When I originally sat down to write about using oil on your face, I was writing it as an Instagram caption. Well, it was getting to be a pretty long caption, so I decided to write a dedicated blog post instead! I’ve been super passionate about skincare for years now. I love sharing what I learn along the way, so let’s talk oil!
Read moreTop 5 Ingredients to Avoid in Your Every Day Products
When it comes to reading the ingredient labels of our every day products, it’s important to know which ingredients to avoid. So many of our personal care products contain harmful ingredients that are known carcinogens, hormone disruptors, neurotoxins, etc. This is because the cosmetic industry is not strictly regulated by the FDA.
Read moreMy Current Beauty Routine
Let’s chat skincare & makeup!
So excited to be sharing my current beauty routine with you babes! I shared a complete tutorial over on my Insta stories @pinebarrenliving and saved it to my highlights as well! You will find all products linked below. If you are interested in any of the YL products, send me a dm or email and I’d love to chat about getting them into your hands! xoxo <3
AM SKINCARE
INDIE LEE BRIGHTENING CLEANSER
I started using this cleanser a few weeks ago and instantly fell in love. I LOVE the scent; it’s very refreshing especially for morning. It’s super gentle and doesn’t really foam which I like. I would say I have noticed a difference in the overall glow of my skin with this cleanser compared to the one I was using previously. I typically apply one pump to my dry skin and then rinse with warm water.
ONE LOVE ORGANICS SKIN DEW COCONUT WATER CREAM
This face cream is perfect for spring and summer. It’s lightweight, wears well under makeup, and keeps my skin soft and hydrated. I used it all summer last year and I’m excited to bring it back into my routine this year!
EVERY DAY MAKEUP
LAWLESS WOKE UP LIKE THIS FOUNDATION
Between my blog and my Instagram, I have raved about this foundation for a while now! It’s made with clean ingredients but it’s such a great quality, super luxe liquid foundation that you would never even know! You can read my previous review on it here. My light shade is Kalahari and my medium shade is Mojave.
LAWLESS CLASSIC TRANSLUCENT SETTING POWDER
Pairing the above foundation with this setting powder is the dream team. This setting powder keeps your foundation in place all day long. I love the matte finish but definitely want to try the bronzing finish for summer!
SAVVY MINERALS BRONZER
Savvy Minerals by Young Living has been totally worth the try! The bronzer I shared in my tutorial on Instagram today is in the shade Crowned All Over which is the lighter of the two shades they make. I don’t notice a ton of shimmer with it which is nice. If you want an all over glow, use a big fluffy brush. If you want a more defined contour, use a contouring brush. Because it’s a loose powder you might have to put on a couple layers to get your desired amount of color.
SAVVY MINERALS BLUSH
The Savvy Minerals blush in the shade I Do Believe You’re Blushin’ has become my go to. It’s not too pink or too warm. It has a little shimmer to it and is buildable!
SAVVY MINERALS HIGHLIGHT
I use the veil powder in the shade Diamond Dust as my highlight. It comes in a bigger container than the blush and bronzer so it will last forever (literally). It gives such a pretty highlight that is still subtle.
ANASTASIA BROW DEFINER
This is my ride or die brow pencil. I love that the tip is angled because it makes it easier to go with the shape of your brow. I use the shade medium brown.
URBAN DECAY PERVERSION MASCARA
Another ride or die, this mascara has been a favorite of mine for years. It lengthens and adds volume without getting clumpy. Definitely my favorite! I also love the urban decay primer but currently can’t find mine!
YOUNG LIVING LAVENDER LIP BALM
This lip balm is amazing. it’s only $4 and keeps your lips smooth and hydrated. I keep one everywhere and apply throughout the day.
URBAN DECAY NAKED2 BASICS EYE PALETTE
This palette is my go to when I need to do a full eye look. I love that the colors are all matte and cool toned. I’ve probably gone through 4 of these palettes over the years! Always a repurchase.
PM SKINCARE
YOUNG LIVING MIRAH LUMINOUS CLEANSING OIL
If you’ve been following for a while, you know I love a good cleansing oil. There are so many benefits to using oil on your skin, which I will share about more in depth in another blog post. I decided to give the YL cleansing oil a try and I was not disappointed! It removes all of my makeup, even mascara. It leaves my skin feeling super soft and nourished. I highly recommend this one!! I apply it dry and wipe off with a warm washcloth.
INDIE LEE BRIGHTENING CLEANSER
If I feel like my skin needs a little extra love in the evening, I will follow up with this brightening cleanser, but more times than not I just use a cleansing oil.
INDIE LEE SQUALANE FACIAL OIL
Again, oils can do amazing things for your skin as long as you are using the correct oil for your skin type. For reference, my skin is pretty normal, sometimes dry in the winter and I get occasional breakouts that are hormone related (but this is rare). The squalane facial oil by Indie Lee is one that I have repurchased a few times. It’s lightweight, absorbs quick, and a little bit goes a long way. Most importantly, it’s non comedogenic meaning it will not clog your pores. It is great for all skin types because of it’s anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties.
