What are Optical Brighteners?

Optical brighteners are chemicals added to many household products to make them appear brighter and cleaner. They absorb ultraviolet light and re-emit it as visible light, giving items a brighter appearance. 

What are the health concerns?

Exposure to large amounts may result in skin, eye, and respiratory irritation. People with allergies to certain dyes may be more susceptible to reactions. Studies on animals have indicated that long-term exposure could potentially increase cancer risk or cause contact dermatitis. Additionally, because the body does not process optical brighteners the same way it does other chemicals, there is a potential risk for bioaccumulation, which is the buildup of a substance in the body over time.  

Optical brighteners can also contaminate water sources and are toxic to aquatic life.

How do I know if my product contains Optical Brighteners?

If an ingredient contains the word "dye", "fluorescent" or "brightener" then the product is likely to contain optical brighteners.

Not all company's display ingredient transparency, and may hide this from their list. The only way to be certain is if the company states "Free of Optical Brighteners".

Do any of Rustic Strengths products contain Optical Brighteners? 

We believe in providing 100% all natural, non-toxic, sustainable products free from optical brighteners to provide the safest and most effective experience for our customers.

You will never find Optical Brighteners in our products.