9 harmful cosmetic products and procedures and their safer alternatives
Health / / December 19, 2019
1. Keratin hair straightening
Popular salon treatment keratin straightening gives the hair smooth, soft and silky. It is believed that the funds for this procedure do not contain formaldehyde. However, Oregon State Administration (USA) Occupational Health and Safety (Oregon OSHA) has detected a high concentration of the chemical in more than half of tested funds.
Formaldehyde irritates the mucous membranes, affects the nervous system, liver, kidneys and other organs. With prolonged exposure to it can even cause cancer. Particular risk craftsmen who perform the procedure keratin straightening.
Alternative: air-conditioning and hair iron.
Hair conditioner neutralizes static electricity and helps to smooth hair. A hair iron is combined with thermal protection means safer keratin straightening.
2. Permanent hair dye
According to scientists about the safety of the funds are spent. According to some studies, the frequent use of hair dyes, especially darker shades, can lead to leukemia or lymphoma. However, other studies have not confirmed the risk of disease.
There is no accurate evidence that hair dye is dangerous for pregnant women. Yet it is recommended to wait until the second trimester. Yes, and all the rest should not be abused permanent staining.
Alternative: Natural hair dye.
vegetable colorSuch as henna, dyed hair, not hurting them. However, a radical change of color with their help can not be achieved. Natural paint gives the hair a light shade that will not last so long.
Another alternative - haylayting. During this procedure, the salon uses a special foil or a cap, which protects the scalp from the harmful effects of paint.
3. Unusual contact lenses
They are used to change the appearance. The market is a wide range of lenses, from "cat" to terrifying "dragon." However, you need to buy lenses only in specialized stores. If you buy them in shady places, you may get an eye infection and eye problems.
Alternative: colored lenses.
If you want to change the color of the eyes, seek a doctor's recommendation. It will help you choose a good color contact lenses, and tell you how to safely use them and how to properly care for them.
4. Means for the growth of eyelashes
All kinds of serum, which, according to the manufacturers, will give you a long, lush eyelashes. They need to be applied to the upper eyelids through the hair growth. Effect, although temporary, is really there. But it should be mentioned that these funds may darken the skin around the eyes and even the iris. And such an effect may be permanent.
The use of permanent mascara that makes lashes thicker and darker, it may even lead to loss of vision.
Alternative: eyelash.
Artificial eyelashes can help you find a luxurious look. However, they are not completely safe. Clay, for which they are attached, can cause allergic reactions and lead to irritation of the eyelids. So do not get too often resort to the eyelash.
5. Bleaching cream hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is a part of bleaching agents for the skin that eliminate the pigment and stagnant spots. A large number of Hydroquinone may cause skin discoloration and skin irritation and premature aging.
Alternative: laser facial rejuvenation.
This procedure updates the upper layer of the skin. It helps with wrinkles and age spots without the use of hazardous chemicals. The disadvantages of laser rejuvenation are the high cost, possible scarring and discomfort during the procedure.
6. Solarium
Studies show that too frequent visits solarium can cause melanoma - a malignant tumor of the skin. In addition, exposure to ultraviolet light during the session time leads to premature aging, wrinkles and dark spots on the skin.
Alternative: tanning.
If you want to have a year-round chocolate color, try using self-tanning. The structure of such means include docosahexaenoic acid. It reacts with the amino acids of the skin, which gives it a bronze color. Better use of tanning as a cream, as a spray can get into the respiratory tract or the eyes.
And do not forget to use sunscreenEven if apply self-tanning. Substances that are included in their composition, are considered safe for health. Choose tools with a high level of protection.
7. salon manicure
Manicure means comprise a variety of chemicals, including formaldehyde, phthalates, acetone and toluene. They can cause skin irritation, respiratory tract and mucous membranes. Particular risk are the master who works in salon. In addition, due to the non-sterile equipment, you can easily pick up any infection.
Alternative: home nail care.
If this alternative does not suit you, try to minimize the risks. Before you entrust master your nails and your health, check the cleanliness of the cabin. If you have something troubling, do not be afraid to just leave the institution. Before pedicure do not shave his legs and put the campaign in the interior, if there is irritation and sores on the skin.
8. Products containing phthalates
Phthalates - are salts and esters of phthalic acid. They are contained in the makeup tools, nail polishes, deodorants, shampoos, perfumes and other cosmetics. Phthalates provide them with a stable color and aroma. It is also worth mentioning that the phthalates found in floor coverings, shower curtains, food packaging, toys and other objects of everyday life.
These substances cause great damage to many organs and can cause oncological diseases. Phthalates also impact negatively affect the course of pregnancy.
Alternative: besftalatnye means.
Do not buy cosmetics, which is composed of ingredients such as dibutyl phthalate, dimethyl phthalate, diethyl phthalate, and so on.
9. Products containing parabens
Parabens are used to extend the shelf life of cosmetics. A large concentration of parabens can cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, premature aging, cancer, and disrupt the development of the fetus in the womb.
Alternative: Natural Cosmetics.
Natural cosmetics, which does not contain parabens, today enjoys great popularity. Synthetic substitutes preservative protrude vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and vitamin E (tocopherol acetate).
How much is stored cosmetics
Experts set up following storage times makeup:
- tonal basis - one year;
- rouge, face powder, eye shadow - two years;
- Lipstick - one year;
- mascara - 3-4 months.
An alternative to the usual means can be a mineral cosmetics. It contains less irritating substances and preservatives. However, for people with very sensitive skin to apply it too should be cautious. Although the composition includes mineral makeup and sunscreens (titanium dioxide or zinc oxide), before its application will still need to use sunscreen.