Health implication of cosmetics

1.1 Background of Study

A "cosmetic" is any substance used to clean, improve or change the complexion, skin, hair, nails or teeth. Cosmetics include beauty preparations (make-up, perfume, skin cream, nail polish) and grooming aids (soap, shampoo, shaving cream, deodorant) (Gama et al., 2017). Cosmetics have become part of human routine since history. Their use has increased significantly in recent years however the continuous use of cosmetics over prolonged time may result into various undesirable effects, which may be serious at times. 

Cosmetics include the skin care and other decorative products (like lipstick, compact etc, eye cosmetics, nail cosmetics etc.) and toiletries (like soap, shampoo, bath-foam, and toothpaste) which are used by nearly everyone (Biatry, 2002). These products may cause side effects in some consumers. Serious adverse reactions from cosmetics will not cause regularly but mild and unwanted effects are experienced by over 10% of the population (Blosl et al., 2017). Cosmetics products are containing many chemicals which may be harmful to the some population may cause contact dermatitis photo allergic reactions and long term use of the cosmetics may also leads to carcinogenicity and some systemic disease (Chilcott et al., 2002). Use of cosmetics should be limited and people should be aware about the composition and use of cosmetics to reduce the risk.  

Cosmetics are used to enhance the appearance or odour of the human body. Today, cosmetic industry is a 20 billion dollar global industry. Over 10,000 ingredients are used in personal care products (Cotovio et al., 2001). Some of these chemicals are linked to cancer, birth defects, developmental and reproductive harm, and other health problems that are on the rise (Dario et al., 2015). For instance, the US FDA bans 9 ingredients from cosmetics while the EU has banned over 1,000 ingredients due to health concerns. Toxic ingredients and hazardous chemicals are being used beyond acceptable limits. Carcinogenic ingredients in bubble baths, heavy metals in lipsticks, paraben in sunscreens, and phthalates in perfumes and coal tar in shampoos are few of the truths of cosmetics (Du*che et al., 2004). Cosmetics have not only seeped into the fashion world but are also Cosmetics are substances or products used to enhance or alter the appearance of the face or fragrance and texture of the body (Du*che et al., 2004). Many cosmetics are designed for use of applying to the face and body. Some products that seem to be cosmetics may be classified differently and managed by different programs of difference countries.

 Cosmetic is one of the top important needs for most women. The reasons to use cosmetic are divers, but also essentially often to look attractive. The using of cosmetics is a way to support women appearance. Cosmetics is not just a make-up, product that called body care is also used by women to treat their body. Cosmetics industry continues to strive to satisfy of consumers with range innovative cosmetics products to meet the demands and needs. Those demands and needs are different will trigger the industry to create the best product with many variant that can fulfill the marker demand. The difference of demographics will make the industry trying harder to fulfill the demand with a special specification. 

A personal care product can be defined as a substance or mixture of substances which is generally recognized by the public for use in daily cleansing or grooming. Depending on the ingredients and the claims of a product, a personal care product can be regulated as a cosmetic or a drug. 

A beauty product or grooming aid is usually a cosmetic, but is legally classified as a drug if it makes any claims to modify body functions, or to prevent or treat disease. A product that is authorized as a drug has a DIN (Drug Identification Number) or an NPN (Natural Product Number) on its label. If you are unsure whether a product you are using is a cosmetic or a drug, you can consult the Drug Product Database or the Licensed Natural Health Products Database to determine if your product is currently authorized as a drug or natural health product.

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