Articles by Bob Root "Beaker"

About Bob Root "Beaker"
Keys Founder & Chief Technologist. Author: Chemical-Free Skin Health® , Defining Moments
Chemical-Free Skin Health Book

The American Organic Hustle – Understanding The Misunderstood

Bob Root "Beaker"

A customer contacted Keys Customer Service with three fundamental questions. The questions are mostly about being organic and safety as well as functionality. I have the answers, and they might not be what you think.

They Asked:

  1. I am thinking of getting Keys MetaClean Healing Soap & Shampoo, it says there is >85% organic content, what is the rest that is not organic in this shampoo?

2. When you list on the right the vitamins/actions, are you indicating that the actual ingredient is providing those vitamins, for example, Avocado Oil gives Retinol vitamin or is Retinol separate from the Avocado Oil?

3. What is it in here that can be unsafe for some individuals since it is not complete 0 on safe scale

Read my answers in our latest article on Clean Green Cafe.

organic [Read More]

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Chemical-Free Skin Health Book

Parabens – They Are Everywhere

Bob Root "Beaker"

Parabens hiding in plain sight.

When I started writing my book, Chemical-Free Skin Health, I thought I would mention Parabens as a side comment in the chapter on the Dirty Dozen Chemicals in most skincare products. Yes, about 95% of every skincare product produced has a bacteriacide that goes by many names. Most are listed on product labels as Methyl-Paraben or something with paraben in the name.

I was speaking at a conference and was attacked by a person in the audience because they claimed that parabens were not harmful in the small amount used in a product. True that most applications of this bacteriacide are in the 0.5% range and are useful in keeping mold and bacteria growth in check. Back to the incident, I responded that “the average woman uses between 20 to 40 products a day on her skin. Because paraben use is cumulative, that means that the average woman is exposing herself to 10%-20% parabens levels every day. They sat down, and the moderator of the discussion took a quick turn away.

The rub is simple. Parabens kill good and bad bacteria indiscriminately. That is in the bottle and on your skin. The MSDS (federal product safety document) requires a fully garbed and nitrile gloved worker also to wear a respirator if exposed to >2% paraben levels. Someone using 10%-20% level of parabens cumulatively is damaging the skin microbiome and affecting that person’s overall health.

Read more in Chemical Free Skin Health available in paperback and Kindle at Amazon [Read More]

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About Us!

Keys, Thievery Corporation and CafeCody.com – An Unlikely Group.

Bob Root "Beaker"

Some Keys History

Keys, Thievery Corporation and Cafe Cody – The Beginning

Every company has many stories of how it started and defining moments that changed the course of its history.  For us, Thievery Corporation and Cafe Cody were defining moments.

Every entrepreneur has good days, average days and some really bad experiences that teach, scar and modify you.  Creating defining moments mark course changes for everyone.  It is how we respond that separates us all.

Keys is no different, but with the caveat that we chase defining moments rather than avoiding them.  Change is good, so constant change must be better.  Innovation follows function, but form follows emotion.  Recognizing our core need to innovate and change, there are so many defining moments and we embrace all of them. [Read More]

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Did You Know?

Super Lice – RediCare Works!

Bob Root "Beaker"

There are reports all over the US of a resistant strain of super lice that are not controlled by convention lice treatments. I have been aware of this for a couple of years, but without someone raising the warning flag, my words have fallen short. Our customers have reported that our RediCare is not only highly effective at repelling initial lice infestation, but also kills the lice. [Read More]

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Chemicals

About Us – A Defining Moment

Bob Root "Beaker"

Keys was born from a need for natural skin care products the likes of which did not exist before we started. Our founder, Wendy Steele, survived Melanoma and her story of her road to recovery was littered with prescription products that almost worked.  The trauma showed her the clear vision need for products that really worked to solve skin problems.  Because they are natural, they also made her feel good with a new youthful appearance and the resulting contentment showed her the way in creating Keys In the simplest of messages, Keys is ancient remedies employing modern technologies for people with skin disorders, those that want to be chemical-free, people who want their family to have natural alternatives and for post cancer recovery survivors. We are: Natural Beauty Natural Skin Care Natural Skin Therapies Natural Hair Care Natural Dog Care & Supplements Keys Purpose and Direction  We are not just a natural [Read More]

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Functions and Uses

Keys Tortuga Lotion Case Price Sale – Save 10%

Bob Root "Beaker"

Our very popular Tortuga lotion is now available at a discount if you buy 6 or more at a time. Just add 6 or more Tortuga lotion to online store basket and the normal $16.95 price will be reduced to $15.25 each automatically. This is a $10.20 savings on 6 and even more savings if you buy more than 6.

Tortuga is the perfect winter solution for dry itchy skin as well as chapped lips, dry cracking skin and tough calluses. It is a clean, pure natural lotion that is gluten-free, vegan and chemical-free. [Read More]

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Functions and Uses

Keys Cross RediCare – The Many Uses

Bob Root "Beaker"

Every Keys product has many uses, purposes and are cross functional natural remedies. We have created a new category called Keys Cross where our customers have told us how they use our products. Here are the many uses of Keys RediCare. Share how you use it. [Read More]

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Functions and Uses

Keys Cross Solar Rx – The Many Uses

Bob Root "Beaker"

Every Keys product has many uses, purposes and are cross functional natural remedies. We have created a new category called Keys Cross where our customers have told us how they use our products. Here are the many uses of Keys Solar Rx. Share how you use it. [Read More]

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Functions and Uses

iWellness? – An Open Letter to Tim Cook, Apple CEO

Bob Root "Beaker"

The rumors are pretty strong that Apple will introduce Healthkit technology in it next IOS 8 operating system for iPhones and iPad’s..and maybe iWatch this October. iWellness or iHealth – There is a difference. Can Apple change healthcare forever? Yes! Will they? by Bob Root, Keys Founder and Technologist. Check it out http://www.cleangreencafe.com/CGC/?p=2814 [Read More]

