Medicine today 

The most harmful substances in cosmetics. Harmful cosmetics: additives that are not safe for health

Let's together critically analyze in which points the author of the list was mistaken, and in which he was right. Write your reasons in the comments!

Note:
list sorted in Russian alphabet.

If the labels on the packaging are in English, see.

Not all ingredients on the list are hazardous to your health, read the explanations for the specific ingredient.

Unfamiliar words:

Carcinogenic(cancer - cancer) - dangerous and toxic substances that cause malignant tumors.

Mutagenic- dangerous substances that produce changes inside cells at the genetic level, i.e. change the structure of cells.

1,2-Dichloroethene, Acetylene dichloride, Sim-Dichlorethylene - Dioform.

Used in many toothpastes and other teeth whiteners. Damages tooth enamel.

Alkylphenol ethoxylate - Alkyl-phenol-ethoxylades.

Reduces male sperm count by mimicking the action of estrogen. It is widely used in shampoos.

Alcohol, Alcohol - Alcohol.

Acts as a vehicle and prevents foaming. Dries quickly. Synthetic alcohol (as opposed to microbiological) is a toxic, carcinogenic, mutagenic substance that causes adverse reactions in the body.

Albumin - Albumin.

Albumin is the main ingredient in skin-tightening formulations. It is advertised as an anti-wrinkle treatment. The formula contains bovine serum albumin (bovine serum albumin), which dries to film the wrinkles without making them appear as noticeable. Has a negative effect on the skin.

The last time a serious customer complaint was filed was in the 1960s. Both of these drugs were wrinkle removers. The composition contained bovine serum albumin, which, when dried, formed a film over the wrinkles and made them less visible ...

Alpha Hydroxide Acids, Alpha Hydrax Acids - AHA's.

Old cells are exfoliated from the surface of the skin, after which only fresh young cells remain on it. The skin looks younger and less wrinkled. By removing the outer layer of dead cells, we also remove the first and most important protective layer of the skin. In this case, harmful environmental factors that contribute to skin aging penetrate into it faster and deeper. As a result, the skin ages prematurely.

Aluminum - Aluminum.

It is used as a color additive in cosmetics, especially in eye shadow, as well as in deodorants and antiperspirants. Harmful.

Flavors - Fragrances..

Aromatic additives for most cosmetic preparations. They contain up to 1000 synthetic substances, which are mostly carcinogenic. May cause headaches, dizziness, allergic rashes, skin discoloration, severe coughing and vomiting, and skin irritation. Clinical observation proves that aromas can affect the central nervous system and cause depression, irritability, etc.

Acetamide, Acetic Acid Amide - Acetamide MEA.

Used in lipsticks and blushers to retain moisture. It is a poisonous, carcinogenic, mutagenic substance.

Benzene, Aromatic Hydrocarbon - Benzene.

Benzene is a bone marrow poison. In combination with other components, it is widely used in cosmetics. It is a poisonous, carcinogenic, mutagenic substance.

Bentonite - Bentonite.

Bentonite - 1. Highly plastic clay, 2. Grade of bleaching clay. It is a natural mineral that is used in masks, powder and other cosmetics. It differs from ordinary clay in that it forms a gel when mixed with liquid. Bentonite is thought to be able to draw out toxins.
It is a porous clay that quickly absorbs moisture from the skin. Forms gas-tight films.
Intensively retains toxins and carbon dioxide, preventing skin breathing and excretion of waste products. Strangles the skin by cutting off oxygen. Bentonite particles can have sharp edges and scratch the skin. Comedogenic. Experiments on mice have shown high toxicity.

Biotin, vitamin H, vitamin B7, coenzyme R - Biotin (Vitamin H).

Biotin (Vitamin H) is an exotic ingredient touted as essential and beneficial for skin and hair care. Lack of this vitamin has been associated with oily skin and baldness in rats and other experimental animals. However, human hair is different from animal hair. Biotin deficiency is extremely rare, and therefore can be considered a completely useless supplement in cosmetic preparations. Moreover, the molecular weight of biotin is too large for it to penetrate the skin.

Bronopol, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol, BNPD -Bronopol.

Forms nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic. The most expensive Chanel cosmetic line uses this ingredient. Even shops specializing in natural cosmetics sell products containing bronopol, although there are many other natural substitutes. It is very dangerous.

Butylated Hydroxyanisole, E320 - Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA).

Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT).

An antioxidant widely used not only in cosmetics, but also in the food industry. It is quickly absorbed into the skin and stays in the tissues for a long time. Carcinogen.

Gamma Hexachloran - Lindane, hexachlorocyclohexane.

A pesticide used in agriculture. Trade names Kwell, linden, Bio-Well, GBH, G-well, Kildane, Kwildane, Scabene and Thionex. Added to creams, lotions and shampoos. Carcinogenic. Causes skin cancer. Very toxic to the nervous system. Damages the brain.

Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronate, hyaluronan - Hyaluronic acids.

This is the “latest squeak” in the cosmetics industry. It happens that cosmetic companies use only a small amount of this acid in their products, so long as the ingredient is mentioned in the composition on the sticker. It doesn't do the skin any good.

Glycerin (conditionally beneficial), 1,2,3-trihydroxypropane, 1,2,3-propanetriol - Glycerine.

Advertised as a beneficial moisturizer. It is a clear, syrupy liquid made by chemically combining water and fat. Water splits fat into smaller components - glycerol and fatty acids. This improves the penetration properties of creams and lotions and prevents them from losing moisture through evaporation. Glycerin is the basis of all fats. In general, fat is glycerin + fatty acids. Glycerin is prized in cosmetology for its moisturizing and water-retaining properties. Moisturizing effect - glycerin molecules are surrounded by water molecules (since glycerin has three hydrosilic groups) and, getting into the skin along with water, retains moisture.

But if you use a large percentage of glycerin - 40-50%, a harmful substance is formed by-side (this is what they talk about). Studies have shown that when the air humidity is below 65%, glycerin sucks water out of the skin to its full depth and holds it on the surface, instead of taking moisture from the air. Thus, it makes dry skin even drier.

Dimethylamine - Dimethylamine..

Carcinogen.

Dioxane, diethylenedioxide - 1,2-Dioxane –ethoxylated alcohols, 1,4 – dioxane, polysorbates, and laureths.

It is found in shampoos, conditioners, facial cleansing lotions, creams, soaps, and various household cleaners. Easily penetrate both the skin and the air into the body. Strong carcinogen. Causes cancer of the nasal septum, destroys the liver.

