#1 Facial Cleansing Brushes
Facial cleansing brushes have two main benefits: they keep pores clean on a daily basis and they are great for circulation. Increased circulation helps boost lymphatic drainage, which helps decrease congestion and puffiness in your skin. Our favorite natural pick: Soniclear Elite Antimicrobial Facial Skin Cleansing Brush System, $134.95
#2 Skin Essences
Originating in Japan, these toner-like liquids are formulated to give skin a hefty dose of moisture and anti-aging benefits. Unlike traditional toners, essences are alcohol-free, which means that your skin can drink in he hydration instead of being robbed of it. In addition, skin essences are formulated to target wrinkles, fine lines and dull skin. Our favorite natural pick: Tata Harper Natural Floral Essence, $68
#3 No Make-up, Make-up
Yes, it’s a total oxymoron! This trend involves using products like highlighters and bronzers with the goal of appearing like you are not wearing any make-up at all. While this trend is a huge departure from the “done-up” makeup trend from a few years ago, it still gives women the message that they need make-up to look beautiful. We disagree with this message and believe that you CAN look gorgeous with no makeup! A natural, make-up free glow is best produced by giving your skin the nourishment and TLC it needs in order to shine its brightest. Start with a gentle cleanser mixed with ½ tsp of baking soda. This mixture naturally helps exfoliate and slough away dead skin cells, bringing to the surface a fresh new batch of healthy, glowing skin cells. Finish, with a few drops of facial oil (we love argan, marula and tamanu) and viola- no make-up needed!
#4 Fancy Masks
These days facial masks are no longer the simple, straightforward formulations that once dominated this category. Now you can choose from a slew of ultra trendy masks including sheet masks, bubble masks and splash masks. In addition, modern day masks are loaded with trendy ingredients such as spinach, spirulina and acai. Here are cliff notes on just a few of these fancy masks:
Bubble Masks: A trend that originated in Korea (but, of course!), these masks bubble up when exposed to oxygen. This bubbling action helps deeply cleanse pores, making it easier for your skin to be penetrated by the masks active ingredients. Our favorite natural pick: The Best 100% Natural Bubble Clay Mask, $8.50
Sheet Masks: Disposable, single use, serum-infused sheets that are conveniently pre-cut into the shape of a face, including cut outs for your eyes, nose and mouth. These masks instantly brighten, hydrate and refresh skin and are available in a huge variety of individually wrapped packages. Our favorite natural pick: Whamisa Organic Sea Kelp Facial Sheet Mask, $14
Spalsh Masks: Patting a splash mask into your skin can give your complexion the same glow as the 20+ minute traditional Korean rice-water ritual that it was inspired by. Splash masks are thin and watery and contain a concentrated blend of antioxidants, exfoliating natural acids and moisturizers. Our favorite natural pick: Blithe Soothing and Healing Green Tea Splash Mask, $45
