Get Ready for Dry Skin Season with These Clean Beauty Body Moisturizers

If you’re looking to replace just one personal care or beauty product with a cleaner, non-toxic version, body lotion is a great place to start. It covers a large portion of your body and it sits on your bare skin all day so it’s important, given those circumstances, that the ingredients are safe! Yes, it’s entirely possible that some of the ingredients in body lotions can permeate the epidermis and enter your bloodstream. Yes, it’s possible that some of those ingredients in conventional lotions pose a risk to your health when used for a sustained period of time. The good news is that there are SO MANY clean, non-toxic options. I’ve tried quite a few and I am going to share with you a handful of body moisturizers that I like and that suit a number of needs.

What Ingredients Should I Avoid In My Body Lotions?

Parabens - Parabens are found in so many beauty and personal care products, including body lotions. Look for butylparaben, isobutylparaben, methylparaben, propylparaben, or ethylparaben on the ingredients list. Parabens are a preservative, which is essential, but unfortunately there is some concern about their possible link to hormone disruption and even breast cancer. Manufacturers have found safer preservatives like citric acid and vitamin e to replace parabens, but consumers should be aware that the shelf life will be shorter. Make sure you use all paraben-free products up by the date provided on the packaging.

Fragrance/Parfum - Yes, fragrance is going to make your lotion smell really good, but it’s those undisclosed ingredients in fragrance that are of concern. Phthalates, in particular, are the most concerning because of their link to a variety of health issues including hormone disruption, fertility issues, cardiovascular issues and obesity. Phthalates are used to help fragrance last longer and “cling” to the skin.

Mineral Oil - Mineral oil is too heavy for the skin and doesn’t allow it to breath. It basically sits on top of the skin like a plastic coating rather than sinking into the skin and providing a permeable protective layer. It can clog pores and not allow the skin to naturally eliminate toxins.

DMDM Hydantoin - DMDM Hydantoin is a formaldehyde releasing preservative added to many personal care items including body lotions. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and can be present in products that include DMDM hydantoin in their ingredients.

Benzalkonium Chloride - Benzalkonium chloride is another preservative and also a surfactant and has been associated with significant skin, eye, and respiratory irritation as well as allergies.

Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) - EDTA is a binding agent added to personal care and beauty products to help improve stability. There is concern that is may be toxic to organs.

Polyethylene glycol (PEG compounds) - PEGs are commonly used in beauty and personal care products as thickeners, solvents, softeners, and moisture-carriers. There is concern that during the manufacturing process, PEGs may be contaminated with significant amounts of ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, both of which are carcinogens.

Retinyl palmitate (Vitamin A Palmitate) - Retinyl palmitate is an ingredient made from both palmitic acid and retinol (Vitamin A). An FDA study has shown that retinyl palmitate, accelerates the development of certain skin cancer lesions and causes photosensitization. The FDA as well as health agencies in Norway and Germany have raised concerns that consistent application of vitamin A creams may also contribute to excessive vitamin A intake for pregnant women and other individuals.

Get Ready for Dry Skin Season with These Clean Beauty Body Moisturizers

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Solid

Kate McLeod’s Body Stone - Kate McLeod has formulated a combination of oils and botanical butters to create this incredibly unique solid moisturizer that melts into skin upon contact. It’s available in a full and mini size and several formulations. The mini is perfect for traveling since it’s solid (no spills) and packs easily. I love that the packaging is completely plastic free and that all ingredients are botanically-based. Mini is $14 and the full size starter kit is $45 (refills are $38).

Mountain Madness Solid Lotion Bar - Formulated with olive oil, local beeswax, shea butter, cocoa butter, calendula extract, essential oils of lemon, rosemary and vitamin E and that’s it! Simple yet hydrating, it’s great for the whole body or spot treating those dry spots like elbows and cuticles. $12 on the Mountain Madness Soap Co. website.

For Eczema Prone Skin

Acure Everyday Eczema Lotion - This highly rated unscented formula with colloidal oatmeal and and a variety botanical oils helps sooth and protect skin between and during eczema outbreaks. Vegan and paraben, sulfate, petrolatum, mineral oil, formaldehyde and cruelty free. $12 on Amazon.

