If you’re concerned about your skin and the environment, here are ten things you can do to help both.
1. Simple Is Best
All you really need in your daily skincare routine is moisturizer, toner, cleanser and sunscreen. All the other products are just extra, so don’t be fooled by advertising that makes you think you need specialist products. For example, eye creams are really just made the same way as facial moisturizers.
2. Be Sure that “Natural” Really Is
Unfortunately, when shopping for beauty products you’ll have to bear in mind that terms such as “natural” are not regulated – anyone can add this to their labels. The biggest problem with beauty products at the moment is that they are full of synthetic chemicals, so you’re going to have to get used to reading the labels as much as possible, and check products against the Environment Working Group’s Skin Deep Cosmetic Database.
3. Fragrance = Avoid
Manufacturers are not legally required to declare all of the toxic chemicals that are used to make fragrance mixtures. Artificial fragrances are best avoided, as they are known to contain phthalates which are linked to birth defects and infertility, among other problems. Fragrances are also famous for causing allergic reactions, so always go fragrance-free if possible.
4. Think about the Packaging
It’s important to consider the packaging used in a product, both in terms of the environment and your own health. Some plastics aren’t able to be recycled, and some may even leech toxins into the product your using. In general, recyclable plastics include code 1 (polyethylene terephthalate or PET) and code 2 (high-density polyethylene or HDPE) – also considered more healthy. Codes 7 and 3 (or “V) are ones you should really watch out for. If you’re unsure, always use the internet to help you.
5. Research The Company
If you care enough to be thinking green, you probably realize that there’s more to a company than its products. How do its philosophy and values stack up? Does it test on animals? Has it pledged to remove harmful ingredients from its products? Is the company environmentally responsible?
6. Choose Organic
Organic ingredients aren’t just better for the environment, they’re also better for your health. Make sure the products you buy carry the USDA’s organic seal, and even better opt for products whose botanical ingredients are grown using biodynamic farming methods. This is the approved method by Demeter USA.
7. Avoid Petrochemicals
Look out for ingredients like “mineral oil”, “petrolatum” and “paraffin” – petroleum byproducts. These have been linked to cancer, and they aren’t good for the planet thanks to the fact that they come from non-renewable resources.
8. Make Your Own!
Making your own products really is the best way to know exactly what goes into them. You’ll also benefit from saving money and avoiding any packaging!
9. Get and Stay Healthy
Diet and exercise really are just as important as any lotion you could put on your skin. When you eat a healthy, balanced diet you’ll be getting healthy fats (like flaxseed oil and omega 3s), protein, complex carbohydrates and other nutrients that are essential for your skin. By exercising, you’ll improve circulation and clean your skin of impurities through sweating. Just don’t forget to drink lots of water to flush out the toxins.
10. Get a Grip
Remember – if a beauty trend seems weird, it probably is and you don’t need it!
Your skin is not in conflict with the environment: by changing a few things about the products you use you can really help both.
Natalie MacBride wants to look good as much as you do and is researching the best healthy, natural ways to get there. Pay her a visit today at Easy Natural Beauty.
categories: beauty,health,environment,skincare,aging,advice