YOUNG LIVING SANDALWOOD MOISTURE CREAM
With the weather getting warmer, I find myself reaching for this cream less and less. It’s super thick and a little bit goes a long way. If you have dry skin, you will 100% fall in love with this cream. It’s very hydrating and really locks in moisture. I think it will be my go to for winter, and whenever my skin needs a little extra TLC during the warmer months. The scent is amazing and I love that the ingredients are clean!
YOUNG LIVING LAVENDER LIP BALM
Again, I apply my lavender lip balm every night and love it even more than the Laneige lip sleeping mask.
YOUNG LIVING ROSE OINTMENT
The YL rose ointment is one of my favorite products they make. I use it nightly on my hands. It keeps them soft and smooth and I love that it nourishes my cuticles so well. The consistency is a bit hard, but once you warm it up in your hands it absorbs so nice!
As always, thank you so much for reading!
If you are interested in any of the Young Living products and not yet a member, please reach out to me and I can help you get started! email: megan@pinebarrenbeauty.com / insta: @pinebarrenliving
xoxo
The Best Resources for Switching to Non Toxic Products
My Favorite Resources for Switching to Non Toxic Products
Hi ladies! Today I’m sharing my favorite resources to use when evaluating the ingredients in my current products and finding non toxic alternatives. It’s been almost a year since I shared this blog post about my initial thoughts on switching to safer beauty products.
Since then, I have successfully replaced the majority of my beauty products with non toxic options that work just as good, if not better than the products I was previously using. I have also switched over the cleaning products in our home to plant based, non toxic options and couldn’t be happier with the results!
If you are just starting your journey to natural living, it can be super intimidating. Considering the FDA only bans 11 ingredients from being used in cosmetic products (where as Europe bans 1,300+), it is up to us to do our own research and determine what ingredients are and are not safe. So, where do you start researching? Here’s a list of some great resources that I’ve found to be super helpful when ditching & switching from toxic to non toxic!
THINK DIRTY APP
You’ve probably heard of this one, but the Think Dirty App is a great way to find out what's in your current products and if those ingredients are harmful or not. The app rates products on a scale of 0-10, 0 being not toxic at all and 10 being very toxic. You can scan the barcode on your products or type in their names, and can then read further about each ingredient. If some of your current products are super harmful, the app does provide options that are clean which is nice!
EWG.ORG
The Environmental Working Group has an app called Healthy Living powered by Skin Deep and Food Scores. They also have a website. The concept with the app is similar to Think Dirty, where you can scan or search your products, see their rating, read about the ingredients, and find safer alternatives. I like EWG a little better than Think Dirty because it also includes info on food! Their website also has TONS of articles and guides to help you make informed decisions!
FOLLAIN.COM
Follain is a website as well as brick & mortar store where you can shop for clean beauty products. Every brand they sell has to go through their approval process. They also have a list of restricted ingredients which is nice. You can read about their standards here. They are a great resource because you are able to shop confidently, knowing that you can trust they are selling brands who use clean ingredients in all of their products. They take the guess work out for you just in case you don’t feel like doing the research on your own!
THE DETOX MARKET
The Detox Market is another online & brick and mortar store where you can shop for clean beauty products. They partner with brands who fit their standards and pass their approval process. They also have a list of restricted ingredients. Again, they take the guess work out and you know you can trust them! Read more about TDM here.
ABOUT PAGES & BLOGS
As you come across brands you may want to try, make sure you read the about pages on their websites. After reading the about pages, you will have a pretty good sense of the brand and if you can trust that their products are what they claim to be. You will also be able to compare brands once you read a handful of about pages. Some may impress you more than others and some might be super basic, making you question their reliability. For example, I came across the brand Lawless on Instagram. When I read their about page, I was sold. I knew I could trust that their products are super luxe but also clean!
Another great resource to utilize when looking at a brand's website is their blog. I love the One Love Organic's blog because I found SO much useful information in their posts as I was doing my research. Another great blog is the one by Primally Pure. If a brand's site has a blog, read it!
A few bloggers I follow are really into clean beauty which is AMAZING. It’s so hard to find genuine reviews of clean products from bloggers. I feel like most bloggers aren’t aware of what’s in their products, and if they are they just don’t care enough to make a change. Here are two bloggers who do a great job with clean beauty reviews: Jess Ann Kirby and Jenna from Visions of Vouge.
One thing I have learned is that slow and steady wins the race. As you run out of current products, replace them with cleaner options. You DON’T have to ditch & switch everything at once. That can be super expensive and end up creating more waste than not. Another thing I have learned is that as long as you are doing the best you can for you, that’s all that matters. I have not fully transitioned all of my products over yet, and that’s okay! I’ve been on this journey for a year now and it’s definitely a work in progress. But, when we know better, we can do better. It all starts with research!
As always, thanks so much for reading! Feel free to reach out with any questions you may have.
& if you’re not already, follow my new lifestyle Instagram account @pinebarrenliving <3
xoxo
Sephora Spring Bonus Event
Get ready to shop beauty!
Hey babes! Today I’m sharing my picks from the Sephora Spring Bonus Event! I’m sharing what I’m purchasing as well as products I’ve tried and loved, and other good options that are on my wish list. All of these products are made with clean ingredients, so you can trust that they are safe for your skin. I personally don’t think Sephora has the highest standards for their “clean at Sephora” badge, BUT these brands are ones that you can forsure trust 🙌🏻 The sale runs now through May 6, so don’t miss out!
