We are bombarded with flashy packaging, enticing ads and promises of “perfect” skin. What lies below the surface of these products, though? Many products contain harmful chemicals which can cause more harm than benefit to our skin and environment.
More and more people choose to use chemical-free products and skincare made from natural ingredients. This guide will explore the benefits and how to choose a good product. We’ll also share some of our favourite brands that you can try.
What is a Non-Toxic body wash?
Unfortunately, the term “nontoxic” is not protected. This means that cosmetic products can be used freely. It’s used for body washes which avoid harmful chemicals and use more natural ingredients.
Benefits of Chemical-free Bodywash
Chemical-free body washes can have many benefits for your skin as well as the environment. These benefits include:
1. Healthier Skin
Body washes without chemicals are made from natural ingredients, which are gentle on the skin and nourish it. These body washes are free of harsh chemicals which can dry out the skin or cause irritation. They are perfect for those with sensitive skin, or who suffer from allergies or skin conditions.
2. Environmental friendliness
Chemical-free body wash is made from biodegradable, eco-friendly and non-toxic ingredients. The packaging is recyclable or compostable, which reduces their environmental impact.
3. Cruelty-free and Vegan
Companies that adhere to sustainable and ethical practices produce many chemical-free body wash products. These products are usually cruelty-free, and they do not contain animal by-products or products. They’re a good choice for vegans and those who support an ethical and sustainable industry.
The Chemicals in Traditional Body Wash
The chemicals in traditional body wash can be harmful to your skin and the environment. Here are the most common chemicals that can be found in body washes.
Sulfates
In body washes, sulphates act as foaming agents. They can, however, strip your skin of its natural oils and cause irritation.
Fragrances
Body washes are scented to make them smell nice. These fragrances may contain chemicals that can irritate the skin or allergies.
Parabens
Body washes contain parabens as a preservative to increase their shelf-life. They have been linked with hormone disruption and can mimic the effects of estrogen in the human body.
Phthalates
As a plasticizer, phthalates are used in many body washes. They have been linked with hormone disruption, and they can harm reproductive health.
Triclosan
Triclosan, an antimicrobial agent, is commonly used in body wash. It has been associated with endocrine disruptors and could contribute to the growth of bacteria resistant to antibiotics.
Alternatives to Chemical-based Body Wash
1. Natural and Organic Bodywash
These body washes contain all-natural, organic ingredients like aloe vera and coconut oil. They also include essential oils. These ingredients are gentle on the skin, and they do not contain harmful chemicals. They make a great alternative to chemical-based body wash.
2. DIY Body Wash
Natural ingredients can be used to make your body wash. The recipes usually call for a liquid soap base, carrier oil, and essential oils. You can save money by making your body wash. It also allows you control over the ingredients, and to customize the scent.
Choose A Chemical-free Bodywash
There are some things you should keep in mind when looking for a chemical-free, high-quality body wash. It is crucial to know the ingredients in the product. Check that the product does not contain harmful chemicals like parabens or sulphates. These chemicals may cause skin damage and adverse health effects.
Is “Non-Toxic Natural” the Same as “Nontoxic”?
The terms “natural” and “nontoxic” are sometimes used interchangeably. However, they mean two completely different things. It’s possible for something to be non-toxic but not 100% natural, and vice versa.
We bring up this topic because we want credit for the fact that many non-toxic brands of body wash still use synthetics. This is because synthetic versions of ingredients are sometimes easier to obtain ethically or they are less irritating for sensitive skin.
Search for natural ingredients
Select a body wash that contains natural ingredients, such as coconut oil or essential oils. These ingredients are mild on the skin and offer many benefits. Coconut oil and aloe have moisturizing qualities that leave your skin feeling soft, smooth and rejuvenated.
Verify Certifications
Check for certifications like USDA Organic, Leaping Bunny or Ecocert. These certifications ensure that the product was produced with sustainable methods, and is free of harmful chemicals.
Following these tips will help you choose a chemical-free, high-quality body wash that’s good for the environment and your skin.
Use chemical-free body wash
A chemical-free body wash is an excellent way to protect your skin from harsh chemicals. Here are a few tips on how to get the most from your chemical-free wash.
1. Please read the ingredients before using.
It’s vital to read the ingredient list when shopping for a chemical-free body wash. You should look for products with natural ingredients, such as aloe vera and coconut oil. Avoid products that are made with harsh chemicals such as sulphate parabens and synthetic fragrances.
2. The right amount
Too little body wash can cause irritation and dryness, while too much can be ineffective. You can adjust the amount of body wash according to your skin type and preferences.
