Style Archives - The Good Trade https://www.thegoodtrade.com/category/style/ Wed, 14 Jan 2026 19:31:51 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9 https://www.thegoodtrade.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/favicon-t-200x200.png Style Archives - The Good Trade https://www.thegoodtrade.com/category/style/ 32 32 Our Editor Reviews Merit Beauty’s Signature Makeup Bag https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/merit-beauty-review/ https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/merit-beauty-review/#comments Wed, 14 Jan 2026 16:33:51 +0000 https://www.thegoodtrade.com/?p=40923 Our editor tried MERIT's Five Minute Morning collection for one month. She enthusiastically recommends it for makeup minimalists looking to enhance their features.

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Summary: MERIT is a minimalist beauty brand with vegan, Leaping Bunny-certified, clean formulas that are designed for minimalists looking to enhance (not transform!) their features. After testing the Five Minute Morning Core Collection for a month, I enthusiastically recommend their makeup for anyone looking for high-performing, luxury products that leave you looking and feeling like your best self (and take almost no time to apply!). 

What I Love:

  • The Signature bag truly is as cool as it looks online. It’s easy to wash, and it’s so cute I’ve even used it as a clutch on date night. 
  • User-friendly product packaging makes this even more effortless for the hardcore minimalists (me!) who like to skip a toolbelt for beauty. Almost everything can be applied directly to your face and blended with your fingers, making it ideal for travel or on-the-go application.
  • They call the makeup foolproof and I agree! It’s very intuitive to apply and blend, and it wears beautifully throughout the day. 
  • Everything is completely fragrance-free, vegan, and formulated without harmful chemicals or skin irritants.

What To Keep In Mind:

  • The complexion stick works best when used after the Great Skin Instant Glow Serum; on it’s own, it’s best as a spot-concealer instead of a foundation.
  • The packaging of the brow pomade is inverted, and I always pulled out the wrong side (never got used to it!).
  • The gold accents show alllll your fingerprints. 

Products I Reviewed:


If you are remotely online, you’ve seen the videos: A bare-faced woman in early morning light applies one or two swipes of makeup from sleek, gold-accented tubes. In mere minutes she has a full, fresh look and is ready for her day. A mellow but cheerful French tune plays as she drops the five or so products into a russet corduroy bag that she ties into a simple knot.

A mustard yellow fabric pouch with a knot, resting on a white decorative plate, next to pink flowers.
The MERIT Signature Bag is double-lined, washable, and so cute you’ll want to use it as a clutch.

The makeup doesn’t transform her so much as enhances her natural appearance: Her skin looks like skin, but just with a bit of a glow; her brows and lashes are slightly more articulated; her lips are slicked with subtle color, as if she’s just finished a popsicle.

The whole vibe is effortless and elevated, a beauty routine for women who want to celebrate the way they look and don’t need to spend hours doing it. 

“It’s MERIT, the clean, vegan, minimalist luxury makeup that comes with a Signature Bag so cute you may want to use it as a purse.”

The vids are from one of beauty’s coolest brands: It’s MERIT, the clean, vegan, minimalist luxury makeup that comes with a Signature Bag so cute you may want to use it as a purse. And that would be aligned with the brand’s ethos, which is all about doing more with less.

MERIT is the capsule wardrobe of beauty, designing fewer products with higher quality. When I say fewer products, I mean that the brand sells just ten makeup items: A lipstick, a lip oil, a skin serum, a complexion stick, a cheek balm, a highlighter, a bronzer, an eyeshadow, a brow pomade, and a mascara.

Each product comes in a limited number of hues (except the mascara, which comes in only a classic black), and is packaged thoughtfully for the true low-effort girlies out there who would like to use as few tools as possible. 🙋🏻‍♀️

In fact, MERIT only sells two tools: A face brush and an eyeshadow brush, as if to say, “If you insist.” *cue Gallic shrug.*  It’s generally cool, French girl vibes around here.


About MERIT

Launched in 2021, MERIT is helmed by Katherine Power, who is also the CEO and Founder of Versed Skincare and Who What Wear. Power grew up gravitating toward the more natural looks amid the luxury and prestige beauty brands introduced to her by her mother. She wanted cleaner formulas and fewer choices.

While pregnant in 2017, Power felt compelled to create a brand for consumers like her, who didn’t want the overwhelming, over-the-top makeup products made with skin-irritating, questionable ingredients saturating the market. So she started MERIT, which she calls “the antidote” to the current beauty landscape. Power wanted a brand that would do more, with less: “It’s built around the concept of minimalist beauty and the fact that we just want to look like ourselves, but better.”

“It’s built around the concept of minimalist beauty and the fact that we just want to look like ourselves, but better.”

– Katherine Power, MERIT Founder and CEO

In addition to being vegan, certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny, EU-compliant, and Clean at Sephora, the brand works with Biba de Sousa to eliminate an additional 73 ingredients that are generally classified as “clean” but can be acne-triggering (like coconut oil). They clarify that “clean” does not mean “all natural” on their FAQ page, explaining that while they use both lab-created and natural ingredients, their focus is on safety. Their products are free of soy, parabens, sulfates, and over 1300 other harmful ingredients (you can request the full list by emailing hi@meritbeauty.com).

MERIT calls themselves “Responsible Luxury,” which they define as “creating products that are safe for body, skin and planet.” They aim to eliminate virgin material from their packaging and components, and promise to continue to evolve as more post-consumer recycled plastic options are developed and made available.

Their mailer box is made from post-consumer waste and is fully recyclable. All orders after the first come packed in Green Cell Foam, a cornstarch derivative that dissolves in water. First orders, of course, come with their Signature Bag, which is double-lined, machine-washable, and free from hardware. (They only ship this once because they say it’s the only one you’ll ever need!) The brand is based in LA, and is available online and in Sephora.

In a lucky twist, the brand accidentally forgot a few items in my original shipment, so I actually got to experience the dissolvable eco-friendly packaging firsthand.

“Is this makeup as high-quality and chic as its packaging? Does it actually take five minutes?”

The stuff almost instantly dissolved! My daughter was delighted, and honestly so was I.

So what’s the deal? Is this makeup as high-quality and chic as its packaging? Does it actually take five minutes? Can the Signature Bag double as a clutch? I was sent the Five Minute Morning Core Collection and the Great Skin Instant Glow Serum so I could do the hard-nosed investigating required. The people must know the truth. 🧐


My review of MERIT’s Five Minute Morning Core Collection

Here’s the deal with my skin: I have rosacea on my cheeks, and sebaceous filaments on my nose, chin, and T-zone (aka, pore city baby!). I was acne-prone all through my teens and college years, and my skin is just generally kind of uneven in both tone and texture. I have dry-ish skin, some fine lines, and I’m prone to redness with neutral-to-cool undertones. TL;DR: My bare skin is never smooth or even.

“I am essentially exactly who MERIT has in mind for their Five Minute Morning Core Collection.”

It’s fine. I’m a person, made of person stuff, not a doll made of plastic. I’m not in my “fight with how I look” era. Luckily, MERIT is on the same page: “All of our products are designed to be buildable, easy to use, and impossible to mess up, so you can look like you but better,” they say on their website. “We also curate our collections to give you only the products and shades you need, making it easy for you to get ready in five minutes or less.”

My general goal is to look natural and like myself, but slightly more polished. I despise complicated makeup tutorials. My patience for a daily beauty routine maxes out at seven minutes, tops. So I am exactly who MERIT has in mind for their Five Minute Morning Core Collection.


Great Skin Instant Glow Serum | $38

My Rating: 10/10

This serum is a true gamechanger. More skin care than makeup, you just shake it up and apply it to clean skin before moisturizing. The website says it “instantly hydrates and plumps skin for a healthy glow” and… no mincing words there. That is exactly what it does. The formula has four (!!!!) types of hyaluronic acids, which means that the first time I used it my skin felt so great I actually forgot to even apply my moisturizer.

With other key ingredients like niacinamide, cacao seed extract, and Japanese goldthread root, this serum is a powerhouse of skin nourishment. It is, like all the MERIT products, cruelty and fragrance free, carefully formulated with only non-comedogenic ingredients so that it won’t trigger breakouts.

It fits easily into my own small regimen of skincare for its own sake, but my satisfaction with the product ramped up significantly once I used it as a companion with the complexion stick (more below!).


The Minimalist | $38

Color: Silk, Linen
My Rating: 10/10

The Minimalist is hands-down the closest I’ve ever come to the ideal stick color-correcting product. It is, sorry for this, moist. I don’t know what else to call it! It’s like if an oil pastel was not made of art materials but something slick and nourishing. It feels lovely as it glides on the skin, and stays blendable long enough to say, get distracted by your dogs and walk away for a minute or two before remembering you are in the middle of something. It is completely scent-free, which is important to me. 

I am a foundation person because I like to just hand-slather something that will make my skin look like a nice, even blank canvas. But though MERIT says this product isn’t a concealer or a foundation exactly, they do say you can use it as both. I had more success personally when I used it on my red zones or sun spots rather than as an all-over color, however. I have never really spot-corrected like this before, because I am always worried that my skin is too uneven and it’s easier to just well, smear one thing over my whole face. But I was pleased to note that if I just applied it around my nostrils and on the red areas of my cheeks, it blended in with the rest of my face fairly well. My skin just looked like skin, but less red.

When I used it all over by itself, it did make my skin’s textures stand out a bit, but I suspect this may be because I got a slightly lighter color than I needed. I used the shade finder, which is pretty comprehensive: Silk is the shade recommended when I plugged in my Ilia foundation shade, but I got a different answer when I put in my Jones Road foundation info. Let’s be honest, it’s always a bit of a crapshoot when you buy online without trying it first. I gambled!

And then I received my second shipment, which included the Great Skin serum and the other shade I matched with, Linen. And everything changed.

First, Linen was clearly a better match for my skin tone. But the application on top of the skin serum was strikingly distinct: While blending the product out with my fingers on bare skin was easy enough, the skin serum base and the blending brush made me feel like a magician. It took seconds to apply all-over foundation-like coverage that perfectly matched my skin tone and made my texture appear even. I actually gasped. So now, I use a tool: The Brush No. 1 blending brush ($32). It’s actually better than my fingers (*gasp*) and the only brush I have ever loved. It’s soft, easy, and has thousands of five star reviews.

For those keeping score: My 8/10 for the wrong product shade applied without the serum bumped to an enthusiastic 10/10 for the right shade combined with the serum base.


Flush Balm | $30 

Color: Cheeky
My Rating: 10/10

I love, love, LOVE this balm. It comes in the cutest little package, and it feels like the silkiest butter that just glides across your skin. The color I chose, “Cheeky,” is a beautiful, cool, and muted mauve-y pink. I put it on my cheeks, my lips, and my eyelids.

It blends like a dream despite appearing very rich in pigment when you swatch it. It does exactly what the copy promises which is to make your skin appear “lit from within.”

I started using it wherever I wanted a touch of color, because I found that the way it melts into your skin can make the first application almost more of a moisturizer than a flush. But it’s buildable and extremely easy to use. And again, fragrance-free!


Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil | $24

Colors: Pink Beet (The Classics) & Maraschino (The Gelées)
My Rating: 10/10

These lip oils are gorgeous and rich. They were the first thing I put on, and I knew I would keep at least one with me at all times for the coming months. 

The classic oil is an opaque but glossy color that I got in Pink Beet, a cool pink that’s kin to the Flush Balm color I picked. It is a very sophisticated color that makes me feel instantly dressed up. If it’s still a thing to do a smokey eye with a nude lip, this would be my pick. (Are we still doing this look??)

I picked the color Maraschino for the gelée lip oil, which is a bright, totally sheer red. It is exactly the color I think of when I remember eating cherry popsicles or lollipops as a kid and pretending it was lipstick. It leaves your lips glossy but tinted just a touch brighter than their usual hue. It’s the perfect anytime, anywhere, just-a-little-something lip. 

Both oils last for a few hours, and I will absolutely be buying these when I’m out.


Day Glow | $32

Color: Cava
My Rating: 9/10

I must confess: I am not 100% confident I know why or how to best use a highlighter. If it wasn’t offered to me I probably wouldn’t have chosen one. (Tell me you had an oily face as a teenager without telling me you had an oily face as a teenager…)

I do not contour. Nothing interests me less than having a makeup look that says “I spent hours on this” (well, other than actually spending the hours themselves). What I’m saying is, when I was looking at the product list and I got to this one, I basically closed my eyes and pointed at whatever shade and thought, Sure! That’ll do!

(But do what, exactly? I would soon find out.)

Reader, call me a convert. I still have no idea if I’m using it right, but I love this buttery, silky, creamy highlighting stick. It makes my skin look dewy and ethereal. I generally used it on my cheek and brow bones, on the tip of my nose, and on the spot my cupid’s bow would be if I had one of those. It made me feel *fancy* in a subtle, understated way, which is exactly the level I most enjoy.

The color I oh-so-carefully chose is a very sheer champagne, (called Cava) and that’s what it kind of looks like on my skin. As if I somehow put the lightest filter of actual sparkling wine over my face. But I wouldn’t call it “sparkly” at all! Nor is it shimmery or glittery, but more pearlescent. It made me feel like an angel.

