Lifestyle
Lifestyle
What Your Skin Might Need After 8 Hours in Front of a Screen
Most of us spend long days in front of computers or phones, and while the work gets done, our skin often pays for it. Here’s the science behind screen-related skin stress—and what your skin actually needs afterward.
Your Skin on Stress: Here’s What We Know
Stress shows up on your skin more than you think. Here’s what research reveals about cortisol, inflammation, and barrier damage—and how to support stressed skin naturally.
Why shop a small maker?
Small and local businesses are the heart of every community—creating jobs, fueling creativity, and keeping local economies strong. In this post, we share why supporting them matters now more than ever, and how your everyday choices can make a lasting difference.
How Aging Skin Reflects a Life Well Lived
Our skin keeps a quiet record of every season we’ve lived—late nights, laughter, stress, and joy. In this personal reflection, founder Jewels Burdick shares how her view of aging skin has evolved from something to “fix” to something to care for, and why glow looks different—but just as beautiful—at every age.
Skincare as a Way to Reconnect with Your Body
There was a time when I rushed through my skincare routine without even thinking about it. A quick splash of cleanser, maybe some moisturizer if I remembered, and off to the next task. Sound familiar? It wasn’t until life started moving a little too fast—when stress felt constant and my body began whispering its exhaustion—that I realized those few minutes at the sink could be something more than a chore.
Skincare became one of the first ways I learned how to slow down and listen to myself again.
Slowing Down in a Fast World
We live in a culture that celebrates hustle. Emails at midnight, rushed meals in the car, collapsing into bed still scrolling our phones. In that rhythm, our bodies often get reduced to machines—expected to perform without pause. Skincare, of all things, offered me a crack in the noise.
When I take the time to wash my face at night, really wash it, I feel the warm water on my skin. I notice the way my hands move over my jaw, my temples. It’s a reminder: I’m here. This is my body. It deserves my attention.
The Power of Touch
Touch is underrated. We often think of it only in terms of how we connect with others, but the way we massage our skin matters too. Massaging in a serum isn’t just about absorption—it’s an act of kindness, a message to the nervous system that says, you’re safe, you’re cared for.
Some evenings, that small act is the first time all day I’ve offered my body any tenderness. No rushing. No judgment. Just presence.
Listening to What Your Skin Tells You
Our skin has a way of telling stories before we’re even aware of what’s happening inside. Breakouts when stress is high. Dryness when hydration has slipped down the priority list. Redness when we’ve been pushing too hard.
Through skincare, I’ve learned to read those signals instead of ignoring them. It’s not about obsessing over every blemish or fine line—it’s about treating those changes as part of an ongoing conversation. What are you trying to tell me? What do you need right now?
Beyond the Products
Of course, I love beautiful, plant-based products—the scent of lavender water, the silky glide of jojoba oil. But the truth is, it’s not really about what’s in the jar. It’s about the intention you bring to the moment. That pause to breathe. That decision to nurture instead of criticize.
Some nights, skincare is simply skincare. Other nights, it’s the thing that grounds me. It reminds me that my body isn’t something to fight against or fix—it’s something to honor.
The Takeaway
Skincare can be more than a routine. It can be a ritual of reconnection—a quiet reminder that you’re not just a mind racing through to-do lists but a whole being deserving of care. When we soften into those moments, skincare becomes less about achieving “perfect skin” and more about cultivating a relationship with the body that carries us through it all.
And honestly? That kind of connection will show on your face in ways no serum ever could.
xoxoJewels
What I’ve Learned from Talking to Thousands of Women About Their Skin
When I started Simple Body at the ripe old age of 38, I didn’t set out to build a skincare brand that would grow with me. But that’s exactly what happened.
I wasn’t a twenty-something chasing trends or trying to keep up with whatever ingredient was having its “moment.” I was a woman with dry skin, a few fine lines, and a deep desire to care for my skin in a way that felt real. No filters, no false promises—just healthy, balanced skin.
And as it turns out, that honesty attracted women just like me. Over the years—through markets, conversations in the shop, DMs from longtime customers, and late-night emails—I’ve talked to thousands of women about their skin. And through those conversations, I realized something powerful: we’re not all that different.
We’ve Aged Together
Many of the women who started with me fifteen years ago are still part of the Simple Body community today. We’ve walked through the same seasons—raising families, working long hours, juggling life, and now navigating the changes that come with perimenopause and menopause.
Our skin has evolved, and so have we. The fine lines that once felt like flaws now feel like proof that we’ve lived. And that shared experience—of watching our skin shift and learning to care for it differently—has shaped not only our routines but the entire Simple Body product line.
