One of the primary goals of this blog is to provide you with the best information out there on skincare, particularly on “clean” or natural skincare products and brands. When I first started on this journey, most retailers did not clearly identify clean or natural skincare products. As a result, there was quite a bit of guesswork involved in figuring out the products to try. So, to help you in your “clean” or natural skincare journey, I decided to compile this post and I hope it will save you a bit of time.
This post contains a description of all the clean or natural skincare products I currently use (or have tried) and a short explanation of why I use them and/or why I no longer use them. I will update this post as my skincare regimen changes.
Finally, as a reminder, everyone’s skin is different – so, even though I have combination skin, my combination skin may not be the same as your combination skin and what works for me, may not work for you. Nonetheless, my hope is that this post will serve as a useful starting point for choosing clean and natural skincare products.
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Clean and/or Natural Products
Caudalie
Caudalie’s products are the foundation of my skincare regimen, as I use their cleansers, toners, and moisturizers.
Make-up Removing Cleansing Oil
This cleansing oil is best used at night to remove makeup and built up oil and dirt. I cleanse my face with this first, rinse it off and then follow with a water based cleanser.
Instant Foaming Cleanser
This is a gentle foaming cleanser that does not strip the skin. It is my spring/summer personal favorite for day and evening cleansing. In the evening, I use this after the cleansing oil. This product is great if you have oily or combination-oily skin.
Gentle Cleansing Milk
This is a gentle, milky cleanser that cleans the skin without stripping or drying it out. In the fall/winter, I replace the instant foaming cleanser with this cleansing milk. If you deal with dry skin or combination dry skin, I strongly recommend this product to you.
Moisturizing Toning Lotion
This toner is hydrating and does not strip or dry out my skin. If you have very dry skin, I would not expect it to work any miracles, but for my combination skin that shifts between combination-oily in the spring/summer and combination-dry in the fall/winter, it has been quite the lifesaver.
Vinoperfect Concentrated Brightening Essence
Even though this product is considered an essence, I use this as a toner in the mornings. I just apply it after my moisturizing toner and only in the morning. It contains glycolic acid, which is an excellent exfoliant. It works best when paired with the Vinoperfect Radiance Serum (described below).
Vinopure Purifying Toner
The Vinopure line is a new line by Caudalie. Each product in the line is made specifically for combination skin. It contains natural salicylic acid, which is great if you deal with blemishes or acne.
Vinoperfect Radiance Serum
I love this serum! It makes my skin GLOW. Since I started using it a year ago, I have received so many compliments on my skin. This pairs perfectly with the Brightening Essence.
Vinopure Skin Perfecting Serum
This serum pairs perfectly with the Vinopure toner. Just as I do with the toner, I use this after I finish the Vinoperfect Radiance Serum.
Vinosource Moisturizing Sorbet Cream
I use this as my evening moisturizer during the spring, summer and fall, and, as a daytime moisturizer in the winter. The consistency and weight of the product are perfect for my skin. The product goes on easily, and absorbs perfectly with no pilling! While the sorbet works great for my combination skin, if you require a more hydration Caudalie offers multiple choices with thicker formulas.
Vinopure Skin Perfecting Mattifying Fluid
Yet another light moisturizer, this product is definitely mattifying and not as moisturizing as the sorbet cream. While I prefer the sorbet cream, I use this when it is time to alternate products.
Since it is important to switch out products intermittently (your skin will begin to get used to products, which will result in their being less effective over time), I alternate between the Vinopure line of products and Vinoperfect.
Osea Malibu
Ocean Cleanser
I started using this cleanser after receiving it in a beauty box and I really like the product and the consistency. It is a seaweed gel cleanser that is perfect for normal or combination skin. After using it, my skin always feels clean without feeling dry.
Blemish Balm
I recently started using this as a nighttime product for added moisture and protection against blemishes. As such, I do not know how I will feel about it over the long term. Osea’s website describes it as a lightweight moisturizer that “provides perfectly balanced hydration while effectively targeting blemishes and future breakouts.” I will let you know what I think after I have been using it for a bit longer, but for right now, I am enjoying it. UPDATE: Having used this now for a few months, I do really like the product and I definitely think it does a great job at moisturizing my skin. And, when I do find a blemish, it certainly does not make the situation worse by further clogging my pores – which is a huge plus.
Atmosphere Protection Cream
This moisturizer is described as being good for basically all skin-types – dry, normal and combination. According to Osea’s website, this moisturizer is supposed to provide “barrier protection against extreme climates, wind and air pollution.” I have really enjoyed using this product during the cooler months. It provides my skin with just the right amount of moisture without it ever feeling greasy during our cold winters. However, as someone with combination oily skin in the summer, I did have to stop using this during the warmer months. It was just a bit too heavy and started to make my skin feel greasy. Nonetheless, I can definitely see how this product would be great for all skin types.
