There are so many Cosmetic Skin Care Products on the market that it is almost impossible to know where to start. Every product line offers promises that seem like miracles. Many products will promise to produce younger, healthier-looking skin overnight. When choosing a cosmetic skin-care line, it's important to remember that these cosmetics are full of chemicals that will affect the appearance of the skin. Most consumers do not consider that these products may come with some very real side effects that can range from moderate to severe.
Redness
Allergic reactions to cosmetic skin care products can range in severity from mild to extremely severe. On the mild end of the spectrum, a user may experience redness where the new product has been applied. This redness may subside in hours or it could last for days.
Burning
When using a new skin care cosmetic line, there may be some mild burning involved at the application site. This burning can turn into a potential side effect when it lasts for longer than a few minutes. In extreme cases, the burning may last for several days.
Itching
Some users may experience itching at the location where the skin care cosmetics are applied. It may seem harmless at first, but if the user scratches the irritated areas it can lead to an infection. If an infection develops and does not clear up in a short period of time, a trip to the doctor may be required. Users should not try to treat a skin infection on their own. Skin infections can lead to permanent scarring. (See Causes of Itching.)
Hives
Hives are characterized as raised, red, itching bumps that can appear anywhere on the skin. The hives will usually appear where the user has applied the skin care cosmetic products. These will usually clear up on their own, without the intervention of a doctor, within 24 hours after the user has stopped using the cosmetics. In extremely severe cases, hives can move from the location of the cosmetic application to other areas of the body. In these instances, the hives can last for several weeks. If a user experiences such a severe reaction to a cosmetic line, they may need to seek the assistance of a doctor. (See How to Prevent Hives.)
Blisters
Blisters may form if the user has a severe allergic reaction to a skin care cosmetic line. These blisters may last for several days to weeks. At some point the blisters may begin to ooze, resulting in an extremely unpleasant appearance to the skin. If a patient sees any blisters beginning to form, they should stop using the skin care cosmetic line immediately. While there are blisters on the skin, only wash with extremely mild soap, and do not apply any other cosmetics to the blistered area. Seeking the advice of a medical professional may be necessary if the blisters do not clear up in a few days on their own or if they appear to be infected.
