Did you know that the global cosmetics market was valued at $532 billion in 2017? And there is no sign of slowing down, in fact it is estimated to reach a global market value of $805 billion by 2023. Beauty companies strive to market their products to attract consumers; they rely on consumers to purchase their products in order to keep the industry alive. More often than not, cosmetic companies greatly exaggerate the price and effectiveness of their products, but do they really have your best interest at heart? Below are a couple of secrets that the beauty industry doesn't want you to know. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Most cosmetic products contain traces of formaldehyde: It is estimated that one in five cosmetic products contains traces of formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen. As much as the beauty industry is aware of it, formaldehyde still continues to be used as a main ingredient in many cosmetic products, including nail polish. Luckily you always have options as there are a wide range of beauty products available on the market that do not contain this or other harmful ingredients. It's important to be a conscious consumer! Cellulite creams don't work: I'm pretty sure you've seen shades of cellulite creams sold in stores that promise to eliminate dimples on your skin in a matter of weeks. I hate to be the bearer of bad news but as much as these cosmetic companies try to convince us that anti-cellulite creams work, the truth is that they don't! Almost 90% of women suffer from cellulite and it is nothing to be ashamed of. If these products actually worked, wouldn't that percentage be much lower? There are alternative ways to get rid of cellulite, such as exercising to build muscle, such as through resistance training, dry brushing, etc. Here is an article on everything you need to know about cellulite. You can create many DIY beauty products: If you are a DIY enthusiast, I'm sure you may have discovered that many of the beauty products you find in the your bathroom cabinet can actually be created at home. Literally anything from facial scrubs to moisturizers and toners. Apple cider vinegar is popular and can be used as a toner, while sugar and honey scrub can replace the traditional facial cleanser/scrub. Some of these DIY products have actually been proven to be more effective than store-bought skin care products. The beauty industry often publishes reports about why most of these DIY household items might be bad for your skin, but my philosophy is that if it's good enough to eat... it should be good enough for your skin. The terms "noncomedogenic" and "hypoallergenic" are just marketing words: - No matter where you buy makeup or skincare products, you can be sure to find at least one of these claims on any product. For the most part, the above statements are for marketing purposes only. There are no guidelines or testing requirements governing their use. A general rule to keep in mind for comedogenic products is: the thicker the product, the more likely it is to clog your pores. Instead of looking for "hypoallergenic" products for those with sensitive skin, find out what exactly irritates your skin and avoid that ingredient when purchasing your beauty products. Stay away from sensitizing ingredients.