Finger movement is a sign of a major lung issue
The cosmetics that are overtaking the market pose a silent threat to public health in a time when beauty standards have taken on an unparalleled importance.
Even though many people want to look better, these products are silently endangering their safety by introducing harmful chemicals into their bodies.
A recent study from NYU Langone Medical Center in the US found that DEHP, a phthalates derivative used in cosmetics and plastics, is present in hundreds of cosmetic products.
According to medical experts, it is detrimental to both skin and heart health and can result in long-term health issues like skin infections, peeling, and even chronic eczema.
Cautionary tales about cosmetics
Amira Al-Qaseer, a dermatologist and cosmetologist, told Sky News Arabia that DEHP is a common ingredient in cosmetics like lipstick, nail polish, daily moisturizers, and fragrances. The internal effects of these substances are even more dangerous because they are rapidly absorbed through the skin.
Typical components... but hazardous
Al-Qasir cautions against other substances that are present in many well-known products, like hydroquinone and mercury, which are used in lightening products.
"With prolonged use, these substances can result in skin diseases like lichen planus, and they can cause severe skin reactions in the form of a rash," she emphasizes. Additionally, they can enter the body through the skin and cause internal issues.
"Paraffin and formaldehyde, which are even present in deodorants and hair products, have the potential to cause cancer," she continued. They may cause birth defects if taken by pregnant women, disrupt hormones, and impact both male and female fertility.
Hazard of drug accumulation and hormonal impacts
According to Al-Qasir, "some substances have a cumulative effect, and continued exposure to them can cause endocrine and hormonal problems," so the negative effects don't always show up right away after use. For instance, they might result in irregular menstruation for women or lower fertility for men.
According to her, "It is a substance that is completely prohibited during pregnancy, as it may cause fetal malformations." She emphasizes that pregnant women should refrain from using products that contain Retin-A.
Who is most impacted?
According to Al-Qasir, people in the 20–35 age range are the most impacted by these products since they "use makeup daily, which increases the skin's exposure to these substances."
"Due to the frequent use of products containing these ingredients, we frequently see cases of allergic contact dermatitis in the clinic," she says.
The importance of being informed and reading before buying
Al-Qasir stresses that carefully reading the product's ingredients is the first step towards protection. "Some businesses conceal crucial information in extremely small print, making it challenging to read."
She explains that creams and moisturizers are among the products most absorbed through the skin, followed by sunscreens, so it's important to pay particular attention to their ingredients.
She stresses the importance of using products with natural extracts, such as "Fernblock," a substance extracted from the sorghum plant, which "plays an antioxidant role and protects the cells' DNA."
Mascara and lipstick are also dangerous.
Al-Qasir warns against using eye and lip products for extended periods or after their expiration date, saying, "Mascara can cause conjunctivitis or eyelid irritation, and lipstick can transmit viruses like herpes."
She also recommends keeping personal care items clean and not sharing them with others and ensuring that makeup is removed before bed. "Cleansing your skin at night is one of the most important skincare steps, regardless of the safety or risk of the product used."
Natural products are not always the perfect alternative.
Despite her preference for natural products, Al-Qasir points out that some organic types are ineffective. "For example, organic mascara may not produce the desired results, but we need to strike a balance between effectiveness and safety, and awareness is key."
A frightening percentage of users are experiencing symptoms.
In a survey conducted by Sky News on social media, 65 percent of participants admitted to experiencing side effects from using cosmetic products.
Al-Qasir concludes her statement by saying, “We need to be more aware of the ingredients in what we put on our bodies, because beauty should not come at the expense of health.”