Non-Toxic Anti-Aging Beauty Routine Guide
Written by Irina Webb
What is the best skin care routine for aging skin? In this post, you will learn about my anti-wrinkle treatment secrets as part of my non-toxic anti-aging beauty routine. You will be introduced to the step-by-step regimen I follow and the age-defying non-toxic skin care products I use. In addition, you will learn whether vitamin A is a good choice for anti-aging non-toxic beauty products and its plant-based substitute bakuchiol. Plus, you will have several safe options for clean beauty products to choose from for the best anti-aging regimen. Learn about the non-toxic makeup I use here and the best tips for skin care routine for dry skin here.
Non-Toxic Anti-Aging Beauty Routine Guide
How Do You Start An Anti-Aging Skin Care Routine?
A fun fact about me is that I really like running. However, it has not always been like that. There was a time I was so weak physically that I thought I wouldn’t make it. Just like you, I have had my battles with health after being diagnosed with Hashimoto’s and Addison’s autoimmune conditions.
Related: Can Breast Implants Cause Autoimmune Diseases? – My Confession
As a full-time consumer goods ingredient researcher, I get to try lots of non-toxic beauty products. As a result, I have found many that I like, but I cannot use them all simultaneously. If I had two faces, I would! So, you will learn about what is, in my opinion, the best age defying skincare products I currently use. And you will learn about safe skincare options I have used or would use, too.
What can I do to stop my face from aging? I started asking myself this question when I was in my twenties. Again and again, I visited spas in a futile attempt to reverse the signs of aging. Looking back, I realize that there was not much to reverse then. Now, in my late forties, I am satisfied with my skin even though I do not pay visits to estheticians. Instead of fretting about aging, I did research to see what I can do to prevent and reduce wrinkles, and what non-toxic skin care ingredients can help me with that.
What Products Really Work For Anti-Aging and Better Complexion?
To begin with, the quality of the ingredients is what makes cosmetic products effective in the fight against aging skin. However, none of them can completely erase the wrinkles that have already made an appearance. What they can do is make them softer, smaller, and less visible, which in turn makes your skin look younger. They can also prevent new ones from forming. Hence, including products with anti-aging ingredients in your non-toxic anti-aging beauty routine seems like a good idea.
What is the best active ingredient for anti-aging?
First, some effective age defying skincare ingredients are:
- squalane
- niacinamide
- green tea
- caffeine
- vitamin C
- hyaluronic acid (or sodium hyaluronate).
Second, there are peptides that, in my opinion, work best for wrinkles. Third, there is vitamin A that is a little controversial. Keep reading to find out why I choose safe skincare products without vitamin A.
What Ingredient Is Best For Reducing Appearance of Fine Lines? Peptides.
For starters, peptide molecules are short chains of amino acids and serve as the building blocks of proteins. Specifically in anti-aging skin care, proteins refer to collagen that gives our skin its structure. Aging causes collagen proteins to break down, which contributes to wrinkles and a lack of elasticity.
According to this study, cosmetic peptides fall into four main categories:
- carrier peptides
- neurotransmitter-affecting peptides
- enzyme inhibitors
- signal peptides.
First, carrier peptides in clean skincare facilitate the delivery of another ingredient to skin cells.
Second, neurotransmitter-affecting peptides act like Botox, paralyzing the muscles. Namely, they block the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in muscle contractions and related to memory. Hence, in the long term, they may have a negative effect on your memory. (Personally, I avoid using products with Botox-like peptides in my non-toxic anti-aging beauty routine.)
Next, enzyme inhibitor peptides impede enzymes that mediate the breakdown of collagen and other skin proteins. Hypothetically, this helps stave off collagen loss.
Finally, signal peptides increase the proliferation of collagen, elastin, proteoglycan, glycosaminoglycan, and fibronectin (source). Plus, by boosting skin matrix cell regeneration, they help reduce the pigmentation of photo-damaged skin, fine lines, and wrinkles (source). As a result, skin elasticity increases, and skin appears smoother and firmer.
Additionally, there are structural peptides derived from keratin, a protein that gives hair and nails their structure. Specifically, they target dehydration and dryness by improving the skin barrier function and allowing the skin to retain water (source). Consequently, the skin acquires a plumper look.
