Often we do not buy these or other cosmetic products just because we are frightened by the complex names of their components. It seems that everything unknown necessarily carries a danger to health. But this is not so. So, the presentation on the topic: chemistry in cosmetics is useful for every woman. We have the right to know what we are buying.
AHA (alpha-hydroxy acids) are organic acids contained in plants and fruits. They are considered to be one of the safest components for chemical peeling, since they do not burn the skin, but cause a natural exfoliation of the keratinized cells. In a small concentration are part of many home-made peelings. Often, along with ANA-acids, cosmetics contain BHA-acids (beta-hydroxy acids) -salicylic acid, which unlike AHA penetrates into the pores and exfoliates the cells that accumulate inside the sebaceous glands.
Antioxidants are substances that protect skin cells from the damaging effects of free radicals and other substances that appear as a result of natural oxidative reactions in our body. The main antioxidants used in cosmetics are vitamins A, C, E, trace elements, selenium, zinc, extracts of algae.
Hyaluronic acid - one of the most effective components in moisturizers, is widely used in contour plastics. It is related to the skin, as it is an integral part of the connective tissue of the epidermis. Has the ability to retain water molecules, but unlike glycerin retains its ability to moisturize and in a "dry" form.
Glycerin has unique properties to attract and retain water molecules. Apply it only with humidifiers, so it not only enriches the skin with water, but also prevents its evaporation. In cosmetics, one molecule of glycerin accounts for at least 10 water molecules.
Ceramides are substances that form the lipid barrier layer of the skin. Protect it from external influences and dehydration. They fill themselves with damage to the surface layer of the skin and increase the elasticity of the epidermis. Often used in cosmetics for dry and dehydrated skin and in hair products.
Collagen - the main protein of connective tissue of the epidermis, is responsible for the elasticity and elasticity of the skin. Widely used in anti-aging products. Has an intense rejuvenating effect, in a concentrated form reduces even deep wrinkles.
Coenzyme is a bioactive component, a necessary source of energy for a number of metabolic reactions both in the whole organism and in the skin. Coenzyme is synthesized in the liver of each person, but with age, its production slows down. In cosmetology, coenzyme Q10 is used in anti-aging medications.
Nanoparticles - active components with a minimum molecular weight, due to which they have a unique ability to easily penetrate into the deepest layers of the epidermis. The size of a nanoparticle varies from 1 to 100 nanometers, and 1 nanometer is 0.000000001 meters. Nanoparticles are synthesized only by artificial means. And today nanocosmetics is the most innovative branch of aesthetic medicine.
Odorants are a mixture of aromatic components, whose task is to hide sometimes not the most pleasant natural smell of ingredients. A pleasant fragrance makes makeup more attractive, but it is worth remembering that it is the fragrances that are often the cause of allergic reactions of the skin to cosmetics.
Parabens are universal preservatives that extend the shelf life of cosmetic products. According to statistics, in different doses is used in 85% of production. Some time ago, scientists actively discussed the issue of the benefits and dangers of parabens for the body, but they did not come to unequivocal conclusions. However, this led to the appearance of cosmetics with natural preservatives.
Provitamins are the original nutrients that are converted into vitamins in the body. Provitamin A is carotene, and provitamin B-5 is D-panthenol.
Proteins are protein compounds that strengthen the structure of cells. There are animal origin (dairy) or plant (wheat, silk).
Retinol - a derivative of vitamin A, stimulates the regeneration of cells and other metabolic processes in the skin. It is used as an effective component in anti-aging cosmetics and for the treatment of problematic skin prone to rashes and acne.
SPF ( Sun Protection Filter ) - sun filters that form a "reflective" screen on the skin. By the degree of protection SPF can vary from 2 to 60 units. SPF can be of two types: against UV rays of spectrum B (UVB) and spectrum A (UVA). The composition of modern sunscreens should include both types of SPF, while the degree of protection of the rays of spectrum B is usually much higher.
Flavonoids are substances in nature responsible for coloring fruits and vegetables. Strengthen the vessels, improve the microcirculation of the skin, have anti-inflammatory effect. Some types of flavonoids have rejuvenating properties, they are often called phytohormones, as they are similar in structure and effect with estrogens.
Emulsifiers - stabilizers, prevent the emulsion stratification into constituent components. They are used in cosmetology to preserve the compound from difficult-to-mix substances, for example, water and essential oil.
Enzymes are organic compounds that accelerate the reactions taking place in the skin cells, including the processes of renewal. Enzyme peelings are considered to be the most mild and sparing, when exfoliating with enzymes, the skin is practically not injured. Enzymes of vegetable origin are most often extracted from papaya and pineapple.
At the end of an impromptu presentation on "Chemistry in Cosmetics" I would like to add that you do not need to be afraid of unfamiliar words, but you should not ignore them at all. It is best to own at least general information about the components of cosmetics, to know their influence on your body. And then it will be easier to choose, and the efficiency will be many times greater.