ARE COSMETIC PRODUCTS OVER-RATED?

Psychologists have found that outer appearance has to do a lot with our confidence and self-image. Many of us go through many hurdles on daily basis- be it personal or professional. On the personal level, minor lifestyle changes can refresh our mind. Be it any cosmetic products or food choices.

Even on the professional front, those with attractive appearance and features get hired quickly. This realization has sparked a revolution in the cosmetic industry. This industry is one of the top revenue generating source in most economies.

Usage of cosmetic products dates back to the pre-historic times. Egyptians were one of the first communities to use make-up products. Galena was wore as kohl on the upper eyelids. Malachite powder is a mineral that used for eye make up. Even now the products are almost same. Though product formulation has improved significantly.

Let’s have a look at how cosmetic products positively affects us.

ENHANCE OUTER APPEARNCE :-

Cosmetics enhance what’s already there- our eyebrows, lips, cheeks, etc. One lesser known fact is they provide protection to our skin from environmental conditions. Because these products layer up on your skin, pollutants cannot penetrate much deeper.

Products like primer and concealer hide blemishes and scars on your skin. Foundation evens out skin pigmentation. And the list goes on. All these reflects on our outer appearance.

IMPROVES SELF-CONFIDENCE :-

According to beauty influencers, taking care of your skin and applying make-up is therapeutic ritual for them. Even amidst my busy schedule, I like to follow my skin care and make up routine. By doing this, I re-wind myself and prepare for the day.

Applying cosmetics affects us psychologically too. It boosts our self-confidence. In turn, we are able to communicate in a much better way and come across as confident individuals.

PROTECTS OUR SKIN :-

Cosmetics is an umbrella term. Under this, skin care products form an integral part. All these products ensures the youthful appearance of the skin. Products such as sunscreens protects our skin from harmful UV-A & B rays. Retinoid reverses skin ageing and increases turn over of skin cells.

PORTRAYS OUR IMAGE :-

In many prospects, first impressions are quite important. Other’s external appearance provide enough information about a person when we first meet them. What can’t be delivered by words, is done by our appearance.

The way we do our make-up, drape our clothes and carry ourselves, tell others how we want to be treated. The uses of anti-perspirants cancels out our body odors and set the mood for the event.

As everything else, cosmetic products also have good as well as bad sides. Below are some concerns regarding the same.

TRIGGERS ACNE :-

This might be the most talked about concern about applying cosmetic products. Make -up items like foundation, setting powders clogs the pores. Further, these blocked pores serves as the feeding ground for microbes. Then, it gives rise to acne.

While there are non-comedogenic products for those sensitive skin condition. It is better to be safe than sorry.

SKIN INFECTIONS:-

Let’s discuss about skin conditions while we’re at it. Application of perfumes can trigger skin allergies in many people. The products have irritants which can worsen skin issues; if any. Eczema , bacterial infections, etc. are some commonly faced issues.

The chemicals like parabens and steroids and fragrances present can cause reactions on the skin as well as beneath the skin. Although it is avoidable. You have to keep the brushes from coming in contact with your skin.

TURNS INTO A HABIT :-

While putting make-up is not wrong, depending your self-image on it is. You can apply all the make-up that you want, do hair styling and still feel worthless if you don’t value yourself. Cosmetics such as make-up products only enhances what’s on the outside.

Many teenagers can not go out without putting layers of products. Just because they think they are not beautiful enough. This is a concerning issue. Too much dependency on materials can be depressing; specially for the teenagers.

COSMETICS AREN’T CHEAP :-

Well, correct me if I am wrong here. I feel buying low quality products will save few bucks now but damage your skin in the long term. Hence, most of us prefer to buy expensive products. These products are expensive because we are paying for both the product and the brand.

You might want to have variety of lip shades, perfumes to go in tune with every dress and event. All these will add up to few thousand bucks. It can potentially burn your pocket in the long race.

There are quite a few misconceptions about cosmetic products. Few ingredients have stirred debates worldwide. Many brands do not include such chemical ingredients anymore. On this front, you must educate yourself to read the ingredients list.

Anyone of any age and race have the freedom to apply cosmetic products on themselves. Provided they do so with a sound and satisfied mind.

Featured image source: Organic cosmetics photo created by freepik – www.freepik.com