Dryness Is the Common Thread
No matter the season or the decade, dryness seems to be everyone’s biggest complaint. Sometimes it’s from the Colorado climate. Sometimes it’s from hormonal changes. And sometimes, like me, it’s connected to something deeper—autoimmune issues like Hashimoto’s.
That deep, uncomfortable dryness isn’t just cosmetic; it can make you feel off in your own skin. It’s what inspired me to create products that truly replenish, not just coat the surface. Because when your skin feels nourished, you feel nourished.
The Things We All Have in Common
After thousands of conversations, here’s what I’ve learned about women and their skin:
No matter their age, almost everyone struggles to remember the right order to apply their products. (And yes, I still get that question weekly!)
Most women admit they’re harder on their skin than they should be. Learning to love what we see in the mirror takes time.
We all have that one person whose skin we secretly wish we had—smooth, dewy, poreless—but we rarely see their struggles behind the scenes.
Most women I talk to would rather not wear makeup—they just want skin that looks and feels healthy enough to go without it.
And almost everyone worries about wrinkles… when really, they’re just a sign that we’ve laughed, cried, and lived full lives.
What these stories have taught me is that skincare is less about chasing youth and more about embracing ourselves exactly where we are.
We Want Simplicity—Not Perfection
Somewhere along the way, skincare got complicated. Ten steps, twenty serums, promises of “flawless” this and “perfect” that. But the women I talk to every day? They just want products that work. They want ingredients they can pronounce and results they can feel.
They want to simplify—because real beauty isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up in your own skin and feeling comfortable there.
Connection Is the Secret Ingredient
Every conversation shapes what we create. Every story, every shared frustration, every “this might sound silly, but…” moment helps us understand what women truly need.
Simple Body isn’t just about skincare—it’s about community. About being part of a collective of women who are learning to treat their skin (and themselves) with more patience, more kindness, and more grace.
Because underneath it all, we’re the same: we just want to feel good in our skin. Please keep sharing your stories and your lives with me. It's truly what keeps me going and I love connecting with you every day!
xoxoJewels
Clearing Space, Finding Calm: The Art of Cleaning Out Your Skincare Cabinet
There’s something strangely emotional about cleaning out your skincare cabinet. You open the door expecting to tidy up a few bottles, and suddenly you’re surrounded by the ghosts of routines past—half-empty jars, that serum you swore you’d finish, the moisturizer that was almost perfect until your skin decided otherwise.
But here’s the thing: this simple act of clearing space isn’t just about organizing. It’s about creating a sense of calm, of care, and of mindfulness—the same qualities we want from our skincare itself.
When Did This Serum Expire (and Why It Matters)
Let’s start with the practical part. Every product has an expiration date for a reason. Once that date passes, the preservatives that keep bacteria and mold from growing start to lose their potency. Using expired skincare isn’t just less effective—it can actually cause irritation or infections because the formula’s balance has changed.
Think of it like food: you wouldn’t eat yogurt that’s been sitting in the fridge for six months past its date, right? The same goes for your cream or serum. If it smells off, has separated, or the texture looks different, it’s time to let it go.
And as you do—don’t think of it as waste. Think of it as space.
The Beauty of Letting Go (Inspired by Japan)
In Japan, cleaning isn’t just about tidiness—it’s a spiritual practice, a form of self-respect. Several philosophies capture this beautifully, and they apply surprisingly well to your skincare routine.
Danshari teaches us to refuse, dispose, and separate. Refuse what doesn’t serve your skin. Dispose of what’s expired or unused. Separate your worth from the number of bottles on your shelf.
KonMari, made famous by Marie Kondo, invites us to keep only what sparks joy. That cleanser that makes your skin feel calm and soft? Keep it. That trendy serum that never really worked? Thank it for teaching you what doesn’t work—and let it go.
Then there’s Ma, the concept of negative space. It’s the idea that empty space itself has value. Imagine your skincare shelf with just a few intentional items, displayed with care. Suddenly, it feels peaceful rather than cluttered.
And my personal favorite, Kiyomeru—the idea of cleaning as meditation. It’s about gratitude. As you wipe down each bottle or washcloth, it’s a quiet thank-you for what these small rituals have done for you.
A Streamlined Routine (That Still Feels Abundant)
Here’s what happens when you declutter your skincare: you rediscover the beauty of simplicity. You start reaching for the same few products again and again—the ones that actually work.
