Make-up Ambivalence Tidbits by Tiease D. Deutsch

Face it we all love and use make-up and cosmetics

There's a thriving billion dollar cosmetic industry out there and who can relax without using some sort of cosmetic prior to venturing forth into our day.   The first time I saw my sister-in-law's colossal make-up collection I was shocked. She literally had draws of nothing but make-up piled to the top. Who could possible use this much make-up? I wondered but obvious she thirst for make-up will not be satisfied! Well what ever floats one's  boat more power to her(ridiculous). We all use cosmetics to feel, look and smell lovely. From lipstick, to hair gels we are addicted, and because of this fact we should all be aware a some basic safety tips that can keep you safe while making up that pretty face. There are a multitude of brands and trademarks out there & realistically it's alll about trial and error when selecting what is best for you. On-the-other hand there are a few rules you should adhere to when dealing with cosmetics:

• Label are essential always read them. 
• Know exactly how to properly use the product correctly.
• How much of the product are you actually getting for your money and how long should it last.
• Is the product cost-effective?
• Is it manufactured by a reputable company or some fly by night set up.
• Can you purchase wholesale & are fee samples supplied.
• Legally any make-up sold must list all the ingredients used to make the product and you shouldn't have to search high and low for this information it should be clearly labeled on the package. 

 Keppk your make-up closed tight when you're not using it. It's best not to share make-up expecially eye make-up. The human eye is a natural sterile environment and any germs entering this area can cause infection. This is why you should get into the practice of washing your hands prior to applying eye make-up and contact lenses. Never add water or any home made concoctions  to your make-up you can introduce germs into the product and who knows how the ingredients will interact with each other. When in doubt toss it out, throw away  any product which changes color or has a bad odor. Odor is generally a telltale indication of bacteria. We've all visited make-up stands and often been offered a free make over. Many fashionistas enjoy the free samples and testers at these cosmetic counters. Be safe consider just how many people used the same sponge, brush, lipstick prior to use. If you want to try a product take some safety tips: Use new sponges, brushes and/or ask for a free sample that has never been used before. You can carry a few cotton swabs and Q-Tips in your purse stored for convenient use.
Be careful not to keep mascara  longer than 3 months tops. If you already have an eye infection avoid eye make-up altogether and any eye make up you were using prior to your symptoms appearing throw out. It's not worth the risk of reinfecting yourself. You can buy new product, but your eyes are priceless and can not be replaced!
 Never use aerosols near heat and when you can use a pump rather than aerosol sprays which are not eco- friendly and never expose product to excessive heat, never smoke when using hair sprays, alcohol products, finger nail polish remover these are extremely flammable.




 Even with all of these smart tips you may still experience a negative reaction from a product the reasons from this can be varied. The most common problems with cosmetics is an allergic reaction. Allergies can occur when you initially apply a product or after you have used it for a while. Why this happens no one really knows. Some common signs and symptoms of a negative reaction to a product you are using may be:

• Redness/discoloration of skin
• Bleeding
• Itching 
• Swelling/Inflammation
• Rash/Blister and in severe case sore
• Shortness of breath (SOB). SOB is a serious life threatening symptom which may indicate a potential life threatening reaction to a product. 
•  
• You may have heard about someone having a negative reaction to  Alpha Hydroxy Acids(AHAs) Products with AHAs are marketed for a variety of purposes: to smooth fine lines and surface wrinkles, to improve skin texture and tone, to unblock and cleanse pores, to improve oily skin or acne and to improve skin condition in general..  The USA FDA has  been concerned by the potentially irritating effects of AHAs. By the end of 2004 the agency received a total of 114 reports of adverse dermatologic reactions for AHA skin care products between 1992 and February 2004 (with the maximum number in 1994).In response to the potentially harmful effects of AHAs,  FDA's  recent guidance recommends that a "sunburn alert" labeling statement appear "prominently and conspicuously" on the labeling of any products containing (AHAs).

 AHAs comprise a group of organic carboxylic acids, including glycolic, lactic, citric, malic, mandelic and tartaric acids. AHAsAHAs. If you do have a negative reaction contact your health care provider to find out what actions you need to take next. She will probably want to see you and may refer you to a dermatologist(A doctor who specializes in skin ailments). You can also report any negative reactions to your local FDA district office at http://www.fda.gov/ora/fed_state/smallbusiness/sb_guide/regions.htm) or check out your local blue pages/phone book.


Well enough said there's absolutely no way that cosmetics are ever going away they have been around forever and staying power reigns supreme. The best thing is to just use common-sense and follow a fresh of the tips I talked about here and you should be okay.


Until next time fashionistas, Paper Doll lovers and friends.




copyright by Tiease D. Deutsch R.N.& Paper Divas Artist 4/8/2011