Use This, Not That: Current Natural Skincare Routine

This year I finally decided replace all of my skincare, haircare, makeup and body products to ones that are natural and/or organic. I have always preferred natural products, especially for skincare but let's be honest, they are a lot more expensive than a bottle of Neutrogena face wash. Since the beginning of the year I had begun to phase out all of my old products containing sulfates, parabens, chemicals and any products with ingredients I could not identify. I have officially replaced everything with natural alternatives and let me tell you, it was not so easy, especially when I realized I will most likely not be shopping at Sephora anymore.

This will be my first "Use This, Not That" post to outline which products I am now using. I will also be posting some DIY skincare "recipes" and even keep an eye out for some vegetarian recipes, as I have been experimenting with cooking quite a bit lately.

Here is a breakdown of what products I used to use and what natural products have replaced them.

Face Wash

What I was using before: Cetaphil Cleanser
What I have replaced it with: Michael Todd True Organics Honey & Oat Cleanser , Full Size $22

 The Honey & oat cleanser is really a favorite of mine. I have a full size and travel size so I can have it at all times. It is extremely gentle on sensitive skin, foams and removes makeup easily. What I love most about it is the fresh, orange scent.

Toner/Facial Spray

What I was using before : Burt's Bees Rose Water Toner- Which is natural and I still love! But since I ran out I wanted to try something new
What I have replaced it with: Heritage Store Lavender Water & Glycerin , 8 oz $8.99 (but you can get it on Vitacost at a discount! This is my referral link to get $10 off your first Vitacost order!
The lavender facial spray is calming and relaxing. I like to use it in the morning before I leave the house, as well as before and after yoga class. Oh, and take a look at their ingredients and tell me you're not intrigued!
Ingredients: Vor-mag Water (water that has been vortexed and magnetized to raise the energy to a higher vibration that we believe to be more beneficial), Vegetable Glycerin (USP Kosher) and Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil.

Face Serum

What I was using before: Origins Mega Bright
What I have replaced it with: Shea Terra Organics Rose Hips & Carrot Perfecting Serum, $32
This is a serum and moisturizer for me. It's perfect for cold or warm weather and repairs damaged skin and improves acne.

Face Mask

What I was using before: Murad Pomegranate Exfoliating Mask
What I have replaced it with: Shea Terra Organics Baobob & Coconut Water Dull Skin Face Masque, $24
I have to be honest, I bought this because of the packaging and how unusual it sounded. The product is in a glass bottle with a cork stopper (although now that I look at the website it seems they have changed the packaging recently). The product is in powder form and you mix with a little bit of water to form a liquid paste. It really does work and makes your face look glowy.


Are there any natural skincare products you love or think I should try? Share with me in the comments :)