Dioxins, polychlorinated derivatives of dibenzo-1,4-dioxins - Dioxins..

500,000 times more carcinogenic than DDT. Used to bleach paper. There are facts that confirm the presence of dioxins in milk and other dairy products that are packed in cardboard boxes, since paper bleaching was carried out using this substance.

Disodium EDTA - Disodium EDTA.

Hazardous carcinogen, may contain ethylene oxide and / or dixane.

DEA, Diethanolamine - diethanolamine, 2,2'-iminodiethanol 2,2'-dihydroxydiethanolamine, DEA;
MEA, Monoethanolamine - Monoethanolamine (MEA);
TEA, Triethanolamine - Triethanolamine, TEA,
and others: Cocamide DEA -
Cocamide DEA, Diethanolamide;
DEA-Cetyl phosphate - DEA Cetyl phosphate;
DEA Oleth-3 phosphate - DEA-olef-3 phosphate,
Myristamide DEA;
Stearamide MEA - Stearamide MEA;
Cocamide MEA - Cocamide MEA,
Lauramide DEA - Loramide DEA,
Linoleamide MEA - Linoleamide MEA, a mixture of linoleic acid ethanolamides;
Oleamide DEA - Oleamide DEA;
TEA-Lauryl Sulfate - TEA lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate.)

Used as emulsifiers and foaming agents in facial cleansing lotions, shampoos, body and bath lotions, in soaps, etc. Ethanolamines irritate eyes, skin and mucous membranes, and cause dermatitis. Diethanolamine easily penetrates the skin and is deposited in various organs, especially the brain. Animal tests have shown that this substance can be toxic to the kidneys, liver, brain, spinal cord, bone marrow and skin. These substances are carcinogenic.

Animal fat - Tallow (animal fat).

Animal fat: beef, pork. In cosmetics, it promotes the growth of bacterial colonies.

Isopropyl alcohol, propanol-2, isopropanol, dimethylcarbinol, IPA - Isopropyl Alcohol (SD-40).

Causes cancer of the mouth, tongue and throat. Used as a cleaning agent, as well as in cosmetics, perfumes, and mouthwashes. Poisoning symptoms - headache, nosebleeds, dizziness.

Imidazolidinyl Urea - Imidazolidinyl Urea.

After parabens, it is the most commonly used preservative in cosmetics. Colorless, odorless, tasteless substance. Add to powders, baby shampoos, colognes, eyeshadows, hair tonics and lotions.
Causes dermatitis. At high temperatures, it releases formaldehyde, which is very toxic.

Coal Tar, Coal Tar - Coal Tar.

Used in anti-dandruff shampoos. It is usually placed on labels under the names: FD, FDC or coloring FD&C.
Coal tar can cause serious illnesses: allergic reactions, asthma attacks, fatigue, nervousness, headaches, nausea, poor concentration, and cancer.

Carbomer, carbopol, 934, 940, 941, 960, 961 C - Carbomer.

It is used as a thickener and stabilizer in creams, toothpastes, eye makeup and bath products. Artificial emulsifier. May cause allergies and eye inflammation.

Quaternium-15 - Quaternium-15.

Used in cosmetics as a preservative and antimicrobial agent. Forms formaldehyde, which is highly toxic. Causes dermatitis.

Cocamide DEA, diethanolamide, NN-bis (2-hydroxyethyl) amide of coconut oil - Cocamide DEA.

It is mainly found in shampoos. Contains nitrosamines, which are known to be carcinogens.

Cocamidopropyl Betaine - Cocamidopropyl Betaine.

Used in shampoos in combination with other surfactants (surfactants). Synthetic substance. Irritating to eyelids.

Collagen (not to be confused with vegetable liquid-soluble collagen), fibrillar protein - Collagen.

Collagen is a protein - the main part of the structural network of our skin. It is believed that with age, it begins to deteriorate, and the skin becomes thin and flabby. Some companies insist that collagen can improve the skin's own collagen structure. Others say that it is absorbed by the epidermis and moisturizes the skin.

Collagen is an insoluble fibrous protein whose molecule is too large to penetrate the skin. It is used in many cosmetic preparations. Obtained from animal skin or from milled chicken legs.

Collagen use is potentially harmful for the following reasons:

1. The large size of collagen molecules prevents its penetration into the skin. Instead of being beneficial, it settles on the surface of the skin, clogging up pores and preventing water from evaporating just like industrial oil. Forms a film on the skin, under which the skin can suffocate. It's like playing tennis with a soccer ball. (The molecular weight of any ingredient must be 3000 to penetrate the skin, 800 - into the cell and 75 - to get into the blood. The molecular weight of the components of most cosmetic products and shampoos is 10,000).

2. Collagen used in cosmetics is obtained by scraping off the skins of cattle or from the lower legs of birds. Even if it penetrates the skin, its molecular composition and biochemistry are different from that of a human, and it cannot be used by the skin.

Lanolin, wool wax, animal wax - Lanolin.

Advertisers found that the words “contains lanolin” (advertised as a beneficial moisturizer) helped market the product, and it was argued that “it has the ability to penetrate the skin like no other oil,” even though there is not enough scientific evidence for that. confirmations. Studies have found that lanolin causes sensitization of the skin, and even allergic rashes. There is a high content of pesticides, sometimes up to 50-60%. Very harmful to the skin: it clogs the pores, does not allow the skin to breathe. Possibly carcinogenic.

Ammonium laureth sulphate (ALS).

Easily penetrates the skin. Found in hair care products and bath foams. It is a poisonous, carcinogenic, mutagenic substance.

Sodium Laureth Sulfate - SLES.

Similar ingredient to SLS (ester chain added). Found in 90% shampoos and conditioners. It is very cheap and thickens with the addition of salt. Forms a lot of foam and gives the illusion that it is thick, concentrated and expensive. This is a fairly mild detergent. SLES reacts with other ingredients and forms dioxins in addition to nitrates. They corrode the hair follicle and slow down hair growth. It quickly enters the body and settles before our eyes, in the brain, and in the liver. It is excreted very slowly from the body. May cause blindness and cataracts. Carcinogenic. Irritating to skin and eyes, causing hair loss and dandruff. Causes serious allergic reactions. Very dry skin and scalp.

Used as a wetting agent in the textile industry.

Sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium dodecyl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfonic acid - Sodium Lauryl Sulfate -SLS.

