They Look Good On The Shelf, But Are They Good For You?
They Look Good On The Shelf, But Are They Good For You?
Let’s be honest: the allure of a beautifully packaged product is real. Walk down any aisle, and it’s clear—everything from breakfast cereal to skincare has had a major glow-up. Sparkling bottles, sleek fonts, pastel shades that make you want to “add to cart” before you even know what it is—we’ve all been there. But just because it’s pretty, does that mean it’s actually good for you? Let's dig into the stats, break down the facts, and get real about the products many of us are tossing into our carts without a second thought.
Beauty Products: The Fine Print on a Fine Face Cream
Let’s start in the skincare aisle, where every product promises to be the fountain of youth in a jar. But here’s the kicker: many of these skincare and beauty products have ingredients that are a little too well-preserved—like, disturbingly so. Did you know that on average, a woman uses about 12 different beauty products a day, exposing herself to 168 unique chemicals? Yep, it’s a real number! And while not every chemical is harmful, several common beauty ingredients have been linked to hormone disruptions, allergies, and even fertility issues. Yikes.
If you’re thinking about all the dermatologist-approved creams and cleansers in your bathroom right now, you’re not alone. And while some products truly are dermatologist-approved, others just look the part—so watch out for words like "natural" and "clean." They’re not always regulated terms, which means your ‘natural’ cleanser might be wearing a mask of its own. I check literally everything I put onto my body, and my families body (including all home products) on Environmental Working Group’s website EWG.org — it’s my secret weapon!!
Food Labels: Organic? Natural? It's a Maze Out There
Alright, next stop: the grocery store. We all know those “organic,” “non-GMO,” “gluten-free” labels are popular—but does that make the food better for you or just prettier in your pantry? There’s a fine line here. For instance, research shows that 50% of consumers believe “natural” means a product is healthier, yet “natural” has zero regulation when it comes to labeling in most countries. So that box of “natural” granola bars may still have a hefty dose of sugar, preservatives, or additives. But hey, it looks good, right?
And don't even get us started on the "organic" labeling: according to a study by the International Food Information Council, 67% of parents are more likely to buy organic foods for their kids, but a lot of organic snacks still pack as much sugar and empty calories as their conventional counterparts. So while it might make us feel like we’re being healthier (and no shame in that game!), it’s worth flipping that label to check the sugar and ingredient list too.
The Greenwashing Games
Ah, greenwashing—the art of looking eco-friendly without actually doing much to help the planet (or you). These brands want you to think that their packaging choice, down to the last recycled cardboard, is all about sustainability, but in reality? They might be paying a lot more attention to the aesthetics of the packaging than the actual product inside.
According to a recent study, 70% of consumers said they were more likely to buy a product if it seemed eco-friendly, even if it cost a little more. But here’s the kicker: nearly 80% of claims about “eco-friendly” or “sustainable” packaging are not properly backed up, which means you could be paying extra for a green label that’s more about looks than impact. Brands know we care about this stuff, especially as moms trying to raise the next generation in a world we want to keep green and gorgeous. Just remember, “eco” on the label doesn’t always mean eco-friendly in the landfills.
Supplements and Health Products: When Vitamins Become Candy
Another aisle that loves to charm us: supplements and vitamins. With gummies that look like candy and promise everything from “stress relief” to “energy boosts,” who wouldn’t be tempted? And yes, vitamins can be helpful, especially if you’re dealing with a deficiency. But do you know that 53% of Americans take a supplement daily, even though most of us don’t actually need half of them? According to the National Institutes of Health, many vitamins are unnecessary for people who eat a balanced diet. So before you buy that collagen-infused, turmeric-powered, B-12 booster, check if you’re actually lacking in those areas. Otherwise, you’re just adding another pretty bottle to the shelf.
A Quick Check for Busy Moms (Because Who Has the Time?)
Here’s the TL;DR on buying with intent rather than attraction:
Flip It Over: No matter how pretty the package, flip it around. Check for real information—ingredients, sugar content, added chemicals, or preservatives.
Watch for Buzzwords: Words like “natural,” “clean,” “eco-friendly,” and “green” don’t always mean what they imply. Look for certifications if you really care about these factors, like USDA Organic or Certified B Corp.
Skip the Hype: Just because it’s new, popular, or all over Instagram doesn’t mean it’s worth it. For things like skincare, food, and supplements, think about what you actually need—not what marketers want you to think you need.
Less Is More: Stick to basics and buy with purpose. A few well-chosen products that you know, trust, and love are worth more than a counter full of glittery (but maybe unnecessary) choices.
The Bottom Line
Hey, there’s no harm in a little sparkle. A beautiful bottle or a perfectly packaged snack? It’s fine to enjoy the aesthetic! But when it comes to our health (and that of our kids), it’s worth taking a few extra seconds to read beyond the label. After all, we deserve the real deal—not just something that looks good on a shelf. So next time you’re in the store, think twice, peek past the label, and let’s keep beauty, health, and wellness grounded in what’s actually good for us.