Herbivore Botanicals
Pink Cloud Rosewater Moisture Crème
My skin began to develop a few dry patches as a result of the cold weather so I needed to find a heavily moisturizing night crème. After doing a decent amount of research, I opted for this and I do not regret the investment. This is a really thick and heavy crème that does a great job at sealing in the moisture and keeping my skin hydrated. To minimize the risks of breakouts or any acne (due to the heaviness of the formula), I only use it at night.
Rose Hibiscus Hydrating Mist
Even though I no longer use this mist, I always enjoyed using it. While I found it delivered some hydration, if you have dry skin, I doubt you will a substantial benefit from this product. As part of my skincare routine, I prefer to spritz my face with water/hydrating mists before applying my oil but after applying my serum. I recently switched from this product to plain ole Evian spray. Why? Well, ensuring your skin stays moisturized keeps wrinkles and fine lines at bay, so what better moisturizer than water!
Brighten Instant Glow Mask
I received a sample of this mask and, while I did enjoy it, I did not purchase a full sized version. After using this product, my skin always felt tight. While I did not notice a substantial difference in my skin after using it, I will note that I did not use the product consistently.
Lapis Facial Oil
I spent most of the summer on the hunt for an effective oil with quality ingredients. Although this oil has phenomenal ingredients, particularly for those with oily skin, it was too light for my combination skin and simply did not produce results. While I would not recommend this oil for those with dry skin, if you have oily skin, then you may want to try out this oil; you may have better results.
Farmacy
Honey Drop Lightweight Moisturizer with Echinacea GreenEnvy
I received a jar of this lightweight moisturizer in a subscription box. While I definitely liked the product and found it to be moisturizing, I was looking for a heavier evening moisturizer and this was too light for me. Nonetheless, if you have oily or combination skin, I definitely would recommend this moisturizer as it is very light and does not clog pores.
Honeymoon Glow AHA
I purchased this product as a natural alternative to mandelic acid (see below) since I was on the hunt for a “clean” AHA/BHA product.
Not quite certain what an AHA or BHA is? Well, AHAs are similar to beta hydroxy acids (BHA as both AHAs and BHAs are exfoliants that penetrate the skin. AHAs and BHAs are very similar in that they both work on the skin’s outer layer and deeper layers. However, they exfoliate differently – AHAs are water soluble and, thus, do not penetrate the skin quite as deeply. An example of an AHA is glycolic acid, which is used frequently in skincare products . BHA’s are oil soluble, which allows them go into the skin a little deeper than AHAs. An example of a BHA is salicylic acid – the ingredient found in most acne products.
This product contains a blend of AHAs and BHAs from natural sources to help exfoliate skin and diminish pore size. Since I began using the product, I have definitely noticed a difference in the texture and clarity of my skin. Plus, I barely have any breakouts now. And, with this product, a little goes a long way – so the product lasts for quite awhile.
Biossance
Squalane + Phyto-Retinol Serum
I’ve spent nearly a year searching for a great retinol alternative and I really think I found it with this product. The main ingredient is bakuchiol, a plant extract that offers the same skin benefits of retinol without the side effects. It functions similar to retinol by increasing cell turnover, which stimulates collagen production and decreases the signs of aging. I use it just like retinol, applying at night, right after I cleanse and tone.
Odacite
Bl + C (Black Cumin-Cajeput) (Pimples)
This was the very first Odacite product I tried and, since then, I have been in love. It is an excellent oil-based serum that does an excellent job at preventing breakouts. The only issue I have with the product – it is a little too strong for me to use every day; as such, I only use it a few times a week at night. Each of the Odacite serum bottles are pretty small, however, you only need 2-3 drops to cover your full face, neck and decollete so a bottle lasts quite awhile.
Gr + G (Grapeseed-Grapefruit) (Oily/Acne-Prone Skin)
Since I cannot use the Black Cumin every day, I purchased this serum. It is a little gentler on my skin and still provides the same great results as the Black Cumin – blemish free skin!
Ba + S (Baobab-Sarsaparilla) (Eye Contour)
This product has worked wonders for my eye area. Literally, I never want to use anything else on my eye area. It has reduced my dark circles and under eye puffiness. I use this both during the day and at night.
Rose + Neroli (Hydra-Vitalizing Treatment Mist)
As mentioned above, I really enjoy mists and this hydrating mist really seems to deliver. While I do not think it is hydrating enough to replace a moisturizer, it is a great mist for when your skin needs an extra boost during the day. I tend to spray it right before I board a plane or train.