It is an inexpensive cleanser made from coconut oil, widely used in cosmetic cleaners, shampoos, bath and shower gels, bath foamers, and the like. It is perhaps the most dangerous ingredient in hair and skin care products.

In industry, SLS is used for cleaning garage floors, engine degreasers, car washes, etc. It is a very corrosive agent (although it does remove grease from the surface).

Sodium lauryl sulfate is used in clinics around the world as a skin irritation tester in the following way: researchers use this drug to irritate the skin in animals and humans, and then treat them with different drugs.

Recent research at the Georgia State University College of Medicine has shown that SLS penetrates the eyes, brain, heart, liver, etc. and lingers there. This is especially dangerous for children, in whose tissues it accumulates in high concentrations. These studies also show that SLS alters the protein composition of children's eyes and delays the normal development of these children, causing cataracts.

Sodium lauryl sulfate cleanses by oxidation, leaving an irritating film on body skin and hair. May promote hair loss and dandruff by acting on the hair follicles. Hair dries up, becomes brittle and splits at the ends.

Another problem. Sodium lauryl sulfate reacts with many ingredients in cosmetics to form nitrosamines (nitrates). These nitrates enter the bloodstream in large quantities when using shampoos and gels, taking baths and using cleaners. If you wash your hair once with shampoo that contains SLS, it means saturating your body with a huge amount of nitrates, which are quickly carried by the blood throughout the body. It's like eating a kilo of ham stuffed with the same nitrates. Carcinogenic. Molecular weight SLS - 40 (substances with a molecular weight of 75 and less quickly penetrate into the blood).

Many firms often disguise their SLS products as natural, stating "sourced from coconuts."

Liposomes (not to be confused with phytoliposomes) - Liposomes (Nanosphenes or Micellization).

Considered a radical anti-aging agent. According to one of the latest theories, cell aging is accompanied by a thickening of the cell membrane. Liposomes are tiny sacs of fat and thymus hormone extract suspended in a gel. It is assumed that they, by merging with the cells, revitalize them and add moisture. However, recent scientific studies do not support these assumptions. The cell membranes of old and young cells are identical.
Thus, liposome humidifiers are another costly gimmick.

Lauramide Day - Lauramide DEA.

Lauric Acid is usually obtained from coconut or laurel oil and is used to foam and thicken various cosmetic preparations. It is included in the basis for the production of soap, because it creates a good lather. It is also used in dishwashing detergents due to its ability to remove grease.
In a cosmetic formula, it reacts with other ingredients to produce nitrosamines, a known carcinogen. Dries hair, skin and scalp. Itching and allergic reactions.

Methylchloroisothiazolinone, commercial name Kathon CG, abbreviations: CMIT, CMI, MCI - preservative - Methyl Chloroisothiazolinine.

Carcinogenic, toxic and mutagenic.

Sodium Oleth Sulfate.

Sodium pyrrolidone carbonate - Sodium PCA (NAPCA).

Synthetically obtained, it can seriously dry out the skin and cause allergies.

Phosphoric acid, phosphoric acid - Phosphoric acid.

Inorganic product. In high concentrations, it is very toxic to the skin.

Para-aminobenzoic acid, bacterial vitamin H1, vitamin B10 - Paba (p-aminobenzoic acid).

A water-soluble vitamin from the B complex. It is widely used in sunscreen components. May be phototoxic and cause contact dermatitis and eczema.

Parabens - Parabens.

Trade name: butylparaben, ethylparaben, methylparaben, propylparaben. Used in cosmetics as preservatives. They cause dermatitis and allergies. May cause breast cancer.

Para-Phenylenediamine Dyes..

Hair dyes: dark or brown colors. Carcinogenic when oxidized. Cause of various types of cancer - non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and multiple myeloma. Jacqueline Kennedy dyed her hair black every two weeks. Died of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Petrolatum - Petrolatum.

Fat, a petrochemical product - petrolatum - has the same harmful properties as industrial oil. By retaining fluid, it prevents the release of toxins and wastes and interferes with oxygen penetration.

Polysorbates, oxyethylated sorbitans, nonionic surfactants - Polysorbate-n (20-85).

Used as an emulsifier. Causes skin irritation and contact dermatitis. Toxic.

Polyelectrolyte - Polyquaternium.

It is a poisonous, carcinogenic, mutagenic substance.

Polyethylene glycol, PEG, macrogol, polyethylene oxide, PEO - PEG (4-200).

Abbreviation for polyethylene glycol, polyoxethylene, polygocol, polyether glycol. They cause allergic skin reactions and eczema. Contains dangerous levels of the highly toxic substance dioxane.

Propylene glycol, 1,2-propylene glycol - Propylene Glycol.

Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) - Butylene Glycol (BG) - Thylene Glycol (EG). Most used as a vehicle (after water) in a cosmetic formula. Propylene glycol is a petroleum derivative, sweet caustic liquid.

In skin care cosmetics and shampoos, it is claimed to be capable of retaining moisture in the skin. Actually draws moisture out of the skin. Degreases and dries out the skin. Irritating to eyes. It is cheaper than glycerin but causes more allergic reactions). It is believed to give the skin a youthful appearance. Its proponents are conducting research to prove that propylene glycol is a safe and effective ingredient. However, scientists believe it is harmful to the skin for the following reasons:

1. In industry, it is used as antifreeze in water cooling systems and as a brake fluid. It gives the skin a smooth and greasy feeling, but it does so by displacing components important to skin health.

2. While binding the liquid, propylene glycol displaces water at the same time. The skin cannot use it, it functions with water, not antifreeze.

3. The safety study data (MSDS) of propylene glycol shows that skin contact with propylene glycol can cause liver damage and kidney damage. In cosmetics, a typical composition includes 10-20% propylene glycol (note that propylene glycol is usually one of the first in the list of ingredients of preparations, which indicates its high concentration).

4. In January 1991, a clinical review was published by the American Academy of Dermatology regarding the association of dermatitis with propylene glycol. The report proved that propylene glycol causes a large number of reactions and is one of the main skin irritants even at low concentrations.

Research shows that this substance is mutagenic. It quickly penetrates the skin, destroys cellular proteins and is deposited in the body.

Stearomide propyl, EDTA tetrasodium salt - Stearamidopropyl Tetrasodium EDTA.

Forms nitrosamines in cosmetics. Nitrosamines are known carcinogens.

Styrene C8H8, phenylethylene, vinylbenzene - Styrene Monomer.

Carcinogenic, toxic, mutagenic. Irritating to skin and mucous membranes.

