Get Ready for Dry Skin Season with These Clean Beauty Body Moisturizers

October 29, 2021 by Hope Recupero in Body Care, moisturizers

If you’re looking to replace just one personal care or beauty product with a cleaner, non-toxic version, body lotion is a great place to start. It covers a large portion of your body and it sits on your bare skin all day so it’s important, given those circumstances, that the ingredients are safe! Yes, it’s entirely possible that some of the ingredients in body lotions can permeate the epidermis and enter your bloodstream. Yes, it’s possible that some of those ingredients in conventional lotions pose a risk to your health when used for a sustained period of time. The good news is that there are SO MANY clean, non-toxic options. I’ve tried quite a few and I am going to share with you a handful of body moisturizers that I like and that suit a number of needs.

What Ingredients Should I Avoid In My Body Lotions?

Parabens - Parabens are found in so many beauty and personal care products, including body lotions. Look for butylparaben, isobutylparaben, methylparaben, propylparaben, or ethylparaben on the ingredients list. Parabens are a preservative, which is essential, but unfortunately there is some concern about their possible link to hormone disruption and even breast cancer. Manufacturers have found safer preservatives like citric acid and vitamin e to replace parabens, but consumers should be aware that the shelf life will be shorter. Make sure you use all paraben-free products up by the date provided on the packaging.

Fragrance/Parfum - Yes, fragrance is going to make your lotion smell really good, but it’s those undisclosed ingredients in fragrance that are of concern. Phthalates, in particular, are the most concerning because of their link to a variety of health issues including hormone disruption, fertility issues, cardiovascular issues and obesity. Phthalates are used to help fragrance last longer and “cling” to the skin.

Mineral Oil - Mineral oil is too heavy for the skin and doesn’t allow it to breath. It basically sits on top of the skin like a plastic coating rather than sinking into the skin and providing a permeable protective layer. It can clog pores and not allow the skin to naturally eliminate toxins.

DMDM Hydantoin - DMDM Hydantoin is a formaldehyde releasing preservative added to many personal care items including body lotions. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and can be present in products that include DMDM hydantoin in their ingredients.

Benzalkonium Chloride - Benzalkonium chloride is another preservative and also a surfactant and has been associated with significant skin, eye, and respiratory irritation as well as allergies.

Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) - EDTA is a binding agent added to personal care and beauty products to help improve stability. There is concern that is may be toxic to organs.

Polyethylene glycol (PEG compounds) - PEGs are commonly used in beauty and personal care products as thickeners, solvents, softeners, and moisture-carriers. There is concern that during the manufacturing process, PEGs may be contaminated with significant amounts of ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, both of which are carcinogens.

Retinyl palmitate (Vitamin A Palmitate) - Retinyl palmitate is an ingredient made from both palmitic acid and retinol (Vitamin A). An FDA study has shown that retinyl palmitate, accelerates the development of certain skin cancer lesions and causes photosensitization. The FDA as well as health agencies in Norway and Germany have raised concerns that consistent application of vitamin A creams may also contribute to excessive vitamin A intake for pregnant women and other individuals.

Get Ready for Dry Skin Season with These Clean Beauty Body Moisturizers

Solid

Kate McLeod’s Body Stone - Kate McLeod has formulated a combination of oils and botanical butters to create this incredibly unique solid moisturizer that melts into skin upon contact. It’s available in a full and mini size and several formulations. The mini is perfect for traveling since it’s solid (no spills) and packs easily. I love that the packaging is completely plastic free and that all ingredients are botanically-based. Mini is $14 and the full size starter kit is $45 (refills are $38).

Mountain Madness Solid Lotion Bar - Formulated with olive oil, local beeswax, shea butter, cocoa butter, calendula extract, essential oils of lemon, rosemary and vitamin E and that’s it! Simple yet hydrating, it’s great for the whole body or spot treating those dry spots like elbows and cuticles. $12 on the Mountain Madness Soap Co. website.

For Eczema Prone Skin

Acure Everyday Eczema Lotion - This highly rated unscented formula with colloidal oatmeal and and a variety botanical oils helps sooth and protect skin between and during eczema outbreaks. Vegan and paraben, sulfate, petrolatum, mineral oil, formaldehyde and cruelty free. $12 on Amazon.

Pipette Eczema Lotion - Perfect for eczema prone skin of all ages. Plant-based squalane and colloidal oatmeal help soothe, moisturize and protect during eczema flare ups. Free of steroids, petrolatum and silicones. $14 on Amazon.