You might notice your skin looks better, too. That’s because an overloaded routine can confuse your barrier with competing actives and unnecessary layers. A minimal, consistent approach helps your skin find balance again.
Why “Less” Feels So Good
There’s an unexpected joy in letting go—not just of clutter, but of the idea that more products mean better skin. When you pare back, you get to know your skin again. You listen to it. You make space for rest and reflection.
Like Oosouji, Japan’s end-of-year “big clean,” clearing out your cabinet is a ritual for renewal. You’re not just wiping shelves—you’re wiping the slate clean for your next chapter of care.
And maybe that’s the real secret to glowing skin: not another new serum, but a little more space, calm, and intention.
xoxoJewels
The People Who Inspire Our Work at Simple Body
Every Simple Body product starts with a story. What began as a personal mission to protect loved ones from harmful ingredients has grown into a brand rooted in safety, transparency, and care. In this post, Jewels shares the story of how her mother’s experience inspired her to study European formulation standards—and create Simple Body’s very first product: a natural deodorant that works.
EWG vs Yuka: Which App Should You Trust With Your Health? (Hint: Both!)
Trying to navigate clean beauty labels can feel confusing—but apps like EWG and Yuka make it easier to understand what’s really in your products. In this post, we break down how each app works, their pros and cons, and which one helps you make the healthiest skincare choices.
Skincare as Self-Care
Skincare can be so much more than a routine—it can be a ritual of calm. In this post, we explore how slowing down and being intentional with your evening skincare can help you unwind, sleep better, and wake up with radiant, healthy skin. Think of it as self-care that works from the inside out.
5 Morning Habits That Set the Tone for the Day
Mornings don’t have to feel rushed or chaotic. With just a few intentional habits, you can transform your morning from stressful to empowering. Whether it’s mindful movement, a nourishing skincare routine, or a quiet moment with your coffee, these simple rituals help you feel grounded, energized, and ready for the day ahead. Here are five easy morning habits to create a calm, positive start—no 5 a.m. wake-ups required.
How to Create a Simple, Sustainable Morning Skincare Routine
If mornings feel rushed and skincare is an afterthought, it’s time for a reset. In this post, we’ll show you how to create a simple, sustainable morning routine that nourishes your skin and helps you start your day feeling calm and centered—with clean, planet-friendly products that work.
Don’t Wait to See Your First Wrinkle: When to Start Using Actives in Your Skincare Routine
The secret to youthful, glowing skin isn’t just about reversing signs of aging—it’s about preventing them in the first place. In your 20s, your skin’s natural production of collagen, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid begins to slow, making early care essential. By incorporating gentle, active ingredients early on, you can preserve firmness, elasticity, and hydration for years to come. This post explores why prevention is the ultimate age-supporting strategy and how to build a smart, proactive skincare routine.
Itchy Skin? Causes, Relief, and the Best Natural Skincare Solutions!
Itchy Skin: Causes, Relief, and the Best Natural Skincare Solutions
If you’ve ever dealt with dry, itchy, or flaky skin, you know how frustrating it can be. Whether it’s seasonal, caused by environmental factors, or due to a weakened skin barrier, itchy skin is often a sign that your skin needs extra nourishment and protection. In this guide, we’ll explore the common causes of itchy skin, how climate affects your skin, and the best natural remedies to soothe and restore long-lasting hydration. Plus, we’ll highlight key ingredients like chamomile and calendula—both known for their calming, skin-repairing benefits—and our top Simple Body products to help relieve discomfort and bring your skin back to balance!
Common Causes of Itchy Skin
Itchy, irritated skin can stem from a variety of sources. Here are some of the most common:
1. Dryness & Flakiness
When your skin lacks moisture, it can feel tight, itchy, and appear flaky. Dry skin occurs when the skin’s natural barrier is compromised, leading to water loss and irritation.
✔️ What causes dryness?
Cold weather & low humidity – Winter air pulls moisture from the skin.
Hot showers & harsh soaps – Stripping natural oils makes skin drier.
Dehydration & lack of nutrients – Internal hydration is just as important as external! Try to aim for half of your body weight in ounces, everyday! (Example: Someone who weighs 150 lbs, would want to drink 75 ounces of water a day.)
💡 Relief Tip: Hydrate your skin inside and out by drinking plenty of water and using rich, nourishing moisturizers like our Body Butter and Body Lotion to lock in hydration!
2. Your Climate & How It Affects Your Skin
The environment you live in plays a major role in your skin’s hydration levels and can worsen itchiness and irritation.