Talc - Talc

Obtained from magnesia silicate. It is believed that talcum powder is dangerous and toxic and should not be used in children as it can cause lung cancer. According to other sources, this applies only to talc mixtures containing lead.

Technical oil, Petroleum (mineral) oils - Mineral Oil (heavy and light).
This ingredient is derived from oil. It is a mixture of liquid hydrocarbons separated from gasoline. Used in industry for lubrication and as a dissolving liquid. When used in cosmetics as a moisturizer, the technical oil forms a water-repellent film and traps moisture in the skin. It is believed that by trapping moisture in the skin, you can make it softer, smoother and more youthful looking. The truth is that a film of technical oil retains not only water, but also toxins, carbon dioxide, waste and products of life, it prevents the penetration of oxygen. The skin is a living, breathing organ that needs oxygen. And when toxins accumulate in the skin and oxygen does not penetrate, the skin becomes unhealthy.

Studies have shown that the saturation of the skin with liquid trapped by the oil film slows down the growth and development of cells. The new skin cell migrates to the surface, where it is exfoliated and washed off. This process takes 20 days in young people and up to 70 days in older people. During this migration from the lower layers of the skin to the surface, the cell changes both structurally and in composition. These changes are necessary for the skin to remain healthy and act as a barrier and protector for the body.

When the skin is glued and the ducts overflow with a large amount of excess fluid saturated with toxins and wastes, the vital functions of the skin are disrupted. The cells stop developing normally and their growth slows down. Immature cells rise to the surface and cannot perform a barrier function. Such skin cracks and dries easily, becomes irritable and sensitive. Due to the slowdown in growth, the skin becomes weaker and thinner. Natural mechanisms of recovery and self-defense are weakened and harmful elements of the environment attack the skin faster and easier. In short, the skin shrinks quickly, becomes thinner and more sensitive, easily irritated. The youthful appearance of the skin and the glow fade as it loses its health. In fact, liquid is the only remedy for improving dry skin, but the wrong methods of moisturizing are very harmful and cause premature aging, not rejuvenation. Dr. T.G. Randolf, an allergist, discovered that this ingredient causes petrochemical allergies. Allergic reactions can be very serious, leading to arthritis, migraines, hyperkinesis, epilepsy, and diabetes. When taken orally, technical oil binds fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and, preventing their absorption, removes them from the body. And, although only a very small amount is able to penetrate the skin, this trend is so dangerous that Adelle Davis in her "Let's eat right to stay healthy" says that she personally "is wary of using technical oil even in baby oils, cold creams and other cosmetic preparations "

Technical oil tends to dissolve natural sebum and increase dehydration. It is recognized as the most common cause of acne and various rashes in women using technical oil cosmetics. It was found that in the production of industrial oils, carcinogens are present in them, and in a strong concentration.

Tyrosine (alpha-amino-beta- (p-hydroxyphenyl) propionic acid) - Tyrosine.

Some tanning lotions contain tyrosine. Be sure that this will definitely be reflected in the advertising of a cosmetic product - an amino acid that enhances melanization (tanning) of the skin. But melanization is an internal process and smearing the lotion on the skin cannot affect it. Likewise, you can rub yourself with food to satisfy your hunger.

Manufacturers' claims of the effectiveness of tanning enhancers remain unconfirmed. Recent independent research has not supported these claims. It is doubtful that tyrosine can penetrate the skin to such a depth as to affect the melanization process.

Triclosan - Triclosan.

The latest advance in antibacterial chemistry. It is used in household cleaners and detergents, as well as in cosmetics.
Triclosan is a chlorophenol, a class of known carcinogenic chemicals. Irritating to skin. It is very toxic to the whole organism.
It has a negative effect on the liver, kidneys, lungs, brain, can cause paralysis, and reduces sexual functions.

Triethylamine - Triethanolamine (Trolamine, TEA).

Causes serious dermatitis on the skin of the face, makes it sensitive and allergic. Usually in cosmetics it regulates the pH balance. May contain nitrosamines which are highly carcinogenic.

Toluene, methylbenzene - Toluene (toluol).

Obtained from petroleum products. Reminiscent of benzen. Toxic. May cause anemia. Damages the liver. Irritating to skin and mucous membranes.

Humidifiers - Humectants.

Most moisturizers contain humectants. They are believed to attract moisture from the air. In fact, they draw moisture from the skin. Humectants including propylene glycol and glycerin act as humectants in humid environments. On the contrary, if you are in dry places, such as in the cockpit of an airplane or in a well-heated area, they draw moisture from the skin.

FDS - FDC-n (FD&C).

Available in various colors. Some are skin irritants, others are strong carcinogens. It is believed that there are still no levels of acceptable safe use for these products for each color category.

Phenoxyethanol - Phenoxyethanol..

Causes serious allergic reactions. Trade names - Arosol, Dowanol EPH, Phenyl Cellosolve, Phenoxethol, Phenoxetol and Phenonip.

Formalin DMDM, aqueous solution: 40% formaldehyde, 8% methyl alcohol and 52% water - Hydantoin DMDM..

May cause dermatitis. As a preservative, it can form formaldehyde, which is a dangerous carcinogen.

Phthalates, phthalic acid salts - Phthalates.

Dibutyl Phthalate - Diethyl Phthalate - Dimethyl Phthalate. Phthalates are widely used in cosmetics and perfumery. Interestingly, environmental laws regulate and control the use of phthalates as they are considered toxic.
In cosmetic products, there are not even warnings about their high toxicity.
They destroy the liver and kidneys, are very dangerous for the fetus, reduce the amount of sperm.

Fluoride, fluorine compound - Fluoride.

Dangerous chemical element. Especially dangerous in toothpaste. Scientists associate this element with the occurrence of dental deformities, arthritis, and allergic manifestations.

Fluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons - Fluorocarbons.

Usually used in hair sprays. Toxic to the respiratory tract.

Formaldehyde, methanal, formic aldehyde, formic acid aldehyde - Formaldehyde.

Used in nail polish, soaps, cosmetics and shampoos. Causes severe mucosal irritation. Trade name: DMDM ​​hydantoin or MDM hydantion.
Very toxic to the skin. Known carcinogen. Two substances from the formaldehyde family are used as preservatives in cosmetics: DMDM ​​(Dimethylol Dimethol Hydantoin) and Imidazolidinyl Urea. Toxic. Cause contact dermatitis.

Sodium cyanide, sodium cyanide, NaCN - sodium salt of hydrocyanic acid - Sodium Cyanide.

It is a poisonous, carcinogenic, mutagenic substance.

