People are becoming more aware of toxic overload and how taxing it is on our systems. Daily toxins cause fatigue, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, skin irritations and even terrible autoimmune responses.

But what is the answer? Often the first step to purification is a physical cleanse or detox. Regimens consist of routines that eliminate sugar, flour and grains, alcohol, and coffee. Juicing is a current trend, as is fasting. People are advised to drink plenty of purified water, especially distilled water.

Then there is the mental element. Individuals are encouraged to create balance between work and home life. During a detox or cleanse, it is suggested that individuals engage in relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation. It is also a good time to indulge in a lymphatic massage, take a bath in soothing epsom salt or chill out in an infrared sauna.

Despite all this, we’re forgetting something. While key in the detoxification process, somehow what we put on our bodies every day is often overlooked. Our skin is our largest organ. Yet many smear on creams and serums made with toxic oils, synthetic fragrances and fillers, and inject substances such as Botox and Juvaderm. All too often people are applying hair color laden with ammonia, PPD, resorcinol, gluten and more. Many shampoos, conditioners and body washes contain chemical preservatives, perfumes, parabens and phalates. Hair-smoothing treatments where a technician has to wear a gas mask while applying does not seem to faze even many health-conscience clients. Some makeup lines contain mineral oils, silicones, lead, synthetics, artificial colors and chemical preservatives known to be toxic.

So where is the balance? We want to feel attractive as well as trust detoxification and beauty processes that are supportive of our health. Part of the answer is to find more natural-minded salons with beautifying and youth-preserving products and services that do not compromise our health. 

Michele Maestri-Murphy is the owner of Eco Chic Salon and Blow Dry Bar and a veteran Fairfield County stylist. Connect at 203-966-6555 or EcoChicSalonCT.com. See ad, page 4.