We all know that gluten and wheat products can cause intolerance in some of us leaving us feeling less than healthy, with a feeling that ranges from mild discomfort to feeling more seriously debilitated. There is much information on how to deal with a gluten or wheat intolerance via your diet, you know I’m passionate about avoiding chemicals and being aware of what you put on the outside of your body as well as the inside…

So is gluten in skin and hair care products a problem?

This is a question that’s been asked and looked at closely by Green People. Green People have been pioneering organic personal care products since 1997 and were instrumental in founding the first standards in natural and organic cosmetics.

Over the years in the beauty industry Green People has witnessed the so-called ‘safe’ substances being widely used in food and cosmetics that years later have either been banned or restricted in use.

Hydrolyzed wheat protein is a gluten based ingredient which can be found in many skin and hair care products today and it can cause sensitivity. There is now evidence that the hydrolyzed wheat protein (HWP) can trigger IgE-mediated allergic reactions such as urticaria.

The general attitude is that gluten itself is too large a molecule to be absorbed through the skin, however more and more experts now exercise caution with gluten-containing ingredients in personal care products.

According to dermatologist Patricia Farris, M.D.:

“While gluten is not absorbed through the skin, patients may be sensitive to compounds in extracts of wheat, rye, and barley that can actually penetrate the skin, and even though we’re careful with our beauty products, topical ingredients can still enter the body in trace amounts through the nasal cavities and mouth.”

In light of this new evidence and with Green People’s principle of ‘if in doubt, take it out’, all gluten-containing ingredients have been removed from Green People products and have been replaced with gluten-free Quinoa protein.

Green People don’t dilute or bulk out their products with high levels of water, drying alcohol or synthetic fillers and their products are rich in active ingredients to nourish and protect, reduce inflammation and restore and maintain moisture and sebum balance.

Summer is approaching and we all want to shed the winter dullness, well you can restore luxurious shine and vitality to your hair, the natural caring way with Green People’s NEW Quinoa & Artichoke Shampoo and Conditioner.

Quinoa “mother of grain” contains 8 essential amino acids and coats every shaft of hair making it look thicker and bouncier, and feeling softer. Combined with Artichoke Leaf extract which gives shiny, sleek and frizz-free locks and high levels of antioxidant activity protect against damage from exposure to UV radiation in sunlight. Powerful protection and improved vitality!

Rich in natural reserves Quinoa contains important minerals like calcium, iron and phosphorus which seal moisture into the scalp, so it’s a great natural choice for avoiding flaky, dry skin and keeping dandruff at bay.

There is also a new quinoa & avocado styling gel which allows you to keep your style in place without stickiness and weight, this gel gives a natural light hold and gorgeous volume.

www.greenpeople.co.uk