If not for my Mother and her plight with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities, I would still be using my arsenal of “beauty” products to keep my skin soft, my hair full, and my age well hidden. I was shocked to learn just how damaging all my beloved products can be for my skin and health. Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS), Cocamide DEA, Nitrosamines—the list goes on and on with ingredients that have no business in our everyday lives. So began my search for a safe and effective soap minus all the harmful chemicals. Dr. Bronner’s soap products are just that.
At the recommendation of a friend, I headed to our local health store to make the purchase. However, I was not prepared to pay $8.00 for a small bottle. I pinch pennies, use coupons, and watch for sales. How could I spend that much money on a single bottle of “soap”? I am accustomed to spending nothing on a bottle of Suave shampoo during a sale with a coupon. So I went home empty-handed.
A few months later I noticed a 25% off sale at our local Sunflower Market on Dr. Bronner’s liquid soap, so I decided to bite the bullet and purchase the largest bottle (the best value). I was pleasantly surprised to find that it was so concentrated that it can be diluted and used for almost any use, which means that it lasts much longer than I could have imagined. The label claims to have eighteen uses, but I am betting that there are more than that! Here are a few, some of which I still have yet to try.
- Body soap/wash: Can be used full strength or diluted. I dilute to save money and it works just as well. For best results use a loofah or washcloth to help with exfoliation.
- Shampoo: Add ¼ cup (more or less) soap to an old shampoo bottle and fill it with water. Play with the ratio of soap and water until you’re happy with the results.
- Shaving cream: I use the same shampoo mixture to shave my legs.
- Toothpaste: It takes only one or two drops on your toothbrush. I prefer to use baking soda to brush my teeth, so I have yet to try this. Dr. Bronner recommends the peppermint.
- Laundry: I haven’t tried it in my laundry just yet. But I understand that it works well mixed with baking soda which helps keep whites bright.
- Cleaning: Most anything in and around your home can be cleaned with Dr. Bronner’s liquid soap. Dilute to your specifications and enjoy a clean, great smelling home. I love lavender.
- Bug repellent: The Eucalyptus is said to repel bugs such as mosquitoes. I know I will be trying it this summer.
Whether you use it full strength or dilute it according to your preferences, I am sure you will love this soap. You can choose from bar soap or liquid and comes in many fragrances such as Rose, Tea Tree, Lavender, Citrus, Almond, Eucalyptus or Peppermint. Visit Dr. Bronner’s website for more products. Please share with us your experiences and uses them for his soaps.
