why do these lotions contain phenoxyethanol and or potassium sorbate? both are toxic!

Hello, We use phenoxyethanol as a preservative to help prevent the growth and contamination by harmful bacteria, yeast, and molds. Phenoxyethanol is a very well studied compound. Although it has been found to be slightly irritating to the skin in large concentrations, it has been approved for use in concentrations up to 1% by the FDA and the cosmetic ingredient review as well as the EU and Japan, which have very strict health guidelines. We only use concentrations up to .55% in our products, which we have found to be effective at preventing bacterial growth while reducing the possibility of adverse reactions. We realize that there are still some concerns about phenoxyethanol, and are looking for alternatives, but we feel that it is the most suitable preservative for our needs and the needs of our customers at this time. (http://online.personalcarecouncil.org/ctfa-static/online/lists/cir-pdfs/pr139.pdf) Potassium Sorbate is the potassium salt of sorbic acid. It is produced by using potassium hydroxide to neutralize sorbic acid. Sorbic acid is naturally present in some berries. Potassium sorbate is a preservative that slows or prevents the growth of harmful microorganisms. While potassium sorbate is generally classified as being not harmful and non-toxic, it is used as a preservative in many food products, it is a known irritant when in high concentration. In the low, less than 1%, concentrations used in cosmetics, it has been found to be mild and not a significant irritant while still providing protection from microorganisms. These products are much safer with these ingredients than without, as the danger of bacterial contamination in a natural product can have serious repercussions. Alaffia

I am wrestling with this product to get the pump to open. Tricks? And, yes, I held the bottle and twisted the pump to the left...to the right...pulled

You need to remove remove the pump and keep what is attached to it. Then the tube that you removed which is still attached to the pump, you will want to remove the lotion from its exterior (soap and water) hold that tube with a rag firmly while you take your other hand and twist the nozel to the left.

whats the full list of ingredients for this one?

Hello, Please see full ingredient list below: Cymbopogon citratus (Lemongrass) Aqueous Extract, Butyrospermum parkii (Shea) Leaf* Aqueous Extract, Butyrospermum parkii (Shea) Butter*, Emulsifying Wax, Stearic Acid, Lavandula hybrida (Lavender) Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Elaeis guineensis (Red Palm) Oil*†, Potassium Sorbate, Ascorbic Acid Alaffia

Manufacturer	Alaffia
Item model number	S5501
Product Dimensions	19 x 6.5 x 6 cm; 51 g
ASIN	B07VNP3FSH

(Lavender, 470mls) - - Everyday Shea Body Lotion, Normal to Very Dry Skin, Moisturising Support for Hydrated, Soft, and Supple Skin with Shea Butter and Lemongrass, Fair Trade, Lavender, 47...

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