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Are
Organic Beauty Products Really Organic? 06 P a r ab e n s , Phylates & Formadehyde Beauty products unveiled
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Organic
Health and B eauty The Soil Association’s view
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Feel
22
T op 10
Reasons to C h oo s e Organic 23 E c o C h i c Introduces A po s t l e A passion for purity
26 F r i e n d l y
S oap s Pure and organic from the inside out
28 S p i e z i a
Launches the Made for Life Foundation 2009
29 I n s i d e
Naturally O rganics Where health and beauty B eautiful go hand in hand And glow in organic makeup 33 S p i e z i a 16 B e a u t y O rganics Celebrating 10 years P roducts To carry the fairtrade mark Beyond 19 L’ e a u D u 34 Organic P arfum Sweet or sour? Skincare
A beautiful handmade story
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E c o C h i c C o l l e c t i o n M a g a z i n e www.ecochiccollection.co.uk
credits
Creative Director & Editor Deborah Miarkowska Writers Alexandra Delmage Alice C Doyle Deborah Miarkowska Emma Pointing Soil Association Cara Smusiak Graphics and Illustrations Sarah Harman
“A
woman
without paint is like food
w i t h o u t s a l t .”
- Roman
philosopher,
Plautus
The allure of fragrance and scented potions has been with us since the dawn of civilisation. From the Egyptians to the ancient Greeks, make up and essential oils have been applied for centuries in religious rituals, to enhance beauty, and to promote good health. But let’s not forget that in the pursuit of beauty, such allure has at times taken an uglier form. From the application of toxic compounds such as lead or arsenic to bestow pale skin to the use of crushed copper ores, lead and ash to form Kohl, beauty has at times, come with an unhealthy cost. Today the cosmetics industry is worth several billion pounds. But amongst the plethora of lotions, potions, perfumes and cosmetics, how are we to be sure that we are not at risk to ill health as the pale skinned beauties of the past? Daily we apply our chemical cocktails, but
do we really know what is in them and more importantly what effect does this chemical overload mean for our bodies? And when we choose an organic product, does this really mean it is organic, a sign of purity, or are we falling foul to false promises in the pursuit of loveliness. EcoChic Magagazine presents Body Beautiful the Natural and Organic Way, the guide to set the record straight for every aethete and grecian goddess. What exactly do we need to look out for? What are the right standards and logos to authenticate organic and natural health and beauty. And what brands are not only trustworthy in their organic claims but technically deliver on promise. With contributions from the Soil Association to cutting edge beauty brands, Body Beautiful is the consumer guide for all you need to know. Beauty is very much more than skin deep, EcoChic showcases a handpicked selection of the very best products proven to restore natural vitality and radiance, whilst working in natural harmony with your body. From cosmetics to soaps, candles to perfume, brands that clearly list their ingredients and also manage a traceable and clear supply chain, guaranteeing confidence of purity but also sustainability. Beautifully you, with respect to people and the planet.
Alice C Doyle
© All works copyright of EcoChic Collection (EcoChic UK LLP 0C336932), no downloading permitted.
Body Beautiful
the
Natural Way
Are Organic
Beauty Products Really Organic? by D eborah Miarkowska
ebecca Howard Dennis in The Times R Saturday 8th August asked ”Are there any benefits to natural cosmetics or are consumers being ‘greenwashed”.
My eyes were focused for three reasons, I have spent a lot of time thinking about this subject recently and feel it is an important point to discuss, another because I am currently trialing the Spezia Organic Cosmetic range and this article featured one of our forthcoming contributors Jen Marsden. What is clear from this review is that we need to have our eyes wide open to the claims that are made by all manufacturers and look to see if the products are certified. It makes for an interesting read, stirs up the grey matter, informs and provokes in all sorts of ways, take a look… If last week’s Food Standards Agency report taught us anything surely it is to approach the organic debate with a healthy dose of scepticism. It’s been too easy in recent years to fall into the trap of assuming that all things organic must be good and anything that falls into the non-organic category is, if not exactly bad, then certainly second-best.The organic health and beauty industry is one such area that warrants closer inspection. Unlike food and drink items that must be certified before they can be labelled organic and sold as such, non-food items, including personal care products and
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cosmetics, are not subject to the same legislation. As a result the actual organic content of beauty products can vary enormously, sometimes making up less than 1 per cent of an item’s total formulation. The message to consumers is clear: do your homework, read the ingredients list and don’t assume a product labelled organic is necessarily free from synthetic chemicals. “Products that contain only tiny percentages of organic material are really only half the exploitation problem,” explains Jen Marsden, author of the forthcoming lifestyle guide, The Green Guide to Fashion & Beauty. “Many of these formulations masquerading as organic are jam-packed with ingredients, such as synthetic colour, fragrance and preservatives, that bona fide organic certification boards wouldn’t allow.” Although organisations, including the Soil Association, are working to close the legal loopholes, they can offer only an opt-in system of regulation for those brands that want to prove their credentials. “Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of ‘greenwash’ when it comes to natural and organic products,” says Louise Green, head of sustainability for Neal’s Yard Remedies, “and fortunately more of them are looking for certification as an assurance that standards are being met.” But until proper guidelines can be enforced the
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organic beauty industry is still open to misinterpretation. A prime example is the claim that “up to 60 per cent of what goes on to the skin can be absorbed into the bloodstream”. This statistic is repeated ad nauseum by organic beauty brands arguing that chemical-free cosmetics are just as important for health as choosing pesticide-free food. But the truth is, even leading organic experts cannot properly account for the accuracy of this statistic. Helen Lynn, organic expert and consultant to the Women’s Environmental Network, explains: “Conventional medicines prove the skin’s ability to absorb certain ingredients - just look at nicotine and hormone patches - but we have no evidence that confirms 60 per cent as an accurate absorption rate.” Even the often-quoted studies that link certain
chemicals to specific health concerns, such as parabens to breast cancer and sodium lauryl sulphate to eye damage in children, have yet to be proved conclusively - although this may be due to a lack of funding for research. But for the organic convert the scientific specifics are almost by the by. That there is any possible risk to our individual health or the environment from commonly used chemicals in cosmetics is enough of a reason to cut them out of their lives. “Some people would say the organic industry’s precautionary principle of ‘if in doubt, leave it out’ is hedging one’s bets,” says Margaret Weeds, product research and development director of the organic brand Essential Care (www.essential-care. co.uk) “But I don’t see the harm in hedging bets when it comes to health.”
After all, for many, choosing an organic lifestyle is just that, a choice and with the help of organisations such as the Soil Association and the Cosmetics Organic Standard, which is about to be set up and will harmonise private certification board standards across the EU, it can be an informed choice.
What To Look Out For Parabens Used as preservatives; possible hormone-disrupting side-effects Phthalates Have been linked to adverse effects on male and female reproductive systems Propylene glycol Can cause skin irritation; have been linked to birth defects in lab tests Women’s Environmental Network has a beauty checklist at www. wen.org.uk
Body Beautiful
the
Natural Way
Beauty
P ara b e n s , P h y l a t e s & Formadehyde
Products Unveiled by Alic e C D oyle
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otions and potions, L pampering andpreening. Over the course of a
lifetime an average female will spend £180,000 on beauty products. But in so doing, you could be accumulating a bucketful of poisins with a potential to cause cancer, disrupt hormones and accelerate ageing.
