Pendulum

Pendulum put the ‘pro’ in probiotics.

That's because these doctor-formulated supplements feature proprietary strains of probiotics. They also feature clinical efficacy, cutting-edge research, and revolutionary manufacturing. One of these groundbreaking strains is Akkermansia, a keystone strain discovered in 2004 that has since been in 3,000+ scientific publications. [1]

According to an interview with Well + Good, Tara Carr, a registered dietician for Pendulum Therapeutics- says that "Akkermansia feeds on proteins (called mucin) in the mucus layer of your intestines, and the more it eats, the stronger that gut lining becomes. Having a strong gut lining is important because it has a direct impact on your overall gut health, which can in turn affect many different areas of your overall health." [2]

In fact, Akkermansia may have immunomodulating properties and research shows is helpful in improving inflammatory conditions like Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), as well as helping regulate obesity and blood glucose levels. [3]

Let's take a closer look at the Pendulum products we brought into Haskill Creek…

Akkermansia


Akkermansia: This multi-benefit keystone strain improves the integrity of the gut lining, alleviates occasional GI discomfort, and promotes a healthy metabolism.
According to Dr. Marky Hyman, a proponent of Pendulum's efficacy; ""When I was trying to recover from the greatest health crisis of my life, Akkermansia muciniphila played a pivotal role. It’s crucial for optimizing gut barrier function and immune response."
Akkermansia

Metabolic


Metabolic Daily: Live multi-strain probiotics that naturally replenishes your gut microbiome to optimize your metabolism and helps maintain a healthy weight. The unique combination of probiotic strains in Metabolic Daily help: metabolize sugar and carbs, convert food into energy more efficiently, and helps sustain energy levels.
Metabolic Daily


GLP-1


GLP-1 Probiotic: This multi-strain probiotic is formulated with beneficial bacteria that naturally increase GLP-1; the “un-hunger” hormone that helps curb cravings & appetite.
While your gut naturally produces GLP-1, it decreases with age and lifestyle. This unique probiotic blend, naturally boosts your body's production of GLP-1.
GLP-1 Probiotic

Polyphenol


Polyphenol Booster: Considered “lifespan essentials”, polyphenols help protect the body and neutralize free radicals that cause damage to cells and can increase risk for certain health conditions. This booster blend contains three powerful polyphenols; pomegranate extract, grape seed extract, and green tea extract.
Bonus* Polyphenols are considered prebiotics because they help shape the environment in the gut microbiome and help benefit good bacteria like Akkermensia! [4]
Polyphenol Booster

Follow along our Gut Health Series!
Next up is Cymbiotika

Come into our downtown location to see our Gut Health Display and learn more about our product offerings @ 33 Baker Ave.

Ere

Ere Perez

Ere Perez has been leading the way in clean beauty for over twenty years.

Since 2002, they have adhered to acting with integrity- both in product ingredients and company practices. Showcasing a commitment to sustainability, continual improvement, and prioritizing people and the planet- that aligns seamlessly with Haskill's ethos.

Each product is formulated with plant-based superfood ingredients. Ingredients that are as safe as they are effective- a righteous combination that can be hard to perfect. But Ere Perez does it beautifully- with "beauty almost good enough to eat." A company uniquely rooted in the wild of Australia and the vibrant energy of Mexico. Witness how they combine into the unique expression of clean beauty.

We're excited to expand our makeup offering with this exceptional brand.

Eye/Brow Makeup

Ere

Almond Brow Pencil- In one flexible shade for all- enriched with almond and jojoba oil to nourish brows.

Argan Brow Hero-In one flexible shade for all- enriched with argan oil & castor oil to create a fuller and more groomed brow look.

Aloe Gel Lash & Brow Mascara- A clear gel, rich in aloe vera, and perfect for sensitive eyes.

Avocado Waterproof Mascara- Perfect for Summers on the lake or river! A smudge-proof mascara enriched with avocado, mamey & cacahuananche oil. Even safe for sensitive eyes.

