Shopping around for moisturiser and I looked at the labels of some products on shelves. Shocked to find that all, even the ’sensitive’ friendly ones have a range of parabens (synthetic preservatives), Mineral Oil, Paraffin, and Petrolatum which coat the skin like a film allowing nothing in or out, fragrances to mask the chemical smells.
Many, if not all contain PEG-100, which is ‘considered' safe (but not guaranteed!). Even the science behind those considering it safe find that it sometimes (meaningTHERE IS A DEFINITE CHANCE) that it can be carcinogenic as the manufacturing process leaves behind a residue known as 1,4-dioxane that has been linked to uterine and breast cancer
I also found sodium benzoate, which on its own is potentially harmless but again needs to be considered in the context of what else it is mixed in with because of chemical reactions. For eg when mixed with citric acid (AKA vitamin C) it creates a cancer-causing compound called benzene. When you keep in mind that once a chemical passes through the layers of the skin, it goes on to be absorbed by our bloodstream or lymphatic system. This is where it is problematic, causing all sorts of imbalance.
So, rant over - I made my own body lotion at home and sharing here the blend so that you can too! I wasn’t able to get the exact proportions because I was too busy blending and testing but this worked out perfect. Solid yet soft and easy to apply and not at all runny (even on hot summer days!). I’ll get on to writing it out and sharing later. Basic mix is organic coconut oil, organic shea butter, essential oils (I used patchouli and bergamot). Melt the shea over a Bain Marie set up (bowl over saucepan works well), add and blend in coconut (Melts super quick). Add essential oils. Blend well and leave aside to set for about an hour or two (depending on weather - longer if hotter). Then when it’s set just take a whisk and whip until it’s soft. Store in airtight tub and use as needed. My skin feels soft and nourished and smells of the essential oils and coconut for hours on end!
If you are unable to get to making your own, or need to buy urgently make sure you check the labels before buying and try to stick to the products with the least amount of ingredients and also as close to the whole ingredient as possible.
Any questions please reach out, below!
