All the natural beauty (natch beaut?) products that I use regularly.

I’ve been in the process of converting my beauty products to the natural side for the past couple of years. Some things have been so easy they seem silly (like washing my face with raw honey — more on that later), while other things are a lot more trial and error (the natural mascara struggle is real). But the quest is for a good reason.

The more I learned about how many chemicals are allowed in beauty products in the United States, the more outraged I was. The European Union has banned over 1,400 chemicals from beauty and personal care products deeming them unsafe, while the U.S. has only legally banned 30. That fact alone is scary, but more so when you realize that these chemicals are hormone disruptors and carcinogens.

When I refer to natural beauty, I’m looking for products that don’t contain things like parabens, artificial fragrances or colors, or synthetic chemicals. Ideally these products contain 95% or more organic, sustainable, and vegan (i.e. not tested on animals) ingredients. Basically, the fewer ingredients, the better. And if I recognize all of them, even better.

The Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Skin Deep Cosmetics Database is a great resource to look up your current faves or items you’re contemplating buying and see how they rate in regard to your personal health and safety. Another excellent resource for learning about potentially dangerous chemicals to avoid is Beautycounter’s Never List.

If you’re new to natural beauty products, I know this can be a lot, but don’t let it overwhelm you. This is all good info to be aware of so you can spend your money wisely in the future. My advice is to start slowly with the products that stay on your skin for the longest (like face and body oils and moisturizers), then continue to transition your products over time so you’re not spending a ton of money or time all at once.

The below list is the stuff I use on a regular basis that I like and trust — it’s by no means an exhaustive list. But if you’d like to see more of this sort of thing, I’m all about doing a deep dive into specific types of products, just let me know!

Face Care

S.W. Basics Cleanser
I use as a light cleanser and spot treatment for blemishes.

S.W. Basics Makeup Remover
Such a great eye makeup remover. Can double as a face moisturizer in a pinch.

S.W. Basics Tea Tree Roll-on
A naturally antibacterial spot treatment. I’m clearly a fan of this brand! Check out their website for more.

Rose Water Spray
I use this as a toner and a little pick-me-up.

Squalane Oil
I’ve been using this as a daily moisturizer — in the morning and at night. It’s affordable and I like the way it absorbs into my skin faster than other face oils. I’ve noticed a more even skin tone since using it as well.

Chia Seed Oil
Another face oil. I haven’t used it since I started using Squalane, but might start alternating.

Weleda Skin Food
Good as a heavy-duty hand and body moisturizer and around the eyes for an ultra-moisturizing, almost luminous glow.

Raw Honey
Antibacterial and a gentle exfoliant — it makes a great face mask and/or cleanser. I buy mine from Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s.

Suvana Beauty Organic Paw Paw
Preferred chapped lip prevention.

Babo Botanicals chapstick
Lip SPF that works. I like the pale, slightly zinc-like tint it has.

Makeup

Beautycounter Dew Skin Moisturizing Coverage
Like a BB cream or tinted moisturizer with SPF 20. Perfect for everyday.

Au Naturale Vegan Organic Cream Concealer
I use under my eyes and on red spots.

RMS Beauty “Un” Cover-Up
I have a little one of these in my handbag. It’s very similar to Au Naturale in coverage and color.

Tarte Blush
For a rosy pink color.

W3ll People Bronzer
This is currently getting me through East Coast winter.

RMS Beauty Volumizing Mascara
One of the best natural mascaras I’ve tried (which is a big find!).

RMS Beauty Living Luminizer
Enhances your natural glow or creates it if you need it.

French Girl Organics Lip Tints
I have three different colors. They’re like a chapstick/lipstick hybrid but bring a pretty, natural-looking color.

jane iredale Just Kissed Lip and Cheek Stain
The color goes on sheer but adjusts to your natural pH, which makes it look different on everyone. The more you layer it on, the darker it gets.

Deodorant

Crystal Deodorant
Sounds weird and new age-y, but is actually just a salt crystal (not like the crystals in the above photos!), which neutralizes your natural body odor. You still sweat, but it doesn’t smell.

Schmidt’s Deodorant Stick, Cedarwood + Juniper
I little bit more of an antiperspirant as far as natural deodorants go. I love the cedarwood scent.

Body Moisturizer + Soap

Spectrum Almond Oil
I put on oil right after I turn off the water in the shower when my skin is still wet. I let it soak in a little bit and put on loose clothing or a robe for about 10-15 minutes while it settles into the skin. I have really sensitive, itchy skin when I use regular body moisturizers — using a skin oil has been the only thing that works for me.

Dr. Bronner’s Pure Liquid Castile Soap
Classic hippie soap. I love the tingly peppermint scent.

Do you have any natural beauty favorites? I’d love to hear about your go-tos!