I hope this list is helpful with finding pregnancy safe beauty products that work well! It’s cool to see that the information surrounding our under regulated personal care industry is actually becoming more mainstream news, which will hopefully encourage more companies to clean up their ingredient list. Here is a helpful break down of WHY it is so important to understand what we are putting on our bodies every day.

Helpful Tool: It can get overwhelming reading labels, right? I don’t have time for that, let alone understanding what is a safe ingredient and what can be harmful. I use EWG’s skin deep database app to see what a product’s health rating is.

Clean (and pregnancy safe) Personal Care

Deodorant – Primally Pure Geranium Deodorant. I’ve tried so many. Native and Schmidts didn’t quite last more than a few hours for me. Primally Pure has some really good scents, and also lasts allll day. I found a cyst near my armpit glands in college, which ended up being a fibroadenoma. I have no doubt it was linked to the aluminum in the deodorant I had used for years. Really grateful there are better options now! I have a discount code for you too! Use code IHOD10 for 10% off sitewide. Gabe uses the charcoal one. Side note – if you haven’t switched to a cleaner deodorant yet, try an armpit detox first!

Body wash – Beautycounter Citrus Mimosa Body Wash (No phthalates, parabens, or synthetic fragrances and I love this scent!)

Body Lotion – Beautycounter Citrus Mimosa Body LotionStretch mark prevention – Citrus Mimosa body butter and Jojoba oil believe it or not! Smells heavenly without synthetic fragrance and leaves your skin buttery soft. I start using this combo in the second trimester.

Nail polish – Cote is a newer and non-toxic nail polish I really like!

Sunscreen – I am obsessed with the Beautycounter Spray Sunscreen since it rubs into my skin so well. I use it for Gabe and I. They are having a free sunscreen promo too if you want to check that out. Last day for it though! I use Aveeno for my kids since it is more affordable and has fantastic coverage. (Also doesn’t leave thick white film on them!)

Sunless tanner – Suntegrity. I didn’t think there could be a clean sunless tanner! This option works great though. Highly recommend using a mitt if you are going to try a sunless tanner.

Belly Butter – My belly gets so itchy towards the end! I was using this Baby Balm (which is super hydrating), but fell in love with the monoi scent of this Melting Body Balm. A little goes a long way, and I noticed when I rubbed this on at night it still felt super smooth and hydrated 10 hours later. I don’t wear perfumes so I really like when body products have a good scent!

Clean (and pregnancy safe) Hair Care

Shampoo & Conditioner – I use Beautycounter’s Daily Shampoo and Conditioner, and Dae Hair Deep conditioner once a week.

Hairspray – Josh Rosebrook has a pretty good firm hold hairspray. It isn’t as good as my Tresemme used to be, but for now it works! I would like to try this one next.

Dry shampoo – Klorane is paraben and sulfate free!

Clean (and pregnancy safe) Makeup
I am pretty loyal to my favorites once I find them! If I know a product works, and is going to last me a while.

Foundation – Beautycounter’s Tint Skin Hydrating Foundation is really lightweight, blends well, and evens out my skin tone. I love that it doesn’t feel like I am wearing foundation. Since it doesn’t have any fillers, one tube will last me for 5 months! (If you need a heavier coverage, try RMS beauty which you can also find on Thrive Market.)

Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 20 – I put a layer of Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer on top of my foundation in the summer for the spf and the dewy hydrating finish. It is still one of my favorite makeup products to date and I can usually get a tube to last at least 6 months with daily use.

Concealer – I really like the consistency of Vapor Beauty’s Illusionist Concealer stick. Blends well and covers well.

Blush – I love the subtle shimmer in the Rose Glow Highlighting Stick. I apply a swipe on my cheeks and blend with a brush. This is a great option for normal or dry skin. The powder color equivalent is Satin Blush in Nectar which is a beautiful coral with a shimmer hint.

Mascara – Still looking for a clean mascara that doesn’t have carbon black, doesn’t smudge or leave residue, and doesn’t dry out in two months (which I realize is a tall order when you aren’t using bad preservatives). I really like the BC Volumizing Mascara, but just ordered Honest Beauty’s because I love a primer combo.

