Hypoallergenic a Marketing Label for Cosmetics

Cosmetic Manufacturers Sell Product With Inconsistent Claims

Nov 30, 2008

Allergic people are advised to avoid cosmetics that cause symptoms. Hypoallergenic and fragrance free products are less likely to cause reactions - no safety guarantee.

People with allergic sensitivities are often recommended use of hypoallergenic or dermatologist tested cosmetics for skin cream, beauty treatments and make up. According to information on the US FDA website, the designation of hypoallergenic is loosely defined, so like so many other products that allergic people purchase, the buyer has to beware even in cosmetic purchases.

Cosmetics, skin cream, body lotion, soap and colorful make up products are part of the daily routine of many, if not the majority of women, in many countries. The cosmetic industry is a hugely profitable business that markets the benefits of sexual attractiveness to women as a means to get the most handsome man, the best career and the most successful and happy life.

Hypoallergenic a Marketing Label

Hypoallergenic is a term that has considerable marketing value but has little real meaning.

There is no US regulation defining the term hypoallergenic. Consumers may be lulled in the assumption that hypoallergenic means non-allergenic, but at best it means that the cosmetic is less likely to cause an allergic reaction than other cosmetics. Terms such as hypoallergenic, allergy tested and safe for sensitive skin imply that the products are less likely to cause allergic reactions than the competition, but this may not be the case.

The FDA Office of Cosmetics and Colors Fact Sheet notes that ingredients that are used in cosmetic products are basically the same throughout the cosmetics industry. Years ago harsh ingredients were used in cosmetics that caused adverse reactions in some people.

Cosmetics manufacturers are now required to list ingredients on the packaging. Consumers who are aware on allergies to specific ingredients should read the packaging label.

According to a study published by Mayo Clinic common contact dermatitis allergens include Balsam of Peru (myroxylon pereirae), Fragrance Mix, Formaldehyde (Formalyn) and Quaternium 15. According to an allergist products with fragrance should be avoided, as the fragrance mix contains formalyn, a commonly used chemical allergen.

Symptoms of Cosmetic Allergy

Cosmetic allergies may cause skin reactions from contact dermatitis, such as hives, swelling and rashes. Fragrances and perfumes in cosmetics cause even farther reaching symptoms, such as headaches, difficulty breathing, nausea, hoarse voice, sore throat, lip tingles, muscle and joint pain and difficulty concentration.

Hypoallergenic and Fragrance Free Products

Consumers who suspect, or who have been diagnosed with allergies to fragrance and perfumes should look for fragrance free products. Many products that label themselves as hypoallergenic are also fragrance free, so the label does have value, even though labeling is inconsistent among manufacturers.

Consumers Read Labels

People who suffer from allergies should see a physician for proper diagnoses and for treatment recommendations. The best treatment is often to eliminate the allegen from the environment. Proper education about common allergens and how to avoid substances that cause allergic reactions is a valuable tool. Read product labels to avoid contact with allergens that cause unpleasant symptoms.

The copyright of the article Hypoallergenic a Marketing Label for Cosmetics in Allergies is owned by Christine Nyholm. Permission to republish Hypoallergenic a Marketing Label for Cosmetics in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.