A Chemical Cocktail The problem with many beauty products is that they contain a cocktail of chemical ingredients. From formaldehyde, parabens to bleach, the individual ingredients can vary tremendously in their ability to soak through the skin and can easily penetrate blood vessels and body tissue below. Few individual ingredients used in isolation carry excessive risks. However, as an average adult uses 9 personal care products each day, with 126 unique chemical ingredients, the risks and health hazards start to mount up as the chemicals can react in combination or accumulate within the body.
Hidden Within Here we discuss some of the nasties that are hidden within many well known and much loved brands that can be avoided by choosing certified organic body and skin care.
P ara b e n s t o Phthalates All cosmetic products that contain large amounts of
water need to be preserved from micro-organisms to stop them going mouldy. Parabens and other chemical preservatives work by directly poisoning the microbes they come into contact with. However as they mimic the effect of estrogen they can disrupt natural hormone levels. Also as they are harmful to micro-organisms, Parabens are entering the water courses in considerable amounts to the detriment of the environment.
P ara b e n
Regulation The use of parabens in cosmetics is regulated by the cosmetic guidelines of the European Union and is in compliance with these legal regulations. Compared to other preservatives, the parabens have the great advantage that you only need to use extremely small concentrations to achieve excellent stability and durability. Furthermore this material is considered as well tolerated and the risk for allergic reactions can be classified as very low in comparison to other food additives. In recent years their has
been much discussion around the use of parabens as preservatives and some of the claims have been brought into disrepute. In 2004 British scientists (Dr. Philippa Darbre et al.) stated in a publication statement from the Federal Institute for risk evaluation, evaluating the connection between breast cancer and the use of parabens in deodorants. In this publication however no causal connection between deodorants and breast cancer could be proven. The Federal Institute for risk evaluation stated the clear conclusion that no causal connection between parabens and breast cancer is given.¹
Bleaching Agents Many skincare products use agents to help lighten the skin with bleaching agents, such as hydroquinone and mercury. Highly toxic, hydroquinone can cause brown patches on skin and is an irritant, mercury can cause serious poisoning as well as cancer. Detergents are alternatives to soap known for their foaming action, used in daily use products such as shampoo, conditioners, facial cleansers, hair dyes, lotions, soaps, baby shampoo, baby wipes, shaving cream and acne treatment. Detergents can dry skin and hair, cause irritations to eyes and skin, and can react with impurities and nitrate preservatives, some of which may cause cancer. Phthalates are used as a
Body Beautiful
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Natural Way
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plasticizer and a solvent and found in cosmetics such as nail varnishes, deodorants, fragrances, hair gels and sprays, hand and body lotions. Listed as dibutyl, dithylhexyl, DEHP, DBP to name a few, research has shown that DEHP is linked to adverse affects to male and female reproductive system.
exposed to large doses of retinol during pregnancy research shows that it may harm the development of the embryo. Side effects associated with topical tretinoin are skin irritation, dryness, peeling and sun sensitivity and with persistent use, skin damage and accelerate ageing.
Formaldehyde & Synthetics
Synthetic colours are entirely artificial in composition and added to makeup and other coloured products. These crude oil, coal tar and mineral derived dyes and lakes may contain carcinogenic arsenic and lead. Questionable synthetic colours are: FD&C blues 1(E133), 2(E132), 4; Green 3; Reds 4, 40(E129); Yellows 5(E102), 6(E110), D&C Reds 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 17, 19, 21, 27, 33; Green 5; Oranges 5, 17. Disperse Blue 1; Yellow 3. These ingredients are found in products such as lip glosses, children’s toothpaste and hair colours. Some synthetic
Formaldehyde may be hidden within products such as various cosmetics, soap, nail hardeners and varnish. It is a proven neurotoxin, genotoxin, carcinogen and skin irritant and can be released when products break down or react with another product. Preservatives are the second most common cause of allergic and irritant reactions to cosmetics. Retinol, natural vitamin A, is added to cosmetics, yet when
colours have been linked to childhood hyperactivity disorders as well as cancers.
The Organic Choice Perhaps the jury is still out on the debate but the only way to truly know that you are not adding harm to your body is to use organic products as they are completely healthy and natural. Certified organic products are made with ingredients that are grown free of synthetic pesticides, herbicides and genetically modified organisms and are free from harmful additives. Kind to you and to the planet. Special thanks to the Women’s Environment Network for some technical content. 1. Statement of the “Federal Institute for risk evaluation” on the 13th of February 2004. Body Beautiful
the
Natural Way
Organic health and beauty
The Soil Association’s View by S oil A ssoc iat ion
Your skin is the largest organ of your body and what you put on it can be absorbed in tiny amounts. The impact from the daily cocktail of substances that we put on the skin is only just beginning to be understood. What’s more, additives in toiletries can end up in the water systems and remain in the environment for some time, and are linked to a number of health issues.
Beauty
Products In Need Of Organic Regulation In the EU all food and drink must be certified as organic before it can be sold as organic. This regulation does not extend to organic beauty products currently. As there is no legal definition as to what constitutes an ‘organic’ beauty product - products labelled as such may vary enormously in the organic content and the other ingredients they contain. A company can label or describe a product as
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organic even if they only contain tiny amounts of organic ingredients and could still contain potentially harmful ingredients such as parabens, phthalates, petrochemicals, nano-particles, and GM. Carrying proof of certification such as the Soil Association symbol
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shows consumers that the products are independently verified to high organic standards - some of the strictest in the world.
Soil
Association S t a n d ar d s
Our standards for organic beauty products are based on our food standards. This means if an ingredient is available organically, it must be used. The remaining ingredients must meet strict criteria to ensure that they are not damaging to our health or the environment. To achieve organic certification, a company must:
*
Have their manufacturing facility inspected annually by the Soil Association. This includes an audit of organic ingredients use and demonstration of ecologically sound production methods
* * *
Submit all product formulae and labels to the Soil Association for approval
Provide clear labelling so that the consumer can make an informed choice about the product they are purchasing For any non-organic ingredient, submit a declaration from the supplier that it is non-GM, plus declarations from 3 suppliers that the ingredient is not available in organic quality
*
Use the maximum possible amount of organic ingredients; a product that carries the Soil Association symbol and is labelled organic, must contain at least 95% organic ingredients. In cases where the product contains more than 70% organic ingredients, it can still be certified by the Soil
Association but the company must state on the packaging exactly what proportion of ingredients are organic
*
Use minimal non-organic additives and only those from a restricted list. These must be non-GM and can only be used if the organic version of that ingredient is not yet available.
*
Use ingredients that if processed, are processed by ecologically sound means. Therefore, there can be a large difference between a beauty product that is certified organic and one that is merely described as ‘organic’ on the label. To ensure a product is guaranteed organic, look for a certification body logo, such as the Soil Association symbol.
Five Reasons To Be An Organic Beauty: Safety
Our precautionary principle means that if there is any doubt about an ingredient it is banned - so no parabens, no phthalates and no GM ingredients. Avoid irritation. We ban synthetic fragrances, which have been found to cause a third of all cosmetic allergies.
‘C o c k t a i l
effect’ Cut down on the products that you and your family use. Much of the concern is about the ‘cocktail effect’
of chemicals in the different products that we use. Many women are using over 20 different products a day, bombarding themselves with hundreds of different chemicals.
