There are all kinds of skin care products out there, so why should you look specifically for natural skin care products?
Cosmetic Chemicals
Most cosmetics and skin care products contain chemicals. Research has shown many of these to be harmful, such as the preservatives (like parabens) and petrochemicals. Another type of chemical, phthalates, has been shown to mimic the effects of hormones in the body, and at high levels can possibly increase the risk of cancer.
Some mascara and eyedrops have mercury, lead has been found in lipsticks and some shampoos and body washes have dioxane.
Since many skin care products are a stew of chemicals, some of which are known to be harmful, and others it isn’t known for sure one way or the other, why risk it? Natural skin care avoids that.
Truly Natural Skin Care
Unfortunately, just because the label says a product is natural, don’t make it so. Like every other thing you buy, labels can be misleading. The government has not defined the term “natural” so no regulations exist. However, the Natural Products Association has launched a program to help the consumer determine which products are truly natural. Under the new program, products must follow strict guidelines set out by the Natural Products Association to merit bearing the seal of approval. The criteria include, but are not limited to:
- Product must be made up of at least 95 percent truly natural ingredients or ingredients that are derived from natural sources
- No ingredients with any potential suspected human health risks
- No processes that significantly or adversely alter the purity/effect of the natural ingredients
- Ingredients that come from a purposeful, renewable/plentiful source found in nature (flora, fauna, mineral)
- Processes that are minimal and don’t use synthetic/harsh chemicals or otherwise dilute purity
- Non-natural ingredients only when viable natural alternative ingredient are unavailable and only when there are absolutely no suspected potential human health risks
“People want natural products because they are good for them and good for our environment,” said Debra Short, president of the Natural Products Association. “But anyone could claim their product was ‘natural,’ even if it had 100 percent synthetic or petroleum-based. That wasn’t fair to consumers or to companies who make truly natural products, and this seal will help end all that confusion.”
Remember, Allergies Happen
Just because you use natural health care products doesn’t exempt you from ever having an allergic reaction. People have food allergies to peanuts and strawberries and other all natural foods, so it’s also possible to be allergic to an ingredient in a natural skin care product.
The Better Choice – Natural Skin Care Products
All things considered, there’s really no contest. You can put chemicals on your face or other skin that may possibly cause you health problems, and some that are * known* to cause health problems, or you can use natural skin care products that are free of preservatives and chemicals.
Natural skin care is the way to go!
