Decorative cosmetics and body care products should make us more beautiful and healthier. Consumers often fall for the trick of advertisers and purchase a similar product without studying its composition at all. Meanwhile, doctors and scientists assure that cosmetic products contain substances that can have extremely Negative influence to your health. There is also a flip side to the coin: in pursuit of fashionable “ECO” and organic products, we begin to believe rumors about the dangers of those components that have been used for decades in the production of cosmetics and, in fact, are not at all dangerous to human health.
Let's try to figure out which substances in cosmetics can actually be harmful to us and which ones cannot.
Main components of cosmetics
There are a number of components that are necessarily present in every cosmetic product. These include:
- natural fats – cocoa butter, fish oil, lanolin and others;
- synthetic (or semi-synthetic) fats – for example, castor oil, chitosan, gelatin and others.
The task of these components is to maintain the level of moisture in the skin and its fat balance, nutrition. They are perfectly preserved on the surface of the skin and, in theory, should cope with the assigned tasks. But if cosmetic products were chosen incorrectly, then these same components have a negative effect - they stop/slow down the respiratory processes in the skin, disrupt the state of its water balance and the processes of removing harmful substances from cells.
Another main component is emulsifiers , which provide a uniform consistency of the cosmetic product. If their quantity is too high, then the use of such cosmetics leads to drying of the skin, a feeling of tightness appears, the surface begins to peel off - all this brings quite uncomfortable sensations.
The basis of any cosmetic product is biologically active substances . They are designed to enhance the effect of the product, or themselves have a beneficial effect on the skin. But the problem is that it is biologically active substances that can cause a powerful allergic reaction, so when choosing a cosmetic product, be sure to look at the contraindications for use and study specific biologically active substances.
To give a cosmetic product pleasant aroma, manufacturers must use fragrances
. They only perform a role flavoring
, but often it is to them that outbreaks of an allergic reaction occur, which occurs in a severe form. Here you need to take care of yourself - study the composition of the cosmetic product and rule out allergies to certain fragrances.
Usage preservatives It is also mandatory in cosmetics - they allow you to extend their use. Conscientious manufacturers use high-quality certified preservatives, but there are also those who prefer the lower quality of this component - money in in this case decide everything for them. And such low-quality preservatives can damage skin cells! What applies to preservatives in cosmetics:
- antioxidants – they slow down the aging process of fats in cosmetics;
- bactericidal components – they destroy those pathogenic microorganisms that can get into cosmetics from the outside;
- prooxidant inactivators – they slow down the aging process of almost all ingredients.
Ingredients in cosmetics that can cause allergies
Allergenic components in cosmetics can be both natural and synthetic ingredients. Therefore, doctors strongly recommend studying the composition of cosmetic products rather than buying widely advertised ones.
Vaseline (Petrolatum) and liquid petrolatum (Paraffinum liquidum)
In general, these products are made from petroleum products, including white and yellow Vaseline. White Vaseline always goes through many stages of purification and is absolutely harmless to health. But yellow Vaseline is of much worse quality and can cause an allergic reaction - it is usually added to the cheapest cosmetics.
Talc
This component is actively used not only in the manufacture of cosmetics, but also in pediatrics. But if talc is used too often, it can cause dry skin, allergic reactions and even provoke the development of cancerous tumors - these data were published by American researchers. Thus, scientists have discovered that regular application of powders containing talc to the female genital area increases the risk of developing uterine cancer https://site/rak-shejki-matki/.
Antibacterial substance Methylchoroisothiazolinone
Even if the concentration of this substance in a cosmetic product is insignificant, it can have an irritating effect on the skin - redness, itching, peeling and small rashes will be constant when using such cosmetics. The maximum recommended concentration of this substance in wash-off cosmetics is 0.1% by weight of the product, and in products left on the skin for a long time - 0.05%. In the EU countries and the USA, the permissible concentration even in rinsable products is even lower - 0.0015%.
Interesting! In Japan, this preservative is allowed to be used only as a component of wash-off cosmetics.
Alpha Hydroxy Acid
Such components include, for example, lactic acid. Alpha hydroxy acids are used to additionally cleanse the skin surface of dead skin cells and dead epidermis. But in addition to such a positive effect, these same substances can disrupt the protective barrier of the skin, and this already leads to the development of other skin diseases.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned consumers that alpha hydroxy acids may increase photosensitivity to the sun.
Cosmetics containing alpha hydroxy acids should be recommended for use by specialists, and used only in strict accordance with the instructions for use.
