Since LATHER’s inception in 1999, we’ve strived to inspire others to lead a more radiant life. Now, as LATHER celebrates more than 10 years in business, we wanted to highlight the efforts behind that mission to show what a difference a decade makes.

We’ve always maintained, “It’s what’s inside that counts,” sourcing the most effective natural botanicals and never using synthetic fragrances or colors. Now we’re taking that task further, sourcing organic ingredients whenever possible, and transitioning to paraben-free preservatives and sulfate-free cleansing agents.

Now we're turning our attention to "what's outside" too: Starting in the Fall of 2010, we will be the first personal care company to replace all plastic bottles, tubes and jars with biodegradable containers. They look and feel just like our old packaging and should be recycled safely as before. If they should end up in the trash though, they biodegrade within a 1-20 years, reducing the amount of plastic in our landfills. It only seemed fitting to us that a natural product should come in an Earth-friendly package.

We've taken a number of other steps to become more environmentally-friendly. We’ve transitioned our sample packs, shopping bags, and gift cards to 100% post-consumer recycled materials, and have implemented in-store recycling programs, where customers can receive 10% off their next purchase. This past Earth Day, we softened our own carbon footprint by partnering with Carbonfund.org.

Product and ingredient education has always been a main focus, so we’ve added more informational elements to our stores; initiated an “Ingredient of the Month” program; and introduced Updates from Emilie online column where our customers can learn more in-depth information about the good-for-you benefits that comprise our products.

And finally, because we wouldn’t be anywhere without our loyal customers, we’ve placed a strong emphasis on giving back through community partnerships and charitable contributions. In the last year, we’ve brought in clothing donations for Fresh Start Women’s Resource Center in Scottsdale, children’s books for Reading is Fundamental in Los Angeles, as well as donated our products and time to countless other small businesses and organizations.

As always, we maintain our commitment to providing superior skin care products, and never test on animals or work with labs that do. We hope you enjoy the LATHER difference.