Experts warn consumers to avoid products that do not have Turkish information and approval labels on their packaging and state that products promising “miracle effects” should also be approached with suspicion.
Noting that products sold on the market with claims such as “whitens the skin” and “completely removes spots” are frequently seen, Instructor Birgül Erbaş, Head of the Hair Care and Beauty Services Program, said: “However, such claims are often not scientifically proven. No matter how innocent products containing mineral substances may seem, products that contain high levels of chemicals or banned substances can cause serious damage to the skin.”
Instructor Birgül Erbaş, Head of the Hair Care and Beauty Services Program at Üsküdar University Vocational School of Health Services, explained the points to be considered when choosing cosmetic products.
Product content must definitely be read
Stating that the cosmetics sector is growing rapidly with new products entering the market every day and that it is of great importance for consumers to choose safe and correct products in terms of skin health, Instructor Birgül Erbaş listed the basic steps to be considered 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 in line with the need, and professional advice may be required. The product content must definitely be read. It should not contain substances that may cause allergic reactions or sensitivity on the consumer’s skin. For example, individuals with perfume allergies may prefer PARFUM FREE products. User reviews and ratings can be researched on reliable platforms. The barcode, production date, and expiration date should be checked. Products with damaged packaging or without Turkish labels should not be preferred. Products approved by the Ministry of Health should be selected. The registration of cosmetic products can be queried through the Product Tracking System.”
Beware of claims such as “It whitens the skin”
Instructor Birgül Erbaş also emphasized that products sold with claims such as “whitens the skin” and “completely removes spots” are frequently encountered on the market, and said: “However, such claims are often not scientifically proven. No matter how innocent products containing mineral substances may appear, products that contain high levels of chemicals or banned substances can cause serious damage to the skin. For a safe product, it is of great importance that it has undergone dermatological testing, that its ingredients are clearly and transparently stated, that it complies with the regulations issued by the Ministry, and that approved brands are preferred.”
Influencer promotions may sometimes lead to the spread of unregulated products
Instructor Birgül Erbaş also stated that products promoted on social media have attracted great attention in recent years and said: “However, not every recommended product may be safe. Influencer promotions may sometimes lead to the spread of unregulated products. Consumers should make their decisions not only based on advertising and popularity, but also on scientific reliability and official approval.”
Ways to distinguish risky products
Pointing out the safest ways to distinguish risky products, Instructor Erbaş issued the following warnings: “Avoid products that do not have Turkish information and approval labels on their packaging. Be suspicious of products that promise ‘miracle effects.’ Unbranded products sold at very low prices are generally risky. Shop from reliable pharmacies, dermocosmetic stores, and authorized sellers.”
Choosing the right product is a matter of health
Stating that the selection of cosmetic products is not only an aesthetic issue but also a matter of health, Instructor Birgül Erbaş concluded her remarks as follows: “In order to choose the right products, content, approval, brand, and point of sale must definitely be taken into consideration. Being a conscious consumer both protects skin health and keeps individuals away from risks.”