With August being national hair loss awareness month, we wanted to speak up as a brand to help tear down the stigma surrounding hair loss and shedding.
We know firsthand the significance of hair, as it serves as a major component of our identities and for many is a form of creative expression. At Rabbit Brush, we want to utilize our platform to voice the importance of hair health and create a safe space for those who have dealt with the emotional turmoil that hair loss and shedding causes.
We hope to inform and empower by providing the facts about the prevalence of hair loss, common causes and treatments, how to keep the conversation going to further destigmatize hair loss and tips on creating a preventive, healthy and sustainable hair care routine.
(quick disclaimer- please reach out to your doctor or dermatologist if you’re concerned about hair shedding or loss)!
Who Suffers From Hair Loss & Shedding?
Experiencing any form of hair loss or shedding is practically inevitable as we age; it affects roughly 80 million Americans annually, and that number is rising. [1]
An estimated 80% of men and 50% of women will experience noticeable hair loss, shedding or both at some point in their lifetime, and will affect nearly 1 in 4 men before age 30, and 50% of women before age 50. [2] Millennials are already reporting receding hairlines and a significant loss in volume; even older teens are consulting their dermatologists and hair stylists about dwindling strands. [3]
Though seeing a decrease in volume or bald splotches at any age can be alarming, it’s important to understand the key differences between hair loss and shedding and how they’re treated.
Hair Loss vs. Shedding & Treatment Options
On average, we lose anywhere from 50 to 100 strands of hair daily. Losing more is known as shedding (telogen effluvium, or TE). Shedding is often attributed to:
In the case of TE, hair can be expected to regain its fullness anywhere from six months to a year after the root cause has been addressed. In cases where TE is related to a temporary condition such as a stress following a traumatic event, hair is expected to regrow on its own. In more severe cases, shedding is treated with topical medications such as Minoxidil. [4]
Hair loss (alopecia), on the other hand, is caused by factors that stunt hair growth entirely and requires intervention by a dermatologist. Unfortunately, hair loss can be trickier to cure, as follicles usually cease to regrow. Common causes of hair loss are:
Conditions such as alopecia areata often result in permanent hair loss, as there is no cure. However, there are plenty of options to stimulate partial regrowth such as laser treatments or oral/topical medications. Hair transplants are also growing in number, and high-quality wigs and pieces are becoming more affordable and accessible. [4][5]
Though caused by different factors, hair loss and shedding can be equally as damaging to one's mental health and self-esteem.
Breaking Down the Stigma
Beauty trends are cycled constantly, but thick, luscious strands have been considered an essential part of one's attractiveness for centuries, regardless of gender.
This is an unfortunate product of society’s unrealistic beauty standards. As a result, there’s a stigma of shame around noticeably thinning hair, pattern baldness or complete baldness (especially in women). Roughly 34% of people who experience hair loss or shedding are susceptible to major depressive disorder, while 90% of people that suffer from major depressive disorder notice shedding. Sufferers also report experiencing embarrassment, low self-esteem, anxiety and social withdrawal. [6]
It's crucial to uplift those battling any form of hair loss or shedding through support, whether it be donating to reputable research organizations or simply offering to listen to their struggles.
Preventive Care & Tips
There’s only so much we can do in terms of keeping our hair, especially when genetics come into play. Regardless, it’s vital to focus on hair health by reaching for more clean, sustainable products and assessing your overall risks for hair loss. Here are a few things you can do to take action:
Ask About Family History
If anyone in your immediate family has battled hair loss or shedding, there’s a chance it could affect you later in life. If you’re aware of your chances ahead of time, make it known in any consultations with your doctor or dermatologist so you can collaborate on a game plan to prevent or delay future complications.
Reduce Stress
Easier said than done, but stress is the number one cause of TE in younger adults. [3] Other than the usual (therapy, mindful eating, exercise), consider taking just 30 minutes out of your day/week to wind down and give yourself and your hair some extra TLC!
Pay Attention to Ingredient Lists
Big box brands like OGX have been sued in recent years for failing to properly disclose harmful ingredients in their products that have been directly correlated with hair loss. [7] To avoid confusion about a product's safety, we recommend using EWG’s Skin Deep Cosmetics Database. It breaks down product safety with scientifically backed research for the most accurate and up to date info.
And of course, whenever you can, consider shopping with your local, small businesses for hair care!
Use High Quality Oils
Hair health starts at the scalp! One of the best products to incorporate into any routine is a solid oil; we recommend our own Seriously Magic Hair Oil, as it contains jojoba and rose oils which have been proven to help encourage healthy roots and promote growth by locking in moisture. [8] At least once a week, simply rub a few drops into the scalp and allow it to soak in before your shower!
Ditch Tight Hair Ties
Wearing styles like tight ponytails and braids are also attributed to hair loss (and headaches). Instead, reaching for soft scrunchies or claw clips can prevent unnecessary damage. Heatless, overnight hairstyles can also serve as a solid option (check out our style blog for some inspo)!
Takeaway
If you’ve dealt with hair loss or shedding, know that we stand with you, whether you decide to rock a bald head, a pink and purple split dye wig, or sometimes both! We’d love to hear your story; feel free to send us a dm or email, and of course, thank you for being here!
