Fragrances, additives in detergents, cleaning products, and beauty products can affect the natural function of hormones in our bodies. Hormone disruption can interfere with normal healing and can affect various metabolic functions in our bodies. Because of the far-reaching effects of hormone disruption, this often is a topic of discussion with our patients at Rebalance Physical Therapy.
There are several ways that you can reduce the load of chemicals and irritants that contribute to hormone disruption in your everyday routine. One way is to look for natural personal hygiene products, cleaning products, and cosmetics. Whether you are purchasing something as a gift or want to make some healthy changes in your life, we have listed below a few “clean” beauty and personal care options for you:
Links for natural beauty products:
https://www.byrdie.com/best-natural-perfumes
https://www.allure.com/gallery/best-natural-organic-makeup-brand
Links for sustainable cleaning products and essential oils for everyday use:
Blueland products
https://www.blueland.com/
https://www.treehugger.com/best-organic-essential-oils-5116757
DIY: Hand and Body Lotion
Below is a recipe for natural body lotion. This DIY recipe is great if you want to know exactly what is going into your hand and body lotion. This can also make a great gift!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons beeswax pellet
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup almond oil
- 1/4 cup jojoba oil
- 3/4 cup distilled water
- 3/4 cup aloe
- 1 teaspoon lecithin
- 20-40 drops of essential oil of choice— for example, lavender can be calming, peppermint can be energizing
Directions
- 1. Using a heat-safe glass bowl, combine the beeswax and oils.
- 2. Place the glass bowl on top of a saucepan filled with partially distilled water over medium heat. Stir until combined
- 3. In a separate saucepan, combine the water with aloe and heat gently.
- 4. All lecithin to the oil mixture. Stir and cool to room temperature. Once it is room temperature or slightly above room temperature or if the mixture is cloudy, combine with the water and aloe. Don’t let the oil mixture solidify.
- 5. Using a whisk, slowly whip the water and the aloe mixture into the oil mixture.
- 6. You should also mix by hand until smooth and well combined. Then add the essential oil.
- 7. Spoon the mixture into a jar that you can seal and place in the fridge for up to 4 weeks.
This recipe can be made with aloe if desired.
You can also try different oils in combination, depending on your own skin needs. In addition to the above, cocoa butter, and even refined mango butter will work well.
Vitamin E oil can be used, but it must be added to the cooled oil mixture.
You can also whip the recipe in a blender, with a hand mixer, or with an immersion blender. Be careful to ensure that the oils have completely cooled (still liquid form) before placing in the blender cup or mixing bowl. Slowly add the water mixture into the oil mixture with the blender on medium/low and blend until smooth.
Written by Stephanie Muntzer, MPT, PYT, RYT200, CPI, SFMA, FMSc
