I have always had dry skin and I often wondered why my skin was so dry even when I moisturized (although I didn’t always know it!) and during the winter months, things get even worse. The air has less humidity, even in the humid South where I now live (I’m from Utah where we have cold dry winters), and the heated indoors exacerbate things further, especially if you have dry AND sensitive skin.

But there are a few simple things you can tweak to help your dry skin, whether you need to make these adjustments year-round or just during the colder months. Here are 10 reasons your skin is dry even if you moisturize, plus what to do so you can get on your way to more hydrated, glowing skin any time of year.

If you’re looking for tips to heal your dry skin overnight, check out this post – I think it will help!

Why is my skin so dry even when I moisturize?

I’m sharing tips primarily focused on the face, but I included a few notes about how to deal with dry skin on your body, too! Here are my best tips for a winter skin care routine.

1. You’re using the wrong moisturizer & serum

It’s not uncommon to feel like your regular moisturizer no longer is enough when the temperatures drop. It can also feel dryer in the summer from more sun exposure. A simple solution is to get a thicker, more hydrating nighttime moisturizer. When you wake up, your skin will feel more hydrated, and your usual daytime moisturizer may be enough. If not, you may also need to switch your daytime moisturizer. Some people are able to use their nighttime moisturizer during the day, and others find it too heavy.

When looking for a more hydrating moisturizer, look for something that is anti-aging since that will always have ingredients focused on dry skin since skin loses its hydration as we age. You can also look for moisturizers or serums with with hyaluronic acid to keep your face hydrated ALL day. (This Oliveda F59 Corrective Face Serum is great serum for dry, aging skin. It also has para cress which lifts and smoothes, which is why some people call it “Botox in a Bottle”.)

I use the Oliveda Corrective Face Cream (F42) during the day, and this Oliveda Regeneration Intense Face Cream (F74) at night since it’s thicker.

2. You’re skipping a face oil

Another option if you don’t want to buy a new moisturizer (or you need even more hydration) is to add a face oil to your routine. You can layer it under your moisturizer, mix it in, and apply both together, or apply it as the last layer on top of your moisturizer. I would suggest trying all three since the feel is a bit of personal preference. My esthetician said that applying the oil last, i.e. on top of your moisturizer, will help lock in the most moisturizer since it seals it in.

I use the Colleen Rothschild No. 9 Face Oil and I just ordered the Oliveda Cell Active Face Oil (F63) since it’s supposed to be a huge hydration booster. Don’t be scared of adding an oil to your routine if you are breakout prone. Your skin NEEDS oil to be its healthiest! Oftentimes, breakouts are caused when the skin is too dry, so it produces more oil and clogs pores. Adding in a high-quality oil designed for your skin type helps prevent that. (Here are more tips for clear skin!)

3. You’re using the wrong mask or no mask at all

Many people think of clearing out junk when they think of masks, and yes, those masks have their place! There are also incredible masks that help hydrate skin and give back to it! My favorites are the Colleen Rothschild Intense Moisture Mask, and the Oliveda Black Olive Face Mask (F18). If I could only recommend one, I’d get the Oliveda mask since I don’t love the smell of the CR one but I do like that I can leave it on over night.

4. You’re not properly hydrated

We all know water intake is important – eight glasses a day, right? You may need more than that in the winter and you definitely need more if you work up a hard sweat when you workout. Aim for your urine to be pale yellow. You may also need to add a pinch of salt or electrolytes to your water (I use LMNT) to help you actually retain your water intake if your urine is always clear and you pee often.

The right foods can also help. Citrus fruits, nuts, whole grains, broccoli, and eggs are particularly helpful at hydrating skin. They are high in vitamins B2, B6, B12, C, and E — all of these nourish skin and improve water retention. While you’re looking at your diet, look at how much sugar and refined carbs you are consuming since those can impair the skin’s ability to retain moisture.

5. You’re not exfoliating

Your moisturizer can’t absorb into your skin if dry skin cells are getting in the way. Using a gentle exfoliator, just 1-2 a week, will help remedy that. I use the Oliveda F81 AHA + HT Serum Face a few times a week and this Oliveda Honey Enzyme Face Mask once a week.

6. You’re not using a toner

A toner was something I never used since I always felt like they stripped my skin, leaving it feeling raw and dry – the opposite of what I wanted. But the right toner will increase the hydration of your skin, balancing it after cleansing, so your treatments and moisturizers absorb and work better. For dry skin, the Oliveda Corrective Facial Tonic (F67) is amazing.

7. You’re ignoring proper bodycare

If your face is dry, your legs and arms probably are feeling it too.

First, make sure you have a high-quality body wash.

And I hate to break it to you, but your two-dollar body wash probably isn’t the best option for dry skin. (Never mind it’s likely filled with harmful chemicals. Look it up on the EWG Skin Deep website and/or check it against this Never List.) Many times irritated skin is caused by a reaction to a chemical in cheaper products. So, make sure your body wash isn’t exacerbating problems. This goes for your face cleanser too!)

Also, when you’re showering, turn the temperature down just a bit so you’re not blasting blazing hot water. I LOVE a hot shower or bath but it does contribute to dry skin, so just adjust the temp a bit. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using warm, not hot water to cleanse.

Next, exfoliate your body.

Just like your face, dry skin can prevent your moisturizer from fully absorbing. I like to use a dry brush a few times a week and a good body scrub once a week. I like this Osea brand for body scrub.

Swap your lotion

In the summer, I use a more traditional body lotion (this Oliveda Anti Aging Body Lotion). In the winter, I use a VERY thick body butter that contains shea butter. I love the Primally Pure body butters. A body butter typically will feel a bit greasy at first, but it absorbs after a few minutes. For me, it’s worth it to deal with that I don’t have itchy skin call day.

You could also purchase a body oil to mix in with your regular body lotion! This Oliveda Lavender Body Oil Serum is perfect. It moisturizes, softens, and smooths the skin.

Noticing a trend here? All the things you do for your face also apply to your body!

8. You don’t use a humidifier

This will help add moisture back to your rooms. I always plug in our humidifier in the winter months about an hour before I head to bed and let it run all night! While I don’t love having it sit on my nightstand, I do love healthy skin, so it’s worth it

9. You don’t consume collagen

Some people swear by collagen for increasing their skin’s moisture levels. Collagen is the main structural protein in our skin and as we age, we lose collagen which causes skin to break down, causing fine lines and wrinkles. So many people purport that consuming a collagen supplement can help improve skin breakdown, and therefore improve hydration. But, there is actually little research or data to prove that. So, take it if you want to, but don’t rely on it as a quick fix or as your only avenue to improve dry skin! I take the Oliveda Beauty Fountain liquid collagen every single day since I want all the help I can get!

10. You think skincare ends after your morning routine

If you still feel like your face is parched by the afternoon, no matter what you do, keep a face mist in your purse. A lightweight mist will add just enough hydration without causing your makeup to slide off. Bonus: it just FEELS good. This Primally Pure plumping mist is the one I use.

My Dry Skin Must-Haves

The post Why is my skin so dry even when I moisturize?? – 10 Tips to Save Your Dry Skin appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

I’ve been using Beautycounter alongside a handful of other brands for a few years now, but as a skincare and makeup junkie, I was always trying new brands so I have some great recommendations for the best replacements for your Beautycounter products.

Fingers crossed we’ll get our Beautycounter favorites back later this year after Beautycounter gets sorted out, but until then, the show must go on for our skin, ha! (Here’s a post about what happened to Beautycounter.) The best brand I’ve found for Beautycounter swaps is Oliveda. I’ve been using their products in place of all of my Beautycounter stuff for over a month now, and I can confidently say they are great alternatives (and even better in some cases) for your favorite Beautycounter products. Oliveda is a European brand that focuses on waterless skincare, so it’s extremely potent and the results are SO wild. I noticed a change in my skin within 72 hours!

I know that it’s a LOT simpler to order from one place vs. multiple retailers, so the majority of the links below are to Oliveda with a few Colleen Rothschild additions. And for the makeup section, almost everything is ILIA since that is currently making up the majority of my makeup routine. If you aren’t familiar with those brands, I have a review of Oliveda here, a Colleen Rothschild review here, and a review of ILIA here.

Oliveda’s website can be a bit confusing, and since the products aren’t organized the same way that Beautycounter organized theirs, it can be hard to know what to order for your skin type! The list below should help, but feel free to fill out this skincare survey and I will email you back with personalized recommendations! You may also notice that a lot of Oliveda products are sold out (things have been going somewhat viral!) but I’m sharing in-stock alerts in this Instagram Broadcast Channel, so be sure to join that for alerts.

I also send out text updates about Oliveda restocks. If you want to join my list, click this link and the hit send when it populates the word “oliveda” in your text composer. I know not everyone checks email or FB and/or IG all day (ahem) so hopefully this helps those of you who haven’t been able to get things when they restock before they sell out again! These are text messages that I send (not the company!) and I won’t blow up your texts unless it’s time sensitive or I think it’s important!

If you’re reading this post on a computer, that link won’t work. Just text OLIVEDA to 336-554-7262 to join.

The Best Replacements for your Beautycounter Products

Countertime

Countertime Cleansing Oil

The Oliveda Arbequina Cleansing Oil (F78) is the best swap for the Beautycounter cleansing oil. It smoothes, refines, and provides lipid defense, but it also removes impurities without destroying your skin’s natural barrier function.

Countertime Essense

The Corrective Facial Tonic (F67) is Oliveda’s toner for dry, aging skin. It works to soothe your skin while also getting rid of dead skin cells. It has hydroxytyrosol and the vitamin C booster camu camu which protect your skin from environmental stressors AND gives your skin a radiant/youthful glow. Nothing will ever be my beloved Countertime Essense, but this is a great alternative.

Countertime Radiance Serum

I wasn’t a huge fan of the Beautycounter Radiance Serum anyway. I tried the Oliveda F59 Corrective Face Serum a few weeks ago and my mind is blown. This is what people call “botox in a bottle”. It’s made with para cress which has a lifting effect similar to botox, but’s clean and safe. It targets fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. I’ve noticed a significant difference in my smile lines since I started using this.

