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List of Chemicals Found in Skin Care

List of Chemicals Found in Skin Care 

By John Socratous


To maintain a healthy, young and beautiful skin, most of us use various kinds of skin care products such as masks, lotions and cleansers. The worrying thing about these products is that, many of them have a cocktail of various chemicals in them.

These chemicals found in skin care products are sometime detrimental to our skin's health but still are used commonly by the industry. Some of the side effects of such ingredients are redness, allergic reactions, inflammation as well as irritation. Here is a list of such chemicals used in skin care products that you may use which can be problematic for you.

Propylene Glycol

A kind of alcohol, propylene glycol is clear in color and is used as a thickening agent in the skin care industry. It is also known as moisturizer or emulsifier. The silkier feeling that you have while using that new slick product is due to this chemical. Facial wash, anti-aging and lotion are some products that generally have propylene glycol in them. According to Environmental Working Group, this chemical, even in small amount as two percent may cause eye, lung and skin irritation; though taking it orally is hardly risky especially for toxicity.

Preservatives

One of the chemicals found in products like toner, lotion or cleanser are the preservatives. They are added to prevent growth of fungus, mold or bacteria. Parabens, DMDM hydantoin, quantemium-15 and imidazolidinyl urea are some of the common preservatives that are used in industry. According to American Academy of Dermatology, this ingredient is the second major cause of all kinds of skin reactions.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

Also known as an alkali, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is an alkali metal's hydroxide or carbonate. The sudsy and foamy effect you have while using some products is due to this ingredient. This is one of major chemicals found in products like body wash, facial cleanser and acne treatments; and you will be surprised to know that is also found in such caustic products like oven cleaners and drain cleansers, as Natural Skincare Authority reports. Skin irritation which lasts for nearly a week, a burning sensation and inflammation are some of the skin problems created by SLS.

Fragrance

As there are many chemicals found in products, to mask their smell many manufacturers add fragrances to their products. They are also added to make a product smell great as American Academy of Dermatology. The fragrances are responsible for problems like dermatitis, which is itchy, red inflammation of skin in those people who are allergic to fragrances.

Dangerous Chemicals in Skin Care Products

Dangerous Chemicals in Skin Care Products

by: Garry Gamber


If you knew that many makeup and skin care products contain hazardous toxins, dangerous petroleum products, and cancer-causing carcinogens, not to mention irritating fragrances, would you still use them? Studies have shown that more than 4.5 pounds of chemicals are absorbed by the average consumer through skin care products.

The European Union has identified and banned about 1100 chemicals from their skin care products but the U.S. has only banned about a dozen. About 50 U.S. companies have voluntarily agreed to use the European standards, including the major companies Revlon and L'Oreal. However, many companies have not agreed to follow the higher standards, including the major companies Avon, Proctor and Gamble, Johnson and Johnson, Unilever, and Colgate Palmolive.

Let's look at some of the potentially harmful ingredients. Mineral oil is found in many products. It is derived from petroleum and forms an oily film on the skin to lock in moisture. However, it also locks in toxins and it prevents dry skin from receiving moisture. Also, it was listed by a Johns Hopkins study as the #2 cause of aging.

Dioxane and formaldehyde are carcinogens found in many products such as lotions, shampoos, and hand soaps. These chemicals are not actually added to a product but are a by-product of many commonly used preservatives. They can be found in ingredients such as sodium lauryl sulfate and PEG-100 stearate. They are also regarded as common skin irritants.

Methyl paraben is a highly toxic ingredient that is used to extend a product's shelf life and to inhibit microbial growth. However, it can cause dangerous allergic reactions and rashes. Also, parabens have been found in breast tumors. Look for this ingredient in body washes and cleansers.

DEA and PABA are nitrosamine-forming agents which increase the risk of skin, liver, and kidney cancers. They can cause allergic reactions and irritate eyes. Sunscreens often contain these ingredients.
Antiperspirants and antiseptics often contain aluminum. This ingredient has been linked to Alzheimer's disease.
Collagen is a fibrous protein that is too large to penetrate the skin.

In skin care products collagen is derived from animal skins and chicken feet. It is dangerous because the layer of film that it forms suffocates the skin.

Lanolin and kaolin are a couple of other ingredients that can smother and weaken the skin. Kaolin is a fine, white clay while lanolin is a fatty substance extracted from wool. Lanolin can also cause skin rashes and allergic reactions.

Glycerin is a syrupy liquid produced by combining water and fat. On the skin it has the effect of drawing moisture from deeper layers of the skin and holding it on the surface. The result is that it dries the skin from the inside out.

Petrolatum and propylene glycol are similar to mineral oil in that they can prevent toxins from escaping from the skin and can prevent the skin from receiving moisture. Both can be strong skin irritants.
Alpha hydroxy acid helps the skin exfoliate damaged skin cells and healthy skin cells. With extended use, this can result in long term skin damage.

Lastly, beware of fragrances that are commonly used in cosmetics and skin care products. They are usually petroleum-based and can cause headaches, dizziness, rashes, and respiratory problems.
Now that you know some of the hazards of common chemical ingredients found in skin care and cosmetic products you can better judge which products to use and which to avoid.

Uses and benefits of Virgin Organic Coconut Oil

Uses and benefits of Virgin Organic Coconut Oil

Hair care 


Massaging the scalp with pure Virgin Organic Coconut oil is said to improve the growth and condition of hair.
One suggestion I recently read was to massage hair with warm Virgin Organic Coconut oil an hour before washing. Let it soak. Cover your head with a hot towel and wash your hair after an hour or so. 

Fight off illness 


Using Virgin Organic Coconut oil in your diet increases your metabolism, it also contains a fatty acid called lauric acid. Lauric acid metabolizes into monglyceride. Monoglyceride has strong anti-pathenogenic properties. When the amount of naturally produced monoglyceride in your body increases, your body is more able to fight infection.


Try it by replacing the fats that you would normally use in cooking, such as in frying aim to have an intake of 2 to 4 tbsp. of coconut oil per day.
This oil has more recently been used by many customers to increase immunity to stop the spread of infections like swine flu.


