Dangers of using cosmetics daily

40% of people in India suffer from allergic reactions

Cosmetics and perfumes may make you feel youthful and fresh, but those benefits come at a cost. Studies claim that the prolonged usage of cosmetics can not only cause irreparable damage to the skin but also lead to the development of chronic illnesses such as cancer and asthma.

The spectrum of products that can have this effect include deodorants, talcum powders, lipsticks and skin creams.

Dr T.P.S. Bhandari, an oncologist, says, “40 per cent of the people in our country suffer from allergic reactions, and yet we continue to use cosmetics to a large extent. It is a little-known fact that fragrances can cause asthmatic problems as well as skin eruptions. We can never tell what components are used to add fragrance to our creams, deodorants and other products.”

Medical experts say that the aerosols in deodorants pose a health hazard. Researchers are looking into the cell damage caused by them.

“Aerosols sprayed directly on the skin cause damage to the cellular molecules, which in turn damage the DNA,” said Dr Bhandari.

Dermatologists say that the keratin used in skin creams as anti-ageing molecules can cause severe allergic reactions.

“Sometimes cosmetics cause rashes, but these are treatable. They often disappear when the patient stops using the cream. However, some creams cause permanent pigmentation, said Dr Gavvala Manmohan, a dermatologist.