Over time, consumers have gained an increased awareness of how chemicals affect the environment. They also understand those same chemicals, when in their cosmetics, will affect their skin. As the green culture continues to gain momentum, people are becoming educated on the products they use and the benefits of the ingredients in natural cosmetics versus traditional.
Culture is taking a positive shift in understanding what we put on our skin is just as important as what we ingest or the quality of the air we breathe.
Traditional Cosmetics
Most people are astonished to find that there are over 900 toxic chemicals commonly used in traditional cosmetics. These chemicals, under any other circumstance, would be chemicals to avoid. However, cosmetics are not regulated or tested to the degree of foods or medications, as some may think, and consumers assume that they pose less risk for this reason.
Unknown Risks
Even as consumers begin to question the safety or necessity of some of the ingredients, cosmetic manufactures still have an out. Although the FDA requires the ingredients of all products in the US to be listed, not all of them are. The cosmetic industry is big business, with over $30 billion in sales every year- and comes with fierce competition. FDA rules allow the manufacturers to hide ingredients of some of the chemicals used due to “trade secrets”. If the manufacturer uses a new ingredient, something that would cause their product unique, the company can petition to have that ingredient considered a trade secret therefore not listed on the package.
Natural Cosmetics
Fortunately, for those who want a choice, many companies are specializing in natural and organic beauty products. Natural cosmetics use natural ingredients such as plant based dyes, essential oils, herbs and mineral powders. Natural cosmetics, which must contain at least 95% biological ingredients, must be free from artificial chemicals, synthetic preservatives, and parabens & sulfates.
Organic Cosmetics
Like natural cosmetics, organic cosmetics must be made from 95% organic ingredients. They will not contain petrochemicals or sulfates. The ingredients used are produced using organic methods. Both natural and organic cosmetics are les allergenic, however they may contain ingredients to which some are allergic, such as bees wax.
Benefits of Natural and Organic Cosmetics
• Natural ingredients have been used for thousands of years
• Natural ingredients are more readily absorbed by the skin which increases then benefits
• Essential nutrients revitalize and protect the skin
• Free of harmful chemicals
• Ideal for sensitive skin
• Does not clog pores
• Anti-inflammatory
• Bio-degradable, earth friendly and cruelty free
Being “green” is a trend that has helped consumers gain a better understanding of chemicals that are commonly encountered in everyday life. This has led may people to evaluate their cosmetic choices and find a real value in natural personal care products. The realization that what we put on our body is just as important as what we put in has led to a boom in the natural industry, giving concerned consumers a wide range of quality choices.
Pharmaca supports inner health as well as natural beauty by offering organic cosmetics and body care lines.Check out their selection of organic products that include vegan, gluten-free, and paraben-free options. With Pharmaca, you can trust that you are putting your best face forward.