✔️ Dry & Cold Climates (Winter Months)
Low humidity levels can cause severe dryness, cracking, and itchiness.
Constant exposure to heaters and dry indoor air strips moisture from the skin.
💡 Best Fix: Apply a deeply moisturizing product like our Body Butter right after showering to seal in hydration and protect the skin barrier.
✔️ Hot & Humid Climates
Sweat and heat can lead to itchiness and irritation.
Overwashing the skin can strip essential oils, leaving skin dehydrated.
💡 Best Fix: Use a lightweight but hydrating moisturizer like our Body Lotion to keep skin balanced without feeling greasy.
✔️ Seasonal Changes
Spring and fall can bring fluctuations in temperature and humidity, leading to seasonal dry patches or irritation.
Allergies and pollen exposure can also contribute to itchy, sensitive skin.
💡 Best Fix: Keep Skin Rescue on hand to calm irritation and reduce itchiness caused by environmental stressors.
Best Natural Remedies for Itchy Skin
The right skincare ingredients can provide instant relief and long-term hydration. Let’s explore the top ingredients that soothe dry, itchy, and flaky skin.
1. Chamomile: Nature’s Calming Agent 🌼
Chamomile is widely known for its anti-inflammatory, soothing, and skin-repairing properties.
✔️ Benefits of Chamomile for Itchy Skin:
Calms redness, irritation, and sensitivity.
Reduces inflammation and itchiness from dryness or allergies.
Promotes healing for dry, cracked skin.
💡 Where to Find It: Our Skin Rescue balm contains chamomile extract to reduce irritation and speed up skin healing.
2. Calendula: The Ultimate Skin Healer 🌿
Calendula (marigold) is packed with antioxidants and skin-repairing properties.
✔️ Benefits of Calendula for Itchy Skin:
Soothes eczema, psoriasis, and dry patches.
Restores the skin barrier to lock in moisture.
Reduces redness, flakiness, and irritation.
💡 Where to Find It: Our Body Butter and Skin Rescue balm both include calendula extract to deeply nourish and repair sensitive skin.
3. Deep Moisturizers: Butters & Oils for Hydration
✔️ Shea Butter & Cocoa Butter – Rich in vitamins A & E, deeply hydrates and softens skin.
✔️ Avocado & Jojoba Oil – Mimic skin’s natural oils, preventing dryness & moisture loss.
✔️ Coconut Oil & Almond Oil – Help repair the skin’s natural barrier and soothe irritation. 💡 Where to Find Them:
Body Butter – A blend of butters and nourishing oils to soothe and hydrate extremely dry skin.
Body Lotion – Lightweight hydration with fast-absorbing botanical oils for all-day comfort.
Our Top Products for Itchy Skin Relief
At Simple Body, we create plant-powered skincare that helps relieve dry, itchy, and sensitive skin—without synthetic irritants or harsh chemicals. Here are our top itchy skin relief products:
🌿 Skin Rescue Balm
✔️ Best for: Targeted relief for itchy, irritated, or extra-dry areas
✔️ Key Ingredients: Chamomile, calendula, shea butter, and avocado oil
✔️ Why It Works: Instantly calms redness, flakiness, and irritation, while restoring the skin’s natural barrier
🌿 Body Butter
✔️ Best for: Deep hydration for extremely dry, itchy skin
✔️ Key Ingredients: Shea, Kokum, and Cocoa Butter
✔️ Why It Works: Delivers rich, long-lasting moisture and repairs damaged skin
🌿 Body Lotion
✔️ Best for: Daily hydration for all skin types
✔️ Key Ingredients: Chamomile, avocado oil, almond oil, and aloe vera
✔️ Why It Works: Lightweight yet deeply hydrating—keeps skin smooth, soft, and itch-free
Say Goodbye to Itchy Skin Naturally
If your skin feels dry, flaky, or irritated, it’s time to restore balance with the right moisturizing and soothing ingredients!
✔️ Protect your skin barrier with hydrating butters and oils.
✔️ Soothe inflammation with chamomile and calendula.
✔️ Adapt your skincare routine to the season & climate.
✔️ Use ultra-nourishing products like Skin Rescue, Body Butter, and Body Lotion to relieve discomfort. 💛 Ready to give your skin the hydration it deserves?
Don't suffer, give one of these a try! We know you'll love them all!
xoxoEmily
Do I Need to Refrigerate My Skincare? What to Chill & What to Skip!
