Unveiling the Truth Behind Sulfate-Free Shampoos: A Deep Dive into Cleaner Choices

In today's cleanliness-obsessed era, the overuse of cleaning products prompts a crucial reflection on the soaps we use and the amounts applied. The surge in dermatitis and atopic skin issues is a direct consequence of cleansing product abuse. Understanding the impact of components like surfactants on our skin and scalp is crucial. It's time to scrutinize product labels.

The Culprits - What Are Primary Surfactants- or Sulfates-?

Surfactants, crucial components in products like bath gels, shampoos, hand soaps, and facial cleansers, play a vital role in cleaning and removing dirt. However, if not chosen wisely, they can strip away not only dirt but also the essential natural oils necessary for the proper functioning of the skin or scalp. All the products we use must respect the skin and scalp's natural protective film. Products that do not respect this film are the main cause of microbiota dysbiosis and, consequently, issues like seborrheic dermatitis, itching, eczema, and more.

But how can we distinguish the most aggressive ones? The driving force behind The Today Project provides the key: 'It's quite simple; primary surfactants are few, but they are present in many formulas for body, face, or hair cleansing.

How can we recognize the primary surfactants and the sulfates?

Look for them under the acronyms SLS and SLES: sodium lauryl sulphate and sodium laureth sulfate. Special caution is needed with SLES, as they are surfactants produced by ethoxylation, meaning they are synthetically produced using ethylene oxide, a carcinogen. Additionally, this chemical process can lead to the production of 1-4 Dioxane, also classified as a potential carcinogen.

- Surfactants containing the acronym PEG are also primary surfactants. These are polyethylene glycol polymers of ethylene oxide. For example, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-100 Stearate...

- Surfactants with the "eth" acronym also indicate products of ethoxylation. Examples include ceteareth-20, laureth-4, steareth-20.

There are less aggressive versions of primary surfactants, such as Sodium Coco Sulphate or Sodium lauroyl Isethionate.

Navigating the Surfactant Maze.

Secondary Surfactants: A Gentle Approach to Skin and Hair Care

The chemical properties and molecular structure of secondary surfactants make them less aggressive and irritating to the skin and scalp, as they respect the natural protective film.

While they may produce less foam, they possess the same capacity for effective cleansing. It's important to note that foam is not an indicator of effective cleaning; rather, it often signifies aggressive cleansing.

Here are some examples of secondary surfactants that are considered gentler and safer:

1. Coco Betaine and its Derivatives: Derived from coconut oil, it is used in hair and skin care products.

2. Lauryl Glucoside: Obtained from sugar and coconut oil, it is biodegradable and used in baby products and more natural formulations.

3. Coco-Glucoside: Also derived from coconut oil and glucose, it is biodegradable and commonly found in natural personal care products.

4. Decyl Glucoside: Similar to lauryl glucoside, it is derived from coconut oil and used in personal care products. It is biodegradable.

5. Sodium Sarcosinate: This surfactant is used in hair care products.

6. Lauroyl/Myristoyl Methyl Glucamide (and) Coco-Betaine: This combination is used as a surfactant.

7. Glyceryl Oleate: Derived from glycerin and oleic acid, this surfactant is used in baby products and skin care.

Crafting the Most Scalp-Friendly Formula

Introduce Ethereal Sunset Nutritive Shampoo, Hands & Shower, a 3-in-1 formula from The Today Project. Immerse yourself in its sensorial and delicate cleansing experience, crafted with biodegradable bases and free from primary surfactants and sulfates. Uncover its unique blend of local plant extracts and high-quality conditioning ingredients. This formula, with over 98% natural ingredients, not only cares for your skin and hair but also champions sustainability.

Sustainable Buying Practices

Explore The Today Project's commitment to sustainability with their Ethereal Sunset range. Learn about their bulk purchase option, a small yet impactful gesture to combat plastic consumption. Visit thetodayproject.net to opt for refills, and receive a complimentary reusable aluminum bottle. Discover their Eco-Refill system, reducing plastic waste volume by 99%. Each refill bag is designed for return and future reuse.

