In an era in which cosmetics are commonly used, their often prolonged contact with the human body should determine the safety of their use. Often cosmetics are the cause of many side effects, mainly hypersensitivity reactions. Common groups of cosmetic components responsible for side effects are fragrances, preservatives and dyes. This paper focuses on the most allergenic components.

An aqueous diluent containing Tween 60 and Arlacel 80 gave greater recovery of microorganisms when compared with two common diluents as determined by aerobic plate count of inoculated anhydrous cosmetics. The greater recovery was caused by better dispersion of the anhydrous cosmetics in the diluents.

This review describes the use of some natural products in cosmetic preparations, due to their low mammalian toxicity, with a brief description of the major use, plant parts used, the actives responsible for effect and the benefits of such products. Their use in skin care; such as dryness, eczema, acne, free-radical scavenging, antiinflammatory, antiaging and skin protection effects are explaine...

In Japan, two patients who had been primary sensitized to hydrolyzed wheat protein (HWP) present in facial soap and subsequently experienced wheat-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis (WDEIA) after the ingestion of normal wheat products were reported in 2009 as first cases. Since that report, more than 1900 patients with such an allergy have been reported (through June 20, 2013) from various ...

Hair cosmetics are an important tool that helps to increase patient's adhesion to alopecia and scalp treatments. This article reviews the formulations and the mode of action of hair cosmetics: Shampoos, conditioners, hair straightening products, hair dyes and henna; regarding their prescription and safetiness. The dermatologist's knowledge of hair care products, their use, and their possible si...

Hair plays a significant role in body image, and its appearance can be changed relatively easily without resort to surgical procedures. Cosmetics and techniques have therefore been used to change hair appearance since time immemorial. The cosmetics industry has developed efficient products that can be used on healthy hair or act on concomitant diseases of the hair and scalp. Dyes embellish the ...