TOXIC BEAUTY
It has been said that one of the most toxic relationships we can experience is with our cosmetics.
Every time we clean, groom, and beautify our bodies, we can unknowingly expose ourselves to thousands of harmful chemicals.
Synthetic (man-made) chemicals have been positively linked to cancers, hormonal disruption (endocrine disruptors), headaches, allergies, obesity, skin conditions, depression, chronic fatigue, learning disabilities, hyperactivity, and irritability.
THE CHEMICAL COCKTAIL EFFECT
Cosmetics are all of the products we use on our body, including skin and hair care products, styling products, soap, deodorant, makeup, perfume, and even toothpaste.
A significant amount of what we put on our skin is absorbed deep into our bodies.
What is alarming researchers is the long-term cumulative (collective) effects of synthetic chemicals in cosmetics because they are not broken down and eliminated from our bodies. And they harm health.
Even more concerning is what is called the ‘cocktail effect’, which refers to the toxicity resulting from a combination of several chemicals.
Some chemicals are not dangerous when they are below certain amounts but can be poisonous when combined – and even intensify the toxic effects of each other.
I strongly believe synthetic chemicals should be banned for use in cosmetics and our everyday household products.
HOW TO BE CHEMICAL FREE
Until I investigated cosmetics, I had no idea of the chemicals involved in manufacturing most of the products I had grown up using.
I was shocked to discover how much I was poisoning my body. How was this ever allowed?
I’d always loved wearing perfume and lipstick. I painted my nails. And I bought expensive cosmetics and hair care products, thinking they were better researched, and better for me.
I felt like I’d been conned when I found out what was actually in the products I was buying.
All I can say is grab every cosmetic product you own and investigate the ingredients in them. It’s a life-changing moment.
I also tell my clients to look at what’s in their household cleaning products, detergents, fabric softeners, antiseptic products, air fresheners, candles, gardening products, and even the toys you buy for children.
Throw out what is poisoning you and choose to be chemical free!
HOW TO INVESTIGATE INGREDIENTS
There are two excellent websites you can investigate ingredients in the cosmetics you use:
The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics – safecosmetics.org
Skin Deep Cosmetics Database – www.ewg.org/skindeep
I also recommend you watch an excellent documentary called Toxic Beauty by Director Phyllis Ellis.
This eye-opening film looks at our exposure to dangerous substances from commonly trusted beauty products.
SAFE COSMETICS
There are some beautiful pure and natural cosmetics available, from everyday personal care products to organic makeup and deluxe skincare ranges. There’s something for everyone.
Some brands even offer smaller sample sizes you can buy – or try free testers in-store.
You can even make your own cosmetics with better active ingredients, and it will save you a ton of money too.
And you don’t have to miss out on anything!
I still love wearing perfume. But now I use essential oil blends I love for fragrance.
I only buy pure cosmetics, haircare, and skincare products. And I use natural oral care products that are chemical-free.
The only thing I don’t use anymore is nail polish.
Given the history of cancer on both sides of my family, I stopped using nail polish when I found out how toxic it is.
And I’m happy making choices that reduce risk to my long-term health.
SOME TRUSTWORTHY BRANDS
If you’re new to natural cosmetics, here are a few brands you can explore. It’s not a complete list by far—just a starting point for you.
ANTIPODES
Antipodes combines scientific research with plant-based ingredients to create high-performance, toxin-free cosmetics. Award-winning, certified, and good value too.
Website: https://antipodesnature.com
AROMAWORKS
Not a cosmetic but worth knowing. Aromaworks natural soy candles are scented with pure essential oils to transform your home’s ambiance. They use 100% natural ingredients free from mineral oils, pesticides, synthetic fragrances, and petrochemicals.
Website: https://aroma-works.com
ALOE VERA AUSTRALIA
I love Aloe Vera Face & Body Cleanser (with Frankincense) from Aloe Vera Australia. It’s a fantastic makeup remover too. Their aloe vera shampoo and hair conditioner with virgin coconut oil is also worth trying – good products for the whole family.
Website: https://www.aloeveraaustralia.com.au
BLACK CHICKEN
I also love running, yoga, and being active. It took me years to find a natural deodorant that could stand up to our hot West Australian climate. Black Chicken Axilla original deodorant paste works for me.
Website: https://blackchicken.com.au
DR BRONNER
Organic liquid castile soap is one of the gentlest natural soaps you can use on your skin – and Dr Bronner does it well. And available at most health food stores.
To make your liquid soap go even further, use a foaming soap dispenser.
Website: https://www.drbronner.com.au
EVERESCENTS
EverEscents offers a pure organic hair care range that is plant-based using certified organic ingredients. This professional brand ranges from shampoo and conditioners to hair treatments and styling products for all hair types.
Website: https://www.everescents.com.au
NATRACARE
Dioxins are among the most toxic chemicals known and are found in bleached products. Natracare provides a certified organic range of tampons, pads, liners, and wipes that are free of fragrances, chlorine, plastics, dyes, and pesticides.
Website: https://www.natracare.com
SODASHI
If you’re looking for luxury, artisan products, Sodashi cosmetics are designed to nourish your skin with pure, natural ingredients. Each product is made with love and intention.
Website: https://www.sodashi.com.au
WELEDA
Weleda has been producing natural medicines and body care products since the 1920s. They are a well-known and well-loved company offering an extensive range of 100% certified natural and organic skincare products.
Website: https://www.weleda.com.au
ZUII ORGANIC
Award-winning Zuii Organic is an Australian-certified organic makeup range made from flowers and nurturing ingredients. Even their mascara promotes the natural regeneration of your lashes!
Website: https://www.zuiiorganic.com
Be Chemical Free!
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