Gluten in Cosmetic Products: Critical Tests for Health

Presence of Gluten in Cosmetic Products...

Gluten-free foods, which have attracted more attention especially with the announcement of celiac disease, are now available on almost all market shelves. Gluten-free products, which are vital for celiac patients, are important for keeping the disease under control.

Another issue that is now being discussed is gluten-free cosmetics. So, does gluten in cosmetic products affect celiac patients?

Why is gluten found in cosmetic products?

Gluten can have various functions in cosmetic formulations. These functions include:

1. Binding Properties: Gluten can be used as a binding agent in some cosmetic products. It can be found especially in make-up products (e.g. foundation, mascara, lipstick) to increase the consistency of the products.
2. Emulsifier: Gluten can increase the stability of emulsions by allowing water and oil to combine. It can be used in products such as creams, lotions and shampoos.
3. Improving the Texture of Cosmetic Products: Gluten can make cosmetic products smoother and more viscous. It can be preferred to improve the texture of skin care products.

Gluten in cosmetic or personal care products can be taken into the human body through the oral route, especially with cosmetic products such as lipstick. In addition, high levels of gluten absorption through the skin and wounds due to products applied to the skin can affect celiac patients.

Of course, the most important issue here is that the gluten content in cosmetic products cannot be clearly understood at first glance. Celiac patients should always check the labels of the products they use. Wheat kernel or oat kernel oils used in cosmetic products may contain gluten, depending on the processes used. To be considered safe, they must undergo highly refined processes.

Celiac patients should check the label carefully, especially when shopping for cosmetics. Currently, some companies produce gluten-free mascara, gloss, lipstick, foundation, powder, blush, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant and sunscreen.

Health Risks of Gluten in Cosmetic Products

Although gluten can be a useful ingredient in skin care, in some people it can cause serious health problems. The presence of gluten in cosmetic products is particularly important when

1. Skin Irritation and Allergic Reactions: Gluten can cause skin irritation, redness or itching in some people. In individuals with various skin sensitivities or allergies, the presence of gluten can lead to serious skin problems.
2. Celiac Disease and Gluten Sensitivity: Celiac disease is an immune disease in which gluten causes the body to react in a harmful way. People with gluten sensitivity can also experience negative effects when gluten in cosmetic products comes into contact with their skin. Therefore, it is extremely important for celiac patients and people with gluten sensitivity to use gluten-free cosmetics.
3. Body Sensitization: Gluten can cause allergic reactions not only on the skin but also in the eyes or respiratory tract. Therefore, the use of cosmetic products containing gluten can affect the respiratory tract and lead to allergic reactions.

Nanolab Laboratories Group continues to provide services within the scope of Gluten Analysis in Cosmetic Products. We also provide services in Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Analysis.

Contact us for more information.

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