I also just got the Oliveda Green Retinol Face Elixir and I’ve been adding a few drops to my Corrective Face Serum at night. This is a natural retinol made with bakuchiol, which is the same retinol alternative that Beautycounter used. This reduces fine lines and pore size, improves complexion, contracts pigmentation, AND protects against free radicals. If you’re only getting one serum, get the Oliveda F59 Corrective Face Serum, but add the Green Retinol to your wishlist since you can add it to your routine at any time.

Countertime Soft Cream

The best Soft Cream swap is the Oliveda F42 Corrective Face Cream. It’s ideal for dry/aging skin because it has extra hydroxytyrosol in it (a super powerful antioxidant). It’s smoothing, super hydrating, improves elasticity and reduces fine lines. It contains a sun protection factor!

Countertime Supreme Cream

I was worried it would be hard to find anything as great as the Beautycounter Supreme Cream, but the Oliveda F74 Regeneration Intense Face Cream has blown me away. It’s actually more hydrating than the supreme cream. The texture is weird and it takes some getting used to how it’s applied and massaged in, but now I love it.

Countertime Eye Cream

The best swap for the Countertime Eye Cream is the Oliveda F60 Corrective Eye Cream. It’s hydrating, boosts collagen, and gives you a smoothing effect around your eyes. But the real game-changer is when you add a few drops of the Oliveda F64 Corrective Eye Elixir underneath the eye cream. It It has a triple hyaluronic acid structure and a ton of antioxidants, so it hydrates and plumps while also giving your eyes a more lifted, radiant look. You apply a few drops under your eyes, massage it in, and then follow with the Corrective Eye Cream.

Countermatch

Countermatch Foaming Cleanser

For the Countermatch Foaming Cleanser swap, you’ll want to use the Oliveda F71 Corrective Cleansing Gel. It’s made with hydroxytyrosol (this is the superstar of antioxidants, mainly found in olives and olive oil) and gives you a deep clean while counteracting pigmentation. It’s super gentle and very hydrating (I can even use this on my very dry skin). It smells amazing, but the smell is very natural and not super strong. (I’m sensitive to scents and love this.) I can use this morning and night and my very-dry skin isn’t stripped at all.

Countermatch Toner

The Oliveda Activating Facial Toner is the perfect toner for normal or combination skin because it’s non-drying and does not strip your skin, but rather helps restore your skin’s natural balance.

Countermatch Serum

The best recommendation for an alternative for the Countermatch serum is the Oliveda F86 Corrective Vegan Hyaluronic Acid Serum. Hyaluronic serums are great for dry and aging skin because they deeply moisturize and hydrate. This serum also repairs oxidative damage and makes your skin look and feel more elastic/tight. This can be used in the morning and night.

For something a bit more affordable (and almost as good), I’d recommend the Colleen Rothschild Hyaluronic Serum.

Countermatch Adaptive Moisturizer

The most similar in terms of benefits is the Oliveda F05 Anti Oxidant Face Cream but it will feel different. The consistency feels much thicker, but it’s not heavy on the skin. It protects, balances, and hydrates your skin, but it has antioxidants in it too that fight the effects of environmental stressors on your skin. This is lightweight (in terms of hydration, not feel!) and plumping.

Countermatch Eye Cream

The best eye cream option for de-puffing and brightening is the Colleen Rothschild Illuminating Tinted Eye Cream. It contains hyaluronic acid to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and caffeine targets puffiness and water retention. I wouldn’t use this at night though, since it also has coverage that you wouldn’t want to waste. For PM, use the Oliveda F09 Anti-wrinkle Eye Cream. I love the texture and it’s completely non-irritating. It tightens and reduces fine lines around your eye area. You can use it in the AM too, but I just love that Colleen Rothschild Tinted Eye Cream.

Countercontrol

Countercontrol Cleanser

A great cleanser for oily or breakout prone skin is the Oliveda F38 Purifying Cleansing Gel. This gives you a super deep cleanse while also supplying your skin with highly concentrated antioxidants that help prevent signs of aging.

 Countercontrol Toner

The Oliveda F11 Activating Facial Toner is perfect for oily/acne prone skin. It helps clear away impurities while also soothing your skin with chamomile extract. It also refines pores and gives your skin tone a more radiant glow.

Countercontrol Serum

The Oliveda F81 AHA + HT Serum Face is a true hero product. It’s similar to the Overnight Resurfacing Peel in terms of benefits: reduces scarring, improves elasticity, reduces and fights hyperpigmentation, and boosts collagen. It’s great for breakout prone skin because it gentle exfoliates and sloughs off dead skin which can cause build up and breakouts. This is pretty potent though, so I’d only use it once a week to start!

For a daily serum, you’ll want to try the Oliveda F06 Cell Active Serum . This serum helps smooth your skin and reduce pore size, but it mainly reduces dark spots and smoothes wrinkles! What I love most about this is that it has a skin-tightening effect! It’s just a great all-around serum for most skin types.

Countercontrol Spot Treatment

For a spot treatment, you’ll want to use the Oliveda F85 SOS Face Drops. These drops unclog pores, balance sebum production, and reduces acne-causing bacteria.

CounterControl Gel Cream

The Oliveda F07 Anti Aging Face Cream is a great face moisturizer for oily/acne prone skin. It’s lightweight, improves skin elasticity, and overall just balances the skin’s hydration. It’s important to use a moisturizer, especially when you have oily skin since drying out your skin causes it to produce more oil to overcompensate.

Other Favorites

Cleansing Balm

I preferred the Colleen Rothschild Cleansing Balm anyway. I’ve been using it for years. I have a full review of the CR Cleansing Balm here.

Vitamin C Serum

We all loved the Beautycounter Vitamin C serum for good reason, but I think you’ll love the Oliveda F83 HT + Vitamin C Serum more. It’s made with hydroxytyrosol which is a super powerful antioxidant, and it also contains camu camu, just like Beautycounter. This has 1300% more power than vitamin C alone. It improves fine lines and wrinkles, neutralizes free radicals, and gives you a super radiant complexion.

Overnight Resurfacing Peel

The Oliveda F81 AHA + HT Serum Face is just like the Overnight Resurfacing Peel. It’s a chemical exfoliator that visibly reduces the signs of aging. It also reduces scarring, improves elasticity and firmness, reduces and fights hyperpigmentation, and boosts collagen. Everyone should have this in their skincare routine.

Sunscreen

Supergoop Glowscreen is my favorite face SPF, but it’s not a zinc-based sunscreen. If you want zinc, then the Acure Radically Rejuvenating SPF 30 Day Cream is perfect since it’s a clean option! (This post with non-toxics sunscreens has even more ideas.)

AHA Mask

I actually didn’t love the Beautycounter AHA mask as much as I already liked both the Colleen Rothschild Dial Enzyme Polish and Oliveda Honey Enzyme Face Mask. They’re similar, but the Oliveda Honey Enzyme Face Mask has a warming sensation that I love. It’s also green which is fun! It’s especially beneficial for dry and/or aging skin since you’re paying more for those types of products and you want to get the most out of them. (The women who give me my facials have been telling me for years that I need to use an enzyme mask regularly to see improvements in my fine lines and deeper wrinkles).

Bamboo Face Polish

I haven’t found anything like this, but the Oliveda Olive Core Face Peeling is also a physical exfoliator and it’s a great option even though I love the powder form of the Bamboo Polish.

#3 Balancing Oil

If you were a Balancing Oil fan, then the F25 Neroli Face Oil Serum from Oliveda is a great replacement.

The Clean Deo

All natural deodorants tend to stop working for me after about 12 months, including the Clean Deo. This is actually an issue that women commonly run into if they use natural deodorants, since our body chemistry changes over time. (It’s also why some clean deodorants work for some people but not others. For example, I CANNOT use Native but some people love it.)

Anyway, when one stops working, I switch to a new one. The one that has worked for the longest amount of time is the Nécessaire The Deodorant Gel. I’ve used it for 6 months without stank.

(If you do get stank with a natural deo, use the Bella Skin Probiotic Underarm Toner and it will help a LOT! I use it just once a month or so.)

Body Lotion

Wink Llama All Over Lotion, hands down. Yes, it’s a kids lotion but it’s so good. Tommy and I have both used it for years since it smells just as good as the Beautycounter Body Lotion (although it is a different scent) and it’s more affordable.

Shampoo / conditioner

I’ve been using the Colleen Rothschild Shampoo and Colleen Rothschild Conditioner for over a year now. The Colleen Rothschild hair mask is legit too. I use it in place of my conditioner a few times a week.

Body wash

Primally Pure Citrus Mint Body Wash is a 10/10. So hydrating and smells amazing.

Makeup

Skin Twin Foundation

The ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick is SUCH a good foundation, but if you want a liquid foundation, the ILIA True Skin Foundation is a good option (I have an ILIA foundation review here).

Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer

I wasn’t in love with the Dew Skin tinted moisturizer anyway (it too drying as my skin aged), but I DO love the ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 because it’s more hydrating. I have a full review of the Skin Tint on the blog here.

Cheeky Cream Blush

I’m super sad to loose the Beautycounter blush but the ILIA Multi Stick is just as good.

Cream Bronzer

I hate it because Beautycounter was set to launch new bronzers that I had tried and they are SO GOOD. I haven’t found an alternative yet, but the Tarte Shape Tape Contour works well as bronzer if you use just a touch and blend it out. I also love their Tarte Park Avenue Princess powder bronzer if you want to go that route.

Mascara

As much as I wish I could wear a regular, oil-based mascara, they always smudge on me. So I always shop for tubing mascaras that are water soluble. (Read more about tubing mascaras and how they work here.)

However, if you were a Beautycounter mascara fan and it didn’t smudge on you, you’ll really like the Tarte Maneater mascara. If you need a good tubing mascara recommendation, you can’t beat Tarte’s Tartelette Tubing mascara (read my Tartelette Tubing Mascara review here).

Concealer

The ILIA Concealer is a great (super clean) alternative. My preference is the Tarte Shape Tape Radiant concealer though since I only really use it under my eyes.

