To Retinol or not to Retinol, that is the question!

The use of retinol is a little controversial in the clean beauty industry yet it is an ingredient in high demand. When something is said to powerfully slow the signs of aging, rejuvenate your skin AND reduce your acne breakouts, it definitely catches your attention too, right!? So why the difference of opinion? Are there alternatives?

“It is highly antioxidant and therefor, is one of the most anti-aging ingredients!”

What is Retinol?

Retinol, as well as other retinoids, such as retinoic acid and retinyl palmitate, is a synthetic form of vitamin A. The retinol is isolated from the vitamin and often derived from animals. It is highly antioxidant and therefor, is one of the most anti-aging ingredients! Retinol is used in skincare to boost skin elasticity, brighten complextion, stimulate collagen production and increase cell turnover, aka, a strong skin regenerator!

“It’s toxicity rating is 9 out of 10 on EWG and 6 out of 10 on Think Dirty!”

Is it considered unsafe?

Skin regeneration is necessary, but retinol does it at a speed so fast that it can cause side effects such as redness, itchiness, dryness and sometimes even make your skin peel and become flaky. It is also a very unstable meaning that it’s potency decreases the moment your product is in contact with air, heat or light. It oxidizes quickly and becomes of no benefit to your skin. It’s toxicity rating is 9 out of 10 on EWG and 6 out of 10 on Think Dirty! (EWG stands for the Environmental Working Group, rating ingredients based on toxicity levels. Think Dirty is also another amazing similar app.) Retinol rates this high because it is linked to developmental and reproductive toxicity. To me, “linked” means it would be safer to restrain it’s usage. But to each their own interpretation :)

“Both of these options are potent antioxidants, gentle on the skin and it’s microbiom and are considered to be great plant-based retinol alternatives.”

There are natural alternatives!

YES!! Vitamin A is also made of carotenoids and is naturally found in great amounts in many plant oils such as rosehip, sea buckthorn and carrot seed oils. Products containing carotenoids, especially beta-carotenes, will have similar anti-aging properties as retinoids. Bakuchiol is also another option and it’s really hot right now! It is extracted from the Psoralea corylifolia plant and has very similar properties as retinol does. Both of these options are potent antioxidants, gentle on the skin and it’s microbiom and are considered to be great plant-based retinol alternatives.

TRUE BOTANICALS’ PHYTO-RETINOL VITAMIN A BOOSTER

TB’s new baby! This retinol alternative is a Provitamin A Carotenoids derived directly from plants. When applied, your skin transforms the Provitamin into it’s own retinoic acid. It is gentle and microbiome friendly. The individual capsules keep each dose extra fresh and potent to deliver the maximum benefits to your skin! This product fights fine lines, breakouts, dark spots and uneven skin tone.

** True Botanicals offers you 15% off with code “KIMKLEAN”, click here to redeem the offer!

HERBIVORE BOTANICALS BAKUCHIOL RETINOL ALTERNATIVE SERUM

The jelly-like water-based serum is made with bakuchiol to prevent the signs of aging. It is gentle enough for most sensitive skin and it’s smooth texture pairs well with your face tools like your gua sha for example. This product targets dullness, fine lines and dryness. You should also try their new Moon Fruit Retinol Alternative Sleep Mask!

The alternatives to retinoids are definitely my go-to as they are non-toxic and kind to your skin. The results are slower to appear but your skin will be nourished and will definitely thank you! If you really want to use retinoids, start slowly. Use it at night so the sun doesn’t oxidize it and make sure you use a great moisturizer to reduce the risks of side effects. And why not alternating between retinol and bakuchiol every other night?!

Kim xxx

Adaptogenic Magic

Adaptogens… here’s a word you’ve most likely come across frequently on wellness blogs. A word that seems familiar yet maybe leaves you feeling like a deer in headlights? What the heck are adaptogens?! Well, simply put, adaptogens are plants and herbs that help your body adapt to modern life stressors. Let’s dig a little deeper!

“In today’s world, your phone, your boss, the traffic on your way to work, etc. can create this never-ending impression of “danger” and make your adrenal gland secrete too much cortisol.”

Adaptogens have an effect on the release of cortisol, the stress hormone that puts your body into fight or flight mode. Cortisol is very important in life or death situations, but when your body constantly feels threatened, your immune system starts to go down. In today’s world, your phone, your boss, the traffic on your way to work, etc. can create this never-ending impression of “danger” and make your adrenal gland secrete too much cortisol. This is where adaptogens intervene! There are two main types of adaptogens. The ones that calm you, help you relax after an intense work day and ease into a restful night. The ones that give you energy, help you focus and accomplish the tasks at hand.

“This superfood promotes positive energy and even helps with PMS and menopause!”

ENERGIZING

Ginseng is a root that has the wonderful ability to improve stamina as well as mental and emotional stress. Ginseng is one of the most famous Chinese herbs used as a tonic, a stimulant and even as a male aphrodisiac! Ginseng is a promoter of vitality!

