
Change can be hard. It’s only natural, as humans, to seek comfort in our routines. We have our favorite outfits, our favorite foods, our favorite running route -- even our favorite shampoos, toothpastes, and perfumes. As the old saying goes, “If it’s not broke, don’t fix it.” So if you love your routine and your go-to, why would you change it?
The thing is, there’s a chance that some of your habits are a little broken. No, maybe broken isn’t the right word -- but what if your habits were hurting you in small ways that you didn’t realize?
More and more research is coming to light about the harmful toxins that are hiding in our favorite products. That shampoo that you love that makes your hair smell amazing? Unless it is USDA organic certified, there’s a good chance that it contains chemicals that are might be harmful to your body.
The good news is this: there are tons of amazing organic, non-toxic, and natural products that are just as good as your old favorites. In fact, they’re better, because not only do they look, smell, and feel amazing, they’re good for your health, and you can breath easy knowing you’re treating yourself -- and the planet -- kindly. But, there are a few things you have to get used to when making the switch to safe, non-toxic, natural, or organic products. Because common chemicals aren’t being used, you might notice some differences in your new, healthy products. Don’t let that scare you! Pretty soon, you won’t even know the difference. Here are four ways your new, healthy, non-toxic products might give you pause.
It might look weird.
Yep. Your natural deodorant might not have the same look or consistency as the conventional stuff you’re used to. Same goes for your shampoo, soap, and make-up. Especially with skincare products, you might notice slight color variations every time you buy. This isn’t a sign that something has gone wrong in the production process. Remember, these products are being made with organic & natural raw materials, which aren’t always perfectly uniform in color, depending on the season or where it was grown. Keep in mind that the differences in the way your natural products look, is due to the lack of those harmful chemicals.
It might not taste how you expect.
When it comes to organic food, a lot of studies show that people actually prefer the taste of organic vs. non-organic food. You might feel the same way about your toothpaste or chapstick. Unnatural flavorings will be replaced with natural flavors, which will make things that touch your lips or mouth taste different -- and probably even better!
It might feel strange.
You know how shampoo and toothpaste foams up when applied to your mouth or hair? Yeah, that’s due to chemical foaming agents which have been linked to some pretty negative effects on the body. When you use natural toothpastes and shampoos, you might notice a lack of foam -- or at least less foam. We get it: foam is fun. But is it fun enough to risk your health? Probably not. You also might notice a change in consistency among natural products. Again, that has to due with slight variations in the raw materials being used, so there’s nothing to worry about!
It might smell different.
A ton of conventional products are made with fragrances that contain harmful chemicals. So, while you absolutely love the fresh, flowery scent of your shampoo, it’s very likely that the smell you’re so in love with isn’t actually flowers -- it’s a mixture of chemicals made to imitate the scent. Again, there are so many natural products out there that use real essential oils that are actual natural fragrances, that smell much better than the imitation and don’t cause harm to your body. In fact they have therapeutic effects! Imagine, a rose scented lotion, made with real roses!
So, change is hard. But luckily, when switching from conventional to real natural products, the alternative is even better than what you’re used to. Fresh, clean, non-toxic products that look, feel, and taste great, without causing harm to your body. What’s to lose?