its harm and difference from butylene glycol

Do you already know how harmful sulfates are, such as sodium laureth sulfate in shampoos? In this article, I have rated best shampoos without sls and parabens.

What is dangerous chemistry in cosmetics? What are the most dangerous and harmful substances that can be contained in cosmetics? Read this article and find out!

Any rashes on the skin can be symptoms that our body rejects certain components of cosmetics. Let's try to figure out what an allergy to cosmetics is and what causes it.

Complete nonsense! What is taken as an indicator of naturalness, in fact, is not intended for people at all. These are labels for robots. Yes, just for them.

Are cosmetics harmful to the face and health of a woman?

Cosmetics were and are an integral part of the image of a beautiful woman. Fashion and technology have changed. But in all ages and times, women wanted and strove to become more attractive with the help of cosmetics.

Of course, there are those who reject cosmetics and do not recognize its significance and necessity. Many men have a fad about eating "a ton of lipstick" while kissing. And some women are sure that when they get married, they are OBLIGED to cook cabbage soup and “take care of the family” from dawn to dusk, and time should not “go away” on stupidity, like cosmetics! But in the majority, those women who will not go out without at least a light make-up. Both of them are right in their own way.

And you? Do you find simple women without makeup attractive, or are those who wear makeup more beautiful? The choice is purely individual.

Decorative cosmetics and face

Clogs pores, causes dry skin, causes allergic reactions, affects the accelerated aging process of the skin of the face. Lipstick discolors the natural color of the lips, foundation and powder do not allow the skin to breathe, mascara kills eyelash follicles, shadows dry out the sensitive already “unhappy” skin around the eyes ...

Yes! There is a LOT of harm from cosmetics! But why do women from rural areas (as an example, although there are both representatives in rural and urban areas) show signs of aging on their faces, much earlier than their urban peers? living conditions? Labor? Money? Time? What is not enough?

Everything is very simple. All girls, without exception, begin to use cosmetics in their youth! Becoming a little older, some understand the harm of the chemical composition decorative cosmetics and use it correctly, while others ignore the warnings.

After all, it’s not difficult, before applying makeup, to wipe your face with a swab dipped in lotion and apply a moisturizer. And is it difficult in the evening, when you come home, wash off your makeup warm water With soapy water and remove the remnants from the skin with cosmetic milk?

So it turns out: it is not cosmetics that cause harm to the skin of the face, but the woman herself, who does not care about her beauty. And hundreds of thousands of women who look 30 at the age of 60 serve as an example of this.

Make face masks from time to time; know your skin type and, depending on this, sunbathe more often in summer or, conversely, hide your face under wide-brimmed hats and special cream; protect the face from frost and wind in winter; buy not everything in a row in the store, but only really fortified samples of cosmetics. That's the whole secret.

How often can you use cosmetics?

When and how many times to apply makeup, each woman chooses for herself. The main rule is to remove makeup at night and give your face a break from cosmetics alone, but rather a couple of days a week.

A complete make-up complex is quite difficult to apply every morning and maintain throughout the working day. Even women striving for this (more often, of course, girls) very quickly refuse such an experience. It is much easier to do light makeup to look "simple". And the skin of the face does not suffer. And it's easier to take it off. And, to live and work more comfortably.

And mother, as soon as I entered adolescence, began to repeat almost every morning: “Have you washed yourself? Cream, mascara, lipstick! But at the same time, she supplied my “vanity table” with lotions, all kinds of creams, scrubs and mousses for teenage skin. And on the bookshelves appeared magazines and books on skin care and makeup rules.

The value of cosmetics in creation attractive image women are difficult to overestimate. It is only important to use it correctly so as not to create a reverse process ...

Love yourself and your "physical shell". How we women see ourselves, how we treat ourselves, how we are seen and how other people treat us in the same way. Why are there people - the Universe and the World.

AT modern world hard to imagine young girl, who does not use cosmetics, well, perhaps living in a very puritanical family. According to recent studies, it turned out that a modern woman with cosmetics applies more than five hundred chemicals to her face every day, most of which are far from harmless. But what is harmful for adult women is ten times more dangerous for a young lady in adolescence when the body is only just beginning to actively adjust the functions of vital activity and reproduction.

Harmful cosmetics for teenage girls are dozens and dozens of dangerous chemical compounds, which manufacturers use in cosmetics to make them cheaper and more attractive to the consumer. And in the end, you will have to pay for everything with your health and, worst of all, with the health of future generations. Let us consider in more detail what is the harm of modern cosmetics and what is the best thing for parents to do so as not to cause irreparable harm to their child.