Adaptive

Beautycounter Countermatch Adaptive Moisturizer - Formulated with squalane, aloe vera, plum oil and phytic acid, this moisturizer is uniquely designed to adapt to your individual skin’s moisture needs. Light in texture and scent, this lotion sinks right in and leaves skin feeling soft with no greasiness or stickiness. If you’re looking for something on the lighter side, this is perfect. $39 on the Beautycounter website.

Body Balm

Beautycounter Melting Body Balm - Enriched with argan and avocado oils, this body balm is perfect for skin that needs a good boost of hydration and protection (good for those really dry, cold winter months) without being heavy or greasy. It’s also great for spot treating areas like elbows, cuticles and hands and a little goes a long way. $42 on Beautycounter’s website.

Sheabrand CBD Muscle, Joint and Skin Balm - Loaded with healing essential oils along with CBD, this balm is formulated for providing relief to aching joints and muscles along with providing hydration. $30 on the Credo Beauty website.

Anti-Aging

oSea Anti-aging Body Balm - We use anti-aging products for our face but what about our bodies? This anti-aging balm from oSea is so luxurious and hydrating, plus it contains antioxidants and seaweed extract to help tighten and firm skin. It’s loaded with botanical oils that sink into skin and give a soft, dewy finish. $48 on the oSea website.

Tata Harper Revitalizing Body Oil - An antioxidant and vitamin rich body oil that promotes radiant and healthy skin from head to toe. Richly hydrating with evening primrose and camellia oil. Good for all skin types and can also be used as a deep conditioning hair mask.. $120 on the Credo Beauty website.

Body Oil

Weleda Hydrating Beauty and Body Oil - A blend of botanical oils that can be used on body, hair and in the bath. Simple, nourishing and hydrating. $21.50 on the Credo Beauty website.

oSea Undaria Algae Oil - Perfect for every skin type this luxurious body oil is infused with seaweed extracts and botanical oils to hydrate and firm skin. $48 on the Credo Beauty website.

Baby

Pipette Fragrance Free Baby Lotion - Gentle, lightweight and fast-absorbing, this lotion is perfect for baby’s delicate skin. Adults can use it too! Contains plant-derived squalane, essential fatty acids and ceramides. Completely fragrance free and well priced at $8 a tube. Available on Amazon.

Beautycounter Daily Baby Protective Balm - Specially formulated for baby’s delicate, sensitive skin this balm includes shea butter, sunflower seed oil and jojoba seed oil to soothe, hydrate and protect. Also great for sensitive adult skin. $22 on the Beautycounter website.

Simple

Beautycounter Hydrating Body Lotion - Beautycounter’s tried and true body lotion in its signature citrus mimosa scent. Loaded with hydrating botanical butters and oils for smooth, hydrated skin. $25 on the Beautycounter website.

Billie Dry-Bye Body Lotion - Formulated with aloe, shea butter, grapeseed oil and chamomile for soothing all-day hydration with a light citrus scent. A matte, comfortable finish with no greasy, sticky feel. $12 on the Billie website.

*This Page May Contain Affiliate Links

My Clean Beauty Product Guide

June 23, 2021 by Hope Recupero in Personal Care, Clean Beauty

If you’ve been hesitant to make the switch from your conventional personal care and beauty products, there’s never been a better time. The clean beauty industry has exploded in the last few years and there are so many options. The good news is that everything from your hair care to your nail products are going clean. Although maybe you’re left wondering: Do they really work? The short answer is yes, BUT like any product some may work for you and some may not. So it’s important to be patient and not give up. Your products are out there, it just may take a little trial and error.

Some quick tips for making the switch easier:

Read the Product Reviews: There’s no better way to learn about customer satisfaction than through customer product review. It’s also important to remember that what may not work for someone else may work great for you.
Try Free Samples First: Many brands and retailers like Beautycounter, Sephora and Ursa Major offer free samples. Ask a consultant or sales associate for some samples so you can try before you buy.
Talk to an Expert: Many of these companies have consultants and/or customer service representatives to help out. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask questions.
Buy from Companies with Good Return Policies: Most of the major brands and retailers have good, reliable return policies so you can buy and try risk free. Just make sure you read before you buy so you know what to expect if something doesn’t work out. Have a Whole Foods nearby? They carry a wide variety of clean, non-toxic beauty and personal care brands and have a good return policy.
Join a Clean Beauty/Living Facebook Group: Joining a group is a great way to ask questions and get feedback from individuals knee deep in the clean living world and those just getting their feet wet. Join my women’s only Facebook Group here.
Switch Out One Product At a Time: Do not. I repeat, do not throw out all of your old products and start fresh. It’s too expensive and overwhelming. Replace slowly as you tun out of individual items so you can take your time to research the right products for you.

