Why Do You Experience Allergic Reactions to Cosmetic Products?

In the past two decades, studies revealed that 15% of skin-contact pollution stems from cosmetics. This number has now doubled, highlighting that cosmetics are increasingly causing skin sensitivities.

As the use of cosmetics grows, so does the risk of skin damage. Experts estimate the cosmetic industry uses approximately 8,000 ingredients in production, many of which may trigger allergic reactions.

It’s still unclear which ingredients are most harmful, but cosmetics can provoke either allergic reactions or general skin problems. Mild irritation starts with redness and inflammation, whereas allergic reactions involve itching, burning, heat, and sometimes acne.

Harmful Chemicals in Cosmetics

The chemicals in cosmetics often trigger allergies or sensitivities. Since the skin is the body's largest organ, you must be cautious about applying chemicals to it. Severe reactions can even lead to underlying health conditions.

Even everyday items like soaps or shaving foams, though not categorized as cosmetics, can irritate sensitive skin. People with atopic skin or a history of allergic conditions like rhinitis are more prone to such issues.

Allergenic Ingredients in Cosmetics

Generally, fragrances and preservatives are the leading causes of skin allergies. Some notable allergens include:

1. Ammonia:
   Found in hair dyes, ammonia can cause severe allergic reactions. If symptoms worsen, consult a dermatologist, especially if you have pre-existing conditions.

2. Sulfates:
   Present in shampoos (e.g., sodium lauryl sulfate), sulfates can dry out the scalp and cause irritation. Check shampoo labels carefully.

3. Eyeshadows:
   These may lead to redness, inflammation, or watery eyes.

4. Retinol:
   Common in anti-aging creams, retinol can cause dryness and irritation in some users.

5. Salicylic Acid:
   Used in anti-blemish creams, this ingredient might increase blemishes or cause additional irritation.

6. Glycolic Acid:
   Found in exfoliating products, it sometimes causes redness, dryness, or burning. Consider switching to products with lactic acid instead.

7. Fragrances:
   Fragrances are a major cause of skin sensitivity in cosmetics.

8. Aluminum and Toluene:
   Found in deodorants and nail polishes, these ingredients often cause skin allergies.

Always monitor your skin after using a product. If you notice sensitivity on your eyes, lips, or elsewhere, discontinue use immediately.

The best solution is to avoid allergenic cosmetics altogether. If your skin reacts to a product, you are likely sensitive to its ingredients.

Before Using a New Product:

• Test a small amount on your hand or elbow.

• Wait for a while to see if any reaction occurs.

• If there's no problem, you can safely use the product.

Proper storage is also essential. Expired products or improper storage can increase allergens and even lead to infections. Keep cosmetics in dry, fresh air to prevent chemical changes in their composition.

Regular cleaning of tools like brushes and sponges is crucial. Never share your cosmetics or applicators with others.

By taking these precautions, you can reduce the risk of skin allergies caused by cosmetics.