By choosing Ethereal Sunset, you contribute to a sustainable future—one refill at a time.

The Ultimate 3-in-1 Experience: Shampoo, Shower Gel, and Hand Wash

Your Skin, Your Hair, and the Planet Will Thank You.

Spanish brand, THE TODAY PROJECT, introduces the definitive 3-in-1 solution that will simplify your routine, and it does so with the best formula – concentrated, biodegradable, free from over 12,000 controversial substances, and with over 98% natural ingredients – all in the most sustainable way: bulk purchasing.

The personal care revolution has arrived.

Did You Know that Shampoo and Shower Gel Formulas Differ by Only 1%?

Harnessing a 3-in-1 product requires a bit more chemical engineering, but exceptional results can be achieved with mild and versatile ingredients that provide effective cleansing for both hair and skin. The formulas of shampoo and shower gel differ by only 1% - in conditioning ingredients - and this part can be perfectly replaced with a good conditioner that will be much more effective. That's why my goal was to create the best formula for hair that is also the best for the skin

ETHEREAL SUNSET Nutritive Shampoo, Hands & Shower Gel

Streamline Your Shower Shelf

This 3-in-1 formula is sensory and delicate, cleansing, nourishing, and revitalizing your hair while respecting and caring for the skin of the whole family. Enriched with a biodegradable cleansing base, it includes extracts of organic plants like chamomile, rosemary, or calendula. Additionally, it incorporates high-quality conditioning ingredients that leave the hair soft and manageable while keeping the skin hydrated and fresh.

Premium Fragrance

Ethereal Sunset is an immersive and relaxing aroma blending citrus notes, floral nuances, and the exotic scent of Monoi, transporting you to relive a magical sunset on a dreamy island. An authentic sensory delight offering a refreshing and revitalizing sensation with Tiaré flower, Monoi, Coconut, Vanilla, and Tonka Bean.

Concentrated Formula

Allows for double savings: on water in manufacturing and on product usage since much less quantity is needed for the same results. Economic savings and a smaller carbon and water footprint for the planet. By purchasing more concentrated products, you contribute to a more sustainable environment.

How to Use:

As it is a concentrated formula, it needs to be activated. It's important to rehydrate it properly to ensure effective cleaning. Activate the gel by taking a small amount on wet hands. Gently rub hands with the wet concentrated gel until it begins to foam. Apply the resulting foam on the skin and hair, massaging gently. Add more water if necessary to maintain the foam. Rinse thoroughly. For long or abundant hair, complement with a conditioner.

Secondary Surfactants / Sulfate free: The Key to Its Gentle Formula

The Today Project uses secondary surfactants, gentler on the skin than primary surfactants. They effectively remove dirt and grease without stripping away the natural oils that protect the skin. Moreover, being derived from coconut, these surfactants are eco-friendly, ensuring that personal care routines are planet-friendly.

THE TODAY PROJECT: Bulk Purchasing, A Small Gesture of Sustainability

ETHEREAL SUNSET Nutritive Shampoo, Hands & Shower Gel is available in bulk, the easiest way to make a real impact on plastic consumption. Choose the refill - 1L, 2L, or 5L - and receive a refillable bottle made of aluminum as a gift. This bottle is 100% recyclable, BPA-free, and reusable indefinitely. The dispensing pump is made of monomaterial plastic, making it 100% recyclable without disassembly.

The Today Project's refill bags are made of plastic. However, thanks to its Eco-Refill system, the volume of waste generated by conventional plastic bottles is reduced by 99%. Each refill bag has been designed to be returned and, in the near future, reconditioned and reused.

1 refill of 5L = 14 plastic bottles.

BULK COSMETICS SHOPPING - THE SUSTAINABLE GESTURE FOR 2024

Did you know that a family discards 200 plastic bottles per year in home and personal care products? Or that a 200-room hotel can consume up to 800,000 single-use plastic bottles per year, resulting in 12 tons of plastic waste annually?

