One of my signature corporate wellness workshops is “You Are What Your Skin Eats.” There are usually at least a few employees per session who reach out after to let me know how impactful it was on them.
I myself found it incredibly overwhelming when I first tried to revamp my environment to be less toxic (find out why here). If you're in the midst of the same process (maybe you attended that workshop!), I'm sharing these resources to help it be less time-consuming for you.
I'll continue to add to these lists as I find more favorites and am happy to answer any questions about this information. I only share products I've personally used.
When I get tired of doing the research, I love shopping local and going to places I trust. I’ve been going to Follain since it opened years ago and love the mission. They conduct research on not only the safety but also the effectiveness of every product before bringing it into their stores.
It’s so exciting to have a place you can trust and to see other retailers following suit!
Personal Care PRODUCTS
Body wash or hand soap (+ a million other uses): Dr. Bronner's Castile Soap
Acure Organics Shampoo and Conditioner (I typically buy on Thrive Market- see below for more info)
Face wash: Avalon Organics Facial Cleansing Milk
Face exfoliator: Acure Brightening Facial Scrub
Face mask: My favorite ever is a tie between Orgaid Anti-Aging & Moisturizing + CocoKind Sea Kale Clay Mask - both leave my skin softer for days
Makeup Remover (especially great for eye makeup): Jojoba Oil
Moisturizer (body): Organic Bath Co Drenched Body Butter
Moisturizer (face): Myrrhaculous Face Cream by Fatco
Deodorant: Fatco Stank Stop, Primal Pit Paste, and Schmidt's have all worked for me (you'll want to test a bunch to see what works for you! I went through about 15+ different kinds). Baking soda can irritate your armpits so try a baking soda free option if so. This is a good roundup of other nontoxic options!
Facial Spray (game changer for keeping skin hydrated on flights!): CocoKind Rosewater
A mascara that's natural and doesn't melt down your face: Lily Lolo is my favorite but sometimes hard to get, so my backup is 100% Pure (great products and commitment to non-toxic options at both sites). Also love these eye masks!
This stuff is gold - Juice Beauty face moisturizer with SPF 30 (available not tinted too)
I use Beautycounter for my body SPF (it's the BEST nontoxic option I've found after trying about five kinds), concealer, bronzer, and eye cream.
I use Tea Tree oil for any blemishes or blend Jojoba Oil (linked above) with Lavender for an anti-aging and calming treatment.
I don't do my nails too often, but when I do I go with Zoya and it lasts.
Sustain Natural for chemical-free feminine care products
Dry Skin Brush removes dead skin cells and good for lymphatic system
Jade Roller improves circulation and reduces puffiness
If you're a fan of DIY projects, many cleaning and personal care products can be made in a quick and affordable way at home. Take a look at the ingredient labels of your products and you'll see many have essential oils. These highly researched, natural multi-purpose powerhouses are in your life already more than you know!
health/beauty books and resources
Skin Cleanse: this is a fantastic resource for learning more about the beauty industry and the importance of non-toxic products and healthy foods for clear skin. Tons of DIY recipes in there too! If you're interested in learning more about essential oils, her new book "Just the Essentials: How Essential Oils Can Heal Your Skin, Improve Your Health, and Detox Your Life" is great too.
Go with your Gut: this could go in this section or the next, because it's truly a holistic take on creating a healthy lifestyle. Lots of tips for self-care (as well as recipes for food and pantry staples to eat!).
If you're wondering why I'm even talking about non-toxic products, this is a great place to look. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) created Skin Deep, a database to provide transparency about the potential health implications of certain products. Since the EU has banned over 1300 chemicals from use in personal products, and the US has only partially banned 30, this can be a fantastic resource for taking safety into your own hands.
Some self care resources:
If you're interested in learning more about work life balance, Your Work Your Life… Your Way by Julie Cohen is fantastic.
Affirmation Cards: Spark Your Bliss by Healthy-Chicks
The five minute journal: A Happier You in 5 Minutes A Day by Intelligent Change
Clean kitchen/home products
Help your sleep with less harsh lighting before bed using a Himalayan Salt lamp
Seventh Generation dishwasher detergent packs
Wool Dryer Balls (Amazing! I add essential oils)
Babyganics Floor Cleaner Concentrate
Cast Iron Pan: Lodge Skillet
Wine that's organic and additive free (it's all about balance right?!)
Make veggie zoodles: Inspiralizer
Smoothie or soup makin' machine: Nutribullet
Immersion Blender: Cusinart Smart Stick
Brew your own tea or cold brew coffee: Muslin Bags
Glass Tupperware: Pyrex
For speedy water boiling: Electric Kettle
Smoothie transport/Storage of bulk items (oats, nuts): Mason Jars
Reusable produce bags and microfiber cleaning towels
Smoothie staples I keep on hand: Chia seeds, Cacao powder, Hemp seeds
Did you know you should aim to drink at least half your body weight in ounces of water daily? Fun water bottles help you stay hydrated. :) I was obsessed with my Bkr Bottle but after I broke it I went with the Mira, a cheaper version of the trending insulated water bottles
CLEAN home books and resources
Similar to the guide above, EWG has a database for household products
Thrive Market: I get most of my pantry staples from here- they offer "natural and organic products for less" this link gives you 25% off your first order (I saved over $3,000 in 2018!!)
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