“Your health is an investment, not an expense.”

The statement, “You are what you eat,” is equally important as, “You are what you put on your body.” The average woman absorbs 5 lbs of chemicals each year simply due to using toxic beauty care products. The harmful man-made compounds in cosmetics have not only been know to cause irritation, itching and pre-mature aging, but they can even lead to cancer long-term. So when given a choice between non-toxic vs. cancer-causing, the answer becomes quite obvious–get yourself some new shit! In fact, there are so many companies now dedicated to non-toxic beauty, it can really be quite fun finding the perfect substitute for your outdated, toxic drug store go-to’s. How freeing it is to know by simply changing your beauty care essentials, you are eliminating a crap-load of toxicity from the body. Now, you may say, “It is not an easy task finding a substitute that works,” but I am happy to share some amazing brands and products that will actually improve the quality of your skin. Plus, you won’t have to eliminate your weekend gal time at the mall, as some of these products can be found at your local Sephora.

1. Heritage Store Rosewater $6

I simply cannot live without this product! This rosewater spray is completely multipurpose. It can be used to set makeup and as a toner after cleansing. In fact, my absolute favorite way to use this product is to spray it on immediately after I have used my facial vaporizer for about 15 minutes. The rosewater scent it so relaxing and with the addition of the glycerin, it makes my skin baby-bottom smooth. Pair this with a little dab of fresh aloe (picked straight from the garden) and the combo works wonders for healing blemishes. What’s the secret? Rosewater not only balances the pH of your skin, but just like aloe it has the natural ability to heal acne scars, fight the signs of ageing and neutralize eczema. And because Cleopatra was known to use this divine floral water, I think we’re well worth it too. Find it here.

2. Sea Buckhorn Oil $20

I first learned about the amazing benefits of sea buckthorn oil from a recent trip to the esthetician. I was searching for the perfect natural oil moisturizer for my skin issues (occasional acne and some scarring), as rosehip and coconut oil were just to heavy for my sensitive problematic skin type. Her suggestion was sea buckthorn oil and wow was I amazed with the results. This oil is truly perfect for combination and problematic skin as it has the ability to heal acne scars, calm and reduce redness and even clear acne spots. More importantly, it does not clog pores. What’s the magic of sea buckhorn oil? This oil is the richest source of the essential fatty acid, Omega-7, a fatty acid vital to collagen production and healthy skin, hair and nails. I absolutely love this brand as it is certified organic and you only need about 3 drops for your entire face. Find it here.

3. Tata Harper Clarifying Moisturizer $105

When I’m in the mood for a luxurious skincare treat, I look no further than Tata Harper’s line of non-toxic skincare, cosmetics, and aromatherapy. This moisturizer is definitely a splurge product, but as this brand’s ingredients are 100% natural, chemical free and grown and manufactured on a lovely farm in Vermont, one cannot go wrong. I justify the higher price tag simply knowing I am respecting my body and at the same time supporting a company that understands the importance of non-toxic, high-quality beauty products. Not only this, but this company is so dedicated to its brand, they are constantly researching new ingredients in their open lab on the farm to ensure the best skincare formulations possible. The entire product line is simply amazing and if you don’t believe me head to your nearest Sephora and try out a sample. This product is my day time moisturizer and I am in love. Find it here.

4.  Suntegrity Face Sunscreen & Primer SPF 30 $45

This ultra moisturizing face sunscreen is a non-greasy, chemical-free sunscreen that offers Broad Spectrum Protection against damaging UVA & UVB rays. What’s excellent about this sunscreen is it actually functions as a face moisturizer, sunscreen and make-up primer all in one–perfect for the travelling woman. Key ingredients in this product are: Hyaluronic acid, astaxanthin, red algae and certified organic aloe vera, jojoba, sunflower, pomegranate, cucumber, and green tea, which help provide additional sun protection, moisture and hydration. Furthermore, the zinc-oxide not only protects the skin from the damaging UVA and UVB rays, but it also soothes and calms the skin. In fact, zinc-oxide is known for it’s anti-inflammatory properties that can actually improve skin conditions like rosacea, acne, and melasma. Find it here. They also make a BB cream, find it here.

5.  Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Soap $18

What you put on your body gets absorbed into all your body’s systems. Bronner’s soap products were an absolute magical find when I was transitioning from my chemical laden products to healthier, eco-friendly ones. I knew I needed to aim for the purest product with ingredients I could read and identify. Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile liquid soaps were the perfect solution. The ingredients include organic hemp oil, organic coconut oil and organic olive oil, all of which leave the skin clean and well moisturized. I love that they come in multiple scents and believe it or not, this soap is my main facial cleanser. However, you may also use it as a laundry detergent, floor cleaner and dish soap. I even use this soap as a body wash and a shampoo when I’m traveling, since it is so natural and versatile. You will absolutely love these soaps! Find it here.

6. Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask $58Yes, I have a second Tata Harper product on this list because again, this line is amazing. After reading how highly rated this mask was on Sephora, I picked up a sample and ran home to try it out. Honestly, I could not believe the results. I saw an immediate evenness of my skin and an instant glow. The secret to this product is that it contains probiotics for the skin, more specifically Lactobacillus. Lactobacilli cause the pH of skin to be reduced (become more acidic), making the environment of the skin unsuitable for the growth of bacteria like acne. How cool is that? This mask should be used 2-3 times the first week of use and then after once a week to keep glowing radiant skin. Find it here.

For Troublesome Acne Scars

The Banish Kit $75

This skincare system from California is just amazing! If you suffer from acne scarring (like myself), I highly recommend trying this kit, which comes complete with a derma roller and vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid serum. The idea behind the banish tool (derma roller) is by rolling the micro needle roller over the skin, this creates microscopic needle holes (this process is not painful at all and does not damage the skin). Then you apply the Vitamin C serum by patting it softly onto your face. By creating microscopic needle holes in the skin, this signals the immune system to quickly repair itself and at the same time stimulates new collagen repair to the skin. With the addition of the potent vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid serum, this creates an amazing new layer to your skin minus the acne scarring. To me, this skin renewal process is genius. In fact, you can schedule this type of service with your dermatologist, but it comes at a high price. The Banish system allows you to do it in the comfort of your own home and for much cheaper. What’s more exciting is all the products contain natural and organic ingredients and are made the day you place your order. My other favorite products from this company are the Vitamin C Beauty Elixir and the Vitamin C Crème. Find them here and a discount code here.

I sincerely hope you enjoy reading about these lovely products and mostly importantly, I hope you find the urge to transition to clean, healthy and non-toxic skincare. By doing this, along with changes in diet and lifestyle (reducing meat and dairy products, getting enough sleep, and exercising daily), your skin will change for the better. After all, your skin does not get better with chance, it gets better with change.

In divine health.

References:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-462997/Women-absorb-5lbs-damaging-chemicals-year-thanks-beauty-products.html