Chemical Alert! Avoid the Hair Dyes Containing These Toxic Chemicals

You see your favorite star walking the ramp in red hair and you immediately decide to color your hair red. The very next month, you see the same star with blue hair color and again you want to change your hair color. But are you aware of the harmful chemicals present in most of the dyes, which can damage your hair? Let us read through

• PPD: Commonly known as para-phenylenediamine, PPD is used as a dye for dark color shades and is made of tar, which is a chemical derived from petroleum and features phenols, naphthalene, benzene and aniline along with many other chemicals. When combined with Hydrogene Peroxide, PPD can prove to be very toxic and can lead to cancer.

• Ammonia: Ammonia is used to open up the outer layer of your hair so that the dye can go inside the hair. Ammonia may produce acidic burns and may also cause irritation in lungs.

•    Parabens: Methylparabens and Propylparabens are the most commonly used parabens preservatives. These preservatives are extensively used in many hair care products and can cause many allergies and skin irritation.

•   Hydrogene Peroxide: Hydrogene Peroxide is generally used to strip the natural hair color away before applying the hair dye. It has been observed that this chemical changes the natural hair structure and your hair even loses its original shine.

•   Lead Acetate: Lead Acetate is widely used as a color additive when it comes to dying dark shades. But you are unaware of the fact that it causes anemia and produces neurological problems.

•   Resorcinol: It is a toxic dye, which can cause scalp irritation. This allergen also affects the endocrine system.

Hair coloring is in trend and if you cannot avoid it completely then ensure that you do not buy the products with these toxic chemicals. From dyes, highlights or single and double process color, there are so many options available to color your hair the way you want. The best way to avoid these harmful chemicals is to buy 100% natural hair dyes that contain products like Reetha (Soapnut), Amla (Indian gooseberry), and Shikakai (Acacia concinna). Not only will these products keep your hair looking naturally good and shiny, but also would not affect your health adversely, even if you dye your hair regularly. Don’t worry in case you have already got your hair or scalp damaged because of these harmful chemicals. You can restore the health of your hair by using products like Strong & Nourished Hair oil and Safe Ayurvedic Hair Loss Therapy shampoo.

Toxic Chemicals in Cosmetics??? Yes, You Read it Absolutely Right!

Did you ever wonder that the cosmetics, which you trusted in hope to get a perfect, glowing skin, might actually be containing some skin scarring chemicals? A study says that an average adult uses more than 7 skincare products a day, and most of them are not thoroughly tested for toxicity. Although exposure to such elements once in a while might not do much harm to your health, but daily exposure for a prolonged period can result in life-threatening ailments. What’s even more shocking is that many brands, which advertise themselves as ‘All-Natural’, they too have been found to be containing the below mentioned poisonous chemicals in some of the very commonly used cosmetics.

1. Sunscreen: Oxy-benzone

Most of the commercial sunscreens in the market contain oxybenzone, a hormone disrupter. An ingredient that is sometimes linked to obesity and fertility problems.

2. Hair Care Products: Formaldehyde

This is the same ingredient that is used in embalming a corpse, ugh! In 2012, the presence of formaldehyde in many brands had raised concerns. The FDA then stepped in, and now many brands have avoided its usage, switching to safer options.

3. Lipstick: Lead

The FDA had confirmed in the year 2012 that traces of lead was found in around 400 lipsticks brands. The fact is - nothing can be done about it. If you need color, you need lead, which is a by-product of color additives. The main drawback is that lead builds over time in the body, and can sometimes cause breast cancer.

4. Hand Wash: Triclosan

We all love the anti-bacterial hand wash. But it is good if you read through the ingredient label. A potential hormone disrupter, triclosan too can accumulate over time in the body. This doesn’t mean you should stop washing your hands! Look for safer alternatives.

5. Lotions and creams: Paraben

 Most of the ‘decent’ brands have this ingredient written on their label. Parabens and its variants, butyl, iso-butyl, propyl, ethyl and methyl – all preservatives, can have weakening effects on the estrogen hormone. Scientists have found that butyl paraben can inhibit sperm formation in mice. Sodium methyl paraben has been strictly banned by the E.U.

Many companies are working towards bringing toxin-free beauty cosmetics in the beauty industry. But this might take a while before they end up discovering something. So in the meantime it is better you switch to using natural, herbal products.

Most cosmetic brands that you see in the stores are packed with truckloads of toxic chemicals. The truth of the irony is that such ingredients can actually make you age faster, and harm your gentle skin. At the end of the day such products are fooling consumers, and defeating the very purpose of cosmetics.

