Certification Savy: EcoCert

You've maybe seen the logo and heard the name, but do you know what EcoCert certification really means?  Here's a little info to keep you in the know, because remember while reading labels for ingredients and chemicals is good thing, it always helps to understand what certain labels mean!


EcoCert is similar to the USDA Organic Certification & National Organic Program but it is based in Europe. Unlike the USDA, Ecocert, which was founded in 1991, currently offers its services of inspection and certification in more than 80 countries on all continents and employs over 350 people worldwide. They certify over 70% of all the French producers. They partner with groups and organizations who are involved in the sustainable environment movement, a very important factor in the certification process. Are the certified ingredients we use sustainable resources? The answer should be yes. They are very concerned about the Environment, REACH, Green Chemistry and Cancer-causing materials.

Strictly a testing and certification organization, Ecocert is accredited by COFRAC, the French Accreditation Committee, which demands independence, competence and impartiality. They follow ISO guidelines. Although based in France, they are not a government agency like the USDA. The core business of Ecocert is to give a guarantee on strict compliance with the specifications applicable to products, systems and services. Certification by Ecocert represents a guarantee for the consumer or the end user.

What can I expect from an EcoCert Certified Product?

Its "Eco" label requires that 95% of a product's ingredients are natural or from natural origin, that a minimum of 50% of those natural ingredients are certified organic. 

Ecocert's more rigorous "Bio" Label requires the same 95% of ingredients to be natural or from natural origin, and that 95% of those natural ingredients are certified organic. 

Both labels prohibit the use of synthetic colorants, perfumes, anti-oxidants, emollients, mineral oils, silicone, parabens, petrochemicals or animal products. EcoCert only allows a 5% maximum of other approved synthetic ingredients. The agency also analyzes a producer's manufacturing process, from the transportation and storage of ingredients and products to energy use and waste disposal. Animal testing is prohibited and the manufacturing processes must be simple, non-polluting, allowing the achievement of products as biodegradable as possible and the preservation of the qualities of the raw materials

The packaging must observe the strictest respect to the environment using recyclable formats, with minimum energy consumption. Primary packaging containing PVC and polystyrene foam are prohibited.

For more information on EcoCert visit:
http://www.ecocert.com/-Cosmetics-.html

What's all the Buzz about Argan Oil?

Maybe you've heard about Argan Oil lately, or read about in a fashion magazine?  It seems that everyone is talking about it, but what's all the buzz about anyway? A bestseller in France, the legendary lightweight Argan Oil is taking the place of slick serums and goopy creams as a daily moisturizer, on cuticles and to smooth hair. Read more interesting facts about Argan oil below.

HISTORY

Old as the Olive Tree but Better for You!
 
Argan trees live 150-200 years and require no cultivation. They contain 80% unsaturated fatty acids and 3x's the antioxidant power found in Olive oil. For thousands of years, Argan oil has been used as protection from the harsh climate of the Moroccan desert. It has been found effective and beneficial for the following:
• Heals various skin disorders such as chicken pox scars.  
• Preventing stretch marks in pregnant women
• Excellent for hair and nails.

ENVIRONMENT

The Argan Tree Only Grows in Two Places in the World

Argania spinosa can only be found in the harsh semi-desert area of Southwestern Morocco and the western Mediterranean region of Algeria. This region is protected by UNESCO as the Arganerie Biosphere Reserve. Of primary conservation interest is the Argan tree (Argania spinosa).  This forest species is extremely well adapted to drought and other environmentally difficult conditions. The roots of the Argan tree grow deep, binding soil and preventing erosion, making it an essential part of the local ecosystem. The Argan tree is not only the focus for conservation, but also for research and socio-economic development. 

SCIENCE

Argan Oil: A Daily Essential


With exceptionally high levels of essential fatty acids, including linoleic acid (omega-6), Argan oil protects and repairs skin. Research points to linoleic acid's anti-inflammatory, acne reductive, and moisture retentive properties. When applied topically to the skin it can help prevent or delay wrinkling, making skin more toned and supple.

Argan + E: Neutralizing Free Radicals

The high levels of essential fatty acids in Argan oil are further complimented by very high levels of Vitamin E. Vitamin E has moisturizing and healing properties and is one of the most powerful biological anti-oxidants in neutralizing free radicals. The high levels of vitamin E and essential fatty acids, are some of what make this oil an effective skin treatment. Vitamin E also protects cell membranes from oxidation, slowing the skin's ageing process.

FUN

Is that a Herd of Goats in that Tree? 

Goats just love the fruit of the Argan tree. They climb up to 25-30 feet to the tops of these trees just for a taste of the ripe fruit.

For more on Argan Oil and some favorite uses visit: http://www.oliebiologique.com/how_to_use.html

Olìe Biologique Beauty Oil Giveaway & Challenge!

Discover the difference pure, natural & organic oils can make for your skin.

Enter the Olìe Biologique Beauty Oil Giveaway & Challenge! and we'll send you 1 FULL SIZE skin care oil of your choice to test for the next month. 

Here are the details:

1. Be 1 of the first 10 people to enter on our Facebook Fan Page (Olìe Biologique), Twitter (OlieOrganicOils) or via email at info@oliebiologique.com

2. Tell us why you would make a great tester?

Are you new to oils? Do you have troublesome skin? Are you a skeptic? Have you heard the buzz about organic oils, but aren't sure how to use them?

3. Choose your oil: Argan, Rose Hip, Almond, Evening Primrose or Hazelnut

Not sure? Visit http://www.oliebiologique.com/how_to_use.html to learn about benefits and uses of each oil. Or tell us about your skin and we can make a recommendation.

4. Promise to use the oil faithfully for the full challenge.

5. Let us know how it's going each week.

We'll email or message you through FB to get your feedback and find out the details of your experience.

6. Complete the challenge and receive 50% off your next order at http://www.oliebiologique.com/


So here's to a healthy glow and a happy new year! Can't wait to hear from you! The contest starts....NOW!