by Amanda Horst

Created on: May 05, 2008

In the realm of skin care products there are many, many choices. But as our society is becoming more and more label conscious, we are noticing some things are not right. Animal testing on beauty products (anything put out by Proctor and Gamble is suspect), harsh chemicals that age the skin and cause adverse allergic reactions, etc are all factors that tell us maybe we should look elsewhere for our skin care products. Full moon organics was the first thing I tried and they were amazing. They make lotions, lip balms, soaps and the price for their products is typically under $10. Most of their products are 80% organic or better and include natural ingredients such as calendula balm (a balm made from calendula flowers that has proved to help diaper rash, dry skin, sun burn and other skin conditions) and grape seed oil (a great antioxidant). They are of course labeled as being cruelty free. I found these products at a local health food store. Nature's Gate, a company that primarily makes all natural skin care products has started an organic line. These products are typically under $10 and include shampoos, conditioners, lotions, hand soaps, body soaps, etc. They are 75% organic or better. I found these products at a health food grocer and was very impressed with the quality and affordability. They too are cruelty free. Another product line to consider is Avalon Organics, these products as well (you guessed it) I found at the local health food store. These products are also 80% organic or better and include lotions, body scrubs, soaps, shampoos and conditioners, facial moisturizers, toners, etc. Avalon Organics are more expensive than Full moon organics and Nature's Gate, but are comparable in price to Oil of Olay and the like. They are also labeled to be cruelty free. Another factor to consider is deodorant. Many mainstream deodorant's/anti-perspirants made for women have an ingredient that has been linked to cancer (aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex GLY). Avalon organics and Nature's gate both make deodorants free of this harmful chemical, but the Nature's Gate variety I have found is not as effective as the Avalon Organics. I have never had any adverse reaction to these products. As a person with very sensitive skin, the lack of reaction is very important to me! Non-organic products made by major companies have "sensitive skin" versions and though I have tried them and they have worked in a pinch, I prefer to put things on (and in for that matter) my body that have ingredients that I can pronounce! I am proud to say that there are more and more every day, and that consumer choice is playing a big part in that!

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