Maurice SkinnerHair care products are a part of each and every home. For those of us lucky to have beautiful locks of hair, it is important to have great products that help keep our hair clean, stylish, and strong. However, it isn’t a secret that a great majority of hair care products aren’t created upon an ethical foundation. Not only is it important to know the dangers behind regular products, but also why selecting ethical ones is important not only for an individual, but for the environment and animals around us.
Why we should use ethical hair care products
There are a plethora of reasons as to why conventional hair care products are unethical and dangerous.
Non-ethical hair care products may contain dangerous ingredients
One major issue many of these products share is the presence of harmful chemicals. The use of toxic chemicals may have adverse effects on the body. In particular, chemicals pose a risk of entering the bloodstream. Furthermore, the scalp and forehead are four times as adsorbent to external chemicals than the rest of the skin.
Moreover, chemicals in conventional hair products can also be inhaled. Hair care products, such as those used for dyeing, have a number of harmful agents like ammonia. Ammonia has the power to cause acute respiratory illness. In addition, it is very persistent and tends to stick around the body longer than it should.
Non-ethical hair care products may be animal tested
Animal testing in hair care products is also a tremendous issue. Although Japanese companies are beginning to shift away from animal testing, problems may still arise. In Japan, regulations toward animal testing are quite loose, and it appears that almost anyone can open up a facility and test animals with ingredients to be used in cosmetics.
A survey carried out by Lush Japan stated that only 28.7% individuals worldwide were aware of animal testing. Furthermore, 70% of those surveyed agreed that such practices should be banned within the country. In Japan, 65% said that “manufacturers that test on animals should publicize the species and number of animals that they use for testing.”
Benefits of using ethical hair care products
Although there are many downsides to using conventional hair products, it is also important to understand why ethical products are better for individual consumption and the environment.
One huge benefit of using ethical products is the use of less synthetic and harmful chemicals. Many organic hair care products now contain more natural cleaning agents and essential oils that lower the risk of environmental impact, allergic reactions, and irritation. Many products are now considered to be vegan and use plant-based ingredients. Fragrances, which are usually made from synthetic material, are also derived from natural and organic materials. It is also worth mentioning that ethical hair care products have also become more common all over the world, especially in Japan.
Ethical hair care products you can get from Japan
There are a number of hair care products available for consumers within Japan. If you are looking for products that do not rely on animal testing, the Japan Anti-Vivisection Association (JAVA) has a list of companies that have steered clear of this type of practice. Here are a few products within the country that are considered ethical free.
rinRen
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One company that is based in Japan goes by the name of rinRen. This company stays clear of the following additives; sulfate, mineral oil, silicone, paraben, oil surfactant, artificial fragrances and colors, as well as animal ingredients. The company also uses plant derived ingredients which are local to Japan. Many plants, such as the Sahime Rose, which is known for its fruity and elegant fragrance, are cultivated using organic fertilizer and grown using local soil.
Ecolovista
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Another brand worth pointing out is Ecolovista. This company’s name is made from three different words; ecology, economy, and vista. The brand aims to sell products that are not only friendly to the environment, but to animals; in other words, Evolovista steers clear of animal testing. The company states that their products include plant-based amino acids that help boost hair strength while using resources that do not harm the environment. Furthermore, all of Ecolovista’s products are manufactured within Japan.
Ethique
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Ethique is another brand worth mentioning. This company hails from New Zealand and is doing its best to provide products that are not only cruelty free and vegan, but also zero waste. This Ethique goes above and beyond in order to provide a product that is minimal waste. Their products, which include shampoo and conditioner bars, come in biodegradable packaging and they are one of the few brands certified as climate neutral.
Conclusion
Although these are only a few brands on the market, it is important to start making the shift toward ethical hair products. It’s time to think about our future and how our purchases not only affect the world we live in, but the people, animals, and wildlife that surround us. Japan, like other countries, is still learning how to provide such products, but it can only get better from here.
