The cosmetics industry has finally come under scrutiny in connection to the gluten it uses. As very few cosmetics are labelled as gluten free, is it because there is a lack of demand or lack of understanding in the reasons cosmetics should be gluten free. This article looks at what types of gluten free cosmetics are most critical for celiacs and people in general.
If you are worried about gluten in your diet, what about the amount that is in your cosmetics? Common sense might suggest that the less contact with Gluten for a celiac, the better. So why then would a celiac cover their body in a gluten or wheat derived cosmetic or makeup?
One website makes the argument that in reference to cosmetics: "gluten has more ways of getting into the body than by the obvious route - it can also get in through the skin." They go on to saying "I have heard since of another story of someone who had to stop working in a bakery due to gluten absorption through the hands." (Ref 2).
For the possibility of these concerns being real, the Gluten Free Pages have created a beauty directory on the gluten free pages site which lists companies that state that they carry some gluten free makeup.
But similar to the gluten free alcohol industry, it appears that there is conflicting views regarding the need to reduce the amount of gluten in the beauty industry. Another site suggests that " If (cosmetics) comes in contact with your nose or mouth you may want that product to be gluten free. (ref 1).
And even more to the point, a forum member raised the point that "gluten molecules can't penetrate the skin ... so why consider using gluten free cosmetics except for lipstick or chap-stick?" Like other sites this suggests that gluten should only be a concern in cosmetics if it is likely to be placed near an orifice.
So if you are concerned about using cosmetics that may contain gluten you should look at using companies where "each gluten-free product is labeled in its description with a gluten-free symbol. If you do not see the symbol, that particular product is not gluten-free." (ref 3)
While the gluten free molecules ability to pass the skin barrier is unknown, it appears that for adults a celiac should avoid products not labeled gluten free, especially those that are placed near the mouth, nose or eyes. Children's skin care products such as 'concealers' (for birthmark cover-ups) and sunscreen etc should also be gluten free as they may be more likely to touch their skin and inadvertently ingest gluten from their hands.
Complicated as it is, it is recommended that a person who wants to avoid gluten, avoid skincare products not labeled as gluten free.
References
Ref 1 http://dfwceliac.org/html/skin___body_care.php
Ref 2 http://www.smiffysplace.com/gluten-free-makeup-a-cautionary-tale
Ref 3 www.obermeyernaturals.com
The Fascinating Mechanics of How Pets Hydrate
Understanding the intricate ways in which our furry companions quench their thirst is not only a matter of curiosity for pet owners but also an insight into their behavioral patterns and needs. While it may seem like a simple act, the science behind how dogs and cats drink water is quite complex and reveals their adaptability and evolutionary traits. This knowledge can guide pet owners in choosing the right drinking vessels and maintaining their pets' health and hygiene.
Deciphering Canine Licking Behavior and Addressing Compulsive Licking
Canine licking is a behavior that intrigues many pet owners, often leading to questions about its significance and potential issues when it becomes excessive. This article delves into the instinctual and social reasons behind why dogs lick and highlights when such behavior might signal a need for medical intervention. We'll also explore the less-discussed statistics and facts about this common canine habit.
The Evolutionary Journey of Domestic Dogs from Ancient Wolves
The domestication of dogs from wolves is a fascinating tale of evolution and human influence, leading to the diverse array of canine companions we cherish today. While the story of how wolves became dogs is widely known, the specifics of this transformation are often overlooked or misunderstood. A groundbreaking study in 2009 provided compelling evidence, using mitochondrial DNA analysis, to pinpoint the domestic dog's origins to a region in China between 10,000 to 16,000 years ago. This research not only sheds light on the domestic dog's genesis but also on the intricate relationship between humans and their four-legged friends.