It did make me interested in darker colors, possibly even a bronzer, especially for the summer when I tend to go a little too hard on the sun protection and look vampiric next to my sunkissed friends and family. I am going to knock it one point just because I don’t feel completely convinced that a highlighter is *necessary* for an everyday minimalist makeup routine, but I did really love using it.


Brow 1980 Volumizing Pomade | $24

Color: Brown
My Rating: 10/10

In 2001, I got my first pair of tweezers and removed the lower half centimeter of my eyebrows. And I have been in recovery ever since. 

Being an art school kid has benefitted me on the eyebrow front: I can draw in some convincing brows using almost anything from eyeshadow to eyeliner, but this takes time. I tried brow gels but kept feeling like I didn’t have enough actual eyebrow hair for the product to work properly. And then MERIT’s volumizing pomade came into my life. 

This is my favorite product of a whole new bag of favorite products. I love everything about it, from the texture and the quality of the pigment to the user-friendly wand and the ease with which mistakes could be brushed out and corrected. What I need is something that both somehow fills in my eyebrows and also makes them appear to be shaped, giving the impression of having actual physical hairs and not just accurately painted-on trompe l’oeils. And that’s exactly what this magic pomade does. 

The brown is a tint, so it isn’t opaque or sheer but a nice, translucent color that is buildable. It stays wet long enough to wipe off, smudge, or brush over to get the coloring placement exactly right. The brush is a short conical spoolie that is easy to maneuver so that you can shape along your brow and draw at the same time without going outside the lines.

The only thing I didn’t love about it was that the wand is on the long side of the tube and the product is on the short one, which is the opposite of mascara packaging. It’s like when a sink handle is screwed on backward and you have to push it away to turn on the water — everything still works, but it’s weird.

It’s possible that it actually made the application easier, because I was able to hold the wand like a pencil instead of pinching the short handle, so I am not docking points for it. 10/10, will definitely buy again.


Clean Lash Lengthening Mascara | $26

Color: Black
My Rating: 10/10

A curious thing that’s happened to me in the last several years is that I’ve become a little squirrely about mascara. I have, as you can see, large eyes, and since they are also very light, a heavy hand with mascara can sometimes make me look… let’s just say intense. Or, maybe my tastes have just changed as I’ve spent years working from home and gotten much more used to (and more fond of!) my bare face. So mascara tends to be something I only use if I’m trying to go full glam.

But occasionally, I long for a mascara that could coax my light, straight lashes out into the sunlight without necessarily making a statement. Something that would maybe suggest that my lashes might just *naturally* look that way. I found a few contenders, but they tended to crumble as the day wore on. I would have to learn how to apply mascara with a lighter hand, or just accept my tiny lil lashes just as they are.

It should come as no surprise at this point in the review, that MERIT cracked the code. Please see the below image on the left, where you can see their Clean Lash Lengthening Mascara on the left eye only for comparison. This was probably about three swipes.

It’s perfect. It glides on easily with zero clumps, and it does not require multiple applications to get a subtle, natural-looking articulation of eyelashes. They even feel soft after the mascara dries! And nothing smudges, crumbles, or melts around my eyes as the day wears on. I did a simple double cleanse with my usual routine and it was gone, nary a telltale smear on my towel.

So, at the risk of sounding redundant, this judge gives it a… why yes, another 10/10.

MERIT, just take my money. I’m all in.


Is MERIT for you?

After my Jones Road review, I realized how deeply personal makeup is. What works for me won’t necessarily work for you, and photos only tell you so much. So it’s important to take any reviewer’s comments with a grain of salt, and to understand that their skin needs might be distinct from your own. 

Woman puckering her lips for a playful selfie.
While I loved the MERIT Five Minute Morning Core Collection, be sure to read my notes about goals and skin type. What works for me won’t be for everyone!

I am a fairly easygoing consumer — I want the product to work, and I am generally skilled enough with something like makeup (thank you art school) to adapt it to my needs, abilities, and preferences. I am happy to layer and mix products to get a better texture or color, or use a richer moisturizer for one type of concealer but skip the moisturizer before putting on a particularly thick foundation. The only time a product will languish in my vanity is if it irritates my skin or requires me to watch a YouTube tutorial to use it. 

“This is makeup that isn’t trying to transform, alter, or hide your face. This is makeup that celebrates your face, so that you look like you, but better.”

All this to say: If you are a self-identified minimalist who wants a five minute makeup routine, this is a great set. If you are looking for clean, vegan, and cruelty-free ingredients that don’t irritate your skin, these fragrance-free products fit the bill. And if all of that sounds great but the biggest thing is that you want a makeup look that highlights and complements your features, then I can wholeheartedly recommend MERIT for you. This is makeup that isn’t trying to transform, alter, or hide your face. This is makeup that celebrates your face, so that you look like you, but better. 

Personally, that’s all I’m asking for. I will definitely be purchasing these when I run out, and there isn’t really a more ringing endorsement than that.


Stephanie H. Fallon is a writer originally from Houston, Texas. She has an MFA from the Jackson Center of Creative Writing at Hollins University. She lives with her family in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, where she writes about motherhood, artmaking, and work culture. You can find her on Instagram or learn more on her website.


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The Best Ring Bag For 2026 (HYER GOODS Review) https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/reviews-hyer-goods/ https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/reviews-hyer-goods/#respond Mon, 12 Jan 2026 23:29:11 +0000 https://www.thegoodtrade.com/?p=31651 Our editors review HYER GOODS fanny pack, made from upcycled leather.

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The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here.

Key Takeaways:

  • HYER GOODS is a Brooklyn-based brand creating bags, purses, and accessories from deadstock luxury leather and fabrics.
  • The 3-in-1 Ring Bag is one of the brand’s bestsellers and features two interior zip pockets, a unique click-ring mechanism and two additional straps for multiple wear options.
  • The brand aims to be as zero-waste as possible, shipping bags in fabric dusters and repurposing scraps from bag production into wallets and accessories.
  • Every HYER GOODS bag is truly unique and one of a kind since they are made from luxury leftover fabric; no two bags are alike!

I’m pretty picky when it comes to bags. I want something that feels easy and unfussy, but still looks pulled together. And I find that balance is harder to find than it should be. Shoulder bags, in particular, can go one of two ways: either too structured and stiff, or so slouchy they lose all shape. HYER GOODS — a Brooklyn-based brand — manages to land right in the middle, and that’s what immediately won me over.

I’ve been carrying one of their shoulder bags every day for the past few weeks—errands, workdays, trips to the farmers’ market, quick dinners out—and it’s quickly become a staple in my wardrobe. As a new mom, I find it’s much easier to deal with than a bulky diaper bag (which I love) because it fits a few diapers, burp rags, and even a small toy or two without feeling bulky or like I’m carrying my entire life (or my daughter’s) around.

“Of course, sustainability is key—and longevity. While HYER GOODS first caught my eye for its design, its sustainability initiatives are what really sold me.”

Of course, sustainability is key—and longevity. While HYER GOODS first caught my eye for its design, its sustainability initiatives are what really sold me. Working in the fashion space, you come across brands that make big sustainability claims, and not all of them live up to the marketing. HYER GOODS is different, though. The brand is both beautiful and authentic in its sustainability claims—specifically, HYER GOODS crafts all its products using excess materials abandoned by fashion brands.

“I spent over a decade working in corporate fashion. I watched fabrics get ordered and never be used, and garments pile up on sale racks,” says Dana Cohen, HYER GOODS Founder.

By upcycling what the industry deems “trash,” the Brooklyn-based accessory line keeps materials out of the landfill. Upcycling deadstock fabrics also eliminates the energy footprint associated with cultivating land, raising livestock, growing crops, and producing fertilizers. “Less energy and less pollution mean fewer greenhouse gases,” Cohen explains.

“By upcycling what the industry deems “trash,” the Brooklyn-based accessory line keeps materials out of the landfill.”

The HYER GOOD line includes bucket bags, crossbody purses, wallets, and phone swings. “Currently, our priority is working with luxury leftovers abandoned by brands at our factory in China,” says Cohen, noting that it’s here where they find “fancy skins leftover from fancy brands,” including Italian crocs and patent leather. 

But it’s the bestselling Ring Bag ($465) for which the brand is most recognized. In addition to being entirely sustainable and made from luxury leftover leathers sourced from top tanneries that supply brands such as Gucci, Hermes, and Valentino, it’s practical and roomy. I love that I can stay organized with two interior zip pockets. And it features an adjustable strap for ultimate versatility and wear options. There are actually three ways to wear the bag: as a slouchy hobo shoulder bag, as a crescent handheld bag, or as a crossbody (my preferred way to wear it).

My HYER GOODS bags arrived in low-waste shipping materials without any plastic and stored in a dust bag, which the brand recommends using to care for your bag when it’s not in use. I chose the praline suede (a luscious goat suede), though it’s available in seven different colors and luxurious Italian nappa leather. Inside, the bag was stuffed with paper to keep its shape, and the gold-clip straps were carefully packaged in protective paper.

“We work with a manufacturer who crafts buttery leather jackets to repurpose leftover bundles of their most popular skins,” says Cohen. “Sometimes these are leftover because the imperfections were too difficult or costly to cut around…or sometimes they’re leftover due to overproduction.”  

One of the best aspects of HYER GOODS bags is that each one varies slightly, as they are made from different fabric lots, resulting in a truly unique bag.

The ring bag is also unique in that it packs flat (you read that correctly!), making it the perfect companion for travel. In fact, we have a trip planned to Europe later this summer, and I plan to use it as my daily mom bag to tote around snacks, sunscreen, and a few spare diapers.

“The ring bag is also unique in that it packs flat (you read that correctly!), making it the perfect companion for travel.”

If it’s not obvious, I’m in love with HYER GOODS and plan to keep this bag forever. If you’re also someone who wants a solid, everyday bag — not a trend piece, not a statement bag, just something you’ll actually reach for — this is the one. Who knows, maybe my own daughter will be begging me to borrow it 20 years from now.

Looking for something “extra trashy”? HYER GOODS makes its wallets and watch bands from the waste of its bags! How’s that for truly zero waste? Follow the brand on Instagram for upcoming product drops.



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10 Puffer Jackets For Extra Warmth This Winter https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/puffer-jackets-coats/ https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/puffer-jackets-coats/#respond Mon, 12 Jan 2026 16:01:18 +0000 https://www.thegoodtrade.com/puffer-jackets-coats/ Puffer coats have quilted sections filled with insulation, making them lightweight and extremely warm. Here are our sustainable favorites using recycled plastic, organic cotton, and more.

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Keeping the cold out can sometimes be a challenge—we can see Chicago and Canadian readers nodding their heads now! But with a puffer jacket, you can keep the chill out a little bit better, thanks to its intentional design. Puffer coats have quilted sections filled with insulation, making them lightweight and extremely warm and cozy.

Wrap yourself up in a cocoon of your own with these sustainably and ethically made puffy jackets. Rather than synthetic fibers or questionable down, these brands use recycled and organic materials, responsibly sourced down, and eco-friendly insulation. While these are considered investment pieces, they’re also built to last beyond just one winter.

If you’re looking for more heavy-duty options instead, check out our guide to winter coats!


1. Norden

Materials | Recycled polyester
Ethics | Certified B Corp, recycled materials & packaging, ethically made in Canada, take-back & recycling programs
Ships To | US & Canada
Price Range | $345–$365

Norden is a certified B corp using 100 percent recycled materials for its outerwear, the Mia Cire puffer jacket included. Each jacket is made with recycled plastic waste and polyester, in sizes XS through 2XL, and in seven colors. Plus, we’re loving the mock neck collar, reflective strip, and sleek interior phone pocket. Made to withstand up to -15 degrees Celsius (or five degrees Fahrenheit), you’ll stay comfortable even on windy days.


2. Patagonia

Materials | Recycled polyester, PrimaLoft insulation
Ethics | Fair Trade certified, recycled & sustainable materials, eco-friendly, gives back
Ships To | Worldwide
Price Range | $149–$279

Patagonia’s Nano Puff® is the OG puffer jacket! For over a decade, the brand has been improving its design too, using recycled PrimaLoft insulation and prioritizing lower emissions. There are options for all genders and ages, in bright colors and up to XXL. Did we mention the brand is Fair Trade certified?


3. Tentree

Materials | Recycled polyester, PrimaLoft insulation
Ethics | Certified B Corp, climate-neutral, compostable & recycled materials, ethically made in China, gives back
Ships To | US, Australia, Mexico, Asia
Price Range | $158–$298

Tentree plants ten trees with every order, just one of the many reasons we love this brand. Its puffer coats are made with 99 percent recycled (and compostable!) materials and finished with a nontoxic water-repellent coating. Even the PrimaLoft insulation is sustainable. We especially love the unisex puffers, the packable puffer for travel, and the bomber jacket for a stylish look.


4. Universal Standard

Materials | Polyester
Ethics | Size-inclusive, recycling & take-back programs, gives back
Ships To | Worldwide
Price Range | $168–$298

Universal Standard makes its standard inclusivity, with sizes from 00 to 40—one of the widest ranges in fashion. For hooded puffers, puffer vests, and even a four-in-one puffer jacket, you’ll find them in earth-toned colors like Camo, Caramel, and Forest Green. Not only are these coats equipped with deep pockets and high-stretch jersey for extra warmth, but they can also be returned and exchanged for free if you change sizes within one year. US meets you where you are, whatever the climate.


