The Dirt:
Say sodium lauryl sulfate three times fast. Now attempt to research the growing group of claims from organic movement followers who argue that the chemicals in our food and personal care products are the root of our health problems. One could argue either way, with many factors weighing in, such as stress and lifestyle. Whether you argue the baby boomer generation survived all the chemicals we now fear, or that the synthetics are contributing to health problems, the question remains: wouldn’t you rather know what you’re consuming? If granted the option to pay a few bucks more for a bar of soap from a small business that foregoes foaming agents like the three-word compound mentioned above, as well as paraben, alcohol, mineral oil, dyes and artificial fragrances, we’d venture to say the extra change is worth the peace the mind.

This is what NaturOli reminds us through their informational packet, which cautions that foam and lather do not necessarily ensure you are getting clean. So why not opt for a natural skincare company with a variety of options from facial and body care products to a range of soaps that includes Himalayan Frost. The Himalayan Frost variety is the company’s most popular blend, no doubt thanks to the inclusion of their staple ingredient, extra virgin olive oil, and grape seed and coconut oils, fir needle, fennel, coriander, Himalayan salt, and babassu oil, an oil extracted from the nut of a palm tree often found in Brazil. The result is a soft skin with a very subtle exfoliant that simultaneously moisturizes. While the product includes sodium hydroxide, a catalyst with an FDA cap of 1%, the company claims the chemical is neutralized once the soap is ready and packaged. Still our favorite is the Goat’s Milk & Oatmeal Soap Bar, with goat’s milk, evening primose and borage oils, essential oils of lemongrass, ylang ylang and lavender, and the fabulous Indian extract, neem oil. While goat’s milk products are relatively new to most, apart from certain cheese types, many mothers are familiar with goat’s milk food and topicals because of their children’s intolerance for cow’s milk. The product is moisturizing and soothing, but has real oats in the soap; choose the side with exposed oats for a bit of natural scrubbing or opt for a smooth part for a relaxing experience.

Want a fast-absorbing light lotion for summer? Try the Soft & Soothing Body Lotion, available both in the signature Olivander scent or scent-free, with a blend that includes avocado oil, aloe vera gel, fatty acids from vegetables, wheat protein amino acids, the vitamin and filler hyaluronic acid, and a preservative. It absorbs almost immediately and leaves no sheen. Just don’t forget your everyday sunscreen.

Bonus:
Summer taking a toll on your skin? Try the Intensive Cleansing Masque, a clay-based mask, which also comes in a trial size for commitment-phobes. It will dry up your oily areas, quell breakouts and help to tighten pores. The company recently added Soap Nuts to their inventory, which claim to offer a natural alternative to detergents, especially fabric softener liquids and dryer sheets.

Coupon:
Buy online and enter “Discover” for the company’s 20% discount.

Where:
Most bars of soap are $5 for a 2.5 ounce bar. For more information or to purchase products, visit the NaturOli website.