Current faves
What can I say, I LOVE skin care! I make my own, and I enjoy finding the best skin care that works and is affordable. I am 38 years old, and I have tried everything from Retin-A to IPL treatments. However, my ultimate goal is to avoid the expensive and questionable ingredients and find the most effective and natural skin care possible. Here are my favorite skin care products at the moment:
Bakuchiol- the wonderful retinol alternative. It softens, brightens, and smooths your skin like retinol but without the side effects. It is said to be gentle enough for those with sensitive skin. I have used this brand for several months and I love it.
Hydrosols- a facial mist that works as a toner and refresher. It also lightly moisturizes and helps with the skin’s pH balance. Since hydrosols are distilled with herbs and florals, there is a subtle fragrance. My favorites are from Evan Healy and Heritage Store. You can purchase Evan Healy hydrosol here and here. Heritage Store makes Rose Water with Glycerine which is my go-to. It is a great price and helps my skin feel dewy and moisturized. The natural rosy scent is uplifting also. You can usually buy Heritage Store at your local Whole Foods or Co-op, but if online ordering is your thing, you can buy here.
I have really been enjoying my bath rituals these days. It is my total “me time.” I usually add epsom salt (2 cups) or pink himalayan salt (1/2 cup). I burn palo santo sticks instead of candles. They smell amazing, and like sage, they cleanse the air and energy but smell better, imo. You can buy palo santo sticks here. They last forever!
Coconut Oil- Let me count the ways! I use this as a face cleanser, I use coconut oil to oil pull (future post), and it serves as the best body moisturizer. I shave with it too. This is my favorite coconut oil.
Magnesium Oil- After a pink salt bath, I apply magnesium oil on my low back, hips, and other sore muscles. It has really helped me sleep better at night. Topical application of magnesium is a great way to absorb this mineral. Epsom salt baths are also great for magnesium absorption.
One of the best blog posts I read about hair care came from maskcara.com. It was many years ago, and the products probably have changed and evolved since that post, but it shaped how I treat my hair. The most important trick I learned was to NOT wash my hair everyday, or even every other day. It’s hard to do at first, but dry shampoo and powder really help this process. I also learned how to style my hair different ways to keep it looking fresh in between shampoos. The second most important hair trick is to brush your hair every night before bed. This helps to distribute your natural oils to your ends. Your natural oils are not the enemy. Use them to your benefit! Be sure to use a wooden brush with wooden bristles. They really help massage your scalp and work with your natural oils better than plastic. Plus, they are natural and better for your health than plastic.
Spring is here and summer is approaching! With a little creativity and some personal touches, your home can turn into your own peaceful sanctuary. These are some trends I am currently looking at to create mine:
Here are some of my favorite looks:
I hope you enjoyed this piece. For updates and more info, check out my Instagram @soundandspirit.
Sincerely,
Kristin Waters