Why is it important to use organic ingredients in skin care products?
We use organic ingredients for Episencial skin care products because they are better for the environment, but also because they are better for the skin. Organic ingredients have more nutritional value with greater antioxidant capabilities than their non-organic counterparts. This is important because of the skin’s transdermal properties. Many nutrients applied to the skin are absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the body. Unfortunately, the same is true for harmful chemicals that are remarkably prevalent in personal care products – even those marketed for children. So, as a parent, you can make well-considered choices about personal grooming products for your children in order to help protect them and the planet from environmental pollution.
What does “made with organic ingredients” really mean?
All Episencial products are at least 50% organic. Some are a much higher percentage of organic. What is important is that the RIGHT ingredients are organic. Some plants, like thyme for example, are very hardy in nature and don’t require the use of pesticides and fumigants. Others, like raspberry are sweet and delicious and often do require insecticides and such for commercial production. To keep the products affordable, we have selected the ingredients with the highest likelihood of contamination and specifically chosen those to be organic. Also, the natural condition of organic crops is that they are not as reliable as those that are grown under the techniques of mainstream agribusiness. If a crop goes bad due to infection or weather, we have to seek other sources for that particular raw ingredient. So, the actual organic ingredients may vary slightly from batch to batch depending upon what was available in an organic form at the time of production.
Does Episencial test on animals?
Episencial does not test products on animals, and does not have animal testing conducted on our behalf. We ensure the safety of our products by using gentle ingredients that have been used reliably for many years in addition to clinical testing in the laboratory setting.
How can I tell what the right level of sunscreen is for my child? Is SPF 35 too much for a baby?
SPF35 is just exactly right for playing at the beach, park, or in the back yard. Episencial sunscreen is made with mineral protection, not synthetic chemicals. If we were talking about a chemical block, any amount would be too much in my book . Certainly as you go up in SPF value with a chemical block, the potential harm to the skin- especially baby skin – is increased. An SPF of 35 with mineral blocks such as the zinc/titanium combination we use protects from 97% – 98% of the harmful wavelength of UV rays. This protective value gives Episencial Sunny Sunscreen SPF35 a 4-star critical wavelength rating, which is the best possible rating. An SPF of 50 or even 70 using the same blocking agents only adds 2%-3% additional protective value. The use of enough mineral ingredients to achieve an SPF 50 or more using a mineral block makes the end product chalky white, very cumbersome to use, and very expensive.
Does the Episencial sunscreen contain nanoparticles?
The short answer is: No, Episencial does not use nanoparticles in its formulas. Nanoparticles, particularly those of metallic ingredients, are so small that they are able to pass through the wall, or membrane, of cells in the body and into the bloodstream. Because mineral-based sunscreens use metals such as Zinc and Titanium as the active ingredient, it is helpful to understand that a particle of nano size is not the same thing as a nano particle.
A nano particle is any particle less than 100 nanometers in diameter (across). This can be confusing as a nano-sized material is not necessarily a nanoparticle. For example, a bulk ingredient material that has been reduced to 500 nanometers is NOT a nanoparticle because it is 5 times larger than 100 nanometers. As a point of reference, a particle must be less than 50 nanometers (a nanoparticle) to enter skin cells; less than 70 nanometers to enter the lungs. Trying to fit a 100 nanometer particle into the skin cell membrane is like trying to force a baseball through a hole the size of a ping-pong ball. It is physically impossible. Episencial’s mineral sunscreen ingredients are all significantly larger than 100 nanometers.
Medical science does not yet fully understand the complications and risks associated with nanoparticles, but their presence in the bloodstream has been linked to liver damage, Alzheimer’s and other health problems. So, when choosing a chemical-free sunscreen, it is important to ensure that the manufacturer does NOT use nanoparticles of zinc or titanium.
Is PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate safe?
At what age do you recommend using Episencial products?
The Episencial products are perfect for sensitive skin at any age – from birth up. As always, check with your doctor before you use any products on your infant.
Is it true that you are a green company? What exactly does this mean?
We believe our products and business practices are opportunities to effect positive change for our world. When we say we are “green” it is because sustainability is at the very core of how we conduct business:
- We use botanical, sustainably farmed, and certified organic ingredients.
- We do not engage in animal testing.
- We support alternative energy development. Our products are manufactured in a solar-powered production plant.
- Our plastic containers are recycled, food-grade, non-leaching, with no residues of dioxins, BpA, phthalates, or other xenoestrogens.
