Many of us think about making our homes and cars more eco-friendly, but we often overlook our beauty routines. You might think using a small amount of beauty products daily isn’t a big deal, but these products can build up in our bodies over time. Unlike food, cosmetics aren’t processed through our digestive systems, so potential toxins can’t be easily eliminated.
Parabens, commonly used as preservatives in lotions, creams, and other personal care items, have been found in breast tumor biopsy samples. This means that traditional beauty products might contain ingredients linked to breast cancer. Researchers have also found chemicals in cosmetics that could disrupt hormones in teenagers and even cause cancer.
There are many reasons to switch to greener beauty products, and these six options can help you start.
Switch Your Deodorant to Primal Pit Paste Deodorant
Most Americans use deodorant to stay fresh, but conventional products often contain harmful chemicals like triclosan. This antibacterial agent is linked to hormone disruption, antibiotic-resistant bacteria, weight gain, allergies, and thyroid issues. Aluminum compounds in deodorants can mimic estrogen and promote breast cancer cell growth. Primal Pit Paste Deodorant, available on Amazon for under $9, is a natural alternative. It uses baking soda to neutralize odor-causing bacteria and organic arrowroot powder to keep you dry, without parabens, aluminum, or toxic chemicals.
Switch Your Moisturizing Cream to S.W. Basics Cream
Our skin protects us from various external factors but can also absorb harmful chemicals from conventional creams. These creams often contain emulsifiers and thickening agents that can become contaminated with cancer-causing compounds. S.W. Basics Cream is a greener option, containing 60% organic shea butter, organic olive oil, and organic coconut oil. It’s Fair Trade, vegan-friendly, and a little goes a long way, making it a great value despite its higher price.
Switch to Mineral Fusions Lead-Free Natural Lipstick
A study by the University of California, Berkeley found heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and aluminum in many lipsticks. These metals can accumulate in the body and cause health issues. Mineral Fusion’s lead-free, heavy metal-free lipstick is a safer choice. Available on Amazon for under $15, it’s also free of parabens, hypo-allergenic, vegan, and contains antioxidants like vitamin C and E, as well as moisturizing ingredients like jojoba oil and shea butter.
Switch Your Eye Cream to Skin Owl – Organic Eye+
Many eye creams contain phthalates, which can damage the liver, kidneys, lungs, and reproductive system. Skin Owl – Organic Eye+ is free of sulfates, parabens, and phthalates. It includes aloe vera and cucumber to reduce puffiness and hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and boost collagen. Available on Amazon, it has received positive reviews for its effectiveness.
Switch Your Sunscreen to Suntegrity Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen
Chemical sunscreens often contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can irritate the skin and disrupt hormones. Suntegrity’s Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen is a safer alternative. It’s chemical-free, vegan, and uses non-nano zinc oxide as its active ingredient. It also serves as a foundation, moisturizer, and SPF 30 sunscreen.
Switch Your Skin Lightening Product to LumiEssence Organic Advanced Skin Brightening/Whitening Repair Treatment
Conventional skin lighteners often contain harmful chemicals like BHA and BHT, which can cause liver damage, cancer, and reproductive issues. LumiEssence Organic Advanced Skin Brightening/Whitening Repair Treatment is free of toxic ingredients and uses botanical extracts to address age spots, freckles, and hyperpigmentation. Ingredients like papaya and pineapple extracts help exfoliate and brighten the skin over time.
