Create a Clean, Healthy, and Affordable Lifestyle

LifestyleNotes-Logo

Sign-up for our newsletter

The best of Lifestyle Notes, sent directly to you. Subscribe now.

Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act: 24 chemical bans in California

While California’s efforts to improve the health and wellness industry through chemical bans are noteworthy, it’s important to clarify that the 24-chemical ban wasn’t specifically for the whole industry, but targeted personal care products and cosmetics. This legislation, the Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act (AB 2762), was signed into law on September 30, 2020, but the ban itself takes effect on January 1, 2025.

Here’s a breakdown of the 24 chemicals banned under the Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act:

Carcinogens:

  • 1,4-Dioxane
  • Acetaldehyde
  • Benzene
  • Chloromethylmethyl ether (CMME)
  • Diethyl phthalate (DEP)
  • Formaldehyde
  • Methylene chloride
  • Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)
  • o-Nitrotoluene
  • Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
  • Propylene glycol (PG)
  • Siloxanes

Reproductive Toxicants:

  • Benzophenone-3 (Oxybenzone)
  • Cyclohexane
  • DEHP
  • Ethanol, 2-bromo-, 2-nitro-, 1,3-propandiol, acetate (NTP)
  • Formaldehyde
  • Methyl eugenol
  • Phthalates
  • Toluene

Endocrine Disruptors:

  • Benzophenone-3 (Oxybenzone)
  • Bisphenol A (BPA)
  • Formaldehyde
  • Parabens
  • Triclosan

These chemicals were banned due to their potential health risks, including links to cancer, reproductive harm, and endocrine disruption. The goal of the Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act is to protect Californians from exposure to these potentially harmful chemicals and encourage the development of safer personal care products.

It’s important to note that in October 2023, California passed an amendment to the Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act, the Clean & Safe Cosmetics Act (AB 496), which bans 26 additional chemicals. However, this new ban takes effect in 2027.

Natural Alternatives to Chemical Toxins in Cosmetics

While some cosmetic chemicals have potential health concerns, it’s important to remember that not all chemicals are bad. Many synthetic ingredients contribute to product efficacy and safety, like preservatives that prevent bacterial growth. However, if you’re looking for ways to reduce your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals in cosmetics and embrace a more natural approach, here are some fantastic alternatives:

Skincare:

  • Moisturizers: Instead of petroleum-based creams, try oils like jojoba, coconut, or olive oil, rich in fatty acids and antioxidants. Shea butter and aloe vera are also great options.
  • Cleansers: Ditch harsh synthetic cleansers for gentler options like honey (antibacterial), clay masks (detoxifying), or a simple oil cleanse with rosehip or grapeseed oil followed by a warm washcloth.
  • Exfoliators: Skip the microplastics and opt for natural scrubs like ground oats, sugar, coffee grounds, or even baking soda (for oily skin).

Makeup:

  • Foundation: Look for mineral-based formulas with natural pigments like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They offer sun protection and often work well for sensitive skin.
  • Lipstick and blush: Choose formulas made with beeswax, coconut oil, and natural dyes like beetroot or berries.
  • Mascara: Try coconut charcoal for a natural black tint or henna for brows and lashes.

Haircare:

  • Shampoo and conditioner: Swap synthetic sulfates for gentler alternatives like castile soap or apple cider vinegar. Coconut oil can act as a natural conditioner.
  • Hair dyes: Henna is a safe and vibrant natural alternative to chemical dyes.

General Tips:

  • Read labels carefully: Look for products with recognizable natural ingredients and avoid long, unpronounceable chemicals.
  • DIY at home: There are many recipes online for natural skincare products using simple ingredients from your kitchen.
  • Patch test: Always test any new product on a small area of skin before applying it to your entire face.
  • Consult a dermatologist: If you have any skin concerns, it’s always best to consult a professional for personalized advice.

Remember, “natural” doesn’t always guarantee safety. Some plants and ingredients can be irritating or allergenic. So, do your research, patch test, and prioritize gentle approaches if you’re new to natural cosmetics.

While switching to natural alternatives may not entirely eliminate exposure to all potentially harmful chemicals, it can be a rewarding journey towards a more conscious and holistic approach to your beauty routine. Enjoy the process of exploring natural ingredients and discovering what works best for you!

