Nowadays, artificial substances are added to cosmetics more often that they used to, they tend to replace the natural ingredients. Unfortunately, this change is not always good for us. Obviously, it has to be stated that thanks to chemical additives the products are expected to be more effective and preserve their properties for longer. In other words, expiration date depends on the amount of additives included into composition. On the other hand, application of artificial substances may lead to development of skin irritations. For that reason, let us check whether parabens, silicones and paraffin, which are so frequently used in cosmetic production, can really cause allergic reactions.
Parabens – Carcinogenic Ingredients?
In short, parabens are preservatives. It has been long known that they are not carcinogenic. However, there is something that does not let us trust them fully. But here comes the good news, we do not have to be bothered by these substances when they are present in a cosmetic yet at low concentration. Mind you, if you use only one product containing parabens, then you will not exceed the safety norm. If you use a few products that include parabens in their composition, then it is highly possible that the norm is exceeded several times. For that reason, it is important to develop a habit of checking the composition of cosmetics and, as far as it is possible, use the products that contain natural substances.
Paraffin – A Classic Clogger
Paraffin is an oily substance, a crude oil derivative. Other names of this ingredient are Mineral Oil, Paraffin Oil, Paraffinum Liquidum. In brief, paraffin does not contain any nourishing substances, all it produces are effects that are pleasant for the eye. What does it mean? For example, if applied on hair, paraffin makes it smooth and glossy. Moreover, it prevents hair ends from spiting and becoming damaged. It is worth noticing, paraffin is hard to be rinsed from both hair and scalp, and to make matters even worse, this substance may clog hair and scalp pores (ideal environment for acne!).
Silicones – How Many Are There of Them?
Silicones are oily substances, the aim of which is to smooth and protect hair from damages. These can be divided into the following categories: the ones that are able to evaporate from hair, being washed away from hair thanks to a conditioner, water-soluble, non-water-soluble, washed away with a shampoo or with SLS. And how do silicones work? In general, they gift hair with shine and protect all strands from drying-out. However, it is suggested to resign from overusing silicones and do not risk of making hair damaged.
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