Four Natural Beauty Products I Love (and One I Hate)

on June 30, 2011
in All Posts, natural beauty products

The Husband and I have been slowly switching over our beauty products and cleaning products to more natural alternatives.  Swapping everything out at once would be really expensive!  When we run out of one product, we simply head to the store and buy a new, natural replacement.  

 

Here are 12 ingredients worth avoiding and why, according to this source:

 

  • Benzoyl Peroxide:  Toxic if inhaled, facilitates carcinogens
  • Diethanolamine (DEA), Monoethanolamine (MEA, Triethanolamine (TEA): Possible carcinogen, skin and mucous membrane irritant
  • Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate (DLS): Produces byproducts that are possible carcinogens
  • DMDM Hydantoin & Imidazolidinyl Urea: Stresses the immune system, skin irritant, releases formaldehyde when combined with water
  • Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) & Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS); Sodium Laureth Sulfate & Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate (SLES):  Skin and eye irritant, can cause ulcers or canker sores, possible carcinogen
  • Parabens (Butyl, Ethyl, Methyl, Propyl): Mimics estrogen and has been linked to breast cancer; may contribute to male infertility
  • Petrolatum (Petroleum jelly): Traps toxins on your skin and interferes with cell development
  • Phenoxyethanol:  Skin and eye irritant, hormone disruptor, possible carcinogen
  • Phthalates: Can damage the liver and kidneys, can cause birth defects and decreased sperm counts
  • Polyethylene glycol & Polyethylene (PEG):  Manufacturing process produces carcinogen, can damage the kidneys, skin irritant
  • Propylene Glycol (PG) & Butylene Glycol: Skin irritant, possibly toxic if combined with certain other ingredients

 

Here are four natural beauty products that I (okay, we – the Husband uses them all, too) love.  And one that I hate!

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My favorite is Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soap 18-in-1 Lavender Pure Castile Soap.  We use this soap as a body wash and it smells SO GOOD.  I like how squeaky clean it leaves my skin, with no creepy residue.   This soap is pretty cheap when you buy it from Dr. Bronner’s website – just $6.39 for a 8-ounce bottle (I paid $9.99 in store).

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Next up,  Nature’s Gate Tea Tree Shampoo.  This shampoo is free of parabens (which can disrupt the reproductive system), sodium lauryl (an irritant and pollutant), phthalate (a possible carcinogen and hormone disrupter), and butylene glycol (a preservative).  I like how it actually cleanses my hair (which definitely has a lot of dirt and grime in it due to all the sports and swimming I do!).  I haven’t tried their conditioner yet but am hopeful it will work as well as conventional alternatives!

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It took me a while to be convinced, but natural deodorant actually works – if you adjust your expectations.   I wanted a more natural deodorant that would work as well as my chemically favorites (Secret or Mitchum), but alas, it just doesn’t stand up for a 12-hour test.  However, I toss Kiss My Face’s Liquid Rock in my purse and reapply on really hot days, and then it seems to work quite well.  When I’m traveling, I still use conventional deodorant.  And I’ve never really worn deodorant for exercise – my entire body is sweaty and smelly, who cares if my armpits are super sweaty and smelly?

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Last, but not least, Trader Joe’s Face Wash.  I love this tea tree oil face wash because it really gets rid of grime and grease without drying out my skin – I use it multiple times a day!  Plus, I can pronounce all the ingredients, it smells good, and its cheap!

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Now it’s time for the natural beauty product that I hate… and I mean, I seriously hate this product with an undying, unrelenting passion.  I am so excited the tube is almost gone!

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Trader Joe’s All Natural Peppermint Toothpaste is a fail.  My teeth never feel “clean” with this tooth paste, no matter how thoroughly I brush.  I tried Tom’s natural toothpaste before, and I had similar feelings – I miss the sudsy, bubbly feeling of conventional toothpaste.  Maybe this is just something I need to go over, but man – the chemicals in Crest rock.

 

What’s your favorite natural beauty product?  Do you have a good natural toothpaste alternative? 

{ 168 comments }

 

  • Jackie @ Baking Charms June 30, 2011, 1:58 pm

    I am obsessed with the Desert Essence face wash I just bought! The smell is not so good but my face is definitely clearing up.

    • amyjogo June 30, 2011, 9:51 pm

      Me too!!!! I love it and just started using it two weeks ago. Have you used the blemish stick? AMAZING. The smell…well, it doesn’t stink…it just has a unique tea treey scent. Lol. I know what ya mean though!

      • Jamie July 4, 2011, 9:15 am

        That’s funny – I put some tea tree oil on a blemish the other day, hubby wrinkled his nose and moved far away from me, my teenage son though told me I “smelled good” and snuggled up to me.

  • Cate June 30, 2011, 1:58 pm

    That’s funny you hate Toms! My mom used it when I was growing up and I couldn’t stand it but for some reason now I actually really like it and I don’t miss regular toothpaste at all.
    I tried natural deodorant but I just couldn’t stick with it…

  • Leanne (Bride to Mrs,) June 30, 2011, 1:59 pm

    My favorite natural product is martha stewart dish soap. It’s actually my only “natural” product that I’ve tried so far… the smell isn’t fantastic but it’s effective!

  • Joan June 30, 2011, 1:59 pm

    My daughter and myself have tried some sulfate free shampoos but they are so much more expensive than regular shampoo. Also they seemed to dry our hair out. If anyone knows a good sulfate free shampoo thats priced resonably I would love to know what it is.

    • Marie June 30, 2011, 4:50 pm

      If you have a Trader Joe’s, check there. Their tea tree shampoo/conditioner is my favorite, but the others there are great too, and very affordable (like 3-4 dollars/bottle, not $5-10 like other brands).

    • Courtney June 30, 2011, 6:00 pm

      I love the Organix brand. They have 2 kinds that are sulfate-free, I think.

    • Anne July 1, 2011, 1:29 am

      Whole Foods also has a slew of store brand body care products.
      You can also make your own! This site even has recipes for other home and body cleaners
      http://www.makeyourown.net/

  • Kate (What Kate is Cooking) June 30, 2011, 2:00 pm

    I really need to start buying natural beauty products! I’m not a big beauty product person to begin with… I wash my face with Dove soap, haha.

  • Gwen June 30, 2011, 2:03 pm

    SUCH a fantastic post! I am actually allergic to Sodium Lauryl Sulfate when ingested. Which means buying most tooth pastes over the counter is out for me. I order Squiggle from Amazon – expensive, but MUCH better than having a consistant sore throat! I had a sore throat for nearly two years straight, and finally we realized that SLS was the cause. I’ve often wondered if it could be a problem for me in other products too.

  • Kristy @ Kristyruns.com June 30, 2011, 2:03 pm

    I use the same nature gate shampoo and conditioner. Love it! skin is largest organ! Gotta treat it right. 😉

  • Julie (A Case of the Runs) June 30, 2011, 2:06 pm

    I bought a natural deodorant and have yet to be impressed. It’s great at first, but then as the day progresses, it starts smelling kind of bad. And the anti-perspirant functioning is poor.

    I would like to learn more about natural products, though! I am allergic of benzoyl peroxide, so I haven’t touched the stuff in years, and also, my lips seem to be allergic to most lip products. I still haven’t figured out exactly WHAT causes the reaction. Doesn’t mean it’s a chemical, but it could be!