5. REI

Materials | Recycled nylon, responsibly sourced down
Ethics | Co-op model, sustainably & ethically sourced materials, gives back, carbon-neutral, trade-in & secondhand programs
Ships To | Worldwide
Price Range | $50–$600

REI encourages us to explore the great outdoors with the whole family. Its line of insulated puffy jackets covers all ages from toddlers to adults, with dozens of sustainable brands we know and love like Cotopaxi, Fjallraven, and its own REI Co-Op. Filter by warmth level, sustainability, or best use (multi-sport versus snow sports, for example) to find what you need.


6. Kathmandu

Materials | Recycled polyester, RDS-certified down
Ethics | Certified B Corp, circular economy principles, sustainably sourced & recycled materials, gives back, eco-friendly & ethical production
Ships To | Worldwide
Price Range | $159–$379

Kathmandu is an Australian certified B Corp, offering shipping worldwide. These puffer jackets—made with recycled polyester, nontoxic repellent, bluesign-approved nylon, and RDS-certified duck down—are thoughtfully designed to withstand the lowest temps. Kathmandu believes in eco-friendly and ethical production, whether in Canada or Indonesia, and the brand is working towards a fully circular economy.


7. Frank And Oak

Materials | Recycled polyester, PrimaLoft insulation
Ethics | Certified B Corp, sustainable & recycled materials, eco-friendly practices & packaging, take-back program
Ships To | Worldwide
Price Range | $399

Frank And Oak’s Hygge Puffer is one of its best-sellers. Considering its HQ is in Canada, this B Corp knows a thing or two about dealing with winter weather. Available in five stunning colors, this puffer coat is crafted entirely out of recycled polyester, a nontoxic water repellent, and PrimaLoft insulation. While on the pricier side, these jackets are made to last for many winters: machine-washable, wind-resistant, and water-resistant.


8. Finisterre

Materials | Recycled polyester
Ethics | Certified B Corp, sustainable & recycled materials, ethical production, gives back, eco-friendly packaging, trade-in & repair program
Ships To | UK, USA, EU
Price Range | $223–$304

Made for and by Brits who love the sea, Finisterre is no stranger to warming up cold bodies. This certified B Corp looks to sustainable materials for its insulated jackets, complete with recycled fill. Whether you prefer a knee-length puffer coat or a hooded jacket, Finisterre will help you ensure its longevity year after year. The team has an in-house repair program as well as a trade-in program for UK residents. Consider this an investment piece with a high ROI.


9. Paloma Wool

Materials | Recycled polyester & RDS certified plant-based down
Ethics | Recycled & sustainable materials, multi-use, local & ethical production
Ships To | Worldwide
Price Range | €355

Paloma Wool is a team favorite at The Good Trade, thanks to the brand’s love of sustainability and innovative style. Case in point: The long puffer jacket turns traditional fashion on its head with a gorgeous cream exterior and a very bright green interior lining. Plus, the bottom is detachable, so you can wear the coat throughout the seasons. Sustainability-wise, it’s made with recycled polyester, RDS certified feather filling, and plant-based Sorona fiber.


10. Lolë

Materials | GRS-certified recycled fibers & RDS certified down
Ethics |Sustainably sourced fabrics without harmful chemicals, 1-year warranty
Ships To | US, Canada, Puerto Rico, select European countries
Price Range | $174—$453

Born in Montreal, Lolë knows a thing or two about staying warm without sacrificing style. Their puffers are lightweight yet seriously cozy, keeping you warm anywhere from 14°F / -10°C to -22°F / -30°C, thanks to materials like their Primaloft vegan insulation (made from recycled fibers). Each jacket is crafted with sustainably sourced fabrics free from harmful chemicals, designed with thoughtful details, and is finished with a durable water-repellent C0 coating.


Featured image from Girlfriend Collective


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9 Sustainable Shoe Brands For Vegan Mary Janes (2026) https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/mary-janes-shoes-sustainable/ https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/mary-janes-shoes-sustainable/#respond Sat, 10 Jan 2026 01:40:13 +0000 https://www.thegoodtrade.com/?p=42320 We’ve worn and loved shoes from sustainable brands for a decade — these are our top picks for Mary Janes that look great and are good for the planet.

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The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here.

We’ve worn and loved shoes from sustainable brands for a decade — these are our top picks for Mary Janes that look great and are good for the planet, at a range of prices.

Mary Janes are not only sweetly nostalgic and feminine — they’re also a perfectly practical solution for spring and summer dressing. Mary Janes became a schoolyard staple because of that versatility. They’re great for looking put together or playing kickball at recess (whatever that may translate to in your adult life!).

We’re big fans of MJs that are sustainably made, particularly when natural fabrics are involved for durability and breathability throughout repeat wears. While all eyes are on Mary Janes right now, this timeless shoe is a staple shape that will outlive the trend cycle — and what’s more sustainable than that?

Why consider sustainable footwear?

Footwear production is responsible for 1.4% of global greenhouse emissions. And, on the other end of your shoe’s lifecycle, consider this: Over 22 billion shoes end up in landfills in the US every year. Pair that environmental impact with the unfair labor practices that are often used in fast fashion production, and you can see why sustainability in footwear is so important.

Sustainable footwear companies use natural, non-toxic materials that are better for us and for the environment. These better-quality materials also equate to longer-lasting shoes which saves you money and prevents more waste from piling up in the landfill.

Our criteria:

We’ve personally worn, researched, and corresponded with the top sustainable footwear brands for the past 10 years. These are our picks for Mary Janes that use ethical and sustainable manufacturing practices — and look great — at a variety of price points. This piece is regularly updated with emerging brands that meet the standards below.

  • ECO-FRIENDLY/SUSTAINABLE | All of the shoe brands on this list use sustainable production practices and prioritize natural and recycled/upcycled materials for a better product for you and the earth.
  • COMFORTABLE | We’ve researched, worn, and/or scoured hundreds of customer reviews for each of these shoe brands so you can trust they’re comfy and supportive for all-day wear.
  • AFFORDABLE | Sustainable shoes can be an investment so we’ve included options at both ends of the spectrum, so you can find something within budget.

Can’t get enough of stylish, eco-conscious shoes? Check out our guides to sustainable shoe brands, sneakers and tennis shoes, boots, and sandals.


1. VIVAIA

BIPOC Owned
Recycled materials
Small business
Woman owned

Best For | Budget-friendly
Price Range | $79–$97

Fashion meets function with VIVAIA. Their sustainable shoes prioritize eco-responsibility and functionality, making them the ideal everyday shoe. Beyond comfort, they feature moisture-repellent and breathable antimicrobial soles to keep you feeling fresh all day. Plus, their customizable straps ensure a tailored fit, and their double arches support you through a long day of walking. Whether you’re looking for stylish work shoes or comfortable flats for traveling or romping through your errands, this is the shoe for you. And they’re machine washable! What can’t they do?

Editor review | After two months of testing VIVAIA’s Mary Janes, I can attest that they’re a cute, no-fuss shoe that’s perfectly suited for everyday wear after a short break-in period. They’re well-constructed and comfortable, and held up when I took them out on long days of walking around the city, weekend travels, and even traipsing around in the rain. – Ashley D’Arcy. (Read the full review.)


2. Rothy’s

Natural materials
Recycled materials
Vegan

Best For | On-trend options
Price Range | $159

All the fashion editors I follow are obsessed with their Rothy’s Mary Janes. The coolest person you know is wearing these to run their errands, go out to dinner, and meet the in-laws. Their signature square-toed Mary Jane is a laidback version of the classic. The machine-washable, flexible knit is both durable and washable. Rothy’s is also a pioneer in sustainable manufacturing. They were the world’s first shoe manufacturer to receive both LEED Gold and TRUE Zero Waste Platinum certification. Made from recycled, natural, or renewable materials, they collect ocean-bound marine plastic from within 30 miles of coastlines to prevent pollution and turn trash into the shoes we know and love.

Customer review | “Sparks joy: These are stunning and so comfy. There’s no break in time whatsoever. Pretty sure these are like Pokemon. Gotta catch em all.” – Kara M. (Read more reviews.)


3. Small Lot

Natural materials
Recycled materials
Small business
Woman owned

Best For | Artsy, thick soles
Price Range | $98–$156

The cost-per-wear on these Small Lot Mary Janes is impressive. Priced at under $100 and made to last, Small Lot shoes are simple but classic — so they’ll never go out of style. They’re made of premium upcycled and organic cotton canvas and a natural rubber sole. Natural dye creates a rainbow of color combinations, so there’s a pair for everyone. They come in a lightweight classic style and a trendy lug-sole style. Take your pick! You can’t go wrong.


4. Suzanne Rae

American made
BIPOC Owned
Recycled materials
Small business
Woman owned

Best For | Luxury looks
Price Range | $495–$550

Cool girl Suzanne Rae makes sustainable, splurge-worthy styles that you’ll be adding to your wishlist. Inspired by feminist theory, their clothes are about self-expression “for the wearer’s own enhanced experience and not for the gaze of others.” They’ve been making heeled Mary Janes since 2017, and they’ve become the signature Suzanne Rae piece. With a square toe, comfortable block heel, and bold designs, they’re an iconic Mary Jane. Now, Suzanne Rae makes a variety of vintage-inspired styles and takes on the Mary Jane. Made between New York and Italy, they also promote slow fashion by encouraging the investment of few but quality pieces. Add these Mary Janes to your capsule wardrobe.


5. Reformation

Climate neutral
OEKO-TEX® certified
Recycled materials
Woman owned

Best For | Strappy, seasonal wear
Price Range | $268

The favorite of the wedding guest, bridal shower, graduation, and Sunday brunch outfit, Reformation is the first store you think of when you think of style and sustainability. They’ve been climate-neutral since 2015, aiming to be climate-positive by 2025, and have shaken up the fashion industry for almost a decade with their innovative processes and trend-forward collections. I remember how excited I was when they first released their shoe collection. Their strappy block heels have become a staple in my rotation. Their new Mary Janes are a flat version of the same celebrated style, offering even more wearable cuteness for your closet.


6. Alohas

Fair trade
Natural materials
Vegan

Best For | Sophisticated shapes
Price Range | $160–$266

Euro summer calling? So are Euro shoes. Alohas are handcrafted in Barcelona, producing on-trend styles in a sustainable way. They’ve garnered a loyal fanbase for their innovative approach to style and sustainability. Working on a pre-order and on-demand system means no wasted materials, combatting overproduction. To make their leather styles, they work with the Leather Working Group to find ethically sourced leather from environmentally certified suppliers. For their vegan options, they use plant-based materials for cute and cruelty-free shoe options in every style. Their brand-new ballet flat styles include a range of Mary Janes in sophisticated colors and timeless shapes. I’ll be adding them all to my Pinterest board.


7. Zou Xou

BIPOC Owned
Small business
Woman owned

Best For | Classic styles
Price Range | $203–$295

Old-fashioned craftspersonship meets modern styles at Zou Xou. Functional and fun, they make inspired styles that are built to last. Zou Xou is on a mission to make sensible shoes sustainable and stylish. Their leather Mary Janes come in funky shades and bold patterns, so there’s something for every person’s style. Handmade in Argentina, their on-demand and small-batch production cycle creates a slower, ethical process. They also keep an ethical workplace by ensuring a safe, comfortable environment for their artisans, who also have the freedom to establish their own wages and work hours.

Customer review | “Beautiful color and amazing craftsmanship. Comfortable out of the box. The tortoiseshell buckle is a lovely addition.” – Victoria S. (Read more reviews.)


8. Alterre

BIPOC Owned
Recycled materials
Small business
Woman owned

Best For | Day-to-night
Price Range | $180–$230

A shoe for every occasion, Alterre Mary Janes feature a removable strap (or bow!) that you can take off to transform them into ballet flats. The day-to-night essential you’ve been looking for. Get all-day comfort with their cushioned soles while getting a small lift with their recycled heel. Whether you’re drawn to classic styles or bold prints and bows, Alterre’s Mary Janes are a great pick for daytime to date night.


9. Mar Soreli

Family owned
Small business

Best For | Artisanal craft
Price Range | $165

From the same people who founded the iconic lingerie brand Cosabella, Mar Soreli makes Italian craftspersonship accessible. They bridge the gap between customers seeking ethical shoes with a classic feel and small artisans with historically limited access to international brands. Made with high-quality materials and classic styles, their shoes are well made without compromising style. Made with bright colors and a hand-sewn fabric, these unique Mary Janes will make you feel like the main character.

Customer review | “Shoes are beautiful and very comfortable for my sore feet.” – Mollie W. (Read more reviews.)


Featured image is from Small Lot


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The 9 Best Brands For Birthstone Jewelry (2026) https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/birthstone-necklace-rings-jewelry-sustainable/ https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/birthstone-necklace-rings-jewelry-sustainable/#comments Sat, 10 Jan 2026 01:22:12 +0000 We’ve rounded up the best birthstone collections across the globe using sustainably sourced gemstones, recycled or traceable gold, fair trade silver, and more.

