Cleansing Balm

A Beautycounter Must Have Multipurpose Product!

I used to battle with rosacea and sensitive skin.

I was told repeatedly that I could not use many products on my skin due to its sensitivity level.

Did you know…

Over time, overexposure to harsh chemicals and sensitizing ingredients can lead to a damaged epidermis and a depleted dermis (aka sensitive skin)

I never considered that my staple items may be causing me more harm than good. Until about 2 years ago, I had never thought twice about it.

 

Enter Beautycounter! I was invited to a party about 2.5 years ago where I learned more about the lack of regulation in the Beauty industry and the amount of chemicals that are on the market today, they are not deemed safe prior to being placed on the self. I was amazed at Beautycounter’s dedication to safety and was excited to give the products a try!

 

The cleansing balm was the first product I tried. Within days, my easily irritated and red skin was significantly brighter and more hydrated! I felt comfortable in my skin for the first time in years! Not only was the product effective and gentle on my skin, but it also gave me a wonderful excuse to get a bit of self-care in daily!

So, from that moment on, I became dedicated to ditching toxins in my everyday products. This is not a quick fix. It takes time and dedication. I first started with my skincare products and then moved onto makeup. If you are starting this journey and have any questions for me, please feel free to reach out here! Or leave a question in the comments!

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Five Reasons I Love Beautycounter’s Cleansing Balm!

1)    It works amazingly well to remove makeup and impurities and keep my skin hydrated and bright! Like coconut oil, the product turns to oil when you massage it into the skin. However, unlike coconut oil, it does not leave the skin feeling oily/greasy. I love to add the cleansing balm into my nighttime skin care routine about 3 times per week. However, you can use this as your daily cleanser as well!

 

2)    Protecting my dry winter skin! If you struggle with dry skin, the cleansing balm is an amazing solution. I love to add a sample jar to my purse to keep with me at all times. Guys, it’s that GOOD.

 

3)    The BEST Overnight Mask! Wake up with brighter and glowing skin! See below, on how to do the overnight mask.

 

4)    The best travel product! I do not generally use the cleansing balm as a moisturizer, however if you are hoping to minimize packing when you travel, just add your cleansing balm! You will have a cleanser, makeup highlighter, and moisturizer all in one!

 

5)    It is safe, gentle, and effective! Beautycounter is committed to a health and safety standard that goes way beyond what is legally required in the United States. Thank you Beautycounter for doing the homework for me. Check out Beautycounter’s Never List!

 

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How to Use Beautycounter’s Cleansing Balm

How to use as a cleanser:

 

1)    Before you apply the balm, make sure your face is dry, not damp.

2)    Grab an almond size amount in your fingers and rub all over your face. Massage in circular motion. Allow it to sit on your skin for 10-15 minutes (even longer if you have the time). If not, you can rinse immediately.

3)    Once the balm has turned into an oil and you have massaged it into the skin, cleanse with a wet warm washcloth.

How to use as an Overnight Mask:

 

1)    First wash your face. I typically use my Countermatch Refresh Foaming Cleanser. However, you can use the Cleansing balm as well.

2)    Gently pat your skin dry and apply your nightly toner.

3)    Apply a thin layer of the cleansing balm to clean skin and leave the product on all night.

4)    Wake up to smoother and brighter skin!

5)    Cleanse your skin as normal in the morning.

Beautycounter is offering 20% off for all NEW Clients this month!

 

I hope this information was helpful to you! The cleansing balm has played a large role in the overall health of my skin. If you have any questions or would like to sample out the cleansing balm, please send me a message here!

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Kara Niekamp Kara Niekamp

What’s All The Hype About?

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Beautycounter’s Overnight Resurfacing Peel

Beautycounter’s Overnight Resurfacing Peel is one of Beautycounter’s Hero products because it works amazingly well to get rid of dull skin and reveal brighter, healthier, and more youthful looking skin!