  • allison @ thesundayflog June 30, 2011, 2:07 pm

    awesome post. one quick tip for armpits – if you forget deodorant or start to smell, rub some liquid hand sanitizer under your arms and the smelliness will be GONE! you stink because of bacteria, and antibacterial gets rid of it. it also works when my conventional deodorant wears off. ill just swipe on hand sanitizer and then reapply deo.

  • Lauren @ Lawfully Wedded Wife June 30, 2011, 2:07 pm

    Thanks for the tips, I will definitely try that TJ’s face wash, I always see their bath products and have been nervous to try them!

  • Krystina (Organically Me) June 30, 2011, 2:08 pm

    That Trader Joe’s toothpaste tastes (excuse my French) like shit. I’ve used various Tom’s toothpastes and enjoyed it much more than TJ’s, which tastes like brushing your teeth with straight up baking soda.

    I REALLY like Jason’s tee tree deodorant. It worked all day and I never sweat/stunk, even on hot days.

  • Beth June 30, 2011, 2:09 pm

    I love weleda’s ratanhia toothpaste.

  • Dori June 30, 2011, 2:09 pm

    Very interesting!

    A note about sulfate-free shampoos – they are definitely wonderful for cleaning your hair, but certain types will not be able to clean out any silicone-containing hair product you might use, like shine spray. Something to keep in mind.

    I would love to try that face wash, but my dermatologist told me that I should only use oil-free face products because I have such bad acne. All the oil-free types seem to have the chemicals though. Maybe someone here has a suggestion for me.

    • faith June 30, 2011, 4:14 pm

      Have you ever used tea tree oil or products containing it? It is an oil but because of it’s powerful anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral qualities it works great, especially on acne-prone skin.
      I dab it straight onto really bad pimples at night and by morning they are visibly reduced. The smell is super intense but it’s an awesome (natural!) product.

      • Dori June 30, 2011, 4:15 pm

        I haven’t! I’ve been scared off by anything with the word “oil.” This is very good to know, thank you!

        • Marie June 30, 2011, 4:57 pm

          Dori my skin actually does a LOT better with tea tree oil- based cleansers like Trader Joe’s (but the Dessert Essence brand is my favorite & is more natural than TJ’s). It doesn’t dry my skin out so badly and I have definitely had fewer pimples since switching. What I’ve read is that since like dissolves like, washing with an oil-based cleanser like tea tree will actually dissolve facial oil and clean better. Definitely give it a try!

        • amyjogo June 30, 2011, 9:58 pm

          I def. Recommend the Desert Essence brand with tea tree oil. It has been on the very bottom shelf at my local Sprouts and Central Market. They have a blemish stick that also contains tea tree oil and it has helped me so much. Aloe Vera gel may help with the healing process too.

  • Katie @ Nourishing Flourishing June 30, 2011, 2:10 pm

    I looove Dr. Bronner’s products. I have been using baking soda + water for shampoo, and apple cider vinegar + water for conditioner for about 4 or 5 months and it worked so well… But there was a catch (I plan to post on that later this week. Hint: my hair is lighter. Heh.). I’m still navigating natural deodorants; hopefully the one I’m using now will keep working. I absolutely adore Himalaya face scrubs, too!

    • Marisa June 30, 2011, 8:06 pm

      Baking soda is so versatile! I dust it in my armpits to manage any bacteria/odor (I haven’t used deodorant/antiperspirant in years). I also find that soaking in a bath with a few cups of baking soda increases circulation in the lymphatic system – Its a great weekly detox.

  • R. Chandra June 30, 2011, 2:11 pm

    OMG i agree with you SO MUCH about that freaking toothpaste!!!!!!!!! i have bought it TWICE now. my current tube is just about empty and i am so DONE with it; i’m getting myself to the nearest CVS for some Crest ASAP. thank you for validating my feelingz.

    • Anne July 1, 2011, 1:33 am

      Tom’s of Maine and other natural toothpastes were the only ones my family used growing up (we all still do too). After staying over with friends and trying their Crest or Colgate, I thought that the natural toothpastes were actually cleaning my teeth. Why? Because the ads for them made everyone’s mouth look super clean and healthy.
      I now realize that that feeling was all psychological.

  • Tami June 30, 2011, 2:12 pm

    We use all the same products particually. I agree about the natural deondrants but I do like the TJ toothpaste. I used peppermint Dr brooner and the tea tree soap too ( cheaper than TJ facial soap).

    How about cleaning products? Dr brooner and baking soda for us

    • M June 30, 2011, 10:37 pm

      Ok this is a weird comment I know…
      but i used Dr Bronner Peppermint liquid soap at
      a yoga studio I go to….and I used it to wash
      my private parts….and bloody hell is stung me to death!
      So I am assuming one does not use this to wash down
      there-has anyone else experienced this ?! Deadly!!

      Hopefully his teatree does not do this!

      • Kim July 6, 2011, 1:22 pm

        haha YESSSS! This happened to me as well! It’s not as intense but I could absolutely feel the minty reaction! It got better with time but my next bottle will be lavender- I think it’ll be a little more gentle on the lady bits! Glad I’m not the only one! 🙂

  • Mary June 30, 2011, 2:13 pm

    I’ve switched mostly to natural products (mostly to ensure they’re vegan), but feel the same way about Tom’s toothpaste! I just really love Crest & Colgate & since there are no animal products (that I know of) I think I’ll keep using them. I also feel the same way about benzoyl peroxide since my prescription is one of the only things that works for my wonderful adult acne.

    • Mary June 30, 2011, 2:48 pm

      I forgot to add… I have been loving coconut oil for my hair. I get my hair highlighted (definitely not naturally!) so it can get really dry/damaged (plus it is naturally thick/frizzy), and coconut oil has been a life saver! I put it in overnight (or a couple hours before showering), and it works wonders.

      • Dori June 30, 2011, 3:15 pm

        I need to try this.

        • Baking 'n' Books June 30, 2011, 6:38 pm

          Me too…although I’m not sure if I want to waste my oil on my hair! Although shampoo is more expensive I guess 😉

          Wait – you don’t wear deodarant working out even?! I never sweat anyways, but I wouldn’t want to “smell” me…;)

    • Anne July 1, 2011, 3:33 am

      Crest and Colgate do test on animals though. They are owned by Proctor & Gamble and Colgate-Palmolive, respectfully. These two companies also own many many other brands.

  • Johanna B June 30, 2011, 2:14 pm

    I had gingivitis a few years back and my dentist told me to brush with plain old baking soda. I thought it would be a problem for me but it worked out ok. I got used to the taste (or lack thereof) and my teeth felt really clean. No minty freshness though and I missed that. (I went back to “normal” toothpaste when the gum disease cleared up.)

  • Erin D. June 30, 2011, 2:15 pm

    Agreed about the natural toothpaste! I miss that squeaky clean feeling I get with conventional toothpaste. 🙁

  • Chelsea S. June 30, 2011, 2:15 pm

    I’ve been off of mainstream toothpaste for about 7 years now… and thankfully! I used to get canker sores at least once a month (sometimes every week it seemed!), and read online somewhere that it can be a reaction to sodium laurel sulfate in toothpaste.

