Let's Talk Dirty

What are clean and green beauty? Well, at Maiiro, we believe that a clean, organic approach to personal beauty regime not only makes perfect sense, but that the two are intrinsically linked. Together, they represent a symbiotic relationship that offers all the benefits of natural, chemical-free products, together with the promise of preserving our precious environment.

The inclusion of toxic ingredients in skincare products sees us facing what looks like an epidemic of allergies, skin disorders, and food intolerances. According to a recent US survey, more than half of those participating indicated they had positive reactions to one or more allergens. Meanwhile, across the Western world, the number of children with eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) has grown exponentially. Worryingly, it is estimated that 1 in 3 children diagnosed with eczema develop further conditions such as allergic rhinitis and asthma.

To put this into context, when I was growing up in the 1960s in a neighbourhood full of kids, I did not know anyone who was allergic to dairy produce, nuts, dogs or cats. There were only two kids in my whole school with asthma, and eczema was something completely alien. Some unfortunates might get sore hands, associated with cold wet winters. Either I was exceptionally lucky, or the question is - where do all these allergies come from?

We now know eczema has several well-researched triggers. For instance, formaldehyde, sulphates, parabens and petroleum-based ingredients are commonly associated with the condition. All are known irritants that can dehydrate the skin yet are widely used in many big brand skincare products, including soaps and shampoos. Many more chemicals are routinely added to these products just to stabilise fragrances and enhance shelf life. To add an interesting statistic: between 30% to 45% of reported allergic reactions are attributed to fragrances . . .

So what to do? Well, like me, you can become a fulltime reader of product labels. Over the past two years, in the run-up to launching Maiiro’s ‘Clean’ product range, I have become quite proficient in spotting the now familiar chemical nasties. Our advice - study food labels, skincare product labels, shampoo labels, soaps, you name it – anything you can find. Check what is in there and spend time looking into anything you do not understand.

You will be able to make informed decisions as to what goes onto your skin. Above all, you will recognise that there are products and brands, like Maiiro, that are clean, luxurious and natural, without those irritating additives that were never even intended to benefit your skin.  

Natural ingredients, proven to have benefited millions throughout the ages, will more than likely work for you too. Just remember: Clean = Good, even if the actual ingredients have not changed in more than 2,000 years.