Just how important is organic personal care? Approximately 60-70% of the products we put on our skin are absorbed by the skin. This includes all synthetic or toxic chemicals that these products may contain. Many of these chemicals have the potential to interfere with our body’s biological functions; many others create allergic reactions – sometimes severe. Cosmetics pose a special threat to women – the primary consumers of cosmetics - and many cosmetic products are known to contain harmful ingredients – particularly hydroquinone, parabens (preservatives), phthalates (used in fragrances), nitrosamines, formadehyde, and acrylamide.
The terms “natural” and “organic” have been added to labels on personal care products, and it can be difficult to understand what they mean. The USDA does not regulate the use of "organic" in the personal care industry. In light of the lawsuit filed by Dr. Bronner's in April, it's important for consumers to carefully examine products that are labeled "organic" and "certified organic". If we are looking for products that are free of animal testing, animal ingredients, synthetic additives, and toxic chemicals, there are many out there - with and without the "organic" label.
Recently, the organic personal care industry suffered a blow when, according to the Organic Consumer Association website, companies can no longer label their body care products with the USDA certified seal. This will go into effect as of October 21, 2005. Personal care companies are not regulated the way food companies are, and now it will be even more difficult to tell products apart.
What does this mean for consumers? The personal care industry is big business. Cosmetics alone account for approximately $35 billion in U.S. sales. The disturbing news is that the majority of the ingredients used in personal care products have not been evaluated for safety by the Food and Drug Administration. The best thing that consumers can do is to stay informed about the developments in this industry, especially as new products are added. At the Environmental Working Group’s website (www.ewg.org/issues/cosmetics) consumers can access their assessment of personal care products, and in the Virtual Drugstore we can search for a review of specific personal care products. You may visit the Safe Cosmetics website (http://www.safecosmetics.org) to view a list of companies that have pledged not to use toxic chemicals in their cosmetics. It is important to note that the effects of toxic substances are cumulative and long-term; that is, the toxic substances that accumulate in our bodies are stored in adipose tissue and remain for decades.
In October, 2004, California became the first state in the U.S. to sign into law the "Safe Cosmetics Act of 2005". It will require cosmetics companies to disclose to the state's Department of Health Services ingredients linked to cancer, birth defects or reproductive harm.
Below is a list of personal care products that we have either tried ourselves, or have been recommended by our visitors. (Please check ingredient lists if you suspect sensitivity to some essential oils.) Many people have reported that once they began using organic products, their skin problems disappeared.
Aubrey Organics A full line of personal care products (paraben-free, of course). They were made fresh in batches, with over 200 products to choose from, like their Natural Sun products. For a limited time, shop online and receive a free gift with purchase.
Aromafloria certified organic personal & home products
For over 10 years, this company has been creating unique personal care and home products infused with certified organic food-quality ingredients like green tea, pomegranate, and papaya. Experience the soothing benefits of aromatherapy for yourself and visit their website today.
Dr. Bronner's personal care products
Dr. Bronner's 100% castile liquid soaps and bars use organic oils that do not strip the skin. Our favorite is the quart-size Lavender and Hemp liquid soap.
Ecco Bella Botanicals personal care & cosmetics
Created in 1992, this New Jersey company provides a full line of bath and body products, which have received rave reviews. They are available in stores like Wild Oats, Whole Foods, and Wegman's.
Erbaviva organic personal care
Begun in the 90's with a line of organic baby care products, Erbaviva now offers a full line of organic personal care products.
Exuberance personal care
Another one of the personal care lines using organic herbs, with no animal testing and no synthetic ingredients.
Indigo Wild bath & body products
This hip woman-owned company contains all-natural and organic extracts and essential oils, to create their goat's milk bar soaps, soy wax candles, and products for people and pets (a favorite: rosemary-mint moisturizer). Order online, or send for their colorful catalog.
Juice Beauty organic personal care
The product name really says it all. Organic citrus juices and vitamins are good for you. All products are vegetarian. A nice product to try: green apple peel.
Miessence organic personal care and cosmetics
A personal care line produced by One Group, its skin care line contains such ingredients as organic aloe, guar gum, olive leaf, and essential oils. Consumer-recommended, products can be purchased through their website.
Suki's Naturals organic personal care
OK, so this company, like Indigo Wild and a few others, was started by a woman (not that we're biased, or anything!) Organic ingredients and great for sensitive skin.
Suncoat products
This seven-year-old Canadian company was created by a woman to solve the problems related to toxic chemicals in nail polish and other cosmetics. Check out their water=based formulas on their website.
TerrEssentials Certified Organic personal care
The only personal care company we know to make this claim; we love the natural-looking colors. Their website is also crammed with useful information.
Vermont Soapworks organic soaps
Their liquid and bar soaps are reasonably priced, are fresh-smelling and naturally antibacterial. Shipping is prompt, and they take wholesale orders.
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Aguacate & Co organic skin care range
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This is an absolutely amazing product. I have used another very well known natural product for years and this is much better - totally organic and free ...
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