The world of skincare can be overwhelming. With countless products and complex routines bombarding us from shelves and social media, achieving a healthy glow can feel like an elusive dream. But fear not! By focusing on a clean approach, you can simplify your self-care rituals and nurture your skin with effective, natural ingredients. And this post will help guide you to a clean skincare routine.

Some of you may know that Beautycounter was my go to brand. ( You can check out this post on my favorites).  But with the current news that Beautycounter is shutting down as the founder is purchasing back the company, I don’t have a lot of belief that things will look and operate the same.  So until then, I thought it was best to look into more options.  Now, I am still using up many of Beautycounter favorites, but as I have always incorporated other brands I love, it’s time to refresh my recommendations.

Before we begin, let’s do a a little reminder on clean beauty, starting with skincare….

What is Clean Skincare?

Clean skincare prioritizes products formulated without harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, or ingredients that could potentially irritate the skin. It emphasizes gentle yet effective cleansing, hydration, and protection, often relying on botanical extracts and natural oils.

While there’s no one-size-fits-all definition, clean skincare generally avoids:

• Sulfates: These cleansing agents can be stripping and drying.
• Parabens: These preservatives have been linked to some concerns, though research is ongoing.
• Phthalates: These disrupt hormones and are commonly found in synthetic fragrances.
• Artificial Fragrances: These can irritate sensitive skin and hide lots of chemicals
• Dyes and Artificial Colors: These offer no benefit and may irritate.
• Silicones: While not inherently harmful, silicones can coat the skin and prevent other products from absorbing.

Why Choose Clean Skincare?

The benefits of clean skincare are numerous:

• Gentler on Skin: By avoiding harsh chemicals, clean products are less likely to irritate or disrupt the skin’s natural barrier. This is especially important for those with sensitive skin.
• Focuses on Natural Ingredients: Clean products harness the power of botanical extracts and natural oils, which are often packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and other skin-nourishing properties.
• Sustainable Practices: Many clean skincare brands prioritize eco-conscious practices, using recyclable packaging and sourcing ingredients responsibly.

Your Guide to a Clean Skincare Routine

Now that you understand the core principles of clean skincare, let’s explore how to build a routine that works for you. Here’s a breakdown of the essential steps:

1. Cleanse:

• Morning: Splash with lukewarm water (that’s my morning cleanse) or use a gentle milk cleanser if your skin tends to be dry. Oily skin can benefit from a gentle foaming cleanser.
• Night: Remove makeup thoroughly with a cleansing balm or oil. Follow with your cleanser to remove impurities and prep skin for nighttime treatments.

2. Treat (Optional):

• Depending on your skin concerns, you may incorporate serums or treatments after cleansing.
• Look for products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid for hydration, vitamin C for brightening, or niacinamide for blemish control.

3. Moisturize:

• Apply a moisturizer morning and night to hydrate and protect your skin.
• Choose a lightweight lotion for daytime and a richer cream for nighttime.

4. Sunscreen (Daytime):

• This is the absolute non-negotiable step! Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every single morning, regardless of the weather. I also like to be efficient by using a tinted moisturizer that contains SPF.

Tips for a Successful Clean Skincare Routine:

• Know Your Skin Type: Understanding if your skin is dry, oily, combination, or sensitive is crucial for choosing the right products.
• Less is More: Don’t overwhelm your skin with too many products. Start with a basic routine and add-on as needed.
• Patch Test: Before applying any new product to your face, do a patch test on your inner arm to check for irritation.
• Be Consistent: Skincare is a marathon, not a sprint. Be consistent with your routine to see lasting results.
• Drink Plenty of Water: Hydration from within is key for healthy, glowing skin.
• Manage Stress: Stress can wreak havoc on your skin. Prioritize activities that help you relax and de-stress.
• Get Enough Sleep: When you’re well-rested, it shows on your face! Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
• Eat a Balanced Diet: Nourish your skin from the inside out with a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Clean Product Recommendations:

Remember, these are just a few suggestions to get you started. It’s always best to consult with a dermatologist or esthetician for personalized recommendations.

• Cleansers: Osea Ocean Cleanser, Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser. CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser
• Serums: Biossance Squalane + Hyaluronic Acid Copper Peptide Rapid.  Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum
• Moisturizers: Eminence Organic Skin Care Natural Balancing Moisturizer, Drunk Elephant Protini Powerpeptide Moisturizer, Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré
• Sunscreen: Sun Bum Original Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
• Wipes/ Makeup Removers: 365 brand from Whole Foods
• Bronzing Drops: Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi™ Bronzing Drops with Peptides
• Peels: Alpha Beta Peel Original Formula
• Facial Oil: Noni Glow Radiant Face Oil with Antioxidants

Adding in a few body care favorites:

• Deodorant: Native
• Hair Care: Dae Cactus Fruit 3-in-1 Styling Cream
• Hair Growth: Nutrafol Women’s Hair Growth Supplements,
• Supplements for Bloat: Arrae Fast-Acting Bloating Relief Digestive Enzymes

Embrace the Journey

Clean skincare is a journey of self-discovery and love for your skin. And it’s not a clean or bust mentality.  For example I have been using a few French Pharmacy brands that I love.  And I will absolutely emphasize this when it comes to sunscreen.  We have a sunscreen graveyard as many people leave bottles at our place.  It’s better to use them up then use nothing at all.

Next up….. makeup and body products!

Share your favorite beauty products below in the comments!!