Beauty from the Earth
Believe it or not, the key to a more eco-friendly salon could be sitting on your shelf.
By Alicia McAuley
In the March issue of Salon Magazine, we challenge our readers to ask the question: Is my salon ready for an eco makeover? If the answer is yes, then take a good look at what’s on your shelves. A major part of any eco makeover involves an evaluation of the products your salon is currently using. And having organic options can be a great first step towards an eco-friendly salon life.
What is ‘Organic’?
The word ‘organic’ refers to products that have been grown without the use of pesticides or artificial fertilizers. By removing toxic substances from the process, organic farmers are able to protect our soil and water supply. Although we usually think of organics in terms of food, there has been a large movement recently to incorporate organically produced ingredients into beauty products from cosmetics to hair care.
Who decides?
Depending on the country you’re in, organic materials are either regulated by a government body (like the USDA NOP) or a private organization with its own set of organic standards (like Soil Association or EcoCert).
How can you tell if it’s organic?
Organic products should state their organic status right on the label. Look for terms like “Organic”, “Certified Organic” and “Made with Organic Ingredients.” However, be cautious – not all products that claim to be organic truly are. A few additional things to look for:
• A list of which ingredients are organic
• If a product is labeled “certified organic,”
look for the name and address of the certification agent. According to USDA standards, it has to be there!
What’s the difference?
According to the standards set by the United States Department of Agriculture National Organics Program (USDA NOP), products labeled “organic” or “certified organic” must be comprised of at least 95 per cent organic ingredients (excluding water and salt). Any additional product ingredients must adhere to a NOP-approved list of non-agricultural substances. Products labeled “made with organic ingredients” must have a ratio of 70 per cent organic ingredients to 30 per cent non-agricultural substances.
Organic vs. Natural
There is a difference between products that are labeled “organic” and ones that are labeled “natural.” Organic products are produced, manufactured and handled according to approved agricultural methods. Natural products are derived from natural ingredients (like a plant source). However, a product labeled “natural” is not necessarily produced organically.
A few names we trust
Modern Organic Products — Committed to being completely open about the organic status or their products, each Modern Organic Product label lists which ingredients are organic and provides an 800-number to call for more information. Their packaging is also recyclable — a must have for any truly eco-friendly product. For more information, visit mopproducts.com
Aveda — Pioneers in the organic beauty movement, Aveda released its first certified organic products in 1996. The company is one of the world’s largest purchasers of organic ingredients in the personal care industry. For more information, visit aveda.com
SpaRitual — This eco-conscious company boasts the only vegan system of spa products for hands, feet and body. All of the nail lacquers and elixirs produced by SpaRitual are free of DBP, formaldehyde and toluene. The products are also biodegradable and paraben-free. For more information, visit sparitual.com