    Since I switched to more natural brands (without the pesky/evil SLS), I only get a canker sore like once every 6 months, and that’s only if I bite my cheek repeatedly or something drastic.

    Needless to say I’ve tried my fair share of SLS-free toothpastes… and sadly none of them are perfect. I have used the TJs toothpaste before, and didn’t like it at all (though i do like the flavor!). A lot of Tom’s have SLS anyway, so that’s no good. So far, my favorite that I keep going back to is by Jason, called Sea Fresh. I only get the one WITH fluoride, since lack of fluoride has led to some acid wear on my teeth. This toothpaste has an okay flavor, but lots of sudsy-goodness.

    These days if my tube runs out and I borrow my partner’s Crest, I can literally feel the difference in how my skin feels inside my mouth. When I’m done it feels kinda raw and stripped! Kinda gross, but totally telling, yo.

  • Christina June 30, 2011, 2:17 pm

    I HATE that toothpaste also!!! I debating on tossing it after a few uses but I didn’t want to be wasteful but it seriously was terrible. It left a wierd taste in my mouth and just didn’t taste like my mouth was clean. Yuck!

  • Ellie@fitforthesoul June 30, 2011, 2:20 pm

    ooOo very informative post Caitlin! I loved it and totally bookmarked the chart of chemicals. Lately my fam and I have been using trader joe’s oat bar of soap as a bodywash and it feels really clean and fresh!! Not to mention, it smells really sweet and delicious 🙂 For some reason, I’m really starting to like natural products little by little as well. I mean, if it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, why not make a few changes right? 😉

  • Gina @ Running to the Kitchen June 30, 2011, 2:22 pm

    I totally agree with the toothpaste thing. Any natural toothpaste I’ve ever tried just never feels the same as my beloved Crest.

  • Sarah for Real June 30, 2011, 2:22 pm

    I use natural toothpaste and so I totally understand what you mean about the scrubbing bubbles. However, since I use an (awesome and I love it Oral-B) electric toothbrush, it seems to do all the cleaning work. I’m pretty confident I could have clean teeth with no toothpaste as long as I use that toothbrush. The toothpaste just gives me a fresh taste mostly.

    I’m so excited for your review of the body wash! I am in need and have been replacing things as I run out with more natural stuff too.

  • Brittany June 30, 2011, 2:22 pm

    Maybe I’m shallow but it took me A LONG time to get hair, skin, and tooth products that I really really love and I don’t think I could live without them. Moroccan oil is mostly silicones but it has completely changed my life, tresseme shampoo & conditioner are great and not tested on animals, johnson’s lotion is the only kind that makes me feeling smooth and not sticky, and I cannot live without my aquafresh extreme clean toothpaste. Maybe it also has to do with my background in chemistry. I’m not scared of chemicals like I should be… But I eat all whole natural foods. Maybe I’m just too concerned with appearance? No shame.

    • CaitlinHTP June 30, 2011, 2:23 pm

      Hah no shame – different strokes for different folks!

    • Lindsay June 30, 2011, 2:26 pm

      well – all chemical are not bad, right? just like all things that are natural are not good for you? this is a real question 🙂

      • Brittany June 30, 2011, 2:33 pm

        Haha, yes, not all things that are natural are good for you and not all chemicals are bad. And not all chemicals are unnatural! Wait, what?

        • CaitlinHTP June 30, 2011, 2:34 pm

          Yes, of course. 🙂 But it’s just something to think about!

    • Natalie June 30, 2011, 2:28 pm

      Try Josie Maran’s argan oil hair serum (Sephora sells it) as an alternative to Moroccan oil. I’ve been using it since April and OMG LOVE! I can’t believe I didn’t try it earlier, it makes such a huge difference in my hair!

      • Brittany June 30, 2011, 2:32 pm

        Ah, thanks! I’ll definitely check that out!

        • Joan June 30, 2011, 3:09 pm

          I use Josie Maran’s Argan Matchmaker Foundation and Creme Blush and love them both. As I run out of other makeup I may try other products of hers.

      • Lisa M June 30, 2011, 8:04 pm

        Thanks Natalie – Going out to get that – been using Moroccan oil but rather go with something healthier for me and the environment. OMG what we do to have non-frizzy hair!

  • Lindsay June 30, 2011, 2:24 pm

    I actually just started making this switch, as well, so this info is super helpful! I just bought Neutrogena’s new all natural face wash and I really like it.

  • Erin @ The Grass Skirt June 30, 2011, 2:25 pm

    I’m a natural beauty product junky! Try Tom’s of Maine Wicked Fresh Toothpaste. It makes my mouth feel SO clean! I don’t recommend Burt’s Bees. The tube leaked all over the place, and I had to store it in a plastic baggy.

    • Erica June 30, 2011, 4:28 pm

      i had the same problem with the Burt’s Bees!! We had a glob of toothpaste on our counter every day. Which was great because we went through the toothpaste faster (and we hated it!)

  • Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat June 30, 2011, 2:27 pm

    I haven’t tried the Dr Bronners line but I’ve heard such great things so next time I’m at Whole Foods I just might cave and buy some (as if I need another thing to make my bill longer!!) LOL. Sorry, I don’t have much experience with natural toothpastes, but I’d be interested to hear if you find one that works well!

  • Suzanne June 30, 2011, 2:27 pm

    Beware Tom’s! Most have SLS in them. I have been trying SLS free toothpastes due to having trouble with canker sores. I have had the most luck with Rembrandt Canker Sore Toothpaste but it’s hard to find and expensive, but SO worth it. Just bought a tube of Burts Bees toothpaste and it seems more foamy than many. Try it!

  • Maria June 30, 2011, 2:41 pm

    I just found this amazing tooth powder that’s all natural from Eco Dent (http://www.amazon.com/Eco-Dent-Whitener-Without-Fluoride-Dazzling/dp/B000OLCJIG/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1309459155&sr=8-4) It suds up really well using an electric toothbrush and my teeth feel amazing afterwards. You have to get used to the grittiness at first, but I love it.

  • Lindsay June 30, 2011, 2:43 pm

    This is now my 3rd comment 🙂 but I recently realized that my Method hand soap has sodium lauryl sulfate. This surprised me since I thought the Method brand was all about being all natural and good for you/good for the earth, etc. Any thoughts on this?

    • CaitlinHTP June 30, 2011, 2:44 pm

      All about advertising! SO many businesses use the ‘natural aura’ to try to get you to buy their product. You must always investigate for yourself!

    • Sarah June 30, 2011, 4:08 pm

      We switched to Method’s dye/smell free hand soap a while ago and I was really surprised when I used some Softsoap antibacterial soap at a friend’s house. It smelled SO harsh and chemically!

    • Charlie June 30, 2011, 9:32 pm

      I have that soap too! Had no idea it had sulfate!

  • sweetkaroline June 30, 2011, 2:44 pm

    fyi i HATE trader joe’s toothpaste because it never got my teeth really clean…they always felt dirty again after only a couple of hours. Tom’s toothpaste works so much better and i’ll never go back to the more chemically alternative.