My Clean Beauty Product Guide

Beautycounter - I’ve been a customer of Beautycounter for 6 years and they are the gold standard when it comes to clean beauty, IMO. I use quite a few of their products in my regime because of the consistency of quality and efficacy. This especially true with their targeted skincare for issues like acne, anti-aging, brightening, etc. They also have really nice make-up, a sheer mineral sunscreen and a new deodorant that I’m excited to try. Browse their products and read about their mission and standards on their website.

My Top 3 Favorite Beautycounter Products:

Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer - My first and favorite Beautycounter product. Contains sunscreen and it light and sheer.
Counter + No. 1 Brightening Facial Oil - Facial oil is must for me and this has added brightening benefits. Sinks right into my skin and keeps it balanced.
Counter + Overnight Resurfacing Peel - This did wonders for smoothing my skin and eliminating minor acne.

Ursa Major - Ursa Major is a small skin care company our of Vermont. What I like about them is that they only release a product when their team is 100% in love with it. They’re less concerned about marketing deadlines and more concerned with quality and it definitely shows. All of their products are also gender neutral. Check out their website to learn more about this great, little company!

My Top 3 Favorite Ursa Major Products:

Golden Hour Recovery Cream - I love everything about this cream. It smells good and is moisturizing without being too heavy or greasy. There’s a reason it’s one of their top rated, best selling products!
Morning Mojo Bar Soap - Deodorizing, exfoliant and long-lasting, this is hands down my favorite bar soap.
Essential Face Wipes - I love these for both face and body. They are perfect for washing your face on-the-go but also for refreshing the bod mid-day.

OSea - OSea is a skin care company out of Malibu, California. They source their ingredients from a botanicals, but especially three different types of seaweed with healing properties. They are vegan, cruelty free and gluten free. OSea’s products are beautifully crafted and feel very luxurious and pampering. Check out their products and their story here.

My Top 3 Favorite OSea Products:

Vitamin C Probiotic Polish - My absolute favorite exfoliator of all time. It’s a little on the pricey side but lasts forever and I love that I can mix it with my own cleanser. Fades darks spots and hyperpigmentation and smooths skin for even make-up application.
Anti-Aging Body Balm - This is an incredibly luxurious moisturizer. It smells amazing and feel so good on your skin. If you are looking to treat yourself or someone special, this body balm is the way to go.
Sea Vitamin Boost Facial Mist - I love having this facial mist on hand to refresh my make-up or for a mid-day moisture boost.

Clean Hair Products Available on Follain.com

Follain - Follain originally started out as a clean beauty and skin care retailer and now they have their own line of products. I enjoy shopping their website, learning about new brands and reading reviews to decide what I want to try next. Check out Follain’s website here.

My Top 3 Favorite Follain Products:

RAKE Styling Balm by Reverie - I work just a tiny amount of this styling balm through my clean wet hair and it gives it much needed texture and volume without weighing it down.
Follain Everybody Bar Soap - I love this long-lasting, moisturizing bar soap with a rich, creamy lather.
Hurraw Moon Balm - I like keeping this lip balm in my bedside table. It contains calming chamomile so it’s the perfect lip moisturizing before bed.

Other Notable Brands I Love:

RMS Beauty - Another great clean beauty brand. I love their Buriti Cream Bronzer and Tinted Daily Lip Balm.

Ilia Beauty - Ilia has some beautiful products and I was so happy to see them being sold at Sephora. I love their Liquid Powder Chromatic Eye Tint and Necessary Eye Shadow Palette in Cool Nude.

Merit - I’m just getting to know this brand. At my last trip to Sephora, I noticed their products were featured on one of the aisle end-caps. I picked up their Shade Slick tinted Lip Oil in Pink Beet and I love it so far.

Juice Beauty - Juice Beauty has been around for a while and has some great products. They have a full skin care line and some make-up. I love their Green Apple Peel and Green Apple Blemish Clearing Serum.

Acure - Acure is another brand dedicated to clean skin care. They have reasonable price points and wide range of effective personal care and skin care products. I really like their Seriously Soothing line of products.

*May Contain Affiliate Links

My Routine For Reviving Tired, Dull Skin

January 04, 2021 by Hope Recupero

I don’t know about you guys but my skin gets fried this time of year. Between the lack of sleep and sun, dry air, too much time indoors, masks and perhaps too many cocktails, it really takes a beating and, unfortunately, the older I get the more it shows. While I do try to keep up with my healthy habits, sometimes I’m in need of a quick fix (like when I have a family brunch on New Year’s Day after being up all night drinking champagne). After years of being a make-up junkie, I have picked up a few tricks to help either restore my glow or fake it if I’m really in a pinch.

