Cosmetic Substances

Cosmetic Substances

Cosmetics are substances or products used externally for cleaning, protect or beautify one's appearance.
Various types of materials are used as ingredients in the production of cosmetics so that the desired effect is obtained.
The basic ingredients for cosmetics usually consist of a combination of ingredients such as water, emulsifiers, thickeners, dyes, moisturizers and preservatives.

Cosmetic Basics Ingredients
Dye	Gives colour to make cosmetics more attractive. Example: Iron (III) oxide.
Preservatives	Prevent cosmetic damage. Examples: Parabens and formaldehyde.
Moisturizer	Maintains the moisture of cosmetic ingredients. Examples: Glycerin and sodium lactate.
Fragrances	Gives a pleasant aroma to cosmetic products. Example: Essential oils.
Thickener	Thickens cosmetic products. Examples: Glycerin and xanthan gum.
Emulsifier	Forms a homogeneous mixture between water and oil. Examples: Lecithin and stearic acid.
Water	Solvents in the production of cosmetics.

The production and sale of cosmetics in Malaysia are subjected to the Drugs and Cosmetics Control Regulations 1984 to ensure the safety of all consumers.

Types of Cosmetics
Makeup cosmetics	Used to beautify the face: Powder, lipstick, pencil eyebrows, blush, eye shadow, eyeliner and mascara
Cosmetic care	Treatment on the body: Creams, skin moisturizers and face mask
Fragrances	Fragrances: Deodorants and perfumes.

The Use of Cosmetics in Life

Pros of Homemade Cosmetics

Easily produced using natural ingredients
Safe and no harmful chemicals
Cheap cost

Cons of Commercial Cosmetics

Harmful side effects
There are hazardous chemicals included illegally
Excessively highlighted and misleading advertisement

Side effects of the use of banned chemicals in cosmetics

Prohibited chemicals	Side effects
Mercury	Skin irritation as well as fruit damage waist and nervous system if absorbed into the bloodstream
Hydroquinone	Skin becomes hypersensitive and pigmentation reduction resulting in skin exposure to harmful UV rays
Betamethasone valerate	Skin irritation and changes in skin pigmentation.
Tretinoin	Skin redness and flaking.

Prohibited chemicals	Note
Mercury	It is usually included in whitening creams as well as other cosmetic products illegally.
Hydroquinone
Betamethasone valerate
Tretinoin	Acne cream