    Dr. Bronners castille soap is AHmazing…so glad i have that in my life…never tried the lavender. I use the peppermint as a body wash (smells so clean and refreshing yum) and just started using the Tea Tree soap to help with oily skin…so far so good. I’m hoping to completely switch over to using the tea tree soap so i can never again use Benzoyl Peroxide for acne (and also save myself from bleaching everything i touch…ugh).

    Great post, thanks for your feedback on those products…it’s a never ending hunt for good stuff eh?!

  • Erin June 30, 2011, 2:47 pm

    I actually had to switch to natural toothpaste (I use Tom’s usually) because I developed an allergy to fluoride that gave me a nasty rash on my face (not pretty let me tell you). I’ve found that in combo with my Sonicare electric toothbrush it cleans just as well as regular toothpaste.
    I love the French green clay soap from here: http://www.ablutions-spa.com/
    It’s a local company to me and while it’s a bit pricey, the products last forever (I bought a bar of the soap in September and am still only halfway through it!) It’s all organic and smells great.

  • Ashley @ the fit academic June 30, 2011, 2:50 pm

    haha, too funny! I use Tom’s “sensitive” toothpaste and love it. At first I was a little sketched out about how it didn’t suds up, but now I’m used to it & don’t have a problem with it. I definitely want to try that lavender soap & the TJ’s face wash now!!

  • Allie June 30, 2011, 2:55 pm

    Wow I’ve always used Dr. Bronners as a counter-bathroom-sink-cleaner… NOT a people-cleaner! Can it really be used for both?

    Unfortunately I found that Nature’s Gate conditioner made my hair SUPER dry and tangled mess. IF you try it, be sure to bring a comb into the shower with you so you can comb (actually, more like wrangle) your hair while the conditioner is still in it. I’m curious what you think! Thanks for sharing.

  • leeann June 30, 2011, 2:58 pm

    I use Tom’s toothpaste-Propolis and Myrrh. Fluoride free all the way!

  • Katie @ cooklaughmove June 30, 2011, 2:59 pm

    Have you heard of Norwex? I just went to a party a few weeks ago and will soon be having my own. Their products are naturally anti-bacterial, you brush your teeth without any toothpaste!!!!!

  • Rebecca @ How the Cookie's Crumble June 30, 2011, 3:01 pm

    I’ve been trying to switch to more natural products, but I’m just one of those people who is really loyal to their products and does not like to switch brands or try new things. So it’s hard to say goodbye to some of the products I’ve used for over a decade and LOVE.

    I have started switching to more natural cleaners. After trying just about every toxic chemical product possible to get the dinginess out of my tub, I used baking soda & vinegar the other day. WOW!!! So clean, so white! No soap scum!!! I love vinegar and baking soda especially how it foams up and you can really see it working.

  • Chelsea June 30, 2011, 3:09 pm

    Have you heard of Lush beauty products? I’m in love with their brand and they’re mainly all natural and some are even vegan 🙂 You should check them out!

    • Natalie June 30, 2011, 4:38 pm

      Double check on the ingredients–my sister has been all about the natural beauty products for a while now (definitely longer than I have) and was using Lush for a quite a while until she realized that some of them contained parabens.

  • Katie (Sweet Tater) June 30, 2011, 3:10 pm

    ah! so timely for me. i’ve set a goal for replacing all my toiletries/cleaning supplies this year and wasn’t quite sure where to start. great post!

  • Dori June 30, 2011, 3:18 pm

    Commenting again! I wanted to add that I am in love with Tarte makeup and it works better than anything I have ever used. Worth the price. I think it is mostly natural, etc. http://tartecosmetics.com/

  • Errign June 30, 2011, 3:21 pm

    I am the same way about toothpaste! I’ve tried Tom’s but bleghhhh.

    I actually LOVE Dr. Bronner’s peppermint soap, but unfortunately at home, our water has tons of maganese in it and something in the water reacts with the soap & turned our new white shower blue (and isn’t turning back!), so we went back to less-natural options, after using Dr. Bronner’s for YEARS.

    I like Burt’s Bees stuff, Alba, Derma-E (actually LOVE the last two).

  • Julia @ Do more feel Good June 30, 2011, 3:23 pm

    Have you tried shampoo bars?! Everyone I know who has says they are great and their hair is a lot healthier. It does take a week or 2 for your hair to get used to the difference but that’s the same with any beauty product. I’m doing the same process in that when I run out of things I’m trying to switch to an organic (and plastic-free) option!

  • Natalie@fitjamericangirl June 30, 2011, 3:25 pm

    I love Dr. Bronner’s peppermint soap. I actually use it as a shampoo as well (I have dreadlocks though, so I don’t know if that’s advisable for people without locks). I also really, really love the Trader Joe’s toothpaste, I’m CRUSHED that you don’t love it (LOL, because my fiance hates it too). It reminds me of when my mom used to brush our teeth with baking soda when we were little to get our teeth extra clean. It was gross, but it works. Memories.

  • Nacho Lindsay June 30, 2011, 3:27 pm

    I LOVE that Trader Joe’s facewash. Excellent for naturally washing away nacho remnants.

  • Carolyn @ Lovin' Losing June 30, 2011, 3:29 pm

    Thanks for the reccommendations. I suggest you replace the TJs toothpaste with Burts Bees. I was getting a lot of canker sores and my dentist gave me a pamphlet about them. The major causes are heredity, wearing a mouthguard, and using toothpastes with SLS. I had the trifecta, so I decided to change my toothpaste. It took me a while to find one without SLS, but Burts Bees is awesome! My canker sores have significantly diminished in frequency.

  • Averie @ Love Veggies and Yoga June 30, 2011, 3:31 pm

    natural toothpaste…some people really like the Spry brand. Made with Xylitol. I am not a fan of natural toothpaste in general but of all of them, I like Spry the best.

    And fave natural product, Dr Bronners is great as is Method (not sure if that’s natural enough) and also EcoLever tablets for the dishwasher are great but I dont buy$$ them anymore. I use mainstream, I know, I know.

    🙂

  • Melanie June 30, 2011, 3:33 pm

    Thanks for this info..I’m going to check out that TJ’s facewash. I’ve been using some goat’s milk soap that I got from a local NC vendor at an antique show (no, the soap wasn’t antique;))…but the TJs stuff sounds like it’d be a little less harsh.

    I have no intention of leaving conventional toothpaste, though. It may be full of chemicals, but I’m not willing to risk my dental health. While natural is good, technology has definitely come a long way with dental care. Good ol’ Crest has kept me cavity free for my entire life (30 years an counting). And I’m terrified of the dentist. So I definitely don’t want to see him too much.

