Cosmetic advertising or… words that are worthless (part I)

Unless you're a super-expert on the subject… you're bound to get misled sometimes. That's why we're breaking down, in simple terms, the false headlines used to sell you cosmetics. So you don't get fooled and can choose wisely and with good judgment. ❤.

🎵 "I invent more than a thousand words […] I try to make them say nothing […] nothing means anything." 🎶 The Pirates: promises that are worthless

When they say…

Toxic free

You think: These guys are using 'clean' ingredients, safe for me and the environment.

But what it really means is: NOTHING.

People don't go around using 'dirty' or harmful ingredients. They are prohibited by law And you'll end up in jail if you use them.

• There are ingredients that are dangerous in high concentrations. They're called… EVERYTHING IN LIFE. Drinking more than 7 liters of water a day can make you sick, or 10 tablespoons of salt… can kill you. Parabens and sulfates (always labeled as 'toxic' in cosmetics), above the recommended amount, are also nasty. But don't panic because, like everything else, in the right, legal amounts, they're incredibly effective and safe.

• The word 'toxic' is also often associated with 'laboratory-produced'. There's nothing more toxic (and natural) than cobra venom. And what can I say… besides, we think it's foolish to reject all of society's scientific advancements in favor of an empty promise…

• Anyone who tries to sell you on the idea that their stuff is 'toxic free' is a hater, a troll, and a lout... period. 😂

Preservative-free

You think: Isn't it great that, like with yogurt, it's healthier without preservatives?

But what it really means is: There is no protection against fungi and bacteria.

• If it says so on the label of something like solid shampoo where there's no water, or on a cream that comes in a container where air doesn't get in... then in theory there shouldn't be much of a problem.

• Otherwise, you'll end up with a fungal infestation. p.m...over time. And with products that don't even last a week before you have to throw them away (just like with yogurts...).

• Preservatives in cosmetics prevent the growth of fungi and bacteria, thus extending the shelf life of the products. Parabens (which often get a lot of hate) are a type of preservative that, when used correctly, are among the least likely to cause allergies and are also very effective and safe.

Dermatologically tested

You think: Wow! A dermatologist has tested it in his lab! It must be good, then…

But what it really means is: The product was applied to a few people (like 3 also counts) and a dermatologist read the formula, gave it his approval and nobody died while that was happening.

This isn't like Monopoly, and there are no rules about how many people you have to test, under what conditions, or what results are good or bad. For example, pay attention if the results of these supposed tests say things like, "98% of people felt their skin improve." When they talk about sensations and perceptions... red flag... that means they're NOT giving you measurable data.

Hypoallergenic

You think: This isn't going to give me an allergic reaction, not a chance, my skin is as soft as a baby's bottom.

But what it really means is: There are as many allergies as there are people in this world… so, even if it's very small, there's always a possibility that something will cause a reaction.

Cruelty-free

You thinkOhhh, how nice that they don't test their products on animals.

But what it really means is: They comply with the law.

In Europe, ALL companies that make creams have been prohibited from testing on animals since 2013, and in China it seems that (finally) since 2021 as well. Just because we put bunnies on our jars doesn't make us better or worse... we all have to respect the law.

And that's enough of the indirect trolling for today. 😅 Ultimately, this is about not being a blind follower of empty headlines or letting others impose their rules on you; it's about... You freely and consciously choose what you like.

We love talking to you (in this order):

1. Of efficacy and safety of the ingredients. In other words, things that work and don't mess up anyone's situation.

2. Of biocompatibilityThat is, things that your skin understands and absorbs.

3. Of sensory Because, let's not kid ourselves, it's always cool when things feel good.

4. Of act with common sense: respecting the laws, minimizing our environmental impact, being transparent in our processes and sources… and improving day by day, without stress.

We'll leave the rest of the headlines you'd like us to "destroy" for part 2 of the post, such as a little bit of greenwashing.

Siwon

We do cool right