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VaporJel
Chemical-Free Skin Health Book

FDA Taking Closer Look at ‘Antibacterial’ Soap

Bob Root "Beaker"

“New data suggest that the risks associated with long-term, daily use of antibacterial soaps may outweigh the benefits,” Rogers says. There are indications that certain ingredients in these soaps may contribute to bacterial resistance to antibiotics, and may have unanticipated hormonal effects that are of concern to FDA. [Read More]

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Functions and Uses

Keys Testimonials

Bob Root "Beaker"

We have installed a new testimonial system to help other discover what our Keys products have done for others. Please submit anything that you feel will help people achieve relief for their conditions and disorders. Thanks! [Read More]

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Keys Articles

Keys Overview Video with Wendy Steele

Bob Root "Beaker"

This is the first in a new series of online videos from Keys. New technology will permit us to create small and effective videos for you to help understand us, our products and our mission. This is also available on the new Keys YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6WlkrnWIb2zoj0VhcSVqyQ/feed [Read More]

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Images & Media

Keys Product Pictures

Bob Root "Beaker"

Below are Keys and Koda product images that can be clicked and saved to your computer for use in publication, websites and stores.  To save in highest resolution, click on each image and open to larger size.  Then right click to save to your computer Keys Beauty Products Keys Therapy Products Keys KPRO Products KODA for Dogs Products High Resolution Files JPG

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KODA for Dogs

KODA ProShine – Shampoo & Conditioner

Bob Root "Beaker"

ProShine is a foaming shampoo-conditioner that is made using a 500 year old Welsh recipe that is saponified in a brewing. The shampoo deep cleans and has a slightly acidic pH. To that, we add essential oils to condition the skin and hair. It has anti-allergy properties to reduce skin itching and hot spots. [Read More]

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Chemicals

Itchy Dog? Ditch the Perfume

Bob Root "Beaker"

As for that nagging feeling about the itching and scratching after your dog’s bath or after a grooming session? The most likely reason your dog is scratching and itching is directly related to the perfumes, artificial fragrance and harsh ingredients in dog shampoos! [Read More]

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About Us!

Polluted Pets – What are we doing?

Bob Root "Beaker"

I am raising a red flag when it comes to our pets and the environment.  In my book, Chemical-Free Skin Health® I pointed out that about 50 years ago just about everything we put on our skin or came in contact with was naturally derived.  Now nearly 95% is synthetic.  There are now tens of thousands of chemicals that are in use that have never been tested for safety.  Worse, our pets are exposed in direct contact to hundreds of more chemicals for the shear reason that they typically where no shoes, clothing and dogs tend to lead with their noses.  This reality is played out in the article from the Environmental Working Group showing industrial chemical toxins at alarming high rates compare to humans. In 2007, I was a founding member of Pets for the Environment which was a spin-off of the EWG.  It was just coming into vogue when the Melamine was [Read More]

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KODA for Dogs

Groomers, The Good, Bad and the Ugly

Bob Root "Beaker"

We travel all over North America for our businesses.  We choose to travel in a motor coach for a number of reasons.  Probably the most important are named Jasper and Isabel.  Jasper is our two year old Bichon pup and Isabel our Abyssinian-Tabby cat.  Besides, airports and hotels are no fun.  BTW, That is Japer on the masthead running on the Oregon coast with his favor pink ball. One of the toughest things is to find a groomer we can trust.  Not just to give Jasper a good cut, but to find a groomer that is a natural practitioner and will safeguard Jasper during his visit.  We learned a few tricks along the way that simply involves using your senses. We always ask Bichon owners where they have their pup groomed when their dog looks well cared for, cleanly groomed and happy go lucky.  This is a happenstance that we [Read More]

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Chemicals

Probiotics & Probiome – Feeding Your Skin!

Bob Root "Beaker"

The skin needs probiotics like we need for improved digestion. The problem is that the skin is a lot more susceptible to chemicals, allergens and pollution. Worse, the products we use are killing the skin’s probiome and the results are misdiagnosed skin disorders. Learn what to do and what not to do. [Read More]

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Keys Articles

California to License Groomers?

Bob Root "Beaker"

From Cal Watchdog Even Dogs Have A Nanny In CA Katy Grimes: A California state Senator has authored a bill which would regulate pet grooming and require dog groomers to pay a whopping $350 for a state-issued license. As if the state Legislature’s attempt to require helmuts for skiers and snowboarders, licensing hair braiders, and and imposing child-car seats restrictions just isn’t enough – California now wants to monitor and regulate the bathing and clipping of Bowser and Fluffy. Will legislators be creating a new state agency to do this?

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Skin Disorders

Public Enemy #1 – Sodium Laureth Sulfate, It’s in everything!

Bob Root "Beaker"

Dirty Dozen Chemicals: SLS Many people that I meet ask me to describe why I do not use certain chemicals.  I tell them that my reasons are practical not political.  I generally explain in three to five stepped reason why I do not use certain ingredients.  Most encourage me to offer my simplified reason, so I am beginning to undertake why we do not use certain ingredients.  In this series of article, I will start with the Dirty Dozen. For pets, we have to realize that perhaps the worst chemical that they come in contact with every day is Sodium Laureth Sulfate.  Why, because it is in virtually every home in many many forms. When I am asked to list the top five products that come in contact with pets that contain SLS in large amounts, you would be surprised to learn what they are. Laundry Detergent Dish Washing Liquid [Read More]

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Chemicals

Parabens – Just another Dirty Dozen Chemical?