Know Your Peptides to Stimulate Collagen Production
Ideally, the peptides you want in your non-toxic skin care products should aim at achieving two main goals. One: they should help increase the amount of collagen your cells produce. And two: they should help decrease the amount of collagen protein that gets broken down. This way, your non-toxic beauty products will also act as age defying skincare.
Ultimately, the objective is to help your skin become smoother, plumper, and healthier. Allegedly, direct application of peptides to the skin tells our bodies to make more collagen. However, the way a clean skincare product works depends on the individual peptides it contains. To choose the right products for your non-toxic anti-aging beauty routine, use the following table with some examples of cosmetic peptides.
| Peptide group | Peptide names |
| Carrier peptides | Copper peptides, manganese peptides (manganese tripeptide-1) |
| Neurotransmitter-affecting peptides | Acetylhexapeptide-3, pentapeptides (pentapeptide-3, pentapeptide-18), tripeptide-3 |
| Enzyme inhibitors | Soybean peptides, silk fibroin peptides, rice peptides |
| Collagen-stimulating peptides | N-acetylcarnosine, carnosine, most palmitoyl tripeptides, most palmitoyl hexapeptides, most tetrapeptides (e.g., tetrapeptide-21 and tetrapeptide TKEK), most hexapeptides (e.g., hexapeptide-11 and hexapeptide-14) |
| Structural peptides | Keratin peptides, wool lipids |
Is Vitamin A The Best Ingredient For Youthful Skin?
On the one hand, retinoids (forms of vitamin A) have a reputation of being powerful anti-aging skin care ingredients. Hence, many include products containing some form of vitamin A in their non-toxic skin care routine (retinol, retinaldehyde, retinyl acetate etc.).
Evidently, researchers acknowledge the beneficial effects of retinoids on skin diseases and photoaged skin (source and source). Reportedly, retinol helps the process of keratinization of the outer skin layer, which reduces water loss (source).
For example, this clinical study assessed the rejuvenating effect of retinol serum on facial skin. Specifically, the researchers used 0.3% and 0.5% retinol concentrations (one per face side) on 37 volunteers for 12 weeks. After the treatment, the skin demonstrated decreased hyperpigmentation, unevenness, and wrinkles. But there was mild or moderate skin irritation, predominantly on the side where 0.5% concentration had been used.
On the other hand, there is an opinion that there is not enough evidence to support the use of cosmetic products with retinol to improve the appearance of aged skin.
Additionally, it seems that retinoids may cause irritant reactions such as burning, scaling or even dermatitis (source and source).
Moreover, according to this study, after vitamin A treatment and sunlight exposure, mice had an increase in tumors. (If you use clean skincare with retinoids, please do it at night only.)
Most importantly, to avoid overdosing, consult with your doctor, especially if you take vitamin A internally. As for me, I do not use products with vitamin A in my non-toxic anti-aging beauty routine.
Does Bakuchiol Belong In Anti-Aging Skin Care?
Have you heard of bakuchiol? Derived from the seeds and leaves of Psoralea Corylifolia, this plant-based phenol appears to be an alternative to retinoids. Recently, bakuchiol has become a popular ingredient in skincare products, including organic anti-aging creams.
In fact, this study presented evidence that bakuchiol can function as a retinol analogue, using side-by-side comparison of the modulation of individual genes. Then, the researchers formulated bakuchiol into a skin care product and clinically tested it for 12 weeks by twice-a-day facial application. As a result, they observed significant improvement in lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, elasticity, and firmness as well as reduction in photo-damage. Above all, there were no ill effects associated with retinol, such as skin irritation.
Further, this research compared the clinical efficacy and side-effect profiles of bakuchiol and retinol in a 12-week study with 44 participants. The patients applied either 0.5% bakuchiol cream twice daily or 0.5% retinol cream daily. According to the observed results, both bakuchiol and retinol significantly decreased wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. The patients who used retinol containing product reported more facial skin scaling and stinging.
In sum, the consensus is that bakuchiol is better tolerated than retinol, and non-toxic beauty products with bakuchiol can improve photoaged skin.
For toxin-free skincare with bakuchiol, try Beauty by Earth Bakuchiol Collection (IREAD12).
