SKIN CARE: HYPO-ALLERGENIC AND MEN’S COSMETICS
Hypo-allergenic CosmeticsThe term ‘hypo-allergenic’ is somewhat dubious. Many cosmetics manufacturers claim their products are hypo-allergenic, which, by definition, means that they produce less allergic reactions than ninety per cent of other cosmetics on the market.The least allergenic of all cosmetics are those which contain no perfume because perfume is the most common cause of allergic reactions. Other ingredients, such as preservatives and sunscreens, may also cause unfavorable reactions but are still present in hypo-allergenic cosmetics.A non-perfumed cosmetic is not the same as an unscented cosmetic. Non-perfumed means 100 per cent fragrance free. An unscented cosmetic is one that has no smell but still has a masking perfume to hide the smell of other chemicals. Cosmetics which are completely fragrance free include Almay, Clinique and Innoxa products.If you are allergic to a particular preservative in a cosmetic, you must look for a brand without it. This can be a particular problem if you are allergic to parabens which is the most frequently used preservative in cosmetics.Hypo-allergenic products are of no special benefit for those with oily skin or acne because perfume has no detrimental effect on acne blemishes.
Men’s CosmeticsProducing cosmetics for women is a billion dollar industry. It is not too surprising then, that producing cosmetics for men is seen as a new avenue to make money. Men are becoming (or being made?) increasingly aware of their appearance and ageing. While they have always used shampoos, aftershaves and shaving creams, there has recently been an explosion in men’s skin care products, similar to those available for women.
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