Bob Root "Beaker"

Parabens…Good Guys or Bad Guys? As a part of my ongoing series of looking at the Dirty Dozen Chemicals shown to provide elevated cancer rates in people and animals, in this article, I outline why we do not use parabens leaving the judgmental diagnosis to the NGO’s attacking them.  The Dirty Dozen Chemicals are a list of 12 developed originally by the Marin County Cancer Project which at the time, had the highest Cancer Rates in the US.  Followed by Search For The Cause and Teens Turning Green the list is now designated the Dirty Thirty. To get started, parabens are chemical bactericides and germicides that are in 95% of pet skin care products.  Said, there is a lot of debate whether they are good or bad for our pets.  My take is that they are contributing to elevated cancer rates for our dogs.  We think we are helping them, [Read More]

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Keys Articles

Sun Damage – Before and After on the Same Face?

Bob Root "Beaker"

As a geek, I must admit a certain amount of frustration with many people espousing opinion when it comes to the skin. Choosing to blinder themselves from the obvious or ignoring simple realities to make a point. Jay Chiat, the advertising guru that was responsible for much of the Apple Macintosh marketing, once told me that, “Controversy is the #1 tool of marketing.  With the spread of blogs, articles and chat rooms created by the internet, his words are more true that ever.  Couple that concept with the Chinese proverb, “one dog hears something and barks. Then 500 dogs bark because they heard the dog bark,” seems to be the new normal. Case in point, almost every time Doc Mercola talks about the sun, he claims its benefits and no direct link to damage.  I must admit that he says it using controversial words that slide through the truth.  Well, at least my truth. So, I am cruising through [Read More]

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KODA for Dogs

Dogs and the Dirty Dozen – No Mix!

Bob Root "Beaker"

Killer Chemicals? The “Dirty Dozen” Chemicals in Everyday Pet Products I was pretty irritated when I found out that many contract manufacturers that make pet shampoos, conditioners and skin products follow no strict guidelines for the chemicals they use or the amounts of these chemicals.  Worse, I found manufacturers using ingredients that were band for people.  Rather then dumping the product, they relabel it for pets. You would think with the Melamine in pet food scare killing pets a few years back that we would learn.  I do not know about you, but I treat my dog and cat better then I treat myself  At Keys, we believe that over 50% of all pet skin disorders  are misdiagnosed and are actually caused by chemicals in everyday products.  In fact, over 95+% of all skin and pet care shampoos, bath gels, conditioners, laundry detergents and cosmetics contain one or more of these chemicals. [Read More]

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KODA for Dogs

Disney’s Story – How Keys Pet Care Products Began

Bob Root "Beaker"

Great products solve problems and make you feel good.  Most products are born out of a need to solve a problem.  This is true of the original Keys line of pet care products. Keys began as an all-natural therapeutic skin health product line about 8 years ago.  While on tour test marketing their products, an almost tragedy was the beginnings of the Keys Pet Care line of products.  Keys Pet Care has now morphed in to KODA Pet Care Products On our way back from the Florida Keys, I took our Bichon Frise, Disney, to a groomer.  When Disney returned, he was white, fluffy and looked just great.  A few minutes after picking him up, I noticed him scratching.  It later escalated to him pulling out his fur to a point where he began bleeding.  Shocked, I got him in the tub and wet him down to see what was [Read More]

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About Us!

Koda Story

Bob Root "Beaker"

KODA is the dog therapy product line established by Keys.  Products include chemical-free natural supplements and topical therapies for dogs.  We use ancient remedies and modern technology to make natural products that makes dogs feel good and solve both internal and skin problems.  We use pharmaceutical grade ingredients in therapeutic proportions to solve problems that account for the top 10 reasons for vet visits.  KODA is a combination of wellness products and natural solutions. Koda is Lakota Sioux for “Friend.”  The word perfectly describe the intention for our products and their recipients.  Today’s dogs are exposed to all sorts of environmental and chemical exposures that are and will shorten their lives.  After an experience with our 14 month old pup, Jasper,  that forced him to have to take strong antibiotics and Prednisone,  we  realized that the Veterinarians were ill equip to balance his prescriptions with a wellness program.  Determined, we [Read More]

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Keys Articles

Dramatic Skin – Keys Reflex ProBiome – New Revolution

Bob Root "Beaker"

Reflex ProBiome – The Back Story Reflex is one of the oldest new products we have.  I know that does not make sense.  It does to me because I developed Reflex almost five years ago and have been testing it since under the code name of Silken.  My problem was that the delay had nothing to do with developing the product, packaging or refinement.  My problem?  At least three of the ingredients I needed were not available in quantities greater than a few gallons.  If you keep in mind that I need thousands of liters or gallons to bring a product to market, a single liter is only good to prototype and lead to frustration.  As if it was a sign from the heavens at this place in space and time, providers showed up with production quantities of high grade organic virgin avocado oil, virgin Tamanu oil and our own [Read More]

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Industry Articles

Skin ‘Sees’ UV Light, Starts Producing Pigment

Bob Root "Beaker"

In a new study, biologists report that melanocyte skin cells detect ultraviolet light using a photosensitive receptor previously thought to exist only in the eye. This eye-like ability of skin to sense light triggers the production of melanin within hours, more quickly than previously thought, in an apparent rush to protect against damage to DNA. [Read More]

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Chemical-Free Skin Health Book

SK!N What’s Normal pH?

