We must recognize that most of us, do not read what is on the list of ingredients on cosmetics, or we do not understand the meaning of all those words. If we had enough knowledge, we would be surprised at what we really use.

 

The expensive perfume contains feces and whale vomit

 

Ambergris is a yellow, waxy, solid substance that is produced in the whale's intestines to protect them from the sharp objects they sometimes swallow. It is often called "sea gold". Just half a pound of feces or whale vomit can be worth up to $ 10,000. Whales either vomit the substance or eliminate it along with their feces.

 

Most lipsticks contain broken parasitic beetles

 

Cactus beetles (Dactylopius Coccus) are small insects that feed on cactus plants in Central and South America. Cochineal female beetles eat the red fruits of cacti, so when the beetles are crushed, a very strong red dye is produced.

 

Cochineal dye has been used for centuries and is very safe for most people, so it is commonly used in lipstick, ice cream, candy, yogurt and eyeshadow. In fact, Starbucks admitted a few years ago that they used a red cochineal dye in some of their drinks, which turned out to be a big problem for their vegetarian fans.

 

Animal fat in lipstick, eyeshadow and soap

 

Seoul is a common ingredient in many cosmetics. It is present in: eyeshadows, lipsticks, foundations, shampoos, shaving soaps, moisturizers and skin care products. Seoul is made from animal carcasses.

Seoul is made from animal fat, which means boiling carcasses to create fat products. Dead animals used to make tallow come from many sources, including laboratories, slaughterhouses, zoos, shelters, and yes, animals killed on the road are also used.

 

Bull semen in hair products

 

Due to its high protein content, bull semen has become a popular ingredient in hair products. Used mainly for dry or damaged hair, the semen is mixed with a plant called Katera and applied to the hair in expensive beauty salons. The process takes about 45 minutes, costs about $ 90-120 dollars and has been described as "Viagra for hair."

 

Snail secretions in moisturizers

 

Snail exudate is collected and used as an ingredient in many famous moisturizers. Glycolic acid and elastin in snail secretion protect the skin from wounds, bacteria and UV rays, making it a great source of protein that removes dead cells and regenerates the skin. It is also useful for removing scars, stretch marks and curing acne.

 

Infant foreskin in anti-aging products

 

The recovery complex marketed by TNS SkinMedica claims to use cells derived from human infantile foreskin (NouriCel-MD) in a "revolutionary" line of anti-aging products. Using a combination of soluble collagen, antioxidants, natural growth factors and proteins, they claim to slow down the aging process and encourage the growth of new cells for a younger complexion.



Many companies have already announced that they have given up some of these ingredients, opting for "more pleasant" alternatives, but others, given their effect, will not do so too soon.

 

 

“No parabens” is the motto of people who are used to reading the list of ingredients carefully. Are they right when they avoid this component?

Sometimes a broad discussion of the action of certain ingredients is a significant phenomenon that helps people maintain their health. We have already understood the beneficial and harmful properties of silicones. This time, let's talk about parabens, among the "victims" of such discussions. Everything is not so simple, and before passing a verdict on them, it is necessary to study the properties of these substances in more detail and get acquainted with the opinion of scientists on this matter. How can parabens in cosmetics be harmful, and are they harmful at all? Let's figure it out right now, but at the same time, we'll see if it's worth choosing natural paraben-free cosmetics as a replacement.

About parabens in cosmetics 

Parabens are chemical compounds (to be more precise, we are talking about esters of para-Hydroxybenzoic acid) that are famous for their antiseptic properties and have been used as preservatives for a long time, both in the food industry and in the pharmaceutical and beauty industries.

Parabens can be synthesized or obtained from plants in the laboratory - yes, there are natural parabens found, for example, in cranberries, lingonberries, and sour.

In the composition of medicines or cosmetics, parabens allow you to extend their shelf life by preventing the growth of bacteria.

