Evaluating The Levels Of Some Selected Trace Metals, Renal Function Parameters And Liver Function Parameters Of Heavy Cosmetics Users Among Female Undergraduates And Compare Levels With Non-cosmetic Users

CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1    Cosmetology
Merriam–Webster dictionary defined cosmetology (from the Greek word kosmetikos) as beautifying and the study and application of beauty treatment. Branches of specialty include hairstyling, skin care, cosmetics, manicures/pedicures, and electrology. It is also defined as the job or skill of giving beauty treatments to mostly women and men by washing and cutting hair, applying makeup etc. Cosmetology is also defined as the cosmetic treatment of skin, hair and nails (Toutain, 2010).
2.2    Cosmetics
Cosmetic is defined as an item intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled or sprayed on, introduced into or applied to the human body or any part thereof for cleansing, protecting, beautifying, promoting attractiveness or altering the appearance (Mehta, 2008). Cosmetic products since the dawn of civilization (Brown, 2013) are considered a part of routine body care. During the last few decades these products have had a big boost (Al-Dayel et al., 2011) and applied to the human body for beautification.
Cosmetics have often been considered by many dermatologists, more harmful than good (Groot et al., 1994). These contain more than 10,000 ingredients which are linked to many diseases like cancer, birth defects, developmental and reproductive harm.
Cosmetics can pose various short-term hazards, such as flammability (hairspray, deodorant, nail polish remover) or skin irritation (e.g. hair colors). Products contain a variety of ingredients, including many different dyes and fragrances. Some ingredients can cause allergic reactions or sensitivity in certain individuals. Others may cause cancer or other serious illness (Skov and Lynge, 1994).
Recently, concerns have been raised about some specific ingredients in cosmetics. Many of these ingredients can cause health effects from inhalation or skin exposure through continued use. Testing has shown that some of these ingredients make their way inside our bodies, sometimes in amounts that could be harmful. The safety of particular ingredients is often controversial, and removing them from products can take years, even after the risk is documented. Some companies are responding to consumer health and safety concerns and are removing certain ingredients voluntarily without being required by law or regulation to do so (Philip, 2008).
Some ingredients in cosmetics, such as certain detergents, alcohols, and plant oils can irritate your skin if there is enough of the ingredient in the product. If these ingredients are used in small amounts, they may have no hazardous effects at all and are of little concern. Ingredients with very serious health effects or those that can build up in our bodies or the environment can be a problem even in small amounts.