Bob Root "Beaker"

  by Bob Root, Keys CTO There is another book on the horizon for us.   The working title is simple, “SK!N”.   After Chemical-Free Skin Health was published, I started to get so many questions that focused more on “what to do” than what is wrong.  Yes, there will be a chapter about the negative effects of chemicals in products.  The majority of the book are things that we should be doing to improve skin health which has a direct connection to youthful appearance and beauty. These articles are snippets from the book which are triggered by questions that I get that I think are important now!  Books just have this tendency to stretch things out a bit too far. Like all good citizens, I have a disclaimer.  For future reference, I once had a professor that said, “Ask Root the time of day and he will lecture you on [Read More]

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Chemical-Free Skin Health Book

Safe Cosmetics Bestows Champion Status On Keys Care

Bob Root "Beaker"

Market Shift: Keys Care Receives “Champion” Status – Fulfills Safe Products Pledge Consumer demand for safer products drives fastest-growing market segment The  Campaign for Safe Cosmetics announced today that Keys has achieved the highest recognition earning “Champion” status by meeting the goals of the Compact for Safe Cosmetics, the Campaign’s voluntary pledge to avoid chemicals banned by health agencies outside the U.S. and to fully disclose product ingredients – a pioneering practice in the cosmetics industry. “Congratulations to Keys for being a ‘Champion’ and for demonstrating that it’s possible to make personal care products that far exceed current safety standards in the United States. A growing number of consumers are seeking personal care products that do not contain hazardous chemicals, and our report shows that making safer products is not only possible, but is also part of a successful business model,” said Mia Davis, organizing director of the Campaign for [Read More]

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Chemicals

The News Is Not All Bad!

Bob Root "Beaker"

I must admit that I have been CNN Free for nearly tens years. Really!  I find myself working at looking at the world through positive lenses.  I have found that watching things out of my control affects my overall health.  This is not an “ignorance is bliss” approach to living as much as it is a focus on what I can effect, affect and control. For some time now, I have been afflicted with the belief that much of our health is not about doctors, prescription or even prevention.  As I have studied, for my own life, I have found that health and specifically skin health, are directly relates to changing behaviors and realizing that it is not just about what we put into or on our body, it is how we do it and exercising the critical systems of the body.  Simply, just eating right and going to the gym are [Read More]

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Chemicals

What Some Sunscreens Are Hiding…(Republished)

Bob Root "Beaker"

It is summer and it is sunscreen season.  Below is an article I recently wrote about the new welcomed changes from the FDA that will force manufacturers to reveal what is in their sunscreens.  Please read it and the links to the FDA.  This change has go a long way to help save lives through UVA and UVB dangers awareness.  Also, since this new regulation, I thought it would be good to reprint the blog article herein.  I encourage you to study to protect you and your family. My grandfather used to say to me, “make up your mind.  Don’t let someone make up your mind for you!”  It is more important than ever that you listen to facts based on studies and not opinion.

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Industry Articles

New FDA Sunscreen Regulations

Bob Root "Beaker"

by Bob Root It has been about three years of communication with the FDA before the new sunscreen regulations came out June 11, 2011.  The FDA requested input from many companies and organizations.  Keys and other presented facts, opinion and wishes.  For some the time and the angle of the new direction have been touted as too little and too late.  I for one am happy with the changes.

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Keys Articles

Skin Cancer & “The Ugly Duckling” …Hold the Mayo! (Update May 21st)

Bob Root "Beaker"

WISDOM FROM “UGLY DUCKLINGS” by Wendy Steele  (Original Post May 9, 2011…See updates below) My recent experience with several “ugly ducklings” has once again put a bright spotlight on my desire and responsibility to share my personal wisdom about skin health. So far in this month of May, I have had the pleasure to personally talk to and meet many of our mid-west customers during multiple special events.  At one event I was wearing several flesh-colored bandage strips on my upper chest and self-consciously made sure that I covered those strategically with clothing, as I did not want to reveal those ugly little bandages.  I thought later that perhaps I would have been better off letting them show, because then I could share more personally my own experiences with “ugly ducklings”.   Knowledge is a powerful thing.

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Keys Articles

Gluten Sensitivity: Is something You Are Eating Making You Sick?

Bob Root "Beaker"

Gluten Sensitivity: Is something You Are Eating Making You Sick? Are you eating something everyday that could be making you sick?  I was!  During my second year of medical school I was diagnosed with Graves Disease, an autoimmune disorder that caused my thyroid to be overactive.  Each night before going to bed I would eat two pieces of sprouted whole wheat toast so that I could make it through the night without losing weight.  Little did I know that each night I was poisoning myself.  At that time, I was not aware of the gluten / autoimmune thyroid connection and my intolerance to gluten.

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Industry Articles

Understanding UVA & UVB

Bob Root "Beaker"

By Bob Root It is a constant quest to understand and then explain the effects of UVA and UVB on our skin and our lives.  Our involvement with the Skin Cancer Foundation, Johns Hopkins, Mayo Clinic, Scripps and various universities expose me to all sorts of information.  I am always searching for the simplest and best explanations to help people understand UV radiation.  Clearly I feel that I stand on the shoulders of many scientists and advocates.  Below is by far the best I have seen as a simple elegant guide.  It comes from the Skin Cancer Foundation and has an equally simple title. Understanding UVA and UVB 

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Keys Articles

Keys Omni – New Revolutionary Skin Spray Elixir

Bob Root "Beaker"

Omni – Skin Elixir Spray 60ml (2oz) Omni is a revolutionary product from every aspect.  Omni is a technology term derived from the Latin word Omnis meaning “all.” When we began to develop AquaVit, it became clear that our Ariane ingredient had wonderful properties. Omni was originally being developed with an ingredient we named Miras. Miras is a special ingredient that comes from the fruit of the Forsythia plant and has very high levels of Oleanolic which is known to have many healing and cleansing properties for the skin without harming the skins probiotic EcoSystem.  We then combined Ariane and Miras together for a combined effect that rivals any skin care, anti-aging or beauty product in the world.  Of course, I am biased.

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Keys Articles

New AguaVit – Toner Tonic from Keys

Bob Root "Beaker"

I am very happy to announce a new product long in development called AguaVit AguaVit is more than a toner. Take one sniff and the scent conjures deeply rooted emotions of times gone by. AguaVit means “Water of life.” It is made from a functional ingredient created by Keys called Arianne. To make Ariane we blend & distill whole organic orange, lime, cranberry, cucumber, juniper berry, star anise, cassia cinnamon, anise seed, ginger and clove.

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Natural Healing

You are what you apply – to your skin!

