B00AFU6252 EBOK by Jessica Alba

evidence that antibacterial soaps are in any way superior to good old soap and water. So stick with that—and always lather hands for at least 20 seconds.
BODY OIL
    Oils are nice when you want a lotion that will also give your legs a little shine, or during the winter when dry air and central heating makes our skin super thirsty. I also find that most plant-based body oils can double as a hair de-frizzer in a pinch (rub a few drops between your hands, then smooth over the ends of your hair). And I constantly rub a drop or two into my cuticles to keep them smooth.
    One of the most popular plant oils right now is argan oil, which is derived from the kernels of the argan tree in Morocco. Fun fact: I used to think I was allergic to argan oil—until I tried some on a trip to France and realized that, actually, I’m allergic to the fillers and additives that go into so many salon and drugstore brands. It’s always a good idea to do a patch test before you slather any new product all over your skin. Just because it’s natural doesn’t mean it won’t disagree with you or cause a reaction.
DEODORANT & ANTIPERSPIRANT
    I won’t lie: If I have to walk a red carpet or give a big presentation, I’m reaching for that trustworthy but toxin-filled Big Name Super-Strong Antiperspirant. You can’t risk pit stains in those high-pressure situations, and the nontoxic deodorant formulas just aren’t there yet. Part of it is a chemical issue: Manufacturers are having a heck of a time finding something that stops sweat but doesn’t contain nasty ingredients. And part of it is a health thing: Sweating is actually
good
for you, so you don’t want to stop it altogether (at least, not all the time). For now, my strategy is to layer my conventional antiperspirant over a natural, nontoxic deodorant (Alba Organics—no relation!—is my current favorite). I figure that way I’ve got a layer of protection from the aluminum and triclosan in most mainstream brands. On regular days, it’s natural all the way.
SUNSCREEN
    Tanning is
sooo
dangerous—I’ve watched my mom deal with melanoma, so I know firsthand where it can lead. Not to mention, it makes you look way old before your time! I just don’t get the obsession, and it makes me sad to see young girls baking at the beach or in tanning salons, just wrecking their skin.
    The most important thing you can do for your skin health is to make sure you put on your sunscreen every day, no excuses. And for sure, your kids need to be wearing sunscreen. This is especially true if you and they are fair (like my little strawberry blonde, Haven!).
    But it’s important to make sure you’re putting on a sunscreen that is really good for your skin, on every level. Lots of conventional sunscreens contain oxybenzone, a chemical that is an endocrine disruptor and notorious for its ability to screw with hormonal health and development in children. You shouldn’t have to choose between skin cancer and developmental problems when you’re picking a sunscreen for your kids!
    Instead, opt for mineral sunscreens that are made with zinc or titanium dioxide; avobenzone and ecamsule (AKA Mexoryl SX) are good alternatives. While you’re at it, skip the sunscreen sprays and powders, which are more likely to contain problematic ingredients. Instead, choose a cream formula that provides broad spectrum protection (from both UVA and UVB rays) and is water resistant for the beach, pool, or exercise.It should also contain a minimum of SPF 30, but keep in mind that the FDA doesn’t regulate SPFs over 50, so a higher number may not offer much extra protection, especially if you think it means you can skimp on reapplying. Always slather on another coat if you’ve been outside swimming or sweating for a couple of hours.

BE A SHADE WORSHIPPER

    Okay, not really. But when you’re going to be in the sun, you need to play it smart. I always wear my UV-protectant sunglasses to shield my eyes, and I love a wide-brimmed straw hat