Trust
Look for the Soil Association symbol and COSMOS-ORGANIC on organic products to ensure that they meet our strict organic standards. No need to compromise. Delicious balms, gorgeous lotions and beautiful baby products are all widely available and perform so well that there is no need to compromise on performance to become an organic beauty. What’s more you will be supporting more land in organic production and choosing products which are better for the environment.
COSMOS H ar m o n i s e d S t a n d ar d - A n Exciting New Step The Cosmetics Organic Standard, or COSMOS, reflects an attempt by some of Europe’s leading certification bodies-such as The Soil Association, Ecocert and BDIH-to harmonize organic standards globally. The first products certified to these new standards are likely to hit the shelves next Spring. COSMOS is the first harmonised standard for organic and natural health
Body Beautiful
the
Natural Way
and beauty which was finalised in January 2010. It is an international standard available for all companies and brands who want their products to be certified. The COSMOS group consists of six founding members, including the UK’s Soil Association, all of whom have played key roles in the development of our current understanding of certified organic and natural skincare. The five other members are Ecocert (France), Cosmebio (France), Bioforum (Belgium), BDIH (Germany) and AIAB/ICEA (Italy). This is the first harmonised standard in the world that will ensure clarity and transparency for both consumers and the trade at a time when the organic health and beauty market is experiencing extremely significant growth - in 2008 UK sales of organic health and beauty products increased an impressive 69% to £27 million and in 2009 sales continued to grow dynamically, increasing a third to £36 million. Between them, the founding members represent over 1400 certified skincare brands and certify in excess of 24,000 products sold in over 40 countries world-wide. The objective of this new standard is ambitious and goes beyond all current requirements for organic and natural cosmetics. To get Cosmos-Organic certification, 95 percent of a product’s agro-ingredients and 20 percent of the entire product must be organic.
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Where Can We Buy Trusted Organic Products?
Products must also meet environmental standards for packaging and manufacturing, and use approved “green chemistry” processes when modifying ingredients. Under the new COSMOSstandard existing schemes run by the founder members will cease to certify new product according to their own standards as of December 2014. This transition period gives the opportunity for the founder members to phase out their standards over time, allowing their licensees to re-formulate product should this prove necessary. Through the eventual removal of existing schemes the post-COSMOS arena will give clarity for consumers and a level playing field for formulators, raw materials suppliers and brandholders. Only products that are certified to the COSMOSorganic standard will be able to use the Soil Association logo. In the changeover period (up to Dec 2014) products certified to the Soil Association’s own strict standards will still be available.
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Some organic beauty brands, to name but a few include Waitrose, Tesco and Boots all have own-brand organic products, Spiezia, Neal’s Yard Remedies, Essential Care, Lucy Russell, Purity Organic Skincare (available in Superdrug), Apostle and Inside Organics.
A w ar d Winners 2010 winners of the Natural and Organic Products industry awards: Best organic facial product - Rose & Camellia Cleansing Melt from Botanicals Ltd, Best organic baby care product - Baby Bottom Balm from Lulu and Boo Best organic body care product - Mint & Tea Tree Foot Balm from Botanicals Ltd. 2009 winners of the Natural and Organic Products industry awards: Best organic facial skincare product - Lucy Russell Organics, Rose Toner, Best organic baby product - Maclaren (Beginning), Absorbing Dustin Powder Best organic body care product - Essential Care, Coconut Candy Scrub.
For more information from the Soil Association on Organic Beauty, Click here.
F e e l N a t u ra l l y
Beautiful and
Glow
in
Organic Make-up
by Emma Point ing
Body Beautiful
the
Natural Way
healthy glow, in comparison to nasty toxins that can wreak havoc on your complexion. Organic make up proves that it doesn’t compromise on style nor substance. It is increasingly becoming popular amongst women who are looking for healthier products but also brilliant results that draw out true natural beauty.
How Toxic Are You? Here are 4 great reasons to switch to using colourful certified organic make up.
or many, make-up is an F art. Women have been embellishing themselves
with it for centuries, and its still plays a great role in a woman’s life today. It should not only enhance your god-given looks but also compliment individual colouring and features, without detracting from natural beauty. Painting on tons of make-up, imitating the ‘I have foundation on’ face, is definitely a big faux pas. But whatever style you choose to adopt, be it glamour or au natural, be sure to pamper and treat your skin kindly with the finest Organic make up.
Organic Food For The Skin Cosmetic companies like Mac, Elizabeth Arden and Estee Lauder have dominated the industry for years, successfully battling to sway the public into purchasing their products
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over others. But at what cost are you wearing such established brands? Do you truly know what is in the products that you end up spending so much money on? Granted, every woman wants to look good wearing make up. Most days we apply eye shadow, mascara, a little blusher, splash of lipstick and a touch up of concealer to hide the odd spot. So, you look good, you feel good but you have just exposed yourself to a combination of poisonous chemicals. Soaking through the skin and into the bloodstream, these toxins potentially have the opportunity to react badly when inside our bodies. This is where Organic make up comes to the rescue. It is renowned for staying away from lethal chemicals using natural ingredients only. They work alongside your skin and provide that effortlessly
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F,D&C and D&C colour pigments, widely used in eye shadow, blusher, eye liner and lipstick, are composed of coal tar and crude oil, which is highly carcinogenic. They contain heavy metal salts that deposit toxins on the skin, causing sensitivity and irritation. Parabens, synthetic preservatives, are used as inhibitors of microbial growth in order to extend shelf life of products. Commonly found in foundations and other water based products, when applied to the skin, and absorbed through the pores, they can imitate oestrogen in the body. Too much oestrogen pumping in the body can result in weight gain, mood swings and potentially breast cancer. One study conducted had shown certain parabens to be found in samples of breast tumours; however, in the interest of being fair, no casual link has yet been proven. Formaldehyde, commonly found in
mascara, is a highly toxic liquid containing lethal carcinogenic ingredients. Used to preserve the life of several cosmetic products, its continuous use can lead to various health problems including respiratory irritation and immune system toxicity. Ever wonder how u get that shine from your favourite lip gloss? It comes from petroleum jelly, a by-product of crude oil that can suffocate and block your skin from oxygen. After use it leaves an oily film over your skin, interfering with the body’s own moisturising mechanism. It advertises to protect from drying, but by dissolving sebum out of the skin it actually makes it drier, tighter and more prone to chapping. The result is unhealthy sensitive skin. Many lipsticks also contain lead which can prompt brain and kidney damage and harm to the central nervous system.