Lip Sheer

I just got the Ravie Beauty Effortless Lips in the mail a few weeks ago and they are UNREAL! They apply very much like the Lip Sheer (actually, better). See how each Ravie Beauty shade looks on me in this video. Go for Dahlia for the best everyday shade.

Lip Intense

I like the ILIA Colorblock Lipstick. It’s not quite as good as the Beautycounter lipsticks but it’s similar and a clean option. My all-time favorite lipstick is Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk.

Brow gel

ILIA Brow Gel is very similar to Beautycounter’s brow gel, but it doesn’t dry out as quickly.

Discount Codes

One silver lining to trying new products is that you can typically get a discount on your first order (and I believe all of my codes work on every order).

• Colleen Rothschild – Use code TERILYN20 for 20% off
• Tarte – Use code terilyn15 for 15% off
• Wink – Use code TERI for 15% off
• Primally Pure – Use code TERI for 10% off

Oliveda doesn’t have a promo code, but they do have good perks.

1. A freebie when you take the Oliveda skincare quiz and order 2+ of the recommendations. I have to note that I think their Skin Quiz results can be a little confusing to understand, so if you fill out my skincare survey here, I can help get you personalized recommendations.
2. Free shipping on $50+ orders (ALWAYS!)
3. 365 day product guarantee.

Okay, that’s all I have for now! Like I mentioned above, if you have good recommendations for Beautycounter swaps, please drop them below!

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The post The Best Replacements for your Beautycounter Products appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

Growing up, I slathered on body oil and tanning oil and would lay in the sun, trying to get a deep tan. Then, in high school I started working at a tanning salon, mostly because it was a job that allowed for lots of time to do my homework. I was eventually required to go to a safety course of some sort about tanning salons, and what I learned there horrified me so much that I stopped tanning as often. (But, you know, of course I still did some because it was free and TAN WAS IN.) My manager told me I needed to tan more often to represent the salon well, and when I said I didn’t want to – because of what I learned – I got fired. True story.

That’s not to say that I’ve been perfect about wearing sunscreen ever since high school. I definitely still prefer a tan and am guilty of wanting a tan at the pool or beach or getting lazy in my everyday wear. Mostly because I hate the heavy feeling and smell of sunscreen. Thankfully there are great options now, both for my body and face, that I have no excuses to not wear sunscreen daily. And I do, 99% of the time. (I’ve also found a great tanning foam for my body and bronzing drops for my face and that helps scratch the tan itch too.)

Sun is the #1 cause of aging and causes 90% of visible changes to your skin.

And considering I’m nearly 40, aging is starting to show more on my skin these days – spots, fine lines, a bit of sagging. While I have a solid skincare routine to help keep my skin looking healthy, wearing sunscreen is the #1 must-have in my routine. (And a good retinol, moisturizer, and eye cream. Okay, fine I’m a skincare snob and am loyal to my full skincare routine.)

When choosing a sunscreen, I look for options that absorb easily and don’t leave me feeling or looking greasy so my makeup goes on well. I also prefer ones that don’t leave much of a white cast. Thankfully, many zinc-based sunscreens have improved over the years so that’s not much of an issue as in the past. I do find that sweatproof and/or water-resistant sunscreens are more prone to leaving a white cast but I don’t care about those features for my face for daily wear. However, that is important (obviously) for sunscreens that are used at the beach or the pool.

I typically go for SPF 30 because I spend a lot of time outside in my day-to-day life between running and chasing a toddler, but if you’re mostly inside, an SPF 15 should be enough sun protection. I also opt for mineral sunscreens instead of the potentially harmful synthetic formulas in many chemical sunscreens. Non-toxic, mineral sunscreens have become more popular over the years, and there are many great options to choose from now.

17 Best Non-Toxic Sunscreens

So today, what type of sunscreen is non toxic? In short, most mineral sunscreens and some chemical sunscreens, but it can be hard to know without doing lots of research. I did the research for you and I’m sharing the ones I like best for my face, for my body, for daily wear, and for days where I’m spending lots of time outside, like hiking or at the pool. I also shared my top sunscreen picks to use during pregnancy and for kids.

First, let’s break down the difference between a mineral and chemical sunscreen.

Chemical sunscreen is what you likely grew up using. It goes on clear, sometimes has that distinct “sunscreen” smell, and dries quickly. However, it’s also typically made with potentially harmful ingredients that can negatively impact your health and the environment. These sunblocks protect you by absorbing into your skin so that the chemicals are able to block UV rays.

Chemical sunscreens usually contain oxybenzone, octocrylene, ecamsule, avobenzone, and other toxic ingredients that can potentially disrupt your hormones, cause skin reactions, and worsen skin discoloration. They can also damage marine life and coral reefs.

Mineral sunscreen, on the other hand, works by reflecting the UV rays away from your body by sitting on top of your skin. The most common ingredient in a mineral sunscreen is zinc, which is safer than the chemicals typically found in synthetic sunscreens. Mineral sunscreen is a great option for most people with sensitive skin.

How to look for clean skincare and beauty products:

When you’re looking for clean skincare and beauty products, the Environmental Working Group has a great tool that can check how toxic your products are for you. EWG rates that are lower on a scale of 1 to 10 are safer. It’s not perfect, and it flags some products that can be safe for some people, but it’s a good place to start if you don’t know where to begin researching safe products. Some chemical sunscreens (like Supergoop) still score low on the EWG scale because they use clean chemicals and pass the test as safe, non-toxic sunscreens.

I shy away from the words “natural” when referring to skincare and personal care products since not all naturally-occurring ingredients are safe (e.g. lead is natural and it’s in many color cosmetics), but people often equate non-toxic sunscreens with natural sunscreens, and I think it’s important to distinguish between those two terms, since “natural” can be misleading if you’re not informed.

Okay, let’s get into some sunscreen picks so you can find the ones that will work best for you and get on with protecting your skin and enjoying your life!

Best non-toxic face sunscreens for your face, body & family

Supergoop! Mineral Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

My top pick for clean sunscreen is the Mineral Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 by Supergoop. I started using this brand a few years ago, and I love how their products apply and feel on my skin. This sunscreen is ideal under makeup because it has a primer-finish that sort of grips your makeup and gives everything a natural finish. It’s also water and sweat resistant, so its great for summer running as well.

The Supergoop Mineral Unseen Sunscreen is available at Nordstrom, which is my favorite place to shop. Their shipping and returns are free all the time. While this exact sunscreen isn’t on sale for their Anniversary sale, so many other beauty goodies are, so be sure to take a look at my blog post with the best Nordstrom sale finds so that you can add a few other things to your cart along with this.

Dime Beauty Wonderscreen SPF 30

Dime Beauty’s mineral-based sunscreen provides SPF 30 protection without any toxic additives. Its key ingredients are zinc oxide, beetroot, and squalane, which help to soothe, protect, fight wrinkles, and hydrate the skin. It’s safe for all skin types, free from harmful chemicals, vegan, and cruelty-free. This is a little thicker than than some sunscreens so it takes a little more time to rub it, but it’s great once it’s fully absorbed and it’s not greasy. It also won’t leave you with a white cast. This is slightly more work to rub into skin, but I do like its packaging better.

You can read my review of other Dime Beauty products here

AnnMarie Sun Love Everyday Sheer Sunscreen SPF 20

AnnMarie Sun Love Everyday Sheer Sunscreen is a mineral-based sunscreen with SPF 30. It uses non-nano zinc oxide, buriti fruit oil, and pumpkin seed oil, and those oils help protect, nourish, firm, and tighten the skin (yes, please). The product is safe, natural, and non-toxic but it does not protect against blue light.

This sunscreen smells nice (a bit herby!) and absorbs easily. It does have a very mild texture to it… not gritty, exactly, but it’s just not super smooth like you’d expect. It doesn’t bother me, but it’s worth calling out. I love that this sunscreen has a lightweight, sheer texture that doesn’t leave a white cast on the skin, making it easy to wear alone or under makeup. If you want a natural-smelling sunscreen with anti-aging perks, I bet you’ll like this.

ECLIPSE Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

This is on my wishlist to try since I’ve heard so many good things. I’m also a sucker for the pretty pink packaging. Eclipse Sheer Mineral Sunscreen is a lightweight and clean SPF 30 mineral formula that’s non-irritating, blendable, and super hydrating. Macroalgae, green tea extract, and jojoba esters help protect from environmental stressors, blue light, and overproduction of oil (which we’re all more prone to in the warmer months) while making skin appear fresher and more radiant. It goes on sheer so it won’t leave a white cast, and doesn’t have the typical sunscreen scent so it’s perfect for everyday wear. If you’ve tried this, I’d love to hear what you think! I’m particularly interested in the macroalgae since I’ve used Osea moisturizers, which also uses marine products, and love them.

Best non-toxic spray sunscreens

Thinksport Kids SPF 50 All Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Spray

Thinksport Kids SPF 50 All Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Spray is a mineral-based, non-aerosol sunscreen spray that is specially formulated for children, but works just as well for adults. It has 20% non-nano zinc oxide and doesn’t contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, or parabens. It’s hard to find sheer mineral sunscreens, but this one is great and leaves no white cast! I keep this one in my running shoe basket and apply it before all my daytime runs!

Best non-toxic body sunscreens

Florida Squeezed SPF 50 Sunscreen Non-Aerosol Spray

This is my #1 pick for a spray sunscreen since it applies clear and smells great. Florida Squeezed SPF 50 Sunscreen Non-Aerosol Spray is a chemical sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. While it is a chemical sunscreen, it has been deemed safe and does not include oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens, or phthalates. It’s made with vitamin E, aloe vera, and naturally scented with Florida oranges!

The clear formula is especially great for re-applying since I find white casts tend to build over the day and it was just easier to use when I had sand on my body at the beach . This is also the one I keep in my golf bag so my hands don’t get greasy with a lotion and so my golf outfits don’t get ruined by a white cast.

