I’m a wheat-hoarding, oat-chomping gluten eater. But with growing numbers of friends and family being diagnosed with a gluten intolerance, I’ve learned a few things along the way.
Gluten-free options are no longer just for the food aisle. Even if you carefully read all medication and supplement labels and avoid restaurants with threats of cross-contamination, is it enough? There is a growing debate among doctors as to whether gluten-containing beauty products your skin absorbs on a daily basis may cause those with celiac to have an attack.
“Gluten can’t be absorbed through the skin,” states Dr. Michael Picco, Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist, since the skin molecules are too large. In dissenting opinion, Dr. Rodney Ford, author of The Gluten Syndrome, says he has seen cases in which topical gluten caused eczema, rashes and other inflammatory skin conditions in people with celiac disease.
Whichever the case, most doctors agree that ingesting any personal care products that have gluten ingredients may contribute to skin and gut inflammation.
Even for those lucky among us who mindlessly eat pasta and cheese guilty- and pain-free, the gluten-free lifestyle is a healthful one at that. Put only the best into your body and check out these gluten-free body care options:
Crabtree & Evelyn
The British brand’s new deeply moisturizing set of shower gel, body lotion and body butter, combines the restorative and antioxidant powers of avocado, olive oil and basil. The proactive formulas are free of parabens, sulfates and mineral oil.
The Seaweed Bath Co.
The Seaweed Bath Co. lotion infuses Kukui oil from Hawaii and argan oil from Morocco combine with seaweed, aloe vera and Africa Fair Trade Council Certified shea butter. It is offered in lavender, citrus, eucalyptus and peppermint, or unscented.
Yes to Blueberries
A skin-firming lotion containing the power fruit antioxidant plus grapeseed and tamanu seed oils to smooth and improve firmness.
Sonya Dakar
The cult skincare brand has launched a range of bodycare items that contains organic Omega-3’s, botanical extracts and antioxidants. The range is also paraben and sulfate free, and all products are available in Verbena (best for mature skin) and Cara Cara (best for breakout-prone and congested skin).
Jāsön Natural Products
To whiten teeth without abrasive chemicals, the green brand uses silica and baking powder to lift stains naturally, and grapefruit seed extract to kill cavity-causing plaque buildup.
