Navigating the shelves of toiletries and cosmetics, it's crucial to recognize ingredients that may carry risks not just to our health, but also to the environment. Here's a closer look at some substances you might prefer to avoid and why they're problematic:
PARABENS (METHYL, ETHYL, PROPYL, BUTYL)
Widely used as preservatives in cosmetics, parabens have been found in breast tumour tissue, suggesting a possible link to cancer. They are also suspected endocrine disruptors, which may interfere with hormone function.
SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE (SLS) / SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE (SLES)
These are surfactants found in many foaming products. While effective cleaners, they can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs. Moreover, SLES can sometimes be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a substance that may have harmful environmental impacts.
PHTHALATES
Common in fragranced products, these chemicals are linked to hormone disruption and reproductive problems. They are also pervasive in the environment and can cause long-term ecological damage.
MICROBEADS
Tiny plastic particles that were once common in exfoliating personal care products. While the UK has banned them due to their contribution to microplastic pollution in waterways, vigilance is still necessary, as products from other markets may still contain them.
PALM OIL
Found in a wide range of beauty products, the harvesting of palm oil is linked to deforestation, habitat destruction, and biodiversity loss. Opting for products that use sustainable or alternative sources can help reduce this impact.
THE CHANGING FACE OF BEAUTY
The beauty industry is facing a crucial period of transformation, striving to balance consumer demands with ethical production and environmental stewardship. Conscious brands are reformulating products to exclude these contentious ingredients, ensuring their offerings in the UK market do not contribute to these global concerns.
At Verdant Goods Co., our commitment to sustainability and health is unwavering. We diligently ensure that none of our products contain ingredients that could harm you or our precious planet. This steadfast resolve means you won’t find parabens, SLS/SLES, phthalates, microbeads, or irresponsibly sourced palm oil on our shelves.
We take pride in curating a selection of brands that share our values; at launch you will find:
- Dook crafts luxurious soaps that blend essential oils with natural salts, aligning indulgence with eco-consciousness.
- Friendly Soap Co. upholds a rigorous plastic-free promise, offering a pure and gentle cleanse with their biodegradable soaps.
- Faith in Nature stands as a beacon for environmentally responsible production, with their vegan, cruelty-free beauty products that respect both nature and their customers.
Every brand we partner with is chosen for their dedication to making a positive impact. By supporting these brands, you join a growing community that celebrates health, sustainability, and ethical living.
For those looking to educate themselves further on eco-friendly and safe cosmetics, check out the resources provided by the Soil Association, which certifies organic beauty products, and the Ethical Consumer, which rates and reviews products based on various ethical parameters.
These platforms can offer guidance on making informed choices that align with sustainable and healthy living.
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