Most are familiar with the concept of environmental dangers, such as second hand cigarette smoke and pesticides on fresh produce for food, on our bodies.
More and more of us also think about the effects that chemicals not only have on our skin but on the environment and are concerned about the ingredients that go into products.
A study by Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York found an average of 91 industrial compounds, pollutants and other chemicals in the blood and urine of volunteers. Some chemicals were known carcinogens, while others were banned or are untested for their potential health hazards. And some of the chemicals found were traced back to beauty products.
Over 5,000 chemicals are used in personal care products alone, according to Pharmacopia.net.
The skin, the body's largest organ, is the most typical absorption point of everyday toxins. Up to 60 percent of certain ingredients in body products, such as lotion, cream and bubble bath, will absorb through the skin and into the bloodstream. Then the chemicals will accumulate in target organs, or are metabolized through the system, in some instances over a period of years, according to Mount Sinai.
The word 'natural' could be a little vague and what one person believes to be a natural ingredient, doesn't necessarily match someone else's criteria. Our view is that natural is everything that is not a man-made synthetic, is either found directly in nature or derived from nature's herbs, fruits or vegetables and is of benefitial value to our body and skin.
If we are to be truthful, every natural ingredient needs some sort of processing, so that it can be used. Vegetable oils are pressed from the seeds or fruits of the plant. To produce shea butter, the nuts need to be collected, peeled and ground into a paste so that the oil can be pressed, filtered and then allowed to crystalise. Similarly, cocoa butter used in chocolate making or skin care doesn't grow on the tree in convenient lumps which can simply be picked and used….What is important to us is that every ingredient - oil, butter, essential oil, extract or wax - has been derived from a plant and has had the least amount of processing and without the use of chemicals, solvents, toxins or synthetic preservatives.
For those thinking of using non-synthetic beauty products we suggest checking the ingredients label and asking the salesperson/producer for more information if you are still unclear.
Our products are free from chemicals including SLS, parabens, petrochemicals, artificial colours and artificial fragrances. Our products are free from animal by products and are not tested on animals.
Our ingredients are sourced locally where possible, or purchased through suppliers who source materials ethically and sustainably
To see our complete range of natural soap products please follow the link here