EltaMD UV Active Full Body Sunscreen

EltaMD is super popular sunscreen brand (known mostly for their Glow Facial Tinted Sunscreen because of Haley Bieber) but my pick is the UV Active Full Body Sunscreen Lotion by EltaMD. Not only does it have SPF 50+, but it’s made with a blend of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which work together to block both UVA and UVB rays. It’s fragrance-free AND won’t clog pores or cause breakouts. It has a VERY low rating on the EWG scale, making it a good option for many! This was also a top pick when I polled my Instagram friends on their favorite sunscreens!

Badger Sport Mineral Sunscreen Cream SPF 40

Badger Sport Sunscreen Cream SPF 40 is a mineral-based sunscreen made with organic sunflower oil, beeswax, and vitamin E for extra hydration. The product is free from harmful chemicals, hypoallergenic, and unscented. This can also be used on your face, but some people complained of a greasy feeling, so if you have oily skin I would pass. This formula is water-resistant and made for outdoor activities and sports (which is perfect for hot North Carolina summers). This was another top pick from my Instagram friends.

Best non-toxic sunscreen for pregnancy

When it comes to choosing sunscreen during pregnancy, you want to make sure to look for products that are safe and non-toxic for both you and your baby. It’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before using any new skincare products during pregnancy, but this is a great non-toxic option:

Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Sunscreen

Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Sunscreen is a mineral sunscreen that does not contain oxybenzone and octinoxate. It is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. And not only is it great for pregnancy, but this is also a great good option for babies (which is actually who it’s made for!) since it’s been tested for skin irritation and allergy.

Best non-toxic sunscreen for sensitive skin

Alba Botanica Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30+

Alba Botanica Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30+ is a mineral-based sunscreen that is lightweight and non-comedogenic. Niacinamide, squalane, and vitamin E make this formula hydrating, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging. It’s free of harsh chemicals, parabens, and synthetic fragrances, making it safe for sensitive skin. Even though the formula is super nourishing, it’s not too greasy and doesn’t leave a white cast. This is one of the (MUCH) more affordable options for non-toxic sunscreens!

Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 for Extra Sensitive Skin

Babo Botanicals is an SPF 50 mineral sunscreen made for sensitive skin. It’s free of harsh chemicals, fragrances, and allergens, making it a safe and non-toxic option for people who are extra prone to irritation. It’s not too greasy and doesn’t clog pores or leave a white cast. It absorbs super easily into your skin, and the scent is very light and natural! This is another budget-friendly option!

Best non-toxic tinted sunscreen

I really only like to use tinted sunscreen on my face since tinted body sunscreens rub off on everything. For face sunscreen, these are my favorite tinted options:

Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40

Supergoop Glowscreen is a clean chemical sunscreen with SPF 40. Even though it’s a chemical sunscreen, it has a low rating on the EWG scale and doesn’t include any dangerous or toxic ingredients. It’s made with hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, and sea lavender, which help to hydrate, even out, and soothe the skin while providing a natural glow. To use, apply a small amount to the face and neck as the last step in your skincare routine. It can be worn alone or layered under makeup.

What I like about this sunscreen is that it not only provides sun protection, but also leaves such a radiant and glowy finish without making me look greasy. Its subtle tint makes a great swap for foundation on lighter makeup days! I always wear this when golfing.

ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40

The Super Serum Skin Tint is a personal favorite of mine. It feels like a tinted moisturizer but has SPF 40, and it’s super lightweight and hydrating. It’s clean and non-toxic, and the active ingredients double as skincare. Hyaluronic acid, squalane, and niacinamide nourish your skin and improve its texture. It has a fresh, radiant finish and my skin looks gorgeous with this.

The downside is that it has a weird smell when you first apply it. It does fade after a minute or two, but just be aware! To me, it’s worth it because of how natural and glowy it looks. Apply it like a foundation for subtle coverage and follow with your regular makeup routine. This is my go-to for a no makeup-makeup look. It has slightly more coverage than the Supergoop Glow Screen.

Best non-toxic sunscreen for kids

Florida Squeezed SPF 50 Sunscreen Non-Aerosol Spray

This top pick for spray sunscreen also made the cut for kid-friendly SPF. It applies clear for a no-mess application with squirmy toddlers, and smells like fresh oranges. (The citrusy scent is a great way to get your kid excited about sunscreen!) I love that this product prevents white casts from forming, so it’s super convenient to use for both me and my 2.5 year old.

Thinkbaby Clear Zinc Sunscreen SPF 30

This clear non-nano zinc formula is pediatric dermatologist recommended and extra gentle for babies. It has aloe and vitamin E for cooling and conditioning without any toxic or harmful ingredients. It doesn’t leave a greasy feeling or a white cast, and is another go-to for when I need to put sunscreen on Thomas since he won’t hold still long enough for me to rub in lotions that are very white.

Thinksport Kids SPF 50 All Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Spray

Thinksport Kids SPF 50 All Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Spray was one of my top picks for a non-aerosol spray SPF, but it’s also one of my top picks for kid’s sunscreen. It’s SO easy to apply, contains only great ingredients, and doesn’t leave a white cast.

Pipette Mineral Sunscreen – SPF 50

Pipette Mineral Sunscreen was recommended by a few of my friends on Instagram. Like the others in the post, Pipette Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 is a super clean, mineral-based sunscreen that uses non-nano zinc as the main active ingredient. It does not contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and synthetic fragrances, so it’s great for all skin types, including sensitive skin. This one gets bonus points because it also contains plant-derived squalane and glycerin, which help hydrate and nourish the skin while providing sun protection.

Hot tip for toddler moms: you can also take any lotion sunscreen and put it in this sunscreen applicator tool from Amazon for easy applying. My son even likes applying it to himself!

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I LOVE skincare but I’m not one of those people who always had clear skin. I struggled with breakouts in high school, and while I had a little reprieve in college with clear skin, acne reared its head again in my 20s. But now, at almost 40, my skin looks better than it ever has. Literlaly.

Nowadays, many influencers and companies claim to know the secret to clear, flawless skin. Whether they are recommending products or expensive facials, everyone seems to have ideas about how to get clear skin. (Yes, myself included! I also have strong opinions on this!)

And while using products in your skin care routine can be fun and effective, you should know that there is more to healthy skin than focusing on the outer surface. So today, I’m talking about creating healthy habits for clear skin, from the inside out.

12 Healthy Habits For Clear Skin

In the beauty industry, more and more skincare companies flood the market, along with tag lines saying that their product can do wonders for all skin types. However, the reality is that people should develop habits that cater to their skin’s specific needs. Remember that your skin is unique, and some of these tips may work for you, others might not. However, in general, here are the research-based practices you can follow to achieve a bright, healthy complexion.

1. Wash Your Face Twice Per Day

Washing once isn’t enough if you want clear skin. This study showed that people who wash their face twice per day saw the least amount of pimples. Start your day by washing your face – it’s a great way to wake up! And washing your face at night is a great way to wind down as well. If you really can’t wash twice a day, PLEASE make sure you wash your face at the end of the day. This will remove makeup, dirt and pollution that piles up on your skin throughout the day. And I’d recommend using a washcloth to help remove impurities more than rinsing alone. So find a routine you like and will do even when you are tired! (Here’s my routine and the cleanser I use!)

Be sure to use a cleanser that won’t strip your face entirely of its natural oils (especially if you have dry skin). Those oils are necessary for balancing your skin, which helps lessen breakouts. Even if you have oily skin, you don’t want to strip it completely.

If you have truly oily, acne prone skin, you may want to try a cleanser that contains salicylic acid, since this will help prevent breakouts.

2. Cut Down on Sugar

The overconsumption of sugary food and drinks can impact your skin and may also be one of the causes of acne breakouts. One study found that people who frequently consumed more added sugars have a 30% greater risk of developing acne, and those who regularly ate pastries and cakes had a 20% greater risk. So before you opt for an expensive acne treatment, try to simply reduce dramatically or cut out sugar.

For starters, you can easily cut down your sugar consumption by reducing your alcohol intake, avoid food and drinks that have high sugar content on the nutrition label, and minimize processed carbs. And, of course, try incorporating more whole, natural foods such as vegetables, fruits, and grains. (This post has more ideas on how to reduce sugar intake!)

3. Destress and Focus On Relaxation

It’s no brainer that being stressed produces acne. Stress puts your body in that fight-or-flight state, which causes the brain to release more hormones, causing acne. If you have a busy and stressful lifestyle, make sure you still squeeze in a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise activities to help in de-stressing. (Want to start running? I have an online running course that’s great for beginners.)

Another idea is meditation or starting a journal and writing down your thoughts. Enroll in a yoga class, which is great for both fitness and relaxation. Even just listening to your favorite music and practicing intentional breathing will help you destress. I shared tips in this post on how I deal with stress and anxiety.

4. Stop Popping That Pimple!

As tempting as it sounds, popping a pimple is one of the worst things you can do to your skin. (I know, I know – it’s hard to resist!!) It causes acne scarring, and can actually force your pores to get clogged even deeper down. Plus, you can increase your chances of infection in what’s called “the triangle of death,” where an area of the face has nerves that directly connect to the brain. Pimple popping can increase the risks of acquiring an infection and may cause serious problems in the long run. One of the BEST glowing skin habits is to quit popping.

Instead, wash your face and keep your face clean and hydrated, and also apply anti-inflammatory creams to lessen the redness. Let pimples clear up on their own, and use an exfoliator to help them naturally extract on their own. I also like this spot treatment for breakouts. If you have acne scars from prior sins of popping, this gentle overnight peel will work wonders on scars, especially when paired with a vitamin C serum.

5. Always Apply Sunscreen

Sunscreen is the best protection you can use against harmful UV rays from sun exposure. Too much sun can cause issues on your skin surface, preventing it from looking super clear. You’ll be more prone to sun spots, hyperpigmentation and more. Not to mention skin cancer, which is REALLY why I wear sunscreen every single day. Also, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, sunscreen works effectively against skin aging, which is a plus! The women in my life with the most beautiful clear skin all attribute part of it to wearing sunscreen.

I use this daily sheer sunscreen under my foundation. And I use this Countersun lotion, stick and mists for days that I’m in the sun a lot, e.g. at the pool, doing a long run or hiking.