Rouge: 20% off with code HEYROUGE
VIB: 15% off with code HEYVIB
Insider: 10% off with code HEYINSIDER
As always, thanks for stopping by!
xoxo
The Secret to Long, Healthy Hair
If there’s been one question that I get pretty often, it’s how do I keep my hair long and healthy? First things first, I have always had long hair. I did give it a healthy cut it a couple years ago and it hasn’t been as long since, but we are making progress. My one major tip for having long AND healthy hair is less is more.
LESS IS MORE: HEAT
I typically let my hair air dry and I am lucky that it looks decent when doing so. I will only blow dry it if I am short on time and need it to be done for wherever I am going. I also try to only curl my hair on days when I am taking blog photos or when I am going out. Second and third day hair sometimes needs to be touched up, but I try to let it go as much as possible. I also keep my curling iron on a low heat setting. The only reason you should use high heat Is if you have thick, coarse, ethnic hair, as per advice of my hair stylist. Another must when it comes to using heat on your hair is being sure to use a heat protectant, I love this one!
LESS IS MORE: PRODUCT
When it comes to product, I try to use as little as possible. Keep in mind, everyone has different hair types, and what works for me might not work for you. BUT, when I was using hair spray and texture spray every day, then brushing it out, recurling, and spraying again, I felt like it was drying my hair out and causing damage to the ends. Now, I only use hair spray for blog photo days or when I’m going out (this one is my fave). I rarely use texture spray, especially ones that have the word “dry” in them. I do love dry shampoo (this one is my current go to) but I try to use it sparingly. This has totally been trial and error because I used to be a hair product junkie, but I have found that using less product works best for me!
LESS IS MORE: BLEACH
If you’ve been following for a while, I’m sure you remember when my hair was balayaged. No matter how hard your stylist tries maintain the integrity of your hair, I personally feel like bleach eventually takes its toll on your hair, especially the ends. This is why I decided to go back dark. I feel like my hair looks and feels so much healthier, not to mention I feel like my old self again. When I get bored, I get it glazed, typically a few shades darker than my natural, and over time it fades, then I get it glazed again. I’m sure i’ll be tempted to do balayage again at some point, and it will be a hard choice to make, but i’d rather have dark, healthy hair, than blonde, compromised hair.
VITAMINS
Another reason why I feel like my hair is so long and healthy is because I take the Olly Beauty vitamins. When I decided to go back dark, I also started taking these vitamins, in hopes that my hair would grow quicker and be strong again. Even my stylist noticed my growth and we came to the conclusion that the vitamins played a big part in it!
SALON QUALITY SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER
Last, I believe in using a salon quality shampoo and conditioner. My favorites are the Living Proof Perfect Hair Day, and the Living Proof Full. I am currently using the full shampoo and phd conditioner. The full shampoo is great because I feel like it’s the best at removing product build up (hair spray, dry shampoo, pollution, etc). The phd conditioner is my ultimate favorite because it leaves my hair feeling so silky and smooth! Investing in salon quality products might be the change you need! The drug store brand products don’t always contain the best ingredients and can sometimes be the reason for damage.
I hope you found this post helpful! If you have long, healthy hair, leave your tips in the comments as I would love to hear them!
xoxo
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Beauty Products I'm Trying This Winter
Even though we are half way through January, I wanted to share the beauty products I am trying this winter! Over the past two months, I’ve added some really great products and tools to my beauty collection. From skincare & makeup to hair care and hair tools, keep reading to see which products I’ve been loving lately!
*If you’re interested in my full winter skincare routine, click here!
SKINCARE
FARMACY GREEN CLEAN MAKEUP REMOVING CLEANSING BALM
When it comes to removing makeup, I always want to be sure I get every last bit off my face before bed time. When I ran out of my one love organics vitamin b cleansing oil (which I 100% recommend), I wanted to try the farmacy green clean because it has rave reviews and I’ve never used a cleansing balm before. Well, it did not disappoint. I’ve been using the green clean for almost two months now and I love everything about it. From the clean ingredients, to the fresh scent & minty color, to the fact that it melts the makeup off your face, it’s definitely a five star cleansing balm that I will be repurchasing!
SUNDAY RILEY CEO RAPID FLASH BRIGHTENING SERUM
It’s been about a two months since I’ve consistently used a vitamin c serum because the one I was using ran out and I never replaced it. Sunday Riley has always been a brand I’ve wanted to try, but never really felt like splurging on. For Christmas, their brightening serum was on my list and I ended up getting it. Since I’ve only been using it for about three weeks, my first impression is that it is worth the money. I did not break out from it which is usually what I’m most nervous about when it comes to trying new products and brands. It smells great and absorbs quickly. I use one pump at night and when I wake up my skin definitely looks bright and glowy compared to what it’s been looking like over the past few weeks. Fingers crossed this brightening serum will keep up the work and not plateau before I finish the bottle.