Going As N a t u ra l A s We Can So in order to work with what you’ve got, take a look at the gentlest Organic make up available below. Nvey Eco, an Australian company, is one of the most trusted and best-selling brands worldwide. Certified by the Organic Food Chain, they fuse fashion and nature together, injecting this aesthetic into all of their products. Using a harmony of carefully chosen plant and mineral ingredients,
including natural botanical extracts and powerful antioxidants, their make up leaves your skin feeling completely nourished. Delivering high performance, the Organic Compact Powder is definitely one to assure full natural coverage and refresh existent foundation. Talc free, its contains jojoba oils and corn silk, perfect for people who have sensitive skin. Use this with their new nine piece collection of environmentally friendly make up brushes for easy glide. Available from ecrium. co.uk, Living Nature Concealer is an essential beauty item that minimises the appearance of dark circles and imperfections. We all have those days where a spot appears at the most inappropriate time, before a date or a job interview. Banish them with this creamy concealer for long durability. Award winning brand Lily Lolo comes from the brain child of Vikki Khan. Her main initiative is to prove that organic make up, like hers, doesn’t have to compromise on colour. The Mineral Foundation comes in 17 different shades to perfectly suit individual skin tone. Ranging from Porcelain, Warm Peach, Butterscotch to Hot Chocolate, they enhance that flawless skin look. And to sculpt cheekbones like a pro, try Lolo’s Blushers which adds instant glow, blending effortlessly into the skin. Pick from the bursting shades of Candy Girl, Ohh La La, Rosebud, Clementine or Rosy Apple. Lavera has everything you need to try out new trends this season. All of their
products are certified 100% natural and contain organic ingredients, so no horrible nasties hidden here. Their lip gloss range, in colours of berry, orange, burgundy and transparent, are all emollient and non- sticky oils of Vitamin E and Jojoba oils. The ingredients used repair moisture, protect antiageing and leave your with lips feeling luscious and kissable. Before setting up Inika in 2006, Miranda Bond and Jenni Williams both realised that other natural cosmetic lines were either lacking in performance, or still used artificial harmful ingredients. And with their colourful array of 24 eye shadows, its unparalleled to the world of regular make up brands. Choose from tasty tones of Autumn Plum, Fairy Floss or Lychee that can be used wet or dry as a shadow or eye liner. Visit inika.com to continue the hunt for your favourite. The quest for 100% certified organic make up is at times very difficult. There are only a small number of organic brands out on offer to the eco-friendly woman today. With many companies falsely advertising their products as something they are not, consumers are left confused on who to believe. But take a good look at nature. With such an abundance of kind to the skin ingredients, colour and style, its possible to work it into our own beauty routines. So here are the brands. Grab yourself a brush. Now start to apply. Organic Make Up - Beauty at it’s natural best.
Body Beautiful
the
Natural Way
Beauty Products
T o C arr y
the
F a i r t ra d e M ar k
by D eborah Miarkowska
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ew market opportunity N opens for recession-hit producers in developing
countries as 31% of the UK population say they want Fairtrade certified cosmetics. On the 24th June 2009, the Fairtrade Foundation announced the first beauty products to carry the FAIRTRADE Mark in the UK. The Fairtrade Foundation commented: “From today the public will be able to buy products including lip balms, face masks, body butters and shower gels from 5 companies including Boots, Bubble & Balm, Essential Care, Lush and Neal’s Yard. Each beauty product contains one or more Fairtrade certified ingredient such as cocoa butter, shea nut butter, sugar or brazil nut oil, benefitting disadvantaged producers from countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America. To date, 57 beauty products have been licensed by the Fairtrade Foundation and it is expected that many more will follow”. Fearne Cotton, TV presenter and longstanding Fairtrade supporter, says: ‘I am really excited about this new opportunity to transform trade through the way I shop. I’ve tried out several of the new beauty products for myself and love them. Not only are they great quality, but they make me feel good using them because I know that the farmers who grew the ingredients that went into them are now able to improve their lives.’ Beauty products, toiletries and fragrance products
play an important part in our lives. In Europe at least 5 billion units of cosmetics[1] are sold each year[2] using around 1.5 million tonnes of ingredients.[3] Increasingly, people are keen to lead a Fairtrade lifestyle and expect sustainable attributes to be an inherent part of the products and services that they buy. In a recent survey by Globescan, 31% of people in the UK said they are interested in purchasing cosmetics carrying the FAIRTRADE Mark. There is huge potential within the beauty and cosmetics sector for producers of existing Fairtrade certified ingredients and also of potential new ingredients or their derivatives to benefit from this new market opportunity.
sustainable lifestyle and this is the next step along the path to looking good and feeling great. So go out and treat yourself to these great new products!’ Introducing Fairtrade labelling to beauty products will increase the overall number of Fairtrade products in UK shops and the volumes of ingredients which producers are able to sell under Fairtrade terms, which in turn increases the benefits back to farmers.
Harriet Lamb, Executive Director of the Fairtrade Foundation says: ‘It’s great news that now the beauty industry will get a Fairtrade makeover and the farmers who grow the natural ingredients will get a fairer deal because we think they’re worth it. This exciting launch brings much needed positive change for producers who need Fairtrade now more than ever. The public has said they want to lead a
Ms Nana Yago, a Fairtrade shea nut producer from Burkina Faso says: ‘When we work together, we can help many people out of poverty. Mostimportantly, Fairtrade enables us to help ourselves and to support each other. The premium allows us to offer training courses to the women in our group. They learn to write and can see how important it is to have their independence in life. The status of women in our society has now increased.’ Landlocked Burkina Faso is one of the poorest countries in the world. Ms Yago is a member of the Union of Women Producers of Shea Products of the Sissili and Ziro provinces, a group
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representing 2,000 women. The group was set up to improve the position of women involved in shea butter production, most of whom are illiterate, and reduce poverty in the villages. Traditional shea butter processing is done by village women who gather, boil and sun-dry the nuts before they are pounded and ground to a paste. The paste is mixed with water to separate the fat, which is then manually churned into creamy butter. Through Fairtrade labelled beauty products, producers will benefit in three ways. 1.Producers will get the Fairtrade minimum price plus a premium, a bit extra to invest in community projects such as schools and healthcare. 2. The companies behind the products will have a partnership plan in place showing how they will additionally support producers to develop their businesses and communities. 3.The Fairtrade Foundation has worked hard to set minimum thresholds of Fairtrade ingredients at levels which allow best selling volume lines of beauty products containing natural ingredients to be certified. For more information, images or interviews, contact the Fairtrade Foundation press office: www.fairtrade.org.uk
Points Of Interest FAIRTRADE Mark 1. The is a certification mark
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and a registered trademark of Fairtrade Labelling Organisations International (FLO) of which the Fairtrade Foundation is the UK member. The Fairtrade Foundation is an independent certification body which licenses the use of the FAIRTRADE Mark on products which meet international Fairtrade standards. This independent consumer label is now recognised by 70% of UK consumers and appears on products as a guarantee that disadvantaged producers are getting a better deal. Today, more than 7.5 million people farmers, workers and their families - across 58 developing countries benefit from the international Fairtrade system. Thresholds defined 2. within the Cosmetics policy for a product to be
eligible for Fairtrade labelling have been set at the following wet weight formulation levels: · Minimum 2% for ‘wash off’ products (on a whole product basis) e.g. shampoos and soaps · Minimum 5% for ‘leave on’ products (on a whole product basis) e.g. face masks and scrubs These thresholds open up the potential market for Fairtrade labelling to 53% of the total cosmetics market because they are applicable to the best selling volume lines (where higher thresholds would not) and permit a wide range of cosmetics products to be formulated containing Fairtrade ingredients and their derivatives.
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Over 4,500 products 3. have been licensed to carry the FAIRTRADE Mark including coffee, tea, herbal teas, chocolate, cocoa, sugar, bananas, grapes, pineapples, mangoes, avocados, apples, pears, plums, grapefruit, lemons, oranges, satsumas, clementines, mandarins, lychees, coconuts, dried fruit, juices, smoothies, biscuits, cakes & snacks, honey, jams & preserves, chutney & sauces, rice, quinoa, herbs & spices, seeds, nuts & nut oil, wines, beers, rum, confectionary, muesli, cereal bars, yoghurt, ice-cream, flowers, sports balls, sugar body scrub and cotton products including clothing, homeware, cloth toys, cotton wool, olive oil and beauty products.
