Reading household and personal care product labels can often feel like reading a foreign language. We’re bombarded with fancy-sounding words that claim to be free of certain potentially harmful ingredients and deliver miracle-like benefits. But how can we be certain whether those claims are fact or fiction? Especially considering that as long as a product or ingredient doesn’t claim to alter the body’s structure or function, it doesn’t require the FDA’s approval in order to be marketed to the public.
This helpful guide will dive into what different product labels mean to help you make an educated buying decision.
Natural and All Natural: A product labeled as “natural” has to contain at least one natural ingredient. However, this does not mean that the product is organic or free of chemicals – after all, many chemicals are natural. If you see “all natural” or “100% natural” on a label, it simply means that the product does not contain any synthetic ingredients.
Organic: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) certifies organic food ingredients found in cosmetics and personal care items. In order to carry the USDA Organic seal, a product must contain at least 95 percent organic food.
Hypoallergenic: Hypoallergenic means that ingredients in a product have been shown to be gentler on sensitive skin; it does not mean that an ingredient won’t cause a reaction. Often, hypoallergenic products contain little to no fragrances, preservatives, parabens, sulfates, and phthalates – ingredients that are known to cause problems for people with sensitive skin.
Natural Fragrances: Products that contain natural fragrances have ingredients that are derived from natural and raw materials.
Unscented: Even if a product is labeled as “unscented”, it could still contain fragrances. Unscented products often contain certain chemicals that are designed to mask or neutralize fragrances and odors released by other ingredients.
Fragrance-Free: Unlike products labeled as “unscented”, fragrance-free products are free from any fragrance or masking materials used to neutralize unpleasant smells released by other ingredients. Such products are found to be gentler on sensitive skin.
Non-Comedogenic: Comedos or comedones are clogged pores. Open comedones are typically referred to as blackheads whereas closed comedones are more commonly known as whiteheads. Non-comedogenic products have a lighter texture and less oily ingredients, making them more suitable for oily or acne-prone skin. However, there is no guarantee that a non-comedogenic product won’t cause breakouts.
Sulfate-Free: Sulfates are surfactants (or detergents) commonly found in haircare products. They are known to cause irritation to the skin, as well as the scalp. Sulfates are especially problematic for mature hair because they can strip hair of its natural balance of oils leading to dryness and breakage.
Paraben-Free: Parabens are preservatives commonly found in hair and beauty products. They have been linked to increased estrogen in women and various skin and scalp issues. Look for products labeled “paraben-free” or scan labels for any ingredients ending with the word “paraben,” such as methylparaben.
Phthalate-Free: Phthalates are a group of chemicals that can be found in cosmetics, haircare products, vinyl flooring, and plastics. While certain phthalates have affected the reproductive systems of animals, more research is needed to learn how they affect humans. Products stating that they are phthalate-free means they do not contain these chemicals.
Clean: When a product is labeled as “clean”, it means that it does not contain irritating or potentially toxic ingredients, whether natural or synthetic. Some companies take it a step further and define “clean” as products that are mindfully sourced, created, and produced without any proven or suspected toxic ingredients. However, just because a product or ingredient is “clean” does not guarantee that a person will not have a negative reaction to it.
Every day, all sorts of chemicals and pollutants infiltrate our homes. Some originate from within, like the household cleaning, beauty, and personal care products we use. Others are ushered in through open windows and doors, on clothing, and the bottom of our shoes. In fact, according to the EPA, indoor air – on average – is twice as polluted as the air outdoors. For fresher, cleaner, and healthier indoor air that never quits, contact Optimum Air today for a free assessment of your indoor air quality needs.