Once I started feeling comfortable with the "real food" changes I was making in our kitchen, it took me no time at all to realize I needed to move on to other areas of my house! I most certainly don't have it all figured out, but since this question is asked so often I thought I'd share some of what you'll find in my bathroom cabinets these days.
Natural Bar Soap
Recommended by my friend Carrie Vitt, we have switched to Dr. Bronner's Magic Bar Soap. I am by no means claiming it's truly "magical," but it's pretty darn pure and totally does the trick. Plus it comes in a lot of fun natural scents so there are plenty of options to choose from. I've found it for sale at both Target and our health food store (Earth Fare), and surprisingly the price is almost the same. It's also available in bulk on Amazon.
Natural Make Up (that I love!)
After being a long time Lancome user I was hesitant to make the switch, but I finally did and have never.looked.back! To my surprise I like my new bareMinerals make up (recommended by my friend Vani Hari) even better than the old stuff I was so loyal to. And funny enough, after running out of my new powder one day I had to supplement with a little bit of my old Lancome powder. I couldn't believe the smell of it, which I'd never noticed before, and seemed very artificial to me. I am becoming such a sensitive being in my old age - ha!
BareMinerals comes in both powder and packed form. The powder is supposed to be the most natural option they offer, but it's not always realistic (due to the mess factor) so I thought a combination would be best for my needs. I got the starter kit (with powder, blush, etc.) in powder form and the eye shadows in packed form. Did I mention that I love it? :)
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Natural Eye Make Up Remover
Believe it or not, the same exact coconut oil that you cook with in your kitchen has all sorts of uses - including eye make up remover! I used to also buy eye make up remover from my old make up source (Lancome) and was fairly reluctant to make the switch. It was one of those things you consider for a long time before you do it, but now I see the light because it truly works like a charm and is so simple!
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Natural Shampoo and Conditioner
Now, I am not saying this is the perfect shampoo and conditioner option (when it comes to natural ingredients), but it's pretty darn close AND it's available at Target (LOL - huge bonus for me). One downside though is that it's kind of pricey; I've tried several other natural shampoo alternatives (basically the ones offered at Target - yes, this limitation is often my reality), but my girls and I definitely like Yes to Carrots the best out of those options. As a result, I keep going back to it. And I do like their pump style lotion as well because I sure do need lots of lotion in the winter around here. So it is our favorite at the moment, but I am still open to trying others that fit the bill. I'd love to hear your favorites in the comments!
Natural Deodorant (and lip balm)
Conveniently enough, I also want to make sure you know about our sponsor Primal Pit Paste today, who happens to offer a super pure, organic deodorant! Available in a variety of natural scents it is paraben-free, aluminum-free, and actually works. Just be sure you are aware that Primal Pit Paste (and most other natural deodorants) do not act as an antiperspirant. And that's because sweating, while not lovely, is natural for your body to do so preventing it from happening isn't exactly ideal.
So here's what I do when it comes to this sort of thing. I have my old (probably toxic) deodorant still on hand for when I know I am going to be on live TV (or something else out of the ordinary, especially if it's a hot day), and I'll whip it back out for those occasions. And I happened to read in Jessica Alba's new book, The Honest Life, that even in her quest to lead as natural a life as possible she does the very same thing with her deodorant for red carpet events and such. So that made me feel a little bit better about that decision! It's all about balance, right? :)
PS - While you are there ordering your natural deodorant pick up some of Primal Pit Paste's orange creamsicle lip balm. It's my favorite (trust me, it's the bomb as far as lip balms go)! And don't forget our "100Days" coupon code for 15% off.
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A Tip for Finding Good Products
As I've mentioned, I am still navigating the personal care world as I continue to seek out the optimal shampoo and conditioner (as well as the "perfect" sunscreen). So each time I consider trying a new product I've found the Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep database (which is also available as a smartphone app) to be a great resource. They've taken the time to rate thousands of products so I always check their list to see how a product measures up before I give it a go.
And, in case anyone is wondering, the specific problem I am having with sunscreen is that all the EWG top rated options leave me - and my dark colored bathing suits - looking rather white and pasty. I've tried dozens of brands with no luck. So if you've found a natural sunscreen you love - that uses safe ingredients and somewhat soaks into your skin - please share it with me in the comments below so I can try it out (if I haven't already!).
