Are you a “Jr. Detective” when it comes to ingredients? You’re not alone! In today’s world, understanding what we put in and on our bodies is more important than ever. From food dyes to the latest wellness trends, knowledge is power. As your happy soap and skincare essential maker at Hazel’s Soapery, I want to share a crucial insight into the world of cosmetics and why “knowing your ingredients” is key.
Cosmetics vs. Medicine: Understanding the “Rules”
As cosmetic creators, we operate under specific legal guidelines. What does that mean for you? It means our products are made to cleanse, beautify, promote attractiveness, or alter appearance – not to treat, cure, or prevent disease. This distinction is vital, and here’s why:
- Different “Rules” for Different Claims: The regulations for medicinal products (drugs) are vastly different from those for cosmetics. Drugs undergo rigorous testing and approval processes to ensure safety and efficacy for their intended medicinal use. Cosmetics do not.
- Consumer Protection: These “rules” are designed to protect YOU. They prevent cosmetic companies from making unsubstantiated claims that could mislead consumers or delay proper medical treatment.
The Delicate Dance: Educating Without Claiming
This is where it gets tricky for us makers! We spend countless hours researching ingredients, understanding their properties, and creating combinations we believe in. We want to shout it from the rooftops when we discover something amazing!
For instance, I’m often asked, “Do you have anything for eczema?” And while I can’t say, “This product will cure your eczema,” I can say:
- “This product contains emollients, which are known to aid in retaining moisture in the skin.”
- “We use humectants in this formulation, ingredients that help draw moisture to the skin.”
- “This soap features ingredients known for their skin-conditioning properties.”
Why this matters: We provide you with the information about the ingredient’s cosmetic function (like moisturizing, softening, or conditioning) so you can make an informed choice, based on your own research and conversations with your physician.
Your Power: Knowledge and Smart Choices
So, what should you do as an informed consumer?
- Be Skeptical of “Cures”: Be wary of cosmetic brands making bold medicinal claims without verifiable proof or proper regulatory approval. Ask if their products have undergone scientific testing to back up such claims.
- Do Your Own Research: Continue to be that “Jr. Detective”! Research ingredients, understand their cosmetic properties, and consult with healthcare professionals for medical conditions.
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your soapmaker or skincare creator about the intended cosmetic use of their ingredients. We love to share our knowledge within the legal parameters.
- Know Thy Ingredients: This remains our mantra! Knowledge is the path to a healthier life. Even if we can’t say a product “cures” something, you can be wise in choosing what you want to try based on the cosmetic benefits the ingredients offer.
At Hazel’s Soapery, you won’t find us claiming a cure for your 14th toe or using magic dragon’s breath for halitosis! You will find carefully crafted, luxurious skincare essentials made with thoughtfully chosen ingredients. If other wonderful things follow from using products that nourish and enhance your skin, then count it all joy!
It’s remarkable to see the cutting-edge research happening in this space. For example, there’s incredible work being done, such as Heman Bekele researching how soap might be used to treat or combat cancer. This truly shows the potential when scientific rigor meets product development – something that is distinct from what your local maker can typically claim.
Heman Bekele, the young scientist who garnered national attention for his innovative cancer-fighting soap, continues to inspire with his groundbreaking research. TIME’s 2024 Kid of the Year
Ready to Empower Your Skincare Choices?
At Hazel’s Soapery, we believe that an informed customer is a confident customer. We invite you to explore our carefully crafted collection, where every product description transparently highlights the intended cosmetic uses of our high-quality ingredients. Discover how our handcrafted soaps and skin essentials can enhance your daily routine, leaving your skin feeling loved and looking its best.
Click here to shop Hazel’s Soapery and embark on your journey to truly understanding what you put on your skin!
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