Xoxo,
Ruby
Resources
[1] https://nationaltoday.com/national-hair-loss-awareness-month/
[2] https://nyulangone.org/news/most-men-experience-hair-loss-it-isnt-inevitable
[3]https://www.healthline.com/health-news/why-millennials-losing-hair-earlier#Millennials-and-hair-loss
[4] https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/insider/shedding
[5]https://www.usdermatologypartners.com/blog/hair-loss-awareness-month-everything-you-need-to-know/
How did we get to this point in our cosmetic history?
In this blog post, we will briefly cover the interesting history of Dry Shampoo, and how you can make the best choice for your body, the planet, AND your wallet!
Cultures around the globe have been using clays & muds in their hair and on their skin for millennia. Take for example the Himba People of Namibia, who "are famous for covering themselves with otjize paste, a cosmetic mixture of butterfat and ochre pigment. Otjize cleanses the skin over long periods due to water scarcity and protects from the hot and dry climate. It gives Himba people's skin and hair plaits a distinctive texture, style, and orange/red tinge. Otjize is considered foremost a highly desireable aethetic beauty cosmetic, symbolizing earth's rich red color and blood, the essence of life."1.
On the Asian continent, as early as the 15th century, dry clay powder was used to cleanse and moisturize hair.
In the Elizabethan era, a lack bathing opportunities encouraged the populace to rely upon clays and powders to cleanse away dirt from the scalp.
The first written reference of dry shampoo in the United States is from the late 1700s, when starches were used to deodorize and alter the color of wigs. Powders were used to freshen the wigs of the elites, as long hair was a marker of masculine privilege.
By the early 1940s, "Minipoo" was created by the Stephanie Brooke Company, and became the first commercially produced Dry Shampoo product. Marketed towards women who might have a "surprise date", or children who might have a sick day.
In 1972 Klorane (a French hair cosmetics company) launched its first dry shampoo product. Taking the industry by storm, they marketed specifically to women who cannot wash their hair due to physical limitations. This product transcended its original genre and became a purposeful tool for women of all kinds.
In 1975, Batiste launched spray dry shampoo in the UK, and American hairstylists would fill their suitcases with it before leaving London
The rest is history, and now we have the largest selection of powders and aerosol in history all over the world. It's very fascinating to me to consider the different types of clays and powders used by all people over the globe to adorn & care for themselves.
"The concept of an aerosol originated as early as 1790 when self-pressurized carbonated beverages were introduced in France. In 1837, a man called Perpigna invented a soda siphon incorporating a valve. Metal spray cans were being tested as early as 1862. They were constructed from heavy steel and were too bulky to be commercially successful.
In 1899, inventors Helbling and Pertsch patented aerosols pressurized using methyl and ethyl chloride as propellants."*
The term "Dry Shampoo" is kind of a misnomer. For quite some time, women and men alike would wash their hair with the same soap they cleaned their bodies with, which was often made with animal fat.
In 1903 "a chemist and pharmacist named Hans Schwarzkopf created a violet-scented powder hair wash after hearing about it from a client of his who had seen it in England." This introduced the concept of a cleaning powder to the people of the time. Often times a powder was applied, used to exfoliate, and then brushed or washed out.
However, the name stuck around! Call it hair powder, or dry shampoo, we know how useful it is on non-wash days when you need a little pick-me-up!
I've always been kind of a greasy kid, I blame it on genetics. Regardless, my mom would douse me in baby powder (talcum powder) before heading off to school on days when I couldn't fit a shower in.
This was less than ideal for a couple reasons. Firstly, my hair is really dark, so there was always a white cast on my roots, no matter how much I tried to blend it in. Secondly, I didn't know at the time but the ingredients in baby powder are linked to multiple creepy things. Connections to Ovarian & lung cancer as well as respiratory issues in children are prevalent 2.
What's more, Johnson & Johnson have had multiple lawsuits against talcum powder contaminated with asbestos 3. Big Yikes!
Seeing as I was entering puberty, and only getting greasier, I began to play with other ingredients that might work better for my brunette shade. I found powders with a finer surface area, so they would blend in more easily. I sought out darker and darker powders and eventually came up with the formula for our Darker Dry Shampoo powder! Which I am happy to say (as far as I know) is the darkest, natural, mineral free Dry Shampoo on the market.
I found an old powder brush I bought for blush, and started applying it to my scalp that way- so it wouldn't be messy underneath my fingernails. You can find a combo deal of our Dry Shampoo and these awesome vegan, cruelty free, plastic free application brushes here.
When I knew I wanted to start my own business, I was pleased that I coincidentally had YEARS of Research and Development for my first product!
I'm so happy to share this product with conscious consumers. It is truly my desert island hair product that I rely upon for an after-work pick me up before going out, for roadtrips, and for when I just can't be talked into washing my hair :)
Not only are aeorosol products jam-packed with isobutanes, synthetic fragrances, and heavy minerals that are harmful when inhaled, they are downright more expensive! Think about how much actual product are in those cans, and how much of it is just a propulsion agent! We are confident enough that our Dry Shampoo powder will outlast a can of Dry Shampoo, we offer a money back guarantee. Plus, we offer a Dry Shampoo refill, so you can just keep using the same cute glass jar instead of throwing away those wasteful cans.