All the bottles polluting seas and oceans cover an area as large as Europe. Only 9% of the plastic consumed globally is recycled, and the remaining 91% will end up in landfills and the ocean. This is why Paola Gugliotta, a sustainability guru in cosmetics and an expert in formulations free of controversial substances, created The Today Project, focusing on bulk purchasing as its core: "Bulk purchasing gives us a way to make a real impact on plastic consumption. I have created a sustainable consumer brand that I believe in: one that I want for my family, that I use at home, and that allows me to contribute, even on a small scale, to slowing down the destruction of our environment."

BULK PURCHASE WITH ECO-REFILL SYSTEM = 99% LESS PLASTIC

The refill bags of The Today Project are made of plastic. However, thanks to its Eco-Refill system, the volume of waste generated by conventional plastic bottles is reduced by 99%. Additionally, each refill bag has been designed to be returned and, in the near future, reconditioned and reused.

And Only 1% Plastic Waste

- 1 bag of 5L replaces 125 hotel amenities (representing 1.4kg of plastic).

- 1 bag of 5L replaces 14 home product bottles (equivalent to 700g of plastic).

But The Today Project Goes Beyond in Environmental and People Respect

Natural Origin & Green Chemistry

All formulas consist of over 98% naturally sourced ingredients (measured according to ISO: 16128 standards), prioritizing the use of recycled plant-derived ingredients or those surplus from the food supply chain, produced locally. Moreover, only those aligned with sustainable practices are utilized.

Secondary Surfactants and sulfate free formulas - Gentler on the Skin and Biodegradable

The Today Project employs secondary surfactants, more skin-friendly than primary surfactants. They effectively remove dirt and grease without harming the natural oils that protect the skin. Additionally, being coconut-derived, these surfactants are eco-friendly, ensuring that personal care routines are planet-friendly.

For the Whole Family - Developed Under Infant Product Criteria

The strict safety criteria that regulate cosmetic products intended for children are the unwavering standard of The Today Project: if it's good for the little ones, it's safe for the whole family.

Absolute Safety - No Controversial Substances (or how people like to call it: toxic free)

The Today Project refrains from using substances that, while permitted, have sparked controversy in the scientific community due to their potential negative effects on health or suspected environmental damage.

Concentrated Formulas - Less Water

The Today Project products contain less water than usual. This means that less product can be used to achieve the same results, lasting twice as long. This translates to economic savings for the consumer and a smaller carbon and water footprint for the planet. By purchasing more concentrated products, you contribute to a more sustainable environment.

Buying The Today Project - A Small Gesture of Sustainability

ETHEREAL SUNSET NUTRITIVE SHAMPOO, HANDS & SHOWER GEL

A delicate concentrated 3-in-1 formula based on rosemary, calendula, and chamomile that cleanses, nourishes, and revitalizes the skin and hair. Contains 98% natural ingredients. Respects and cares for the skin while providing deep cleansing for all hair types.

from - 39€ / 1L – 62€ / 2L – 130€ / 5L - Discover more.

ETHEREAL SUNSET NUTRITIVE CONDITIONER

Thanks to its formula based on extra virgin olive oil, fractionated coconut oil, thyme, St. John's wort, and grapefruit essential oil, all vegetable extracts and Kilometer Zero oils, it provides softness to the hair and facilitates styling without weighing it down. Can be applied from root to tip.

from - 49€ / 1L – 80€ / 2L – 140€ / 5L - Discover more.

NUTRITIVE BODY LOTION

Fast-absorbing nourishing lotion for healthy, soft, and radiant skin with organic Kilometer Zero vegetable extracts including extra virgin olive oil, fractionated coconut oil, rosemary, mandarin, and calendula.

from- 49€ / 1L – 80€ / 2L – 140€ / 5L - Discover more.

This Is Sustainable Shopping at TODAYPROJECT.ORG

Choose the quantity of the product you want to buy: 1 liter; 2 liters; 5 liters.

As a gift, you will receive an aluminum bottle to refill - refillable, indefinitely reusable, 100% recyclable, and BPA-free

Sustainable actions, for a better tomorrow, today

Discover The Today Project's blog and delve into the fascinating world of sustainability and circular economy! 🌱🔄

Are you ready to explore new ways to care for our planet and contribute to a more sustainable future?