Anti-aging can be SAFE. We do not need to risk our health to get the skincare benefits we are looking for! The word peel can sound a little bit scary to some, but I promise, it’s not! The Overnight resurfacing peel is a “no peel” peel that works to clear away dull skin cells with the help of a proprietary multi-acid complex.

Key Ingredients:

Glycolic Acid: improves the skin texture, resurfaces, and exfoliates

Lactic Acid: stimulates cell renewal promoting a smoother, radiant-looking complexion

Citrus Acid: helps refine and renew skin

Arginine & fatty acids: aid in conditioning and moisturizing the skin

Why is this product safer than other anti-aging products?

Retinol is a common ingredient used in many anti-aging products on the market today. Unfortunately, Retinol is not great for our health. Retinol is also irritating to those with sensitive skin. When using Retinol, you need to be very careful with sun exposure due to photosensitivity.  Retinol is not safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women due to concerns for reproductive and developmental toxicity. Also, recent studies have shown that those using retinol are at an increased risk for skin tumors or lesions. Please visit the EWG website here to learn more about the concerns surrounding retinol use.

That being said, Beautycounter’s Overnight resurfacing peel does not use retinol in their anti-aging products. However, it works to promote cellular turnover to allow for brighter, clearer, and more youthful looking skin!

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How to Use Beautycounter’s Overnight Resurfacing Peel.

Step One:

Remove your makeup and cleanse your skin! My personal favorite cleanser is the Countermatch foaming cleanser. This works amazingly well to remove makeup, dirt, and impurities.

Step Two:

Next, tone your skin. I love using this toner from Beautycounter. The step helps to prep your skin for the treatment step!

 Step Three:

Once you have cleansed and toned your skin, You can apply the Overnight Resurfacing Peel. You will want to use this product 2-4 times per week. Make sure to start off slow to see what your skin’s specific needs are. If you have more sensitive skin, start with just once a week. On the nights that you use your Overnight resurfacing peel, you will skip using your normal nightly serum. Add 1-2 pumps to clean face and neck. Let the product absorb for 3-5 minutes prior to moving onto the final step.

Step Four:

Lastly, you want to protect your skin with a good moisturizer. I love a thick night cream during the winter months. This moisturizer is my personal favorite.

 

In the morning, cleanse your skin as normal! You will not need to “peel” anything off.

 Benefits from Using Beautycounter’s Overnight Resurfacing Peel:

1)     Brightens the skin for a more youthful look

2)     Evens out skin tone

3)     Minimizes pores

4)     Gently exfoliates the skin

5)     Minimizes fine lines

Good NEWS! New Clients get 20% off this month when you shop Beautycounter with the CODE: CLEANFORALL20.

Curious to try out the Overnight Resurfacing peel. Send me a message here!

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Kara Niekamp Kara Niekamp

Cleansing Balm! A Must Have Winter Product

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Kara Niekamp Kara Niekamp

Three Safer Beauty Practices That I am Loving Lately!

1.      Facial Rolling!

I have been using my Rose Quartz Roller for about 6 months now. Thank you Quarantine! Using a facial roller helps to stimulate blood flow and lymphatic drainage. Any movement helps to encourage the lymph systems natural detoxification process which rids the body of toxins and waste materials. Therefore, this allows for the skin on the face to look brighter and feel firmer!

A facial roller is also great around this time of year when allergies/sinus infections are in full effect. Facial rollers can help with stuffy sinuses and help to increase drainage. They also work great to decrease puffiness. For an added cooling effect, you can place in the refrigerator prior to use. Alternatively, for a hot stone facial effect, dip in a glass of hot water.

Facial rollers also work great to distribute your serums! I love using my facial roller along side my Countertime serum to distribute the skincare product.

Curious how to use a Facial Roller? Its easy, I promise!

1)     Always do facial rolling upwards and in one direction, never roll up and down.

2)     Repeat up to 5 upward rolls in each area. I usually do 3!

3)     Roll flat along the brows and then upwards on the hairline.

4)     Work slowly over the neck and jawline, but be brisk to firm over and under the cheeks.

