Women urged to rely on natural beauty products

Women are being urged to rely on natural beauty products to avoid the side-effects that often result from excessive use of artificial cosmetics. Speaking to Gulf News yesterday, Mariam Yamani, head of the Women's Section at the Emirates Society for Consumer Protection (ESCP), called on women to reduce their use of make-up and other products which often contain chemicals that may damage their skin or affect their health.

"Our grandmothers were also keen on maintaining a beautiful look through the use of natural plants such as henna which they applied to their hair and skin and they often resorted to herbs to treat various afflictions. "Their diet also consisted mainly of vegetables, fruit and fibre. Today, nutritious meals have been largely replaced by junk food and high-calorie snacks."

Some women buy high-fashion cosmetics or clothes simply to show that they are keeping up with the latest fads. She advised every woman to buy only what is necessary and suited to her and to keep the use of artificial cosmetics to a minimum.

"We in ESCP receive letters and calls from women who complain about the harm that some beauty products have caused them. They must realise that many cosmetics such as facial creams, shampoos and hair dyes contain chemicals that can cause allergies or damage the skin". Yamani urged women to guard against counterfeit cosmetics by checking the labels carefully and the expiration date. They must also ensure that the products are suitable for their skin type. The label must also state whether it causes side-effects or can trigger allergies.