Confusing Labels

 

When I started to transition products in our home to more natural options, I found all of the logos and terms on the back of cleaning and personal care products to be extremely confusing! I had purchased a “natural” deodorant online that was advertised as aluminum-free. Much to my surprise, when I scanned the barcode on the new deodorant before using, I discovered this “natural” deodorant contains triclosan. Triclosan is a harmful toxin added to many deodorants, soaps, detergents, and toothpastes. It is used for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Triclosan has been linked to endocrine and thyroid malfunction, reproductive toxicity, weakening of the immune system, and can cause allergies, asthma, and eczema in young children when exposed at an early age.  Needless to say, I chucked this “natural” deodorant and opted for a cleaner one. But I learned an important lesson, just because something says 100% organic does NOT mean it is 100% non-toxic. 

 

Natural, Organic, Vegan, and Clean Products: Definitions

 

Familiarizing yourself with the proper terminology can help you avoid mistakes like I made above when purchasing your own non-toxic replacement products. These terms have different meanings and are not interchangeable…a product that is 100% vegan is not necessarily clean and toxin-free.

When a product is labeled as organic, this means the plant or animal was grown or raised without the use of chemicals, hormones, and antibiotics. Organic beauty products and cleaners are only required to have a very small percentage of an organic ingredient to be “organic”.

The vegan logo certifies products do not contain animal extracts or by-products in both the ingredients and the manufacturing process, but there are no legal regulations on products labeled as vegan. These products may still contain toxins such as artificial fragrances.

 

Products labeled as “natural” follow along the same lines as organic in the sense that there is only a marginal amount of naturally-sourced, plant-based, or mineral ingredients. Natural products could also have a shorter shelf life since they do not contain toxic synthetic preservatives.

Finally, there are “clean” products. Clean products will generally be free of sulfates, silicone, phthalates, parabens, pesticides, petroleum and petroleum derivatives, and artificial dyes and fragrances. In my opinion, clean products are the best choices to make when replacing toxic beauty and hygiene products.

 

Deciphering Product Labels

 

Labels can be deceiving with tons of logos and symbols. It can be difficult to know what the meanings of all of these are. Ingredients are typically listed from highest concentration to lowest. Translating some of the names of these ingredients can be mind-boggling. Luckily we live in the age of Google. If you are questioning a product or its ingredients, look it up! There is so much information literally at your fingertips.

Logos to Look For

The Soil Association Organic Logo – This logo certifies a product is sourced and manufactured using sustainable and organically-farmed ingredients. It also means the product is not tested on animals and is free from harsh chemicals, as well as, artificial dyes and fragrances. You will see this label on products produced and sold in the UK.

 

The Public Health and Safety Organization founded NSF International in the 1960s. NSF is an independent organization and has developed rigorous product standards including 140 currently active public health statutes. The NSF symbol, which is internationally recognized, can be found on all kinds of products from small appliances and personal care products to food and drink and so much more.

Takeaways

 

Labels can be confusing. Be wary of products marked as “natural” or “organic” because, again, there are no real regulations regarding the labeling of these products. Products labeled as organic or natural may still contain toxins like triclosan and artificial fragrances. Also, pay close attention when purchasing products online unless it is a product you have used and trust. Research your products before buying if you are unsure to avoid wasting money on products you will not use.

I also recommend using an app [yes, again] to help scan products to easily decode beauty and cleaning product labels. I cannot stress enough how easy an app like EWG‘s Healthy Living or INCI‘s Think Dirty will make your product choices and your life!

 

Puracy - Natural, Safe, Effective Care.

 

 

***SO EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE OUR FIRST GUEST BLOGGER!!! ***


I am proud to introduce Gabi, the owner of C6 Beauty, a Düsseldorf based blog dedicated to the art of zero waste and natural beauty. 
Before dedicating herself to being a blogger, she spent many years studying chemistry and also obtained a doctorate. It was through this education and scientific knowledge that she became passionate about creating her own homemade products. She loves to study what’s behind every single ingredient and discover its benefits, and is always happy to share what she’s learned!

Welcome Gabi and watch for her post later this week!

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