Save your strands – Hair Products you should Never Use

You hate bad hair days, right? But have you ever wondered why do you face them? The reason could be humidity, bad styling habits or regular use of harsh products, which may be making your hair weak. From hair sprays to serums to shampoos & conditioners, which are readily available in the market today, there are a number of hair care products that might be the root cause for all your hair related problems. Here is a list of products that you should never use for washing or styling your hair:

1. Alcohol-based products

Mainly used in hair gels, hair creams and styling sprays, alcohol can really dry your strands and can make them look very rough. These products spoil the original look and texture of your hair. If you are already cursing these products for making your hair dry then it is time to start using Strong & Nourished Hair oil to get the natural look of your hair back. 

2. Cheap Shampoos 

You should be very careful while buying a shampoo as some cheap shampoos may strip your hair color and even remove hair’s natural oils because of presence of sulfates and lathering ingredients in high quantity in them. Don’t go for a shampoo just because it is priced very low; rather choose a shampoo, which consists of high moisturizing components. For a reasonably priced, high-quality natural shampoo, you can consider using Safe Ayurvedic Hair Loss Therapy shampoo.

3. Protein Based Conditioners 

There is nothing wrong with using a conditioner unless it is completely made up of protein only. Always prefer a mixture of moisture and protein when it comes to choosing a conditioner, as excessive protein will make the hair lose its natural elasticity and will also lead to hair fall. You may also get straw-like strands, which will spoil the look of your hair.

4. Plastic Brushes or Combs 

Never use plastic brushes or combs on your hair as they have the tendency to break your hair. Instead use Neem Wood Comb which offers a healthier way to control hair loss. 

These are some key ingredients commonly found in hair styling products and accessories, which are extremely harsh on our locks and can cause damage to them. If you want naturally long and shiny hair, then go organic and stay away from these toxic chemicals and products.

NATURAL WAYS TO DE-TAN YOUR SKIN AT HOME

     NATURAL WAYS TO DE-TAN YOUR SKIN AT HOME

Prolonged exposure of skin to sun's harmful UV rays causes skin problems like sunburn, tanning, and blemishes. Sunlight is enriched with Vitamin D and it is indeed very important for us, but continuous exposure to sun leads to sun burn, skin darkening and dark spots. Most of us go on using sunscreen creams and sprays with spf50, spf100, etc. without even bothering about what are these sprays and creams made of. Cosmetic sunscreens and de tan products consist of some really harsh chemicals, which do more bad than good. Here are some natural ways to De-tan your skin at home:

 1.     Tomatoes

Tomatoes are not only good for your health but they can do wonders to your skin as well. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin A that fades dark spots. They also contain magnesium and Vitamin C, which lighten the skin with radiance and glow. Lycopene in tomatoes protects you from harmful UV rays, while Vitamin B and potassium reduce wrinkles and fine lines and also moisturize and hydrate the skin.

·         Take two tomatoes

·         Blend them into a smooth paste

·         Apply it over your face for 15 minutes

·         Wash with cold water

2.     Lemon Juice and Honey

Honey is a natural bleaching agent and fades out the tanning caused by sun burn.  It acts   as a natural moisturizer and contributes to even skin tone. Honey also reduces acne and blemishes from your face. Lemon lightens your skin naturally and vitamin C present in lemon encourages skin cell growth. It reduces dark spots and acne.  

·         Mix 2 tablespoon of lemon juice with equal amount of honey

·         Apply it on affected areas, let it dry for 15 minutes

·         Wash it with cool water

3.     After Sun De-Tan Gel

After Sun De-Tan Gel is a natural way to get rid of sun tan. It contains natural ingredients like rose water, aloe vera, kiwi fruit, cucumber and green tea extract. All these natural ingredients helps in eliminating the sun tan. After Sun de-tan gel is a non-greasy gel, suitable for all skin types with no side effects. It can be used on every part of your body. This gel provides fast and effective relief from sun burn and leaves you with a hydrated, blemish free light skin. You can use it daily after you get back home.

4.    Yogurt

Yogurt is beneficial for your skin as it has vitamin B1, B2, protein, yeast, zinc and calcium. Zinc reduces acne, calcium initiates cell renewal, and protein results in healthier, brighter and soft supple skin. Yogurt gives a cooling affect to your skin and repairs damaged cells naturally, making your skin look more radiant.

·         Take some yogurt, form a smooth paste

·         Apply and leave for 15 minutes

·         Wash and dry your face

5.     Gram Flour and Turmeric

Gram flour acts as a natural scrub as it eliminates dead skin cells and exfoliates skin. Turmeric, also known as the Holy powder, is being used since ancient period for its medicinal properties. Turmeric is a natural cure for everything and can do wonders to your skin too. It lightens your skin and pigmentation and gives you a healthy glow.

