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!).
Carey lundberg says
What is the best product for skincare? I need a good eye cream. I'm trying to reduce wrinkles and uneven skin tone. I've tried Clinique, Estée lauder, Mary Kay, etc and my face gets red or breaks out. Suggestions?
Amy Taylor (comment moderator) says
Hi Carey. I suggest using the EWGs Skin Deep database: http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/.
Shevenell says
I have also had the same problem with the mineral based sunscreens. The best one I have found for my kids and I gets a great EWG score and is reasonably priced on Amazon- its called ThinkBaby. I am also looking for a reasonably priced and easily available (in New England) natural shampoo and conditioner.
Nicole says
We love Ava Anderson shampoo & conditioner more than yes to products. Love this post thanks for sharing.
Kathy says
I was a bare minerals girl and loved it, but now I use "pur". Absolutely love it!
Natalie Mowell says
Beautycounter offers a variety of safe personal care products for the entire family. You asked about a sunscreen and theirs is not only safe, but it works! It's all I used this summer, even on my 2 year old! It has an EWG rating of 1.
Elaine says
Beautycounter's natural sunscreen is awesome. Easy to apply, great smell and no chalky appearance. Great ewg score too!
Andi Anderson says
Check out Daisy Blue Naturals! All natural skin and personal care products from lip balms and sunscreens to essential oils and body butters. All 100% natural!
April says
ARBONNE has amazing products for the whole family! Their baby sunscreen is the absolute best! I also like Jason deodorant, shampoo and conditioner!
Kristan says
I don't wanna hurt any Ava Anderson followers feelings....because I do love the products too....but, my absolute FAV face powders and makeup is from a not as popular company... EVERYDAY MINERALS. Best of all...shipping is near free and u can order samples to pick what you like best...And the samples are SUPER generous. The full size containers are super amazing and really minimize mess and keep everything less get my in my opinion. Not only do you support the smaller biz but, the products are heavenly. Don't know how they rank on the natural scale...but for a budget shopper...there is nothing else I would consider putting on my face. Everydayminerals.com. I also want to note...I do not know the owner or any employees and am not paid to advertise the products...I only shared because of my genuine love of them.
Jessica says
3rd Rock Sunblock. I have tried just about every natural sunscreen out there and this one is hands down the best.
Robin says
I have used bare minerals for about 8 years. No way I would change . I'm 52 and it makes me look a few younger . But most of all I like the way I look . As for coconut oil I use it in the bath add sugar make a scrub also as a moisturizer for your face and body . Best used when your body is damp . The only other thing I use which is amazing is ageless . It's a cream that totally takes the dark circles under my eyes and the puffiness . The wrinkles around my mouth smooth out . It only takes a tinY amount . Recently we buried a love one . I cried for days and my eyes should have been a mess but they were not . The cream work . I had just bought it the day before . It came in just in time .. Those are my 3 must haves ..
Kim says
I use Ava Anderson products. They have everything from foundation, to sunscreen, baby line, baby spray. All their products have an EWG eating of 0 or 1.
Kim says
Typo. Supposed to say bug spray and rating.
stacy says
I love Primal Paste deodorant. I use it and so does my daughter. Thank you for turning me on to it!
Nancy-Lee says
It is VERY important to note, Bare Minerals is tinted from iron oxides; Oxidized Iron. Rust. Have you considered 100% Pure for your iron-free cosmetics and skincare?
xoxo
Kendra says
John Masters Organics for hair products!
kimberly says
What about skin care (facial cleanser and facial moisturizer)? I use Bare Minerals make-up, but their cleanser and moisturizer got a 7-8 (not great) rating on EWG.
Amy Taylor (comment moderator) says
Hi Kimberly. Lisa uses Dr. Bronner's Magic Soap on her face and she like the Yes To brand for facial products.
Alicia says
Hi, Do you have any advice on the ewg site in regards to their ratings? If something is a 1 is that good or should we be looking for 0?Trying not to freak out over something if I don't need to.
Amy Taylor (comment moderator) says
Hi Alicia. It is hard to find perfect products, though more and more companies are responding to consumer demands. The lower the products are on the scale the better and a 1 is pretty good. :) I still have some that are 3 and 4 but am really now focusing on cleaning up all my cosmetics.
Anne says
i switched to all natural body products when I was pregnant. It was difficult finding effective shampoo and conditioner for my long, thick hair. Intelligent Nutrients was the best of the many brands I tried
Miriam says
I use BabyGanics brand of sunblock. I am severely allergic to the benzene in all th others. Babyganics is wonderful and it's sold at Target!
I totally agree with loving Bare Minerals. My skin actually looks better the day after wearing makeup because the zinc is so healing.
I also use oil to remove makeup.
I use Dr. Bronners Baby mild bar soap. I even use it on my hair. It's great. No buildup on the hair and no irritation to the skin.
Elayne says
I use to think I loved bare minerals until I learned they did animal testing.
