Our Top Skincare Picks

Clear off your skincare shelf - we’ve got some new tried and true skincare go-to’s that we want to share with you. Among the myriad of possibilities for the best skincare picks, we wanted to suggest some alternatives to bigger brands that you’d typically find at your local drugstore or big box store. The ingredients behind the things you’re putting on your skin, including the people who made them and the way they were produced, all connect directly to how you feel after using them. So we’ve curated some mindful and intentional skincare picks from makers that put a lot of thought and care into their products.

Our best recommendations come from a place of research, personal use, and a whole lot of love. Here are our best skincare picks that are inclusive of all of your beautiful faces and skincare needs.

1 | CLEANSING BALM from Apt. 6

Our founder Leah says this is her new favourite addition to her skincare routine! Made in Stratford, Ontario, this balm is just right for sensitive skin (but works well for oily or inflamed skin types, too!) since it lathers gently and soothes the skin while still doing all of the work you need it to. It’s melty and velvety, smells delightfully of grapefruit, and can be used as a cleanser, make-up remover, or overnight treatment. This balm is truly the jack of all trades, and the master of your daily skincare routine.

2 | KALKAY HEALING SALVE from Sḵwálwen Botanicals

Recently reviewed by one of our dear customers as “the first thing I have used that helps heal my eczema”, this Yarrow and rosehip-packed salve offers restorative elements for dry skin and minor irritations. Handmade in small batches by an Indigenous founder and her team, this powerful and natural treatment was designed to aid in healing and soothing your skin.

3 | LUCID FACE OIL from Amalusta

An oil that is an overall powerhouse for hydration and yummy nourishment. It looks, feels, and smells like luxury, moisturizing with 100% natural blend of organic active botanical ingredients. It is formulated for any and all skin types, including acne-prone skin (that’s right, you can have oils without acne!) as long as your goal is to literally glow. Ideally used as an evening addition to your regular moisturizing routine, your face will be thanking you for this one.

4 | ULTRALIGHT FACE BALM from Peregrine Supply Co.

This balm is great for folks that don’t love heavy products on their skin. It’s super light, but also super hydrating. Formulated with naturally occurring hyaluronic acid, this balm can be used sparingly to help regulate oil production and reduce blemishes on all types of skin. Helping with fine lines and keeping skin looking younger, this balm has been one of our go-to skincare shelfers for a while now.

5 | TEWIN’XW CLEANSING CLAY from Sḵwálwen Botanicals

A brand so good we’re listing them twice - this dual-purpose cleansing clay is fragrant, gentle, and oh so lovely. Although all of this list is picked to be suitable for year-round use, this clay is especially good for transitioning from summer to fall to gently clear away buildup from the humid weather. It can be used as a daily exfoliant to help refine and restore your skin’s texture, or as a 10-15 minute mask treatment for a deeper cleansing feel.

6 | WILD HONEY LIP SCRUB from Poppy & Pout

A sugar-based lip scrub for a soft touch and yummy scent, this product is the perfect prep for smooth lips. Featuring a clean combo of natural ingredients and also available at Scout in Sweet Mint or Island Coconut scents, this gentle exfoliant will have you smooch ready and primed for a hydrated lip look.

7 | REFLECTOR 30 SPF ALL NATURAL SUN PROTECTION from Cocoon Apothecary

We will sing from the rooftops about the importance of SPF protection all day, every day, all year long. This mineral facial sunscreen provides that broad spectrum protection that you need without irritation or breakouts. It’s non-greasy, non-whitening, and doubles beautifully as a light moisturizer. To add to the pros list, it's also vegan, biodegradable, non-GMO, and just simply lovely. Don’t forget to apply on your face, neck, and chest!

We know that skincare searching can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re looking to be intentional about the businesses and brands you support. That intention comes with the benefits of knowing that you are supporting small businesses, and in turn, using products that are good for you. If you’re still unsure of what will suit you best, visit us in-store and we’ll be happy to chat through our best picks just for you. Happy skincare shelf-filling!

Tell us below, which pick will you try?