On average, women are putting 515 synthetic chemicals on their bodies every day in the form of makeup and cosmetic products, and 60% of these chemicals are absorbed into the bloodstream. While the FDA has taken steps to regulate the safety of cosmetics, many chemicals deemed safe in the US are banned in other countries. Health problems ranging from skin irritation to certain forms of cancer have been linked to ingredients in popular cosmetics. Consumer awareness is key in choosing products that won’t harm your health, and choosing natural bath, skincare and makeup products can help you avoid illness, while often achieving better aesthetic results.

Paraben-free Products Protect The Endocrine System

Parabens are a type of preservative found in a variety of personal care products, such as moisturizers, makeup, shampoo and deodorant. Excessive amounts of parabens have been shown to disrupt the endocrine system, contributing to health problems such as breast cancer and infertility. The parabens contained in popular products mimic the hormone estrogen, which can trigger cells in breast tissue to divide more rapidly, leading to the growth of tumors. Paraben-free beauty and care products can be found at your local drug store or online, and will typically indicate that they’re paraben-free prominently on the packaging. You can also choose natural, homemade alternatives, selecting ingredients that are safe and free from preservatives. Castor oil can work as a conditioner to give you soft, silky hair. You can even make your own deodorant using a combination of essential oils and baking soda and use scrub containing himalayan sea salt to absorb sweat and mask body odor.

Avoid Products Containing Phthalates, Especially During Pregnancy

Phthalates are a commonly used plasticizer found not only in cosmetics, but also food packaging and construction materials. If you use products with added fragrance, such as perfumes, scented body wash and bubble bath, chances are you’re exposing yourself to phthalates. Like parabens, phthalates are an endocrine disruptor that increase the risk of breast cancer, early-onset puberty and birth defects. Phthalates have also been linked to complications during pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes and excessive weight gain. If you’re looking to relax in an aromatic bubble bath, choose natural fragrance oils such as lavender, lemon or patchouli. It’s especially important to select natural ingredients when bathing, as soaking in these products increases their absorption through the skin.

Natural Products Nourish Your Skin

Think of skincare and bathing products as food for your skin; the same vitamins and minerals your body needs for optimal health are necessary for maintaining healthy skin. Many of the foods you eat can also provide benefits when used topically, which can save you added expense and additional shopping trips. Apple cider vinegar, himalayan sea salt and coconut oil can be used as facial cleansers that leave skin nourished and hydrated. Instead of choosing cleansers that contain alcohol, which dry skin out and exacerbate conditions like eczema, try a natural alternative instead. Coconut oil is rich in essential fatty acids, which hydrate skin, and has antimicrobial properties to help remove acne-causing bacteria.

Caring for your skin with natural products, free from harmful chemical ingredients, can help you look and feel your best. When choosing cosmetic and bath products, avoid putting anything on your skin that you wouldn’t want inside your body. There are a number of effective, natural alternative to choose from to keep your skin beautiful and healthy.