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Minimalist Beauty

living simply with grace, discretion and faith

Minimalist Beauty

My Zero Waste Bath & Beauty Products

September 8, 2015 by Dawn Michelle

This summer I started my zero waste journey.  I am always desiring to live more environmentally, and being the change I want to see in the world is the best way to begin.  This is definitely a process that doesn’t happen overnight.  It takes time and thought to slowly transition into making new choices everyday.  The two largest areas of waste in any household are with personal care products and in the kitchen.  Although I have been transitioning both areas over to zero waste, my personal care products have been the easiest so far.  I’m not 100% there though.

Hair Care

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Apple Cider Vinegar Rinses

I’ve been doing water only hair washing for my curly hair since January 2014.  Lately I’ve been using apple cider vinegar rinses more frequently.  It removes excess oils from my hair, keeps my scalp healthy and free of debris, and makes my hair even easier to detangle.  I surprisingly stopped using butters/oils in my hair for now and instead use only flaxseed gel.  This allows me to skip the monthly clarifying treatment.

Flaxseed Gel

This moisturizing hair styler is completely zero waste as the seeds can be purchased package free in bulk bins and later composted.  Although this gel and I have a love/hate relationship, we are now in the love stage again.

Wooden Brush & Seamless Rubber Comb

I mainly finger detangle, yet still wanted to show you my new wooden brush since my other one broke, and my Magic Star Jumbo Rake by Hercules Sagemann is made from natural hard rubber.  I do have a “wide” tooth horn comb (not pictured), yet I can only use it on straightened hair, which almost never happens.

Zero Waste Hair Ties

I use DIY Super Soft Seamless Hair Ties which do not snag or break my hair for styling, and are very easy to make.

See my updated zero waste hair care products here!

Dental Care

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Radius Natural Biodegradable Silk Floss

No more nylon floss!  This comes in a compostable and recyclable paper container, and silk is also compostable.  The only major downfall is that the floss is still in a plastic container inside the paper box.  In that case this may still be a better option.

Bulk Baking Soda

I just use baking soda to brush my teeth… simple, effective, and whitens naturally.  Baking soda can be mixed with coconut oil and/or a bit stevia for a simple toothpaste recipe too.

Brush with Bamboo Toothbrush

The bristles of this toothbrush are not recyclable or compostable, yet can be released from the handle by soaking in hot water.  Of course the bamboo handle can be composted.  The packaging is also completely plastic free.

Feminine Care Products

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Intimina Lily Cup Compact Collapsible Menstral Cup

If I knew how much easier it could be to use a menstral cup, I would have started earlier.  Ok so it did take a few months to get accustomed to.  I no longer buy disposable tampons, liners, or pads anymore that add to landfill waste.  Yes it unfortunately comes in a plastic carry case, but the case is the size of a lip balm and is discrete when storing.  I do have reusable cloth liners/pads by GladRags, yet I prefer my menstral cup.

Skin Care

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High Linoleic Oil

In One Year Using High Linoleic Oils Exclusively I mentioned that I was washing my face with just water and moisturizing with a high linoleic oil.  I am back to this simple skin care regimen now that my skin has calmed down.  I had temporarily changed my regimen this past spring when my skin was freaking out from a detox I was doing.  I am currently finishing up the rosehip seed oil that I have before repurchasing any other oil, and will use just one high linoleic oil for everything including lotion to keep it simple.  This regimen explanation is in that article!

DIY Tinted Lip Balm

I make my own DIY tinted lip balm which I store in a metal tin.  I now use just three ingredients and that recipe I will share soon.

DIY Gentle Exfoliant/Face Powder

I use colloidal oatmeal as a gentle exfoliant and also as a face powder when I have too much “glow”.  If I am unable to find colloidal oatmeal free of packaging, I will probably switch to something else that I can find in bulk.  Regardless I am again using up what I have first.

Body Care

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Swissco Bamboo Dry Body Brush

Read more about the benefits of dry body brushing here!

