Walden & Finch products are handmade in small batches without palm oil, animal products, or synthetic fragrances. We are fully sulfate, paraben, and phthalate free. I add color with mica-based pigments and natural clays. Essential oils provide safe, natural scents. I am committed to using simple ingredients, but some may seem unfamiliar. Let’s go over those here:
Kaolin Clay is a natural clay that adds subtle color to soap and acts as a mild preservative. It helps cleanse and exfoliate skin.
Arrowroot Powder comes from a tropical tuber plant. It is used to thicken formulas, provide a silky texture, and a semi-transparent white color.
Sodium Lactate is naturally formed through the fermentation of sugars found in corn and beets. It helps harden the soap bar so it lasts longer.
Citric Acid is found in citrus fruits like oranges and lemons. It is a natural preservative which also helps reduce soap scum.
Mica is a naturally derived group of minerals which give cosmetics color and shimmer.
Tin Oxide is a mineral derived ingredient, also known as casserite. It provides color and opacity.
Iron Oxide (incl. Yellow, Red, Black) occurs naturally, but is also available in synthetic form. It’s used to provide color.
Chromium Green Oxide is a synthetic pigment used for green color.
Titanium Dioxide is a naturally occurring white pigment. It’s used to whiten and brighten soap. Titanium dioxide is also commonly used in sunscreens because of its ability to absorb UV light. It is safe to use in cosmetics as well as in food additives. The state of California has put only the airborne nanoparticle form of this ingredient on their Prop 65 list. This relates to cosmetic powders, spray-on sunscreens, and some hair sprays. When inhaled in nanoparticle form, exposure may increase the risk of illness. We do not use nanoparticle titanium dioxide, nor do we sell aerosol sprays or powder cosmetics.
Manganese Violet is a synthetic pigment used for purple color.
Ultramarine Blue is a synthetic pigment used for blue color.
Essential Oils are liquid extracts derived from plants. They can be extracted by different methods including distillation or cold pressing. They’re used for natural fragrance, aromatherapy, and natural medicine.
Aloe Vera is a plant which grows in warm climates. It's added to soaps it increase moisturizing and soothing properties.
All of the above ingredients are safe for use in cosmetics. There is some concern when it comes to powder ingredients. For workers who prepare the products (in this case: me), prolonged exposure to and inhalation of ultra-fine powders has health risks. I do not use any nanoparticle ingredients and always wear a face mask when working. For consumers, it’s best to use caution with ultra-fine powders and aerosols, neither of which are sold in my shop.
