Spring Clean Your Makeup Bag: My Favorite Toxic-Free, Safe Makeup and Toiletries

Exploring the world of beauty products can be overwhelming, especially with the surge of information from social media and targeted ads. I've always tried to be mindful about my product choices. I regularly use essential oils and used to make my own serum with frankincense, blue tansy, and jojoba oil. When I was a little girl, my grandmother would take me to health food stores and markets and show me all the things that were beneficial for our skin; she was so smart and creative. I loved when we would go for walks, and she would point out wildflowers and different herbs and flowers, knowing their benefits or healing properties. Despite having some knowledge, I was still using products that contained harmful ingredients.

After experiencing a significant life change, I went on a quest to discover safer beauty alternatives. In this blog, I'll share my top ten clean makeup and skincare products that I am currently enjoying. To my Canadian friends, you'll be pleased to know that some of my favorites are among the cleanest and are made right here in Canada.

1. Skin Essence Organics - Glow Serum

The first and my absolute favorite on our list is the Skin Essence Organics Glow Serum. This serum is incredibly hydrating. Since adding it to my routine, I've noticed a significant improvement in my skin. The natural ingredients effectively nourish the skin, making it an important part of my daily routine. It has a refreshing scent, works beautifully under makeup, and gives my skin a radiant glow. Whether I'm going makeup-free or heading to yoga, having this on my skin helps me look rejuvenated and alert. I'm completely in love with this company and its product. I also use their sweet orange hand, body & lip treatment as well as their eye gel. The cost is quite affordable, and I recently discovered the entire line at my local health food store, all of which is produced in Ontario, Canada.

2. Beauty From Bees - Skin Serum (Sweet Vanilla)

The Beauty From Bees Skin Serum in Sweet Vanilla has completely captured my interest. On the same day, two people asked if I had tried this product or knew about the company; I hadn't, but a friend provided me with a small sample. It feels luxuriously smooth and soothing on the skin. I've just bought a bottle, and they had a buy-one-get-one-free deal. I'm excited. I chose the sweet vanilla and got the grapefruit and peppermint for my friend, who is a nutritionist and shares my passion for healthy living. Not only does it smell amazing, but it's also rich in antioxidants that fight aging signs and reduce inflammation. This serum absorbs quickly, keeping my skin hydrated all day and leaving it looking refreshed. Additionally, knowing it's made with clean ingredients is invaluable. It's safe to use during pregnancy, and guess what? It's Canadian, female-owned and operated. Yahoo!

3. Saie - Lip Oil in "Bounce"

This year has been particularly cold and dry. I'm always on the lookout for a good lip product that isn't sticky and hydrates my lips, but I also want something with a hint of color. I discovered this clean makeup line recently. It took me some time to figure out what I needed and liked, but I must say this lip oil is perfect. It truly is. The color looks great on anyone. It magically adapted to my skin tone, still appearing fresh, bright, and a perfect pop of color for someone like me who doesn't prefer to wear much makeup. Its moisturizing properties are excellent, making it one of my new makeup bag essentials. With its non-toxic formulation, it’s a smart choice for anyone seeking clean beauty. I've swapped out my Clinique black cherry for this one, if you know, you know.

4. Saie Slip Tint & Dew Blush

If you enjoy a dewy appearance, the Saie Slip Tint and Dew Blush are ideal for you. The Slip Tint offers lightweight coverage that beautifully evens out my complexion; it's not full coverage, but it effectively balances your skin tone. Meanwhile, the Dew Blush gives my cheeks a natural flush and i also use it as a eyeshadow. Both products blend seamlessly into the skin, achieving that fresh-faced glow. I also love their base foundation blending brush. You only need a small amount of both products, as a little goes a long way. Unfortunately, there is no SPF in this formula, which I'm starting to realize is the ingredient contributing to the low Yuka scores for this type of product. I chose this skin tint because my favorite from Ilia, which I mention below, wasn't as clean as I had been led to believe. So, I wanted to find another light skin tint.

5. Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint with SPF

The Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint with SPF merges skincare benefits with foundation coverage, providing sun protection and a natural look. Despite some ingredients receiving lower ratings on the Yuka app, I continue to use it but am uncertain about repurchasing. It may sound silly, but I'm a bit disappointed to discover this product has a low score because I really love it. Marketed as a "clean" product, it contains hyaluronic acid and has won Allure's Best Beauty Award. My research showed that the ingredient responsible for the lower score is included for UV protection and acts as an endocrine disruptor, making me unsure about its long-term use. Sometimes I wonder if the sun or the sunscreen is worse. I need to explore this further. This product is excellent in many aspects—perhaps I'll buy it again but without the SPF option? Interesting fact: Ilia was founded by a Canadian entrepreneur and started in Vancouver, but it is now manufactured in the USA. However, certain products, like the tinted lip oils, are still made in Canada.