Check out this amazing new Beautycounter set that just launched! It features my personal favorite Countertime serum + a turn back time facial roller!

 2. Double Cleansing!

I love to do a double cleanse to my skin on the days after I have a hard (and sweaty) workout. This is generally something I do about once a week. The Double Cleansing Method involves two types of cleansers with the first step being an oil based cleanser. The oil breaks down makeup/spf while the second step does a deep clean. Starting with clean and dry hands, you massage the oil into the skin for about a minute and rinse with warm water. It isMy personal favorite oil based cleansers are the Cleansing Balm and the Countertime oil based cleanser. They are lightweight, gentle, and leave the skin feeling super soft!

The second step is the deep clean! Using an oil based cleanser preps the skin leaving it primed and hydrated for the deep clean that follows. My personal favorite for this step is Beautycounter’s charcoal bar! This detoxifying cleansing bar absorbs impurities in the skin without drying it out! It results in clearer, smoother, and brighter looking skin.

It is important to note that you should always use a clean washcloth and warm water. Hot water can dry out the skin and cold water closes the pores.

3.      Dry Brushing!

This is a new skin care practice that I just recently started! I can not believe how soft and bright my skin feels afterwards! Dry brushing, simply stated, is the process of using a brush on the skin to exfoliate dead skin cells and enhance blood flow. Dry brushing should be done about one to two times per week.

How do you use a dry brush?

1)     Start at feet and brush upwards toward your heart.

2)     At your belly, brush in a clockwise motion.

3)     Dry brushing is best to be done prior to a shower.

4)     Follow up with a body oil or lotion to lock in the moisture!

Adding in these three safer beauty practice not only helps to improve your skin but also helps you get a moment of self care!

 

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Kara Niekamp Kara Niekamp

The Scoop on Facial oils

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What are Facial Oils? And Who Can Benefit From Them?

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Additional Ways to Use Facial Oils

  • Rub a tiny bit in your hair to help with fly aways as well as provide a beautiful scent

  • Add to the inside of your wrists for a nontoxic perfume

  •   Use as a makeup primer, especially those with dry skin.

Tips for Just Starting Out with Facial Oils:

Drop 1-2 drops into your palm with your night cream. Mix them together and gently press it into your face and neck. Very gently.  Once your skin gets used to face oil, you can increase the number of drops to 2-3 and so on. However, if you use Beautycounter’s Countermatch line, it is recommended that the facial oil be used as the last step in your skincare routine and not mixed with moisturizer.

I have been using facial oils for about a year now and never use more than 3 drops. If you are using the oil consistently, it should last you about 6 months.

I hope this was helpful! If you have any questions on facial oils, please feel free to message me here!

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Kara Niekamp Kara Niekamp

My Safer Summertime Skincare Routine

When the weather changes, so does my skincare routine! I would consider my skin to be combination. Until about a year ago, I did not have a skincare routine at all. However, after discovering Beautycounter, experiencing how the products work and feel on my skin, and learning/seeing the benefits of a skincare regimen, it has now become an essential part of my day. If you are like me, a little bit of self-care at the beginning and end of the day is a tremendous mood boaster! Plus, we will never regret taking care of our skin. My skincare routine consists of Beautycounter’s Countermatch and Countertime products. If you are feeling a bit confused on what regimen if best for you, go ahead and take the skin-care quiz to get a bit more guidance.


Good news: Beautycounter is running a promo now until 8/21, if you purchase a regimen or collection, you will get a FREE No. 1 Brightening Facial Oil ($69 value)


Here is my Anti-Aging/Combination Skin Care Routine:

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Good Morning!

Daytime Skincare Routine


Cleanser (AM & PM): The Countermatch Refresh Foaming Cleanser has been my go-to all summer long! First off, I just I love the foaming feeling of a cleanser. This one does an amazing job of washing away dirt/grim/makeup/dead skin cells without leaving skin feeling tight or dry! This cleanser is made with ingredients such as squalene, plum oil, and phytic acid! It leaves the skin feel soft and glowing! I do this one twice a day.

