Are Cosmetics Safe?

In the United States, cosmetics are being used by teens at a younger and younger age, and cosmetic safety has become quite a problem.Cosmetics can become contaminated with bacteria that the brush or applicator sponge picks up from the skin. The top dangers of cosmetic use are wearing cosmetics to bed, sharing cosmetics, and aerosol fumes. Scratching yourself with a mascara wand is the number one injury caused by cosmetics and the scratches can become infected.

The most irritating ingredients in cosmetics are preservatives, fragrance, talc and dye. It is unfortunate that the preservatives which prevent bacterial growth are also very detrimental your skin.

It is not surprising, therefore, that there is an increased interest in organic and natural cosmetics. The two main categories of safer cosmetics are hypoallergenic cosmetics and mineral cosmetics.

Are Hypoallergenic Cosmetics the Solution?

Hypoallergenic cosmetics are products that makers claim cause fewer allergic reactions than other products, and they really are a help to those with sensitive skin. Hypoallergenic cosmetics contain a minimum of problem ingredients, such as preservatives and perfumes which will cause skin irritation and other allergic reactions.

However, there is a controversy surrounding the labeling of hypoallergenic cosmetics. Manufacturers of cosmetics labeled as hypoallergenic are not required to submit substantiation of their claims to the FDA, (Food and Drug Administration). For the past four years, the FDA has been working to clear up this confusion by establishing testing requirements that would indicate which products are truly hypoallergenic.

A cosmetic would be permitted to be labeled hypoallergenic only if scientific studies on human subjects showed that the product caused a significantly lower rate of adverse skin reactions than similar products. The manufacturers would be responsible for carrying out the required tests. Unfortunately the guidelines have not been finalized yet, and manufacturers may continue to label their cosmetics as hypoallergenic without any supporting evidence. Undoubtedly most products that claim to be hypoallergenic actually are, but be a perceptive consumer; read labels carefully, do some studying yourself, and do not rely solely on manufacturers claims.

Consumers concerned about allergic reactions from cosmetics should be aware that no cosmetic can be guaranteed never to produce an allergic reaction. Even products that have organic ingredients can cause allergic reactions. If you have an allergy to certain plants or animals, then you may have an allergic reaction to cosmetics containing them. If you have an allergic reaction to a cosmetic, you should stop using all cosmetics until you and your dermatologist can find out which ingredient or combination of ingredients triggered the reaction. Even if you have used a special cosmetic for years with no problems, you may still develop an allergic reaction. This can occur as you become sensitized to one or more of the ingredients.

Why not try Mineral Cosmetics?

Mineral cosmetics are quickly moving out of dermatologist clinics and deluxe spas to a retailer near you. Certified organic products and non-toxic makeup are becoming more mainstream as they demonstrate that they are as effective as those of the leading cosmetic companies. Women who use mineral cosmetics are said to experience less break-outs as these cosmetics do not contain chemical preservatives.

This non artificial makeup is the simplest, most natural, and non-reactive form of cosmetic. Mineral cosmetics are made from minerals and inorganic pigments that exist in nature. Because it is not made from organic materials it cannot produce bacteria so there is no need to add chemical preservatives.

Endless combinations of beautifully colored minerals, such as zinc and iron oxides, mica, titanium dioxide, and ultramarine pigments are used. These can be combined to make every cosmetic from foundation to shimmer powder for the body, to eyeshadow . They are finely milled and purified then treated or coated with other pigments to create different colors and effects. Mica for example, is a transparent mineral which is mined from the earth in thin sheets. Using he mica mineral allows your natural skin tone shines through due to the sheer, translucent, and skin-hugging effect of it.

With mineral makeup you get all of the coverage, color, and sophistication, without the chemical preservatives, and dyes. Mineral foundation looks and feels much more pure, without sacrificing coverage. It allows the skin to breathe while protecting all skin types. The light mineral powders let skin breathe naturally and will not settle into pores. If you've ever had trouble finding a foundation that matches your skin tone or locating that correct eyeshadow color, you will love mineral cosmetics.

Mary Amos is a cosmotologist who likes to experiment with the latest in cosmetics. Find out the latest and greatest at Cosmetics and Mineral Cosmetics.