You've probably seen arm-length lists online of toxic chemicals to avoid or entire guides on how to choose natural products. It can get pretty complicated, but here are three simple tips distilled from the all-natural literature.
Avoid Hormones, Phthalates and Parabens
Hormones, phthalates and parabens are like the arch-villains of the natural cosmetics world. The truth is, however, that we really don't know whether or not they're bad for you. They get blamed for a slew of problems but there isn't solid scientific evidence to back up the claims.
But therein lies the problem – there isn't a lot of scientific evidence to attest to their safety either. This is why it's a good idea to just avoid them entirely. Take a good look at the ingredients before you buy and avoid products containing these potentially harmful ingredients.
Stick to Small Companies
Please excuse me for the generalization, but large companies generally don't sell truly 'natural' products. Even if they have natural lines, they usually buy the cheapest ingredients possible, which are usually not really the best for you, even though they may legally pass as 'natural.'
On the other hand, if you buy from a small company that uses local craftspeople and traditional manufacture methods, you're more likely to find something that's actually natural just like the label says.
Don't Take the Company's Word for It
Don't buy products just because they say 'natural' or 'organic.' The rules on labelling are lax and the FDA considers many known toxins safe enough for cosmetic products. Instead, look for official labels from third-party organizations or have a look at the ingredient labels. If there are things there you don't know, Google them to make sure they're safe for your body.
With the rising concern for healthier living these days where people are watching what they eat and getting more active, it's important also to pay attention to the chemicals we may be taking in with our beauty products.
image by Robert Bejil, licensed through creative commons