Mineral cosmetics have become very popular over the last several years since many people want to reduce their exposure to the various chemicals found in conventional cosmetics. Some synthetic compounds found in conventional products are phthalates (found mainly in nail polish), ethyl acetate (found in mascara and nail polish), talc (found in eye shadow and deodorants), and petrolatum (found in almost all cosmetics). It is important for us consumers to know if these chemicals can negatively affect our skin and possibly undermine our health.
Most cosmetics sold at department stores contain a number of different chemicals and several of these compounds have been shown to be hazardous to our health. Phthalates are classified as chemical solvents and these compounds are capable of dissolving one or more other substances. Some side effects reported with exposure to phthalates are damage to various organs such as the kidneys, liver and lungs. Another toxic chemical found in nail polish is toluene. This compound is flammable and can make the nails dry and brittle. Instead of using the chemical based polishes found on the market, you could use a natural water based polish. In these natural formulas, a good percentage of the product is composed of water and not chemical solvents such as toluene and phthalates. The coloring agents in these formulas are naturally derived from carmine (a dried insect, when boiled its color is extracted), mineral sources such as the iron oxides, from beets, and a yellow spice called turmeric.
Cosmetics
Each day a woman applies several different cosmetics to her skin, she is being exposed to many toxic chemicals including the heavy metals lead, cadmium, and arsenic. These metals are not only found in facial cosmetics but also exist in shampoo, deodorant, and perfume.
Most women use eye shadow on a daily basis and this cosmetic contains a chemical called polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). This compound has been shown to cause an allergic reaction in some people. It is important to read all product labels before purchasing any brand of eye shadow and avoid those that contain PVP.
Lipstick is another cosmetic product that is used by women on a daily basis. News reports over the past year have detailed that this type of cosmetic contains lead and exposure to this heavy metal is especially dangerous for pregnant women. Children who were exposed to lead were shown to have impaired school performance, and a lower IQ as compared to those students who did not come in contact with this heavy metal. When choosing a safe product for your lips, select a formula that does not contain synthetic colors or preservatives and is lead free.
Natural lipsticks are a better and safer choice since they do not contain petroleum, chemical fragrances or any FD&C colors. A major ingredient in lipstick and chapstick is beeswax. The coloring agent mainly used in these products is derived from iron oxides. It is important to note that there is a natural and synthetic form of iron oxide. Natural iron oxide is mined from the earth's surface and will contain some levels of the heavy metals lead and arsenic; this compound is considered safe for use in cosmetics. Synthetic iron oxide is not a natural product and is also considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Many natural lip products also contain moisturizing agents such as shea butter, aloe vera gel, and jojoba oil since they help keep the lips moist. Since what we put on our lips is easily ingested, it is important for us to avoid those products that contain toxic chemicals or synthetic coloring agents.
If you suffer from acne or any other skin condition, it is important that you read all product labels before purchasing any cosmetics. Foundations in the form of blushes and powders highlight and add color to the skin. Some of these conventional cosmetics contain talc and these formulas should be avoided since that chemical compound has been linked with cancer. In addition, most cosmetic foundations contain mineral oil and this compound has been shown to clog pores. Any cosmetic that contains mineral oil should not be used by those people who have acne.
A healthier choice for your skin and health is to use an organic foundation. Most truly organic cosmetics will contain essential oils and they are derived from plants that have not been treated with pesticides or herbicides. The chemicals found in these pesticides can cause skin irritation and or an allergic reaction in some people. In addition, choose a foundation that does not contain talc but instead uses clays derived from either bentonite or kaolin. It is also important to avoid using any formulas that contain the synthetic preservatives methyl or propylparaben since both of these compounds are skin irritants. In addition, some medical reports have documented that these chemicals have been found in breast tissue.
As we can see, there are many benefits in using mineral cosmetics for our skin. They are not only a safer choice for us but are also non toxic and will not pose any threat to our health or the environment. It is also important for us to understand that not all so called natural cosmetics are safe. We cannot assume that if a product is labeled as natural or if it contains organic ingredients that it is chemical free. It is important for us consumers to read the entire list of ingredients on each label of the product you are interested in and research any of the compounds that you do not recognize. Take your time before deciding upon a particular brand of natural cosmetics so that you can make the best informed choice. The best formulas are manufactured by smaller companies who manufacture vegan products in smaller batches, are chemical free, and use ingredients produced from strictly organic sources. Daily use of these products will highlight your skin with vibrant natural colors and not cause any allergic reactions or pose any serious health risk.
Are Mineral Cosmetics the Best Choice For Your Skin?
Joseph Giordano has done extensive research on herbs, essential oils, and other natural compounds used to treat different health and skin care conditions. As a teenager and young adult, he suffered from acne and dry skin due to severe sun exposure. Through the use of several natural skin care formulas and medicated creams prescribed by his doctors, he was able to successfully treat his acne and dry skin conditions. He is not a medical doctor, and cannot prescribe, but offers a free educational newsletter to those who subscribe though his website at http://www.pureskincaresolutions.com/mineral_cosmetics.php The site focuses on a variety of different skin conditions along with the natural skin care treatments used to treat those situations. The information contained on his site and newsletter should be used for informational purposes only, and not serve as a substitute for professional medical advice.
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