Sappo Hill Unscented Oatmeal/Glycerin Soap

This soap always comes 100% package free in stores, yet did have plastic wrapping around the paper box when I purchased 12 in a box online.  I’ve used this soap for years and still love it!

Parker 29L Unisex Long Handle Safety Razor

Using a safety razor eliminates more trash for landfills.  I shave using my oatmeal soap.  This also shaves closer than disposable razors.  This safety razor comes with five razor blades which can last up to six months if dried after every use.  That will last me approximately 2.5 years before purchasing new blades which are rather inexpensive.

Scent of Samadhi Herbal Powder

This incredible herbal powder is an all natural deodorant containing sandalwood, my favorite scent aside from vanilla.  This deodorant also works as a natural fragrance so is a two in one product.  It holds up well in sweaty dance classes, and I even had a friend comment that I always smell good.  It comes in a glass jar, yet unfortunately with a tiny plastic scoop.  But it is packaged in a cloth pouch made from traditional South Indian sari material.

My Zero Waste Journey Continues

I have yet to fully “zero waste” my makeup, but I might as well use up what I have first in terms of supplies and products.  I have a very simple everyday makeup routine anyway when I do wear it.  My wardrobe is in essence zero waste since I shop consignment stores already.  Keep a look out for my updated capsule wardrobe soon.  My experience with composting and creating a zero waste kitchen is coming soon too.

In the meantime, I am continually making progress which I am so pleased with.  Believe me if recycling was the answer to our planet’s environmental issues, then zero waste would not be needed.  But sadly recycling is not.  Minimalism and zero waste really do work well together, and I definitely feel that this was just the next step on my own simple living journey.

One Love!

(Images by Dawn Michelle)

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  1. mary ann says

    September 9, 2015 at 5:44 am

    Hi Dawn Michelle
    great article thanks so much for all your information !!!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      September 10, 2015 at 2:01 pm

      Thanks Mary Ann! I’m glad you liked it!

      Reply
  2. Katrina says

    September 13, 2015 at 7:06 pm

    Hi,
    I love your site, such simple to follow natural beauty but was wondering if you are able to recommend something for exfoliation than oatmeal as I am allergic…also I live in australia and wondered if you could recommend a good organic oil supplier here??
    Thankyou Kat.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      September 14, 2015 at 4:33 pm

      Hi Katrina,
      Have you ever tried using a microfiber cloth for skin care? I also wrote about it here when I was oil cleansing often. It’s amazing at exfoliating the skin, plus no need to worry about product irritation. You can find other natural skin care info in this series as well. Best wishes!

      Reply
  3. paula says

    September 14, 2015 at 11:40 am

    you are flawless!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      September 14, 2015 at 4:46 pm

      Hi Paula,
      OMG thank you! Baking soda doesn’t bother my teeth, yet mixing it with coconut oil makes it much gentler. Hope this helps!

      Reply
  4. paula says

    September 14, 2015 at 11:45 am

    hi dawn michelle, i was just wondering whether the baking soda thing can be used long-term or can i only use it once in a while?

    Reply
  5. Nia says

    September 17, 2015 at 10:07 am

    Hi Dawn,
    Great article!
    How has your experiences with Rosehip seed oil and Pumpkin seed oil differed?
    When using Rosehip seed oil to remove makeup, is it ok to put it undiluted on the skin or is it better to add another oil to it? If using undiluted, what is the max amount you would put on the face?
    Thank you!
    Nia

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      September 17, 2015 at 12:14 pm

      Hi Nia,
      I plan to write an article comparing the two oils soon. Also you can see a full description of how I oil cleanse here. You don’t have to dilute the oil either. I always recommend using one oil at a time to ensure that your skin likes it. Have a beautiful day!