SUMMER FRIDAYS JET LAG MASK
I feel like Summer Fridays is trending right now, and for good reason. Not only is their packaging chic and branding on point, but their products are also vegan, paraben free, sulfate free, synthetic fragrance free, cruelty free, contain no phthalates, surfactants, petrolatums, BHT, BHA, or silicones, and are made in the US! Their jet lag mask is made for hydration. I’ve been using it at least three times a week at night for almost two months now. Rather than applying a thick layer and taking it off before bed, I apply a thin layer and leave it on as an overnight mask. My skin looks glowy and fresh in the morning, and also feels super hydrated. Next on my list is their overtime mask which is made for exfoliating. They are most likely the perfect pair when it comes to masks, so I am excited to put my theory to the test!
FRESH LOTUS YOUTH PRESERVE DREAM NIGHT CREAM
Fresh just sent me their newest face cream to try! The lotus dream night cream is their first ever face cream formulated specifically for night time. It is designed to detoxify your skin and minimize signs of aging while you sleep. I’ve been using it for about two weeks and love how light weight it is. It smells great and I’ve been breakout free so it definitely agrees with my skin. I wake up in the morning and my skin looks fresh and renewed!
LANEIGE LIP SLEEPING MASK
Everyone has been talking about this lip mask, so of course I had to see what it was all about. As soon as the weather changed and it was consistently cold, my lips got SO dry. Luckily, this mask works like everyone says it does and it transformed my lips. I use it every night and my lips are the softest they have ever been! You also get SO much product so don't let the price turn you away. Not only does it work like magic, it will last you for so long. I’ve been using it for two months and haven't even made a dent in it yet!
MAKEUP
HOURGLASS AMBIENT LIGHTING EDIT VOLUME 4
Almost thought this was sold out, but I found it in stock here!! // Hourglass has been a forever favorite brand of mine. I’ve been trying to switch to cleaner beauty products, but this is one brand I haven’t been able to give up yet. I absolutely love their palettes because they make getting ready (and traveling) super easy. I love having all of my powders in one place. One thing I’ve noticed over the years about Hourglass specifically is that their powders blend well and give such a natural glow as opposed to a bronzer that’s too orange or a highlighter that’s too glittery. These powders are subtle yet make a statement which is why I keep coming back to them! They also wear well throughout the day and last forever!
LAWLESS SEAL THE DEAL LOOSE SETTING POWDER
I started using the Lawless woke up like this flawless foundation this past summer. It is a clean foundation with a luxurious feel. It lasts ALL day and goes on super smooth. So… when Lawless came out with a setting powder I knew I had to try it. They truly are the perfect pair! It’s always nice when a brand offers a foundation and setting powder that were made for each other because it provides an easy, fool-proof application. This is a combination I will be coming back to for years since it’s clean and it works!
HAIR CARE
IGK JET LAG INVISIBLE DRY SHAMPOO
When it comes to hair products, I usually stick to what I know works best for me. When I was browsing in Sephora and came across the IGK aisle, I was intrigued. They make three different dry shampoos and I decided to get their jet lag version which is the least cleansing of the three. I went with this one because I wash my hair every 2-3 days and don’t typically have a lot of build up. So far, I’ve been liking it. The scent is great and it truly is invisible on my dark hair. It is also buildable so I start with a little bit and add as needed. The only thing that I’m not a huge fan of is that I can feel it in my hair; however, it’s not a deal breaker since I have been liking the results!
SCRUNCHIES
I finally jumped back on the scrunchy bandwagon. When they started to come back in style I was like really?? BUT, the more I’ve been seeing them, the more I’ve been wanting to get some, especially because they make cute ones now. So far, I’ve only picked up one white one from Lululemon. It was at the counter when I was checking out, so I figured i’d give it a try. I really want to get the silk ones by Slip because the benefits for your hair are amazing (less breakage, reduced frizz, etc). I’d love to hear your thoughts on the scrunchy trend!!
L’ANGE BLOW DRYER
I don’t know about you, but I feel like i’m constantly seeing ads on my social media accounts for L’ange. This blow dryer was a Christmas gift this year because I needed one so badly. I’m pleased to say I have been loving it! The blush and rose gold color combo is right up my alley. Besides the fact that it’s beautiful, it’s also smaller than I expected and super light weight. I don’t blow dry my hair often, but I’ve used it a handful of times over the past couple weeks and it’s been great! Now I have my eye on their curling wand! <3
That’s all for today! Are there any products you have tried this winter and loved? Leave a comment to let me know!!
xoxo
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Winter Skincare Routine
Hi babes!! I’m so excited to share my winter skincare routine today! If you’re a long time reader, you know that beauty posts are my favorite to write! If you’re new here, welcome! I’m so glad you stopped by! As you read through, please keep in mind that even though these products work great for my skin, they might not work for yours. Everyone’s skin is different! For reference, I (fortunately) have very normal skin with occasional breakouts. Let’s jump in!
MORNING ROUTINE
CLEANSER: FRESH SOY FACE CLEANSER
The Fresh Soy Face Cleanser has been my go to for years. It’s super gentle, doesn’t foam, and leaves my skin feeling clean and soft! I can’t recommend this product enough!
MOISTURIZER: FRESH LOTUS YOUTH PRESERVE FACE CREAM
I’ve been switching back and forth between the Fresh Lotus face cream and the Fresh Rose face cream. Both are light weight and absorb nicely into the skin. The lotus face cream is a great basic face cream that would be good for all skin types. The rose face cream is great for hydration; if you skin is feeling extra dry, I would try it out! They are both perfect for under makeup which is why I love using them in the morning!
