As the mercury rises and summer days beckon us outdoors, the importance of sunscreen cannot be overstated.

However, the choice of sunscreen goes beyond merely safeguarding our skin from harmful rays. Research has found that common sunscreen ingredients, including oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens, and synthetic fragrances, are not only potential health hazards for us but can also cause significant harm to aquatic life.

Here, we'll explore the impact of these chemicals on our oceans and marine life and recommend five safer, environmentally friendly sunscreens that are free of these harmful substances.

Why the Fuss Over Sunscreen Ingredients?

Oxybenzone and Octinoxate: These chemicals are effective in absorbing harmful UVA and UVB rays but have been found to seep into the bloodstream, leading to potential hormonal disruptions and allergic reactions.

Parabens: These preservatives are suspected of interfering with hormone function by mimicking estrogen. Alarmingly, traces of parabens...

Retinyl palmitate, a milder derivative of Vitamin A, is often marketed as the gentler cousin to retinol, making it a popular ingredient in numerous skincare products. However, emerging research suggests that even this seemingly benign compound may pose safety risks—most notably during pregnancy. This article delves into these concerns, focusing particularly on the risks associated with the use of retinyl palmitate during pregnancy, as well as other health considerations.

The Lure of Retinyl Palmitate

Long celebrated for its anti-aging properties, retinyl palmitate offers the promise of smoother, more youthful skin. It's commonly included in various skincare products like moisturizers and sunscreens, often considered safer and less irritating than other retinoids.

Known Risks

Skin Irritation

Even though it's a milder form of Vitamin A, retinyl palmitate can still result in skin irritation, including redness, itching, and a burning sensation, particularly for those with...

Earth Day is an annual event that reminds us of the importance of environmental conservation.

However, taking care of the planet should not be limited to just one day of the year. By making small changes to our daily routines, we can create a more sustainable future for ourselves and for the planet.

Here are 10 ways to make every day Earth Day:

Reduce Your Energy Consumption

Turn off lights and electronics when not in use, use energy-efficient appliances, and adjust your thermostat to conserve energy. Reducing your energy consumption is important because it helps to conserve natural resources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. By using less energy, we can also save money on our electricity bills and promote a more sustainable future for ourselves and for future generations.

Reduce Your Water Consumption

Fix leaks, take shorter showers, and use water-efficient appliances. By reducing our water usage, we can help to preserve natural...

As the clean beauty industry continues to grow, experts are predicting several trends that will shape the industry in 2023.

Here are the top 5 trends in clean beauty that experts are excited about:

Sustainable Packaging

Sustainability has become a key concern for consumers, and experts predict that sustainable packaging will be a major trend in 2023. Brands will explore new ways to reduce packaging waste, such as using recycled materials, biodegradable packaging, and refillable options.

Probiotics for Skin Care

Probiotics have been making waves in the beauty industry, and experts predict that this trend will continue in 2023. Probiotics have been shown to promote healthy skin by strengthening the skin barrier, reducing inflammation, and balancing the skin's microbiome. Look out for probiotic-infused cleansers, serums, and moisturizers.

CBD Beauty Products

CBD has been gaining popularity in the health and wellness industry, and experts predict that it will make its way into the...

As consumers, we have the power to make a positive impact on the environment and society by choosing to support sustainable beauty brands.

These brands prioritize ethics and sustainability in their practices, which can make a significant difference in reducing waste, protecting the environment, and promoting fair trade. 

Here are 6 sustainable beauty brands that are making a difference:

100% Pure

By using safer ingredients and more eco-friendly packaging, 100% Pure is able to create high-quality skincare and makeup products that are both effective and sustainable. They use glass, aluminum, and other materials that are recyclable, and they avoid using plastic whenever possible. Additionally, they use soy-based inks and other sustainable printing materials for their labels and packaging.

Herbivore Botanicals

Herbivore Botanicals' commitment to safe ingredients and sustainable packaging makes them a great option for those looking for clean and sustainable skincare...

Clean beauty has become a buzzword in the beauty industry.

As more and more consumers are looking for products that are not only effective but also free from harmful ingredients, it can be confusing which brands can be trusted and which ones have products that actually work!

Clean beauty brands offer a wide range of products that are made with natural, non-toxic ingredients, and they are quickly gaining popularity. In this blog post, we will discuss the top 5 clean beauty brands that you should know about.

Beautycounter

Beautycounter, the original clean beauty brand, has made a name for itself in the clean beauty world and is widely considered the LEADER in clean beauty. Their products are made with safe, non-toxic ingredients that are rigorously tested for safety. They offer a wide range of products, from skincare to makeup, and all of their products are free from harmful chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances. Beautycounter has banned over...

With certain health issues on the rise, people are looking for ways to lower their overall exposure to toxins.

It's becoming more & more evident that environmental toxins are contributing to the rise in chronic health issues like obesity, diabetes, asthma, infertility & even cancer. 

According to Dr. Lora Shahine, "Environmental toxins are the new tobacco".  Her point was that there is enough research and science to show that there is a definitive link between the rise in health issues and toxins and it should be talked about more frequently.  Dr. Shahine is a fertility doctor who works with other fertility doctors to help give them the information and resources they need to be able to confidently educate their patients on this topic.  

Most people are still unaware of this issue, and if you're here reading this, than that means you are one step ahead of most!

We accumulate toxins in our bodies over time so it's really important to take control...

In addition to the tips mentioned in my previous blog post, incorporating air-purifying plants in your home can be an effective way to keep your household air clean.

Plants are natural air purifiers that can help remove toxins and pollutants from the air. Here are a few air-purifying plants that you can consider adding to your home:

Snake Plant

Snake plants are easy to care for and can help remove formaldehyde, benzene, and other pollutants from the air. They can grow in low-light conditions and only need to be watered occasionally.

Peace Lily

Peace lilies are known for their beautiful white flowers and can help remove toxins like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene from the air. They prefer indirect sunlight and should be watered when the soil is dry.

Spider Plant

Spider plants are excellent air purifiers and can help remove pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene from the air. They are easy to care for and can grow in a wide range of light conditions.

Boston...

The quality of the air inside your home is essential to your health and well-being.

Poor indoor air quality can cause respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to keep the air in your home clean and healthy. Here are a few tips to get you started:

1. Keep Your Home Clean

Dust and debris can accumulate in your home, leading to poor air quality. Regular cleaning can help reduce the amount of dust and dirt in your home. Dust surfaces, vacuum carpets and rugs, and mop hard floors regularly. Make sure to clean your bedding and wash your curtains and blinds regularly plus take your shoes off and leave at the door.

2. Use Non Toxic Cleaning Products

Many conventional cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can pollute the air in your home. Instead, use non-toxic cleaning products that are free of chemicals and toxins. Natural cleaning products aren't always safer, but here is a list of 10 alternatives to...