Cosmetics: Side effects of excessive makeup

However, for a long time now, researchers have warned that most ingredients used in the production of nearly all cosmetics contain toxic chemicals that are harmful to health. And not only do they cause serious skin-related health problems, but could also lead to the occurrence of such deadly illnesses as cancer and kidney failure.

Shedding light on the negative effects of frequent use of makeup, Dr. Ayesha Akinkugbe, a Consultant Dermatologist and Genito-Urinary Physician at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos said cosmetics definitely come with a price.

She said: “For instance, makeup causes, worsens acne and clogs the pores on the skin due to certain oils contained in many cosmetics, which cause a type of acne, known as acne cosmetic. This occurs, when oils from makeup collect in and clog the pores. Also, chemicals found in some foundations or powders may dry out your skin and make it look flaky, dull, and ashen.

“These cosmetics may also cause cracks and fine wrinkles in the skin, which could cause an infection to develop. Dryness also makes the skin itch. “Some people experience allergic reactions to some common ingredients used in the production of cosmetics, and these come in two forms: irritant contact dermatitis, which is an itching or burning reaction to a product irritating the skin, and allergic contact dermatitis, which is more of an allergy to specific ingredients that results in swelling, itching, or blisters commonly caused by fragrances or preservatives in makeup and other skin care products.”

To avoid these negative reactions, she advised that a mosturiser could be applied about five minutes before the foundation or powder is used. A hydrating foundation or powder will also help.She recommended the use of makeup products that are fragrance and oil-free, as fragrances and oils are typically the most irritating to the skin.

“Preservatives in makeup include parabens, which have been detected in cancer cells,” she explained. “Formaldehyde can also be found in cosmetics, and can irritate the eyes and skin.”On what makes makeup unfriendly, she said: “Several constituents of makeup are unfriendly and some are toxic. It is also important to understand that some cancer-associated chemicals are found in a host of cosmetics like paraben, which have been proven to disturb the function of hormones. They are also linked to the development of breast cancer. So, too much constant make-up is not good for the skin. It doesn’t allow the skin to breathe and can be difficult to take off, thereby causing more pressure to be applied on the skin in the process of removing it.

She, therefore, urged women who can’t do without makeup to take a break to allow the skin heal.“If they do this, then they would need to use hypoallergenic products. It’s better to find natural cosmetics, which contain only organic and pure ingredients. While some organic makeup may cost a bit more, it’s worth it, because there are no associated carcinogenic risks with genuine, natural and organic products,” she said.

Buttressing Akinkugbe’s stance, Dr. Austeen Akaehomen, Medical Director, City of David Hospital, Festac, Lagos, said the use of makeup comes with side effects on the skin, when used continuously.He said: “It is so unfortunate that most of the people who use heavy makeup are not even aware of the consequences that are tied to it, which include infertility. Some of the chemicals used in producing cosmetics even interfere with the hormones. So, cosmetics lovers should be aware that some of these makeups are harmful, though they can make you look good temporarily. But on the long run, they cause adverse effects on the skin gradually, and possibly lead to an early demise.

“Constant use of makeup causes allergies, as sensitive skins react to the constituents of the makeup product, as most of the products are made from different chemicals, leading to itching, burning, face rash and other skin related problems and then headaches. A lot of cosmetics have formaldehyde in them, which when absorbed into the skin, causes headaches when it is used continuously.”

But in her view, Ololade Fanimokun, CEO, Facetalk Makeup and Salon, Ikeja, said makeup has little or no negative side effects. She, however, listed some guiding rules required to ensure that any adverse effect is minimised.

She said: “Makeup should be washed off before going to sleep, to avoid clogging the skin pores. The expiry date of makeup products should also be checked before purchase. Most cosmetics have their expiry date, starting from first use.

“A good cosmetic product will not cause any harm or irritation. It is only the cheap, unknown brands that tend to dispatch products without quality control. So, I advise women to be careful and go for known brands, when buying cosmetics. They should also buy from trusted stores.

“It’s no news that there are fake makeup products made from poor combination of chemicals all over the place. So, proper examination is necessary when purchasing. Also, manufacturer’s instructions should be properly read and understood before any cosmetic is used. With popular brands, there are usually specific instructions for different skin types and possible ailments, when not properly used. With all these precautions, related skin issues arising from use of cosmetics will be minimal.”