Choosing Natural and Organic Beauty Products: Being Good Stewards of God’s Earth
Choosing natural and organic beauty products is a simple yet impactful way of being good stewards of God’s Earth.
In today’s world, where we are bombarded with countless choices for almost everything—including beauty and personal care products—it’s easy to overlook the impact of our consumption on our health and the environment. Whether you are a Christian or not, we are called to be good stewards of God’s creation, protecting the Earth and all that He has provided.
Choosing natural and organic beauty products is one of the ways we can live out this calling, aligning our lifestyle with our faith and values. Let’s explore why opting for natural and organic beauty products is a spiritual and ethical choice, as well as practical tips for making informed decisions.
Stewardship of the Earth in the Bible
Before delving into the specific reasons for choosing natural and organic products, it’s essential to understand the biblical foundation for stewardship.
The Bible speaks frequently about the responsibility God gave humanity to care for the Earth. Genesis 1:28 states, “God blessed them and said to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.’”
While this passage might be interpreted as a call to dominion, it’s important to recognize that biblical dominion is not about exploitation but about responsible caretaking.
Psalm 24:1 also reminds us, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” Everything belongs to God, and we are merely caretakers. We are expected to manage Earth’s resources with wisdom and love, protecting them for future generations.
In the context of beauty and personal care products, stewardship extends to considering the ingredients we use and their long-term effects on both our bodies and the world around us. By choosing products that are derived from nature and produced sustainably, we are honoring God’s creation and contributing to its preservation.
The Hidden Harm of Beauty Products
A pretty package can be so deceiving. I know I am guilty of picking up a product just because I like the aesthetic of the brand. The first thing I used to do is grab what would catch my eye and pop the top open and see how good it smelled.
I was unaware of the negative effects ingredients could have on my body. I think that is the case with so many people. We don’t know what we don’t know and blindly trust that companies would never put harmful ingredients in their products.
But the truth is that a pretty package could be hiding some pretty ugly ingredients inside. It is crucial to take a closer look at the ingredients inside. When we understand what is inside, we can make better choices beyond picking a product merely for its packaging. When we know better, we not only do better, but feel better too.
- Toxic Chemicals
Many commercial beauty products contain synthetic chemicals like parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and artificial fragrances. Parabens, for example, are preservatives used in cosmetics to prolong shelf life. However, they have been linked to hormone disruption and other health problems. Phthalates, often found in fragrances, are also known to interfere with the endocrine system, leading to a host of issues, including reproductive harm. These ingredients not only pose risks to our bodies but also accumulate in ecosystems, affecting wildlife and natural habitats. - Environmental Pollution
Many beauty products come in non-recyclable or excessive plastic packaging. Once these containers are discarded, they often end up in landfills or the ocean, contributing to the global plastic pollution crisis. According to research, about 8 million tons of plastic waste enter the ocean each year, harming marine life and polluting our water sources. Additionally, many ingredients in conventional beauty products, such as microbeads in exfoliants, wash down the drain and contaminate water bodies, affecting fish and other aquatic organisms. Another alarming fact, the plastic our products are packaged in are ending up inside our bodies. Research shows our brains now contain up to five percent plastic. Plastic is found in other organs in our bodies as well which, needless to say, is not a good thing for our overall health. - Animal Testing
Many conventional beauty products are still tested on animals, causing suffering and death to countless creatures. As Christians, we believe that God cares for all His creation, including animals. Proverbs 12:10 says, “The righteous care for the needs of their animals,” highlighting the importance of treating animals with compassion.
Why Choose Natural and Organic Beauty Products?