NIGHT TIME ROUTINE
REMOVE MAKEUP / PRECLEANSE: FARMACY GREEN CLEAN
I had been dying to try the Farmacy Green Clean, so when Sephora had their VIB sale, I ordered it right away. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed!! The scent is so fresh and it literally melts away your makeup so easily! It’s also a plus that it has clean ingredients 🙌🏻 I will definitely repurchase this!
CLEANSER: FRESH SOY FACE CLEANSER
Again, faveee cleanser ever! Five stars all around!
TREATMENT: FRESH BLACK TEA KOMBUCHA FACIAL TREATMENT ESSENCE
When Fresh sent me their kombucha treatment I was beyond excited. Kombucha is trending in the world of wellness and the fact that you can incorporate it into your skincare routine is super cool. I’ve been using this for MONTHS and it truly has made such a difference in my skin! It definitely helps with tone and firmness, as well as overall glow. You can read about all of the benefits here. I suggest getting the large bottle because a little bit goes a long way - I haven't even made a dent in my bottle yet!!
SERUM: SUNDAY RILEY CEO RAPID FLASH BRIGHTENING SERUM
If you’ve been a long time follower, you will know that a vitamin C serum is a must in my book! Every time I run out of whatever I’m currently using, I purchase a new brand because I truly want to find the best one on the market. I also feel like vitamin C serums can plateau after a while so switching it up every once in a while isn’t a bad thing.
So, I had previously been using One Love Organics Vitamin C serum and it was amazing - I highly recommend it if you’re conscious of ingredients (full review here). When I ran out, I picked up this one by Sunday Riley. Sunday Riley is a brand that everyone raves about, so I figured I would give it a try. I got it right around Christmas time and my first impression is that it is more than worth the money (it is on the expensive side). I use one pump every night and can see an immediate difference! I also wake up every morning with glowing skin! We’ll just have to see how it lasts long term!
MOISTURIZER: FRESH LOTUS YOUTH PRESERVE DREAM NIGHT CREAM
The Lotus Dream Night Cream is one of Fresh’s newest products, and their first ever face cream specifically formulated for night time! I am so fortunate to be on their PR list because they truly have been a forever favorite skin care brand of mine! I’ve been using this night cream for a couple weeks now and am certainly impressed. It’s soft, lightweight, absorbs nicely and keeps my skin feeling hydrated. Again, we will see how it lasts long term, but I have high hopes for it based on my first impression!
EXFOLIATOR: GLO SKIN BEAUTY DAILY POLISHING CLEANSER
This exfoliating cleanser by Glo Skin Beauty is amazing! I’ve been using it since summer time and it’s great for helping to clear up breakouts. If I have a break out, I use it every night until it’s cleared up. If my skin is normal, I use it about once or twice per week to sloth off dead skin cells. What I like most is that it’s a powder. You only need a little bit in your hands, then mix it with water and rub in circles on your skin. It works like a charm!
MASK: SUMMER FRIDAYS JET LAG MASQUE
Summer Fridays is everywhere right now. Everyone is talking about it and I see it on social media nonstop. Naturally, I had to try their Jet Lag masque. I love a good, hydrating mask, and this one did not disappoint! You can lather it on and rinse after 10-15 minutes for immediately supple skin, or you can apply a thin layer overnight and wake up with a hydrated glow. I prefer to leave it on overnight, and I use it 2-3 times a week. You can also apply a thin layer in the morning after cleansing and wear it as a makeup base! It’s definitely a mask that I will repurchase!
MASK: LANEIGE LIP SLEEPING MASK
Long story short, this lip sleeping mask works wonders!!! This is another product that I’ve seen so many people raving about, and rightfully so. I have not had dry or chapped lips yet this winter! I put this on every night and it truly works. I don’t even need chapstick or lip balm during the day because of this product. I will never turn back! It’s definitely one of my favorites out of this entire routine. Also, a little bit goes a long way. I’ve been using it for about a month and feel like it’s still completely full! #worthit
That’s all for today friends! I would love to hear what products you’re loving this winter! Leave a comment with any recommendations!
xoxo
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The Natural Deodorant I've Been Loving
Thank you, Kopari, for sponsoring today’s post. As always, all thoughts & opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands who support Pine Barren Beauty! xoxo
As you may or may not know, I’ve been working towards switching my beauty products to cleaner, non toxic options, deodorant included. Throughout the process of ditching and switching, I’ve found a few clean beauty brands I have grown to love. Kopari is one of those brands! They have an entire line of natural beauty products that are coconut oil based and actually work. Some of my long time favorites are the coconut body milk (smells so yummy), the coconut lip glossy (super hydrating), and the coconut cleansing oil (takes off all my makeup)! When they came out with an aluminum free deodorant, it was immediately on my list of products to try, especially since it has over 1,000 five star reviews!
