Like most conventional cosmetics, body lotion can contain a number of synthetic chemicals that have been linked to everything from cancers to hormone disruption to birth defects to skin or eye irritation. Not so pretty.
Highly scented lotions likely contain synthetic fragrance, which the Environmental Working Group deems a high hazard due to its links to allergies, dermatitis, respiratory distress, and potential effects on the reproductive system. Natural versions perfumed with essential oils are a safer bet. While cream formulations vary brand to brand, they tend also to be made with parabens and multiple controversial petroleum-derived ingredients.
Be especially careful with conventional lotions that claim to make you look younger, tan your skin, contain sunscreen, or be antibacterial; the chemicals in all these tend to be particularly suspect.
If your current lotion doesn’t have natural or organic certification, look it up on the on the Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep Cosmetics Database or the GoodGuide. If it turns out to be too risky to wear, replace it with one that scores better and contains natural, organic, or biodynamic ingredients.
Not available in your drug store? Check natural product stores and online.
You can also use safe food grade organic oils like safflower, coconut, or olive as moisturizer. Buy one just for the bathroom or your vinaigrette may suffer.
An enriched moisturizing lotion made with Biodynamic sea buckthorn oil. It’s perfect for revitalizing your skin after a bath or following damaging exposure to the sun.
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