When you beat your face to the gods your goal is obviously to improve your appearance – in the least, enhance your natural beauty.
READ: Alicia Keys Embraces #NoMakeup: "I Hope To God It's A Revolution"
But how is that seemingly harmless, perfect beat really affecting your skin? Although in most cases, makeup doesn't create many negative side effects -- other than the early-morning frustration of applying a flawless look in 5 minutes. Using cheap brands – chock full of harmful synthetic chemicals (zinc oxide, BHA, barium sulphate) -- could easily cause unsightly, long-lasting skin conditions.
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These reactions come in two forms: irritant contact dermatitis, an itching or burning reaction to a product irritating the skin and allergic contact dermatitis, a "true" allergy specific to ingredients that result in swelling, itching, or blisters, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Both types are most commonly caused by fragrances or preservatives found in cheap makeup and other skin care products.
Sure, slashed price tags may be enticing in comparison to brands like MAC, Nars, Too Faced and Bobbi Brown. But, when using these widely available products, created with a long line of ingredients you can’t pronounce, you run the risk of facing a variety of long-term issues: severe acne, scarring from irritation and even burns. In other words, you’ll likely break the bank at the dermatologist, trying to reverse these reactions.
READ: Your Lipstick Could Be FATAL!
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Other adverse reactions include:
- Bacterial infections
- Dry and dull skin
- Rashes
- Break down elasticity and natural collagen, resulting in saggy skin
- Age spots
- Dehydrated skin
- Wrinkles
- Can inhibit your skin from breathing, forcing it to harbor bacteria
- Lead ingestion by way of cheap lipstick, can cause brain damage and behavior abnormalities
- Chemical, toxic and infective conjunctivitis, uveitis, glaucoma, dry eye and conjunctival discoloration is also linked to using cheap eyeliner on the inside of your lids
- Organ failure of kidney and liver
- Aging
To help avoid these reactions, look for makeup products that are fragrance- and oil-free; these ingredients are typically the most irritating to the skin.
Also, look for makeup labeled hypoallergenic, noncomedogenic, and nonacnegenic. Physicians Formula, Clinique and even Neutrogena, which can be purchased at your local drug store, have some great alternatives at a price tag you can live with. These products won’t cause allergic reactions, acne or clog your pores.
In saying that, should you find yourself developing any kind of reaction after beginning a new beauty routine, it's probably a good idea to stop using that particular product ASAP!