Also, consider Beautycounter Ultra Renewal Eye Cream and Beautycounter Tripeptide Radiance Serum. Unlike some other Beautycounter products with bakuchiol, these two do not contain phenoxyethanol.
Related: Phenoxyethanol In Skin Care: Consider This!
Related: My Honest Beautycounter Review
What Should Be The Basic Skin Care Routine?
I believe a beauty regimen is important. Thus, my personal non-toxic anti-aging beauty routine consists of the following steps:
- cleansing
- toning
- moisturization
- sun protection.
Read on to find out what I do after these four steps to enhance my youthful looks.
Download The Free Guide!
5 Powerful Steps To A Non-Toxic Home
Join our informed consumer community and get our free guide the “5 Powerful Steps To A Non-Toxic Home”.
What Should Be First In A Skin Care Routine? Gentle Cleanser.
In my opinion, there are at least three groups of safe skincare products that you can use for cleansing.
First, there are soap-based cleansers, such as soap bars. They are very convenient and environmentally friendly because they leave no plastic behind. I think soap bars work best for oily skin as soap may dry and tighten the skin.
Second, there are foaming cleansers with mild surfactants, such as glucosides.
Related: Are Glucosides Safe?
Third, there are cleansing oils. When I was less busy, I used oil for cleansing in the following way. After massaging my face with oil for a minute, I wiped it off with a hot wet washcloth. Consistently, it cleaned my skin well and opened the pores for the next step of my non-toxic anti-aging beauty routine.
If you feel like you need to use another cleanser after using the cleansing oil, you can follow up with a foaming cleanser. You can also skip the facial oil and use a foaming cleanser only.
My Best Picks Among Toxin-Free Face Wash Options
At present, my favorite soap-free foaming cleanser is Pure Haven Refresh Cleanser with Pre-Probiotics. Indeed, it cleans my skin well, even when I wear foundation and mascara, without drying the skin at all. Plus, it contains probiotic lactobacillus ferment lysate filtrate to balance the skin. If you have dry or acne-prone skin, this toxin-free face wash may be right for you.
Related: Pure Haven Review
Interchangeably with Pure Haven cleanser, I use Crunchi Gentle Facial Bar ($10 off 1st purchase, embedded in the link). It comes in two kinds – charcoal and gentle. Thus, the charcoal facial bar is good for oily skin because it contains clay and charcoal to clarify skin pores. And the gentle bar is good for normal and sensitive skin due to organic ingredients that soothe and moisturize the skin. Above all, I appreciate the fact that this bar has no plastic in its packaging.
Related: Crunchi Non-Toxic Makeup Reviews: The Good & The Bad
Further, if you are keen on cleansing oils, Primally Pure Cleansing Oil (ReadLabels10) is a great option.
Last but not least, Crunchi I am Polished™ Facial Exfoliator is the key! ($10 off embedded in the link with the 1st purchase.) I love to use it 1-2 times a week for a spa experience. It decreases my nose pores almost to non-existent and makes my skin very clean and radiant.
Toning Is A Second Step In My Non-Toxic Anti-Aging Beauty Routine.
Generally speaking, toners help the skin restore its pH balance after cleansing, as well as hydrate the skin.
At first, I did not think toner was necessary for my skin. But then, I tried Crunchi Clarilight Facial Essence toner ($10 off 1st purchase) and loved it! This non-toxic skin care product is very hydrating because it contains hyaluronic acid, which has great capacity to hold water in the skin. With all the moisture it needs, the skin plumps up and the wrinkles look smaller. Plus, the toner removes any residual makeup and prepares the skin to receive moisturization.
Another option is Neal’s Yard Remedies Rejuvenating Frankincense Toner. Its ingredients that stand out are frankincense essential oil, calming aloe vera, and a smoothing palmitoyl tripeptide. As you remember, signal peptides are what we want in our anti-aging skin care because they stimulate collagen synthesis. And palmitoyl tripeptide-5 is a signal peptide.
Using A Clean Moisturizer Is A Third Step In My Age Defying Skincare Routine.
In my opinion, hyaluronic acid (or sodium hyaluronate) is the best ingredient non-toxic beauty products can use for moisturization purposes. That is because it restores skin hydration and visibly plumps fine lines and wrinkles.
