Clean Skin, Body and Bath Products I Love

March 29, 2024 Lisa Malin

Navigating the landscape of clean personal care products is tricky. Lack of regulation in the beauty industry has opened the door to "greenwashing,” where companies are intentionally using misleading packaging, marketing, and terms like "natural" and "clean" to falsely present their products as beneficial and non-toxic.

In an effort to help you make informed decisions and choose products that work, I’ve put together a vetted highlight list of my all time favorite clean skin and body products. Each one is effective, luxurious and meets the rigorous safety standards set by the Environmental Working Group.

You can catch the highlight list below and then head over here to see the full list of skin and body products I lean on each and everyday.

In my next newsletter, I’ll be sharing the non-toxic cosmetics that have made their way into my makeup bag. Until then, I hope this list inspires you and helps ease the transition to a “cleaner” routine.

Bath + Body

BEAUTY COUNTER

Citrus Mimosa Body Wash

This body wash has a creamy texture that leaves skin clean and hydrated. Use with a body puff for lather and exfoliation.

NECESSAIRE

The Body Lotion

This is a go-to when I want an unscented and hydrating body lotion

OAK ESSENTIALS

The Body Routine

I love all of these products, but you can pick and choose which ones you like. Smells fresh and herby. Sold as a bundle and separately.

BEAUTYCOUNTER

THE CLEAN DEO

Because antiperspirants are applied often and on skin near breasts, some reports claim that the chemicals could be absorbed through your skin and cause estrogen-like hormonal effects. Using a non-toxic, fresh smelling deodorant like one from @beautycounter makes so much sense.

ALO

Head to Toe Glow Oil

I love this nourishing body oil. I use it post shower on damp, warm skin for hydration and glow. I love the subtle scent.

TRUE BOTANICALS

Pure Radiance Body Butter

This body butter is incredibly nourishing and luxurious.

Skin Care

DHC

Deep Cleansing Oil

This oil cleanser is perfect for removing makeup and sunscreen. Nourishes and hydrates the skin, while rinsing completely clean. No oily residue.

OAK ESSENTIALS

Pure Gel Cleanser

The perfect, non-stripping cleanser to use on it’s own or after the DCH Cleansing Oil.

OAK ESSENTIALS

The Hydration Heroes

Delicious smelling and elegant on the skin, the Ritual Oil and Balm work together to leave your skin dewy and glowy.

GOOP

All-in-one Nourishing Face Cream

I reach for this when I want a lighter, yet super-hydrating moisturizer. No sticky residue.

TRUE BOTANICALS

Chebula Extreme Cream

I love this luxurious, anti-aging moisturizer. It’s lightweight and extremely moisturizing. A little goes a long way.

OAK ESSENTIALS

Restorative Mask

Made with organic honey, this mask is so soothing and nourishing. Wash it off with a warm washcloth for a spa like experience that leaves skin feeling so soft and balmy.

SUMMER FRIDAYS

Jumbo Jet Lag Mask

This mutli-taking mask is fragrance-free and helps nourish, hydrate and calm the skin. You can use it as a nightly mask, daytime moisturizer or while traveling for in-flight hydration.

TRUE BOTANICALS

Sun Barrier Sun Sheild, SPF 30

Sheer and hydrating with a subtle tint that gives skin a glowy look.

BIOSSANCE

Squalane and Rose Tinted Lip Balm

I love this fragrance-free lip balm. You can also apply it to cheekbones and eyebrows for a subtle sheen.

EVERYONE

Pacific Eucalyptus Hand Soap

This is EWG VERIFIED®, meaning that the product meets EWG’s strictest standards for health and safety. Smells clean and fresh. Perfect for the kitchen sink and bathrooms vanity. The Tangerine Vanilla smells great too.

Exercise Physiology With Max Castrogaleas

February 2, 2024 Lisa Malin

Max Castrogaleas is an Exercise Physiologist. He is a former US Marine Corps Sergeant and Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor. After serving two tours as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, he graduated from Queens College with a Bachelor's in Nutrition and Exercise Science and Teachers College at Columbia University with a Master’s in Applied Exercise Physiology. Max holds industry-leading certifications and several specialized certifications in fitness and athletic performance.

What made you become an Exercise Physiologist?

After being in the military and spending four years helping optimize tactical athletes' performance, I wanted to pursue a career within the fitness and wellness environment. I began my career as a performance specialist, working primarily with athletes. From there, I became passionate about helping athletes return to the field after injury. As an Exercise Physiologist, I get to help individuals of all ages and fitness levels get back to the sport, improve their fitness and wellness, and increase their capacity to perform activities of daily living.

What excites you about your job?

The ability to make a positive impact in someone's life. Whether their goal is to get back to a sport after an injury or improve overall wellness, I get to be part of that journey.

You did two tours in Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. What was that like for you? What did you learn about yourself?

Going on my first deployment was scary. Being handed live ammunition is something no one can ever be ready for. After spending four years in the military and completing two deployments to Iraq, I learned that I could lead and develop successful teams even under very stressful situations.

How does that experience inform your work today?

When I was in the military, I had to optimize the performance of my troops before heading out to Iraq. We utilized goal setting and planning. Today, I use the same goal-oriented programming and planning to help clients reach goals and feel their best.

How do you stay current on the many shifting wellness/exercise trends?

I attend conferences and workshops through the American College of Sports Medicine, the National Strength and Conditioning Association, and other organizations. I also like participating in practical workshops to learn about applying current methods to various individuals and issues. I also am planning to attend specialty courses geared towards working with individuals with orthopedic conditions, bone health issues and sport-specific injuries and goals (racquet, team, endurance, and rotational sports).

