Consumers are becoming more aware of the ingredient safety in personal products and toiletries. The front labels of  many packages now tout things like “Paraben Free” and “Sulfate Free.” Other claims on labels are often “All Natural” “Organic” and “Pure.” However, the scrupulous buyer will flip that bottle, tube or box over to see the real health implications of the ingredients. There are minimal regulations on what manufacturers can put on their product labels, which can lead to inaccurate claims. Many companies that use some natural ingredients–but also a slue of controversial chemicals–can put these terms on their products to attract health-conscious consumers.

Don’t believe me? Here are three examples:

1.) Earlier this week, I walked into an Aveda salon for men and women. I have naturally wavy hair and find the humid Washington D.C. summers a great time to rock these messy curls; however my hair also puffs up not unlike a defunct Chia pet (all frizz and yet strangely, not much curl). I had heard positive reviews about the curly hair products by the company and wanted to investigate the line and its ingredients. I found the styling products and noted that some labels read “parfum” while others listed “Pure-fume,” Aveda’s natural formula of essential oils and natural scents. I asked the salon receptionist if she could explain why some bottles were labeled differently. I expressed my concern that many companies hide ingredients like phthalates and other harmful chemicals inside of the “fragrance/parfum” catch all on the label. Her response was, “All of our products are derived from plants and herbs.”

[Read more…]