The more I learn about the chemicals in conventional cosmetics, the less I want to use them. No problem – I can just “go green,” right? I wish it were that easy.
Greenwashing is rampant in the beauty industry. TerraChoice, an environmental marketing firm, defines greenwashing as “the act of misleading consumers regarding the environmental practices of a company or the environmental benefits of a product or service.”
A few weeks ago I wrote about the virtual lack of regulation in the beauty industry. The federal standards for “organic” or “natural” personal care products products aren’t much better.
Progress before perfection
With all this green noise, it’s easy to get frustrated and cynical. My hope is that we’re headed in the right direction and that it will become easier for us to make positive, informed choices.
Green products from across the pond
UK-based skincare line Sophyto seems like the real deal to me — I’m dying to try it. The products, formulated with help from green chemists, average 95% organic ingredients and are designed to bring easily absorbable antioxidants, enzymes and minerals to the skin. And they do all this without essential oils or essential oil components, which can be incredibly sensitizing. Check out Sophyto on Saffron Rouge.
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Thanks! 95% is one of the best that I’ve read about. Of course with ‘greenwashing’ in full swing all over the world it makes it hard cutting through the noise.
burt’s bees often has that amount as well. it is a lot like buying organic and natural food products though, just look at the indredients. if the list is short and the words are recognizable, it goes in my cart.
Couldn’t agree more - who wants to put a load of chemicals on their skin everyday? Personally I am a fan of Weleda products for skincare - they’re all biodynamic and smell awesome.
Loving your blog, by the way!
Thank you so much for this post. I will try to find Sophyto when I go overseas this fall!
I’ll be in london in july, I hope i can find this to try it
Great post! I’ve been trying to find less chemically harsh things to wash my face with.
Aubrey Organics are probably one of the best on the market and available at whole foods or on their web site http://www.aubrey-organics.com. Their products are 100% natural and vegan. They don’t use any chemicals.
This line is available in the US from their website and quite a few dermatologists; http://www.SophytoOrganics.com. My Derm recommended the products to me back in Feb and I’ve been using them since. I never thought an organic product would have the same results as a traditional professional product my Derm would normally recommend, but in all fairness - I have noticed a remarkable improvement in my skin. Huge fan of The Coveted.
thank you so much for this post. i come from an extremely green family. most of our food is organic including our hair care products. the only thing i haven’t been able to conquer personally is “green” cosmetics and I am glad your latest blogs have been digging up useful info. thanks again!
i also found this place:
http://www.ziaandtia.com/story.html
Oooh…thanks for all the ideas. Glad you’re liking my green theme. I don’t want to bore you all to death.
Excellent post.
I’m always apprehensive about “green” cosmetics and hypoallergenic cosmetics as there are no law definitions as to what this actually refers to.
You’re making such a good point. Thanks!
I’ve been using Sophyto skin care for 6 months and absolutely love the CERTIFIED ORGANIC line they have. My experience has been extremely beneficial.
Oh cool- Patty, which Sophyto products do you you use?