      Reply
  6. Iga says

    September 22, 2015 at 1:23 pm

    Hi Dawn Michelle 🙂
    I only recently discovered your page and I can relate to so much of your experience. Thank you so much for sharing it. I am hopeful that this blog will help me with the skin struggle 😉
    I write to ask about the detox. Could you tell a bit more about it? Has it worked? What kind of detox was it?
    <3

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      September 22, 2015 at 1:58 pm

      Hi Iga,
      I go to a hydrotherapist and/or acupuncturist, eat extremely clean organic foods, incorporated cilantro and other detoxifying foods, as well as incorporate herbal supplements as advised. Detoxing does work and also helps you step up your game with eating better in general. I’m so glad you are enjoying the site!

      Reply
  7. Daisy says

    October 5, 2015 at 2:04 pm

    Hello 🙂

    Your posts on minimalist skincare inspired and informed me greatly. So, I just wanted to say a big THANK YOU!

    Best,

    Daisy

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      October 5, 2015 at 8:28 pm

      Hi Daisy,
      I’m so thrilled this has been helpful to you. Thanks for letting me know this and you are so welcome!

      Reply
  8. Alana says

    October 12, 2015 at 6:19 pm

    Hi dawn i was wondering if you ever tried a konjac sponge and if you did how does it compare to microfiber cloths?

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      October 13, 2015 at 11:27 am

      Hi Alana,
      I haven’t tried konjac sponges so can’t compare them. I wrote more about microfiber cloths here though which explains why I like them so much. Hope this helps!

      Reply
  9. Tutu says

    October 17, 2015 at 1:17 pm

    Hey Dawn,
    a great like always. i was only exposed to the menstrual cup after reading this post and decided to give them a try so i bought a cheaper cup called Femme Essentials. I’ve only used it once so far, and my experience was pretty flumsy one in a good way. I kinda struggled to place it correctly to the point that i had to reposition it about 8 times in………5 hours! But basically i really believe it’s a great and better alternative to tampons and pads. Am thinking of getting the Intimina cup now. Have you any tips on how to correctly insert it? Have you tried others brands other than the Intimina?
    Thanks and have a great weekend.
    It’s freezing cold in Germany….
    Best wishes ,Tutu

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      October 17, 2015 at 6:34 pm

      Hi Tutu,
      I’m sure lots of women have this same question because I did too when I first started using a menstrual cup. It takes awhile to get use to. It’s trial and error and understanding your body. Wish I could say more but I can’t other than once you get used to it, you’ll be so happy you started. This is also the only brand I have tried by the way. Best wishes!

      Reply
  10. jessica obrien | @jessohbee says

    October 23, 2015 at 8:28 pm

    i’m so glad i stumbled upon your blog tonight via instagram’s explore page. i’m also in LA and i work in marketing with a passion for fashion so i have some of the same views or contradictions with minimalism that you do so i can totally relate to your posts. my husband owns an eco-friendly website (thegreenlifeco.com) but we just started making our own toothpaste and deodorant (both with bentonite clay, coconut oil and baking soda) and i started face washing with just oils. can’t wait to dig around your site more!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      October 24, 2015 at 10:39 pm

      Hi Jessica Obrien,
      Welcome! Making your own products is definitely the way to go. I hope that you enjoy reading more. Have a wonderful day!

      Reply
  11. Alisha says

    October 23, 2015 at 11:13 pm

    Hi! I was wondering if you’ve tried using any other natural skin care routines (pertaining to non facial skin lol) other than what you’ve mentioned in this post. I have tried various natural items, but haven’t found anything that makes my skin feel clean and moisturized. Also everything I’ve tried so far leaves my skin with little raised red bumps all over it. I don’t usually shave either so that isn’t irritating my skin. Do you have any suggestions for fixing my skin predicament? Oh and just a comment. I don’t like using soap (liquid or bar) because it’s all made with lye and I’m on my own personal journey to use products that have in them and were made with zero chemicals. Any suggestions are much appreciated 🙂

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      October 24, 2015 at 10:42 pm

      Hi Alisha,
      I shared this article on chemical-free body care as part of my chemical-free skin care series. There are soap-free cleansing alternatives which I hope are helpful to you. Best wishes!

