I am going to try sharing one informative post every week. I hope you read my last one. It is because I have been strongly feeling the need for it. There are SO many ‘Natural’ and ‘Organic’ brands coming up that we have now forgotten to read the product labels.
Earlier, because we were aware or in a transition phase from chemical to natural, we used to read the ingredients. But now because of SO many natural products available, we have again forgotten. But please never forget that whatever you use, will affect your skin, hair and body as a whole. So reading the Product label is a must!
Let’s break down a general Product Labels:
We usually have the following information on most product labels -
1. Product Name and Brand Name:
This is ok as it holds no value as such for us. Of course a good catchy name will be better, but it does not affect us directly in any sense.
2. Net Weight:
Usually 50, 100, 200 grams and so forth. Again no direct relation with hour hair/skin/body. Yes of course you would want more at the price you give. But one important point, I want you all to understand is that, some ingredients; for example Oats; they increase in volume when you add a mixing agent to it. So even a 50 gram product will last you long. So restrict and educate yourself in this. A lot of Ayurvedic dry ingredients also fluff up when you add them in water 🙂 This is when little goes a long way 😀
3. Product Description:
This is where you get all the BIG jargon’s. lol. But that sells! Just be careful that there are no over the top claims. Because from what I have seen, is the products giving over the top claims are usually expensive; but let’s face it, NO cream, mask, or anything can give you ‘FLAWLESS’ skin or hair. It takes a whole lot to get that flawless look. 🙂
4. Mfg. & Exp. date:
This is what will give you a hint on the product being ‘Organic’ or ‘Natural’. Note: Nothing is bad! But usually organic products have a very short shelf life like 3-6 months (maximum a year). On the other hand, the natural products can be extended to a longer time, using stabilizers and safe preservatives. As mentioned in my earlier post, this is not bad. Just that this is a giveaway on most products, so keep your eyes open 🙂
5. Ingredients:
MOST important of the lot. Ingredients are listed in the order they are used. If you see the drugstore brands, they will say infused with Argan oil and keep the price tag high. If you just check the ingredient list, you will find Argan oil in the last 3 ingredients. I mean, it’s funny how can they fool everyone!
What you must check is the first five ingredients. They are the ones most absorbent and will either make or break your skin. This will also help you to know if you have allergies from any natural ingredient. These five ingredients are what makes a product more or less suitable to you. It’s important you be the decision maker, and choose the right product with the right ingredients for you.
6. Certifications:
I have covered ECOCERT AND USDA very well in my previous informative article. So check for certifications or if it’s a new brand, give them a chance, but ensure you know the products are sourced from the right places. And the maker/manufacturer is well qualified.
This was it, a simple and brief article to make you all aware and help you all NOT to waste money on some random products that do not work. Hope you all like it, and do let me know if you need any more guidance in any form 🙂
Love and Light,
Vidhi xoxoxo