If you’ve read many health articles in the last few years, you’ve probably come across many concerning reports about the health issues associated with toxic beauty and cleaning products. The truth is, those products which you so willingly spread all over your skin could actually be really dangerous, contributing to things such as cancer, skin disease, and environmental disasters. There are tons of products out there that are totally natural, safe, and just as effective (if not more) as the ones loaded with toxins. We’ve gathered a list of our must-have natural bathroom essentials.
As an added bonus, none of these products will break the bank. In fact, in this instance, going natural could help save you money!
Castille soap
No arsenal of cleaning or beauty products is complete without a bottle of Castille soap. This soap can clean anything, from your bathroom floor to the sensitive skin on your face. It is totally natural with a beautiful, light scent that doesn’t irritate or dry out your skin. Combine it with a little water and sea salt or sugar for a lovely exfoliant or simply add it to a bucket with vinegar and hot water to clean those forgotten corners of your bathroom floor. It can even be added to your tub for a relaxing bubble bath. Use it to shave, wash your body, hair, makeup brushes, or anything else that needs to be cleaned. It is 100% biodegradable as well, which means that you don’t have to feel guilty when it flows down the drain. Oh, did I mention that it is also ridiculously inexpensive?
Coconut oil
Next time you need to restock the coconut oil in your pantry, grab a jar for your bathroom as well. This nourishing oil is loaded with health benefits, and it is gentle enough to be used for virtually anything. Use it in homemade toothpaste, to moisturize your entire body, remove waterproof makeup, and even help nourish brittle, dried out hair.
Coconut oil is also useful for oil pulling, which simply means swishing around a tablespoon of the oil in your mouth for about 20 minutes before spitting out. This practice helps “pull” toxins from your body and keep your mouth free of bacteria. Always follow an oil pulling session by brushing your teeth.
Smooth some coconut oil over your nail beds to strengthen your nails and cuticles and encourage growth and use it as a tropical-tasting, hydrating lip balm.
Apple cider vinegar
Another food product that is just as useful for your beauty regimen. Apple cider vinegar (ACV) works well as a hair rinse to remove product buildup, restore shine, and improve the pH balance of your scalp. Remember, any time you use ACV, be sure to dilute it to avoid burning your skin. A 1:3 ratio usually works pretty well. Use it to ease the pain from a sunburn, eradicate foot odor, and as a natural skin toner if you have an acne-prone face. Even ACV for beauty must be raw and unfiltered, meaning that there should be brown floating pieces in the bottom known as the “mother.” Place a little ACV on a paper towel and clean those spots on your mirror while you’re at it!
Frankincense oil
High-quality frankincense essential oil works wonders for skin cleansing. Use it with a carrier oil in various recipes for skin health, including anti-aging. Mix it with avocado oil to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and acne scars and utilize its natural detoxifying properties to keep your skin clear.
Rosewater
If you use a toner as a part of your daily skincare routine, it likely contains rosewater. This wonderfully scented, natural liquid can even be used on its own as a toner to help firm the skin, clear away redness, and remove any leftover makeup or oil. It is non-drying and can be spritzed onto your face throughout the day to keep your makeup in place and help your skin feel refreshed and dewy. It also may be helpful for preventing ingrown hairs, so dab a little on your legs or around your bikini line after shaving.
What is your favorite natural bathroom product? Let us know in the comments below!
-The Alternative Daily