Jan

24

Calendula Cream Choices Cheat Sheet

Filed Under ** Cheat Sheets!, allergies, Skin Care | 11 Comments

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    Since the onset of the California Baby reformulation situation, moms have been asking about other products to ease the discomfort of eczema and dry skin on themselves and their babies without irritation and extra synthetic ingredients.  This is a hard job because no product is going to be the exact same thing.  Based on the feedback I received on Facebook, I’ll provide a list of products that are comparable and varying in availability and price.  Please be aware that I have not tried all of these products so you’ll have to do some experimenting to find something that works for you. Also, if you were using CA Baby products due to sensitive skin or allergies you’ll have to be careful about what you select and test things out to determine if a reaction will occur.  Also, not all of these contain calendula.  I tried to find ones that did but I wanted to provide other solutions that may work as well.

    Online / Private Brand Creams

    My Mamas Love PEA Cream – This is a natural balm that has only a few simple ingredients.  This might be a good one to try if you have chronic problems with rashes from products. Its desined for Psoriasis, Eczema and Acne.  Allergy friendly formula.  Ingredients: Organic, extra-virgin olive oil; bees wax; organic licorice; organic myrrh; and organic chlorella.

    Price: $9.99 for a 1.7oz. jar

    Zoe Organics Extreme Cream – I love this company for many reasons but mostly because they are passionate about providing pure products that are effective and safe. Rates a 0 in EWG and uses all organic ingredients, including calendula extract. Ingredients:  butyrospermum parkii (shea) butter*, simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) oil*, rosa rubiginosa (rosehip seed) oil*, persea americana (avocado) oil*, cocos nucifera (coconut) oil*, calendula officinalis (calendula) extract*, althaea officinalis (marshmallow) root*,  rosemarinus officinalis (rosemary) extract*. *certified organic ingredient

    Price: 2 oz jar is $18 / 4oz is $32

    Botanical Baby Eczema Cream – I don’t know much about this brand but it does contain calendula and seems to get decent feedback. This has nut oils in it though so if you deal with nut allergies you might want to skip this one. Ingredients: * Lavendula angustifolia (Lavender) Hydrosol, *Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, *Prunus Amygdalus, Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, *Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, *Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, *Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Fruit, *Calendula Officinalis Extract, *Hippophae rhamnoides (Seabuckthorn) Seed Extract,* Rosa rubiginosa (Rosehip) Seed Extract, Zinc Oxide, Xanthum Gum, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), & *Lavendula angustifolia (Lavender) Essential Oil.

    Price: $17.95 for 4 oz.

    Bubble & Bee Organic Body Butta Unscented – Bubble & Bee is a favorite around here.  Stephanie really knows her stuff and there is never anything icky or synthetic in her products.  Her Body Butta is safe for babies and while it doesn’t contain calendula, she utilizes oils and butters that are known to soften skin and protect.  This would be one to try out.

    Online/Private Brands: Balms

    Labalee Bathworks Baby Moisturier- This one is natural and made for dry sensitive skin.  This balm is unscented and doesn’t have any essential oils that may cause allergies or irritation.  It is also readily available to our Canadian readers via My Little Green Shop.  Ingredients: olea europaea oil (organic olive oil), helianthus annuus seed oil (organic sunflower oil), butyrospermum parkii (organic shea butter), cococ nucifera oil (organic coconut butter), cera alba (natural beeswax), simmondsia chinensis seed oil (organic jojoba oil), tocopherol (vitamin E)

    Price: $13.95 for a 2.8oz tin

    LuSa Organics Booty Balm – LuSa Organics is one of my favorite companies for skin care items.  I’m hoplessly addicted to many of her soaps, lip balms and sugar scrubs.  But I’m here to suggest the Booty Balm for dry skin and eczema.  She also has a great calendula bar soap that’s perfect for babies too. Ingredients: *Olive oil, *jojoba oil, local beeswax, *avocado oil; flowers of *calendula, *lavender, and *chamomile; essential oil blend (lavender, patchouli, peru balsam, and chamomile); and grapefruit seed extract, citric acid, and silver citrate (natural preservatives).

    Price: Full Size (1.75-oz. tin) – $7.75

    Earth Mama Angel Baby Bottom Balm - No list about skin care for babies is complete without Earth Mama Angel Baby. One of my all time favorites and the brand that pops into my head when people ask what’s safe.  EMAB carries a Baby Bottom Balm that features organic ingredients including organic Calendula. Ingredients: Olea europaea (organic olive) oil, Calendula officinalis (organic calendula) extract, Hypericum perforatum (organic St. John’s wort) extract, Stellaria media (organic chickweed) extract, Plantago major (organic plantain extract), Butyrospermum parkii (shea) butter, Euphorbia antisyphilitica (candelilla), Simmondsia chinensis (organic jojoba) oil, proprietary blend of Lavandula angustifolia (organic lavender) oil, Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil and Commiphora myrrha (myrrh) oil

    Price: $9.95 (1 oz. jar)

    Dimpleskins Sweet Cheeks Body Balm – I’ve tried their Bum Bum Balm and loved it (it’s perfect for cloth diapering, no zinc.  They have this balm for dry chapped skin and patches.  It’s smooth and buttery but goes on like other balms do. Ingredients: Coconut Oil, pure Beeswax, organic Jojoba Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil, Cocoabutter, Vitamin e Oil, pure Lavender and Vanilla essential oils.

    Price: $12 for a generous tin (30g)

    MotherLove Green Salve - This is a relatively new discovery for me which I found on a fellow greenie blog Retrohousewife Goes Green. The ingredients are pretty simple which is why I like it.  Less is more they say.  Ingredients: extra virgin olive oil*, beeswax*, plantain herb*,comfrey herb*, marshmallow root*, calendula flower*  *Certified Organic Ingredients

    Price: $8.95

    Sweet Knee Bun Glaze – I don’t know much about this product line but it came recommended to me by another mom.  This balm is certified organic as well as gluten free which could be a bonus for some. It looks impressive. I have not tried it but looks like a good product to try out. Ingredients: Ingredients: althea officinalis (marshmallow) leaf*, plantago major (plantain leaf)*, cal. officinalis (calendula)*, matricaria recutita (German chamomile) flowers* infused in olea europaea (olive) oil*, helianthus annus (sunflower) oil*, theobroma cacao (cocoa) butter*, beeswax.

    Online / Private Brand Lotions

    Poofy Supernaturals Ciao Eczema Lotion – I discovered Poofy Organics last summer from a green blogger friend (Hi Lori) and I love their commitment to being as natural as possible.  This is  lotion that does utilize Calendula.  Ingredients: Distilled water, Organic Wheat Germ Oil, Organic Calendula Oil, Organic Unrefined Shea Butter, Organic Vegetable Glycerin, Emulsifying Wax, Vitamin A & D, Organic Vitamin E, Organic Evening Primrose Oil, Organic Rosemary Extract.  Poofy notes that they started adding benzoin gum to extend the shelf life to 5 months but they are made to order and arrive fresh with an expiration date.

