Triclosan is a synthetic chemical with antimicrobial properties which destroy or inhibit the growth of microorganisms like bacteria or fungi. That sounds like a good thing? Well…. it used to be but then things went the wrong way… When triclosan was first introduced in the early 70's for use in hospitals, it actually was a good thing, as it is crucial to keep medical instruments sterile. … [Read more...]
When you see labels that say sulfate free, do you wonder if there's something wrong with sulfates as an ingredient? If you answered yes, then you are right.... Using sulfates in your shampoo is like using laundry detergent in your hair. Shampoo is like magic…. How quickly it turns into foam when mixed with water… this is truly a sensual experience. Icky though, the reason for that is … [Read more...]
The chemical enemy #1….. multifactorial, ubiquitous… with pervasive presence and effects. Commonly used in nail polish, soaps, shampoos, hair and even in polyvinyl chloride plastic (PVC) to make it flexible. Other PVC applications include: glue, vinyl flooring, rain coats, food storage containers and medical tubing….. Used to create a “hard flexibility” for nail polish and it helps extend … [Read more...]
Would you ever use mineral oil to moisturize your skin. What about your vagina? Or on your child that has a diaper rash? Or as a personal lubricant? Petrolatum is the “petroleum jelly” that was a popular product way back in the 70’s and 80’s when little research had been done on it. Now, petrolatum goes often by names such as paraffin oil, mineral oil, and white petrolatum by the brand name, … [Read more...]
Do you really know how BAD parabens actually are for you? Parabens are very common preservatives that are used to counteract the growth of bacteria, typically in water-based formulations. Parabens are a HUGE problem in beauty because they are used in an estimated 75% to 90% of cosmetic products. Parabens mimic estrogen and are bad hormone disruptors. So, how bad are parabens? Parabens … [Read more...]
Would you use windshield wiper fluid on your skin as a moisturizer or as a lubricant? Because that's pretty much what you've been doing if you're not using 100% natural products. The problem is polyethylene glycols, also known as PEG, which are petroleum derived alcohols from ethylene glycol. And guess what? This is what the main ingredient in antifreeze. Related products are propylene … [Read more...]
Do you know what the most common bad ingredient is in topical products, cosmetics and lubricants? If your answer is water, you're correct. You might think, hey, water is not a chemical. But here's the gist. If you put water in a product, bacteria will surely grow. Think about how you can create a sourdough starter out of yeast in the air, sugar and water. There are organisms everywhere in our … [Read more...]
Annette and Chia Chia discuss the transition going into menopause, what their mother's never told them, and why talking to their daughters is incredibly important. The discussions surrounding menopause needs to be out in the open. Most women are under a misconception that menopause is just a “phase” or a transition time that they can eventually “get through”. These women don’t realize that we … [Read more...]
What would you suggest to someone who has been searching for a good vaginal moisturizer? Vodka maybe? I can hear you think. Absurd, right? Why would you use alcohol on your vagina or even skin that is and feels very dehydrating? Yes, it's totally absurd and it is correct. Alcohols are dehydrating, especially for lubricants. This is a mind boggling issue since lubricants are purchased to … [Read more...]
Have you ever tried to pronounce some of the ingredients that are listed on a beautiful, very well designed perfume bottle? Fragrance doesn't refer to a chemical, it's actually a loophole that is used to classify 3999 ingredients. Take a look at the International Fragrance Association's ironically named Transparency list. It's not just perfumes. Did you know that 75% of the fragrance is used … [Read more...]