Natural Almond Mascara- This water-resistant mascara is the star product that launched Ere Perez brand in 2002! This nutritive formula is enriched with almond oil and mamey oil.

Jojoba Eye Pencil- A pop of color on the eyes that can be used as a liner or smudged out as eye shadow. We brought in 7 color varieties of this soft formula enriched with coconut oil and jojoba oils.

FACE

Ere

Oat Milk Foundation- (Pictured above) A buildable foundation with medium to full-coverage. "For a fresh, dewy finish that melts into your skin."

Lychee Creme Corrector- A full coverage, creamy formula for all skin types. Ere Perez describes this as "wake up makeup"!

Arnica All-Cover Pot- With a satin finish and medium to full coverage, this product can be used as concealer or foundation.

Visit Ere Perez for more product information.

Come in to check out our full selection at our new location: 33 Baker Avenue in downtown Whitefish.

GRYT

GRYT/grit/ (noun):
Strength, determination, and courage. Powering your way into adulthood one small perfectly-imperfect step at a time.

The skincare revolution has arrived for the younger generation. The youngest generation, 'Gen Alpha' now has more options than ever. Gone are the days of being relegated to drugstore shelves for skincare options that sting and contain who-knows-what. Now we have specialized brands, that perhaps most impressively have clean, non-toxic ingredients.

That is how we discovered GRYT. Formulated for the hormonal skin of prepubescent (to pubescent) youth- GRYT found a way to do it without synthetic fragrance or harmful preservatives. Their product line is full of plant-based gentle yet effective ingredients. Their Cleanser found its way onto the coveted "EWG Verified" list, where only the safest ingredient formulations are found. Plus, all of the products are Pediatrician Approved & Dermatologist Tested.

Check out the stream-lined GRYT KIT below, now found at Haskill Creek.

GRYT

Face Courage Daily Cleanser

A gently foaming cleanser, formulated to have a low PH, which helps protect the skin barrier and fight acne. [1] This formula contains ingredients like Aloe Vera to calm irritated skin. While Willow Bark Extract, which is a natural form of Salicylic Acid- helps unclog pores.

Balancing Act Face Moisturizer

This daily moisturizer's superhero ingredient is jojoba oil- which is nearly identical to our skin's sebum, aiding the skin to reduce oil production. Niacinamide and plant-derived Squalene, nourish the skin- while Lactobacillus Ferment acts as a probiotic to help balance the skin microbiome. This nutritive moisturizer even has a touch of Turmeric Root Extract which is a natural anti-inflammatory.

So Chill Super Serum

Use this serum at bedtime to wake up with clearer skin! With salicylic acid to help combat acne, and licorice root, curcumin, and ashawaganda act as soothing anti-inflammatories. With probiotics and a touch of honey- this comprehensive formula is packed with powerhouse ingredients.

Check out their website here with more informations for Tweens/Teens

Come check out our complete skincare selection at our new location!
Downtown Whitefish: 33 Baker Ave (Next to Markus Community Market)

not

"Natureofthings is a modern wellness house rooted in the enduring wisdom of nature. We believe that health is harmony. It's synchronicity of body, mind and the natural world. Our ingredients come from the earth – plants, minerals, and elements. Our formulas are equal parts curative and preventive, designed to give you a good today and even better tomorrow."

Nature of Things is a clean beauty brand that celebrates the ritual and elegance of self care. From skin care, hair care, to healing bath elixirs- their products are designed to infuse nature's bounty into your wellness routine.

With an equal consideration to sustainability, the opulent packaging is designed to be repurposed for continued use. The vessels are primarily glass, wood, and aluminum-reducing use of plastic as much as possible. These products are designed for every gender and all ages. Let's take a closer look at the products we brought into Haskill Creek.

Nature of Things- Hair

not

The Hair Cleanse Concentrate is an everyday shampoo formulated for all hair types! It's a potent combination of plant and mineral ingredients resulting in supremely clean hair and a healthy scalp. With a subtly earthy and nutty scent and a luxurious lather- accentuated by ingredients like Kukui Nut, Moroccan Lava Clay, and Aloe Vera Extract.

