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.
Serums: Pure & Simple
When it comes to targeted treatments, I have three personal favourites I like to rotate through based on the condition of my skin and what it might be lacking.
For everyday maintenance, I use Pure + Simple's Algae Serum since it absorbs quickly and is lightweight enough to wear under a heavier moisturizer or to use standalone as an eye cream. Key ingredients include sea algae for water retention, oat beta glucan for its soothing properties, and green tea for its effectiveness against stressed and weather damaged skin.
For a much-needed brightening effect, nothing beats vitamin C for its superstar ability to repair damage done by free radicals and aid in collagen production. I previously swore by Avalon Organics Vitality Facial Serum since it was the most affordable ($25 or less per bottle) and widely available option on the market (we're talking Wal-Mart here folks). But since its recent mediocre makeover with a new formula (heavily scented) and new packaging (dysfunctional), I've been on the lookout for a replacement. Pure + Simple's Vitamin C Serum looks promising though it's considerably pricier at $38 for a 50 mL bottle. I picked one up recently as part of an Earth Day promotion so I'll report back once I've had a chance to try it out!
For anti-aging, Pure + Simple's Collagen Elastin HCH is one of the company's most luxe products. A powerful hydrating gel packed with natural soluble collagen + elastin, honey, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid, this miracle worker visibly improves skin's texture and tone despite what your sleeping schedule may reveal. The results come with a hefty price tag ($75 for 50 mL), but I would keep my eye out for Pure & Simple's regular sales including their annual midnight madness event.
Moisturizer: Martina Gebhardt Black Sea Mud Lotion
Of all the skincare products I use, this one is probably my favourite. Formulated with black mud, olive oil and vitamin E, Martina Gebhardt's Black Mud Facial Lotion is rich but clarifying with an uncanny knack for revitalizing lacklustre and blemish prone skin. It has a slightly gritty texture (thanks to the black mud), but once it absorbs into the skin, this German skincare gem makes for a smooth and beautiful base for makeup too. I slather it on day and night, but Martina Gebhardt also offers a richer version for those who like more hydration in the evening. (Available at Pure + Simple online or in-store.)
Acne Treatment: Burt's Bees Anti-Blemish Targeted Spot Treatment
Occasional breakouts don't stand a chance against Burt's Bees signature blend of tea tree oil, calendula, parsley extracts, yarrow and borage extract. When I first tried out this herbal treatment, I was surprised to discover that it was faster and more effective at zapping zits than other conventional (and chemically-laden) acne treatments. It goes for around $13 a pop, and I typically purchase this spot treatment in a roll-on format that's easy to use and a breeze for packing in your carry-on.
That rounds up my current skin routine from start to finish, but I'd love to hear what facial skincare products you love. Are there any natural beauty brands you swear by?
♥
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