Chaga, or “Diamond Of The Forest”, is a mushroom that, unlike most mushrooms, grows on living trees making it dense in nutrients. It is known to be rich in antioxidants, to support your immune system and your overall well-being. This superfood is a tonic, simulates brain functions and eases anxiety making it the perfect adaptogen to help you remain focused throughout the day.

Maca is a Peruvian root that provides sustained energy throughout the day. It is famously known to increase libido for both men and women. This superfood promotes positive energy and even helps with PMS and menopause! All around, it is a tonic, a hormone balancer and an aphrodisiac… SOLD!!

“It is used to help combat anxiety and chronic stress.”

CALMING

Ashwagandha is used a lot in Ayurveda (an ancient Indian medical system) and is considered the “Indian ginseng”. Ashwagandha is a tonic, it strengthens the nerves and is a mild sedative promoting a restful night. It is used to help combat anxiety and chronic stress. Some studies show that ashwagandha may also play a role in male fertility.

Reishi is another mushroom, very similar to Chaga, but offers a more calming effect to the body. It helps you manage stress and anxiety and improves your mood and well-being. At the same time, Reishi nourishes the brain and helps you stay focused. It is packed with antioxidants and supports a healthy immune system.

“Three Spirit […] specializes in functional non-alcoholic cocktails to give you the energy to be the life of the party or to help you unwind and relax at the end of the day.”

Powders and supplements are the most common ways to add adaptogens to your lifestyle. Moon Juice has MANY different types of adaptogenic “DUST” and capsules to enhance your mood, your energy levels, your brain functions, your sleep, your libido and much more!

Teas and infusions are also a great way to incorportate adaptogens. *Pique Life’s Chaga Energy Elixir is one of my favorite. It also contains ginseng, has an earthy and sweet taste and is triple toxin screened for maximal purity! It provides a calm energy, helps with focus and supports your immune system. Coffee alternatives are also very popular. MUD\WTR keeps the brain fog and jitters away and replaces them with a focused energy. Many other adaptogenic beverages are on the market these days. Recess, for example, is an adaptogen infused sparkling water brand. You also have Three Spirit that specializes in functional non-alcoholic cocktails to give you the energy to be the life of the party or to help you unwind and relax at the end of the day.

“The beauty world loves adaptogens too! They have the same benefits for your skin as for your body.”

The beauty world loves adaptogens too! They have the same benefits for your skin as for your body. They calm inflamed and irritated skin, reduce redness and swelling and brighten your complexion with their antioxidants. Youth To The People's Adaptogen Soothe + Hydrate Activated Mist and Biophile's Bio-Shroom Rejuvenating Serum are the perfect adaptogenic duo for the face. Your skin becomes smooth and radiant!

All in all, adaptogens are here to support you. Their purpose is to make your life easy and stress free. Whether your calming ritual is sipping on a cup of hot tea or applying your skincare routine, the results can be amplified with adaptogens. The options are plentiful! So enjoy!

Kim

xoxo

*Pique Life offers you 5% off sitewide with code “KIMKLEAN”. Enjoy!

Holiday (sales!) Gift Guide.

November, especially Black Friday and Cyber Monday, is packed with the best deals of the year! It’s the perfect time to shop for the holidays that are rapidly approaching . Oh do I have great ideas for you and your loved ones!

“[…] what if your tea could be the gift of radiant skin, clean energy and healthy immune support?!”

The holidays/winter rime with warm and cozy. There is nothing warmer and cozier than a delicious cup of hot tea! And what if your tea could be the gift of radiant skin, clean energy and healthy immune support?! Pique Tea has the most incredible teas, triple screened for toxins making them the purest and the tastiest teas! They are famous for their Organic Sun Goddess Matcha. Pique is having their ONLY sale of the year from 11/25 to 11/29. Enjoy 20% OFF SITE WIDE when using code BFCM20. For a limited amount of time, goodies also come with your purchase!

“It’s the gift that keeps on giving!”

If you are a fanatic of clean beauty - like me! -, The Detox Market has THE perfect gift for you! Every year, they curate a special box holding the top rated clean products and this year’s box does not disappoint! The 2021 Best of Green Beauty box, valued at $309 ($408 CAD), is going for $149 ($199 CAD) only and stars goodies from OSEA, Pai, Herbivore and so many more! Trust me when I say that anyone opening this box feels like a kid in a candy store! The Detox Market also has the best beauty subscription box, The Detox Box. Every month, you get to try new products and discover a new clean brand at a well discounted price. It’s the gift that keeps on giving! * click here to access The Detox Market Canada.

