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 cart42
1 all terrain kids eczema bar soap 4oz 232696 front 1.jpg
-
+
051381998134 aura cacia 1oz skin care oil baobab organic l199813d front 1.jpeg
-
+
alaffia curl activating cream shampoo 236667 front 1.jpeg
-
+
00741273014492 front 1.jpg
-
+
1 aloha bay eco palm wax candles chai spice light brown votive candles 12 pack 225411 front 1.jpg
-
+
051381886189 aura cacia 4oz body oil lavender l188618d front 1.jpeg
-
+
1 aloha bay palm wax candles positive energy blue chakra candles energy pillars 225435 front 1.jpg
-
+
room diffuser a191304c high 1.jpg
-
+
Alaffia Authentic African Black Soap Unscented All-In-One Soap 32 fl oz
-
+
baudelaire sleep bath seltzers 18oz front 240860 1 1.jpg
-
+
baudelaire indigo sleep sachets set of 3 front 240865 1 1.jpg
-
+
051381912857 aura cacia 05oz essential oil lemon eucalyptus l191285f1 front 1.jpeg
-
+
baudelaire grapefruit exfoliating loofa soap 5oz front 240855 1.jpg
-
+
051381913144 aura cacia car diffuser a191314b front 1.jpg
-
+
051381921507 aura cacia kids 031oz roll on bedtime a192150 front 1.jpeg
-
+
608503050043 front 1 1.jpg
-
+
00859975020106 front 1 1.jpg
-
+
51381885977 aura cacia kids foam bath packet eucalyptus l188597c front 1.jpeg
-
+
00724742007614 front 1 1.jpg
-
+
051381913618 aura cacia diy amber bottle 2oz mister cap front 1.jpg
-
+
1 bring it oven mitts solid pewter 232814 front 1.jpg
-
+
051381886196 aura cacia 8oz body oil lavender 188619c front 1.jpeg
-
+
hic unbleached precut parchment paper 24count front2 238999 1.jpg
-
+
608503050715 front 1 1.jpg
-
+
ayeya african winged basket 239432 front 1.jpg
-
+
00724742007607 front 1 1.jpg
-
+
1 andalou naturals soothing squalane oil 1floz front 239172 1.jpg
-
+
051381991135 aura cacia purify essential oil kit a199113 front 1.jpeg
-
+
00741273015789 front 1.jpg
-
+
051381912789 aura cacia 05oz essential oil bergamot l191278b3 front 1.jpeg
-
+
attitude sunly baby unscented natural oatmeal mineral sunscreen 2 6oz tube front 240142 1 1.jpg
-
+
00741273013952 front 1.jpg
-
+
051381908737 aura cacia kids 2oz mist bedtime l190873 front 1.jpeg
-
+
1 020107 unscented red 16 oz 237290 1.jpg
-
+
andalou naturals deep hydration ultra nourishing body lotion 8floz front 240035 1 1 1.jpg
-
+
051381913649 aura cacia diy amber glass jar 4oz 191364 left 1 1.jpg
-
+
42