Organic September
Organic September is an important month for us as we realise the importance and benefits of using Organic products.
Organic September allows us to share and promote information on organic products and how they help eco systems, people, animals and the soil we get these ingredients from.
So, what are Organic products?
Organic products have ingredients that are from Organic origin. So, when they were farmed and cultivated with no artificial pesticides, no artificial fertilisers, no genetic modification, no artificial colours or preservatives were used to grow the ingredients. This helps to keep the soil healthy.
What are Artificial Pesticides?
Artificial Pesticides are chemicals that are designed to kill pests and insects which can include weeds and fungal diseases. Instead of farmers relying on pesticides organic farming creates a balance of plants and animals to prevent pests.
What are Artificial Fertilisers?
Artificial fertilisers are manufactured from petrol or natural gas. They can release their nutrients into the soil very quickly but excess nitrogen from the fertiliser can get into the water supply which can cause fish to die and other harm to its surroundings.
What is Genetic Modification?
Genetic Modification is a technology that involves inserting DNA into the genome of an organism. To produce a Genetically Modified plant, new DNA is transferred into the plant cells. The biggest threat that is caused by Genetically Modified products is that they can have harmful effects on the human body like the development of diseases that are immune to antibiotics.
What are Artificial Colours and Preservatives?
Artificial Colours are synthetic additives that are combined to make a single colour. Up to 25 synthetic additives are needed to create one artificial dye. Yet a colour like purple can take up to 50. The toxins within the artificial colours can increase a risk or skin sensitivity and irritation, which they can then be absorbed into your body for further damage.
Conventional cosmetic products use synthetic preservatives that release formaldehyde over time as a way to preserve products. Some examples of these preservatives in cosmetics are DMDMH, bromopol and glyoxal that are used as antimicrobials in moisturisers. Studies show that these harmful preservatives can mimic oestrogen production which can lead to hormonal, metabolic and neurological disorders.
So, what should I look for instead?
When choosing a new cosmetic product, you should look for organic certifications. This makes sure the product you buy uses organic ingredients that don’t cause harm to your skin or your health as it has been passed by standards set under UK and EU law.
We have added images of some organic certification logos that have high standards.