In our blog, you'll find exciting articles, practical tips, and inspiring news about living in harmony with the environment.

Immerse yourself in our posts and discover how you can reduce your ecological footprint, adopt more responsible practices in your daily life, and make the world a better place for future generations.

We'll explore topics such as the importance of the circular economy, the impact of our consumption habits, tips for waste reduction and resource optimization, inspiring stories of sustainable companies and entrepreneurs, and much more.

We invite you to be part of this exciting journey towards a more sustainable future!

Join our community and start the conversation about sustainability and circular economy. Together, we can create a significant impact on the world around us.

5 Practical Tips for a Sustainable Home

Welcome to The Today Project's blog! In this post, we'll explore practical tips to transform your home into a sustainable haven. By making small changes in our daily habits, we can significantly reduce our environmental impact and contribute to a healthier planet. Let's dive in!

1. Embrace Energy Efficiency:

Start by optimizing your home's energy consumption. Switch to LED light bulbs, install smart thermostats, and unplug electronics when not in use. These simple steps can save energy and lower your utility bills.

2. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle:

Implement a comprehensive waste management system. Reduce your consumption by buying only what you need, reuse items whenever possible, and recycle properly. Separate recyclables, compost organic waste, and explore local recycling programs in your area.

3. Choose Sustainable Materials:

When renovating or purchasing new items, opt for sustainable materials. Look for eco-friendly labels and certifications, such as FSC-certified wood, organic textiles, and low VOC paints. These choices support responsible production practices and reduce environmental impact.

4. Conserve Water:

Water conservation is essential. Install low-flow showerheads and faucets, fix leaky pipes promptly, and water your garden during cooler hours to minimize evaporation. Collect rainwater for irrigation and reuse graywater for non-potable purposes.

5. Grow Your Own Food:

Start a small garden or grow herbs in your kitchen. Growing your own food reduces reliance on unsustainable agricultural practices, decreases transportation emissions, and provides fresh, organic produce for your family.

By implementing these practical tips, you can transform your home into a sustainable oasis. Let's take responsibility for our environmental footprint and inspire others to do the same. Together, we can create a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Join us on our blog for more exciting insights, tips, and stories on sustainability and how we can make a difference. Together, let's embark on this journey towards a greener and more sustainable world! Let’s take care of the tribe together.

#SustainableLiving #GreenHome #EnvironmentalTips #SustainableHabits #PositiveChanges

Turn your lifestyle into a circular economy! 🔄✨

In a circular economy, the goal is to minimize waste and make the most of resources. Here are some additional tips for living in a circular economy:

1️⃣ Repair and take care of your products: Instead of replacing items when they break, try to repair them or take them for repairs. This can extend their lifespan and reduce waste!

2️⃣ Buy secondhand: Consider purchasing secondhand items from thrift stores, secondhand markets, or online platforms, instead of buying new. This can help prolong the lifespan of existing products and reduce the demand for new ones!

3️⃣ Rent or share items: Instead of owning certain items that you only use occasionally (such as tools, sports equipment, or party decorations), consider renting or sharing them. This can reduce the number of products that are produced and discarded!

4️⃣ Give objects a second life: Look for creative ways to reuse old products, such as turning a t-shirt into a bag or repurposing a jar as a vase. Let your imagination soar!

5️⃣ Support companies with circular business models: Look for companies that are working to design their products and services for reuse, recycling, or composting, and consider supporting them with your purchasing decisions. Your choices can make a difference!

6️⃣ Participate in community recycling and composting programs: Find out about the recycling and composting options available in your community and make the most of them.

7️⃣ Spread the word! Share what you've learned about the circular economy with your friends and family, and encourage them to adopt more circular practices too. Together, we can make a difference.

Remember, the circular economy aims to minimize waste and maximize resource efficiency. Living in harmony with our planet is possible! 🌍💚

#CircularEconomy #Sustainability #ResponsibleConsumption #PlanetCare #ReduceReuseRecycle