MY STORY
It all began with a love for coconut—my cherished ingredient, a staple in nearly every product I owned. From coconut-based body washes to hair care tailored for my curly locks, and even the body mists I adored, it was a constant in my daily routine. But as the months passed, something shifted. In 2023, after years of managing allergic rhinitis and known allergies to dust, pollen, and tomatoes, I began experiencing new and puzzling reactions. The answer, I later discovered, might lie in Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), a condition that would completely transform my approach to skincare and self-care in ways I never anticipated.
One day in 2024, I stepped out of the shower to find rashes covering my neck, chest, and back—a reaction more intense than anything I’d experienced before. Frustration turned to determination as I began investigating the cause. That’s when it hit me: every product in my shower had one thing in common—coconut.
Removing coconut from my routine was nothing short of a revelation. The constant contact rashes disappeared, and my acne improved by an astonishing 75%, leaving only cystic acne to manage. But the journey didn’t end there. Coconut was hiding in places I never expected, disguised under names like “caprylyl glycol” and other sneaky aliases, tucked away in my face creams, deodorants, and cleansers. As a skincare enthusiast and esthetician student, realizing that this once-beloved ingredient was now a trigger was heartbreaking. I felt my hope slipping as I uncovered just how pervasive coconut derivatives are in the beauty industry.
But giving up wasn’t an option. I channeled my frustration into purpose, diving deep into research and reaching out to skincare companies to trace their ingredient sources. This blog was born from that determination. After a year of painstaking investigation, I created this space to share my findings and recommendations, hoping to make the journey a little less isolating for anyone facing similar struggles.
For fellow patients navigating dysautonomia, I’ve also crafted a caffeine-free guide to our favorite drinks, offering alternatives for those of us managing POTS and related conditions.
Today, I’m still navigating mounting medical bills, and any support means the world to me. Thank you for being here and helping turn this research into something meaningful for all of us. If you’d like to support, links are below.
Who am I? Meet Nat, the Researcher
I’m a 24-year-old marketing student based in Panamá, with a deep love for skincare, health, science, and lifestyle. Diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and pursuing an official diagnosis for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), my journey has led me to seek out the best products and allergen-free foods that truly work for me.
But there’s more to me than just my health journey. I’m also passionate about design, drawing, and painting—creative outlets that bring me joy and help me stay positive, even on the toughest days. While I’m not currently working due to my disability, I hold onto hope and strive to maintain a positive outlook on life.
This blog is my way of sharing what I’ve learned, hoping to help others navigate similar challenges. Whether you’re searching for gentle skincare, safe foods, or just a bit of friendly advice, I’m here to offer support from someone who truly understands what you’re going through.
If you feel inclined to support my journey, any donations are deeply appreciated and will be met with endless gratitude, good vibes, and warm wishes. 💗