Your favorite anti-wrinkle cream can gradually destroy your skin, as scientists have found out. Many of these creams contain chemicals known to cause severe allergies.
Dermatologists in many countries of the world are calling for urgent action against the use of the two preservatives in cosmetics – methylisothiazolinone and methylchloroisothiazolinone, which are found in dozens of products available in almost any home. These include body lotions, hand wipes, and anti-wrinkle creams. Both chemicals are associated with the risk of allergies.
However, it is methylchloroisothiazolinone, according to experts, that causes the biggest damage because it is second after nickel to cause contact dermatitis. Dermatologists talk about the worst epidemic of cosmetic-caused allergic diseases. And it is too early to judge if it has reached its peak – perhaps the rate will continue to rise.
Skin allergy differs from instant allergic reactions, for example, from that for peanuts or shrimps. Sometimes it may take up to a day for apparent signs of skin allergy to appear. Unlike other types of allergies, contact dermatitis cannot lead to a death, but it’s a pretty unpleasant disorder.
Previously it was thought that 1-2 people out in a hundred become victims of skin allergies, but that was before the appearance of the above-mentioned preservatives. Now dermatologists estimate that number at 10%, and it is gradually increasing. Allergies manifest themselves in swelling, redness, and red rash. Most often, these reactions occur after the use of moisturizers and anti-bacterial wipes. If you suddenly started suffering from an eczema, it could be the result of cosmetics use. This is the reason to see an allergist.
