When we think about living a clean, healthy lifestyle, most of us focus on what we eat. But there’s another piece to the puzzle that often gets overlooked—what we put on our skin. From lotions and sunscreens to makeup and deodorants, commercial cosmetics are often filled with synthetic chemicals, preservatives, and fragrances that may be doing more harm than good.
One of the guiding principles I live by—and encourage my clients to consider—is simple:
“If you can’t eat it, don’t put it on your skin.”
Let’s dive into why this rule matters, and what you can do instead.
Your Skin is Not a Barrier—It’s a Gateway
Your skin is your largest organ, and it’s incredibly absorbent. When you apply something to your skin, it doesn’t just sit on the surface. It gets absorbed into your bloodstream—bypassing your digestive system and liver, which are responsible for filtering out toxins from the things you eat.
That means anything you apply—parabens, phthalates, synthetic dyes, formaldehyde releasers, and chemical fragrances—can quickly make their way into your body. Over time, this toxic load adds up, potentially disrupting hormones, burdening the liver, irritating the skin, and contributing to long-term health issues.
The Problem with Commercial Cosmetics
Most store-bought cosmetics contain:
- Endocrine disruptors – like parabens and synthetic fragrance compounds, which can interfere with hormonal balance.
- Carcinogens – including formaldehyde and coal tar dyes, which have been linked to cancer.
- Allergens – like artificial fragrances and preservatives, which can lead to inflammation, rashes, or even chronic skin issues.
- Petroleum-based ingredients – which can clog pores and prevent the skin from breathing or detoxifying properly.
Even so-called “natural” or “organic” brands may contain questionable ingredients in small amounts, hidden under vague terms like “fragrance” or “botanical blend.”
Cleaner Alternatives: Feed Your Skin Like You Feed Your Body
When you start thinking of skincare like food, everything changes. Your goal becomes nourishing your skin with ingredients that are safe, gentle, and as close to nature as possible.
Some skin-friendly, edible alternatives include:
- Raw honey – for cleansing, healing, and hydrating
- Cold-pressed oils – like coconut oil, olive oil, or tallow as moisturizers
- Bentonite clay – for gentle detoxifying masks
- Aloe vera gel – for soothing inflammation
- Essential oils – used carefully and diluted for scent or skin support
The beauty of DIY cosmetics is that you know exactly what’s going on your body—and you can tailor everything to your unique needs and sensitivities.
Ready to Make the Switch?
Removing commercial cosmetics from your life isn’t just about avoiding harm. It’s about simplifying, connecting with nature, and letting your skin thrive.
To help you get started, I’ve put together a Cleaning and Cosmetic Product Checklist along with DIY recipes that are GAPS-safe and toxin-free. These are available for free to all my clients and members of the Great Gut Guide—you’ll find everything you need in the GAPS Resources and Guides section.
Remember: Your skin deserves the same love and care as your gut. If it’s not good enough to eat, it’s not good enough to absorb. Start small, stay curious, and let your skin glow naturally.
If you have questions or want support making the switch, I’m here to help.