Toner (AM & PM): The Countertime Mineral Essence Toner primes the skin for additional hydration. The product is lightweight, but very nourishing to the skin. I shake a few drops into my hands after cleansing and pat into my skin. The toning step is a crucial step and one you do not want to skip. The toner provides vital nutrients to the skin’s moisture barrier and preps it for the treatment step to follow!

Treatment (AM & PM): The Countertime Tripeptide Radiance Serum is an anti-aging powerhouse. If you are considering just one product in the regimen, this one is it! It works to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles, visibly increases firmness and elasticity, and gives skin a glowing appearance! I always make sure to apply this product on face, neck, and décolletage with upward strokes!

Treatment (AM): The All Bright C Serum is a perfect mix of citrus and turmeric. The All Bright C Serum should be applied in the daytime. It works to safeguard the skin during the day and keep the skin glowing! This product is perfect for those who are concerned with dull and uneven skin tone!

Protect (AM): The Countertime Antioxidant Soft Cream is my daily face lotion. It is lightweight and hydrating (but thankfully not greasy). The product sinks in immediately and therefore makes it a great primer for your makeup! You will notice a brighter glow immediately after placing product in your skin.

Protect (AM): Countersun Daily Sheer Defense Sunscreen is my favorite face sunscreen. Every ingredient in Beautycounter’s sunscreen is screened for safety and sourced sustainably. Not only is this sunscreen safe, it works great! It is lightweight and feels like you have nothing on.

Protect (PM): The Countertime Supreme Cream is such a treat! It is amazingly rich and hydrating! I was initially worried to use this one in the summertime. Due to the richness of the product, I was concerned I may break out. However, I have had the opposite effect! This product has tremendously supported my moisture needs throughout the winter and summer months!

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Goodnight!

Nighttime Skincare Routine!

I love to add Beautycounter’s charcoal products to my routine when my skin needs a bit of a deep clean. The charcoal products do an amazing job of detoxing, balancing, and refining the skin. Beautycounter offers both a charcoal mask and bar. Both of these products are essentials in my skincare routine!


Curious to read more about how I use Beautycounter’s Charcoal Bar. Check it out here.


PS: I also have some more good news! All new clients who shop this month will receive 20% off by using the CODE: CLEANFORALL20.


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Kara Niekamp Kara Niekamp

Beautycounter’s Countertime Line: Everything You Need to Know

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Countertime is Beautycounter’s newest and most innovative line! And guys, it is the best and my personal favorite! I have never had skincare results like these from any other products I have used in the past!

If you have been following along with me for a bit, you know that I fell in love with Beautycounter’s dedication to safety and education. As a nurse, I have always been passionate about educating on health and making healthy choices, so after trying the products and falling in love with them, I knew I needed to be a VOICE for the company. Beautycounter perfectly aligned with my life and what was important to me as a nurse as well as a mother. Not only are the products safe, they are highly effective as well! Beautycounter is a certified B Corporation and is actively working to advance legislation surrounding the beauty industry.

So, just like they always do, Beautycounter created this new line with your health and safety in mind. The Retinatural complex contains Bakuchiol and Swiss Alpine Rose which deliver retinol like results without the safety concerns that are attached to retinol. Bakuchiol is traditionally used in Chinese and Ayurvedic skin-care remedies. It delivers many of retinol’s skin care benefits but without the skin irritation and photosensitivity. Swiss Alpine Rose is grown at the highest altitudes of the Alps and is known for its ability to protect itself against environmental stressors like dehydration and help boost skin’s antioxidant defense! Amazing, right?

So, you are probably wondering, what is wrong with Retinol?

