by Charlotte L. Smith

Created on: August 08, 2008   Last Updated: August 22, 2008

SKINCARE? BEWARE!

Look on the back of any cosmetic or skin care product, and you will find words that most scientists can't pronounce. Skin care products and cosmetics are not regulated by any governmental agency. So the companies who make these types of products can put whatever they want in them without fear of repercussion. And they most certainly do. Here are some things you should look out for before you make your next purchase.

Formaldehyde releasing preservatives such as Methyldibromo glutaronitrile: these are a common preservative found in cosmetics. They, as preservatives on their own, aren't that bad. The greatest concern lies in a product that also contains amines, such as, triethanolamine (TEA), diethanolamine (DEA), or monoethanolamine (MEA).These ingredients together can create nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic substances that can possibly enter the skin. All cosmetics and skin care products need to contain preservatives in order to stave off the growth of mold, bacteria and fungus. My suggestion would be to avoid a product that contains both.

Butylated hydroxytoluene and Butylated hydroxyanisole or BHT AND BHA: both are a potent synthetic antioxidant with carcinogenic properties.

Talc: there is epidemiological evidence that frequent use of pure talc over the female genital area may increase the risk of ovarian cancer.

Triclosan: there is controversy over whether or not it contributes to creating strains of bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics.

Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE): a British study showed that it may decrease or even stop cell growth.

You also need to be aware of ingredients that look natural.

Comfrey extract: can have toxic and carcinogenic properties when taken orally. It does have anti inflammatory properties, but should only be used under strict guidelines. I suggest you stay clear of it.

Bergamot oil: is a volatile citrus oil. When used topically (on your skin), it is a photosensitizer and has photomutagenic properties. Which means it can cause malignant changes to your cells.

Linalool: is a component of lavender and coriander, and is a potent skin irritant. Research indicates that it can be toxic to skin cells.

Unfortunately, even products that call themselves all natural, organic, hypoallergenic, noncomedogenic or nonacnegenic, usually aren't. As you see from above, there are lots of organic ingredients in products that look good, but are not good for your skin.

As far as skin care goes, I use green tea and extra virgin olive oil on my skin, and it works wonderfully. I steep the green tea for several minutes, and then squeeze the bag and pour a few tablespoons of the olive oil into the tea. Then I apply it to my face legs, arms or anywhere that needs the moisture. You can store the leftover preparation in a air tight container. It will only last around 36 hours.

As far as cosmetics go, my suggestion would be, for you to go on the internet and research all of the ingredients that are in the cosmetics that you currently have. It is hard to get to the bottom of what is good for you and what is not. However, I can guarantee you that when you do, you'll be alot happier for it and so will your skin.

Learn more about this author, Charlotte L. Smith.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.