Cosmetic Challenges for Women with Eczema
Cosmetics are a staple of many women’s lives but for those suffering from eczema on their faces, whether it be mild, moderate or severe, it can be a very challenging situation. Women with eczema need to find skincare and cosmetic products that are both hypoallergenic and noncomedogenic. Let’s take a closer look at this situation.
Hypoallergenic is a word that describes products that will not encourage allergic reactions to take place in the skin. For example, many types of cosmetics as well as skin creams contain fragrances and ingredients that can cause itchy, dry skin and mild to severe eczema rashes. Many eye shadow manufacturers include metallic compounds in their products and this is not good for most women but especially for those who suffer from any kind of allergy, including eczema.
Finding hypoallergenic cosmetics can sometimes be difficult as all stores do not carry these kinds of makeup lines although some popular brands are finally getting the message that women with sensitive allergy prone skin like to wear makeup as much as other women do. When hypoallergenic makeup products can be found, they are often extremely pricey. However many organic markets or stores carry specialty lines of hypoallergenic cosmetics and these very likely are more cost efficient than more well known brand products.
Noncomedogenic is a word used to describe creams, oils, lotions, sunscreens and cosmetics that do not serve to block or plug up pores. Sometimes noncomedogenic is known as “non-occlusive.” While this term is usually meant for those who have problems with acne, noncomedogenic products often contain less harsh ingredients than products that are not labeled as such. If you have a flair for making your own skincare or cosmetic products then choose the noncomedogenic oils to make them with. These oils include almond oil, evening primrose oil, olive oil, peanut oil, safflower oil and sunflower oil.
Some of the worst synthetic ingredients that are often included in skincare products, cosmetics and hair care products include butyl, ethyl parabens, methyl and propyl. These ingredients are well known to cause allergies and/or reactions in the skin and to be extremely toxic. Read product labels carefully and speak to the cosmetician for more information if you are unsure as to what products would be best for your ultra sensitive skin.
Take time to acquaint yourself with the cosmetic companies that you like and feel you can trust. Do your research and learn all you can about the company or companies in question. Find a mailing address or e-mail address for the cosmetic company and make contact with them. Tell them that you would like to be sent information regarding the ingredients they use in their products. Tell them that you are particularly concerned because of the allergy you suffer from. It is important to make cosmetic companies aware of your specific needs in order to help them serve you, their customer, and all of their other many customers, as best as they can. Remember that many women are “cosmetically challenged” due to skin problems so become a spokesperson for others by making your voice heard with cosmetic manufacturers.