You can also read an article about a common problem - teenage smoking and how to prevent and save a child from an addiction. We also recommend viewing the material "Protecting children from the sun", which discusses serious problems associated with a long stay under the scorching sun and methods of effective protection.

Young beauties, striving to conquer this world with their charm as soon as possible, actively use cosmetics, and many are on a par with adult women, and in some cases more than them. About two and a half kilograms of chemicals penetrate the female body per year with perfumes, hygienic and aesthetic cosmetics, according to recent studies. Girls eat lipstick alone from 100 to 150 grams per year. But in most modern cosmetics, harmful chemicals are added with very serious contraindications. This is done to extend the shelf life, to improve the target consumer properties and to reduce the cost of production. But all this is extremely negatively capable of affecting health at the present time or aggravating it in the distant future.

At the same time, an inscription about the “naturalness” of cosmetics or that it is some kind of special “natural” mixture or product “for children” will not always save you from the content of hazardous substances. In fact, manufacturers often just play with words to mislead buyers. After all, this very “naturalness” in practice is extremely difficult to prove or disprove, so the manufacturer may well rush to anything that does not bind him to terms. For example, even the term "organic" in terms of chemistry is nothing more than a compound containing carbon.

Many organizations protecting people's health are fighting against manufacturers, under their pressure, the most famous cosmetic companies have announced that they refuse to use phthalates, a toxic carcinogen that creates problems with the endocrine system, can cause infertility in men and women, asthma, and also provoke cancer. . But all this struggle, on the one hand, is moving rather slowly, and on the other hand, there are still hundreds of harmful substances in cosmetics, and many companies that ignore even elementary safety requirements and aim only for momentary profit.

Here are a few real examples. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, the lathering shampoo so praised in commercials, was actually developed for cleaning industrial machines, cars and garage floors. Accumulating in the body, sodium lauryl sulfate can cause irritation, dermatitis and the development of cataracts. Propylene glycol - is part of moisturizing creams and shampoos, although in reality it is the strongest allergen that causes itching and irritation, disrupting the functioning of the kidneys and liver, especially in children and adolescents. In industry, propylene glycol is used to make coolants for transport systems and air conditioning and ventilation systems. When working with it, for safety reasons, it is necessary to use rubber gloves and protective overalls, as it is highly toxic. Polyethylene glycol is used in body lotions, and in combination as a solvent, oven cleaner and as a binder in solid rocket fuel. Diethyl phthalate, an odor fixative in perfumery products, is in parallel the strongest poisonous substance, in certain concentrations capable of instantly leading to death!

Harmful cosmetics for teenagers - a table of cosmetics

Let us consider in more detail the table of cosmetics and the most popular dangerous components in them. Please note that many harmful effects do not appear until after long time, so the statement: “I have been using it for many years and everything is fine” is at least frivolous, especially when it comes to the younger generation.

Name of cosmetics

Possible side effects

Average number of chemicals

Hair sprays

Isophthalates, octinoxate

Irritating to eyes, throat and nose. Allergy, structure change hairline and hormonal disorders.

propylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfate, tetrasodium

Irritation of the eyes and scalp, accumulation of the substance in the tissues of the body, including the brain, with the most dangerous consequences in future.

Face creams

diethylene glycol, propylene glycol

Itching and irritation of the skin, kidney and liver problems, cancers.

Eyeshadow

Polyethylene telephthalate

Irritation skin, infertility, skin cancer, hormonal disorders.

Methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben

Breast cancer, irritation, hormonal disorders, rash.

lipsticks

Polymethyl methacrylate

Skin cancer, allergic rashes

Deodorants

Aluminium, Isopropyl myristate

Headache, respiratory problems, eye, lung and skin irritation. breast cancer.

Nail polishes

Toluene, phthalates

Asthma, liver and kidney disease, infertility, fetal abnormalities and miscarriages.

Cream powder

Polymethyl methacrylate

Destruction of the immune system, allergies, cancer.

Funds fake tan(bronzers)

Butylhydroxytoluene, Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben

Hormonal disorders, rash and irritation.

Body lotions

Polyethylene glycol, propylene and methyl compounds

Hormonal disorders, weakening of the immune system and skin irritation.

Sun protection

Benzophenone, homosalate, octylmethoxycinnamate, methylbenzylidene and benzylidene camphor, octyl dimethyl

hormonal changes, increased growth uterus, breast cancer. They can even cause poisoning of mother's milk.