Retinol (also known as Vitamin A) is a familiar ingredient in anti-aging products on the market these days. Retinol has been shown to be quite successful at anti-aging, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as acne treatment. Retinol works by encouraging the basal cells to divide, and as a result you get more epidermal cells that rise to the skin’s surface. Unfortunately, due to the rapid division of the cells, the new skin cells do not function as effectively. The main function of the outer layer of the skin is protection against environmental barriers. Therefore, due to the impaired function, individuals using retinol usually experience photosensitivity and easily irritated skin. In conclusion, Retinol breaks down the protective barrier and makes it more vulnerable to sun exposure and additional environmental barriers.  Also, a study done in 2012 by US government scientists suggests that retinyl palmitate, a form of vitamin A, may speed up the development of skin tumors and lesions. YIKES. No thank you.

Did you know that both the EU and Canada have restricted the use of retinol due to its link to health harm?

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The Countertime Collection

A Quick Overview

Six powerhouse products make up the Countertime line:

Lipid Defense Cleansing Oil-  Lightweight cleansing oil that effectively removes makeup as well as other impurities. Have you used an oil-based cleanser before? Oil based cleansers are a great option for those with dry or aging skin because they hydrate as you cleanse.  You know I love the cleansing balm, but I have been working this one into my regimen & I love it! Product is applied on a dry face. Add some warm water to form a milky cleanser & rinse clean! You will love the way your skin feels afterwards. The light floral scent it quite lovely as well. Pair this with Beautycounter’s charcoal bar for a double cleanse once or twice a week! It will not disappoint.

Countertime Mineral Boost Hydrating Essence- This is such a crucial component of the regimen. It is lightweight but super nourishing. This milky moisturizing essence (like a toner, but more beneficial) lends vital nutrients to the skin’s moisture barrier—instantly boosting hydration and radiance. This essence also works to rebalance the skin. This product prepares your skin for the treatment step but will not dry it out. I shake a few drops into my hand and lightly pat into my skin. No cotton pad needed!

Countertime Tripeptide Radiance Serum- Guys, this one is such a game changer! If you can only buy one product, this one should be it.  This rejuvenating treatment visibly increases skin firmness and elasticity, while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In the daytime, I use this serum alongside the All Bright C serum, and my skin has never been happier!

Countertime Antioxidant Soft Cream- This is perfect lightweight day cream. Also, a great option for nighttime during the summer months. The soft cream works to visibly plump and firm the skin while boosting hydration to protect skin from drying environmental stressors throughout the day. Helps keep the skin glowing all day long! This is the perfect primer for makeup as well.

Countertime Tetrapeptide Supreme Cream- Supremely rich and deeply hydrating, this cream supports elasticity and visibly firms while smoothing skin texture to minimize the look of fine lines and wrinkles. In my opinion, this is everything you want in a night cream. Super thick and moisturizing! I use this one in both the summer and winter!

Countertime Ultra Renewal Eye Cream- Hands down, the best eye cream I have ever used. This high-performance eye cream revitalizes the eye area for a youthful, brighter appearance.


Now, let’s chat about sustainable packaging!

You may have been eyeing the beautiful pink packaging. Did you know glass is recycled more easily than plastic? Whether recycled or in a landfill, glass does not release harmful toxic chemicals that contribute to greenhouse gases and does not run the risk of ending up in our waterways. Therefore, Beautycounter’s Countertime line is all in glass.

Head here to learn more about Beautycounter’s Countertime Line! I hope you found this information helpful.

All New Clients who shop with Beautycounter this month will receive 20% off by using the CODE: CLEANFORALL20.

Please leave and questions or comments below. As mentioned at the top, I am a Beautycounter consultant and shopping through links provided will earn me a commission.


Hoping to sample the line prior to investing? Click the button above and make sure to provide the best address!



Sources:

https://www.beautycounter.com/safety

https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/706889-retinol_(vitamin_a)/




 

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Kara Niekamp Kara Niekamp

The Difference Between Essential Oils and Synthetic Fragrance

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Curious about the difference between synthetic fragrance and essential oils?

Fragrance, a term I used to love, until I found out that hundreds of chemicals could be hidden in a fragrance and did not need to be disclosed to the consumer. Did you know that fragrance is actually a trade secret? Beauty products are not naturally fragrant and therefore a scent needs to be added to the product to give it the aroma that we all love. The two ways that this is done is either through synthetic fragrance or essential oils.

