Label Reading… What Language Is This Stuff Written In?
Have you ever looked at the label of your skincare and thought, “Seriously, what language is this stuff written in?!?!?”
Trust us, YOU’RE NOT ALONE!
To be quite frank, this is precisely how we (Tahitian Pearl) came to realize the tremendous need for truly wholesome nourishing skincare products. We’d spent thousands of dollars on various skincare products in hopes of finding that something wonderful we could feel good about recommending to our adored clients (YOU). Sadly, nothing came close. This led us to resort to learning a new language, aka “Reading Labels”. Lol
The journey has been fascinating, frustrating and fulfilling for sure.
First, understand that it isn’t quite as daunting as it seems to get a quick snippet of info regarding the toxicity of each or even just one or two ingredients on the label. Simply right-click and Google search the name for multiple information resources. We suggest always looking at reliable industry respected sources.
Second, understand that labeling practices often utilize the INCI “International nomenclature of cosmetic ingredients”. Essentially INCI is the scientific term, which seems like foreign wording. Notice, however, that the common or more familiar name often follows in parentheses on the ingredients list making it much easier to understand.
Third and quite possibly the most important fact, ingredients are listed in descending order. This means that the first ingredient has the largest amount and the last ingredient has the least in the product. One of the reasons this is so important to know is because MANY skincare companies make the misleading claim to having nourishing ingredients in them, but the amount is at the bottom of the list & is so minimal that it has little or no benefit to our complexion. But they can’t fool you now!
Fourth, are the wolves in sheep’s clothing: harsh preservatives, petroleum-based ingredients, synthetic fragrances, and allergens/irritants. Let’s go back to right clicking and searching Google to find out what level of toxicity these often ‘bad boys’ rate. Did you know that there are preservatives that are allowed in U.S. skincare products, but have been restricted in Japan? For instance, according to EWG.org, IBPC is a water-soluble preservative that is acutely toxic by inhalation with a toxicity rating of 4-6 and was primarily used to preserve paint. Although this preservative retards bacterial growth, there is no doubt cause for concern on the long term affects it might have on us as it is often found in lotions, creams, lip balms, foundations, mascaras and more. Synthetic fragrances, petroleum-based ingredients, allergens & irritant are of utmost importance to understand as well. Any one of these can wreak havoc on the important eco-system of our skin without us even knowing until it’s a full blown issue. We will go into more detail on these culprits in a future blog, so stay tuned.
Let us be very clear Pearl Fam, knowing this information is NOT intended to create PANIC! Knowledge is power and once you have that knowledge you are EMPOWERED to choose the best path towards your Pristine Complexion. Take the challenge if you’re not already using Tahitian Pearl Skincare; right click each ingredient on your skincare product’s label. You might be shocked to learn what you’ve been slathering on your body’s largest organ. But not to worry, it’s never too late to change course to a brighter, healthier, Pristine Complexion.
It’s all about the wholesome nourishment! XOXOX
Shop our wholesome skincare line here.
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