05/17/2025
Bathroom Talk: What’s Lurking in Your Lotion?
How everyday hygiene products may be quietly harming your health
We all want to feel clean, fresh, and put together—but at what cost? That morning routine of body wash, lotion, deodorant, and a spritz of perfume could be exposing you to a cocktail of harsh chemicals. Many of these ingredients absorb directly into our skin and bloodstream, and some are even linked to long-term health concerns.
What’s Really In Our Products?
• Parabens: Found in shampoos, lotions, and deodorants. These preservatives mimic estrogen and have been linked to hormonal disruption.
• Phthalates: Common in fragrances and plastics, phthalates are tied to reproductive issues.
• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): A foaming agent found in toothpaste and body wash, known to irritate skin and eyes.
How to Switch Safely
• Look for products labeled “fragrance-free” and “paraben-free.”
• Use apps like Think Dirty or Yuka to scan and research ingredients.
• Make your own body scrubs, deodorants, or soaps using clean kitchen ingredients.