What Causes Warts On Your Fingers?

Warts are regarded as one of the most contacted skin infections because of how fast they spread. They spread simply by touch from a person who already carries the infection, direct usage of anything that a wart carrier has touched or used and other forms of physical contact.

There are several types of warts, but one of the major types is called the common wart. Common warts are easy to spot and are usually found on the fingers, knuckles, palms (also called palmar wart) and sometimes on the knees.

Common warts are not responsible for skin cancer, they do not result to fatality neither do they require some sort of quarantine for the infected like other dangerous diseases. They are as common as the everyday day skin acne, however they are highly transmittable.

This is another reason why it is so common. People can easily contact the warts by direct touch of a visible wart, so the regular handshake that is exchanged on a daily basis can put you at risk if you shake an infected person.

Apart from primary exposure, common warts can also be transmitted secondarily. This means that if a person with a wart infection touches an object and you touch that same object with your hands bare, you can be infected with the virus as well.

Causes of Common Warts

All warts are caused by a particular virus, referred to as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). This virus, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, causes the infection to protrude in different places thereby resulting in different kinds of wart.

They are like a family. They increase and spread due to change of location, birth and marriage, but are always connected by blood. Here, the infection will always be a traceable to the oldest and the source.

This is what the Human Papillomavirus represents to the various types of warts existing today. They may appear in different areas of the body and at different times, have different names and sometimes even look different, but they all come from a single source.

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) can be found among humans and are classified into groups of numbers. Different types of the virus when infected are responsible for various diseases like cancer, HIV etc and these are deadly diseases. But the Human Papillomavirus on its own can be harmless. Sometimes, it goes away on its own when it has been contacted after a period of time.

A person can be easily infected with the virus and can even have more than one virus at the same time. The Human Papillomavirus is not visible to the natural eye and so going for regular checks with medical experts is a wise way to prevent the HPV virus infection and the cause of warts or any other kind of harmful disease. These are some of the HPV types and their numbers:

HPV type 1,2,3,4,6,7,10,11,28 and 63 among a wide range of other numbers. HPV type 2,7 and 22 are mostly responsible for common warts. The most common way to get infected with HPV is by touch, but that is not the sole reasons for common warts.

Most of the time the virus remains dormant in the human system, but when it comes in contact with the skin, then there is a high chance of the infection resulting in a wart, especially if there is an injury or opening on the skin no matter how small it is.

While the Human Papillomavirus can be harmless on its own and may not result in any infection or disease, there are certain things that can trigger the appearance of a common wart.

Certain physical activities that are considered harmless by the ordinary man might be a reason why warts are one of the most widely spread skin infections in the world today. These activities can also be secondary causes of warts.

Poor Hygiene

Body hygiene is often overlooked by a majority of people in the society today. A lot of people do not take proper care of their diet, skin and environmental surrounding.

Since the Human Papillomavirus can be easily transmitted by touch or skin contact, a simple habit of regularly washing the hands preferably with a disinfectant and the use of hand sanitizers when going out to public places and events where you will most likely have a lot of body contact, would help alot (MedicalNewsToday).

Taking regular baths will also help reduce the risk of getting infected. These measures can help prevent the widespread infection of common warts on the skin.

Injuries and cuts on the skin are the welcome signs for the Human Papillomavirus to infect the skin and result in warts

The virus on the skin alone does nothing, but when there is a tiny scratch on the skin even as small as a nail bite then the Papillomavirus can actually spread to the inner layer of the skin and a wart can erupt on that spot.

Properly disinfecting a wound and covering it up, really well can prevent the entry of any infection of the Human Papillomavirus.

This is not just a protective measure against common warts. It can also help to prevent other infections as well that are related with open cuts on the skin.

Carelessness in a wart infected area

It is actually possible to be in a wart infected area and not get the virus. Since the virus is not airborne, just being in an infected area will not automatically give you warts,but certain careless moves can do that.

Shaking people with or without visible warts will most likely result in an infection and sharing things with people who already have warts will increase your risk of getting infected.

You can not always choose where and when to be cautious in the case of warts because when it is in its early stage the Human Papillomavirus is not visible to the human eye so being prepared at all times can help you avoid contact with the virus (WebMD).

Being cautious will help you to do things like studying the appearance of people properly before having contact with them and you also need to have a fore knowledge of how to wield public equipment carefully.

Lack of knowledge about warts

A lot of people have very little knowledge about warts and some know nothing about it at all. They are quite ignorant of how it spreads and the speed with which it does that. Little wonder why most times, no measures are taken into preventing the virus infection and this increases one’s risk as well.

Warts can easily be spread from one part of the body to another by vigorously scratching the wart infected area and using that same finger to scratch other parts of the body. This will easily spread the virus to that part of the body and if there is a cut on the skin then a wart would most likely appear on the skin.

A lot of people immediately begin to scratch the warts on their skin once they see it, but it is the wrong way to handle wart infection as it will only enhance the spread of the warts.

Having no knowledge about common warts will only expose you to the virus faster. Also not paying attention to proper precaution may make it more difficult for you to prevent the virus on the hands and other parts of the body.

Scientists have stated that about 80 percent of people in the world today have a high chance of having warts at some point in life. Research shows that three out of every four persons will contact the virus which usually result in warts especially with the high rate of illnesses and diseases in the world today which weakens a lot of people’s immune system.

People with a weak immune system usually have a higher chance of being exposed to the possible infection of the Human Papillomavirus. Although warts alone are known to be harmless and painful, certain situations might be different like pain. The most important thing is to get treatment immediately to avoid the isolation and embarrassment that usually comes with having a wart prone infection.

Contrary to popular belief, toads, frogs and other animals do not have the ability and capacity to spread HPV because HPV is only susceptible to the human body hence the reason it is called the Human Papillomavirus. A lot of people think that way because warts are majorly found on children, but the truth is, this is only so because of their weak immune system and because they are more prone to injuries due to their playful lifestyle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, warts generally do not have a definite cure so they can only be treated occasionally one at a time. In some situations, warts reoccur, despite the treatments that are implemented. This is usually in the case of home or self administered treatments.

When this happens, it is best to see a dermatological expert to offer a more long lasting solution to the infection. However this does not permanently eradicate your chances of contacting the infection again.

Read our article about Plantar Wart On Bottom Of Foot: Causes and Treatments

DIY Skin Toners For A Healthy And Glowing Skin

Skin Health, Tips and Advice

DIY Skin Toners For A Healthy And Glowing Skin

Using a facial cleanser to wash your face is not enough. After washing your face, it is necessary to use toner for the skin. A toner can help cleanse and rebalance the skin’s pH level. It further aids in combating skin problems and enables you to maintain glowing, healthy and younger-looking skin. Along with that, it is also beneficial for removing excess oil from the skin, shrinking pores and eliminating any remaining impurities from the skin.

