Natural Face and Body Care

Natural Face & Body Care

Your skin is the largest organ in your body, yet there is currently no regulation of the safety of skin-care products in the United States.

There is no minimum standard for using the words “natural” or “organic” on personal-care products. In fact, some of the products people use every day on their skin contain known carcinogens and endocrine system disruptors. This includes baby care and other products marketed to your children. Currently, about 40 chemicals

that are banned in skin-care products in Europe are still being used

in the United States.

Recently, the National Organic Standards Board urged the United States Department of Agriculture to take control of this important area of health. The USDA voted to accept the responsibility, but it will likely be a while before the issue is fully resolved. Once a standard is decided upon and administered, companies producing skin-care products that don't meet the criteria will be required to change their packaging and cease using the words “organic” and “natural.”

In the meantime, the Natural Products Association has initiated a certification process to standardize requirements for deeming a product natural or organic. Their seal can be found on a number of products sold in health-food stores. NSF international has also developed a skin care standard which they are calling the first such standard, more than a year after the NPA instituted their seal. While the standards have not yet been made public, hopefully this will improve information for consumers rather than confusing them.

The Environmental Working Group, a consumer watch dog group, has accumulated and rated more than 15,000 skin care products relative to the safety of their ingredients, which are listed

on EWG's website, www.ewg.org.

Consult a knowledgeable retailer about which products are truly natural and organic. We carry clean, safe brands including Aubrey Organics, Badger, California Baby, Dr. Hauschka, Madara, Eco Sunscreen, Organique by Himalaya (gluten free), Weleda, Zuii and more.

Be informed about the products you use on your face and body! Let Walsh tell you more about the manufacturers we trust, including popular European brands.