Simplified Skincare (Updated)
Over the past 1-2 years, my simplified skincare routine has saved me time, money, and space. It has also reduced so much bottle waste that I feel as though it’s worth sharing.
For context: I’m 38 years old, covered in freckles, and have visible sun damage from decades spent outdoors in Florida and Southern California. (That’s why I’m constantly wearing my West Perro hat.) I have never used injectables such as botox or fillers, and I have never had any cosmetic surgery.
Rather than ramping up my skincare and makeup habits as I grow older, I’ve pared them down in an effort to improve my overall health, better suit our limited physical space, and reduce my environmental footprint.
Instead of my skin rebelling at my scaled-back approach, it has responded favorably. Of course, my smile lines and crows feet all get deeper as the years pass. But my tone has evened-out, and my complexion has transformed.
Since I last shared this post 7 months ago, I’ve swapped or added some products to my routine (indicated below as new to me or replacement product), and the changes have further improved the quality of my skin. The line-up remains uncomplicated.
Supplies / Accessories: I use washable cotton rounds for general cleansing, and washable makeup remover pads at night if I’ve worn makeup. (Learn more about our “Space-savvy + Low Waste Bathroom Swaps” such as these here, and/or view our video on the topic here.)
As a makeup swab, I use an easy-to-clean, soft tip cosmetic LastSwab in lieu of disposable q-tips. (Get 10% off with the code: tinycanalcottage.)
For my face, my non-toxic skincare routine is as follows:
Replacement Product: I wash twice per day. At the sink I use this facial bar soap from Package Free Shop after removing my eye makeup with coconut oil.
In the shower I use a small amount of this cleanser (which also doubles as a makeup remover) from Goop.New-to-me: 2x per week, I use this dual-action microdermabrasion exfoliator from Goop that delivers the benefits of both physical and chemical exfoliation. This has made a huge difference for my pores and overall smoothness.
I apply Vintner’s Daughter Active Treatment Essence twice per day (Note: This has been the most effective product I’ve ever used on my skin. It’s pricey, but one small glass bottle lasts a long time, and the Essence has eliminated my need to visit the dermatologist, along with the need to acquire any additional serums, oils, or moisturizing products.)
I apply Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum at night
In the morning, I’ll apply a tinted SPF20 moisturizer from Beauty Counter if I decide to wear makeup and if I’m not wearing my West Per hat.
Replacement Product: If I need a little extra spot treatment, an application of roll-on serum from this tiny bottle from Package Free Shop is my hero.
New-to-me: Once a month I’ve started biking to the Osea bungalow in Venice (photos below) for their Gua Sha Facial.
The treatment is not only detoxifying but supremely relaxing.
This is a holistic alternative to injectables and cosmetic procedures. It contours the face while increasing collagen, stimulating tissue, reducing tension, and amplifying glow.
(Below is one of Osea’s new Gua Sha tools and instructions for use.)
Most importantly, the facial is done with Osea’s products, which are non-toxic for our bodies and the environment.
When getting the facial, I specifically request the use of their Ocean Cleansing Mudd, which has been effective at decongesting oily areas (on either side of my chin).
Daily on my body I use a Leaping Bunny certified body stone that softens on contact with the skin. It’s available in a sustainably farmed, re-usable bamboo canister, or simply as a refill. (Another option for those who prefer an oil is Osea’s Undaria Algae Body Oil, which comes in a glass bottle that’s easy to repurpose.)
Here’s to simplifying our routines, and freeing up both time and space for the things that truly matter.