“Sakara is also celebrating with some fun holiday treats […]”

I am a fan of Sakara’s clean boutique products! Starting my day with the Water Drops and the Metabolism Super Powder has had an impact on my skin and my energy. Sakara is a nutrient rich plant-based meal delivery program. From now until 11/29, they are offering 25% OFF the ENTIRE site! Yes! Simply use the code XOKIMKLEAN-BF21 when checking out. This once-a-year event is the perfect opportunity to restock on your favs or to try Sakara for the 1st time. Sakara is also celebrating with some fun holiday treats like The Morning Ritual Collection, a special Coconut Praline Granola and a Manifestation Candle, all available for a limited time only!

“What a wonderful way to start the day, full of love, positivity, motivation and wisdom!”

One of the best gifts I’ve received was from my mom, the Q&A a Day-5 Year Journal. Everyday day, you answer a simple question about your thoughts, feelings, ambitions, things you like etc. Every year, you get the same question on that specific day and get to see how your answers change! It depicts the Law of Impermanence perfectly. 5 years seems like quite the commitment at first, but this book shows you how much you grow and evolve in a year. THIS year, I will treat myself to the Soulwork Planner by The Mantra Co. It is a “balanced mix of a planner and journal […] to guide and support personal transformation and growth.” What a wonderful way to start the day, full of love, positivity, motivation and wisdom!

I hope this list has inspired some great and unique ideas to surprise a loved one or to add to your own list. Wishing a happy, loving and joyful holiday season to you and those you cherish.

With much love,

Kim

Other sales you won’t want to miss during Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

• Enjoy 20%-30% off True Botanicals, skincare loved by Brooke Shields, Olivia Wilde and Laura Dern now through 11/29.

• Enjoy 50% off a year subscription to The Sculpt Society, the BEST at home workouts!

• Enjoy 25% off Act + Acre and get a FREE scalp gua sha (on orders of $70+) now through 11/29.

• The Detox Market offers $15 off orders of $100, $30 off orders of $200 plus a gift from Pai, $80 off orders of $400 plus two gifts from Pai. Enjoy this deal from 11/23 until 11/28. * click here to acess The Detox Market Canada.

• Enjoy 30% off my favorite waterproof jewelry brand, Hey Harper, when using code “HEYKIM” now until Nov. 30th.

Fall Beauty

Autumn is here! And I am here to suggest a few adjustments to your skincare rituals in order to keep your skin healthy during this change of season. Mornings are getting cooler, evenings smell like fire place. Trees are changing colors, we are changing our wardrobe and it is important to adapt our beauty rituals to the new season! Despite the temperature dropping, there a few tips to help maintain a beautiful and healthy skin! Say goodbye — for now! — to your hydrating gels and hello to creams, serums and maybe even oils.

“I think this is one of the biggest misconceptions out there.”

First things first, do NOT over cleanse! I think this is one of the biggest misconceptions out there. Your sebaceous glands produce sebum, an oil-like substance that protects your skin barrier. Washing your face too much can irritate your skin barrier and therefor creates inflammation that may be aggravated by the cold fall days. Cleansing well at night and simply rinsing with lukewarm water in the morning should be plenty. Strong and aggressive cleansers can also cause damage to your skin barrier. Fall is a good time to switch to a gentler cleanser like an oil based cleanser that will keep your skin supple and smooth.

“Each step of your skincare routine has it’s order and it’s purpose”

The secret to glowing skin is well hydrated skin. It’s time for mists and serums! Each step of your skincare routine has its order and its purpose. Mists or, toners, are applied directly on cleansed skin. Mists soothe, hydrate and tone your skin. Adding a serum to your ritual —ideally a water based serum— is ideal to quench thirsty skin. Serums nourish and protect your skin. Follow it up with a cream. Creams usually contain a higher amount of oils and waxes than lotions and are of richer consistency. During the colder months, creams nourish and protect your skin more effectively than lotions would. Finally, you can add a few drops of face oil to your routine. Fun Fact! Face oils do not combat dryness. Instead, they act as an occlusive agent, locking in all the moisture introduced to your skin by the mists, serums and creams. That’s why your face oil should be the last step of your skincare routine!

“By keeping the humidity levels up, you help your skin keep its fresh, youthful glow that we all love in the summer”

Your environment also has an impact on your skin. By keeping the humidity levels up, you help your skin keep its fresh, youthful glow that we all love in the summer. Hey Dewy is a humidifier specifically made to complement your skincare ritual. It is portable so you can carry it from the side table, to your office, even to your car and have dewy skin all day, all year round. Keeping a humidifier close to your bed at night is also a game changer! Personally, I just love adding a few drops essential oils in it before bedtime. Lavender and Bergamot are some of my go-to as they are both skin nourishing, hydrating and promote good sleep. And the scent is just amazing!

Between the cold, the heaters and the humidity levels dropping, the air surrounding us is dry and dehydrating for our skin. Little changes to our daily habits can make a huge difference. Say goodbye — for good!! — to dryness and itchiness and hellooo gorgeous moisturized and supple skin!

Love & Light ✨

Kim

* You can enjoy -15% off all True Botanicals products with my code “KIMKLEAN”.