There is one thing for sure, the market for organic and natural products has exploded over the last 5 years. Even mega companies like Tesco and Wal-Mart have jumped on the bandwagon and are now producing a line of paraben free cosmetics. That is a step in the right direction.
Yes, the customer nowadays is informed about the danger of aluminium in deodorant, and led in soaps, but I think we need more information about the danger of SLS/SLES.
A number of so called natural companies are still allowing the use of paraben, and SLS in their cosmetics, stating that not enough research has been done proving the danger of those chemicals, and until more is known, they will continue. Yet many studies have been done, 16.000 actually! So why ignore the fact? Well SLS is cheap! 2p per 100 litres!
Yes, i am talking about the body shop, Dove, Nivea, L'Oreal, Original source and so many others, and yes Lush!
I use to be a Lushie, but unfortunately most of their products are not natural at all, except the body bars, so I can't buy them anymore. I was shocked to discover they all contain SLS/SLES!
SLS stands for Sodium Lauryl Sulphate, it is what makes the foam in nearly every body wash, shampoo, bath gel, face wash, and toothpaste...
SLES is Sodium Laureth Sulphate, which is a similar surfactant, or foaming agent.
SLS/SLES have been shown to cause damage to the skin layers. Because they are so corrosive, they strip the skin of moisture and oils and change the delicate PH of the upper layers.
They affect how the skin deal with bacteria and may lead to bacterial infections.
They can irritate eyes and soft tissues like lips, nose, and reproductive organs.
They have been linked to cancer, especially breast cancer, skin cancer and organ cancer
SLS is considered a neurotoxin, it causes cellular changes and abnormal growth
Your skin is your best ally when it comes to your health. It covers 100% of your body, consider that!It helps to regulate your immune system, it actually breathes, and whatever you put on your skin, ends up in your liver or kidneys. It is a fact, what you use in your shower is as important as what you eat. Everything you put on your skin ends up in your bloodstream. Chemicals in cosmetics are poisoning you!
How many deadly products are we using everyday? Our bathrooms are giant chemical labs!
With the steam of the shower, your lungs and skin can absorb more of whatever is in contact with it. It is time to delve into ethical and healthy alternatives. Do they cost more? Are they effective?
I am reviewing a few of my favourite shower gels. I hope you will find some inspiration...
1- Faith in nature, shower gels:
Faith in nature is an amazing company that produces organic and SLS free shampoos, shower gels. foam bath, soaps, lotions...
The entire range smells divine, this is my favourite scent raspberry and cranberry, so fruity and fresh! They are very gentle on the skin and they foam amazing so you don't need much, they are good value for money and last ages. Love it!!!£5.95 Available@
www.ethical superstore.co.uk
Total luxury with this Love and toast shower gel, in Persimmon and plum. I find it really moisturising, and a little really goes a long way. One bottle lasts me around two weeks £13@
www.ebay.co.uk
This is a shower gel/scrub, and it's made by the French company Melvita. I absolutely love this brand , every single product I have tried from them , I have adored!! It contains argan powder, cinnamon, and almond. It is certified organic, leaves the skin super smooth and radiant, five star! £13@
www.feelunique.com
Caudalie The des vignes shower gel. This smells so amazing, my favourite scent from Caudalie, made without SLS, but foams so well. Great price £7.99@
www.naturissimo.com Worth every penny!
Try the gift set with the Eau de toilette, so refreshing and luxurious. £27@
www.feelunique.com
I can't recommend enough organic surge, the price is right at £4.09. This shower gel in tropical bergamot leaves my skin hydrated, but I need a body lotion after showering, so I use their lotion in the same scent. It leaves my skin super smooth and smelling great. Superb for oilier skin and after swimming, good also for children. They have several scents, but this is my favourite. Citrusy and refreshing. available@
www.ocado.com
If you want value for money, Jason sells huge bottle of creamy body washes at £9.99 for 800ml. They smell fantastic, and are super mild on the skin. Try the mango flavour, rosewater, citrus and aloe. Always great product to have for washing hands, face, body, hair, really versatile and economical. You get a superb foam in the bath! A definite repurchase... Available@
www.ocado.com
I have to mention a baby company that does organic products which I really enjoy using, called little me organics. The price range between £2.99 and £4 so these prices are really reasonable. I am especially fond of their foaming body wash, and shower milk. Little me organic is available at Tesco and in most supermarket. Super mild for baby and adult alike.
www.littlemeorganics.com
I find I can use this product on my face, it comes out as a mousse and reminds me of the simple facial wash without the nasties. It is so mild and has a pleasant scent. £2.99 as well, great value and it lasts ages! Brilliant! Available @ Tesco, Sainsbury's and most supermarkets.