    Price: $17.00 for an 8.5 oz bottle

    Babo Botanicals Oatmilk Calendula Lotion - I love Babo Botanicals products and their organic ingredients.  This silky lotion might do the trick on winter dry skin. It’s fragrant in a powdery baby sort of way. Ingredients: Purified Water (Agua), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil*, Vegetable Emulsifying Wax NF, Glyceryl Stearate SE (Vegetable) , Glycerine (Vegetable), Colloidal Oatmeal, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Fruit, Glucono Delta Lactone (Sugar), Organic Calendula Officinalis*, D-Alph Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Glyceryl Caprylate (Vegetable & Fruit), Carrageenan (Red Seeweed), Evening Primrose (Oenothera Biennis) Oil, Beeswax, Vegetable Cetyl Alcohol (Coconut), Organic Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile) Flower Extract*, Wildcrafted Nasturtium Officinale (Watercress) Extract*, Organic Pueraria Lobata (Kudzu) Root Extract*, Potassium Sorbate (Food Grade Preservative), Natural Essential Oil Blend of Vanilla and Cedarwood *Certified Organic Ingredients

    Price: $16.50 for 8oz bottle

    Episencial Soothing Cream – Episencial kind of specializes in skin care for bothered skin.  The creator made this product for dry, bothered, itchy, dry skin and I know that her products are pretty gentle and mild so this could be a great possibly solution for eczema. Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Aloe Barbadensis (ORGANIC Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract, Glycerin (Plant Derived), Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Oleosomes, Octyldodecanol, Simmondsia Chinensis (ORGANIC Jojoba) Seed Oil, Beeswax, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil Unsaponifiables, Persea Gratissima (ORGANIC Avocado) Oil, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf (ORGANIC Neem) Extract, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil, Lactobacillus/Milk Ferment Lysate Filtrate (Yogurt Derived Probiotic), Cucumis Sativus (ORGANIC Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Matricaria (ORGANIC Chamomile) Extract, Carthamus Tinctorius (ORGANIC Safflower) Seed Oil, Camellia Sinensis (ORGANIC Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Calendula Officinalis (ORGANIC Marigold) Flower, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Borage (Starflower) Seed Oil, Rubus Idaeus (ORGANIC Raspberry) Juice, Sclerotium Gum, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Capryl Hydroxamic Acid (Natural Preservative), Ethylhexylglycerin (Plant Derived Preservative), Caprylyl Glycol (Natural Preservative)

    Price: $10.99 for 8oz

    Chain Store Brands

    Many of you have asked me to provide some suggestions on product lines that are readily available at local stores.  If you are looking to switch brands, I have a Safer Skin Care Cheat Sheet full of options varying from boutique to mainstream brands.  Be aware that chain store brands, while more accessible, may contain a synthetic chemical or two so read your labels to determine if they are acceptable to you.

    I haven’t come across too many store brand creams that feature calendula oils in their formulas.  So I’ll list some brands that are accessible, but again, you’ll have to experiment and see what fits.

    Badger Baby Balm - I really don’t need to tell you how great Badger products are when it comes to safety.  They made a Badger Baby Balm that does feature calendula and is a simple few ingredients.  It’s a balm, not a cream, so there is that but whatever works.  I use their balms on my feet and hands all the time. Love the Vanilla Coconut… but I digress. USDA Certified: Ingredients: *Olea Europaea (Extra Virgin Olive) Oil, *Ricinus Communis (Castor) Oil, *Cera Alba (Beeswax), Essential Oil of *Anthemis Nobilis (Roman Chamomile), and CO2 Extract of *Calendula Officinalis (Calendula). * = Certified Organic

    Price: $10 for 2 oz. tin (you can probably bargain shop for this one)

    Aveeno Baby Organic Harvest Lotion  - This is a new line from Aveeno that I discovered.  The price point is about what you would expect but the ingredients list is very impressive.  Not to mention tear free, and allergy tested.  Here is the ingredients list from the lotion - Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Water, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Glycerin*, Tapioca Starch*, Acacia Senegal Gum*, Leuconostoc Ferment Filtrate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter*, Beeswax*, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract*, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, *Certified Organic.  The foaming wash and shampoo as well as the diaper cream both have excellent ingredients lists.  FINALLY someone has been listening. The lotion is also USDA Certified and available right now at Target and other stores.

    Price: Each product retails for about $12 for 8oz.

    Shea Moisture Baby Lotion - This line appeared in the last year at my Target store locally and features a body wash, lotion and a thicker cream/balm.  They do have a respectable ingredients list.  The only flag that came up for me was for Japanese Honeysuckle which was a discussed ingredient a year ago.  I’ll link to that here so you can read about it.  In a nutshell, it probably has estrogenic properties like parabens do. I’ll leave the decision up to you. Ingredients: Deionized Water , Raw Butyrospermum Parkii Oil (Shea) , Theobroma Cacao Seed Butter (Cacao) , Mangifera Indica Seed Butter (Mango) , Olus Oil , Argania Spinosa Nut Oil (Argan) , Centhera Biennis Oil (Evening Primrose) , Borage Officinalis Oil , Simmondsia Chinensis Oil (Jojoba) , Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil (Rosehip) , Tocopherol (Vitamin E) , Boswellia Serrata Oil (Frankincense) , Chamomile Extract , Myrrh Extract , Lonicera Caprifolium Flower Lonicera Japonica Flower Extract (Honeysuckle and Japanese Honeysuckle)

    Price: $7-9 ber 8oz bottle

    Weleda Calendula Baby Cream – This is a thicker cream made by Weleda that does feature Calendula in the formula.  Some people have issues with the ingredients in this product so you’ll have to take a look and see if it meets your requirements.  Weleda is more readily available than other brands.  Benzyl Benzoate and Benzyl Salicylate a little suspect to me… found in nature but ruined during processing is a possibility.  Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Lanolin, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil, Kaolin, Alcohol, Hydrolyzed Beeswax, Glyceryl Linoleate, Silica (Silica), Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Matricaria (Chamomile) Flower Extract, Fragrance (Parfum)*, Limonene*, Linalool*, Benzyl Benzoate*, Benzyl Salicylate*, Geraniol*. * from natural essential oils

    Price: $12 for a 2.6 oz tube (you can bargain shop for this one too)

    —————————–

    This is not a list of every product out there that is a suitable for dry skin and eczema… just a list of the ones I inspected and deem a safe alternative.  If you know a brand of calendula or comparable cream/lotion that may belong here, please email me and let me know soI can check it out!

    Oct

    17

    New Cheat Sheet – Baby Wipes

    Filed Under ** Cheat Sheets! | Comments Off

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      Normally I’d just publish a post for a cheat sheet but I’m trying to convert them all to actual pages so that the url’s are tidy and you can find them easier from one central location, which is the Cheat Sheet Shop.  From there you can find all my cheat sheets and when they get updated they will update on the same page so if you bookmark a list it will always be current.

      The one that most badly needed updating was the Baby Wipes Cheat Sheet, which I haven’t visited in a couple years. New brands came out, some brands reformulated and some discontinued so it was high time to check it out.  I also decided to streamline it and not even bother listing the brands I know are full of junk you all try to avoid.  It’s a waste of time for me and you.  So I focused on the more “natural” or “green” brands so you can compare your options side by side. (Or vertically, whatever.)

      This list features the most recent formulas, a Skin Deep rating, my notes  on the ingredients list and the performance if I’ve tried them.  I also included a basic price and a link to purchase them (if I approve).  The list also features alternatives to disposable wipes and some DIY tips from me and other sites that have great ideas.

      You can find the most up-to-date Safer Baby Wipes Cheat Sheet here, and you can look through my other cheat sheets on the Cheat Sheet Shop.  Enjoy!

      May

      17

      2011 Sunscreen Cheat Sheet is Here!

      Filed Under ** Cheat Sheets!, Skin Care | 5 Comments

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        It’s here, the 2011 Sunscreen Cheat Sheet!  Each year this task gets tougher for many reasons.  One is the development of new ingredients and formulations.  Another is that there are now many natural sunscreens on the market from big and small companies that fit the bill.  I don’t have EVERY natural sunscreen out there in my list but I try to provide a wide variety of products at varying price points.  The biggest problem for some is the lack of availability in stores.  Sunscreen’s are not cheap  and paying shipping on top of a big price tag can set you back a handful. But the sunscreen’s I find to be the best performing are usually worth the few extra bucks.

        Award Ceremony

        Best Overall Sunscreen goes to Purple Prairie this year for their SPF 30 Sun Stuff.  They just reformulated their SPF 30 lotion and after trying it out I think this one is the best bang for your buck.  It works in every sunny situation, doesn’t leave you looking ghostly and has a great ingredients list.  Plus, your purchase supports small businesses.  A little goes a long way and after testing it out in sun, surf and swimming pools I think it protects great minus the greasy.  Double thumbs up.

        Best Ingredients goes to Badger for all their sunscreens.  Every year Badger sets the bar for safe ingredients and this year is no exception.  It’s truly all natural and organic.  They have also gone a step further to up the ante on their sunscreen ingredient and are now using non-nano uncoated Zinc Oxide. Badger’s sunscreen is a top performer in protection especially with rough or lengthy swimming.  It’s the most water resistant sunscreen I’ve used and protects even after hearty swimming.  Badger is always a safe bet.  Totally worth the money, especially if you have swimmers.

