FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY

Acne cosmetica, or cosmetic induced acne, is now a common skin condition in majority cases reported by dermatologists and other skin care specialists. According to ‘Clean Cosmetics’ by Katie Gardner most mainstream cosmetics contain ingredients that can irritate skin: artificial colors, fragrances, and other ingredients like isopropyl myristate1 and mineral oil, which can clog pores. Aubrey Hampton, PhD., president of Aubrey Organics states, “Natural products use ingredients like essential oils, mineral pigments, and vegetable oils, which do not irritate sensitive skin.”

The end to the debate for which one is better--organic, natural, over the counter, medical grade, or just plain homemade remedies, begins here and now!

Dermatologists and other skin care specialists recognize certain common truths in determining what’s best when purchasing cleansers, moisturizers, peels, or masks. Those treating dry skin should always avoid astringents3 as well as alcohol. These elements easily strip away valuable moisture and increase the possibility of skin irritation. Individuals with oily skin must be careful to obtain certain moisturizers designed for oily skin. Heavy oils increase the amount filling the sebaceous glands causing an eruption in the skin, in other words, ACNE . For those with sensitive skin, KEEP IT SIMPLE! Make sure to purchase products designed to reflect a gentler approach to your specific skin type. Choosing products that are more abrasive tend to be less effective causing the very irritation one expected to prevent.

Alpha hydroxy acids are naturally occurring acids in certain plants and fruits, including grapes, berries, apples, sugar cane, and citrus fruits. According to Dr. Donoghue, “By decreasing the thickness of dead cells on the surface, a new layer of skin with a smoother texture and more uniform color can be revealed.” By eating a bunch of grapes for two weeks, one can shed a layer of dead skin cells.

Dead sea minerals found within the depths of this ancient region, have been known for years to heal conditions ranging from psoriasis, skin discolorations, ACNE, eczema, and a host of other skin related diseases that many other ingredients found in other products unfortunately do not possess.

With so many various beneficial ingredients, one must also be aware of the negative aspects the cosmetic industry regulates, but to what extent? In 1959 the FDA listed 116 approved colorants, but by 1988 it had been reduced to 35. Mollie Jensen, director of research and development at Zia cosmetics once quoted, “The FDA doesn’t regulate cosmetics nearly as stringently as it regulates drugs. Part of the problem may be the low priority the FDA gives to cosmetics. The agency spends only one percent of its overall budget investigating these products.”

Such a lackzidaisical emphasis placed on creating the standards for the cosmetic industry one must question the motives and integrity of industry professionals in which they decide upon what goes on the shelf and what must go back to the drawing board. Synthetic preservatives found in most mass marketed products, can also irritate the skin. Once absorbed, parabens (butyl, ethyl, methyl, and propyl) block the action of natural hormones necessary for immunity from toxins released in the body. Imidazolidinyl urea, DM DM Hydantoin, and quarternium 15 are known to release formaldehyde, another suspected carcinogen and lung irritant.

So much information to absorb at once, yet this is what WE NEED TO HEAL OURSELVES. Begin to release the phantoms and deceitful intentions of individuals bent on perpetuating that which is not, antagonizing the presence within the essence of the BEAUTIFUL YOU. This article is written for educational purposes only and with love’s greatest intention in mind and does not suggest changing the minds and thoughts of those currently using chemically-based products and/or processes. It is better for a person to be aware of that which they allow to absorb within, around, and about his/her being so that the decisions he/she chooses to make are from conscious choices and not out of ignorance or apathy. For the wellness of an individual begins from applying the information he/she receives and taking that which is in need into practice, deleting the unnecessary information so there is no room for error.

For in life you must learn to let go in order to grow!!!

©2005 Article submitted excerpted from “…Take Me Away” by e. faythe clark. She is currently a sacred beauty consultant and fashion designer living in Atlanta. She is available for freelance writing and editorial reviews. To contact, email annualternatives.com.