What’s the ideal amount of exercise someone should aim to get every week?

As a baseline, you should aim to meet the general recommendations of strength training 2x per week, performing flexibility exercises 3x per week, and performing cardiovascular activities at least 150 minutes per week for moderate intensity or 75 minutes per week for high-intensity activities.

What type of exercise is most important as we age?

We have to think about well-rounded fitness and wellness, so you want to ensure you are working on strength, cardio, and flexibility.

How do you approach nutrition with a client?

If someone needs specific nutritional recommendations, this is something that a nutritionist or dietitian can provide. I provide general recommendations to help make sure that the client is aware of the general guidelines and why it’s essential to be within them.

What is your personal training philosophy?

I focus on educating clients about the importance of having a lifelong fitness and wellness journey. My goal is to help clients learn and acquire the skills necessary to be confident when exercising independently.

How important is recovery?

Recovery is a very important component but is often overlooked. Some people believe that doing more is better, but your body needs time to recover to make positive changes. Without proper recovery, you will be at a higher risk of overuse injuries or even reaching an overtrained state.

Any recovery tips?

Add recovery days into your routine, some can be active recovery days. An active recovery day can include a low-intensity workout, like walking or swimming. I also like focusing on mobility and flexibility for active recovery. For example, this can be a great day to add a yoga or stretch class into your routine. Passive recovery is just how it sounds. You are taking a day to let your body rest, recover and reset. Also, make sure to focus on your nutrition and hydration, which are essential to your body’s recovery.

What should someone look for when hiring a personal trainer?

Current and past experience, education, credentials, and training philosophy.

How do you help your patients improve their mental health and well-being?

I look for things that contribute to a person’s stress, such as sleep quality, nutrition, and gut health. Gut Health = Mental Health, so balancing the microbiome terrain is always the place I start when trying to optimize a patient’s mood and mental health. Finding nervous system supports that give a gentle hug and rebalance an overtaxed immune system also helps moderate the stress response in one’s body and can improve physical symptoms.

What are the most important things a person can do for health and longevity?

Consistency in the small things has a significant health benefit. It might sound cliche, but those everyday wellness habits are deposits into your wellness bank. They add up!

Thank you Max for taking the time to talk with us about exercise, well-being, recovery and whole body wellness.

Lightning Round With Max Castrogaleas

February 2, 2024 Lisa Malin

My name is:

Max Castrogaleas

I’m a:

I’m an: Exercise Physiologist

My non-negotiable wellness habits are:

Staying active, prioritizing sleep, and good nutrition before and after workouts.

My morning routine looks like this:

Pre-workout meal ( 1 banana, 1 slice of sprouted grain bread, 1 spoon of peanut butter, 1 cup of coffee), 45-60 minute workout ( strength training, cardio, or flexibility routine), breakfast (oatmeal with berries, 2 eggs).

Coffee or tea?

I like to drink coffee, I enjoy the taste. Typically black with no sugar, but sometimes add some milk or milk alternatives (almond milk, oat milk).

My diet is filled with:

A variety of food sources, including protein (chicken, eggs, pork, fish), complex carbs ( quinoa, barley, rice, beans, sweet potatoes- purple, squash, variety of vegetables- kale, spinach, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, apples, oranges, berries, bananas), water and dairy.

In my fridge, I always have:

Eggs, milk, yogurt, spring mix salad, chicken, berries, apples.

In my pantry, you’ll always find:

Oatmeal, rice, pasta, quinoa, and of course, there are plenty of snacks- dark chocolate, a variety of nuts (pecans, almonds, cashews, peanuts), protein cookies, quinoa chips.

Go-to breakfast:

Oatmeal with berries, banana, peanut butter, 2 eggs, and a cup of coffee.

Lunch usually includes:

Lunch can vary daily, but it typically consists of rice or quinoa, mixed vegetables, avocado, and chicken or fish.

Favorite snacks:

Quinoa chips, nuts, yogurt, apples, granola, and dried mangoes.

Dinner is often:

Rice or quinoa, a small salad, and either chicken, pork, or beef.

My favorite way to get my sweat on is:

A strength training routine or long run (5-10 miles).

My favorite strength training exercise is:

Pull-ups, deadlifts, rear foot elevated split squats, single-leg Romanian deadlifts, multi-directional lunges, and squats.

For me, self-care means:

Having a well-rounded wellness routine that includes strength training, cardio, flexibility, and plenty of recovery. It doesn’t always have to be a full workout; 10-20 minutes of activity can make a massive difference at the end of the week.

Supplements I love (if any):

None. If you are eating well and moving your body, I don't need them regularly.

On a Friday night, you can find me:

Spending time with my wife and kids and planning for the weekend.

Words to live by/life philosophy:

Have a goal. Be consistent.

If I had known then what I know now, I would tell my younger self:

Don’t overdo it. Think of your wellness as a long-term journey. When you are young, you think you are invincible until your body starts to break down. You have to take care of your body and, more importantly, listen to your body.

More about Max Castrogaleas

Max Castrogaleas is an Exercise Physiologist located in Westchester, NY. He is a former US Marine Corps Sergeant and Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor. After serving two tours as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, he graduated from Queens College with a Bachelor's in Nutrition and Exercise Science and from the Teachers College at Columbia University with a Master’s in Applied Exercise Physiology. Max holds industry-leading certifications and several specialized certifications in fitness and athletic performance.