Phthalates, benzaldehyde

Kidney disease, nausea, irritation of the throat, eyes and lips.

How can one conclude even on the basis of a brief listing of harmful compounds, with safe cosmetics we have a clear deficit. Now let's take a closer look at the harmful components themselves, so that you can more qualifiedly approach the issue of choosing cosmetics for your children and for yourself.

Harmful cosmetics for a teenager - a list of harmful ingredients

Table of the main harmful components in modern cosmetics.

Russian name

international title

Harmful properties

Petrolatum

A refined product, it actively prevents the release of waste and toxins from the body, as well as the penetration of oxygen.

propylene glycol

PROPYLENE GLYCOL

Causes liver damage and kidney damage, irritates the skin, causes dermatitis.

Technical oil (varieties are petrolatum, paraffin oil and propylene glycol)

Obtained from oil. The film on the skin delays the removal of toxins and does not allow the skin to breathe, the skin dries out and ages.

Sodium lauryl sulfate (may be disguised as "coconut oil")

SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE - SLS

Detergent from coconut oil. Penetrates the brain, eyes and internal organs, causes cataracts, promotes hair loss and dandruff. Forms nitrosamines, which in large numbers enter the body.

Sodium loret sulfate

SODIUM LAURET SULFATE - SLES

It is similar in action to sodium lauryl sulfate, but at the same time it also releases dioxins - strong toxic substances.

calls allergic rash and increased skin sensitivity

Loramid di

Dries the skin and hair, causes allergic reactions and itching.

Triclosan (triclosan chlorophenol)

An antibacterial ingredient, it is used in some soaps, creams and shampoos. Many dangerous bacteria have developed immunity to it, but it successfully destroys the beneficial ones. As a result, harmful bacteria multiply, which can cause meningitis and blood poisoning.

Parabens (parahydrobenzoate)

Preservatives that can cause breast cancer.

Strong carcinogen, can be formed during long-term storage.

Formaldehyde

Prohibited preservative, strong carcinogen. Violates vision, breathing, irritates the skin, harms the human genetic code and its nervous system.

Copolymers of vinyl pyrrolidine and vinyl acetate

copolymer, pyrrolidine

Substances used in lacquers and hair styling products. Irritates mucous membranes, skin and lungs.

Nitrosamines

Occur in cosmetics containing nitrites. They are the strongest carcinogens. They affect the liver, can cause convulsions, hemorrhages, and even lead to coma.

Toxic to kidneys, liver, reproductive organs, nervous and endocrine systems. Can cause infertility and cancer.

Harmful cosmetics for a teenager girl. And what is the way out of the situation?

What to do if a teenager has an irresistible desire to use modern cosmetics? Of course, it is unlikely that it will be possible to completely abandon detergents and cosmetics. Therefore, to begin with, it is worth defining the “lesser of the evils”. That is, a list of manufacturers that use fewer harmful substances. Most likely, such products will not foam like that, will not have such a beautiful color shade and smell, will not be as thick or homogeneous as cosmetics saturated with thickeners, chemical flavors, dyes, emulsifiers and similar substances. But you won't put your teen's health at risk. Next, it is necessary, if possible, to limit the use of cosmetics by a teenager and periodically arrange fasting days or weeks. That is, the time when body care is done with the help of all-natural cosmetics, made independently at home and used in fresh. This is especially true in summer and autumn, when there are many fruits grown in natural conditions.

Let's take a few simple examples. Apricots applied to the skin will soothe it, currants and lingonberries will narrow the pores and nourish it, bananas will smooth and soften, but pineapples will cleanse and remove oily sheen. Raspberries and strawberries have a moisturizing effect, lemon whitens the skin and narrows pores, apple refreshes and tightens it, sea buckthorn heals wounds, softens and nourishes. As you can see, nature gives us enough funds to periodically take a break from the harmful chemistry that destroys our body.

Harmful and potentially dangerous ingredients of cosmetics, possible consequences of their use, reasons for use by manufacturers, a list of harmful substances in different groups cosmetic products.

The content of the article:

Harmful substances in cosmetics are those ingredients that, when in contact with the body, can cause negative reactions in the form of damage, allergies, various diseases, not only during use, but also in the distant future. The danger of using products with harmful elements lies precisely in the possibility of a delayed reaction. Some components immediately cause irritation, so a person refuses to use such cosmetics. Others act "secretly", imperceptibly, gradually accumulating in the tissues, they are waiting in the wings to show all their harm.