Why are parabens dangerous? This is where the controversy begins. The trouble with parabens began when scientists studying breast cancer discovered high concentrations of parabens in tumors. And some have linked it to cosmetics containing parabens (such as deodorants that are applied to the underarm area).

So far, it has not been possible to accurately confirm that cosmetics affect the development of this type of cancer. Still, even a hypothesis was enough for many people to take up arms against parabens.

Properties of parabens in cosmetic

Parabens are considered the most popular preservative today. What is the reason for such a choice?

Antibacterial properties

Thanks to parabens in jars and tubes with cosmetics, there will be no active reproduction of bacteria and fungi. This means they can be used safely for longer without fear that the skin will react with irritation or inflammation.

Ability to stabilize the formula

Another plus of parabens is that they perform a stabilizing function in the formulas of products: their presence in the procedure maintains the desired consistency and allows all components to coexist harmoniously.

Parabens, unlike other preservatives, are effective in small concentrations. Manufacturers who emphasize the natural composition of their cosmetics can use natural preservatives. They are needed in much larger quantities to keep the product fresh for a long time. Organic acids and essential oils are potent allergens. There is a high risk that these products will cause an adverse reaction in the skin.

The downside is that parabens can cause allergies. But the long-term practice of their use shows that the risks are more diminutive in the case of parabens. They are used in the food industry. International standards ensure maximum safety. The creators of cosmetics use these substances in a limited amount.

What cosmetics contain parabens?

Parabens are needed primarily in the composition of funds with a liquid, cream,m or gel texture. In a word, in cosmetics that contain water. A humid environment is favorable for the reproduction of bacteria, and parabens prevent this.

Foundation

Due to the presence of parabens, tonal foundations “live” from six months to 1.5 years. The expiration date,e in this case, is affected not so much by the concentration of preservatives as by the texture of the product - for example, the fluid will serve you less than a thick and dense foundation.

Mascara

Mascara cannot be made without parabens, but its shelf life is the shortest compared to other beauty products: it is recommended to use mascara no longer than 3 months after opening the package.

Concealer

Parabens extend the shelf life of this product to about six months.

Lip gloss

With these tools - the same story as with the category of concealers: you can do makeup with them only for about six months. But without parabens, this period would be even shorter.

Liquid shadows, highlighters, bronzers, lipstick,s and other water-based products also contain parabens. The most common areethyl parabenss andmethyl parabenss. They are safe and resistant to external influences, including thermal. But dry shadows will last you a long time and without parabens in the composition. True, by the end of the expiration date, they will likely no longer fit perfectly. But from the,m it will be possible to make lipstick of an unusual shade. Just follow this video guide.

How are parabens identified in cosmetics?

We have already discussed the general rules that will help you quickly check the composition of cosmetics here. Since parabens are a whole group of substances, you will have to remember a few bare names and symbols to recognize them on the packaging. Parabens that are often used in the manufacture of cosmetics include methylparaben (it can be found in the list of ingredients under the codes E218 and E219), ethylparaben (E214), propylparaben (E216), butylparaben, benzyl paraben, isobutyl paraben.

In addition, among the designations of parabens are met again, propagation, nipagin, and nipazol. They can even be combined under the general name "hydroxybenzoic acids, without specifying the details.

Are there cosmetics without parabens?

Today, the list of brands that produce cosmetics without parabens and sulfates is quite extensive. In the absence of these ingredients in the composition of their products, many manufacturers use them as an advertisement. Therefore it may seem that such beauty products are becoming more common. However, statistics show the opposite: more than 75% of cosmetics still contain parabens.

Cosmetics

Those who are not going to give up cosmetics with parabens completely, but are still afraid of this controversial ingredient, should pay attention to thorough skin cleansing.

What is the best way to remove paraben makeup? One of the leading "working" means micellar water - the features of its production allow you not to use sulfates and parabens. The same applies to many hydrophilic oils.

Micellar water

It's good that cosmetics lovers have a choice. Science is not yet able to provide accurate data proving that parabens in cosmetics are harmful and cause life-threatening diseases. But for those who want to eliminate any risks associated with parabens, products labeled paraben-free can be preferred.