Brow pencil – I fill in my brows with the Color Define Brow Pencil in Dark. The other side of the pencil has a brow brush which I love!

Brow gel – I used to use Glossier’s Boy Brow Gel, but I like how this Brilliant Brow Gel applies thicker and you really only need one coat. It’s like a mascara for the brows so it fills them in nicely.

Lip balm – Primally Pure or Burts Bees. I get such dry lips and hands when I am pregnant so I have these in every drawer;)

Lipstick – Favorite everyday colors are the Color Intense Lipstick in Brunch and the Nourishing Lip Sheers in Lily or Terra.

Liquid Eyeliner – I love using a black liquid liner for nicer occasions or a good wing tip look. This Precision Liquid Eyeliner makes it easy to apply evenly and it doesn’t smudge which is really nice.

Eyeliner – I don’t wear eyeliner much, but when I do, I use the Color Define Pencil in Violet. I love the color, and that it doesn’t smudge. The other side of the pencil has a blender for a smokey eye look.

Bronzer – My favorite makeup product to get a summer glow is the Luminous Powder in Topaz- hands down. It has a bronze shimmer in it, and I love the light it reflects! I apply all over, but if you have darker skin you can use just as a highlighter! The Radiant All Over Bronzer is another great option.

Clean (and pregnancy safe) Skin Care

Keep in mind I never spent more than $10 on face soap my whole life and am just now able to set aside some budget for personal care that I really love! If you are in a tight spot, try switching over the products you use most to cleaner options. More drugstores are offering safer alternatives now as well!

Facial Cleanser – I love this Nourishing cream cleanser if I am not using a cleansing balm. This one is super gentle for all skin types and still foams well. I use the cleansing balm at night to remove makeup and hydrate skin. This balm is incredibly hydrating and helpful for brightening skin as well thanks to the vitamin C.

Face Toner – Thayer’s Lavender Witch Hazel ( I get mine at Thrive Market, but it’s also available at Target and amazon.)

Face mask – Indian Clay Healing Mask. Super affordable and deep cleanses pores.

Moisturizer – I really am crazy about this new safer alternative to retinol called Countertime Supreme Cream. It’s pricey for me, but I usually just use a small amount morning and night. I honestly can’t believe the visible benefits already. ​​​​​​​It uses ingredients much safer than retional but if you look at the reviews, it is just as affective! Nothing wrong with aging with grace of course, but I think we all can agree it certainly doesn’t hurt to want to look refreshed;) This Adaptive Moisturizer is also a great option. If you like a moisturizer to have SPF in it, try Kiehls!

Facial oils – A more affordable but hydrating facial oil option is Jojoba oil with a few drops of lavender essential oil!

Sunspots / Melasma “Pregnancy Mask” – I use this overnight resurfacing peel 2-3 times a week at night. It doesn’t smell the greatest because of the fruit based fermented acids, but WOW is it effective. It completely got rid of the dull patches on my face and leaves a healthier glow by morning. It also helps with pregnancy mask melasma. After it absorbs I use a Vitamin C packed No. 1 facial oil which smells really really good. It also helps brighten skin, lighten spots, and hydrate.

Breakout control – I always breakout in my first trimester of pregnancy. In fact, that was the first sign that made me realize I might be pregnant with my son Rocco. The charcoal bar has always kept breakouts under control for me, and if I have random spots, this acne spot treatment does the trick.

There are more companies in the beauty industry now making efforts to clean up their ingredient list, so if you are questioning whether you can find clean options in your price range, good news is you most likely can now! Purer ingredients that are high performing are going to cost more of course, but there are more options becoming available now even more than a year ago. (ie: Target just started a whole aisle dedicated to cleaner beauty products.) I am willing to pay a little more for products with no fillers that last longer, do a better job, and that aren’t linked with so many health issues knowing it will save me money in the long run. If you just want to start with a few things to switch to clean, just take it from there!

*All products shared are products I have personally used and loved. I do receive a small portion of profit from purchases through links, but only share companies and products I trust and use with confidence. I hope this guide is helpful for you!

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The post Pregnancy Safe Skin, Hair, and Personal Care Favorites appeared first on In Honor Of Design.