Why are harmful substances added to cosmetics?


In every family in the bathroom, on the dressing table, on the bedside table there is at least one cosmetic product. But often their number is much greater. Now the goods of the cosmetic industry are used not only by women. Numerous care products for children, for men flooded the market.

The word "cosmetics" means not only products for decorative enhancement appearance- lipsticks, eye shadows, foundation creams etc. This concept is quite broad and includes non-drug products designed to improve the characteristics of the skin, hair, nails. These are hair, body, shaving and after-shaving products, sunscreen sprays, oils and creams, caring cosmetics, anti-aging and much more.

Depending on the purpose of the cosmetic product, various ingredients are added to the formulation. active substances designed to solve a particular problem of skin, hair, nails. AT sunscreens introduce special filters, children - vitamins and moisturizing components, anti-aging cosmetics- antioxidants and substances that promote tissue regeneration. The list is endless.

However, the buyer makes a choice not only on the basis of potential benefits, but also in accordance with the so-called consumer characteristics. Consumer properties are those qualities of a product that are manifested during its use by the consumer. They provide ease of use, satisfaction of individual needs determined by the purpose of the product. Therefore, they are a combination of aesthetic, economic and technical qualities of the product.

In addition to functional and environmental properties, the consumer is also interested in others - ergonomic and aesthetic. Among them:

  • External attractiveness. Now we are talking not only about packaging, but also about the characteristics of the product itself. External attractiveness includes color, consistency, uniformity, absence of sediment, aroma, etc.
  • Ease of use. Here again we are talking about consistency, viscosity, uniformity, which allow you to easily and without problems apply the product, for example, apply and distribute the cream, squeeze out and lather the shampoo
  • Reliability. In relation to cosmetics, the concept of reliability is applicable in terms of safety useful properties throughout the shelf life of the product.
In this case, to give the desired consumer characteristics, cosmetics manufacturers add a variety of excipients that are not able to have a positive effect on the appearance and health of the skin, hair and nails. Thus, the use of auxiliary elements is justified by marketing considerations that aim to increase sales.

Excipients, as well as active substances, are divided into groups. However, the same substance can have several properties, therefore it fits the description of several groups at once.

The main groups of auxiliary elements:

  1. Emulsifiers. Provide mixing of components. Allows you to create a homogeneous mass.
  2. preservatives. They block the development of microorganisms, thereby protecting the cosmetic product from damage. Responsible for the stability of the composition. Help extend shelf life. If all preservatives are completely excluded from the product, then the shelf life of such a product will not exceed 7 days. Especially dangerous is Bronopol, which is often used and can release the carcinogen nitrosamine. Many experts believe that cosmetics contaminated with bacteria and other microorganisms are very dangerous, believing that the harm from preservatives is not proven.
  3. Dyes. Provide the necessary shade to the product. Natural ingredients, when mixed with other ingredients, can result in unsightly colors. Bleachers and some dyes come to the rescue.
  4. Fillers. They are used to increase the volume of the product and ensure the required concentration of substances. The use of fillers often reduces the cost of goods.
  5. Flavors. They give the products the necessary aroma. Used essential oils are often safe and even beneficial.
Among the excipients, there are both safe and harmful. Many of them are interchangeable. However, some safe components have a higher cost, therefore, they are actively replaced by cheaper auxiliary ones, which can have a negative impact on health and beauty. Their origin is most often not natural, but synthetic. However high price products are not guaranteed High Quality and safety of use.

What danger do harmful substances in cosmetics pose to humans?


Cosmetics as a product mass production include many different ingredients, each of which performs a number of functions. On the this moment the vast majority of the components have been studied and described in some detail, which allows each person to get acquainted with the main characteristics, properties, both useful and dangerous, and assess the degree of safety of use.

For useful components marketers develop an extended exalted description of the properties on which the advertising campaign of a cosmetic product is built. However, the presence of even the most useful and safe natural ingredients may well be overshadowed by the addition of hazardous substances.

The presence of harmful elements and their possible dangerous properties, on the contrary, are silent in advertising companies. And they, in turn, can harm the body of varying degrees of severity.