Cosmetics without parabens

It is essential to understand that the absence of parabens does not always make cosmetics 100% safe. So, substitutes for parabens arepropanoll,quaternion-15, butyl hydroxy anisole (E320 or BHA), and butylhydroxytoluene (BHT) - and these substances have been proven toxic and carcinogenic. However, they are found not only in cosmetics but also in food.

About natural cosmetics, manufacturers of natural beauty products also use paraben-free labels. They use vitamins E and C, tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, propolis, and grapefruit seed extract as preservatives. The last component has gained particular popularity as a natural disinfectant and preservative.

Grapefruit seed extract

In the case of natural cosmetics, the question arises, how effective are the preservatives used in it. If methyl and ethyl parabens in cosmetics, as a rule, are no more than 0.4% of the composition, natural substitutes will be required in much higher concentrations to compare with them in terms of strength. Do not forget that many natural ingredients that can increase the shelf life of cosmetics can cause allergic reactions.

Why is hyaluronic acid good, how does it work, and in what cases is it most effective in facial care? We answer the most popular questions.

WHAT IS HYALURONIC ACID?

Hyaluronic acid is a polysaccharide that is synthesized in the human body. It is a transparent sticky substance and is found predominantly in connective tissue. The word "acid" in the name is a little scary, but hyaluronic acid does not work at all like the acids that first come to mind. It acts as a magnet: it quickly attracts moisture and, more importantly, perfectly retains it in the cells.

On the label, hyaluronic acid can be hidden under one of the following names:

• hyaluronic acid,
• sodium hyaluronate,
• hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid.

BENEFITS OF HYALURONIC ACID FOR FACE SKIN

The effect of hyaluronic acid on the skin of the face is comprehensive - and quite obvious:

• moisturizes the skin, eliminates dryness and peeling,
• improves skin elasticity,
• smoothes mimic wrinkles, nasolabial folds,
• softens,
• eliminates age-related changes in the skin.

In addition, it effectively heals wounds, promoting skin regeneration.

The amount of hyaluronic acid in the body decreases with age (the same happens, for example, with collagen and elastin). Factors that accelerate this unpleasant process are exposure to sunlight, tobacco smoke, and polluted air. But even if you protect your body from the negative influence of the environment as much as possible, the process of natural products will still one day begin to slow down. As a result, the tissue's water balance is disturbed, the skin and hair look dull and dehydrated, and the body ages faster.

There are many ways to “replenish” stocks from the outside. Some prefer injections (also called “beauty injections”) and nutritional supplements; others are limited to cosmetics with hyaluronic acid in their composition.

TYPES OF HYALURONIC ACID

It can have a different molecular weight - and, as a result, affect the skin differently.

High molecular weight

Larger hyaluronic acid molecules attract more water and retain it longer. The dimensions do not allow these molecules to "leak" into the skin; a significant part remains on the surface, forming a special kind of film. It prevents the evaporation of moisture, which keeps the skin's hydration level at a height. High molecular weight hyaluronic acid is also used in injection procedures.

Low molecular weight

Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid does not remain on the surface; it can penetrate the epidermis and work there, stimulating the synthesis of hyaluronic acid in the body and collagen and elastin. This approach is suitable both for the immediate effect and for the long term.

How to understand what type of hyaluronic acid was used to create a particular beauty product? It is impossible to determine this by composition, so you must trust the description. Pay attention to what the manufacturer promises in advertising: instant hydration or a cumulative anti-age effect?

HYALURONIC ACID IN SKINCARE

It is used in primary care and products designed to solve more specific problems.

Face cream

Hyaluronic acid is found today in almost every second face cream composition. So when choosing, pay attention not so much to this component as to other features of the cream: for what type of skin and time of day it is intended, what effect it promises. For example, L’Oréal Paris has a whole line of Hyaluron Expert, including day and night creams and a remedy for the area around the eyes - a shock dose of moisture is provided.