Also, moisturizers can use peptides in their formulations to give the non-toxic moisturizer an anti-aging skin care property. Clearly, we want to avoid Botox-like peptides and use collagen-producing ones instead (e.g., palmitoyl tripeptide-5, caprooyl tetrapeptide-3). To clarify, they can trigger a signaling cascade and increase the production of collagen and elastin, among other things. As a result, skin pigmentation and wrinkles decrease, and skin elasticity increases, making the skin appear smoother and firmer.
Commonly, moisturizing skin care products come as moisturizers, serums, creams, and lotions. You can choose to use one of them or two, such as serum and cream. That is what I do: I use serum first and then follow up with a cream.
Best Serums For Youthful Skin Texture
To begin, Crunchi Goldenlight Multi-Peptide Serum ($10 off 1st purchase) is the best I have ever seen or used among non-toxic skin care options. In fact, it contains niacinamide, organic green tea, hyaluronic acid, and FOUR collagen-stimulating peptides that work overtime to reduce the signs of aging. Additionally, it does not contain any cyclical silicones, such as cyclopentasiloxane. To clarify, cyclical silicones mask the appearance of wrinkles without improving the skin condition and may contribute to endocrine disruption. Also, this serum for aging skin was clinically tested to be non-irritating to the eyes and gluten-free. On top of that, it has no fragrance or even essential oils and comes in glass with a glass dropper.
Related: The Intriguing Story Of Cyclopentasiloxane
Related: Is Natural Fragrance Safe?
Finally, Pure Haven Hyaluronic Acid is a light-weight non-oily serum that contains aloe vera along with hyaluronic acid. It also comes in glass and has organic botanical extracts and one of the safest preservatives, leuconostoc/radish root ferment filtrate.
My Best Picks Among Clean Moisturizer Creams
First, I fell in love with Crunchi Daylight Facial Cream ($10 off 1st purchase) because it is so light and hydrating. Because it uses sodium hyaluronate, it has become a staple of my non-toxic anti-aging beauty routine. Another great hydrating ingredient is sea kelp that helps plump the skin and reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles. It is perfect for very dry skin. I also like the fact that the cream comes in a glass bottle.
Related: Hydrating Face Moisturizer That Works
Second, Crunchi Powerlight Eye Cream ($10 off 1st purchase) contains niacinamide, organic green tea, and hyaluronic acid. It also has vitamin C, squalane, and collagen-stimulating palmitoyl tripeptide-38. Besides, it has no fragrance and no essential oils.
Related: Crunchi Non-Toxic Makeup Reviews: The Good & The Bad
Related: Best Rejuvenating Eye Cream: Is Lancôme Eye Cream The One?
Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Is A Fourth Step In My Non-Toxic Anti-Aging Beauty Routine.
To begin with, sunscreen in your non-toxic skin care is crucial for preventing wrinkles. Indeed, the UVA rays can get through clouds and windows and are even reflected on snow. Therefore, it is a good idea to wear sunscreen everywhere, even at home.
Related: Best Non-Toxic Face Sunscreen Guide
My best pick is SPF30 Crunchi Sunlight Facial Sunscreen ($10 off 1st purchase) with 12.5% non-nano zinc oxide. It has no whitening effect because Crunchi uses non-whitening zinc oxide and many emulsifying ingredients. Plus, it is vegan, gluten-free, fragrance-free, essential oil-free, was tested negative for carcinogenic benzene, and comes in a glass bottle.
Then, there is SPF25 Blissoma Photonic Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen, which also contains 12.5% of non-nano zinc oxide and has practically no whitening effect. Plus, it features niacinamide (vitamin B3) that helps protect the skin from UV light damage and improves skin elasticity. It also reduces blemishes and inflammation (source). Light and non-greasy, Blissoma sunscreen will work well for oily or normal skin. It comes in a glass bottle, too.
Finally, as part of my organic anti-aging skin care routine, I have tried and liked the texture of SPF20 Beauty by Earth Facial Sunscreen (IREAD12). It also uses 12.5% zinc oxide as well as organic botanicals and oils. I like the fact that it contains vitamin C and the way it looks and feels on my skin. However, it is packaged in plastic and has an SPF of only 20.
After My Non-Toxic Skin Care Regimen, I Use Foundation.
