What is Green Washing?

Greenwashing? You may have heard this term before but might not know what it means. Greenwashing is a term used to refer to companies who portray their product as organic but which have non-organic ingredients. It is a deceptive practice which preys on unsuspecting consumers who are trying to go green with their choices but are unknowingly being led to believe the products they use are safe for themselves and the environment. This practice is dishonest and unfair. Once again, it’s profits over people.

It was recently found that many companies with the “ecocert” organic certification contained many ingredients that have no business being in a product labeled “organic.” Ingredients such as sulfates, preservatives, and phenoxyethanol. These are all substances that are harmful to the body, causing irritation, organ problems and cancer. Many of the ingredients in such products are tainted with pesticides and can produce 1,4 dioxane, a carcinogen. And they are labeled “organic?” You have got to be kidding me. I don’t know about you, but this pisses me off! We put our trust into these companies and they are pulling the wool over our eyes! Now you see just how important it is to become knowledgeable about ingredients and be a vigilant label reader. Look for my Toxic Beauty ebook soon- Saving Face: Exposing Toxic Beauty Products. It will be your must-have guide so you know what is in your products and what diseases these chemicals can cause.

I urge you to take a look at the ingredient labels of your most trusted products. Is it labeled organic? Does it have ingredients that are far from organic? For a list of the offending companies and how to take action so green washing of cosmetic products can be stopped click here: Organic Consumers Association. You may be surprised at the companies you see on the list! Any thoughts? Please leave a comment below.

Stay natural…stay beautiful…go green!

Robin