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The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here.

We’ve researched our favorite sustainable jewelry brands for the best birthstone jewelry pieces — these are our top ethical picks for their quality and timeless design.

With a rise in nameplate necklaces, initial rings, and birthstone collections, it’s clear that we want our jewelry to mean something to us. That’s why we love strutting our favorite gemstone jewelry and gifting birthstone pieces to our loved ones, because the meaning behind the stone makes the piece that more thoughtful. Don’t know your birthstone? Use this chart to find yours and learn more about it! Then look to the sustainable jewelry brands below and find the jewelry that speaks to you, whether it’s a crystal necklace, opal ring, or sapphire bracelet.

Why should I shop for ethical jewelry?

Shopping for ethical jewelry isn’t just about adding beautiful pieces to your collection — it’s about making a statement for people and the planet. Conventional jewelry production is often tied to harmful mining practices, unsafe working conditions, and serious environmental damage. Ethical jewelry brands, on the other hand, prioritize fair wages, safe labor, and transparent supply chains that respect human rights from mine to market. When it comes to gemstones, ethical sourcing ensures that these stunning stones aren’t linked to conflict, exploitation, or environmental harm. Many ethical jewelers use traceable or lab-grown gems, reclaimed materials, and recycled metals, so you can sparkle with confidence knowing your jewelry reflects your values. By choosing ethical jewelry, you’re supporting a movement that’s as dedicated to beauty and craftsmanship as it is to sustainability and social responsibility — proving that the best accessories don’t just look good, they do good.

Why is ethical and sustainable jewelry more expensive?

Ethical and sustainable jewelry often comes with a higher price tag — and for good reason. Unlike mass-produced pieces that cut corners on materials and labor, ethical jewelers prioritize fair wages, safe working conditions, and responsible sourcing at every step of the process. When it comes to gemstones, ethical brands use traceable, conflict-free, or even lab-grown stones, which require careful vetting and often cost more to produce than conventional gems. Sustainable jewelry also relies on high-quality recycled or responsibly mined metals, further reducing environmental harm but increasing costs. In short, you’re not just paying for a shiny accessory; you’re investing in transparent supply chains, environmental stewardship, and human dignity. So while the upfront cost might be higher, each piece becomes a meaningful heirloom — a wearable commitment to style, sustainability, and a fairer world.

Our criteria:

Our team has fallen in love with dozens of ethical and sustainable jewelry brands over the years. For this review, we pooled together our experience, researched the best brands on the market, and scoured thousands of customer reviews for this round-up of our favorites. We update this list regularly with emerging favorites that meet our criteria below.

  • AFFORDABLE | We’ve included jewelry brands on the list that are fairly priced at an accessible price point that reflects the true quality of the birthstone pieces.
  • SUSTAINABLY SOURCED MATERIALS | Each of these sustainable jewelry brands prioritizes the use of recycled metals, conflict-free diamonds, and responsibly sourced gemstones, including noting their traceability, provenance, and origins where available.
  • QUALITY/DURABLE | We’ve tested and can confirm that each of these birthstone necklaces and rings is made with high-quality materials, can be worn daily, and will stand the test of time.

For more minimalist pieces, check out our guides to sustainable fine jewelry and fair trade jewelry! Or, for perhaps the most personalized piece of all — an engagement ring — see our favorite conflict-free and ethical rings.


1. Aurate

American made
Budget friendly
Gives back
Made to order
Natural materials
Recycled materials
Warranty offered
Woman owned

Best For | Pearl birthstone jewelry
Ethics | thically & locally-sourced materials, made in NYC, recycled metals & natural gemstones, sustainable packaging
Necklaces Start At | $128

Aurate carries a range of pieces in its birthstone jewelry collection, including niche styles like ear chain threaders and anklets. These made-to-order pieces are available in 14K solid gold in one of three colors and your choice of stone, and Aurate’s fine jewelry is ethically and sustainably made with trusted partners around the world. One of our favorite picks is Aurate’s Ombré Rainbow Tennis Necklace which highlights ruby, peridot, and amethyst gemstones. (February babies can find more sustainable amethyst selections in our comprehensive jewelry guide here.) And if pearl jewelry is more your vibe, Aurate combines both pearls and gemstones in their Pearl Toi Et Moi collections — the options are endless and are sure to impress! With a lifetime guarantee, you even get a warranty that covers jewelry polish, reshaping, stone tightening, and clasp repairs.

Customer Review | “I bought this necklace for my daughter for her birthday. It’s beautiful and looks much more expensive than it was. The quality is great. I will purchase from here again.” – Linda S. (Read all reviews.)


2. Mejuri

BIPOC Owned
Gives back
Natural materials
Recycled materials
Warranty offered
Woman owned

Best For | Minimalist birthstone jewelry
Ethics | Ethically sourced metals & stones, RJC certified responsibly sourced or recycled gold, fair labor, gives back to BIPOC & nonbinary communities
Necklaces Start At | $78

Mejuri’s fine jewelry blends luxury and affordability, and we’re big fans. (Read our editor’s Mejuri review of its best-selling pieces!) The brand carries a birthstone collection as well, complete with studs and pendants, as well as pieces that include diamonds, opals, and pearls. We’re especially drawn to Mejuri’s stunning emerald rings and delicate stud earrings — pieces that celebrate the timeless beauty of this birthstone. For more emerald birthstone jewelry inspiration, check out our complete guide to emerald jewelry for May babies. All of Mejuri’s gemstones are of the highest quality and are responsibly sourced, and most gold is traceable through the supply chain. These birthstone gifts will last for many birthdays to come!

Our Editor’s Review | “I LOVE this piece. It’s not super bold, but it still stands out against my skin or a shirt in ways that make an outfit feel polished and complete. Pair it with the matching bracelet and it is *chef’s kiss*. I opted for the 18” length instead of the 22”, and I find it sits nicely with medium-v necks and on top of crew necks. Since it’s made from 14k gold, I feel good about wearing it every day and it seems quite sturdy (I have also slept in this one, even though I really don’t prefer sleeping with necklaces on. For the sake of testing, it passed with flying colors!) I added an amethyst birthstone charm ($98) to this piece, which is easy to slip on and off to vary the look. Unlike the gemstone bracelet, this amethyst is quite vibrant and gives the necklace a mini-lariat-like look that goes well with v-necks or even over a turtleneck. I want to add more charms!” – Emily McGowan, Editorial Director [Read the full review.]


3. GLDN

Budget friendly
Gives back
Handcrafted
Made to order
Natural materials
Recycled materials
Woman owned

Best For | Personalized birthstone jewelry
Ethics | Handmade, 90% recycled materials, donates 10% profits, 85% pieces are made to order
Necklaces Start At | $64

GLDN makes jewelry that feels as meaningful as it looks — and their birthstone collection is the perfect example. Thoughtfully handcrafted in their Washington studio, each piece is made to order, minimizing waste and giving you a one-of-a-kind treasure that’s personal down to the last detail. Their pieces are created with intention, community, and sustainability in mind — they even donate a portion of profits to causes that support women and marginalized communities. Check out their personalized options for an extra thoughtful touch.

Customer Review | “I have ordered two for myself and one for my mom or the personalized necklace with the different personalized charms. I love them and I wear them all the time. I have had one for years and they are the best lost lasting necklaces I have ever had. They are still in perfect condition. Highly recommend anything from gldn it is worth the price.” – Mary L. (Read all reviews.)


4. Brilliant Earth

Eco friendly packaging
FSC
Gives back
Made to order
Natural materials
Recycled materials
Warranty offered

Best For | Conflict-free birthstone jewelry
Ethics | FSC-certified sustainable packaging, traceable diamonds, recycled precious metals, gives back to various causes
Necklaces Start At | $150

Known for their commitment to beyond-conflict-free diamonds and ethically sourced gemstones, Brilliant Earth goes the extra mile to ensure every piece shines with integrity. Their birthstone collection features vibrant, responsibly sourced gems set in beautifully designed rings, necklaces, and bracelets — perfect for marking a birthday, an anniversary, or simply honoring your unique journey. Plus, with stunning designs ranging from minimalist to statement-making, you can find the perfect piece to match your style (or surprise someone special)!

Customer Review | “I just love this necklace. The pendant is delicate, yet super sparkly with its sapphire, alexandrite, topaz and diamond accents. It’s ideal for everyday wear, or it can be layered with other pieces for a more fashion forward look. Definitely five stars.” – Theresa (Read all reviews.)


5. Made By Mary

Budget friendly
Made to order
Natural materials
Recycled materials
Small business
Warranty offered
Woman owned

Best For | Everyday birthstone jewelry
Ethics | Ethically sourced, fair wages, woman-founded, some made-to-order pieces
Necklaces Start At | $102

Made By Mary’s jewelry collection is handcrafted in their Utah studio, with each delicate piece is designed to capture your unique story — whether it’s your own birth month, a loved one’s, or a special milestone worth holding close. Their birthstone jewelry features beautifully set, genuine stones in minimalist, versatile designs that can be worn every day or layered for an extra pop of meaning. Each piece is made to order, reflecting the brand’s dedication to intentionality and connection, and ensuring your jewelry feels as one-of-a-kind as your story.

Customer Review | “Received my ring and immediately went back to the website to place another order. So beautiful and the quality feels great! Also gifted another ring and received amazing feedback.” – Andrea P. (Read all reviews.)


6. Nyrelle

Circular fashion
Fair trade
Gives back
Handcrafted
Recycled materials

Best For | Solid gold birthstone jewelry
Ethics | Recycled & fair trade materials, ethically sourced stones, buy-back program
Necklaces Start At | $256

While Nyrelle doesn’t have a specific birthstone collection, you can still find plenty of options here — consider its amethyst necklace, the emerald medallion necklace, or the gemstone bar bracelet. Nyrelle ensures that every piece is made with Fair Trade silver, recycled gold, and/or traceable stones. And 10 percent of gemstone sales go back to support responsible sourcing. We love that the team’s buy-back program melts old pieces into something new!

Customer Review | “A fun and colorful take on a gemstone ring. Been wearing this a lot ever since!” – Laura Z. (Read all reviews.)


7. Apse

American made
Circular fashion
Family owned
Gender inclusive
Handcrafted
Made to order
Recycled materials

Best For | Unique birthstone jewelry
Ethics | Handcrafted to order, responsibly sourced materials, repairable & recyclable
Necklaces Start At | $410

Apse is all about turning jewelry into a powerful form of self-expression, and their birthstone collection captures that spirit perfectly. Handmade in their Bellingham, Washington studio, each piece is crafted to order using recycled metals and ethically sourced stones. Their designs are bold yet timeless, with a modern, sculptural edge that feels totally unique. Plus, every piece is made with a commitment to sustainability and fair wages, proving that jewelry can be both stunning and socially conscious.


8. Linjer

BIPOC Owned
Budget friendly
Eco friendly packaging
FSC
Family owned
Natural materials
Recycled materials
Warranty offered

Best For | Birthstone jewelry for all months
Ethics | Ethically sourced stones, recycled gold, eco-friendly packaging, carbon-neutral shipping, ethically made
Necklaces Start At | $99

For those who love dainty, minimalist jewelry, consider Linjer’s birthstone and gemstone jewelry. There are birthstone necklaces for every month and rings and bracelets that incorporate peridot, pearls, and diamonds, to name a few. You’ll find beautiful and unique cuts like their marquise pendant and huggie earrings in all colors, including vibrant garnet. (View our comprehensive garnet jewelry guide for January babies here.) All materials are ethically sourced in these handmade pieces, which are then wrapped in eco-friendly packaging and sent via carbon-neutral shipping.

Customer Review | “My daughter absolutely loved this. Delicate but makes a strong statement. A really beautiful piece. A perfect indulgence for oneself or gift for others.” – Susan M. (Read all reviews.)


9. Automic Gold

BIPOC Owned
Budget friendly
Eco friendly packaging
Gender inclusive
Handcrafted
Made to order
Recycled materials
Size inclusive
Small business
Warranty offered

Best For | Gender inclusive birthstone jewelry
Ethics | Worldwide
Necklaces Start At | $405

From emerald necklaces to amethyst rings, Automic Gold ethically sources gemstones and uses reclaimed gold for every piece in its sustainable birthstone jewelry collection. Handmade in NYC, the birthstone collection is gender and size-inclusive, too, with ring sizes ranging from 2 to 16. We love that Automic Gold carries one of the most underrated gemstones, aquamarine, in their collection! (For more aquamarine jewelry for March babies, check out our guide here!) BRB, buying one for ourselves and one to gift!

Customer Review | “I wear this ring almost every day, and it still looks as new as the day I bought it!” – Taylor Y. (Read all reviews.)


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7 Cruelty-Free Sunscreens With Natural Ingredients https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/organic-and-cruelty-free-sunscreens/ https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/organic-and-cruelty-free-sunscreens/#comments Thu, 08 Jan 2026 17:20:29 +0000 Whether you’re headed to the beach or just running errands, lather up with one of our favorite natural and ethically formulated sunscreens.

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The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here.

