Possible health implications associated with cosmetics: A review

Date

2015

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Science Publishing Group

Abstract

Cosmetics are products applied to the body or face to improve appearance. They cleanse, beautify, promote attractiveness and alter the appearance of the body. The concept of beauty and cosmetics is as old as mankind and civilization. Assorted beauty products such as skincare products, hair products, fragrances, oral hygiene, and nail products, which may contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful to health are used especially by women. Most cosmetic products contain hazardous chemicals like Sodium Laureth Sulphate, Talcum, Parabens, Coal tar dye, Phthalates, Fragrance, Mineral oil, Triethanolamine and some heavy metals eg, Lead, Arsenic, Nickel, Cadmium, and Mercury. The bioaccumulation of these harmful chemicals and metals in the body over time has been associated with cancer, reproductive and developmental disorders, contact dermatitis, hair loss, lung damage, ageing, skin disease and reaction, allergies, and damage of nails. The deleterious chemicals and metals can enter into the body by inhalation of perfumes, deodorant, nail polish, scented powder, etc; by absorption through penetration of harmful chemicals from body creams, moisturizers, cleanser, eye shadow, etc. It can also be by ingestion of chemicals and metals in lip sticks, lip balm, lip gloss, etc. through the mouth.

Description

The article is a special issue on who is afraid of microbes

Keywords

Health, implications, hazards, cosmetics, chemicals, metals, Department of Biotechnology

Citation

Okereke, J. N., Udebuani, A. C., Ezeji, E. U., Obasi, K. O. & Nnoli, M. C. (2015). Possible health implications associated with cosmetics: A review. Science Journal of Public Health, 3(5-1), 58-63