The Hair Condition Concentrate is a lightweight formula formulated for all hair types! This potent formulation features Hyaluronic acid, panthenol and hydrolyzed quinoa- which join together to lock in lasting hydration. Niacinamide works to balance moisture and form a protective layer that enables healthy hair growth. Vetiver Root Oil lends a smoky, earthy scent as the aromatherapy grounds and enhances your bathing experience.

Nature of Things- Body

not

Cleansing Body & Scalp Polish A gently exfoliating formula that can be used on the body or to improve circulation of the scalp. Himalayan Salt and Jeju Volcanic Ash provide the exfoliation, while Ceylon Cinnamon Oil improves circulation with it's warming effect.

Nourishing Body Creme A nourishing formula rich with Jojoba Oil, Shea Butter, and plant-based Squalane. The aromatherapy of citrus essential oils and a light jasmine elevate the ritual of moisturizing the skin.

Nature of Things- Face

not

Balancing Facial Essence
This multi benefit serum goes on smooth and melts into the skin. Plant-based emollients like aloe and rose flower oil impart moisture and a dewy finish. Kombu Algae and Mallow Flower reduce redness and calm skin.

Clarifying Facial Polish
Just add water to this gently exfoliating powder of volcanic ash and glacial clay. Also combined with Salicylic acid, lactic acid and papaya enzyme- these work to encourage cellular turn-over and brighten skin tone.

Rejuvenating Overnight Facial Mask
Apply this lightweight mask before bedtime and let it do its magic while you slumber. Made with replenishing Aloe, Tremella Mushroom, and Gotu Kola. This antioxidant rich treatment helps to stimulate collagen production while it brightens and firms.

Visit www.natureofthings.com for more information

Come in and see our selection of products at our new Downtown Location: 33 Baker Ave, next to Markus Foods!

PAUME

At Haskill Creek…

We love a good niche company. The way we see it, if you're going to do something- do it exceptionally well. That's where PAUME comes into alignment! Amongst many other outstanding ways, that is. We're excited to feature our partnership with this company that specializes in treating the oft-neglected and hardworking skin of our hands.

We were able to interview Amy Welsman- founder of Paume! We wanted to know more about what makes this unique and elegant brand tick.

Here is the interview!

Q: It looks like the company started back in 2019 with the hand sanitizer product. How much did the pandemic have an effect on this product development and roll out?

A: The idea for PAUME came to me before the pandemic, and we remained very true to our initial idea despite the global changes that were happening when COVID hit. The pandemic certainly put added pressure to launch our sanitizer product as quickly as possible, because we wanted to meet the global demand, that said, I didn't want to rush or cut any corners, as I know we had to stand out in a more crowded category. We were developing custom dispensers and a totally unique formula, so it required time to get it right.

Q: Where in Canada is the company located?

A: We’re located in Toronto, ON.

Q: What are some core values at the heart of the brand?

A: At PAUME, we value ingredient efficacy, design, aesthetics, sustainability, and the benefits of human touch and connection. I loved the idea of taking something utilitarian and purely functional, and turning it into a sensorial, nourishing, and even luxurious product. Rather than think purely about germ killing, for example, we always try to think about the benefits of clean hands and how clean hands allow us to connect with people and the world around us. Lastly, when designing our packaging, we always keep design, function, and sustainability in mind – using materials that have a minimized impact, and using designs and colours that suit our unique aesthetic.

Q: The line has expanded quite a bit- what would you say is consistent throughout as you develop more products?

A: Whenever we embark on a new product, we always ask ourselves "What are we trying to solve with this?". Often products are inspired by our customers. We talk to so many people who complain about their hands – chronic dryness, cracked skin, peeling cuticles, eczema, brittle nails – the list goes on. We understand that there is a limit to the number of hand care products that are necessary, so we try to be really thoughtful about what we can do next, and what multi-benefits we can offer. For example our All in One Cuticle Cream does it all – it hydrates your cuticles, it's antibacterial, and it has ingredients that strengthen and repair your nails. Rather than make three different products to serve those benefits, we combined them into one product.