Placenta Extracts - Placental Extract - Placenta.

Placenta extract is dangerous in that, if all sanitary requirements were not followed upon receipt, it can cause very serious diseases. Is it worth risking your health ?!

Elastin (not to be confused with Cross-Linked Elastin) - Elastin.

Another ingredient touted as beneficial for skin and hair care. This substance is the structure that holds the skin cells in place. It is believed that as we age, elastin molecules break down and thus wrinkles form. In order to restore the skin, many cosmetic companies introduce elastin into their preparations.

Like collagen, elastin is obtained from cattle, and it also forms a suffocating film on the skin due to its high molecular weight. Elastin cannot penetrate the skin and, even when injected, does not perform its function due to the inappropriate molecular structure, because human elastin differs in structure from animal elastin.

Only one kind of cross-linked elastin is capable of penetrating and compatible with human skin. This form of elastin is called desmosin or isodesmosin.

Ethylene glycol, glycol, 1,2-dioxyethane, ethanediol-1,2 - Glycols.

They are used as humectants (substances designed to retain moisture in the skin). They can be of both animal and plant origin. They are also produced synthetically. Diethylene glycol and carbitol are toxic. Ethylene glycol causes bladder cancer. All glycols are toxic, carcinogenic and mutagenic.

Natural cosmetic

Natural cosmetics can be safely called, for example, the cream or mask that you made yourself from the natural products, plants, herbs you have.

As for the purchased industrial "natural cosmetics", it will only be more or less natural, which, in principle, is already quite good. But sometimes they can just lie.

There is no legal definition of the word "natural" that you see everywhere. The chemical definition of organic means that the compound simply contains carbon.

In cosmetics, the word "natural" can mean whatever the manufacturer wants. There are no legal obligations associated with this term. Often, "natural cosmetics" is just a publicity stunt.

There are no clear criteria for what a “natural” product can and cannot contain. Cosmetic preparations called "natural" can contain preservatives, dyes, and any other ingredients that cannot be called natural.

Thus, the products of the cosmetic industry the majority firms does not give the consumer what he expects. The benefits of such cosmetics, rather, psychological than the real one.

If packaging is in English, see

USED ​​MATERIALS:

1. Begoin, Paula Blue Eyeshadow Should Still Be Legal, Beginning Press, 1988.
2. Brumberg, Elaine Take Care of Your Skin, Harper & Row Publishers, Inc. , 1989.
3. Chase, Deborah The New Medically-Based No-Nonsense Beauty Book, Henry Holt & Co., 1989.
4. Friend, Tim “USA Today,” 4-10-90.
5. Green, Dr. Kaith Detergent Penetration Into Young and Adult Eyes Department of Opthamology, Medical College of GA, Augusta, GA.
6. Hampton, Aubrey Dictionary of Cosmetic Ingredients Organica Press.
7. Metarasso, Dr. Seth L. "Faking It" - Muscle & Fitness, November, 1990.
8. Valmy, Christine & Vons Ulrich, Elise "Mid-Air Skin Care" - Entepreneurial Woman, July / August 1990.
9. Winter, Ruth A Consumer's Dictionary of Cosmetic Ingredients, Crown Publishers, Inc., 1989.
10. Wright, Camille S. Shampoo Report, Images International, Inc., 1989.
11. Phyto-Cosmetics (www.skindoсtor.ru).

Did you know that 60% of the substances that come into contact with the skin end up in our body? Recent studies have shown that most of the toxins enter us not with food, as was previously thought, but through the air and skin cells. Seemingly harmless procedures such as washing your face or body, applying makeup, applying deodorant, or dyeing your hair can be hazardous if you don't use the right products. Bronchial asthma, headache, eczema, allergic reactions and hormonal changes - this is just an incomplete list of possible consequences from the use of "wrong" cosmetics. Unfortunately, there are many of these today: gels, soaps, perfumes, shampoos, creams, shaving foams, hair sprays, deodorants, baby products, toothpaste, etc. Toxins can cause a range of more severe disorders, including cancer and genetic changes in unborn children. Despite this, the cosmetics industry, including the most prestigious brands, continues to use unsafe ingredients extensively in their products. The most toxic are substances of petroleum origin (wax, mineral oils), formaldehydes, triclosan, lead, bromine, flavoring additives, talc, silicon, propylene glycol, sodium laurisulfate, aluminum, etc.

There shouldn't be too many ingredients!

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Emulsifiers (to combine fats and liquids), antioxidants (protect the cream from the action of air), gelling agents (give it texture), preservatives (preserve its quality) and bactericides (prevent the formation of microbes) are involved in the creation of the cream. As you can see, there are very few components! Then why, you ask, is the list of ingredients endless in so many products, and often a regular moisturizer contains more than 50 different substances? The thing is that the cosmetics industry strives to increase its own profits in any way. And the shortest way to this is to create new synthetic additives. Today, 6,000 of these supplements are approved for use, despite the fact that their effects on the body are not controlled in any way. More than 600 new chemicals are released every month, according to the British Health Protection Agency. They add to the list of the already existing 80 thousand, of which only 10% have been studied! Sometime in 1969, a judicial verdict sparked a heated debate in the United States: a client of a certain cosmetics factory demanded compensation from her for a deceptive advertisement for a product that caused a lady to have a severe eczema allergy. The judge dismissed the lawsuit, saying: "The cosmetics industry sells advertising, and the consumer must decide for himself whether to believe it or not."

Hypoallergenic and other myths

Advertising today has created many new expressions and technicalisms that sound good, but have no scientific basis whatsoever. For example, "super moisturizing peptides", "cell cleansing system" and others. Moreover, some of the ingredients were invented only because they sounded good or effective. How do you like "muscle extract" or DNA? Even the term "hypoallergenic", which is so popular in cosmetics today, does not mean anything other than "super-mega-cool". This is usually the name for products without aromatic additives - the main culprits of allergic reactions. But this does not mean at all that other components of the cream, lotion, etc. will not cause you the allergies that often appear only a few weeks after the first use.