Borax
This component is used in a number of countries not only in cosmetics, but even in food products and medicine. However scientific research It has been proven that borax can have a negative effect on the functioning of the body as a whole and is generally a toxic product.
On December 16, 2010, sodium tetraborate (borax) was added as a "substance high degree hazard (SVHC)" to the list of candidates for highly hazardous substances. This list is part of the EU rules on the registration, evaluation and restriction of chemicals, and the addition is based on the revised classification of borax as toxic to reproduction category 1B under the CLP Regulations. After entering into this list All substances and mixtures imported into the EU that contain borax must be labeled with the warnings “May cause harm to fertility” and “May cause harm to the unborn child.”
Lanolin
Let’s make a reservation right away - this high-quality component used in the manufacture of cosmetics is absolutely harmless to humans. But here’s the problem - when using low-quality lanolin that has been contaminated with pesticides, a powerful allergic reaction can develop and rashes will appear on the body.
DMDM Hydantoin
This substance serves as a preservative in cosmetics; it provides a means that has an antimicrobial effect and prolongs the use and storage life of cosmetics. The problem is that this same substance can cause allergic reactions, has an irritating effect not only on the skin, but also on the human respiratory tract, and negatively affects the condition of the mucous membranes.
Components in cosmetics with toxic effects
Some cosmetics also contain toxic substances that can have a destructive effect on the entire body. Experts recommend completely stopping the use of such cosmetics, or consulting a cosmetologist about the correct use.
Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)
This drug has a powerful antibacterial effect and is used in the manufacture of liquid cosmetics - lotions, gels, shampoos, foams and more. But, according to certain scientists, it is this component that is capable of destroying nerve cells, including those of the brain. To be fair, it is worth noting that the results of these studies have been repeatedly disputed, however, the debate is still relevant.
By the way, consumers often confuse the presented drug with Methylchoroisothiazolinone, but their actions are different - the latter only dries the skin and mucous membranes and has absolutely no effect on nerve cells.
Triclosan
This product belongs to the group of antibacterials; it can be used in making soap or in toothpastes as an antiseptic. But the fact is that Triclosan can cause inflammation skin, has a toxic effect on hormonal balance and reproductive functions in general. Experts recommend using cosmetics with this component strictly as prescribed by a doctor.
Triethanolamine
It is used to achieve the desired pH level in cosmetics - everything seems to be within the acceptable range. But if long time If you use cosmetics with such a component (mascara, sunscreen and nourishing creams), the body’s immune system will suffer and will have a negative effect on the skin and respiratory tract. There is evidence of a connection between this substance and the risk of cancer.
Important: as is the case withDEA, the carcinogen is not MEA itself, but nitrosamine, a substance that is formed as a result chemical reaction MEA with other chemically active substances.
Butylated Hydroxytoluene (or BHT)
This substance is strictly prohibited in some countries - for example, Japan, Australia, USA, Sweden. Some manufacturers use this component as a preservative - it binds with oxygen and prevents the rapid oxidation of fats that make up cosmetics. There is still controversy surrounding the carcinogenic effect of BHT.
Instead of a conclusion
All publications on the Internet and loud statements from TV screens must be treated sensibly. Verify information before making any decisions. Products marked “ECO”, “Organic”, etc. They are more expensive than the means we are used to, however, their safety and effectiveness, as a rule, have not been confirmed by anything, as well as the harm of some components that for some reason are considered dangerous.
Some sources even list salicylic acid as a carcinogen. But no studies on this matter have been published over the past few years, which means that such an opinion is hardly worth trusting. Of course, salicylic acid can have a negative effect on the skin - it dries it out, which provokes the appearance of early wrinkles and areas of irritation, but this is not a reason to talk about its carcinogenic effect.
In one article, unfortunately, it is impossible to cover absolutely all the harmful components that may be included in cosmetic products. Therefore, we recommend visiting a cosmetologist and consulting with him about the use of this or that cosmetic product. Moreover, such advice applies not only to synthetic products, but also to those made using natural ingredients– too often even they cause allergic reactions. When it comes to choosing products for children, especially in the first year of life, you need to listen to the advice of your pediatrician.
Harmful substances in cosmetics are those components that cause negative reactions upon contact with the body: damage, allergies and even various diseases. Read all the details below.
Our rating of side effects from cosmetics
The use of products with harmful elements is dangerous precisely because of the possible long-term reaction on the human body. It is clear that manufacturers deliberately conceal all the negative properties of their products.
