But with more consumers pushing for formulas with fewer chemicals in them, manufacturers and retailers are responding in kind by expanding their skincare lines and making it easier than ever to shop natural.
As promised last month, here are some of my favourite cleansers, toners, serums, acne treatments and moisturizers I use regularly to help keep my skin soft and supple. I have combination skin but all of the products lines featured below have different options to suit various skin types and are available locally in the GTA!
Facial Cleanser & Toner: Aubrey's Organics Blue Green Algae Line
Packed with nutrient-rich organic blue green algae, this oil-balancing line is vegan, animal-friendly and gluten-free too.
Cleanser: The facial cleansing lotion lives up to its name with a light creamy texture that cleanses but doesn't clog pores thanks to its castile liquid soap and coconut fatty acid cream base. Added bonus: the ingredient list is chemical and paraben free thanks to Aubrey's signature preservative made from citrus seed extract and vitamins A, C and E.
Toner: The complementary facial toner packs a herbal punch with a soothing and moisturizing blend of over 30 herbal and plant extracts including organic lavender, camomile and nettle. Although toners are typically used to prep the skin for moisturizer or restore proper pH levels, I love using Aubrey's toner to remove makeup from the gentle eye area thanks to its cooling and refreshing effect.
Priced at $20 for the cleanser and $13 for the toner (both 8 oz. each), Aubrey's skincare products are some of the best natural beauty buys on the market, and they can be easily found at Whole Foods, Planet Organic and select Loblaws/Superstores.