      Reply
  12. Jasmine Watts says

    December 1, 2015 at 5:17 am

    It’s amazing to find these zero waste ideas! I am aiming for zero waste, but never thought to implement it for my bath beauty products. These ideas are very useful and interesting. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      December 1, 2015 at 12:06 pm

      Hi Jasmine Watts,
      I’m so glad you are also on a zero waste lifestyle journey! Wishing you the best and I’m so glad that you found this helpful!

      Reply
  13. Julie says

    December 13, 2015 at 10:04 am

    This article was so helpful!! I’ve always wanted to try to save money and be more minimalistic on shaving and feminine products!! Plus always have wanted a bamboo toothbrush, so thank you very much for reading my mind! 🙂

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      December 14, 2015 at 6:28 pm

      Hi Julie,
      I’m so glad that you enjoyed this article. Best wishes on your eco journey!

      Reply
  14. Confused says

    December 13, 2015 at 11:10 pm

    First off, I just want to say that I recently discovered your blog and am absolutely loving it. So much of what you write about reflects how I feel about how we should live in this world.

    Here’s my question: I recently starting trying to make the switch to all-natural beauty products (along with minimizing my lifestyle in other ways as well). I began with all-natural soaps for body and hair: First, Dr. Bronner’s liquid castille soap, and then (because I must have really hard water and hated the soap scummy feel left behind) body and shampoo soaps from Chagrin Valley. These were kind of cool, but I still had the soap scummy feel and, after much Googling, soon learned of the importance of pH to our skin and stopped using these. I found the OCM and excitedly used a coconut oil scrub for my face (oops) and then went out and bought some jojoba oil because so many blogs encouraged these. This is about the time when I found your blog and learned about high linoleic oils for acne prone skin. The more I read your blog, the more I thought “this gal has really done her research!” (Whereas other blogs that enouraged readers to slather coconut oil everywhere really started to turn me off.) Therefore (I promise I’ll get to my point soon), I started trying to go even more minimal by reducing my oil cleanses and hair washes (currently using rye flour, thinking about getting some soapnuts and henna/coconut milk). I oil cleanse with jojoba once a day and wash with warm water once a day. I recently got some tamanu oil and tried a few drops of that for a cleanse. I also got some rosehip oil to try as a moisturizer. As far as body washing goes, I was using a bit of jojoba oil and a cloth for that as well, but have recently switched to just water washing. My goal is to reduce all of it and try to only cleanse when necessary like you have mentioned. I’m slowly working towards letting my body regulate its natural oils by spacing out my washes. Here’s the problem, though: I keep breaking out and I have gross dandruff. I’ve always been fairly acne prone (but never enough to leave terrible scars like some people, thank goodness) but this is the most I’ve ever had. I get cystic and non-cystic acne on my face (forehead, nose, and near my ears) and on my chest and upper back (ew). I saw here that you use an oatmeal glycerin soap–isn’t that really alkaline like other soaps? And doesn’t that make your skin “start over” when it comes to regulating natural oils? (Or maybe you’re just using this for hands?) I’ve read a lot about how you cleanse your face with oils, but so far haven’t come across any blogs on what you do for your body. Any recommendations? I did buy a body brush yesterday but haven’t had time to try it out yet. As far as you know, it is normal to break out this much as a reaction to this switch? I haven’t used nasty store-bought shampoos or body washes for over a month. I stopped using high-alkaline all-natural soaps about two weeks ago. I should also mention that my diet has been much, much better (fruits and veggies, bulk foods, hardly anything that comes in a package) but that my stress levels have been pretty high. Thanks for any advice you might have, and sorry for droning on and on. I just have so many questions about my transitioning journey!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      December 14, 2015 at 6:50 pm

      Hi Confused,

      I’m so glad you are enjoying my blog, and to be completely honest with you I also went through very crazy transition periods trying to figure out what worked best for me. I’ve had days when I first started this journey where I missed dance classes because I’ve had tangles in my hair so bad as I was washing it in the shower, or I broke out from using the wrong oils for my skin. Have patience as you find what works best for you as it takes time and definitely listening and trusting yourself.

