How to Avoid Dangerous Chemicals in Skincare Products

Nowadays, most of us realize how important it is to eat organic and as naturally as possible. Our skin is the largest organ in our system; it absorbs toxins and/or nutrients through whatever products we put on it.

 If it has more than 3 syllables or you can't pronounce it, it's not worthy to be on your body!

Many of our rashes and skin problems are often the result of allergies or sensitivities to any skin care products we use. Most products on the market today contain chemicals and additives that are harmful to both our environment and our bodies – all in the name of saving the manufacturer a few dollars.

For example, mineral oil and petroleum are by-products of gasoline and are known carcinogens. Despite this, experts advise us to use products that contain these ingredients to relieve skin irritation on us and even in babies. A child with little or no immune system should not be exposed to a product that could cause cancer. Most of us have less-than-ideal immune systems as adults, so avoiding dangerous ingredients is a good defense against illness.

But how do we do it?

Fortunately, Mother Nature has provided us with several alternatives to these harmful chemicals. There are natural and organic alternatives that can be used as ingredients in creams/balms, massage oils, bath salts, hair care, etc. These natural remedies are often the starting point for most conventional medications. For example, white willow bark was an herb used to treat headaches that have been replaced by current ingredients in aspirin.

There is hardly a product on the market that cannot be made and manufactured to HEAL us instead of harm us. Our skincare products are an important part of life and are in harmony with nature. Plant waxes and nut butter thicken products and allow them to stick to our skin longer. Essential oils also provide nutrients while changing our mood.

While there is deep gratitude and respect for all the technology and scientific advancements they offer, it is time to return to the simplicity of nature and achieve balance and health. As an example of a simple do-it-yourself product change, here is a baby litter recipe I created a few years ago that replaces commercial baby litter. It is safe to use in infants.

Refreshing powder

½ cup rose hip powder

1/16 cup of comfrey root

1/16 cup slippery elm powder

1/16 cup dried lavender leaves

Mix all the ingredients in a leftover jar you have around the house, shake well to combine, and cover with a lid. Store this powder in a cupboard away from light and excessive moisture. Shake before use as many natural products do not contain chemical additives to prevent separation.

Lavender leaves give the powder healing properties and a light, pleasant scent. Horsetail heals the skin and bones, and slippery elm gives a pleasant "soft" feeling that most common baby powders or powders offer us. You may notice that your hands feel a little slippery when you rinse them off as a result of the slippery elm herb used in this formula.