You can buy readymade toners in the market easily. But, they often contain synthetic chemicals that can ruin your flawless skin. Instead of buying those toners, you can make a toner at home with natural ingredient. It helps save your money and doesn’t damage your skin as well. Here are some recipes to make DIY toners at home. You should include them in your skincare routine.

DIY Toners For Oily Skin

You can try one of these tones below to reduce the oiliness of the skin and shrink large pores. It also helps to combat the acne problem related to oily skin.

Method 1:

Lavender oil in this toner comes with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, which work on fighting against acne and inflammation while tea tree oil is useful for combating acne breakouts, dark spots, pimples, and blemishes. Apple cider vinegar is beneficial for decreasing the oiliness and the pH level of the skin. Green tea can deal with the acne due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

You need to prepare:

¼ cup of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar
¾ cup of steeped green tea
Several drops of tea tree oil
A few drops of lavender oil

Process:

Steep one green tea bag in some boiling water and then pour it into one jar. To it, add the ACV and mix them well. Immerse a cotton ball in this mixture and lightly apply on your clean face. Don’t rinse it off and leave it to dry. Try this toner twice every day for visible results. You can store the rest of this toner in the refrigerator for about ten days.

Method 2:

Cucumber is helpful for tightening the skin pores and fading away dead skin cells, dirt and sebum from the skin surface, as it comprises the natural astringent agents. Plus, it also comes with vitamin C that maintains the oil balance and inhibits the excessive dryness or oiliness.

You need to prepare:

A cucumber
Two cups of water

Process:

The first step is chopping the cucumber into small pieces. The next step is adding the water to one pan and adding the pieces of cucumber. Then, boil the water until it lowers to half. After that, remove from the heat and leave it to cool down. Blend the mixture and store this resultant toner in a container. For use, dip a cotton pad in this toner and use it to wipe your face. After cleansing, apply this homemade toner twice daily.

DIY Toners For Normal Skin

All of these toners will protect the skin from becoming too oily or dry and moisturize it as well.

Method 1:

Aloe vera present in this homemade toner for normal skin is effective for warding off a pimple and acne breakouts thanks to its antibacterial properties. It additionally delays skin aging by boosting skin cell regeneration. Cucumber can hydrate the skin and give a soothing sensation. Peppermint oil can prevent acne by controlling oiliness of the skin.

Regular use of peppermint oil is useful for refreshing and cooling the skin while rose essential oil embraces excellent properties that rejuvenate your skin. Along with that, the astringent properties present in this oil can deal with acne-prone skin. Moreover, it also helps soothe redness and inflammation owing to its as anti-inflammatory properties.

You need to prepare:

A medium-sized cucumber
Five drops of peppermint oil
Gel from an aloe vera leaf

Process:

Firstly, extract the juice of the cucumber and later transfer the juice to a jar. Add the gel of aloe vera to the cucumber juice and peppermint oil to it. After that, mix these things well and pour it into one spray bottle. Spray it on the face and wait for five to ten minutes before rinsing with normal water. You can store this toner for a week in the refrigerator.

Method 2:

Use of rose water daily will help you maintain clear and healthy skin. It contains pH balancing properties so that it is an excellent toner. It particularly helps to flush oils and dirt out of the skin. It also helps to soften the skin and give it a healthy, natural glow. Chamomile essential oil possesses skin repairing, strengthening, and regenerating properties, which help keep your skin refreshing and young. Geranium oil has positive effects on different skin disorders such as acne, eczema, rashes, dermatitis, fungal infections, etc.

You need to prepare:

Six tablespoons of rose water
One drop of chamomile essential oil
One drop of geranium oil

Process:

Pour the rose water in one spray bottle and add the geranium and chamomile oil to it. Shake well to blend all the oils with the rose water. After cleansing your face, use this toner twice daily.

DIY Toners For Dry Skin

The problem of dry skin can cause the face to look aged, flaky and unappealing. Plus, it also causes tears, itching, and redness in the skin. But these toners will help you fight against the dryness of your skin and keep the skin moisturized and healthy.

Method 1:

Rose water can restore the skin’s pH and make it appear fresh. Besides, it’s also useful in eliminating residual grime and dirt without making the skin look dry. As a result, it leaves the skin feeling hydrated and fresh. Glycerin, on the other hand, hydrates the face and leaves the skin feeling extremely supple. It is also easily absorbed and gives long-lasting hydration to the skin.

You need to prepare:

Two tablespoons of rose water
One teaspoon of glycerin

Process:

Pour the rose water into one spray bottle and add the glycerin to it. Mix these ingredients well. After that, gently spray this toner on your face. You can also keep it in one jar and dip a cotton pad in it. Then, dab it on the face. Try using this toner daily before applying a moisturizer. You can store this DIY skin toner in the refrigerator for ten days.

Method 2:

Coconut water helps to hydrate the skin effectively because it is a great moisturizer. Milk is rich in vitamin D that enhances production of collagen in the dry skin and keeps the skin hydrated from the inside. Besides, milk also contains the magnesium that reduces the aging process of dry skin and prevents wrinkles and blemishes. Cucumber has high amounts of water that is beneficial for hydrating the skin and removing dryness from it.

Ingredients:

1/4 cup of raw milk
1/4 cup of coconut oil
A cucumber

Process:

Peel and slice the small cucumber at first and later put it in one blender. Puree and strain the cucumber to take out its juice. Then add the coconut water and milk to the cucumber juice. Mix well and store the mixture in a glass bottle. Dip one cotton ball in this toner and start applying to the skin. Let it dry and rinse it off using water.

Additional Tips

If you do not have green tea, you mix apple cider vinegar and water in equal parts to make a skin toner for oily skin.
You can also use a bowl if you do not have a spray bottle.

Don’t store the DIY toners for more than ten days because they will lose their advantages by then.

Does Soy Milk Cause Acne?

Acne, Skin Health, Tips and Advice

Unfortunately, the answer to this question is not a simple yes or no. There are many online forums where people discuss their experiences with soy milk. Some argue soy milk caused skin issues, while others claim soy milk cleared their skin up. However, scientific evidence and studies regarding the relationship between acne and soy milk are practically nonexistent.

Soy Milk Does Not Cause Acne, But It Can Make Acne Worse

Every person reacts differently to soy milk. However, some individuals may find themselves more prone to breakouts than others. Naturally, those allergic or sensitive to soy products will find themselves breaking out more often. However, there is no concrete evidence that soy milk itself causes breakouts. Instead, it is the chemicals found in soy that cause skin problems. According to skinsalvation.com, phytoestrogens can cause acne to become worse.

What are Phytoestrogens?