      You can find other natural options for body care here. Yes I do use an alkaline oatmeal soap, just not every day. I make my own body washes which you will see options for in the link above. Water only exclusively for hair and skin care wasn’t the best fit for me, yet it is still freeing to use simple products or ingredients, and especially freeing making your own.

      As for acne, it’s a symptom of toxicity in the body, yet can obviously be caused by external factors as well. I now ONLY use high linoleic oils on my acne prone skin. Tamanu oil is high in oleic acid and I wrote about it long long before I had learned about the differences in oils. I also try to make a note of that in former articles.

      Please note the amount of time of eating healthy versus not. It take time to detox the body and heal. I’ve been working on my own healing and balancing this entire year and years prior. Being patient is a must as it’s a journey. I also share how I healed my acne and my approach here. I still use these same methods when my body is imbalanced.

      Self nurturing is also important to keep stress levels low as stress creates imbalance in the body and wears out the adrenals. Get good sleep and give yourself a lot of credit for caring so much to make a difference.

      Best wishes!

      Reply
  15. Jamie S. says

    December 19, 2015 at 5:45 am

    I absolutely love what you’re doing here. It seems like we are of the same mind, but you are much further along than I am. I am discovering so many awesome ideas from your articles. Please keep up the great work! You’re helping a lot of people here, & you are making a difference, one reader at a time. I’m looking forward to catching up with all your posts!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      December 19, 2015 at 1:53 pm

      Hi Jamie S,
      Thank you so much!!! Have a wonderful holiday season and I hope you enjoy catching up! <3

      Reply
  16. Dee says

    January 1, 2016 at 4:59 pm

    Happy New Year Dawn!
    Thank you so much for all your efforts throughout the years to enlighten us and help us improve our lives.

    I’m working on minimizing my waste. I’d like to get the razor, but I’m concerned about how to use it. I did some research and it seems like practice is needed. What was your experience? Do you have recommendations for learning to use it?

    Thanks.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      January 2, 2016 at 1:15 pm

      Hi Dee,
      I was nervous at first using a safety razor, but it just takes some time to get used to. You don’t have to press down while shaving and it is very easy to use. I love that I’m no longer having to buy razors anymore. I am saving so much money in that regard plus the razor blades last such a long time especially if you dry it after each use. It’s a win win in my opinion!

      Reply
  17. Chelsea says

    January 6, 2016 at 3:27 pm

    I just found your blog through Paris to Go and I love it! Thanks! I am a super curly haired girl and I too have a love hate relationship with flax seed hair gel. We are currently on a break. I am always on the hunt for new hair ideas. A wooden bristle brush is next on the list!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      January 6, 2016 at 5:00 pm

      Hi Chelsea,
      Yaaa curls! I’m so glad you found my site. I enjoy reading Paris To Go. I love her take on minimalism and I love Paris. Well I hope you have a wonderful day, and I’d love to hear any other thoughts you have!

      Reply
  18. Ashley Zeleznik says

    January 14, 2016 at 9:04 am

    What a great article. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      January 14, 2016 at 11:19 am

      Hi Ashley Zeleznik,
      Thanks for your comment! I’m glad this has been helpful to you. Best wishes!

      Reply
  19. GalyaB says

    January 21, 2016 at 5:20 am

    Awesome blog! I’ve been stuck here for days 🙂
    Is there an article I should read about what you use for sun screen?

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      January 22, 2016 at 2:51 pm

      Hi GalyaB,
      I don’t wear sunscreen daily yet I shared my favorites and why here. I’m so glad you are enjoying the site and thanks for the kind words!

      Reply
  20. Linda says

    February 17, 2016 at 12:53 pm

    Hi Dawn Michelle 🙂 Love your articles!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      February 18, 2016 at 10:13 am

      Hi Linda,
      Thanks so much! I hope you are having a beautiful day and I appreciate you stopping by + your comment!

