It can seem daunting and time-consuming to establish a well-rounded body care regimen. But caring for your skin is a very personal thing, and, as you'll read below, it certainly doesn't have to be a burden! Grace describes her effortless routine that covers all the bases and leaves her feeling (literally and figuratively) confident in her skin.
Grace says, "I'm an incredibly low-maintenance kinda gal when it comes to body care. To keep my skin happy and clean, my simple daily routine focuses on 3 steps: wash, moisturize, protect. The products I use include a face and body soap, face and body lotion, deodorant and chapstick. That's it! I probably have the most clutter-free shower and bathroom cabinet you can imagine."
Suki Exfoliate Foaming Cleanser
What I love most about this cleanser is that it can be used as both an exfoliate AND a gentle cleanser. Use 'as is' for exfoliating (which I do no more than twice a week), or rub the sugar crystals between your hands until they dissolve/melt, and it becomes a foaming cleanser. Suki's signature lemongrass scent is inspiring, and my skin always feels smooth and amazingly rejuvenated after washing with this product. Highlights: The Suki skincare line was created for ultra sensitive skin with a focus on passion, purity, potency, and real results.
Dr. Ohhira's Kampuku Beauty Bar (probiotic soap)
The skin is the largest organ in the human body, so I think it's one of the most important organs to take care of and protect. This high quality beauty bar is made with natural plant extracts and essential herbs. Most bar soaps leave my skin feeling dry, but this beauty bar actually moisturizes my skin and makes it feel soothed, hydrated and healed. Highlights: The pH-balancing blend of pre- and probiotics maintain and strengthen the skin by deterring the growth of harmful bacteria, stimulating its innate immune system and limiting the production of free radicals, leaving skin clean, hydrated and supple.
DeVita Solar Protective Moisturizer SPF 30+
I ride my bike to and from work most days, so it's important for me to protect my face with sunscreen. Most sunscreens with zinc oxide tend to leave a white residue on the skin, but this product is feather-light and rubs in completely with little effort. I've also had trouble with sunscreens burning my eyes (even natural ones), but this one is magical- no itching or burning. Highlights: Absorbs quickly, deeply moisturizing, formulated specifically for sensitive skin.
North Coast Organics Naked Deodorant
For years the ONLY deodorants that worked to keep my body odor at bay contained aluminum (boo!). Recently I decided to try this all-natural deodorant because a few of my co-workers and a bunch of our regular customers SWEAR by it. They were right! It totally works and stands true to the company's motto: "an elite assassin of odor that you can trust". Highlights: VEGAN!, sweet packaging, simple and clean ingredients (coconut oil, carnauba wax, corn starch, baking soda).
Dr. Robin Daily Moisture Cream
I love to slather this lotion on my legs after I shave. Some lotions burn and irritate my skin after shaving, but this one is super hydrating and soothing! This gentle, fragrance-free moisture cream is ideal for sensitive or eczema-prone skin. Dr. Robin (who developed the formula) is a Pediatric Dermatologist, so she markets the formula specifically for kids, but it totally works for grown-ups, too (wink!). Highlights: It's free of parabens, phthalates, nanotechnology, unnecessary preservatives, extracts and additives.
Benevolent Bee Ultra Moisturizing Honeyed Lip Balm
I'm one of those people who can't go anywhere without bringing lip balm with me. This is my most favorite kind! The mild honey flavor is lovely, and it keeps my lips soft for hours on end, so I hardly ever have to reapply. I'm also a big sucker for local products, and this company is located just across the river in Jamaica Plain. As Mother Nature shifts into cooler and drier temps, try this awesome product for excellent lip protection! Highlights: Locally made, ultra moisturizing, simple ingredients!