(Pictured: Non-toxic sunscreen, cleansing balm, facial oils, tint skin foundation, lip sheers, charcoal bar)

I wanted to take an opportunity with Valentine’s Day around the corner, to send some care packages to some of you deserving gal pals! Personally it’s always been hard for me to be okay with spending money on self-care items. I am sure many of you can relate! It wasn’t until my recent commitment to take better care of myself and use safer products that I knew it was something that I needed to work in my budget. I love being able to give when I can, and these are my very favorite non-toxic beauty products that have helped my skin tremendously. Enter below!

GIVEAWAY:
Win ANY Beautycounter product of your choice from my personal site! (I will be drawing 5 winners!)

TO ENTER:
It’s easiest for me to keep track of entries via rafflecopter so enter here, and I will draw a winner on the 14th! Happy weekend to you all:) Good luck.

*All products are made with the highest standard of safety and high quality ingredients so they are very concentrated. Each skin care product lasts for months as a result!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

P.S. Never heard of Beautycounter? Read this informative and fascinating Q&A, or watch this short video on We Deserve Better. You can always email me at hello (at ) inhonorofdesign (dot) com if you have any questions.

The post *CLOSED* Beautycounter Giveaway! first appeared on In Honor Of Design.

The post *CLOSED* Beautycounter Giveaway! appeared first on In Honor Of Design.

I promise to have the final post in the Reset + Renew series up by Sunday! It was my hardest post to write, so it took longer than expected! In the meantime, after posting about makeup organization, I went ahead and filmed my quick makeup routine to get rid of the pale complexion the winter so kindly delivered! Apologies the video isn’t super clear. It was the best light I could get, but at least shows the order how I blend and apply. This is something I swore I would never film, but it’s the year for kicking fears in the face!

Pale — > Summer Glow Makeup Products:
Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer – No. 3 (This is a little more sheer than the tint skin foundation and leaves a dewy finish.)
Volumizing Mascara
Touch Up Concealer Pen – Medium 1
Cream Blusher – Caramel
Matte Bronzer – No. 1
Powder Blush Duo – Tawny/Whisper
Eyeshadow Duo – Pearl/Champagne
Brow Defining Pencil – Medium
Boy Brow by Glossier
Nourishing Lip Sheer – Terra or Twig
Nourishing Lip gloss – Bare Shimmer
Rosewater Mist

Brushes Used:
Retractable Foundation Brush (Free gift with the flawless in five set)
Powder Brush
Palm Brush
Eye Brush

Check out the Flawless in Five bundle deal going on right now that includes everything you need for a fresh face in 5 minutes, and is $50 off the retail value. It also includes a free retractable foundation brush for a limited time. Email me if you need help color matching:)

All products are chemical and toxin free using plant based ingredients, and rate a 0-1 out of 10 on the ewg.org’s skin deep database. Here’s an article that better explains the effects of toxins on our systems!

The post Pale to Summer Glow Makeup Routine (Video) first appeared on In Honor Of Design.

The post Pale to Summer Glow Makeup Routine (Video) appeared first on In Honor Of Design.

I don’t like to wear a whole lot of makeup, so the summer tan was a compassionate friend! It is leaving me fast though, and my skin is heading towards that familiar winter tone. I still don’t want to wear too many layers of makeup to overcompensate for the lack of color. I try to avoid self-tanners and such due the level of chemicals, so these are some items I have played around with that offer a healthier, clean ingredient alternative to glowing skin year round. Of course, it’s important to note that lots of water and nutrients through the foods we eat are the best ways to keep your skin hydrated and healthy!

5 Steps to Glowing Skin:

1. Touchup Concealer Pen
2. Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer
3. Matte Bronzer
4. Glow Shimmer Oil
5. Nourishing Lip Gloss

These are the only products I am wearing in the above pic in addition to volumizing mascara. If you haven’t already downloaded the Think Dirty app like I have mentioned before, you gotta do it! It really helps understand which products in your makeup bag are healthy for your skin and which are on the toxic side. I used to buy just drugstore beauty brands because I’m always on a budget, but the good thing is, these products last for months so it really stretches your dollar.

What have been some effective tricks for you in maintaining healthy skin through winter?