      Reply
  21. Jamila says

    March 5, 2016 at 6:36 pm

    I know I shouldn’t say this but…your life is #GOALS.
    I mean even your writing emanates a sense of peace that I can barely dream of. I’m trying to find balance in my life and it is really complicated. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. I hope I can use this minimalism in my erratic life. -J

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      March 6, 2016 at 4:15 pm

      Hi Jamila,

      OMG thank you so much! During my minimalist journey, a sense of peace and balance was something I was looking for. A lot has changed since I started, and it has been beyond rewarding. I also have a lot more clarity and have really started finding my own way of doing a lot of things.

      It can be challenging to look ahead, but when you know that you desire something in life you just have to go for it. You’ll get more and more direction as you go. Best wishes with everything that you dream of!

      Reply
  22. cleocreek says

    March 18, 2016 at 2:33 am

    Dear Dawn, Between you, fullyraw Kristina, and “The Secret” by Dr. Paul Keyes, I am fully convinced that baking soda and salt are wonderful (complete) choices for my dental care (including an actual toothbrush, floss, and tongue scraper, of course). 🙂 I also appreciate the value of coconut oil pulling and the OraWellness Healthy Mouth blends. Thank you for sharing your own choices and inspiring subscribers like me to consider and research their best choices. Have a great weekend!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      March 18, 2016 at 11:03 am

      Hi Cleocreek,
      I am honored to be amongst some incredible and inspirational people in your eyes as both Kristina from Fully Raw and Rhonda Byrne the author of The Secret have definitely influenced my life. I am looking forward to researching Dr. Paul Keyes so thank you for sharing. Simple beauty care is the best approach in my opinion. Plus once you find what works for you, you question why things have become so complicated. Best wishes!

      Reply
  23. Sarah Cawley says

    March 28, 2016 at 10:56 am

    Hi Dawn,
    Do you know if Parker razor brand is tested on animals or not?
    Thanks in advance.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      March 29, 2016 at 3:00 pm

      Hi Sarah Cawley,

      So I did a quick search and found this statement on PETA’s website “Shaving blades may not be tested on animals, but many brands, such as Gillette, are owned by companies—in this case, Proctor & Gamble—that test other popular products on animals. Plus, the soft moisturizing strip found on some razors is made with glycerin, a compound that’s often made from animal products.” (It is true that if a product doesn’t state that the ingredient is vegetable glycerin, then it is not a vegan glycerin source.)

      The benefit of a safety razor is mainly about reducing environmental trash. Also you are only purchasing actual razor blades and there are not glycerin strips or anything like that with safety razors. You can also contact the company directly to do further research, but I hope that this is a good start for you. There is also the option of finding a vintage safety razor and purchasing new blades for it. These razors are seriously high quality and will last forever. Best wishes!

      Reply
  24. Autumn says

    April 19, 2016 at 9:34 am

    Hi Dawn:
    Thank you for sharing! Your site has helped change my life! What kind of body moisturizer do you use?

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      April 19, 2016 at 11:57 am

      Hi Autumn,
      Thanks so much for you kind words! Truly humbling. I use a carrier oil as a body moisturizer. My favorite is rosehip seed oil. Since I started using oils, I’ve been in love. <3

      Reply
  25. Laurel says

    May 18, 2016 at 7:37 pm

    Hi Dawn Michelle,

    What do you use instead of body lotion after shower/shave? I’m sure you’ve posted about it, but I’m not finding. Have struggled to find a good balance with oils go between too astringent and dry (neem) to too non-absorbing and oily (almond).

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      May 19, 2016 at 9:52 pm

      Hi Laurel,
      I keep an updated page of everything I use in my beauty regimen including body care here. Most of the time I just use and oil or butter and other times nothing at all. I hope this helps!

      Reply
  26. Stephanie L says

    September 25, 2016 at 12:01 pm

    I purchased this same razor but cut myself really badly a few times using it, and I was unable to get behind or on top of my knees with this blade. What did I do wrong?