Karen says
I have a question about Bare Minerals. I was using it for a while but noticed that when I blew my nose I saw the Bare Minerals dust in my tissue. Is it potentially harmful to the lungs or more membrane?
kat says
Garden botanika makes awesome natural skin care products and makeup! Reasonably priced as well. You have to order online. Also kiss my face honey calendula lotion is the only thing that works on my dry eczema skin
Holley says
After reading through the comments I went to the Younique website to check out their products. Unless you want to put petroleum on your face I'd avoid their products since they use mineral oil in their foundations. This was disappointing because I thought I'd found a new line to try. I use multiple products from Juice Beauty and have been pleased with their results. EWG gives most of their products good ratings.
Angie M says
I like Gud shampoo and conditioner ( by Burt's Bees), available at Target. No parabens, phthalates or petrochemicals and made in the USA. For sunscreen, Kiss My Face is listed on the EWG rated a 1 and does not go on all paste-y white!! (Earth Fare carries this brand.)
Eileen says
Carrot seed essential oil has a natural spf of about 40. You can make your own sun protection by mixing it with a carrier oil such as coconut (also has natural spf) or avocado oil (I beleive it has natural spf). There are several variations online and its not hard difficult to do at all.
Ali says
I really like Alba Botanical Natural Very Emollient Sunscreen, Mineral protection fragrance free. Total mouthful but it's similar to a regular cream, absorbs quickly and ranked very well on EWG. It 4oz for 7.99 full price but always on sale at our Wegmans for 5.99. SPF 30, water resistant and paraben free. Zinc and titanium dioxide of course ;)
Katie says
You should try Perfectly Posh products. Similar to Lush, but better and less expensive! Check them out at http://www.perfectlyposh.com/katiehaugen My favorites are the BFF face cleanser, the Moisture 911 face moisturizer, and any of the SkinDelicious body butters. The All Mixed Up and the Bombinators are great for relaxing in the tub at the end of a long day.
Chrissy says
Hi! I found Ava Anderson products about a year ago after researching and using so many "natural" products. I have been very satisfied and have now joined the company as a sales consultant! It is a great company with wonderful beauty and cleaning products that all rate 0-2 on EWG. It is easy one stop shop online....feel free to email me if anyone has any questions. [email protected]
Ava products made making my home a truly non-toxic environment very easy!
Jen v says
I am also an Ava consultant and agree. These products are great and truly non toxic. The body butter is the most wonderful smell!
Jaime says
For a sunscreen that doesn't leave your face super white but is still completely safe check out Pratima Skincares Neem Rose face sunscreen, it's amazing and good for your skin. I have tried them all and it's my favorite!
al says
Definitely try 100% Pure products....they are amazing!!!
Kari says
Have you ever heard of perfectly posh? I recently started using it and loved it so much I also started selling it. I am not completely schooled in everything all natural and pure but all their products are made and sold in the USA. They are all naturally based and contain no fillers. They are not tested on animals. They have an array of bath soaps, body butters and much more. They openly list all of their ingredients. I am curiously to what your thoughts are.
Molliye says
I use a mineral sunscreen for myself and kids called tickle time sunscreen. Its a powder that you brush on and so far has worked really well for us. I am allergic to lotion sunscreens and I was using the spay on kinds for my kids so I wouldn't have to touch it but this has been a great alternative. We live in Oregon though so we don't have prolonged exposure to lots of sun, lol
Kim says
Have you ever looked into or tried the Honest Company products?
Jenny says
Have you tried the Younique products? They are fairly new and all natural ingredients as well. I am in love with the 100% organic eye pigments and the mascara which uses 100% green tea fibers! I used it for several months and loved it so much I started selling it. If you check it out using my website I will send you some pigment samples to try! http://www.youniqueroducts.com/JennyBailey It is really phenomenal!
Sarah says
Have you tried Trader Joes beauty products? I use the tea tree shampoo and conditioner on my kids to help deter lice and I use the orange products. I have not tried their skin care products yet, I too am hesitant to give up on my tried and true products! Any recommendations for natural
Chlorine shampoo that works? We use a lot all year long!
criss says
I love goatmilkstuff.com soap and bath balms. No chemicals and its a family business!!
