Self-care is so important, and a lot of the time when we think of living a healthy lifestyle, we think about eating the right foods and exercising. Of course eating healthy foods and staying active are both super important, but so is what we put into the biggest organ in our bodies, our skin. Skincare is often seen as superficial, but it really is a matter of health. Taking care of your skin and being mindful about skincare ingredients is essential. That said, everything “natural” isn’t necessarily good for you, and everything chemical isn’t always harmful. Sometimes it’s hard to navigate through all of the tons of ingredients jammed into every single product, which is why I choose to use products with minimal ingredients that actually each do something positive for your skin, no added fragrances or fillers. It’s possible to find safe AND effective products, and here are some of my favorites.
Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser - Exfoliating is necessary in any skincare regimen. You can’t moisturize dead skin, so you have to remove it. This cleanser exfoliates with tiny grains of apricot seed shells, but is still gentle enough so as not to create micro-tears in the skin where bacteria can grow. I use this cleanser morning and night.
Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask - I use this mask once a week when I need some extra exfoliating. The natural fruit enzymes go to work breaking down all your dead skin cells. Plus, the mask goes on clear, so you don’t have to worry about looking like a monster if someone happens to ring your doorbell during your skincare routine!
Tata Harper Hydrating Floral Essence - I use this after cleansing as a toner to get anything my cleanser may have missed, but it’s also great for whenever you need an extra spritz of moisture or for setting makeup.
Indie Lee Swiss Apple Facial Serum - Your serum is your most important step in your skincare regimen. It’s the most concentrated product, penetrates the deepest, and does the most work. It’s your problem solver. I have a few dark spots and scarring from old acne that I used to pick at (don’t pick at your skin! Take it from me!), and this serum helps to even out that hyper pigmentation. It also has anti-aging properties, which anyone can really use after the age of 27 as a preventative measure!
Farmaesthetics Eyebright - This eye treatment is a 3-in-1. It removes makeup, softens fine lines and reduces inflammation, and the grapeseed oil helps relax the ocular nerve at the end of a long day when the eyes have been strained.
Alba Botanica Natural Even Advanced Moisturizer with SPF 15 - This lightweight moisturizer hydrates the skin while also providing sun protection. Amassing all of these products can definitely set you back a few bucks, but if you only invest in two skincare products, I would get a serum and a sunscreen!
Herbivore Botanicals Bamboo Charcoal Cleansing Bar Soap - Charcoal draws impurities from deep within your pores for a clean like no other. This bar smells great, too, and works wonders on skin that is blemish prone. It can be used on both your face and body.
RICA Butter All Over - This body moisturizer is SO RICH but still somehow light and fluffy. It absorbs immediately into your skin and doesn’t leave you feeling sticky. I like to put some on the ends of my hair, throw it up in a bun, go to a hot yoga class, and then after I come home and shower, my hair is unbelievably soft. It’s safe to use on baby skin, too!