  • Ciera @ Rose and Thistle June 30, 2011, 3:35 pm

    I love the Dr. Bronner’s soap, I take a tiny bottle of it with me whenever I travel and it’s so convenient that it’s multipurpose.
    The Liz Earle range of stuff is awesome, it’s not all organic but it’s pretty natural and works amazingly well, I blogged about it last week. I use Burt’s Bees SPF 15 moisturizer, it’s nice and light.
    In terms of Trader Joe’s, their lavender salt scrub is amazing. No idea how natural or not it is but it smells delicious and leaves skin smooooth. 🙂

  • Keri June 30, 2011, 3:35 pm

    I really liked this post! I feel like it’s affirming-even further-some additional changes I need to make. I eat about 90% organic, try to eat unprocessed foods-mostly for my health. But the more I learn (just watched the Future of Food), the more I realize that what’s usually “health” food/product is also sustainable food/product. Maybe we can live with chemicals, but it’s better for all living things if we minimize impact. 🙂

  • Sarah June 30, 2011, 3:43 pm

    I highly recommend Jason’s toothpaste – it has the same minty-ness that Crest does. I was using Tom’s for a while and was missing the super clean feeling from the mainstream brands – I’ve found that Jason replaces them perfectly!

    Also, when I switched all my products to natural products I used vitacost.com. It has everything that like Whole Foods has in the product section but half off. (It also has a good selection of non-perishable foods and vitamins).

  • Sarah June 30, 2011, 3:52 pm

    Oh, and I meant to mention – shipping is always the same no matter how much you buy – I think it’s about $5 (perfect if you want to buy heavy products like lotions)..

  • Lindsay June 30, 2011, 3:52 pm

    I forgot to mention that I also love these products – http://www.evolutionofsmooth.com/index.html. Their chapsticks are awesome!

  • Megan @ Healthy Hoggin June 30, 2011, 3:55 pm

    I feel the same way about natural toothpaste– BLECH!!! I have yet to find a brand I love. To make things worse, I used to date a guy who SWORE by Tom’s toothpaste… and he wound up having 4 cavities! I love my Colgate Total, and have been cavity-free my whole adult life. I wish I could find a better natural one, though!

  • Sarah June 30, 2011, 4:02 pm

    We tried the Tom’s of Maine. We sort of felt the same as you but wanted to give the natural stuff a shot. When my husband when back to the dentist and had more cavities than usual, we went back to the mainstream stuff. I don’t know if it was related to the new toothpaste but it wasn’t worth it to take that chance. Since then, his teeth have been in good shape so we will probably stick with what is working. It’s been neat to read what other products people are using!!

  • Katheryn June 30, 2011, 4:06 pm

    Actually flouride is a poison. Just something to think about.

  • kristin @ wounded fawn June 30, 2011, 4:07 pm

    I like a little sweaty smell. It’s natural! It’s not like your gonna smell like that forever just until you get your next shower. When I was in Kenya a few years ago I noticed right way that even business men had noticeable body odor and not to be gross but after a few days it grew on me. I felt so comfortable in my surroundings my senses adjusted and I always think back to that how natural and free I felt while I was there!

    I kinda think it’s sexy to give the bf a big hug when he’s all sweaty/stinky from hustlin’ ! LOL

  • kristin @ wounded fawn June 30, 2011, 4:08 pm

    I also now feel inspired to talk about my favorite products! Soon!

  • Julianne June 30, 2011, 4:13 pm

    I’ve started using the oil cleaning method (OCM) for my facewash, I mix EVOO and castor oil at my bathroom sink. You can use other types of oils as well. So far its ok, but messy. Going to stick with it for a few weeks and see if I see improvement in my adult acne. Better than going to the derm and getting more meds, but right now I am in the purge stage, no fun.

  • Charlie June 30, 2011, 4:18 pm

    I use Organix coconut milk shampoo and love it, especially the smell :). But for face products, I didn’t do the switch because I have sensitive skin and it took me so long to find the right products, I just don’t want to do it again. It can be pricey too when you buy products you can’t use because you look like a lobster :P.

  • Laura June 30, 2011, 4:18 pm

    Ha, I’m laughing because I bought that exact toothpaste the other week and after one use, my boyfriend went out and bought a tube from 7-11. Yes, it’s that bad….

  • Jill Will Run June 30, 2011, 4:20 pm

    I feel EXACTLY the same about the TJ’s toothpaste. I’ve used about 1/3 of it and then I caved and bought a tube of Crest!

    I have an organic deodorant from Bubble and Bee that I tried for a while, but I just feel really uncomfortable with natural ones in the Vegas heat. I am planning a post on it soon, but perhaps it is something I just need to go over!

    I’ll have to try the TJ’s face wash sometime, maybe… I really like my Kiss My Face Olive Oil bar soap.

  • ashley@cookingforjohn June 30, 2011, 4:24 pm

    i use tom’s of maine toothpaste, and figured i’d give toms a try since most of their products are just re-labeled. i agree with you, it is awful! almost gummy?

  • Emma @ Getting There & Going Places June 30, 2011, 4:24 pm

    Isn’t it scandalous how they put awful ingredients in the products we put on our bodies?! :\

    I love all products from Lush!Their products are handmade, all natural, vegetarian or vegan even, not tested on animals and they keep the environment in mind! I love Lush! 😀

  • Erica June 30, 2011, 4:27 pm

    I haven’t read the other comments so I don’t know if someone already mentoned this but Tom’s of Maine has the BEST natural toothpaste. I bought it at Sam’s club because we wanted to switch to natural stuff, and we love it. One time we ran out and bought some Burt’s Bee’s natural toothpaste instead and HATED it. Also, I have really sensitive gums and used to ahve to use Sensodyne all the time, but my gum health and sensitivity has improved and I haven’t had a cavity in the two years since I started using it (and I used to be a two cavity a year kind of girl). So if you want to try another natural toothpaste brand, def get Tom’s of Maine!

  • Hillary June 30, 2011, 4:31 pm

    If Burt’s Bees is natural, then that is by FAR my favorite. I think I’m addicted!

  • pam c June 30, 2011, 4:36 pm

    I use 2 parts baking soda to 1 part coconut oil(it looks like a paste, sort of..lol) I keep it in a small jar and just stick my toothbrush in and get a glob..it doesn’t taste the best at first, but boy does it clean your teeth..within a couple of days, my teeth were whiter and smoother to the tongue. My toothbrush is also whiter…but, it doesn’t leave your breath with that “minty” taste, but I don’t feel like my breath has a bad smell to it anymore.

  • Jennie June 30, 2011, 4:43 pm

    When I run out of toothpaste and am too lazy to go to the store (which oddly enough happens more than I’d like to admit), baking soda and water mixed are the ideal paste. It’s the main ingredient in your chemical pastes anyway. I know it’s not natural but at least it’s only the one chemical process instead of many! Does that make any sense? Not sure If someone else mentioned this, if so sorry to repeat! Good topic! Now here is a question- how can I convince my husband to make the switch for cleaning products? He swears they don’t work as well as the chemical competitors!!! Any one have any hard evidence? it’s the only way I will convince him!

  • Erin @ Naturally Addicted June 30, 2011, 4:43 pm

    Ah! I’m so happy I’m not the only one who hates that toothpaste. I bought a tube a few weeks ago and could not even stand it. I had to go back to my normal toothpaste. It’s such a shame because I was really excited to try it out! I’m in process of switching everything too, but it really is so expensive! Trader Joe’s helps though!!

  • Annette @ EnjoyYourHealthyLife June 30, 2011, 4:48 pm

    My husband and I use an AMAZING all-natural toothpaste, called “Epic’s Xylitol.” It is amazing, with none of the ‘horrible crap.”