6. Prioritize Moisturizing & Hydration

Moisturizing is one of the most underrated steps in your beauty routine! It’s an absolute necessity for giving skin that clear, dewy, flawless look. Hydrated skin is often less oily. Why? When your skin is too dry your body will produce more oils which will end up clogging pores. Moisturizing is also one of the easiest anti-aging things you can do for your skin too. The truth is, moisturizers keep the skin looking plump and supple, as well as keep your skin hydrated. But hydration also comes from the inside out. So drink up and make sure your body is hydrated to keep your skin hydrated.

You’ll also want to make sure you’re getting enough omega-3 fatty acids. These can help your skin’s oil production and improve the skin’s hydration.

Products such as the Colleen Rothschild Cleansing Balm and Beautycounter Countertime line are two of my must-haves for keeping skin hydrated. These products aim to restore moisture and hydration to the surface of skin and are just simply enjoyable to use (which I can’t say about all skincare products!)

7. Choose An Exfoliating Facial Cleanser To Use Daily

Regularly exfoliating helps purge the skin of impurities on a regular basis. Plus, it helps clean off dead skin cells that may end up blocking pores and can make your skin look dull. Regularly removing dead skin cells through gentle exfoliation will help your skin feel smooth, look clear, and illuminate vibrance. You don’t want to over exfoliate, as that can leave skin too dry (and we know what happens then!) but just a few times a week. I use this exfoliating mask 1 time per week since it’s both a chemical AND physical exfoliator.

8. Check The Ingredients in Your Hair Products

We all love a good dry shampoo, but did you know that the ingredients in your hair products can impact your skin negatively? Whatever is in your hair has the ability to get into your face and neck, especially if you’re working out or sweating from daily activities. So if there is anything that can irritate or clog your pores in your hair products, you might want to rethink them or use them less. Avoid these ingredients in hair products for clear skin: Isopropyl myristate, oils (except sunflower, safflower and tea tree tend to be okay), sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, and sodium chloride. I share my hair care favorites in this blog post.

9. Use Vitamin E For Any Scarring

We all know Vitamin E can improve the skin and complexion, but it can also help reduce signs of scarring. So if you have any scars preventing your skin from looking super clear, add Vitamin E to your skincare routine!

10. Choose Safer & Check the Expiration Date

Many people focus on using organic skincare, but I would argue that choose safer is the most important aspect to look for in skincare. There are basically no rules around what skincare companies can put into their products. (Truly – the government hasn’t updated the required testing or regulations in over 80 years, despite thousands of new chemicals being developed.) So even if it’s labeled “organic” but still has parabens other harmful ingredients, it’s not a good option. And if it includes the ingredient “fragrance”, you don’t really know what you’re putting on your skin since companies can put literally any ingredients they want in something, call it fragrance and use the trade secret loop hole. Not. Great. Avoid fragrance like the plague!

So choose brands who test the safety of their ingredients and hold their products to a higher standard that what’s legally required. Beautycounter is my go-to and the EWG Skin Deep database is great resource to check the safety of your current products or other brands you’re considering. They also have a HUGE list of ingredients that aren’t allowed in any of their products called the Never List. And no matter what brand you use – conventional, organic or safer – check the expiration dates!! Yep, putting old expired products on your skin can do more harm than good. So go safer with your skin care routine, and double check the expiration date regularly as well.

11. Eat More Foods that Support Clear Skin

As mentioned earlier, food can be a cause for skin conditions like acne. Although some opt to use topical products such as benzoyl peroxide to address acne problems, healthy skin is also impacted by healthy living and eating. Some foods or drinks can trigger a surge of hormones that increase the production of acne. To avoid having breakouts, start changing your diet and focus on the following food choices:

• Low glycemic foods such as legumes, fruits, and grains.
• Foods that are rich in vitamins A and E.
• Vegetables that have yellow or orange skin such as sweet potatoes and carrots.
• Leafy vegetables.
• Herbs such as turmeric, garlic, cilantro, milk thistle, etc.
• Anything high in fiber.
• And drink lots of water!

Daily Harvest is a great way to increase your fruit and vegetable intake!

12. Take Probiotics & Improve Your Gut Health

It’s true that a lot of skin issues stem from our guts. So if your skin is consistently acting up, maybe its time to consider that your gut could be the issue. Probiotics are one of the fastest ways to improve your gut health. So add in a probiotic and try these healthy gut diet tips. I’ve been taking Seed Probiotics for years and have a full review here.

How Do You Get Clear Skin?

I hope these tips are super helpful for getting your skin to where you want it. I would love to know any clear skin tips and healthy habits that you guys have! Leave a comment bellow for any tips I may have left out so I can add them to my list! And if you want more inspiration for getting on a skincare routine, be sure to check out this post with everything I use. There’s also an option on that page to shoot me an email for getting personalized help since we all have different skin!

Clear Skin Routine Essentials

The post 12 Healthy Habits For Clear Skin appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

I get asked about my skincare routine almost every single time I post a selfie on Instagram, and each time, I’m so flattered. My skin hasn’t always been in great shape (I struggled with severe acne in my twenties), so when someone thinks it looks good enough to ask for recommendations, it’s a reminder of how far I’ve come. My skin truly looks better at almost 40 than it did in my 20s.

One of the most effective things I done for my skin is called skin cycling. In today’s post I’m going to share what skin cycling is and how I do it with my skincare routine.

Skin Cycling: What It is and Why I Do It

What is Skin Cycling?

Skin Cycling is essentially rotating the treatment or product you’re using on your skin each night, so that you’re in a rhythm of using active ingredients for a few days, and then following that up with recovery days where your skin gets to rest.

“It’s a four-night cycling schedule: exfoliation night, retinoid night, recovery night, recovery night, repeat. You will get the most out of the active ingredients in your skin-care products while minimizing irritation by building in those needed recovery nights,” Dr. Bowe explains. (source)

I loosely follow a skincare cycle routine myself. It helps so my skin isn’t over-treated, which often leads to redness, irritation, or breakouts (I actually break out if my skin is too dry). I also alternate some of the pricier products with more affordable ones so my super expensive products last longer.

Here’s how my basic skincare cycle works:

1. Sunday – Exfoliate
2. Monday – Retinol (or retinol alternative since I’m breastfeeding)
3. Tuesday – Recovery
4. Wednesday – Recovery

And then I repeat the cycle.

1. Thursday – Exfoliate
2. Friday – Retinol or retinol alternative
3. Saturday – Recovery
4. Sunday – Recovery

My Exfoliate/Retinol/Recovery step is always the third step in my full skincare routine each night, as outlined below. (You can see my full skincare routine here.)

1. Cleanse
2. Tone
3. Skin Cycle Step (this is what I rotate)
4. Eye Cream
5. Moisturize

Since I work in the beauty influencer industry, I’m so lucky that I get a lot of products sent to me! (And, let’s be honest, I’m also guilty of still buying a fair amount of products!) I often get asked how I fit new products into my routine, and I simply replace one of my usual products with the new product on the appropriate day for a few weeks to see if it makes the cut!

My Skin Cycle Routine

Sunday

Exfoliate with peel pads. I switch between iS Clinical Peel pads (more aggressive, I have a full review of the iS Clinical Peel Pads with details on the blog) – review here) and the Colleen Rothschild peel pads, which are better for sensitive skin.

I’ve been using the Colleen Rothschild peel pads throughout my pregnancy and breastfeeding journey because I know the ingredients they use are all pregnancy safe (except their Retinol Oil). iS Clinical says theirs are safe too, but since I know Colleen Rothschild products a bit better, I just stick to those.

Monday

Beautycounter Overnight Resurfacing Peel – This is a retinal alternative and what I’ve been using for the last year during pregnancy and now breastfeeding. It contains AHA and BHA which helps skin texture and boosts clarity without irritation or over-drying. It also has glycolic, malic, and botanically derived lactic acid, which all help slough dead skin cells to give you a brighter complexion. It’s gentle but effective, and I’d argue it’s just as good as retinol. ALL Beautycounter products are safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Read my review of the Overnight Resurfacing Peel here.

When I’m not pregnant or breastfeeding, I use the Colleen Rothschild Retinol Supreme Night Oil. This contains vitamin C, so it’s a total powerhouse. It helps improve skin texture and cell turnover, while also brightening dark spots. And it’s much better for sensitive skin than a typical retinol since this is in oil form. This is the first retinol I’ve actually liked since I noticed a difference but didn’t experience peeling. (If you are struggling with peeling, read this post.)

Tuesday

I LOVE this SkinMedica Serum. It’s pricey, but it’s a clinical-grade anti-aging serum that targets fine lines, deep wrinkles and sagging skin. I have noticed my skin feels more taut and smoother after using this for just a few weeks. This is more hydrating than my other night time serums, so I treat this day like a skin “recovery day”. (Full review of the SkinMedica Serum here.) If I don’t have that on hand, I use the Radiance Serum below.

Wednesday

I let my skin recover another day and use the Beautycounter Countertime Tripeptide Radiance Serum.

Thursday

The next day, I’ll exfoliate. I use either the Beautycounter AHA Reflect Effect Mask or the Colleen Rothschild Enzyme Polish. I love both, but I do think the Beautycounter AHA mask is more potent than the Colleen Rothschild mask so if you have sensitive skin, keep that in mind. If I don’t feel like doing a mask (which is most of the time!), I’ll simply use this exfoliating polish in the shower (I mix it with my cream cleanser).

Friday

Retinol or retinol alternative again. Either the Beautycounter Overnight Peel or the Colleen Rothschild Retinol Supreme Night Oil (use TERILYN20 for 20% off Colleen Rothschild products).

Saturday

Recovery day after retinol. I use the SkinMedica Serum.

Sunday

One more day of recovery. I’ll typically use the Beautycounter Countertime Tripeptide Radiance Serum which helps with signs of aging but is gentle and soothing.

Bottom Line

If you’re new to anti-aging skincare (especially retinol), following a skincare cycle like this can help minimize irritation since so many people (myself included) are prone to jump in with a new product and use it everyday rather than gradually building up tolerance to it. Not only is this approach better for skin, it’s better for your budget since you don’t need to use your most expensive skincare everyday to still see great results.

