Natural Beauty Products
While most people agree the foods you eat have a direct impact on the health of your body, fewer people are aware of the toxins and chemicals that enter their bodies through beauty products. The lotions, creams, makeup products, and astringents you put on your face and body do not just stay on the top of the skin. As a porous layer, anything applied to the skin seeps through and enters the body. More and more women are becoming aware of the ingredients in their beauty products and are on the lookout for products that are safe, healthy and natural. If you are thinking of making a switch to more natural beauty products, consider the following.
Use items found in nature
Many items found in nature are beneficial to the skin. Chilled cucumbers can reduce dark circles and puffiness under the eyes. Honey or oatmeal can be used as a face mask to nourish skin. Egg whites applied to facial skin and allowed to dry can tighten, tone and nourish small wrinkles. Avocados naturally contain a high percentage of fat, and they help to nourish both skin and hair when mashed into a smooth consistency. Lemon (mixed with a little water) can be used as a natural facial astringent. Of course, eating a diet filled with fruits and vegetables can also promote healthy, glowing skin.
Make your own products
One way to know exactly what is lurking in your beauty products is to make them yourself. This craft is becoming more and more common, as online sources (such as Pinterest) provide easy access to recipes, instructions and tutorial videos.
Check for unwanted ingredients
Technology is also making it easier for women to know the ingredients found in their beauty products. A smartphone app developed by Lily Tse (called "Think Dirty") allows consumers to scan the barcode on manufacturers' products to reveal the ingredients found inside. The app will be available sometime within the year. Ingredients to avoid include sulfates, parabens, BHA, BHT, synthetic dyes, talc and artificial fragrances.
Shop for organic and/or pure beauty products
If you are not brave enough to make your own beauty products, opt for beauty products that contain organic and natural ingredients. Because the demand for natural products is growing, more and more manufacturers are making them. You can purchase home-crafted beauty products from individual sellers, or choose all-natural products from a big-name manufacturer. Look carefully at ingredient lists and try a sample of a product to make sure it works well for your skin before purchasing larger portions.
Making a gradual change to more natural beauty products, one product at a time, will help you decide which products work well for you and your skin and hair type. It will also help your skin and hair feel healthier, and you'll be more confident about the ingredients you are putting in your body.