Organically Preserved Cosmetics - User Manual

You know how important it is to me to use products that are free of synthetic ingredients-including preservatives. All of KlaraCoco's products are free of these nasty ingredients- of course.

This inevitably leads to the question about the shelf life of these products. All products - food and cosmetic - will eventually become contaminated with living organisms (moulds, fungi, bacteria). What the food and cosmetic industry invented to extend the shelf life of their products is the used of artificial preservatives, like parabens to protect cosmetics, medicine and even food products.

Not long ago, nobody questioned the use of these harmful ingredients in products we use every day!

A number of studies were showing alarming results. Parabens may effect estrogen levels and contribute to breast cancer. So, a new movement came and more and more people wants products without these nasty things and a return to age-old wisdom of the many uses of herbs and fresh produce in cosmetics.

Companies that are conscious about this issue - like KlaraCoco - use a safe and pure method of preservation utilizing antioxidants and plant based preservative systems. While most conventional body and skincare products have a very long shelf life of three years or more (try to keep your butter mould-free on your counter for that amount of time!), organically preserved products can't sit around as long.

They have a limited shelf life between 6 and 18 months depending on the product, though it is recommended that you use them within 5-8 months to get the most benefit out of the essential oils.

To extend shelf life here are a few important rules you should take in consideration:

• Keep your products out of direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Be careful not to introduce bacteria or water from your fingers during use.
• Remember: use your product for all the great benefits rather that keep them on your shelf or medicine cabinet for years as a decorative accent!

One more thing:
How can you tell when a product has gone bad? If it smells a little funny or different than usual, than you need to toss it. Look also for discolouration and a change in texture.