Harmful effects can manifest themselves as follows:

  • Allergic reaction. It can manifest itself in the appearance of rashes, redness, the development of itching, dryness. With frequent and prolonged contact with dangerous cosmetics, the skin becomes more sensitive. A common reaction of the body is swelling. Sometimes there is hair loss, a cough or spasm of smooth muscles.
  • Carcinogenic effect. It can cause irreversible damage and changes in the genetic apparatus, which contributes to the emergence and development of neoplasms of a different nature - both benign and malignant.
  • Mutagenic action. This is a negative effect on the genetic material. Under the mutagenic effect is meant damage to the hereditary apparatus in different fabrics, i.e. genes and chromosomes. It is noteworthy that violations can occur even after a few years, and not only in a person in contact with dangerous cosmetics, but also in his offspring. Acquired mutations are passed down from generation to generation.
  • Phototoxicity. This concept means the ability of certain substances to enhance the harmful effects ultraviolet rays. Due to a decrease in cell resistance to negative action sun, they disrupt the synthesis of necessary proteins and substances, accumulate free radicals and toxins. The skin becomes dehydrated, ages faster, acquires an ugly shade and becomes flabby. Recovery processes are significantly slowed down.
  • Violation of microflora. Some substances disrupt the balance of microorganisms, contributing to the death of beneficial ones and the development of pathogens. So, the appearance of, for example, a fungal infection is possible.
  • Other consequences. Change hormonal background, influence on reproductive function, development of diseases of various organs and systems of the body.
The possible consequences sound pretty daunting. But modern statistics shows that the most common negative effect is allergy, and the probability of the rest is quite small. However, this topic is constantly being researched and debated. In this regard, you should not completely abandon cosmetics, but take the time to study the composition and principles of the use of all categories of substances by honest manufacturers.

It is noteworthy that out of the existing 70 thousand components for various kinds of cosmetics, only 3 thousand are allowed. And given statistics relevant for European countries. In Russia, the situation is different, because here, many ingredients banned in Europe and the USA are allowed for use.

Modern quality control methods provide for the establishment of standards that regulate the possibility of using harmful components, i.e. completely prohibit inclusion in the composition or partially restrict. In the case of restriction, the maximum allowable levels of the content of a particular ingredient are developed, at which the substance is not capable of causing harm. Based on this, we can conclude that all elements belonging to the category of "harmful" can be divided into dangerous and potentially dangerous.

The full composition of each product can be found only when viewing the packaging, which contains the entire list of substances used.

The exact content of this or that component is a trade secret. The description of the composition of any product has one important pattern - the substances used are listed in descending order by percentage. Components at the end of the list have a smaller share in the total composition. Conversely, those components that are located at the top have the largest share in the total mass. Components next to each other in the list may have the same percentage. Therefore, when choosing a product, you should rely only on the honesty of the manufacturer in meeting the standards.

Characterization of harmful substances in cosmetic products

Funds produced by well-known companies deserve more trust, because. such products are always under scrutiny. They spend large sums on research and development. Pass certification confirming the fulfillment of all prescribed standards. The opposite are counterfeit products. One of the indicators of a fake product is a lower price than the original. In this case, you should be wary of the use of cheaper substitutes for safe ingredients that harm the body.

Harmful substances in decorative cosmetics


Cosmetics include lipsticks, contour pencils, eyeliner, blush, powder, foundation and other concealers, eye shadow, mascara, nail polish, manicure products and much more.

As seen, this group goods has many subgroups. Their composition is significantly different. But even in this case, it is possible to isolate harmful substances in the composition of cosmetics for this purpose, which lead not only to a deterioration in appearance, but also cause negative reactions - dryness, irritation, premature aging.

The harmful components of decorative cosmetics include:

  1. Benzene (Benzene). Its large doses cause poisoning, have a carcinogenic effect. Prolonged contact with this substance causes drug dependence. High doses lead to lethal outcome. Benzene negatively affects the blood, musculoskeletal system, cardiovascular system, digestive tract etc. But it is allowed for use in a limited concentration - up to 5 mg per m 3.
  2. Phthalates. This is a whole group of substances that are used to give softness, to dissolve substances, as a binder capable of creating an oil film. May cause fetal malformations reproductive function. They are found under the names DEP, DBP, DEHP, BBP, DIDP, etc.
  3. Talc. AT liquid form not dangerous. Toxic in powder form. Causes cancer if inhaled.
  4. Formaldehyde. Used in cosmetics as a preservative. Permissible dose in creams - up to 0.2%. Prohibited for use in aerosol products. Possesses a high degree toxicity. Synonyms - formalin, MDM hydantion, DMDM ​​hydantoin.
  5. Butylated hydroxyanisole. Used as a preservative and antioxidant. There is no exact data on carcinogenicity, but it is considered a toxic component.
  6. Parabens. Butylparaben is a rather aggressive preservative, toxic by inhalation, on mucous membranes, the level of danger depends on the concentration. Ethylparaben is a preservative of natural origin, dangerous for high concentrations causes breast cancer. Isobutylparaben is safe for external use on healthy skin and is banned from foods. Also commonly used are Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Sodium Methylparaben
Conditionally dangerous harmful substances in face and body cosmetics:
  • Bentonite. multifunctional substance. Emulsifier, filler, thickener, retains moisture, prevents caking, absorbs fats. May cause dry skin and irritation. It is believed that it disrupts air exchange, which contributes to metabolic disorders in the skin.
  • Aluminum. It is considered a safe dye, but when it enters the body, it can cause damage to nervous tissue and memory impairment.
  • Paraffin. Filler, thickener, improves the lubricating properties of the product. Due to the fact that it is a derivative of oil, many consider its use dangerous. However, when thoroughly cleaned, it is not capable of causing harm.
  • Zinc stearate. It is used as a filler, water-repellent and lubricating component. Not absorbed by the skin. Causes irritation on mucous and sensitive skin. If ingested, it can accumulate in the body.
  • Benzyl Benzoate. Solvent, stabilizer. Affects nervous system upon entry. The skin is not absorbed. But it can cause irritation in case of individual intolerance. The toxicity of this component is debated. Safe when used correctly.
  • Polymethyl Methacrylate. Stabilizer, filler. According to unconfirmed reports, it can cause cancer. According to others, it is safe in the absence of individual intolerance.
  • Triclosan. Able to accumulate when ingested. At the same time, it causes disturbances in the functioning of the nervous, cardiovascular, endocrine systems. Some experiments have shown the ability of triclosan to cause mutations at the cellular level. When applied externally, it can cause skin irritation.

Harmful substances in skin care products


Skin care products are designed to perform many functions. These include moisturizing, nutrition, stimulation of regeneration processes, normalization of pigmentation, elimination of signs of aging, etc. However, even the most useful creams, lotions can be somewhat dangerous.

It is worth considering the need to purchase skin care products if they contain the following substances and compounds:

  1. mineral oil. Synthetic drug. Safe to pass necessary procedures for cleaning. Forms on the skin protective layer, which is quite difficult to wash off, retains moisture. Can clog pores and cause irritation. In general, it improves the lubricity of any cream. If swallowed, it is not dangerous, because. not absorbed in the digestive tract.
  2. Lanolin. Acts as an emulsifier, has a softening and water-retaining effect. Dangerous for sensitive skin. Non-toxic even if swallowed.
  3. Propylene Glycol. Solvent and preservative. It has low toxicity. Approved for use in cosmetics in limited doses. When ingested, it breaks down into harmless components.
  4. Petrolatum (Vaseline). Filler, lubricant. It is used as a moisturizer and to protect the skin from external factors. Can clog pores.
  5. Glycerine (Glycerin). Moisturizes the skin. Stabilizes cosmetic formulations. It should not be applied to damaged areas. It is considered safe in acceptable doses. It is able to draw moisture from skin cells, dehydrating the skin, but this is only under the condition of low air humidity.
  6. Cacao oil (Cocoa butter). Promotes the removal of fluid from cells into the intercellular space. Stimulates the flow of energy processes. May cause premature aging of the skin.
  7. Stearalkonlum chloride. Acts as a substitute plant extracts, because it has a lower cost. It is toxic and can cause allergies.
  8. Germall. Synonyms - Diazolidinyl urea, Germol, Imidazolidinyl urea. Toxic at high doses. Prohibited in nutrition, not desirable in products intended for the treatment of mucous membranes.
  9. Zinc Sulfate. Designed to replenish zinc reserves and serves as an antiseptic. However, this form of the substance is not able to saturate the cells with zinc, therefore, in this value, the component is useless. Zinc sulfate can also cause indigestion accompanied by vomiting, liquid stool etc. There may be a violation of breathing and the work of the kidneys, muscles. It worsens blood counts. But when used correctly, it does no harm.
  10. Sorbitan isostearate. Emulsifier. Permissible dosage - up to 10%. Causes irritation of mucous membranes. It is able to be absorbed by the skin, taking with it both useful and harmful components.
  11. Fragrance,DMDM Hydantoin, Hydroquinone, Ceteareth and PEG. These are common and undesirable components of face creams.
  12. Oxybenzone and DMDM ​​Hydantoin. Used in sunscreen.
Also, look out for phthalates, Lactic acid, AHA and BHA, Glycolic acid.