Christin says
Pretty much the only line I use is Bubble and Bee (bubbleandbee.com), no bad stuff ever and organic. Face cream, cleansers, toners, shampoo, deoderant, and lotions and so much more. Then for make up I use Lauren Brookes Cosmetiques foundation and concealer. I don't use bare minerals anymore, this is much better for you.
Jen says
Oh and bubble and bee is awesome for organic deodorants! I personally love their vanilla orange deodorant!
Jen says
I love physicians formula (organic line ) for cosmetics and allafia shampoo. I used to use yes to carrots until they changed their formulation. It used to be 99% natural. Now it's less than that. Alaffia is found at sprouts and whole foods. It's also fair trade!
Louisa says
Have just really started investigating all of this stuff - it's all so inspiring that people are switching over to more natural products, voting with their dollar, and making real change happen. It is so much better for our bodies, and for the earth. Just like eating real food is!
Kelly@ The Rudiculous Redhead says
I just started using Babo Botanicals on my 7 month old. I have a drawer full of greasy white sunscreen but this wasn't isn't greasy or white. It dries really quickly so you have to rub it in right away but after that you barely notice it's there.
Angela says
With a little more research, you'll find that Bare Minerals sell in China, thus allowing animal testing on their products! I feel if you're going to go all in to choosing clean, natural products, then animal testing has to be a part of that equation, much like choosing an organic fruit over non-organic. There are so many fabulous choices today and finding them are easy with all the cruelty free apps out there! Just look for the leaping bunny!
Samantha says
Our family has switched to using all of Radiantly You's products from our toothpaste to our laundry soap. Everything is totally gmo/gluten/chemical/toxin free and SUPER affordable (as our family is at 6 members and growing, price is a huge factor without compromising quality). http://www.radiantlyyou.com/Samantha
Tami says
Have you tried Younique cosmetics & skin care line? The cosmetics are naturally based and hypo-allergenic. They offer many gluten free & vegan products! Younique doesn't use harmful chemicals in their products either! Very high quality products at an affordable price too!
Tiffani Taing says
My entire family loves and uses Beautycounter, a brand of skincare and body care that is 100% safe, effective, and free of harmful chemicals. All products rate 2 or below by the EWG and the Company's mission is to get safe products into the hands of everyone. My little ones love the smell of the kids' line and even my husband enjoys the body and skin products. Please visit ww.tiffani.beautycounter.com for more information!
Char Grover says
Oops, forgot to leave the address: http://www.grover.lbri.com. Try the free sample set - you will love it!
Char Grover says
I encourage you to try L'BRI Pure N' Natural, aloe vera based skin care! The first ingredient in all of our product is Aloe Vera Barbadensis. No water, toxins, chemicals or parabens. Everything you see and smell is natural. I have literally seen lives changed by our skin care line and business opportunity. You can try a 10 day sample skin care set FREE at my website. We have skin care, body care, makeup and wellness - great for the entire family. I'd love your opinion!!
Lynn C. says
Have you tried any of the perfectly posh made in USA...all natural products?
http://www.perfectlyposh.com/lynncrocker
REally not trying to do a sales pitch, but would love for you to simply check these out and see if all claims are true....I'm still learning!!!
Cathy says
I would really like to introduce you to NYR Organic; the are hand made in small batches in London. The UK has banned far more chemicals than the US so these are made per those standards. They also have many products that are certified organic by the Soil Association. Pending FDA approval we should have sunscreen in August as a part of our line of many products.
Jennifer Moore says
I love the Beautycounter products. They are safe (all rate 2 or below on EWG), chic and perform beautifully. The shampoo, conditioner and shave cream are awesome. No dry or stringy hair. The kids line smells great and works wonderfully. The skin care lines are better than any lines I've used (clean or not...). Full cosmetic line to launch in the fall. Read about Gregg, the founder, and her vision on their website. I'm a huge fan!
Jennifer says
Bare minerals - offers mascara, honest company shampoo can be found at Costco for 2 16 oz. bottles for only 14.95! The 9.5 bottle alone sells for 9.95 at nordstrom a and from honest company directly.