Phytoestrogens are a type of plant constituent, or chemical, that can negatively affect the body’s estrogen production. Sometimes, phytoestrogens alter, or even replace, our body’s naturally- produced estrogen. When this happens, it causes androgen production to increase. Increased androgen production can cause glands to product more oil, which can lead to an acne breakout.

Additionally, phytoestrogens can negatively affect the liver. The liver is responsible for removing toxins and excess hormones, like estrogen, from the body. When we absorb extra estrogen from plants, our liver cannot always keep up. When the liver is unable to cleanse estrogen from the body, our skin tries to finish the job, which often makes your skin more susceptible to breakouts.

Women are typically more susceptible than men to phytoestrogen imbalances.

Does Soy Milk Have Other Negative Side Effects?

According to skinsalvation.com, soy milk can have other negative effects. Unfortunately, all these side effects can lead to more acne breakouts. Acne is sometimes caused by nutrient imbalances. A poorly balanced diet or the inability to absorb nutrients often makes acne worse.

Sometimes, when prepared improperly soy will produce lectins, which are often referred to as “anti-nutrients.” Lectins negatively impact the body’s ability to absorb key nutrients. They also cause gut issues. Additionally, the phytic acid found in soy beans also decreases the body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients like calcium and zinc. Zinc deficiency have been known to cause acne.

Finally, soy increases inflammation throughout the body. In fact, out of all omega-6 oils soybean is one of the most inflammatory. It can increase inflammation levels throughout the entire body, which also increases acne breakouts.

If Soy Milk Is So Bad Why Do People Drink It?

Yes, soy milk does seem to make some people more susceptible to acne breakouts. However, it’s difficult to prove that soy is the sole reason someone experiences breakouts. There are a number of foods in someone’s diet that could be making their acne worse. Individuals who have a soy allergy or intolerance, but do not know it, may experience excessive breakouts.

Just because some people seem to react badly to soy milk doesn’t mean soy milk is bad for you. In moderation, soy can be extremely beneficial. In 2010, a study completed by the Chinese University of Hong Kong found that some participants who increased their soy intake actually saw a reduction in their acne.

What are Some Health Benefits of Soy Milk?

For many people soy actually helps keep their skin and hair healthy. Soy is rich in protein, a nutrient that significantly impacts skin and hair health. Soy milk also contains iron, calcium, fiber, folic acid, B vitamins and potassium, which are all important nutrients.

Therefore, while soy may cause skin problems for some individuals, soy improves skin problems for many other individuals. Some of the skin and hair benefits include:

Strengthens Hair- protein can bind itself to strands of hair, which creates a protective layer around hair, ultimately strengthening it. Consuming products rich in protein, like soy milk, works from the inside to strengthen hair.
Gets Rid of Split Ends- no one likes dealing with split ends. Luckily, soy milk can help repair them! While consuming soy can help repair split end from the inside, using soy milk as a conditioner can also repair split ends.
Moisturizes hair and skin- soy milk contains vitamin E, which helps revitalize dead skin cells. Bebeautiful.in suggests giving yourself a “soy facial.” Apply some soy milk to your face for about 20 minutes. Moisturizing can also improve skin elasticity.
Reduce in Acne- as mentioned, some individuals experience a reduction in acne breakouts when they increase their soy intake.

Other Health Benefits Soy Milk Offers

Soy milk does offer some other benefits. When debating whether soy milk is helping or hurt your skin, consider some of these other benefits:

Weight Regulation
Lower Cholesterol
Stronger Immune System
Prevents Several Diseases

What Else Could Be Causing Your Acne?

As briefly mentioned, other things may be causing you to breakout. There are other foods, products, and underlying conditions that may be causing your acne. If you’re experiencing constant acne breakouts some of these things could be the cause:

Greasy Makeup- like soy milk, makeup itself doesn’t necessarily cause acne. However, covering acne with makeup can make it worse. Applying makeup with your fingers can also increase breakouts. Failing to wash your makeup off can also make acne wash.
Other foods- According to healthline.com, there are seven main food groups that could cause acne: refined grains and sugars, dairy products, fast food, Omega-6 fatty foods, chocolate, Whey protein powder, and any food you are sensitive to.
Medication- medications that contain androgen or lithium could cause hormonal imbalances, which can result in a breakout.
Stress- sometimes it is not a specific product or food that causes your acne. If you’re experiencing high amounts of stress it could negatively affect your skin.

Soy Milk FAQs

There is a lot of debate about whether soy milk causes acne. Unfortunately, there is a severe lack of scientific evidence or studies that support either side of the debate. Instead, people have to decide for themselves whether soy milk is causing their acne.

Does Soy Milk Cause Acne?

The simple answer is no, soy milk does not cause acne. The more complicated answer is, soy milk can cause estrogen imbalances in certain individuals. Like any food allergy or intolerance, individuals who are sensitive to soy may be more susceptible to soy-related breakouts.

What Are the Negative Effects of Drinking Soy?

Many of the negative side effects of drinking soy can increase acne breakouts. Not only can soy cause estrogen imbalances, but it can make it difficult for your body to absorb essential nutrients like zinc, which is known to have a direct correlation to acne. Soy also causes inflammation, which is also linked to acne.

Are There Any Benefits to Drinking Soy?

Since soy does not necessarily cause acne, there are benefits to drinking soy. While some people may find soy causes skin problems, others may find that soy improves their skin issues. For example, soy is rich in proteins which is important for developing healthy skin and hair. There are also other health benefits, such as a stronger immune system and lower cholesterol.

What Else Causes Acne?

There are many other things that cause acne. Several foods have a correlation to acne breakouts. Typically, any food you are sensitive to will negatively impact your skin. Covering acne with makeup or failing to wash makeup off can also make acne worse. Medications, hormonal imbalances, and stress are also reasons why you may experience abnormal acne breakouts.

Reference List

Diane; Soy and Acne: Why We Avoid This Food For Clear Skin; https://skinsalvationsf.com/2017/05/soy-and-acne-why-we-avoid-this-food-for-clear-skin/

Kay Uzoma; Can Soy Milk Cause Acne? https://www.livestrong.com/article/454724-can-soy-milk-cause-acne/

Cynthia Cobb; What You Need to Know About Acne; https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/107146.php

How to get rid of wrinkles around your mouth (effective even for smokers)

Aging, Tips and Advice, Wrinkles

How to Get Rid of Wrinkles Around Your Mouth (Effective Even For Smokers)

If you are looking for the best ways to get rid of wrinkles around the mouth, then you are in the right place. Even if you are a smoker, you’ll find a solution here. We can all agree that deep wrinkles around the mouth are not particularly attractive, and if you are very conscious of your looks, then you probably can’t stand the sight of wrinkles on your face.

