The use of cosmetics is common both among men and women to enhance looks and to smell good. It is also a vital part of feeling good. Deodorants, shampoo, eye shadow, lip sticks, etc. all fall under the category of cosmetics. Depending upon the product, cosmetics are made from many ingredients. Indiscriminate usage of cosmetics may be unsafe for some people, resulting in various skin disorders.
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| | Let us take a look at some of the most common side effects of cosmetics and understand the cause behind it. Exercising your informed choice while choosing your cosmetics is a key element in reducing the instances of unfavorable reactions.
| Allergy
Some people may be allergic to certain ingredients in cosmetic products. Common reactions can be itching, redness, sneezing, rashes, etc. On occasions, allergic reaction can turn into more serious conditions. You may have an allergy the first time you use a product or even after you have used it several times. | 
| You may have also noticed people using “testers” at cosmetic stores to test a particular product. These testers can contain lots of germs as many people use them repeatedly. If you want to test a product at a cosmetic store, ask for a fresh sponge or cotton swab. If you encounter any allergic reaction after using a cosmetic product, contact your doctor immediately.
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| | Reading labels - It is very important to read the label on a product before you buy or use them. Here are some of the things that you have to look for on a product label:
- Does the label tell you what the product is?
- Does the label tell you safe methods of using the product?
- Does the label tell you the exact measure of the various ingredients used?
- Does the label tell you the manufacturer’s and/or distributor’s name?
| | Side effects of AHA | | Redness | | Swelling | | Burning | | Blisters | | Bleeding | | Rash | | Itching | | Changes in skin color |
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Cosmetic or medication?
There are some products that serve the dual purpose of a medication and a cosmetic. Products that are used to treat dandruff and Acne fall into the category of medications. Usually shampoo is used to wash hair. But if a shampoo is used to wash hair and treat dandruff, it becomes a cosmetic and a medication. When you buy products make sure whether you want to use it as a cosmetic, a medication or both.
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What is AHA?
AHA stands for alpha hydroxy acid. Many cosmetic products contain this ingredient with claims that it prevents wrinkles and delays aging. But there is no concrete evidence to prove this claim. On the other hand AHA has been found to cause many skin problems (see Box).
Caution with cosmetics
Cosmetic products need to be handled with care and used with caution. Try to avoid using cheap cosmetic products. If you do use them, buy products from reputed manufacturers only, even if it means shelling out some extra money. | | Here are a few tips to help you ensure your safety while using cosmetics: | | - Read the label carefully before using a product.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before you apply makeup.
- Do not share your makeup kit with anyone.
- Do not dilute or add liquids to makeup.
- Store the makeup kit in a safe place away from children and extreme temperature.
- Keep makeup tightly closed when not in use.
- If you develop allergic reaction, stop using the product immediately.
- Do not use makeup which has changed color, has a bad odor or is well past the expiry date.
- Be extra careful with eye makeup products.
- Perfume spray cans catch fire easily. Do not smoke while you are using them. Keep spray cans away from sources of heat.
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| | And finally…
NEVER ignore or attempt to treat allergic reactions. Far from getting a cure, you may end up worsening your condition. Even if the allergic reaction is mild or you do not perceive a threat from it, your best bet is to consult your doctor. Remember, allergic reactions are medical conditions and it needs an expert to take care of it. | |
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