Needless to say, I was thrilled when Kopari reached out to work together on their #TheTruthStinks campaign. They are truly making a difference by bringing awareness to the fact that your deodorant does not have to contain harmful ingredients like aluminum and other chemicals to actually work (just check out this video to see why). The key ingredients in the Kopari coconut deodorant are:
*coconut oil: antimicrobial and antibacterial, also hydrates and is great for sensitive skin
*100% plant based active: natural and nontoxic active that wards off bacteria and aids in odor protection
*sage oil: aids in sweat and odor reduction
*coconut water: hydrates & contains electrolytes, vitamins, minerals and amino acids
After testing their deodorant for the past few weeks, it is by far the best clean deodorant I have tried yet! A little bit goes a long way; you only need a couple swipes and you’re good to go. It goes on SO smooth and does not feel sticky or wet. It wears well ALL day and keeps you smelling fresh, even at the gym! I also sweat minimally with this one which is major. There’s just something about the formula that makes it feel like such a luxe product, without the high end price tag.
So what are you waiting for?! Ditch the current deodorant you’re using that probably contains a bunch of toxic ingredients and switch to this all natural one by Kopari! You can use my code PineBarren25 for 25% off your first coconut deo purchase or coconut deo subscription! The subscription is perfect because it guarantees you’ll never run out & you get it at a discounted rate! Kopari is also donating $1 for every coconut deodorant sold during the month of October to the F Cancer Organization; talk about a good product and a good cause 🙌🏻
As always, thank you so much for reading!
xoxo
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Current Skin Care Products I'm Loving
Happy Friday babes! I can’t believe we are just one week away from wedding day! It’s seriously such a surreal feeling! All the planning and preparation is finally coming together and I can’t wait to see how everything turns out!
If you’ve been following for a while, you know skincare is number one in my book. Over the summer, I made it a goal to start incorporating more nontoxic beauty products into my routine. My long term goal is to only be using nontoxic beauty products; however, i’m finding it to be really hard to make the commitment when there are some brands that I’ve been using for years that I just love, like Fresh. While I’ve successfully found a handful of organic, farm-to-face skincare brands that give amazing results, there are other brands I can’t let go of just yet.
Today I’m sharing a combination of products that has worked wonders on my skin over the last couple months. Keep in mind that just because something works well for me, doesn’t mean it will work the same for you. We all have different skin, so I always encourage you guys to try a variety of products and even switch things out one at a time so you can create the perfect routine for you! For reference, my skin is pretty normal. I used to have occasional breakouts but knock on wood, I haven’t experienced any lately. My skin rarely gets oily; if anything it can be on the drier side during the colder months. But let’s get to it! These are the products that currently make up my night time skincare routine!
One Love Organics Vitamin B Cleansing Oil
I love a good cleansing oil and this one is by far the best I’ve used to date! It’s super smooth, smells great, and removes all of my makeup! It leaves my skin feeling clean and nourished. I apply it dry and use a warm wash cloth to take it off. Since getting my lash extensions, I’m super careful around my eyes because you’re technically not supposed to use oil based products with lash extensions, but I could never give this up! If I have eye makeup on that I need to remove, I use this eye makeup remover by Dermalogica because it’s water based/oil free.
Fresh Black Tea Kombucha Facial Treatment Essence
When Fresh sent me this treatment to try, I fell in love after just a few uses! I apply this at night, after my skin is cleansed and dry, but you can also use it as part of your morning routine. Keep in mind, a little bit goes a long way; a couple drops covers my entire face & neck. Out of the eight proven benefits, I would say immediately refined skin texture and immediately improved luminosity are the two major benefits I’ve seen so far. After using it for the past four weeks or so, my skin looks more nourished overall!
One Love Organics Vitamin C Facial Serum
An effective vitamin c serum is a must have skincare product in my book. I’ve tried a handful, and this one by One Love Organics is my favorite yet! The consistency is a bit more oily than other similar serums, so I prefer to use this at night as opposed to morning. I use one full pump for my whole face. I’ve been using it since May and it has kept my skin glowy and bright! One bottle has also lasted me almost five months, so it’s definitely worth the price.
Farmacy Honeymoon Glow AHA Resurfacing Serum
Farmacy is a new to me brand that is a clean, farm-to-face skincare brand. I use this serum every few nights and one pump goes a long way. Over the past few weeks, I have noticed glowy, even toned skin every morning after using it! It might feel tingly when you apply it, but that’s just the ingredients working! The AHA exfoliates dead skin cells, promotes cell renewal, targets hyperpigmentation, and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s also packed with a ton of other good for the skin ingredients. I highly recommend this serum if you’ve been looking for one that is reasonable/mid-range in price!
Fresh Black Tea Firming Overnight Mask
Mask are one of my favorite ways to give my skin a little extra love. Overnight masks are great when you want the effects to be long lasting, as opposed to immediate. This firming overnight mask has a thick consistency and feels great on the skin. I lather it on at the end of my night time skincare routine every few nights. When I wake up in the morning, my skin is hydrated and looks so fresh and healthy. I recommend purchasing the travel size before splurging on the full size. I personally like to switch up my masks and try new ones often, so the travel sizes are perfect if you like to switch yours up as well!
What skincare products have you been loving lately? Leave a comment to let me know!
& as always, thanks for reading <3
xoxo
Clean Makeup Products That Actually Work
Clean Makeup Products That Actually Work
Making the transition to clean beauty products can be intimidating. Leaving behind products you love & know isn’t the easiet, and neither is finding new products that will work with your skin and meet your expectations. It’s trial and error, but so far I have been lucky to find clean beauty products that actually work & exceed my expectations! It’s so rewarding to know that what I am putting on my skin contains safe ingredients and gives the results I want.
