1. Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Antioxidant Face Oil
I stand with any Drunk Elephant product, but the company’s holy grail is unquestionably the Virgin Marula Antioxidant Face Oil. Simply, three pure drops of this bad boy will instantly nourish and rejuvenate your skin, leaving it deeply moisturized. Who would pass up the perfect glow? Fitting for every skin type, this product is excellent for dryness (vital for us UMainer’s), anti-aging, and evening skin tones. I discovered this vegan and cruelty-free product in the dead of winter of last year, and it truly saved my face from cracking. I lather it on twice a day and haven’t looked back since. Also, did I mention that it is a women-owned company!?
2. Aztec Secret – Indian Healing Clay
Over 17,500 ratings on Amazon and for the price of $9.99?! There was no hesitation in the air when adding it to my cart. For years I’ve sought after the right facial product that would for once and all treat my acne. I have tried countless medications, facials, topicals, and even holistic options yet nothing ever seemed to work, but then I met Aztec Secret. I swear by the product, it has reduced the number of breakouts immensely. I mix one tablespoon of the powder with apple cider vinegar, brush it on my face and wait 20 minutes (10 minutes if skin is super sensitive) before washing it off. However, do not be alarmed by the redness of your skin when washed off (make sure to use warm water), it is entirely normal. Give it a whirl!
3. Vital Proteins – Collagen Peptides
I’ve got bad news and good news, ladies. The bad news – did you know the collagen production starts to decline at age 25? Collagen is our favorite protein that is in charge of ameliorating the health of our skin, reducing dryness and wrinkles, alleviating joint pain, and averting bone loss (all super important). The good news is that Collagen Peptides are a daily supplement that can easily offset the collagen downturn. The powder is super versatile and can be used in hot or cold beverages, baked goods, and smoothies. After a few months of consistently using Vital Proteins, I’ve seen much improvement in the thickness of my nails and hair.
4. Native Deodorant
Is deodorant even classified as a beauty product? Asking for a friend. No, but really. I have been longing to find a suitable deodorant that meets all of my unrealistic criteria and desires. One that is vegan, gluten-free, aluminum-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, cruelty-free, and actually works. I mean is that too much to ask for in a natural deodorant? Then I stumbled across Native Deodorant. A few months ago, I went to Target, solely for paper towels, but somehow ended up in the beauty aisle (where I had no business being). As I was whiffing through soaps and shampoos (that I was completely not in need of), I took a turned in the deodorant aisle. I instantly noticed all the shelves fully plenished expect for the native deodorant section, where there were only two remaining. Simultaneously, I was alarmed at the price ($11.97) yet immensely intrigued and stricken with curiosity. I threw it in the cart and haven’t looked back since. No matter if I run, sweat, or even sit in a sauna, I do not smell. This Native Deodorant is golden AND healthy.
5. Murad Time Release Acne Cleaners
The title says it all itself! If you’re in search of an anti-aging, gentle acne cleanser, free of sulfates, phthalates, and parabens, this product is for you. I have tried the highest-end brands of cleansers to help simmer my acne breakouts, but never fallen in love with anything, until I was introduced to Murad (thanks Tara)! Just a little dab on my Clarisonic cleanser and in a few days, I started to notice a difference.