Uma
Absolute Anti-Aging Face Oil
I received a small sample of this product and, upon finishing it, I instantly purchased the full bottle. It is a unique blend of oils, such as geranium oil, rose oil and frankincense, that have strong anti-aging benefits. Over the course of a month, I watched this product fade fine lines and improve my skin texture. Plus, it lasts a long time – assuming you use only 2-3 drops as the packaging instructs. This oil is a truly wonderful product and I do not have anything bad to say about it.
W3LL People
Bio Booster Facial Serum
I also received this oil as a sample, but did not purchase the full bottle once I finished the sample. Although the ingredients are great, the oil was a little too heavy for my oily combination skin. However, if you have dry skin and want a moisturizing oil with great ingredients, this would be a good oil to try.
Omorovicza
Miracle Facial Oil
This oil has a great blend of ingredients and has really kept my skin glowing. However, it takes a few minutes for my skin to fully absorb the oils. For that reason, I would not recommend it for those who have very oily skin; while it works well on my combination skin, I am not entirely certain if I would repurchase.
Jane Scrivener
OO (Over Oil) Cream
This product has been an absolute lifesaver in my skincare routine. If you use oils as part of your skincare routine (and you should) I would absolutely recommend you add this to your skincare routine. You use the enclosed spatula to apply a small amount to your skin after using your oil to seal in the benefits of the oil. You then follow with your usual moisturizer. I cannot say enough good things about this product!
BeautyCounter
Adaptive Moisturizing Lotion
This is a great moisturizer for day wear during the winter or at night during the summer. It really nourishes and hydrates the skin. I do not use it as my daytime moisturizer during the summer as it is a tiny bit too heavy for the hot, humid summer days here on the east coast. It is truly perfect as a daytime moisturizer for the winter months for my combination skin. However, if you have dry skin, it would work well for you during the summer but might not be heavy enough for the winter. UPDATE: I recently stopped using this product and replaced it with the Osea Malibu moisturizers. While I do still like the product, I believe the ingredients in the Osea Malibu moisturizer absorb into the skin better.
Amavara
SPF 50 Facestick with Earthwell Zinc Technology
This is a mineral sunscreen that, frankly, is the most transparent form of zinc sunscreen that I have ever tried. Once rubbed over your face, you can barely see any white tint. And, the white tint disappears completely upon application of foundation or (in my case) whatever product I put on to control shine.
One Love Organics
One Love Organics Botanical D Moisture Mist
I love mists and this is one of my favorites thus far. I really appreciate how the product soaks into the skin making it feel soft and, most importantly, moisturized! It’s formulated with aloe and safflower – two of my favorite ingredients in any skincare product. All skin types would benefit from this mist, but those who deal with dry skin will especially benefit from the extra infusion of moisture.
Gardenia + Tea Antioxidant Body Serum
I absolutely love this body oil. The star ingredient is sunflower oil, which I find soaks into the skin wonderfully. I spritz this at night right after stepping out of the shower and I, personally, like to follow it with lotion to help seal in the oil. The only problem with this product is that it is a spray bottle. So, when you spritz, make sure you’re either standing in the shower or over a rug otherwise expect your floor to feel slightly slick.
Alder New York
Everyday Face Serum
I purchased this product because I was looking for a good hyaluronic acid product. I tend to use the masks from this brand (and I love all of them) so I decided to try one of their serums. I really like the ingredients in this product and it absorbs into the skin really well. I have not seen much of a difference with this product, however, I have not been using it for very long. I will provide an update once I have been using it longer.
The Ordinary
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Since I have been on the search for a really good hyaluronic acid serum, I opted to try The Ordinary’s product since it has a high concentration of hyaluronic acid. Thus far, I have been quite pleased with the product. I only use it a few times a week – when testing new products, I always slowly increase the frequency of use in my skincare routine. However, thus far, I really like the product and I do think I will see results as I increase my usage. I will provide an update once I have been using it longer.
BIOEFFECT
EGF Serum
According to Bioeffect’s website, their EGF serum is “a revolutionary age-defying serum, that significantly reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, increases skin thickness and density and restores your skin’s youthful radiance.” I have been using this product consistently in the evenings for the past few months and while it applies nicely to the skin, I have not seen any substantial changes and/or differences in my skin. However, due to the ingredients, I think it might benefit drier skin types better.
Pai Skincare
Rosehip BioRegenerate Oil
I received this oil in a beauty box and my skin really likes it. Rosehip oil is a great face oil for addressing fine lines/wrinkles, acne, evening out skin tone, and dark spots. You really do not need to apply a lot – just a couple drops is enough to cover your whole face and see benefits. I recommend using this oil at night and giving it enough time to fully absorb into your skin before applying your moisturizer.
