Chemotherapy Patients Praise Organics

A fragrance-free Organic lotion for sensitive skin is quickly becoming the product of choice for many cancer patients suffering side effects from chemotherapy.

(PRWEB) February 16, 2006 -- A fragrance-free Organic lotion for sensitive skin is quickly becoming the product of choice for many cancer patients suffering side effects from chemotherapy.

Recently, when cancer patient Kristina Jones was searching for a lotion to soothe the burning, itching sensation in her face and upper body (a common side effect of chemotherapy), she turned to her neighbor and friend Kim Cabot, owner of BONICCA Natural Body Care. Kim gave her some Unscented Bonicca Organic Spa Lotion, knowing that the high organic aloe content and all natural ingredients would be gentle to Kristina’s irritated skin. “The itching and burning were relieved immediately,” reported Jones, “and the chapping, redness and swelling subsided in just a few hours. I feel like a new person!”

Bonicca President Kim Cabot states, “We are working hard to create the highest quality organic products” and we are offering samples of this remarkable product to Cancer clinics across the country. More information is available at www.bonicca.com

WHY ORGANIC: When products are applied directly to the body, up to 60% of the compounds in the product are absorbed into the skin, including any toxic ingredients. This is the primary concern with toxic cosmetic ingredients. Lotions, creams and oils affect the skin’s appearance precisely because they are being absorbed. While looking your best is the reason many people use cosmetics, the ill effects of toxic ingredients is alarming, and is of even greater concern for people whose immunities are weakened by illness or medication.

CHOOSE ORGANIC PRODUCTS CAREFULLY: According to a 2006 Consumer Report about buying organic cosmetic products, many body lotions and shampoos that carry the organic label use an indiscriminate amount of synthetic ingredients. “Many ingredients in personal care products didn’t grow out of the ground but in test tubes – they’re chemicals,” says Lauren Sucher, director of public affairs at the EWG (Environmental Work Group (www.ewg.org). Just because a product has the word “organic” or “natural in its name doesn’t necessary mean it’s safer”.

A few of the potentially toxic chemicals found in personal care products are:

Phthalates: An industrial chemical very commonly found in consumer cosmetics. Linked to lung, liver and kidney damage and birth defects in the male reproductive system. A recent study by the EWG tested 72 name brand, off the shelf beauty products for the presence of phthalates. The lab found phthalates in 52 of the 72 products tested (72%) although only one listed phthalates on the label.

Parabens: The most commonly used preservatives in consumer cosmetics. Parabens (usually listed by one of their compound names, such as methylparaben, propylparaben, etc.) readily penetrate the skin and, according to the Women’s Environmental Network (WEN), research indicates that they can act as estrogen mimics, disrupting normal biological and reproductive functions. Numerous studies have also linked parabens to breast cancer, prompting the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics (www.safecosmetics.org) to request that cosmetic manufacturers voluntarily discontinue the use of these preservatives.

Ultrafine Particles (UFPs): Found in a number of newer cosmetics, including some sunscreen preparations which incorporate nanoparticle titanium dioxide. These UFPs have demonstrated toxicity and according to Dr. Vyvyan Howard, a toxicologist at Liverpool University, can enter the lymphatic system via the skin.

MORE ABOUT BONICCA Skin Care Products:

Bonicca currently offers three signature products (Lotion, Shower Gel, and Bath Salts) in nine fragrances as well as unscented / fragrance-free. The Lotion and Shower Gel both contain slightly over 70% organic ingredients, with the remainder of the base ingredients made up of all natural and non toxic ingredients. The Bath Salts are also all natural. In keeping with the highest standards for the industry, Bonicca does not count water or water-based ingredients when calculating the organic percentage. The base for all of their lotions and gels is certified organic aloe vera juice (rather than the traditional water or flower water), which makes for a richer and more penetrative and effective product. All products are paraben and sulfate free. Bonicca products are certified animal cruelty free by the Coalition for Consumer Information in Cosmetics, and the company is a member of the Organic Trade Association. Bonicca is also one of fewer than 200 companies nationwide to sign the Breast Cancer Fund’s Compact for Safe Cosmetics committing to the highest standards of product safety and purity.

Media Contact: Melinda Manos 818-865-1058

Please contact us for more information, free samples or to interview Kimberly Cabot.

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