Wrinkles usually appear on the forehead and around the eyes but they can also appear around the mouth because it participates in so many activities it easily forms skin wrinkles. If not properly cared for, the wrinkles around the mouth can be more obvious because of the sensitivity and the vulnerability of the skin. Wrinkles, however can be prevented and reduced by doing some of the following;

Using home remedies
Massage
Microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and laser treatment
Using good wrinkle removal creams, masks, and serums

In this guide you will find out the best home remedies, facial exercises and some of the best products that can help you get rid of wrinkles around your mouth.

Using Home Remedies to Get Rid of Wrinkles Around the Mouth

Feeding your skin cells with harsh chemicals is the worst thing you can do to yourself. Using home remedies can reduce creases around your mouth and smokers’ lips. Consider using these home remedies to help with your wrinkles.

Olive oil

Massaging olive oil on the skin is beneficial in reducing deep lines on your lips. It helps to moisturize the skin and it can also help by removing dead cells around the lip area. The best way to use olive oil for wrinkles around the mouth is by gently massaging it into your skin before going to bed.

Castor oil

Castor oil is usually added to homemade natural lip balms and glosses to add shine and moisture to dry lips and lighten dark lips. It is know to be a helpful remedy for lines around mouth so a good options for fighting wrinkles.

Pineapple juice

You can apply green pineapple juice to reduce cracked lips and to get rid of deep lines around your mouth. Just rub pineapple juice on your skin and let it sit for 20 minutes before rinsing off with warm water. Pineapple has an active enzyme known as bromelain, which is an anti-inflammatory agent and a natural form of alpha hydroxy acid that is effective in treating fine lines around the mouth.

Water

Another very effective natural method is to drink lots of water, which would keep your skin hydrated, smooth, and plump. Since dry skin is one of the causes of wrinkles, hydrate your skin by drinking sufficient amount of water. Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water every day to replenish lost moisture from the inside.

Massage to remove wrinkles around the mouth

Give yourself a massage with a do-it-yourself acupressure treatment. Use your index and middle finger on one hand to massage 20 rotations around your mouth. Also apply light pressure to each temple for 10 seconds and then to the jaw joint for another 10 seconds while clenching your teeth gently.

It’ll smooth your skin all over your face and relax the muscles, preventing them from making unnecessary micromovements that form wrinkles from tension and stress.

Microdermabrasion for mouth wrinkle removal

Microdermabrasion is a short, non-invasive process that works to resurface the skin and potentially to reduce the size and depth of wrinkles. The top layer of the skin is scraped lightly with micro aluminum oxide crystals or diamond-tipped wand.

Synthetic or natural diamonds which are four times harder than conventional micro aluminum oxide crystals replace the crystals when a diamond-tipped wand is used, for a deeper clean.

This procedure works to stimulate the layer beneath the skin and at the same time exfoliating the wrinkled skin. After exfoliation, the smooth, wrinkle-free layer is revealed.

Also, microdermabrasion promotes collagen production, helping the dermis sustain the outer skin layer and accelerate the skin cell renewal process.

You can get a microdermabrasion done at a spa or a dermatologist’s office. You can also get over-the-counter do-it-yourself treatments that are available. Multiple treatments are needed to achieve the best results.

Chemical peel for eliminating wrinkles

A chemical peel is a very effective way to lessen the wrinkles around your mouth and improve your skin texture. This treatment burns the top layer of your skin with chemicals such as phenol, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs).

This procedure stimulates and increases the cell regeneration rate to allow the production of healthy, tighter skin. The formula used is based on each patient’s skin type. Chemical peels can be used to:

Reduce fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth
Treat wrinkles caused by sun damage, smoking, and aging
Improve the appearance of mild scars

For more information on the procedure check WebMD.

Fraxel laser treatment for removing mouth wrinkles

This treatment is a great option for treating wrinkles in general but is particularly effective for the skin around your mouth. It uses a laser to treat a fractional part of your skin. This area is considered the microthermal zone.

The laser focuses on the part that is affected by wrinkles to stimulate the collagen production. By targeting smaller areas on your face, this method can be considered to be rather effective.

New healthy collagen forms when the skin heals, and the result of this is a younger looking skin and a tighter area around the mouth.

This process works on a small portion of your skin at once but additional treatments are required for the best results.

Exercise your face and mouth to remove wrinkles

One of the best and cheapest ways to get rid of deep wrinkles around your mouth is to perform face-tightening exercises. Just stand in front of the mirror and do facial exercises for 15 minutes daily.

Begin by stretching your mouth as wide as you can, as if you are saying “cheese.” Hold the position for two seconds, then pucker your lips together tightly so that your lips almost touch your nose.

Maintain this pose for two seconds, then stretch your mouth back into the “cheese” position. After two seconds, stretch your lips forward and down, as if you are saying the word “go.” Hold for two seconds, then relax. Repeat the entire routine 20 times (Livestrong,2018).

Using wrinkle creams, serums, and masks to eliminate wrinkles around your mouth

The use of anti-wrinkle creams is an effective treatment option. Over-the-counter products can be more affordable than prescription treatments.

Anti-wrinkle creams contain several active ingredients amongst which is Retinol.

Retinol is an antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals which are responsible for the breakdown of the skin cells which cause wrinkles.
Aloe Vera is also an ingredient present in anti-wrinkle cream that is loaded anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Hydroxy acids are ingredients that exfoliate the skin by getting rid of dead skin and promoting the formation of new, healthy skin cells. It is recommended to exfoliate the skin twice a week when using anti-wrinkle creams.
Exfoliation works to help to get rid of the dead and damaged top layer of skin so that the skin cells beneath the skin can fully take in the treatment.

Below are five wrinkle removal products that are proven to help with wrinkles and can be specifically used to target the mouth area.

Product	Price Range	Our Rating	Buy
Blue Marine Algae Seeweed Collagen Gel Crystal Masks Lips Pads	$	4.5/5
Toute Nuit Facial Wrinkle Flattening Patches	$$	4.7/5
Philosophy Hope in a Tube Eye and Lip Firming Cream Tube	$$	4.8/5
Lip Line Magic Verticle Lip Line Repair Serum	$$	4.7/5
WILMA SCHUMANN Mouth & Lips Age Defying Masques	$$$	4.6/5

Blue Marine Algae Seeweed Collagen Gel Crystal Masks Lips Pads

Product details

These masks work to uphold the effect of firmer skin and protect it from premature aging by constantly stimulating the regeneration processes in skin cells.

Our skin will be nourished and hydrated till its deepest layers, which will cause its youthful glow and constant replenishment of collagen will result in an almost immediate uplifting effect.

If used regularly, these masks will give you silky smooth and an impressively firm skin, by reducing fine lines and wrinkles and improving the skin’s elasticity to fast and easily absorbing components.

Key features

You will find 10 collagen masks in this set for 10 intense and rejuvenating treatments of your lips to make them look juicy, plump and sensual.