Seven in 10 4. households purchase Fairtrade goods, including
an extra 1.3 million more households in 2008, helping Fairtrade sales reach an estimated £700m in 2008, a 43% increase on the previous year. There are over 460 producer organisations selling to the UK and 746 to the global Fairtrade system, representing more than 1.5 million farmers and workers. [1] Cosmetics defined as all toiletries, skin care, hair care, make up, perfumes and fragrances [2] Source: European Commission and COLIPA [3] Figures are extrapolated from Euromonitor data 2005 and from COLIPA data. UK market share is ~17% of EU market. The combined market share for cosmetics in Germany, France and UK is 57% of the EU market.
L’eau Du
Parfum Sweet
or
Sour?
by Ale xandra D elmage
Body Beautiful
the
Natural Way
scent can trigger A powerful emotions; reconnect forgotten
memories of a place or a person, perhaps even long after their gone. We have been enticed by fragrances and scented oils since ancient times, using them to enhance or often mask our natural scent. Just a very small reflection of our consuming crazed society and a highly competitive fragrance market. It is then unsurprising that today we are bombarded by choice, with over 30,000 designer perfumes, countless soaps, shampoos, scented candles and even air fresheners carefully constructed to make us and our worlds smell fresh as a daisy. But treating yourself to an expensive designer treat might cost you more than you first thought.
Time To Smell The Real Roses?
counterfeiters. Perfumes are after all big business, worth an estimated £640 million in the UK alone. With no legal requirement to list ingredients isn’t it time for someone to wake up and smell the real roses?
A Chemical Cocktail Perhaps the name ‘parfum’ may have given the game away. This label represents a chemical cocktail, often containing parabens, phthalates and other synthetic compounds, which share some frightening similarities with solvents used in adhesives and other known toxins. A dangerous set of socially accepted (often disregarded) small scale health risks, associating heavy perfume
Unfortunately whilst many of today’s fragrances have been cleverly marketed to boast their connections to the natural world, more than often perfumes claiming delicate floral scents are made up from a concoction of over 4000 chemicals. This, ‘recipe’ for scent is often no different to those found in cleaning products, and it is a closely guarded secret to protect perfumers from
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use with allergic reactions and headaches can be flippantly dismissed as ailments of those ‘sensitive skin types’. Yet more and more scientists are claiming a darker side to fragrance industry, according to the ‘The National Academy of Sciences’ reported that 95% of the chemicals used in perfumes today are compounds taken from petroleum, along with known cancer causing toxins and a range of other nasty potential side effects, including birth defects, central nervous disorders, and asthma. In 2003, two types of pthalates used in cosmetics and fragrances were banned in the European Union. Estee Lauder and Procter & Gamble have since announced that they will stop using pthalates in cosmetics and some nail polishes although both companies say that they do not believe that they are harmful to humans.
Big Labels. Big Culprits.
an original fragrance. Confusing isn’t it? With more and more natural alternatives to harsh manmade chemicals, why not make life a bit easier and give your body a break? Why not try swapping a few of your favourites for Jo Wood’s natural and organic Eau de Toilette, Neals Yard’s Remedies to Roll, or Beauty Naturals range of body, bath and skin care products?
Did You Know? Big labels and big culprits. To name a few, brands such a Calvin Klein’s ‘Eternity for Woman’, Jean Paul Gaultier’s ‘Le Mâle and even the iconic Chanel ‘ No.5′, all contain two of the most potentially dangerous man-made chemical groups, phthalate esters and synthetic musk’s, the latter being a highly suspected hormone disrupter. A study performed by Greenpeace identified that almost all perfumes tested contained such chemicals along with nasty health impacts. You can read Greenpeace’s findings in full here.
secretion from the diseased whale intestine). It’s an expensive business too, finding and collecting natural animal oils, meaning captivity and harvesting. Luckily for us whilst Ambergris has been outlawed since 1977 animal extractions today include musk from dear, caster from beavers and civet from the glands of civet cats to name a few.
Give Your Body A N a t u ra l B r e a k
Now, you might assume that where it is not possible to create a synthetic compound, fragrances’ might come out smelling a bit more ethical. In reality more than often extracts are taken from animals to create warm earthy rich notes that cannot be mimicked. Animal ingredients are of course no stranger to beauty products, with sperm whales historically providing Ambergris, (a rather grisly opaque
With a growing range of natural and organic beauty products hitting the market it’s certainly not all doom and gloom. That’s not to say that a splash of your favourite perfume every now and then is necessarily going to cause any serious damage. Remember though, going for ‘fragrance free’ alternatives offers no guarantee of a chemical free product, as chemicals are often themselves used to mask
Perfume oil is necessarily diluted with a solvent because undiluted oils (natural or synthetic) contain high concentrations of chemical components (natural or otherwise) that will likely result in allergic reactions and possibly injury when applied directly to skin or clothing. As well, the scent in pure perfume oils are far too concentrated to smell pleasant. By far the most common solvent for perfume oil dilution is ethanol or a mixture of ethanol and water. Perfume oil can also be diluted by means of neutral-smelling lipids such as jojoba, fractionated coconut oil or wax. The concentration by percent/volume of perfume oil is as follows: Perfume extract (Extrait): 15-30% (IFRA: typical 20%) aromatic compounds Eau de Parfum (EdP): 1015% (typical ~15%) aromatic compounds Eau de Toilette (EdT): 5-20% (typical ~10%) aromatic compounds Eau de Cologne (EdC): 2-5% aromatic compounds.
Body Beautiful
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10 Reasons to Eat Organic, even T opit isn’t more nutritious.
if
Cara Smusiak writes on behalf of Naturally Savvy.com about how to live a more natural, organic and green lifestyle. There’s a picture that has been branded on my brain: A farm worker spraying fields with pesticides; he’s wearing a contamination suit and a gas mask. I remember being shocked when I first saw the image. I associated that sort of get-up with highly contagious viruses and industrial chemical leaks-not food. It was in that moment that I started to really worry about pesticide residue on the foods I eat.Planet Green and other green-living blogs espouse the benefits of eating organic foods, but skeptics remain. While there are conflicting reports about whether organics offer more nutritional value than non-organic foods, there’s no doubt organic farming is better for human health, local wildlife and the planet in general.
Top 10
* * * * * * * * * *
T o p 10 B e n e f i t s o f Eating Organic Waterways aren’t contaminated by chemical run-off from farms. Pesticide-related health risks to farm workers (and anyone living in the area) are eliminated.
You will dramatically reduce the amount of pesticide residue you ingest on a daily basis. Pesticides ingested by pregnant women may be linked to birth defects and health issues. Biodiversity is increased with the use of buffer crops, and by avoiding killing or harming insects and other wildlife that is not a threat to crops. Pesticides are responsible for a staggering amount of greenhouse gas emissions. You can avoid eating any genetically modified foods. Reduced reliance on chemical and agri-engineering corporations is good for farmers. Organic farming is healthier for the soil.
Organic dairy cows are not injected with milk-boosting hormones such as recombinant bovine somatotrophin (rBST)-which may increase insulin levels in humans. Organics taste better. It’s just my humble opinion, but I’ve noticed a difference in the taste of strawberries, peaches, grapes and leafy greens, so if you’re still skeptical, I dare you to put your faith in conventionally grown foods to the test.
