Since scientists now suggest that up to 60% of what we apply to our skin can be absorbed into our bodies, there is growing concern that the use of synthetically produced chemicals in personal care products could pose a threat to our health. While people are becoming increasingly health conscious and keen to adopt a more ethical lifestyle, the safety of such products is therefore emerging as a main consideration.
Consequently, there is a rising demand for products that are based on milder, natural and organic ingredients such as plant extracts, and vegetable and essential oils, rather than chemicals and synthetic compounds. However, with an absence of official regulations and research about these ingredients, it is difficult for people to distinguish between legitimate natural products and conventional high street ones, despite there being a marked difference.
Unless compositions are scrutinized in an informed way, ‘natural’ or ‘organic’ labels can currently be misleading, because pseudo-natural and organic products (including many found in Health Food Shops) may also contain chemicals with a known risk to health.
For this reason, The Natural Shop strives to provide clear, up-to-date information and resources about ingredients, health issues, and widely used chemicals that are best avoided. All products on the site are carefully researched to ensure that they only ever contain substances that are proven safe and effective, and are never tested on animals.
Particularly positive feedback has been received from allergy sufferers, and people with sensitive skin, or skin conditions like eczema. Likewise, as awareness increases about the added vulnerability of babies and children (partly due to the fact that their skin is more permeable), parents are especially keen on some of the creams and the natural head lice treatment.
A variety of eco-gadgets and gifts add to the choice, and include recycled wine glasses, the Paper Potter which makes plant pots out of recycled newspaper, water powered clocks, solar powered phone chargers and toys, and the Solar Powered Sun Jar (above).
The collection has a limited carbon footprint, being mainly sourced from manufacturers and distributors directly, without extra transportation to The Natural Shop. The Natural Shop packaging is also environmentally sensitive, using only materials that are recycled and/or recyclable – including re-used packaging from manufacturers.
The Natural Shop, one of the web’s largest selections of ethical products for the home and body, provides natural and eco-friendly items for a healthy, environmentally-
Contact:
Julie Gibson B.A., M.Sc.
Local rate 0845 6522654