Essential oils are extracted from plants to capture their flavors, scents, and overall beneficial properties.

On the other hand, synthetic fragrances are primarily made with artificial compounds and materials. Unfortunately, many of the chemical compounds that are used in synthetic fragrances have been linked to common allergens as well as hormone disruption. Hormone disruption can lead to bigger health problems such as reproductive issues and infertility.

Due to the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act, fragrance and flavor ingredients can be listed simply as “Fragrance” or “Flavor” and individual ingredients do not need to be listed. Therefore, as a consumer, you are not given the option to know the all the ingredients that are found in your personal care products. Decades of studies have shown that serious health issues (such as asthma, cancer, and infertility) are on the rise partly due to our continued exposure to toxic chemicals.

Thankfully Beautycounter is committed to disclosing all fragrance components. Beautycounter only uses essential oils to formulate their scented products. Click here to learn more about Beautycounter’s commitment to health and safety.

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Some Beautycounter Favorites that are naturally scented.

Check Them Out Below:


Lemongrass Sugar Body Scrub- This product is amazing for the summer. The blend of pure citrus and lemongrass oils leaves a fresh and invigorating scent. This one smells like springtime in a jar! Beautycounter’s sugar scrub uses raw brown sugar as the exfoliant. The sugar is more coarse than other scrubs, so you can use less of the product and have the same, if not better, results.

Facial Oils- All of Beautycounter facial oil’s are naturally scented. The No. 1 facial oil has a natural citrus scent, No. 2 Facial oil has a lovely combination of Jasmine and Argan oils, and No. 3 contains Ylang Ylang essential oil. Our oils are great for adding extra hydration to the skin, replenishing the essential nutrients that the skin needs, as well as providing a beautiful scent. You can use our oils on your wrists or rub through the ends of your hair.

Lip Gloss- Our lip gloss is naturally flavored with vanilla. Our lip gloss provides a high impact shine without the stickiness!

Charcoal Mask- Our fan favorite charcoal mask is made with peppermint oil. This mask works to exfoliate, draw out impurities, and soothe the skin.

Good News, Beautycounter’s Friends and Family Sale started today which means 15% off almost everything site wide. This is the best time to stock up on your summer must haves or try a new product. If you have questions, please send them my way here.

Eager to shop? Check out the sale!

 

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Kara Niekamp Kara Niekamp

Say Hello To Bright Skin!

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The Product You Need This Summer

Beautycounter’s All Bright C Serum

The Brightening C serum is a perfect mix of citrus and turmeric! It is Beautycounter’s Overnight resurfacing peel's daytime companion. Results are immediate, however with continued use the skin care results just get better. The Brightening C Serum will safeguard the health of the skin during the day and keep the skin glowing! 

Vitamin C is all the rage in skin care right now and the reason is because it does incredible things for the skin. Some key benefits of using vitamin c on the skin include:

  • Hydrating and brightening the skin. Hello summer glow!

  • Even out skin tone

  • Promoting collagen production

  • Helping to fade hyperpigmentation

  • Protecting against sun damage

  • Helping to calm skin with rosacea and eczema

Turmeric is another powerhouse for the skin. Benefits include:

  • Reducing dark circles

  • Soothing dry skin

  • Protecting against sun damage and aging.

The Brightening C serum works for all skin types. It is best to be applied in the morning after you cleanse/tone your skin and prior to moisturizing! I still use my daily Beautycounter Countertime Serum and add my All Bright C Serum after. It has done wonders for my skin in a noticeably short time.

Curious to try it out. Send me a message here for a sample to be sent your way.

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Kara Niekamp Kara Niekamp

Sun Care 101.

Sun Care 101.

Everything you need to know to start the summer off right!

Did you know skin cancer is the most common cause of cancer in America? Thankfully, we can take steps to prevent it.  SPF needs to be a vital part in our skin care routine. 