Tricks of cosmetic firms

Struggling to increase profits and reduce costs has led these firms to create chemicals that only last for a few hours. Real skin care provides the skin with nutrients that help it to heal itself. While pseudosubstances create only short-term effects that are often even harmful to the skin:

- chemicals that cause micro-swelling and create the appearance of removed wrinkles. With long-term use of such funds, the cells of the epidermis expand, and the skin becomes flabby. And a person has a natural desire to increase the dose of the product because of the complete confidence that he can no longer do without it;
- whitening creams with ammonium (ammonium) - an aggressive substance that lightens the skin and, with prolonged use, causes disruptions in pigmentation, eczema and acute photosensitivity (the skin can no longer tolerate the sun's rays);
- Mineral oils, despite their seeming oily texture, not only do not moisturize the skin, but also block the natural lipid barrier of the epidermis, dry out and cause cracks. In the long term, they can cause chain allergies, chronic irritation, acne, etc .;
- substances that are often added to cosmetics to "reduce the harmful effects of other agents." In fact, this strategy has no scientific basis and only adds to the endless lists on the labels. For example, unscrupulous manufacturers use additives that can irritate the skin (such as emulsifiers, plasticizers, or cheap gelling agents) and mix them with agents that block skin functions and prevent obvious allergies from occurring.

The most dangerous ingredients in cosmetics

1. Mineral oils are very carcinogenic, like almost all petroleum products. In addition, they clog pores, block cellular respiration, dry out the skin and are highly addictive. Found in almost all hygienic lipsticks, lips chap even more when the lipstick is no longer used. On cosmetics labels, petroleum products appear under the names: mineral oils, Paraffinum, Paraffinum Liquidum, Petrolatum, in words that begin with Paraffin-, Petroleum. Oil derivatives are also very harmful: silicone, silicone oils, Silicone quaternium, methylsilanol, microcrystalline wax, ozokerite, ceresin and petroleum jelly (!).
2. Dyes are a major ingredient in cosmetics, hair dyes and bleaches. Ingredients with the words anilin, anilid (for example, "acetanilid") are highly carcinogenic and toxic. Some dyes have such a complex molecular structure that only their initials or short names appear on labels: HC - "HC orange 3", Acid - "acid Red 73", Pigment - "pigment Green 7", Solvent - "solvent black 3" ... They are all extremely carcinogenic.
3. Halogens - These are thought to cause cancer and allergies. We are talking about combinations of chlorine, bromine and iodine, which are presented in cosmetics as aluminum chlorohydrate, methyldibromo glutaronitrile, iodopropynyl, words with “chlorine”, “bromine”, “iodine”. It should not be confused with chloride, bromide, iodide, which are usually harmless components of salts.
4. Polyethylene glycol is a typical emulsifier that combines water and fat. It is completely harmless in itself, but makes the skin more susceptible to other substances. In cosmetics it appears under the name PEG followed by a number (it should not be more than 5, as is usually the case in natural products), as well as with eth at the end of the word: "steareth", "ceteareth", "sodium laureth sulfate" (" stearet "," ceteareth "," sodium laureth sulfate "). Main ingredient in gels, shampoos and soaps.
5. Sodium lauryl sulfate - causes problems with pigmentation and acne, often found in toothpastes. Its safe concentration is less than 1%.
6. Artificial fragrances - found in perfumes and deodorants, they affect hormonal balance and can cause cancer. Dangerous for a baby when breastfeeding. The most dangerous of these are acetyl hexametyl, benzyl alcohol, bromocinnamal and aluminum chlorhydrate, which can cause breast cancer (aluminum deodorants should be avoided) and Alzheimer's disease.
7. Phenol and phenyl - preservatives and dyes, very toxic, with long-term use destroy cell walls. Phenol is found in cosmetics under the names "nitrophenol", "phenolphthalein" and "chlorophenol". Phenyl - as "N-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine" and "phenylenediamine sulfate".
8. Formaldehyde - a very carcinogenic substance, accumulates in cells, damaging their membranes, causing fetal malformations, irritation and aging of the skin. It is prohibited in its pure form in cosmetics, but replaced by substances that release it (!). They can be recognized by the names Diazolidinyl Urea, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Polyoxymethylene Urea (not to be confused with just Urea, which is a uric acid derivative and good for the skin), DM and DMDM ​​Hydantoin, or Dmhf, Dimethyl Oxazolidine.
9. Phthalates - plasticizers and solvents, are highly toxic, affect hormonal balance and are suspected to cause cancer. Referred to on labels as "dibutylphthalate".
10. Parabens - some believe that they cause cancer (parabens have been found in all women with breast cancer in all cases), others claim that they are completely safe. Just in case, it is better to refrain from buying cosmetics with this ingredient.

Sunscreen

Previously, such creams used mineral filters based on titanium or zinc oxide (Zincoxid or Titaniumdioxid). But due to the high cost of these materials, they were replaced by oxybenzone, benzophenone, methoxydibenzoylmethane and dibenzoylmethane, which are carcinogenic filters, although they are present even in the most expensive and exclusive brands. Such additives are used not only in sunscreens, but also in any other creams that contain retinol.

How to choose the right makeup?

Cosmetics with an endless list of ingredients should be avoided. A really good product doesn't need more than 30 ingredients. Look for creams with natural ingredients first on the list. On the other hand, you cannot trust products on the label of which only natural additives appear - this is pure deception, since there is no cosmetics without synthetic components at all. Avoid products that advertise "natural wonders" and in which bio-extracts are at the bottom of the list - the closer to the end, the lower the concentration of such substances. You should not buy cosmetics that have passed through the hands of several distributors, especially if they are inexpensive - its quality is likely to be questionable. Finally, a brand that constantly advertises itself in the media usually shows that its priority is not long-term investment in quality, but acquiring new customers.

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Every day we use dozens of cosmetics to preserve youth and have a flawless look. However, we rarely think about what this or that cosmetics consists of, whether it is really effective and how safe it is for our health. Therefore, today we will tell you which harmful components of cosmetics can damage our health.

Harmful cosmetics: additives that are not safe for health


Shampoo, shower gel, soap, bath foam - cosmetics that are in the arsenal of every woman. However, when buying them, rarely does anyone think that they can cause serious harm to human health. The most harmful substances in hair and body care cosmetics:

  • Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) - one of the most dangerous preparations that contain detergents. Some unscrupulous manufacturers try to disguise it as natural, saying that this component is obtained from coconuts. This ingredient does help remove oil from hair and skin, but at the same time leaves an invisible film on their surface, which contributes to the appearance of dandruff and hair loss. In addition, it can penetrate the skin and accumulate and linger in the tissues of the brain, eyes, and liver. SLS belongs to active carriers of nitrates and carcinogenic dioxins. It is very dangerous for children, since it can change the protein composition of the cells of the eyes, it causes a delay in the development of the child;
  • Sodium Chloride - used by some manufacturers to improve viscosity. However, it can irritate the eyes and skin. In addition, salt microparticles dry out and severely damage the skin.
  • Coal Tar - used for anti-dandruff shampoos. Some manufacturers hide this component under the abbreviation FDC, FD, or FD&C. May cause severe allergic reactions, affects the nervous system. In European countries, this substance is prohibited for use;
  • Diethanolamine (DEA) - a semi-synthetic substance that is used to form foam, as well as to thicken cosmetics. Dries out skin, hair, causes itching and severe allergic reactions.

