“Don’t buy Organic for Organic sake”
Choosing beauty products that are effective and natural is the new luxury. Here’s how to pick them right.
The word ‘organic’ has been trending in the beauty industry and while there is limited understanding about what organic really stands for, more and more people are making the lifestyle switch so as to keep with the times and reduce or even eliminate harmful chemicals from their daily lives. While people think a great deal about what they eat, when it comes to beauty rituals, there is little awareness about what we are slathering on, which is eventually getting absorbed into our bloodstream. As you set about building an organic beauty regime for yourself, here are a few things to keep in mind.
Read the Label
Labels can be deceptive so do not trust them and their claims blindly. Just because something says organic that doesn’t necessarily mean that it is safe for all. Today the word ‘natural’ is being misused by those in the beauty industry and many products that claim they are natural are in fact not. The best way to keep toxic chemicals and unnatural ingredients away from your skin is by reading the labels of the products and checking on stuff that seems like a grey area. Avoid buying products with ingredient names that you can’t pronounce or eat. Chances are they will not be good for you in the long run.
Study Ingredient List
Anything that claims to have parabens, PEGs or SLS is a big no no as many of them have hormone disrupting properties and are even said to be carcinogenic. It is important to note that parabens are used as preservatives in almost all conventional beauty products. Even products that are labelled “natural” or “plant based” often contain these so make sure you know what ingredients you are looking to eliminate when you go shopping.
Avoid Strong Fragrances
Fragrance can be the cause of many allergies. Essential oils are way safer than products that simply smell good but here again, not all essential oils are completely safe for babies and old people because their skin’s barrier is thinner and there is a greater chance of chemicals being passed on. Consider buying unscented organic products with natural, sweet smelling ingredients like rose, marigold, jasmine, sandalwood and the like.
Keep it Simple
Don’t be fooled by fancy marketing and claims by big brands trying to push a hundred different products in your direction. All you need is a basic cleanser, scrub, moisturiser, facial oil and broad-spectrum sunscreen to keep you skin looking healthy and glowing. Everything else is gimmicky and unnecessary and one should remember that if you can’t eat something do not put it on your body.
Make Conscious Choices
Last but most importantly pay attention to the packaging and try and opt for products that use only glass. Given how plastic is a serious environmental hazard today, try and minimise use of products that rely heavily on plastic as these could be toxic. Products become less effective when stored in plastic. On the other hand, glass is a better barrier against oxygen and light which helps keep the product potent and ensures its effect lasts longer. Also unlike plastic, glass doesn’t leak toxic substances into your cream or shampoo. The bottom line is, try avoiding anything that comes in a plastic container.
If you just take note of these simple yet crucial points, the next time you go shopping for your skin or hair, you are likely to be more confident and will be able to make a healthier choice. True luxury lies in being wise and choosing products that allow your skin and hair to breathe naturally.