- Our paper packaging is manufactured from recycled sources or comes exclusively from certified sustainable resources.
- Our containers and boxes are beautifully designed and sturdy enough to encourage re-use and re-purposing.
Is Epicuren Baby packaging recyclable?
Yes, 100% of Epicuren Baby packaging is recyclable and much of it is recycled too! Our packaging comes from certified sustainable resources. In addition our products are biodegradable and produced in a solar powered manufacturing facility. Before you throw anything away, we encourage you to reuse it to make potions, for paint or any other creative thing you can think about.
Why do you use plastic containers?
The Episencial containers are made of recycled food grade, PET 1 plastic that does not leach toxic chemicals. Children’s personal care products may not be sold legally in glass containers. Glass is considered a safety hazard by the government. Aluminum and other types of packaging have their own set of problems. There are new materials under development that will be ready for use at some point, but the manufacturers of these products are not yet ready for large-scale distribution and there has not been enough safety testing on those materials to warrant use. Our plastic containers are recycled, recyclable, reusable, sturdy, safe, and ergonomically friendly.
How can I receive a printed catalog?
We are proud to say we are an earth-friendly company – so, we encourage you to view our products online and in stores. With the help of our customers we hope to produce fewer catalogues in paper and preserve more trees for shade. The Episencial website has our entire product range, product line and detailed information about us, the ingredients in our products, and the beneficial properties of our doctor recommended, clinically effective formulas.
What is your favorite feature of the new Episencial skin care line?
By far my favorite feature is the fact that we are able to make immune enhancing, top-quality, professional skin care affordable and available to support the new Vivid Green Generation!
Don’t aromatherapy oils degrade plastic and lose their potency when exposed to light?
Pure aromatherapy oils are 100% oil. These can be very fragile and can indeed degrade plastic and lose potency when exposed to light. Pure oils should always be purchased in dark glass containers. Amber and Cobalt glass are preferable. Aromatherapy for babies and pregnancy must always be below .05% total pure oil, our product formulations do not have the degrading effect on plastic and do not lose potency as easily. The non-aromatherapy ingredients, fruit extracts, minerals, antioxidants, and such are specially formulated to protect the oils and add sustainability through the bonding of organic chemistry. The Episencial lotions, cleansers and personal care products are given extra protection by the fact that they are formulated and stored inside opaque containers and in a cool, dark place (away from heat, moisture and light.) The shelf life of our products is enhanced because they are manufactured, shipped and stored in small quantities- so fresh batches of products are produced all the time.
Can the Nurturing Balm diaper cream be used with cloth diapers?
Yes! Episencial’s nurturing balm forms a protective, nurturing layer on the skin but does not clog fabric or washing machines. It is a one-of-a-kind product.
Can the Nurturing Balm be used to protect and heal rashes on the vaginal region of little girls?
Absolutely!
Can the Nurturing Balm diaper cream be used as a sunscreen?
This product does not perform the same functions of a sun screen. It is meant to protect, stregthen, and create a delicate barrier against germs & bacteria. The particles of Zinc oxide for sun screen have a smaller molecular size than the zinc that is used in our diaper spray. The best product for sun protection is the Sunny Sunscreen SPF 35.
What causes diaper rash and how can we get rid of it?
The cause of diaper rash is multi-faceted. Imagine a Petri dish and what you do to cause bacteria and fungi to grow. You create a moist environment and add heat! Essentially, our babies bums are little growing zones. If any kind of harmful bacteria or fungi gets a start, it can be very difficult to get rid of it. Actually, every square inch of skin has more bacteria than it does skin cells. A rash is basically indicative of an imbalance in bacteria. So, to rebalance, give the bum as much airtime, sans diaper, as possible. Don’t use wipes with alcohol or any drying agents at all – the best thing is cotton pads with pure water or wipe with a rinse of pure water to eliminate any chemical residue. All wipes have drying agents, as they are necessary to keep bacteria from molding the wipes. Then, use the Episencial Nurturing Balm to create a barrier and healing environment for the skin to do what it knows how to do – protect our bodies from invaders!
When is my baby’s skin likely to be too dry?