3. Rinse well
Rinse your skin well after using a chemical-free body wash. Although these products don’t foam or lather as much as other body washes do, they still work. Rinse thoroughly to remove any product that may cause irritation or drying.
4. Store properly
Keep your chemical-free product in a dry, cool place out of direct sunlight. Heat and light exposure can degrade the natural ingredients over time. This reduces the effectiveness of the product.
What Is a Chemical-Free Wash?
There is no chemical-free body wash. Even water is made up of chemical compounds. The term “chemical-free”, however, is used to describe a product that is free from harmful chemical compounds.
Brands of Body Washes that are Non-Toxic, Eco-Friendly and Safe
1. Salt and Stone Bodywash
This refreshing gel cleanser has a variety of benefits, including antioxidants, sea botanicals, and ingredients that are naturally hydrating. While cleansing, softening and soothing to restore the drying effects caused by outdoor activities, wind, sea and sun.
Ingredients
Blueberry extract & Vitamin C – Antioxidants have been shown to combat free radicals that are introduced to the skin through sun exposure. They also boost collagen production, preventing signs of aging and strengthening the skin’s defences.
Niacinamide – Also known as Vitamin B3, this substance is very effective at creating a healthy, stronger skin barrier and improving the texture of your skin.
Hyaluronic acid — This water-loving molecule is known for its ability to attract and retain 1000x its weight in moisture. After cleansing, the skin will be soft.
Probiotics – Natural fermentations that balance your skin’s microbiome to maintain a healthy amount of bacteria and strengthen the skin barrier from the effects of sweating or activity.
2. Pure Peace Body Wash by Method
- Includes (1) 28-ounce bottle of Gel Liquid Body Soap.
- Pink sea salt and rosewater infused with peony.
- Formula made from plant-based cleaners.
- No parabens or phthalates.
- Leaves skin feeling moisturized plus smelling scent-national.
- Bottle made from 80% recycled plastic.
3. Everyone 3-in-1 Body Wash, Bubble Bath and Shampoo
- Includes: (2) 32 oz 100% recycled plastic bottles of Everyone 3in1 Mint and Citrus Soap. You may receive either bottle for a limited period while we upgrade our packaging. New Look, Same Great Products
- Scent: Every 3in1 Citrus & Mint Soap combines the uplifting brightness of orange essential oil with the calming alertness of peppermint, and the zen-like calm of lavender to create a balanced and well-rounded clean.
- Use: Our 3-in-1 Soap will refresh you and your entire family from head to foot. The cooling, refreshing scent of pure peppermint essential oil combined with the bright, uplifting citrus burst will refresh your skin and hair.
- Clean Promise: Every 3in1 soap is EWG-verified, GMO-free, cruelty-free, gluten-free, synthetic fragrance-free and triclosan-free.
- Zero Waste Mission: We diverted 90% of our waste in 2019 from landfills. Our packaging is made of recycled material. Our packaging is always 100% recyclable.
4. Aveeno Skin Relief Fragrance-Free Body Wash
- Aveeno Skin Relief Fragrance-Free body wash for sensitive skin. Triple Oat formula soothes and moisturizes dry, itchy skin.
- This daily body wash contains a soothing Triple Oat Blend made from oat flour and oat extract to effectively cleanse and soothe itchy and dry skin.
- From the dermatologist-recommended skincare brand for over 70 years, the dry skin body wash is suitable for daily use. The moisturizing body washes are rated 91% by users as gentle and effective in cleansing their skin.
- This dermatologist-recommended skin relief body wash is allergy-tested and designed for sensitive skin. This gentle body wash contains no sulphates or fragrances, nor parabens. It is also dye-free and free from soap.
- This sensitive skin body wash soothes dry, itchy skin and can be used as part of a daily skincare regimen. Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing lotion is recommended after cleansing to lock in moisture.
5. The Every Man Jack Mens Bodywash with Red Sage and Cedar for All Skin Types
- SMELL-LIKE CEDAR SAWDUST: The aroma of Cedar is combined with the herbaceous scents of Red Sage. Spices are masked by a rugged, peppery finish.
- MOISTURE MEAN STRENGTH: Achieve a deep cleanse and gentle hydration using ingredients derived from nature.
- More than 5 MILLION men trust this product: Born in the foothills of Mt. Tam, CA. B Corp Certified and proudly made in America. Millions of men around the world love this product.
- NATURALLY DERIVED INGREDIENTS: Coconut-derived glycerin and Surfactants are packed with the deep cleaning and moisturizing ingredients you need without harsh or irritating chemicals.
- The Dream Team: We have everything you need, from body lotions to beard oils, and deodorants to lotions. You can stick with the same scent for all products or you can mix and match.