The ingredients in this product are; Aqua, glycerin, propylene glycol, glyceryl stearate, trehalose, collagen, hamamelis virginiana extract, cladosiphon okamuranus extract, algae extract, hyaluronic acid, allantoin phenoxyethanol.

Who is it for

This product is formulated for people with wrinkles round the mouth.

How does it work

These mask works to uphold the effect of firmer skin and protect it from premature aging by constantly stimulating the regeneration processes in skin cells.

Directions

Applications

Clean and dry the skin around your lips thoroughly.
When you open the package, peel the plastic liner off. Use the lips masks immediately after opening the foil package, so it would not dry out.
Apply the masks onto your skin around the lips.
Let it sit for 30 minutes then take the mask off gently.
Do not reuse the mask.

Precautions

Do not use the masks on irritated, wounded, inflamed skin or on eczema. Do not reuse the masks. If you have a sensitive or allergic skin, please perform a skin sensitivity test before you use. Keep this product out of the reach of children. Do not store at the temperature above 50°C (122°F). It can be stored up to 36 months.

Side effect

There are no known side effects for this product. However, you shouldn’t let it stay more than the recommended time on your skin.

Our verdict

The Blue Marine Algae Seeweed Collagen Gel Crystal Mask is a great product and very safe to use Its ingredients are natural and harmless to the skin.

What we like

This product contains natural ingredients that is skin- friendly and it has no side effects. It is also comfortable to use. This product also fits perfectly on the mouth area.

What can be improved

So far, this lip mask has only positive review online.

Toute Nuit Facial Wrinkle Flattening Patches

Product details

Toute Nuit facial wrinkle flattening patches are a natural, safe, affordable, convenient way to reduce the negative appearance of facial wrinkles, wrinkles on the forehead, frown lines, laugh lines, crow’s feet, lines around the mouth + upper lip and marionette lines.

It is natural, non-invasive way to relax underlying facial muscles so as to- flatten deep set wrinkles and smooth out fine lines as part of a daily wrinkle defense strategy.

This product is originally designed and developed in Japan by a Japanese make-up artist and skin care specialist Ms. Mimiko who has 35 years of professional experience in Tokyo and Hollywood. Toute Nuit is produced in the USA and distributed by MIMIKO Inc.

Key features

45 patches of Odorless masks.
The masks are hypo-allergenic
Contain no additives,
Nearly invisible,
Won’t fall off

Who is it for?

For people who have wrinkles and facial lines around the mouth and other areas of the face.

How does it work?

The patches work to relax underlying facial muscles (wrinkles are usually caused primarily by repetitive movements of the facial muscles) to flatten deep set wrinkles and smooth out fine lines with repeated use. The masks also work to prevent and slow down the formation of wrinkle lines on the face.

Directions

Applications

The ideal time to wear the patches is before going to bed. Wash your face clean before wearing the patches.

Precautions

It is highly recommended that you apply any non-greasy moisturizer of your choice on the skin in the targeted wrinkle zone before putting the patches into place. This helps prevent it from rubbing off or evaporating to infuse it into the skin to increase its effectiveness.

Side effects

There are no known side effects that come with using this product.

Our verdict

This product is worth giving a try if you have wrinkles around your mouth. It is safe and effective and won’t cause any burn to your skin. We would choose this over Botox.

What we like

This product is a natural alternative to Botox, expensive facial surgeries and fillers. We like the fact that it is comfortable, it fits into targeted wrinkle zones, it won’t fall off, and it is nearly invisible.

We also like that the product economical, as the shapes can be bought separately and it is reusable. This product also enhances efficacy of your favorite skin care products. It is created for women and men.

What can be improved

It would be nice if this mask comes with a good skin moisturizer. This will make it overall a 100% wrinkle clearing product.

Philosophy Hope in a Tube Eye and Lip Firming Cream Tube

Product details

Philosophy Hope in a Tube Eye and Lip Firming Cream Tube is a rich, moisturizing eye and upper lip cream that has a synergistic blend of topical vitamins E and C to help reduce the appearance of fine lines. It intensely moisturizes dry skin around the eye and lip area and helps firm and revitalize the skin around the eye and mouth area. This product is perfect for use around the eye and mouth area

Key features

This product is Cruelty-free/No Animal Testing,
Hypoallergenic, and Perfume-Free.
It contains vitamins.
It is sulfate-Free and paraben-free

Who is it for

Men and women who want to temporarily eliminate fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth and eye area

How does it work?

This product works to intensely moisturizes dry skin around the eye and lip area.
It helps to firm and revitalize the skin around the mouth and eye area.
It reduces the appearance of fine lines around the mouth and eye area.
Directions

Directions

Application

Apply a small amount to the skin around the orbital bone and above the upper lip, morning and evening. Application should be limited to the outer areas of the eye and lip.

Precautions

For external use only.
Use only as directed.
Discontinue use if irritation occurs.
Avoid contact with eyes.
Keep out of reach of children.

Side effects

There are no known side effects associated with this product.

Our verdict

This product is great for people who are not comfortable with wearing masks on the mouth area. Applying cream is great for these set of people.

What we like

We like that this product is unisex-can be used by both men and women, it is highly moisturizing and made with safe ingredients.

What can be improved

Most people find this product tacky and sticky. A lighter texture would be better.

Lip Line Magic Verticle Lip Line Repair Serum

Product details

Lip Line Magic Lip Serum is truly a truly effective product. It combines all of the best natural ingredients that are known to help fight those vertical fine lines and wrinkles above and around your mouth. The natural ingredients work to fill, plump, stimulate, hydrate, and nourish wrinkled skin.

It is enriched with natural nutrients like antioxidants, vitamin E, alpha hydroxy fruit acids, and hyaluronic acid, our lip wrinkle treatment tightens skin, repairs cell damage, fights free radicals, and moisturizes skin.

Key features

Enriched with anti-oxidants
Enriched with papaya enzymes
Powered by hydrolyzed collagen and blended with hyaluronic acid

Who is it for?

For people who want smoother and plump lips and mouth area.

How does it work?

The natural ingredients work to fill, plump, stimulate, hydrate and nourish wrinkled skin.

Directions

Application

Simply apply using the rollerball tip around the lips on the edges and into vertical lines above and below the lips. Use as often as needed.

Precautions

For external use only.
Use only as directed.
Discontinue use if irritation occurs.
Avoid contact with eyes.
Keep out of reach of children.

Side effects

This product contains natural ingredients that are safe to use and gentle on the skin. There are no side effects associated with using it.

Our verdict

This product is ideal for people who don’t like to use creams or masks on their face. Due to its alpha hydroxy acids content, it can help exfoliate and brighten the skin, which is great for aging skin. So, you are not only getting a wrinkle free skin, you are also getting a brighter skin.

What we like

We like that this product contains natural ingredients that are tested and popularly known to be safe and effective. The smell is also great.

