We know that a lot of research points to the negative health effects of certain chemicals in personal care products (like soaps, lotions, and makeup) and the potential accumulation of harmful ingredients when used regularly.
When people start to pay more attention to the ingredients in the products they are putting on their bodies, a common question I see being asked is “Where do I start? What is the best way to start switching to healthier, non-toxic alternatives?
It’s not usually feasible to completely clear out your shelves and replace every product you own. It often takes time to build up to it.
here are 2 rules I like to go by when starting the switch to healthier personal care products.
Rule number 1: Whatever covers the largest surface area of your body should be switched first vs. what covers a smaller surface area
Therefore, something you use on your whole body like a body lotion is more important to switch out first in comparison to something that covers a small area like an eye cream or even more minuscule like a mascara.
It’s also really important to remember detergent in this case. Since your clothes literally cover every surface of your body, detergents can make a big difference and its best to use detergents free of ingredients like irritants or potential endocrine disruptors
Rule number 2: Whatever product stays on your body for longest or actually get absorbed should be switched out first vs products that only stay on your body for a few seconds or get washed off.
Rule number 2 should be combined with Rule number 1. Using this logic, it’s more important to choose healthier face creams, sunscreens, and serums in comparison to say, a face wash.
What are the top 3 products to switch out first?
- Body creams and moisturizers
- Laundry detergents
- Sunscreens (Given that you’re wearing it every day)
Be careful of “green-washing”
Terms like non-toxic and all natural and organic are not regulated terms for personal care products, household products, or makeup and therefore many companies can state that claim on their products without meeting the standards you think they are. It’s time to start getting familiar with ingredients. Read the labels and do your research!