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      September 26, 2016 at 7:55 pm

      Hi Stephanie,
      I’m sorry you experienced this. Cuts and nicks from shaving is never fun. Because this razor uses old school razor blades, I have found it important to shave with a lighter hand than plastic razors. It does take some time to adjust and you can’t rush the shaving process. It doesn’t take a long time though once you get used to how to hold it. It also helps to lather up really good prior. I hope this helps!

      Reply
  27. Neha says

    August 14, 2017 at 8:20 am

    Hi,
    Amazingly simple routine & yet no compromise.
    Have a query. For those who are allergic to flaxseeds, are chia seeds a suitable substitute?
    Please let me know
    Thanks

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      August 16, 2017 at 7:52 am

      Hi Neha,
      Thanks! I’ve never used chia seeds for DIY hair care, yet marshmallow root (shared here) is another mucilage herb that you could try. I hope this helps!

      Reply
  28. Pim says

    September 21, 2017 at 6:51 am

    Very nice informative list, thanks.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      September 24, 2017 at 11:45 pm

      Thanks you Pim!

      Reply
  29. Masha says

    April 28, 2018 at 12:56 pm

    Hi Did you garshana silk gloves for dry bush?

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      April 30, 2018 at 2:00 pm

      Hi Masha,
      I use the bamboo dry brush for body brushing. It’s the one pictured above.

      Reply
  30. Callee says

    June 15, 2018 at 1:52 pm

    Love this simple beauty routine! I use (and make + sell, it’s my own company) Bestowed Essentials. It’s a line of ethical + eco-friendly beauty products – all-natural ingredients, certified vegan + cruelty-free in zero waste packaging, made with solar power in my van while I travel the US full-time 😀

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      July 9, 2018 at 1:15 pm

      Hi Callee,
      Thank you! Best wishes to you with your business and safe travels!

      Reply
  31. Sandra says

    January 8, 2021 at 6:44 pm

    Phenomenal article. Very well researched and assembled. Thank you for the information.

    Reply
    • Dawn Michelle says

      January 14, 2021 at 9:23 pm

      Thanks Mom! Love you.

      Reply
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living simply with grace, discretion and faith

I met a woman the other day who openly shared some I met a woman the other day who openly shared some of her challenges with motherhood.  Motherhood is intensely challenging, beyond humbling, and at times you just want the day to be over then realizing that you’ll be back at it the next day.  It never ends and there isn’t much reprive.  It’s been on my heart to share some encouragement to any mother who will read this.  I pray this will bless you in some way.  The link is in my profile!
🌻 #motherhood #encouragement #humility #minimalistbeauty
Fenugreek seeds, also called methi seeds, have a m Fenugreek seeds, also called methi seeds, have a multitude of medicinal properties along with being a prominent spice in many cultural dishes.  For starters, fenugreek seeds are packed with protein for strengthening strands, mucilage for moisturizing and soothing the scalp while detangling the hair, and most importantly nicotinic acid which may minimize hair shedding while soothing scalp issues.  Fenugreek seeds are also anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal which is beneficial for soothing a dry irritated scalp as well as high in iron. 🍂

These little seeds are a win win for natural hair care and can be used in various ways.  I’ve used fenugreek seeds in my beauty regimen on and off for years.  Today I wanted to share four easy ways you can incorporate fenugreek in your hair regimen to promote healthy hair growth.  The link is in the profile. 🍂

#diyhaircare #naturalhair #minimalistbeauty #sponsored @mountainroseherbs
God is so good! We move on FRIDAY. This picture God is so good!  We move on FRIDAY.  This picture was taken before they removed the bricking which was VERY NOISY to say the least.  We haven’t been completely able to avoid the beginning of the construction process, but I honestly think it’s a good thing.  This way we can remain GRATEFUL throughout the entire process.  GRATITUDE during LIFE’S IMPERFECTION develops CONTENTMENT.  That is one thing I work on daily.  If you missed our “We’re Moving Again” testimony it’s on the blog. 🌿🍁🍃

