Cosmetic makeup has been around for the last 7000 years and it has made a mark in every society. One of the earliest applications of makeup was in 10,000 B.C in Egypt. During this time, men and women both used cosmetic makeup ointments to clean their skin and cover up body odors but over the years makeup cosmetics has evolved into a radiant tool for beauty and confidence. According to Atlantic Magazine, women who wear makeup earn more and are treated better. Learning how to use makeup and doing it is a lot of commitment so what compels a woman to invest her time and money into makeup?
POSITIVE EFFECTS OF MAKEUP
Confidence enhancer: Psychologists believe that makeup and beauty products helps to enhance confidence. According to Harvard Medical School and the United States University of Chieti in Italy, makeup application can lead to psychological side effect known as the “lipstick effect”. In short it is a psychological phenomenon known in which
wearing makeup can give individuals a confidence boost by making them feel more physically attractive, increasing feelings of self-esteem, attitude and personality.
Cleanse your skin: As we all know, the removal of makeup requires a deep cleansing treatment. This treatment can help you remove any excess oil or impurities in your skin pores and cleaning your skin daily can help you maintain a healthy glowing skin.
In our world today where women are mostly judge by how good they look in their social media posts and pictures, there is a constant expectation for us to look our best all the time, however, that comes with a price. In spite of the fact that the makeup industry may be right when it claims that a little foundation and mascara can brighten our faces, and that wearing makeup has helped boost women’s self-esteem and make them feel beautiful and comfortable in their own skin, few women are
aware of the negative effects of using these cosmetics on a daily basis on their skin and bodies.
HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF MAKEUP
Headache: Chemicals like Diazolidinyl urea and DMDM Hydantoins both of which tend to release formaldehyde, are common ingredients in many cosmetic products [like] and are used as an antimicrobial preservative. These chemicals are known to cause headaches when used excessively [ irritation to the mucous membranes]
Acne: Acne is the most common side effect most women experience when they use makeup. This happens because the skin is also a part of the body like other organs and it needs to breathe and grow. Some types of makeup which are in the form of liquids and creams clog the pores which leads to the formation of blackhead and these blackheads form acne when they are not regularly cleaned.
Eye infections: The eye makeup which can consist of mascara and eyeliner is used extensively even by people who do not use heavy
makeup making people tend to forget that that the eyes and the skin around them is the most sensitive area of the face. Layers of eye makeup can be damaging to the eye as it also slips in the eye through the corners causing irritation. Too much use of mascara and eyeliner also inhibits the growth of the eyelashes and becomes a breeding ground for bacteria which could lead to irritations and infections.
Premature Aging: When skin products are used for a longer period of time, the chemicals present in the products tend to permanently damage the skin. As time goes on, you will begin to see skin aging signs like wrinkles or patchiness on your face and body. Even though makeup help to hide or cover flaws on the skin, the long-term effects could be counterproductive.
Skin discoloration: Skin products like sunscreen, moisturizers, toners and creams contain agents to bleach or darken the skin. Cosmetic products that use poor quality ingredients which have not been regulated can lead to skin discoloration. The effects could be patches, pigmentation, uneven
skin tone, redness and freckles.
In life everything has its ups and downs and I am writing this piece not because I am against the use of makeup but to educate my fellow ladies out there who do not know the health implication of using too much makeup. Makeup has helped and is still helping in a lot of ways but the side effects it has on our skin and body must be known by all.
By: Osajiokweh Sharon Etornam
Level 300 student journalist of UNIMAC-GIJ
