What Makes Farmer’s Body’s Products “Safe”?
If you’ve been browsing the Farmer’s Body inventory lately, you might have noticed that we’re extremely proud to call our products safe and clean. We are super picky about what goes into them, and all ingredients are scrutinized for safety and for responsible sourcing.
We've told you a lot about what's IN our products, but what's not in them?
We’re so glad you asked! Here’s a little guide to what makes our products safe and what sets them apart from traditional body and skincare products.
Unlike many traditional personal care products, Farmer’s Body’s products are…
Phthalate-free. According to the CDC, phthalates are plastics that are used in the manufacturing of vinyl flooring, lubricating oils, and personal care products like soaps and shampoos. Unfortunately, high levels of phthalates have been shown to affect the reproductive systems of some animals, which means there’s potential for them to affect the reproductive systems of humans as well.
Paraben-free. The Environmental Working Group reports that parabens are essentially chemicals that are used as artificial preservatives in cosmetic and body care products. There are several scientific studies that show parabens have the potential to disrupt the body’s natural hormones, which could harm a person’s reproductive health. On top of that, parabens often irritate sensitive skin. As if those effects aren’t bad enough, parabens pose a threat to the environment, as they’ve been shown to kill coral in our oceans.
Triclosan-free. According to the Mayo Clinic, triclosan is a chemical with antibacterial properties that’s commonly found in personal care products. In 2017, the FDA actually reported that triclosan is not safe or effective for use in antiseptic personal care products. That’s because this chemical has been shown to contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant germs and may even be harmful to the immune system.
MEA- and DEA-free. Public Goods reports that ethanolamine chemicals like MEA and DEA are often used to neutralize fatty acids in soaps and cosmetics. Like many other chemicals, ethanolamine can cause skin irritation, as well as eye and nose irritation.
Aluminum-free. According to a study conducted in 2017, high levels of aluminum could potentially lead to a decrease in cognitive function as well as Alzheimer’s disease. Aluminum is commonly found in deodorants and anti-perspirants, but our deodorant is all-natural and aluminum-free.
Sodium lauryl sulfate-free. Healthline reports that sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is found in a number of personal care and beauty products as a cleansing and foaming agent. Continuous skin exposure to SLS could cause the skin to become irritated.
PEG-free. According to the David Suzuki Foundation, chemicals introduced during the PEG manufacturing process can harm the nervous system and could interfere with human development. Additionally, it can harm the environment, as it doesn’t degrade easily once it’s washed down the drain.
BHT-free. The David Suzuki Foundation reports that BHT is an antioxidant and preservative that’s used in cosmetics and personal care products. It can induce allergic reactions in the skin, and it can cause adverse reproductive side effects. BHT also has potential for bioaccumulation in aquatic species, which is ultimately harmful to the entire environment.
Siloxane-free. According to the David Suzuki Foundation, siloxanes are silicone-based chemical compounds that are commonly used in cosmetics and other personal care products. They’re often used in deodorants for a smoother application (not in ours, though). Certain siloxanes can affect human hormone function, and they also have the potential to bioaccumulate in the environment.