 #testimony #sharewhatisgood #godisgood #godisfaithful #godmakesaway #minimalistbeauty #simpleliving
Friday mornings are my busiest mornings of the wee Friday mornings are my busiest mornings of the week.  I make muffins for Saturday’s breakfast (either corn bread, pumpkin, or banana bread muffins) to have with fruit, a big crockpot dinner for the weekend (beans & rice bowls, lentils and sweet potato stews, or a big veggie and red potato stew) to serve with bread, tortillas, grains, and/or salad depending on the dish, and I’m usually putting orders together to go out for @iamazuha today too.  All the while I’m also making other food for the day. 🍂🥧🍁

Friday’s are crazy because of the usual responsibilities, but mainly because I really want to relax a bit over the weekend.  Over this past year I’ve worked really hard to create systems to make working from home and being a homemaker easier.  Homemaking really is like running a small boutique bed and breakfast hotel.  It takes planning ahead, having a solid system, financial planning, commitment, and a lot of love.  I’ve been learning to really enjoy this process.  Just like everybody else I’ve been baking more this year than ever.  Very rewarding. 🍂🥧🍁

Wishing all of you a beautiful and blessed weekend! 
💞Dawn Michelle
We’re MOVING again! With everything going on wi We’re MOVING again!  With everything going on with the world wide pandemic, I’m seeing the importance of sharing anything good that the Lord is doing in your life with others.  We need HOPE.  We need to share the JOY of walking with God.  The testimonies of glorifying God would just add encouragement that I know I need.  I LOVE hearing of God making ways out of no way, giving us more hope and FAITH. 🌿🍂🍃

I was initially praying to God for ways to endure what we were about to go through while somehow someway making it nice for my family during the process.  But God was already orchestrating a new way for us to not even have to endure it at all.  Read my testimony on Minimalist Beauty... (link in profile) 🌿🍂🍃

If God has done ANYTHING in your life no matter how small PLEASE share it in the comments below.  We all need to hear what’s good!  The news shares otherwise, but we can create a space here of good testimonies.  Please share below and I pray you are having a blessed day. 🌿🍂🍃

Much love!
#testimony #sharewhatsgood #godisgood #godisfaithful #godmakesaway #minimalistbeauty #simpleliving
We could all use an IMMUNE BOOST right now.  Here’s a simple juice recipe that I make for just that.  I call it SPICY APPLE JUICE and my three (almost four) year old drinks it up no problem! 🍎 

I simply juice 2 WHOLE medium/large APPLES (3 small apples pictured) + 3 CLOVES of GARLIC in a slow masticating juicer for one immune boosting serving.  Yes I do include the core as it has many health benefits. 🍎 

After having my 1st official winter back on the east coast last year, RAW GARLIC was how I made it through without getting sick at all while caring for sick family members. 🍎 

Since then I juice garlic in many of my juice recipes or mince up multiple cloves as dinner toppings for chickpea pasta, beans and rice bowls, and stews.  What I LOVE most of all is hearing my son say, “More Juice?” Proud Mama!!!! 🍎

#immuneboost #juicing #juicerecipe #simplenutrition #healthyliving #minimalistbeauty #minimalistbeautyeats
I started wearing linen clothing because it’s ex I started wearing linen clothing because it’s extremely practical.  Linen is one of the most environmentally friendly fabrics on the market.  Linen is also considered the world’s strongest natural fabric.  After tiring of purchasing new clothing every season for my heavily worn small capsule wardrobe, it just made sense to look for mid and heavy weight linen garments that could be worn year round and layered that actually lasted. 
🍃

Linen clothing can last up to 2-3 decades if properly cared for.  I’ve made some mistakes along the way, but have finally found a simple method for caring for my linen garments. (Link in profile.)
🍃
#linenlover #minimalistbeauty #sponsored @mountainroseherbs
I stopped using henna, I tossed my comb and brush, I stopped using henna, I tossed my comb and brush, I wear hair buns 95% of the time, and my hair care routine only got simpler with only two “products”. All the details plus why I really cut my hair last spring on the blog.  Much love!  #minimalistbeauty #curlyhairroutine #naturalhaircare

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