When it comes to skincare, proper storage is key to keeping your products fresh and effective. Lately, mini skincare fridges have been all over social media, and many people wonder: Do I actually need to refrigerate my skincare? The short answer? Some products benefit from refrigeration, while others should be kept at room temperature. Let’s break it all down—when to chill, when to skip, and how to get the most out of your Simple Body Products!
Why Refrigerate Skincare?
Refrigerating certain skincare products can:
✔️ Extend shelf life – Cooler temperatures slow down bacterial growth and oxidation.
✔️ Soothe the skin – Cold products can reduce puffiness, redness, and irritation.
✔️ Improve application – Some formulas feel extra refreshing when chilled. But before you toss everything in the fridge, not all skincare products belong there. Let’s talk about what should (and shouldn’t) be refrigerated.
What Skincare Products Can Be Refrigerated?
Some skincare products benefit from cooler temperatures, especially water-based or preservative-containing formulas.
1. Water-Based Products with Preservatives
Products like toners, face mists, and serums that contain water and preservatives can be safely stored in the fridge. This can help extend their shelf life and provide a cooling effect when applied.
Great fridge-friendly products include:
✔️ Rosewater Toner & Hydrating Mists – Feels refreshing and helps reduce puffiness.
✔️ Gel-Based Serums & Aloe Vera Gel – Cools and calms irritated skin. 💡 Pro Tip: Storing toners and mists in the fridge makes them even more refreshing on a hot day!
2. Deodorant (If It’s Hot Outside!)
If you’ve ever had your natural deodorant melt in the summer, you’re not alone! Many clean deodorants (like ours) contain coconut oil, which can soften or even liquefy in warm temperatures.
Storing deodorant in the fridge helps prevent melting, but be sure to:
✔️ Let it warm slightly before twisting up the tube to avoid breakage.
✔️ Store in a cool, dark place once it’s at room temperature.
3. Skincare Tools (Gua Sha, Jade Roller, Eye Masks)
Skincare tools don’t require refrigeration, but chilling them enhances their benefits by helping reduce puffiness and inflammation.
What to keep cold:
✔️ Jade Rollers & Gua Sha Tools – The cold temperature helps tighten skin and improve circulation.
✔️ Under-Eye Masks – Chilled eye masks are extra soothing for puffy, tired eyes. 💡 Pro Tip: If you don’t have a mini fridge, pop your roller or gua sha tool in the freezer for a few minutes before use!
What Skincare Products Should NOT Be Refrigerated?
While refrigeration helps some skincare last longer, other products can become too thick, separate, or lose their effectiveness when stored in cold temperatures.
1. Beauty Balm & Oil-Based Products
DO NOT refrigerate our Beauty Balm! Oil-based products don’t contain water, so they don’t require refrigeration. In fact, cold temperatures can cause balms, oils, and butters to harden, making them difficult to apply.
🚫 What NOT to refrigerate:
Beauty Balm – May become too firm and difficult to spread.
Cleansing Oil & Face Oils – Can solidify, making application harder.
Serums with Oils – Some oils can become cloudy or grainy in cold temps.
💡 Pro Tip: Store balms and oils at room temperature in a cool, dry place to maintain their texture.
2. Clay Masks & Powdered Skincare
Dry skincare products, like powdered clay masks, don’t need refrigeration since they don’t contain water. Exposure to moisture (like condensation in a fridge) could actually ruin them!
🚫 Keep these at room temp:
Clay Masks – Store in a dry area to prevent clumping.
💡 Pro Tip: Store clay masks in an airtight container away from steam and humidity to keep them fresh.
Are Mini Skincare Fridges Worth It?
Mini skincare fridges are super trendy right now, but do you really need one? ✅ They’re great for:
Keeping water-based skincare cool and fresh.
Storing jade rollers, gua sha tools, and eye creams.
🚫 They’re not great for:
Oil-based products (which can solidify).
Thick creams or balms that might get too firm.
Powdered skincare that can be affected by moisture.
💡 Final Verdict: Mini fridges are a great luxury if you love a cooling effect in your routine, but they aren’t necessary for every product or everyone!
Final Thoughts: Should You Refrigerate Your Skincare?
✅ Refrigerate:
✔️ Water-based toners, mists & gel serums
✔️ Eye creams & masks for depuffing
✔️ Jade rollers & gua sha tools
✔️ Deodorant (if it’s hot outside!)
🚫 Skip the fridge for:
❌ Oil-based balms, serums & face oils
❌ Clay masks & powdered skincare
❌ Thick creams that might get too hard The key is knowing which products actually benefit from being chilled and which ones are better off at room temperature.