All negative impacts Let's look at it in a detailed table.
| Side effects | What are the health hazards? |
|---|---|
| Allergy from cosmetics | It may manifest itself as rashes, redness, itching, and dry skin. Frequent and prolonged contact with dangerous cosmetics makes the skin more sensitive. A common reaction of the body is swelling, sometimes hair loss, coughing or spasms of smooth muscles. |
| Carcinogenic effect | Causes damage and changes at the genetic level. For this reason, benign and malignant neoplasms may appear and develop. |
| Mutagenic effect | Affects human genetic material. This refers to damage to genes and chromosomes. It should be taken into account that violations can appear even after several years, not only in the person who has been in contact with dangerous cosmetics, but also in his children. Such mutations are passed on to subsequent generations. |
| Phototoxicity | Is the ability of some substances to aggravate the effects of UV rays. Due to low cell stability, the synthesis of proteins and components is disrupted, and free radicals and toxins accumulate. The skin becomes dehydrated and flabby, ages quickly, and acquires an unhealthy color. Recovery is significantly slower. |
| Microflora disturbance | Promotes the death of beneficial microorganisms and the development of pathogenic ones. This can lead to a fungal infection. |
| Other consequences | Hormonal changes may occur. Harmful substances negatively affect reproductive function and contribute to diseases of various organs and systems of the body. |
Information about the full composition of each product can be found on the packaging, where the entire list of ingredients should be stated. The exact content is a trade secret. Therefore, when purchasing a product, you can only hope that the manufacturer honestly complied with all the standards when manufacturing the product.
What to look for on the packaging of dangerous products?
Well-known brands are more trusted. This happens due to the fact that they are constantly under close attention. A lot of money is spent on research and various developments are being implemented. All cosmetics undergo certification, which confirms all standards met.
Counterfeit products are much cheaper than the original. You should be careful when using these products, which are made from inexpensive substitute ingredients and will harm your body in any case.
List of harmful ingredients in decorative cosmetics
The group of decorative cosmetics products has many subgroups. The composition of each is quite different. But even in this case, they stand out harmful substances in the composition, which can not only worsen appearance, but also cause reactions in the form of dryness, irritation, and premature aging.
Harmful substances in decorative cosmetics include:
- Benzene causes poisoning in large dosages, carcinogenic effects. Prolonged contact with this substance causes addiction. An extremely large dose will lead to death. Benzene negatively affects the blood, musculoskeletal system, cardiovascular system, digestion, etc. It is allowed to be used in a concentration of 5 mg/m3.
- Phthalates used to impart softness, dissolve substances, as a binding component that creates an oil film. May negatively affect fetal development and reproductive function.
- Talc in liquid form it is practically harmless. Toxic in powder form. May cause cancer through inhalation.
- Formaldehyde serves as a preservative in cosmetics. Allowed in cream dosage up to 0.2%. Prohibited for use in aerosols. Very toxic. It is found under the following names: formalin, MDM hydantion, DMDM hydantoin.
- ButylatedHhydroxyanisole, BHA) in cosmetics it is a preservative and antioxidant. There is no reliable information on carcinogenicity, but it is considered a toxin.
- Parabens. A preservative that has varieties. Butylparaben is a rather aggressive preservative that is toxic if inhaled. Concentration determines the level of danger. Ethylparaben is a natural preservative that is dangerous in high concentrations and can cause breast cancer. Isobutylparaben is not dangerous when used externally on healthy skin; it is prohibited for consumption. Methylparaben, propylparaben, and sodum methylparaben are also often used.
Conditionally dangerous harmful substances in cosmetics for the face and body will be the following:
- Bentonite is a multifunctional substance. Serves as an emulsifier, filler, thickener. Capable of retaining moisture, preventing caking, and absorbing fats. Bentonite causes dry skin and irritation. This substance disrupts air exchange, which leads to metabolic disorders in the skin.
- Aluminum– safe dye. When it enters the body, it immediately damages nerve tissue and impairs memory.
- Paraffin is a filler, thickener. Used to improve the lubricating properties of cosmetic products. This component is a derivative of petroleum, which is why it is considered dangerous. Thoroughly cleaned it cannot cause harm.
- Zinc stearate in cosmetics it serves as a filler, water-repellent and lubricating component. The skin cannot absorb it. Causes irritation. It tends to accumulate in the body when ingested.
- Benzyl Benzoate in cosmetics it is a solvent and stabilizer. When ingested, it affects nervous system. It is not absorbed by the skin. Benzyl Benzoate causes irritation in allergic reactions. The toxicity of this substance is debated. At correct use does not pose any danger.
- Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA)– a substance that is a stabilizer and filler. According to unofficial data, it causes cancer. Other information confirms its safety if there is no individual intolerance.
- Triclosan tends to accumulate inside the body. May disrupt the functioning of the nervous, cardiovascular, and endocrine systems. Causes mutations at the cellular level. Triclosan is irritating to the skin when used externally.
Hazardous substances in skin products
Skin care products perform many functions. They moisturize, nourish, stimulate regeneration processes, normalize pigmentation, eliminate signs of aging, etc. But even the healthiest creams and lotions can be dangerous to some extent.
You should consider purchasing skin care products if they contain following components and connections:
- Mineral Oil is a synthetic drug, safe for all necessary cleansing procedures. Creates a protective layer on the skin that is difficult to wash off. Retains moisture, improves the lubricating qualities of creams, clogs pores, and causes irritation. When ingested, it is not dangerous because it is not absorbed into the digestive tract.
- Lanolin- It is an emulsifier, softens and retains moisture. Not safe for sensitive skin. Does not cause toxic effects even if ingested.
- Propylene Glycol is a solvent and preservative, low toxic. Allowed in cosmetics in limited dosage. Propylene glycol breaks down inside the body into hazardous components.
- Petrolatum represents a filler with a lubricating effect. Used as a humidifier. Petrolatum is able to protect the skin from external factors, however, it can clog pores.
- Glycerine is a humectant and stabilizer for cosmetic formulations. Do not apply to damaged skin surfaces. Safe in moderate doses. Can draw moisture from the skin and dehydrate it under conditions of low air humidity.
- Cocoa butterOil) removes fluid into the intercellular space. It is a stimulator of energy processes. Can cause premature aging.
- Stearalkonium chloride is a substitute for plant extracts due to its low cost. Toxic, causes allergies.
- Germall It also has other names: diazolidinyl urea, germal, imidazolidinyl urea. Poses toxicity at high dosages. Prohibited for consumption and for mucous membranes.
- Zinc sulfate (Zinci sulfas) replenishes zinc reserves and is an antiseptic. Does not supply cells with zinc. It can disrupt breathing and the functioning of the kidneys, muscles, digestive function, cause vomiting, loose stools, and worsen blood counts. However, when correct use absolutely safe!
- Sorbitan isostearateIsostearate) in cosmetics it is an emulsifier. The permissible dose is up to 10%. Irritates mucous membranes, is absorbed by the skin, capturing beneficial and harmful substances with it.
- Fragrance, DMDM Hydantoin, Hydroquinone, CetearethAndP.E.G.– all these guys are almost permanent and unwanted ingredients in face creams.
- Oxybenzone and DMDM Hydantoin in protective products against UV rays.
- Phthalates,Lactic acid, A.H.A.AndB.H.A., Glycolic acid also require attention.
In many cases, even with the substances listed above, cosmetics can be absolutely safe. For this to happen, carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and safety precautions.
Top 4 Poisonous Ingredients in Hair Products
The list of cosmetic hair care products is also quite extensive. It includes shampoos, rinses, conditioners, mousses, gels, hair sprays, hair dyes and curling products.
These products may contain dangerous components, such as sodium and ammonium sulfate, having the prefixes lauryl-, laureth-, propylene glycol, ethanolamine Mono-, Di- and Tri-, Butylated hydroxyanisole, as well as formaldehydes, animal fat, parabens, benzyl benzoate, cocomidopropyl bitain, lanolin, cyclopentasiloxane, etc.
Most hazardous substances in hair care cosmetics:
- Stearalkonium Chloride is a cheap substitute for proteins, herbs natural origin which are essential for healthy hair. Toxic and may cause an allergic reaction.
- Synthetic Colors is a synthetic dye. Marked as D&C and FD&C. It is believed that they are carcinogenic and cause cancer.
- Synthetic Fragrances causes cough, rash, headache and dizziness, gastrointestinal upset. Marked as part of “fragrance”.
- Tetrasodium EDTA It is toxic only in large dosages, therefore it is of a conditional nature of danger. Indispensable in products containing surfactants.
Hazardous substances in children's cosmetics
Is it necessary to mention the danger of some elements and compounds for a weak child’s body, which constantly needs nutrients and gentle care for proper growth and development.
Let us list those components that are often found on cosmetics packages for children, the presence of which in the composition is completely undesirable:
- Talc in the form of powder has a negative effect on respiratory functions and mucous membranes.
