Cosmetologist warns about dangerous ingredients in popular cosmetics

The danger lies not in 'chemistry' but in concentration and origin

Complex names in a cosmetic product's ingredient list do not in themselves mean the product is harmful, Gazeta.Ru was told by dermatocosmetologist at SM-Cosmetology Inna Kravets. According to her, the danger may come from individual substances, their high concentration, an improper combination of active ingredients, and a product's questionable origin. The specialist noted that dividing ingredients into 'chemical' and 'natural' is incorrect: most components are safe at permitted concentrations, while plant extracts and essential oils can also cause irritation and allergies.

Mercury in whitening creams and the ban on hydroquinone

Kravets advised particular caution with whitening creams from unknown manufacturers: such products sometimes contain mercury compounds, which can damage the kidneys and nervous system, and cause skin irritation, rashes, and increased pigmentation. The doctor warned that one should not buy a product if the packaging lacks a full ingredient list, manufacturer details, expiration date, and instructions; mercury in the ingredient list may be labeled as mercury, mercuric, mercurous chloride, or calomel. Hydroquinone, used to correct hyperpigmentation, is not intended for uncontrolled at-home skin whitening, she said: formulations containing this drug are banned in Russia, and at incorrect concentrations and with prolonged use it can cause irreversible changes to the skin. Such products should be used only after consulting a doctor, especially if the product was ordered from an unknown website and its composition cannot be verified.

Fragrances, preservatives, and active ingredients

Irritation is often caused by fragrances and preservatives, but their presence alone does not make cosmetics dangerous: they are needed to give the product a scent and protect it from microbes. At the same time, flavorings, certain dyes, and preservatives are among the common causes of contact allergies. According to Kravets, a reaction can appear even to a product a person has previously used without problems — with itching, redness, flaking, and swelling. Even beneficial active ingredients can cause harm if used incorrectly: high concentrations of acids, retinol, products with benzoyl peroxide, and adapalene can cause dryness and burns, especially when applied at the same time. The specialist emphasized that one should not start several actives at once or assume that a strong burning sensation proves effectiveness: cosmetics should not cause pronounced redness, flaking, soreness, or increased skin sensitivity. Earlier, the cosmetologist warned about the dangers of folk remedies for fighting acne.

Why this matters

These recommendations concern everyone who uses cosmetics, especially products bought from unknown manufacturers and on third-party websites. The practical takeaway from the specialist's words: before buying, check that the packaging lists the full ingredients, manufacturer details, and expiration date, and use products with hydroquinone and whitening creams of questionable origin only after consulting a doctor. The information is based on a comment from a single specialist; the publication does not cite independent studies or statistics on poisoning cases.