We’ve personally tested and researched dozens of natural sunscreens — these are our editors’ top picks that are cruelty-free, clean, and effective at a range of price points.

Protecting our skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays not only prevents premature aging and sunspots—it can save our lives. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, we should be wearing sunscreen every day of the year.

With warmer, longer days in the near future, it’s essential to apply sun protection each morning — but our health should not come at the expense of animal testing. These cruelty-free sunscreen brands do not test their sunscreens on animals and many of them use vegan, natural ingredients that are good for you and good for the earth. In particular, we prefer to opt for mineral sunscreen whenever possible.

So, whether you’re headed to the beach (don’t forget your swimsuit!) or just running daily errands, lather up with one of our favorite, all-natural, ethically formulated sunscreens.

Our criteria:

Our editors have tested, researched, and scoured thousands of customer reviews to determine the very best sunscreens that are not tested on animals, and are organic, chemical-free, and work well at a variety of prices. We update this list regularly with emerging favorites that meet the below criteria.

  • NATURAL/ORGANIC | Our editors have researched and tested these sunscreens to make sure they’re made with clean, natural, and organic ingredients that are both safe and nourishing for your skin.
  • CRUELTY-FREE | None of the sunscreens below are tested on animals, so you can feel good about where your sun protection comes from.
  • EFFICACY | We’ve tested and researched these sunscreen brands to ensure their formulas are effective and will keep your skin sunburn-free.
  • AFFORDABILITY | Natural skincare can be expensive! We’ve included brands that are accessible for a wide range of budgets.

And while you’re protecting yourself, take care of your face with these facial sunscreens and your eyes with these eco-friendly sunglasses. 😎


1. Kinfield

Natural Ingredients | Non-nano zinc oxide, sea kelp, aloe vera, rice bran extract, glycerin, sunflower extract, made without parabens, sulfates and phthalates
Eco-Friendly | Reef-safe, vegan, cruelty-free, free from marine pollutants including phenoxyethanol, benzenes & PEGs
Price | $26

Imagine a sunscreen that hydrates your skin like your favorite daily moisturizer while providing the protection and long lasting effects of a sport sunscreen. kinfield’s Daily Dew sunscreen’s got that and more! This mineral based sunscreen blends easily into skin giving you a glowy finish without streaking or melting into your eyes (goodbye burning). The elite formula not only feels and looks good on your skin, but is also 100% reef-safe. And who said the perfect sunscreen doesn’t exist?


2. Well People

Natural Ingredients | Zinc oxide, aloe leaf juice, antioxidant-rich oil complex, vitamin C
Eco-Friendly | Vegan, cruelty-free, free from parabens, avobenzone, oxybenzone, GMOs, petrolatum, and nanoparticles
Price | $26

Say hello to pregnancy-friendly sun protection from Well People! Their new EWG-Verified and cruelty-free mineral sunscreen serum with SPF 34 delivers effective, non-nano zinc oxide protection in a lightweight, blendable formula — with zero white cast. Developed by dermatologists, it’s non-comedogenic, silicone-free, and safe for sensitive skin, making it a perfect choice for all skin types. Infused with niacinamide, aloe leaf juice, and an antioxidant-rich oil complex, it moisturizes, brightens, and enhances your skin’s radiance over time — a consumer test even shows 93% of users agree their skin feels more hydrated! With an accessible price of just $26, clean sun protection has never been easier to love.

The Good Trade Partner


3. NAKED SUNDAYS

Natural Ingredients | Non-nano zinc oxide, iron oxide, watermelon extract, vegan collagen, free from oxybenzone, fragrance and mineral oil
Eco-Friendly | Reef-safe, vegan, cruelty-free
Price | $34

Formulated for all skin types, NAKED SUNDAYS prides itself in having one of the best vegan sunscreen primers with a high SPF rating. This Australian based brand offers an invisible mineral priming lotion that’s infused with vegan collagen for plumping skin and iron oxides which can help protect skin from blue light. It’s SPF 50+ so you’ll receive some of the best protection you can get! For a flawless finish, it’s recommended you apply this sunscreen primer with NAKED SUNDAYS SPF BFF brush for a flawless finish. 


4. cocokind

Natural Ingredients | Non-nano zinc oxide, blue phytoplankton spirulina maxima extract, microalga phaeodactylum tricornutum extract, rice starch, UVA + UVB + pollution protection
Eco-Friendly | Made in California using ethical labor practices, recyclable packaging, transparent sustainability practices, continuous commitment to reduce carbon footprint
Price | $25

Protect and moisturize your skin against premature aging with this mineral-based natural sunscreen by cocokind. Made with unique ingredients such as blue phytoplankton spirulina for its antioxidant properties and microalga phaeodactylum extract for pollution protection, your skin will thank you for protecting it from the sun and the elements! To make the most of your skincare, make sure you apply sunscreen as the last step in your skincare routine (before makeup) and at least 15 minutes before sun exposure for optimal protection. 


5. Supergoop

Natural Ingredients | Clean chemical ingredients, free from oxybenzone & parabens, free from synthetic ingredients
Eco-Friendly | Vegan, cruelty-free, reef-safe
Price | Starting at $15

Supergoop sunscreen fits into our daily routine—including under and over our makeup—and is always oxybenzone, paraben, and cruelty-free. You can even see the brand’s list of No Ingredients on its website! Supergoop’s mousse is quick-absorbing, water-resistant, and delivers broad-spectrum protection using clean, nourishing ingredients. The PLAY Antioxidant Body Mist is one of our faves as it offers antioxidant protection with added vitamin C, leaving your skin glowy and radiant.


6. Black Girl Sunscreen

Natural Ingredients | All natural ingredients, avocado oil, cacao oil, carrot juice, fragrance-free, paraben-free, oxybenzone-free
Eco-Friendly | Reef-safe, vegan, cruelty-free
Price | $16

Made by women of color for women of color, the beloved Black Girl Sunscreen reminds us that melanated skin needs protection, too. This natural formula includes avocado, jojoba, cacao, carrot juice, and sunflower oil for an ultra-sheer blend that won’t leave a filmy white cast. The brand also offers a sunscreen line for children too. Join 4,000+ others who give this product five stars—your skin (and your family’s!) will thank you!


7. FORAH

Natural Ingredients | Natural & certified organic ingredients, non-nano zinc oxide, organic sea buckthorn oil, organic cold-pressed golden jojoba oil, organic sweet almond oil, seaweed extract, biodynamic avocado oil
Eco-Friendly | Cruelty-free, microplastic-free, recyclable packaging, petrochemical-free
Price | $47

For a clean, everyday sunblock that nourishes your skin and protects it against sun and blue light, FORAH‘s formula is a no-brainer. This reef-safe and certified organic sunscreen is chock full of skin-soothing ingredients like sea buckthorn oil and seaweed extract that can help heal skin inflammation, promote cell regeneration and even help treat and prevent acne. Customers rave about the lightweight feel of Forah’s sunscreen that won’t leave a white case or feel greasy. We’re sold!   


Featured image is from FORAH


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9 Best Organic Body Lotions With Clean Ingredients https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/all-natural-body-lotion/ https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/all-natural-body-lotion/#comments Thu, 08 Jan 2026 17:19:16 +0000 https://www.thegoodtrade.com/all-natural-body-lotion/ For nourishing skin hydration you can feel good about in any season, try these all-natural and organic body lotions.

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The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here.

We always prioritize clean skincare in our daily routines. These are our favorite organic body lotions that are moisturizing and fit for sensitive skin.

As the weather changes, so do our skin concerns — from sunburn in the summertime to the dry flakiness that comes with colder temperatures. And since our skin absorbs the majority of lotions and creams we put onto it, it’s essential to be mindful of the ingredients in our personal care products.

Why use organic body lotion?

Using organic body lotion is a great way to nourish your skin without exposing it to harsh chemicals or synthetic ingredients. Organic lotions made with natural ingredients like plant oils, butters, and essential oils, are gentler and more beneficial for your skin — especially if it’s sensitive. Plus, they often contain fewer additives and preservatives, reducing the chances of irritation or allergic reactions. To ensure your body lotion is made with clean ingredients, keep an eye out for synthetic fragrances and hormone-disrupting chemicals, like phthalates and parabens. You’ll want to avoid these.

Fortunately, we’ve found the best natural and nutrient-rich lotion formulas to solve all of our skin concerns, many of which are safe for the entire family. For nourishing skin hydration that you can feel good about all season long, keep on reading!

Our criteria:

We’ve used, researched, and reviewed clean beauty and skincare for years. These are our favorite organic body lotions that use natural ingredients and are super moisturizing. Even those with sensitive skin will find options on this list. We regularly update our guide with new picks that meet the criteria below.

  • ORGANIC | We’ve selected options that use organic ingredients so you can be sure nothing was treated with harmful chemicals at any point in the process.
  • NATURAL INGREDIENTS | These brands use natural ingredients like almond, black currant, and calendula to supercharge their formulas while avoiding parabens, phthalates, or artificial fragrance.
  • MOISTURIZING | We’ve personally used these brands and found that their formulas are super hydrating and never harmful.

Don’t forget that cleansing and caring for our bodies pre-lotion can also help improve the appearance of our skin over time. For your best skin yet, add these natural body washes, and soft, organic towels to your body care routine. Looking for organic face lotion? Check out these natural and organic face moisturizers for every skin type.


Best Overall | Most Affordable | Best For Dry Skin


1. OSEA

Climate neutral
Cruelty free
Eco friendly packaging
Gives back
Gluten free
Subscriptions available
Vegan
Woman owned

Best For | Body butter
Features
| GMO & gluten-free, hand-harvested natural ingredients, Leaping Bunny certified, vegan
Price
| $54

For a nutrient-rich, natural body butter from ethically sourced ingredients, you can’t go wrong with OSEA. With plant-derived, vegan-friendly ingredients like sustainable seaweed and whipped shea butter, their Undaria Algae Body Butter will leave your skin supple, soft, and moisturized. It’s no wonder the brand was named a reader favorite in our 2024 survey!

Our Editor’s Review | “I’ve definitely noticed some of these benefits myself, especially during winter weather which, while not freezing in Los Angeles, is exceptionally dry and dehydrating on my skin. All of OSEA’s products deliver on the promise of next-level hydration and softer, more supple skin — from the face moisturizer to the body butter and oil” – Kayti Christian, Senior Content Strategist [Read our full review.]


2. 100% Pure

American made
Cruelty free
Gives back
Gluten free
Subscriptions available
Vegan

Best For | Eczema and psoriasis
Features | Natural & certified organic ingredients, vegan, cruelty-free, made in the USA
Price
| $32

100% Pure’s Intensive Nourishing Balm is loaded with rich avocado and shea butter and nourishing rosehip seed oils to moisturize even the most dehydrated skin. Almond and black currant help to reduce inflammation and reduce cracking and splitting. With all these natural powerful ingredients, the formula tackles flaky skin, promotes hydration, and soothes dryness simultaneously. We’re ready to face any weather with this lotion on hand.

Customer Review | “This product helped my eczema so much! I’ve tried so many eczema products that didn’t help at all, including the toxic steroid cream I got prescribed. This and Skinfix are the two best! I prefer this because it smells amazing and feels so luxurious on the skin. I love 100% pure.” – Crystal W. (Read all reviews.)


3. True Botanicals

Cruelty free
Doctor approved
Eco friendly packaging
FSC
Made safe
Vegan
Woman owned

Best For | Anti-aging
Features | Natural & organic, biocompatible ingredients, EWG-certified, MADE SAFE, dermatologist-approved, PETA-approved
Price
| $60

True Botanicals‘ anti-aging body butter is packed with essential fatty acids and antioxidants, providing deep moisture and a radiant glow. Enriched with natural ingredients like sea buckthorn oil, and kokum and tucuma seed butter, it nourishes the skin and mimics its natural lipid content for long-lasting moisture. With a luxurious formula and a calming scent of citrus and sandalwood, it transforms every moisturizing sesh into a spa-like experience. To get the most out of this body butter, be sure to exfoliate first with a sugar scrub like True Botanicals’ award-winning Pure Radiance Sugar Scrub!

Customer Review | “The best moisturizer! I can slather it on and get dressed. It doesn’t cling to my clothes, it just moisturizes beautifully. It smells wonderful, and my skin feels and look so good. Wonderful product!” – SF (Read all reviews.)


4. Weleda

B corp
Cruelty free
Doctor approved
Eco friendly packaging
Gives back

Best For | Rough skin
Features
| Certified Natural by NATRUE, cruelty-free, GMO-free, ethically & sustainably sourced ingredients
Price
| $20

Weleda launched a full century ago, and the brand’s best-selling product then, the Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream, is still a fan favorite today. Dubbed a “savior” for dry and rough skin, you can use this multiple times a day as needed! The formula includes extracts of calendula, rosemary, and sweet almond oil for results that go deep below the surface. Even after 100 years of success, Weleda prioritizes fair trade working conditions, regenerative farming practices, and certified natural ingredients.

Customer Review | “I have very dry skin as I have gotten older. This stuff is WONDERFUL! I even purchased some for my Mom as she has similar dry skin. I’m really glad that the ingredients are safe and work so well! This is something that I will carry in my purse.” – GunnarMom (Read all reviews.)


