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Myrrh oil has a calming effect on sensitive skin; sandalwood oil prevents the formation of wrinkles, softens the skin, improves its texture and prevents the formation of skin changes; Lavender oil makes the skin more flexible, smoothes it, improves its texture, has a calming and relaxing effect, soothes and reduces skin lesions; Rosemary, mint and clove oils promote hair growth and make it softer and more elastic. The examples above are just a few elements of the long list of beneficial properties of essential oils. However, the aromatic and therapeutic qualities should not confuse the issue of safety of use. The key problem here is the choice of optimal concentrations of aromatic compounds. They must be selected and administered carefully, as some of them may be allergenic or phototoxic . Safe use of essential oils in cosmetics Despite the natural origin of essential oils, they should be used with caution. It is a specific group of cosmetic ingredients that, in high concentration, can be toxic, photosensitizing or allergenic. In the cosmetics and perfume production industries, there are so-called dermal limits , which are available on the website of the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) . The goal of the association is to promote and ensure the safe use of fragrances in cosmetics, detergents, hygiene items, toys and many other daily use products. IFRA publishes a collection of standards regulating the use of fragrances . Its safety is evaluated in the first instance by the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM).
The RIFM team of experts is made up of high-level specialists in dermatology, pathology and toxicology, as well as scientists and professionals in the field of environmental protection. IFRA members are required to comply with the RIFM standards and Code of Conduct, which contain the rules of fragrance production and handling . We should know that 90% of fragrance producers operating around the world are members of IFRA . In addition to the IFRA standards and guidelines, the provisions on the production and use of aromatic compounds are regulated by the European Union , which CZ Leads has defined them in various publications. The most important is 'Essential Oil Safety' by Tisserand and Young. What are dermal boundaries and why are they so important? Dermal limits are the maximum permitted doses of a substance that guarantee the safety of its use by people . Due to dermal limits, only those products that present specific concentrations of chemical compounds are allowed for sale , which in doses higher than recommended can cause irritation, allergic reactions and other health problems. The limits also apply to essential oils that contain compounds considered harmful to health (toxic, phototoxic, carcinogenic substances, etc.). Cosmetics producers who offer their products in the EU and in countries that respect its directives (Brazil, China) are obliged to strictly observe the rules regarding dermal limits . Obligations of cosmetics producers According to the EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009, cosmetics producers must display on labels the names of allergenic fragrances contained in the product .
There are currently 26 registered substances that must be indicated if their content in a cosmetic exceeds 0.001% for a product that remains on the skin or 0.01% for a washable product . There are currently around 3,000 fragrances available on the market . They are used in cosmetic products, detergents, cleaning agents, air fresheners, hygiene products and toys. Common use of fragrances increases human exposure to their effects . Consequently, there is an increased risk of allergic reactions and skin irritation. How to use essential oils safely? It is commonly known that ' the dose makes the poison '. Therefore, the central principle in the use of essential oils is moderation . Aromatic compounds used in appropriate concentrations are safe and have therapeutic and healthy effects. However, we must remember that excessive use of highly concentrated extracts can cause the formation of allergies or other skin-related problems. To use essential oils safely, we must observe the following rules: Essential oils are not suitable for consumption . If administered orally, they can cause burns to the oral cavity, tongue, esophagus and internal organs; Do not apply a concentrated essential oil directly to the skin . Before use, it is required to dilute the essential concentrate in the base oil; essential oils should be kept out of the reach of children ; Oils should preferably be stored in airtight dark-colored glass containers , protected from sunlight; The essential oils contained in each cosmetic must be diluted appropriately . This also applies to cosmetics produced in domestic conditions for own use. Essential compounds are substances that do not dissolve in water, vinegar, 40% alcohol or glycerin.
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