The article has been checked for accuracy (content includes links to reputable media sites, academic research institutions, and occasionally medical studies). All content on our website has been reviewed, however, if you believe our content is inaccurate, out of date or otherwise questionable, you may contact us to make the necessary corrections.
4 minutes
Egg whites stand out as ingredients in homemade beauty tricks to look forever young. But how safe is its use? We reveal who this formula does not help so much.
In the world of facial care there are hundreds of options to improve the appearance of the face; tightening wrinkles, lightening spots, providing collagen and refreshing the look. Although commercial cosmetics expands its catalog, home treatments, such as egg masks, gain followers every day.
The use of egg whites as an anti-aging ingredient generates controversy. It happens that the benefits of eggs for the skin have been spread for a long time, but a small margin of possible adverse effects, in specific scenarios, deserve to pay more attention than other natural serums.
Facials prepared with this food are not bad. However, it is convenient to learn both the benefits and the potential dangers that they represent for some skins.
Properties of the egg and its use in beauty
The egg is one of the most complete foods that exists, What highlights the Institute of Egg Studies. It has vitamins, lipids, saturated fatty acids and monounsaturated fatty acids. Likewise, it contains proteins of high biological value with balanced amounts of amino acids, according to add the Organization of Consumers and Users of Spain.
Its intake is common in various culinary recipes, although it also stands out as the main component in home beauty remedies. The implementation of the egg whites, more than the yolk, is due to the fact that the properties of the product supposedly counteract the signs of premature aging.
Likewise, lovers of egg masks assert cleansing, toning, decongestant, astringent and refreshing benefits. There is no lack of those who associate the power of these preparations with the acceleration of healing.
Risks of egg masks in facial routines
Apply egg whites by themselves or combined with other ingredients on the face, shows potential risks in skins with certain conditions. For example, among those who have a tendency to acne, open wounds or burns.
Although there are those who defend the effectiveness of egg masks in relation to skin care, there is not enough evidence to support the assertions. The use of these alternatives continues; only that precaution is advisable to avoid the following sequels.
Infection
If you just got a cut, scrape, or scrape, prevent egg whites from coming into contact with the skin. They may lead to a secondary infection. In the case of the face, the severity would be greater.
Allergic reactions
If you have a known allergy to eggs, do not eat them or use them topically. Putting on a mask knowing that your body rejects it would result in skin rash, itching and trouble breathing. The reaction depends on the degree of pathology.
If you are unaware of the allergy, you can perform a skin test, such as the one applied to children and disseminated by Nemours Children’s Health:
- Let a drop of egg extract fall on the skin.
- Prick or scratch the area.
- Wait 15 minutes in case a red welt or pimple appears.
Salmonella in burns
Eggs may contain bacteria called Salmonella. These are a pathogen capable of infecting a multitude of hosts, such as animals, plants and protozoa, becoming a major threat to public health. so what exposes a chapter of the book In Food Microbiology: Fundamentals and Frontiers.
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) implements regulations to reduce the contamination of eggs on the farm and thus control the Salmonella. But he emphasizes that it is important that consumers collaborate with the safe handling of the product.
Clear masks are made from the raw ingredient. If they are applied on a burn, there is a danger of a localized and potentially systemic infection, with a sepsis scenario.
surface contamination
If you walk around the house while waiting for the mask to take effect, it is likely that drops will fall on surfaces such as sinks, counters or counters. This contaminates the surfaces.
Try to spread the substance on your face with gloves and stay in one place, since this way you prevent spreading protein particles in the rooms and harming an allergic family member.
egg intolerance
Egg intolerance is different from an allergic reaction. Not tolerating it causes gastrointestinal discomfort and inflammation after consuming it.
How can that possibly happen with a mask? As it is a facial, some of the formula could slip through the mouth.
How to avoid adverse reactions due to egg masks?
The important thing is to be careful before spreading a mask made with egg on your face. Never spread the substance on injuries and try to do it in the bathroom or sink, always disinfecting the area and hands before and after removing the remedy.
Other tips are to use organic, cardboard or pasteurized eggs. And consult a doctor about the use of egg white alternatives, especially if you have sensitive skin.
You might be interested…