*Disclosure: I became a part of the Beautycounter company after reading their mission, and seeing a positive change in my skin. I only like to share things I really use and love, so this is my honest opinion! If you have any questions about products, need help color matching, or would like to ask me any questions about joining my team, feel free to email me! 

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The post 5 Steps to Glowing Skin. appeared first on In Honor Of Design.

As soon as the seasons turn, my lips inevitably start to get really dry! After reading about some of the ingredients in common chapsticks only contributing to this problem (avoid ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin!), I started to make sure I was using hydrating and healing products.

(photo credit: Haley Sheffield)

3 Hydrating Lip-Savers:

1. Sugar scrub by Sarah Happ – Simple to apply and remove. I put it on once or twice a week because it only takes a minute, and removes all flaky or dead skin. A quick and easy mask that is super sweet to the taste too;) I have had the same jar for a year!

2.  Calendula Lip Conditioner – Calendula is a healing ointment (that can act as an anti-inflammatory) that I have used for healing scars and dry skin on my little ones and I for years. So when I discovered it in this lip balm, I was so eager to try it. It leaves your lips super soft for a long period of time which is such a relief! It has really saved me from dry and chapped lips. Some of its other ingredients include: avocado oil, shea butter, and jojoba oil.

3. Lip Sheers by Beautycounter – I actually love the look of lip stain, and how long it lasts, but it usually leaves my lips pretty dried out! So these lip sheers have been a really nice alternative. They are comparable to lip tints, since they are a more sheer color, but also super silky and hydrating. It’s layerable depending how fancy you want to go;) A few favorite colors for fall: Terra for a Neutral, Scarlett for a true Red, and layering Scarlett + Raisin for a darker red hue as pictured.

Do you have the same problem? What are some things that have helped you??

Have a great start to your week!

*I started switching over all my makeup to clean beauty products this year, which is how I  discovered Beautycounter. I loved the products and philosophy so much, I joined the company! Feel free to email me for color matches or any questions you have! 

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I confess I used to use tanning oil in high school to chase that summer tan. (And dare I say baby oil anyone? I know. What in the actual heck was I thinking??) After losing a loved one to skin cancer, I had a sobering wake up call to take better care of protecting my skin. I usually wear hats and sunscreen, but doesn’t mean I don’t still love a good summer tan.

I’m probably most excited to share this post with you today, because these are some of my favorite products in my makeup bag. Here is my step by step makeup routine for a sunless summer glow!

As you know, I joined BeautyCounter after seeing the effects their products had on my skin. Just about all of these items below can be found on my BeautyCounter website, so happy to help if you have any questions about the products. Feel free to email me anytime.

Step 1 – Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer – Hands down my favorite makeup product next to my mascara! It really does make your skin look and feel dewy. I love how it has an SPF 20 as well without feeling greasy. It contains black currant, peony flower root extract, and vitamin C which are a few ingredients that contribute to overall hydration, skin brightening, and smoother skin! I apply this after my daily moisturizer as a first step in my makeup routine. (You can determine best color on the “find your shade” page. Or just email me, and I can help.)

Step 2 – Matte Bronzer – The BeautyCounter matte bronzers are shimmer free, and it offers a really natural-looking glow. (I don’t contour, but if you are into that it can double as a contour powder.) I brush this all over my face starting around the outside and working around my cheeks. This bronzer is rooted with porcelain flower extract known for its antioxidant benefits to help moisturize the skin while you are wearing it!

Step 3 – Color Pinch Cream Blusher – In the summer, I’d rather go sun kissed than wear blush, but this cream blusher does the trick! Its very soft and smooth (without being sticky!) so I apply it on the apples of my cheeks and blend in with a brush. brightens cheeks with natural, dewy color. It’s in a tube so I use it on the go as both a cream blush and lip tint! Since it contains jojoba oils it is also very beneficial for the skin and gives you a really dewy finish.

Artis Brushes – I have never really had good makeup brushes, so I guess I didn’t know what I was missing out on. ha! I tried out some Artis brushes and it felt hypnotizingly soft to the skin, and it blends my bronzer and blush so well. Maybe a good birthday item to put on your list!

