A few years ago I had a conversation that shifted the way I thought about the products I was using. My friend, who is really conscious about the foods and products she buys, began discussing just how many chemicals go into our lotions, perfumes, soaps and overall skincare items.

I didn’t give it much thought until that conversation.

That coupled with a cancer diagnosis (not me, but a close family member) led me to research the hell out of what I was putting on my skin. The same can be said about what I eat, however, that’s an ongoing process.

Over the last two years, I’ve tried different all-natural brands. Some have smelled amazing and resulted in breakouts (not fun!), while others left my skin feeling extremely dry or chalky. However, I’ve found a few keepers in this trial process.

Founded by Raquel Battle, Belize In You is a new favorite of mine. I used Belize In You’s Seaweed Soap ‘til the very end. My skin was left feeling clean, moisturized and refreshed after each use thanks to its nourishing ingredients, which include shea butter, seaweed, anatto seeds; coconut and castor oils, as well as a proprietary blend of essential oils. Yes, all the good stuff! I love the ocean, so the seaweed soap bar brought a bit of la mar back into my life during the winter months. Belize In You specializes in producing, high-quality seaweed soaps made from Gracilaria seaweed, as noted on their website.

There are numerous benefits of seaweed as it’s filled with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. It’s anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties help fight cellulite, making your skin more supple; reduce toxins in your skin, which can make your skin smoother, not dull or lackluster; and fights inflammation that can cause pimples and acne. Before using a product, I Google as many of the ingredients as possible to ensure it’s safe to use on my skin. I’m happy to report this seaweed soap worked well with my sensitive skin.

Not only is Belize In You great for your skin, there’s a social impact mission to it as well. This additive and soap base is sourced at the Placencia Producers Cooperative in Belize, so when you purchase a bar you’re helping farmers expand seaweed farms in the Central American country. Also, purchase of a Belize In You soap and skincare product supports cancer patients in Belize and the building of the first hospice home in the country, The Edlin Leslie Sr. Hospice.

You can purchase Belize In You’s Marine Skin & Body Care products on their website.

Have you tried out the seaweed soap or any of their products? Let us know what you think in the comments section.