Reasons
T o C h o o s e O r g a n i c by C ara Smu s iak 22
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Apostle
EcoChic Introduces
A Passion For Purity by Alic e C D oyle
Body Beautiful
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Natural Way
E
coChic is delighted to introduce New Beauty, the sumptuous skin and body care range from Apostle. The launch of Apostle, the online beauty boutique, heralds the arrival of beauty that is more than skin deep. With purity as the guiding value, Apostles promise is simple: pure natural beauty.
New Beauty ‘New Beauty’ is at the core
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of Apostle’s philosophy. The beautifully stylish and designer Boutique provides a panorama of the very best of organic and natural beauty products available. Bespoke features such as the Apostle Assistant allows you to mix and match according to skin tone, budget or for more mood enhancing properties such as relaxation, indulgence or inspiration. From eye care to hand care, bathing to candlelit relaxation, luscious luxury is one click away. Apostle undertook extensive research to create the ‘New Beauty’ range, nourishing and balancing, to suit Mothers- to-be, babies to the whole family. Apostle’s selective guidance give confidence in the quality of pure organic beauty care and also in its effectiveness, unbeatable in quality and value. The
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products, especially those in skin care range, have undergone independent clinical trials, boasting up to 82% effectiveness in skin rejuvenation.
Luscious Luxury,
Outstanding Results Apostle’s secret to beauty is that it is beyond skin deep. Non organic skin care products can leave the body prone to absorbing as many 200 synthetic chemicals per day. Cumulatively this can leave the body prone to toxic build up or allergies. Working in collaboration with the future forward beauty brands, the Boutique bursts with an effervescent range. Not
only are all the products organically certified but they boast technical excellence, bypassing the use of synthetic additives, preservatives and parabens. They work to restore natural vitality and radiance, whilst working in natural harmony with your body. Not only that but all the ingredients are clearly listed with a traceable and clear supply chain, guaranteeing confidence of purity. Founder Emma Denham said, “I wanted to create a tailored service within an online boutique. Our carefully handpicked range offers sumptuous skincare tailored to your skin type and budget from the finest natural products purveyed from across the globe. They all adhere to our commitment to environmental, cultural and ethical sustainability.”
Gorgeous Giving To enhance the Boutique’s
ambiance, Apostle’s divine gift service is second to none. Products are divinely and responsibly packaged and personalized with a chosen greeting and gift box, whilst scented with the gentle fragrance of Ylang Ylang scented oil. Gorgeous giving is a joy as beautiful skin and body care products are gift wrapped and delivered straight to your door or the door of a special loved one.
Antipodes, Bamford, Dr Alkaitis, Erbaviva, Green and Spring, Ila, Kimia, Living Nature, Natural Being, Neal’s Yard, NUDE, Oskia, Pai, Rodin Olio Lusso, Spiezia, Trilogy to the calm and tranquillity of True Grace.
Relax and Luxuriate The mood and grace of the website is a one stop heaven for anyone looking for skin and body care that is of the highest quality at an affordable budget.
Beautiful B ra n d s From a symphony of skin and body care, the Boutique includes John Masters Organics, voted by Elle 2009, to Jo Wood Organics, created using only the highest grade of essential oils and plant extracts. Other award winning brands ensure traceability of the sustainable ingredients, ecological sound values and the lightest of carbon footprints. Choose from
Visit the Apostle Boutique for gorgeous giving for that special someone. A suptous range from the Apostle Gentlemen gift set to the Pure Pleasure bathing and candle set. To enhance customer satisfaction all the production information on all the ranges is available on the website and via the helpline.01843 847692. Relax and luxuriate with Apostle.
Body Beautiful
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Friendly Soaps
Pure
and
Organic
from the Inside by D eborah Miarkowska
Soaps design and make F riendly all their unique organic soaps. This new and innovative soap company believe in being aware of not only what you put in your body but also what you put on it. They have created a range of soaps which are very kind and gentle to the skin and do not contain any harsh foaming agents or strong petro chemical preservatives. There are soaps on the market which do take this approach but the difference with friendly soaps is that they are not boring, bland chunks of soap; they are stylish and indulgent creamy colours and gorgeous designs. Increasingly people are questioning the ingredients used in cosmetics & toiletries, meaning that many are shopping for products which are as natural as possible. Husband & wife team, Rachel & Spencer Wichall found that whilst you may find natural, organic toiletries on the high street they often come with a hefty price tag. As well as being expensive they were generally boring. Combining their desire for affordable, interesting & natural soap with their
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Out
artistic and marketing background Rahel & Spencer have recently launched a new range of organic soaps. Each soap has been individually designed and handmade by Rachel & Spencer. The Gorgeous Range features hearts or stars individually embedded into each soap created with delicate pastel tones and with a choice of fragrances, these soaps complement bathroom schemes. There is also a range specifically for children featuring soaps in the shape of cars and pigs - good clean kiddie fun with kind natural ingredients. Spencer & Rachel have named their company Friendly Soap and after only launching the range before Christmas have sold soaps to over 500 customers. The quality of the product has proven to be as strong as the design with many customers commenting on the beneficial effects the soaps have had on sensitive skin, the natural oils leaving the skin moisturised and nourished. Reflecting the organic theme of the soaps, where possible the packaging is made from recycled materials and the company practices recycling of all waste.
E c o C h i c C o l l e c t i o n M a g a z i n e www.ecochiccollection.co.uk
Y o u ’ r e A S t ar Gift Box Essential Oil Gift Box RRP £17.99 Containing four lemon soaps, with a star individually embedded into each soap and presented in a hand painted (ecofriendly!) gift box. Each ORGANIC soap is blended with Lemongrass Essential Oil and with its stress busting properties is known to calm and relax; perfect for busy lives. The gift boxes can be personalised with individuals’ names so you can treat stepmum, grandma or Aunty Lil with a special message and 4 special soaps! A great birthday or thank you gift!
Unique Organic Soaps Dreamy Daisy Daisy Soap RRP £3.75 Individually boxed in recycled material the Dreamy Daisy sits perfectly on a hand basin or is great in the shower as it fits neatly in the palm of your hand. The Dreamy Daisy is available in two Essential Oils; Lemongrass or Lavender. The Lemongrass Essential Oil soap has stress busting properties and with an citrus smell it is invigorating. The Lavender Essential Oil is wonderfully relaxing and known to aid sleep. Produced by Friendly Soap who ensure all their soaps are organic and do not contain any SLS/SLES or parabens. Body Beautiful
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Spiezia
Launches the Made for n d a t i o n 2009 L i f e FbyoDueborah Miarkowska reathe out into the world that which B you wish to breathe in.Spiezia Organics, the 100% organic skincare
company, has always been passionate about its philosophy - Made for Life. The heartbeat of the company, this philosophy is about making choices that contribute to the well-being of both customer and environment. Knowing that beautiful skin is healthy skin, every choice that Spiezia makes has the future in mind - from the labels on the recycled glass bottles and jars to the product miles in the ingredients. Spiezia has always chosen to lead by example and co-owners of the Company - Amanda Barlow and Sally Read have decided to go one step further with a new initiative - the Made for Life Foundation 2009. Spiezia has set up this foundation to provide complimentary support days for those diagnosed with cancer. Support in form of life coaching, meditation, pampering (organic of course) and nutrition advice - with lots of laughter and care thrown in. The days will all be sponsored by Spiezia and their spa business partners. This is in addition to the ongoing complementary therapy in two palliative care clinics in Cornwall provided by Spiezia’s Spa Development Manager. The first Made of Life Day took place on 28th January 2009 at the award winning Budock Vean Hotel which is situated in 65 acres of organic grounds on the banks of the Helford River. Twenty local women diagnosed with cancer enjoyed a Pamper Day filled with laughter and hugs as well as care, understanding and lots of knowledge.
