More details on the Nasties.....

Parabens~ one of the most commonly used group of preservatives in cosmetics and skincare. Paraben is the common name for this class of chemical; however they are also known by other names such as esters of p-hydroxybenzoic acid. They provide bacteriostatic and fungistatic activity against a diverse number of organisms. Research has shown a link between parabens in cosmetics and breast cancer. Parabens have been found in breast tumour tissues, through these studies.

Sulphates~ serves as a base surfactant and foaming agent, commonly used in cleansers, shower gels and shampoo. Research shows sulphates lead to skin sensitisation and impaired barrier function. Our products are sulphate free.

MIT (Methylisothiazolinone) ~ is a powerful biocide and preservative. It is frequently used in personal care products such as shampoos and other hair care products, as well as certain paint formulations. However some studies have shown it to be allergenic and cytotoxic, and this has led to some concern over its use. Reports have shown that MIT had been linked to nerve cell death in scientific studies.

Artificial Fragrances ~ synthetic fragrances are added to cosmetics and skincare for aroma. Fragrances have also been the source of cosmetic allergies. An FDA study determined that more than 1 percent of all cosmetic allegoric contact dermatitis cases were due to fragrances. Observations indicate that in reality, this percentage may be significantly higher: 7 to 18 percent of all individuals may have some form of sensitivity or intolerance to fragrance. Fragrance is also known to photo-sensitise the skin.

Artificial Colours ~ colour can be found listed as FD&C, D&C, and Ext. Colours are known to have a comedogenic effect on the skin as well as potential skin sensitiser.

Lanolin ~ derivative formed by a fat like viscous secretion of the sheep�s sebaceous glands. Used as an emollient with moisturising properties. Potentially sensitising to the skin and potentially irritating to the philosebacous unit, which may lead to formation of comedones/millia. Has a history of pesticide residuals.

SD Alcohol ~ widely used in the cosmetic industry as an antiseptic and a solvent given its strong grease dissolving abilities. SD Alcohol is drying and sensitising to the skin, particularly when used in high concentrations.

Isopropyl Myristate ~ used as an emollient, moisturiser, and skin softener that also assists in product penetration. Has a tendency to be extremely irritating to the skin and has the potential to cause breakout as it creeps into follicles, causing irritation and over stimulation of the sebaceous glands.

Formaldehyde~ preservative used in cosmetics & skincare. Medical journals have documented the negative effects of formaldehyde exposure to include: dizziness, nausea, fatigue, reduced limb strength, headaches, eye, nose, throat irritation, breathing difficulties, shortness of breath, excessive phlegm, dermatitis, chest pain, wheezing, diarrhoea, vomiting, etc. Formaldehyde is classified as a probable human carcinogen by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and as a known human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

Diazolidinyl Urea ~ a formaldehyde donor, details as above.

Petroleum By-Products/Coal Tars/ Mineral Oil ~ all by-products in the distillation of petroleum, and are used in some industries as metal-cutting fluids and mining filtration fluids for heavy and rare metal separation. Known to have an occlusive effect on the skin, thus not allowing the skin to function optimally, may also have a comedogenic effect.

Animal Derived Products ~ nearly all export markets (unfortunately not Australia) require for importation at least a bovine free certificate after the outbreak of mad cow�s disease. BE future proofed all its formulations against new outbreaks like bird flu and other possible late to detect risk factors from commonly used animal by-products by using only plant derived ingredients.

Testing on Animals ~ this cruel, time-honoured European and American practice is just unnecessary if you don't use questionable chemical compounds and have a conscience. Botanical Extracts is not tested on animals.