|
It’s natural
Synthetic ingredients have fallen out of favour. For example, parabens, a widely used preservative in hair products, makeup and moisturisers, were the subject of a 2004 study linking them to breast cancer; this received negative publicity but a direct link was not proven. Acceptable paraben levels in cosmetics determined by governmental reviews are 25%. Typically retail products range from 0.01 to 0.3%. In spite of the safety ‘pass’, bad publicity has shoppers looking for paraben-free products, like St. Ives and Kiss My Face. To check paraben levels in products: skindeep.org.
Toronto dermatologist Dr. Benjamin Barankin of The Dermatology Centre says, “Natural products are no better than synthetic ones. Some people feel that they are and that they can’t be allergic to them. You can be allergic to anything.” Most people will be fine with a fragrance derived from a plant source, but it can cause problems for others who experience allergic reactions – itchy skin, hives, or a rash. If you’re prone to sensitivity, Dr. Barankin suggests testing new products by applying it on the inside of your arm, twice daily for a week. Watch for any sign of sensitivity.
Buy products with the scientific research that back up their natural ingredients claims.
 |
|
Inadequate labeling information can cause frustration when looking for products with effective plant or mineral-derived, natural ingredients. Some companies are more open about product composition. On its website, Burt’s Bees lists the percentage of natural ingredients and their common names. Even without detailed information, the amount of a natural ingredient is determined by its position on the ingredient list. If it’s near the end, the amount is likely ineffective.
Don’t succumb to marketing hype; buy products with the scientific research that back up their natural ingredients claims.
Ethical beauty
What you buy should make you feel good and look good. Companies are searching out ingredients that have a positive impact for the environment and local communities. Argan oil, extracted from nuts of the
endangered tree native to south-west
Morocco is known for its anti-aging abilities, three times the Vitamin E content found in olive oil. French manufacturer BcomBIO purchases argan oil from a women’s cooperative that harvests the nuts, extracts the oil and plants new trees to ensure sustainability in their organic Intense Anti-Aging Cream. The women and their families gain financial independence and access to health care and schooling.
Organic face value
Organic beauty products are multiplying quickly in the marketplace. They may be more expensive, but are they worth it? According to Dr. Barankin, organic products are worth the extra money if you don’t want to worry about potentially harmful chemicals in your favourite skincare items, even without data. There are plenty of organic options available today; brands include Kiss My Face, Juice Organics and Heiko. H&L |
Send To Friend
Print
Burt’s Bees Lip Balm with pomegranate oil
Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer, Vaseline Clinical Therapy
NeoStrata Oil Free Smoothing Lotion Level 3 (with 10% glycolic acid); 
Juice Organics Brightening System (includes a cleanser, facial serum, eye treatment and moisturiser). And Reversa Skin Smoothing Cream (with 8% glycolic acid)