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“We know that women with cancer are all individuals, not just a statistic, and laughter and care are vital to help them pull through. The feelings which people go through when diagnosed are overwhelming and our ‘Made for Life’ campaign is about linking with our partners to provide complimentary days for women (and in the future men) who need some relaxation, friendship and laughter. Part of our ethos has always been to give something back to society and cancer is something which more and more people are facing these days. All events will be sponsored by Spiezia and our business partners.” said Amanda Barlow, Managing Director of Spiezia Organics. Sally Read, Amanda’s business partner and a qualified Life Coach said “The feedback from the day was amazing. It was really uplifting for everyone involved.“ Further ‘Made for Life’ days are planned across the UK by Spiezia Organics in conjunction with their trading partners including Boscundle Manor Hotel, Archie Browns in Truro, St Michael’s Hotel and Spa in Falmouth, Anthyllis Spa in Edinburgh and the MediSpa in London, owned and managed by Dr Elisabeth Dancey. For further information, visuals and interview requests with Amanda Barlow or Sally Read, the Directors of Spiezia Organics and Founders of the Made for Life Foundation, please contact Jennifer Hall-Thompson at ProActive PR on 020 8682 4785 or email proactivepr@ btinternet.com www.spieziaorganics.com 0870 850 8851 March 2009
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Organics Inside
Where Health
and
Beauty
go
hand in hand
by D eborah Miarkowska
Body Beautiful
the
Natural Way
Organics is the Iandnside one stop shop for beauty health, an online store with an original difference.
If you are looking for a dynamic choice on a range of natural make up, organic beauty products and super foods, then look no further than Inside Organics, who offer holistic beauty from the Inside Out.
Super Foods? Superb Idea Inside Organics is an online company that offers an unbeatable range of the worlds finest natural and certified organic products. You would be wrong to think that this company is run halfheartedly and succeeds by fooling consumers into believing they are buying so- called ‘organic’ brands. This new online store is built upon the art of fusing beauty and super foods together to ensure that you nutritionally feed the inside to improve the outside. Suiting every woman’s desires, they offer skin care and beauty products, body cosmetics, make up, baby products, soaps, vitamins and supplements. But it is their delectable super foods, particularly their berry assortments that offer something of an innovation. Eating fruit and vegetables is essential for one’s healthy growth and development, as a child and an adult. Our modern lifestyles can get busy and often stressful. Convenient fast food establishments are popping up everywhere
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and sometimes it seems that most would swap an apple for a bag of chips. This convenience comes at a high price, not only to your health, but to your beauty and overall well- being too. Fruit offers a vital source of vitamins and minerals for our bodies, and without it in our diets, it can quickly result in the onset of serious nutrient- deficiency illnesses. With recent studies revealing that getting the required fivea-day still isn’t enough to keep our bodies strong, its time for bananas and oranges to move over. A new super food has arrived on the scene and it comes courtesy of Inside Organics.
What’s In A B e rr y ? Most berries are naturally sweet and require such minimal effort to prepare. They contain everything a healthy body needs. Berries of all kinds are rich in Vitamins C, E, B1, B2 and B6, fibre, folic acid and phytonutrients that have been proven to reduce the risk of heart disease. But which berries are the most nutritionally good for you? Inside Organics will help you decide.
The
Importance of Antioxidants Inside Organics’ variety of berries are ready to kick-start those neglected taste buds and most importantly enrich your health. Their Goji, Incan and Mulberry assortments are all extremely high in
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antioxidants that release important diseasefighting compounds. Goji berries are one of the richest antioxidant sources, proving to have more Vitamin C than oranges and more beta-carotene than carrots. They are formidable protectors of eyesight, incredible immune boosters and help reverse obesity. Incan Berries contain an extraordinary level of protein, more than goji berries do, and offer a rich source of bioflavinoids. Bioflavinoids have antiviral, anti- inflammatory, antihistamine and antioxidant properties. They also contain a high level of pectin which is very good for lowering cholesterol. And Mulberries carry Resveratrol, an antioxidant that increases endurance and protects age- related chronic diseases. A recent study undertaken at the University of Nebraska demonstrated that resveratrol also suppresses the abnormal cell growth that leads to most types of breast cancer. In relation to this, if you crave a flawless complexion, have you ever thought about improving it from the inside, by changing what you put ‘into’ instead of ‘onto’ your body? UVA rays and free radicals, due to environmental exposure, are prone to damage skin tissue and we need such antioxidants to protect and repair those broken cells. The skin is the largest organ of the body and as it receives the most antioxidants you digest, they naturally shield it from the inside out like no
regular sunscreen or moisturiser could ever do.
Time To Kick Old Habits Recent evidence has revealed that regardless of whether you receive your five- a- day or hardly eat any fruit at all, it is not enough to reduce the risk of body fragility or worse, life- threatening illnesses. The European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition found that if people ate two more portions a day on average, then 2.6 per cent of cancers in men and 2.3 per cent in women could be prevented. And although this is a small percentage, its still an important contribution. Evidence from the EPIC study also showed that by incorporating more fruit and vegetables into diets could reduce the risk of cancers of the mouth, larynx, oesophagus, bowel and lung. These types of cancers equate to around 7,200 cases every year in the UK alone. Dr Rachel Thompson, Science Programme Manager for World Cancer Research Fund said: ‘Even if fruits and vegetables did not directly reduce risk, it would still be a good idea to eat them because people who eat plenty of (them) are less likely to become overweight. Scientists now say that, after not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight is the most important thing you can do for cancer prevention.’ With 19,000 cases of cancer relating to obesity or being overweight in the UK, statistics show that
by eating fruit, its not only better for you, but part of a larger package to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Alongside this, the Spanish arm of the EPIC study also found that people who ate the most fruit and vegetables were around a quarter less likely to die of chronic diseases at any given age, then people who ate less.
B e rr y G o o d For You So, its time to kick those old habits and liberate your taste buds. No need to feel guilty about having 1,2,3 or a handful of tasty treats with Inside Organics’ delicious range of wild berries. Its pure organic indulgence. Resembling a flavour combination of cranberries and cherries, the Sunfood Goji Berries are enticingly sweet and great
to snack on straight from the bag. Enjoy in a number of unique ways by adding them to smoothies, desserts, juices, or try infused in tea or water for a tasty hydrating drink. And for the ultimate chocolate therapeutic experience, try Navitas Naturals Organic Chocolate- Goji Berry Kit. Life is just not worth living without chocolate in it and you can now indulge yourself in plenty. Sugar, dairy and gluten free, its suitable for vegetarians and vegans. If your not a goji berry kind of person why not try the Sunfood Incan Berries, grown in the exotic Peruvian Andes, for a tangier essence? With a flavour like a sweet and sour lemon sherbet candy, you are sure to fall in love with them straight away. Navitas Naturals Raw mulberries are grown in the fine lands of Turkey and have been harvested their
Body Beautiful
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for centuries. They have been considered a national treasure due to their incredible taste and closely resemble a fig in flavour and texture. Mix these special whole white mulberries into pancakes, muffins and home-made bakes for a healthy alternative. If you like all that you see, why not try Navitas Naturals Trial Mix that combines goji berries, mulberries, and incan berries together. Or try the cacao, cashews, goji, mulberries and incan mix for a nutty- power fuelled twist. Perfect as a snack or a good hearty lunch. If you regularly forget to eat enough fruit, an excellent supplement to tackle this problem is Inside Organics’ Antioxidant Nutrient Complex capsules that will boost your system with vital nutrients. With such a huge range of different vitamins and supplements on offer you are sure to find something that your body either desires or needs.