I know that a skin cycle routine can be a little overwhelming, so I’ve put together a PDF that you can print out to keep you on track. Drop your email here and I’ll send the PDF to your inbox.

Let me know if you have any questions!

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In today’s post, I shared some basic information on face oils: what they’re for, when to use them, and how they can benefit your specific skin type. I’m also sharing my personal favorite face oils from experience (and I’ve tried a LOT).

Let’s get right to it.

The 3 Best Face Oils for Dry Skin

Many people use a face oil in place of a moisturizer but in reality, an oil should be used in addition to a moisturizer? 

Generally, the goal of facial oils it to either add more moisture to dry skin, to balance moisture and/ or to lock in the moisture that you’ve already added (by combining with a moisturizer). There are lots of facial oils on the market, but not all are created equal. Face oils can range from astringent to lighter feeling, so it’s important to find a facial oil that works well for you.? We’ll get to that part soon!

Why you shouldn’t should a face oil without moisturizer

It’s not uncommon for people using only face oils to have very dry skin. Why? Most moisturizers add hydration to the skin, while a face oil helps retain water and moisture that’s already there. 

Think of face oils almost like a bonus step for targeted care. They are great at soothing, repairing, and protecting skin while keeping hydration locked in. However, they can’t deliver the skin with the essential hydration needed to maintain a healthy moisture barrier. (This is due to their ingredient compounds – humectants vs. occlusive, but I won’t go into all that!) 

If you ONLY use a face oil and have very dry skin, try swapping your oil for a moisturizer since that will ADD hydration. 

1 – Colleen Rothschild Face Oil N°9

I’m in the dry and aging skin camp and have tried LOTS of facial oils over the years. The Face Oil N°9 by Colleen Rothschild is the absolute best. It’s made with 9 oils, but the key ingredients are black seed oil (antioxidant protection), moringa oil (restores luminosity), marula oil (balances complexion), and omegas 3, 6, and 9 which aids in hydration. Not only does this face oil smell heavenly (like a luxury spa), it feels like liquid silk. If you have mature or dry skin, you will be blown away by this face oil- I’ve gotten several friends hooked as well.

While it can be used morning and night, I prefer to use it with my night cream in the evenings for extreme hydration. In the winter months, this is my go-to. Massage a few drops onto your skin after moisturizing.

Make sure to use the code TERILYN20 to get 20% off your Colleen Rothschild order!

2 – Carrie’s Vital Treasures Elixir

Another favorite of mine is Carrie’s Vital Treasures Elixir. This was gifted to me by a friend. It’s a very small company, which I love supporting, and I absolutely love how it smells and feel. It’s made with 100% USDA certified organic, sustainably sourced, high-purity, cold pressed Sea Buckthorn Oil which is known to help with inflammation. It is nourishing and calming while helping to restore your skin barrier. I use this when I feel my skin starting to become reactive (if I’ve used to many drying or exfoliating treatments, etc.)

3 – True Botanicals Renew Pure Radiance Oil

The True Botanicals Renew Pure Radiance Oil is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids that help restore balance and promote healthy cell growth. It targets wrinkles and fine lines, making it a perfect option for aging skin. Also, it has a slightly earthy scent, which makes sense since all of the ingredients in it are natural. It truly makes my skin glow.

Face Oils for Other Types of Skin

Normal or Combination Skin

If you have normal or combination skin, you may not need a face oil! However, if you enjoy a face oil and want some brightening effects, this All Bright Brightening Facial Oil by Beautycounter is a great option. The key ingredients in this oil are vitamin C which helps visibly brighten skin, avocado oil which aids in hydration, and black currant oil which is rich in omegas that aid to a healthy skin barrier. Add a few drops to your skin after applying your moisturizer.

Carrie’s Vital Treasures Elixir is a good option for normal skin too. Like I mentioned above, it’s primary purpose is to help with inflammation, but it also nourishes and calms your sensitive skin while restoring its barrier. I think of this as a basic, great for all facial oil.

Oily or Acne Prone Skin

Oily, Acne Prone skin actually can be DRY. It may seem counterintuitive to use a face oil on oily skin, but remember that this isn’t ?adding? hydration to the skin. It’s helping retain the moisture that’s already there and soothing skin (which acne prone skin often needs!). And oily skin does need to maintain proper hydration or else it will produce more oil.

My top face oil choice for oily or breakout-prone skin is the Primally Pure Clarifying Serum. While the name may be deceiving, this serum is the same consistency as a face oil and applies the same (although you can use this prior to moisturizing). It’s packed with green tea with EGCG, marula oil and prickly pear seed oil which are great for treating active breakouts, acne scarring and sun damage.

Instead of using this post-moisturizer, go ahead and apply it after you wash your face and tone as a “treatment” step.

The post The 3 Best Face Oils for Dry Skin (and other skin types) appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

Beautycounter has been discontinued! Read about what happened to Beautycounter (and when it might come back) here. In the meantime, I have lots of great recommendations for Beautycounter product swaps linked in this post. Also, be sure to join my email list so you can be the first to know when your Beautycounter favorites come back.

I’ve been really blessed not to experience many issues with my skin during pregnancy, either time. I was worried about the common issue with hormonal acne since I used to have HORRIBLE acne in my mid to late 20s, but the worst I’ve had is an occasional breakout and some dryness. This pregnancy is slightly different from my first because the weather is drier and colder than when I was pregnant with Thomas, so my skin is drier this go round, but still, nothing serious. And I give a LOT of credit to having a good skincare routine in place long before I got pregnant.

Because I’m quite the skincare junkie, and because I’ve talked about my pregnancy a lot on Instagram, I’ve been asked a lot if I changed my skincare routine. I’ve also been asked if I stopped using any products while pregnant, but I’ve kept everything the same except for one or two serums. Since the majority of my skincare products are from Beautycounter, I know they’ve done rigorous research and tested ingredients to ensure their products are safe. And they specifically evaluate how they impact vulnerable populations like pregnant or nursing moms.

Skincare during Pregnancy

When I got pregnant with Thomas 4 years ago, my doctor sent me home with a handout of products and ingredients to stop using. I was thankful I didn’t worry about anything I used! (When I got pregnant with baby #2, I knew there were only a few products I’d need to stop using, including a great retinol oil from Colleen Rothschild).

But, I know getting pregnant and getting that handout is how a lot of women first start to learn about some of the potential negative side effects of products they are using. And doing that research may have led you here. So, I hope this post is helpful so you have more information about what to look for in your skincare products and what you may want to ask your doctor. (If you’re looking for safe beauty products, you can see my makeup routine here.)

Is Beautycounter Pregnancy Safe?

Yes. Every single Beautycounter product is screened for 23 health and environmental endpoints, including reproductive toxicity. Not only that, but Beautycounter is famous for their Never List, which is comprised of 2,800 ingredients questionable or harmful chemicals that they never use as ingredients in their products.

This includes the nearly 1,700 chemicals banned or restricted in personal care products by the European Union, plus additional chemicals screened by Beautycounter and found to be of concern. None of those are allowed in their products. It says a lot of that there are more than 1,000 other ingredients Beautycounter won’t use, considering the EU is pretty stringent. Beautycounter is one of the best clean beauty brands on the market because they are rigorous with testing but the performance is still SO good.

Here’s what Beautycounter has to say:

At Beautycounter, we craft all of our products with safety in mind, especially for those who might be extra vulnerable – like pregnant women and babies. We carefully screen and assess each of our ingredients for 23 distinct, safety endpoints, including reproductive toxicity. That said, as pregnancy affects everyone differently, check with your doctor before beginning the use of any products if pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant.

If you want to do a deep dive on ingredients and their safety during pregnancy, this blog post from To Make a Mommy is very helpful.

The moral of the story is that every pregnancy is different, every doctor is different and every woman’s comfort level with various things in pregnancy is different. And that’s true for everything, not just skincare.

For example, Beautycounter’s Overnight Resurfacing Peel contains glycolic acid and this Beautycounter SOS Spot Treatment contains 2% salicylic acid. I’m comfortable using both of those since I know the rigorous testing that Beautycounter does on the safety of their products, with special consideration for the concentration of ingredients for those who are pregnant.

But, you may not be comfortable using those. And I’m sure there are things you use that I wouldn’t. So again, you have to do what’s right for you! Educate yourself and go with your gut.

Skincare Product Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy

The hard thing about pregnancy and data is that it’s hard to do really thorough studies because it’d be an ethical issue to subject certain women to potentially harmful ingredients. That applies to skincare, diet, drinks, everything. For example, some doctors will say a sip of alcohol here and there is fine and others say absolutely don’t touch a drop.

The same applies to skincare and specific ingredients. Some doctors will say certain ingredients are fine, while others take a more conservative approach. However, Beautycounter’s standards INCREDIBLY high, so there’s no guesswork involved. You can feel good about every single product they carry– from body butter to blush and even mascara.

Remember, every pregnancy is different. There may be additional products or ingredients that your doctor tells you to avoid so if you have questions, check with your OBGYN.

Below are ingredients that are typically recommended to be avoided while pregnant, and I’m going to share which Beautycounter products I use instead.

Retin-A, Retinol, and Retinyl Palmitate

All of these are vitamin A derivatives and may lead to birth defects. Most doctors will tell you to stop using those because of the harmful side effects. I used retinol for years before switching to the Overnight Resurfacing Peel came out. It’s a safer alternative to a retinol product with similar results, and it drastically improved my skin texture.

Accutane and Tazorac

Accutane and Tazorac can both cause major birth defects if used while pregnant. Generally doctors will require a pregnancy test before they prescribe Accutane and will often require you to take them throughout your course of Accutane. I believe they do the same for Tazorac too. (I’ve never personally used either.)

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is an ingredient used to brighten skin. It’s often used to address melasma or skin spots. While some say it doesn’t have negative impacts, it is known to have a higher absorption rate than other types of ingredients. That means it could eventually make its way into your blood stream and affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about the risk and benefit for your situation. However, Beautycounter’s All Bright C serum is safe for use during pregnancy. My post about the Beautycounter Vitamin C serum goes into detail on its ingredients and benefits.