    I love doTERRA for their amazing natural essential oils, shampoo/conditioner, body lotion, and facial products. Cleared up our skin and hair just like ‘that’! 🙂

  • Alaina June 30, 2011, 4:50 pm

    I never really thought about buying non-food products at Trader Joe’s. I’ll have to give it a look!

  • Alexa @ Simple Eats June 30, 2011, 5:07 pm

    I’ll admit, I buy generic stuff. BUT, as I’ve been using shampoo in the shower, I notice a more chemically and perfumey smell than usual. I definitely don’t dig that. I should get with the program and get some new, natural products!

  • Katie June 30, 2011, 5:08 pm

    I’ve used Nature’s Gate before and really like it, and I just recently got really into Alba another all-natural brand. I’ve used their lotion, body wash, chapstick and shaving cream, and I really like all of them. They smell awesome and leave my skin feeling great.

    • Katie June 30, 2011, 5:22 pm

      Oh! Another beauty trick that I’m obsessssed with is apple cider vinegar. I use it as a toner, and it does amazing things for my skin – clears up zits, smooths, moisturizes, and apparently balances my pH. I use Bragg’s organic unfiltered apple cider vinegar.

  • Rachel June 30, 2011, 5:12 pm

    I’m doing the same thing you are doing, and every time something runs out I buy an organic/natural product in its place. I really like the Nature’s Gate products. I use their hand soap and body wash. The only thing I’ve ended up switching back was face medicine/wash. I’ve had horrible acne my entire life, and while in my mid/late twenties it is OK, I still get zits! (I blame my mom!) When I used Burt’s bee’s products, my skin got too oily and breakout more.
    I use Tom’s toothpaste, and while it’s not as tasty as Colgate or other brand, it isn’t bad. I would recommend it as a natural toothpaste. (I also like Tom’s deodorant).

  • Lauren June 30, 2011, 5:16 pm

    I’ve used both the Trader Joe’s facial wash and toothpaste before as well. DITTO to the disgusting toothpaste. I’m one of those people who really enjoys brushing their teeth but I couldn’t stand this stuff!

    I like the facial wash as well except I find it to be a bit too watery. For some reason, it always ended up in my eyes – ouch!

    I have a really hard time buying natural shampoo/conditioner. I find it leaves my hair dull and flat. And as bad as this is, it also does little to brighten my natural blonde hair (which needs brightened more and more as I get older and am stuck inside all the time). I’m not ready to give up the blonde locks so I think I’ll stick to my chemical-y products.

  • Cyclist Kate June 30, 2011, 5:50 pm

    The products I’m using now that I love: Avalon Organics peppermint strengthening shampoo, Avalon Organics Biotin B Complex Conditioner, Alba Botanica extra rich coconut milk hair wash, Alba Botanica daily shade spf 15 body lotion (for summer), Alba Botanica maximum dry skin body lotion (for winter–have used this for years!), Collective Well-Being hydrating gel cleanser, La Roche Posay anthelios spf 60 face liquid (okay, so not sure this is a “natural” product, but it’s the best face sunscreen I’ve ever used, hands down, and gets a decent review on the ewg site). I also have used Kuumba Made healing salve for years–it’s my secret for helping pimples heal quickly. I often also dab some apple cider vinegar on the pimple and then put on some salve. A tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a cup of warm water is also a great deep cleanser for hair. Shaklee cleaning products are my absolute fave and we’ve used Dr. Bronner’s bar soap forever in the shower. Leftover coffee grounds are a great deodorizer for the fridge and freezer. I use whatever conditioner I have in the shower as a shaving cream (great way to use up the end of one bottle when I’ve moved onto another one). I love to rub coconut oil into the ends of my hair before a bike ride or at night, then shampoo it out in the morning–great deep conditioner.

    My favorite tip overall–go to the health food store, check out what products look interesting to you, then go to makeupalley.com to look for reviews. I’ve started going to this site before buying any kind of beauty product and since then I’ve never had a flop!

  • Molly @ RDexposed June 30, 2011, 6:10 pm

    I didn’t like Tom’s either. Have you tried Burts Bees toothpaste? I love it! I usually have to use Sensidine though.

  • Dione June 30, 2011, 6:20 pm

    I would stick with toothpaste and any tooth products recommended by your American Dental Association (I’m Canadian so I use CDA approved products). I’m just not willing to trust my dental heath to something that obviously doesn’t work anyways! Colgate, Crest, and Oral B for me all the way:)

  • Robin June 30, 2011, 6:37 pm

    Dr. Bronner’s is the best. I love the smell!

    I haven’t found any good toothpaste, either. I am getting ideas from some of the comments.

    Good topic!

  • Amanda June 30, 2011, 6:43 pm

    I had a horrible reaction to Tom’s of Maine toothpaste and ended up with crusty gross lips, so now I only use tarter control colgate. But I try and use natural products otherwise. I haven’t found a shampoo and conditioner that works for my hair yet though.

  • Amber @ I Heart Colorado June 30, 2011, 7:01 pm

    I LOVE Tom’s toothpaste! I am extremely obsessed with my dental care, and Tom’s toothpaste is the best natural toothpaste I have come across. My dentist (and zero cavities!) agree. 🙂

    I will definitely have to try Dr. Brommer’s. So many bloggers have commented that it’s the best. I’m convinced! Thanks for this post! It can be really difficult to find a natural product that works as well as “regular” products, but without all the nasty fillers.

  • Michelle @ Turning Over a New Leaf June 30, 2011, 7:06 pm

    Thanks for this! I’m working on transitioning to all natural toiletries and home cleaners. I’m actually allergic to Tide laundry detergent (get major neck-to-toe hives!), and random hand soaps and surface cleaners (ie. whatever they use to wash my desk at work irritates my skin!). I figure if something topical like that can have such an affect on my skin, surely things are seeping into my skin that I’m not outright noticing! That just can’t be healthy!

    I also noticed that my skin started clearing up when I started using less stuff on it. I quit using the salicylic acid stuff I’d been using for 10 years, and while my skin isn’t completely clear (I’ve had stubborn acne since elementary school), it’s much, much better.

    I still don’t know what to do about deodorant though. I break a sweat just looking around the house for my keys, and it’s always been that way. I use Certain Dri and Dove deodorant on top of that. Dove is the only OTC deodorant that works for any length of time whatsoever on me, and I’ve used the heavy mens’ stuff before, and even the Dove isn’t totally reliable. Maybe I’ll do some research on that!

  • Allison @ Happy Tales June 30, 2011, 7:10 pm

    Ohhhh this is such an eye-opening post! I am just now trying to find a sunscreen w/o crazy chemicals in it that protect against both UVB AND UVA rays!! What kind of sunscreen do you use???

  • maria @ Chasing the Now June 30, 2011, 7:23 pm

    I use tea tree oil on my blemishes. It takes a little longer to clear them up than non-natural alternatives, but its supposed to actually work better overall.

  • Amykinz @ Foodie 4 Healing June 30, 2011, 7:27 pm

    “I’ve never really worn deodorant for exercise – my entire body is sweaty and smelly, who cares if my armpits are super sweaty and smelly?” ~That is totally true!