        Best Solid/Stick Sunscreen goes to Babo Botanicals for the Clear Zinc Sports Stick! This is a new product for the company and it doesn’t disappoint.  It smells like apples and goes on CLEAR.  I can’t stress enough how fabulous that is.  It protects, it stays on, it smells good and you don’t look like a channel swimmer gearing up for IronMan.  I don’t leave home without it.

        Go ahead and check out this years sunscreen contenders.

        Apr

        26

        Cheat Sheet: Safer De-tangler

        Filed Under ** Cheat Sheets!, Skin Care | 11 Comments

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          Believe it or not, there are actually quite a few different brands of spray-in detangler out there.   It’s a bit of a hunt to find them, but I managed to come up with 8 different brands of safer detanglers.   I want to be clear that these are safer options, not completely chemical free, but free of at least the big ingredients we like to avoid, such as parabens, phthalates, SLS’s, propylene glycol and PEG’s.  There are three that have phenoxyethanol in it, which we try to avoid, most of the time, but it isn’t possible 100% of the time.  Given that it’s a trace amount, and it’s not in any other products I use on a day to day basis,  I’m OK with it.  I feel better knowing that it’s not something like phthalates or parabens, instead, but that’s obviously a choice you have to make for yourself. And I’d rather give you that option too.   And now…

          The Lineup:

          California Baby Calming Hair Detangler: We’ve long been a fan of California Baby and have been using their products for years.   I’ve used nearly all of their products and have been satisfied with the quality and the results (their calendula shampoo and conditioner has been fabulous for my daughter’s chronic cradle cap).   Their stuff is pretty pricey, but definitely worth it.   So this was my first purchase in my crazy quest.

          Price: $11.49

          Size: 8.5 ounces

          Scent: Lavender

          The results: Overall, California Baby is a winner.   The price is a little steep, but not horribly priced and I think you get quite a bit (depending on how much you use on a regular basis, it should last you awhile).  It was lightweight and the scent wasn’t too overpowering, which definitely is a plus.  After nearly four years of using natural products, I’m way over the smell of lavender.   It coats the hair nicely without leaving it feeling sticky, hard, or gummy.   It wasn’t instant detangling, but it definitely made it easier to get the knots out.  My daughter didn’t complain one bit.

          TruKid Dancing Hair Detangler: We haven’t really recommended TruKid as much in recent years, even removing their sunscreen from last years cheat sheet, due to the majority of their products containing phenoxyethanol, including this one.  But it’s also free of the other major ingredients we like to avoid.  I hope that in the future TruKid will remove phenoxyethanol from their ingredients list, because they’ve got such a fun line, and they work well.   Again, I’m including this, because there are far fewer safer detanglers on the market, than there are shampoos and body washes.  The amount you would use on a regular basis is pretty miniscule.  Again, this is a decision you have to make for yourself.

          Price: $8.99

          Size: 6 ounces

          Scent: Citrus

          The Results: I have to say, I’m a bit of a fan of this detangler.   There are a few drawbacks to it, one being that it has phenoxyethanol, another being that the bottle is a bit smaller. On the other hand, it’s easier to come by (drugstore.com has it, and their services is fast and phenomenal).  As for the effectiveness, it doesn’t work as well as California Baby, but it wasn’t horrible. It claims that it’s not sticky, which isn’t entirely true.  I did find it a bit sticky upon contact with my hand, but it didn’t last and it didn’t leave any residue on my daughter’s hair, instead leaving it soft and manageable.  Also, it smells fantastic.

          Babo Botanicals: This detangler is the most expensive I’ve come across in my hunt (second only to Nature’s Paradise Organics), but this one actually comes in a smaller “sample” size bottle, which is perfect for our pool bag, or for a weekend trip.  I don’t know about you, but I hate dragging full size bottles of product with me everywhere.   So, the con is that it’s expensive, the pro is that I can buy the smaller size to alleviate those tangles while we’re out and about (seriously, she twirls her hair all.the.time. So this is a necessity)

          The Price: $15.99

          Size: 8 ounces

          Scent: Berry

          The Result: Ok, first off, I LOVE the smell of Babo.  It reminds me of inhaling the Strawberry Shortcake dolls I had as a kid.   It’s one of those little things that makes me happy.   It goes on nicely, however, it does leave a bit of a crunch to my daughter’s hair, which I’m not digging.  I’ve used it post swim lessons, and also on clean, dry hair, and have gotten the same result.   I’m sure a few combings would leave it back to feeling soft again, but it does have a bit of a residue to it if you use too much.   Overall, it works well at getting the knots out. They also make a lice repelling spray, and a UV sport conditioning spray.  We never think much about protecting our hair from the elements, but they’re just as susceptible to damage.

          Circle of Friends Organics: I had never heard of Circle of Friends until recently, and now I see it more often.  Ulta carries almost their full line of products.  Unfortunately, most of them contain nothing but chemicals, but I noticed that they had an “organic” line, which I decided to give a try.  Most of the ingredients aren’t bad, but this is another one with phenoxyethanol in it.

          The Price: $13.00 (I got it on sale)

          Size: 8 ounces

          The Scent: Citrus

          The Results: Sadly, out of all of the detanglers I’ve tried, this is my least favorite.   I’m sorry that someone had to take that title, but you guys, this stuff was just… ugh.   It was watery, so it really didn’t help much in the way of getting the tangles out, which means my daughter screamed and cried in pain.  I had to reapply it a few times to help work the knot out of her hair, and when it dried, it left an oily residue on her hair.   This might be better for someone with thicker hair that doesn’t mat as easily.  Or maybe a more ethnic type of hair.   It just didn’t work for her type of hair.

          Gaia Natural Baby: Gaia Natural Baby products are from Australia.  You can find some of the product line in Whole Foods, but what I’ve seen is pretty limited, and I didn’t see this there.  I ended up ordering this online.   This is free from all of the major chemicals we like to avoid, and in general, the ingredients list isn’t bad, and relatively short in comparison to some of the other detanglers.

          The Price: $11.99

          Size: 8.4 ounces

          Scent: Lavender

          The Results: Gaia works generally about the same as California Baby.  I have no complaints.  The smell is a little stronger, but it’s not noxious, and it works on the knots (or my as daughter calls them, “knotty knots”) without too much fuss.   It didn’t leave any sort of residue, and her hair felt soft afterwards.   This makes it easy for me, if  for some reason I can’t get California Baby.  I can get this.  Right now, my compulsion to try every detangler means, I have them all over the house and I don’t have to go running.  I keep this bottle in our powder room, so that I can also use this on my son’s hair.  His hair is short, so he’s (k)not (hee hee) prone to knots, but he has a double cowlick, so his hair is all over the place.  I spray this in his hair (because my husband forbade him to smell like berries) before leaving the house so he doesn’t look like an orphan.

          Kiss My Face Obsessively Natural Kids Detangler Creme: Kathy has reviewed this line in the past, and has really liked it.  Since she has boys, she doesn’t have much of a need for detangler.  The good thing about Kiss My Face, is that it’s affordable and pretty easy to find.  Whole Foods carries it.  My local grocery store carries it in their natural section, and Kathy mentioned that she had seen it in her local grocery store as well.   This has more synthetic ingredients in it (which is why it’s less expensive), but the ingredients list isn’t bad at all.

          The Price: $8.95

          Size: 8 ounces

          Scent: orange

          The Results: This one wasn’t my favorite.  It had good and bad points to it.   This product, removed tangles the easiest, out of all of the other brands I tried.  But, it did leave a bit of a residue on my daughter’s hair.  It wasn’t too bad.  I just brushed a few times, and it was better, but it still had this slightly waxy feel to it, which was a little disappointing.   And it’s only disappointing, because I am constantly running my fingers through her hair, and I love how soft it is.   My advice would be, if you want to use this detangler, is to brush through it a few times, after its dried, and then refrain from touching your child’s hair.   If you can’t resist touching it, because you harbor the same compulsion I do, then you might do better with a different product.

