I receive quite a bit of product to road test each week - it’s certainly a lot to comb through but I love discovering the best products available and then sharing them with you! When I was growing up, my Dad told me I was a marketer’s dream because I always had to try all the “latest and greatest” beauty products. Little did he know that I would eventually make a career out of it!
Read moreIntroducing “The Glow Girl Certified” Best in Clean Beauty
Say hello to “Glow Girl Certified” clean beauty (and wellness)! I created this Best in Clean Beauty list for you as a result of all the requests that have come in asking for my favorite product picks to be housed in one place. These tried and true selections have been thoroughly tested by me personally and help me to look and feel my best. #10yearsyounger. I will keep adding new, highly curated products to the list that I can advocate for, and will update it monthly so you can stay informed of my latest finds. I am so excited to share this information with you, and I hope you find it helpful!
xxMelissa
Click on the links for more info on the product and to order!
*Check out the new starred products added to the list*
SKINCARE
Beauty Pie - Use code MELISSASENTME for $10 off membership
Kora Organics - Use MELISSA15 for 15% off
Voyage et vie - Use code glowgirl15 for 15% off
Masks -
Wander Beauty Baggage Claim Gold Eye Masks
Chok Chok face mask - Use code MELISSA40 for 40% off
KORA Organics Turmeric 2-in-1 Brightening and Exfoliating Mask
Juice Beauty Green Apple Peel Full Strength Exfoliating Mask
Face Tools -
KORA Organics Rose Quartz Heart Facial Gua Sha
Honey Belle Premium Jade Facial Roller
Jenny Patinkin Rose on Rose Face Roller
Sdara Skincare Microneedle Skin Roller
Honey Belle Premium Amethyst Facial Roller
Cleansers -
* KORA Organics Milky Mushroom Cleanser - Use MELISSA15 for 15% off
Kora Organics Milky Mushroom Cleanser
Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser
Pai Skincare Middlemist Seven Gentle Cream Cleanser
Pai Skincare Camellia & Rose Gentle Hydrating Cleanser
Pai Skincare Light Work Rosehip Cleansing Oil
Reflekt Reflekt 1 Daily Exfoliating Face Wash
Facial Exfoliators -
TULA Exfoliating Treatment Mask
TULA So Polished Exfoliating Face Scrub
GOOP GLOW Microderm Instant Glow Exfoliator
Juice Beauty Prebiotix Instant Flash Facial
Toners -
Serums -
Soma Ayurvedic Vitamin C Serum
Beautycounter Counter+ All Bright C Serum
Winged Youth Radiance Serum - Use code GlowGirl15 for 15% off
Shani Darden Lactic Acid Exfoliating Serum
Face Moisturizers, Creams, and Oils -
*Kora Organics Tumeric Glow Moisturizer - Use discount code MELISSA15 for 15% off
*Summer Fridays Cloud Dew Oil-Free Gel Cream
Replenix Age Restore Nighttime Therapy
True Botanicals Renew Radiance Oil
True Botanicals CBD Anti-Inflammaging Oil
Rejuvenate with Nousha The Reset Facial Oil - Use discount code GLOWGIRL15 for 15% off
Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Retinol Overnight Serum
Beautystat Universal Moisture Essence
GOOPGENES All-in-One Nourishing Face Cream
Pai Skincare Age Confidence Cream Echium & Macadamia
TULA Hydrating Day & Night Cream
AYR Skin Care Restore Night Cream
Furtuna Skin Replenishing Balm
Dr. Barbara Sturm Face Cream Rich
Saint Jane Luxury CBD Beauty Serum
Furtuna Skin Biphase Moisturizing Oil
Eye Creams and Oils -
Kora Organics Eye Oil - Use discount code MELISSA15 for 15% off
Replenix Age Restore Retinol Eye Repair
SiO Beauty Super EyeLift Undereye Patches
GOOPGENES All-in-One Nourishing Eye Cream
TULA Rose Glow & Get It Cooling & Brightening Eye BalmBeautycounter Counter+ All Bright C Serum
Suncare -
BODY
Exfoliators and Scrubs -
Beautycounter Sugar Body Scrub in Lemongrass
Kopari Beauty Coconut Crush Scrub
Self-Tanners -
Whish Beauty Coconut Milk and Verbena Self Tanner
KORA Organics Gradual Self-Tanning Lotion
Body Creams, Body Butters, and Oils -
Wellphoria Nourishing Hand and Body Lotion
Primally Pure Eucalyptus + Lavender Body Butter
Sagely Naturals Relief and Recovery CBD Cream
Goop Nourishing Repair Body Butter
Furtuna Alberi Biphase Moisturizing Oil
Furtuna Skin Rinascita Delle Olive Replenishing Balm
Indie Lee Essential Body Lotion
KORA Organics Noni Glow Body Oil
