If you struggle with skin diseases or allergies, or if you have sensitive epidermis, no doubt you know them. Also, if you have ever searched for cosmetics for babies, no doubt you have come across them.
What we mean by “them” is hypoallergenic cosmetics — multipurpose silent heroes. These universal cosmetics should be found in every home. What should you know about hypoallergenic cosmetics? Let’s find out together!
Hypoallergenic cosmetics — what does it mean?
The term “hypoallergenic” refers to cosmetics, plants, animals, and everyday objects. However, in this article, we are going to focus on hypoallergenic cosmetics. No official definition governs the use of the “hypoallergenic” term. It means “whatever a particular company wants it to mean”. Many people think hypoallergenic’s only meaning is “not causing allergies”. Well, that’s a big simplification and not exactly what we should understand by this term.
Products that have a low risk of causing allergies
The term “hypo” comes from the Greek language, meaning “less than normal”. As we can guess, this refers to the fact that hypoallergenic cosmetics have fewer allergenic properties — they don’t contain substances that could cause an allergic reaction — and are thus less sensitizing than non-hypoallergenic ones. This is a feature that distinguishes hypoallergenic cosmetics from their non-hypoallergenic counterparts.
Are there any 100% safe substances?
We can’t be 100% sure that those cosmetics won’t cause allergies, but the probability of the occurrence of allergic reactions is really low. We can’t be completely certain because a tendency to allergies is an individual feature. The fact that some substance doesn’t affect one person doesn’t mean that the same substance will be 100% safe for you.
How do hypoallergenic cosmetics work?
The list of allergens you can find in non-hypoallergenic cosmetics is very long. However, the most popular allergens are definitely alcohol (especially ethyl alcohol), dyes, petrolatum, preservatives, paraffin, salicylic acid, and synthetic fragrance ingredients. In hypoallergenic cosmetics, you won’t find unnecessary preservatives that aren’t essential to preserve the durability of the cosmetic. There are no preservatives that cause sunburns and eye damage. Hypoallergenic cosmetics do not contain substances that have a damaging and irritating effect on the skin.
Hypoallergenic products work wonders for sensitive skin owners
Minimizing the probability of the occurrence of allergies is one thing. The second thing is protecting and supporting the skin, especially the protective layer of the skin. This is possible thanks to the substances that soothe irritations and prevent new ones from arising. These substances strengthen a protective barrier of the skin. They also support the reconstruction of the natural lipid barrier of the epidermis.
Who should use hypoallergenic cosmetics?
This type of cosmetics is recommended for people with sensitive skin, which is easily irritable by nature (and requires special care). Skin that doesn’t react well to different cosmetics will really enjoy the ones that are hypoallergenic. Atopic skin will like them too. They are dedicated to people suffering from allergies to substances frequently occurring in “typical” random cosmetics.
The best products for allergic people and for little babies
Responsible parents search for the best hypoallergenic products for their little children… and they’re right! It is important to take care of the skin from the first days of the child’s life. Such skin is extremely delicate and prone to irritation and allergies. Choosing hypoallergenic products (body lotions, fragrance-free wipes etc.) for babies is a great decision. They cause a decrease in the occurrence of sensitization and provide the skin with proper care.
Hypoallergenic products — multipurpose products for everyone
We can’t fail to mention that these cosmetics are good for everyone! Each person can benefit from these cosmetics. They are thoroughly tested by professionals. They have anti-inflammatory and soothing substances which never harm anyone. Quite the contrary — these substances are very much needed, especially for problematic skin.
What do hypoallergenic products protect you from?
Hypoallergenic makeup products always have a clear composition. That’s why there is a small probability that you experience symptoms such as urticaria, breathlessness, itching, watery eyes, swelling, or eczema. The allergenic potential of substances such products contains are as low as possible.
We have to keep in mind that the more natural ingredients in the product, the more likely it is that the product will cause an allergy. Pollen is one example of such an ingredient. There’s a risk of cutaneous reactions, shortness of breath, and itching.
Unfortunately, people with allergies shouldn’t use propolis and bee pollen. No doubt they can have a positive effect on the body in a lot of ways, but when it comes to the risk of allergies — it’s better to avoid these substances. However, it’s still safe to use ingredients such as jojoba oil, virgin coconut oil, or green tea, as they help to calm and hydrate skin.
Unperfumed cosmetics — why are they so good for people with allergies?
In many cosmetics, we can find artificially synthesized essential oils which contain terpenes. They are not harmful to health on their own. However, they are high on the list of potential allergens. If you’re prone to allergies, there’s a risk that artificial fragrance will cause allergy or irritation.
Unperfumed products eliminate the problem of headaches and migraines
Also, hypoallergenic unperfumed cosmetics will be a godsend for people who have an acute sense of smell and those who struggle with the problem of chronic migraines. That’s because cosmetics manufacturers want to encourage customers to go for more and more intense fragrances, forgetting that for some people, it’s way too much.
The risk of clogged skin is also eliminated
The popularity of fragrance free cosmetics is constantly growing. It’s not surprising. Without unnecessary components like fragrant oils, the risk of clogged skin is reduced. We no longer associate cosmetics with something “artificial”. Gentle cosmetics which are harmless to the skin and health are having a moment now. We truly believe that it would be more than just a brief moment…
Which cosmetics can be classed as hypoallergenic?
Many cosmetics on the cosmetics market can be classified as hypoallergenic. Take, for example, a facial cleansing foam. This is a really popular product now. The cleansing foam is often recommended for people with skin problems and allergies. It has a gentle formulation. It will work great in the case of disturbed hydrolipidic barriers.
Cleansing foams, emollient face creams
The hypoallergenic emollient face cream is another product worthy of recommendation. It would be perfect for both day and night. It improves hydration by protecting your epidermis against water loss. Also, it doesn’t cause skin allergies and soothes irritated skin. It can be worn over serum.
Body lotions
Body lotions that are hypoallergenic are great for people with atopic dermatitis, eczema or psoriasis. If you’re dealing with the skin’s dehydration or cracking of the skin — a hypoallergenic body lotion will help you. Dry and irritated hand skin? With the right cosmetics, it will no longer be a problem.
The best hypoallergenic makeup products
When it comes to hypoallergenic beauty products, they are free of dyes based on heavy metals such as nickel, silver, and zinc. Fortunately, nowadays, even the most sensitive skin can afford to use colorful makeup. There’s also an option of vegan friendly and gluten-free mineral makeup, which is free of parabens, mineral oil, and phthalates and is less likely to cause breakouts. Choosing makeup formulations that use natural minerals and mineral SPF filters is a great idea!
Example of hypoallergenic makeup? Non-comedogenic thermal water-based foundation, available in different colors. Or face fluid perfectly evens skin tone and is characterized by high breathability and resistance to UV rays 20+. Choose the one with strong antioxidants.
Hypoallergenic mascara isn’t just our idea — it’s a fact. These mascaras were created for people with sensitive eyes. If you’re one of those people, forget about watery eyes and use a safe product that lengthens lashes slightly.
Summary
Hypoallergenic products are basically recommended to all. They minimize the risk of allergies. Cosmetic manufacturers avoid synthetic fragrances and different unnecessary harmful substances. Cleansing foams, face creams, body lotions, water-based foundations, face fluids, and mascaras — all can be classified as hypoallergenic if they meet certain requirements. They have soothing properties. They nourish and regenerate skin, even if it’s particularly prone to irritation. Remember that you can always consult your consumer choices with a board certified dermatologist!