          EO Everyday Detangler: You may have seen the brand EO at your local Whole Foods, if you shop there.  EO makes hand sanitizer, which Whole Foods has readily available by the meats section, as well as in the front of the store, to wipe off your carts.  EO makes an array of affordable products, that use more natural ingredients.  Some products are certified organic, and have a better ingredient list, while others are more synthetic and while are free of most of the icky ingredients we like to avoid, they still contain phenoxyethanol.  Including this one.

          The Price: $9.99

          Size: 8.4 ounces

          Scent: French Lavender

          The Results: I’ve seen EO’s detangler only a handful of times.   When I was originally searching, I found it on drugstore.com, and the reviews weren’t all that great, but it was only two reviews and I wanted to give this product the benefit of the doubt.  So I went ahead and ordered it.   True to the reviews, EO’s version isn’t that great.   The smell is overwhelming.  True, I’m over lavender, but I can tolerate it in the other detanglers.  This one is just too much.   It gets the knots out rather well, but like the other two reviewers on drugstore’s website, it leaves the hair very greasy.   No matter how much I combed or brushed my daughters hair, it still looked heavily greasy.  Unlike the others that looked a little filmy, with enough combing, it didn’t look bad. This might not be so bad if you were going to put your hair up and needed a little help with the fly-aways.  My daughter has these spots on her head where the hair is too short to pull back, so she looks funny if I pull too much of it back.   That said,  I wouldn’t invest in this detangler for that reason alone, rather in a gel.

          Nature’s Paradise Organics Kid Gentle Tropical Detangler: Nature’s Paradise has by far the best and shortest list of ingredients.   Certified USDA Organic, the detangler utilizes apple cider vinegar as its main detangling component.   It was also one of the most expensive, but I had been dying to try their products for a long time, and this was the perfect opportunity.  Also, out of all of the detanglers that I’ve tried, this is the ONLY one with a USDA organic seal, which if you’re enrolled in Mama U (and don’t skip Kathy’s middle school class, you rebellious teenagers, because I’m taking role), you should know that this is a big deal. Procuring a USDA organic seal isn’t as easy as it seems.

          The Price: 14.99

          Size 8: ounces

          Scent: Pineapple

          The Results: I had extremely high hopes for this particular detangler.  First of all, I could have sworn this also came in a watermelon scent, which is what ultimately drew me to this detangler in the first place.   Something different smelling, than either lavender or citrus.   But when I received the bottle, it had this weird smell.  The apple cider vinegar is definitely present, and then on top of it, is the faint smell of pineapple.   I was skeptical.   Last night, in lieu of a bath, I sprayed my daughters hair down to remove the tangles, and it combed through with absolutely no resistance at all.  I’ve long been a fan of vinegar, however, I’ve been skeptical of the whole “no ‘poo” apple cider vinegar method of washing hair.  But this just puts another check mark in the pros for vinegar (don’t be expecting me to go no ‘poo anytime soon).    After it started to dry, I noticed a tacky greasy residue, and my sails were deflated.  I was so excited about this detangler.   And then!  This morning, she woke up with the softest, non greasy, non tangly hair.   So this stuff?  Yes, loving it.

          So what are my favorites?  My top favorite is Nature’s Paradise Organics, however, I’ve only used it at night, before bed, not during the day,  so the daytime winner would be a tie.  Between California Baby, and Gaia Naturals.  Neither of them leave a residue, and they both get the knots out easily enough.   I use these during the day, when I have to wet my daughter’s fine hair to put it up in a pig tail.  It makes my job, and hopefully yours, far easier.   Because there’s nothing cuter than a little girl with long whimsical hair, except when you have to comb the knots out.

          Apr

          16

          Cheat Sheet: Less Plastic Sippy Cups, Bottles & Water Bottles

          Filed Under ** Cheat Sheets!, Food Safety | 9 Comments

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            It’s the next generation of cheat sheets!  The BPA Free Sippy Cup cheat sheet was one of my very first cheat sheets.  As we’ve all grown and learned more, the more I think it’s important to try and avoid plastic all together when we can.  Sure, there is BPA free plastic, and that’s better.  But plastic can still leach chemicals into fluids and foods and its better to use materials that are non-leaching, such as stainless steel, glass, ceramic, and bamboo.  I decided it was time to move past plastic on SafeMama.com and show you there are a ton of great plastic-less options. Not everything on this list is completely plastic free, but the portion that comes in contact with your fluids is. As usual not a comprehensive list so please email me suggestions for inclusion. (Last updated April 20, 2011)

            Glass & Stainless Sippy Cups

            I’ve used several of these brands and with sippy cups, it really comes down to personal preference.  For us, we primarily use 12oz Klean Kanteens (one with a sport cap and one with a sippy adapter).  They seem to be the best for us.  But I also love the Thermos Foogo Straw Bottles too and use one in my son’s lunchbox. Insulated vs non-insulated is something you have to think about.  Klean Kanteens are not (aside from their new insulated ones).  I use these adorable Cocoozy’s for out and about, and they fit perfect. There are also many neoprene sleeves and other jackets that fit both bottles and sippy’s.

            • Foogo Leak-Proof Straw Bottle (stainless)
            • Safe Sippy 2 (stainless)
            • Fuel Stainless Steel Sports Bottle
            • Foogo Leak-Proof Sippy Cup (stainless)
            • Crocodile Creek Stainless Drinking Bottles
            • Thermos FUNtainers (stainless)
            • ThinkSport 12oz Stainless Water Bottle
            • Klean Kanteen 12 oz Sippy (comes with a sippy adapter or a sports cap) (stainless)
            • Earthlust Insulated Baby Bottle & Sippy Cup (stainless)
            • EIO Kids Cup (glass)
            • Pura Sippy Cups (stainless)
            • Life Factory Bottles w/ sippy adaptor (glass)
            • Safe Sporter Stainless Steel Bottle
            • Sigg Kids Bottles (coated aluminum*)
            • Camelbak Kids Stainless Steel water bottle

            Glass & Stainless Baby Bottle Brands

            Of course there are plastic bottle options available on the market and many of them are created with BPA free plastic.  Some companies I trust more than others like ThinkBaby and BornFree because they have been BPA free intentionally from the get-go. These are great safer options too.  My objective here is to highlight some alternatives to plastic for bottle feeding.  Before anyone gets in a twist, I am a supporter of breastfeeding and think it’s an important choice.  I am also however, a supporter in allowing mothers to make the choices that are right for them, regardless of what I would do.  Everyone has their own right to mother their children the way they see fit. I refuse to judge on this issue. So without further adieu…

            • OrganicKidz Stainless Baby Bottles (stainless)
            • Pura Stainless Steel Baby Bottle (stainless)
            • BornFree Glass Baby Bottles
            • Dr. Browns Glass Baby Bottles
            • Eco Baba Stainless Bottles
            • Evenflo Glass Baby Bottles
            • Green to Grow Glass Baby Bottles
            • Silikids Glass Baby Bottles
            • Life Factory Glass Baby Bottles
            • Kidbasix Stainless Baby Bottles (stainless)
            • Momo Glass Baby Bottles
            • Nurture Pure Glass Baby Bottles
            • Sweet Pea Glass Baby Bottles

            Adult Water Bottles and Drink Containers (ditch the plastic!!!)

            Obviously there are hundreds of stainless water bottles on the market and most are fine… you can’t go wrong with stainless steel. This is a sampling of them and a few glass options.

            *Sigg was under scrutiny for using a coating on the interior of their bottles that contained BPA.  They have since corrected that and now line them with SIGG EcoCare® Liner which is a baked on coating. They claim it is chemically inert and does not absorb, leach or transfer odors or flavors, no matter what beverage is inside.  You can make a judgment call on this one.