- Boric acidAcid)– ineffective antiseptic, prohibited for use by pregnant women and children. Extremely dangerous if ingested.
- Oxybenzone in cosmetics it is an active sunscreen component. Its safety and carcinogenicity are still debated. Some experiments show that it tends to accumulate in the body and is poorly excreted. Can cause increased skin sensitivity.
- Hydantoin (DMDM Hydantoin) in cosmetics it is an antiseptic that copes well with the development of microorganisms. The carcinogenic substance is absorbed by the skin, has an accumulation effect, and can cause poisoning of the body.
- BHA acids– a preservative and antioxidant that is used everywhere: food, cosmetics. Banned for use in many countries. Has toxic properties. At low dosages it is dangerous for humans.
Manufacturers often use a marketing ploy: information about the absence of harmful components is indicated in large print on the packaging. Children's products are especially relevant. But these marks do not at all guarantee the absence of the mentioned ingredient or group of them. Self-respecting brands do not resort to such marketing actions, but indicate the composition in detail on the label.
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Nobody wants to grow old. From a chemical point of view, the processes that accompany aging are oxidation and are similar to rotting and rusting. How to “rust” slower? One of the products we rely on in our efforts to prolong youth is cosmetics with antioxidants.
One of the mechanisms of aging is associated with the destruction of our skin molecules by free radicals. Free radicals can be formed in our body as a result of natural processes, or they can attack from the outside, formed under the influence of ultraviolet radiation and other factors. These are very active unstable particles that have an unpaired electron, and therefore they strive to complete their unfinished structure. Free radicals exist for fractions of a second until they collide with another radical or with molecules from which they take away their electron. The radical then turns into a molecule, and the damaged molecule becomes a radical, continuing the chain reaction.
To prevent the destruction of molecules from skin cells, you can cover them with a shield of antioxidant molecules. Then the chain of destruction stops on them.
In nature, there are many antioxidants designed to control oxidative processes:
These substances can often be found in cosmetics. But is the purpose of an antioxidant always to protect the cosmetics consumer?
The problem is that antioxidants themselves need antioxidants) For example, ascorbic acid is quickly destroyed by oxygen and becomes inactive.
Therefore, antioxidants are included in cosmetics not only for the purpose of directly affecting the skin, but also to stabilize the cosmetic product itself. For example, vitamin C works well when paired with vitamin E. But you can also use cheap synthetic analogues of the active substances.
So, as a replacement for natural vitamin E, they use BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) and BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole). These substances significantly slow down oxidation processes and extend the shelf life of cosmetics.
BHT, also known as ionol, dibunol, agidol, BOT, butylxytoluene, butylated oxytoluene and food additive E321, is a phenol derivative and opinions about its harm are controversial. May be a potential carcinogen and cause of hormonal imbalances. Banned as a food additive in some countries. Often found in lipsticks.
VNA- an analogue of the previous antioxidant, the effect of which on the body has not been fully studied. Although there is evidence of its positive effect on the cells of living organisms due to the neutralization of free radicals, the chemical structure of this substance suggests that it can also be a carcinogen and mutagen.
So, as you carefully read the ingredients in your cosmetic product, think about it: are the antioxidants in your cosmetics protecting you or your product?
Butylated hydroxytoluene or BHT is a powerful antioxidant chemical. It looks like small crystals that do not dissolve in any liquid except alcohol. It has several names: dibunol or E321. It is known that some algae can naturally synthesize BHT. Dibunol has properties similar to vitamin E and is often used in the cosmetics industry as a preservative. The substance extends shelf life by preventing oxidation by oxygen.
Where is BHT found?
- In lipsticks.
- Moisturizing creams.
- In deodorants.
- Shampoos.
- Eyeliners and for lips.
- Baby oils andointments against burns.
E321 is also a common additive in the following food products: bakery products, chips, cereals, canned food, butter, chewing gum.
What brands add BHT?
A large number of global cosmetic giants use this additive in their products.
Does butynol harm the human body?
BHT is a banned additive in some countries, but where it is permitted, it is generally considered safe when consumed in small doses. You won’t find a strict “no” to use in the cosmetics industry. Butynol itself is a carcinogen that causes cancer.
What areas of the body are negatively affected by supplement E 321: reproductive system, endocrinology, liver. It is not recommended to eat foods with this component during pregnancy.
With frequent use of products that contain butynol, an allergic reaction, dermatitis, rash, and itching may occur. It is important to remember that BHT accumulates in human skin. If possible, avoid lipsticks and glosses containing E321, and do not use products containing this substance for children.
