Are you confident that everything you put on your body is good for you?
It’s no secret that companies will cram all sorts of things into their products if they think they can get away with it. And a frightening number of market-leading products contain elements that are harmful to us. From skin whitening creams that contain dangerous levels of mercury, to links between hair dyes and straighteners with breast and uterine cancers, it can be a struggle to feel confident in the choices we’re making.
Because without transparency, how can we ever really know if what we’re buying will do more harm than good?
But not all chemicals are bad for you. Some are naturally occurring and do wonders for your body, your spirit, and your soul.
As my grandmother used to say,
“Forewarned is forearmed”
Start by knowing what are the most common ingredients to avoid, and begin your journey towards a healthier, happier life of conscious cleansing.
Your body, and the Earth, will thank you.
1. Parabens
Parabens, commonly used as preservatives, are found in many personal care products, including shampoos, lotions, and makeup.
These chemicals prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and mold, extending the shelf life of products. However, studies have shown that parabens can mimic estrogen in the body, potentially disrupting hormonal balance and increasing the risk of breast cancer .
When shopping, look for labels that specify "paraben-free" to avoid these risks.
Or better yet, try Seed Legend’s unique range of products. Not only are they paraben free, they have a naturally long shelf-life due to our unique fermentation process. In fact, like fine wine, all our products get better with age!
2. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
SLS and SLES are surfactants used to create lather in products like shampoos, toothpastes, and body washes.
While they are effective cleansers, they can be harsh on the skin, causing irritation and dryness. Furthermore, SLES is often contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a probable human carcinogen.
Opt for sulfate-free products to protect your skin and overall health.
And if you suffer with skin issues or often struggle to find products that work without harming you, our Berry Body Spa offers powerful yet gentle cleaning that works in harmony with your skin’s natural biome. Its balanced formula makes it a perfect choice for anyone with problematic or sensitive skin.
3. Phthalates
Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and as solvents in fragrances. They are commonly found in products like perfumes, deodorants, and hair sprays. Phthalates have been linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive issues, and even developmental problems in children.
Choosing products labeled as "phthalate-free" can help you avoid these harmful effects.
4. Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives
Formaldehyde is used as a preservative in many personal care products, such as nail polish, hair straightening treatments, and some cosmetics. It can also be released over time by certain preservatives like DMDM hydantoin and quaternium-15.
Formaldehyde exposure has been associated with cancer, allergic reactions, and skin irritation.
Despite being generally harmless in small doses, so common products contain it, is it worth the potential compound negatives?
Avoid products containing formaldehyde or its releasers to minimize these risks.
5. Synthetic Fragrances
Synthetic fragrances, often labeled simply as "fragrance" or "parfum," are complex mixtures of various chemicals. And sadly, companies don’t always disclose 100% of what exactly is in these cocktails. However, they often include allergens and hormone disruptors, leading to potential health issues like skin allergies, headaches, and respiratory problems. Even if they don’t appear to impact your health, they can do damage and cause discomfort to our furry little friends.
Look for products that use natural fragrances or are labeled as "fragrance-free" to reduce these risks.
At Seed Legend, we wouldn’t want to cover the wonderful natural scent of our products anyway. We believe in letting the natural scent be the star of the show. And as each batch is unique, each has its own signature scent. Sometimes a little spicy, sometimes fruity, sometimes with a pinch of vinegary sharpness. It’s all a sign it’s nature doing its thing.
Conclusion
Avoiding harmful chemicals in personal care products is essential for maintaining your health and well-being.
By steering clear of parabens, SLS/SLES, phthalates, formaldehyde, and synthetic fragrances, you can protect yourself, your family, and your pets from potential health risks and enjoy a cleaner, safer beauty routine.
Our products offer a perfect alternative. Made from fermented soapberries, they contain only up to 6 ingredients, all of which are 100% natural and free from harmful chemicals.
Take a look at the range of different elixirs and potions we’ve gently curated and experience the transformational power waiting for you.
You owe it to yourself to live a happy and healthy life without compromising your values in harmony with the Earth. Step into a new era, and start your journey today!
