Sure, we spend countless hours every year brushing our teeth, doing our makeup or working out at the gym, but how often do we really examine what’s in the cosmetic and hygiene products we use? And with fancy “salon formulas” and friendly “all natural” labels, do we really spend time understanding and investigating all the ingredients? While many personal care products may look nourishing, cleansing and everything wonderful under the sun, it pays to do your research about what might be lurking in your favorite lotion or toothpaste. And if you decide you need to make a quick switch, check out these eco-friendly items:

1. Soap for Goodness Sake: If you’re looking to keep both your body and conscience squeaky clean, look no further than Oklahoma-based Soap for Goodness Sake. Their non-toxic, all natural soaps are made from scratch and take weeks to make – no corners cut! Take your pick from scents like Woodland Dawn, Crème de Menthe, Oatmeal, Eucalyptus Mint and Aloha Lemongrass – they will have you feeling pampered after just one scrub. Check out www.soapforgoodnesssake.com to see all the company’s products, which include natural lip balms, perfumes, shampoos and more. What’s even better is that you don’t have to feel guilty about typical, wasteful shipping methods. Soap for Goodness Sake packages their items in cello bags made from natural wood fibers and sustainable forestry products. Just starting a compost pile in your backyard? Your shipment containers will make the perfect biodegradable additions!
2. Pure Anada: This Canadian company has an array of stunning cosmetics made without artificial fragrances, colorants and preservatives. Their lipsticks and lip-glosses, for example, are designed with a vegan formula and packed with natural oils, butters and plant waxes; the vibrant colors will last for hours, thanks to a little help from Mother Nature. And if you thought “natural” nail polish wasn’t possible, think again. Pure Anada’s Aqua Glam Nail Polish is water-based, odorless, hypoallergenic, non-toxic and formaldehyde, toluene and phthalate free! You can browse further at www.pureanada.ca.
3. Organoderm: Don’t believe everything you hear. Many “organic” lotions and skin products are not necessarily without unnatural, harsh chemicals. Thankfully, there are companies like Organoderm, which features doctor-developed, USDA certified products made with natural bio-actives. Men, women and kids will love the Olive Cucumber & Watercress Light Moisturizer, infused with certified organic aloe vera, olive oil, shea butter and sweet orange oil. Need something with serious protection power? Check out Organoderm’s Environmental Protection Day Lotion SPF 30+, made with an olive/vitamin/anti-oxidant complex, so you’ll get maximum hydration and sun damage defense. For more information, visit www.organoderm.com.

So skip over the eye-catching label, turn that bottle of shampoo or mascara around and you may be surprised at what you find. Fortunately, with a bevy of organic health and beauty products on the market today, there’s no excuse not to try some out – you’ll be doing both your body and Mother Nature a fabulous favor!