Pipette Eczema Lotion - Perfect for eczema prone skin of all ages. Plant-based squalane and colloidal oatmeal help soothe, moisturize and protect during eczema flare ups. Free of steroids, petrolatum and silicones. $14 on Amazon.

Adaptive

Beautycounter Countermatch Adaptive Moisturizer - Formulated with squalane, aloe vera, plum oil and phytic acid, this moisturizer is uniquely designed to adapt to your individual skin’s moisture needs. Light in texture and scent, this lotion sinks right in and leaves skin feeling soft with no greasiness or stickiness. If you’re looking for something on the lighter side, this is perfect. $39 on the Beautycounter website.

Body Balm

Beautycounter Melting Body Balm - Enriched with argan and avocado oils, this body balm is perfect for skin that needs a good boost of hydration and protection (good for those really dry, cold winter months) without being heavy or greasy. It’s also great for spot treating areas like elbows, cuticles and hands and a little goes a long way. $42 on Beautycounter’s website.

Sheabrand CBD Muscle, Joint and Skin Balm - Loaded with healing essential oils along with CBD, this balm is formulated for providing relief to aching joints and muscles along with providing hydration. $30 on the Credo Beauty website.

Anti-Aging

oSea Anti-aging Body Balm - We use anti-aging products for our face but what about our bodies? This anti-aging balm from oSea is so luxurious and hydrating, plus it contains antioxidants and seaweed extract to help tighten and firm skin. It’s loaded with botanical oils that sink into skin and give a soft, dewy finish. $48 on the oSea website.

Tata Harper Revitalizing Body Oil - An antioxidant and vitamin rich body oil that promotes radiant and healthy skin from head to toe. Richly hydrating with evening primrose and camellia oil. Good for all skin types and can also be used as a deep conditioning hair mask.. $120 on the Credo Beauty website.

Body Oil

Weleda Hydrating Beauty and Body Oil - A blend of botanical oils that can be used on body, hair and in the bath. Simple, nourishing and hydrating. $21.50 on the Credo Beauty website.

oSea Undaria Algae Oil - Perfect for every skin type this luxurious body oil is infused with seaweed extracts and botanical oils to hydrate and firm skin. $48 on the Credo Beauty website.

Baby

Pipette Fragrance Free Baby Lotion - Gentle, lightweight and fast-absorbing, this lotion is perfect for baby’s delicate skin. Adults can use it too! Contains plant-derived squalane, essential fatty acids and ceramides. Completely fragrance free and well priced at $8 a tube. Available on Amazon.

Beautycounter Daily Baby Protective Balm - Specially formulated for baby’s delicate, sensitive skin this balm includes shea butter, sunflower seed oil and jojoba seed oil to soothe, hydrate and protect. Also great for sensitive adult skin. $22 on the Beautycounter website.

Simple

Beautycounter Hydrating Body Lotion - Beautycounter’s tried and true body lotion in its signature citrus mimosa scent. Loaded with hydrating botanical butters and oils for smooth, hydrated skin. $25 on the Beautycounter website.

Billie Dry-Bye Body Lotion - Formulated with aloe, shea butter, grapeseed oil and chamomile for soothing all-day hydration with a light citrus scent. A matte, comfortable finish with no greasy, sticky feel. $12 on the Billie website.

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Uses for Charcoal Soap and My Charcoal Bar Shopping Guide

I love my charcoal soap bar. I’ve been using one for several years now and it’s really helped clean up my oily, congested skin. I also appreciate that it has multiple uses and there are so many options for any need and budget. The charcoal bar is definitely having its moment! Activated charcoal is the key ingredient because it bind to and cleanse unwanted substances or “impurities” from the skin’s surface and washes them away. It also has exfoliating properties so it will also exfoliate along with cleansing. Many soap companies are also adding other helpful skin-friendly ingredients like witch hazel and oils to help clarify and soften the skin.

When shopping for a charcoal soap, be sure to read the ingredients to make sure that there aren’t any added fragrances or other ingredients that may irritate skin. Simple ingredients are probably best. So many soap companies are making their version of a charcoal soap so there is definitely one out there for you.

Check out how versatile this trendy soap can be!