To enhance my youthful appearance, I use non-toxic makeup and foundation. In my opinion, a good foundation is one that you do not have to re-apply during the day. It should provide good coverage but feel weightless on your skin and mask the wrinkles. For those with visible wrinkles, it is best to use a foundation with linear silicones, such as dimethicone. They fill fine lines and wrinkles, making them look smaller.
Related: Does Dimethicone Belong In Toxin-Free Makeup?
Honestly, I cannot imagine my non-toxic anti-aging beauty routine without my favorite Crunchi Beautifully Flawless Foundation ($10 off 1st purchase). It is very lightweight and spreads easily, evenly, and smoothly. That bottle will last a very long time – I use less than half a pump to achieve medium coverage! I do not need full coverage because my skin has no blemishes. Also, I use a number 1 brush to achieve flawless application.
Related: The Non-Toxic Foundation That Works So Well
Related: Crunchi Non-Toxic Makeup Reviews: The Good & The Bad
Additionally, Beautycounter Foundation contains only mineral pigments (as opposed to synthetic pigments). This clean foundation has no essential oils and provides medium coverage. For full coverage, Crunchi Beautifully Flawless Foundation is a better choice. Importantly, I do not recommend all Beautycounter foundations because some of them contain phenoxyethanol and/or synthetic pigments.
Related: Phenoxyethanol in Skin Care: Consider This!
Related: My Honest Beautycounter Review
Summary Table Of The Best Anti-Aging Regimen Products
For your convenience, I have assembled all the discussed clean skincare products in the table below and some of their beneficial age defying ingredients (there are others).
| Non-toxic skin care product | Beneficial anti-aging ingredients |
| Beauty by Earth Facial Sunscreen (IREAD12) | Ascorbyl Glucoside (Vitamin C), Zinc Oxide (Non-nano) |
| Beauty by Earth Bakuchiol Collection (IREAD12) | Bakuchiol, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide |
| Beautycounter Foundation | Dimethicone, Sodium Hyaluronate |
| Beautycounter Tripeptide Radiance Serum | Squalane, Bakuchiol, N-Prolyl Palmitoyl Tripeptide-56 Acetate, Sodium Hyaluronate |
| Beautycounter Ultra Renewal Eye Cream | Squalane, Bakuchiol |
| Blissoma Photonic Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen | Zinc Oxide, Niacinamide, Squalane |
| Crunchi Clarilight Facial Essence Toner ($10 off 1st purchase) | Sodium Hyaluronate |
| Crunchi Daylight Facial Cream | Chondrus Crispus (Sea Kelp) Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate |
| Crunchi Gentle Facial Bar | Organic oils |
| Crunchi Beautifully Flawless Foundation | Tremella Fuciformis (Mushroom) Extract, Dimethicone |
| Crunchi Powerlight Eye Cream | Squalane, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C), Organic Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, Niacinamide |
| Crunchi Goldenlight Multi-Peptide Serum | Niacinamide, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, Organic Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract |
| Crunchi Sunlight Facial Sunscreen | Zinc Oxide (non-nano), Sodium Hyaluronate, Squalane |
| Earth Mama Tinted Mineral Sunscreen Stick | Zinc Oxide (non-nano) |
| NYR Rejuvenating Frankincense Toner | Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 |
| Primally Pure Cleansing Oil (ReadLabels10) | Organic Oils |
| Pure Haven Hyaluronic Acid | Sodium Hyaluronate |
| Pure Haven Refresh Cleanser with Pre-Probiotics | Salvia Hispanica Seed Extract (a great source of Omega-3), Pre-Probiotics |
What Are The 3 Most Important Skin Care Products?
If I had to narrow down my non-toxic anti-aging beauty routine to just three steps, I would choose cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection.
Hence, the 3 most important non-toxic skin care products for me would be Pure Haven Refresh Cleanser with Pre-Probiotics, Crunchi Goldenlight Multi-Peptide Serum, and Crunchi Sunlight Facial Sunscreen. (Embedded in the links, $10 off 1st purchase on all Crunchi products.)
Summary Of The Non-Toxic Anti-Aging Beauty Routine Post
To sum up, a non-toxic skin care routine for aging skin is very important, in my opinion. Consequently, my age defying skincare regimen consists of cleansing, toning, moisturization, and sun protection. Afterwards, I apply facial liquid foundation, which helps me look more youthful.