Perioral Dermatitis & The Hidden Dangers of SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate)
If you’ve ever struggled with red, bumpy, irritated skin around your mouth, nose, or eyes, you might be dealing with perioral dermatitis—a frustrating and sometimes persistent skin condition. While there’s no single cause, one major trigger is an ingredient commonly found in personal care products: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS). If you’ve never thought about how SLS could be affecting your skin, now’s the time to take a closer look. In this post, we’re diving deep into what perioral dermatitis is, how SLS contributes to skin irritation, and how you can adjust your skincare routine to keep your skin calm, clear, and happy!
What is Perioral Dermatitis?
Perioral dermatitis is a facial rash that usually appears around the mouth, nose, and sometimes the eyes. It can look like:
✅ Redness or a rash-like irritation
✅ Tiny, inflamed bumps (that may resemble acne or rosacea)
✅ Flaky, dry, or itchy skin
✅ A burning or stinging sensation This condition is often mistaken for acne, rosacea, or eczema, but it has its own unique set of triggers and requires different treatment. It’s more common in women between 20-45 years old but can happen at all ages!
What Causes Perioral Dermatitis?
There isn’t a single cause of perioral dermatitis, but it’s often linked to irritants in skincare and personal care products.
Common triggers include:
🚩 Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) – A harsh foaming agent found in face wash, toothpaste, shampoo, and even some lotions.
🚩 Fluoride Toothpaste – Another common irritant that can worsen perioral dermatitis.
🚩 Topical Steroids – Overuse of corticosteroid creams (like hydrocortisone) can trigger or worsen symptoms.
🚩 Heavy Skincare Products – Thick creams and occlusive ingredients (like petroleum-based products) can trap bacteria and worsen irritation.
🚩 Hormonal Changes & Stress – Fluctuations in hormones and increased stress levels can make symptoms flare up. Since SLS is one of the biggest culprits, let’s talk about why this ingredient is best avoided if you do have perioral dermatitis.
What is Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)?
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a foaming agent and detergent that helps products like shampoo, face wash, toothpaste, and body wash create that rich, bubbly lather. It’s cheap, effective at removing oil and dirt, and widely used in the beauty and cleaning industries. However, while SLS might make your products foam up nicely, it can be extremely harsh on the skin—especially for those prone to perioral dermatitis.
How SLS Affects the Skin
🚨 Strips the Skin Barrier – SLS is a known irritant that disrupts the skin’s natural barrier, leading to dryness, redness, and increased sensitivity.
🚨 Increases Skin Inflammation – Because SLS is so aggressive at removing oils, it can trigger an inflammatory response, making conditions like perioral dermatitis worse.
🚨 Alters the Skin’s Microbiome – Your skin has a natural balance of good bacteria that help keep inflammation in check. SLS can throw this balance off, leading to flare-ups.
🚨 Worsens Sensitivity Over Time – Even if your skin doesn’t react immediately, long-term exposure to SLS can make your skin more prone to irritation and redness. Since perioral dermatitis thrives in an environment where the skin barrier is weak, eliminating SLS from your routine is one of the best steps you can take to heal your skin.
How to Avoid SLS in Your Skincare Routine
The good news? SLS-free skincare and personal care products are easier to find than ever! Here’s how to make the switch:
1. Check Your Ingredient Labels
When shopping for skincare, look out for these SLS-related ingredients and avoid them:
❌ Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
❌ Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) (a slightly milder version, but still irritating)
❌ Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS)
❌ Sodium Coco-Sulfate (often marketed as a “natural” alternative, but still harsh) Many "natural" or "clean" products still use milder sulfates, so always read the ingredient list carefully!
2. Swap Out Your Face Wash & Body Wash
Foaming cleansers and body washes are common sources of SLS exposure. Instead, opt for:
✅ Gentle, sulfate-free cleansers with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile.
✅ Oil cleansers that break down dirt without stripping the skin barrier. ✨ Try This: Our Foaming Face Wash is SLS-free and made with plant-based cleansing agents that won’t disrupt your skin.
3. Use SLS-Free Toothpaste
Since perioral dermatitis often affects the area around the mouth, switching to an SLS-free and fluoride-free toothpaste can make a huge difference. ✨ Look for natural toothpaste brands that use baking soda, coconut oil, or herbal extracts instead of sulfates. We recommend going to your local health food store, they tend to always have clean options. Our favorite brand is Himalaya (SHOP HERE) - They sell it almost everywhere!
4. Be Mindful of Haircare Products
Shampoo and conditioner rinse down your face and body in the shower, exposing your skin to SLS. Switch to:
✅ Sulfate-free shampoos that use gentle, plant-based surfactants.
