The Art of Modern Cosmetics
The use of these “aids to beauty” has become so universal that it is fortunate that the art of modern cosmetics has produced preparations which are certainly less injurious than the cruder substances which flooded the market when the fashion first swept the country. There are still many, however, which are definitely injurious. Some of the cheaper powders are highly scented and highly colored, and some people may be specially susceptible to the perfume or coloring matter used. The only way for a woman to find out if she has such a susceptibility is to try several good brands and choose one which produces not the slightest sign of irritation. In any case very highly scented powders should be avoided. When the skin is naturally greasy, the frequent and thick application of powder may encourage blackheads and pimples by blocking the pores.
Rouge does not as a rule produce any harmful effects if used in moderation, unless the ingredient producing the color is an aniline dye to which the individual is susceptible. The practice of putting on fresh cream, rouge and powder during the day without thoroughly removing the old make-up is, however, a thoroughly bad one. The skin cannot “respire” and receive its proper nourishment when burdened with several layers of cosmetic preparations, and the result of such treatment will be coarsening of the texture, discoloration, flabbiness, and possible blackheads and pustules. It is not necessary to perform the whole routine of soap and water cleansing every time fresh make-up is needed, but cleansing cream should be thickly applied, removed and the face thoroughly sponged with rose-water or some other cleansing lotion before applying fresh cream
Lipsticks consist of wax, pomade, or coco-butter, with carmine or some aniline dye. In the latter case, if cracks or splits are present in the mucous membrane of the lips, there is a possibility that the aniline dye might be absorbed into the blood, with very serious results.