In a world flooded with a plenitude of skincare products, the recent discovery of an eczema cream containing 430 times the permissible limit of arsenic serves as a wake-up call regarding product safety.

This discovery spotlights the critical necessity for vigilant consumer awareness. Despite Singapore's stringent quality control measures, incidents like these, as highlighted in the article, underscore the occasional oversight in regulation.

Amid this landscape, the term “organic” holds substantial significance. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), it signifies products derived from natural ingredients cultivated without synthetic pesticides, fertilisers or chemicals. Organic skincare emphasises the use of ingredients and skincare made without chemical additives like GMOs and pesticides, avoiding potentially harmful substances often found in conventional products. In other words, it’s toxic-free.

Our commitment to an organic approach in skincare stems from a dedication to safety and purity. We ensure the exclusion of any harmful substances or “nasties” from our products. This practice aligns with our belief that skincare should nourish, protect and help you achieve your skin goals without compromising health.

The recent incident reiterates the importance of stringent quality control measures. At Kew Organics each product we offer undergoes rigorous testing protocols, guaranteeing not only its efficacy but also its safety.

Take one of our latest launches, the Resurrect Synbiotic Booster, for example. Research shows that applying 10% bacterial extract to skin will result in better barrier function and decreased skin sensitivity. We formulated our Resurrect Synbiotic Booster with 20% bacterial extracts instead for added benefits and although it was developed in 2022, it was only launched around mid-last year. Why?

That’s because from ingredient sourcing to formulation and final production, our procedures prioritise ethical standards and consumer well-being.

Safety

Our dedication to formulating natural and organic skincare is substantiated by numerous studies. Natural ingredients, free from synthetic additives, pose fewer risks of adverse reactions and unknown, long-term repercussions. Plant-based elements or naturally derived ingredients often possess inherent benefits that not only address skin concerns but also promote overall well-being.

Environmental responsibility

Beyond the safety aspect, organic and natural skincare embodies environmental responsibility. The cultivation of organic ingredients minimises harm to ecosystems and encourages sustainable agricultural practices. This sustainable approach aligns with a global consciousness aiming for a healthier planet for our children.

This incident involving the eczema cream containing exceedingly high levels of arsenic highlights the pressing need for heightened safety standards in skincare products. Even without such incidents putting brands in the spotlight, we believe that we should always stay responsible and uphold ethical standards. And as consumers, let’s remain informed and vigilant – always shop from reputable brands and check the ingredients list.

References:

Liang, W. (2020) ‘Toxicity and effect of chemicals in skin care products on human health’, IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 512(1), p. 012081. doi:10.1088/1755-1315/512/1/012081. 

McEvoy, P. by M. (2012) Organic 101: What the USDA organic label means, USDA. Available at: https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2012/03/22/organic-101-what-usda-organic-label-means (Accessed: 08 January 2024).