Everyone wants to look their best, but certain methods may do more harm than good. These 6 beauty treatments could be harming your skin or hair. Make sure that you look at each of these treatments, in order to learn what to avoid, and then find out what you should do instead.
#1 – Keratin Treatments
Keratin smoothing and straightening treatments have really become quite popular over the past few years. It is an easy way for women with thick, curly or frizzy hair to get straight locks. The down side is that the majority of the hair products used for this treatment contains high levels of formaldehyde.
Instead of using a Keratin treatment to straighten your hair, use organic hair treatments. There are plenty of organic hair products that can offer the same straightening ability as a keratin treatment, without the harmful formaldehyde.
#2 – Eyelash Extensions
Eyelash extensions are another beauty treatment that you should probably avoid. Glue is needed to keep the eyelash extensions in place. This glue could irritate your skin and has been known to cause inflammation of the cornea and allergic reactions.
There are actually a number of home remedies that you can use to try and extend or grow your eyelashes. Applying petroleum jelly along your eyelashes, before you go to bed, can help stimulate the growth of hair follicles. Wash off the jelly in the morning, if you try this method.
Another option is to dip a cotton ball in green tea and then swap your eyelid and eyelashes. This too should stimulate hair growth, as well as protect the skin around your upper eyelid.
#3 – Gel Manicures
Over the past few years, gel manicures have become the preferred method of applying fake nails, as opposed acrylic nails. Gel manicures look more natural and can last for a longer period of time without chipping. Some dermatologists claim that the UV lighting used during the process of applying the gel can lead to skin cancer or the aging of skin.
If you must get a manicure, look for organic solutions. There are a number of companies that produce fake nails that are natural looking that are made from and can be applied using organic products.
#4 – Black Henna Temporary Tattoos
Henna tattoos are temporary adornments using a strong dye. You will typically find henna tattoos being offered at carnivals, fairs, and other public gatherings; though, in the US, this dye is only approved for use as a hair dye, not for use as a body dye. Also, the chemicals that are used to make the dye a darker color could cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
#5 – Tanning Beds
You have probably already read or heard the news that tanning beds can lead to an increased risk of skin cancer. The WHO (World Health Organization) has classified the UV radiation used by tanning beds as carcinogenic. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) is looking into safety regulations and the Surgeon General has urged the public to stop using tanning beds.
#6 – Spray Tans
Spray tans can be just as harmful as a tanning bed. The chemicals used in the spray tans often include DHA (dihydroxyacetone), which was originally approved for use in tanning lotions. The problem is that when you use a spray tan, it is difficult not to inhale any of this chemical. DHA has been linked to a higher risk of lung cancer.
If you want a deeper complexion, skip the tanning bed and the spray tans.A safer option is to consume foods that promote healthier skin and complexion. Carrots can help your skin appear healthier, while tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and cantaloupe can improve your skin color and offer other health benefits. Spinach, kale, and other dark, leafy greens can give your skin a glow.
Stop using any of the beauty treatments mentioned. There is a healthier, organic option for each of the treatments listed, except for henna tattoos – which you don’t really need a replacement for. You should treat your skin, hair, and nails with the same care that you would your body. Make healthy decisions and avoid these 6 harmful beauty treatments.
References:
http://www.treehugger.com/health/6-harmful-beauty-treatments-ditch-now.html
http://patch.com/illinois/niles/healthy-alternative-to-harsh-keratin-smoothing-treatments
http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/2013/07/8-natural-ways-to-promote-longer-eyelashes.html
http://www.greenbrideguide.com/blog/acrylic-and-gel-nails-are-toxic-there-alternative
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/26/natural-tan-foods_n_3644629.html