90% of mothers don’t think their children have dry skin, but in fact, recent skin maturation studies show that over 60% of children do have dry skin. The signs of dryness are not always evident to the naked eye, but because children’s skin is physiologically less developed than adult skin, it absorbs and loses moisture more easily than mature skin. Dryness leads to increased incidence of eczema, rash and cracking and can open the body up to increased infection and reduced immune efficiency. Babies who travel by airplane or who live in cold and windy climates are most at risk for excessive dryness. To protect from occasional, regular dry skin, we suggest the Better Body Butter. For dry patches, the Protective Face Balm, SPF 6 is the best! Dry skin is more vulnerable to sun damage, so it makes sense to use a low level SPF all the time on dry skin.
How can I avoid and/or help eczema breakouts on my baby?
For eczema – make sure the cleaning products in the home are non-toxic (no bleach, ammonia or artificial fragrances). Use fragrance free laundry detergent. Eliminate personal grooming products that contain fragrance and preservatives and use those that are from natural sources (like ours). Lastly, eliminate processed foods from the diet (e.g., crackers). Instead, replace those foods with more fruits and vegetables for snacks like carrot sticks, cut apples, red pepper “flowers” and cucumber sticks. For treatment use Episencial’s Soothing Cream. It is fortified with vitamins, probiotics, neem oil, and many other ingredients that actively protect and restore skin. Probiotics and Noni are anti-inflammatory. When the swelling, heat and pain are removed from an area, the skin has the opportunity to begin the healing process. Our goal is always to create the most positive environment for the skin to allow it to do what it knows how to do – protect us from bacteria, virus and the elements, and eliminate toxins from within. Eczema is a form of over stimulation from a combination of unknown causes probably both internal and external. By addressing the body’s needs for a cleaner environment from the inside and out, we create the space for healing and repair.
Do Episencial products contain wheat?
Episencial products do not contain wheat, they are gluten free. There are ingredients used in the products that are derived from oat, but oat extracts do not retain gluten or have allergenic properties. As always, it is good to test a patch of skin on your child and check with your pediatrician before using any of product.
Do your products contain gluten?
The products do not contain gluten. Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernal extract and Tocopherol (Vitamin E) are sometimes confused to have allergenic properties. Avena Sativa is an extract, and not mashed oats. Avena Sativa may still contain trace amounts of gluten; however, medical studies show that even celiac patients in remission who suffer severe reactions to gluten tolerate large amounts of oats (93g ingested p/day) with NO adverse effects (Eur J Clin Nutr. 2003 Jan; 57(1):163-9). Avena Sativa is a nutrient packed ingredient with flavenoids, minerals, Vitamins B1, B2, D, E, carotene and healthy fats. Wheat is the primary gluten donor of all the grains, so we use the oat instead of wheat to protect and nourish sensitive skin. Regardless, if you are concerned about gluten sensitivity, it is best to check with your pediatrician before using any product.
Do you have samples?
Yes. Many of our retailers distribute samples.
Where can I find Episencial products locally?
Episencial products are being sold at fine retailers and in hospitals nation-wide. See the Store Locator for a complete list.
How do I recommend a store that should carry your products?
Simply write to us at www.episencial.com. Please try to include the name, address, phone number and favorite person at the store you’d like to recommend.
As a retailer, I am interested in offering Episencial products to my customers. Who should I contact?
You can contact us directly and we will provide you with products as well as training, merchandising materials and sales support for your continued success selling Episencial products. To begin, fill out the wholesale application on line at www.episencial.com.
Am I eligible for a wholesale account?
You can fill out a merchant application online or call us at 800.690.1610. Orders for existing accounts are accepted through EDI. Non EDI compliant retailers are accepted on a case-by-case basis. New wholesale accounts must be approved by Episencial, and must meet certain criteria. Retailers agree to sell the products at MSRP and have a valid resale permit. Episencial does require a minimum order, upscale presentation of the products, and an authentic commitment to green business practices.
Do you Drop Ship?
No.
We want to place a wholesale order for our upscale boutique and we are now concerned as we see Episencial available for sale online. We were hoping to pick up a specialty line. Can you please assure me that this new baby line will not be sold in venues such as Ebay?
You did indeed find a specialty line with professional quality products that works closely with retailers to ensure clean, beautiful presentation. The Episencial products are designed to offer green values, organic ingredients, and actively healthy formulas to everyone who wants the best for their children. Prices and margins are standardized. Except for manufacturer-approved promotions, parents will find the products at the same price everywhere they go. Specialty retailers as well as more mainstream retailers embrace Episencial because the company offers superior products with an authentic commitment to supporting a Vivid Green Generation. Our parents shop online sometimes and in stores sometimes too. We are about being actively healthy every day – which means Episencial products are available to consumers when and where they want them at an every-day affordable price.