5. cocokind

BIPOC Owned
Cruelty free
Eco friendly packaging
Gives back
Subscriptions available
Vegan
Woman owned

Best For | Multi-use
Features
| Natural & certified organic ingredients, cruelty-free, vegan, eco-friendly packaging, gives back
Price
| $22

cocokind finds the best in affordable and effective skincare, and the team goes the extra mile to create multi-purpose products like the Sake Body Lotion. This vegan formula uses sake extract that is rich in prebiotics to help smooth and protect the skin barrier. Sunflower oil and shea butter also help to nourish and soothe skin while sealing in moisture and improving elasticity. The fragrance-free lotion is also a natural exfoliant, delivering on multiple fronts for the softest skin!

Customer Review | “this lotion is so good. my skin has been super thirsty lately, and since having kids i’m more prone to developing calluses (feet, knees even). this lotion is the only one i’ve tried that feels like it works on a deeper level. i love the feel on my skin and i wake up in the morning with skin that feels super hydrated. i’ll continue using this for the long haul. my husband loves it, too!” – Keeley O. (Read all reviews.)


6. Alaffia

BIPOC Owned
Budget friendly
Cruelty free
Gives back
Subscriptions available

Best For | Coconut oil-based lotion
Features
| ECOCERT and GMP certified, Terracycle partner, ethically traded coconut oil and coffee berries
Price
| $16

For a gentle yet effective natural moisturizer, coconut oil is hard to beat, and Alaffia knows it! Their Everyday Coconut Body Lotion is made from ethically traded 100% virgin coconut oil and antioxidant-rich coffee berries. The lotion is good for dry to normal skin for daily use, moisturizing while protecting the skin barrier against the elements. We love that this affordable lotion is available at most major box stores, easy to pick up while running errands.

Customer Review | “I’ve only just received my first bottle and used a little on my dry skin, just love the gentle, fresh fragrance and it feels very soft on my skin and seems to absorb in quite well so you’re not left with a heavy, greasy feel. I’m very pleased I bought the big bottle, that should get me through the dry winter that we have here in Queensland.” – Judy (Read all reviews.)


7. Buttah

American made
BIPOC Owned
Cruelty free
Vegan

Best For | Melanin-rich skin
Features
| Natural & organic ingredients, cruelty-free, vegan, made in the USA
Price
| $41

All too often, effective lotions and moisturizers for melanin-rich skin are hard to find, but not anymore, thanks to Buttah’s Whipped Body Butter. Founder Dorion Renaud, a Black man, knew firsthand the difficulties in finding the right lotion for his complexion and dark spots. So, when he discovered the healing powers of virgin organic unrefined shea butter combined with nutrients, he knew he had to share the formula. Rich in vitamins A, B, and E, this lotion will melt into your skin for a radiant glow.

Customer Review | “Smells great. Has a nice unisex fragrance. I also like the texture. I recommend.” – Jacob Mark (Read all reviews.)


8. Ethique

B corp
Cruelty free
Eco friendly packaging
Gives back
Plant trees
Plastic/Pfas free
Vegan

Best For | Dry patches
Features
| Certified B Corp, organic, made by co-ops, vegan, cruelty-free, carbon-neutral, compostable packaging, gives back
Price
| $18

Ethique’s Sweet Orange and Vanilla Butter Block is an organic blend of cocoa butter and coconut oil made for healing the areas of skin in need of a little extra TLC (elbows, anyone?). And with its block form, it’s our go-to pick for travelers since it’s lightweight, plastic-free, and TSA-friendly. Bonus points because a tree is planted with every online order. And did we mention it smells amazing? Dry skin, be gone.


9. Plaine Products

1% for the planet
American made
B corp
Biodegradable
Cruelty free
Eco friendly packaging
Subscriptions available
Vegan
Woman owned

Best For | Refills
Features
| Cruelty-free, vegan, natural & non-GMO ingredients, hypoallergenic, refillable, zero waste
Price
| $30

Plaine Products’ Body Lotion is approved for sensitive baby skin, so this natural moisturizer is an excellent option for the whole family. Combining green tea, aloe, rosehip oil, and vegetable-derived squalane, this formula uses only vegan and non-GMO ingredients. It also comes in aluminum packaging (no single-use plastic here!), and you can send the bottle back for a refill once you run out. It’s good for your skin, and it’s good for the planet.


Psst! Google launched a new feature that lets you choose “Preferred Sources” — so your searches highlight trusted, values-driven outlets instead of clickbait. To add The Good Trade, tick the box beside our name. That’s it — our stories will be waiting whenever you search. Read more about it here.


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7 Pregnancy-Safe Belly & Body Oils (2026) https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/natural-belly-oil/ https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/natural-belly-oil/#respond Thu, 08 Jan 2026 17:15:15 +0000 https://www.thegoodtrade.com/?p=31032 Natural belly oils to soothe your body throughout pregnancy.

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The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here.

While pregnancy is a beautiful experience, it also demands a lot from our bodies—our skin rapidly expands, we go through bouts of itchiness, and that general feeling of “tightness” becomes an everyday symptom. But instead of suffering, we can turn to a good belly oil to help calm and soothe our skin. Belly oils are made with pregnancy in mind, unlike most body oils, which don’t account for the specific conditions unique to pregnancy.

Why use belly oil during pregnancy?

Using belly oil during pregnancy is not just about hydration—it’s about protecting both you and your growing baby with the safest, cleanest ingredients possible. As your skin stretches and becomes more absorbent, what you apply topically matters more than ever. That’s why choosing a nontoxic, clean belly oil is so essential.

We love these belly oil brands that are free from synthetic fragrances, parabens, phthalates, and other harsh chemicals — clean formulations nourish our skin without exposing us or our baby to unnecessary toxins, after all! The below brands also offer rich natural oils and botanical extracts to support skin elasticity while offering peace of mind, and since pregnancy is a time of heightened awareness and care, we want our skincare to reflect that—pure, purposeful, and safe for every stage of the journey.

Our criteria:

Our team of moms has used, researched, and reviewed clean beauty and skincare specific to pregnancy for years. These are our favorite organic belly oils that use natural ingredients and are super moisturizing. Even those with sensitive skin will find options on this list. We regularly update our guide with new picks that meet the criteria below.

  • MOISTURIZING | We’ve personally used these brands and found that their formulas are super hydrating and never harmful to us or our growing babies.
  • ORGANIC | We’ve selected options that use organic ingredients so you can be sure nothing was treated with harmful chemicals at any point in the process.
  • NATURAL INGREDIENTS | These brands use natural ingredients while avoiding parabens, phthalates, or artificial fragrance.

While you’re getting your belly rub on, check out our guides for natural prenatal vitaminssustainable maternity clothes and best nursing bras.


1. Hatch

Best For | Quick-drying belly oil
Natural & Organic Ingredients | Sweet almond, grapefruit, & jojoba seed oils, calendula, rosemary extract, rosehip oil

Hatch’s natural skincare products are plant-derived, vegan, and free of parabens, dyes, and synthetic fragrances. The Belly Oil in particular has a whopping seven plant- and seed-based oils, including sweet almond oil for Vitamin E, antioxidant-rich grapefruit oil, and hydrating jojoba seed oil. Whether you use it on your own belly or your baby’s, we love how it effortlessly soaks into the skin without any greasy residue. Between the lightweight natural formula and the comforting scent, we can see why this is an expecting parent’s favorite.


2. Tubby Todd

Best For | Fragrance-free belly oil
Natural & Organic Ingredients | Organic fruit extracts, jojoba oil, sunflower seed oil, sweet almond oil, pomegranate extract

Tubby Todd’s Belly Oil is like a daily love note to your bump—hydrating, soothing, and totally clean. Packed with nourishing plant oils (hi, pomegranate and sunflower!), it helps your skin stay soft and stretchy without any sketchy ingredients. Plus, it’s fragrance-free and gentle enough for sensitive skin, so you can lather up with zero worries and all the glow.


3. OSEA

Best For | Belly & body oil
Natural & Organic Ingredients | Undaria seaweed, sunflower, grapefruit, & sesame oils, rice bran extract, sunflower extract

OSEA’s Undaria Algae Body Oil is an all-time favorite on The Good Trade team—and it can be used throughout pregnancy as well. Clinically proven to improve elasticity and retain moisture, this best-selling oil is perfect for your belly as your skin expands (as well as the rest of your body!). It smells heavenly yet subtle, is rich without being too heavy, and can be used on dry or damp skin. While we’re pro-stretch marks, if that’s a concern to you, some reviews praise the oil’s ability to reduce scars and stretch marks across the body. (And did we mention that purchases at OSEA are climate-neutral and cruelty-free? A win-win for everyone.) Read our full Osea review here.


4. Natalist

Best For | Hydrating belly oil that minimizes itchy skin
Natural & Organic Ingredients | Organic argan oil, organic shea butter, organic coconut oil, organic olive oil

For a hydrating and dewy oil that’s formulated to soothe your growing belly each step of the way, Natalist’s formula shines (literally). Made with simple and wholesome ingredients in the USA, this oil will leave your skin feeling smooth and supple while helping improve skin elasticity. Besides keeping your skin nourished, Natalist is at the forefront of producing quality products that are sustainable, ethically made and free of toxins and other harmful ingredients. This oil is vegan and made in a cruelty-free facility with absolutely no parabens, phthalates, dyes, or petroleum. We almost forgot to mention they are 100% plastic neutral. We’re sold!


5. Mother Mother

Best For | Face & belly oil
Natural & Organic Ingredients | Cranberry seed, pomegranate, marula, borage, & baobab oils, calendula extract

If you’re tired of getting one pregnancy-safe oil for your face and another for your body, you’re in luck: Mother Mother’s Face + Belly Oil is the two-in-one you’ve been looking for. Safe enough to use across your skin, this “everything” oil is made for expecting and new parents in mind, and at a price that won’t break the bank. Derived from 11 deeply nourishing oils—think sunflower seed and neroli oils—this blend will nourish and hydrate your skin (or your little one’s) without any greasiness or stains. Just a couple of drops from boobs to belly will go a long way here.


6. Ingrid + Isabel

Best For | EWG-verified blend belly oil
Natural & Organic | Apricot kernel oil, organic marshmallow root, organic calendula, organic rosehip, lavender, & chamomile, rose absolute
Price | $35 for 4 oz.

Ingrid + Isabel has long been made with moms and babies in mind—even the name is a testament to the mother-daughter relationship (Isabel is Ingrid’s daughter!). Verified by the Environmental Working Group for safety, the brand’s belly oil is about as safe and sustainable as you can get. Instead of worrying about whether your products contain chemicals that could harm your growing baby, you can indulge with this formula chock-full of responsibly sourced and organic ingredients. In fact, there are only seven ingredients overall (listed above), so you won’t find any fillers or fake preservatives here. Address every concern from itchiness to tightness in this magical belly oil.


7. Zoe Organics

Best For | Organic belly butter
Natural & Organic Ingredients | Organic shea butter, organic coconut, rosehip, & avocado oils, rosemary & calendula extract, essential oils

If you’re not a fan of belly oil, you may love Zoe Organics’ Belly Butter instead (though the brand does offer a Belly Oil as well). Formulated of 100 percent organic ingredients, this concentrated and waterless blend can be used from pregnancy through postpartum as a hydrating treatment. If you’re open to scents, this one smells divine thanks to the ylang ylang and sandalwood essential oils—sensual and soothing but not overbearing. If you decide to pair the belly oil and butter together, the team recommends the belly oil first and the butter after. A calming and conscious ritual for every stage of pregnancy.


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We Review OSEA’s 2026 Skincare Collection https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/reviews-osea/ https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/reviews-osea/#comments Thu, 08 Jan 2026 17:13:17 +0000 https://www.thegoodtrade.com/reviews-osea/ Our editors review OSEA Malibu skincare and body care best sellers.

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This review is not sponsored and contains the author’s personal experience. The Good Trade was gifted this product. The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here.


I recently saw a trending Tweet in which a woman asked the Twitterverse one thing they wished they had known before turning 30. “Skin care,” read the majority of responses. “Invest in skin care. And don’t forget your neck!” It took me nearly 30 years, too, to finally become religious about a daily skincare regimen. Before that, I spent too many nights forgetting to wash my face or, worse, slathering up with toxic “cleansers” that left my skin anything but clean or clear. Even in my 30s, it’s been a struggle to find one brand or regimen that I can truly count on. After trying most of the “clean” skincare products at Target and spending too much money on buzzworthy collections, I’ve learned that what works best for me is twofold.

“I need formulas I can trust — ones that make my skin feel nourished and cared for — with truly clean and effective ingredients.”

First, I need simplicity in the number of products I have on my vanity. Too many products feel overwhelming, and I end up skipping them altogether. I also need gentle ingredients, as harsh chemicals irritate my skin. While I enjoy using a mask or red light device once a week, I need simple staples I can confidently reach for in the morning and before bed. Most of all, I need formulas I can trust — ones that make my skin feel nourished and cared for, with truly clean and effective ingredients.