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. The number tells you how long the sun’s UVB rays would take to redden your skin if you apply the sunscreen exactly as directed compared with the amount of time without sunscreen. 

Important information to know when considering a sunscreen

Broad spectrum: Protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays.
SPF 15: Ideal for every day, occasional exposure, like walking your dog, or driving to work.
SPF 30 or higher: Necessary for extended outdoor activities.
What percentage of UV rays are blocked by SPF?
 
There are 2 types of sunscreens on the market, Chemical and Mineral sunscreen.

Mineral sunscreen is the safer option. Unlike chemical sunscreens which can quickly be absorbed into the skin, mineral sunscreens sit on the top of your skin and create a barrier against the sun. Therefore, protecting your skin without being absorbed into your bloodstream. Mineral sunscreens may leave a little bit of a white residue on your skin which does bother some consumers. 

What Chemicals should you be looking for to avoid in your sunscreen products?

1)    Oxybenzone- This is one of the most common ingredients found in chemical sunscreens. Unfortunately, this chemical is a known endocrine disruptor.
2)    Octinoxate- This chemical is quickly absorbed into the skin & has been found to increase the estrogen in your body
3)    Retinyl Palmitate- This is a type of vitamin A which has been found to speed up the growth of cancerous cells. (FYI- this one is banned in Europe)

Negative Side Effects of Chemical Sunscreen

1)    Destruction of the coral reefs
 In recent years it has been discovered that chemical sunscreens are actually destroying the coral reefs. Did you know the Hawaii has banned any sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate because of their effects on coral reefs?
2)    Endocrine and Hormone Disruption
These chemicals have been shown to mimic estrogen which can cause endometriosis and well as possibly have effects on the reproductive system.

There are three sunscreens that we cannot live without in our family! They are all SPF 30 and provide great protection! Also, mineral based and safe for the coral reefs!  See our favorites below! 

Countersun sunscreen stick
Countersun  lotion
Countersun mist 

I love the lotion and mist for body application. Most spray sunscreens contain harmful propellants, but Beautycounter's option is air-compressed! The sunscreen stick is perfect for faces and the tops of shoulders. I especially love it for coverage on my kiddos' noses, ears and cheeks. I keep one in my purse at all times. The kiddo's also love to use the stick to apply themselves! 

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Kara Niekamp Kara Niekamp

Summer Skincare

Five Summer Skin Care Essentials for a Safer Summer

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Five Must Have Summer Items

SUMMER should be easy and carefree and that means not having to worry about whether the ingredients in your products are safe for you and your kiddos. These five products are summer must haves and all have passed Beautycounter’s rigorous five-step Ingredient Selection Process! Yay!! Summer may be a little different this year, but taking care of our skin is still an important component.


Dew Skin.
This is a perfect solution to add a bit of color to your skin in the summer months. It provides the lightweight hydration as well as a beautiful sheer/glowy coverage. It also has SPF 20, so you do not need to remember one more thing in the morning! Another plus is it packed with antioxidant Vitamin C to work to brighten the skin!  This product does not make your skin feel icky or pore cloggy. It makes your skin feel nourished, and alive! 

All Bright C Serum.
Sunshine in a bottle. This is a powerhouse product. This is all you need to give your skin an extra glow, brighten, and even your skin tone. Expected to be back in stock early June! If you want me to place an order as soon as it is back in stock, click here.

Glow Shimmer Oil.
This is an easy (and safer) way to get that “just got back from vacay” look. This luxurious formula is made with nourishing jojoba, grapeseed, and sesame oils instead of potentially harmful mineral oil so you can glisten worry-free. Use it as a highlighter on your cheek bones and down the center of your nose. Add a touch to your hair to increase shine and help with frizz. Add a couple drops to your daily lotion for a beautiful glow shimmer.

Rose Glow Highlighter.
Lovely pop of color during the summer months. Sheer, blend able, and buildable formula features a delicate, dewy finish. Also, you can use on your lips and eyes for some additional color. I am loving the highlighters and cream blushes for the hot days.

