The Ugly Truth of Looking Pretty

I wanted to inform you of a topic that a lot of people aren't aware of-how dangerous cosmetics and other products can be. Many makeup products, sunscreens, and even toothpastes contain parabens, a chemical which used to preserve these substances. Parabens have been linked to breast cancer, as it mimics estrogen. Oxybenzone, a paraben commonly used in sunscreen, can effect fertility and has been linked to obesity. A good alternative is zinc oxide sunscreen. Though it leaves a white cast, it's a lot better than the possible consequences.
Another potential danger is kohl, also dubbed al-kahl, kajal, and surma. Kohl has been tied to lead poisoning. However, if the title of a product contains the word kohl, they might just be referring to the color.
One particularly publicized ingredient is lead, and for good reason. Though the FDA states that amounts in a vast array of lipsticks are safe, I can't imagine that it would be beneficial. As of now, the FDA has set no limit for lead in cosmetics, only for lead in color additives. The maximum for this would be 20 ppm (parts per million.) The highest ranking lipstick on their list is Maybelline's Color Sensational lipstick in "Pink Petal" with 7.19 ppm.
Perhaps the most important component I will mention today, at least to me, is squalene. This ingredient is obtained from a shark's liver, and is used in a variety of products, especially moisturizers and lip balms. And, of course, it has its controversy. Squalene has been discovered in ovarian cysts.

So there you have it! Hoped you learned to be leery of cosmetic companies and their shady practices.

So. Will this affect your decisions on cosmetics and other products? Are their any subjects you think I should cover next? Let me know in the comments below!!









http://www.fda.gov/Cosmetics/ProductandIngredientSafety/ProductInformation/ucm137241.htm December 18, 2006

http://www.fda.gov/Cosmetics/ProductandIngredientSafety/ProductInformation/ucm137241.
http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-squalane-oil.htm

 

Hey y'all!

 

I've been wanting to start a blog now for a while, brimming with random snippets of awesomeness.

 I'm 14, and this blog will be filled with all of the things that I like. If you are not interested, just hit the X :).

I would love to listen to your feedback, so feel free to post any sort suggestions/comments below.

Now, on to the important stuff.

I am a big Swiftie, and have been so every since the start of her career. Though I didn't actually watch the VMA's yesterday, I did, of course, hear of the huge uproar concerning Taylor's alleged F-bomb when 1 Direction presented the award for Best Pop Video. And I honestly don't see why this caused so much of a controversy. Sure, she has some younger fans, but I wish people would quit portraying her as a vengeful and promiscuous person. She recently broke up with one of the members and has every right to be upset. Plus, freedom of speech! Though I personally oppose swearing, she is 23, and she can say whatever choice words she feels.

Thoughts?