Step 4 – Lip Sheer – I think bold lipstick is fun, but in the summer I just want a lipgloss or a lightweight lip tint. I LOVE the look and feel of BeautyCounter’s lip sheers. It applies silky-smooth and it is layer-able depending how much color you want. I feel like most of my lipsticks only last a short amount of time unless they are a heavy matte (which is usually heavy on the toxic ingredient list). After realizing that I was getting lip products all over my kids faces, I started looking for a good clean ingredient option. There aren’t many, but this one is actually a really good lightweight long lasting formula that is ultra-moisturizing for your lips. Can I give this 10 stars?

Step 5 – Facial Mist – I use this to set my makeup since it is alcohol-free. It’s another antioxidant-rich product loaded with vitamin C. Some of the benefits being skin brightening and and evening your skin tone. I usually use this as a midday refresh in my purse.

Glow Shimmer Oil  –  This is a bonus item for me that I use this for special occasions or date nights. This also contains jojoba, grape-seed, and sesame oils, which absorb immediately into your skin for that radiant, sun-kissed glow. You can use it from head to toe for a summery bronzed effect with just a hint of shimmer.

Even though I am a consultant with Beautycounter, I promise to be honest and only share what I use and love. If a product lasts a long time and positively changes my skin, then I am all about it. I hope this is helpful, and that you enjoyed these beauty topics this week! Let me know if there were any questions I didn’t cover. HAPPY FREAKIN’ WEEKEND!

*In case you missed, lashes and brow routine, long hair care, and skin and body care faves.

The post Summer Makeup Routine first appeared on In Honor Of Design.

The post Summer Makeup Routine appeared first on In Honor Of Design.

I started converting over most of our household and baby products to safe ingredients last year, and was so hesitant to dig into my makeup bag and skin care routines because ignorance is bliss right? Well after reading/hearing some eye opening facts about the effects of toxins on our health, I knew I couldn’t ignore it any longer. I wasn’t expecting to find many clean ingredient products I loved, but thankfully with some recommendations from friends, I feel like I hit the jackpot when I discovered Beautycounter. I ended up joining the company since I loved how effective the products were on my skin and hair and wanted to share my honest experience when I could.

Here is a round up of some of my wow-factor faves for skin and body care…

(All summer capsule outfits here.)

In taking care of my skin, I don’t have much time to do all of the things, so I try to just focus on cleansing and moisturizing with the added perk of a mist or mask here and there.

*UPDATED* Skin care routine

Morning:

STEP 1 – Nourishing Cleanser – I use this morning and night because it super gentle, hydrating, and nourishing! Its a creamy formula that contains witch hazel to tone skin, and coconut oil and aloe to help hydrate.

STEP 2 – Nourishing Day Cream – I was pretty sold on my last moisturizer. I really loved it…..but when I ran out, I decided to give this one a try since I was really into some of the other Beautycounter products I tried. I would say this and the dew skin tinted moisturizer is what sold me! This moisturizer leaves your skin super silky, but it also adds a healthy glow to your face. You only need a pea size amount so this will last you for at least 4-6 months. It contains a mix of organic coconut oil, safflower oil, aloe, and antioxidant-rich acai. I love how it feels really lightweight instead of greasy or oily. Good for all skin types even sensitive skin!

2x a week – Charcoal Cleansing Bar – It has made such a difference in clearing up break out spots as well as minimizing pores and blackheads around my nose! You can chop it in half to keep one at your sink and one in the shower. I have had it for 6 months and it is still going strong. Charcoal is an activating ingredient that detoxifies and absorbs impurities. Since it is made with antioxidant-rich green tea and hydrating coconut oil, its a very gentle formula. It can be used on your face and body and safe for any skin type. I use this a few times a week because I tend to have dry skin and like the nourishing cleanser for day and night.

NIGHT:

STEP 1 – Nourishing Cleanser

STEP 2- Rejuvenating night cream – Once I hit my 30s I saw an immediate difference in my skin. You start to lose elasticity and the fine lines show up! I am okay with this since it is the natural process of life, but sure wouldn’t mind slowing down the process a little;) I invested in the rejuvenating night cream because I read so many good reviews. It promotes smoother, firmer, and more hydrated skin during the nightly cycle of natural skin repair. After using it a few months now, I am so glad I committed. It is super hydrating for my normally dry skin, and when I wake up my skin has been noticeably more nourished and firm! Well, at least I recognize myself in the mirror now! If you don’t need an anti-aging focus, the countermatch sleep recovery cream or nourishing night cream are also fantastic.

