The terms “natural”, “pure” and “organic” are tossed around by cosmetics companies like a powder puff, but how do you know if your products are REALLY as clean and safe as they say they are?
Unlike the food industry, cosmetic companies are not closely regulated – giving them tremendous license over what they put in their products, and what they disclose to the public. It’s enough to make you want to concoct your own lotions, potions and creams in the safety of your own kitchen.
The Good News … things are getting better.
The Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022, or MoCRA, allows the FDA to issue mandatory recalls of products deemed unsafe which, believe it or not, has not been the case in the past. Companies must now disclose fragrance ingredients that contain common allergens to the FDA (but interestingly, not to consumers – what?!)
What’s more, MoCRA provides for the establishment of Good Manufacturing Practices for cosmetics, similar what’s in place for the food industry.
The Could-Be-Better News … MoCRA doesn’t do enough.
The Act doesn’t immediately ban substances known to be toxic that can be found in some cosmetics. That’s why California passed the Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act in 2020 (set to go into effect in 2025), that bans 24 ingredients known to be toxic, including mercury and formaldehyde. Other states have also taken similar measures.
What does all this mean? You still need to be vigilant about your skincare, haircare and makeup. But before you worry about what you’re putting ON your body, begin your green skin care journey by focusing on what you’re doing every day FOR your skin
FACE FIRST
One of the best things you can do for your face is … CLEAN YOUR CELL PHONE and EAR BUDS WEEKLY! (Bet you didn’t see THAT coming.)
Think of all the dirt a phone accumulates on a weekly basis – dirty hand and finger smudges, facial sweat from those post-gym calls, lint (and who knows what else) from purses and pockets, and more. A natural antibacterial wipe every week will do wonders for your phone … and your face. And those ear buds – do I even need to paint that picture?
Other face-forward tips – go to bed with a clean face, and in those dry, desert areas, don’t forget to moisturize. Need more details? Visit our Beauty Bits section and check out our daily skin workout in The Natural Esthetician.
FOR A BODACIOUS BODY
As far as what you use on your skin … some of the things you love on your body may not love you. Protect your skin by learning some basics of choosing safer products --
Learn ‘cosmetic-speak’. Claims such as “dermatologically tested” aren’t regulated because they’re, well … claims. Even words that may be regulated such as “organic” can still allow for the use of synthetic products that you may not want on your skin
Recognize your SKINemies! Some products that may seem to be so nice for your skin may have nasty little side effects. Get to know some of your SKINemies in our BEAUTY BITS section, and learn what NOT to use on your face and body
Fragrance – traditionally a trade secret for personal products, the “mystery” of fragrance may finally be revealed thanks to MoCRA – that is, if the FDA decides to make that info public. In the meantime, be wary of “fragrance”, because it can contain ANYTHING, including petroleum derivatives. And that “mystery” may not be good for your skin
Maybe you’re reading labels, maybe you’re checking products, and maybe you’re STILL confused. When in doubt about whether a product is safe or suspect, consult an expert. Visit our KIND Cosmetics section for knowledgeable advice from The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics … they’ve been compiling data on personal care products for nearly 20 years
HAPPY HAIR
While greening your skin care products, don’t neglect the hair!
Bad stuff commonly found in hair care products like Sodium Laurel Sulfate can ultimately harm your hair rather than help it. And the dangers of some black hair care products, in particular chemical hair straighteners, include possible pregnancy and birth-related problems. A recent study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute suggests a link between chemical hair straighteners and cancer.
Want safer hair care options? Just check out the Skin Deep Database developed by the Environmental Working Group (EWG).
Whatever your skin and hair type, greener beauty begins with the basics – a regular care regimen, and using clean, non-toxic products. Do your homework and check the labels on your favorites … you may find that the time spent to make a few changes to your personal products cabinet will ultimately keep you happier and healthier.
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