11 Places to Find Safe and Reasonable Cosmetics

Take a look at your dressing table - are you sure those products are safe to use?

Cosmetics enhance our appearance. An Indian woman typically uses a handful of different cosmetic products  on a daily basis. In today's world, skin care and makeup plays a crucial role in the lives of both women and men as it helps build the self-esteem and self-confidence. And you’ll surely agree that these products do not come cheap. With the increasing demand for cosmetics, a lot of new brands have emerged lately. Cosmetics are readily available today in the form of creams, lotions, perfumes, shampoos, etc. They come in varied sizes, packages and prices. Most of us think that branded cosmetics are absolutely safe to use. But have you wondered if that’s true? Would you believe that even the best brands sometimes do not make safe cosmetics?  Before you spend your hard-earned money on the next expensive bottle of skincare product, let us help you understand which products actually deserve your money.

We are here to explain the safety precautions that you must take while you buy cosmetic products. You may not realize how many harmful substances are present in the products we use in our daily life - from the toothpaste in the morning to makeup wipes we use at night. We are putting thousands of chemicals into or onto our bodies, and some of them might be toxic. Paraben is one such harmful chemical that’s present in a majority of cosmetics and skin care products. Let us dig a little deeper into Parabens.

Parabens

• Parabens are a group of substances that are used as preservatives to prevent microbes from growing. In short, they extend the shelf life of cosmetics.

• There are different names for parabens, such as Butylparaben, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Ethylparaben, Isobutylparaben, etc.

• Parabens are mostly found in face creams, body lotions,  makeup, shampoo, conditioner, styling products, antiperspirants and deodorants, nail care products, shaving products, and other skincare items.

Side Effects

Parabens can be mild skin irritants, though most of the people do not experience any paraben side effects. There were rumors that parabens are linked to breast cancer as a study found the existence of parabens in human breast tumors. However, it has been discredited. However, propylparaben is rated as a “high-risk hazard” if it exceeds the limit. The other parabens are rated as moderate-high risk. Parabens can sometimes lead to allergic reactions, premature aging, potential interference with the function of our hormonal system, and also cause prenatal concerns.

Precautions

Though the rumors regarding parabens causing breast tumor is discredited, they are still suspected to be carcinogens, and it would be better if we avoid using paraben products. In recent times, certain brands tag their products as "paraben free." It is better to choose those products or go for natural/organic cosmetics. 

11 Safe Cosmetics Brands

If you are struggling to find out the best safe cosmetics to buy, we are here to help you with a list of "paraben-free" brands to make it easier for you to shop.

1. Mamaearth: Mamearth products are made of earth safe products and are free of 8000  known toxins. There is a wide range of hair care, skin care, and baby care products. These products are quite affordable.

2. Kama Ayurveda Products: Kama Ayurveda Products are 100% natural and vegetarian. They are devoid of parabens, artificial colors, artificial fragrances, petrochemicals, Urea and Propylene glycol. It is a luxury brand and can be heavy on your pocket, but the products are definitely worth investing in.

3. MCaffeine Products: MCaffeine products are caffeine-based. All the products are paraben-free and cruelty-free. It is quite pricey a brand, but it has got a lot of good reviews.

4. Skin Elements: Skin Elements products are 100% vegetarian. They are sulfate-free, paraben free products and are not tested on animals. It is a luxury brand. However, you can find a few products that are quite affordable.

5. WoW Products: WOW products are made from natural bioactive ingredients. They are free of artificial additives, harmful synthetic chemicals, harmful parabens, and mineral oils. The products are 100% vegetarian and cruelty-free. It is a slightly pricey brand.

6. Wella Professionals: Wella offers a wide range of hair care products that are paraben and sulfate free. With hairfall being a growing concern among the modern Indian populace, Wella shampoos and other hair care products can be a very welcoming relief. Moreover, these products are extremely affordable. You might have to pay Rs.600 for a 250 ml bottle of shampoo, but it saves you from the horror of a receding hairline.

7. Biotique: Biotique is a very affordable brand, and all their products are completely paraben free. The company uses natural preservatives. You can buy a 200 ml bottle of shampoo for 200 bucks. A tub of 100 ml moisturizer would cost your around Rs. 150. Now, isn’t that extremely cheap for such natural and safe cosmetics?

8. Forrest Essentials: It is a luxurious ayurvedic brand and is made up of natural ingredients in a traditional way. Although the products are quite pricey, they are known to be really effective.

9. The Body Shop: The Body Shop’s products are loved by many, not just because of the sweet fragrance, but also because they feel good on the skin. They have a handful of safe, natural and paraben-free products. However, do check out the ingredients before you purchase.

10. The Face Shop: The Face Shop products are a combination of science and nature. This famous Korean brand has made its way into the Indian cosmetics market a couple of years ago, and it has been a huge hit among the conscious womenfolk of India. Their sheet-masks and face creams have worked wonders on many! Checkout their list of exotic ingredients while you buy cosmetic products from The Face Shop.

11. Innisfree: Innisfree is slightly higher on the price point, but it is one of the most popular Korean beauty brands. It is known for its commitment to organic ingredients.

To Sum Up

Let’s face facts - most of us are concerned about our appearance, and why shouldn’t we be? Skin care is as important as health care. Would you compromise on the quality of your health care? Then why not for skin care too? The 11 beauty brands mentioned above are sure to keep your skin healthy and aglow. Whether the expensive ones or the affordable ones - they’re worth every penny you spend. These brands are the best safe cosmetics to buy and are readily available in India. You can buy cosmetic products online in India or just walk into a store. Websites like Amazon, Nykaa and Purplle frequently offer excellent discounts and offers on these products, so you could save a few bucks if you if you buy these organic products online.  Make sure to read and research adequately before purchasing. Happy shopping!