Kids of the 80’s and 90’s…remember when body wash first became a thing?  It seemed like to coolest must-have personal item for a teenage girl (aside from the pink daisy razors).  They even had the one that came with that squishy blue and white sponge that had the dip in the center where you put the body wash and then lather?  Am I the only one that remembers this?????

Anyway, it seems to be a staple in most American homes.  And there are so many fancy looking options in the Target aisle – Hawaiian themed ones, satin silky velvety ribbons or moisture….ooh la la!

But friends, these artificial fragrances and and hard-to-pronounce cleansing chemicals masquerading as a tropical vacation in the shower may be more harmful than they are useful.  According to ewg.org, “The word “fragrance” or “parfum” on the product label represents an undisclosed mixture of various scent chemicals and ingredients used as fragrance dispersants such as diethyl phthalate. Fragrance mixes have been associated with allergies, dermatitis, respiratory distress and potential effects on the reproductive system.”

Ummmmmmm.

Other concerning ingredients such as SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE (known human allergen) and METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE (a neurotoxin) are just examples of what is in some conventional products.

Shampoos and conditioners follow suit.

What do we use instead?

There are a lot of store bought options.  Look for a bottle that says “free of parabens and sulfates” – the fewer ingredients on the label and the more of them you can pronounce, it’s a good bet it’s a better option.  HOT TIP!  A GREAT place to find more natural shampoos and conditioners at a good price is TJ Maxx/Marshall’s and Ross.  They have not so natural ones, too, so just check the labels.

You can also DIY.  Check Pinterest – tons of stuff!

I have been using African Black Soap by Shea Moisture for years.  We are minimalists when it comes to personal care products – no body wash or shave cream needed.  One bar lasts about 6 months.  $4 – BAM!  Cleans great, smells good, lasts forever.

When you do switch up your shower stash – think about trying dry brushing.  I plan to write about this (check Pinterest).  In a nutshell, dry brushing before you shower is an awesome way not only to exfoliate, but also to stimulate and help drain the lymphatic system which is your body’s way of eliminating toxins.  Cool, right?

I would love to know what products everyone is using!

Remember – swapping things out for healthier versions can be one step at a time.  We do what we can when we can and feel good about that choice.  We don’t hold guilt about the things we haven’t been able to change or judgement for those who don’t make the changes we do.  Be proud for making small changes and be happy!

Have a great weekend!

<3

Shannon