Uses for Charcoal Soap and My Charcoal Bar Shopping Guide

Help Clarify Oily and Acne Prone Skin - Activated charcoal skin products, including a charcoal soap, are a great addition to a regime for oily and acne prone skin because it can help exfoliate and pull impurities and excess oil from the skin.

May Help Soothe Psoriasis and Eczema Prone Skin and Flare-Ups - The right charcoal soap may gently cleanse and help soothe any psoriasis and eczema flare-ups due to its antibacterial and purifying properties.

Makeup Brush Cleanser - Lather a bar and use it to do your weekly wash of your makeup brushes.

Use as a Deodorant Soap - Take advantage of the purifying and antibacterial properties to help deodorize in the shower.

May Help with Dandruff - Charcoal may also help clarify and gentle cleanse dandruff-prone scalps to help ease the flakes. Some companies have even come out with activated charcoal shampoo bars.

Find the Right Charcoal Soap for You:

Beautycounter Charcoal Bar - This is my favorite by a landslide because it’s gentle and versatile. It contains skin soothing oils along with some witch hazel. It also lasts a long time. With a ton of 5-star reviews, you won’t be disappointed. Available on the Beautycounter website for $26.

Megababe Space Bar - A great detox soap for your underarms but can used for other body parts as well. The perfect prep for your deodorant and may help keep you smelling fresh longer. Available on the Megababe website for $8.

Soapbox Detoxifying Shampoo Bar - Great reviews online and just the scalp clarifying properties you’re looking for. Available on The Grove website for $15.

Beekman’s Lump of Kohl Detox Purifying Bar - Contains goat milk, olive oil and coconut oil for super moisturizing experience. Beekman has more of a masculine feel if that’s what you prefer. Available on the Beekman website for $15.

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DIY Relaxing Bath Soak

Epsom salts have a lot of uses including making a great bath soak for tired and sore muscles (I love soaking my feet after a long day of running around). You can use them plain or add essential oils for some added benefits. I also like adding a little plant-based (not synthetic) food coloring for a subtle color. I reuse jars and other containers but you can certainly buy more decorative containers, especially if you plan on gifting your bath salts. Speaking of gifting, these bath salts make a great gift from a child to a mom or grandmother since the recipe is so simple! I choose essentials oils that help with relaxation or pain relief. I used yuzu essential oil for its relaxation benefits in this recipe but there are so many other options. Eucalyptus oil makes a great option if you’re congested, peppermint or lavender for headaches or rose or ylang ylang for anxiety (and these both smell really good too). I also love this recipe because all of the ingredients are easy to find.

Just Three Easy-to-Find Ingredients

Easy DIY Relaxing Bath Soak

1 Cup of Plain Epsom salts

5-7 Drops of Your Choice of Essential Oil (You can find the yuzu oil I used here)

4-5 Drops of Plant-based Food Coloring (I like this one from Whole Foods)

A Clean Jar or Container (I reuse old jars but I also like these glass jars on Amazon)

Plain White Labels (completely optional, especially if you’re just making them for yourself)

Other Optional Additions:

1/4 cup of dried flower petals or buds (like lavender or rose. This would be a great idea if you’re giving as a gift)

2 Tablespoons of Baking Soda (will help hold the scent in the bath salts longer)

1-2 Tablespoons of Body Oil (sweet almond oil is good one)

Add Epsom salts to a medium bowl. Use hands to break up any lumps. Add essential oil a couple drops at a time and mix into salts until you get the desired intensity; you don’t want to do so much that the scent is overwhelming because essential oils are strong! Add food coloring a couple drops at a time as well until and mix until you get the desired shade (I use my hands for best results. Use gloves if you want to keep your hands clean). A little tip: If you want to mix colors to get a new color, mix them in a small container first and then slowly add to your salts. You can also mix in a gallon-size Zip Lock bag and blend it all together shake-and-bake style but I like using a bowl because it creates less waste.

Experiment with Scents and Dried Flowers

Homemade Bath Salts Are Easy AND Inexpensive

8lb. Bag of Epsom $5.95 on Amazon

Lavender ($7-$15), Lemon ($6-$10) and Peppermint Oils ($7-$10) are Affordable. I really like Zongle Therapeutics or Florihana for essential oils.

Plant-based Food Coloring $7 at Whole Foods

Jars FREE if you reuse ones that you already have at home. A set of 6 on Amazon is $17