Q: Do you have a personal favorite product?

A: Ah it's so hard to pick! I love our sanitizer because it was my first baby…so I'll always have a special connection to that product.

Q: How would you describe your signature scent?

A: Our signature scent is a delicate balance of 5 essential oils – with undertones of citrus to even out the lavender and a touch of cedar it is a soothing and subtle combination!

Q: Are there any new product launches upcoming that you’re able to share about?

A: I'm always thinking about what we can make next, and currently we have two products in development. Since I launched our sanitizer, I have always wanted to make aesthetically pleasing, skin-nourishing hand wipes – with an elegant and aesthetic twist. Those will come out this year. We are also exploring some new products that serve both hand and body, which is exciting!

Q: Since we are heading into Spring now, are there any tips for coming out of Wintertime for hand-care?

A: Our overnight Hand Mask is the ultimate rich repair cream for winter hands, followed up with the daily probiotic balm, your hands will thank you!

[A pro tip is that you can actually use it as a spot treatment all over for any super dry spots like your elbows and heels! ]

Visit www.mypaume.com for more information!

Come try PAUME products out at our new downtown location at 33 Baker Ave next to Markus!

OneSkin

OneSkin is a skincare line on the cutting edge of science.

Developed by four female scientists, specializing in fields ranging from stem cell biology to immunology. Their trailblazing research on skin regeneration, led to the creation of a different kind of skincare line. Skincare that could actually slow- and reverse signs of aging with the power of peptides.

"More than 5 years of research and 900+ peptides later, we developed OS-01 – the first ingredient scientifically proven to reverse skin’s biological age. By targeting cellular senescence (one of the key drivers of skin aging) OS-01 switches off the damaged cells that contribute to lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin."

Science-based ingredients that can help turn back the clock on cellular aging? No wonder some of the leading biohackers are now backing Oneskin. Beyond results-driven ingredients, they also use clean ingredients- a winning combination that can be hard to find. Without the use of retinol and it's sensitizing drawbacks- peptides work with your natural chemistry. They are part of the building blocks of your skin. Additionally, the line of products are fragrance-free.

A skincare routine featuring OneSkin…

PREPhero1

PREP Facial Cleanser

OneSKin

OS-01 FACE Topical Supplement

OneSkin

OS-01 EYE Topical Supplement

OneSkinSPF

OS-01 SHIELD Protect + Repair SPF 30+

Come visit us at Haskill Creek to try out this innovative skincare line for yourself!

Stay tuned for our new downtown location- opening soon!

Support

We all struggle sometimes.

When you're on the other side of it, it can be hard to know what to say or do when a friend is going through it. While there should be no 'right' or 'wrong' way to support a friend, there are things that are gentler and more likely to prove helpful.

Here are seven ways to support a friend in need.

Support

Active Listening

To listen, really listen- is an art. Active listening means suspending our own judgements and thoughts and holding space for our friend. Try to remain a neutral and open vessel.

Validate Feelings

Even if it seems they are 'catastrophizing', support them in however big it feels to them. Let them feel their feelings freely without minimizing.

Ask Questions

Asking open-ended questions can help encourage reflection and shift perspective.
Examples: Could there be another way to view this situation? How did you come to this conclusion?

Be Thoughtful

Thoughtful gestures can help brighten their day. Sending an encouraging text, making a meal, or going on a walk with them can help lighten the load.

Give A Hug

Never underestimate the power of a hug. Hugs communicate safety to the nervous system. The can bring comfort and console- and warm the heart of both parties.

Show Support

Remind them they are not alone in this, by showing empathy and compassion. Let them know you are there when they need you.

Offer Encouragement

While it may be tough to resist, refrain from giving unsolicited advice for a fix-all approach. It's great to offer hope for resolution and a brighter future ahead.

Love

How do you prefer to express love?

