Secrets The Beauty Industry Does not Want You to Know

Did you know that the global cosmetic market was valued at $532 billion in 2017? And there is no sign of slowing down in fact, it is estimated to reach a global market value of $805 billion by 2023. Beauty companies strive hard to market their products in order to appeal to consumers; they rely on consumers to purchase their products in order to keep the industry alive. More often than not, cosmetic companies highly exaggerate the price and effectiveness of their products but do they really have your best interest at heart? Below are a couple of secrets that the beauty industry doesn’t want you to know.

1. 1. Most Cosmetic products contain traces of formaldehyde: It is estimated that one in five cosmetic products contains traces of formaldehyde, a well-known human carcinogen. As much as the beauty industry is aware of this, formaldehyde still continues to be used as a major ingredient in many cosmetic products including nail polish. Thankfully you always have options as there are an array of beauty products on the market that don’t contain this or other harmful ingredients. It’s important to be a conscious consumer!
   2. Cellulite creams don’t work: I am pretty sure you have seen tones of cellulite creams being sold in stores that promise to get rid of the dimpled appearance on your skin in a matter of weeks. I hate to be the bearer of bad news but as much as these cosmetic companies try to convince us that cellulite creams work, the truth is that they don’t! Nearly 90% of women have cellulite and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. If these products actually worked wouldn’t that percentage be much lower?

There are alternative ways to get rid of cellulite such as exercising to build muscle e.g. through resistance training, dry brushing etc. here is an article on everything you need to know about cellulite.

1. • You can D.I.Y many beauty products: If you are big on DIYs I am sure you might have discovered that many of the beauty products found in your bathroom cabinet can actually be created at home. Literally anything from face scrubs to moisturizers and toners. Apple Cider Vinegar is a popular one that can be used as a toner while the sugar and honey scrub can take the place of your conventional face wash/scrub. Some of these DIYs have actually proven to be more effective than store-bought skincare products.

The beauty industry often releases reports on why most of these DIYs household items may be harmful to your skin but my philosophy is if it’s good enough to eat…it should be good enough for your skin.

1. • The terms ‘non-Comedogenic’ and ‘hypoallergenic’ are just marketing words: - No matter where you shop for makeup or skincare products you can be guaranteed to find at least one of this claims on any product. For the most part, the above claims are just for marketing purposes. There are no testing guidelines or requirement governing their use. A general rule of thumb to keep in mind for Comedogenic products is: the thicker the product, the more likely it is to be pore-clogging.

Instead of being on the lookout for ‘hypoallergenic’ products for those with sensitive skin, find out what exactly irritates your skin and avoid that ingredient when buying your beauty products. Stay away from skin sensitizing ingredients such as fragranced skin products, alcohol-based products and anything that contains sodium lauryl sulfate.

1. • Lead may be lurking in your lipstick: - Lipstick is one of the most essential product for any woman. Recent research has shown that some brand use lead in lipstick. Lead is not actually added to the lipstick as an ingredient but instead, it finds its way into the lipsticks through the cosmetic pigments used to give the lipstick its color. Lead poisoning can have serious health implications.

A study done by University of California researchers also found nine other toxic metals including aluminum and chromium while testing both lipstick and lip-glosses.

PS: This article is not meant to scare you away from makeup and beauty products but it’s important to be a conscious consumer and always check the ingredient list before deciding to purchase any beauty product.