You have learned about several clean skincare product choices for each step in the sections above. At present, my favorite non-toxic beauty products are Crunchi skincare and makeup (embedded in the link, $10 off 1st purchase on all Crunchi products).
Further, I believe some of the best age-defying cosmetic ingredients are hyaluronic acid, peptides, vitamin C, niacinamide, squalane, and bakuchiol (as a plant-based form of vitamin A). Hyaluronic acid is also good for dry skin. For bakuchiol products, check out Beauty by Earth bakuchiol line (IREAD12), Beautycounter Ultra Renewal Eye Cream, and Beautycounter Tripeptide Radiance Serum.
Related: The Best Tips for Skin Care Routine for Dry Skin
Visit the IRLFY shop for more options of safe skincare and personal care products. Check out our e-books, including Your Savvy Consumer Superpower that will teach you how to estimate the safety of a product in seconds! And for our professional services, please turn here.
Download The Free Guide!
5 Powerful Steps To A Non-Toxic Home
Join our informed consumer community and get our free guide the “5 Powerful Steps To A Non-Toxic Home”.
Thank you so much for sharing your routine, Irina!
Can you give more information about the “ice message”? Have you already written about it, or can you provide links to it’s “research”?
I’m intrigued!
Annette
Northern Cali
Hi, Annette: You are right that I normally provide links to scientific research. In this case, it is just my personal observation. The idea is when the skin is stimulated with cold, it grows collagen. I also heard that Hollywood stars pay top dollars for “cold therapy.” ~Irina
Thanks for posting this, Irina! I’m intrigued. I looked into the Badger oil, and I’m wondering if you just wanted an I scented oil or if you think that’s better than the rose oil…? The rose sounds lovely 😊
Hi, Laurie! Yes, the rose is lovely. I tried it. I found that the unscented version is the mildest on the eyes. ~Irina
Thanks!
Hi Irina!
Quick question. I was wondering if you thought it was a good idea for me to start using a retinol product now – or if I should wait until after I’ve had children? I know it needs to be avoided during pregnancy and nursing but I haven’t pursued children yet ( though I hope that stage of my life isn’t too far way). I’m leaning towards waiting, and if you agree, do you recommend any retinol alternatives to help keep my skin youthful in the meantime? <3 Thank you!!
Hi, Tara: thank you for asking. Vitamin A skin care products are not recommended during pregnancy because the excess of vitamin A can potentially harm the baby. What would constitute the excess for you should be individually considered. With this said, generally speaking, whatever you believe can harm fetus should be discontinued at least 3 months prior to pregnancy. However, you should double-check that with your doctor. ~Irina
Thank you for the write-up! I’m wondering if you have reviewed this retinol serum from Maya Chia and what you think…
🙂
Hi, Julia: we can’t talk about in a consultation or the Savvy Consumer Circle: https://ireadlabelsforyou.teachable.com/p/savvy-consumer-circle ~Irina
Thanks for this article! I’m wondering if you re-apply sun protection throughout the day, and if so, if it’s necessary to wash your face beforehand so that you’re putting too many layers of product on your skin?
I don’t reapply, Clare. ~Irina
Hi Irina, I wonder if you’ve ever looked at Environ products. The entire line established by a dermatologist is predicated in efficacy of Vitamin A. Some products of their line are cleaner than others but this would be a great brand to research and vet as a powerhouse like that includes in one product (cquence) vitamin A, vitamin C and peptides so no need to use multiple products. Just something to consider. Thanks for your research and work to publish this information!
Hi, Sharon: Generally speaking, I don’t like companies that don’t disclose ingredients on the website. If you join the Savvy Consumer Circle as part of the service, I can look at the ingredients of any products of your choice (given that you can provide the ingredients.) Thank you. ~Irina
Do you need a serum and a moisturizer? I have extremely sensitive skin. I have been on your site for hours and hours. I am going to purchase some products, but I want to make sure I purchase exactly what I need.
Thank you for booking a consultation, Gray. ~Irina
Hello I joust found your site and insta and I’m loving these posts.
I want to begin using retinal but cannot spend the money on the one you suggested, do you recommend any others at a lower price point?
