My 15 year old self explicitly remembers being promised by Seventeen and Cosmopolitan that blemishes were strictly a symptom of puberty, and that she would have beautiful, clear skin in her 20s. Why then, in my thirties, am I still fighting the occasional hormonal breakouts? I definitely don't have time for this, what with all the worrying I have to do about wrinkles. Crows feet aside, my main skincare concern is finding products that will balance my skin without the use of harsh chemicals. A couple of months ago I started a new regimen, and these are my favorites that are currently cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing and keeping those blemishes at bay.
1. Acure Organics Brightening Facial Scrub // A good facial scrub is the most important step in my book - nothing else can brighten my complexion or make my skin feel as refreshed. This one from Acure Organics is the best I've ever used, and you can't beat the $15 price tag. It's gentle on sensitive skin and makes skin softer and smoother than ever before. I recommend using the scrub in the shower since it can make a bit of a mess.
2. RMS Beauty Raw Coconut Cream // The thing most non-toxic makeup removers seem to have in common is that they are also non-functioning. Forget the oily concoctions and switch to all natural coconut oil - the one simple ingredient that does a phenomenal job of removing even waterproof mascara. You can use the unrefined coconut oil found at the grocery store, but this raw coconut cream from RMS Beauty is on a whole new level: the processing technique does not use heat or chemicals, leaving every living enzyme and nutrient intact and resulting in a less greasy cream with a lighter fragrance. Coconut oil contains lauric acid (also found in breast milk), which is naturally antibacterial, antimicrobial and anti-fungal, making this a suitable cleanser for blemish prone skin.
3. Yuli Panacea Elixir // An all-natural, refreshing toner mist that refreshes and rebalances skin (plus, the cool mist is especially refreshing in this hot, humid Austin weather). Incredibly hydrating, anti-inflammatory, and helps to decongest blemish-prone skin.
4. Vered Therapeutic Balancing Facial Oil // There has been an endless parade of highly promising facial oils and moisturizers through my vanity, but none have actually delivered for my sensitive, combination skin. When I read the positive reviews for the Vered Organic Botanicals line I decided to give it a try and order the Introductory Kit so I could sample the Balancing Facial Oil. I was quickly blown away - every single product smelled and felt amazing - especially the Balancing Facial Oil. It has completely transformed my skin: balanced it; reduced hormonal blemishes; and moisturized without being overly greasy. The oil just sinks right in. It contains naturally antibacterial and antiseptic ingredients that promote healing, prevent skin eruptions, and actually prevent and reduce scarring. These quality oils don't come cheap - $68 - but the 1.5 ounce bottle lasts far longer than any other moisturizer I've used. After using it twice a day for 3 months I've only used a third of the bottle.
5. Wedderspoon Raw Manuka Honey // Raw honey has strong antioxidant, oxygenating, exfoliating, and humectant properties, and this raw honey has the highest level of antibacterial elements available. Manuka honey naturally produces hydrogen peroxide, which oxygenates and clears pores. It also contains antioxidants which neutralize free radicals that cause aging, and used as a facial mask Manuka honey draws impurities from pores, prevents blemishes, promotes healing, gently exfoliates, and balances the skin. It can be used as a spot treatment as well, but if leaving on overnight just remember that it is honey, and it will be sticky.
6. Morihata Kontex Flax Line Facial Towel // Most washcloths are too harsh for sensitive facial skin, but these from Morihata are made from 100% organic cotton that is super soft and luxurious, making them perfect for makeup removal. I love using these in conjunction with either RMS Coconut Cream or Manuka Honey for eye makeup removal, facial cleansing and exfoliating.