Why Use Organic Skin Products?
Our skin is more than an outer covering; it is the main defence against external injury. It is a living, breathing organ, the largest in the body. More than half of what we put on our skin is absorbed into our body, a scientific principle illustrated by nicotine and hormone patches. Likewise, the synthetic chemicals in many skincare preparations soak into the skin and, as the body cannot recognise and process these 'foreign' substances, they can accumulate in the tissues or cause an allergic skin reaction (such as contact dermatitis or eczema). Certain chemicals are suspected of disrupting body chemistry and being carcinogenic (cancer forming).
Thus, choosing natural, organic body care should not only ensure compatibility with the most sensitive skin, but also help to decrease the toxic load on the body.
Plants grown organically yield the purest oils and extracts, free from herbicide and pesticide contamination. - There is little point in using therapeutic herbal extracts if they contain chemical residues.
Using organic products also means that you are helping to support the sustainability of our environment. It is widely acknowledged that organic farming is better for wildlife, causes lower pollution from sprays, and produces less carbon dioxide and less dangerous wastes.
Unfortunately, organic personal care is not legally regulated in the same way as organic food and drink. Skincare and toiletries can be called organic and natural, even if they contain a tiny percentage of organically grown ingredients. The only way to be sure that the product you are using is genuinely organic is to use products that are certified by a recognised and independent organic body.
FIVE INGREDIENTS TO AVOID
There are over 7,000 ingredients used worldwide in the manufacture of cosmetics and skincare products. One in seven are known to have harmful effects ranging from skin irritation to carcinogenic risk. Organic Beauty World will not accept their inclusion in any of our products. The following is our own top five ingredients to avoid and our reasons why.
SODIUM LAURYL SULPHATE
A common detergent found in thousands of cosmetic products including shampoos, toothpastes, creams and lotions. It is a strong degreaser that can irritate and dry skin or hair. At its worst SLS can cause cracking of the epidermis and severe inflammation of the underlying layer. Products containing SLS should be rinsed off thoroughly after use.
DIETHANOLAMINE (DEA)/TRIETHANOLAMINE (TEA)
Synthetic compounds made from Ammonia and Ethylene oxide. These are used as emulsifiers and in acidity control and found in many skin lotions, eye gels, moisturizing creams, shaving foams, shampoos and dermatological soaps. May contain nitrosamines that are potential carcinogens. They can also cause severe facial dermatitis and contact dermatitis.
PETROLATUM (Petroleum Jelly or "Vaseline")
This is a heavy oil extracted from petroleum. It can be allergenic, does not absorb well and so may clog pores. It smothers skin so it cannot breathe naturally and may also cause discoloration of the skin.
PARABENS (methyl, propyl, butyl etc.)
Synthetic preservatives widely used in foods and cosmetics. They are antimicrobial, killing bacteria and moulds that may infect products. They can be allergenic and toxic and have been linked to asthma and eczema.
PROPYLENE GLYCOL
Derived from petroleum propylene glycol and used as a humectant (moisturizer), surfactant and solvent in many products. In industry it is used in antifreeze and hydraulic brake fluid! It can penetrate the outermost skin and carry other ingredients into the deeper layers of the epidermis. Can cause allergic and toxic reactions including dermatitis in some individuals.
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