I’ve wanted to make more environmentally friendly decisions for a while now, but was hesitant because of the price and fear that the products wouldn’t be as good quality as a typical product. Once I sat down and did the research, I realized that while the initial cost of some of the products may be more, they tend to last a lot longer than their plastic counterparts. I also discovered that eco-friendly products are better for my body because they’re chemical-free and made with all-natural products. Using these products has helped me reduce my carbon footprint and treat my body with the care it deserves.  Â
1. Ethique Shampoo + Ethique Condition Bar
These products are on the pricey side, but one shampoo bar claims to be equal to three bottles of liquid shampoo and one condition bar equal to five bottles of liquid shampoo. That is quite a bit of plastic being saved per person. Additionally, these products are cruelty-free, vegan, and safe for color-treated hair. These bars are the best choice I have ever made for my hair. While you normally put shampoo and conditioner in your hand before applying, these bars you directly rub on your hair until you create a decent lather. My hair looks healthier and feels thicker than it has in years. The combination leaves my hair feeling soft and supple without the frizz I normally experience. I have naturally wavy hair and unlike with other chemically filled products, the shape of my hair hasn’t been affected in the slightest. I’ve had multiple people compliment and ask me what was different about my hair.
2. U+ME Bamboo Toothbrush Pack
With the exception of the nylon bristles, the toothbrush and the packaging is completely biodegradable. The toothbrush does come with instructions on the best way to dispose of the charcoal bristles. There is no difference in usage between this toothbrush and a non-biodegradable one. It is just as far-reaching, and cleans just as well, with the added bonus of being eco-friendly.Â
3. Bite Toothpaste Bits
These bits are delivered to your door in minimal packaging and are housed in a small glass container. While these bits still have ingredients that prevent cavities and whiten your teeth, they don’t contain any harsh chemicals or artificial dyes. The flavor options are fresh mint or fresh mint with activated charcoal. I personally tried the fresh mint with activated charcoal and can attest that it whitens my teeth just as well as any brand name whitening toothpaste. It did take a while to adjust to biting down on the bits and foaming, but that was the only drawback. Overall these bits are better for the environment and better for your body.Â
4. The Body Shop Coconut BarÂ
I have extremely sensitive and dry skin, so I was very hesitant to step away from my tried and true gentle body wash. After looking at the reviews and articles for top eco-friendly bar soaps, I decided to try The Body Shop’s Vegan Coconut Bar. After a few washes, I can say with certainty that my skin feels smoother and softer. The scent of coconut isn’t overpowering, it rather leaves a refreshing trace of it on my skin. As for the environmental impact: the bar soap is packaged using less plastic, lasts longer than body wash, is vegetable-based and preservative-free.Â
5. L. Organic Cotton Tampons
These tampons are made with organic cotton and don’t use chlorine, bleach, pesticides, fragrances or dyes. There are multiple options that vary based on absorbance and amount of tampons within the package. The plastic applicators of the tampon are made from BPA free plastic so you’re not exposing your body to any harmful chemicals. Something that made me choose this brand is that for every product purchased one is donated to a woman in a third world country. I feel better knowing I’m choosing the best product for my body and am helping others gain access to hygiene products through my purchase.Â
If these products don’t seem right for you, there is an abundance of options for environmentally friendly products out there. I feel a lot healthier knowing that I’m no longer tainting my body with harsh chemicals and am helping the environment in the process.