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I received compliments, clapback and most of all, nagging from older folks who criticized my decision. They couldn’t fathom why I wanted something that millions of people every year go through loops and bounds to cover.
Through it all, I remembered my mother who was adamant about maintaining her dark brown locks, and my friends’ mothers who did the same to preserve their balayage's and baby lights. It seemed the women in my life acted desperately to vanquish their gray as if their lives depended on it.
I soon learned the color itself wasn’t the issue; there’s nothing inherently wrong with gray and its many shades, it’s more so the association of the color on a woman’s scalp that compels them to hide their aging locks.
Harvard Health states the reason we lose our rich color is from our hair follicles losing their pigment over time, resulting in gray strands popping up during the hairs natural dying and regeneration cycle. This happens around age 35, give or take depending on your genetics, and contrary to popular belief is not associated with stress. If it’s something so natural, then why is it societally disfavored?
Aging is somewhat of a polarizing topic, especially when it comes to women; we grow older each second, and developing gray hair is one of the many signs of those seconds turning to decades. Gray hair has been the subject of fearmongering I’ve witnessed since childhood; in hair dye commercials nonchalantly targeted toward aging women, in salon magazine ads that raved about their gray coverups and even in tabloids that shamed female celebrities who’d failed to cover their roots fast enough.
Like anything involving women’s surficial beauty, the universal animosity for gray stems from the obsession of women preserving their youth. Women are pressured to obsess over the idea of aging gracefully, with an end goal of as few wrinkles and as little sagging skin as possible. And gray hair is the clear depicter that a woman is “getting old,” or that she’s finally “let herself go.”
Though women have fought against misogynist pressures in media, the issue with gray hair digs deep.
Think of the evil witch in Snow White, for example. The closer you pay attention to many notable female antagonists, the more evident it is that they embody features that are funneled down women's throats as the thing they should not be. Annie Wilkes from Misery is overweight, Mom from Futurama has a wrinkled neck while Bellatrix Lestrange’s hair progressively grays as she becomes more of a threat throughout the Harry Potter films.
This negative connotation with gray goes back further. Women were expected to have a family and care for it by their early twenties. Once a woman hit their graying years, they were mere throwaways, as she’d surpassed her fertile window. Female celebrities began to uphold their natural hues as early as the 1910s when L’Oréal’s founder Eugène Schueller concocted the first synthetic hair dye. It became more accessible for the average woman starting in the 1950s, and as of 2015, it’s estimated that roughly 70% of women take to dying their hair.
However, what I still struggle to understand is the appreciation of gray hair in men. The term silver fox is often thrown around by people who fancy the maturing men’s hair. Think of George Clooney, Brad Pitt and Mads Mikkelsen, who are only a sample of the graying actors that are viewed as some of the most attractive men in Hollywood. These graying men are often viewed as sexy, intelligent and mature, while graying women are viewed as brittle, weathered and old.
I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous when gray influencers started popping up on my for-you pages. I wondered if somehow my feed was trying to alert me to the fact that I was about to graduate from the 18-24 age bracket and that I needed to start preparing for what was on the horizon.
But as I stopped and scrolled through a few of these pages, my nervousness blossomed into admiration. These communities are not only highly supportive but serve as a safe space for graying women to share their hardships and successes. You can find some of these women showcased here, who are some of the forerunners in breaking down the stigma.
And as I’ve delved further into the realm of this sort of “go gray” movement, I’ve realized that more women in the media are rocking gray hair. From Meryl Streep and Diane Keaton to even Lady Gaga and Kylie Jenner experimenting with silver dyes, gray is slowly but surely pushing its way into the limelight, and in the foreseeable future, it won’t be something women fear, but rather embrace.
One of the most universally shared experiences between women embracing their gray seems to be the inevitable backlash. This was apparent on the influencers feeds as well; it seemed to stem mostly from women around the same age who were claiming that there’s nothing wrong with wanting to continue dying your hair. It’s all a form of self-expression at the end of the day, and though they’re entirely valid in their point, it’s perfectly okay to want to go gray, too!
Women also seem to struggle with how to let it grow without it looking like a botched bottle dye experiment. Some resort to a stylized pixie or bob, others take to the salon to have gray highlights weaved throughout their current color and I’ve even seen some women rock a gray root with a funky color!
When it comes to hair health before, during and after the transitioning phase, one of the most common struggles that women combat is coarse, brittle hair. If you want your silver mane to look healthy and hydrated, it’s important to find a mask or hair oil to fit into your daily routine.
We recommend the Seriously Magic Hair Oil here at Rabbit Brush! Argan and Jojoba oils work as an all-natural, cruelty-free means of regaining moisture while conditioning the scalp. It also works as an overnight mask for prime absorption; it can be distributed onto the ends of the hair and worn in braids for effortlessly shiny, moisturized strands from the moment you hop out of bed!
