Organic Beyond Food - Cosmetics

Organic Cosmetics

Organic Cosmetics

The skin is one of the largest organ systems of the human body, absorbing materials that come in contact with it. What you put on your skin really matters; many common makeups and cleansers contain carcinogens (cancer-causing chemicals), endocrine disruptors, and common allergens and irritants. Just like you might transition to eating more organic food to reduce your chemical exposure in food, consider transitioning to more natural and organic options for your cosmetics and personal care.

Start by doing your research with a resource like the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Cosmetics Database. This tool has data about over 64,000 personal care products that are rated with a score indicating their chemical safety. According to the EWG’s database:

- The FDA requires no safety testing for cosmetic products

- Europe has banned over 1,000 cosmetic ingredients while the FDA has only banned eleven

- Cosmetic ingredients can be breathed in, swallowed, or absorbed through the skin

- Marketing claims are generally unregulated and do not need to be backed up by scientific data

- Even “organic” labeling doesn’t necessarily make a product safe to use

- Companies do not have to disclose all ingredients on product labels

Many companies have embraced natural and organic ingredients to provide consumers with healthier cosmetic products, and these companies make it easier to find beauty products for anyone with sensitivities or allergies. A commitment to label transparency means that these brands tell their customers exactly what is in their goods, so you can be sure of what you’re buying.

Beautycounter has imposed voluntary bans on over 1,500 questionable ingredients. Not all of Beautycounter’s ingredients are certified organic, but all ingredients are listed on the company website with an explanation of their source and purpose.

Grateful Naturals uses pure, organic ingredients to create products for men, women, and babies. The company is committed to replacing harsh chemical products with natural options that don’t sacrifice effectiveness.

The Honest Company offers a variety of adult and baby personal care products that are plant-based and gentle on the body and environment.

Logona is a German company offering affordable organic and cruelty free cosmetics and beauty products. They proudly refuse synthetic preservatives and dyes as well as petrochemical ingredients. The company even offers a specific list of gluten-free products for their customers with allergies.

Next time you are replacing your cosmetics or beauty products, read the labels! Top ingredients to avoid include:

- Fragrance

- Parabens

- Phthalates

- Propylene Glycol

- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

- Sodium Laureth Sulfate

Check your favorite cosmetics on the EWG’s database and let us know your best score. Which of your beauty products will you try to replace with a safer alternative?


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