As far as skincare goes, I published a post last week featuring the One Love Organics skincare line. I have been using these products exclusively for the past 6-8 weeks and my skin has never looked better! You can read about all of their products here and use code PINEBARRENBEAUTY10 for 10% off your purchase!
For makeup, I have been trying cleaner options for products as I run out of them. I haven’t switched everything yet, but all of my face products, except bronzer, are now clean products! I have been loving everything I am using, especially foundation which I was super nervous about! Keep reading to see which clean beauty products I'm obsessed with & why!
lawless I woke up like this flawless finish foundation
When I saw that Lawless came out with a foundation I had to get it! I had been considering the beauty counter foundation, but also wanted something that was full coverage and I knew Lawless would deliver. I was nervous about matching my color but as long as you go with the right undertone you'll be good! They also give the MAC equivalents which is convenient if you know your MAC shade.
First, let's talk about their customer service. I placed my order on a Friday with the free standard shipping option. It shipped that day and was on my doorstep on Monday. I'm all about a company with quick & free shipping, so that definitely started us off on the right foot. Next, the packaging is super chic. The box has all the info you need about the ingredients and the bottle itself is v pretty.
Now, let's talk about the foundation itself. I am completely in love. The texture is thick and a bit tacky when applied to the skin, but it does dry nicely and using a loose setting powder on top does help. It spreads smoothly and evenly (I apply my foundation with this brush). One pump gives pretty great coverage for daily wear. If I'm wearing it for a night out/wedding/event and want the best coverage I can get, I would probably go with two pumps but apply them in layers, letting the first layer dry before applying the second.
Overall, I am super impressed with this "clean AF" foundation and will definitely be repurchasing once I run out! I just love the entire vibe and branding behind this company, and I love that I can feel confident in using their products on my skin! You can read more about Lawless and their commitment to clean beauty here!
savvy minerals by young living matte setting powder
If you've been following along for a while, you will know that I started using Young Living back in February. I had always been intrigued with the concept of essential oils and finally decided it was time to see how they could benefit me! One of the many reasons I love Young Living is because they have SO much to offer beyond oils, including a completely non toxic, mineral based makeup line. I have been adding some of their makeup products to my monthly order for the past couple months and have been LOVING it. If you're not feeling the oils at first, you can sign up with the Savvy Minerals starter kit instead of the oils starter kit! Click here to read more about signing up or feel free to send me an email or DM with any questions!
The matte setting powder is brand new to the collection. A little bit goes a long way and I love the way it works with the Lawless foundation. I feel like it takes the tackiness away from the foundation and allows for a smooth application of the rest of my face products! It doesn't crease or cause my makeup to look cakey which is always a must for me when it comes to setting powder.
savvy minerals by young living blush
I've been using the Savvy Minerals blush in the shade "I Do Believe You're Blushin" and it's been so perfect for summer. It has just enough color & shimmer to create the perfect glow. There are so many shades to choose from and next on my list is the shade "Smashing." If you use the Savvy Minerals mist on your brush before tapping it in the blush, I will deepen the pigment and give more of a dewy look. It also gives a little more control when applying the blush. I use the blush either way (with or without the mist), depending on what my mood is and what type of look I'm going for!
savvy minerals by young living highlight
The highlight I've been using by Savvy Minerals is actually their original setting powder called diamond dust. Because it's luminous, I did not prefer it as a setting powder, but as a highlight it is perfect! It's just the right amount of shimmer while also looking natural. A little bit goes a long way with this one as well!
As always, thanks for reading!
If you have any questions at all, send me an email (megan@pinebarrenbeauty.com) or a DM on insta!
xoxo
Skincare with One Love Organics
Today's post is in partnership with One Love Organics. Thank you for supporting the brands who support Pine Barren Beauty! As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own. xoxo
One love organics
Hi babes! I'm so excited to share a review on the skincare products I have been using for the past 6 weeks! If you've been following along, you know that I am trying to make the switch to safer beauty products. You can read more about why I decide to make the switch in this blog post.
When I began researching clean beauty brands, I came across One Love Organics. I loved their packaging and after reading more about the brand and their products, I knew I had to try them out! The first two products I tried were the vitamin c facial serum and vitamin c body oil. The serum became a quick favorite and it is definitely a must have product. I also fell in love with how nourishing the body oil is. These two products made me want to try the rest of line, and trust me, I was not disappointed! I've been using their line morning & night and my skin has never felt more fresh! Keep reading to see which products I'm loving, when is best to use them, and what they are good for! One Love Organics was also kind enough to give me a special discount code for you girls so keep an eye out for that at the end of this post! <3
MORNING ROUTINE
Let's start with a fun fact. For years, I'm talking throughout high school & early college, I didn't really have a morning skincare routine. My skin was healthy and my routine consisted of me waking up & putting my make up on first thing. As long as I washed my makeup off at the end of the night, I was golden. And that was totally fine because it's what worked for me at the time. Over the years my skin has changed, and so has my daily routine. I now I have a morning skincare routine that I never skip.