Bob Root "Beaker"

You are what you apply – to your skin! What’s in your body lotion? You’ve heard the old adage “you are what you eat.” Now I’d like to add another to that. “You are what you apply.” To your skin, that is!  Substances that affect your overall health and wellbeing don’t simply work their way through your system by travelling the gut alone.  An often-overlooked route – the transdermal (through the skin) route – allows substances ranging from the beneficial to the bad to enter your bloodstream and circulate throughout your body.  So, if you are what you eat, and you are what you apply, the question is:  what are you?

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Keys Articles

AguaVit & Omni – Two New Functional Ingredient Products From Keys

Bob Root "Beaker"

Keys Skip Generation Technology – Blended Whole Botanicals by Bob Root  Keys Technologist We are about to introduce two new products that represent a significant advancement for us and the industry.  AguaVit and Omni are two new products coming soon that employ a remarkable change for us in how we produce products that offer functionality, efficacy and performance. Traditionally, companies blend ingredients to create a new product.  These can be oils, essential oils, extracts and blends of ingredients that were separately processed.  Often these ingredients are estered or separated and refined for a specific function.  For example, Vitamin E can be refined from vegetables  to look for and extract only a portion of the Vitamin E or the creation of a Tocopherol substance using refining processes.   Then many ingredients with separated functionality are blended together to create some action.  This is a lot of work and I continually question separating [Read More]

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Chemical-Free Skin Health Book

Bob Root Begins Book Tour! Asks! Are We Killing Our Skin’s Ecosystem?

Bob Root "Beaker"

Chemical-Free Skin Health is the book written by Bob Root that is a compilation of all his experiences being on the road with Keys customers.  The book answers the most commonly asked questions as well as proposing some radical ideas about skin health.   Bob features information about the Human Microbiome Project and the National Institutes of health that is a spin-off of the human genome project. Of all the points Bob makes in the book, the one that drives his continued passion is his deep concern that the chemical bactericides used as preservative in most skin care and household products are destroying the natural ecosystem on our skin.  Parabens and Triclosan used as preservatives and antibacterial agents is an undiscriminating killer of the probiotics on our skin.  This subject is so important to Bob that he has made it the focal point of his book tour which begins in March.

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Natural Healing

The Future of Medicine is NOW!

Bob Root "Beaker"

The future of medicine is now. If I asked you to describe your ideal physician – what would he or she “look” like?  Would she be compassionate and empathic?  Would she meet with you for a hour or maybe even two? Would she listen attentively to every detail of your health history knowing it’s interconnected like a web and everything is a clue into your present state of health?  Would she be knowledgeable about nutrition, environmental toxins and stress reduction, and more importantly, spend time talking with you about these things?  Would she be concerned with preventing disease and getting to the root cause of your illness instead of just treating the symptoms with a pill? Would it be a healing partnership rather than a hierarchal relationship?

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Industry Articles

UltraHealth…What A Concept! A Real BHAG!

Bob Root "Beaker"

UltraHealth…What A Concept!  A Real BHAG! by Bob Root, Keys technologists & founder In tech, we had a phrase that we used to differentiate really big projects.  BHAG stands for a Big Hairy Audacious Goal.  When I helped to start Keys, we had some big hairy goals.  Universal Wellness was perhaps the biggest. Remember, I am from high tech engineering, a practicing quantum physicist and a dreamer.  Ergo a futurist who believes anything is possible.  The adage that anything new is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration simply means to me that usually one person or a few have the spark of an idea and then it takes many more people working hard over a period of time until the rest of us get it.  In all endeavors, we all are both leaders and followers at some point in time.  The concept of Universal Wellness is not new, but it certainly [Read More]

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Keys Articles

Wendy’s #1 Life Rule: Simplify!

Bob Root "Beaker"

Wendy’s #1 Life Rule:  Simplify! Keys Products Have Many Uses! We design products that can simplify your life.  At Keys we think differently! Over six years ago, when we started designing and manufacturing skin health products, we had a fundamental belief that we could invent products that would solve skin issues and make people feel good.  We were inspired by our imagination and explored the use of revered healing natural ingredients so that each of these products effectively would have more than one use.  We believed they should be simple, safe and make life less complex every day.   What a concept and it is our reality!

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Keys Articles

Chemical-Free Skin Health Book Now For Sale!

Bob Root "Beaker"

The new book by Bob Root is now available for sale.   The book is available on the Keys web site store as well as various book sellers like Amazon.com and Barnes & Nobel.  Below are the links to the book sale pages. Keys Online Store:  Click Here Amazon.com: Click Here Barnes & Nobel: Click Here

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Keys Articles

New RediCare Locking Sprayer

Bob Root "Beaker"

We are pleased to announce the next generation sprayer head for our RediCare product.  The innovations for this new design development are a finer mist spray, more even and less pressure required to operate and a new integrated locking mechanism. Most people quickly notice the new locking mechanism.  The prior sprayer used a “wishbone” clip that kept the pump from operating while in a bag, backpack or pocket.   The problem with the old design is that the small clip was easily lost.  In the process of developing the next generation sprayer, we sought all the new features plus an integrated lock.  As simple as it seems, it took us a long time to bring the design to the market. Below is a short video that shows the operation of the locking latch.  Merely push the button from the right of the pump to open the sprayer for operation and a [Read More]

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No Picture
Chemical-Free Skin Health Book

Triclosan Ban Could Be On The Way

Bob Root "Beaker"

Bob Root in his new book Chemical-Free Skin Health outlined many of his concerns over the widespread use of Triclosan in foods, products and skin care.  The article below was dated today in the Natural Products Manufacturers newsletter. From Natural Foods Merchandiser The Environmental Protection Agency is considering whether to ban the antibacterial chemical triclosan in consumer products, in response to a petition submitted by 82 environmental and public health groups led by Beyond Pesticidesand Food & Water Watch.

