Though documenting my move towards a greener complexion has only just begun, I actually started the process in a very half-ass manner several years ago.
It’s unclear exactly how I first learned about parabens, but when I discovered the estrogen mimic-ing preservatives were linked to cancer, I got a little grossed out by the thought of slathering my body in the questionable compound.
I was using Lubriderm Daily Moisture which is loaded with parabens — several variations. So I switched to a paraben-free version, Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion Shea + Enriching Cocoa Butter which ended up having a whole host of other shady stuff including fragrance, Ceteareth-20 and DMDM Hydantoin (formaldehyde releaser). Turns out my attempt at making a healthy switch was really a move from bad body moisturizer to lotion chock full o’yuck.
I don’t want to go all scientific here– spewing out ingredients with complicated names. I’m just trying to raise awareness of what these ingredients are so we can make better choices. Popping product names into the cosmetic database for a quick read on its toxicity level is always an option. But ultimately, it’s best to become familiar with what is going on (and into) our skin.
My latest foray into the body lotion department turned up a really nice result — Andalou Naturals Body Butter, Kukui Cocoa.![](http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=elyshalenkinc-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0052P1KRU"width="1"){kind=small}
Oh, cocoa also has amazing antioxidant properties which naturally prevent aging along with providing deep hydration — something my skin will definitely need as the cold weather nears.
What’s your favorite body lotion?
(image via: snowpeak.com)
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I am actually afraid to read the ingredients on my favorite products. BUT, I am going to look into purchasing the Andalou Naturals Body Butter, Kukui Cocoa. It sounds like it might be a wonderful replacement or at least a lovely addition to my potions and lotions.
GGW, I know exactly what you mean. This is why I am taking this process very slowly…otherwise it’ll be too much too soon, and I won’t be able to handle it. Small steps! Let me know what you think of the cocoa body butter!
I haven’t used commercial lotions for year because of all “the stuff” in them! I made my own for a while with olive oil, distilled water, essential oils and my uncle’s beeswax (or should I say, my uncle’s bees’ beeswax). After a while though, I just got lazy and went with straight olive oil. I love it – even in the summer. Just a little goes a long way. Jazz it up with some awesome smelling essential oils like Ylang Ylang or cooling peppermint and it’s great for any time of the year! Your recommendation sounds intriguing, too. You can never go wrong with chocolate! 🙂
Susie, I’ve heard olive oil can be great. Is that what you’re using now?
For awhile, in my Ayurveda phase I was using sesame oil on my skin…it was a bit too greasy for me though. That’s awesome you’ve got an uncle who has bees’ beeswax!
Yes. I use just olive oil. I agree about the sesame oil. It’s just too messy and seemed to smell up the whole house LOL. My uncle lives in Virginia and had 63 hives at one time, just a few years ago! He is amazing with them. He’s in his 80’s and still going strong 🙂
Perhaps I’ll give olive oil a try….it’s easy enough to get my hands on. Thank You! PS, your uncle rocks!!