10 Cosmetic Ingredients to Avoid

In the past century, facelift procedures and cosmetics have become the most common ways to enhance beauty. However, some cosmetics contain harmful ingredients. Plasticsurgeryguide.com believes it is important for all consumers to know which ingredients to watch out for while shopping for cosmetics.

1. Mercury
When mercury is used in cosmetics, it is often called thimerosal. It is
commonly found in a few different types of mascara. Even tiny amounts of
mercury are capable of damaging brain function.

2. Hydroquinone
This is a chemical component found in some skin bleaching treatments. It
causes an irreversible skin condition called ochronosis, which results in
discolored skin lesions.

3. Lead
While most people assume that lead was eliminated from cosmetics in the
past 30 years, there are still small amounts found in some products.
Grecian formulas and several other dyes contain this harmful neurotoxin.

4. Phtalates
These plasticizing chemicals are especially harmful to pregnant women. They
are referred to as dibutyl phtalates and are found in several types of nail
polish. If a pregnant woman who is expecting a male baby uses polish with
this harmful substance, she raises the risk of giving birth to a sterile
child.

5. Propylene Glycol
If a product’s ingredient list includes substances called PPG or PEG, it
contains propylene glycol. This substance, which is a mixture of grain
alcohol and vegetable glycerin, is found in several different types of
cosmetics. It has been shown to cause eczema or hives in many people.

6. Diazolidinyl Urea
This chemical may also be called imidazolidinyl urea. As the most common
cause of dermatitis, it is known to release formaldehyde, which is the main
toxic preservative used in embalming fluid. It is commonly found in
anti-aging creams or serums.

7. Parabens
Parabens may be classified as butyl, propyl, methyl or ethyl. They inhibit
microbial growth and extend shelf life. However, parabens are a common
cause of severe skin rashes and allergic reactions. Research shows that
these parabens are also found in the tumors of some breast cancer
patients.

8. Diethanolamine
In some ingredient lists, this may be called DEA. It is used as a wetting
agent in cream cosmetics, lotions and other liquid-based cosmetics. DEA is
carcinogenic and is known to inhibit fetal brain development by depleting
choline levels, so pregnant women should especially be wary of cosmetics
with this substance.

9. Nanoparticles
These are absorbed through the skin and can damage brain cells. The most
harmful types of nanoparticles are titanium oxide and zinc oxide, which are
found in sunscreens and cosmetics containing sunscreens.

10. Petroleum Distillates
In ingredient lists, these are usually called liquid paraffin or petroleum.
They are carcinogenic and are often found in several brands of mascara
produced in the United States.

It is also important to shop for fragrance-free products. Some cosmetics with fragrances do not specify which chemicals are used to create the aroma. In some cases, they may be phtalates or other harmful carcinogenic
substances. Although these tips are important for women who have had a facelift, they are also important for all consumers using cosmetics. To stay beautiful and healthy, Faceliftportal.org encourages all cosmetic
users to make a habit of reading cosmetic labels.

 

 

 

*”This original content post was inspired by Plasticsurgeryguide.com.  MPR supports the content of this post. Opinions are MPR’s only.”