Why Organic Matters
At 1001 Remedies we are dedicated to producing products that are free from gluten & GMO, free from parabens, phthalates, synthetic colors or dyes and free from synthetic fragrance, in other words - 100% organic. Why does organic matter?
By not having the above mentioned controversial substances, organic products are kind to the earth and to our bodies. Think about it, if you choose organic food at the grocery store, why not choose organic skincare and beauty products too? Just like food, what you put on your body or spray in the air, gets absorbed into your body, therefore organic food and products should follower the same principles.
Parabens
Parabens are a type of preservative that is used in many cosmetics to ensure they last long and don’t get moldy and full of bacteria. Although sounds good? However, in 2004 a study found a link between parabens and breast cancer. Despite FDA investigation into parabens in 2005, the report was inconclusive. Parabens also estrogen mimicking qualities can be hormonal disrupter.
Where can you find them? Usually listed as methyl-, butyl-, and propyl-paraben on the ingredient list, it can be found in many cosmetics, deodorants, shampoos and even sometimes food and pharmaceutical products.
Phthalates
Phthalates are chemicals used either in plastic to increase flexibility or in cosmetics as dibutyl phthalates. Phthalates are also believed to leach into food products, as the chemical has been found in food. Although the effects of this product hasn’t been studied extensively, it is believed to be an endocrine-disruptive chemical, thus affect hormonal balance, especially for children and men, and may cause reproductive and other health issues. Some phthalates have been become restricted in the EU, however, loopholes still exist.
Where can you find them? In beauty and cosmetic products they usually can be found in nail polish, hair spray, perfumes, cleaning products and deodorants. Look for ‘Phthalate free’.
Synthetic Fragrances
You will often find the label ‘fragrance’ on your product but not much else, so what ingredients make up fragrances? To protect the secret ingredients in company’s fragrances companies don’t really have to say what is in it. Sadly, it is an outdated loophole so it is up to the companies to disclose their ingredient list. Nonetheless, according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG) Skin Deep Database, fragrance mixes have been associated with allergies, respiratory distress, dermatitis and potential reproductive issues.
Where can you find them? It is pretty easy to spot this one, you can find it in perfume, cologne, shampoos, body washes, moisturisers and the like. Some names to look out for acetaldehyde and benzophenone.
Synthetic Colours
Interestingly enough, many synthetic colours are made using coal tar, petroleum or heavy metals such as arsenic and lead. Synthetic colours can increase the risk of irritation, blocked pores, sensitivity and allow these harmful chemicals to absorb into your skin. Studies have linked dyes made from coal tar as carcinogenic. Look out for things like ‘colourant’, dye’s labelled with the letters FD&C or D&C.
Where you can find them? Look out for coloured products and even food.
What it means to be organic?
Organic products must be free from pesticides, parabens, phthalates, synthetic colours and fragrances, and pesticides. They are also both kind to nature because they are cultivated ethically and they are kind to you because they contain only naturally occurring properties, such as vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. For this reason, we always advocate you look at the labels and search for organic produce whether it is food or wellbeing products. Click here to learn more about our vision and commitment, and our sustainability philosophy.
