Which ingredients to look for, which ones to dodge, and how to choose your perfect body wash
Posted on May 14, 2023 Written by: 100% PURE®Just like the unique prints of skin on our fingerprints, the skin on our bodies is no ordinary organ – it’s special and exclusive from others. Why would you subject your precious skin to a run-of-the-mill body wash when you could pamper it with a nature’s finest organic body wash? That right, all the suds and none of the duds!
With an ordinary body wash, those supposed suds come from harsh sulfates among other chemical culprits found in ordinary body washes. That’s why an organic body wash will have you lathering up with skin-happy ingredients!
We’re spilling the bubbles on what makes our organic body wash conditioning, more natural, and beneficial for your skin and health. We know you’ll feel inspired to rise above the ordinary and make the switch to a better bathing routine!
Have you noticed that beauty standards these days are becoming more inclusive and diverse? That's right! And organic skincare is one of the reasons why. Nowadays, consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of the products they use on their bodies, and many are opting for more natural skincare and organic options.
This is where organic body wash comes into play. Unlike ordinary body washes, organic body washes are formulated with ingredients that are derived from nature rather than synthetic ones. This means that they are free from harmful chemicals such as parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, which can be found in many traditional body washes. That also means you don't have to worry about pesticides or fertilizers wreaking havoc on your skin.
Natural body washes have hydrating and moisturizing ingredients that can help reinforce your compromised skin barrier. Not only are organic body washes gentle on your skin, but they are also better for the environment. And, the benefits don’t stop there!
When you check out the ingredient label of a conventional body wash, what do you see? It’s usually complicated mumbo jumbo and most of it, the average person can’t even identify. Of what we can decipher, nothing on the formula label looks particularly effective, natural or healthy for us.
Before you need a special decoder to decipher ordinary body wash ingredients, we’re saving you the hassle with the top culprits lurking in these harsh formulas:
Water
Good old H2O is the essence of life, but not necessarily a blessing when it’s the first ingredient in body washes. However, more often than not, the first ingredient in traditional body wash formulas is water. We’re already getting plenty of water from the shower spray, so we don’t need more from our body cleanser, too.
In high quantities water dilutes the formula and acts as a breeding ground for bacteria in products. Worse, when water is a major ingredient in the product, it’s a sure thing that the formula also includes extra preservatives to balance that out.
In many cases, the toxic preservatives used can be harmful, irritating, and toxic. That sounds more like skin scare rather than skin care, if you ask us.
Surfactants
Surfactants (aka surface active agents) fall under one of two main popular ingredients; Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Ether Sulfate (SLES). These chemical culprits create that ultra-foaming effect that we see in mainstream media, imprinting in our minds that those big, foamy bubbles are what it takes for a body wash to be effective.
In reality, these synthetic ingredients are incredibly harsh on your skin. While it does indeed give a rich foam or lather, it provides a false sense of clean. What it’s actually doing is stripping skin of its own protective barrier and disrupting its natural oil and pH balance.
Another problem with SLS is its capability to infiltrate the skin, either through cellular absorption or penetration. While there are ingredients that your body can easily break down, SLS goes right into your skin and, potentially, bloodstream. SLS can cause severe skin irritation and there's a higher rate of contact allergy to it.
Synthetic Fragrances & Dyes
We all love a product that smells nice, and it definitely adds to the experience when we're using it. But most of the time fragrances aren't included as a simple nose perk. Most fragrances in ordinary body washes are alcohol-based, meaning they're drying out our skin every time we use that product.
Furthermore, perfumes are usually included in products to mask the odors of other ingredients which when you think about it, is a bit alarming. If a product is good for our skin, should it really be giving off an odor that then needs to be covered up? We didn't agree, which is why our products are scented with essential oils, real citrus peels, and food-grade essences.
In terms of synthetic dyes, dodge body washes that lists toxic ingredients, like FD&C artificial additives such as FD&C Blue No. 1, Red. No. 40 and Yellow No. 5 to color their products. Our skin is our largest organ and it absorbs what we put on it. If our bodies don’t recognize something as natural, it will fight and try to resist it (whether you notice it or whether it’s happening beneath the surface).