EASY DOES IT FOAMING CLEANSER
One of my favorite parts of my morning skincare routine is cleansing. I love the feeling of clean skin after hitting the gym in the AM. It also feels good to apply my makeup to a fresh face.
I'm pretty particular when it comes to cleansers. They have to be gentle but still work. Enter: the easy does it foaming cleanser by One Love Organics. I typically prefer a cream cleanser because foaming cleansers have been a little to harsh on my skin in the past. HOWEVER. The name of this one speaks for itself: easy does it. I have been loving this cleanser because it leaves my skin feeling clean and soft, NOT dry.
VITAMIN E EYE BALM
If you've been following me for a while, you know that eye cream is the most inconsistent part of my skincare routine. I have tried SO many that just don't live up to my standards, until now! This vitamin e eye balm is different from the rest because it's a balm, not a cream. It has a waxy texture but absorbs into the skin so nicely, making it great for both day and night.
I love it the most because it wears well under makeup!! This has been the biggest problem for me and it's finally solved. My makeup does not crease or look cakey with this eye balm underneath - finally! Also, don't let small container fool you - a little bit goes a long way. I've been using it for over a month and haven't made the slightest dent in it.
SKIN DEW COCONUT WATER CREAM
When it comes to morning moisturizers, I like them to be lightweight, quick absorbing, and wear well under makeup. The skin dew coconut water cream checks off all of those boxes. I was looking for a cream that was comparable to the Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Cream, just with safer ingredients, and I can say that I have found it! Although it's not as weightless as the PTR, it's still lightweight and just as hydrating, if not more. It has a creamy texture and is the perfect base for makeup. After applying this, I go right into my makeup routine with primer then foundation, or just tinted moisturizer if it's a no makeup makeup kind of day.
NIGHT TIME ROUTINE
VITAMIN B ENZYME CLEANSING OIL + MAKEUP REMOVER
I love an oil based cleanser for night time because they are SO good at removing makeup. Because this one is organic, I feel confident lathering it on my skin. I use two full pumps and put it on my skin dry then remove it with a warm wash cloth or this cleansing sponge. Trust me when I tell you, it removes every bit of makeup and dirt, even stubborn mascara! If you try any product from One Love Organics, let it be this!!
VITAMIN C MOISTURIZING FACIAL SERUM
This was the first product I tried from One Love Organics & I fell in love! I was looking for a vitamin c serum that brightened my skin and did not plateau after a couple weeks and I found a winner. My skin has had a consistent glow because of this serum! It has also reduced dark spots from occasional breakouts within a week! Talk about a must have product - this is it.
It does have a more oily consistency to it, which is why it's part of my night time routine. I was using it in the morning, but it did not wear well under makeup for me. I use one full pump and mix it with the love springs eternal serum below for a winning combination.
LOVE SPRINGS ETERNAL YOUTH PRESERVATION SERUM
This youth preservation serum is more of a preventive step in my routine. It claims to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, so I can only hope that it will do just that. It also claims to be hydrating, which I can assure you that it is! It's the perfect last step in a summer skincare routine because it's lightweight and adds just enough moisture without having to apply moisturizer on top. It is a perfect mix with the vitamin c serum I talked about above. One pump of each and you're good to go!
SKIN SAVIOR MULTI-TASKING WONDER BALM
When I'm feeling like my skin needs a little extra night time love, I end with the skin savior wonder balm and it's amaaaazing! The citrus scent is so yummy. I've been loving it after days spent in the sun because it's super nourishing. It has a soft, waxy texture and goes on so smooth. It also doubles as a makeup remover and reminds me of the Damn Good Face Wash that you've heard me talk about in the past!
MASK
LOVE & CHARCOAL MASQUE
When it comes to masks, I typically gravitate toward ones that are hydrating, brightening, or nourishing. I never go for the detox/exfoliating masks because of past experiences where my skin has gotten really dry, irritated, or broken out because the mask was too harsh on my skin.
Naturally, I was nervous about this mask since it has activated charcoal in it, but I was also intrigued because of the word love in it's name. When I asked Alannah about it (the PR coordinator for One Love Organics), she said that in addition to the charcoal, it has alpine rose, cupuacu butter and an amaranth protein to also nourish your skin while the charcoal is drawing out the dirt and debris!
After hearing that, I set my fears aside and gave this mask a try! To start, I only left it on for about five minutes. I did notice it pull out some underlying dirt & debris, but I knew my skin had to detox and get rid of it. I put tea tree essential oil on the couple spots that surfaced, and that cleared them right up, along with the help of the rest of my night time products.
REWARDS
Needless to say, I have been seeing AMAZING results from using all of these products as a system. It's comforting to know that these products contain safe ingredients AND are effective. Not only has my skin been hydrated, nourished, and glowing, but I have not had as many breakouts as I was experiencing before. I'd say that's a definite win!
Another win when it comes to One Love Organics is their rewards program. They treat their customers SO well when purchasing directly from their site! There are so many different ways to earn points that can be used on future purchases. They have by far one of the best loyalty programs I've ever come across. Read all about it here.
You can also get 10% off of your one love organics purchase using my code: PINEBARRENBEAUTY10
As always, thanks for reading! If you have any questions at all, leave a comment!
xo