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Chemicals

Fragrance – Keys Reports

Bob Root "Beaker"

In an effort to bring relevant information to you, we occasionally find interesting reports.  This one tags onto the EWG Fragrance Report and includes concerns we have had for a long time regarding unlisted chemicals in fragrance found in household products. This is a FYI for you! ____________________________________________________________ Scented Consumer Products Shown to Emit Many Unlisted Chemicals

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Keys Articles

Gathering Thyme, New Bay Area Keys Reseller Opens in Marin County

Bob Root "Beaker"

Gathering Thyme is a new community herb shop and holistic health education center focused on providing Marin County and the Bay Area with exceptional natural healthcare products, education and support.  “Keys is very excited to add Gathering Thyme to our reseller list because they are true trusted advisors in their community,” said Wendy Steele, Keys CEO. In the retail shop you will find a wide selection of high-quality locally-sourced herbal products including the very best in bulk herbs, teas and spices; Western, Chinese, and Ayurvedic herbal formulas; practitioner-lines of dietary supplements; a terrific selection of organic face and body care products for women, men and children; a large selection of new and used natural healthcare books; bulk salts, clays, and body care products; and herb and health related supplies and gifts.  

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Chemical-Free Skin Health Book

Keys Featured at the 2010 California Women’s Conference

Bob Root "Beaker"

New book, “Chemical-Free Skin Health” premiered at the California Women’s Conference. Keys creates ECO Island. Keys product chosen by Maria Shriver for second year in a row for speakers’ gift bag. Long Beach California, October 25, 2010, California Women’s Conference. “Chemical-Free Skin Health” is a new book written by Keys founder and Chief Technology Officer, Bob Root.  The book is the first  written by a natural products industry formulator to help users make better buying choices for safer cosmetics and safer personal care products.  Bob Root offered, “I wrote my book because I realized that many people want safer cosmetics and safer personal care products, but they did not know how to go about making buying decisions.  I created ‘Chemical-Free Skin Health’ to give people a sort of users guide to help make better choices.  I ask my readers to Stop, Challenge and Choose!  I want them to stop buying [Read More]

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Chemical-Free Skin Health Book

On The Press! New Book by Keys Founder – Bob Root

Bob Root "Beaker"

Chemical-Free Skin Health! Bob announced the beginning of a book focused on skin health over two years ago at the Natural Products Expo West. His book will be published in early October and Bob will officially launch the book at the 2010 California Women’s Conference. Maria Shriver chose Keys Luminos for last years Women’s Conference for the speakers gift bag. This year, she chose Keys Solar Rx for the speakers gift bag. The book, titled “Chemical-Free Skin Health” with a subtitle of “Stop • Challenge • Choose” will be published by Orion’s M42 publishing company and will be sold on the show floor by Vroman’s bookstore. Bob will be at the show signing the books. Keys will be exhibiting in the newly created section called the “ECO Island” which features green sustainable products. For those attending, Bob and Wendy will be in the Keys booth along with Kathleen Beaton, Hollywood [Read More]

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Chemicals

The Story of Cosmetics • Campaign for Safe Cosmetics

Bob Root "Beaker"

Comments of the personal care industry, by Bob Root, Keys CTO “The world is a changen,” is an old southern phrase.   It generally means that new things continue to appear at a little to fast a pace.   The concept of safe cosmetics does not fit into that phrase.  I believe we are actually returning to the basics and our roots from not a too distant a past. Our first lotion was a refined version of one my grandmother created.  She taught me to make a very fine lotion that she used to simmer on the pilot light (Google ‘pilot light’ if you are under 40) on the stove. She had long since passed-on by the time I started Keys, but I remembered the formula and process. Very emollient, Tortuga rivals the department store brands at a fraction of the price. Why, because it is all natural whole ingredients [Read More]

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Chemicals

Triclosan: The Biocide That Creates Super Bugs?

Bob Root "Beaker"

Triclosan: The Biocide that Creates Super Bugs? By Bob Root, Keys Technologist   Chemical Warfare Chapter 12:  Biocides:  Indiscriminate killers that create super bugs? For almost two years, I have been working on a book draft titled, “Chemical Warfare.”  It is a book focused on simplifying information about personal care and household products uses and concerns for public safety.  As I studied, I realized how much hearsay there was in the industry.  Taking a scientific approach, I turned to the research community for insights and facts…as best as they are.  Part of my dedication was and is to release information that is important in real-time.  Books, after all, are merely a snapshot in time and pale in comparison to real-time information gateways like our blog. FACT vs FUD is a chapter in this book as well as an article on this blog.  In this overly inflammatory news based society of [Read More]

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Keys Articles

Keys Now Blog Merges with Clean Green Cafe

Bob Root "Beaker"

In a world of fast paced communications, we continue to try to simplify, condense and corral the information we present in a way that helps clarify not only our position, but that of the natural products industry.  Over the next few month, we will continue to simplify all that we present to be in one place.  Here! The Clean Green Cafe offers both a chat forum and a blog.  These are now condensed to this location and available on the tab bar above. The writing style will continue to be firm, frank and friendly bringing all of what we can find out that is going on, the trends and our opinion of things. The Clean Green Cafe will also continue to be a place where we aim to inform.  It will also be the home of the new book being written by our founder, Bob Root, titled “Chemical Warfare!” a [Read More]

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Chemical-Free Skin Health Book

Ele Keats Actor – Artist – Keys Fan

Bob Root "Beaker"

Ele Keats   Actor Artist Keys Fan! When we started Keys, we began small with a few products and some real fans.  Our core belief is that products should solve problems and make people feel good about themselves and what they are using in and on their body. As we have grown, we feel it is time to honor some of those that we have helped, have been with us for a long time and those using our products in unique applications. Featured Keys Customer:  Ele Keats, Hometown:  Hollywood California