            Aug

            4

            Cheat Sheet: Safer & Eco-Friendly Lunch Gear

            Filed Under ** Cheat Sheets!, Food Safety, PVC Free | 13 Comments

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              A while back we did a quick write up of safer alternatives to lunch boxes when all that “lead in lunchboxes” hoopla went down.  Since then there are so many great alternatives to lunch boxes available that it totally warrants a new cheat sheet. Lunchboxes are perfect for little and big kids and help reduce waste that’s clogging up our environment.  Whether stainless steel, canvas or recyclable plastic is your thing – there is a lunch system for you.  No matter what age.  Note: This is not a comprehensive list – if you think a brand should be on here please let us know and we’ll verify it! (Last Updated July 8, 2011)

              Lunch Boxes, Bags and Lunch Systems

              We looked high and low for lunch boxes and gear that was free of BPA, PVC, Phthalates and either claims to be lead-free or meets CPSIA testing standards for lead.  I’ve noted which brands claim what regarding lead. All of our picks are also free of Microban.   Here are our picks

              Lunchable Storage Containers

              I also encourage you to download the CHEJ 2010 Back to School PVC Free School Supplies shopping guide and the EWG Back to School Guide for more ideas on having a less toxic school year.

              Great places to shop for lunch/food storage gear:

              Jun

              8

              SafeMama Laundry Detergent Cheat Sheet

              Filed Under ** Cheat Sheets!, cleaning products, Cloth Diapering | 41 Comments

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                For years and years, I was a Tide girl.  I loved  my Tide in all its stain fighting glory (especially with a husband who is a habitual leaver of lip balm in his pocket and my rule is, I do the laundry, I don’t check pockets) and optical brightening power.   Then I read about phthalates and other chemicals which could possibly be slowly poisoning my son, and the rest, as they say, is history.    So of course, all of our research has led you here, to another production of the SafeMama cheat sheet. (Know a brand you think belongs here? Let us know!)

                Make Your Own!

                You can easily make your own detergent with just a few simple ingredients.  I actually have a friend who made her own and liked it.  However, I can’t really attest to how well it gets out grime and dirt, just because she said that they don’t get really dirty (empty nesters, such is the life).  But if you want to try it for yourself, you’re more than welcome to give it a whirl and see how you like it.

                What you’ll need (the liquid version, i.e. maybe a little more time consuming, and a little more mess to prepare):

                • One five gallon bucket with a lid (you can usually find them at hardware stores)
                • One bar of soap (any kind is fine, but preferably one that’s free of all the ickies!
                • One box of washing soda (NOT baking soda).  You can find this in the laundry aisle of your grocery store or big box department store.
                • One box of box of borax (optional) (Looking into the safety of Borax use – recipe still works without it)
                • three gallons of tap water
                • a measuring cup
                • a knife or cheese grater, whichever you prefer (you’ll need it for the soap)
                • your favorite essential oil (also optional)

                First, put about four cups of water into a pot and turn the heat on high.  You want to heat it up, but not boil it   Then, begin grating or shaving strips of soap into the water.   Once you’ve put all of the soap into the water,  stir until soap particles have dissolved, but your water is soapy.

                Next, add three gallons of hot water to your bucket, along with the soap mixture from the stove.  If you want to use essential oil, go ahead and add that too.   Add one cup of washing soda to the mixture and stir.  Once you’re done, let it sit overnight, and let cool.  The next day, you should have a slime like consistency.  For each load, you’ll want to use about a cup to your washing machine.

                The Powder Variety (the easier of the two):

                What you’ll need:

                This is pretty similar to the liquid kind, except you just keep it in powder form.

                • One bar of soap (any kind is fine, but preferably one that’s free of all the ickies!
                • One box of washing soda (NOT baking soda). You can find this in the laundry aisle of your grocery store or big box department store.
                • One box of box of borax (Looking into the safety of Borax use – recipe still works without it)
                • a food processor
                • essential oil (again, optional)

                First, you’ll want to cut up your soap into manageable chunks for the food processor.  Chop up the soap until fine.   In a large ziploc bag or container, add one cup of washing soda, along with your soap flakes.  If you’re using essential oil, you can add 5-10 drops to the mixture.   seal the container or bag and shake until well mixed.  Voilà!  You can use this in high efficiency washing machines as well.  Just use less.  One to two tablespoons will do the trick.

                Got any other green laundry tips?  Share them with the class!

                May

                25

                Cheat Sheet: Safer Cleaning Supplies

                Filed Under ** Cheat Sheets!, cleaning products, Eco-Mama, Healthy Home | 8 Comments

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                  One of the first things that went in my house when we started to green (during the whole BPA boom of ’07) was conventional cleaning products. Since then, we’ve tried many green cleaning products. And of course, what do we SafeMama girls do best? That’s right, my friends, cheat sheets. We’d be remiss if we didn’t put together a cheat sheet of safer cleaning products for your home, too.

                  Of course, there’s also no better product than making your own.  I swear by vinegar and baking soda.

                  Do It Yourself

                  Multi Purpose Spray:

                  Take two parts warm water, to one part vinegar.  Put in a spray bottle and add a few drops of your favorite essential oil, and viola! You’ve got a multi purpose cleaning spray.  It’s even streak free on windows and mirrors.

                  To clean your tub and shower:

                  Put half to one cup of baking soda into a bowl.  Slowly add vinegar in small increments until you have a semi-crumbly paste.  Use on a scrubby sponge to clean.  It works wonders.

                  To clean your toilets:

                  Toilet Bowl Cleaner: Pour 1/2 cup of vinegar into your toilet tank once a week. Make sure NO ONE uses that toilet for at least 30 minutes. I then add approx. 1/4 cup of baking soda to the toilet bowl and let that sit for a few minutes too. If need you can use a toilet brush to remove tough stains. Then flush! You have naturally disinfected the toilet and refreshed it too! Kills odors!

                  Toilet Stain Cleaner: 1 cup borax, 1/4 cup lemon or vinegar juice

                  Mix, then pour into the toilet bowl. Let sit for about 15 minutes, then scrub the stains away.

                  (toilet cleaning recipes courtesy of dot com women)

                  Great DIY Ideas and Recipes:

                  Have any recipes of your own? Do share!

                  May

                  4

                  SafeMama’s 2010 Bug Repellent Cheat Sheet

                  Filed Under ** Cheat Sheets!, Skin Care | 8 Comments

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                    It’s probably not a shock that products containing DEET, are not on our recommended list. DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) is a widely used active ingredient in insect repellents. Biting insects are attracted to the scent of carbon dioxide gas to find food… in this case, your blood. Skin and breath naturally give off carbon dioxide. DEET masks the scent of carbon dioxide therefore keeping buggies away.

                    DEET can act as an irritant, and has been reported to be the cause of seizures, insomnia, mood disturbances and impaired cognitive function. The American Academy of Pediatrics still stands by its safety on children over 2 months old. A brief encounter with DEET might not cause any harm, but long term exposure may. DEET is certainly effective but if DEET gives you the heebs then there are natural alternatives that work just as well to mask carbon dioxide and keep those pests away.

                    The main ingredients in natural bug repellents rely on oils, most notably citronella, soybean oil, geraniol (oil of geranium), eucalyptus, cedar, rosemary, eucalyptus and sometimes lemon oil. I’ve scoured the stores and the Internet for some better choices and here is what I came up with.

                    SafeMama Criteria: Products had to be free of DEET, parabens, phthalates, PEG’s, Sulfates, Dioxanes, Propylene Glycols, and synthetic fragrances. I tried to select all natural products when possible. I have tested a handful of these products and they do work for general kid and adult use. (Note: I went ahead and included any Skin Deep ratings that were available. However, some haven’t been reviewed for accuracy since 2006.)