✅ Fragrance-free or essential oil-based conditioners to avoid unnecessary irritation.
✨ Tip: If you can’t switch your shampoo right away, tilt your head back in the shower to keep product runoff from touching your face!
5. Simplify Your Skincare Routine
If you have perioral dermatitis, less is more. Stick to minimal, skin-barrier-supporting products that calm inflammation rather than overload your skin.
✅ Use fragrance-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers
✅ Add a barrier-repairing serum with ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid
✅ Always patch-test new products to see how your skin reacts
✨ Try This: Our Barrier Defense Serum is specifically formulated to strengthen the skin barrier while keeping inflammation at bay!
How Long Does It Take to See Improvement?
Once you remove SLS and other irritants from your routine, you may start seeing improvement in a few weeks—but full healing can take 1-3 months, depending on your skin’s sensitivity. So be patient with your skin! 🚨 During the detox period: Your skin may go through an adjustment phase where it feels dry or slightly flaky. This is normal! Stick with gentle hydration, and your skin will rebalance over time.
Final Thoughts: Healing Perioral Dermatitis by Avoiding SLS
If you’re struggling with perioral dermatitis, chronic redness, or irritation, eliminating SLS from your skincare, toothpaste, and haircare products is one of the best things you can do for your skin. By switching to gentle, sulfate-free alternatives and prioritizing barrier repair, you’ll help your skin calm down, heal, and stay balanced in the long run.
Need Help Finding SLS-Free Skincare?
At Simple Body, we believe in clean, non-irritating formulas that actually work. Our SLS-free cleansers, toners, and serums are designed to support healthy, balanced skin—without harsh ingredients. 💚 Shop our Perioral Dermatitis-Friendly Skincare Here → www.simplebodyproducts.com
Our Favorite Wellness Tools & Products for Everyday Self-Care
At Simple Body, we believe in keeping wellness simple and effective. From stress-relieving essentials to skin-nourishing favorites, these are the go-to tools that help us unwind, refresh, and restore balance. Whether you’re looking to elevate your skincare, body care, or daily self-care rituals, these favorites will help you feel your best—inside and out.
The Ultimate Guide to Face Mapping: What Your Skin is Telling You
Ever wonder why breakouts always appear in the same place? Face mapping—a practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda—helps decode what your skin is trying to tell you. In this post, we explore how different facial zones relate to internal organs and how a holistic approach can reveal the root cause behind skin issues.
Why You Should Avoid “Fragrance” in Your Skincare
“Fragrance” might sound harmless on a label, but it often hides a cocktail of undisclosed chemicals that can trigger allergies, hormone disruption, and skin irritation. In this guide, we break down why synthetic fragrances should be avoided, how to identify them using tools like Yuka and EWG, and which clean alternatives support your health and the environment. Transparency isn’t just a trend—it’s essential for truly clean beauty.
The Best Natural Deodorant
Thinking about switching to a natural deodorant? You’re not alone! More people are moving away from conventional antiperspirants that block sweat and disrupt the body’s natural detox process. In this guide, we’ll explain why sweating is essential, what to expect during the transition, and how to find the best natural deodorant that keeps you fresh while supporting your body’s health.
The 5 Love Languages
The 5 Love Languages: How to Show Love in a Way That Truly Matters
Love is one of the most beautiful things we experience as humans, but have you ever felt like you and your partner, friend, or family member were speaking different languages when it came to expressing love? That’s where the 5 Love Languages come in! Dr. Gary Chapman introduced this concept in his book, The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts, and it has completely transformed the way people understand relationships. Whether you’re in a romantic relationship, have close friendships, or want to deepen your connection with family, learning about love language types can be a game-changer. So, let’s dive into the love languages list, what they mean, and how you can use them to strengthen your relationships!
What Are the 5 Love Languages?
At the core of it, love languages are the different ways we give and receive love. You might express love one way, but your partner or friend might need love in a completely different way to truly feel it.
Here’s a quick breakdown of each:
1️⃣ Words of Affirmation – Using words to uplift and encourage.
2️⃣ Acts of Service – Showing love through helpful actions.
3️⃣ Receiving Gifts – Thoughtful presents that show you care.
4️⃣ Quality Time – Giving someone your undivided attention.
5️⃣ Physical Touch – Expressing love through physical closeness. Let’s break these down a little more!
1. Words of Affirmation: Love Through Encouragement
If Words of Affirmation is your love language, you thrive on kind words, compliments, and encouragement. A simple “I love you” or “I appreciate you” can mean the world to you.