    Here are my favorite products:
    Shampoo & Conditioner: Intelligent Nutrients or Onesta (I HATE Hugo Naturals!)
    Kids’ Bubble Bath & Shampoo: California Baby
    Deodorant: Ban Unscented (works SUPER good, except on extra hot days-like in the 90’s)
    Face Care: Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing System (minus the Antioxidant Serum)

    *I use a lot of the Premier Research Labs nutrition supplements & love them, so I’ve been thinking about trying out their natural personal products, too. I also want to try out the Paula’s Choice shampoo & conditioner.

  • Gracie (complicated day) June 30, 2011, 7:43 pm

    If you can find Peelu powder (not paste), it get the teeth amazingly clean! I love it!

  • Emily @ Comfortable Home Life June 30, 2011, 7:49 pm

    I LOVE Tom’s toothpaste. I have chronic canker sores and while Tom’s doesn’t fully cure them, it definitely cuts down on the pain and duration of the canker sore. I’ve never really felt like my teeth aren’t getting clean with Tom’s, but then again I floss like a maniac. I felt a bit like you the other day when I booked my first dentist appointment in something like three years. I’m dreading how many cavities they’re going to find!

  • Miranda @ Working Mom Works Out June 30, 2011, 7:58 pm

    I use Nature’s Gate Conditioner and I like it. Also, for curly hair homemade flax seed gel is the bomb. Google it for instructions on how to make it.

  • melissa June 30, 2011, 8:11 pm

    Does anyone suffer form hormonal acne that has found a good skin care/ vitamin regimen that has made a difference in clearing up their skin?

  • Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin June 30, 2011, 8:47 pm

    Thanks for all that info about the chemicals to avoid! I don’t really use any natural beauty products, but seeing that list + all the harmful effects is making me really want to make the switch.

  • Liz June 30, 2011, 8:48 pm

    I could not agree more with the toothpaste. It’s horrible. Whenever I go to my in-laws I HAVE to remember to bring my own, they only ever have the natural stuff. I really like the baking soda toothpastes. I have no idea if it is better but I tell myself it is… Haha.

  • Theresa June 30, 2011, 9:31 pm

    Beauty Society all the way!!!

  • Michelle... June 30, 2011, 9:59 pm

    My favorite is tea tree oil spray for my face after washing it. I used to use benzoyl peroxide (prescribed for acne before it was available over the counter), but aside from clearing up my skin, I HATED it. If I got too much sun, I didn’t get the usual dryness or a little peeling, instead I looked like a leper! My skin would literally flake off. And on top of that, I’d use it in the morning after I showered, and then go to make my bed and ended up ruining my duvet cover with bleach marks. So glad I discovered tea tree oil.

  • Karen June 30, 2011, 10:00 pm

    I use Tom’s of Maine all the time now. I don’t miss regular toothpaste at all.
    I just can’t see knowingly using a product in my mouth/on my mucous membranes that contains saccharin which is a KNOWN CARCINOGEN.

    I get any of Tom’s paste that’s spearmint flavored (I try to avoid the gel). Try it again!

  • Jennie June 30, 2011, 10:48 pm

    Forgot to mention: Great website! See the HARM in products!

    http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/

  • Reenie June 30, 2011, 11:17 pm

    Caitlin….one of the reasons I love your blog is…. all the comments and input everyone has. =)

    xo

  • Kelsey June 30, 2011, 11:22 pm

    I use baking soda/water and apple cider vinegar/water as my shampoo and conditioner. I have been using this combo for 6 months now and my hair feels so much cleaner than before! There is a brief adjustment period for the scalp, but now that I have gotten through that my hair is less oily than it was before. Plus, it is way cheaper than shampoo and conditioner.
    I would also recommend Tom’s of Maine toothpaste. Some flavors don’t contain fluoride (which is why I like them) and they work just as well as any other toothpaste. Plus, I just have a soft spot for that company 🙂

  • Dynamics June 30, 2011, 11:56 pm

    Crystal Stick Body Deodorant. A solid stick of natural mineral salts and ammonium alum, completely free of perfumes and chemicals. It leaves an invisible protective barrier against odor-causing bacteria, and is guaranteed to last over a year of daily use. This stick is amazing and only six bucks.

  • Christina July 1, 2011, 12:21 am

    It is super-irritating how many “natural” products have SLS. I’m glad to see your list and I will definitely check those things out. I bought Tom’s of Maine toothpaste and didn’t even think to check and it has SLS!

  • Jamie July 1, 2011, 1:02 am

    I used coconut oil on my face and hair overnight. Use Angela’s glow scrub as a face wash, and use diluted apple cider vinegar as conditioner. I’m all about natural!! I have pretty long, thick hair so I was hesitant about the vinegar but my scalp feels so clean and my hair is so soft!

  • mi-an d. July 1, 2011, 3:08 am

    http://www.cosmeticdatabase.com is a good website that provides the level of carcinogenicity of beauty products. check it out!
    i love using natural beauty products…except for toothpaste and deo’s. tried them, just didn’t like them. but i like to wash my hair everyday..can’t stand sweaty hair so i use shikai gentle hair wash and conditioner. also have tried suki, mychelle, derma-e beauty products…love them all but if i have to pick one, it would be suki (pricey but so worth it!). all can be found in wf’s.

  • Aine @ Something to Chew Over July 1, 2011, 5:06 am

    I have really sensitive skin so I have to be careful on what I use. I like to use ingredients from the kitchen for my beauty regime, like making my own face masks and body scrubs. Olive oil and sugar make a great exfoliator!

  • Halley (Blunder Construction) July 1, 2011, 8:38 am

    I heard that the bubbling/foaming in toothpaste is an added reaction, because we like feeling that tingling, clean sensation! The natural brands don’t add anything, because it’s not actually necessary. It’s all in your head!

  • Liza @ Health Nutting July 1, 2011, 8:55 am

    I just bought a shampoo by that same brand and I LOVE it! I really want to get more into natural beauty products.

  • Nicole (Earth Based Beauty) July 1, 2011, 9:22 am

    I love rock deodorants! When I first started using them I sweat and smelled a lot but after a while my body got used to it and now they work great, unless I’m exercising, but like you said… everything else is stank, who cares!? My husband and I both love Kiss My Face’s toothpaste (he’s a tough critic!).

  • Cait @ Urban Fencepost July 1, 2011, 10:54 am

    My favorite natural product is witch hazel (I use T.N. Dickinson brand). I use it a couple times a day as an astringent and my skin has never been better. It has a lot of uses – acne, skin irritations and bruises, eczema, sunburn, swelling, bug bites, under-eye bags, etc.

  • Amber K July 1, 2011, 12:39 pm

    I pretty much have to use all-natural products. My body tends to freak out and break into a rash if wants to react to some weird chemical. I use a lot of J/A/S/O/N products and foods like coconut oil and apple cider vinegar. Although, I’ve yet to find a good laundry detergent that I can afford. So I’ve been sticking to the hypoallergenic ones I can find.

  • Crystal July 1, 2011, 1:05 pm

    I love Jason Powersmile toothpaste. It’s really pepperminty and I feel clean after I use it. Honestly, after years of using natural toothpaste, I can’t stand the chemical-y taste of “regular.” I also swish with Jason mouthwash, which helps my mouth feel so fresh and so clean.