Digestion and weight loss


As I mentioned earlier using Virgin Coconut oil in your diet increases your metabolism. This is why the Coconut oil diet has become so popular among celebrities and sports men and women.
Because the oil metabolizes easily the liver sends it straight to the bloodstream, less strain is placed on the digestive system which means that it reduces the risk of heart diseases. 

The oil also maintains cholesterol levels which help reduce the risk of heart diseses. In countries where the oil is used in place of vegetable oils they are found to have a lower chance of developing heart disease and stroke.


 Stress relief 


Apart from the dietary benefits of Coconut Oil that are likely to reduce stress and improve well being.  Many people have also found coconut oil to be excellent for stress relief when gentlly massaged on head the oil relieves stress and cools the body.

Skin care and aging


It’s no surprise that so many body care, skin care and hair care products contain coconut. For a smooth skin that is wrinkle-free – apply some coconut oil and massage for a few minutes everyday. It repairs and moisturizes the skin
The antioxidant properties of coconut oil prevent premature aging. Regular intake of coconut oil in the diet helps to keep the body feeling young and skin youthful.

Kidney and Liver


As mentioned earlier Virgin Organic Coconut oil aids digestion which prevents stomach problems. Also the health of vital organs such as the kidney and liver is improved by the acids in coconut oil which is yet another reason to replace oils in your diet with coconut oil.

Dental care 


Doctors suggest women who are more prone to osteoporosis to include coconut oil in the  diet as it helps strengthening the bones. Coconut oil is great to help grow and maintain healthy teeth and bones. So it’s no great surprise that there are plenty of homemade toothpaste recepies that contain coconut oil.

Why Use Organic Skin Care For Babies?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why Use Organic Skin Care For Babies?

Keep Your Baby's Skin Smooth and Clean with Organic Skin Care Products
When you bring home your new bundle of joy, you bring home a huge responsibility. That little one is relying on you to care for her in every way. Before you rub that baby lotion on her soft, delicate skin, you need to learn a little bit about organic skin care.

Why Organic Skin Care for Babies Is Important
Babies have very soft, sensitive skin. Not only that, but a baby's skin is five times as thin as an adult's skin. This means the products you put on your baby's skin are absorbed into her body, and often quite quickly.

If you read your bottle of baby lotion, do you know what most of the ingredients are? Unless you have an organic or all-natural product, you probably don't. Most common baby products are full of synthetic chemicals, such as sodium lauryl sulfate and triethanolamine. If you cannot pronounce an ingredient, do you really want it to go into your baby's body?

To date there has not been enough research into the long-term effects of exposing babies to these products. We do know that some petroleum-based products contain waxes that coat the skin.

 This inhibits the skin's natural ability to exchange moisture, which can lead to irritation and discomfort. It is possible that the other synthetic products that are being constantly absorbed into the tiny bodies of most babies are leading to serious diseases in the child's future.

The good news is that there are alternatives to the traditional baby care products. Organic baby care products can be found that do not contain these potentially dangerous chemicals. By turning to nature to care for your baby, you will protect her from potential health hazards that have not yet been discovered.

Tips for Organic Skin Care

If you are committed to caring for your baby's skin organically, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Your goal in the first six months of your baby's life should be to use as few skin are products as possible. This is not always easy to abide by, because newborns seem to get a lot of rashes.

Resist the urge to run to the drug store and buy some cream the first time you notice a rash on your baby's skin. Chances are it is harmless and is not causing your baby any discomfort.

If you do need to use products to help your baby with a rash or other skin problem, choose single-ingredient organic products first. For instance, you can use pure shea butter to moisturize baby's skin. This will allow you to watch for allergies. Since these are single-ingredient products, you will know what caused the allergy.

You may feel that you need to bathe your baby every day. This is actually bad for your baby's skin. A bath two or three times a week is sufficient, and too much bathing could cause your baby's skin to dry out.

Keep your baby away from the sun. Use hats and protective clothing when you are outdoors. Remember, there is no safe sunscreen to use on an infant, so you must keep your baby covered.

After your baby has reached the six-month milestone, add other organic skin care products to his hygiene regimen. Read all labels to make sure that the product is truly natural and organic.

Watch your baby closely for signs of an allergy whenever you try something new. Even with organic skincare products, there could be some ingredient that your baby has a sensitivity to.

Once you establish a good skin care routine for your baby, stick to it. Do not let other people or caregivers use products on your baby that you are uncomfortable with. Remember, it is your responsibility to protect your little one, so start from day one with organic skin care for babies.
Providing organic baby care products are made to pamper and protect even the most delicate newborn skin. Made from pure gentle plant extracts, our natural skincare products are free of any harmful chemicals, pesticides, synthetics or anything else of concern.

 

10 Reasons New Mums and Babies Need Organic Skincare

10 Reasons New Mums and Babies Need Organic Skincare

By M James 

If you're a new mum, then you'll probably be well aware of the fact that nearly everything you do is now centred on your baby.
Here's why you should take time out and make sure that you and your baby get the skincare you both need at this time.

1. If you're currently pregnant, you're certain to be anxious about what products and ingredients you can and can't use on your skin. You won't want to put anything on your skin that might cause problems for your baby.

2. Being pregnant takes a lot out of the body, as the main priority is the development of the baby. This means that your skin may have suffered, and you might have lost your natural shine and sparkle. Why not see how natural skincare products can make a difference to your skin and complexion?

3. After the birth you'll be spending more of your time and attention on your baby then on yourself. You might have a lot to do in the mornings or evening, and not have the time to spend on yourself like you did previously

4. Using new mum specific skin products, and especially organic ones can help to prevent or lessen the effects of stretch marks.

5. Although you're now a responsible parent, it's still a good idea to try and make time for yourself and pamper yourself once in a while. Perhaps you could come to an agreement with your partner, or a friend or relative so that they can babysit and you can have a long relaxing bath and some time to yourself occasionally.

6. Good skincare is essential for everybody, and new babies and new mums are no exception. Your baby is precious and deserves to be looked after properly.

7. You're likely to be very protective about what your baby wears, and touches so that they don't harm themselves. You wouldn't use harmful or poor quality products on your skin, so why would you on your baby?