                    Last Updated: August 4, 2010

                    Bug Repellent Sprays

                    Bubble & Bee 100% Organic Insect Repellent
                    Main Ingredients: Organic soybean oil, organic lemongrass essential oil, organic peppermint essential oil, organic rosemary essential oil, organic cloves essential oil, organic geranium essential oil
                    Kathy Says: I have not tried this for effectiveness but it contains all of the oils that naturally repel bugs, which I have seen work with other products. I trust Bubble & Bee immensely and their passion for safe ingredients trumps all others. I strongly recommend giving this one a try.
                    Skin Deep Rating: 0

                    All Terrain Kids Herbal Armor Spray

                    Main Ingredients: Oil of Citronella (10.0%), Oil of Soybean (5.6%), Oil of Peppermint (2.0%), Oil of Cedar (1.50%), Oil of Lemongrass (1.00%), Oil of Geranium (0.05%)
                    Kathy Says: I’ve been holding out on you. This is one of my hands down favorites. Living in South Florida, mosquitoes are AWFUL. I use this on me and the kids all the time. Effective, stinky.. but effective. I always have this on hand daily. Its a spray lotion too so you can see where you have covered and can rub in to hit spots you missed. Helpful.
                    Skin Deep Rating: 3

                    Purple Prairie Bug Stuff
                    Main Ingredients: Geranium, Lemongrass, Catnip, Rosemary, Eucalyptus
                    Kathy Says: Have never tried this, and Skin Deep rates it a zero… they carry sunscreen and hand sanitizer too.
                    Skin Deep Rating: 0

                    allthingsjill-bug-sprayAll Things Jill Bug Joose Outdoor Spray
                    Main Ingredients: Witch Hazel, Essential oils of cedarwood, lavender, rosemary, eucalyptus, pine, lemongrass & citronella (all organic)
                    Kathy Says: I haven’t tried this but I love the All Things Jill company and they use all organic ingredients when possible.
                    Skin Deep Rating: N/A

                    Miessence Buzz Free Zone Personal Spray
                    Main Ingredients: Proprietary blend of essential oils, Catnip Oil
                    Kathy Says: I haven’t tried this but I know that Miessence uses all natural ingredients and organic ones when available. I’ve had great experiences with the Miessence products I have tried before. I wouldn’t let the “proprietary” scare you on this brand. They are pretty responsible when it comes to ingredients.
                    Skin Deep Rating: N/A (couldn’t find it)

                    Brittanie’s Thyme Organic Insect Repellent
                    Main Ingredients: Soybean Oil, Rosemary Oil, Lemongrass Oil, Cedar Oil
                    Fig + Sage Says: “I’ve been using this for the past three weeks at all hours of the day (and night) and I’m happy to report that I’ve had absolutely NO BITES!!! You see, for me this is a huge feat as I so look forward to months of sunshine and warmth, yet despise the little blood-suckers that want to feast upon me.” Read Fig + Sage’s Review – Thanks for the find!
                    Skin Deep Rating: 0

                    Burt’s Bees Herbal Insect Repellent
                    Main Ingredients: Clove Oil, Eucalyptus Oil, Geranium Oil, Peppermint Oil
                    Kathy Says: This works better than most I have tried. It smells great too. The only drawback is that the “spray” is not really a spray at all. It comes out in oil form and you have to rub it all over the place to get good coverage. But again, works really well at keeping away bites.  Oily though.
                    Skin Deep Rating: 0

                    Bite Blocker® Herbal Spray
                    Bite Blocker® Herbal Lotion
                    Main Ingredients: Soybean Oil
                    Kathy Says: This brand also comes in a lotion and wipes, both of which pass our SafeMama criteria. However we haven’t yet had a chance to test them out. Check out their website for effectiveness information. I will be reviewing these in the coming weeks and will update accordingly.
                    Skin Deep Rating: 2

                    Jason Quit Bugging Me – Natural Insect Repellent Spray
                    Main Ingredients: Soy Bean Oil, Geranium
                    Kathy Says: This comes in a great little spray bottle and goes on evenly. But be careful not to get in the eyes (like all of them), I just caution it here because it tends to mist when sprayed and I’ve gotten it in my own eyes trying to cover my kid. This works pretty well, not as well as others though. The smell is not my favorite either. My mother commented it smelled like wet gym socks. I do like how it sprays on and doesn’t sit on skin like an oil.
                    Skin Deep Rating: N/A

                    Buzz Away Extreme™ Natural Insect Repellent
                    Main Ingredients: Soybean Oil, Geranium Oil, Castor Oil, Cedarwood Oil, Citronella Oil, Peppermint Oil, Lemongrass Oil
                    Kathy Says: This stuff I do like, comes in a great spray. It sprays on a little oily. This stuff claims 8 hour protection but my son still got bit wearing it after an hour or so, so I don’t know if 8 hours is an accurate assumption. I’d still reapply every few hours to be covered. The towelettes are cool but for $8+ you only get 12. Compared to Bit Blocker Wipes, which is about the same price you get 25.
                    Skin Deep Rating: 0 – 1 (there are two listings)

                    Aubrey Organic’s Gone! Safe and Natural Outdoor Spray SPF 10 4oz*
                    Main Ingredients: Padimate O (PABA Ester), Natural Grain Alcohol, Vegetable Glycerin, Organic Soybean Oil
                    Kathy Says: If this wasn’t made by Aubrey Organics I might be more skeptical. I’m including this because they take great care to provide safe sun and outdoor protection. But they use PABA which some people avoid.
                    Skin Deep Rating: 7 (Due to the PABA content this rates pretty high.. interesting)

                    California Baby® Natural Bug Blend™ Bug Repellent Spray
                    California Baby® Citronella Summer Lotion
                    Main Ingredients: Citronella, lemongrass and cedar essential oils
                    Kathy Says: These both work well and don’t smell too strong. I prefer the spray, it’s easier than applying lotions. They are both gentle and haven’t caused any reactions. I managed to find this in the store recently and I like it, it sprays a fine mist so you end up spraying a lot and you have to be careful with the kiddies – it stings if it gets in or near their eyes.
                    Skin Deep Rating: N/A

                    Absolute Green Deet Free Bug Spray
                    Main Ingredients: Lemon grass Eucalyptus Essential Oil, Neem Seed Oil, Cedar wood Essential Oil
                    Skin Deep Rating: N/A

                    Bug Repellent Balms

                    Graham Gardens Bug Bar
                    Main Ingredients: Citronella Oil, Cedarwood Oil, Catnip Oil, Neem Oil, Rosemary Oil (organic oils used)
                    Kathy Says: Graham Gardens BugBar works awesome. I love carrying a balm with me for trips to the playground (have I mentioned lately I live in the South where bugs are everywhere??) and this stuff covers great and stays on. Spray tend to sweat off so if there is any water play involved it washes off. Not with the BugBar. It’s water resistant (that’s my own observation). Thy have some other really great products that I’ll be reviewing soon!
                    Skin Deep Rating: 0

                    badgerstickBadger Anti-Bug Push-Up – 1.5 oz – Stick
                    Main Ingredients: Citronella Oil (5.0%), Cedar Oil (2.0%), Lemongrass Oil (2.0%), Rosemary Oil (1.0%), & Geranium Oil (1.0%)
                    Kathy Says: I LOVE this bug balm. I never thought a balm would be enough coverage but I found this at my local grocery store and picked it up. The balm in the push up stick is great and the balm goes on smooth and you can easily cover exposed areas quickly. It works to boot. I really love Badger’s commitment to natural and organic ingredients. Thumbs up!!
                    Skin Deep Rating: 0

                    For My Kids Herbal Insect Repellent
                    Main Ingredients: organic coconut oil, organic soybean oil, candelilla wax, organic, tamanu oil, organic lemon balm, organic rosemary, organic lemongrass essential oil, geranium oil, organic catnip oil, and Vitamin E oil.
                    Kathy Says: I love all of For My Kids, LLC’s products honestly, and this is no exception.  Great size for carrying in your purse or diaper bag.  Comes in 1 and 2 ounce tins.
                    Skin Deep Rating: N/A

                    Wipes

                    Bite Blocker® Herbal Wipes
                    Main Ingredients:                     Soybean Oil
                    Kathy Says: This brand also comes in a lotion and spray, both of which pass our SafeMama™ criteria. However we haven’t yet had a chance to test them out. Check out their website for effectiveness information. I will be reviewing these in the coming weeks and will update accordingly.
                    Skin Deep Rating: N/A

                    Buzz Away Insect Repellent Towelettes
                    Main Ingredients: Soybean Oil, Geranium Oil, Castor Oil, Cedarwood Oil, Citronella Oil, Peppermint Oil, Lemongrass Oil
                    Kathy Says: The towelettes are nice, and work well but for $8+ you only get 12. Compared to Bit Blocker Wipes, which is about the same price you get 25.
                    Skin Deep Rating: 0 – 1 (there are two listings)

                    Non-Spray Repellents

                    DEET Free Bug Band
                    Main Ingredients: Geranium Oil, Polypropylene plastic band
                    Kathy Says: This wristband is great for kids and can be stored for future use. Geraniol is a great natural repellent. People with perfume allergies may have trouble with this one since its about 20% Geraniol. But if you have a perfume allergy you may have problems with any natural repellent since they rely heavily on scents. NOTE: This company makes wipes and a spray as well, but I didn’t include them due to them containing Sodium Laureth Sulfates in the ingredients.