Christina Wells says
Younique is a DS company that carries naturally based makeup and skin care. Most of their products are gluten free or vegan. With no parabens or talc. They carry some products that are 100% natural. http://Www.youniquebynature.com
Karen Driscoll says
Even for TV days...try Thai Crystal Stick for deodorant. Works phenomenally! Just a block of mineral salt that you wet. Better than dry idea!
Karen Driscoll says
Try Kiss My Face that I buy at whole foods. All sunscreens bother me and this one doesn't. Not only that I think my skin looks better when I put it on. I have dark skin and it blends right in.
Emily Langley says
Does anyone have a suggestion for a good natural Mascara that stays on???! I have been slowly trying to change my make-up and I would like to find one that is a 0 or 1 on the EWG Skin Deep site. I tried 2 Physicians Formula types and they rub off WAY too easily ( wear contacts and touch my eyes a lot)Like I would just barely touch my lashes during the day and it would be on my hand! so I was wondering if anyone knows of a good one that maybe I dont have to order and doesnt cost $20+?? Thanks!
Karla says
Try Ava Anderson Non-toxic masacara, it's amazing!!! I love all their products, sunscreen included.
Sarah says
I love The Honest Company! I subscribed in December, and I have yet to find store options that are better- or cheaper! When you really break it down, their products are really reasonably priced! It's a flat rate per month (I think after shipping, my essentials bundle is $42) and you get your choice of 5 products. Now if you fill it full of hand soap, no you're not getting your money's worth, lol, but I buy my laundry detergent, soaps, shampoo & conditioner, etc all from them. The only thing I WON'T buy is their toothpaste- it's rated poorly on EWG (at least more poor than I will buy) AND I am a dental hygienist, and once my tube of Tom's is out, I'm buying Earthpaste to try out. Neem's tooth & gum powder is another that is good. I might just use plain old baking soda at some point. I have made my own products before too, and had good results, it's just not something I want to do ALL the time. I need a little convenience once in awhile!
Oh also, I wanted to ask, do your use "clean" feminine care items? I am going to order seventh generation and natrcare tampons from amazon to try out. It's definitely something to look into for anyone that's interested. Cotton is apparently the most heavily sprayed crop with pesticides!
Liz says
Have you ever heard of - http://divacup.com
It's all silicone and easy enough to get the hang of after the first couple of months. You can find it at Whole Foods.
Kinga says
Try Desert Essence shampoos and conditioners - lemon tea tree is my favourite! Available @ whole foods and amazon.
Rachel says
Just want to follow-up and ay a BIG THANKS to those who recommended Organic Dessert Essence shampoo and conditioner! I tried it and absolutely love it! I got the Italian Grape based on my hair type. My hair comes out great (or it's a fluke ... several otherwise rare good hair days in a row : ), is and stays super clean, not weighted down, not drying/stripping, shiny, soft, and smells fantastic! ... love it. It also has a great almost squeaky clean lather (with no chemicals, parabens, sodium Ls sulfates, Phthalates, artificial fragrances or colors, silicones, EDTA, glycol, or petroleum based products!) and I love using it and lathering ... enjoyable! I'm sure some of the other recommendations would be great too, but this is the one I tried. Their manufacturing also supports wind power, and it is 100% vegan, gluten, and wheat free .. and their formula is certified organic, biodegradable and and is cruelty free! more wins!
This was the one personal care product area that I wasn't happy with before ODE and I tried tons of other natural ones. What a great group of informed and helpful followers! Thanks again!
Bridget Herman says
My favorite natural shampoo and conditioner combos are from a brand called Nature's Gate. My favorite "flavors" are the aloe vera and tea tree, but I've found myself buying the aloe more recently because there is a slight price difference between different flavors. I haven't found any problems with any of the ingredients, but you do have to get used to them not lathering as much as even some of the other "natural" products out there because of the complete lack of sulphates in them. The best price I have found are at Kroger, but they do sell them at other places, and I would assume that you could get a decent price at Amazon.
Marlene says
I also use Nature's Gate shampoos. I buy it at Vitacost, it's just $4.99. Go through eBates and get an additional 4% off.
Carol says
Always check with EWG for safety of any product. I love the idea of making your own products. Many "natural" products are not safe.