Chemical Sunscreens

Most conventional sunscreens use a chemical based sun protection like oxybenzone or avobenzone. These may cause hormone disruption and/or interfere with your baby’s nervous system development. (They also damage coral reef and are banned in Hawaii.)

I switched to non-nano zinc oxide mineral sunscreen years ago and haven’t looked back. This post has lots of non-toxic sunscreen options I like. (Beautycounter’s sunscreen even made the cut in a Women’s Health article about safe sunscreens.)

Laser Treatments 

There are LOTS of opinions on this without a clear answer. Definitely talk to your doctor about your situation.

Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acids

Acne during pregnancy is common. Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are the most common treatments for acne. But, those ingredients are controversial when used during pregnancy.

If you do use salicylic acid, most doctors will recommend that you use products no stronger than 2%. (All of Beautycounter’s acne products contain 2% or less.) When applied topically, Benzoyl Peroxide is believed to be safe during pregnancy, but some people still have concerns. So check with your doctor regarding your situation on both ingredients.

If you’re struggling with breakouts, be sure to read this post with more tips for clear skin.

Glycolic Acid

This is yet another highly debated ingredient. While it’s only supposed to penetrate the top layer of skin (i.e., not absorb into your bloodstream or make it to your baby), some medical professionals advise staying away out of an abundance of caution.

Note that this differs from hyaluronic acid, which is safe for pregnancy.

My Favorite Pregnancy Skincare Products

Here’s what I currently use.

Morning skincare routine

Cleanser

Countertime Lipid Defense Cleansing Oil or Countermatch Foaming Face Wash – I like having a non-glass option to keep in the shower, so I sometimes use the Countermatch lotion. Both are hydrating options that don’t leave a heavy film on my face.

Tone/Prep

Mineral Boost Hydrating Essence – this helps balance my skin after cleansing so it’s not too try and helps the products that follow absorb better

Treat

All Bright C Serum – this brightens skin and helps prevent and address melasma, which is common in pregnancy. (Read my review of this Vitamin C Serum here.)

Tripeptide Radiance Serum – this helps tighten and firm skin and improve hydration.

Hydrate

Antioxidant Soft Cream – this day time moisturizer helps prevent fine lines and also provides ample hydration without causing makeup to pill.

Ultra Renewal Eye Cream – the ONLY eye cream I’ve ever liked. Amazing for dark circles, puffiness and fine lines.

Protect

Daily Sheer Defense SPF

Evening Skincare Routine

Cleanser

Countertime Lipid Defense Cleansing Oil or Colleen Rothschild Cleansing Balm – I LOVE the cleansing balm but it’s too heavy for daytime for me. So I often use this at night, alternating with the Cleansing Oil. Both are very hydrating! (This post explains why I prefer the Colleen Rothschild Cleansing Balm over the Beautycounter Cleansing Balm.)

Tone/Prep

Mineral Boost Hydrating Essence – same prep step as my morning routine

Treat

Tripeptide Radiance Serum – same prep step as my morning routine

Overnight Resurfacing Peel – I use this 2-3 times a week in place of the Tripeptide Serum to help with skin spots, large pores and fine lines. (Read my review of the Overnight Resurfacing Peel here.)

SOS spot treatment & Charcoal Mask (as needed) – I get occasional breakouts around my nose and use these to dry them up.

Hydrate

Countertime Tetrapeptide Supreme Night Cream – I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT THIS. It’s amazing for dry skin! It’s incredibly thick, but absorbs quickly without a greasy finish. A little goes a long way too, so it lasts forever.

No. 9 Oil – On the nights that I’m not using the peel, I use and love this hydrating oil. It’s silky and not greasy. Beautycounter’s Brightening Oil is another great option but I do find it’s a bit heavier than the Colleen Rothschild one.

I hope this helps you figure out a solid pregnancy skincare routine. As with everything I share on my blog about pregnancy, I’m sharing my personal experience. Talk to your doctor, be your own advocate and go with your gut on any decisions you make throughout your pregnancy.

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The Best Pregnancy Safe Sunscreens for Face and Body

What sunscreen is safe during pregnancy?

Not all sunscreens are created equal. There are a lot of sunscreens on the market that are full of potentially harmful ingredients, so in today’s post I’m sharing what to look for in a sunscreen when you’re pregnant, what to avoid, and which brands make my favorite options.

When choosing sunscreens suitable for pregnancy, here are the things you should look for:

Broad Spectrum

Broad spectrum means that the sunscreen will shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays, which prevents sunburn and premature aging.

Physical Filters

A mineral — or “physical” — sunscreen is made up of UV blocking ingredients (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) that sit on top of your skin and reflect the UV rays away from your body. Since the ingredients sit on top of your skin, you aren’t risking the absorption of potentially harmful ingredients into your bloodstream.

Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, use potentially harmful ingredients, and I try to avoid these. Chemical sunscreen ingredients include:

• Avobenzone
• Benzophenone
• Oxybenzone
• Octinoxate
• Paba
• Homosalate
• Octocrylene
• 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor

These ingredients are absorbed into your skin to protect you from UV rays. However these ingredients are known widely as endocrine-disrupting chemicals, so even if they do prevent UV rays, they are not necessarily a safe option for you or your baby.

Fragrance-Free

During pregnancy, some women may become more sensitive to fragrances. I’m sensitive to scents, pregnant or not, and it’s even worse since I got pregnant again. Using fragrance-free sunscreens also helps avoid potential irritations. It’s also worth noting that “fragrance” is a trade secret in the beauty industry. Since brands don’t have to disclose what makes up that fragrance, companies will include ingredients they otherwise wouldn’t disclose, and just slap the word fragrance on there to cover it. Given that, it’s best to avoid any products with the ingredient “fragrance” on the back if it isn’t an essential oil or something natural. (You can read more about “fragrance” and other harmful ingredients in this post about The Never List.)

Hypoallergenic and Non-Comedogenic

Look for these words when sunscreen shopping. Sunscreens labeled as hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic are less likely to cause allergic reactions or clog pores, which is great during pregnancy when our skin is more prone to sensitivity and breakouts.

Best Pregnancy Safe Sunscreens

Okay, now that we’ve talked about what to look for in a pregnancy safe sunscreen, let’s jump into my recommendations. These are all brands and products I used throughout my first pregnancy and feel confident in.

Face sunscreens

Beautycounter Countersun Daily Sheer Defense for Face – SPF 25

The best face sunscreen I’ve tried is the Daily Sheer from Beautycounter. It was designed to be worn under makeup, so the non-nano zinc oxide dries completely sheer and doesn’t leave a white cast. It goes on smooth, isn’t greasy or sticky, and preps the skin well for foundation. This sunscreen also gets bonus points for protecting against blue light (light from our phones and computers).

The main ingredients in this sunscreen are non-nano zinc oxide, chicory root extract, vitamin E, and squalane which protect against sun damage and environmental stressors while locking in hydration. I have a full review of the the Daily Sheer sunscreen here. And if you want a deep dive into Beautycounter’s ingredient safety during pregnancy, this post from To Make a Mommy is very detailed and helpful.

AnnMarie Sun Love Everyday Sheer Sunscreen SPF 30

AnnMarie Sun Love Everyday Sheer Sunscreen is a mineral-based sunscreen with SPF 30. It absorbs quickly without a white case and is easy to wear alone or underneath makeup. It does have a texture to it and feels a tiny bit gritty when I apply it. This doesn’t bother me but it’s worth nothing. This sunscreen has a slightly earthy smell to it, and as someone who generally hates scented products, I actually like this one.

The key ingredients are non-nano zinc oxide, buriti fruit oil, and pumpkin seed oil, which help tighten and nourish the skin (love those anti-aging properties). It’s a great safe and natural option for pregnancy, but the only downside is that it doesn’t protect against blue light.

Dime Beauty Wonderscreen SPF 30

Dime Beauty is another one of my go-to brands for safe/clean skincare products, and I especially like their mineral based sunscreen, the Wonderscreen SPF 30. It’s slightly thicker than the Beautycounter Daily Sheer, and takes just a little bit long to rub in (this is the one downside). However it’s not greasy and goes on sheer without a white cast.

The main ingredients in this are zinc oxide, beetroot, and squalane, which help to protect and soothe the skin, fight wrinkles, and hydrate skin.

Body sunscreens

Beautycounter Countersun Line is a great one-stop shop for pregnancy safe body sunscreen. They make a few different options: a spray, lotion, and stick. All of Beautycounter’s products are safe and non-toxic (they have a list of over 1,500 ingredients they’ll never use in their products), and their sunscreen is best-in-class. I’m sharing my two favorites along with a few other brands I like.

Beautycounter Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Mist SPF 30

Beautycounter Countersun Spray is a mineral-based sunscreen with SPF 30. It uses non-nano zinc oxide and California poppy, which helps to protect and soothe your skin. It’s lightweight and doesn’t feel sticky or greasy. The only downside is that it leaves a whiter cast than some other mineral sunscreens, but it does protect skin well. Make sure to shake the can really well since this keeps the ingredients combined for effectiveness, and then spray it liberally.

Beautycounter Countersun Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30

The lotion version of this sunscreen is also made with the same non-nano zinc oxide and California poppy. I prefer this when I am trying avoid getting the spray residue on everything. I have a full review of Beautycounter sunscreen here.

Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Sunscreen

While the this Thinkbaby Baby Sunscreen is indeed, made for babies, that should be your first sign that this is a great option for pregnancy too. Since babies have super sensitive skin, baby sunscreen has to be ultra clean. I love this specifically because it has higher SPF protection than the Beautycounter options. Like the others, it’s made with Zinc Oxide and the fragrance they use is derived solely from natural oils.

Badger Mineral Sunscreen Cream SPF 30

Badger Mineral Sunscreen Cream is another great, super clean option. It’s made with uncoated zinc oxide (meaning it’s not coated in any other chemicals), and just 4 other natural ingredients that help moisturize, nourish, and protect your skin. It’s reef friendly and comes in 50% PCR tubes.