Winged CBD Radiance Body Oil - Use code Glowgirl15 for 15% off
Primally Pure Almond + Vanilla Body Butter
Thisworks Perfect Hands Intense Moisture
Juice Beauty Green Apple Hand Cream
Bath -
Lab to Beauty The Brightening Body Wash - Bubble Bath
Deodorants -
Primally Pure natural deodorant - Use code GLOWGIRL for 10% off
Primally Pure Lavender Deodorant
Kosas Chemistry ADA Serum Deodorant
Hand and Nails -
Whish Hand Cream and Cuticle Oil
Juice Beauty Green Apple Hand Sanitizer
Toothpaste -
BEAUTY
Brands-
Primer -
Tula Face Filter Blurring & Moisturizing Primer
Tinted Moisturizers -
Saie Beauty Slip Tinted Moisturizer
Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Moisturizer
COOLA Organic Face Rosilliance BB+ Cream SPF 30
Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40
Concealer -
RMS Beauty “Un” Cover-Up Concealer
Ilia True Skin Serum Concealer
Beautycounter Touchup Skin Concealer Pen
Foundation -
ILIA True Skin Serum Foundation
Eyeliner -
Eyeshadow -
W3LL People Natural Eye Palette
Ilia The Necessary Eyeshadow Palette
PYT Beauty No BS Eyeshadow Palette
SAINT Cosmetics Eye Palette in Nude
Mascara -
Ere Perez Avocado Waterproof Mascara
Brows and Lashes -
Luna Nectar Moon Boost Lash & Brow Enhancing Serum
Bronzer and Blush -
W3LL People Natural Bio Bronzer Powder
Westman Atelier Beauty Butter Powder Bronzer
RMS Sensual Skin Trio - 3 in 1 powder palette with bronzer, blush, and highlighter
Highlighters -
Westman Atelier Super Loaded Tinter Highlighter
Au Naturale All-Glowing Creme Highlighter
Lip Gloss & Lip Stick
Lilah B. Lovingly Lip Tint Oil
Kari Gran Tinted Lip Whip Treatment Balm
Saint Jane Beauty CBD Lip Gloss
COOLA Mineral Liplux Organic Tinted Lip Balm SPF 30
*COOLA Organic Hydrating Lip Oil Sunscreen SPF 30
Lune + Aster Vitamin c+e Lip Gloss in Poet
HAIR
Christophe Robin hair products
Shampoos -
GLOSS MODERNE Clean Luxury Shampoo
Innersense Hydrating Cream Hairbath Shampoo
Conditioners -
GLOSS MODERNE Clean Luxury Conditioner
Innersense Hydrating Cream Conditioner
Flora Remedia Lavender Hair Oil TreatmentEco Therapy Revive Conditioner
Malibu C Color Prepare Wellness Hair Remedy
Innersense Sweet Spirit Leave-In Conditioner
Wellphoria Nourishing Conditioner
Dry Shampoo-
*Vegamour Dry Shampoo Use GLOWGIRL20 for 20% off
Mousse and Mists-
Virtue The Finale Shaping Spray
COOLA Scalp & Hair Mist (sunscreen for hair)
Innersense Hair Love Prep Spray
Hair Mask -
GLOSS MODERNE Clean Luxury Masque
Serums, Supplements, and Treatments -
Hush + Hush Deeply Rooted Hair Growth Supplement - Use code “MELISSA” for 20% off)
For All Exfoliating Scalp Treatment
Vegamour Gro+ Advanced Lash Serum Use GLOWGIRL20 for 20% off
Vegamour Biotin Hair Gummies Use GLOWGIRL20 for 20% off
*Vegamour GRO+ Advanced Brow Serum Use GLOWGIRL20 for 20% of
Other -
SUPPLEMENTS
*Thorne Health Supplements - Get 20% off the products I use on my store
*Thorne Niacel 200 - Get 20% off the products I use on my store
Lakanto monk fruit sweetener - Use code Glowgirl15 for 15% off
GOOPGLOW Morning Skin Superpowder
Nordic Naturals Algae Omega supplement
ThisWorks Deep Sleep Pillow Spray
SkinTē Sparkling Collagen Teas - Use code GLOWGIRL30 (valid for 30% off 12-pack purchases)
Juice Beauty Prebiotix Antioxidant Beauty Boost
SkinTē Sparkling Collagen Teas - Use code GLOWGIRL30 (valid for 30% off 12-pack purchases)
Juice Beauty Prebiotix Antioxidant Beauty Boost
Relizen -Use code glowgirl20 for 20% off your first month’s subscription
Hush + Hush PlantYourDay Protein - Use code MELISSA for 20% off sitewide
Joya Adaptogen Bliss - Cacao Elixir Blend
Kroma Superfoods Ultimate Vitality
Om Mushroom Superfood - Use code MELISSAMEYERS for 20% off sitewide
Beauty Bar Chocolate - Use code GLOWGIRL10 for 10% off sitewide
CBD
Beauty -
Saint Jane Calming Luxury Lip Shine
Rejuvenate With Nousha Face Reset Oil
Winged Face Oil - Use code Glowgirl15 for 15% off
Switch2Pure Bright and Shine Gel Cleanser
Sagely Naturals CBD Brightening Eye Cream
Saint Jane Luxury Beauty Serum
Priya Apothica CBD Bliss Renewal Serum
Priya Apothica CBD Phyto Metamorphosis Cream
Lord Jones Acid Mantle Repair Moisturizer
*True Botanicals CBD 500 Anti-Inflammaging Treatment Oil
Hair products -
