How to avoid side effects in cosmetics?
Cosmetics have been an essential aspect of a woman’s life for thousands of years, not only for bridal events but also for everyday use. Women rely on many cosmetic items such as kajal, lipsticks, fairness creams, hair oils, and shampoos as a form of self-care. The beauty industry is massive in India, and it will only continue to grow as time goes on. Companies leave no stone unturned in addressing every cosmetic-related concern, offering glossy products endorsed by celebrities to build trust. Naturally, people are more likely to buy them if someone famous recommends them, and yes, they may even seem effective based on well-known words and reviews from friends or acquaintances. But does that mean they are entirely harmless? No. Many products can, in fact, harm you because they contain harmful chemicals. These chemicals may cause side effects in cosmetics that lead to long-term damage to your skin. Knowing how to avoid cosmetics with harmful chemicals is extremely important—not only to look your best but also to protect your health beyond beauty. Why Should You Be Chemical Free? Most of us have the mentality that “it happened to that person, it can’t happen to me.” We tend to immortalize ourselves, and this mindset can lead to drastic consequences. In a hot climate with high levels of pollution, our skin and hair are already under constant stress. Using harmful chemicals is like adding fuel to the fire—they don’t help and can actually worsen existing damage. Regular use of such chemical-laden products can lead to irritation, pigmentation, premature aging, and even hormone-related issues. Since we live in a developing country, many brands often skirt safety regulations. This is especially true for cheaper local brands that sometimes use banned or unsafe ingredients. This is precisely why you need to be aware and cautious about side effects in cosmetics! Harmful Ingredients Common in Indian Cosmetics Parabens – Preservatives commonly used in skin creams, moisturizers, and lipsticks. They extend shelf life but can disrupt hormones. Avoid names like methylparaben or propylparaben. Phthalates – Found in perfumes, deodorants, and body sprays. They have been linked to reproductive health issues. Sulfates (SLS and SLES) – Common in shampoos, face washes, and even toothpastes to create foam. They strip away natural oils, leaving hair and skin dry. Triclosan – Present in some antibacterial soaps, toothpastes, and deodorants. It may interfere with thyroid function and contribute to antibiotic resistance. Hydroquinone & Mercury – Used in fairness creams and skin-lightening products, despite being banned in several countries. They can damage skin and contribute to kidney damage, neurological problems, memory loss, tremors, and more. Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives – Often found in cheap nail polishes or hair products. They can cause allergies and cancer with prolonged use. Heavy Metals – Detected in products like kajal and lipsticks in India. Unsafe cosmetics may contain arsenic, mercury, and lead, causing skin irritation, allergies, organ damage, neurological problems, and increased cancer risk. How to Avoid These Chemicals? 1. Read the labels in detail. Flip the pack and carefully read the ingredient list. Research unfamiliar names online. 2. Be cautious with skin-lightening products. These are popular in India, especially in the South. We are based in Vijayawada and receive many queries from customers looking for skin lightening. If you get in touch with us, we can help you with makeup and recommend chemical-free products. 3. Ayurvedic branding is attractive, but not always genuine. Look for AYUSH approval to ensure authenticity. 4. When buying perfumes and deodorants, opt for those made with natural essential oils such as rose, lavender, or sandalwood. 5. Buy from companies that promote toxin-free, cruelty-free brands. Examples include Forest Essentials, Kama Ayurveda, Plum, Juicy Chemistry, and Mamaearth. 6. Stay updated with official sources. India’s Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) regularly publishes updates on banned substances in cosmetics. International tools like EWG’s Skin Deep or apps like Think Dirty can also help check product safety. Conclusion India’s beauty and personal care market is booming, but not all that glitters is gold—or safe. With so many products available, it’s easy to fall for marketing gimmicks without realizing the hidden chemicals inside. By reading labels, avoiding fairness creams with harsh bleaches, choosing certified Ayurvedic or organic brands, and embracing traditional home remedies, you can protect your skin from unnecessary harm. When you are choosing a bridal makeup artist in Vijayawada, MakeUrDay is the best choice. We use products that are safe from the usual side effects in cosmetics. Contact us to get the perfect look—safe and beautiful!