We would like to change the way people think about the ingredients they use on their face and body. So many of us put great effort into living a healthy lifestyle- we eat our veggies from the farm, we practice yoga, we drink our smoothies…..why stop there?! Our skin is our largest organ and we feel it deserves the same attention.
My personal journey began several months ago when I realized that after years of slathering chemical-laden products on my face and body, there IS a healthier way to achieve that same pretty, polished and youthful look we all desire.
I started researching and was pleasantly surprised by the power of the green beauty movement and also horrified at the lack of regulations here in the US. My quest, however, has led me to discover quite a few truly amazing, high-performing beauty brands along the way. I’m thrilled to share them with you at Copal Clean Beauty and in our store in Madison, CT.
Now it has become my mission to bring other beauty-seeking and health-conscious beauties like you a welcoming beauty destination filled with only the finest in clean beauty.
Here are my 5 steps for making the switch to Clean Beauty:
- Simplify your beauty products and learn which ingredients to avoid. (see my top 10 list below).
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Get informed. Download 2 helpful resources that will help you determine the safety of your products before you buy them: ThinkDirty and SkinDeep.
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DIY: There are many products that can be made right at home. If you’re on a budget or if you like to get crafty, check out Mountain Rose Herbs on-line.
- Prioritize. It can be very overwhelming to switch all of your personal care products all at once so don’t try it! Start with your skincare (cleanser and moisturizer). Then, your makeup (foundation and lipstick). Next, body care: change your soap and deodorant. Hair care and other household items can come later.
- Stay in the know. Follow us on Instagram.
10 ingredients to avoid
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PARABENS
Hormone disruptor - found in breast cancer tissue - often found in lotion, shampoo, shaving cream, sunscreen, makeup and baby wash.
Look for Butylparaben, Propylparaben, Methylparaben, Isobutylparaben and Ethylparaben
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FRAGRANCE + PARFUM
Endocrine disruptor - many contain formaldehyde and phthalates - industry term used for undisclosed chemicals.
Look for Dibutyl phthalate(DBP) di(2-ehtylhexy) Phthalate (DEHP)
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TRICLOSAN + TRICLOCARBAN
Environmental damage - thyroid disruptor - skin irritation and dryness - prevalent in antibacterial soaps and hand sanitizers.
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COAL TAR
Linked to cancer and heavy metal impurities (arsenic and lead) - found in shampoos and scalp treatments, soaps, hair dyes, and lotions.
Look for FD&C, D&C, Coal Tar, Aminophenol, Diaminobenzene, and P-phenylenediamine
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TOLUENE
A volatile petrochemical solvent that is toxic to the immune system and can cause birth defects. Found in most nail polishes.
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PETROCHEMICALS
Byproduct of petroleum industry . clogs pores . skin irritant
Look for Propylene Glycol, Paraffin, Mineral Oil, Butylene Glycol, and Isopropyl Alcohol
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SULFATES OR SLS
Skin damage and reactions - toxic contaminants - can combine with other ingredients to form carcinogenic nitrates - found in shampoo, hair detanglers, body sprays, lotion and liquid soaps
Look for Sodium Laurel Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate and Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate
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PEG OR ANYTHING ENDING IN "ETH"
Allergen and toxic contaminants - known carcinogen - linked to cancer - prevalent in shampoo, hair spray, skin cream, sunscreen and baby soap.
Look for 1,4-DIOXANE, Polyethylene glycol (PEG), Cetyl PEG, Ceteareth, Oleth, Myreth, PEG 100 Stearate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate
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METHYCLOROISO THIAZOLINONE
Allergen - harmful to the nervous system - preservative and household biocide.
Look for Isothiazolones, Chloromethylisothiazolinone (CMIT),Benzisothiazolinone (BIT)Octylisothiazolinone
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FORMALDEHYDE + AMMONIA
Toxic to humans! - linked to asthma and neurotoxicity - often found in nail polish, nail polish remover, hair dyes and some perfume
Look for Formaldehyde, Formalin, Formic Aldehyde, Quaternium-15, Methanal, Methyl Aldehyde, Oxomethane, Oxymethylene, DMDM hydantoin, Diazolidinyl Urea
10 ingredients we love
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ALOE
Known for its healing and soothing effects. High in vitamin C to promote healthy circulation; high in enzymes that promote cellular growth and rejuvenation of the skin; high in vitamin E that firms and hydrates the skin.
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OATMEAL
Has wonderful moisture and anti-inflammatory properties. When finely ground it can be used as an exfoliator as well. A go to for sensitive skin, acne prone skin, eczema, rosacea, and rashes. -
CHAMOMILE
This power herb calms the skin, and acts as an anti-inflammatory. With a scent that is quite pleasing this is one herb not to miss if you run on the sensitive side, although recommended for all skin types.
This power herb calms the skin, and acts as an anti-inflammatory. With a scent that is quite pleasing this is one herb not to miss if you run on the sensitive side, although recommended for all skin types.
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FRENCH PINK CLAY
Known for its cleansing and detoxin properties; this combination of clays can also be used as an acne treatment and for sun damage. -
OLIVE OIL
Filled with antioxidants which fight free radicals and premature aging, this multi-purpose moisturizer can also act as a cleanser. High in vitamin E this oil can smooth the skin and protect.
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PEPTIDES
The healthier alternative to anti-aging treatments such as retinol. Once the collagen in our skin, the proteins that make your skin supple, break down these amino acids form together to signal the collagen to produce more, therefore bringing back the suppleness.
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ZINC
The ultimate healer. Known for its protecting properties to the skin, we love it here. -
ROSEHIP
A healtheir alternative to replenishing the skin, moisturizing, and helps with premature aging.
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POMEGRANATE SEED
Is the exfoliators best friend. With its gentle properties the exfoliating powers of this amazing enyme removes the dull skin without stripping moisture or scratching the face.
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GREEN TEA
Why we serve it at our boutique. Chalk full of antioxidants it’s known to lower the risk of cancer, improve brain power. It can also be beneficial to the skin in treating sun damage with its soothing effects. Relax and enjoy doing something good for you!
SOURCE: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Health Canada, The Endocrine Disruption Exchange, EWG Skin Deep Cosmetics Database
