Don't put down your graftobian foundation just yet – it doesn't apply to ALL your favorite cosmetics. With today's technology and so many organizations keeping an eye on cosmetic companies, there are plenty of makeup products out there that are safe and organic.
However, when it comes to beauty and skin care, people who enjoy wearing makeup must be on their guard when making their purchases. One good way of protecting your face from toxins is to ALWAYS read the ingredients before buying an item.
However, when it comes to beauty and skin care, people who enjoy wearing makeup must be on their guard when making their purchases. One good way of protecting your face from toxins is to ALWAYS read the ingredients before buying an item.
Here are the top five makeup ingredients to avoid, and what they could do to your delicate complexion:
BHA and BHT
Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) are chemical compounds that are typically added to food as preserving agents. They help products prolong their shelf life by preventing yeast formation; as well as to keep fat from going rancid. Common makeup products that contain these are eyeliners, concealers, lip gloss, and blush. Some studies have shown these chemicals to be carcinogenic, and can eventually increase sensitivity to sunlight.
BHA and BHT
Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) are chemical compounds that are typically added to food as preserving agents. They help products prolong their shelf life by preventing yeast formation; as well as to keep fat from going rancid. Common makeup products that contain these are eyeliners, concealers, lip gloss, and blush. Some studies have shown these chemicals to be carcinogenic, and can eventually increase sensitivity to sunlight.
PEG
Polyethylene glycol or PEG is commonly used in cosmetic cream bases such as cleansers, lip balms, and concealers. It's actually a laxative agent; stimulating bowel movement in the intestinal tract. In makeup, PEG content is too low to create the same effect - HOWEVER, there are a few concerns about it being carcinogenic. Mineral Oil
Most mineral oil is produced from petroleum, added to many makeup and cleansing products to provide shine as well as moisture. Lipsticks, lip gloss, eye makeup, and lotion have a fair amount of this ingredient. Don't shun your mineral makeup just yet though – there's no conclusive evidence that mineral oil found in cosmetics is lethal. It can only lead to skin cancer in large doses.
Parfum
Any product which is scented can actually be bad for your skin. If you are suffering from asthma or allergies, the fragrance from powder foundations, blush, and talc can trigger them or make it worse. Shampoos and lotions with this ingredient can dry the skin; removing its natural moisture. As much as possible, choose unscented makeup over those laced with perfume.
Triclosan
Triclosan is used in many household items as a deodorizer. Commonly found in foot powder, after shave, toothpaste, and deodorants; many researchers advice against this because it can tamper with proper hormonal activity. Triclosan is already banned in some countries (such as Canada) because of its harmful effects not only for humans, but also for marine aquatic life. Ongoing studies are still being done to review the effects of this chemical.
Polyethylene glycol or PEG is commonly used in cosmetic cream bases such as cleansers, lip balms, and concealers. It's actually a laxative agent; stimulating bowel movement in the intestinal tract. In makeup, PEG content is too low to create the same effect - HOWEVER, there are a few concerns about it being carcinogenic. Mineral Oil
Most mineral oil is produced from petroleum, added to many makeup and cleansing products to provide shine as well as moisture. Lipsticks, lip gloss, eye makeup, and lotion have a fair amount of this ingredient. Don't shun your mineral makeup just yet though – there's no conclusive evidence that mineral oil found in cosmetics is lethal. It can only lead to skin cancer in large doses.
Parfum
Any product which is scented can actually be bad for your skin. If you are suffering from asthma or allergies, the fragrance from powder foundations, blush, and talc can trigger them or make it worse. Shampoos and lotions with this ingredient can dry the skin; removing its natural moisture. As much as possible, choose unscented makeup over those laced with perfume.
Triclosan
Triclosan is used in many household items as a deodorizer. Commonly found in foot powder, after shave, toothpaste, and deodorants; many researchers advice against this because it can tamper with proper hormonal activity. Triclosan is already banned in some countries (such as Canada) because of its harmful effects not only for humans, but also for marine aquatic life. Ongoing studies are still being done to review the effects of this chemical.
Stay Safe and Pretty
Remember to check your collection for harmful or toxic makeup ingredients. Beware of buying cheap makeup online, as well as when receiving free makeup samples. Make sure to replace your cosmetics once they pass the expiration date. Clean your makeup brushes once to twice a week, to avoid bacteria and germ formation.
The key to beautiful and flawless skin starts with the basics. So take care of your cosmetics, and your cosmetics shall take care of you.