How to Express Love in This Language:
✔ Leave a heartfelt sticky note on the mirror.
✔ Send a random text telling them how much you appreciate them.
✔ Give genuine compliments—tell them they look amazing, how proud you are of them, or how grateful you are for their kindness.
2. Acts of Service: Love is in the Little Things
Ever heard the phrase, “Actions speak louder than words?” That’s exactly what Acts of Service is all about! People with this love language feel most loved when their partner does things to make their life easier—whether it’s making breakfast, running an errand, or helping with a project.
How to Show Love in This Language:
✔ Cook their favorite meal after a long day.
✔ Take care of a task they’ve been dreading (laundry, dishes, errands).
✔ Surprise them with coffee or a snack when they’re busy or stressed. Remember: It’s not about grand gestures—it’s about thoughtful little things that show, “I see you, and I want to help.”
3. Receiving Gifts: Thoughtful Tokens of Love
People with this love language aren’t materialistic—they just love thoughtful gifts that show you were thinking about them. A well-chosen gift tells them, “I saw this and thought of you,” which makes them feel special.
How to Show Love in This Language:
✔ Surprise them with their favorite snack or coffee.
✔ Gift them something meaningful—a book they’d love, a handmade card, or a small trinket that reminds them of a special memory.
✔ If they collect something (mugs, candles, plants), surprise them with a new addition to their collection! The best gifts don’t have to be expensive! A simple but thoughtful gift can make someone feel incredibly loved.
4. Quality Time: Love is About Presence
If Quality Time is your love language, there’s nothing better than undivided attention. It’s not just about being in the same room—it’s about intentional time together, free of distractions.
How to Show Love in This Language:
✔ Put your phone away and be fully present.
✔ Plan a date night, game night, or movie night together.
✔ Take a walk or road trip where you can talk and connect. Quality Time Love Language Tip: It’s not about what you do, but how you do it. If you’re watching a movie but scrolling on your phone the whole time, it doesn’t count!
5. Physical Touch: Love You Can Feel
For some people, nothing says “I love you” more than a warm hug, a kiss, or simply holding hands. Physical touch is a powerful way to feel close and connected.
How to Show Love in This Language:
✔ Give longer hugs and hold hands often.
✔ Snuggle on the couch or give a massage after a long day.
✔ Use touch in everyday interactions—a pat on the back, a shoulder squeeze, or a playful nudge. Physical touch is a silent way of saying, "I'm here for you."
How to Say “I Love You” in Sign Language
Want to learn how to say "I love you" in sign language? It's easy! The "I love you" sign in American Sign Language (ASL) is made by extending your thumb, index finger, and pinky while keeping your middle and ring fingers down. 🤟 Fun Idea: If someone you love has "Words of Affirmation" as their love language, surprise them by signing "I love you" in sign language instead of just saying it!
Using Love Languages to Strengthen Every Relationship
Knowing your love language types isn’t just helpful for romantic relationships—it’s also amazing for friendships, family, and even coworkers!
✔ If your friend has Quality Time as their love language, plan a coffee date or a call.
✔ If your mom loves Acts of Service, help her with something on her to-do list.
✔ If your partner loves Physical Touch, make sure to give them extra hugs. Love isn’t one-size-fits-all, and that’s what makes it beautiful. When you start speaking someone’s love language, you’re showing them love in a way they truly understand. 💛
Why You Should Book a Trip to Antigua: A Caribbean Paradise Awaits
If you’re craving a tropical getaway filled with turquoise waters, soft white sands, and warm island charm, Antigua is the destination for you. This Caribbean gem offers more than stunning beaches—it’s rich in history, culture, and adventure, from world-class sailing to vibrant local markets. Get ready to experience paradise at its finest.
DIY At-Home Spa Day: Relax, Refresh, and Rejuvenate
You don’t need a fancy spa appointment to unwind. This guide walks you through planning the perfect DIY spa day—from setting the mood to using natural, skin-loving treatments that leave you glowing, relaxed, and refreshed right at home.
5 Winter Skincare Tips for Healthy, Glowing Skin
Winter may be beautiful, but it can also be brutal on your skin. Cold air, low humidity, and indoor heat all work together to strip away moisture and leave your complexion feeling dry and tight. The good news? With the right skincare habits and nourishing natural products, you can maintain soft, hydrated, and glowing skin—even in the chilliest months. In this post, we’re sharing five essential tips (plus bonus insights!) to protect your skin barrier and keep your glow all season long.