Is Neutrogena Sunscreen good for pregnancy?

In the past, I would have said no, because even Neutrogena’s super-popular Ultra Sheer stick sunscreen contained oxybenzone (a no-no), but their new formula is made with Zinc Oxide, so I’d feel better about using it now. I would consult your doctor before making a decision, however. My preference is still one of the brands above that are 100% committed to clean ingredients.

Is there a sunscreen that you loved that I missed? Let me know below in the comment section.

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Your skin is the largest organ in your body; it covers you from head to toe and acts as a shield against the outside world. And whatever touches your skin doesn’t just stay on the surface but actually gets absorbed into your bloodstream. That’s why it’s important to be mindful of what you slather on your skin (especially lotion which covers such a large area).

Equally as fascinating: a lot of popular lotions on the market are packed with toxic chemicals. Those toxic body lotions may look and smell great (and they can be enticing when the branding is cute) but they’re actually more harmful than helpful. However, if you know how and where to look, you’ll be able to find a lot of gems in the mix – those natural and organic lotions that are loaded with skin-pampering nutrients, like hyaluronic acid, shea butter and avocado oil.

Today, I’m sharing some of the best non-toxic lotions. I’m giving you the lowdown on my faves, their ingredient lists, and overall effectiveness to help you shop more mindfully. Here’s a round-up of the best non-toxic lotions to add to your shopping list.

12 Best Non-Toxic Lotions

Non-Toxic Body Lotion

Wink Llama All Over Lotion

This is my #1 pick for body lotion. I first ordered Wink Llama Lotion to use on Thomas, since it’s made specifically for babies, but then I started using it too. It’s SO hydrating and soothing and has a lightweight smell. And if you have sensitive skin, this is also a great option since it’s crafted for babies! It helps repair dry or cracked areas and it does not sting. The key ingredients are shea butter, lavender, and coconut oil. You can even use this lotion to help with eczema, baby acne and cradle cap!

The bottle is huge which makes it a steal for under $25. I also have the travel size version that I take on trips. The founder of Wink is a mom and a friend of mine from college, so I know anything they produce is going to be awesome. But I actually tried Wink for the first time before I realized it was Danny and Shalayne’s company! It made me fall in love with it even more after that.

Beautycounter Hydrating Body Lotion

I didn’t know much about safety standards when it came to beauty and skincare products until I started using Beautycounter. Beautycounter has a Never List of ingredients that they’ll never use in any of their products, and when I saw how long the list was, I realized I needed to make some adjustments in my skincare routine. I already cared about what I was putting in my body, so it was a no brainer to be more mindful about what I was putting on my body once I learned more about the bad ingredients in most products. (Even shampoos have ingredients you should avoid.)

Switching to a cleaner body lotion was one of the first beauty products I replaced once I realized I need to improve things in my personal care routine. I’ve been using the Beautycounter Hydrating Body Lotion for years. (See my full list of Beautycounter favorites here!)

The formula is lightweight and rubs in quickly. A little goes a long way, which I appreciate since it’s on the pricer end of body lotions. It has a super subtle grapefruit scent; I don’t usually like products with a smell, but I love this one, and the scent comes from natural essential oils, not a loophole “fragrance” ingredient. It leaves skin feeling smooth, hydrated and never greasy.

Non-Toxic Hand Lotion

Beautycounter Softening Hand Lotion in Neroli

We have Beautycounter’s hand soap and hand lotion in our powder bathroom and every time we have guests, they mention how nice they are. The soap and lotion are both so soothing, smell luxurious, and the branding is pretty enough to display in even the nicest powder rooms. The main ingredients are organic safflower seed oil, jojoba oil, and shea butter, which are all hydrating and conditioning.

I like the consistency of the hand lotion since it’s a little thicker than body lotion but doesn’t leave hands greasy. You can use the code CLEANFORALL20 for 20% off Beautycounter if you’ve never purchased from there before.

Osea Anti-Aging Hand Cream

When it comes to hand lotions, Osea’s Anti-Aging Hand Cream comes highly recommended. I haven’t tried this product, but I got to try their night cream a few months ago as part of a partnership at the beginning of the year and absolutely loved it, which is why I’m recommending this hand cream. Not only are the ingredients clean, but this hand cream also has antioxidants in it that help lighten dark spots on the backs of your hands. It’s packed with organic coconut oil, sunflower seed oil, shea butter, aloe vera leaf extract, and gigartina seaweed. And while it’s designed for your hands, it can actually be used anywhere on your body. (Battling dry skin? Read my tips on how to save your dry skin!) 

I’m linking it from Blue Mercury since you’ll get a great free gift with purchase if you buy from there.

Non-Toxic Tanning Lotion

Beauty By Earth Self-Tanner Tanning Mousse

Beauty By Earth Self Tanner is one of the most popular non-toxic self-tanning lotions in the market. They also make a tanning mousse, which is what I’m including here instead of the lotion, since the mousse is easier to apply without a mess. It’s made up of 81% water and certified organic ingredients, the other 19% are naturally derived ingredients that don’t include any toxic or harmful additives. The active ingredient is sugar-beet derived DHA, which is a sugar derivative that gives the top layer of the skin a bronzed glow. (It’s also different — and safer — than the DHA most brands use)

It applies clear (unlike others that dispense as a dark tan or even dark olive color) and has NO funky self-tanning smell (thanks to a more natural form of DHA). I own this and love it.

Kora Organics Gradual Tanning Lotion

I’m a bit picky when it comes to tanning lotions because they can either be really amazing or really disappointing. I’ve been eyeing Kora Organics Gradual Tanning Lotion for a while now because I’ve heard great reviews. This one also uses naturally-derived DHA.

This tanner is packed with noni fruit extract and sunflower seed oil. It’s cruelty-free, vegan, and free from synthetic fragrances and colors. The formula gives a gradual, buildable tan that leaves skin looking healthy and radiant. Because of its natural ingredients, it doesn’t have that chemical smell that most commercial tanners have. It has a lovely lavender scent instead.

Non-Toxic Face Lotion

Beautycounter Countermatch Adaptive Moisture Lotion

Another lotion from Beautycounter that’s worth a try is the Countermatch Adaptive Moisture Lotion. Designed to adapt to your skin’s needs, this body lotion adjusts its hydration levels throughout the day. Thanks to its innovative formula, it has a long-lasting effect that keeps moisture locked in. Even more, it is lightweight and non-greasy, so you won’t have to worry about feeling sticky. It contains squalene, phytic acid, plum oil, and shea butter. These moisture-rich ingredients work together to hydrate your skin, leaving it feeling hydrated and plump.

As most of my readers know well, I’m a huge fan of Beautycounter. This post explains what makes Beautycounter different in more detail, but in short, they are very transparent about the ingredients they use in their products and are committed to safety. They even created the Beautycounter Never List, a comprehensive list of harmful chemicals they promise to NEVER use. Check it out to learn more about these questionable ingredients. It’s definitely worth double-checking if your current skincare products contain any of them!

Beautycounter Countertime Soft Cream

If you have seriously dry (or aging) skin, then you’ll want the Beautycounter Countertime Soft Cream. It’s more hydrating than the Adaptive Moisture Lotion, and contains anti-aging ingredients. I use it daily and haven’t found a better daily moisturizer yet (and I try plenty). The main ingredients are Bakuchiol (a natural anti-aging ingredient), Swiss Alpine Rose (boosts your skin’s antioxidant defence), Nasturtium Flower Extract, and fermented sugars.

It feels like satin on your skin and soaks in almost instantly. It leaves your skin feeling hydrated, but not heavy.

Best Non-Toxic Lotion For Dry Skin

Primally Pure Body Butter

I’ve used the Primally Pure Body Butter for years (on both Thomas and myself), and can’t sing its praises enough. It’s thick and creamy, made with with all natural and safe ingredients, and doesn’t break the bank. Since it’s a body butter rather than a lotion consistency, it’s perfect for anyone who has truly dry skin. It also comes in 3 scents (eucalyptus and lavender is my favorite). This does leave a bit of a greasy feeling so I prefer to use this at night, rather than during the day.

True Botanicals Pure Radiance Body Butter

I’ve recently become a True Botanicals convert after trying some of their skincare! I’ve been so impressed with their Microbiome Enzyme Essence and have been using it as my prep step in my nighttime skincare routine. All of their products are non-toxic and made with natural ingredients, and everything is very high performing. Their Pure Radiance Body Butter is a perfect option for someone with dry skin (like me!). It’s made with Tucuma Seed, Kokum Seed, Avocado and Shea Butters that provide intense moisture that’s still breathable.

Best Non-Toxic Baby Lotion

Wink Llama All Over Lotion

I have to include the Llama All Over Lotion under this section too since it’s my #1 pick for babies (and kids!). Thomas has sensitive skin, and this lotion has been a game-changer for us. It helps with eczema, baby acne and cradle cap, and there’s no burning or discomfort. The key ingredients are shea butter, lavender, and coconut oil.

Primally Pure Baby Balm

If your little one has seriously dry skin or rashes, the Primally Pure Baby Balm is a must. It’s incredibly gentle and hydrating. It’s very thick and never irritates even the most sensitive skin (which my little guy has!). I started using this when he was a newborn and still keep it on hand!

Beautycounter Balm for All

The other balm I really love is Beautycounter’s Balm For All. They used to call it Baby Balm, but they realized it had more uses than just for babies, so they changed the name. The formula is the same though. This balm is formulated with organic shea butter, sunflower seed oil, and jojoba seed oil. You can use this balm on practically anything, but I like it most for any dry spots Thomas gets, like his cheeks, knees and elbows. I just put a little on my finger, and then gently rub it onto the spot that needs it.

If you’re choosing between the Primally Pure Baby Balm and this, I’d go for Primally Pure. I like the texture better and it’s a little less greasy. But if you don’t like products in a tub and would prefer a squeeze tube, go for the Beautycounter one!

I hope this helps make your shopping easier. If you have other lotions with non-toxic formulations that are free from harmful chemicals, please share!!

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