What we put on our bodies is just as important as what we put in our bodies. So just like we invest in our health with high quality whole foods, we should make a similar commitment when purchasing facial care cleaners, toners and moisturizers. How? Check out these basic facial regimen steps (and recommendations!) that can yield real results.
Cleanse
Remove dirt, impurities and makeup without stripping away natural oils and moisture with plant oils such as jojoba and sweet almond oil. Dr. Haushka’s Cleansing Milk is one of my picks. Along with jojoba and sweet almond oil, it has bentonite clay, which soothes, and anthyllis extract, which helps tone and balance. Susan Wattik, our Associate Global Whole Body Coordinator, also puts this product on her “must have” list since it’s also great for removing makeup. Tip: Most of the Dr. Haushka line of products meets our Premium Body Care™, opens in a new tab our highest standards in sourcing, environmental impact, results and safety.
Exfoliate
Exfoliating helps stimulate new skin cell growth. Choose products with gentle exfoliants and enzymes for mild sloughing. Look for organic sea kelp, jojoba beads, papaya and pineapple enzymes to help unclog pores and remove dead skin cells.
One of our favorites is Acure Brightening Facial Scrub. Organic sea kelp gently exfoliates while French green clay and organic lemon peel remove impurities from pores.
Tone
Facial toners restore hydration and pH balance after cleansing and can be a pick-me-up throughout the day. Susan loves anything with rose. “Its aromatic, soothing, refreshing and nourishing. I use it daily and have it on my desk for a quick refresh. It has a tremendous positive effect on stressful days.”
Nourish & Moisturize
Our favorite moisturizers use natural emollients to nourish the skin with essential fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants. Looking for a superfood for your skin? Argan oil delivers vitamin E and essential fatty acids to visibly restore texture, elasticity and tone. Often referred to as “liquid gold,” we hear that it works well on hair too. (Look for Acure Argan Oil. It’s 100% organic, lightweight and easily absorbed.) Other moisturizing powerhouses include jojoba oil and shea butter.
Eye Care
Don’t just grab any eye cream with a pretty label. High quality ingredients can reduce the appearance of wrinkle depth. MyChelle Fabulous Eye Cream nourishes the delicate eye area with edelweiss plant stem cells. Hyaluronic acid holds in moisture to help minimize the appearance of fine lines.
Multitaskers
Check out 3-in-1 Clean Towelettes by Alba Botanica. It’s a makeup remover + cleanser + toner. Pineapple enzymes give a deep-pore cleanse while aloe and awapuhi tone – all in one wipe! Also consider a combination product that nourishes, moisturizes and protects. Look for fruit stem cells, antioxidant complexes and aloe vera. How about some SPF? Andalou Naturals All in One Beauty Balm works well with or without any makeup.
Trying a new regime or new products? Remember patience. Your skin needs time to adjust to new nourishment. It takes 50-75 days for new skin cells to form, surface and slough off. Most important, don’t rely on topical products alone. Prioritize hydration, stress reduction, and nutrition (think plant-based foods, antioxidants and good fats) to reap all the benefits of quality skin care.
What’s on your list of favorite facial care secrets?