8. Organic products are natural and not full of potentially harmful chemicals that could cause damage later on in life. Because they are made with quality ingredients they will be free from irritants and allergens that can cause people to have adverse reactions to some skincare products.

9. You'll know full well that a relaxing bath is good way to relax after a hard day, so why not treat yourself and your baby to the best possible skincare made with organic natural ingredients?

10. You want the best for your baby in all areas of life, so why not start with their skincare? You'll feed them properly and make sure that they get everything else they need, so why would you neglect their skin?
Now you know more about why natural skin care is important, perhaps now is the time to think about organic

Organic Baby Skin Care Is Made of Natural Ingredients

Organic Baby Skin Care Is Made of Natural Ingredients  

By Peyton Hines

If you're the parent of a new baby, of course you want everything to be just right. One of the things you can do that will help your baby is to use organic skincare ingredients. Of course, babies' skin is very delicate, so you'll need to use gentle ingredients. Organic baby skin care products can help you clean your child's skin without irritating it.

The first question that must be answered is what exactly is organic baby skin care? This is an important question since baby skin is one of the most delicate things in the world. The basic answer is organic skin care products are made from natural substances to provide care for the skin without any invisible damage left behind. These baby care products will clean, moisturize, and heal the softest, most delicate baby skin.

Several companies specialize in organic baby skin care products. Many of them have special sections in stores where they sell their products. You can also find these products online. These products are created especially for babies, although mothers can often use their samples to try them out. Ingredients are clearly displayed on labels so that you will know exactly what each product contains.

Some of the products are actually for specific age ranges, while other products are for babies of any age. These products are best for babies' skin care, and should be used at least until they are ready to go to school, usually.

Obviously organic products will generally be a bit more expensive than ordinary products; however the consensus among experts is that if you can afford it, then organic baby skin care products are generally advisable due to the sensitivity of a baby's skin which is five times thinner than that of an adult. 

After all, if someone will spend large amounts for baby clothes that will only be worn maybe twice, they can spend a little on organic baby skin care products that will be used for much longer and directly affects the baby's well being.

Organic baby skin care products nourish and hydrate babies' skin while they keep it clean. These products include soaps and shampoos that clean without using any harsh chemicals. Organic baby skin care will take care of their delicate skin on a daily basis. These products include soaps and shampoos that will provide gentle cleansing without any harsh chemicals. 

The soaps clean and moisturize babies' soft skin completely, naturally, and usually without any fragrances of any kind as well. Oftentimes, many skincare products have fragrance that is not natural or organic and can be harsh. These are kept out of organic baby skin care products. Some of these natural substances include sweet almond, jojoba, and evening primrose oils.

Some companies that provide organic baby skin care products also have special blends meant specifically for premature babies. Premature babies' skin is even more sensitive than that of babies born full-term. Once babies get old enough to enjoy baths, you can help make their bathing experience even more enjoyable by using bubble bath. Of course, this, too, can be found in organic formulas. You can do Internet research or ask experienced friends and relatives what products they use to begin to know where to shop.

Organic Shaving Cream For Men

Organic Shaving Cream For Men

 

If you shave daily, organic shaving cream is healthier than the alternative. Many health-conscious consumers are buying organic food. But is organic skin care on their shopping lists? Most brands of skin care are made of harmful chemicals that are absorbed into the skin. Organic shaving cream has natural, healthy ingredients.

Most men shave everyday. Using organic shaving cream won't cause dry, flaking skin, rashes or irritation. You will avoid itching, allergic reactions and other side effects that occur with regular shaving cream. The all-natural ingredients pamper the skin and deliver maximum moisture.

There are many selections of organic shaving cream to choose from. Some include aloe, coconut oil and vitamin E. Some men have problems with razor bumps and ingrown hairs that can be very painful. 


They need a product that is hypo-allergenic and reduces friction while keeping the skin conditioned. They also need a product that leaves their skin refreshed with fewer nicks and cuts.

Some organic shaving cream brands will raise the hair off the skin or soften the hair to provide a smoother, closer shave.
More men are becoming increasingly aware of organic shaving cream and skin care. In today's market, there are several brands of organic skin care products for men available such as organic skin moisturizers and organic aftershaves. There is a broader selection online than you may find in retail stores.

Men with sensitive skin or skin allergies should definitely consider organic products. Regular shaving creams contain petroleum, animal, or synthetic ingredients that can be harmful to your health. Organic shaving cream is not only good for you, but it is also good for the environment.
The author's website Organic Shaving Cream is a source of information for the consumer to learn more about the benefits of using organic shaving cream.

What is Organic Skin Care for Men


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is Organic Skin Care for Men

You may have heard it a thousand times. It is the term used these times in most beauty products in the market. Now, organic skin care is also available for men. So the first question that might pop up in your mind is "What is organic skin care?"

The answer is actually pretty simple. Organic skin care products are products that contain only natural ingredients in their formulas. They can be herbs, roots, plants with special properties that help the skin in a variety of ways.

Most of these herb's properties have been known for ages by ancient cultures, but until now they haven't been available to people worldwide. So, you might call it a "rediscovery of ancient wisdom". Combined with today's technology, these formulas can be mass produced and brought to you in modern fancy packaging.

People who prefer organic skin care have a strong point for doing so: These organic products don't contain any chemicals that in the long run can damage your skin. Traditional beauty products, used to contain mostly chemical blends that sometimes caused damage to the skin because of poor scientific research.
Components such as Aliminum, Propulene Glycol and Imidazolidinyl urea, have been proved to be harmful to people.

Their effects include links with breast cancer, contact dermatitis, ototoxicity, kidney damage and more. Most of the products with these components have been banned, but there are some that not, and you have to consider that may be also other components not YET found harmful.

On the other hand you should always read the labels if you are planning to buy organic skin care products. Not because it says is "organic" it means is good for you. There are some products that contain certain chemicals, and there are natural products, that don't do any good for your skin.

Now that you know what organic skin care is, you are one step closer in your quest to feel good and look good. The more you know, the wiser buying decisions you will make, and the less problems you'll encounter. Remember, always read the labels.


