Chemical-free cosmetics are a growing trend in the market today and offer a more natural approach to skin care.
The benefits to these cosmetics are that they preserve and protect the skin, while being much less harmful to our bodies largest organ. Additionally, they are much less harmful to the planet with their Eco-friendly and organic ingredients.
As with any new trend however, it is important to distinguish between the real and the fake products. When it comes to chemical-free cosmetics, make sure to look for the following when considering a purchase:
• The product is free of talc.
• The product does not contain synthetic preservatives.
• The product lacks mineral oil and artificial fragrance and colors.
• The product contacts pure natural mineral pigments.
• The product is certified with extracts from shea butter, jojoba seed, organic safflower oil, etc.
• The product, if an organic lipstick, contains natural bees wax.
To get even more specific, there are ten main ingredients that you should avoid in your makeup products. If a product contains the following, they are not ‘natural’ and should be avoided as many of them are related to health issues and, since the average person absorbs 60% of what goes on their skin, these nasty chemicals can add up quickly.
• Parabens
• Phthalates
• DMDM Hydantoin
• Fragrance
• Triclosan
• Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfate
• Toluene
• Formaldehyde
• PEGs
• Anything with “Glycol” or “Methyl”
When you use true natural and chemical-free cosmetics, there are a few significant ways that they benefit the body and then environment.
1) Less Breakouts
This is one of the most noted reasons that people have switched from chemical cosmetics to organic ones. Since the skin is very porous, women need to consider that their bodies take in whatever the skin comes in contact with – this often leads to breakouts. Most all natural make-ups are water based vs. synthetic, which is not only better for your skin, but also for the environment.
2) No Animal Testing
Truly natural makeup, will not test on animals and, even more so, they don’t have to. As there are no chemicals in green cosmetics and they contain only pure minerals, oils and organic compounds, there is no risk to the wearer. Therefore, animals are not required to ‘test’ the makeup. This is not only good for your karma, but also for the world and those we share it with.
3) Cost Effective
Lastly, green makeup is cost effective – though this is often overlooked by the other benefits. Since the ingredients in natural makeup are less expensive, the overall product is cheaper. As well, you are also putting your money into environmentally and sociably responsible companies, which can create promising changes for both personal well-being as well as the environment.
In a market full of choices, it is important to make the right one; not only for your skin, but for the environment too. Now is the time to become globally aware of this world and the difference that switching from regular to chemical-free cosmetics can have on it. By being a savvy shopper and doing your research before picking a product, you too can help save the environment.