                    Don’t Bite Me Patch
                    Main Ingredients: Vitamin B1
                    Kathy Says: Unlike the other repellents, this patch uses Vitamin B1 instead of fragrant oils. B1 when excreted from the skin will mask the scent of carbon dioxide (which is what the bugs are attracted to). By applying the patch to the skin directly, rather than taking a vitamin, is the faster absorption. Like lotions (which is why we are so adamant about safe skin care), things applied to the skin go directly into your bloodstream instead of having to travel the digestive system first. So this will take effect quicker. I am not a huge fan of having something stuck to my or my kids skin (seems like it would be an irritant) but the materials.

                    The patch itself is made of “Acrylic Pressure Sensitive Adhesive with Aloe and Thiamine Hydrochloride on Urethane film laminated to polyethylene coated kraft paper”. I can’t find any solid reason to not use this product (or the wristbands for that matter) other than the waste factor, as they may not be recyclable.

                    Other natural tips for deterring buggies naturally at home:

                    • Eliminate standing water from outdoor areas where you hang out and play.
                    • Keep potted rosemary or eucalyptus plants around your patio areas. Marigold’s are supposed to ward off bugs too.
                    • Eat food rich in B Vitamins like bananas or eat garlicky food – mosquitoes don’t like it apparently. (Note: Some argue bananas are a bad idea due to potassium.. jury is still out on this one I guess!)
                    • If it’s not too hot, wearing longer pants, shirts and socks can prevent bugs from getting to you.

                    Enjoy the outdoors! Remember to also choose a safe sunscreen for sunny days! Read SafeMama’s 2010 Safer Sunscreen Cheat Sheet report for our top sunblock picks.

                    Apr

                    9

                    SafeMama’s 2010 Safer Sunscreen Cheat Sheet

                    Filed Under ** Cheat Sheets!, Skin Care | Comments Off

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                      SafeMama™ Sunscreen Criteria: All sunscreens we approved needed to be free of Parabens, Phthalates, PEG’s, Propylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Benzoate, Dimethicone, SLS and a bevy of other chemicals I won’t bother listing.  Brands exhibit a very respectable ingredients list. The sunscreening ingredient we mainly avoid is the synthetic chemical oxybenzone. Oxybenzone is an endocrine disruptor which can affect the nervous system, has been linked to cancer in some laboratory studies, and creates free-radicals when exposed to the sun which are harmful. Below are our selections of safer natural sunscreens that use mineral (or sometimes referred to a physical) sunscreen which is typically Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide or any combination of those two.

                      A note about the Skin Deep ratings. Their ratings are a good start, but take them with a grain of salt. They have a big job over there and sometimes formulas change and their information gets a little outdated. Which is why we stress learning to read the labels!

                      A note about Micronized and Nano: There have been many reports that micronized vs. nano particles of titanium or zinc oxide have the ability to pass through the skin more easily (which is why they aren’t as white as others). There is also a concern that nano titanium/zinc dioxide particles have higher photo-reactivity than coarser particles and may generate free radicals that can cause cell damage. Some manufacturers have addressed this issue by coating the particles to prevent free radical formation. We have listed the exact active ingredient in each sunscreen for a reason. So you as a consumer can decide which is right for you. We will continue to investigate these materials further and share with you our findings. We are comfortable recommending sunscreens with Micronized zinc or titanium (most natural sunscreens ARE). NANO zinc or titanium is something we feel should be avoided if possible.

                      A note about Vitamin A (retinyl palmitate): Recently the EWG put out their 2010 Sunscreen Guide and with it they made public some information regarding retinyl palmitate and its use in sunscreen. A study done by the FDA revealed it may speed the growth of skin lesions and tumors in lab mice.  The study is still in a controversial stage at this point so instead of removing any sunscreens containing retinyl palmitate we have added a notation to the listing so you can decide for yourself.

                      Sunscreen Lotions & Creams

                      Badger All Natural Sunscreen for Face & Body

                      badger30Protection: SPF 30+ / SPF 15
                      Active Ingredient: Non-nano, uncoated Zinc Oxide 18.75%
                      Skin Deep Rating SPF 30: 1 (last updated 03/07) SPF 15: 2 (last updated 03/07)

                      Price: ~ $14.00
                      Reviews: Kathy says, “I had heard Badger sunscreen was like spreading toothpaste, but I’ve got to say that totally isn’t the case at all. Goes on thick (like any natural sunscreen) but spreads pretty easily, doesn’t have an overpowering smell and really protects nicely. One of my new favorites! Badger says its naturally water resistant and I’d have to agree. One of the few that are 100% chemical free.” Read our full review here!

                      Notes: For extra protection, choose Badger Lip Balm SPF 15 – safe for you and the kids.

                      ThinkBaby (ThinkSport) SPF 30+ Sunscreen

                      Protection: SPF 30+
                      Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide 25%
                      Skin Deep Rating 0 (last updated 2/16/10)

                      Price: ~ $16.99
                      Reviews: Kathy says, “ThinkBaby has been working on their sunscreen for sometime in an effort to make the safest sunscreen possible. They use mostly natural ingredients and it has no harsh scent to it. Just good ingredients that protect really well. ThinkBabys sunscreen has also passed the Whole Foods Premium Care requirements. Leave it to ThinkBaby to come out with a safe product. It’s not sticky in the least – in fact it’s more powdery and protects great. I’ve been using it for a few weeks and have mostly enjoyed it.”

                      Miessence Reflect Outdoor Balm

                      Protection: SPF 15 (3rd party tests rated it an SPF 29.5)
                      Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide
                      Skin Deep Rating: 2 (last updated 4/30/08)
                      Price: ~ $27.90
                      Notes: Kathy says, “Miessence has a great ingredients list packed with almost all Certified Organic ingredients. It goes on smooth, but thicker so it would definitely be water resistant. Watery sunscreens always make me wonder if I’m just sweating them off. Has no strong smell and absorbs well. Used it while out walking the other day and no burns!” Read our full review here

                      Mexitan Sunscreen Lotions*

                      Protection: Comes in SPF 15, SPF 30 and SPF 50
                      Active Ingredient: Titanium Oxide & Zinc Oxide
                      Skin Deep Rating: SPF 50: 1 / SPF 30: 2 / SPF 15: 3 (last updated 4/30/08)
                      Price: ~ $14.95 – $19.95
                       Notes: This brand has a great ingredients list overall. *Contains Retinyl Palmitate. See for details.  Update: A reader emailed us to say that mexitan has taken Retinyl Palmitate out of their sunscreen formulas. I have not heard back from them to confirm this.

                      Loving Naturals Sunscreen

                      Protection: SPF 30
                      Active Ingredient: Non-Nano Zinc Oxide 24.8%
                      Skin Deep Rating: 0
                      Price: ~ $9.99 – $18.99
                       Notes: This brand was rated the top choice on EWG.  Has a great ingredients list, no ickies – totally natural.  I haven’t tried it yet but it seems promising.

                      Green Goddess Kids Natural Sunscreen

                      Protection: SPF 30
                      Active Ingredient: Titanium Dioxide 6% and Zinc Oxide 6%
                      Skin Deep Rating: 2
                      Price: ~ $12.00
                       Notes: This brand rated really well with EWG .  Has a great ingredients list, 70-80% organic, no icky ingredients.  I haven’t tried it yet but it looks great… they also have a variety of adult versions and a face sunscreen too.