It’s 2022, if a twenty-something can rock a shaved head or green rattail, it should be perfectly acceptable for a woman to show her individuality through allowing her gray to show.
Though I’m not at this stage of my life yet, stumbling upon this cyber corner of women online who bond over the beauty of embracing grey has only made me more hopeful that when my time comes, I’ll feel comfortable to embrace my natural locks, too, whatever shade they might become.
At Rabbit Brush, we make hair products for people of all ages and hair types, whether you’re in the process of growing out your grey or are rocking a full rainbow. You can rest assured that we will never criticize you for your hair choices, whether you’re learning to care for your gray or take to cutting 3 AM bangs with a pair of kitchen scissors. Our products work for everybody, every time, and as always, your hair will thank you!
Sources:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/hair-turn-gray-2017091812226
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hair_coloring
https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2015/01/hair-dye-a-history/383934/
https://www.southernliving.com/fashion-beauty/hairstyles/going-gray-gracefully
https://rabbitbrushgoods.com/collections/all-hair/products/stay-golden-hair-oil
]]>It’s crucial that we discuss why our products are non-toxic, and how they serve to support better environmental practices. We know that not everybody understands exactly what it means for a product to be “non-toxic,” or why it’s imperative that as consumers, we need to conduct our own research to recognize what ingredients are worrisome in our makeup, skincare and hair products.
In this post, we’ll take away some of those unknowns and give the lowdown on petrochemicals, some of the most abundant toxic chemicals that can be found in beauty products, why they’re bad for us, our environment and what we can do to limit our exposure to them.
Petrochemicals are attained from petroleum (crude oil) for manufacturing purposes, most commonly to make plastic, polyester and nylon. [1] There are six basic petrochemicals: propylene, ethylene, benzene, toluene, butylenes and xylenes. [2]
These chemicals are pivotal in the manufacturing sector and their byproducts are used to make practically everything; you can find them in furniture and appliances, clothing, medicines, paints, cars, electronics and of course, cosmetics. [1]
Although oil companies claim that petrochemicals are valuable to society, it comes at a major cost. The process of making petrochemicals is one of the leading causes of pollution and CO2 emission, and there have been major studies in recent years that have uncovered known and potential health complications that are linked to long-term exposure to these chemicals.
While petrochemicals aren’t inherently bad for our health, it’s the method in which they’re refined, especially in the US, that makes them a human health hazard. [3]
Unlike the FDA, the European Union mandates that all petrolatum, one of the most abundant petrochemicals, must be proven safe with a complete refining history [4] before any beauty product hits the shelf. This is because, during the refinement process, petrolatum is often contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), a cluster of 100+ chemical compounds that are classified by The National Toxicology Program (NTP) as probable carcinogens. [5]
Petrochemicals are, predictably, hazardous to our environment as well. At large, their carbon footprint is incomprehensible— this is the oil industry we're talking about here, they're not exactly celebrated for their strides toward environmental protection and preservation. The production of petrochemicals is one of the leading contributors to climate change and pollutes our water, air and soil, [6] with oil giants BP, Chevron, ExxonMobil and Shell contributing over
10% of total carbon emissions alone since 1965. [7]
These companies are not only blatantly aware of the damage they are causing to the environment, but they are constantly putting down efforts dedicated to slowing the effects of global warming.
In an attempt to compete against technological innovations (think wind and solar energy sources) and beat the governments promises to reinforce environmental regulations, big oil is planning to dump $400 billion toward plastic production through construction of new, major plants overseas, despite plastic making up only 9% of their total profits. [8]
Additionally, petrochemicals are especially harmful to POC and low-income communities. Pledging to bring an abundance of economic growth, petrochemical companies prey on these communities by building their plants in small towns, forcing independent businesses to close and lifelong residents to either move or, usually stay, which significantly raises their risks of developing diseases such as cancer and asthma. [9]
Petrochemicals are certified sketchy— they are known carcinogens, meaning they contain cancer-causing properties, and have also been linked to reproductive toxicity, premature aging, reduced cell development, poor skin function (think increased acne, clogged pores and dry skin) and respiratory dysfunction. [15]
A study conducted in 2019 confirmed that on average, American’s are consuming between 39000 and 52000 microplastic particles annually, that number bumping to as high as 121000when counting environmental exposure. The study also revealed that people who drink primarily from plastic water bottles are consuming roughly 86000 more particles than those who don’t; as if the fact that 38 billion of them end up in landfills annually in the US wasn’t enough to make the switch to a reusable option. [10] [11]
Perhaps one of the most alarming misconceptions regarding beauty products is that because they are used externally, there are no health risks involved with their use, as microplastics aren’t being directly consumed. This is false; the skin is the body's largest organ, and daily, the products we use are absorbed into our bloodstreams. [12] Just because we aren’t actively ingesting these products, doesn’t mean we aren’t being exposed to them. And hey, I’ve ‘accidentally’ eaten some of that scrumptious pumpkin pie spice scented chapstick before.