6. Native Shampoo and Conditioner

Just like skincare, maintaining clean hair care is essential. Native’s Shampoo and Conditioner are fantastic options, leaving my hair soft and clean without harsh chemicals. While natural haircare sometimes leaves my hair dry and dull, this product keeps it soft, hydrated, and pleasantly scented, though it doesn't score a perfect 100/100 due to its fragrance. Their Coconut and Vanilla deodorant is also excellent, providing long-lasting freshness and safety. These products are costly, but I find I use less of them, so they last longer. It's very important to me to use clean products on my hair and body. I am also eager to try the  Beauty From Bees shampoo and conditioner. These also make wonderful gifts!

7. Sephora Soothing Deodorant

In my search for a gentle deodorant, I discovered the Sephora Soothing Deodorant. It applies smoothly and is clear rather than white and chalky, so it doesn't stain clothes. There were several options available, but I opted for the coconut scent, and it's wonderful. It effectively neutralizes odors without irritating my sensitive skin. Switching to natural deodorants can be difficult, but this one surpassed my expectations with its gentle yet effective formula. I was impressed by the range of clean products Sephora offers; it's definitely worth exploring. I also enjoy the Salt & Stone deodorants, but sometimes they stop working with my body chemistry and pH balance, requiring a change. The Sephora deodorant was half the price of the Salt & Stone option. Interestingly, I had to leave the store because I developed a headache from the strong scents. The lights were so bright, and everything smelled so intense that I felt overwhelmed and had to exit about 15 minutes into my exploration of Sephora's clean makeup. Ironic, isn't it?

8. Kylie's Wisp Mascara

in my opinion Mascara completes a look, and since I have very small eyes, I really need it; otherwise, I look like I've just woken up, regardless of the time. I've always used L'Oreal Mascara, which has a score of 32/100. So, I searched for a good, clean mascara. I tried Ilia, but it didn't impress me; it just lacked that extra boost. Currently, I’m really enjoying Kylie’s Wisp Mascara, which scored an impressive 93/100 on the Yuka app. It enhances both volume and length without clumping—an issue I often encountered with other clean mascaras. I was pleasantly surprised by this one; I didn't expect it to be so effective and clean. I was impressed with this makeup line—it's a good reminder not to make assumptions and to do your research—I would have thought this makeup was filled with junk and cheaply made. It's not Canadian-made, but it is owned by a woman, and regardless of your opinion on the Kardashians, it's amazing how successful this makeup line is. Alright, let's move on.

9. Milk Bronzer Stick

The Milk Bronzer Stick makes it simple to add warmth to my complexion. Bronzer can be a bit daunting, and it's easy to overapply and end up looking awkward, but this stick allows you to layer lightly for a healthy appearance. I also enjoy using it as an eye shadow. This cream bronzer glides on smoothly, offering a sun-kissed look that complements the no-makeup style. It shows how effective clean makeup can be without compromising quality. I plan to try the Beauty From Bees Bronzer next, as it has a score of 100/100.

10. The Seven Virtues - Vanilla Woods

I have developed a dislike for perfume, particularly in recent years, as I often find the scent unbearable. Instead, I prefer using essential oils, with vanilla being my favorite. I've been using the vanilla scent since high school. Some fragrances can be unpleasant if they aren't pure. Recently, social media played a significant role in influencing me to try this product. I believe my quest for clean products triggered my algorithm, resulting in ads for items I wasn't actively looking for. However, this one is delightful. It's soft, sweet, and received a score of 93/100. I love the travel size that fits in my makeup bag, making it perfect for on-the-go use. Just a tiny spray is needed This product is crafted in Canada and originates from one of my favorite locations, the East Coast, Nova Scotia.

Dedicated to Cleaner Choices

I am passionate about using clean makeup and skincare products, especially for mature skin and having experienced breast cancer. It's important to be mindful of our choices given the vast array available on the market. As I explore brands like Ilia, I remain conscious that even clean options might contain ingredients with lower scores, particularly those affecting hormonal balance.

Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that can interfere with our hormonal systems, posing potential health risks. I am dedicated to researching and replacing products as I find safer alternatives, and I encourage you to do the same. Always check ingredient lists, even for products labeled "clean."

If you have a favorite clean product that has positively impacted your skin, please share it in the comments below. Remember, our skin is our body's largest organ; what we apply truly affects our overall health.

As always, take good care XO