Q

Why go organic?

A

The benefit of eating organic foods, that is, foods grown without using pesticides, synthetic fertilisers, sewage sludge, genetically modified organisms and ionising radiation, is well known. However, according to Sharon McGlinchey, founder of MV Organic Skincare, the same awareness has only recently been extended to our largest organ, the skin. "There is a growing concern that daily exposure to the harmful ingredients found in some skin-care products could be producing adverse long-term effects," she points out.

Q

Does "natural" count?

A

While many products are natural they may not be organic. "By using non-organic ingredients you won't achieve the same health benefits for your skin," explains McGlinchey. "So, in the long term, you won't have the same quality of underlying skin tissue as someone who uses a high concentration organic product."

Q

Can I believe the labels?

A

"If 'natural' was the most abused word of the '90s, 'organic' has surely taken its place," she says. Labelling laws permit manufacturers to claim their products are organic with only one natural or organic ingredient. This results in many shampoos or moisturisers, which may contain only one or two per cent of organic material, being branded as "organic".

Q

How pure are the products?

A

"Certified organic skincare [products with at least 95 per cent organic content] or 'allowed' products [at least 70 per cent organic] must be manufactured under strict guidelines," states McGlinchey. "Anything less than, say, 40 per cent organic is not a serious organic product. 'Token' organic products with an organic content below 10 per cent may even contain the same toxic and irritating chemicals as some mainstream products."

Q

What should I look out for?

A

Ingredients are listed on the back of the packaging in descending order by volume. Organic ingredients should appear near the top and be differentiated with a symbol, such as an asterisk. As a general rule, McGlinchey suggests opting for products that are free from: genetically modified ingredients, mineral oil, propylene glycol, glycerine from non-organic animal origin, petroleum-derived solvents and alkyl sulfates (sodium lauryl sulfate and ammonium lauryl sulfate).

Q

How long will my buys last?

A

"Organic brands with a 'serious' or 'high concentration' will use natural preservative systems and anti-oxidants to support the shelf life," explains McGlinchey. "These generally give anywhere from a 12- to 24-month shelf life. By comparison, commercial products usually have a three-year shelf life."