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Chemicals

EWG 2010 Sunscreen Report – Sunscreen For Dummies

Bob Root "Beaker"

Bob Root, Keys CTO It is that time of year again when the various sunscreen reports come out. The Environmental Working Group 2010 Sunscreen Report is out a couple of months early. Once again, Keys Solar Rx receives great marks in the Moisturizer with SPF category. I offer the title above with a great deal of respect for this years EWG 2010 Sunscreen Report.  I use the colloquial title because for the first time I feel there is a report that we can all read and understand.  Good on ya EWG for making something that we can read and learn as well as drill down for the details. This year there are some interesting changes in the report that might not be very apparent, so I will try to hit some highlights to simplify it for you.  Most notable is that the ranking system is gone and it is a very clear, concise easy [Read More]

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Keys Articles

Toxic America with Dr. Sanjay Gupta and EWG’s Ken Cook

Bob Root "Beaker"

We always endeavor to report on things that we know based on facts or studies.  This small review is most definitely and opinion piece from us, so you should form you own opinion by reading the links and watching the various videos available at the links. Keys Review, Toxic America Well if you missed it, the CNN series with Sanjay Gupta titled Toxic America was quite good.

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Chemicals

Parabens Good Or Bad Guys

Bob Root "Beaker"

Both? As a part of my ongoing series of looking at the Dirty Dozen Chemicals shown to provide elevated cancer rates in people and animals, in this article, I outline why we do not use parabens leaving the judgmental diagnosis to the NGO’s attacking them.  The Dirty Dozen Chemicals are a list of 12 developed originally by the Marin County Cancer Project which at the time, had the highest Cancer Rates in the US.  Followed by Search For The Cause and Teens Turning Green the list is now designated the Dirty Thirty. So, are parabens good guys or bad guys?  Both it seems and there is a why we do not use them as well. Below is a scavenged description of parabens from Wikipedia.    On the surface and from a chemical perspective they do their job.  Many chemists and companies support their use based on a belief of safety.  I [Read More]

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Chemicals

Wax and Other Things That Threaten Mankind

Bob Root "Beaker"

Ingredients, Skin Deep Report  and Everything Else… Musing from an interview with Bob Root, Keys Care CTO I recently took up Storm Chasing as a hobby… Just kidding although I feel like one of those guys chasing Tornado’s in the Midwest when it comes to the natural products industry. I was recently on a conference call with various members of the Natural Products Manufacturers Association enraged about a change that the EWG had made in the rating of Vegetable Emulsifying Wax from a 1 to a 4.  The tone was angry because as Compact Signers, we were not given a why, who, what or a heads-up at all to the change.  As of the time of the call, no one knew why the ranking was changed, who provoked it or the reason for the change.  Normally, I would not address this here on our blog, but there has been so much [Read More]

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Keys Articles

Keys Product Labels

Bob Root "Beaker"

We have always published our product labels on our website.  Admittedly they have been a little hard to find and took some work.  As a part of the evolution of our website and our dedication to simpler more informed content, we have created a page on our blog dedicated to our products from an informational standpoint.  The page on the main menu bars above and to the right show a new category called “Keys Products.”  As we add information, it will appear in this category and as a brief article like this one. So, now all of our label art in flat pattern is available to be viewed by clicking this link or the label image herein.  You can also go to the category page and click the link there to see these labels. You will also notice that we are beginning to add recycle symbols to our labels.  Many of our containers are made [Read More]

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Chemicals

EWG Report on Fragrance – Not So Sexy!

Bob Root "Beaker"

The EWG just released a report on Fragrances. Below is a part of the report and links to read the entire report. What is important to understand is that these same secret ingredients are used in personal care and household products. That familiar brand fragrance of Tide, Dreft and dryer sheets come from fragrance developed in the same process as the cologne’s and perfumes listed in the EWG Report. This report is not startling to us, but it will be to you. It is clear and concise as well as very easy to understand. Simply if it has a long lasting smell, it is a good chance that your products have some of these secret ingredients that are talked about in the report. This morning our chief scientist, Bob Root, was a featured speaker on the industry call hosted by the Product Stewardship Institute.

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Keys Articles

UV “B” Chic and UV “A” Wise – How to avoid skin cancer!

Bob Root "Beaker"

Wendy Steele, Keys CEO UV “B” Chic and UV “A” Wise  Video After the shock of being diagnosed with Melanoma Skin Cancer and the aftermath of dealing with all the chemical in my life that cause my skin disorders, the reality set home pretty quickly.   My skn could never again be exposed to prolonged UV events.  Growing up with a golden tan every summer, sailing the Chesapeak Bay and living in San Diego on a boat caused me to rethink my lifestyle.  Moreover, it caused me to become a advocate and spokesperson for UV and sun avoidance. Yes, we make one of the finest sunblocks in the world. Consumer Reports said it was the most effective. The Environmental Working Group said we are the safest.   Still, my advocacy is education to stay out of the sun, wear a UPF rated hat and clothing, wear sunglasses and then cover [Read More]

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Keys Media and KEYS TV

KEYS TV – About Keys

Bob Root "Beaker"

KEYS TV About Keys Simple, Effective Pharmaceutical Grade Products for Skin Health Video Many people have asked how we started Keys and why. This short video overview will give you a sense of who we are, why we started and our purpose. As an overview, Wendy Steele, Keys CEO was diagnosed with Melanoma Skin Cancer a little over ten years ago. She survived the cancer, but was terribly afflicted with skin disorders that were diagnosed by doctors as adult acne, eczema, psoriasis,l contact dermatitis and a myriad of other incorrect bad guesses. What she found was that it was the chemicals in prescription skincare and the sunscreens she had to wear to protect her skin.

