Organic food, cotton, and... Cosmetics?

In a world where we are surrounded by products made with chemicals and other synthetic materials, it is no wonder that people have started to crave for things that are all natural. From organic foods to organic clothing, people are now trying to live a healthy and Eco-friendly lifestyle. With all these organic products coming up, who knew that one day we will have organic beauty products?

Why buy organic cosmetics?

The problem with over-the-counter cosmetics is that they are full of chemicals which are not only harmful to the skin, but to the rest of our bodies as well. One example is Dimethicone, used for moisturizers, which actually can irritate the skin and clog pores. Parabens on the other hand, used for prolonging shelf life is an allergens and may cause premature aging. Ever heard of Triethanolamine? Some studies show that there is a possibility it can cause cancer.

Organic products on the other hand use only 100% natural products which minimizes or completely removes any harmful effects. Ingredients such as sunflower oil or virgin coconut oil are better and more gentle alternatives on moisturizing the skin, while anise seeds are used for prolonging shelf life.

Another reason why it is a good idea to invest in organic products is that it is Eco-friendly! Without the harmful chemicals, it is nice to know that using these products won't harm the environment.

But organic products are so expensive!

True. Most, if not all organic products are expensive. But do the benefits outweigh the costs? Also, there are a number of brands (including my personal favorite which I will write about later!) that are sold in much cheaper prices!

One example is Human Heart Nature, a Philippine cosmetic brand, started by Englishman Dylan Wilk and Filipino Anna Meloto-Wilk, launched this social enterprise last November 2008 that brings affordable organic products while being pro-Philippines, pro-poor, and pro-environment. Today, HHN is a growing company with retailers in other countries such as the USA. What is so great about this company is that it continuously uses Philippine produce and helps the poor such as various Gawad Kalinga communities (the habitat of humanities version in the Philippines).

Their products range from hair care products such as shampoos and hair masks, to mineral powders and blush-ons. And you know what is great about these products? They are all cheap! Some examples are their mineral blush-ons for $7.00, Super fruits and black rice facial scrub for $5.99, and avocado and seaweed conditioner for $1.59! Who knew organic can be cheap!

Despite all the negative effects of technological advances, it is somewhat reassuring to know that steps have been made to reverse or halt these effects from getting worse, without drastically changing our lifestyle. So, if you are one of those people who want to start living a clean and "natural" lifestyle, I hope you consider going organic!

* For more information on Human Heart Nature, check the first link below!