What can be improved

This product needs a different packaging. It is really difficult to get the stuff to come out of the roller top. You may have to beat it on the countertop to get sufficient amount to come down and out of the roller. It would be helpful if users could squeeze the tube.

WILMA SCHUMANN Mouth & Lips Age Defying Masques

Product details

WILMA SCHUMANN Mouth & Lips Age Defying Masques Formula contains peptides, hyaluronic acid, collagen, and glycerin to hydrate, reduce fine lines on and around your lip, and boost plumpness. This concentrated lip mask treatment is designed to immediately counteract the appearance of all types of wrinkles and fine lines in the mouth by returning youth-nurturing moisture.

Key features

Dermatologist, Clinically and Allergy Tested.
It is easy to use and non-irritating.
It is fragrance and paraben free.

Who is it for?

This product is made for people who have wrinkles around their mouth even from smoking.

How does it work?

This concentrated masque treatment is formulated to instantly counteract the appearance of all types of wrinkles and fine lines around the mouth by returning youth-nurturing moisture.

Directions

Application

Cleanse the area around the mouth thoroughly.
Open foil pack and instantly apply the masque around the mouth area.
Confirmproper alignment and leave on for 20 minutes.
Peel and dispose.
Do Not Reuse.

Precautions

For external use only. Use only as directed. Discontinue use if irritation or rash appears.

Side effects

This product contains natural ingredients that are safe to use and gentle on the skin. There are no side effects associated with using it.

Our verdict

This product has a lot of positive reviews online. If you are battling wrinkles around the mouth and your mouth area is dry, you can give this product a try.

What we like

We love the moisturizing effects of this product. It is great for people with extremely dry skin.

What can be improved

The masks should be made to fit better on the mouth area.

Advice and tips for people who have wrinkles around the mouth

Always wear sunscreen
Drink enough water to hydrate your skin
Quit smoking
Get enough sleep
Eat more fruit and vegetables
Limit sun exposure
Control facial expressions such as frowning and squinting

Product	Price Range	Our Rating	Buy
Blue Marine Algae Seeweed Collagen Gel Crystal Masks Lips Pads	$	4.5/5
Toute Nuit Facial Wrinkle Flattening Patches	$$	4.7/5
Philosophy Hope in a Tube Eye and Lip Firming Cream Tube	$$	4.8/5
Lip Line Magic Verticle Lip Line Repair Serum	$$	4.7/5
WILMA SCHUMANN Mouth & Lips Age Defying Masques	$$$	4.6/5

Does Laser Tattoo Removal Hurt?

Tattoos, Tips and Advice

Despite popular belief, tattoo removal is not excruciatingly painful for everyone. Whether tattoo removal will hurt or not depends on your own pain tolerance. For most people removing a tattoo is only as painful as getting a tattoo.

How Does Tattoo Removal Work?

Unlike getting a tattoo, tattoo removal does not involve a needle. Instead, most tattoo removal clinics use a Q-switch laser. Tattoo removal lasers produce pulses of light, which targets pigment colors in the skin. If you are thinking about getting a tattoo removed, it’s important to research credible tattoo removal specialists.

Some places may use older and outdated lasers, which can cause extremely painful sessions. All tattoo removal lasers heat up ink so ink pigments break up easier. However, older and outdated lasers sometimes heat ink to dangerous temperatures, injuring and scarring skin.

How Much Pain To Expect During Treatments

Most people say removing a tattoo feels like repeatedly snapping a rubber band against your skin. Before a session begins, the specialist should apply an anesthetic cream to the area, which helps make the process bearable. If the specialist is not planning to apply numbing cream before a session, then you should apply your own numbing cream before starting treatment.

How many treatments, and how long they last, will depend on the tattoo. Darker tattoos, newer tattoos, or intricately detailed and colorful tattoos are more difficult to remove. Fortunately, sessions become less painful each time, as there is less pigments to remove each session. One treatment session can last anywhere from 30 seconds to 5 minutes. Pain typically only last for about 15 minutes after a session, as long as cooling or silicone gel is applied afterwards.

Possible Side Effects

Tattoo removal is a safe procedure, but side effects are still a possibility. Seeing a physician assistant, nurse, or non-board-certified physician for treatment can increase the risk of side effects. There are two main risks to be concerned about:

Hyper or hypo-pigmentation– an over or under production of melanin.
Scarring

Other possible side effects could include:

Infection- which can cause scarring
Blistering
Swelling
Redness and Irritation
Itching

What To Do After Treatment

While you may not experience extreme pain, expect discomfort around the area for at least a week. Some individuals compare after-session pain to a sunburn. Post-op instructions should always be followed carefully.

Stay Hydrated

According to Hooman Khorasani, staying hydrated after treatments is extremely important. Tattoo ink doesn’t just magically disappear. When the laser breaks up ink particles, your body disposes of it when it sweats or uses the bathroom.

Khorasani recommends drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water each day, for six weeks after a treatment. It may seem like a lot, but your body will be working hard to purge itself of ink particles. Staying hydrated can make a significant different on the success of tattoo removal.

Keep The Area Clean

Keeping the area clean after a treatment is key to prevent infection or scarring. Make sure to wash your hands before touching the affected area. Clean the area by gently washing it with an approved soap. Gently pat it dry afterwards. Avoid scratching, picking at scabs, or shaving the affected area. Do not pop any blisters.

Ice The Affected Area

If you experience irritation, you can apply a cool compress or an ice pack to the affected area. Make sure the compress is clean and only use it for ten minutes at a time. If possible, shower in cooler water and avoid hot tubs and hot baths completely. Pools should also be avoided until all blisters and scabs have completely healed.

If an ice pack does not bring down swelling, take an anti-inflammatory. However, avoid pain killers as they could cause bruising or bleeding.

Applying Creams

After a treatment, it’s recommended to avoid putting make-up, creams, or medications on the affected area for about 48 hours, unless otherwise directed. However, most tattoo removal specialists will prescribe a medicated cream that helps the healing process. Sometimes, you might be sent home with dressing.

For three months after a treatment session, apply sunscreen when you will be outside for long periods of time. Use a sunscreen with at least a spf of 25. However, make sure to gently clean the area once you are back inside. It’s recommended to avoid being out in the sun until all blisters and scabs have healed.

Tattoo Removal FAQs

Tattoo removal has a reputation for being extremely painful, but that is not an accurate assessment. Tattoo removal feels differently for every person.

Does Tattoo Removal Hurt?

Most people say removing a tattoo feels like a rubber band repeatedly snapping against your skin. However, that pain for tattoo removal shouldn’t be any worse than the pain you felt getting the tattoo. Getting a tattoo and removing it should cause around the same amount of pain.

