SkinFitnessFacts.com News

As reported by the BBC, a study has been completed that concludes some chemical compounds in cosmetics may do harm to an unborn fetus later in life.  The study proves that reproductive problems including testicular cancer are a concern. Perfume is particularly high in chemical compounds and should be avoided during during pregnancy, particularly between eight and twelve weeks of pregnancy.  Learn more by reading the BBC article.

I’ve said it three times, now what? I thought my skin would be transformed to be its glowing, natural self without looking like I was actually wearing make-up.

Mineral make-up seems to be all the talk of almost every make-up line on the market. It sounds natural. It sounds basic. It sounds good. But does anyone really know what mineral make-up is and how it is good for your skin?

Here’s the breakdown.

Mineral make-up is typically a loose powder that contains naturally found minerals like mica, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide. These minerals have natural coloring and sun block qualities, however, other ingredients need to be added to the product to get the right color and texture necessary. This means that just because a product boasts its use of minerals, it does not mean that it is all minerals.

Eye shadow, blush, finishing powder, and even a base can be made using mineral powders. A truly natural mineral make-up will not include any harmful dyes, chemicals, or harmful preservatives so be sure to read the label to know what you’re really getting. With a high percentage of natural, ground up minerals, many claim that this make-up has calming affects making it beneficial for acne and rosacea prone skin.

Having said all of this, though, it is important that you care for your skin just as you would if using any other make up. Always use a sunblock beneath your make-up and always wash your face with the appropriate cleanser in the morning and at night.

I have found that mineral make-up is not a miracle worker, but I do like its shimmer, easy application, and its long-lasting life on my face. I think its still pretty obvious that I have make-up on, but I’m not complaining. I do like the glow.

Recently the Executive Vice President of the Science Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association issued a statement against lead in cosmetics such as lipstick.

“Despite continuous allegations over the years, lead is not intentionally added to cosmetics. Lead is a naturally occurring element that is found everywhere in the environment. Consumers are exposed daily to lead when they eat, drink water and breathe the air. The average amount of lead a woman would be exposed to when using cosmetics is 1,000 times less than the amount she would get from eating, breathing, and drinking water that meets Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) drinking water standards.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has also addressed the issue of safe cosmetics and posted these tips on their Web site, www.fda.gov/womens/getthefacts/cosmetics.html.

* Follow directions on the label carefully, including all “Cautions” and “Warnings.”
* Keep makeup closed tight when not in use.
* Wash your hands before you put on makeup.
* Do not put on makeup while you are driving.
* Do not share makeup with anyone else.
* Do not add liquid to makeup.
* Stop using a product if you get a rash or other problem where you are using it.
* Throw away makeup if the color changes.
* Throw away makeup if it gets an odor.
* Be extra careful not to keep mascara too long. Some companies say three months is long enough.
* Do not use eye makeup if you have an eye infection. Throw away eye makeup you were using when you got the infection.
* Keep makeup out of the sun.
* Do not use spray cans while you are smoking or near a source of heat. It could also cause a fire.

If you have a problem or complaint with a cosmetic that you have purchased, contact the FDA.