According to a popular theory by author and pastor Gary Chapman, there are five main categories of how we prefer to give and receive love. Based off of his bestselling 1992 book "The 5 Love Languages", each of us have a preferred love language. Coming to know your language as well as your partner's language, can help you navigate communication more effectively. It can also help ensure that each partner feels heard and appreciated. We all show our love differently, whether romantically or platonically. Recognizing how and when love is being communicated, can make us all more fluent in the languages of love.

The 5 Love Languages:

Read on to learn more about each love language.

5

Words Of Affirmation

Acts Of Service

Gifts

Physical Touch

Quality Time

If you want to learn more, or take the quiz to find out for yourself, visit 5lovelanguages.com

New

As another year unfolds…

Perhaps you’ve got BIG plans this year. Maybe an overhaul of your ‘worst’ behaviors? This year you’ll finally (insert anything here). Perhaps a new diet, a new workout or gym membership, or improved sleep routines. OR maybe it’s removing an undesirable habit- like alcohol or cigarettes. But why is it that new year resolutions are so hard to keep? What are we getting wrong?

It turns out that humans weren’t wired for drastic changes. Change is uncomfortable, and no one wants to be uncomfortable. So how do we introduce change that will last? We need to set smaller goals. Or as it turns out, smaller habits. Our success lies in these tiny incremental changes- that will ultimately lead to bigger (and lasting) results. We merely need to dip our toes in the pool of transformation.

First, let’s visit how change come to light. With this in mind, is The Transtheoretical Model of Behavior Change. Or more simply The Stages of Change Model. This theory, developed by different fields of psychology, exposes the internal process that leads to change. It includes 5-6 steps, depending if it lasts.

Stages

With this model in mind, it’s easy to see why smaller more subtle goals or habit change are easier to achieve and sustain. Our habits form in the first place because we get some sort of benefit out of them. Often the motivation that drives them are subconscious. So it’s important to institute awareness, and get to the bottom of what drives our behavior.

In 2012 Charles Duhiggs book The Power of Habit, he isolated the root of habits (good or bad) into a 3-step loop in our brain:

1. The Cue

Example: Everyday after work, you crack open a beer.


2. The Routine

Example: Excessive snacking, alcohol, or phone use.

3. The Reward

Example: Are you passing time, satiating boredom, or distracting yourself from countless other responsibilities? (Honestly, same.)

In Duhigg's framework, in order to successfully rework our habits, we must engage these Four Steps:

Duhigg2

More recently, we have James Clear's book; Atomic Habits. He built upon Duhigg's work and established his own area of expertise including his Four Laws to Habit Change. These laws make the slippery slope of making a habit stick foolproof.

Clear2

In the end, the more specific and bite-size a behavior change is, the more likely we are to adopt it into our existing routines. Bringing our attention to a habit we want to adopt or stop- is a great place to start. We can take microsteps towards action, while treating ourselves with kindness and forgiveness along the way. Rather than aiming for a new and improved self, look to update bits and pieces. Improving one habit can have a snowball effect, leading to better habits down the road. As we go, we gain confidence in ourselves and our ability to institute and uphold change.

How

Hygge (pronounced "hoo-gah") has been a part of literature and life for the Danish since the 18th century. It can even be traced back to the times of the Vikings, when harsh weather and long, dark nights were commanding foes and a part of life. The root of the word can be traced back to the Norse word Hugr, which came to translate as 'hug'. [1] Overall, Hygge entails the feeling-state of coziness, contentment, and conviviality. Hygge is about appreciating the simple things in life; whether by yourself, cuddled up with a pet, or celebrated with those you love.

In these long Winter months, a little coziness can go a long way to warm the heart and nourish the soul. Following, are ten principles of Hygge, as mentioned in the book "The Little Book Of Hygge" by Meik Wiking. Any one of these tenets will lift your spirit, but combine them for multiplied happiness.


Atmosphere

Create ambience in your space through soft lighting. Things like candlelight, softly glowing salt lamps, and dimmed lighting can direct your mood in a positive direction.


Presence

Slow down and be present in the moment. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "The greatest gift is a portion of thyself." Ground yourself into your body to truly listen to those around you.


