Chemicals. They’re everywhere! From our food to our beauty products. And while I understand that there is a place for them, if I can find safe alternatives, I usually always at least  try them out. But I will be the first to admit that some labels claiming natural, organic, vegan, paraben-free just aren’t as effective as their counterparts. So I’ve rounded up a list of my absolute favorite beauty and skin care products that are 100% natural and effective!

1. Epsom Salt

Not technically a salt, Epsom Salt is a naturally occurring pure mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate. And it has countless health benefits. Magnesium is such an important mineral as it regulates more than 300 enzymes in the body and plays an important role in almost every bodily function. Magnesium facilitates the body’s use of calcium, relieves inflammation, helps regulate electrolytes in the body (hello, hangover cure!), increases the effectiveness of insulin use in the body, relieves stress by promoting the production of serotonin, eliminates harmful toxins and the list goes on!

Since our skin is highly porous, by adding the right minerals to bathwater a process called reverse osmosis is triggered, which pulls salt and harmful toxins out of our body. And because magnesium is readily absorbed through the skin, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a relaxing bath while  replenishing the level of magnesium in the body. I am always making my family take epsom salt baths anytime they are having trouble sleeping, have any aches or pains or are fighting a cold.

2. Zinc Oxide Sunscreen

For a full breakdown of sunscreen and what to look for, check out this informative post on everything you need to know about choosing a sunscreen. Zinc Oxide sunscreen offers protection from UVA and UVB rays which other chemicals don’t. Which basically means a lot less damage to our skin and better protection from the damaging (and aging) effects of the sun.

3. Lavender Oil

If you live in warm climates (or travel to them) repelling mosquitos is super important. I tried many products but I was trying to avoid chemicals. When I almost gave up on natural options, my Young Living rep suggested I try lavender oil. And it is truly the best mosquito repellent I’ve tried (sans the harmful chemicals). I dilute it with a carrier oil like olive oil or coconut oil or mix it in a spray bottle with grain alcohol (Everclear) and just toss it in my handbag. But repelling mosquitos isn’t the only benefit of Lavender oil; it also reduces stress, improves sleep and of course and smells lovely!

4. Coconut Oil

We always stock up on coconut oil. Unless you’ve been living under a rock you’ve likely heard of its many antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. I use it for cooking, drink it in our coffee, moisturize with it and even use it as a hair mask. But one of my favorite uses for it is oil pulling. If you’ve never heard of this, its basically like using it as mouth wash. By swishing a tablespoon in your mouth, the coconut oil detoxifies and pulls toxins out. Coconut oil pulling is one of the best ways to remove bacteria and promote healthy teeth and gums. In fact, it’s more effective than flossing and naturally whitens your teeth. Be sure to look for unrefined, cold-pressed oil as this ensure that all of the antioxidant effects remain in the oil.

5. Indian Healing Clay

Bentonite clay consists of volcanic ash. This healing clay has a high concentration of minerals including silica, calcium, magnesium, sodium, iron, and potassium. It also absorbs and removes toxins, heavy metals, impurities, and chemicals (which is why it’s great to add to a bath). Bentonite clay is unique due to its ability to produce an electrical charge when hydrated. When it contacts with fluid its electrical components change, creating a strong negative charge which bonds to the positive charge in heavy metals and toxins. There are so many ways to use bentonite clay; you can use it as a face mask to clear many skin issues, soak in a warm bath mixed with it (and epsom salt!) to draw out toxins, drink it to strengthen your immune system.

6. Mineral Deodorant

Mineral deodorant contains one single ingredient – pure mineral salt! It works great at preventing odor and is completely free of harmful forms of aluminum. There’s also no residue, no staining, no white marks. You simply moisten this salt rock and then rub on your underarms. It is so effective and lasts months and months!

7. Body Deli Moisturizer

I am a huge fan of The Body Deli. Not only are their products full of super good stuff for my skin, they also smell amazing. And one of my favorite products is the Melon Peptide Creme Gel. This hydrating and anti-inflammatory moisturizer is jam-packed with antioxidants and made 100% from natural ingredients. I have friends with dry, combination and oily skin that use this product and all love it.

8. Menstrual Cup

This is a new discovery for me. I had been searching for feminine products that didn’t include all of the chemicals. And through my research I learned about menstrual cups. If you’ve never heard about them, they’re essentially reusable silicone cups. You’re completely eliminating waste as they are reusable and they can last inserted for up to 12 hours. I will admit that there is a bit of a learning curve but Put a Cup In It offers so many resources and informative videos. I love using it when I travel because I don’t have to worry about packing a box of tampons or pads!

9. Jade Facial Roller

Jade facial rollers increase circulation and drain congested lymph nodes. I absolutely love this little tool as it helps with puffiness. Though jade rollers are more common in American now, but they have been used in China since the 17th century. I love keeping mine in the freezer and massaging it into my face in the mornings for a cool, refreshing facial massage.

10. Water

It doesn’t get more natural than good ol’ H20. Drinking water is absolutely the best thing you could do for your skin and your body. 60% of our our bodies are made up of water and we need for just about everything! It aids in digestion, absorption, circulation, transportation of nutrients, and regulation of body temperature. Since our bodies use so much water everyday, it is important to replenish it. The best way to ensure you always have water is to carry around an insulated bottle water.

What natural products do you love? I am always looking for ways to eliminate waste and chemicals from my life.