Experts warn against products without Turkish labeling and approval labels on their packaging, stating that products promising ‘miracle effects’ should also be approached with skepticism.
Noting that products sold with promises like “whitening the skin” and “completely removing blemishes” are frequently seen in the market, Lecturer Birgül Erbaş, Head of the Hair Care and Beauty Services Program, stated, “However, such claims are often not scientifically proven. No matter how innocent products containing mineral substances may seem, products containing high levels of chemicals or banned substances can cause serious skin damage.”
Lecturer Birgül Erbaş, Head of the Hair Care and Beauty Services Program at Üsküdar Üniversitesi Vocational School of Health Services, explained what to consider when choosing cosmetic products.
Product content must be read
Noting that the cosmetic industry is rapidly growing with new products entering the market every day, and that it is of great importance for consumers to choose safe and correct products for skin health, Lecturer Birgül Erbaş listed the basic steps to consider as follows:
“It is important that the product is suitable for the skin type and meets the individual's skin needs. It is important that the product has clean ingredients as per the need (consultant assistance may be required). Product content must be read. It should not contain substances that could cause allergic reactions or sensitivities on the consumer's skin. For example, people with perfume allergies can choose PARFUM FREE products.
- User reviews and ratings can be researched on reliable platforms. Barcode, production, and expiration dates should be checked. Products with damaged packaging or without a Turkish label should not be preferred. Products approved by the Ministry of Health should be chosen. The registration of cosmetic products can be inquired through the Product Tracking System (ÜTS).”
Beware of claims like “Whitens Skin”!
Lecturer Birgül Erbaş, also explaining that products sold with promises like “whitening the skin” and “completely removing blemishes” are frequently seen in the market, stated, “However, such claims are often not scientifically proven. No matter how innocent products containing mineral substances may seem, products containing high levels of chemicals or banned substances can cause serious skin damage. For a safe product; it is of great importance that it has undergone dermatological tests, that its content is clearly and transparently stated, that it complies with the regulations published by the Ministry, and that one opts for approved brands.”
Influencer promotions can sometimes lead to the spread of unregulated products
Lecturer Birgül Erbaş, also stating that products promoted via social media have gained great interest in recent years, said, “However, not every recommended product may be safe. Influencer promotions can sometimes lead to the spread of unregulated products. Consumers should make decisions not only based on advertising and popularity but also on scientific reliability and official approval.”
Ways to distinguish risky products
Lecturer Erbaş pointed to the safest ways to distinguish risky products, warning, “Stay away from products without Turkish information and approval labels on their packaging. Approach products promising ‘miracle effects’ with skepticism. Unbranded products sold at very low prices are generally risky. Shop from reliable pharmacies, dermo-cosmetic stores, and authorized dealers.”
Choosing the right product is a matter of health
Lecturer Birgül Erbaş, stating that the choice of cosmetic products is not only an aesthetic matter but also a health matter, concluded by saying, “To choose the right products, content, approval, brand, and point of sale must always be considered. Being a conscious consumer both protects skin health and keeps away from risks.”