Since 2009, over 500 cosmetics manufacturers have admitted to using petrochemicals that are linked to cancer, hormone and endocrine disruption, reproductive harm and birth defects in their products. [12] PAHs in particular are known to accumulate inside fat cells and have been heavily associated with the development of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. [13]
People assigned female at birth are 100 times more likely to develop breast cancer than men [14], and with women being the main target of these companies, that makes educating the dangers of petrochemicals all the more paramount.
So, why are they used in beauty products? Maybe I’m the odd one out, but it’s hard for me to comprehend why the same materials that are used to make phones, seatbelts and plastic packaging are also found in my lipsticks and body lotions. Why are cosmetic, skincare and haircare companies depending on big oil for their ingredients, and why have I willingly been putting this stuff on my body, and sometimes in it, for years?
It turns out that petrochemicals are often incorporated into cosmetic products for smoothing purposes; think of any balm or pomade, it most likely got its spreadable, buttery texture from paraffin wax or petroleum. [3] Petrochemicals are a popular choice for skincare bands due to their long shelf life and widespread availability. They can also be used as a preservative, filler or to disperse fragrance in an attempt to keep production costs low, and profit margins high.
It’s unacceptable that toxic chemicals are being pumped into our beauty products without our knowing, and more often than not, it’s for brands to save a quick buck. There are hundreds of petrochemicals out there, but these are some of the most common that you can find on cosmetic, skincare and hair care labels: [3], [16]
Acetone
Formaldehyde
Isopropyl alcohol
Mineral oil
(Mono)propylene glycol (MPG)
Parabens (often listed as Propyl, Benzyl, Methyl, Butyl)
Paraffin oil/wax
Parfum/Fragrance
Petrolatum, Petroleum or Petroleum jelly
Polyethylene glycols (PEGs)
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
Toluene
Petrochemicals are everywhere, and with brands giving peanuts about the sourcing of their ingredients,
how are we expected to navigate shelves safely?
Unsurprisingly, it’s harder to avoid petrochemicals when shopping at big box stores. Foundation, shampoo, everything you put on your body daily most likely has at least one petrochemical in it. Perhaps some of the trickiest products to find safe alternatives for are hair pomades, as they often rely on paraffin wax for its texturizing and smoothing properties— this means that they typically
contain higher amounts of petrochemicals in general, as paraffin wax is higher up on the ingredient list.
One of my favorite alternatives is our Pocket Pomade which uses vegan candelilla wax in place of paraffin wax. Candelilla wax doesn’t serve as just a replacement here— this high-quality natural alternative is praised for its ability to hold hair in place while locking in moisture. It has a lightweight feel, long-lasting hold, and a little goes a long way! [17]
To find other alternatives to your favorite products, check out the Skin Deep database from the Environmental Working Group for a quick and easy method to find what brands are free of petrochemicals, and which aren’t. I recommend making a short list of your favorite brands and products beforehand, that way you can easily check off which products you want to keep, discontinue or even try out!
Though we can’t always prevent our exposure to petrochemicals, we can continue to educate ourselves about which products are safe, and which aren’t. With databases like SkinDeep openly exposing the harmful ingredients in beauty brands, it’s becoming more accessible than ever to find safe alternatives.
The FDA currently does not regulate what’s pumped into our beauty products, so it’s key that we take matters into our own hands and advocate for more transparency from cosmetic, skincare and haircare companies, many of whom remain guarded about the safety of their products and the potential health risks associated with their use.
It’s important that we remember the negative impact they have on our environment and POC/low-income communities as well— keep the conversation on big oil and petrochemicals going, and as always, support independent, local brands whenever possible.
At Rabbit Brush, we will never risk the health and safety of our customers for a higher profit margin. That’s why we steer clear of petrochemicals and choose locally sourced, cruelty free & non-toxic ingredients that are safe for everyone, every time.
References:
[1] https://energyeducation.ca/encyclopedia/Petrochemical
[2] https://empower.afpm.org/products/what-are-petrochemicals
[3] https://www.safecosmetics.org/get-the-facts/chemicals-of-concern/petrolatum/
[4] https://cosmeticseurope.eu/how-we-take-action/ensuring-safety-cosmetics/
[5] https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/whatwestudy/assessments/cancer/roc/index.html
[6] https://sciencing.com/harmful-effects-petrochemicals-environment-8771898.html
[7] https://www.npr.org/2022/02/16/1081119920/greenwashing-oil-companies
[8] https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottcarpenter/2020/09/05/why-the-oil-industrys-400-billion-
bet-on-plastics-could-backfire/?sh=536d5dda43fe
[9] https://earthjustice.org/features/petrochemicals-explainer
[10] https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acs.est.9b01517
[11] https://www.officeh2o.com/2020/02/27/why-are-disposable-water-bottles-harmful-to-the-
environment/
[12] https://www.ewg.org/the-toxic-twelve-chemicals-and-contaminants-in-cosmetics
[13] https://www.bcpp.org/resource/polycyclic-aromatic-hydrocarbons/
[14] https://www.rogelcancercenter.org/breast-cancer/detection-and-prevention/breast-cancer-
risk-factors
[15] https://seriouslysensitivetopollution.org/2013/08/30/20-petrochemicals-to-avoid-in-
personal-care-and-laundry-products/
[16] https://www.petrochemistry.eu/interactive-flowchart/
[17] https://www.osloveorganics.org/candelilla-wax-for-hair-and-skin-care/
But you may wonder about each scent, and if it's right for you! Hopefully this blog is helpful in assisting you find your new favorite Rabbit Brush scent.
