Ok, we know it’s the most cliché saying in the month of December, but where did this year go? We can’t believe the holidays are here! It’s time for sweater weather, gift giving, and starting to mentally prepare for another bright, and shiny New Year just around the corner.
First and foremost, we are both so grateful to have had the opportunity to continue to build the Soap on Skin community in 2018. We’ve had almost 1,000 new friends follow along with us as we discover, discuss, and learn more about the importance of green beauty and wellness. We can’t wait to see what 2019 has in store, and connect with all the beautiful people out there we have yet to meet. (PS, if you’re new to the #SOSFam, click here to learn a little bit more about who we are!)
With that said, we know there’s a lot going on this time of year. Maybe you’re on the hunt for a last minute gift idea, passing along a wish list, or you just want to treat yourself (mental note: you deserve it!). Whatever it is, we thought it’s the perfect opportunity to do a 2018 round up. A list of our tried and true products from the year, that will *definitely* be kept on rotation for 2019…
FOR THE FACE
Make-up Removing Cleansing Oil by Wildcraft
This is an absolute must-have for those who hate the makeup removal process. The calming honey and chamomile solution soothes your face as you rub gently to remove grime and makeup at the end of a long day. We both love, love, love this.
Invigorating + Balancing Toner by Province Apothecary
There’s nothing more refreshing than a good face mist. We love everything Province Apothecary, and new reformulated toner is great for all skin types. It also does not disappoint in the scent department.
Face Food Mineral Mist by Graydon
If you tend to feel sensitive to scent - this is a great option. Mineral rich, with ingredients like Zinc and Silver to aid in breakout causing bacteria; it’s an interesting concept for a toner. Also, nice for setting makeup!
After having the opportunity to meet some of the team behind Wildcraft at the Truth Beauty Talk earlier this year, it’s clear how much love and genuine care is put into each product. This serum is rich in nutrients, glides beautifully onto the skin, and absorbs quickly - no greasy residue!
Formulated to “correct + protect”, this serum’s key ingredients include blue tansy (an anti-pollution complex), hylaronic acid, and Vitamin C among others to protect your skin from pollutants, and keep inflammation at bay.
FOR THE BOD
With a base of bamboo and activated charcoal, this unique deodorant works to eliminate scent by using the porous ingredient to draw out odor-causing bacteria, and literally “detox” your underarms. The scent is also so refreshing and unique, totally different to any other deodorant we’ve tried.
A multi-purpose, unisex moisturizer; Egyptian Magic heals chapped lips, dry cuticles, and sunburn. Use it as an eye cream, or to smooth frizzy ends - this is a no brainer stocking stuffer for anyone on your list. Also comes in a super cute mini size for travel!
The Hand Cream by Smith Farms Skincare
Perfect for your night table, this Smith Farms hand cream is filled with vitamins and ingredients like castor oil, which leaves no sticky feeling behind. This is one of the most generous amounts of product we’ve seen in hand cream before, no skimping here!
Citrus Mint Body Wash by Epic Blend
After sampling the travel version of the Epic Blends body wash - we were hooked. Filled with skin soothing ingredients, and herbal extracts for scent - this body wash leaves your skin super nourished and the lovely scents lingers, without being overpowering.
FOR THE GLOW UP
The Multi Stick by Vapour Cosmetics
A blend of Vitamin E + Shea Butter for moisture, there’s nothing like a multi-stick for an effortless wash of colour. Use it on your cheeks for day, or take it monochromatic on eyes, lips and cheeks for a cool evening look.
A staple for every newbie to the green space of beauty. Warm up with your fingers and apply to the high points of your face. No sticky, greasy, or “glittery” feel - it leaves you with a luminosity that’s hard to find in any highlighter.
Like lip gloss but not the sticky feeling? Clove+Hallow’s lip glaze offers a perfect amount of colour, that stays put. Available in 6 shades, from nudes to bright pinks - this is a great every day lip option that won’t dry you out the way a matte lipstick tends to.
THE REST OF IT
TruMarine Collagen by WithinUs Naturals
This is the easiest way to add protein and nutrients to any smoothie, coffee or matcha drink! Collagen production dramatically decreases internally come age 25, so trying out a supplement like this can be super beneficial to your body’s bone, skin, and general health. Don’t let the marine name spook you – it’s tasteless. No fishy lattes here!
Together Eau de Parfum by Pour Le Monde
Scent is definitely one of the hardest things out there to find a natural alternative for. This fragrance from Pour Le Monde leaves you with a beautiful grounded scent – featuring a base of woodsy blends and vanilla, with top notes of citrus and bergamot. Each purchase also supports Gilda’s Club, a cancer support community project.
This kind of reminds us of that minty flavoured lip gloss you used to wear in middle school…in the best way possible. Slather on anytime – over makeup, or bare lips to keep hydrated and supple.
Coconut Oil by Conscious Coconut
As we know, coconut oil tends to come in a giant tub – which is nice but tends to be rather inconvenient. The Conscious Coconut comes in a tube, which makes life easier. Holly used this for easy access oil pulling, while Sofia used it for lazy eye makeup removal. *Squeeze* and go.