Zero waste body powder is about avoiding talcum powder. It may be nostalgic, but we know better today. It’s a mined inorganic substance that has no business being near delicate regions, especially for babies.
Corinne Taylor Lavender Chamomile Organic Body Powder was created by a qualified aromatherapist, sold in an aluminium tin. The base of arrowroot and cornstarch adds Bentonite clay and soothing essential oils. You can also use this as a light deodorant or dry shampoo.
Avoid essential oils for pregnancy/nursing & affected medical conditions (epilepsy, asthma, heart – no rosemary, citrus or sage oil for high blood pressure). Avoid shea butter for latex allergies. Keep essential oils & cocoa butter (toxic if licked) away from pets. A few are made with zinc oxide, but this ingredient (found in natural sunscreens) is toxic to pets, so only use if you are not near animals or have showered it off.
You may have heard that talc can be a risk to ovarian cancer, due to often being sprinkled near genital areas (also found in feminine care products, condoms and cosmetics). Environmental Working Group reports that talc often contains asbestos (a known cause of cancer), and it’s believed that miners are at increased risk.
Be careful with some natural alternatives, as cornstarch can sometimes cause yeast infections and rashes, so is best avoided for babies and sensitive skin.
Other Natural Body Powders
- Neal’s Yard Remedies offers a nice lavender tea tree body powder, with organic cornstarch. Sold in an aluminium tin.
- Chagrin Valley (US) offers unscented and scented (rose garden or fresh feet) organic vegan body powders. These are made with finely milled vegetable root powders.