Rabbit Brush uses only the finest essential oils & never uses any synthetic fragrances or perfumes. If you want to know why this matters to us, you can check out our blog on The Dangers of Synthetic Fragrances.
CITRUS SAGE
CEDAR ROSE
OREGON LAVENDER
VETIVER
FRAGRANCE FREE
]]>over the last couple years we've seen a lot of little black squares, some appropriate hashtags, but perhaps a lack of serious commitment to social and racial justice from companies & corporations.
We strive to walk the walk, and I'm happy to take the time to break down how exactly we do that.
We have been making monthly contributions to National Bail Out since June 2020.
"The National Bail Out Collective coordinates the Mama’s Day Bail Outs, where we bail out as many Black Mamas and caregivers as we can so they can spend Mother’s Day with their families where they belong!
The National Bail Out Collective also provides fellowship and employment opportunities for those we bail out in order to support their growth and create a national community of leaders who have experienced incarceration.
We also work with groups across the country to support ongoing bail reform efforts and create resources for organizers and advocates interested in ending pretrial detention." - National Bail Out website.
Above photo via nationalbailout.org
We have also been giving monthly contributions to Byp100 since June 2020.
"We mobilize through building a network focused on transformative leadership development, direct action organizing, advocacy, and education. Our membership core believes in the principles of decision making, radical inclusivity, and is building a Black politic through a Black, queer, feminist lens."
In April of 2022, we switched our contributions from Byp100 over to Don't Shoot Portland, to support local organizing.
"Don’t Shoot Portland is an arts and education organization that promotes social justice and civic participation. Our year-round programming allows us to advocate for community members facing racism and discrimination by providing legal representation and direct advocacy. Since our inception in 2016, Don’t Shoot Portland has hosted its own dialogues, community forums and workshops focusing on history, archiving and social culture. The art proponent of our work acts as a communicative tool to facilitate discussions about race in America while providing educational assets to those most affected by discrimination in public policy."
We have donated multiple one-time donations for our Plastic Tax initiative with Small Businesses for Big Change.
Here is a list of the organizations we have given to but it is by no means an exhaustive list, as we also support individuals directly.
NAFSA (Native American Food Sovereignty Alliance)
National Black Food & Justice Alliance
Above photos from the National Black Food & Justice Alliance Website.
Additionally, we do our best to make these donations directly from our own profits, and only occasionally contribute a percentage of sales.
Grateful to be able to monetarily contribute to causes fighting to make a difference, and continue to learn and grow as an individual & business.
Always open to dialogue, feedback & criticism.
Thank you for being here!
Xoxo
Ruby at Rabbit Brush
]]>What's even wilder is the fact that the public has had access to all of the information regarding the toxicity of these ingredients for decades. A paper titled "Neurotoxins: at home and in the workplace" came out in 1989- linking these chemicals to cancer, birth defects & central nervous system disorders (1).
In this blog post- we will cover what these fragrances are, the effects they have on our lives, and what information you need to limit your contact with them.
The word “fragrance” or "parfum" covers dozens, sometimes even hundreds, of chemicals on product labels (2). It's a mixture of ingredients that the FDA doesn't require to be detailed- allowing manufacturers to clump together chemicals without specifying them on the label.
95% of of chemicals used in fragrances are derived from petroleum (crude oil). Which in our opinion, is very uncool.
Most cleaning products, air fresheners & laundry detergents contain these chemicals. Personal care products are rife with synthetic perfumes, designed to deliver a punch of "tropical paradise" or a "floral bouquet".
According to the Campaign for Safer Cosmetics, hair products are especially problematic. More than 95% of shampoos, conditioners and styling products contain fragrance as an ingredient (3).
"Are you wondering why companies would continue to use synthetic scents if they’re so bad for our health? The answer is straightforward — they are cheaper. Synthetic scents can be an extremely cheap way to give everything from shampoo to lotion to candles a desirable scent." (4)
Phthalates (pronunced THA-lates) are a group of chemicals often disguised as “fragrance.” They have been connected to cancer, endocrine disruption as well as developmental and reproductive toxicity. Phthalates are already banned from cosmetics in the EU, but are still routinely found in products manufactured and sold in the United States. They are often disguised under the “fragrance” ingredient, but they can also appear on ingredient lists as phthalate, DEP, DBP, and DEHP (5).
There are a myriad of ways that artificial perfumes affect us daily. From the seemingly innocuous annoyance or headaches from our co-workers perfume to lifelong health issues- there is overwhelming evidence that these chemicals are bad news.