3x a week – Plumping Facial Oil – One of the bigger changes in my skin this year was from lack of sleep and not enough water. You know, things that happen with you have a new baby. My skin looked like it was starting to sag, and I always looked tired. When I started making more of an effort to take care of myself, I drank lots of water and started more skin care. This plumping oil is more of a treatment that I will add a few drops to my moisturizer. I will use a few times a week because it’s pricier, and I want it to last all year;) I just really couldn’t believe how it helped lift my skin! Probably because it contains a blend of natural oils including jasmine and argan oils which are known for being replenishing and omega rich. It contributes to minimizing fine lines and loss of elasticity as well as nourishing and firming skin.

STEP 3- Rejuvenating eye cream – I also started to notice the bags start to show up lately, so I decided it was time for an eye cream. Many eye creams are results based to see that overnight effect, but the chemicals in the ingredients are harmful for our systems and our skin in the long run. I’ve had a really good experience with this one, and just like the night cream it is super soothing! I also see a visible difference after I put it on in the mornings with reduced puffiness.

2x a week – No. 3 Facial Mask – I started using this 1 -2x a week by putting it on 10 minutes before a shower. This is also antioxidant rich and the charcoal based ingredients deep cleanse pores to help clear breakouts, absorb excess oil, and minimize pores.

I used to be so hesitant to pay more than drug store prices for face wash which is why I avoided taking care of my skin for so long! I see it more as an investment know in avoiding health problems down the road due the amount of toxins entering our bloodstream. Our skin is the largest organ of our body! And subsequently it absorbs everything we put onto it through our pores. I am hoping these proactive steps towards safer beauty will save me doctor bills down the line.

Body Care:

Body wash in citrus mimosa – After reading about synthetic fragrances and the effects on toxins on our endocrine system, I switched out all of my shower items as well. This body wash smells divine, is extremely gentle and non drying, and is rich in nourishing marula oils.

Sugar Scrub – This scrub is packed with mineral-rich evening primrose, sweet almond, and sunflower oils with a brown sugar base that have helped rid of my rough skin patches. I can’t get over how soft it makes your skin. It also feels like a form of stress relief just to sniff! (oh my word.)

Body Lotion in Citrus mimosa – Hydrating without the synthetic fragrance ingredients. It’s a fast-absorbing body lotion, and I love the moisturizing blend of marula oils +  shea and jojoba butters.

Baby daily protective balm – I call this the wonder balm. There are so many uses in it’s healing ingredients, and I use it for myself and the kids.

SPF30 Sunscreen Face Stick – I tested SO. MANY. toxic free sunscreens and this was the only one that didn’t leave a ghostly residue! It’s so easy to use so I carry this everywhere in the summer for the kids and I. My tinted moisturizer has SPF20, but this is for additional coverage on hot days. Lasts a long time too!

Hair Care:

Volumizing Shampoo – Every time I tried a clean ingredient shampoo it left my hair super flat and almost greasy. I wasn’t willing to give up a good lather, but I kept searching because I know how harmful shampoos and deodorants can be. I was so relieved to find an option that actually added volume to my hair and kept the good lather too. This brought my hair back to life. I like this line better than the daily shampoo and conditioner option.

Volumizing Mist – This is awesome for a mid day lift or second day hair!

Still looking for a sulfate and paraben free hairspray and dry shampoo! Hard to find. Will report back:)

There are so many factors to healthy skin like what we eat, our environment, blood type, etc. It can really help when you understand your skin type, and are consistent with what you use. Happy to help if you have any questions about these products or need a good skin care routine for your specific skin type. Feel free to email me, I will be sure to answer personally.

P.S. A helpful article on the power of antioxidants!

The post Clean Beauty Week: Skin + Body Care Favorites first appeared on In Honor Of Design.

The post Clean Beauty Week: Skin + Body Care Favorites appeared first on In Honor Of Design.