The truth? Apparently the FDA and USDA do not regulate the use of the words ‘organic’ and ‘natural’ on skin care products. The only way to tell that a product is 100% certified organic is if it has the USDA certified organic seal on the product. (picture of seal). The FDA does not regulate cosmetics because they are applied to the outer body and considered to be very low dosages[1].
What?! My organic hemp lotion is not really organic?!
That is correct. Unless it has the seal. Then yes it is.
Next time you are shopping for skin care products, keep an eye out for the USDA certified organic seal. You will not see very many at all. The use of organic skin care products is important. It can help reduce the amount of parabens and chemicals that you put onto your skin, and eventually, into your blood stream. The practice of remaining natural is helpful for long term effects. It is unknown if the chemicals in non-organic skin care products can eventually contribute to cancer.
So the next time you are shopping, take care. Be sure to support the brands of skin care that are 100% USDA certified organic and support natural and green living. If you can, support local businesses (I know, there are few that actually make 100% certified organic products). Be green!
[1] Cosmetics. (n.d.). Retrieved June 28, 2011, from American Cancer Society: http://www.cancer.org/Cancer/CancerCauses/OtherCarcinogens/AtHome/cosmetics