For All Hydrating CBD Hair Mask
Wellphoria Nourishing Conditioner
Bath & Body -
Winged Radiance Body Oil - Use code Glowgirl15 for 15% off
Prima R & R Advanced Recovery Cream - Use code GLOWGIRL for 20% off
*Prima Beyond Body Oil Stress Remedy Use code GLOWGIRL for 20% off
Herbivore Botanicals Emerald CBD Cleansing Bar Soap
Sagely Naturals Calm Relief And Recovery CBD Roll-On
Lab To Beauty Soothing Bath Soak
Highline Wellness Hydrate, Relax, Restore Bath Bombs
Dr. Kerklaan Natural CBD Sleep Cream
*Terra Vita Revive CDB Bath Salts
Ingestibles -
Winged Sleepy CBD Gummies -Use code Glowgirl15 for 15% off
Winged Relaxation CBD Gummies - Use code Glowgirl15 for 15% off
*Winged Rise Up Energy and Focus CBD Gummies Use code Glowgirl20 for 20% off
Lief Royal 1250 Full-Spectrum CBD Oil
Calivolve RESTORE Collection Chocolate Box
Gron Adaptogenic Chocolate Sampler
The Trusted Lab CBD Wellness Gummies With Vitamin C + Zinc
Topical Pain Relief -
Prima Bath Gem - Use GLOWGIRL for 20% off
BEAUTY COUNTER
After years of testing several Beautycounter clean beauty products, I have been very impressed with many of their products and will be reporting on my favorite items from their line. The company is a leader in the clean beauty movement and I stand behind their philosophy to help educate and share the safest, best quality products available!
Makeup -
Skin Twin Featherweight Foundation
Skin care -
Sugar Body Scrub in Lemongrass
Hydrating Body Lotion in Citrus Mimosa
Citrus Mimosa Hand Wash and Hand Cream
Who What Wear Feature - Top 7 Natural Non-toxic Self-Tanners for the Most Perfect Sun-kissed Glow!
Just like wearing the perfect outfit or a great hair day can make me feel fabulous, having a golden tan does the trick for me too!
I love having sun-kissed skin, but as I’ve gotten older I have become more conscious of minimizing the effects of sun damage, so I turn to self-tanner to get my 24/7 golden glow. While I’ve tried countless brands over the years, in 2019 I made a commitment to clean up my beauty routine. In my latest feature for Who What Wear, "7 Nontoxic Self-Tanners That Deliver Glowier Results Than the Actual Sun,” I share my tried and true favorites, as well as tips to make a tan look natural and last as long as possible.
With a new year (and a new decade) upon us, it’s the perfect time to hit the reset button, create intentions and detox your beauty routine. Why not start with your self-tanner? Read on to see my recommendations in the full article and make 2020 your most glowing, nontoxic tanning year yet!
I love sporting a healthy, tanned glow all year round! A great tan magically seems to improve the tone, texture and color of the skin—plus it does wonders to camouflage imperfections. Gone are the days where you had to bask in the sun for hours to look like a bronzed goddess or use a smelly, toxic self-tanner that turns your skin into looking like a roasted turkey!
Over the years, I’ve road-tested countless self-tanners and have decided this year to try some of the non-toxic ones to see how they compare. These products have exceeded my expectations big time so I’ve put together a list of my favorite clean-beauty, self-tanning products that are not only safe to use but also provide the most gorgeous, naturally bronzed skin.
In order to get the best, most natural and long-lasting tan, make sure your skin gets some TLC before and after tanning! The most important tip I can share when it comes to best practices for self-tanning is to exfoliate beforehand to ensure even coverage. I like to use the Dermasuri Exfoliating Scrub Mitt from head to toe in the shower. Unlike loofahs or bath sponges, this mitt’s unique fabric texture removes surface layers of buildup and dead skin cells instantly! I use the mitt with water, or with my favorite body scrub.
The botanical-based self-tanning products listed below are all derived from organic ingredients and formulated without any harsh chemicals, preservatives, parabens, or unnatural fragrances. And, the best part, orange skin is nowhere to be found; all of these suggestions offer the most natural, golden look! Also, I only tried products that went on clear or white and did not stain clothes or sheets.