Pleasure

Do what brings you joy. Whether it's reading a book curled up in your favorite chair, taking a bath, or sipping a cup of herbal tea. Try all three in no particular order.


Equality

Everyone should feel a sense of belonging. Adopt a 'we' over 'me' mentality. In whatever form of a tribe you have- open your heart and share your love with those around you.


Gratitude

A gratitude practice can help you appreciate the small things. It can be easy to be swept up in our worries. Reminding ourselves of small blessings through journaling or just listing a few in our heads, can help reframe our perspective.


Harmony

Hygge is about living with peace and humility. We can choose connection over fear and separation.


Comfort

Find comfort daily through soft clothing and fuzzy furnishings. Cover yourself in your favorite blanket, try aromatherapy, or listen to down-tempo music. Comfort often comes through our senses, bringing ease to our nervous sytems.


Truce

This holiday season, save the drama for your mama. Conflict has no place in Hygge. Any time is a good time to let bygones be bygones and release lingering resentments.


Togetherness

Connect with friends and loved ones in intimate settings. Think gathering over comfort food, with boardgames, conversation, and unlimited laughter.


Shelter

Appreciate your safe haven. Create a 'cozy nook' to get your Hygge on. Any shelter from the storm is a welcome blessing and a gift.


Reflect on- what is your favorite way to get cozy?

Since 1996, EmerginC has been leading the way with cutting edge ingredients and technology. Their products utilize clinically-proven cosmeceutical and medical-grade ingredients, active botanicals, and marine extracts. This is a magical combination providing results-driven effectiveness for the conscious consumer.

EmerginC continues to follow the science, upgrading formulations when necessary. But they have always had sustainability as part of their formula. This includes their  “buy one, plant one” tree planting program. Recently, they added a free Bamboo toothbrush with every purchase to help reduce plastic demand and production. Small swaps can lead to radical change.

EmerginC now consists of three specialty product lines, each with a different finesse.

EmerginC Signature
This line includes some of their original products and are considered “clean cosmeceuticals”. These are some of the most powerful active ingredients for notable changes in the skin. Think ingredients like retinol, acid peels, and their flagship product the Vitamin C Serum.

Scientific Organics
This line is at least 70% organic ingredients. This line focus more on the power of nature, with gentler yet still effective ingredients. Per their website, “Active ingredients include a wide variety of antioxidant-rich plant extracts, cutting-edge peptides, grape stem cells, natural fruit acids, spirulina, kombucha, goji berry, white and green teas, food-grade seaweed, aloe, pine bark extract, asthaxanthin, vitamins, proprietary hydrating and brightening complexes, and more.” [1]

Rawceuticals
This particular line utilizes cold-pressed chemistry. This is a special process of extracting pure plant botanicals. Ingredients include “sunflower seed oil, sesame seed oil, olive fruit oil, hemp seed oil, chia seed oil, carrot seed oil, fair trade and virgin cocoa butter, coffee oil, Kakadu plum oil, coconut oil, black cumin seed oil, tomato seed oil, and raspberry seed oil.” [2]

We are honored to work with this company, available to select estheticians and the top spas in the world.

Here are top three customer favorites we feature in-store at Haskill Creek…

Hydra

1. Hydra-Repair Intensive Topical Infusion Capsules

This nutritive and powerful treatment comes in nifty capsules, to open each use, keeping the product at its most effective. Each capsule contains ceramides that help build and repair the skin barrier. This formula is ultra moisturizing and can be great for Winter skin.

Hot Tip* Add a capsule to your favorite mask to instantly boost it’s moisturizing properties.

Vitamin

2. Vitamin C Serum

No surprise here, as their highly popular flagship product! This Vitamin C serum is unique in that it contains three forms of highly stable Vitamin C. This is a strong antioxidant combination to fight free radicals and boost production of collagen. A ginseng complex and orange peel extract naturally help to detox the skin.