Decorative cosmetics almost all of them contain harmful and toxic substances. When doing morning makeup, we never think about the fact that lipstick, mascara, eye shadow, foundation and powder can cause irreparable harm to our health.

The harm of cosmetics- does he exist? Cosmetics were and are an integral part of the image of a beautiful woman. Fashion and technology 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 importance and necessity. Many men have a fad about "tons of lipstick eaten" when kissing. And some women are sure that having married, they are OBLIGED to cook cabbage soup from dawn to dusk and "take care of the family", and time should not "go away" for stupidity, such as cosmetics! But for the most part, those women who will not go out on the street without, at least, light makeup. Both are right in their own way.

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

What does decorative cosmetics do to the skin?

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The harm of cosmetics really exists. Cosmetics clog pores, cause dry skin, cause allergic reactions, and affect the accelerated aging process of the facial skin. Lipstick, for example, discolors the natural color of the lips, foundation and powder do not allow the skin to breathe, mascara kills the bulbs of the eyelashes, shadows dry out the sensitive and "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 both in rural and urban areas there are both representatives) have signs of aging on their faces, much earlier than their urban counterparts? Living conditions? Labor? Money? Time? What's not enough?

Everything is very simple. All girls, without exception, begin to use cosmetics in their youth! Getting a little older, some understand the harm of cosmetics and its chemical composition and use it correctly, while others do not pay attention to warnings.

After all, it is 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, to wash off your makeup with warm water and soapy water and remove the remnants from your skin with cosmetic milk?

So it turns out: harm to the skin of the face it is not cosmetics that is applied, but the woman herself, who does not care about her beauty. And this is exemplified by hundreds of thousands of women who at 60 years old look 30.

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

Cosmetics every day or once a month?

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When and how many times to apply makeup, every woman chooses for herself. Do you want to reduce the harm of cosmetics? Remember the main rule: take off your makeup at night and give your face a break from makeup alone, and preferably a couple of days a week.

It is quite difficult to apply a full makeup complex every morning and maintain it throughout the working day. Even women striving for this (more often, of course, girls) quickly abandon such an experience. It is much easier to do light makeup to look "pretty". And the skin of the face does not suffer. And it's easier to shoot. And, to live and work more comfortably.

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

The importance of cosmetics in creating an attractive image of a woman can hardly be overestimated. 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 relate to ourselves, so they see us and in the same way other people treat us. Why are there people - the Universe and the World.

Dangerous beauty: harmful substances in cosmetics

Did you know that mascaras can cause blindness, lipsticks can cause cancer, and eye creams can cause infertility? Meanwhile, such tragic precedents did exist. In order not to fall for the bait of careless manufacturers, you need to learn to understand cosmetics and read product labels.

It is fascinating and pleasant to use care products that support youth, beauty and health of the skin, and decorative cosmetics that transform the appearance of the fair sex. Every day you can create new images, changing roles like gloves.

Cosmetics are not just a palette of bright colors and aromatic products - they are a woman's mood, her inspiration for every day. And it is very important that all beauty products are, if not useful for the skin of the face and body, then at least safe for the body as a whole.

Dangerous Beauty: An Inconvenient Truth

On the beauty market today you can find cosmetics with a variety of properties. The promises of the manufacturers on the labels of the products are so multifaceted that the magical properties of Azazello cream from Bulgakov's famous novel "The Master and Margarita" seem childish compared to them. Modern creams, serums, fluids, masks and gels “act at a deep level”, “promote cell renewal” and “start the processes of skin restoration and getting rid of wrinkles and age spots”. And it would not be so sad if all this was true.

But, unfortunately, the reality is that so many beauty products not only do not help the skin look and feel better, but also worsen its condition and undermine its health day after day. The latest research by scientists, as well as numerous lawsuits against the giants of the beauty industry, show that the world of cosmetics is, first of all, a business in which intrigues are woven, sometimes more sophisticated than in the oil market, important facts are classified and elementary rules are ignored. security.

Harmful substances in cosmetics: unjustified risk

Scientists estimate that every year a woman's body gets about 2.5 kilograms of cosmetics. Creams, lotions and masks are absorbed, lipstick and lip balms are eaten. Everything that we use in home care for face and body, one way or another, penetrates our body, accumulating there for years. Many of the fair sex do not even know what results a woman's natural desire to be young and beautiful can lead to!

Using multiple cosmetics at the same time significantly increases this risk. The fact is that mixing some components of cosmetics poses a real threat to health. If you are masterly experimenting with creams and there are at least 10 of them on your dressing table, or you apply multi-layered makeup every morning, creating the illusion of a model appearance, be especially careful! You are at risk.

According to some beauty experts, modern cosmetic products do not pose a direct threat to the human body. Undesirable consequences occur when several factors come into play at once - long-term use of a certain group of drugs, genetic predisposition, reduced immunity, tendency to allergies, etc. But the latest scientific research suggests that there are plenty of potentially hazardous substances in cosmetics today, and who knows how they affect you ...

  • Parabens

They are very common in budget cosmetics. You can find them in creams and fluids, cleansing foams and micellar water, shampoos and shower gels. They have a bactericidal effect, are used as preservatives or antibacterial substances.

Recently, a lot has been said about the dangers of parabens, but there is still no confirmed scientific evidence sufficient to prohibit their widespread use. It is known that parabens are antiandrogens, that is, they can inhibit the activity of male sex hormones. But for women, their presence in the composition of care products will not bring anything good. There is an opinion that parabens cause breast cancer, so their high concentration was found in 18 out of 20 malignant tumors.

But that's not all! For many women, parabens cause skin allergies, inflammation and irritation. When cosmetics interact with parabens with the sun's rays, the aging of the cover is accelerated.

On the label, parabens are designated as follows: propylparaben, methylparaben, butylparaben.

