Aren't Preservatives Bad?

Often we are asked about the use of preservatives and the benefits vs the harm they potentially produce. After much contemplation and lots of research I have come to the conclusion there are plenty more reasons to preserve products than not. Danger lurks in any product with water. If left unpreserved, products can grow bacteria, yeast and or mold. The scariest part of all is that these are microscopic and not seen by the naked eye. So, I've chosen to preserve all of my products that contain water and we've consulted many sources about the best options. Maintaining high, natural, chemical free standards are our greatest priority.

 Gluconolactone and Sodium Benzoate-The natural origins of gluconolactone have led to its approval by ECOCERT, meaning that the ingredient can be used as a preservative or additive in products that bear the organization's prestigious organic certification. As a result, many skin care brands that specialize in natural cosmetics and treatments utilize the ingredient. A gluten-free fermented food starch derived from non genetically-modified corn via a fermentation process with non genetically-modified microorganisms, gluconolactone finds use in the food and cosmetic industry as a moisturizer,antioxidant and chelant. It is generally considered suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and is non-irritating and antioxidant. Given their ability to condition and hydrate skin, Gluconolactone-containing formulations may even smooth skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. I love it in our mild preservation system and know you will too! (My product is derived from a vegetable source of course!) In addition, the combined benefits of this along with ECOCERT appropred Sodium Benzoate create a safe preservative envioronment for organic products. The combination of these two ingredients are accepted by ECOCERT (EU standard for organic products that is more stringent than US standards) as preservatives in certified organic cosmetics. This preservative offers broad spectrum protection in personal care formulations. 

NataPres- A wonderful recent additon to several of my products! Ecocert approved for use in certified organic products. This combination of ingredients was developed for a paraben-free and formaldehyde-free preservation system. Glycerin (and) Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate (and) Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract (and) Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Extract (and) Populus Tremuloides Bark Extract (and) Gluconolactone.