With most of us buying cosmetics over the counter without any proper guidance we might be inviting trouble for ourselves. Don't be misguided by organic products. Most of these so-called-organic-cosmetics contain only about 70% organic ingredients while the rest 30% is pure chemical. So, the next time you go shopping, look out for these compounds in your cosmetics, for the sake of your health.
Parabens
Parabens are commonly used as preservatives by cosmetic industries. The compound has been found to interfere with hormonal functions where it mimics estrogen by binding to estrogen receptors on cells, an effect that is linked to increased risk of breast cancer, reproductive toxicity, immunotoxicity and neurotoxicity. You may ask how does this happen? When moisturisers come in contact with the skin, parabens get easily absorbed which in turn blends with the blood stream. At times it can also affect your digestive system.
Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is an aromatic organic compound that is also a type of phenol. It can cause severe allergic reactions and over a period of time regular usage can lead to blue-grey discolouration of the skin which is not treatable. In some people it can also lead to difficulty in breathing, tightness in the chest and swelling of the mouth or tongue. However, in rare cases it can lead to skin cancer as the compound decreases the production of melanin pigments in the skin which in turn increases the exposure to UVA and UVB rays.
Sodium laureth sulphate
Don't be too happy the next time your shampoo works up into a nice thick lather. It could kill you! It is most widely used as foaming and cleaning agents in cosmetics like your regular shampoo and bubble bath products can lead to multiple health problems. This compound can harm your skin immune system and also lead to breathing difficulties. It is also found in toothpastes and mouthwashes.
Para-Phenylenediamine, mercury and lead
It is mostly found in hair dye. Always check the label for the compound before buying dye. If the label lists it, please dump the compound. These days the compound is found in processed henna products too. In some dyes you may find PPD, a derivative of coal tar, which is also used to build roads, it is a highly dangerous compound found in hair dyes and hair colours. Prolonged use can cause brain damage. In some cases it can also lead to increased risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (cancer of the lymph system) and dermatitis.
Lipsticks: Keep an eye out on lipsticks too. Some of these lipsticks contain lead which is a neurotoxin and can be dangerous even in small doses. Lead in your system can cause cognitive disabilities, resulting in learning, language and behavioural problems. Practice caution while buying mascara too. Used as a preservative in eye make-up, it can lead to kidney damage!
What else to look out for:
Oxybenzone and Octinoxate found in sunscreens as UVB protecting agents can result in skin ageing. Fragrance in cosmetics can lead to migraines and asthmatic problems. Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) closely related to synthetic antioxidants are used as preservatives in lipsticks and moisturisers.
