Chemical Toxicity in Acne Treatments?
Acne treatments can contain a variety of chemical ingredients as
preservatives, stabilizers, and synthetic fragrances. Despite
the manufacturer's claims, these substances may not be 100 %
safe. Long-term use of such chemical ingredients can result in
constant low grade irritation, dehydration, and accelerated
aging of the skin. Unfortunately, lack of conclusive research in
the area allows skin care manufacturers to sell potentially
damaging skin care solutions.
What is even more worrisome is that the harmful effects
frequently extend beyond the skin. The chemical toxins can be
absorbed into the body through the skin and mucous membranes.
Widespread adverse effects may be seen in the gastrointestinal
system, liver and the nervous system.
Synthetic chemicals in acne treatments should be avoided as they
can actually exacerbate existing skin conditions. Consumers
should also be aware that some of these ingredients have been
found to be carcinogenic in animal studies. A quick look at the
ingredients and knowledge of common toxins (listed below) will
help consumers identify noxious products.
The safety panel of the cosmetic industry periodically reviews
ingredients in skin care products. These chemicals are then
classified into three categories: safe, safe with
qualifications, and unsafe for use. Some ingredients like
Disodium dimethicone copolyol sulfosuccinate, (Glyceryl
distearate) have not even been assessed for safety by the panel.
Products containing unevaluated substances are best avoided.
Apart from this, consumers can also refer to some excellent
resources on the Internet such as the Environmental Working
Group (EWG) website. The EWG has reviewed scientific studies and
performed their own independent laboratory tests to expose
health threats from skin care products sold in the United
States.
The website can be found at
http://www.ewg.org/reports/skindeep2/index.php. Complete
information including ingredients, potential adverse effects,
and safety of individual skin care brands is presented. Although
it is very difficult to find a brand completely devoid of
harmful substances, consumers should choose a brand with the
lowest risk.
Potentially harmful chemicals found in acne treatments
Propylene glycol: This petroleum derivative is used in various
cosmetics as a delivery vehicle and solvent. It acts as a
penetration enhancer and allows other chemicals to penetrate
deeply into the skin and can be toxic to the brain, liver and
kidney. Propylene glycol may cause skin irritation, including
contact dermatitis, and is also blamed for premature aging of
the skin.
Imidazolidinyl Urea and Diazolidinyl Urea: Both of these agents
are used as a preservative in various cosmetics and can cause
allergic dermatitis. They are toxic to the gastrointestinal
system and release formaldehyde, a potentially toxic chemical
and carcinogen. In addition, diazolidinyl urea may also cause
toxicity to the central nervous system. The cosmetic industry
safety panel has found it safe for use when the concentration is
below 0.5%.
Benzophenone-4: This ingredient is declared safe for cosmetics
use, according to the industry safety panel. However, it can
cause immune reactions, in the form of itching, burning,
scaling, hives, and blistering of skin, or severe respiratory
reaction.
Sorbitol: Sorbitol requires a special enzyme (sorbital
dehydrogenase) for its digestion. Systemically absorbed sorbitol
can be rather troublesome in people without that enzyme. It may
cause flatulence, diarrhea, and cramps in such individuals.
References: 1. Bergfeld W.F., Belsito D.V., Marks J.G., Andersen
F.A.: Safety of ingredients used in cosmetics. J Am Acad
Dermatol 2005; 52:125-32. 2. Annual Review of Cosmetic
Ingredient Safety Assessments--2002/2003. International Journal
of Toxicology, 24(Suppl. 1):1-102, 200.