The first question I almost always get asked in an interview, is what is the most important action we can take when we are thinking of de-toxifying our beauty regime. It’s hard to give one, simple answer because there are obviously so many elements to consider, but if I had to boil it down for the newbie whose trying to be cleaner/greener in the beauty department, I would suggest the following:
Think about a product that you use EVERYDAY, and which covers the largest area of your skin!
For most of us, this is going to be body lotion. Remember your skin is a living and breathing organ. Although it is designed to protect us, it does absorb what we apply to it – and if you’re in any doubt about this, think about contraceptive and nicotine patches – hello!! They’re absorbed straight into your bloodstream. Many (infact MOST) body lotions out there contain ingredients that are less than healthy for your skin. Many of the ingredients such the preservatives, fragrances, penetration enhancers, and dyes can create a cascade of health issues when used cumulatively. Obviously a few applications of a product containing parabens and synthetic fragrance isn’t going to strike you down, however, we’re talking more about slathering yourself in these chemicals year-after-year, day-in-day-out. Why take the health risk when there are beautiful, healthy and nourishing alternatives.
Keep your eyes open for: (and yes, DO read that ingredient list!)
1. Body lotions that contain cold-pressed plant oils such as sweet almond, coconut, borage, rosehip seed, sesame, avocado etc.
2. Body balms and cremes that are made with natural nut butters such as shea or mango.
3. Pure essential oils that have been used to scent the product.
4. Consider using a simple, unadulterated oil such as coconut or sesame – both are intensely nourishing for your skin.
5. Consider making your very own Lotion Bars.
Keep in mind that the best products contain fewer ingredients that the ones that you’ll typically see in the drugstore. You get what you pay for, so if you want a healthy product that is full of fresh, organic and gorgeous ingredients, you may have to pay a bit more. If this doesn’t work for your budget – I highly recommend making your own.
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