Products free of Paraben/Mineral Oil/Synthetic Dye Free
Pink Light Botanicals
Crystal Facial Tonic Skin Illuminating Oil
I received this oil in a beauty box and I really liked it as an evening oil. With jojoba, sunflower and sweet almond oil as the first three ingredients, it was a bit too heavy for daytime but it was perfect for using at night during the fall and winter months. Although it is marketed for all skin-types, I believe this oil would really benefit combination – dry or dry skin types more due to the types of oils in this mixture. You only need a few drops for each application, so expect the bottle to last for quite awhile.
Rose Petal Enzyme Mask Botanical Brightening Treatment
This is a really nice masks that definitely brightens the skin. I really do not have enough great things to say about this little mask. A thin layer for ten minutes and you will see an immediate brightening to your skin. I try to use this mask at least twice a week to help maintain my glowing skin.
SkinCeuticals
C E Ferulic
This is the best Vitamin C serum on the market; it is known for having the most stable formula with the perfect balance of ferulic acid and vitamins C and E to ensure maximum effectiveness. I have nothing else to say except it is the absolute best! Just remember, you have to wear sunscreen every day with any vitamin C product. This product is paraben free.
Glow Recipe
Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask
When this mask launched it had a crazy long waiting list at Sephora. While I do not know if it is worth that level of hype, I do really enjoy this product as a sleeping mask. Twice per week I pat this product onto my skin as the final step in my nightly routine. When I wash it off in the morning, my skin feels moisturized. I do not know if it would be moisturizing enough for dry skin, but I would recommend giving it a try. Although it is not considered a “clean” beauty product, it is formulated without synthetic dyes and mineral oil.
Watermelon Pink Juice Moisturizer
This moisturizer is best suited for oily to combination skin. It is very light and quickly absorbs into the skin. I use this product in the morning during the spring, summer, and fall; however, I do not find it heavy enough for the winter.
Glow Recipe’s website indicates that dry skin could use this as a serum. I can definitely see how this could be a serum for drier skin types. However, I would not recommend dry skin types use this as a moisturizer since it is pretty light.
Watermelon Glow Ultra-Fine Mist
This is Glow Recipe’s hydrating mist. Per their website, it is “packed with a juicy blend of 84% watermelon, hyaluronic acid, and hibiscus AHAs to refresh skin and enhance makeup.” While this mist is nice as the final step in my routine, it is not very hydrating. The mist is incredibly fine and it does a great job of giving you that extra dewy look once you apply your last bit of makeup, however, it is not particularly hydrating. So, if you are looking for a more hydrating water mist, you might want to consider something else.
Other Products*
*Note, the following items are not considered “clean” or natural skincare products, but I still wanted to mention them.
Vivant Skin Care
8% Mandelic Acid
Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from bitter almonds. Mandelic acid targets three issues – (i) wrinkles and fine lines, (ii) hyperpigmentation and discoloration, and (iii) acne. Another benefit is that mandelic acid is more gentle than glycolic acid, even though it does not penetrate the skin as deeply.
Vivant’s Mandelic Acid is one of the best and highest quality mandelic acids on the market. This acid was phenomenal at minimizing and treating my breakouts. I used it only twice per week and, frankly, even though the bottle recommends using it more frequently, you will see benefits with using it two (2) days per week.
Even though I absolutely love this product and have nothing bad to say about it, I am trying to shift to only clean skincare products. And, fortunately, I recently identified Farmacy as a replacement for my mandelic acid (as noted above).
Peter Thomas Roth
Retinol Fusion PM
I used this product for several years and I really liked it. If you are looking for a gentle introduction to retinol this could be a good product for you as it seems to have just the right concentration of retinol. Plus, the bottle lasts a long time and covers your face very well.
As indicated, retinol is definitely not a clean skincare ingredient and I spent quite awhile on the hunt for a more natural retinoid product. There are quite a few oils, such as rose oil and ylang ylang, that will give you the same benefits of retinol without the side effects — it will just take longer to see the benefits than it will with retinol. My two retinol alternatives include the Uma oil and the Biossance retinol alternative.
Other Posts You May Find Helpful…
- Once you identify the clean and/or natural skincare products you want to use, you need to ensure you are layering them the right way to get the benefits. So, check out the post titled “Layering Your Skincare and Makeup” for guidance on how to layer your skincare products the right way!
- And, don’t forget, what you put into your body has a huge impact on how your skin looks. Take a look at this post for tips on keeping your skin hydrated!
Where to Buy Clean and/or Natural Skincare Products?
- Follain (online and physical retail locations)
- Dermstore (online)
- Ivy Wild (online and retail store in Washington D.C.)
- Birchbox (online)
- Sephora (online and physical retail locations)