Over the summer, I switched to all-natural deodorant after reading a slew of articles about how aluminum-based deodorants affect your body. Although the claim that they can cause cancer has not been proven, I’m not particularly into the idea of allowing my body to absorb metal on a daily basis, and I’ve been on an all-natural product kick ever since. I don’t want to be be preachy, because I still use some products that are not sustainable or ethically produced or gentle on my skin, but I’ve fallen in love and you will, too. Here are some of the reasons why.
*Disclaimer: I am not a professional, I am just an enthusiast. Not everything should go on or in your body, even if it is natural. If you’re concerned about certain ingredients, talk to your dermatologist.*
1. They’re sustainable.
All-natural products are coming from––you guessed it––nature, so their production is relatively easy on the environment. Waste from chemical-filled products can be extremely disruptive to ecosystems to which they are exposed. Although ocean creatures may not appreciate you dumping your tea tree oil into their waters, the creation of all-natural products does not create toxic waste. Many all-natural products also come in biodegradable or recyclable packaging. This deodorant has very cool, compostable packaging, but many tubes and pumps can be recycled: just look for the little recycling simple on the back of the label (it’s usually beneath the list of ingredients).
2. They’re ethically produced.
This isn’t true of every brand, but I’ve yet to find an an all-natural skincare line that isn’t cruelty-free. While I understand the appeal of major skincare and makeup brands like Smashbox and Kiehl’s (and even own some of their products) it’s unfortunate that they test on animals. It can be difficult to avoid, but I think it’s best to choose the cruelty-free beauty alternative whenever possible. Likewise, it’s important to consider who’s making the product, and many all-natural and cruelty-free brands are also fair trade or advertise ethical production (you can find lists of these brands here and here). There’s nothing better than making a purchase you feel great about, and that feeling is enhanced when it is an act of ethical consumption.
3. They’re affordable.
One thing is for certain: beauty products ain’t cheap. While there are certainly exceptions, all-natural products tend to be a bit more affordable than the Clinique moisturizer they sell at Sephora. Brands such as Burt’s Bees, Tom’s of Maine, Kiss My Face, and Weleda can be found out your local drugstore, and their price tags are much more appealing than those of their chemical-filled counterparts. You can learn more about affordable all-natural beauty products here and here.
4. They’re gentle.
Does your moisturizer burn? Is your face wash secretly a face peel? Blame the harsh chemicals. All-natural products are filled with soothing ingredients and minimal allergens and irritants, so they aren’t upsetting your skin the way traditional products might. This is especially true for those using acne products, which can be extremely harsh. Tea tree-based products have helped with my acne immensely, without turning my face into a flaky raisin.
5. They’re potent with minimal side effects.
Now, there are benefits to traditional beauty products––they tend to work really well. However, many of these products are filled with ingredients that can have undesirable side effects over time (the petroleum in Vaseline and lip balms hastens aging!). All-natural products are strong (too much lavender oil can burn), but they don’t have the same nasty long-term effects of traditional products. Natural or not, you can find a list here of ingredients to avoid at all costs.
Everyone’s beauty and skincare regimen is different, but I think it’s worth it for everyone to try all-natural beauty products. If you’re skeptical, start small! Hand creams and lip balms are great little ways to incorporate all-natural products into your routine.
Image Credit: Featured Image, 1, 2