1. Whish
This natural self-tanner is at the top of my list--it hydrates the skin and the scent is an incredible combo of coconut milk + verbena! The streak-free formula goes on just like your favorite body butter and can be used every day. After the product develops, the tan is a perfect golden brown. It’s free from parabens, sulfates, DEA and TEA, with naturally sourced organic ingredients that also firm and moisturize. I’m so obsessed with this product that I shared it with my husband and daughter who both have fair and sensitive skin. They are huge fans now with bottles of their own!
An amazing gradual self-tanner, this is my fave for a buildable tan. Its super-natural color is great even for fair-skinned girls. They use DHA that is naturally derived from sugar which is a safe, non-toxic alternative to naturally brown the skin. Free from harmful chemicals, it has a pleasant spa-like scent and is great to use year-round. Leave it to Miranda Kerr to create a certified organic self-tanner that’s a true winner!
3. Botanic Tree
Great for sensitive skin with no fake tan smell, it’s vegan-certified and free from anything toxic. The quick-drying lotion goes on white and is also streak-free, with natural ingredients such as jojoba, avocado, apricot, grape seed, and coconut. This formula can also be used on your face and is perfect for all skin types. I found the tan to be very natural and gradual so it’s good to use daily if you want to build up a rich glow.
Say hello to perfect sun-kissed skin! This tanning product does a great job of covering up natural skin imperfections and leaves you with a glowing, golden color. I love that the simple, natural and organic ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and Japanese green tea leaf extract, leave my skin looking and feeling fabulous. It’s is also a great alternative to the top brands that sell chemical filled tanners. I’m not the only one that thinks so—you can check out the 4700 five star reviews on Amazon too!
I am extremely picky when it comes to self-tanners for the face and found this one to be amazing with its color-correcting technology! Just add the clear drops to your fave moisturizer and integrate into your regular skincare routine for a perfect sun-kissed glow. You can feel confident putting this on your face since it’s cruelty-free, 100% vegan and made using certified organic ingredients. It has low pH levels, non-sensitizing and hypoallergenic ingredients, and pure oils. There are no mineral oils, petroleum, gluten, GMOs, or toxins. This formula offers light, medium, and dark tan options. I like to use medium as it gives me the perfect amount of glow every time!
I wrote about this self-tanner on The Glow Girl blog in the summer of 2018 when it made its debut. This invisible foaming tanning water is super-fast drying and perfect when in a hurry or you have to get dressed quickly after applying. It also leaves the skin with a great natural glow and will never stain even the whitest clothing or sheets! It’s also contains certified organic ingredients and made with natural extracts like pomegranate, papaya, aloe vera and licorice to enhance skin with no tell-tale self-tanner scent. Tip: I like to wait 4-8 hours before showering off to make sure to get the full effects of this tanner!
This self-tanner was developed using a unique DHA derived from sugar beets, which is an Ecocert-approved ingredient from one of the UK’s best natural, cult clean-beauty brands. All of their products are 100% non-toxic and between 90 – 99.9% organic. Their formula comes in a glass bottle pump and goes on as a natural-colored lotion leaving skin with a gorgeous bronzed glow as it develops. The scent is mild and it blends easily, leaving skin super moisturized.
The Best Moisturizers to Take Your Tan to the Next Level
After your tan has made its debut, it's important to moisturize and keep skin hydrated to help the color last as long as possible. Below are my clean beauty favorites that will surely extend the longevity of your gorgeous glow…
Eighteen B Hydrate + Restore Rich Cream
I just discovered this face cream and I’m obsessed! Made with B-silk protein which is known to improve skin texture and firmness, I use this on my face to keep it moisturized after I tan. With ingredients like ceramides, leaf extract, and sunflower seed oil offering fantastic hydration, it also softens my fine lines and makes my face feel smoother.
Golden Ray Glow Drops Face Oil
I love to use oils to keep the skin on my face deeply moisturized and to prolong my faux tan as long as possible. I’ve been using my newly launched face oil daily (in partnership with Olie Organic Face Oils), with its incredible active ingredient, French Marine Algae! This natural ingredient not only builds collagen but also locks in hydration for the best moisture retention.
This organic body butter smells incredible, with ingredients that are safe enough to eat. It’s an all-natural, deep moisturizer--because it’s so hydrating, my tan lasts much longer if I apply it after the tan is freshly developed. A little bit goes a long way so the jar lasts a while!
I have been working on this article for months and have personally tested each and every product listed above to give you the best options for a clean beauty tan that will leave you with the safest and most beautiful natural glow all year long! Whether you want to look like an exotic sun-worshipper or just enhance a sallow-skinned winter look, I’ve got you covered!
xx Melissa
Check out the full feature on Who What Wear HERE!