Why you should read the labels of cosmetics and use paraben-free products

A few months ago Catherine started @thelabeldetective, and we are sure the story behind this Instagram page will inspire many people that have had issues with fertility. Good reading for everybody, enjoy our most researcher blogger!

Why did I start @thelabeldetective!? Last year after suffering in really severe pain every single day I finally was told I had a disease called Adenomyosis, a gynaecological condition… which can have implications to be fertile.

After doing some research, I discerned it could be influenced by hormones (oestrogen in particular). Digging in further, I then found out that many products contain parabens that mimic the oestrogen hormone.

First of all, I decided to go paraben-free. Parabens are a form of preservative that is widely used in the cosmetic and personal care industry. Products like soaps, conditioners, moisturisers, shampoo and deodorant frequently contain parabens.

That meant I had to hunt for products that weren’t using chemicals such as methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben (all of them are a combination of acid and alcohol).

Doing that, I quickly realised just how many other chemicals are in EVERYTHING… not just parabens! The only option I  had left was to go for natural, chemical-free and toxin-free products for my skin, hair, make-up and home!

And ta-dah the idea for @thelabeldetective appear!

The most fabulous outcome is my beautiful 9-month-old baby girl ?

Hand on heart, I believe that changing my products, in addition to improving my diet (cutting out meat, dairy, eating a plant-based, drinking less alcohol). Doing a bit of @adrienelouise Yoga (with Adriene – check it out!), and engaging in mindfulness meditation… were all little pieces of the puzzle.

My aim with @thelabeldetective is to spread awareness of more natural products ?

If one person just stops to read the label on what they pick up, or decides to swap one thing for a more natural option, then this is worth it! I continue to buy and review products and will only recommend things I truly would buy again.

Don’t give up hope ? and always #readthelabel ?

Is there any brand label you need help to understand? Comment below and we will make it happen!

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