Parabens
‘Ben’ there, done that; in terms of the potential negative side effects of parabens. Parabens have definitely become a mainstream dirty word, and we love the awareness spreading about how harmful they can be. But many of us still don't know or understand the risks.
Parabens are used as preservatives in many skincare products and while that sounds innocent enough, parabens pose health risks, like skin inflammation, hormone disruption, and they have also been linked to certain cancers. Even with a relatively minimal risk like skin irritation, does using that fancy (probably overpriced product) seem worth it
What’s in a body wash name might smell sweet, but what’s actually in an organic body wash formula is even sweeter – if you know what to look for. A fabulous organic body wash should have natural, effective ingredients that offer unparalleled healing and soothing properties for the skin. Let’s look at the top ingredients you should look for in organic body washes that your skin will love.
ALOE is anti-inflammatory, meaning it helps relieve active irritation on the skin as well as itchiness, scarring, and burns. Not only is the gel extracted from this plant calming for skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, but the gel is also incredibly hydrating for skin.
Aloe juice makes an ideal base for organic body wash because our skin can absorb hydration as we’re cleansing, while also treating any irritation we might have, especially after shaving or rough seasonal weather.
SEAWEED contains beneficial minerals and vitamins for the skin. It’s naturally detoxifying, helping to purge surface collagen and moisture destroying toxins that have gathered on our skin’s surface.
Environmental stressors like toxins and temperatures can also lead to dry skin, flaking, dullness, and a loss of firmness. Luckily, humectant properties help to seal in our native moisture levels, while pulling in water from our environment (in this case, our steamy shower) for enhanced hydration.
Seaweed and algae used in organic body wash formulas contribute skin-plumping seaweed collagen, along with amino acids and anti-aging vitamins A, C, and E.
ROSE HYDROSOL is one of the longest running skincare ingredients in history. Roses are linked to the lifestyles and routines of goddesses like Aphrodite and queens such as Cleopatra. Despite its modern reputation, roses are certainly not a basic skincare ingredient.
This delicate floral treats a plethora of skin issues. Great for calming redness and soothing for skin irritation, it’s one of the most sought after ingredients for sensitive skin. It’s an effective hydrator, while the tiny oil molecules present in rose hydrosol will also aid in moisturization.
COCONUT OIL and its skin-efits for our bodies and complexions are endless. Coconut oil contains capric, lauric, and caprylic fatty acids. These contribute antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. And, when coupled with vitamin E, they work wonders to soothe and moisturize the skin.
Regarding our body wash formulas, the coconut oil you see in our formula is labeled as “Saponified Coconut Oil”. This oil has gone through the chemical reaction of mixing an oil with an alkali. It results in a creamy, moisturizing, and cleansing soap base that is actually safe to use. It naturally produces skin-softening glycerin, as well, which helps the skin retain moisture. This silky texture treats our skin how we want it to feel – with love.
Are you ready to make the switch to better skin, health, and planet? An organic body wash is a squeaky-clean and green way to start. Unlike conventional body washes that are filled with harmful chemicals, organic body washes are made using natural and biodegradable ingredients. Not only are they better for your skin and the planet, but they also offer a range of other benefits.
Here are five of the biggest advantages of adopting organic skincare products in your daily life.
Fewer Harsh Chemicals
As the name suggests, organic skincare products are made of all-natural resources. This means the ingredients used in these are plant-derived that are grown naturally. These products don’t have irritants that can cause an allergic reaction.
Gentle on Skin
Organic body wash have gentle and natural ingredients that can help soothe and repair the skin. Most of these products have ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and lavender. These ingredients are known for their calming and soothing properties and can be used to help reduce inflammation or redness in the skin.
Additionally, organic skincare products can be especially beneficial for those with sensitive skin, as they are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. They’re also free of synthetic fragrances and colorants, which means you can enjoy the natural scent of essential oils on your skin.
Environmental Benefits
Using organic body wash can also have positive environmental impacts. Since organic ingredients are grown without the use of toxic fertilizers, they are less harmful to the environment and can help to promote sustainable farming practices.