Multi

3. Multi-Vitamin + Retinol Serum

This is a multi-tasking serum, powerful yet said to be gentle enough for sensitive skin. Soothing botanical ingredients like balm mint and yarrow can help redness-prone skin and roscea. Additionally, a spread of vitamins combined with a low concentrate of retinol palmitate help to increase cellular turnover.

Visit https://emerginc.com for their full line-up.

Also, make sure to visit us in store for our upcoming EmerginC Skincare Launch event! We will be featuring an EmerginC Representative, who will be available to answer all your questions. Wednesday October 18th 5:30pm-7pm.

What exactly is “Fragrance”?

You’ve likely seen the word hundreds of times. You know fragrance as a delightful smell that pleases your senses. But do you know ‘fragrance’ as an ingredient? You’ll see it on the ingredient list in nearly every personal care product on the shelf. From your shampoo, makeup, and shaving cream- to your home air fresheners and cleaning products. It’s a singular word. But it’s so much more.

In fact, fragrance as an ingredient is a beauty industry dirty little secret. Or more specifically, a trade secret. It’s often a proprietary blend of upwards of dozens of chemicals that do not have to be disclosed. This is due to the rather infamous “industry loophole” of fragrance disclosure. Or nondisclosure, as it were. There are major regulatory discrepancies between the FDA and the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act.[1] As a result, a company does not have to list the host of ingredients that make up their fragrance blend. They can simply use the word “fragrance”. That singular word facilitates a covert dumping ground for unsavory and toxigenic chemicals.

What is Lurking Within…

When you see the word “fragrance”, “parfum”, “eau de toilette” listed on an ingredient list, take pause. And seek to find out more. A common chemical used in fragrance blends are PHTHALATES. Phthalates are a man-made compound of chemicals that are plasticizers- used to make plastics more flexible. [2]

 But they are also used to make fragrances last longer and have staying power. They’re why smell can linger on freshly washed clothes for weeks. You may have a sentimental attachment to that lingering laundry smell, but at its root is phthalates.  They are known to cause hormone disruption, allergic reactions, and have a propensity to accumulate in human tissue. [3]

The Environmental Working Group, (EWG) lists “fragrance” as an 8/10 in Toxicity. This is because of the mixed-bag of unknowns there within. These Include chemicals like styrene, resorcinol, musk ketones, phthalates and petroleum distillates to name a few. [4] Many unlisted ingredients can trigger migraines, dizziness, and asthma in those who are sensitive. [5]

What About Natural Fragrance?

Unfortunately, ‘Natural’ is another meaningless word when it comes to FDA regulation. [6]
There is no determined definition of the word. So when a company says “natural fragrance”, it’s open to interpretation . This can come down to the integrity of the company when it comes to transparency vs. marketing tactics. Usually, a company is alluding to it having some essence of plant-basedness. Whether it be an isolate, or “nature-identical”, it’s still made in the lab. Essential Oils and plant botanicals are really the only unadulterated natural fragrance when it comes to extraction from nature.

So, Now What?

Look for transparency and full disclosure. Start paying attention to the use and language that surrounds the word fragrance. It should be an ongoing area of study. 
Look for EWG Verified products, which check ingredient safety and disclosure policies.
One can also look for MADE SAFE Certified products, which have a similar vetting process.
Perhaps if you see the word fragrance on the ingredient list, put the product back and look for a fragrance-free alternative instead. 

Here at Haskill Creek, we have a strict and ever-evolving “fragrance policy”. We lean into companies that use essential oils and true botanical extracts. We favor companies that get down to the nitty gritty, disclosing their formulations in their entirety. Any “fragrance” in our product lines, is at least free of phthalates and parabens. This is a developing arena, one that seeks to balance prioritizing health with delighting the senses.


[1] https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-ingredients/fragrances-cosmetics

[2]https://www.niehs.nih.gov/research/supported/assets/docs/j_q/phthalates_the_everywhere_chemical_handout_508.pdf

[3]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3504417/

[4]https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/702512-FRAGRANCE/

[5]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5773620/

[6]https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/resources-industry-cosmetics/small-businesses-homemade-cosmetics-fact-sheet

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