Monday, May 7, 2007

What's behind the natural product label?

Look closer at the exploding natural beauty products market, and you'll discover eco-friendly lipstick, sulfate-free bubble bath and foot scrub that supports local communities. When it comes to beautiful bodies, "green" is all the rage, and no wonder. Experts say your skin may, on average, absorb up to 60 percent of 200 chemicals daily. In response, most natural beauty product manufacturers reject ingredients like petrochemicals, parabens, synthetic preservatives, mineral oils, pesticide residues and genetically modified additives.
But how do you know for sure? You don't. What you need to know is that the government has yet to weigh in with comprehensive natural beauty product standards. Some products that are labeled "organic" or "natural" may contain small amounts of authentically natural ingredients, but they may also contain harsh chemicals. In order to really know what's behind the label, you need to do your research. Read Websites, product literature and, above all, labels. If you have problem skin, call the companies and ask about their ingredients.- ivillage.com

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