Additionally, many organic skincare products use eco-friendly packaging materials that are biodegradable or recyclable, which can help to reduce waste and minimize the product's overall environmental footprint
Safer and Healthier Than Traditional Body Wash
As we are becoming increasingly conscious about health and wellness, paying attention to what is going ON our bodies is more important than ever before. Using organic body wash can be a great way to take care of your skin, while avoiding the harsh chemicals often found in conventional body washes.
With nourishing, all-natural ingredients, hydrating essential oils and butters, and skin-tastic vitamins and antioxidants, organic body washes can help keep your skin clean, hydrated, and refreshed. Plus, they are gentle enough for those with sensitive skin, making it a win-win for everyone.
They’re Sustainable
For individuals who are dedicated to living a greener life, switching to natural skincare is a simple yet impactful change in their everyday routine. Unlike conventional body washes that can contain toxic chemicals, organic body washes are made from plant-based ingredients and are often free from synthetic fragrances and preservatives.
Not only are they gentler on your skin, but they also have a positive impact on the environment by using sustainably sourced ingredients and reducing plastic waste. By choosing organic body wash, you can feel good about taking care of both yourself and the planet.
Using organic body wash has become increasingly popular in recent years and for good reason. Unlike traditional body washes that are laden with harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances, organic formulas are made with plant-based ingredients that are gentle yet effective at cleansing the skin.
So, if you're looking for an organic formula that is kind to both your skin and the environment, consider making the switch to organic body wash for a daily shower experience that is both refreshing and rejuvenating.
Here are our top fan-favorite formulas your skin will love and thank you for:
Vanilla Bean Shower Gel
Refresh your skin and relax your senses with this luxurious shower gel! Natural ingredients such as aloe, rose hydrosol, red algae, and green tea help to cleanse deep while locking in essential moisture. Coconut oil surfactants provide gentle cleansing without damage or drying out - perfect for any skin type. And don't forget the calming lavender scent that will leave you feeling relaxed after each use!
Coconut Shower Gel
If you haven’t fallen in love with coconut for your skin, you must not have tried this body wash. Our saponified coconut oil base means all the richness of coconut oil with a lightweight non-greasy feel and the moisture component our skin needs to thrive. Our matching Nourishing Coconut Body Cream features real fruits, blackberry, pomegranate and cherry in the blend. Use the two together to treat dryness, cracks, and itchiness.
French Lavender Shower Gel
Our organic body wash has real ingredients, like the fresh lavender, thyme, and oregano. This floral treat is perfect for skin types with body acne, eczema, or sensitive skin, as the herbs inside are soothing for these kinds of skin conditions. This is probably the most classic scent of all for a soothing shower experience: French Lavender. Therapeutic and calming on the skin, the body wash can help treat irritated, itchy skin and helps heal dryness and sensitivities for calmed, balanced skin.
Sweet Almond Gentle Shower Oil
A two-for-one product that doesn’t compromise on our skin’s needs by even a single inch, this oil-based body cleanser makes the skin feel as soft as silk. Anti-aging ingredients like apricot oil and vitamin E work to heal and repair skin for the best-looking and feeling skin long-term. Almond and coconut make a sweet duet with lots of richness for all the hydration, moisture, and conditioning that our skin could need. Together this blend leaves us with a sparkly, shiny glow and a squeaky clean that’s still soft and supportive on our skin.
Honey Almond Shower Gel
Looking for a rich, softly scented body wash that blends perfectly with your body lotion and perfume? This rich, foaming body wash features real almond extract and lavender honey and is perfect to use year around. It soothes dry, flaky skin in the harshness of winter, yet keeps skin perfectly smooth and moisturized after long summer days in the sun.
Regular body cleansing with skin-happy ingredients is important for maintaining balanced, healthy-looking skin. By using organic body wash, you can achieve the beauty you want without compromising your health or the environment.
So, join the organic skincare revolution and say goodbye to regular, old body washes that do more harm than good. Your skin (and body) will thank you as you have risen above ordinary as the superstar you and your body temple are!
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- Tags: Bath, Bath & Hair, Bath and Body, Bath Body Hair, May-2023
We carefully hand-select products based on strict purity standards, and only recommend products we feel meet this criteria. 100% PURE™ may earn a small commission for products purchased through affiliate links.
The information in this article is for educational use, and not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should not be used as such.