A N a t u ra l A n d Organic Beauty Range But whether you are looking to change your lifestyle or are on a quest to find brilliant alternative health and beauty products, be sure to visit Inside Organics. Choose from a range of goodies for all, including products for men and children. To achieve that flawless complexion why not try Green People Fruitful Night cream, use EarthFriendlyBaby bubble bath to gently nourish the little ones or treat the other
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it starts with nutritionally feeding the body first. Eat well, live well and reap the benefits.
Inside Organics
half to some seductive scents with Lavera’s After Shave balm.
C o l l a b o ra t e s With A Nutritional Consultant
The Devita range offers something quite exceptional. One product that caught our eye eas Some Enchanted Evening, a richly nourishing moisturiser, bursting with pure ingredients, including age defying Palmitoyl tripeptide-5 (mega collagen and elastin booster). Described as a nourishing, yet breathable moisturizer that drenches and invigorates the skin in nighttime support with Certified Organic Aloe vera, Avocado oil, and Hyaluronic acid (natures own moisture boost) which all work together to help replenish and condition the skin overnight. Add to this our exclusive blend of exotic essential oils featuring Frankincense, Sisymbrium and Palmarosa for a truly unique, and rejuvenating experience - enchanting! DeVita skin care products are 100 percent Vegan and Paraben Free. They are considered Gluten Sensitive Safe and never contain GMO’s or tested on animals (only humans!).
If this were not enough, Inside Organics are working with Tammy Watson, a nutritionist consultant and qualified holistic nutritionist. Together with Tamm, Inside Organics very carefully investigate the ingredients lists of each of their products. Tammy Watson, is a person with a passion for holistic living. She has developed her own weight management and healthy lifestyle program and has been a help and inspiration to her community and family. She graduated from Clayton College with a BSC honors in holistic nutrition. Her past working experience for many years in the field, along with her education has given her the ability to become successful and she has gained extraordinary support from everyone who has given her a chance to assist them in living a healthier and prosperous lifestyle.
Inside Organics has heart and promises you one thing: no hidden nasties in any of their certified organic products. They offer you information on what’s needed to maintain health and natural beauty from the inside out, and
Early 2011, Inside Organics we will be offering affordable tailor made Nutritional plans to target different needs. Do take a look at Inside Organics - where your Health and Beauty are in viewed from the inside out.
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Organics Spiezia
C e l e b ra t i n g 10 Y e ar s by D eborah Miarkowska
piezia Organics are celebrating. A S decade since its inception by original founder and formulator, Dr
Mariano Spiezia in 1999. A great deal has changed in the organic skincare market since Amanda Barlow and co-director Sally Read invested in Spiezia in 2002. Amanda and Sally helped Spiezia grow from a cottage industry to an internationally recognised brand which has won many awards and accolades for its promotion of the benefits of organic chemical free skincare as well as Spiezia’s ethical approach to business.
The original formulations, methods and processes created by Dr. Spiezia 10 years ago are still used to hand make the wonderful Spiezia products at Gear Farm in Cornwall. The team at Spiezia have all retained the ethos and philosophy of the original formulations and have used these to create new products such as the Lemongrass and Marigold Body Scrub and Rose and Chamomile Gentle Face Scrub. This ensures that Spiezia Organics is still the authentic brand and is well deserving of the Soil Association accreditation across 100% of the range. To celebrate read our 10 Feel Good Factors about the Spiezia 100% Organic range
Made For Life On Tour Part of our ethos has always been to give back and we held a number of Made for Life events across the UK in October, which is Breast Cancer awareness month. Supported brilliantly by Harvey Nichols stores and wonderful hairdressers from My New Hair plus make-up artists using organic and mineral based make-up, we massaged and gave Reiki to Mums and daughters, sisters and friends and people newly diagnosed as well as recovered all attended. A big thanks to all who made it happen - you know who you are.
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Beyond Organic
Skincare
A Beautiful Handmade Story by D eborah Miarkowska
eyond Organic Skincare are a small, B family business, based in Cornwall in a heartbreakingly beautiful part of the Lizard Peninsula.
We hand make all our products in our workshop overlooking St. Anthony’s and ‘beyond’ to St Mawes and Falmouth. All of our products are certified organic by the BDAA (Biodynamic Agricultural Association),UK6 and EU Regulation 2092/91, and have been Safety Tested in compliance with Cosmetic Products Safety Regulations. All of the ingredients in our products are certified organic at source. We have just started using a cutting edge natural plant extract which is totally natural and non-allergic which cuts out the need for a preservative. We call ourselves ‘Beyond’ organic as we go further than just being organic and take a holistic, biodynamic, ethical approach to our production techniques. All of our (slightly nutty) team are committed to organics, recycling, natural, ecological, fair-trade and carbon footprint issues. Our Products are not tested on animals and are all suitable for vegetarians. Some are also vegan friendly. They are handmade, 100% natural and certified organic. We have won two Top Awards for Facial skincare and have also been given the ‘Gold Seal of Approval’ by Dr Marilyn Glenvillle PhD – her highest award in her exacting requirements. We use only those ingredients that are beneficial and that in synergy with each other create a special, holistic formula that exceeds the sum of its individual ingredients.
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We Do Not Use Parabens, Synthetic Fragrances, Colourants, sodium Lauryl/Laurel sulphate, Ethyl alcohol, PEG’s, Petrochemicals, Formaldehyde, DEA, TEA, Urea, genetically modified materials, emulsifiers with hidden additives, synthetic additives or any other harsh and unnecessary chemicals. We do not even use the following synthetic ingredients, which are allowed in Certified Organic products: Benzoic acid, Salicylic acid, Sorbic acid, Benzyl alcohol.
We Do Use
Fantastic natural, organic ingredients, in generous amounts. All our products are rich in Omegas 3,6, 7 & 9 (essential for the health and elasticity of the skin), vitamins A, B, C,D & E and antioxidants. Plant and herb extracts infused ‘in house’ to extract the maximum vibrancy and goodness from them. Therapeutic extracts. Recyclable packaging coloured with vegetable dye to protect the therapeutic ingredients from light. Nature has supplied ALL we need to nurture us – chemical additives are not only bad for you, because they are absorbed into the body – they do not help the skin either. Let’s face it – if all the claims made for various products worked, we would all be walking around with skins like a 20 year old! However, if you are sensible and ‘feed’ the skin in a very similar way to that which you feed your body, then you can help with the overall health, elasticity and tone of the skin. The Beyond Organic Skincare Team.
E c o C h i c C o l l e c t i o n M a g a z i n e www.ecochiccollection.co.uk
Body Beautiful
the
Natural & Organic Way
Body Beautiful
the
Natural Way