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- Alcohol, Isopropyl (SD-40)
A very drying and irritating solvent and dehydrator that strips your skin's natural acid mantle, making us more vulnerable to bacteria, moulds and viruses. It is made from propylene, a petroleum derivative. It may promote brown spots and premature aging of skin.
- DEA (diethanolamine), MEA (Monoethanolamine), & TEA (triethanolamine)
Often used in cosmetics to adjust the pH, and used with many fatty acids to convert acid to salt (stearate), which then becomes the base for a cleanser. TEA causes allergic reactions including eye problems, dryness of hair and skin, and could be toxic if absorbed into the body over a long period of time. These chemicals are already restricted in Europe due to known carcinogenic effects.
- Hemp
Hemp is a naural fiber product of the Cannabis sativa plant. Since ancient times, hemp has been used to create cloth, rope, canvas, oil, and paper (among other things). Hemp can be grown naturally, without the use of pesticides, and it uses far less water than a similar yield of cotton would use. These properties make hemp the perfect fiber for environmentally friendly clothing & accessories.
- Kapok
Kapok is an all-natural fiber pulled from the seed pods of the kapok tree. A sustainable and pesticide-free product, kapok is hypoallergenic, resilient, lightweight, and water/mold resistant. A superior stuffing material for soft goods.
- Mineral Oil
Petroleum by-product that coats the skin like plastic, clogging the pores. Interferes with skin's ability to eliminate toxins, promoting acne and other disorders. Slows down skin function and cell development, resulting in premature aging. Used in many products (baby oil is 100% mineral oil!) Any mineral oil derivative can be contaminated with cancer causing PAH's (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons). Manufacturers use petrolatum because it is unbelievably cheap.
- Natural Latex
Natural Latexis inherently hypo-allergenic, anti-microbial and dust mite resistant, making it perfect for allergy sufferers or anyone wanting to breathe fresh, clean air while they sleep. In addition, natural latex is breathable, keeping you warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Derived from the heven brasiliensis, or the rubber tree, latex is the most naturally durable cushioning material available.
- Propylene / Butylene Glycol
Propylene glycol (PG) is a petroleum derivative often found in stick deodorants. It penetrates the skin and can weaken protein and cellular structure. Commonly used to make extracts from herbs. PG is strong enough to remove barnacles from boats! The EPA considers PG so toxic that it requires workers to wear protective gloves, clothing and goggles and to dispose of any PG solutions by burying them in the ground. Because PG penetrates the skin so quickly, the EPA warns against skin contact to prevent consequences such as brain, liver, and kidney abnormalities.
- PVP / VA Copolymer
A petroleum-derived chemical used in hairsprays, wavesets and other cosmetics. It can be considered toxic, since particles may contribute to foreign bodies in the lungs of sensitive persons.
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS)
Used in car washes, garage floor cleaners and engine degreasers - and in 90% of products that foam. Animals exposed to SLS and ALS experience eye damage, central nervous system depression, laboured breathing, diarrhea, severe skin irritation, and even death.
Young eyes may not develop properly if exposed to SLS and ALS because proteins are dissolved. SLS and ALS may also damage the skin's immune system by causing layers to separate and inflame. It is frequently disguised in semi-natural cosmetics with the explanation "comes from coconut".
- Stearalkonium Chloride
A chemical used in hair conditioners and creams. Causes allergic reactions. Stearalkonium chloride was developed by the fabric industry as a fabric softener, and is a lot cheaper and easier to use in hair conditioning formulas than proteins or herbals, which do help hair health.
- Sustainably Managed Forests
Refers to the practice of a land stewardship ethic that integrates the reforestation, management, growing, nurturing, and harvesting of trees for useful products while conserving soil and improving air and water quality, wildlife, fish habitat, and aesthetics.
- TEA (Triethanolamine) Laureth Sulfate
Synthetic emulsifier. Highly acidic. Over 40% of cosmetics containing Triethanolamine (TEA), have been found to be contaminated with nitrosamines, which are potent carcinogens.
- VOC's (Volatile Organic Compounds)
Often found in paints, stains, glues and other materials associated with the construction of traditional furniture. In addition to being a source of indoor pollution, VOC's are also a source of greenhouse gases.
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