In most cases, even with the above ingredients in the composition, the remedy can be quite safe. To do this, you should conscientiously follow all the recommendations of the manufacturer for the purpose and precautions.

When buying sunscreens, it is better to refuse to purchase and use those that are made in the form of sprays. They carry a great danger, especially if they contain nanoparticles that can penetrate the lungs, injure their cells and then be transported with blood throughout the body. Due to their miniature size, they can get inside the cells and disrupt their structure.

Harmful components in hygienic cosmetic products


Hygiene cosmetics - soap, shower gel, cleansing milk, rinse for oral cavity, shaving products, etc. - designed to clean the skin and mucous membranes. Sometimes manufacturers expand functionality additional properties including additional ingredients.

The most harmful substances in cosmetics for body hygiene, oral cavity:

  • Sodium Lauryl Sulfate. Filler, emulsifier, excellent foaming agent. Dissolves fats. It is considered non-toxic when applied externally. May cause irritation on mucous membranes. Many experts argue that its carcinogenicity has not been proven. It is a safer alternative to Sodium Laureth Sulfate.
  • Sodium Laureth Sulfate. Powerful cleaner, degreaser, emulsifier. The degree of toxic effects is determined by the degree of purification, concentration and duration of contact with the body. Dries the skin, damages the hair, irritates the mucous membranes. accumulates in the body. To remove this substance, the body expends a lot of energy. When properly cleaned, it is not dangerous. Although it is impossible for the buyer to check the degree of cleaning. The list can be supplemented by two more representatives - Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, Ammonium Laureth Sulfate.
  • Diethanolamine. Emulsifier. Toxic to the heart, blood vessels, kidneys and gastrointestinal tract when ingested. Causes irritation of mucous membranes. Not dangerous for the skin. As well as Monoethanolamine and Triethanolamine.
  • Propylene Glycol. Described above.
  • Alcohol. Acts as a solvent. In small doses, it quickly evaporates from the surface of the skin. If ingested, it has a negative effect on health. May dry the skin with prolonged contact, which is not possible when using the component in a diluted form.
  • Sodium Fluoride. Toxic in powder form, has a negative effect on respiratory system. When ingested in large quantities in the gastrointestinal tract causes poisoning.
  • Other. Triclosan, Fragrance, DMDM ​​Hydantoin, substances with the prefix PEG, etc.
Cheap cosmetics with long term storage cannot be absolutely secure.

Harmful substances in hair care products


The list of cosmetics for hair care is also quite wide. These include washing products (shampoo, rinse aid, conditioner), styling products (mousse, gel, hairspray), dyeing and curling products.

They may also contain dangerous substances. These are sodium and ammonium sulfates with prefixes lauryl-, laureth-, propylene glycol, Mono-, Di- and Tri-ethanolamines, Butylated hydroxyanisole, as well as formaldehyde, animal fats, parabens, Benzyl Benzoate, Cocomidopropyl Betaine, Lanolin, Cyclopentasiloxane, etc.

Other harmful ingredients in hair care products:

  1. Stearalkonium Chloride. A cheap substitute for natural proteins, herbs needed for healthy hair. It is toxic and can cause allergies.
  2. Synthetic Colors. These are synthetic dyes. Labeled on D&C and FD&C packaging. There is an assumption that they are carcinogenic and can cause cancer.
  3. Synthetic Fragrances. Often cause cough, rash, headache and dizziness, indigestion. Marked as part of "fragrance".
  4. Tetrasodium EDTA. It is toxic only in high concentration, therefore it is conditional hazardous component. It is considered indispensable in products that contain surfactants.

Harmful substances in children's cosmetic products


Is it worth talking about the danger of certain elements and compounds for a child's unadapted organism, which requires nutrients and gentle care proper growth all tissues and general development.

We list those ingredients that are often found on the labels of children's cosmetics, but their presence is highly undesirable in products designed to care for the body of babies:

