Lisa Hanlon has dedicated her career to helping people embrace a low-tox lifestyle. What started as a personal journey into reducing harmful chemicals has evolved into a passion for holistic health.
In this conversation, Lisa shares how small changes in the products we use, the foods we eat, and the habits we form can have a huge impact on our overall well-being. From decoding hidden hormone disruptors to balancing a busy life, Lisa’s approach is all about mindful, sustainable choices that support long-term health.
What first got you interested in low-tox living, and how has your journey in health and wellness changed over the years?
It all began when I started noticing how many synthetic chemicals were in the products we use daily, and how these can affect our health over time. As I learned more about the impact of toxins on hormonal balance, skin health, and overall well being, I felt a deep responsibility to make changes—not just for myself but for my clients too.
Over the years, my focus has evolved from simply reducing toxins to embracing holistic wellness. Now, I aim to help people find balance through mindful choices, whether that’s the products they use, the foods they eat, or the daily habits they form.
We hear a lot about hormone disruptors these days—what are some surprising ones you’ve come across in everyday beauty or hygiene products?
One surprising hormone disruptor I’ve come across is synthetic fragrance, which is present in so many products—perfumes, lotions, even laundry detergents. These fragrances often contain phthalates, which can interfere with hormonal health.
Another one people don’t often think about is parabens in beauty products. Even in small amounts, they can accumulate over time and mimic oestrogen in the body. It’s amazing how switching to fragrance-free or naturally scented products can make a difference.
Switching to natural deodorants can be a bit daunting for some people. How do you reassure those who worry they might not be as effective?
I understand the concern! There’s often a transition period when you first switch to natural deodorants, as your body adjusts and detoxes from conventional products. During this time, some may feel they aren’t as effective.
However, I always reassure people that it’s just temporary and that natural deodorants can be just as effective once your body adapts. The key is to find a formula that works with your body’s chemistry, and to give yourself a bit of grace during the adjustment. Clean, natural ingredients like baking soda, magnesium, and essential oils really do the job!
I’d love to hear about your morning routine—what are the must-have products or practices that help you stay balanced and feeling your best?
My morning routine is all about balance and simplicity. I start the day with a cup of warm water and lemon to kick start digestion, followed by a quick skincare routine with a natural cleanser, toner, and moisturiser.
I swear by Totem Eco’s natural deodorant —it’s my go-to every day. I also make sure to get in a short meditation or stretching session to centre myself before diving into the day. Herbal tea is another must for me; it helps me stay calm and focused without the crash that coffee sometimes brings.
How closely do you think our diet impacts our skin and hormonal health? Are there any foods you swear by—or avoid completely?
Diet plays a huge role in both skin and hormonal health. I’m a big believer in eating a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods. Healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and seeds help support hormone production, while leafy greens and berries are full of antioxidants that keep the skin glowing.
I try to avoid excess sugar and processed foods because they can cause inflammation and disrupt hormone balance. I also incorporate plenty of fibre to help with detoxification and overall gut health, which is key for clear skin and balanced hormones.
With so many products claiming to be ‘clean’ or ‘green,’ how can we really tell if something is genuinely low-tox or just clever marketing?
This is such a great question because greenwashing is so common these days. The best way to know if a product is truly low-tox is to look at the ingredient list. Avoid products with long lists of synthetic chemicals, and watch out for vague terms like ‘fragrance’—this can often be a catch-all for hidden chemicals.
Certifications like organic or cruelty-free are also helpful, but nothing beats doing a little research into the brand’s values and practices. Transparency is key; brands that are truly committed to low-tox living will make it clear what’s in their products and why.
Balancing work and personal life can be a challenge—how do you manage to stay centred and maintain your own wellbeing?
It’s definitely a balancing act! For me, it’s about setting boundaries and making time for self-care, even when things get busy. I schedule time for exercise, relaxation, and downtime just as I would any other important appointment.
I also find that mindfulness practices like meditation or even just a few minutes of deep breathing can help keep me centred. And, of course, having a solid support system of friends, family, and colleagues helps me stay grounded. Prioritising my own wellbeing allows me to show up better for both work and life.