  • Phthalates

If a rating of the most dangerous ingredients in cosmetics was compiled, then phthalates would most likely receive the palm. These are highly toxic and hazardous compounds. In many countries, their inclusion in cosmetics is prohibited at the legislative level, but in Russia and the CIS countries there is no such ban yet. The action of phthalates is such that they can cause genetic mutations in future offspring, disrupt the normal functioning of the endocrine and nervous systems, reduce fertility and lead to infertility.

The worst thing about phthalates is that manufacturers don't always list them on the product label. And they are often found in nail varnishes, they can be included in the composition of decorative and care cosmetics.

The label indicates diethyl phthalate, di-n ‑ butyl phthalate, di-isobutyl phthalate, phthalates... Sometimes they hide behind the mask of harmless ingredients like Parfum or Aroma. In order not to inadvertently harm your health, choose beauty products without phthalates and marked "without fragrances."

  • Oxybenzone

It is present in the composition of many sunscreens, is an SPF filter, protects the skin from the negative effects of UV spectrum A. If you use cosmetics with it during pregnancy, there is a high risk of having a baby with a reduced body weight. In addition, this substance may contribute to the development of breast cancer in women.

On the label it is indicated oxybenzone or BP ‑ 3.

  • Triclosan

If you use antibacterial creams, soaps and gels for intimate hygiene, you have come across this substance more than once. It is also included in wet wipes, acne treatment products, deodorants, and shaving creams. This component of cosmetics has been around for a long time, but few people know that it is very dangerous.

Triclosan is a carcinogenic component, toxic to the whole organism. Negatively affects the kidneys, lungs, liver, brain, can contribute to the onset of paralysis, decreased libido, cause thyroid disease.

The label indicates Triclosan.

  • Sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate

Sodium lauryl sulfate is widely used in the beauty industry and is often included in foams, gels, shampoos, soaps and other detergents formulas. Scientists call it one of the most dangerous ingredients for human skin and hair. Recent studies have shown that this substance penetrates the brain, liver, heart and eyes, accumulates in the body. It can cause cataracts, provoke allergic skin rashes, lead to dryness and peeling of the skin, contribute to thinning hair and dandruff.

Sodium laureth sulfate has identical properties, quickly penetrates into the tissues of the body and settles there, doing its "dirty" work. Carcinogenic. Irritates skin and eyes, causes hair loss and dandruff, provokes serious allergic reactions.

On the label of cosmetics, they are indicated as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES).

Expert opinion

To minimize health risks, use only natural cosmetics, read product labels carefully, and do not neglect homemade beauty recipes. Remember: we live in a time when our health is in our hands!

Olga Voshchenina, dermatovenerologist, cosmetologist of the author's clinic Neo Vita

When choosing cosmetics, special attention should be paid to cleansers, because the effectiveness of the rest of the care depends on them - masks, creams, serums, etc.

Train yourself to carefully study the composition indicated on the label. The reason to refuse the purchase should be the presence in the composition of sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate. These are the so-called surface active substances (surfactants), which have a very aggressive effect on the skin - they destroy the skin's own water-lipid protective mantle, dehydrate it, cause dryness, irritation, and a decrease in skin immunity. The result will be premature aging of the skin, the appearance of a network of fine and deep wrinkles.

As for creams, lotions and emulsions, here you also need to look at the composition, paying attention to the amount of preservatives and fragrances. Unfortunately, they are found in almost any modern cosmetic product, the only question is their quantity. If it is not possible to ask the help of a beautician when choosing cosmetics, I would advise you not to buy into big names and expensive brands, but more often look at the pharmacy. There you can find cosmetics from specialized dermatological lines, originally designed for sensitive skin. For this reason, there are obviously fewer fragrances and preservatives. In addition, dermatological cosmetics are produced in pharmaceutical factories, where certification and quality control are much stricter, so there is less chance of attacking a low-quality product.

Karina Konstantinovna Pushkova, dermatocosmetologist, "Beautiful Life" clinic

Today there are a huge number of cosmetic brands. Many patients ask me, is it possible to make a choice on my own? To do this, you need to know a few simple rules that you should adhere to when purchasing cosmetics.

To begin with, the composition of the preparations must be indicated in the language of the country where you buy these cosmetics. If it is of foreign production, there must be a sticker with a translation. On June 1, 2014, a regulation came into force in Russia, from which it follows that all manufacturers must indicate all cosmetic ingredients in full, and not be limited only to “active ingredients”. All components, depending on their concentration, are listed from top to bottom, that is, the first in the list are the components that are most contained in this product. Asterisks * mark organic components, which is important when choosing.

When choosing a daily face care product, you should take into account the presence of allergies, and accordingly, avoid drugs with such components that can provoke them. Owners of dry and sensitive skin should exclude products containing ethanol (alcohol) from their daily care. It is worth paying special attention to components such as parabens, sulfates, silicones. The presence in the composition of parabens, one of the most popular preservatives in the cosmetic industry, makes it possible to increase the storage period, but does not exclude its harm. Sulfates - salts of sulfuric acid, make the products foam strongly (gels, shampoos), are dangerous for their aggressive effect on the epidermis. The accumulation of sulfates can affect the development of cancer. Silicones are not particularly harmful, but like any preservative it has a negative effect on the skin and hair.

Natural products will include products that contain vegetable oils. It is worth noting here that such preparations, as a rule, are absorbed for a long time and leave a "greasy film". Therefore, manufacturers use additional components that are a good conductor for the delivery of nutrients from oils to fabrics.

When choosing cosmetics and cosmeceuticals for face care, I strongly recommend contacting specialists who will determine the type of your skin, point out the problems and the reasons for their occurrence. And already in accordance with this, they will help you to correctly select the means that will solve them without harming you.

To make the right choice when buying cosmetics, it is important to familiarize yourself with the list of harmful substances that manufacturers add. Regardless of the price, these substances can be both expensive and cheap. Therefore, carefully read the composition and be sure to pay attention to the shelf life of the product.

On the one hand, almost the entire composition of any cosmetic product is harmful. But it is important in what quantities and proportions these substances are contained in the product. Unfortunately, we cannot find out in advance whether the manufacturer has gone too far with them or not.

The most common harmful substances are: mineral oil (MineralOil / Petrolatum) and propylene glycol in moisturizers, sodium lauryl sulfate in shampoos, parabens, formaldehydes, formaldehyde derivatives and many others. Some of the substances used cause cancer and reproductive disorders.

Whenever possible, try to choose cosmetics where the content of harmful substances is the lowest, most often natural cosmetics. Remember that it does not last long. If it says that it can be stored for 3 years, then this is no longer natural cosmetics! Take care of yourself and always be beautiful!

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