·         Mix 2 tablespoon of gram flour with a pinch of turmeric

·         Add milk and lemon juice to form a paste

·         Apply and let it dry for 15 minutes

·         Wash your face with normal water

Almost 90% percent of cosmetic anti-tan products contain bleaching agents that are extremely harmful for our skin and can cause acne, swelling, skin cancer and skin thinning. You should completely avoid using bleaching products on your skin as they contain mercury, which may not only cause poisoning but can also lead to liver and kidney failure. Opt for the above mentioned natural ways of de-tanning for a glowing healthy skin for life.

You should always buy natural beauty products with natural ingredients. IHT9 offers 100% organic skin products that are tested by the dermatologists and are more efficient and cost-effective.

  

5 USEFUL TIPS TO GET RID OF CHAPPED LIPS NATURALLY

Lips are most appealing part of your face. Chapped lips are hideous and distressing and they make you look unattractive. Cracked, dry, or sore lips - all are commonly referred as chapped lips. The major causes of chapped lips can be smoking, allergic reaction, dehydration, exposure to sun, lack of vitamin A and over licking of the lips. There are dozens of cosmetic lip care products available for chapped lips but they do not protect your lips from flaking, drying or cracking in the long run as their effect is temporary, not permanent. Lip balms, which contain humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, make your chapped lips even worse and this has been confirmed by the dermatologists. These ingredients extract moisture from your skin; especially in dry weather they evaporate the water away. Therefore, it is good to use natural ways and natural products, which include natural ingredients like Shea butter, beeswax, vitamin E, castor oil, and other essential oils. Here are some natural tips to keep the chapped lips away.

1. EXFOLIATE

Exfoliating your lips is a great way to wipe out the impurities such as flaky, dry, chapped, or dead skin cells. Exfoliating not only removes the dead skin but also evens out the lip tone and removes dark spots from your lips making them smooth, supple, and pinker. Homemade lip exfoliators are more effective, natural and cheap. Simple steps to make your own lip scrub:

l  Two tablespoon of brown sugar

l  Two tablespoon of honey or olive oil

l  Mix them well and scrub your lips mildly for 2-3 minutes

l  Wash off with water repeat this twice a week

2. ROSE PETALS

Rose petals and rose water is a common ingredient in any skin care product. Rose petals make your skin bright and acne free. They can also rescue you from chapped lips by keeping your lips moisturized as well as enhancing the lip color. Steps to make a rose petal paste:

l  1 cup of rose petals, 1 cup of milk

l  Soak the rose petals in cold milk for few hours

l  After the milk has been soaked, blend them until they turn into a smooth paste

l  Apply the paste on your lips. Leave for 10-15 minutes and then wash it off. (It is more effective, if applied at night before going to bed)

3. NATURAL STRAWBERRY LIP BALM WITH SHEA BUTTER

Strawberries are rich in many vitamins and minerals and are used in many skin and beauty care products. Strawberries exfoliate and moisten the skin while enhancing the color of lips. Shea butter protects your lips during cold and dry weather; it is full of vitamin F, which keeps your lips hydrated and soft while maintaining the elasticity. Strawberry Lip Balm with Shea Butter is paraben and petroleum jelly free. It has natural ingredients like Shea butter, kokum butter and grape seed oil along with delicious natural flavor of strawberries. It is a natural treatment to cure dry and chapped lips and compliments the lip color.

4. WATER

Water is the most necessary ingredient of our daily beauty regime. Water keeps our body and skin moist and hydrated, aids the digestive system, and flushes out toxins from our body. Lack of water results in poor digestive system, dehydrated skin, dry and chapped lips. You should drink at least 12 glasses of water each day to keep your body and lips well hydrated.

5. GREEN TEA BAG

This is the most commonly used trick to get rid of chapped lips. You can use a half used green tea bag as well. All you have to do is take an already used green tea bag. Press it against your lips and repeat the same for 5 minutes. Doing this will keep your lips soft and hydrated. Use this method daily for more effective results. Please note that the tea bag should be warm before you keep it on your lips.

Weather can be the main cause for the dry or dehydrated lips and skin, but the skincare products you use can also play an important role. You should check all the ingredients of your beauty and skin care products for their chemical contents. Usually cosmetic and beauty products are full of harmful chemicals that damage and make your skin prone to many allergies and diseases. Therefore, you should always buy natural beauty products with natural ingredients. IHT9 offers 100% organic skin products that are tested by the dermatologists and are more efficient and cost-effective.