Non-Toxic Swaps for Everyday Products
This week, we’re talking about everyday swaps that can make your routine safer and cleaner without feeling overwhelming. From hair care and dental products to skincare and home essentials, I’ll be sharing simple, non-toxic alternatives that actually work. These small changes can have a big impact on your health and the environment over time. It’s all about learning what’s in the products we use every day and finding better options that fit your lifestyle. Together, we’ll make going non-toxic feel simple, doable, and worth it.
Dental Care
When you stop and think about it, dental care might be one of the most plastic-heavy parts of our day. From toothbrush handles and floss containers to toothpaste tubes and mouthwash bottles, almost every item we use ends up in the trash. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Choosing a few simple, non-toxic swaps can make a big difference. Try a bamboo toothbrush instead of plastic(this is what I use), a biodegradable silk floss that comes in a reusable glass container, Boka toothpaste for a cleaner formula without sulfates or artificial dyes(you can also try toothpaste tabs), and an alcohol-free mouthwash made with botanical ingredients. Toothpaste tabs are small tablets that you pop into your mouth and bite down on, this is a great non-toxic alternative that does not include plastic. I have used them before and I really enjoyed using them. Small changes like these can help you reduce waste, limit toxin exposure, and make your routine a little healthier every day.
Hair Care
Hair care is one area where hidden toxins show up more often than we realize. Many mainstream shampoos, conditioners, and styling products rely on harsh sulfates, parabens, silicones, and synthetic fragrance all of which can irritate your scalp and build up over time. Brands like these are examples of toxic hair care brands: Pantene, Head and Shoulders, Tresemme, Garnier, Suave and more. Thankfully, switching to cleaner alternatives doesn’t mean sacrificing results. Try a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner from Innersense Organic Beauty, made with natural ingredients that balance your hair’s oils instead of stripping them. For a solid shampoo bar, Ethique offers salon-quality options that lather beautifully without plastic packaging. If you love a good dry shampoo, Primally Pure makes a non-toxic powder formula with simple, clean ingredients that absorb oil naturally. And when it comes to styling, Attitude Living’s leave-in sprays and heat protectants are EWG-verified and free of synthetic fragrance. Making the switch to non-toxic hair care is an easy way to reduce daily chemical exposure while keeping your hair strong, shiny, and healthy. I use bars for my haircare now but I would love to try Innersense in the future.
Deodorant and body care
Many conventional deodorants and body care products contain aluminum, parabens, synthetic fragrances, and other chemicals that can irritate skin and disrupt hormones. I've always had trouble trying to find a good deodorant that works and I used men's for years because of this. In doing research for this blog, I learned many conventional deodorants have ingredients that kill the good bacteria in our armpits and that causes worse body odor and more. Making the switch to non-toxic options is easier than you might think you just need products that clean, protect, and moisturize without harmful ingredients. For deodorant, Primally Pure offers aluminum-free, plant-based formulas that keep you fresh naturally. For body wash and lotion, Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap and Acure Body Lotion are gentle, non-toxic, and effective, made with organic oils and natural fragrances.
Skincare Essentials
Many conventional skincare and makeup products contain hidden chemicals that our skin absorbs every day, including parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives. Because the skin is the body’s largest organ, these ingredients can penetrate the outer layer and enter the bloodstream, potentially disrupting hormones, irritating skin, and increasing long-term health risks such as allergies, hormonal imbalances, or even certain cancers. Switching to non-toxic alternatives allows you to care for your skin safely while keeping it nourished and glowing. For moisturizers, brands like Froeya provide gentle, plant-based formulations without harsh preservatives(this is the brand I use), while Acure offers body and facial moisturizers that are free from sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances. For serums and facial oils, Primally Pure and Herbivore Botanicals provide effective, clean options that target concerns like dryness, dullness, or aging without toxic additives. Even nail polish can be safer for example, Essie offers nail products without many of the common toxic chemicals found in traditional polishes, and brands like 100% Pure and Beautycounter carry clean makeup ranges free from harmful ingredients. By swapping to non-toxic skincare and makeup, you can reduce chemical exposure, protect your long-term health, and still enjoy a routine that feels luxurious and effective.
Sunscreen
Many conventional sunscreens contain chemical filters like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can irritate skin, disrupt hormones, and even harm marine life. Non-toxic alternatives use natural ingredients to provide sun protection without these risks. Beef tallow-based sunscreens are an excellent option, as they combine natural fats with minerals like zinc oxide to nourish the skin while protecting it from UV rays. Primally Pure also offers mineral-based, non-toxic sunscreens that are free from synthetic chemicals, parabens, and fragrances, making them safe for daily use on all skin types. Choosing reef-safe options not only protects your skin but also helps preserve marine ecosystems by avoiding harmful chemical runoff. Switching to these cleaner sunscreens reduces chemical exposure and supports overall skin and environmental health while still giving you effective sun protection.
Shaving Essentials
Shaving is a daily routine that often exposes skin to harsh chemicals, disposable plastics, and irritating fragrances. Traditional disposable razors and foams may contain hidden toxins and generate a lot of waste. Switching to 100% steel razors reduces plastic use and provides a closer, cleaner shave without chemical residues. Pairing this with a non-toxic shaving oil or cream, such as those made with plant-based oils, coconut, or shea butter, helps protect the skin and minimize irritation. After shaving, gentle aftercare products like unscented balms or aloe-based moisturizers soothe and nourish the skin naturally. Using non-toxic shaving essentials not only supports healthier skin but also reduces environmental impact and exposure to potentially harmful ingredients.
Next Week
Ready to take your non-toxic lifestyle to the next level? Next week, we’ll explore how to build a wardrobe that’s not only stylish but also free from harmful chemicals and synthetic dyes. From eco-friendly fabrics and ethical brands to tips for reducing waste and extending the life of your clothing, you’ll learn how to make choices that are healthier for you and the planet. Stay tuned for practical swaps and expert tips to create a wardrobe you can feel good about inside and out! Tell me how you enjoyed this week’s post with the stars and be sure to follow my Instagram and Facebook pages for more non-toxic lifestyle tips!