Harmful Substances That Are Found In Cosmetics

2024 Author: Bailey Albertson | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 12:53

7 substances in cosmetics that are harmful instead of good

Women use cosmetics to preserve the beauty of their skin and hair. However, they do not always act beneficially, since they may contain substances that harm rather than help.

Parabens

Parabens are used as preservatives, not only in cosmetics but also in pharmaceuticals. There are 4 types of these substances that are part of cosmetics:

• methylparaben and ethylparaben can cause endocrine disorders, since they have estrogen-like activity, in addition, they increase the harmful effects of UV rays, so you should refuse sunscreens with such a composition;
• propylparaben has a carcinogenic, mutagenic and clastogenic effect, in addition, the substance can cause skin irritation;
• butylparaben belongs to substances that disrupt the work of the endocrine system, in addition, it can negatively affect the functionality of sperm.

Phthalates

These substances help to preserve the color of the cosmetic product, its aroma. They can increase the risk of asthma, breast cancer, obesity, type 2 diabetes, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

In addition, phthalates have a negative effect on female libido. Their danger lies in the fact that the molecules of this substance are not bound to the molecules of the cosmetic, therefore they easily get into the air over time.

Triclosan

It is an antimicrobial ingredient that is used to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold in cosmetics. However, it also has an irritating effect, and is also capable of destroying the natural microflora of the skin, which may cause excessive dryness and allergic reactions. Also, triclosan can cause thyroid dysfunction.

Frequent use of cosmetics with this synthetic antibiotic causes bacteria to become resistant to the effects of antibacterial agents. As a result, it can be difficult to treat infectious diseases.

Lead

This element is most commonly found in lipsticks as it improves color fastness. Lead is added to cosmetics not in pure form, but as components of shade enhancers.

This metal is able to accumulate in the body, which means that the first symptoms of negative effects may appear some time after using lipstick. Excess lead in the body can lead to female infertility, the development of dental caries and diseases of the skeletal system, decreased immunity and anemia. The same element interferes with the absorption of calcium, zinc, selenium and other substances necessary for the body.

Sulphates

The substance is labeled SLS on the packaging. Sulfates are by-products of oil production. Their main purpose is to clean the surface from contamination. They are used in cosmetics because of their high efficiency and low cost.

Sodium lauryl sulfate provokes increased irritability and flaking of the skin, especially sensitive. Regular use of cosmetics with this substance leads to itching and dryness, weakening of hair and hair loss.

Benzene

This substance is found in gasoline and is a raw material for the production of materials such as plastics, synthetic rubber, and dyes. For this reason, it is not necessary to talk about the toxicity of benzene, but it is often included in cheap cosmetics.

Their regular use can lead to allergies, poisoning and even death.

Formaldehyde

This substance can be formed naturally in the body. It is used to synthesize certain amino acids. Aqueous solutions of formaldehyde are widely used in medicine and cosmetology as a preservative and antibacterial agent.

Its danger lies in its activity, because it is able to interact not only with microorganisms, but also with skin cells, respiratory tract. Because of this, burns and irritations may occur. For this reason, preservatives that form formaldehyde are used, which are present in the composition of the cosmetic product to extend its shelf life. Of course, formulations usually contain safe doses of formaldehyde, but nevertheless, such substances can provoke cancer and cause negative skin reactions.