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Keys Articles

Keys on the Road with the Stars..At the Oscar’s

Bob Root "Beaker"

By Wendy Steele, Keys CEO A few years ago when I fell and sprained my ankle, I had to send Bob to Santa Monica CA to meet with 300 Hollywood makeup artists.  The trip was to introduce Eye Butter as a natural alternative to eye foundations and creams.  Our message then and now was that natural products no longer needed to be a compromise.  Our message was and is that Eye Butter, Luminos and Solar Rx actually make people look good on and off camera.  Not just for the Red Carpet. Most of you know that Bob is my business partner and also my husband.   Since I was then on crutches and unable to travel, it was hard to send him to be with makeup artists which were mostly beautiful women with “the natural look”.  As the story continues,  happily, Bob’s connection with these women did not end with [Read More]

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Chemicals

Keys Banned Chemical Series – SLS (Sodium Laureth Sulfate)

Bob Root "Beaker"

Dirty Dozen Chemicals: SLS By Bob Root Keys Technologist Many people that I meet ask me to describe why I do not use certain chemicals.  I tell them that my reasons are practical not political.  I generally explain in three to five pragmatic reasons why I do not use certain ingredients.  Most encourage me to offer my simplified reasons, so I am beginning to undertake why we do not use certain ingredients.  In this series of article, I will start with the Dirty Dozen.

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Chemicals

New iPhone Application to Track Cosmetic Ingredients

Bob Root "Beaker"

A new iPhone application promises to inform the consumer of which products should be avoided using a database of INCI names and the ingredients allotted safety profile. Cosmetifique can be used with both the iPhone and iPod Touch and claims to have a searchable database of over 5,000 ingredients, in INCI format. Results for ingredients searches come back highlighted as either red, orange or green, to denote whether the ingredient is good, acceptable or should be avoided. According to application designer Alfredo Delli Bovi, this can inform the consumer whether the cosmetics they have bought or are planning on purchasing are dangerous to their health or the environment. Cosmetifique also allows favourite products to be saved with the name, brand and colour, which can then be shared with friends via email, facebook or twitter. Delli Bovi explained that the ingredients suggested as good are natural and green ingredients.  “We talked to make-up [Read More]

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Keys Articles

Acne Solutions…Cause and Effect!

Bob Root "Beaker"

Acne Solutions.  Real or Unreal? By Bob Root, Keys Technologist There are many acne treatments on the market promising a quick result.  They work quickly and as quickly, the skin rebounds, for most with, with a vengeance. We receive a lot of emails from people wondering what we have for treating acne.  Ironically, Keys is in business because of acne treatment.  More about that later. The major quick fix for acne has been the same since the 1920’s.  The chemical is called Benzyol Peroxide.  Benzoyl peroxide is an compound in the organic peroxide family. It consists of two benzoyl groups joined by a peroxide group. Benzoyl peroxide is used as an acne treatment, for improving flour, for bleaching hair and teeth, for polymerising polyester and many other uses.

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Keys Articles

New Eye Butter – A Better Butter

Bob Root "Beaker"

New Eye Butter Softer, smoother and more effective anti-aging properties By Bob Root, Keys Technologist Eye Butter is now better butter.  The ingredients are the same.  The amount of each ingredient has not changed.  Two of the processes in making Eye Butter have been changed to increase its efficacy and soften the consistency while also being smoother.

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Chemicals

Phthalates Linked To ADHD

Bob Root "Beaker"

In keeping with our commitment to keep you informed about studies dealing with the Dirty Thirty chemicals, here is a synopsis and link to a recent article regarding phthalates in personal care products.  Please note that we have tracked the use of phthalates in room fresheners, scented candles, dryer sheets, laundry detergents, cologne/perfumes and a high percentage of personal care products.  The consumer simple rule that we suggest is that if a product has a strong fragrance that lasts for a long time, it is most likely synthetic and contains a form of phthalate.  When in doubt inquire to a product manufacture for assurance that their products do not contain phthalates.  Keys Engineering Personal care ingredient linked to ADHD A new study has linked phthalates, a substance used in some shampoos, lotions, air fresheners and children’s toys, with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Although research on the health effects of phthalates (pronounced “thalates”) [Read More]

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Keys Articles

New Mini Size Galleyon Foaming Natural Antibacterial Soap! Just in Time for Flu and Cold Season!!

Bob Root "Beaker"

Galleyon Mini Naturally Antibacterial Foaming Castile Soap, 50 ml (1.69 oz) Our customers have asked and asked for a smaller purse size version of Galleyon.  The problem has been finding a foamer mechanism small enough and durable enough for the high levels of natural spearmint essential oil that we use as our major antibacterial agent. Great for the pocket or purse during flu season, Galleyon was first developed for professionals that wanted an antibacterial soap, but without the harsh biocide chemicals.  Doctors, nurses, chefs and many other professionals are required to wash their hands many times a day.  The harsh chemicals in all antibacterial soaps left their hands cracked, chapped and irritated.  Using Galleyon as a primary soap or as a second wash preserves the antibacterial action while adding oils to sooth the skin.  We now believe that the Tricosan’s used in these antibacterial hand sanitizers and soaps may contribute [Read More]

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Keys Articles

EWG Report Released Today…457 chemical Contaminants in Cleaning Products

Bob Root "Beaker"

Research links school air quality to school cleaning supplies Keys Note:  Although we are a natural skin remedy and health company, we have long said that many skin disorders are misdiagnosed and caused by chemicals in household products.  Because this report is about schools, on the surface, do not dismiss this report when choosing your household cleaning products.  Especially your laundry detergents that come in direct contact with your skin.  At Keys, we believe that 95+% of all household cleaning products contain harmful chemicals to humans and pets and cause over 75% of diagnosed skin disorders.  Our belief…What’s yours?  Please read this summary and the linked report for your own well being! EWG, November 6, 2009:  Cleaning supplies used in 13 large California school districts release an airborne brew of chemicals, including a number that have been linked to asthma or cancer by state and federal health authorities. Tests of [Read More]

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