Organic Skin Care for Men, The Natural Way to Male Skin Care


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Organic Skin Care for Men, The Natural Way to Male Skin Care

Organic skin care for men refers to the products used to take care of men's skin. Organic products contain natural ingredients, a new trend in the world of beauty that is leaving chemicals behind to develop healthier alternatives.
The problem with chemicals was that they were unnatural to the body and many of them had side effects that only started to show in the long term. This of course brought a wave of concerns and turned the heads to natural alternatives.

Natural skin care products and home recipes

When opting for an organic option for skin care, you can either buy products formulated with natural ingredients or make your own home recipes. Of course most men do not even think about the latest option (although it is very entertaining) and end up buying products. Good news is that nowadays, there is a lot of quality in the men's skin care market.
Products range from shaving creams to anti-aging alternatives all based in the properties of plants and injected with vitamins.

Advantages of organic skin care for men

Organic skin care's biggest benefit is that it doesn't produce side effects or harm to your skin. The field of natural products has advanced with gigantic steps, mainly because most of the properties were known years ago - sometimes even hundred of years - by popular culture and ancient civilizations.
Now this knowledge is being rapidly compiled and put to use for people like you and me who just want to take care of our skin in a natural way. Examples of these natural ingredients good for the skin include:

  • Vitamins
  • Aloe Vera
  • Honey
  • Olive Oil
  • Avocado
  • Cucumbers
Thanks to these ingredients applied in formulas you can enjoy the great skin they bring to you.

How to start in the world of organic skin care?

The best way to start in natural skin care for men is to read about the subject and the different alternatives. Then try to do some research on the products that you are interested in to get to know the formula and composition. It is also a good idea to read about the chemicals that have been proven to hurt the skin, just in case you need to sort out a product.

The Internet is a great way to find information on these subjects, however try to stick to reliable sites that will give you 100% true information about organic skin care for men.

Is your lipstick toxic?


Is your lipstick toxic?
 
By David Steinman, from Healthy Living

Applying potentially toxic lipstick chemicals to your lips does not make sense, especially when safe and healthy brands of lipstick, glosses and lip pencils are available. The suspect chemicals in lipstick may be absorbed into your body as you moisten your lips throughout the day.

That is why health-conscious consumers should avoid products containing potential cancer-causing ingredients such as butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and sodium saccharin, as well as artificial colours including D&C Orange 5, D&C Orange 17, D&C Red 9, D&C Red 19, FD&C Blue 1, FD&C Yellow, and FD&C Yellow 6; some artificial colours may be slightly carcinogenic, contain carcinogenic impurities in some batches, and, as a group, they are simply not part of a fully natural cosmetic product. What's more, contact dermatitis and irritation can also be caused by cosmetic pigments such as artificial colours. Dyes most likely to cause irritation include: D&C Orange 5; D&C Red 21; and D&C Red 27. Synthetic fragrances and lanolin may also cause allergies and irritation.

Safe Use Tips

If you have dry or cracking lips, use lipsticks without artificial colours or lanolin.

Natural lipsticks require special handling. Because they are softer and more moist, care must be taken to twist up only a small amount; because they melt more easily than most commercial lipsticks, they should not be left in a hot car or in direct sunlight. Certain colours (hot reds or bright oranges) cannot be as readily produced from natural colour pigments.

Understanding the ingredients in personal care products


Understanding the Ingredients in personal care products

By C. Leigh Broadhurst, Ph.D.

Skin is a remarkable organ—the body's largest—but it is often taken for granted. Most people are content to let it be until dryness, oiliness, a rash or a wrinkle rouses attention. But once they understand how it functions, many reconsider the importance of the skin and, hence, the quality and content of the skin care products they use. Consider these skin facts:

An adult's skin comprises between 15 and 20 percent of total body weight.
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Each square centimetre has 6 million cells, 5,000 sensory points, 100 sweat glands and 15 sebaceous glands.


Skin is constantly being regenerated. A cell is born in the lower layer of the skin called the dermis, which is supplied with blood vessels and nerve endings. The cell migrates upward for about two weeks until it reaches the bottom portion of the epidermis, which is the outermost skin layer. The epidermis doesn't have blood vessels, but does have nerve endings.
The cell spends another two weeks in the epidermis, gradually flattening out and continuing to move toward the surface. Then it dies and is shed. Two billion to three billion skin cells are shed daily. The body expends this effort to replace skin every month because the skin constitutes the first line of defense against dehydration, infection, injuries and temperature extremes.
Skin cells can detoxify harmful substances with many of the same enzymatic processes the liver uses. The unbroken surface also prevents infectious organisms from penetrating into the systemic circulation. As gatekeeper, the skin absorbs and uses nutrients applied topically. Because it cannot completely discriminate, the skin may absorb the synthetic chemicals often present in soaps and lotions, which at best it has no use for, and at worst can be toxic or irritating.

Most of your customers are committed to natural foods and remedies, but many aren't as selective when it comes to personal care products. These otherwise savvy shoppers might purchase any sale shampoo, skin cleanser or lotion. But because new skin is constantly being generated, and because it plays such an important protective role, it makes sense to choose nourishing skin care products. What follows is a primer to help you understand the often confusing ingredients lists and explain to your customers the benefits of going natural.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulations specify that ingredients on cosmetic products labels be listed in descending order of percent by weight. To help you decode these ingredient names, the following list highlights the most common, tells whether they are natural and provides scientific support for choosing natural over synthetic. Hair & Skin Care Product Ingredients provides examples of both common synthetic cosmetic ingredients and natural alternatives.

It is important to note that water is the major component of virtually all skin and hair care products. It is a natural and necessary ingredient, but no matter how you pour it, most of what's being sold is water. Consider an after-sun lotion: Many mainstream products are predominately water and rely on marketing for sales. In contrast, various natural after-sun lotions list aloe (Aloe vera) juice and calendula (Calendula officinalis) extract as the first two ingredients. Indeed, these herbal extracts are more than 90 percent water, but aloe
and calendula have been shown to reduce pain, inflammation and skin damage associated with burns and radiation exposure. While water always tops the list, water-based herbal extracts may be a better choice than mere distilled water.