Lemongrass Sugar Body Scrub. 
This one smells like springtime in a jar! Beautycounter’s sugar scrub uses raw brown sugar as the exfoliant. The sugar is more coarse than other scrubs, so you can use less of the product and have the same, if not better, results. Secondly, because sugar is easily dissolved in water, as you scrub, the granules become smaller and less abrasive. the scrub quickly becomes less and less abrasive - meaning you will not over exfoliate or be left with raw, irritated skin if you scrub too long. Other scrubs use walnut shells, rock particles, pumice, etc. that will not break down and often wind up causing more damage than good. We want to exfoliate, not disrupt the skin barrier.

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Kara Niekamp Kara Niekamp

A Favorite Multipurpose Product

A Favorite Multipurpose Product

One of the skin care products that I have been using on repeat this quarantine is my charcoal bar. I love a multi-purpose product and the charcoal bar is just that!

Did you know that charcoal is an amazing detox? Beautycounter's Charcoal cleansing bar is formulated without harsh surfactants, like sulfate, that can be overly drying and irritating to the skin. The key ingredients in Beautycounter's charcoal bar include: Binchotan Charcoal, Green Tea, and Witch Hazel. The nourishing blend of these key ingredients help restore hydration, refine the skin's texture, and help to balance the skin. 

Five Ways to Use the Beautycounter Charcoal Bar 

1) Face Wash. Use alone or as a double cleanser. If you follow me on IG, you know I talk about double cleansing the skin alot. I love to do this after a workout or a busy day outside. This method involves two types of cleansers, an oil based cleanser and your charcoal bar. The oil based cleanser is used first to remove impurities and makeup. The second step is the DEEP clean with the charcoal bar. Double cleansing results in a clearer, brighter, and smoother looking complexion. 

2) Makeup Brush Cleaner. The charcoal bar does an amazing job of removing makeup, dirt, and dead skin cells from the brushes. It is best to clean brushes every 7-10 days. 

3) Dandruff. Charcoal is a natural scalp healer. If you suffer from an irritated and itchy scalp, our charcoal bar is a great safe option. 

4) Body Bar. The charcoal bar is a great option if you suffer from body breakouts. PS: we have a Counterman Charcoal Body Bar that is formulated just for men! 

5) Shaving. Haven't found a clean shaving cream that you like? The charcoal bar is a great option to use for shaving. 

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Kara Niekamp Kara Niekamp

Easy Ways to Nourish Your Skin

Easy ways to nourish your skin.

Anyone else using this time at home to NOURISH their skin a bit more?
 
Stress and fatigue can absolutely affect the skin and let’s be honest, I have been feeling that a tad bit more lately than usual.
 
Three simple ways to nourish your skin during this time
 

Hydration. This is the simplest trick to implement immediately. Not only is drinking fluids crucial to staying healthy, it also has a prominent effect on the skin including puffiness/bags under the eyes, reddish/irritated skin, acne, and more defined wrinkles.

 
Tip- Add lemon to your water in the morning to instantly perk you up on sleepy mornings as well as provide a gentle detox. Best to do this prior to your morning coffee. I add a drop of my Lemon (vitality) essential oil to my ice water. It is refreshing and good for you!
 

Eat More Healthy Fats. Avocado is my personal favorite. Eating healthy fats, not only nourishes your cells, but it nourishes your skin as well. Healing and taking care of your skin from the inside out is crucial.

  Tip: Add some healthy fats to your smoothie. Healthy fats include: nut butter, avocado, full fat yogurt, and coconut oil (just to name a few)

Get your skin care in order by sticking to a regimen.

Cleanse + Prep + Treat + Protect.

 
Tip- Massage your treatment in with the jade roller.

Jade rolling not only feels great (cooling/gentle face massage) but it also has many skin benefits including: increases circulation, reduces inflammation, improves elasticity, stimulates lymphatic drainage (bye bye toxins), relives tension, and leaves skin glowing.

 

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