Organic and Natural Skin Care : The Ultimate Guide
Natural cosmetics, organic skincare and organic shampoo bring fantastic benefits both to you and the environment, but so many skincare brands are now claiming to be natural and organic, that you need to know what to look out for when it comes to checking that your natural beauty products really are as ethical as they say they are.
For those with sensitive skin and skin conditions such as rosacea, psoriasis and acne especially, using the best skin care products that are free from harsh chemicals and irritants is very important. Even if you have healthy skin, 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed into our bodies so it makes sense to use organic beauty products and natural cosmetics wherever possible.
We have put together this useful guide to help you know what to avoid when it comes to ensuring you are a natural beauty!
Parabens:
Although a definite link has yet to be proven, traces of parabens have been detected in the breast tissue of cancer sufferers. There is also evidence that parabens affect male reproductive functions and can actually decrease sperm production due to their oestrogenic effect. Parabens are a very commonly used preservative in many popular cosmetic products, although here at Pravera we think they should be avoided at all costs. Lavera never uses parabens in their beauty and skin care products. See their full range of women's, children's and men's skincare products.
Aluminium:
Aluminium, traces of which have been found in the brains of people who have neurological problems such as Alzheimer's, is often used in anti-perspirant deodorant as it blocks the pores, inhibiting sweating. Be very wary of any deodorant which has anti-perspirant properties as it will contain aluminium. Sweating is a natural function which allows our body to maintain a healthy temperature. Of course no-one wants stinky underarms but it is possible to control this naturally using an aluminium-free, natural deodorant such as Lavera basis sensitive roll on.
Sodium Laurel/Laureth Sulphate (SLS):
This is the ingredient which makes your shampoo foam and your bath product create bubbles. Generally speaking, the fewer bubbles and foam your skin care products create, the more natural it is. Even many popular children's bubble baths and baby shampoos contain SLS which can severely irritate the eyes, skin and scalp, leading to itchy, uncomfortable skin. Some experts even believe that SLS can cause liver and lung damage. Avoid SLS in your skin and hair care products at all costs and be especially careful when checking the ingredients in your children's bath products. To be on the safe side use a trusted, natural skin care brand for your family such as Lavera, who do an eco-friendly and natural skin care range just for children.
Phthalates (DBP / DMP / DEP):
Commonly found in lipsticks, hair products and nail varnishes, phthalates are a nasty ingredient which have been liked to female fertility problems and are believed to interrupt the reproductive development of unborn baby boys. It is very difficult to see whether your beauty products contain phthalates as they are often not overtly listed on the label. Reputable natural beauty brands such as Lavera never put phthalates in their skincare, haircare and cosmetics. Lavera has even specially formulated a natural haircare styling range to keep you looking good without the chemical overload.
Learning about the ingredients used in your organic skin care and natural beauty products will help you to become a more savvy shopper and ensure that you use only the best skin care products for you and your family.
