"Free From" Formulations

Posted: March 25, 2008

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Surya Henna Brasil Coloração Natural e Tratamento Capilar em Pó (Coloring & Hair Treatment) is 100% natural and vegetal. The product is formulated with honey and claims to be free from hydrogen peroxide, ammonia, heavy metals, paraphenylene-diamine, resorcinol and parabens. It is hypoallergenic and has been dermatologically tested.

In the UK, Naked Boost Nourishing Vitamins Hair Treatment is 97% natural and, like all products from the brand, is free from sodium lauryl sulfate, parabens and petrochemicals. The product, which is formulated with ethically sourced marula oil together with provitamin B5 and A, is said to replenish, soften and improve the manageability of hair. The company is against animal testing and all its products are suitable for vegetarians.

CTonics Pulse Organic Shampoo is a rejuvenating and invigorating cleansing tonic formulated with blue-green algae and exotic ocean vegetation to enliven, oxygenate, alkalize and nourish the hair and scalp. This organic formula blends marine elements with hair proteins and pure essential oils of jasmine, geranium and pink grapefruit that cleanse, awaken and energize the scalp while delivering nutrients to promote growth and strengthen hair. This shampoo is suitable for normal to dry hair. This product is free from sulfates, petrochemicals and artificial colors. All products are formulated without animal ingredients or animal testing.

Consumer education is key to communicating the benefits of this all-natural, non-synthetic path of cosmetic formulating. Mintel research shows that 20% of US women “wish product labels had more information about how ingredients work,” yet only 13% of them try to find out more about ingredients they do not know. Clearer labeling and transparency in formulas may be necessary to reach these health-conscious consumers.

-Nica Lewis, Mintel