Moisturizers

After water, fats, which act as emollients and humectants, are the secondary ingredients in moisturizers. An emollient makes skin soft and supple, and a humectant promotes moisture retention. Fats comprise a large part of the skin's structure: about one-third is ceramides (special amine fatty acid structures), one-third free fatty acids (fatty acids not in triglyceride or phospholipid form), and one-third cholesterol.


Providing the correct natural fats is likely the most important aspect of skin care because, as well as being part of the skin, fats can augment the body's sebum, providing lasting lubrication and softening. Sebum is secreted by sebaceous glands and consists of a blend of fats, waxes and protein . It protects skin from moisture loss and irritation and is strongly antimicrobial.
Sebum also makes hair shiny and soft. Abnormal sebum composition or inadequate sebum production causes dry skin that can create itching and flaking. Chronically abnormal sebum production increases the incidence of skin infections and can cause skin cracking and bleeding or scaly dermatitis.

Natural oils (almond, olive, safflower and sunflower) and waxes (beeswax, jojoba and lanolin) work primarily as emollients because they are soluble in the sebum and are capable of being absorbed and used by skin cells.
In particular, the skin needs omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) because they are not manufactured in the body. Ideally, these should be supplied from both the diet (by eating nuts or vegetable oils such as flax, soybean and sunflower) and lotions that contain almond, safflower and sesame oils. A dietary deficiency of omega-6 PUFA (or of all PUFAs) causes scaly dermatitis, skin lesions and excessive water loss through the skin.

Humectants are designed to slow water evaporation from skin. Mineral oils are often called emollients, but they really act as humectants. While mineral oil can soften healthy skin in the short term, simply keeping water from evaporating cannot help or heal chronically dry or damaged skin. Mineral oil-based products, which are not considered natural, do not penetrate the skin's surface to provide the raw materials for sebum.


Cleansers

Removing the day's dirt or makeup requires a cleanser—choosing an appropriate one depends on what's in it.

Liquid soaps and shampoos contain soaps, detergents and surfactants (short for surface active agent). Soap is a sodium salt of medium- or long-chain fatty acids. Detergents are chemically different from soaps but resemble them in the ability to emulsify oils and hold dirt in suspension. Common detergents in skin and hair care products are sodium lauryl sulfate and cocamide DEA, which are also used in dish detergents.
1 Product labels may indicate that cocamide DEA is from coconut oil, but it is a synthetic ingredient that may or may not use coconut oil in its manufacture. DEA, short for diethanolamine, may contain carcinogenic nitrosamines.

Surfactants help wet hair and skin more easily and pick up and remove various soils. All soaps are surfactants, but there are many specialized surfactants available for particular applications.

Foaming agents are often added to shampoos and liquid soaps to increase apparent cleansing and improve rinsing actions. Sequestering agents, which bind metal ions such as magnesium, calcium and iron from hard water, and nonmetal ions such as chlorine, are typically added to shampoos for swimmers and persons with colour-treated hair. Sequestering agents, either natural (corn syrup) or synthetic (ethylene diamine tetra acetic, abbreviated EDTA), clean the skin and hair more thoroughly and minimize soap scum.

Alcohol is the secondary ingredient in astringent facial cleansers as well as toners. The abbreviation "SD" stands for specially denatured and means a small amount of methanol has been added to the ethanol to make it poisonous. Natural astringents are witch hazel extract and ethanol. Deciding between a natural, beneficial herbal extract and a potentially toxic ingredient will be easy for customers once they know their choices.

All Products

Chances are you'll see this last set of ingredients in almost all personal care products.

Emulsifiers and solubilizers keep the ingredients in personal care products combined and constitute the minor ingredients listed on the label. Emulsifiers keep fats dispersed in water-based mediums—oil in skin lotions or hair conditioners, for example. Solubilizers keep ingredients dissolved. By making ingredients more soluble, a solubilizer enables an essential oil to be used effectively in a water-based spray. Product blends typically aren't stable for more than a few days without these ingredients.
There are few effective natural emulsifiers and solubilizers, which makes avoiding synthetics one of the largest hurdles for natural cosmetic products manufacturers.9 Only the staunchest advocate of natural ingredients is critical of a manufacturer for the use of a synthetic emulsifier and solubilizer in an otherwise natural formula. Because these ingredients simply address aesthetic and ease-of-use issues, some natural products manufacturers omit them and instruct users to shake the product well before each use.

Value-added ingredients typically appear next and include amino acids, essential oils, herbal extracts, hydrolyzed protein, protein extracts and vitamins. In general, these constituents are beneficial to the skin and hair, but mainstream products typically contain only token amounts.


A useful, value-added ingredient that some natural products provide is the omega-6 fatty acid gamma linolenic acid (GLA), which the skin cannot make. GLA in the form of borage, evening primrose or hemp seed oil can be applied topically or obtained through diet. Once the skin has a source of GLA, it can be converted to another omega-6 fatty acid, dihomogamma-linolenic acid (DGLA). DGLA is important to skin health because it is the precursor of several anti inflammatory compounds that help prevent allergic dermatitis.


A newer, natural value-added ingredient is ceramides, which are similar to those in the human skin but are made by a biotech process. Ceramides are expensive but effective topical moisturizers.


Antifungal, antibacterial and preservative agents constitute many of the ingredients toward the end of the ingredients list. Often four to eight preservatives are used. Most personal care products need protection from bacterial and fungal growth as well as from oxidation and other damaging chemical reactions because the bottles are opened regularly. Synthetic antimicrobials and antioxidants are somewhat toxic by nature and are the most likely ingredients to cause irritation and allergic reactions.
12

Natural or vitamin-derived antioxidants are rarely irritating
9 and in higher concentrations can play dual roles as value-added ingredients. Topical vitamin C (ascorbic acid) does penetrate the skin but is generally not stable in cosmetics. In a clinical study, ascorbic acid was shown to reduce inflammation after laser facial skin resurfacing when 10 percent ascorbic acid was applied in a water solution but not in a cream.Vitamin C can be made more stable and fat soluble by esterification (oxygen linking) with a fatty acid, phosphate or similar derivative.

