Is "Going Green" just a fad? The latest craze?
Or is there really some truth to all the hype?
A brief look at why natural alternatives in bath, beauty and fragrance
may just be the way to go!
Crystalwood Naturals has had many evolutions over the past few years as we have been becoming more and more conscious of the hazards of common chemicals being used by the personal care and toiletries industry in the manufacture of soaps, shampoos and other products used by most people on a daily basis. As more and more research is coming to light regarding the dangers of continued use of these products over time, we are more committed than ever to producing natural, eco-friendly alternatives, which are not only safer, but also a pleasure to use.Or is there really some truth to all the hype?
A brief look at why natural alternatives in bath, beauty and fragrance
may just be the way to go!
Because they are inexpensive and cheaply produced, many potentially harmful chemicals are used in the manufacture of most soaps, shampoos, creams, lotions and other bath and body products on the market.....yes, even the expensive "salon" type brands! These harmful chemicals saturate almost all of the common products you have in your home right now. If you look at your labeling, we're sure you will find some of the following included in your favorite shampoo, soap, lotion, antiperspirant, or even home fragrance.
Both Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate are commonly used as foaming agents and are used in concentrations of up to 30%. Both are highly irritating chemicals and can lead to direct damage to the hair follicle, skin damage, permanent eye damage in children and liver toxicity.
Prooylene Glycol (an Industrial Antifreeze!) is used in many personal care products and most shampoos and conditioners. The material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) warns users to avoid skin contact as it is a strong irritant, can cause hair loss, cataracts, liver abnormalities and kidney damage. This chemical is known as a "humectant" in cosmetics.
Cocomide DEA, MEA and TEA are known carcinogens and are found is 80% of commercial products!
Mineral Oil, which is found in virtually EVERY lotion, cream or moisturizer on the market is our biggest "pet peeve". If you check your current lotion bottle right now, we're almost certain it will be listed as the second or third ingredient, next to water (aqua). It is manufactured from crude oil (petroleum), used in the industry as a metal cutting fluid. While being passed off as a skin lubricant, it actually forms an oily film on the skin (which is why most lotions feel "sticky, greasy and tacky". This in turn suffocates the skin and clogs pores, not allowing skin to "breathe" (take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide). Whereas natural plant oils absorbs readily into the skin without forming a harmful film on the skin, mineral oil has the complete opposite effect, and can generally lead to more irritation, dry skin, allergies, and aggravate damaged skin conditions.
This listing is just a brief view of the more common harmful ingredients, and a host of material and facts regarding research findings can be found online and in your local library. One great book that we highly recommend reading is "What's in This Stuff?" by Patricia Thomas. The point here is "cheaper is not better", and these toxic chemicals need to be eliminated from our products. They are widely used because they are inexpensive, drive down the cost of the product and increase the manufacturer's bottom line. At the same time, we are all being subjected to adverse health effects from these harmful chemicals, some which have not even come to light as yet. Sad to say, but the FDA needs to be more thorough at investigating and eliminating these toxins from our products.
On the flip side, there are more and more quality, truly organic and natural products being produced which use the gifts of Mother Earth, not a laboratory, as their main ingredients. Non only creating a healthier environment and body, naturally-derived products produce better results, are superior in skin and hair care, and are a joy to use! Over time, the benefits of "going natural" become apparent.....you feel better, you can think more clearly, your skin is softer....less dry and irritated, your hair is healthier...shinier, stronger. And once you've tried them, natural scents (or essential oils) are so superior in their benefits to the body, mind and spirit, that synthetic fragrances will pale by comparison.
We have recently introduced our NEW! Body and Shine SLS Free Natural Shampoo and Conditioner, which we hand-blend pure, plant-derived ingredients....unlike those found on most store shelves. Like the majority of our products, we are proud that they are inspired by Mother Nature, and not a laboratory! We are continually adding to our existing line of natural bath and body, aromatherapy and herbal products to nurture the body, delight the senses and soothe the spirit. For additional company, product and shopping information, visit us online.
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