Here is The List of Harmful Ingredients in Cosmetics!
ccording to the Head of the National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM) Regulation No. 23 of 2019, cosmetics are defined as substances or preparations intended for use on the external parts of the human body, such as the epidermis, hair, nails, lips, external genitalia, as well as teeth and oral mucous membranes, primarily for cleaning, perfuming, changing appearance, and/or improving body odor or protecting or maintaining the body in good condition.
Cosmetic products are available in several forms, including solid (soaps, stick deodorants), powder (loose or compact powders), semi-solid (pomades), cream (night creams, moisturizers), gel (hair gels), paste (toothpaste), liquid (body fragrances), suspension (scrubs), and aerosol (hairspray). For classification and product evaluation purposes, cosmetics are divided into two categories: Category I cosmetics include those used for babies, those used around the eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes, those containing ingredients with specific concentration and labeling requirements, and those containing unusual ingredients with unknown safety and efficacy; Category II cosmetics include all other cosmetics not classified as Category I.
Ingredients used in cosmetics must be safe, beneficial, and of high quality. The presence of hazardous compounds can damage the skin, causing itching, irritation, burning sensations, and more severe skin conditions. Here is a list of several substances whose usage is restricted to below certain levels:
- Formaldehyde
- Phthalates
- Polyethylene glycol
- Siloxanes
- Triclosan
- Ethanolamines
- Oxybenzone
- Homosalate
- Toluene
- Oxinosate
- Talc
- Parabens
- Hydroquinone
- Mercury
- Carbon black
- Resorcinol
According to the Indonesian Pharmacists Association, in 2016 nearly 50% of skin diseases were caused by cosmetic products. This is due to the lack of information and education regarding safe and appropriate cosmetics. In addition to hazardous ingredients, there are also cases where the skin reacts with heat and irritation due to allergies to certain components. Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) occurs due to cosmetics and accounts for 2-4% of all contact dermatitis cases reported at clinics. The chemicals in cosmetics can initiate the skin sensitization process. Irritant reactions to cosmetics usually occur in patients with a history of sensitive skin or atopy. Products most commonly causing ACD include skincare products, moisturizers, makeup, and hair care products.
In this study, the most frequent causes of contact dermatitis due to cosmetics were morning creams/sunblocks, affecting 101 patients, and night creams, affecting 95 patients, followed by powders and facial soaps. The most common skin problems include erythematous macules, papules, and scales. The most frequently experienced symptoms are itching and a burning sensation on the skin. Other reactions include post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
The primary treatment for contact dermatitis caused by cosmetics is discontinuation of the offending product, followed by supportive therapy tailored to the clinical symptoms. Supportive therapy may include oral antihistamines, topical steroids, or oral steroids, and, if a secondary infection is present, oral antibiotics should be administered. Common at-home remedies include using soothing gels or creams and applying cold compresses. In severe cases of skin damage, laser therapy may be recommended.
Preventive measures for skin diseases caused by cosmetics include understanding your skin type, conducting allergy tests before using new products, choosing natural and water-based ingredients, and thoroughly cleansing the skin after using cosmetics.
Before your cosmetic products are distributed, there are many testing procedures that need to be carried out. Testing must be conducted in a reliable laboratory. IML Testing and Research has been accredited with ISO 9100 and ISO/IEC 17025. Test your cosmetics soon at a laboratory that meets the highest standards in Indonesia!
Reference:
Rubianti, Marissa Astari dan Cita Rosita Sigit Prakoeswa. 2019. Profil Pasien Dermatitis Kontak Alergi Akibat Kosmetik. Artikel Berkala Ilmu Kesehatan Kulit dan Kelamin. Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya.
Prafitasari, Dwi Nurwulan. Efek Samping Kosmetik dan Penanganannya