    My favorite natural product is baking soda! I wash my hair with it and then use apple cidar vinegar for conditioner. Super cheap.

  • Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca) July 1, 2011, 1:21 pm

    I love Live Clean shampoo and conditioner. Paraban and SLS free but leaves my hair feeling just as soft and smooth as the chemical stuff.

  • Sara @ OurDogBuffy July 1, 2011, 2:08 pm

    I did something similar a year ago, switching to only natural products and it got kind of expensive and I missed some of my other products. So I just use the most natural that I can find and afford and some of the items I stick with what I love–like toothpaste. Colgate Total rocks. We tried the natural toothpastes and it didn’t work for me. I know it does for some people, but not for me. My husband hated it and he insists I had extra cavities during the period we used it.

  • Jenne July 1, 2011, 3:42 pm

    I have tried just about every kind of natural flouride free toothpaste available in Canada. My absolute fave, hands down is Jason: Healthy Mouth tea tree & cinnamon…super sudsy, best flavour and my teeth feel clean all day. Anything Jason is usually good texture-wise, but some flavors don’t feel fresh for long. Toms is okay, but I feel like I need to brush my teeth every few hours b/c the clean feeling goes away so quickly. I’ve also tried Green Beaver, which tasted so bad and the texture was so pasty I actually threw up, same goes for some Australian brand with a Koala on it, made me throw up. I’m sticking with Jason, even if toms is a couple bucks cheaper!!!

  • Abby July 1, 2011, 9:24 pm

    I love the Body Shop’s body wash for earth lovers. Right now I have the apricot basil scent I think. It smells amazing! 🙂 Mrs. Meyer’s Basil hand soap is also one of my favorites!

  • Laura @ Cookies vs. Carrots July 1, 2011, 10:01 pm

    Thanks for the suggestions! I’ve been trying to move to more natural beauty products. I tried going off shampoo a while back, and used water mixed with baking soda for about a month, but once summer hit, I needed my shampoo back!

  • cat July 2, 2011, 4:08 pm

    i’ve literally tried every natural deodorant on the market, and i finally settled on arm and hammer essentials natural deodorant (in the “fresh” scent) about a year ago. it’s not ENTIRELY natural, but at least there’s no aluminum, and i promise it works. my boyfriend has switched over to it as well and it even works on his smelly man pits!

  • Jenifer July 2, 2011, 9:29 pm

    Love the Nature’s Gate conditioner!! I have oily roots with dryish ends, so I get the Aloe Vera one. It smells good and makes my hair feel great!! Not a super big fan of their body wash… it doesn’t suds up too well.

  • Kim @ Life Analytical July 2, 2011, 10:51 pm

    I need to try that Trader Joe’s face wash! For toothpaste I love the Tom’s Wicked Fresh.

  • SARAH W. July 3, 2011, 1:11 am

    my other fav natural products are:

    jojoba oil – from Trader Joe’s – I use this to remove eye makeup – works wonders and moisturizes too!

    witch hazel – use as toner on skin

    tea trea oil – from Tj’s, I place a drop on a damp cotton round and rub on any blemishes that may pop up.

    I’m disappointed about polyethelyne glycol but it keeps my colon happy via miralax so I’m not sure what to do about that….

    i use toms or tj’s natural deodorant on a daily basis but on really really really hot days, i use clinical secret. i hate sweating and i tend to sweat alot on these 90+ degree days. it is what it is and in moderation 😉 I haven’t been too pleased with toms or tj’s so i’m looking forward to trying kiss my face liquid rock!! thanks for the rec!

  • lauri (redheadrecipes.com) July 3, 2011, 6:29 pm

    I am absolutely obsessed with gilchrist and soalmes sprout out shampoo & conditioner! My hair has never felt (or smelled) better!!

  • Maria July 5, 2011, 7:06 pm

    I love this post! I am trying to do the same thing..replace as I run out. The one thing that I have been really stuck on is makeup. What do you use (or anyone in the comments) or recommend for natural makeup?

    • CaitlinHTP July 6, 2011, 11:14 am

      I use Bare Minerals but I’m not sure how healthy it is. I know Juice Beauty has some good lipgloss, maybe their makeup is nice, too?

  • Jean July 5, 2011, 9:48 pm

    Great post. I have been using Living Nature skin care and make-up products – they are certified 100% natural with no synthetic preservatives – and are fantastic. I bought them on the web, but a friend told me you can get them here. Highly recommended.

  • Holly @ Food, Make-up, Hair July 15, 2011, 11:22 am

    If you want a truly natural cleaner for your teeth, you need to stop ingesting toothpastes with fluoride. It is not good for you and has many bad side-effects. I use an all natural tooth and gum powder called Good-Gums. I’ve been using this for about 8 months now and at my last dentist appointment the hygienist couldn’t believe how little plaque I had. Read the info on their website, it lists the many benefits and it’s truly all natural.

  • mariqia July 16, 2011, 8:06 pm

    Hi, maybe you should try the Himalay Herbals dental cream..i love it.

  • Kristin August 4, 2011, 5:18 pm

    HI!!! How do you think Neutrogena Naturals product line falls in the safe/natural category??http://naturals.neutrogena.com/products
    is it really better or just a scam?

  • Breanne June 6, 2012, 1:20 pm

    I know it’s an old post, but I stumbled on it after today’s deodorant talk. I use that same shampoo (and the conditioner)… I love them both, especially given how often I have to wash my hair (multiple gym sessions in a day).

  • Jenny June 12, 2013, 10:38 am

    What do you use for laundry soap? I’m looking for something really natural to use on my family’s clothing.

  • Susan November 29, 2013, 11:26 pm

    I like Nature’s Gate toothpaste!

  • natural July 21, 2014, 3:51 am

    Great post. I was checking constantly this blog and I’m inspired!

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  • Rebecca October 8, 2014, 4:47 pm

    When you wear makeup, which products do you use?

    • Caitlin October 8, 2014, 4:50 pm

      I don’t wear any really natural brands – a mix of Stila and Bare Minerals and Mac. I do think Anne from fannestasticfood.com has been experimenting with natural makeup so she may be a good resource!

  • Christina November 26, 2014, 10:42 pm

    If you hate a product you tried at Trader Joe’s they’re really nice about taking it back and refunding your money, even if you don’t have the receipt. I guess if your objection is to wasting resources, that doesn’t solve it, but if you’re nervous about trying something because it’ll waste your money, don’t be!
    I love the TJ’s tea tree oil face wash too.

  • Aisha Said July 28, 2015, 11:04 pm

    Does anyone know of more natural moisturizers for dry to normal skin, maybe that could work in conjunction with the Dessert Essence Face wash or TJ face wash? Any help is greatly appreciated (:

  • Tiffanie of Truly Skrumptious September 4, 2015, 2:50 am

    I love the Trader Joe’s toothpaste with licorice. I too had been disappointed over and over…until this one! http://www.amazon.com/Trader-Joes-Antiplaque-Toothpaste-Propolis/product-reviews/B004GYM90A Only $2 at the store. And we LOVE our salt crystal deodorant. We live in a HOT climate year round, and it works and lasts!! http://www.amazon.com/Naturally-Fresh-Deodorant-Crystal-Oz/dp/B005P0WRLU

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