  • Talc. In dry form (powder) it negatively affects respiratory functions, mucous membranes of the mouth, eyes.
  • Boric acid. In other words - boric acid. It is considered an ineffective antiseptic agent, therefore it is prohibited for use for pregnant women and children. Extremely dangerous if swallowed.
  • Oxybenzone. Active sunscreen. There is controversy about its safety. The issue of carcinogenicity is being considered. Some studies show that it can accumulate in the body and is poorly excreted. May provoke over-sensitivity skin.
  • DMDM Hydantoin. It is an antiseptic, it perfectly fights the development of microorganisms. Has carcinogenic properties. Absorbed by the skin, accumulates, can provoke poisoning.
  • BHA. Belongs to the group of preservatives and antioxidants. It is used everywhere - in food, cosmetics. Banned in many countries. Has toxic properties. And even at low concentrations it is dangerous to humans.
  • Other. Sodium borate - sodium borate, triclosan, phthalates.
Often, manufacturers use a marketing ploy: they indicate on the packaging capital letters information about the absence of a particular harmful component. This is especially true for children's products. However, the presence of “Free” marks on the package with any prefix, for example, Fragrance, paraben, etc., does not guarantee the absence of the mentioned substance or group of substances. Self-respecting companies often do not resort to such marketing ideas, but simply describe the composition in detail on the packaging.

How to choose cosmetics without harmful substances - look at the video:


With the modern way of life and high demands on the breadth of the assortment on the part of buyers, with the stormy desire of most manufacturers to reduce the cost of manufactured goods by reducing the usefulness of the product and increasing its danger to the body, cosmetics without harmful substances may well become something fantastic. Nature gives us the most useful and safe care products. But how many sought-after cosmetic products, such as hair dye, nail art products, etc., cannot be made without synthetic components.

Why do we need cosmetics? Any woman after 50 will answer unequivocally: to be beautiful. And this is true, the main purpose of cosmetic products is to make our appearance well-groomed.

We all use a variety of products: creams, balms, powder, lipstick, shadows, deodorants, hair dye and much more.

But you need to remember that not all are equally useful. Often, it contains such harmful substances that cause our skin, and indeed the whole body, more harm than good.

What is harmful cosmetics for women's health

Let's see what can hurt female beauty lipstick, cream, powder or other care and beauty products.

Lipstick: how can it harm?

Almost all women use lipsticks and balms, some more, others less. The difference between the balm is that the first one causes dryness, and the second one retains moisture in the delicate skin of the lips. Therefore, before you paint your lips, apply a balm.

The cosmetic industry offers a woman a huge variety of shades of lipstick for every taste. Their composition is just as diverse, to which women do not always pay attention. But in vain! Many lipsticks often contain harmful synthetic and chemical substances that penetrate deep into the skin and can clog blood vessels. Such harmful lipsticks can cause irreparable harm to health. For example, red lipsticks contain lead, which can penetrate the brain and cause various diseases up to tumors.

Is the cream always good for the skin?

A woman's life is inconceivable without the use of various means for face and body skin care. , in fact, protects our skin from the harmful effects of the environment, and primarily from ultraviolet radiation. The skin must be protected from overdrying and pollution, softened and moisturized.

However, it must be remembered that such protective properties has only high quality cosmetic products. As part of quality cream you will find only water, hydrosols, emulsifiers and vegetable oils. It is herbal ingredients that serve to protect the skin, moisturize it and prevent wrinkles.

But, if you find mineral oil and paraffin in the cream, then you should think about whether it is worth using it. A high concentration of these substances causes dryness and a violation of the natural balance of the skin, causing redness, rashes and premature wrinkles.

famous enough cosmetic are skin whitening creams. It is used to fight age spots and freckles. Especially popular with women is this type of whitening cream, such as hydroquinone. This cream is highly toxic and harmful not only to female skin and for the whole organism as a whole. The fact is that the substance hydroquinone easily penetrates into the blood through the skin and causes a disruption in the activity of cells that produce melanin. It can cause redness, dryness, flaking, burning, and a rash.

Strong chemical bleaches included in bleaching creams destroy natural oils, so necessary for our skin to maintain its elasticity. Remember that you can safely use only those whitening cosmetics, which include natural ingredients.

About talc and its effect on health

Not less than bad influence talc, which is also often included in cosmetics, also affects the skin condition: talc is used as part of powder, blush, eye shadow and deodorants.
Here, harmful substances are such chemical elements as silicates. They can cause allergies and even lung disease.

Of course, talc is also harmful for the skin itself, it clogs pores and causes various inflammations. A variety of silicates is asbestos, its particles can accumulate in our body (especially in the ovaries) and disable our reproductive system and also cause cancer.

Why is hair dye dangerous?

Most women use, which also contains many chemical ingredients. When stained, the paint can cause various unpleasant and even dangerous reactions of the body: redness, skin rash, burning and shortness of breath. The most dangerous harmful substance in hair dye is p-phenylenediamine. It causes not only redness, swelling and allergies, but it can lead to damage to the eyes, lungs and other troubles with our health.