Hypoallergenic Makeup

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Know what ingredients are in your Hypoallergenic makeup and if they are for sensitive skin or no different then a regular product.

How often have you seen “Hypoallergenic” on a skin care product and wondered what the difference between it and other products sold for the same purposes?

According to the FDA, there is no real difference. They know of no scientific studies, which show that it causes fewer adverse reactions then the competing regular brands. It was ruled in the courts during 1974-5 that a cosmetic could only be labeled or make similar claims only if scientific studies on humans showed that it caused lower rates of adverse skin reactions then the regular products not making such a claim. The cosmetic companies were to do the testing, not the FDA.

So, how do you really know if your product is really better for your skin?

Read the labels. Decide for yourself if what you’re putting on your skin isn’t as harsh as a regular product, despite what the cosmetic company says.

When it comes to the label though, do you really know what all those ingredients are? Let’s face it, we’re not all chemists and who, but they, will know what those ingredients are? For those that you might find on your label that aren’t listed, call the manufacturer of the cosmetic. They should be willing to help you or direct you in the right direction.

Most cosmetics contain a large amount of preservatives, to prevent spoilage, as they are formulated for a shelf life of three years. The preservatives are usually parabene’s, such as, propylparaben, Ethylparaben and Methylparaben. They are the more common ones you will see on your Hypo-allergenic labels.

EDTA is another preservative. However, it has been known to have a potential for causing contact dermatitis so watch out for this in your cosmetics.

Glycerine is another common ingredient that will be found on the label. It draws moisture from inside the skin and holds it on the surface for a better feel. The downfall to this is that it’s drying your skin from the inside out.

Water is usually the most frequently listed main ingredient in skin care products, used in its purest form, void of minerals and other chemicals.

Titanium Dioxide is a physical UV blocker, helps block both UVA and UVB wavelengths of light. UVA is radiation in the 320-400 nanometer ranger and UVB is in the 290-320 range. UVB is responsible for most of the redness and tanning that is associated with sun exposure.

Poly Hydroxy Acid is from the buds of fruit trees and claims to be gentler, but as effective as Alpha Hydroxy Acids. AHA’s are active ingredients taken from fruit acids. They help exfoliate the top layers of the skin and for that reason they are not usually found in Hypo- Allergenic products due to them increasing the sun sensitivity from their exfoliant actions.

Dimethicone is a form of silicone that gives slip and glide to products.

Cyclomethicone is another form of silicone that gives products a smooth texture without blocking pores.

Acrylate is a chemical that creates a water-repelling basis for cosmetics that claim to have waterproof properties, such as mascara.

Carmine is a red pigment that is usually found in many types of mascara. This ingredient can be irritating; be wary if you notice it on your label.

Polybutene helps make liquids thick.

Silk Powder is what you will usually find in your cosmetic powders to help absorb skin moisture and oils.

Remember, this is only a partial list. There are over nine-hundred chemicals that can be used in cosmetics and if you’re not sure what the ingredients are then do some research or call the cosmetic company. You should be able to find their address or a telephone number somewhere on the label.