There are many benefits in knowing how our cosmetics made. Most people are very confused when it comes to making cosmetics products at home because they don’t know which type of chemicals they are putting on their skin and in their hair. There are many ingredients in commercial skin care, hair care, bath and body products that are very dangerous, not only to the consumers who use them regularly, but also to the environment.
Skin Care Products
The chemical “fragrance” is a common ingredient in almost all skin care products. It is cheap and easy to obtain, especially since it is legal in most countries to use. If this chemical were outlawed, there would be a shortage of it in the world’s supply, which would cause prices to increase. Cosmetics companies claim that it is safe, but no one seems to question the fact that it causes headaches, irritations, allergic reactions, and cancer.
Cosmetics Produced
A lot of research has been done on how are cosmetics produced, but not enough attention is being paid to what chemicals are used in the processes. A group of California mothers started the California Breast Cancer Fund after learning that some of the products they used contained the chemical Eucerin. This chemical is also commonly found in body creams, soaps, shampoos, deodorants, hair dyes, nail polish, and hair sprays. This is one of the most commonly used chemicals in the creation of skin care products, because it is so inexpensive.
Chemicals
Other chemicals that are commonly found are formaldehyde, sodium lauryl sulfate, and ammonium Lauretha sulphate. Formaldehyde is well known for its cancer-causing properties. When it is mixed with a petroleum-based moisturizer, it becomes even more damaging. Other commonly found chemicals include parabens, phthalates, and silicone.
Skin Structure
Some of the ingredients in these skin care products cause changes in skin structure and cause premature aging and skin disease. These chemical agents are in most of the products on the market. So, how are cosmetics manufactured without these potentially dangerous chemicals? Most cosmetic companies use natural compounds, such as plant extracts, waxes, and oils.
Plant Extracts
Plant extracts and waxes are one of the best options for skin care, because they offer natural antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and antimicrobial agents. They are not irritating to the skin and do not change its chemical makeup. Antioxidants and antimicrobial agents to fight free radicals and help to prevent inflammation. Free radicals cause cellular damage, which leads to wrinkles, dryness, age spots, and sagging skin.
Another way of making sure you don’t become injured by skin care products is to choose those made with paraben-free preservatives. These chemicals are the most common causes of allergic reactions. By eliminating the possibility of an allergic reaction, chemical agents can be used without risk to your health. Since parabens have been shown in studies to cause cancer, avoiding them yourself is one of the best things you can do for your skin’s health.
Manufacturing
Knowing how cosmetics manufacture makes their products will help you make an informed decision when choosing your cosmetics. Look for natural ingredients and avoid chemicals that may harm your skin. You can learn what to look for from the Cosmetic Ingredient Safety Database. This database is the largest of its kind and was developed by the Environmental Working Group, a non-profit consumer group.
How Cosmetics Will Affect your Skin
How the cosmetics you use will affect your skin depends largely on what you are using. Creams, lotions, moisturizers, and facial cleansers are all designed to cleanse, moisturize, and exfoliate your skin. They are all made of various different chemicals. Each one contains a different range of possible chemicals, so you need to read the label carefully.
How are cosmetics made even if the chemicals are natural? For example, glycerin is derived from coconut trees. It is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin while simultaneously keeping it from escaping. It may not be considered a harmful chemical, but it is included because of its ability to produce long-lasting moisturizing results.
List of Ingredients
To figure out how the cosmetics you use are made, look for a list of ingredients on the label. If the chemical name is unfamiliar, ask the cosmetic manufacturer what it is. This may sound scary or confusing, but you need to learn as much about the cosmetics you use as possible. You also want to understand the potential risks associated with any chemical you are buying. Educate yourself, and you will be better equipped to make an informed decision when purchasing makeup.