The fat-soluble forms of vitamin E—alpha-tocopherol, alpha-tocotrienol and gamma-tocotrienol—penetrate the skin rapidly and migrate to the dermal areas that contain the sebaceous glands.


Colours and fragrances are usually added in small amounts. Fragrances can cause allergic reactions, even if they're natural. Eucalyptus, cedar, citrus, clove, juniper, sandalwood and tea tree essential oils are natural scents known to be allergenic.
On the other hand, if allergies aren't a concern, higher levels of these essential oils provide scent as well as natural antibacterial protection for the product.

Scientific analysis has always concluded that natural skin care products are inherently safer and more effective than synthetic alternatives.
However, this message is not being effectively communicated to consumers. The natural products industry must make a concerted effort to teach consumers not to take their skin for granted.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate in Shampoos: The Real Story


Sodium Lauryl Sulfate in Shampoos: The Real Story
By David Steinman, from Healthy Living

Talk to many health-conscious consumers today about personal care products and one of their main topics of concern is use of the allegedly dangerous shampoo ingredient, sodium lauryl sulfate. But is sodium lauryl sulfate truly dangerous or has it received a bad rap? Or does the answer lay somewhere between these two extremes?

This is not an inconsequential question, since our recent marketplace review of more than 100 leading brands of shampoos indicates that most contain this ingredient. The reason sodium lauryl sulfate is used, we believe, is because it is an inexpensive detergent and makes mixtures foam well.

All shampoos are irritating. Shampoos rank among the products most often reported to the Food and Drug Administration for association with scalp irritation, stinging eyes, and tangled, split, and fuzzy hair. Most shampoos contain synthetic detergents for washing hair. But is sodium lauryl sulfate the culprit when it comes to irritation?

Could be.

What Science Says About Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

In its final report on the safety of sodium lauryl sulfate, the Journal of the American College of Toxicology notes that this ingredient has a "degenerative effect on the cell membranes because of its protein denaturing properties." What's more, the journal adds, "high levels of skin penetration may occur at even low use concentration."

Interestingly, sodium lauryl sulfate "is used around the world in clinical studies as a skin irritant," notes the journal. The publication expressed additional concerns:
Carcinogenic nitrosamines can form in the manufacturing of sodium lauryl sulfate or by its inter-reaction with other nitrogen-bearing ingredients within a formulation utilizing this ingredient.


Other studies have indicated that sodium lauryl sulfate enters and maintains residual levels in the heart, liver, lungs and brain from skin contact. This poses the question whether it could be a serious potential health threat from its use in shampoos, cleansers, and toothpastes.
Still other research has indicated sodium lauryl sulfate may be damaging to the immune system, especially within the skin. Skin layers may separate and inflame due to its protein denaturing properties.
Although sodium lauryl sulfate is not carcinogenic in experimental studies, it has been shown that it causes severe epidermal changes in the area it is applied, indicating a need for tumour-enhancing assays.
Additional studies have found that sodium lauryl sulfate is heavily deposited on the skin surface and in the hair follicles. Damage to the hair follicle could result from such deposition.

Threat to Eye Health

Damaging effects of sodium lauryl sulfate on eye health are also of concern. In experimental, acute eye tests, a solution of 10 percent sodium lauryl sulfate "caused corneal damage to the . . . eyes if not irrigated or irrigation was delayed."

A solution of 5.1 percent "caused mild irritation."

There may be another more insidious problem with use of sodium lauryl sulfate. Bear with us if we use a little scientific lingo in this section of the report. Your reward will be a better appreciation for whether sodium lauryl sulfate poses undesirable health effects. Often, in order to make a shampoo gentle to the eyes, the manufacturer will utilize a combination of anionic surfactants (i.e., detergents) with nonionic detergents. An anionic detergent contains a negatively charged polar group. A nonionic detergent has no polar end. Anionic detergents "display remarkable detergent, emulsifying, and foaming properties." Nonionics are "generally considered as the mildest of all surfactants" whose use "has been restricted because of poor foaming potential. They serve more often as auxiliary detergents."

However, while anionic detergents such as sodium lauryl sulfate are the most irritating to the eye, nonionic detergents are less irritating. What's more, according to Tom Conry, author of Consumer's Guide to Cosmetics, "Some of the nonionic surfactants are believed to anesthetize the eyeball. Although we have not been able to track down all of these anesthetizing surfactants, the most common ones are cocamide MEA and DEA, and lauramide MEA and DEA." This is why anionic detergents are frequently combined with nonionic detergents to make shampoos gentle to the eye. In essence, while more aggressive anionic detergents like sodium lauryl sulfate are irritating the eye, the eyeball has been anesthetized by nonionic detergents also in the formulation. Look at shampoo labels and such combinations will be apparent.

Further, according to the Journal of the American College of Toxicology, "Tests show permanent eye damage in young animals from skin contact in non-eye areas. Studies indicated sodium lauryl sulfate kept young eyes from developing properly by possibly denaturing the proteins and not allowing for proper structural formation. This damage was permanent."

Substitution of Gentler Detergents Poses Additional Risks

Unfortunately, many of the gentler detergents that may be substituted for sodium lauryl sulfate pose their own health hazards. For example, many companies have begun to use ethoxylated detergents such as sodium laureth sulfate, cocamide DEA or lauramide DEA because they tend to be less irritating.

Consumers can recognize shampoo ingredients containing ethoxylated detergents and related ingredients by looking for the prefix, word, or syllable PEG, polyethylene, polyethylene glycol, polyoxyethylene, eth (as in sodium laureth sulfate), or oxynol.

Both our own commissioned independent laboratory testing and that of the federal government have documented ethoxylated alcohol compounds are frequently contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, which is carcinogenic and is listed by the federal government as a probable human carcinogen.

Also, according to a 1998 report from the federal National Toxicology Program, two DEA-based compounds‹cocamide DEA and lauramide DEA‹have been demonstrated to be cancer-causing in at least in one species of animal.

The Doctors' Prescription for Healthy Living/Safe Shopper's Bible Recommendation

According experts on the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel (established by the Cosmetic Toiletry, and Fragrance Association, a cosmetic industry trade association), both sodium lauryl sulfate and its close chemical cousin ammonium lauryl sulfate "appear to be safe in formulations designed for discontinuous, brief use followed by thorough rinsing from the surface of the skin."

