We have a strict selection policy when we are choosing which products to stock in our store. Here is our criteria with some explanations as to why we avoid these ingredients.
Parabens are used as a preservative in many cosmetics and skincare products. There have been links made between parabens and cancer, reproductive deficiency, and general skin irritation. Whilst their use is regulated with regards to how much of each paraben a product can contain, many products contain more than one type of paraben, and as many people use more than one skin product each day, exposure to parabens and their potentially harmful effects can add up.
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) is a surfactant, or foaming agent, used in many cosmetics products including shampoo, body wash, and toothpaste. SLS is basically what makes these products foam and bubble. SLS and its' milder relative Sodium Laureth Sulphate (SLES), are esters of Sulphuric acid, which is commonly used in car batteries. They are both linked with eye and skin irritation, and are often the ingredients that make your eyes sting when you get products containing them in your eyes. Many manufacturers actually put extra chemicals in their products to mask the effect of SLS/SLES.
Phthalates are plasticisers and are used in cosmetics to hold scent and colour. Phthalates have been shown to be hormone disruptors which can negatively affect foetal development. They are also linked to asthma, skin irritation, and allergies.
Artificial colours are often the cause of skin irritation and allergies.
Artificial fragrances are also often the cause of skin irritation and allergies.
These products come from crude oil and are used in many products as a moisturiser. However many are contaminated with toxic chemicals during the production process and there are links between the toxins they contain and cancer. They also form a barrier over the skin, preventing it from breathing properly and expelling these toxins. They are also often the cause of skin conditions such as eczema.
Talc and Lanolin are common in cosmetics products, but can become contaminated during their production. Talc has been known to become contaminated with asbestos, and Lanolin, which comes from sheep wool, can be contaminated by sheep dip and other chemicals used to treat the sheep. This can cause allergic reactions and skin rashes.
Many cosmetics products use animal ingredients in varying quantities. The products we stock avoid using these ingredients and instead use more natural alternatives. The exceptions are milk-based ingredients, lanolin, honey, beeswax and carmine.
Need we say more? None of the products we stock are tested on animals in any way.