"Research conducted by Dr. Philip J. Landrigan of the Mount Sinai Children’s Environmental Health Center demonstrates that fetal exposure to phthalates is linked to autism, symptoms of adhd, and neurological disorders. (6)" It is of the upmost importance that all of us, but especially pregnant women- limit their exposure to these ingredients. Fragrance can accumulate in human fat tissue, and has even been found in breast milk (7).
Among the thousands of chemicals used in fragrance- many of them are either known carcinogens, or have strong evidence insinuating they are carcinogenic.
Breast Cancer Prevention Partners points out that avoiding these toxins from the get-go is one of the best ways to ensure a successful prevention of cancer.
A study from the National Library of Medicine found that "growing evidence indicates that exposure to widespread, environmental contaminants called endocrine disruptors (EDCs) negatively affects animal and human reproductive health and has been linked to several diseases including infertility (8)." It has also been linked to decreased sperm count & reproductive malformations.
If you or someone you know already has issues with breathing & mitigating headaches- you know that fragrances can add an entirely new level of difficulties to deal with. Fragrances are one of the top five allergens in the world (9).
Recent health reports show that there has been a rise in asthma, migraines, sinus issues & allergies. There is likely a correlation between in the increase of synthetic fragrances & the symptoms they create.
Besides avoiding the icky isles at the store- a quick glance at product labels can be very helpful in avoiding these toxins. Completely avoiding any product that lists fragrance, parfum, phthalate, DEP, DBP, or DEHP as an ingredient. Avoid things that end in, methyl-, ethyl-, propyl-, isopropyl-.
If you really want a scented product- look for organic essential oils.
Note that there is a difference between "Fragrance Free" and "Unscented" on products- a "fragrance-free" label indicates that the product contains no added fragrance chemicals. An "unscented" label means that fragrance chemicals may have been added to mask odors (10).
Some products I like from companies I trust:
Fragrance Free Laundry Tablets from Blueland
Liquid dish soap from Cleancult
Seed-to-bottle skincare from Gatherwise
Using basic ingredients to clean your house like vinegar, baking soda, and citrus juice can be an excellent way to save money, cut down on plastic and avoid toxic materials. You can also make plenty of personal cosmetic products that are cruelty free and all natural.
Here at Rabbit Brush you can be confident that the products you get are pure and free from any artificial perfume or fragrance. We are currently working on a fragrance free shag spray that will likely be released this summer.
Our Oregon Lavender Shag Spray & Seriously Magic Hair Oil has essential oils that are not only organic, but local to us here in Oregon. Grown in Silverton, Oregon at Buena Vista Farms.
Our Cedar Rose & Velvet Vetiver Shag Spray & Hair Oils are also made with high quality essential oils as well- sourced from a local, female-owned wholesale supplier. Choosing small-batch, handmade hair care by hands that care about what goes in your home and on your body is a wise decision for you and the planet. You don't have to sacrifice looking good or smelling good either, it turns out that we don't even need these ingredients! The reason they are so popular is because they are cheap for large corporations to use.
Thank you for taking the time to be a conscious consumer! The way we navigate our current landscape can make a difference in the industry at large.
Enjoy this little infographic you're welcome to keep on your phone or reference at any time.
]]>If you’ve received a box in the mail recently, you’ve likely touched ULINE. As North America's largest distributor of shipping, packaging and industrial supplies, ULINE is an omnipresent supplier in today’s shipping-fueled economy. ULINE was founded in 1980 by Elizabeth and Richard Uihlein—heirs to the Schlitz beer company fortune. ULINE has grown to offer close to 40,000 products and has more than 7,000 employees—seems like a true midwestern success story, right?
The Uihleins are ranked by the donation-tracking site OpenSecrets.org as the fifth-largest donors in the United States to outside political spending organizations, having contributed a whopping $62.8 million to conservative groups in the 2020 election cycle.
It goes beyond private ideology and donations—in each ULINE catalog Liz Uihlein brings her conservative politics directly to her customer base with a “letter from the president” where she broadcasts her ultra-conservative views openly to millions of ULINE customers.
Shopping Uline is directly supporting extreme right-wing politics.
While we can’t vet the political affiliations of every company below, rest assured that none of them are as explicitly right-wing as ULINE.
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In actuality, this is not a reality we have escaped. We, especially in American society, are surrounded by heavy metals, carcinogens & endocrine disruptors. There is little to no regulation on the cosmetic industry- allowing large manufacturers to essentially use any ingredients they see fit.
I wonder how long it will take for us to look back on where we are right now, to see the products in the store isle and ponder "how did we ever think it was okay to put this on our bodies?"
Image via laurajaneatelier.com
In 1933, a woman was hospitalized with severe eye pain after using an eyelash darkener called Lash Lure. The doctors watched her eyes burning as if exposed to acid, and discovered that the eyelash cosmetic contained a toxic coal tar dye.
Throughout the 1930's, a depilatory called Koremlu was marketed heavily, but was known to contain thalium, a form of Rat Poison.
In 1936, a woman developed dark rings around her eyes and neck, bluish black gums and loose teeth. She had been using a product called "Gouraud's Oriental Cream", which contained levels of mercury.