It should be recognized that shampoos represent such brief, discontinuous use products that are thoroughly rinsed, thus clearly minimizing the risk from sodium lauryl sulfate. It should also be recognized that many people shampoo daily, and we really do not know whether a lot of little exposures to sodium lauryl sulfate are dangerous or not.

Given the lack of adequate research and suggestive evidence, however, we believe it might be wise for health-conscious consumers to seek products without sodium lauryl sulfate, especially with regard to young children. Indeed, consumers have the power to choose safe and perhaps even better products without sodium lauryl sulfate.

This may be a very wise choice for another reason. We have found very often the presence of sodium lauryl sulfate in a shampoo formulation is a "marker" for the use of other undesirable ingredients, including formaldehyde-containing preservatives (e.g., imidazolidinyl urea); possible cancer-causing wetting agents (e.g., cocamide DEA); and nitrosamine-forming agents (e.g., triethanolamine). Also, it should be mentioned that in Germany, where there is a concerted effort underway now to label cosmetics and personal care products as certified natural, formulations containing sodium lauryl sulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate or sodium laureth sulfate cannot be so certified, reports Michael Wrightson, president of Logona Kosmetik.



Organic products provide healthy ingredients


Organic products provide healthy ingredients
by Rubel Zaman

Organic means natural, unadulterated, and chemical free. This terminology refers to foods, clothing, soaps, cosmetics, furniture, and home decorations. The need to “go natural” has come about due to so much contamination by way of chemicals and poisons which are proven causes of cancer, birth defects, and many devastating diseases. A look at some natural organic products includes:

Organic Cosmetics
Cosmetics, including shampoo, body soap, tanning products, and nail care products each are considered personal items. Items we put on our face and body which, if contaminated by chemicals and other impure ingredients, may cause us to become ill or even poison our system. Natural or organic products are proven to be safer. 

Organic foods 

Eliminating the use of weed killer, pest control chemicals, and growth hormones (in livestock) are a big step toward healthier foods for the dinner table. Water and soil conservation are included in the organic growing process. Much has been written regarding our diet and healthful additives such as vitamins and supplements.  

Many of those additives include chemically manufactured ingredients that can get past the regulation of “organically” grown foods, and are found on the grocery store shelves.
Organic furniture and home décor 

The terms organic or green today mean natural and conservative. Organic furniture may include items that have been recycled or made from naturally grown wood and even sheep (natural wool). The materials that go into making an organic chair for example, will have been naturally grown, allowing for no chemical additives to the plants or animals that were used in manufacturing the product.

The cost of buying organic 

Choosing between items that have been grown naturally and those labeled “organic” can become complicated. Which is the better choice, a naturally grown apple or one which is labeled organic? One big difference is usually in the cost. The organic item may well be twice the cost of the naturally grown variety.

What does the consumer get for that extra cost? Most items labeled organic have been treated somewhat differently and the cost increase comes about from special handling that is required to insure that item is truly organic in nature. 

FDA keeps busy regulating the organic industry
The FDA (Federal Drug Administration) does not have an official definition for “organic” but the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) defines the term as items which have been produced under certain conditions can only be labeled one hundred percent organic if: 

* there were no synthetic ingredient or substances
* no non-synthetic substances
* no nonagricultural substances used on or in the processed products
* no ionizing radiation
* no sewage sludge 

Basically organic products are defined as one hundred percent natural ingredients with no chemical additives or unnatural methods of manufacture. Some companies have found ways around this definition and that is where policing of our food and other products must be maintained.

Much improvement in regulating truly organic items, particularly foods and cosmetics, is necessary for our health. There is nothing wrong with natural products so long as they are just that, natural. Whenever pesticides, herbicides, or other poisonous ingredients are added into natural items, they are no longer natural or good for us.

Tips For Treating Acne With Organic Skin Care Products






Tips For Treating Acne With Organic Skin Care Products
by Alexssi Clay

You may think you have tried all there is to try in the acne medication field, but if you aren't treating acne with organic skin care products you still have a lot to experiment with. The trick to dealing with an acne condition is getting it under control without creating more irritation in the skin. Organic products can do just that.

There is a trick that many manufacturers are playing on consumers these days. They take the ingredients that are most popular with consumers and include just enough so that they can legally list that ingredient on their label. This makes consumers like you feel they are buying the very best ingredients, when in fact there is not enough in there to really deliver maximum benefits to your skin.

Skin irritation and excessive dryness are also big problems with most products on the market. The harsh synthetic chemicals used in most non-organic products are not sensitive to the fragile nature of the skin and the results can often be more discomforting than having acne to begin with.

News flash: these products are not your only options! You can take care of your skin and reduce the effects of acne without adding irritation into the mix.

The source of organic ingredients are herbs and plants which grow naturally on the Earth. Unlike the synthetic and chemical based ingredients which can irritate and dry out the skin, these natural ingredients include a wide variety of vitamins, minerals, and other natural compounds which you simply do not get from most synthetic products.

Every aspect of skin care can be effectively treated with natural ingredients, and that includes mild, moderate, and severe acne problems. Herbs have long been used to treat a wide variety of conditions that occur in the human body, and that includes taking great care of the skin. Also, organic products tend to include higher amounts of the most beneficial ingredients.

When used on a daily basis, organic skin care products will prevent break outs in the future and take care of any break out you may have when you first start. At the very least they will reduce the appearance of acne, but in many cases the condition can be completely cleared up. Since the ingredients are natural, they are safe and gentle on the skin.

So, what about price? You are probably assuming that a product made entirely from natural ingredients will be quite pricey, but most are not. Organic products currently on the market are surprisingly affordable for most consumers. In the future, as more people start to go organic, the prices will continue to drop even more.

At the moment, a high quality organic product will cost you about the same as a prescription strength product that you would get prescribed from a doctor or that you could order through the mail. In many cases they will be even cheaper, and you don't need a doctor's order to purchase it.

Plus, they are as effective if not more so than similar products made from synthetic ingredients.

