Diet, regular exercise, and getting enough sleep are probably the first things that come to mind when you consider making changes for a healthier lifestyle. However, it's important to remember that the hygiene and personal care products you use on a daily basis also have an impact on both your short- and long-term health.
You might be asking why it's even necessary to replace things that previous generations have used for years, but technology has allowed us to learn more about products and the components they contain. Many of the substances in the everyday goods we buy from our neighborhood grocery and drugstores have been connected to a number of health issues, including cancer, allergies, skin rashes, and reproductive disorders.
The good news is that switching to natural products doesn't have to happen overnight, despite how frightening it may seem at first. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, you can start the transfer one product at a time and at your own speed. Consider this a fun learning experience that will leave you satisfied with the fresh, constructive changes you are implementing.
Research
The first step is to educate yourself on clean products and ingredients or materials that you might want to avoid. Take a second look at the hard to pronounce ingredients in your vitamins, period products, and body washes. What do they do? Are there harmful impacts to you or the environment that might be worth switching over to a more natural option? Look out for Sulfate, Titanium Dioxide, and even Fragrances that might irritate your skin and body.
What products do you actually use?
No need to go buy every clean product on the shelf, it's important to switch products that work best for YOU and decide which ones to prioritize. Read reviews to make sure products are effective, and look for non-toxic labeling. Making a product list can help you make changes step by step rather than throwing away everything you own and spending a ton of money on products that you won't even use.
Start with one or two products
Narrowing down which products are most relevant or important to you might be the best option to start your shift to better products. Have you found that using Vagisil or Summer's Eve is causing vulva and skin irritation? Try a more natural & cleaner brand and think about adding menstrual health supplements to proactive tackle UTI's and Yeast infections. Is your laundry detergent making your skin itchy because it has too much fragrance? Try switching to a clear and free label that is great for sensitive skin and better for your clothes in the long run.
Buying locally or product conscious
Sometimes local community stores with have small and more health conscious products. Although some of these might be more expensive, the benefits for your skin and well-being might be worth the extra dollars. If that isn't in your budget, do your research on mission-based companies that keep you and your well-being in mind when formulating their products. Lots of brands are choosing to go green and more conscious due to the harmful effects of toxic products on us and our planet.
Find what works best for you
There might be a trial and error process, but eventually you should hopefully land on your new favorite products that keep your skin and body healthy & happy. Consider all products in your life - from cleaning to menstrual health to sexual wellness products, even changing out a few of these can make a big difference in your life.