And not too long ago, women began experiencing dizziness, vomiting, scalp damage and hair loss from using drugstore hair products. These products, coming from large brands like Johnson & Johnson, L'Oreal & Revlon, contained ingredients that over time, when added to water, release formaldehyde, a known carcinogen.
You might not believe that nearly 1 in 5*, around ~20%* of store-bought cosmetic products contain a substance that generates formaldehyde.
These are the ingredients that you need to look out for, the largest generators of formaldehyde in most cosmetics:
-DMDM Hydanoin
-Imidazolidinyl Urea
-Diazolidinyl Urea
-Quaternium-15
-Bronopol (2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1 3-diol)
-5Bromo-5-nitro-1 3 dioxane
-Hydroxymethlyglycinate
Feel free to copy these and keep them in your phone notes for quick reference!
Some recommendations for non-toxic beauty:
- Rabbit Brush :)
In conclusion-
FDA regulations on the cosmetic industries have not been updated since 1938, and the FDA does not have the legal authority to approve cosmetics before they go onto the market. They also lack the authority to properly recall potentially dangerous products.
It doesn't seem like large cosmetic companies are looking out for our well-being, and the FDA can't intervene. It's up to us as community members to make sure we are sharing the right information- that we know what to look out for and keep out of our homes & bodies.
Some other generally toxic cosmetic ingredients to look out for:
- Parfum (Fragrance), is a legal loophole that allows companies to group together ingredients without having to list what they are. This can be proprietary, so avoid any products with artificial perfumes or scents.
-BHD & BHT
-Coal Tar Dyes (p-phenylenediamine + colors listed as "CI" followed by a 5 digit number)
-DEA related ingredients
-Triclosan
-Dibutyl Phthalate
-Parabens
-Sodium Laureth Sulfate
-Siloxanes
-Petrolatum
As always, Rabbit Brush is committed to clean, organic, non-toxic, cruelty free ingredients <3 thanks for being here friends!
]]>The cosmetic industry is responsible for 120 billion units of plastic packaging* & in 2018, in the U.S. alone, almost 8 billion rigid plastic containers were created for beauty and personal care products*.
There are places to refill containers, but lets be honest, they are far and few between. I often forget my bottles, and grab a new plastic container for convenience sake. Additionally, liquid shampoo is on average 60% water*.
Using a Shampoo Bar significantly decreases the amount of single use plastic one throws away, especially since it's estimated that the average person goes through 800 plastic shampoo bottles in their lifetime*.
Typically speaking, 1 shampoo bar is equal to 3 bottles of liquid shampoo.
I'm not sure why I was so skeptical about using a solid shampoo bar, perhaps it was because I just never really saw them at the store or in advertisements. I originally thought that they wouldn't be as effective, or would dry my hair out. Now, it's clear to me that this preconceived notion is merely due to the successful marketing for liquid shampoos.
I've tried 'no-poo' methods, and tired cutting down the number of times I was washing my hair, but I was never really happy with the results. In fact, this was one of the #1 reasons I created my Dry Shampoo formula.
Shampoo Bars take a small amount of time to lather up, and during this time you are actively massaging your scalp, working the product through your hair, and stimulating your hair follicles. Your scalp craves this kind of attention, and often times doesn't receive it because store bought shampoos have loads of foaming agents, making it seem like your hair is clean without actually cleaning your scalp at all.
Additionally, I have noticed that because my hair has begun to balance it's own natural sebum production, I find is unnecessary to wash my hair every other day as I was previously doing.
Every bar contains this special formulation of three powerful plant nutrients, rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, and anti-inflammatory properties.
These 3 unique oils uniquely work synergistically to penetrate the hair shaft, improving strength and resiliency to styling and environmental damage while coating it for shine and softness like you’ve never felt before.
What you won’t get: harsh sodium lauryl sulphates (SLS), hormone disrupting parabens, and synthetic fragrances and dyes – promise! Free from:
Now, keep in mind there might be a
Similar to transitioning away from deodorants with aluminum, it's important to be patient while your hair restores its natural oils. For me, it was only the first time that I used the Shampoo Bar in which my hair felt a little greasy. Now, my hair feels clean & soft whenever I am done washing.
Having a good Dry Shampoo on hand will be helpful for this phase.
You may ask yourself,
I have found that by not stripping the hair of natural oils, the need for a conditioner is less pressing. However, I have been loving rinsing my hair with a watered down apple cider vinegar, it makes it really soft afterwards.
I have been washing my hair about every three days, and on the evening of when I will be washing my hair next, I will apply Hair Oil to the ends of my hair, and sleep in a braid. I find this locks in moisture and cuts down my need to apply conditioner in the shower that I would wash out anyways.
There are the top three reasons I would urge you to make the switch over to a solid shampoo bar today. Granted, this product is not for everyone, and I understand that hair products are very personal. However, if cutting down your consumption of single use plastic, scalp health & reduction of toxic beauty products are important to you, I would absolutely recommend switching to a solid Shampoo Bar.
Good Juju Shampoo & Conditioner Bars are formulated with all-natural & certified-organic ingredients and backed by science, our award-winning concentrated solid shampoo & conditioner bars leave hair feeling healthy, shiny, and nourished.
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