Skin Diseases and Cosmetology: Causes, Effects, Diagnosis, and Precautions

Introduction:

The use of cosmetics can be stated as a double-edged sword. This is because the purpose of using cosmetics is to enable the skin to function correctly and to support its homeostasis to maintain beautiful, healthy, and glowing skin. However, on the other side, some of the ingredients in these cosmetics are found to be detrimental to the skin and may lead to skin diseases.

What Are the Allergens That Cause Skin Problems?

The common allergens found in cosmetics are,

• Fragrances: It contains different ingredients, such as benzyl alcohol, eugenol, benzyl salicylate, tree moss extract, and oak.

• Preservatives: Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing agents.

• Dyes or Chemicals: Para-phenylenediamine and coal tar.

• Metals: Nickel and gold.

• Natural Rubber: Latex.

What Are the Skin Diseases Caused by Cosmetics?

The skin diseases caused by cosmetics can range from simple rashes to full-blown allergies. The symptoms may also start immediately after use or after months or years of using the product.

Some of the common skin diseases are,

1. Irritant Contact Dermatitis:

It is the most common skin disorder that occurs due to contact with cosmetics which causes changes to your skin. It is characterized by rashes, burning, swelling, redness, and facial itching. The cosmetics that often lead to irritant contact dermatitis are,

• Facial Cleansers: The surfactant used to clean the skin irritates.

• Toners And Astringents: Alcohols or acids present in it can lead to skin problems.

• Facial Treatments: Applying any chemicals can lead to exfoliation of the skin's superficial layer, causing irritation and severe inflammation. This occurs commonly in individuals with sensitive skin.

The best way to treat it is to stop using these products. Then consult a dermatologist who recommends you use a bland facial cleanser and corticosteroid cream. They will advise you on the appropriate cosmetics to use.

2. Allergic Contact Dermatitis:

• This is due to the ingredients present in the products that cause allergic reactions.

• This disorder affects the immune system.

• It can be due to repeated exposure to rubber gloves, fragrances, preservatives, and hair dyes.

• Common causes include substances like paraben, phenoxyethanol, and formaldehyde.

• It can cause itchiness, redness, swelling, and blistering on the affected skin. It is most commonly seen on the face, lips, ears, eyes, and neck.

• Once these symptoms are noticed, it is better not to use the product further and consult a dermatologist who will take a patch test, identify the substance you are allergic to, and provide you with alternative cosmetics. Oral antihistamines are best used to reduce intense itching.

3. Pigmented Contact Dermatitis:

• This type of contact dermatitis is characterized by reticulate gray or brown pigmentations associated with redness and swelling.

• This is commonly seen on the face due to contact with preservatives, hair dyes, lipsticks, and fragrances.

4. Cosmetics-Induced Acne:

Some cosmetics like face foundation and moisturizers left on the skin for an extended period can lead to the formation of blackheads, whiteheads, and acne. It occurs primarily if the individual uses oil-based products. It is better to avoid these products and use creams or gels that subside acne and take oral medications if the problem is severe.

5. Cosmetic Dermatitis in Men:

• This occurs in men if they are allergic to hair dyes.

• They can become allergic after repeated use.

• It is due to Para-phenylenediamine(PPD) in the permanent hair dyes.

• It may affect the face, neck, and ear region.

• The solution will use substitutes such as henna leaves, tea extract, and vegetable dyes.

6. Photoallergic Dermatitis:

• It is a condition where sunlight acts as an activator of the allergen.

• The sunscreen contains some chemicals that may be allergic to your skin and that get activated by sunlight.

• Sunscreens are also incorporated in lipsticks and face foundations.

• It causes irritation, rashes, and redness.

• It is better to consult a dermatologist for an alternative sunscreen.

7. Occupational Dermatoses:

• It is a dermatological condition due to occupational exposure to allergic ingredients.

• Beauticians are the group of individuals who are susceptible to this condition. Unfortunately, they are forced to be exposed to preservatives, hair dyes, fragrances, formaldehyde, acetone, para-phenylenediamine(PPD), etc.

• They are also subjected to mechanical injuries caused due to contact with tools, scissors, and razors, which may lead to bacterial skin infections.

• They also have chances of getting irritant contact dermatitis as they are repeatedly in a wet environment, soaps, shampoos, and gloves.

8. Contact Urticaria:

• It is characterized by rapid onset of itching wheals on contact with an allergen or irritant.

• It is caused by exposure to latex gloves and hair bleach.

• It is recommended to use gloves of any other materials and use mild dyes.

How Can We Diagnose Skin Diseases?

• Taking the patient’s complete medical history and any previous episode of the allergic condition.

• Physical examination of the skin problem.

• Occupational assessment to identify the cause.

• Patch test helps to identify the substance the individual is allergic to.

How to Use Cosmetics Safely?

General Precautions:

• Understand the label in the cosmetic product by reading it entirely, including the list of ingredients, warnings, tips on how to use it, etc.

• Check for the expiry date of the product before you start using it.

• Do not assume that the product does not contain allergens if mentioned on the label as hypoallergenic.

• Throw away the product if there are changes in color and smell.

• Conduct a patch test by yourself before using the product.

• Wash hands before using the product, and better to wear non-latex gloves.

• Do not share your makeup items.

• Use products such as sprays in a well-ventilated area.

Precautions to be taken by beauticians:

• Use gloves while handling cosmetic products. If you are allergic to latex, use non-latex gloves.

• Wash hands correctly with alcohol-based sanitizers.

• Proper donning and disposal are essential.

• Use moisturizers.

• Seek medical help if any signs appear.

Conclusion:

We use cosmetics to enhance our beauty and increase our self-confidence, but they cause unsightly skin conditions at certain times. This may sound regretful. But instead of regretting, understanding our skin type, knowing the ingredients in our beauty products, and experimenting with which best suits us can take us a long way in this cosmetic world without any harm. So choose your products carefully and wisely before using them.