Opting for natural and organic beauty products is an excellent way to fulfill our role as stewards of God’s earth. Here are just a few reasons as to why natural products are a better choice:
- Safer Ingredients for You and the Planet
Natural and organic products are made from ingredients that are minimally processed and free from harmful chemicals. Organic ingredients are grown without the use of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, ensuring that harmful toxins don’t enter your body or the environment. When you choose organic beauty products, you’re not only protecting your skin from harmful substances but also reducing your environmental footprint. - Cruelty-Free Practices
A growing number of natural and organic beauty brands are committed to cruelty-free practices, meaning they do not test on animals. Choosing cruelty-free beauty products aligns with the biblical principle of showing kindness and respect to all of God’s creatures. By purchasing from companies that prioritize animal welfare, you are taking a stand against unnecessary suffering and encouraging more humane industry standards. - Nurturing Your Body the Way God Intended
Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), and we are called to treat them with care and respect. What we put on our skin is just as important as what we put into our bodies. By choosing beauty products made from natural ingredients, we are nourishing our skin (our largest organ) with what God has provided through nature. Organic oils, plant-based extracts, and essential oils offer safe and effective benefits for the skin without introducing synthetic chemicals into our systems. - Supporting a Broader Movement for Change
When you choose to buy natural and organic beauty products, you’re not just making a personal decision—you’re supporting a growing movement that advocates for healthier, more sustainable products. This collective action can lead to greater change in the beauty industry as more people demand transparency on the ingredients inside products, ethical sourcing, and eco-friendly packaging. By voting with your dollar, you are helping to create a market that values stewardship over profit, influencing companies to rethink their impact on human health and the world around us. We have seen in recent years just how important it is to buy from brands your values align with and the power we as consumers do hold.
Practical Steps for Choosing Natural and Organic Beauty Products
Now that we’ve covered the why, let’s explore the how. Making the switch to natural and organic beauty products can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. I have found this to be such a fun process!
I love digging into new products and trying new things. Who doesn’t love a little beauty product shopping, am I right?! Here are just a few practical steps to help make the process both enjoyable and easier:
- Read the Ingredient Labels
Just because a product is labeled as “natural” or “organic” doesn’t mean it’s entirely free from harmful ingredients. The term “natural” is not regulated by law, so companies can use it loosely. When shopping for beauty products, take the time to read ingredient labels. Avoid ingredients like parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, and phthalates. Instead, look for plant-based ingredients, cold-pressed oils, and certified organic labels. Take advantage of helpful apps like Yuka, Think Dirty, or EWG Healthy Living that rate products and help you make an informed decision with a quick scan or search. I don’t make a trip to the store without scanning something with one of these apps! - Start Small and Replace Gradually
Switching all your beauty products at once can be expensive and daunting. Instead of overhauling your entire beauty routine in one go, start small. Begin by replacing the products you use daily, such as cleansers, moisturizers, or hair care products, with natural and organic alternatives. Gradually replace other items as they run out. This not only makes the process more manageable but also allows you to test new products and see what works best for your skin. - Research the Brand’s Ethics
Beyond the product itself, it’s essential to research the company’s ethics. Look for brands that are transparent about their sourcing, production methods, and commitment to sustainability. Many beauty brands also give back to causes they feel passionate about. Make sure what they are passionate about aligns with the values you hold dear. - Consider DIY Beauty Solutions
One of the simplest ways to ensure you’re using natural ingredients is to make your beauty products at home. Many DIY beauty recipes use common kitchen items like coconut oil, honey, and essential oils to create nourishing and effective skincare treatments. Not only are DIY products free from harmful chemicals, but they also reduce packaging waste. There are plenty of resources online with easy-to-follow recipes for making cleansers, scrubs, face masks, and even deodorants. What a fun little project to do with your kiddos as well! - Shop Local and Support Small Businesses
Another way to align your beauty choices with stewardship values is by shopping locally and supporting small businesses. Many local artisans create high-quality, natural, and organic products. By supporting small, local businesses, you are helping to boost the local economy while minimizing the environmental impact associated with long-distance shipping. I think it is extra special as you are using a product knowing that someone local made it with a love and passion that differs from big brands.
A Reflection of Faith and Care
Choosing natural and organic beauty products is more than just a trend; it’s a reflection of our faith and commitment to being good stewards of the world God made. By making conscious decisions about the products we use on our bodies, we are caring for ourselves, protecting the environment, and honoring the intricate balance of creation.
The choices we make—no matter how small—can have a ripple effect, encouraging a culture of respect, responsibility, and reverence for the natural world. We set an example for both our families and the people around us.
The best way to encourage the ones you love to live a more natural and healthier lifestyle is by being an example yourself. When others see you and how you live, it makes a real difference especially for those who are just learning what this natural stuff is all about.
In the end, stewardship is about love—love for God, love for His creation, and love for the people around us. By embracing natural and organic beauty products, we are respecting God’s definition of beauty and preserving that beauty and abundance for future generations, all while nurturing ourselves in the way God intended. I can think of no better legacy to leave than to teach those we love to be healthy both physically and spiritually, both inside and out.