Karla says
Hi Lisa,
What organic or natural toothpaste do you recommend? If you can't recommend a brand, at least say which ingredients should and should not be in the toothpaste please.
Great post by the way!
Karla
Amy Taylor (comment moderator) says
Hi there. Lisa uses Tom's.
Jennifer says
Have you ever heard of the It Works! company? They have several different lines of products that are natural. Maybe look into those and email me back with your findings :)
Renea says
John Masters is the best shampoo and conditioner.
Maggie Zakhary says
Beautycounter's mission is to get safe products into the hands of everyone and they make beautiful and effective skincare products and cosmetics, including an amazing sunscreen which does not leave your skin white and pasty. Please email me and I'd be more than happy to send you a sample to try for yourself.
Emily says
I also recommend Ava Anderson. It's a wonderful product line. And I use their sunblock for my entire family.Although goes on thick, it does absorb into the skin. With most natural sunblocks, you will have to reapply more frequently. My other favorite products of hers are the shampoo and conditioner, and baby products. The diaper cream is a miracle cream!
Brittany says
You should check out shea moisture products. They are natural and organic, you can buy them at target too! I started with the shampoo now I use just about everything from their line. And it's not overly expensive either
Angie says
you should check out Ava Anderson non toxic products. They have just about everything you could need. I love their makeup, deodorant, body products. They even have great household cleaners
Sara says
For a great shampoo and conditioner check out Shea Moisture brand! They have all natural products, all are made from raw butters and oils. And I love all of their products! Some do have alcohol so read the label but the ones I choose do not!
Elisabeth says
Late to the party, but for those needing abut better coverage, or have oily skin, tarte cosmetics makes a great full coverage liquid clay foundation, and aamedium to full coverage powder foundation. Good for olive tones too. They have aa full line of cosmetics, all quite natural and cruelty free. Same price point as bare minerals but without the talc and bismuth.
Karrah says
I have a suggestion for a more natural shampoo and Conditioner! I use diluted baking soda for wash (most people do 1 tbsp of baking soda to 1 cup of water, but I've had to adjust for my hair) and diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse afterwards. This method is called the "no poo" method. I personally love it; not only does it do WONDERS for my hair, but it's super cheap!
Suzi says
"Mineral Fusion" available at natural grocery stores and the like, has an SPF 30, "Bare Minerals" type product in a compact brush style tube container that is the bomb! I discovered it a year ago when looking for a cheaper (and chemical free ) replacement for Susan Posnic's mineral powder facial make-up, which is also in a brush type tube dispenser. Fab for travel, and purse. Loose powder- NO mess! Plus the SPF part REALLY DOES WORK. I know, I motorcycle and it absolutely does work. Fine for wearing out to dinner too. It's a lovely "make-up" product.
Susan says
I love Kimberly Sayer's Ultra Light Moisturizer SPF 30. I have used it for years and it that the best natural SPF moisturizer for oily, acne-prone skin. I used to be able to find it at Whole Foods, but couldn't last time I needed some, so I ordered it on Amazon. It's pricey ($32), but last a long time.
Tamra says
Coconut oil is a little greasy for me around the eyes, so I prefer Ava Anderson Non-Toxic's Eye Make-up Remover Pads. Ava 's Organic Deodorant is fantastic also. All the products are non-toxic, Made in the USA and work great! When you compare Ava's ingredients with that of other products, you can see the difference for yourself! Love my Ava!
Trish donohue says
BeautyCounter just came out with a cosmetic line. 1500 ingredients that have been banes from their products. You should check them out. They are wonderful!!
Christine Muldoon says
i agree with others above. Bare minerals is not as pure of a choice as you think. They have tons of harmful chemicals in their makeup. Faerie Organics only has 4 ingredients. Best choice out there.
Janelle says
I've tried several different shampoos and my favorite by far is by Doterra. They contain essential oils and smell amazing and as a bona-fide conditioner snob I was truly impressed. They're even safe for color treated hair. They also make a styling glaze for light hold and a root to tip serum which conditions hair and scalp.
I'm big into essential oils and male my own cleanser and toner with them and a few other natural ingredients for pennies. I use Doterra's Moisturizer AND It improved the tone and texture of my skin so dramatically so quickly that my best friend thought I'd begun a new secret relationship and was glowing from my secret fling!
Vicki says
Ava Anderson has AMAZING products!! check them out!! as for sunscreen our fav is Blue Lizard!
Stacey says
LOVE your posts and the message you're sharing with your audience. Check out Ava Anderson Non-Toxic at avaandersonnontoxic.com, amazing products, messgae, and compnay! They're in it for ALL the RIGHT reasons!
Kristen says
I have tried many and the best I have found are: 100% Pure Cosmetics for makeup and Desert Essence for shampoo/conditioner (Green Apple and Ginger for volume or Coconut for smooth), and their Thoroughly Clean Face Wash (which is also great for hand soap and dish soap).
Lisa says
Lisa- an even better make-up choice is Jane Iredale- much better than Bare Minerals. They have outstanding customer service. Che k out their website regarding product and ingredient info!