If you need multiple sessions, they will be less painful each time. Earlier sessions hurt more because there is more ink to remove. You may feel discomfort for a week or so after treatment, but actual pain shouldn’t last for more than 15 minutes after a session.

Possible Tattoo Removal Side Effects

The two biggest side effects to worry about are Hyper/hypopigmentation—an over or under production of melanin—and scarring. You may experience some of the following side effects after treatment:

Redness
Itching or Burning
Blistering
Scabbing
Infection- a rare and more serious side effect that can lead to scarring.

What To Do After A Tattoo Removal Session

The success of tattoo removal is affected by your ability to take care of the affected area. Properly following post-op instructions significantly increases the success of the procedure. Some recommended post-op care includes:

Stay Hydrated
Avoid Hot Water and High-Water Pressure
Apply a cool compress, 10 minutes at a time, on swollen areas
Apply antibiotic cream
Keep the area clean

Resources:

Kelsi Zimmerman, How Painful Is Removing A Tattoo? An Expert Breaks Down The Process, https://www.elitedaily.com/p/how-painful-is-removing-a-tattoo-expert-breaks-down-the-process-11474691

Nicole Pajer, What Really Happens When You Get A Tattoo Removed, https://www.huffpost.com/entry/what-happens-when-you-get-a-tattoo-removed_n_5b5a2567e4b0de86f494fe7a

Laseraway, MYTHBUSTERS: GETTING A TATTOO PAIN VS TATTOO REMOVAL PAIN, https://www.laseraway.com/faqs/tattoo-removal/mythbusters-getting-a-tattoo-pain-vs-tattoo-removal-pain/

What Brands Offer Cruelty Free Cosmetics and How You Can Make Your Choice?

Cruelty Free, Skin Health, Tips and Advice

Cruelty-free cosmetics are makeup or other beauty products that are not tested on animals.

In the United States, there are no legal guidelines as to what makes a cosmetic cruelty-free. But most advocacy organizations agree that cruelty-free means that no ingredients in a product have been tested on animals in addition to the final product.

Animal testing includes toxicity tests, whether or not a product will irritate the eyes or skin, whether or not a carcinogen (cancer-causing) tests and tests as to whether or not ingredients will hinder development or reproduction. Animal tests are not always reliable, and the results do not necessarily mean they will be the same in humans, as animals and humans have different anatomy and responses.

How to find cruelty free cosmetics

Look for logos that certify a product is cruelty free

As Consumer Reports notes, a bunny logo on a product’s packaging is a sure way of knowing something wasn’t tested on animals. The logos represent three organizations: Australia’s Choose Cruelty Free, Leaping Bunny and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals’ (PETA) Beauty Without Bunnies.

These organizations have vetted the products and their ingredients, and have directories with brands that don’t test on animals. Do be aware that companies must pay to have these logos on their products, so there may be brands that are cruelty free but cannot afford to put the bunny logo on their cosmetics.

Use a cruelty free app when shopping

All three bunny organizations have apps where you can scan a product’s barcode while shopping and instantly find out if the product of any of its ingredients have been tested on animals.

Remember the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate cruelty free labels

There is no legal definition of cruelty free or vegan that would help to regulate labels. Though the labels can be helpful in identifying cruelty free products, make sure they are labels from one of the certified organizations.

Some labels will say it is a cruelty free product, but really it means that only the final product hasn’t been tested on animals– some ingredients used in that product may still have been tested on animals.

The companies may also be using other supplies or services from laboratories. As the FDA states: “Many raw materials, used in cosmetics, were tested on animals years ago when they were first introduced. A cosmetic manufacturer might only use those raw materials and base their “cruelty-free” claims on the fact that the materials or products are not “currently” tested on animals.”

Search a company’s website for its animal testing policy

While not all companies will explicitly state whether or not they conduct animal testing, you can sometimes deduce whether or not they do by online policies. Some companies say they only test their ingredients or products when required to by law, which still means they are not cruelty free products.

Know the differences between cruelty free and vegan

Cruelty free cosmetics mean they were not tested on animals. A cosmetic product that is vegan is also free of any ingredients that come from animals in addition to not being tested on animals.

Many ingredients known by one name can be of animal, vegetable, or artificial origin, so looking it up in a database can be helpful in determining its source. Vegan products have a logo from Vegan.org. You can also look out for common non-vegan ingredients in cosmetics, which include:

- Beeswax
- Honey
- Lanolin
- Carmine

To make matters more complicated, products can be vegan but may not be cruelty-free. While the cosmetic may not contain any animal products or animal-derived ingredients, the products or its ingredients may have been tested on animals, likely because it is being sold in China. For example, Garnier has vegan shampoos and other hair products, but their products are sold in China and thus undergo animal testing.

Ask companies via e-mail or social media specific animal testing questions

If it is still unclear if a company performs animal testing, you can find a way to contact them and ask specific questions that will inform you whether or not their products are cruelty free. They include:

- Does an outside company conduct product testing for you?
- Do any suppliers you use test on animals?
- Does your parent company conduct animal testing?
- Are the raw ingredients tested on animals? Are the finished products tested on animals?
- Do you sell your products in countries where animal testing is required by law?

What skin care brands are cruelty free?

If you are looking to only use skin care products that are cruelty free, there are many options from drug store to luxury brands that don’t test their products on animals.

Be sure to check one of the certified databases to ensure whatever product you’re purchasing is in fact cruelty free. Here are a few notable skin care brands in each price range:

Drugstore brands

Pacifica
Yes To
Alba Botanica
Avalon Organics

Mid-Range brands

Glossier
Paula’s Choice
Juice Beauty
Dermalogica
First Aid Beauty
Ole Henriksen

Luxury brands

Drunk Elephant
Tatcha
Kate Somerville
Sunday Riley
Dennis Gross

What beauty products are cruelty free?

Like skin care products, there are many cosmetic options available in each price range. Be sure to keep an eye out for the correct labels and double check the company with one of the cruelty free databases. Here are some popular beauty brands that are cruelty free in each price range:

Drugstore brands

elf
NYX
Milani
Physicians Formula
Sonia Kashuk

Mid-Range brands

Anastasia Beverly Hills
Urban Decay
Milk Makeup
Kat Von D
Tarte
IT Cosmetics
Bare Minerals

Luxury brands

Charlotte Tilbury
Marc Jacobs Beauty

What companies still test on animals?

Many of the most popular skincare and cosmetic brands still test on animals. This is mainly because in order to sell products in China, Chinese law requires products sold in China to be tested on animals. (This law does not apply to online sales.) In 2017, cosmetic sales in China totaled $251 billion, making it an attractive marketplace for companies.

However in April 2019, China’s National Medical Products Administration accepted some non-animal testing methods to regulate the cosmetics and skin care industry.

The Chinese administration accepted nine non-animal test methods that will go into effect on January 1, 2020. This does not mean animal testing will not be done in China any more, but it is a big step in the country accepting testing and regulatory methods that don’t involve animals.

