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
Intimate Pleasures
We have been hydrating our face and our body, conditioning our hair, our lips, even our nails since we were teenagers. How have we been skipping the most sensitive area of our body this whole time!? Our intimacy. Here are some wonderful brands (and tips) focused on making you feel satisfied, solo or with a partner, for a sweet and pleasurable new year.
“Their products are meant to keep you happy and comfy “down there”.”
Lady Suite - intimate care.
Lady Suite is the first line of intimate skincare I was introduced to. And I can not live without it! Their products are meant to keep you happy and comfy “down there”. Their line showcases three products only and this is all you need! The Probiotic Refreshing Cleanser, meant to gently cleanse and support a healthy pH balance. The Glow Refiner, an exfoliating spray that helps keep your skin smooth and eliminates ingrown hair sometimes caused by shaving or waxing. And, finally, MY FAVORITE, the Rejuvenating Botanical Oil. This lightly, naturally scented oil moisturizes, soothes, softens and helps prevent ingrown hair.
#KimKLEANapproved #cleanbeauty
“Lioness is the first “intelligent” sex toy that collects data on your orgasms.”
Lioness - explore your body.
This is where technology meets sexuality! Lioness is the first “intelligent” sex toy that collects data on your orgasms. Yep! You read it right! Lioness connects to your phone after your sexy sessions and shows you a diagram of your pelvic pulsations and orgasms. When did you climax? How many times did you climax? How long did your orgasm(s) last for? What type of orgasm do you experience? Explosion? Avalanche? Why not experiment and really get to know your body? Lioness encourages you to take some notes in the app after each session. For example, how did you sleep today? Are you stressed? Did you go for a run? Did you just have a coffee, a glass of wine, eat chocolate? The more specific you are, the more you can understand what really makes YOU tick.
Lioness is offering you $20 off when using the code “KIMKLEAN” . Click here to redeem your offer.
“Designed for the adventurous ones, these gummies are made with a wee bit of THC to stimulate your libido and creativity!”
Flora + Bast - intensify your experience.
Here is a lovely full-spectrum CBD brand that offers remedies for the mind, skin, body and - you guessed it! - intimacy. Their oil, APHRODISIA, intensifies sensations, pleasure and sexual energy. It contains 300mg of CBD as well as 300mg of CBG and can be used topically as an arousing lubricant or orally to reduce stress and encourage a more satisfying experience.
Their gummies SEX & CANDY are made for everyone, but thought of for women. Designed for the adventurous ones, these gummies are made with a wee bit of THC to stimulate your libido and creativity!
SUGGESTION! Test the effect that your oil and your gummies really have on you by collecting data with your Lioness?! HOURS OF PLEASURE!!!
Flora + Bast is offering you 20% off the entire site with the code “KIMLOVE”. Click here to redeem your offer.
#KimKLEANapproved #cleanbeauty
“[…] Ohnut allows you to control the depth of penetration, without diminishing your partner’s pleasure […]”
Ohnut - when pleasure for two is sometimes painful.
For some of us, sex can sometimes feel uncomfortable, at times, even painful. OHNUT to the rescue! These colorful little “donuts” are stretchable and feel like skin to the touch. Placed at the base of your partner’s member, Ohnut allows you to control the depth of penetration, without diminishing your partner’s pleasure, resulting in an enjoyable intimate moment for the both of you.
“On top of being comfortable, they are a money saver that help us save our planet!”
Thinx - periods without rules.
Founded in Brooklyn by 3 young women, two of them being from Montreal (proud quebecois moment here!), THINX is THE period underwear that everyone talks about. Goodbye overflowing sanitary pads! The technology used in these revolutionary panties absorbs your flow and keeps you dry. Simply rinse out your undies at the end of the day and throw them in the wash! Did you know that, through a lifetime, each and everyone of us will create 400 pounds of pad and tampon waste? On top of being comfortable, they are a money saver that help us save our planet!
Here’s to feeling fresh and adventurous, dry (or wet!) and satisfied in every single way!
To pleasure, with love,
Kim
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”.
Overnight Metabolism Boosting Superfood Chia Pudding
This chia seeds pudding is my new favorite breakfast! It is so easy to make and perfect for quick mornings on the go.
This brekkie will keep you feeling satiated until lunch and all its deliciousness are super nourishing to your body. The coconut water is full of natural electrolytes that keep you hydrated which is especially important in the morning. The Metabolism Super Powder tastes just like chocolate, activates your metabolism, stabilizes blood sugar and reduces sugar cravings. It also eliminates bloat, gives you energy and helps shed a couple extra pounds. I have a scoop of it every single day either in this pudding, my coffee or in a glass of almond milk. It is so good! Maca Powder is an adaptogen and a natural mood enhancer known for it’s fertility and sex drive properties. Chia Seeds are full of fibers and antioxidants and give you sustained energy making this recipe, your new morning bestie!
INGREDIENTS :
For The Pudding :
1 cup of Coconut Water
1 scoop of Sakara’s *Metabolism Super Powder
1 tsp of Maca Powder
2.5 tbsp of Chia Seeds
2 tbsp of Oats
1 tsp of Maple Syrup or Honey (optional)
For The Toppings :
1/2 a cup of Fresh Fruits. I personally enjoy mango, pineapples and any kind of berries!
Bee Pollen
Pumpkin Seeds or sliced Almonds
Cocoa Nibs
RECIPE :
Mix the Coconut Water, Metabolism Super Powder and the Maca Powder together well.
Add the Chia Seeds, Oats and natural sweetener, stir well and put in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or over night.
When ready to eat, add in all of your favorite toppings.
ENJOY!
* You can enjoy -20% off your 1st Sakara order (e.i. the Metabolism Super Powder) with my code “XOKIMKLEAN”