Eye cream

The skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate, which means it needs specific care. Take a closer look at Hydraphase Intense Yeux by La Roche-Posay: a light creamy-gel texture is just right for the eye. Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid paired with glycerin is responsible for intense hydration, and caffeine helps cope with puffiness.

Hand cream

Hand or body cream with hyaluronic is a relatively rare occurrence. But if you meet, buy without hesitation: hyaluronic acid is good in any form.

Face Serum

The use of serum with hyaluronic acid increases the effectiveness of the cream, but it can also be used solo. For example, Kiehl's Vital Skin-Strengthening Super Serum strengthens the skin's defenses. The serum contains fragmented hyaluronic acid, penetrating the epidermis's deepest layers. The firmness and elasticity of the skin increase after four weeks, which was confirmed by a clinical test.

Patches with hyaluronic acid

They will save you after a harrowing flight and help your skin recover after a wild party. We advise you to take a closer look at Garnier Moisturizing + Youthful Radiance fabric eye patches based on the formula with green tea and hyaluronic acid. They intensively moisturize, give radiance, smooth fine wrinkles - and all this in just 15 minutes.

Masks

If you need to invigorate your face in express mode, a hyaluronic acid mask is one of the best types of SOS products. Pay attention to the hyaluronic cover "Revitalift Filler" from L'Oreal Paris: it restores volume and elasticity, fills wrinkles, and smoothes the skin.

Fans of sheet masks also have plenty to choose from: for example, Garnier has released a whole line of shows with hyaluronic acid for the face. Night and universal, against blackheads and anti-stress - everyone will find the best solution for their skin.

Gels

In facial cleansers, hyaluronic acid also shows its best side. However, a good neighborhood also matters: for example, Garnier's Hyaluronic Aloe Gel Foam contains 96% natural ingredients and is suitable even for vegans.

HYALURONIC ACID IN THE DECORATIVE COSMETICS

Finding hyaluronic acid on the ingredient list of a moisturizer or face serum is no surprise. But if you look closely at the composition of foundation, lipstick, or lip gloss, you can also see the familiar name.

Tone cream

Last year, the legendary line of foundation Alliance Perfect "Perfect Fusion" experienced a renovation - now, the formulas contain hyaluronic acid. And this promises several additional benefits: easier distribution, perfect fusion with the skin, and hydration for up to 24 hours.

Primer

Honey Dew Me Up gel primer from NYX Professional Makeup can even replace skin care products if necessary because it contains a whole scattering of valuable components. Hyaluronic acid, natural honey, panthenol, collagen - we recommend!

Lipstick

NYX Professional Makeup Filler Instinct hyaluronate keeps lips hydrated for up to 8 hours. And the ginger extract that complements it provides a wow effect: the lips visually become plumper.

Lip gloss

L'Oréal Paris' Infaillible lip gloss line is best known for its various textures and shades. But few people understand that the product's composition is also worthy of close attention: it is enriched with hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and antioxidants.

THE MOST COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT HYALURONIC ACID

We answer five of the most popular questions.

Is it safe to use hyaluronic acid on the face?

Hyaluronic acid is safe to use. Since the body produces it naturally, allergic reactions are infrequent. After the injection, redness or slight bruising may appear on the skin, but most often, this is a reaction to the injections and not the component.

Are there contraindications?

The basic contraindication is hypersensitivity to hyaluronic acid or any of the drug's components that contains hyaluronic acid. If we are talking about injections, this procedure has a separate list of contraindications - you should always consult with your doctor.

How is hyaluronic acid obtained?

It is synthesized in the body by fibroblasts, artificially - extracted from raw vegetable materials, such as wheat.

How to replace hyaluronic acid at home?

Several other humectants include example, glycerin, and urea.

At what age can hyaluronic acid face products be used?

According to indications, face products with hyaluronic acid can be used at any age. But with injections, it is better to wait at least 25 years.