Enter OSEA (pronounced Ohhh-Seee-Uhhhh), the skin and body care brand I’ve been using (and loving) religiously for the past few years. Founded by Jenefer Palmer in 1996 and based in Malibu, California, the team there has been creating “clean, seaweed-infused skincare that respects the natural world and makes skin look and feel its absolute best.”

That’s right — seaweed is the star ingredient in OSEA Malibu products. “Seaweed is a naturally rich source of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants,” says Palmer in an interview with Credo Beauty. Benefits range from firming skin to moisturizing and protecting it from pollutants.

“Benefits (of seaweed) range from firming skin to moisturizing and protecting it from pollutants.”

I’ve definitely noticed some of these benefits myself, especially during summer weather, which, while gorgeous in Los Angeles, is exceptionally dry and dehydrating on my skin. All of OSEA’s products deliver on the promise of next-level hydration and softer, more supple skin — from the face moisturizer to the body butter and oil (reviewed in detail below).

Additionally, OSEA is firm in its commitment to sustainability and environmentally friendly packaging. Shipping is plastic-free, and the majority of products come in glass bottles; they even offer a recycling program option for LA locals to return their empties and receive credit toward new products.

Most notably, OSEA’s formulas are incredibly gentle. Forget artificial dyes, synthetic fragrances, nanoparticles, or heavy metals. Everything is science-formulated with safe, vegan, gluten-free, and nature-forward ingredients, though this doesn’t mean a compromise on efficacy. OSEA uses active ingredients at clinically validated levels, and the team conducts clinical and sensory testing to prove it.

“Everything is science-formulated with safe, vegan, gluten-free, and nature-forward ingredients — though this doesn’t mean a compromise on efficacy.”

Now, for the actual products. This isn’t a complete list, but a few of my favorites and the brand’s bestsellers. OSEA was also a reader-favorite brand in our 2024 survey.

To find the OSEA products that will work best for you, take their skincare quiz here.


Ocean Cleanser ($48)

This is my go-to gel cleanser every morning! The light citrus notes help wake me up and offer a boost of energy. Two to three small pumps are plenty to cover my neck and face and gently exfoliate my skin. My face always feels refreshed and soft after just a few minutes of this.

Key ingredients include undaria seaweed (rich in antioxidants and nutrients), bentonite (to unclog pores), and a blend of jojoba and sesame oils for added moisture.


Seabiotic® Water Cream ($54)

I was skeptical about this product’s claim to deliver 72+ hours of deep hydration, but it’s a real winter hero. This moisturizer is both weightless and extra moisturizing all at once, and I find myself touching my cheeks throughout the day, amazed by how soft they feel. It’s also free from fragrances or oils, so it doesn’t irritate my skin (or eyes) or leave my face feeling greasy. I use this after the cleanser for a simple morning routine.

Key ingredients include undaria seaweed (rich in antioxidants and nutrients), squalane (weightless moisture), bisabolol (soothes dry skin).


Red Algae Clarifying Mask ($48)

This pink algae mask puts me in such a good mood. I use it like clockwork on Sundays. Is it the warm color? The fresh minty scent? The clean ingredients? There isn’t anything not to love about this formula. It clarifies and decongests pores while offering a gentle tingle, making me feel like it’s working!

Key ingredients include bentonite (a natural smectite clay to draw out impurities), trio of sustainably sourced red seaweeds (mineralizing and nutrient-rich).


Hyaluronic Acid Body Serum ($48)

I wasn’t sure a body serum could really make a difference, especially one that promises deep hydration with hyaluronic acid, but this Osea body serum surprised me. It feels light and silky on my skin but somehow delivers intense moisture that lasts all day without feeling sticky or heavy. I’ve noticed my skin looks smoother and more radiant, especially on my arms and legs. I like to apply it right after showering for a simple, refreshing boost!

Key ingredients include hyaluronic acid (for deep hydration), seaweed extract (rich in minerals and antioxidants), and jojoba oil (for smooth, balanced moisture).


Salt of the Earth Body Scrub ($48)

Historically, I’ve been one to focus all my skincare efforts on my face, leaving my limbs sad and dry in the winter months. That is, until I began using some of OSEA’s body care products. This body scrub is perfect for use in the shower or bath, or on your hands for added softness. It doesn’t feel harsh or abrasive on my skin; rather, it’s soft, velvety, and a bit like sugar. It truly melts. Oh, and it smells like a spa.

Key ingredients include red clay, shea butter, and a combination of New Zealand solar salt, pink Himalayan sea salt, and Red Hawaiian sea salt.


Dream Night Serum with Bio-Retinol ($88)

Aptly called Dream Night Serum, this serum is truly a full exhale for the skin. It glides on like silk and gets to work overnight, softening the appearance of fine lines and smoothing out the delicate skin around my eyes, especially those early crow’s feet that seem to deepen with every late night. By morning, my skin feels firmer, more even, and visibly refreshed, like I actually got a full eight hours. There’s no dryness or irritation—just calm, nourished skin that looks subtly lifted. I apply it after cleansing and before moisturizing, letting the formula do its thing while I sleep.

Key ingredients include red seaweed (reduces the look of wrinkles and improves skin smoothness), a bio retinol alternative (to visibly reduce wrinkles without sensitivity), and firming peptides.


Undaria Algae Body Oil ($52)

I’ll be honest: I was skeptical about all the praise for this body oil. I’ve tried other body oils, which always stain my sheets and leave my skin greasy. Not this one, though. OSEA’s body oil absorbs quickly and, after application, it only takes a few moments for my skin to dry and become soft to the touch. I’ve used this almost daily to hydrate my parched skin during the winter months.

Key ingredients include Undaria Algae (soaked in barrels of oils to infuse the vitamins and minerals), White Lupin (Flower), and botanical oil blend (replenishes moisture).


Hyaluronic Lip Booster $28

Don’t let the minimalist tube fool you—Hyaluronic Lip Booster is like a tall glass of water for your lips. From the first swipe, it delivers a burst of juicy mango-mandarin aroma that’s both uplifting and subtly tropical. The formula smooths fine lines (even those pesky vertical ones), plumps without the sting, and leaves lips feeling soft, not sticky. I use it alone for a healthy sheen or over lip color for a dewy finish.

Key ingredients include hyaluronic acid (for deep hydration and volume), sea fern (for fuller lips), and meadowfoam sea oil (nourishes and conditions).


Sea Minerals Mist ($18+)

I love a good misting product. And this one is perfect for mid-day hydration or packing along in my gym bag. It’s cooling, refreshing, and leaves my face with a dewy glow. The perfect winter pick-me-up. In the summer months, I’m going to take OSEA’s recommendation and store chilled for heat relief.

Key ingredients include Undaria Pinnatifida extract, Dead Sea salt, aloe vera leaf juice, and chlorophyll.


Vagus Nerve Pillow Mist ($38)

Saving the best for last, this is my favorite product from OSEA — but only by a little because I love, love, love everything from this brand! Still, the pillow mist is a scent I dream about throughout the day until it’s time for bed. As for how it works, the vagus nerve activates the body’s relaxation response and helps regulate stress. The mist helps with sleep and creates a calming environment — I use it often for naps too, or when I just need help relaxing. Two spritzes are plenty, meaning the bottle literally lasts forever. This also makes for a wonderful gift.

Key ingredients include a blend of calming oils (lavender, rosemary, lime, and more).

Learn more about OSEA and see the entire collection of skincare and body care products on the website. Also, note that many items are sold in sets or bundles for added savings. For the products you love most, you can also subscribe and save 10%!



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11 Best Nontoxic Face Moisturizers (Editor Reviewed) https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/best-natural-organic-face-moisturizers/ https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/best-natural-organic-face-moisturizers/#comments Thu, 08 Jan 2026 17:11:38 +0000 https://www.thegoodtrade.com/best-natural-organic-face-moisturizers/ Our editors review the best natural and organic face moisturizers for 2026.

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The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here.

I’ve personally tested and researched dozens of clean beauty brands — these are my favorite natural and nontoxic face moisturizers with notes from wear.

When it comes to a natural skincare routine, hydration is our highest priority. This is true whether we’re experiencing dry and dull skin from winter weather or feeling the effects of the hot summer sun. Lathering up in protective creams that nourish our skin and rejuvenate our complexions is one of life’s small pleasures. That’s why I’m thrilled to share our favorite editor-tested and approved natural face moisturizers made with organic ingredients that truly deliver. 🧴

So, what does face moisturizer actually do?

Most moisturizers work through a combination of hydrating the surface layers of your skin and trapping in moisture and nutrients. (Yes, that means applying moisturizer to damp skin is more effective!) Moisturizer can have other unexpected benefits, like helping with acne, since it stops the need for oil production. Curious how face moisturizers compare to serums and face oils? Serums have more active ingredients that are water-based — the small molecules in serums mean they rapidly absorb and penetrate deeply into skin. Face oils have larger molecules and a slower absorption rate, so they’re good for sealing in other products and giving you that glow. Moisturizers are more for sealing in water and protecting your skin barrier. They’re great to use on their own after a cleanser — but you can also use all three products in this order: Serum, moisturizer, and then face oil.

Why choose a nontoxic face moisturizer?

Going for a nontoxic face moisturizer is like quenching your skin with all the good stuff and none of the junk. Nontoxic and natural ingredients like organic shea butter, aloe vera, and plant oils keep your skin happy and hydrated without any irritating and unnecessary chemicals that can throw your skin off (or cause an allergic reaction). Plus, it’s a win-win for both you and the planet because nontoxic moisturizers often use eco-friendly ingredients that are easy on the environment. And let’s not forget the long-term benefits – by ditching the toxic stuff, you’re setting yourself up for healthier skin and overall wellness down the road. 

What ingredients should you look for in a natural moisturizer?

All good moisturizers contain three types of ingredients. Humectants draw in and retain water — some of our favorites in this category are hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Occlusives give skin a protective outer layer that seals in water to reduce evaporation. Petroleum jelly, beeswax, and coconut oil are all great occlusives, but these can be too heavy and comedogenic for some — we like more universal occlusives like shea butter and triglycerides. Lastly, moisturizers need emollients to blend it all together and to smooth and soften the look and feel of skin. Common emollients are ceramides, squalane, jojoba oil, amino acids, lipids, vitamin E, and dimethicone. We also like to stay away from common irritating ingredients like fragrance and essential oils.

How do I know that my skincare is clean?

When shopping for skincare and body care products, we love using informative, non-partisan online resources that break down each ingredient so you can see what might be problematic. INCIdecoder takes you ingredient by ingredient for practically any skincare product. And if you want to know more about a specific ingredient, we like the EWG (Environmental Working Group) website — they even have handy “dirty dozen” and “clean fifteen” ingredient lists.

“Clean” or “natural” are somewhat arbitrary words when it comes to beauty products since they’re unregulated. But as a rule of thumb, we like to check individual ingredients to make sure they’re not potentially harmful, and support brands with transparent sustainability specs. We keep an eye out for third-party sustainability certifications like B Corp, EWG Verified, USDA Organic, Made Safe, and Fair Trade. 

We think about packaging, too — the FSC certification means a product’s cardboard box was made with sustainably harvested wood, and we’re always prioritizing glass or aluminum over plastic packaging, which isn’t as easy to recycle and breaks down into microplastics.

Our methodology & criteria:

The Good Trade was sent these 11 face moisturizers for review and I personally tested them all for their texture, absorbability, and hydrating capabilities as someone with normal-dry skin. To test the moisturizers below, I applied each one at least four times total — twice as part of my morning routine and twice at night, keeping everything else about my routine (cleansers, serums) the same. Some were definite lighter, daytime creams that went well under makeup, while others were richer and better for nighttime — and some fell somewhere in between.

A collection of skincare and beauty products, including jars and tubes, arranged on a bed with sunlight casting shadows.
I tested each product at least four times, rating for hydration, ingredients, affordability, and texture.

For context, I have combination, acne-prone skin that tends to feel dry, while my T-zone gets oily throughout the day. My skin isn’t particularly sensitive, and I lean towards lighter products during the day and heavy creams at night to combat my retinoid-induced dryness. From lightweight creams to thicker balms, I rated the texture of each product from 1-10, with lighter being on the lower end of the scale and richer textures on the higher end.

  • NONTOXIC | These clean face moisturizers are made with high-quality ingredients, including organic and nontoxic additions that won’t irritate your skin and will keep it in its best state, naturally.
  • HYDRATING | After testing each of these face moisturizers, I can confirm each will deliver nourishing and vitamin-rich moisture that’s suitable to your skin type for that all-day glow! ✨
  • AFFORDABLE | Clean beauty can get pricey, so I’ve made sure to showcase some of my favorite face moisturizers from ethical and eco-friendly brands that are budget-friendly.

I’m confident there is something for everyone on the list. Let us know your favorites in the comments. And if you’re on the hunt for other natural beauty recommendations, check out our guide to organic makeup and organic skincare products.


