Outer beauty is often mirrored by good inner health. When our bodies are well-nourished, it shows through our shiny skin, silky hair, and bright eyes. It’s surprising, then, that many “beauty” products are filled with harsh chemicals that can harm our skin. Take, for example, the St. Ives Apricot Scrub, a product I used to love. I discovered on The Cosmetics Database that it scores a worrying 9 out of 10 for dangerous chemicals, even though it’s marketed as natural!
Luckily, there are natural alternatives to typical beauty products that work just as well, if not better. Plus, sticking to a healthy diet and regular exercise makes a big difference. These natural options often cost less and work so well that I won’t go back to conventional products.
Antiperspirants and deodorants are among the worst when it comes to harmful beauty products. New reports suggest a link between these products and a higher risk of breast cancer, with tumors often developing near the armpit. Antiperspirants are especially bad because they trap moisture and block perspiration, which is how our bodies naturally expel toxins.
For a natural deodorant, try using baking soda alone, though it can be messy on dark clothes. A mix of baking soda and coconut oil makes a cleaner option. Coconut oil is naturally antibacterial and antifungal, which helps prevent odor. If you buy a natural deodorant, ensure it doesn’t contain any aluminum and check it against the cosmetic database. Also, consider my deodorant made with essential oils and deodorant bars.
Lotion is another major offender. Our skin, being the body’s largest organ, absorbs many chemicals that can be stored in fat tissue. This is particularly concerning for pregnant women because these chemicals can pass to a baby through the placenta.
A great natural substitute is pure organic coconut oil. It penetrates the skin, helps with wrinkles and dry skin, and is naturally antibacterial, so it doesn’t cause breakouts. You can also blend it with other oils, butters, essential oils, and herbs to suit your skin needs.
Most conventional toothpastes have fluoride, linked to thyroid issues and cancer, and sugar, which seems odd for a product meant to prevent cavities. Thankfully, companies now offer fluoride-free options. We make a natural alternative at home that’s cheap and keeps cavities at bay.
Mix baking soda with peppermint liquid castile soap to make a paste, then use it as regular toothpaste. It tastes slightly salty and minty while naturally whitening your teeth. Straight baking soda can also be used, though its taste isn’t for everyone. Look at our natural toothpaste recipe for a squeezable option!
Even though toners typically don’t have as many harmful chemicals, I’ll mention them because there’s a natural substitute that works wonders. Organic apple cider vinegar, diluted with water, tightens and brightens skin while preventing dryness and breakouts. Add some essential oils for a better scent. It’s also handy for heartburn and yeast issues.
I was always hesitant about mascara remover because it seemed risky to use near my eyes. For years, I didn’t use anything, which wasn’t a good idea! This left me with wrinkles and lighter skin around my eyes. Luckily, I found a safe alternative, and my skin has never been healthier.
Olive or coconut oil is fantastic for removing mascara and eye makeup, even waterproof types. They moisturize and help prevent or reduce wrinkles around the eyes.
Hair sprays are among the top ten dangerous products, particularly aerosols, because they release chemicals into the air, affecting your lungs and skin. They often contain substances linked to cancer, causing more chemical sensitivity over time.
A natural hair spray can be made by juicing a lemon mixed with water in a spray bottle, but it needs refrigeration. I prefer boiling water with sugar for hold and shine. The amount of sugar depends on how strong a hold you want. For a beach wave look, use salt instead of sugar for a soft hold.
Many teeth whiteners have high levels of peroxide and other chemicals, but white teeth aren’t just for vanity; they make you look younger and healthier. A healthy diet is your best bet, but some natural options speed up whitening.
Use pure baking soda on a toothbrush, brushing in small circles for five minutes before regular brushing, once or twice a week. Rubbing strawberry on your gums or mixing mashed strawberries with baking soda in a mouth tray once a week also works without chemical aftertastes or sensitivity.
In summary, coconut oil, baking soda, and apple cider vinegar are all you need for effective natural beauty treatments. They’re not only great for skin, hair, and teeth, but also useful in cooking and cleaning. Got any other great tips? I’d love to hear them!