CaliforniaHerbanLife-Logo-300x300-1

California Herban Life

Family-Owned Small Business
700 East Birch Street
Brea, CA 92822-0423
Shipping to the US only

custserv@caherbanlife.com

(657) 366-7775

Payment-Options
Shopping cart48
andalou naturals age defying ultra sheer daily defense lotion spf30 front 240226 1 1.jpg
-
+
1 aloha bay eco palm wax candles chai spice light brown votive candles 12 pack 225411 front 1.jpg
-
+
051381912208 aura cacia 05oz essential oil black pepper l191220c1 front 1.jpeg
-
+
00724742008123 front 1 1.jpg
-
+
alaffia curl enhancing shampoo 236672 front 1.jpeg
-
+
annies wild cheddar shells mac and cheese 6oz front 241184.jpg
-
+
00741273003908 front 1.jpg
-
+
051381921514 aura cacia kids roll on clearing a192151 front 1.jpeg
-
+
00187132005018 front 1.jpg
-
+
00841320107846 front 1 1.jpg
-
+
bobs red mill classic yellow cake mix 15 5oz front 240228 1 1.jpg
-
+
All Good Vetiver Sage Body Serum 3 fl. oz.
-
+
1 andalou 1000 roses soothe smooth sheet mask caddy 237940 front 1.jpg
-
+
051381882686 aura cacia 13oz kids bubble bath bottled bedtime l188278 front 1.jpeg
-
+
baudelaire indigo sleep sachets set of 3 front 240865 1 1.jpg
-
+
celestial seasonings sleepytime melatonin 239883 front 1 1.jpg
-
+
00859975020113 front 1 1.jpg
-
+
karmalize me dark chocolate almonds 1oz front 240934.jpg
-
+
760860722206 front 1 1.jpg
-
+
051381908690 aura cacia kids bedtime essential oil 025 oz boxed a190869 front 1.jpeg
-
+
051381885335 aura cacia 4oz body oil geranium rose l188533e front 1.jpeg
-
+
051381912789 aura cacia 05oz essential oil bergamot l191278b3 front 1.jpeg
-
+
annies classic mild cheddar mac and cheese 6oz front 241179.jpg
-
+
ayeya handwoven african baskets market basket front 240160 1.jpg
-
+
051381998134 aura cacia 1oz skin care oil baobab organic l199813d front 1.jpeg
-
+
1 all good lip balm spf15 original 236359 front 1.jpg
-
+
051381889593 aura cacia kids fizzy bath kit a188959 front 1.jpeg
-
+
760860217467 front 1 1.jpg
-
+
chosen foods 100 25 pure avocado oil spray 13 5oz front 239368.jpg
-
+
Aura Cacia Groovy Fizzy Bath Kit
-
+
alter eco cinnamon raisin granola 8oz front 240913.jpg
-
+
1 beyond gourmet unbleached tea bags 1 cup 100count front 239160 1.jpg
-
+
051381908720 aura cacia kids uplifting essential oil 025 oz boxed a190872 front 1.jpeg
-
+
bobs red mill 13 bean soup mix 29oz bag front 239662 1 1.jpg
-
+
760860261064 front 1 1.jpg
-
+
1 ambassador hairbrushes wooden pneumatic brushes large oval bamboo with wooden pins 219885 front 1.jpg
-
+
andalou naturals clairying grapefruit shower gel 8 5floz front 240032 1 1.jpg
-
+
1 andalou naturals biome balancing day cream 1.7floz front box 239171 1.jpg
-
+
00741273001041 front 1.jpg
-
+
00724742007591 front 1 2.jpg
-
+
baudelaire bath brush short handle 10inch front 240870 1 1.jpg
-
+
608503010085 front 1.jpg
-
+
051381911058 aura cacia 05oz essential oil bergamot bergaptene free l191105c1 front 1.jpeg
-
+
bobs red mill gluten free cornbread mix 230792 front 1.jpg
-
+
annies gluten free cheddar mac and cheese 2 01oz front 241185.jpg
-
+
annies organic cheddar bunnies 7 5oz front 241183 1.jpg
-
+
48