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Applied topically, flaxseed oil – a key ingredient in our Primrose Replenishing Oil – acts like an emollient to soften skin and boasts skin-friendly zinc and the B vitamins to support healthy skin function. Better yet, the alpha-linoleic acids (ALAs) found in flaxseed oil may contribute to younger looking skin. Studies conducted by Kobe University School of Medicine, Japan, found that melanin, the stuff responsible for age spots and freckles, was inhibited by topical ALAs. The research also found that ALAs sped up the turnover of dead skin cells, leaving a canvas of healthy, glowing skin.

Minnesota has followed California in banning mercury in cosmetics. Growing concern over weak federal regulations led lawmakers in California to force manufacturers to disclose ingredients that are known by the state to cause cancer or birth defects back in 2005. Now Minnesota has followed suite, making it illegal to sell or distribute cosmetics, toiletries and fragrances containing mercury within the state borders.

Mercury is a dangerous toxin that can cause neurological damage but it is still added legally at low levels to some eye products as a preservative and germ killer. Under federal law cosmetics may contain up to 65 parts per million of mercury. The creation of state-level legislation on cosmetic ingredients is symptomatic of widespread frustration at federal laws that many view as inadequate. According to Senator John Marty(D), who sponsored the complete ban on mercury in cosmetics, even in tiny amounts the toxic metal can be harmful.