Jessica
Hi, Jessica: I am sorry I tried but it looks all skincare products with beneficial and safe ingredients are not cheap. The good news is that the products last a long time because you just need a drop. ~Irina
Thanks for this article! I’m very interested in your website and information you have been provided. I’m wondering if you explain a little more about your skincare routine. As an example, in the morning and night what products do you use for your skin and what is their order. Thanks, Irina!
Hi, Fereshteh: Thank you for asking. I changed it up a bit especially because I get curious to try new products. But right now I do the following routine. Morning: 1. Silk Therapeutics cleanser; 2. Neal’s Yard Remedies cream and eye cream; 3. Crunchi sunscreen. 4. Sometimes Crunchi foundation. Evening: Silk Therapeutics cleanser; 2. Marie Veronique retinol serum. Does it help? ~Irina
I followed your recommendations but feel like maybe I bought too many products! Can you give me your advice?
For the evening, I bought an oil cleanser, retinol serum, hyaluronic acid, night oil, eye cream, and crunchi night cream/moisturizer, and the weekly exfoliator mask. I feel like a maybe have too many?
For the day, I have an oil cleanser, hyaluronic acid, crunchi day cream, eye cream, and blissoma sunscreen.
I really like all of the products you recommended but wondering if it’s overkill. What do you think?
Hi, Jana: I would say hyaluronic acid is not needed for the day because Crunchi daylight has a good amount of hyaluronic acid already. I hope you’re enjoying the products. Let us know how you like the products. ~Irina
Hi Irina,
I just purchased several items through your links.
I’m plan on having the same routine as you posted in a few comments above (just including the serum from NYR’s Intense kit too).
Would I need a moisturiser after Marie Veronique retinol serum at night?
Hi, Brianne: I don’t think you need Marie Veronique retinol serum. NYR products are really wonderful. When did you make your purchase of NYR products? ~Irina
Hi Irina. Can you tell me which of the products you listed from you skincare regimen aren’t safe for breastfeeding? I’m currently breastfeeding but need to buy a while new array of skincare products. Thanks
Hi, Helen: you can see a list of essential oils to avoid in pregnancy and breasfeeding here: https://ireadlabelsforyou.com/safe-shampoo-for-pregnancy-step-by-step-guide/ ~Irina
Also. Would you use either the moisturizing serum or cream or both? Thanks
Hi, Helen: It depends on your skin demands. ~Irina
Hi Irina,
Thanks for all of your work! I’ve appreciated several of your ebooks. Both Silk Therapeutics C advance serum and Neal’s Yard Frankincense intense lift serum look great – but we wouldn’t want to use both at once, correct? Trying to decide if the vitamin C or peptides are better. I would also like to use the Marie Veronique C, E, ferulic antioxidant serum. Would you use an anti-aging serum at one time of day (e.g. morning) and the anti-oxidant serum at another (e.g. evening) or at the same time? And are these three products safe if I am breastfeeding?
Thank you!
Hi, Anika: I know this is so hard to decide, even for me. They are all great products. I change up my skincare routine. And yes, you can use some products for your morning and others at night. Currently, I use Neal’s Yard Intense Lift products in a morning. I also like Neal’s Yard Remedies especially becuase their extracts and oils are organic. By the way, I like Neal’s Yard Intense Lift cream better than serum because it is easier to dispense and apply the cream. You can read more about the brand here. My doctor reviewed the post for medical accuracy, too. If you have to decide between peptides and vitamin C, I think peptides are more beneficial. As for breastfeeding, all these products are void of the many potentially harmful ingredients found in most conventional products. However, if you have any specific ingredient questions or concerns with use during breastfeeding please consult with your healthcare provider prior to use. Does it help? ~Irina
Thank you Irina! Yes, that’s very helpful. Oh and is there a good alternative to a retinoid while I’m breastfeeding?
Hello, Anika! We appreciate your interest! Irina will be happy to help you with your question in a private consultation: https://ireadlabelsforyou.com/services/
Hi Irina,
This is a fabulous post! I have very sensitive skin, so I’d like to add one product at a time. I only wash my face at night, so think I’ll start with some kind of moisturizer. (Then I just put sunscreen over it on the morning.) I’ve been using Osmia Organics Purely Simple Face Cream, but it’s not doin’ much for me. I’m in my mid-thirties with an eye toward anti-aging. If you could recommend one product to start, what would it be? Many thanks!
