Things You Should Be Aware Of before buying Cosmetics Product

Before you buy a cosmetics product, there are a few things you should know.

Have you ever spent money on commercial lotions or soaps that promised to include natural components or another form of moisturizer only to discover that it was a waste of money? If you replied yes to this question, you're not alone. Natural ingredients such as aloe vera and, more recently, Shea butter are listed on the labels of commercial cosmetics to satisfy consumers' desire for natural products. You may even pay extra for natural ingredients, but are you getting your money's worth?

Keep the following in mind when purchasing products with particular claims on the label:

1) The Fair Packaging and Labeling Act requires that components be listed in decreasing order of quantity. This indicates that the most important ingredient should be included first; for example, if you're looking for Shea butter, it should be near the top of the ingredient list.

2) Natural ingredients are those that are derived from plants or animals rather than synthetically produced. Despite the fact that there is no scientific evidence that natural chemicals are better for the skin, I can detect the difference between using all natural bath oil and mineral oil (a synthetic generated from petroleum) in the past.

3) On cosmetic packaging, the phrase "hypoallergenic" means that the product is unlikely to induce an allergic reaction. If you encounter terms like "dermatologist-tested," "nonirritating," and other comments that imply the product has been evaluated, it doesn't mean you won't have an allergic reaction.

4) Alpha hydroxyl acids (AHA) and beta hydroxyl acids (BHA) are chemicals used in treatments that claim to diminish wrinkles and fine lines (BHA). Always proceed with caution when using these components and test a tiny area first to see if a response arises. When taking AHA, it's also a good idea to stay out of the sun and wear sunscreen.

5) Soap is a synthetic detergent bar regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), and it is exempt from FDA regulations unless it purports to provide a function other than cleansing. If the soap is branded as a deodorant, it is classified as a cosmetic and must follow FDA regulations. It must be classed as a drug, carry the required drug labeling, and meet FDA safety and effectiveness standards if it claims to eradicate dandruff or make another medical claim. I've been using homemade soaps for a while and haven't experienced the skin dryness that commercial soaps have caused. This is because handmade soaps include natural glycerin, a humectant that attracts moisture to your skin, whereas commercial soaps do not.

Natural ingredients account for a bigger share of handmade bath and body products. Whether you buy commercial or “natural” items, I encourage you to shop around because not all products are created equal. Know what to look for in terms of ingredients and how they are listed to determine if you are getting your money's worth. Consider how the product makes your skin feel: does it leave it dry or smooth and moisturized?

This isn't intended to be an attack on commercial products; rather, it's intended to help you make an informed decision about what you're buying.