                      Mama Rose’s Naturals Sunblocker All Natural Sunscreen

                      sunblocker

                      Protection: SPF 30, SPF 50
                      Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide (inquiring further information)
                      Skin Deep Rating: N/A
                      Price: ~ $15.00 – 18.00

                      Notes: Seems to be chemical free, comes in an SPF 50 which is the highest natural sunscreen SPF we’ve seen. Available online through the companies website. Kathy says “I really like this sunscreen and it’s one of the few times I’ve seen an SPF higher than 30 on a natural sunscreen. Goes on white, but its never sticky or slimy like others can be. CAN get a little chalky but I think that’s due to the high SPF. Rinses off easily when swimming so I save it for long days outside instead of the beach or pool.”

                      Elemental Herbs Kids Sunscreen

                      Protection: Kids SPF 20
                      Active Ingredient: 25% non-nano Zinc Oxide
                      Skin Deep Rating: Kids SPF 20: 2 (last updated 1/09)
                      Price: ~ $8.99 – $19.39

                      Notes: Comes in 1 and 3 ounce sizes and in a SPORT, SPORT TINTED and a KIDS version.  The Sport Tinted version is SPF 22.

                      Purple Prairie Botanicals Sun Stuff

                      Protection: SPF 15, SPF 30
                      Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide 10% (spf 15) and Zinc Oxide 20% (spf 30) (Z-Cote)
                      Skin Deep Rating: SPF 30: 1 (last updated 2/24/10)
                      Price: ~ $7.99
                      Notes: Purple Prairie has some great products and this one in particular has a fabulous ingredients list.  Totally chemical free and uses mostly organic ingredients.  Looks fantastic.  And how cute is the packaging?

                      Episencial Sunny Sunscreen

                      Protection: SPF 35
                      Active Ingredient: Titanium Dioxide 10% & Zinc Oxide 4%
                      Skin Deep Rating N/A

                      Price: ~ $14.99
                      Reviews: Kathy says, “I’ve been using this for a few weeks and really like it. It has no strong scent, goes on smooth and isn’t cakey or waxy. Has a lotion texture to it and absorbs great. Thumbs up!” Full review coming soon.

                      Weleda Children’s Sun Screen

                      weledaProtection: SPF 18
                      Active Ingredient: Titanium Dioxide 7.6%, Zinc Oxide 0.4%
                      Skin Deep Rating: 4 (last updated 6/08)
                      Price: ~ $14.00 (no longer available anywhere)

                      Reviews: Statia Says: “Neither of us has tried this sunscreen yet, however by the ingredients listed, we feel it makes the list and is considered one of the safer sunscreens out there.”

                      Soleo Organics Chemical Free Sunscreen

                      soleoProtection: SPF 30
                      Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide 22.3% (Non-Nano)
                      Skin Deep Rating: 0 (last updated 03/08)
                      Price: ~ $9 – $23.00

                      Reviews: Coming Soon

                      California Baby Everyday/Year-Round™ Sunscreen

                      cababyProtection: SPF 30+ (Also avail. in SPF 18)
                      Active Ingredient: Micronized Titanium Dioxide (CA Baby does not specify particle size)
                      Skin Deep Rating SPF 30: 1 (last updated 03/07) Skin Deep Rating SPF 18: 2 (last updated 03/07)
                      Price: ~ $17.99 – 19.99 No fragrance: $17.00 – 19.00 With Citronella: $19.00 – 25.00

                      Reviews: Kathy Says: “CA Baby SPF 30 goes on thick and works well but it’s sticky.”

                      Statia Says: “We have the bug blend and it goes on well, not as sticky, but it has a strong smell.”

                      Variations: These come in a No Fragrance version and a Citronella version (which Kathy can never find)

                      Burt’s Bees Chemical Free Sunscreen (w/ or w/o Hemp Seed Oil)

                      burts2Protection: SPF 30+ (Also avail. in SPF 15)
                      Active Ingredient: Titanium Dioxide (8.58%)
                      Skin Deep Rating SPF 30: 3 (last updated 04/10) SPF 15: 3 (last updated 04/10)
                      Price: ~ $9.99 – 11.00

                      Reviews: Statia Says: “I wasn’t really that impressed with this stuff. It was immediately cakey upon contact with the skin, and yet, I still felt really sticky. I felt gross all day.”

                      Kathy says, “I made friends with the SPF 30 version… it is a little tough to get on but it protects like the rest. It’s not my first choice, but it works.”

                      Erbaviva Natural Children’s Sunscreen

                      erbavivaProtection: SPF 15
                      Active Ingredient: Micronized Titanium Dioxide
                      Skin Deep Rating: N/A
                      Price: ~ $26.00

                      Reviews: Kathy says, ” This sunscreen blends in wonderful and there is no over powering scent whatsoever – great for faces too. I use it mostly on myself as a daily sunscreen since the SPF is lower. Works great under make up too.” Full review here.

                      Kabana Skin Care Green Screen

                      greenscreenspf20Protection: SPF 20
                      Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide 25%
                      Skin Deep Rating: N/A
                      Price: ~ $16.50 40z.
                      Company Website: KabanaSkinCare.com

                      Notes: Made from 8 edible-grade organic and natural ingredients and uses non-nano Zinc Oxide for protection. This only has an SPF of 20 (also available in tinted SPF 22 and SPF 15) but it a great option as far as safe ingredients go. We’re anxious to give it a try. Kathy says “I tried a sample of this and I love that its mostly natural, but it makes you look pretty white and powdery looking. Does protect and isn’t greasy.”

                      Sunblock Sticks

                      Purple Prairie Sun Stick

                      Protection: SPF 30
                      Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide 20% (Z-Cote)
                      Skin Deep Rating: 1 (last updated 2/24/10)
                      Price: ~ $7.49
                      Notes: Purple Prairie has some great products and this one in particular has a fabulous ingredients list.  Totally chemical free and uses mostly organic ingredients.  Looks fantastic.

                      TruKid Sunny Days Face Stick

                      trukidstick
                      Protection: SPF 30+
                      Active Ingredient: Micronized Titanium Dioxide 8%
                      Skin Deep Rating: 0 (last updated 3/08)
                      Price: ~ $8.99
                      Reviews: Kathy says “I carry one of these in my bag for those ‘oops I forgot’ moments or unexpected uses. I rub a little on faces and cheeks for quick protection. Makes getting tops of ears and noses easy too…stays on well. “

                      SuperGoop Dr. T’s Quickstick

                      Protection: SPF 30
                      Active Ingredient: Titanium Dioxide 8%, Zinc Oxide 5%
                      Skin Deep Rating: N/A
                      Price: ~ $9.00
                      Important Editor’s Note: This is the only SuperGoop product we feel comfortable recommending. SuperGoop has reformulated their sunscreens to eliminate parabens and some synthetic ingredients but they still contain phenoxyethanol. They aren’t horrible but there are more natural choices.

                      California Baby Everyday/Year-Round™ Sunblock Stick

                      cababystickProtection: SPF 30+
                      Active Ingredient: Micronized Titanium Dioxide
                      Skin Deep Rating: N/A
                      Price: ~ $14.99

                      Sunscreen Usage and Sun Tips

                      Follow the directions on the sunscreen you use for proper sun protection. However, our motto is “everything in moderation”. This means sun exposure too of course. It’s ok to be out in the sun for 20 minutes without covering every square inch of your kid with SPF 80. Sun exposure is good for us, (Vitamin D!), and it’s been studied that people – especially kids – with regular moderate time in the sun are healthier and may have less risk of developing conditions like Multiple Sclerosis or other auto-immune deficiencies. But sunburns are not good, so choose a safe sunscreen and apply according to the directions for days when extended sun exposure is on the docket!

                      When the option is available, use hats, cotton clothing or use the shade of umbrellas to avoid too much sun exposure. No need to bake in the sun all day… keep cool and stay in the shade! Investing in some SPF Protected clothing for the kids is a good idea too. Reduces the need for so much sunscreen and can have a UVB protection of up to 50. Snapper Rock makes great SPF Swimwear for kids. We also like Baby Banz Sun Hats for baby and kids… they also have a wide brimmed bucket hat with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor rating of 50+. The wide brim helps keep sun off kids faces. If you can avoid prolonged sun exposure between 10-2 it’s recommended.

                      Enjoy the outdoors! Be sure to check out our Safer Bug Repellent Report for safe choices to keep the buggies at bay.

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