Skin Care for Tired, Dull Skin

**This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase an item via one of the links included in this post, I may receive a percentage of the sale. As an Amazon associate, I receive a small commission from qualifying sales. I only recommend products that I’ve tried and love and that align with my mission and lifestyle. Thank you for supporting me and my blog!

Clean Beauty Products for Dull Winter Skin

What to do for Tired Eyes:

Highlighting Stick: I use Glossier’s Haloscope a highlighting stick that comes in three shades (Quartz is my shade of choice). I apply it in both the inner and outer corners of my eyes to help give me that bright-eyed, well-rested look. Bonus: You can use this highlighting stick all over your face to give it a nice dewy glow. I like it because it blends nicely and looks subtle and natural.
Shimmery Shadow: When I use a neutral shimmery eye shadow, I feel like it gives me an instant eye lift. I like soft pinks, champagne, taupe, beiges for every day because they are foolproof to apply and look natural. A quick sweep of eye shadow and mascara and I’m good to go. I love the shades in Jane Iredale’s eye shadow trio in Sundown.

What to do for Dull Skin:

Facial Razor: This is one of my newest tools to help create a nice clean surface by removing hair and dead skin cells that can dull skin and make it more difficult for your glow-inducing products to do their job. I was a little intimidated at first but it’s super easy to use, it did not irritate my skin at all and I was really pleased with how clean and smooth my skin was afterward. I like this one from Sephora. Still not sure about the facial razor? An exfoliating facial wash or scrub will get rid of dead skin cells. I really like Acure’s Brightening Facial Scrub.
Facial Oil: I’m a big fan of facial oils. They give a good boost of moisture without being oily or greasy and leave skin looking hydrated and refreshed. There are about a zillion different versions of facial oils out there but I really like the ones by Beautycounter or for a less expensive option try Acure’s Rosehip Oil. All of the oils are natural and botanically-derived so they sink right into the skin and do not clog pores.
Highlighting Sticks and Powders: Highlighting products can be applied to several key places on your face to give you a lift. Apply to your cheekbones, brow bones, jawline, bridge of nose and your forehead along your hairline. Make sure you blend really well and check yourself in natural light to make sure you didn’t over do it (speaking from personal experience). I like Beautycounter’s Luminous Highlighting Powder.
Hydrating Facial Mists: I’m going to be honest when I say I thought these were useless, but when I was desperate to find something to help give me a mid-day moisture boost, I decided to give one a try. I really like Wander Beauty’s Glow Getter Mist and OSea’s facial mists. They both give a little moisture boost and refresh and perk up skin.

What to do for Pale Skin:

A sweep of lipstick is a good way to perk up a pale face!

Bronzer: I use a shimmery bronzer (no matte, powdery products on my face) to highlight and define certain areas on my face like the hollows under my cheekbones and my forehead along my hairline. I always think a little bronzer helps you look more refreshed and if applied correctly can give you that healthy sun-kissed glow. I like Beautycounter’s Radiant All Over Bronzer (it’s also on sale right now).
A Little Color on Your Lips: A little touch of color on your lips can help brighten your face up. This is what I do for pictures as opposed to full on lipstick so I have a fresh, natural look in photos but not “made-up.” A lip stain works well but I also I take any complimentary shade of lipstick in a darker color (I think pink or rosy shades work best) and apply just enough to give some color and then just enough lip balm to add some moisture. I also like lightly tinted lip balms. I love this Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm in Red Dahlia or Hibiscus or Pacifica’s Lip Tint in Guava Berry or Sugared Fig.
Sunless Tan: I often don’t think about sunless tanning in the winter but with a light application, sunless tan can enhance your skin tone without looking unseasonably tan. I recently found Coola’s Anti-Aging Face Serum Sunless Tanner and it is the first sunless tanner that does not dry out my skin and has subtle, buildable color, so one application gives a nice glow. Just make sure you exfoliate before applying any self tanning product so that the color is clean and even.

Good Skin from Inside Out

Healthy skin truly comes from the inside out. Proper hydration and a good diet full of fruits and vegetables will help your skin look it’s best. There are a few supplements that can help give your good habits a boost. Omega-3 fatty acids, CoQ10, vitamins C, D and E, selenium and zinc are all great for your skin. If you drink alcohol or caffeine, make sure you’re drinking at least two glasses of water for every 1 glass/cup of an alcoholic or caffeinated beverage. Also getting outside is great for your skin. There’s nothing like some exercise, sun and fresh air to give your skin a healthy glow.