Cosmetic Basic Ingredients Are Chemistry, So It Can Be Dangerous

A woman's life cannot be separated from cosmetics. In addition to beautifying themselves, cosmetics are also used for health purposes, ranging from treating acne, protecting the skin from the adverse effects of sunlight, hydrating and nourishing the skin, and fighting the signs of aging. Even so, women must be observant and understand the basic ingredients of cosmetics they use.

Cosmetic products are ingredients used on the outside of the body (skin, hair, and lips) or teeth, with the aim of cleaning , scent, and improve appearance. Various claims are used by cosmetic manufacturers to gain women's interest. Starting from claims made from natural, organic, or can whiten instantly. Do not be tempted by the claim, because not necessarily the product is really healthy and safe as advertised.

Plus, a lot of cosmetics on the market without having permission from the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM). Therefore, it is important for consumers to actively seek information on the basic ingredients of cosmetics in order to make the choice to the right product.

Ingredients in Cosmetics

Cosmetics are not apart from chemicals. But these chemicals are safe to use within certain limits, and some are toxic. Chemicals that can still be used, but must be strictly limited, include mercury, active ingredients of sunscreen and hexachlorophen.

Based on the regulation of the Head of the Republic of Indonesia Drug and Food Supervisory Agency (BPOM) number 18 in 2015 concerning the technical requirements of cosmetics materials, ingredients that may be used as basic ingredients of cosmetics but must be limited in levels are as follows:

• Coal tar when containing benzo [a] pyrene contained in sunscreen.
• Benzalkonium chloride, a maximum of 3% in shampoo and a maximum of 1% in other care products.
• Maximum Triclosan 0.3% in powder, shampoo, soap, facial cleanser, toothpaste, deodorant , blemish concealers , and conditioner.
• Triclocarban is a maximum of 1.5%.
• Parabens (propyl, isopropyl, butyl, and isobutyl) are a maximum of 0.14 %.
• DMDM ​​hydantoin is a maximum of 0.6%.
• Bronopol is a maximum of 0.1%.
• Methylisothiazolinone is a maximum of 0.1%.
• Oxybenzone m aksimal 10%.
• Zinc 4-hydroxybenzene sulphonate and Zinc phenolsulfonate maximum 6% in facial freshening lotion.
• Formaldehyde (formalin) is a maximum of 0.2% except for oral cleaning products. It is prohibited to use spray-shaped cosmetics. All finished products containing formaldehyde at a level of more than 0.05% must be labeled 'containing formaldehyde'.

Dangerous Chemicals

Beware of toxic chemicals in various cosmetics that can endanger health. The following is a row of basic cosmetic ingredients that are prohibited:

• Refining petroleum, unless the entire refining process is known and does not produce carcinogenic substances.
• Polyethylene.
• Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA).
• Phthalates.
• Hydroquinone.
• Benzene.
• Bithionol.
• Bithionol.
• Chlorine.
• Chloroform.
• Hydrocarbons.
• Naphthalene.

Besides the ingredients in above, you are also advised to pay attention to additional ingredients in potentially dangerous cosmetics, such as fragrances and preservatives, and to consider the safety of product packaging.

• Fragrances
  Fragrance or fragrance contained in cosmetics is actually not the main ingredient. However, many body care products on the market with certain fragrances or in other words contain fragrance. In fact, the fragrance-making chemicals often cause reactions. It's a good idea to consider avoiding products that contain fragrance in the composition list.
• Preservatives
  Additional preservatives in cosmetics must also be of particular concern to consumers. In general, preservatives are used to kill bacteria and extend product life. However, preservatives can irritate the skin or cause allergic reactions, and often cause aromas that some people dislike.
• Packaging
  Choose safe and airtight packaging because of the packaging like this makes bacteria unable to multiply. Meanwhile, packaging that is not tightly closed or packaging jars with open mouth can be contaminated by bacteria. If contaminated with microorganisms, such as bacteria or fungi, cosmetics can be dangerous to use. In addition to poor packaging factors, the product can also be contaminated by microorganisms if:
  • The storage and shipping process is not good.
  • Products contain material that can trigger the growth of microorganisms, due to not using effective preservatives and safe.
  • The condition of the plant is not good.
  • Products are contaminated with other materials due to unhygienic use, for example dipping a finger into the product.

Tips for Using Cosmetics

In addition to avoiding basic ingredients of harmful cosmetics and toxic chemicals, you are advised to follow some good cosmetic usage tips and safe the following:

• Wash your hands thoroughly before using cosmetics, especially if you need to insert your finger into a cosmetic container.
• Take care of cosmetics, such as mascara, so that they are not contaminated with water or saliva because it can invite bacteria. Therefore, never moisturize dry mascara with your saliva.
• After using cosmetics, store it well in a cool and dry place, because a place that is too warm and humid can encourage the growth of microorganisms.
• Look for information about your favorite products. Whether the product has a BPOM certificate or even entered the list of products that are prohibited and withdrawn from the market.
• Avoid coloring the eyelashes permanently because it can cause damage to the eye if not done properly.
• Don't use cosmetics that are stored too long. Remove after a few months.
• Don't share or lend cosmetics with others.
• Before going to bed, clean your face from make up.

Choose cosmetics that suit your skin type and condition. Also note the information printed on the packaging, such as the expiration date and composition. Don't be lured into products that are sold online without the clarity of ingredients and safety. Finally, use and save according to the instructions on the package.

Label : Health cat_Health