Popular brands that are currently sold in China and thus are not cruelty free include:

Drugstore brands

Maybelline
Revlon
Neutrogena
Aveeno
L’Oreal
Rimmel London
Garnier

Mid-Range brands

MAC
Clinique
Estee Lauder
Benefit
Lancome
Origins

Luxury brands

Chanel
Dior
Tom Ford

However, animal testing has been banned altogether in the European Union, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, Isreal, Taiwan, Turkey, and India.

Are there cruelty free loopholes?

While some companies state they are cruelty free and do not test on animals, in fact there are some loopholes where that may not be the case. Here are common ones to look out for:

Some cosmetic or skincare brands claim that they, that one brand, does not test on animals, but they may be hiring a third-party company to test their ingredients or products on their behalf. This is usually done when companies are selling their products in China, where animal testing is currently required.
Unofficial bunny logos can fool consumers into thinking a product is cruelty free. For a brand to be certified cruelty-free, by one of the three organizations that issue official bunny logos, they must meet certain standards, sign a no animal testing policy pledge and showing documentation and proof of no animal testing to the organization that is issuing the logo.
Another phrasing loophole is when a company says they do not conduct animal testing except when required by law. Again, this is to sell products in China, where cosmetic testing on animals is required by law. As an example, Neutrogena states on its website: “Neutrogena doesn’t conduct animal testing of our cosmetic products anywhere in world, except in the rare situation where governments or laws require it.”
Because there are no laws or regulations surrounding saying a product is cruelty free in the United States, technically anyone could state that on a product label or on their website that they are cruelty free. If you can’t find any of the certified logos or can only find vague language about being cruelty free, check the official databases or ask a company the direction questions listed above to find out if they’re actually testing on animals.
Some companies will say that a product was not tested on animals, but that does not mean the separate ingredients within the product were not tested on animals. Unless the brand makes every ingredient in a cosmetic or skincare product from scratch and control the entire manufacturing process from start to finish, most companies must buy and acquire their ingredients from a manufacturer or supplier. These manufacturers and suppliers also need to be free of animal testing processes throughout their entire processes.

What are alternatives to animal testing?

Most scientists agree that the majority of experiments performed on animals are not actually useful–animals do not necessarily react the same way as humans would to a drug or ingredient.

A rabbit’s cells are different than a human’s cells. Yet there is a lot of precedent with animal testing, and it is the norm in the scientific community to test on animals, particularly when it coems to studying new drugs and diseases. But wow there are many ways to test makeup, ingredients, new drugs, and more that don’t involve animal testing and are usually more effective and cheaper.

In Vitro Methods

These methods use human cells and tissues grown in labs to test ingredients and see their potential effects on humans.

In Silico Models

Computer models that are able to simulate human biology and potential diseases or reactions can be used in the place of animal testing. This method has been shown to be an accurate way of predicting how the body would respond to a drug or substance.

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials using patient volunteers are commonly used to test new drugs (that have first been rigorously tested in the lab). For cosmetics, there is a similar process called “microdosing” where human volunteers are given a very small dose or exposure to a substance to see how their body reacts

FAQ: Best Ways to Find Cruelty Free Cosmetics

How do I know which cruelty free labels are legitimate?

Look for logos certifying a product is cruelty free. One of three bunny logos on a product’s packaging is the best way of knowing a cosmetic or skin care product wasn’t tested on animals. Three organizations have official logos that companies pay to put on their products: Choose Cruelty Free, Leaping Bunny and Beauty Without Bunnies.

What is the difference between cruelty free and vegan cosmetics?

Cruelty free cosmetics mean they were not tested on animals. A vegan cosmetic product is also free of any ingredients that come from animals in addition to not being tested on animals and have a logo from Vegan.org. You can find a list of common non-vegan ingredients here.

What are the best online databases with updated lists of cruelty free brands?

The organizations that certify and label cruelty free products–Choose Cruelty Free, Leaping Bunny and Beauty Without Bunnies, are the best and most up to date resources of what brands, products and ingredients are not being tested on animals. There are also many independently-run websites that keep track of brands and their testing processes, if they start or stop selling their products in China, and more.

References

Consumerreports.org. (2019). How to find cruelty-free cosmetics. [online] Available at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2013/05/how-to-find-cruelty-free-cosmetics/index.htm [Accessed 5 Jul. 2019].

Choose Cruelty Free. (2019). Home | Choose Cruelty Free Ltd. | Australia. [online] Available at: https://www.choosecrueltyfree.org.au/ [Accessed 5 Jul. 2019].

Leaping Bunny. (2019). Leaping Bunny. [online] Available at: https://www.leapingbunny.org/ [Accessed 5 Jul. 2019].

PETA. (2019). What is Beauty Without Bunnies? | PETA. [online] Available at: https://www.peta.org/living/personal-care-fashion/beauty-without-bunnies/ [Accessed 5 Jul. 2019].

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2019). “Cruelty Free”/”Not Tested on Animals” Labeling on Cosmetics. [online] Available at: https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-labeling-claims/cruelty-freenot-tested-animals [Accessed 5 Jul. 2019].

PETA. (2019). Animal-Derived Ingredients Resource | Living | PETA. [online] Available at: https://www.peta.org/living/food/animal-ingredients-list/ [Accessed 5 Jul. 2019].

Vegan Action. (2019). Certification – Vegan Action. [online] Available at: https://vegan.org/certification/ [Accessed 5 Jul. 2019].

Chiorando, M. (2019). Anger As Cosmetics Giant L’Oreal Labels Products ‘Vegan’ Despite Animal Testing. [online] Plantbasednews.org. Available at: https://www.plantbasednews.org/post/cosmetic-giant-loreal-labels-products-vegan-despite-animal-testing [Accessed 5 Jul. 2019].

China-trade-research.hktdc.com. (2019). China’s Cosmetics Market | HKTDC. [online] Available at: http://china-trade-research.hktdc.com/business-news/article/China-Consumer-Market/China-s-Cosmetics-Market/ccm/en/1/1X000000/1X002L09.htm [Accessed 5 Jul. 2019].

Cosmetics, C. (2019). China’s NMPA Approves New In Vitro Methods For Regulating Cosmetics. [online] Iivs.org. Available at: https://iivs.org/2019/04/03/china-accepts-new-alternative-methods-for-cosmetics/ [Accessed 5 Jul. 2019].

Neutrogena.com. (2019). Product Testing | Neutrogena®. [online] Available at: https://www.neutrogena.com/producttesting.html [Accessed 5 Jul. 2019].

Martonen, T., Fleming, J., Schroeter, J., Conway, J. and Hwang, D. (2003). In silico modeling of asthma. Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews, 55(7), pp.829-849.