NATURAL & ORGANIC BEAUTY PRODUCTS
By Rachael Popow (July 2004)

We're always hearing about the benefits of eating organic food and avoiding fruit and vegetables that have been treated with pesticides - but what about the chemicals we put on our skins? Research has found that 60 per cent of the chemicals used in cosmetics and beauty products are absorbed into the bloodstream. Following the recent scare over a possible link between deodorants and cancer, it's little wonder many of us are taking a closer look at the ingredients listed on the bottles in our bathroom cabinets and considering the benefits of organic beauty products.

Finding toiletries and cosmetics that are chocked full of natural goodness, rather than parabens, propylene glycol and sodium lauryl sulphate, can be a confusing business. Although there are strict EU regulations about which foods can be labelled organic, these rules do not currently apply to beauty products.

One way you can be sure your bath oil or shower gel really is organic is if it carries the Soil Association's symbol. All products with this mark must contain a minimum of 70 per cent organic ingredients - not including water - and no petro-chemicals or GM ingredients.

One company that has met the Soil Association's high standards is Neal's Yard Remedies. Many of their products carry the symbol and their Rose and Almond Night Cream, £16, and Yarrow Cleanser, £9.75, come in special tube packaging which prevents contamination and eliminates the need for preservatives. Visit www.nealsyardremedies.com to find your nearest shop or stockist, or call 0845 2623145 for a mail order catalogue.

Another company that prides itself on a natural approach is Dr Hauschka. Their products carry the BDIH German Association Standard for being organic, and their Rose Day Cream, £16, forms a vital part of many celebrities' beauty routines. They also offer a range of organic make-up including a mascara, £14, that has been formulated for sensitive eyes. To find your nearest stockist visit www.drhauschka.co.uk or call 01386 792622.

Circaroma promise you won't find sulphates, parabens or any synthetic perfumes or artificial colours in their products. Their Palmarosa Face Polish, £5.75, is an exfoliant containing organic jojoba oil, and their popular Rose Hand Cream, £15, also includes organic ingredients. Phone 020 73591135 for a catalogue, or buy online at www.circaroma.com.

Once your skin has a healthy, natural glow, you can start work on your hair. MOP's hair care products have been certified organic under US law and celebrity fans of their C-System range include Cameron Diaz and Sarah Jessica Parker. The fruity Finishing Paste, £9.95, will hold your style without leaving you choking on hairspray fumes and is available in selected salons. Call 01282 613413 to find your nearest stockist.

Although many people who want to use organic products begin their search on-line, the high street is starting to catch on to the trend, meaning you don't always have to trawl the internet - or break the bank - in your search for natural beauty.

Many of Organic Blue's products have earned the Soil Association's seal of approval and the entire range is registered with the UK Vegetarian Society. Enjoy a relaxing, guilt-free soak with their Meditation Bath Mood Blend, £8.95, which is available from larger branches of Sainsburys. For mail order call 020 8424 8844 or visit www.organicblue.com.

Marks & Spencer's own range of Organic Extracts products all have at least 70 per cent organic ingredients - the Protective Day Moisturiser, £8, is 95 per cent organic and uses a soothing combination of aloe vera, jojoba and green tea, while the zingy Citrus Shower Gel, £4, contains orange, grapefruit and lemongrass oils.

If you do decide to go organic, it's worth remembering that products with fresh ingredients may have a shorter shelf life than conventional toiletries, so check for a use-by date. Also, while people with sensitive skin often find that chemicals cause irritation, it is still possible to have a reaction to natural ingredients.

But one thing is certain - with organic products you can at least rest assured that you know exactly what's going on your skin.

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