Table of Contents

Best Overall: OSEA
Best for Dry or Mature Skin: RMS
Best for Sensitive Skin: Ilia
Best Affordable Option: Cocokind
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Jones Road
Best for Normal/Dry Skin: YSE
Best for Purchasing IRL: Three Ships
Best Makeup Primer: Ere Perez
Best Luxe Option: Kora
Best Functional Ingredients: Ursa Major
Best for Combination and Oily Skin: 100% Pure


1. OSEA

Climate neutral
Cruelty free
Recycled materials
Vegan
Woman owned

Best for | Our overall favorite
Skin type | Normal/dry
Texture | 7.5

It’s no secret our editors (and readers!) are obsessed with OSEA (read our full OSEA review here). And the Atmosphere Protection Cream is just another favorite essential in our bathroom cabinet. It smells like lavender and clary sage and is made with plant-derived ingredients like seaweed and shea butter. The vegan moisturizer is also in antioxidants and protects the skin from environmental pollutants. We love the pump bottle for application and the lightweight, silky finish. OSEA is Climate Neutral Certified and delivers its skincare in recyclable packaging.

Our Editor’s Review | “Osea has been a TGT fave for years, and for good reason. Their formulations have fantastic UX — that’s the major difference between drugstore and higher end creams, I’ve found — with gorgeous textures and packaging that’s just as nice. The advanced protection cream was all that and more. It’s rich, refreshing, and hydrating without feeling too heavy (it works for both day and night, though it reads more like a night cream), it’s great at barrier restoration, it’s has a super subtle floral scent, and it’s stamped with the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance. It’s formulated with lipids, amino acids, plant-based retinol, turmeric, and Osea’s signature seaweed — plus their signature frosted glass packaging.”


2. RMS

Cruelty free
Natural materials
Subscriptions available
Vegan
Woman owned

Best for | A nourishing night cream
Skin type | Dry/mature
Texture | 9

Founded by makeup artist Rose-Marie Swift, RMS has been one of the leaders in the clean makeup space since 2009. They meticulously source the clean ingredients for their beauty products — which include super simple, apply-with-your-fingers products like liquid eyeshadow, cream lip to cheek product, and tinted SPF. They’ve branched out into the skincare space, too, with a handful of equally elegant, uncomplicated products like cleansing balm, kakadu oil, and a satisfyingly rich yet non-greasy Kakadu Luxe Cream.

Our Editor’s Review | “RMS’s Kakadu Luxe Cream is my ideal night cream. It has a slightly thicker texture than Osea’s — owing to its shea butter, which my skin loves — but still sinks in with a silky, non-greasy finish and had me waking up to noticeably hydrated skin in the morning. A little goes a long way, too. It’s enhanced with niacinamide, plant-based peptides, and kakadu plum oil (rich in vitamin C), and it comes in a beautiful light pink glass jar that looks great on my vanity to boot.”


3. Ilia

1% for the planet
Cruelty free
Eco friendly packaging
Subscriptions available
Vegan
Woman owned

Best for | Calming & soothing
Skin type | Sensitive
Texture | 6

A TGT favorite for several years now, Ilia blurs the line between makeup and skincare with beautifully (and sustainably) packaged products. “…Not every natural ingredient is good for the skin, nor is every synthetic bad,” according to the brand’s ethos, which has led them to creating some pretty innovative hybrid makeup/skincare products like their iconic skin tint and an eye cream with a subtle shimmer. The brand is Leaping Bunny certified and committed to 1% for the Planet, too.

Our Editor’s Review | “Ilia has a new barrier cream I had been eyeing — and was super excited to try. It was lighter than I expected, reading more like a nourishing day cream than a rich night cream — although it would make a perfect night cream if you prefer something lightweight and refreshing. Also unscented and stamped with the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance, it’s a bit lighter than Osea’s cream. It still has a calming, deeping hydrating finish, boosted with soothing colloidal oatmeal and nourishing shea butter.


4. cocokind

BIPOC Owned
Budget friendly
Cruelty free
Recycled materials
Vegan
Woman owned

Best for | Affordable daytime moisturizer
Skin type | Combo/oily
Texture | 3.5

If you’re dealing with dry, rough patches from the weather, you’ll want to check out cocokind’s Texture Smoothing Cream. Our editors love this affordable plant-based moisturizer with organic ingredients like celery superseed complex and hydrating squalane. The face cream helps reduce enlarged pores and smoothes skin texture. We love snagging a jar while on a Target run for lightweight moisture that soaks right in. Cocokind is cruelty-free, uses recyclable packaging, and makes products in the USA.

Our Editor’s Review | “We love Cocokind for its affordable formulations and super transparent specs — each product gives you a detailed ingredient and carbon footprint breakdown — and their electrolyte water cream is one of their newer products. It has a calming, lightweight feel that kept me hydrated all day and worked well under makeup. While it was more hydrating than I was expecting, it wasn’t thick enough for nighttime use. But it’s a fantastic summertime day cream for my combo skin, with electrolytes like sodium PCA and zinc PCA that balance hydration and control shine. For a super nourishing night cream, I’ve been using (and loving) the brand’s polypeptide cream for years.”


5. Jones Road

Cruelty free
FSC
Woman owned

Best for | Lightweight, gel-like moisturizer
Skin type | Oily, acne-prone
Texture | 3.5

Jones Road, Bobbi Brown’s skincare line, reimagines what skincare can be with simple, effective formulations and attractive glass packaging to boot. Brown created the brand with the goal of simplifying makeup application — formulations shouldn’t be difficult to master, and they should work on all skin types and tones. They follow guidelines more stringent than the EU for their clean formulations, and while they specialize in makeup products, they also do a line of streamlined, unfussy skincare in glassy packaging.

Our Editor’s Review | “Jones Road’s oil-free moisturizer is a fantastically simple day cream option. It comes in a glass pump jar, has a super lightweight, gel/cream texture that still left my skin feeling hydrated, and is formulated with brightening niacinamide. But it probably wouldn’t be nourishing enough during the driest winter months. But if you have super dry skin, Jones Road’s miracle cream is for you, with that thick finish my skin craves during dry winter months (although fellow acne-prone folks, I wouldn’t rec using this every day). Solid in the jar, the product has lots of shea butter and melts down when you warm it in between your fingers — it finishes greasy and nourishing like Weleda’s Skin Food, one of my favorite products of all time.”


6. YSE

Cruelty free
FSC
Woman owned

Best for | Thick cream that feels weightless
Skin type | Normal/dry
Texture | 8

YSE Beauty — pronounced “wise”— is supermodel and actress Molly Sims’ skincare brand. The brand was created for women (especially Gen Xers!) seeking effective, uncomplicated skincare solutions targeting concerns like hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, dryness, and other common effects of aging. Designed to be trend-free, stress-free, and easy to use, catering to women who want results without a complicated regimen — and you know they come by it honestly, if you’ve checked out the founder’s morning routine!

Our Editor’s Review | “I loved the texture of YSE’s Xtremely Rich moisturizer. Its buttery, plush, thick feel melted down on contact with my face to leave a dewy, almost weightless finish — the perfect rich cream for someone with dry skin who doesn’t like the feeling of a heavy moisturizer. Its squalane, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides help hydrate and repair skin from the outside in, leaving your skin feeling smoother and glowier both on application and over time.”


7. Three Ships

Cruelty free
Vegan

Best for | Easy to find in person
Skin type | All skin types
Texture | 6

Another brand on the more affordable side, Three Ships can be found in stores like Credo and Whole Foods, plus they’re B Corp and EWG certified. Their clearly labeled, down-to-earth products are designed to eliminate the need for a 12-step skincare routine — and they’re all dermatologist tested, sustainably sourced, and vegan friendly. The brand specializes in skincare (no makeup for now), and we love how they separate their products by skin type and by benefit, for super easy shopping.

Our Editor’s Review | “Three Ships’ Radiance Grape Stem Cell + Squalane Ultra-Hydrating Cream is more lightweight than the name makes it sound. (And I love being able to pick a product up rather than get it delivered!) It hits that sweet spot between light enough to wear under makeup during the day, but heavy enough to work as a night cream, too, deeply hydrating with a blend of glycerin, squalane, shea butter, and rosehip oil. While its plastic packaging isn’t ideal, it’s part of what keeps it so affordable and easy to recycle — and it has a pump top so you don’t have to dip your fingers in.”


8. Ere Perez

BIPOC Owned
Cruelty free
Eco friendly packaging
Gluten free
Natural materials
Soy free
Vegetarian
Woman owned

Best for | All purpose moisturizer
Skin type | Normal
Texture | 5

This boutique Australian beauty brand with transparent sustainability specs was started by Ere Perez, who emigrated to Australia from Mexico and combines both of her identities in this makeup, skincare, and beauty tool line that prioritizes powerful natural ingredients and easy-to-use formulations. Their skincare products each emphasize a different effective botanical — like papaya, grape water, or moringa — and you can use the locator on their website to find a store near you that carries their products.

Our Editor’s Review | “I can’t lie — I loved this moisturizer’s butter-yellow packaging almost as much as I loved its texture that’s plumping, refreshing, and light. The moringa all-beauty creme is that perfect all-purpose, non-irritating moisturizer that does well on my skin any time of day — and I think would work for all skin types in all season. It provided a dewy finish on bare skin and priming well for makeup, too. It has a light, fresh scent that smelled a little bit like cleaning products to me, but not enough to make me want to stop using it. Just beware if you’re super sensitive to scent.”


9. Kora

Climate neutral
Cruelty free
Woman owned

Best for | Luxe packaging and scent
Skin type | Combo/oily
Texture | 4

Not only are Kora’s products certified organic — they also don’t compromise on effectiveness or user experience. They have luxe-feeling packaging, subtly refreshing scents, and beautiful textures, too, so it’s no wonder they’ve been racking up beauty awards lately. The Climate Neutral certified skincare line comprises everything from mists to SPF to body care, and many of their products — including moisturizers — come in refillable packaging to reduce plastic waste.

Our Editor’s Review | “I love how luxurious Kora’s textures, scents, and packaging feels. Their active algae lightweight moisturizer that, while light and gel-like, is impressively moisturizing and sat well under makeup, calming with ingredients like aloe and cica. Kora also makes a turmeric glow moisturizer has a decadent texture that left my skin feeling cocooned and nourished (it’s more of a night cream) with a delicious mint and lemon scent to boot. It’s packed with aloe, rosehip oil, turmeric, shea butter, and plenty of other botanical oils along with lactic acid and lactobacillus to increase ingredient absorption. Acne-prone or sensitive skin types, I’d exercise caution with both of these products — while my skin was just fine, they both contain potentially irritating essential oils.”


10. Ursa Major

B corp
Cruelty free
Family owned
Recycled materials
Vegan

Best for | Functional ingredients
Skin type | Dry/mature
Texture | 7.5

Ursa Major is a certified B corp making natural and organic skincare essentials with nature’s very best ingredients. The Fortifying Face Balm — which is vegan and made in the USA — includes organic aloe leaf juice, sunflower & carrot seed oils, and willow bark extract. We love how light and weightless it feels on application and how it reduces redness, hydrates our skin, and smells like a spa. The pump feature makes it easy to apply on the go too. Ursa Major is plastic-negative, gives back to environmental causes, and ships products. sustainable packaging.

Our Editor’s Review | “Ursa Major’s Golden Hour Recovery Cream has the dreamiest texture — it’s rich and buttery, but sinks into skin on application without feeling super greasy or heavy. Designed to be used both morning and night, the cream utilizes the power of botanical actives, like sea buckthorn oil that’s rich in fatty acids, blackcurrant that has vitamin C, and calendula for soothing. (The botanical ingredients give it a gorgeous floral and woody scent, too). While I’m in love with the cream’s texture, scent, and glass packaging, it gives my skin the subtlest stinging sensation on application, so I wouldn’t rec this for sensitive types.”


11. 100% Pure

American made
Climate neutral
Plant trees
Vegan

Best for | Lightweight plant-based moisture
Skin type | Combo/oily
Texture | 3

Our editors love this tiny but mighty tube for hydration on the go! The Restorative Sea Culture Extra Riche Créme from 100% Pure combines nutrient-rich sea minerals, vitamins, and oils for skin that glows — especially for faces with skin on the drier side. It’s vegan and mostly organic, as well as made in the USA. As for smell, the floral scent profile reminds us a bit of warm sunshine on those first spring days. Divine! Read our full 100% Pure review here.

Our Editor’s Review | “The brand 100% Pure has a solid lineup of natural, plant-based moisturizers, but my favorite one that I tried was their mushroom peptide moisturizer. It has a thin texture with a lightweight finish, but still felt nourishing between its hyaluronic acid, squalane, glycerin, and botanical oils — and it has niacinamide and naturally occurring peptides, too. Its name comes from its blend of extracts from 11 different mushrooms (chaga, lion’s mane, and reishi, to name a few), and its no-frills formulation is full of simple, easy-to-read and pronounce ingredients.”


Natalie Gale is a Boston-based freelance journalist. Since 2022, she has been reviewing the top sustainable home, wellness, fashion, and beauty products, sharing her honest opinion on the best finds. When she’s not writing about art, food, or sustainability, you can find her biking to the farmers’ market, baking, sewing, or planning her next Halloween costume. Say hi on Instagram!


Psst! Google launched a new feature that lets you choose “Preferred Sources” — so your searches highlight trusted, values-driven outlets instead of clickbait. To add The Good Trade, tick the box beside our name. That’s it — our stories will be waiting whenever you search. Read more about it here.


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