Treating acne with organic skin care is effective, safe, and affordable. Look for products which include only natural ingredients which are proven to really fight off acne, and you will never have to worry about irritation or side effects that may make your condition even worse.

Natural Skincare Products -- Why Are They So Important?


Natural Skincare Products -- Why Are They So Important?
by Terry Johnston

Natural skincare products have become very popular of late. Why is that?

Nowadays, many skin care companies have entered the natural skincare market. And you would be hard-pressed to choose, the best, without further information. Remember to be truly outstanding the product must be more than just natural--heck crude oil is natural, but no one would want it in their skin care product!

I doubt it. There is only two things you need to be concerned about when choosing between a product that is all natural and a chemical based product.

Natural Ingredients of course. What are those natural ingredients? The definition of natural ingredients is naturally-derived ingredients from flora and fauna sources that are then mixed with naturally-occurring carrier preservatives (sugar, honey salt), agents, emulsifiers, humectants, and surfactants.

Natural flora sources include flowers, fruits, leaves, roots, stems and bark of plants and trees, from which essential oils and fragrances as well as vitamins and minerals can be extracted. Of course, natural skincare products are also made from ingredients harvested from of the labors of animals like bees, hence, the popularity of honey.

Oleochemicals are oils derived from biological sources(as opposed to petrochemicals). Fragrances and preservatives can be made from the oils of tea tree, lavender, lemon and sandalwood. Manuka honey is a powerful antioxidant and grapefruit seed extract is an antimicrobial agent.

Always read the label of skin care products that claim they are safe, all natural and effective. They must by law state what their product contains.

The second thing you do, is check to see if the product contains any of dangerous or harmful ingredients, that really shouldn't be there. Like

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) Mineral oils Parabens (methyl, ethyl, propyl and butyl) Synthetic colors labeled as FD&C or D&C Synthetic fragrances Petroleum-based substances like propylene glycol

Of course, some manufacturers will claim natural ingredients in their skin care products, by adding some to their formulas, but they add only enough to be able to list the natural ingredient on the label. The concentration is too small to produce real results.

As you look for the best natural skincare products, not only do you need to know what natural ingredients you want in your skin care, but you must also make sure that the product you choose has the right quantity to do the job. Plus make sure there are no harmful chemicals in the product.

You could cobble together your own natural products at home, but it is a lot easier to purchase from a reputable manufacturer. Who can provide you with safe effective, secure optimal blends of botanical ingredients mixed in the right combination in convenient bottles, which will provide smoother, softer more radiant skin from your head to your toes.






Anti wrinkle creams, what to watch out for?


Anti wrinkle creams, what to watch out for?

1. Mineral Oils – They are misused as moisturisers in skincare products. But this is only short-lived. They clog the skin pores and leave the unable to eliminate its toxins – this causes acne, rashes and many other skin disorders.

2. Parabens – They are good preservatives and are in use to increase the shelf life of anti wrinkle skincare solutions. They are often said to cause cancer.

3. Fragrances – They are used to generate a nice smell to the anti wrinkle creams. These are made up from damaging chemicals. These are known to cause depressive disorder, hyperactivity, mood fluctuations, irritability and adversely affect the central nervous system.

There are many more chemicals that are being used in Anti wrinkle creams that we are not sure of yet. It’s worth checking out natural alternatives like this chamomile and Calendula Anti-Aging Eye Cream -

Chamomile and Calendula Anti-Aging Eye Cream

Ingredients:

Blending Instructions:

Melt the raw shea butter and cocoa butter in a small pot on low heat. Remove from heat and add in the oils. Stir for 5 minutes, then pour into a small glass jar or bottle.

posted by Nina


Organic Skin Care For Pregnant Women














Pregnancy is a beautiful yet challenging time in a woman's life. For every joyful discovery there is a disappointing development, like skin outbreaks or the shedding of hair.

The modern mother-to-be is lucky however, as manufacturers have begun to acknowledge the special needs of the pregnant body. Indeed, today there are literally hundreds of products on the market that address some of the more common discomforts pregnant women face during their nine month long evolution.

Skincare is one area that manufactures often target, a wise move, since taking care of our body's largest organ is one of the primary concerns of many women who are on the precipice of becoming a mother.

With so many options available, it can be a rather daunting task to locate what will work best for you. Just how does a pregnant lady locate the skincare products that are both safe and effective?

Think Organic

Once upon a time people thought of organic products as something vegetarians and neo-hippies purchased due to paranoid concerns about contaminants. Nowadays, we realize that the neo-hippies were on to something, as the FDA and several health watch organizations have begun to prove that health and beauty items, like lotions and creams, were chock full of toxic substances.

Indeed, a mainstream lotion can contain several carcinogenic chemicals that could potentially damage reproductive health. Using such substances when pregnant could end up being extremely dangerous to both mother and baby.

On the other hand, true organic health and beauty items are free of the things that can cause harm to you and your precious little one.

Below are a few products that a resourceful mother who is interested in organic skin care can investigate to get started on her beauty regimen.

o Stretch mark cream - every mother, whether she is having her first child or her fifth, worries about getting stretch marks. The good news is that manufacturers of organic lotions and creams understand this and have created belly butters and moisturizers filled with pure botanical ingredients that will help your skin glow.

o Body toning oil -- pregnant women are also concerned about sagging skin after childbirth, but the use of toning oils can help prevent this from happening if used faithfully. Producers of organic products make all natural body toning oils with tried and true substances like avocado, pomegranate and jojoba oils which boost collagen production and help the skin retain it elasticity.

o Body cleansing - purchasing organic shampoos, body washes and soaps are another great way to keep your skin baby smooth and free of harsh drying chemicals.

To find organic products you can visit a holistic food store in your neighborhood or look online for organic distributors. Always check the ingredients list as well, since some companies can legally use very little chemical free substances in their formulas and still get an organic rating. To be sure, look for the "certified organic" label. This often means it is 100 percent organic and 100 percent all natural.

You and your baby deserve the best start possible when it comes to the mother child relationship. Taking good care of yourself during your pregnancy with rest and proper skin care is one step in the right direction.

By Amy Nutt