My Coconut-free Skin Care Routine – Updated

I enjoy trying different coconut-free products to see what my skin reacts best to. Of course, everyone is different but these items have worked well for my normal to dry, acne-prone skin. 

Eye Makeup Remover

Lancome Bi-Facil Eye Makeup Remover
This remains my favorite eye makeup remover. It melts away mascara effortlessly, even waterproof formulas, without irritating my eyes. I always rinse thoroughly with water afterward, which keeps my eyes comfortable.

Face Washes

I love a double cleanse since I wear makeup daily. Finding a coconut-free face wash with a bubbly lather is tricky, but here are my two favorites:

Kiss My Face Soap Bar

• Long-lasting and travel-friendly (I cut off a portion to make a mini bar).
• Perfect as a second cleanse, removing makeup without leaving a film.
• Avoid using around the eyes—it can cause irritation.

Naturally Sustained Body and Face Wash

• Concentrated formula that you dilute with water.
• I mix small batches in a travel-sized container to keep water fresh.
• Produces a satisfying bubbly lather and cleans thoroughly without residue.

After cleansing, I use a reusable cotton swab with warm water to remove any excess product.

Toner

I tested two toners from the same brand, ISNTREE. Both toners have excellent packaging—labels don’t smudge, and the bottle dispenses just the right amount.

Aloe Toner: Gentle, non-drying, no alcohol-like effect.

Green Tea Toner: Equally gentle, but I prefer it. Its brown color makes it feel more substantial, and psychologically I find it more effective.

Acne Prevention

Garden of Wisdom Salicylic Acid Pads

• 100 pads per package, used twice weekly.
• I press them gently onto breakout-prone areas (like applying powder) rather than scrubbing.
• Pads are slightly abrasive, so gentle application is key.

Serums

Cosmedica Hyaluronic Acid Serum: My holy grail. Hydrates and plumps beautifully.

Cosmedica Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin E Serum: Less effective for me—didn’t hydrate as well. It’s no longer available for purchase.

Garden of Wisdom Collagen Renewal Serum: Thick texture, colorful appearance, leaves skin supple and hydrated. I use it a couple of times per week, never mixed with other serums.

Moisturizers

• Hearth and Homestead: Handmade Whipped Tallow Balm: This was my least favorite but I still used the whole container. It would be a nighttime only balm if you like feeling a layer of moisturizer on your skin. It instantly melts on your skin but takes a while to sink in.
• HealthyDerm Beef Tallow Honey Balm: This is my favorite, a real goldilocks tallow balm. It is neither too dry or too wet, too greasy or too rubbery. It blends really well and sinks into the skin.
• FeeMeFee Tallow And Manuka Honey Balm: This is such a great tallow balm if your face is oily or if you want to use it underneath makeup. It is very thick and non-greasy. It requires a lot of rubbing to get it to spread out and sink into skin.

Final Thoughts

This routine has helped me manage my normal-to-dry, acne-prone skin without relying on coconut-based products. While everyone’s skin is different, these items have proven effective and gentle for me. Experimentation is key—find what works best for your skin type. Consult a doctor if you have any doubts.