Warmly,
Carina
Hi, Carina: I used to use Osmia Organics too and was not impressed. Great idea about adding one product at a time. Hydrating is key in your case. I would start with Crunchi Daylight cream, which is super hydrating but light, absorbent, and non-greasy. And Crunchi is having a sale on it right now. Check it out here: https://www.crunchi.com/get-crunchi/daylight-facial-cream?a=irinawebb
When you become my Crunchi client, we can talk more about your next steps at no charge. ~Irina
Thanks Irina! Yes, I’d actually like to order some other Crunchi products and would like advice. What’s the best way to connect with questions/become your client?
I’m also curious to know why you’d go for the Daylight Cream versus the Night Light Cream. I’ll be using it at night but not washing my face in the morning, so perhaps that’s why? I also have fairly dry skin. Thanks again.
It was fun to connect with you, Carina! ~Irina
Hi Irina! Thank you for all the info for skincare! I have read lots of your articles and want to order a couple things. My daughter is 21 and seems to struggle with acne and small break outs on the lower part of her face and maybe some rosacea. I would say she has oily skin. She uses crunchi charcoal soap and not sure it helps? What are some simple things you would suggest for sunscreen and a moisturizer? Anything that is 2 in 1 that is clean? I know she/we could try the crunchi sunscreen- but looking for 2 in 1.
What about a serum like Vit C. At this age does she need it? And with having acne would that make it worse? We have read your articles but can’t decide beat place to start for her. Thanks
hi Claire! We appreciate your interest! Irina will be happy to help you with your question in a private consultation: https://ireadlabelsforyou.com/services/
Thank you for this informative post. Have you every looked at The Ordinary?
Hi, Lindsay! Thank you for reaching out to I Read Labels for You! You are very welcome! We are happy to be helpful! As for The Ordinary, we haven’t looked at this brand in depth; however, I’ve just given a quick look at the ingredients of two of their skincare products and one hair product and spotted some ingredients that we do not consider safe. I hope this helps!
Thank you! Any resources for Canada for this skin routine? Or even any resource that you would have for Canada, not just skincare products.
Hi, Alina! Thank you for reaching out to I Read Labels for You! Yes, there is a way out for Canada – it is iHerb, a retail company that sells in 186 countries, including Canada. If you shop at iHerb through our link, you will get $5 off your first order and 5% off your repeat orders. You can just use our link to enter the iHerb website and then look for any other product there and still get these discounts. Check out our iHerb Guide here: https://ireadlabelsforyou.com/product/best-brands-sold-on-iherb-website/ Note: being on iHerb does not make a product automatically safe. If you find a product that we do not mention in our guide, and you are not sure about its safety, you can take advantage of our email product review service: https://ireadlabelsforyou.com/pick-brain-product/ We hope this helps!
Hello Irina,
Thank you for this! I was wondering how your morning and nighttime routines differ. Do you do the same routine in the evening minus the sunscreen and foundation, that is are you using peptides both AM and PM? And do you cleanse in the morning? I have been, but I feel bad washing off my peptides from overnight (ferulic and C serum by Marie Veronique)!
Hello Annie, thank you for reaching out to I Read Labels for You! We consider cleansing important both in the AM and PM. As for peptides, they penetrate into the skin and do their job in the night time, so there is no need to worry about washing them away, especially if you are using a day cream with peptides, too.
Hello Irina,
Have you ever reviewed or tested Dr. Hauschka products?
Thank you,
Emily
Hello Emily,
Thank you for reaching out to I Read Labels For You! We haven’t reviewed Dr. Hauschka’s, but I have just looked at several skin care products, and they all contain fragrance. To know our opinion on fragrance, please refer to our post Is Natural Fragrance Safe?.
Thank you.
Hello Irina:
I am enjoying reading the articles on Crunchi. I need to purchase some new skincare products. I was using Beautycounter, but my skin is still so dry. I also want to purchase some make-up which I have not used in years. However, I need to avoid soy, flax seed, etc for health reasons. I do not see those ingredients listed for Crunchi. Does that mean Crunchi is soy free?
Thank you,
Monica
Hello Monica:
Crunchi answers the question about soy in their FAQ section.
Thank you,
IRLFY