organic | non-toxic | cruelty-free

100% Clean Skincare

We have combined gentle, yet powerful, botanicals into effective multipurpose formulations that will quickly deliver visible results. Ingredients are 100% natural, plant-based, and certified organic.All products are free of toxins, synthetic fragrances, and preservatives. The intention behind our natural skin care line is to deeply nourish, restore, and protect - you'll see beautiful results on all skin types.

REVIEWS

PRODUCTS

Organic Skincare Essentials Bundle
$118

Take home our customer favorites at a special bundle price!All products are made with natural ingredients and designed to deeply nourish, restore, and protect to help you achieve healthy, glowing skin.INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING:
(1) Organic Flawless Face Serum
(1) Organic Lip & Body Balm
(1) Organic Moroccan Rhassoul Clay + Rose Face Mask
(1) Reusable Facial Cleaning Sponge
(1) Adjustable Spa Headband
(1) Natural Wood Bowl
(1) Ceramic Spoon
(1) Facial BrushTo ensure freshness, our products are handcrafted in small batches and shipped out Monday mornings. We have limited quantities available.

Organic Flawless Face Serum
$68

PERFECT FOR:
✔️ Firming
✔️ Moisturizing
✔️ Reducing redness
✔️ Diminishing fine lines
✔️ Fading acne scarsWHAT CAN YOU EXPECT?
You can expect a light formulation that quickly absorbs without leaving behind an oily residue. This allows for wearing alone or under makeup. It has a very subtle natural herbal scent that quickly dissipates after application. Visible results, such as improved texture, reduced redness, and reduced hyperpigmentation were experienced within 1-2 weeks of twice daily application, morning and night (see before/after photos). Individual results may vary.Our Flawless Face Serum is oil-based, not water-based, and formulated with "dry" oils for quick nutrient boost and absorption. It may be used on all skin types, including acne-prone skin, and can serve as a replacement for facial moisturizer.DIRECTIONS: Wash face/neck and pat dry. Apply 7-10 drops+ twice a day, morning and night. For all skin types.INGREDIENTS:
Organic Grape (Vitis vinifera) Seed Oil, Organic Pomegranate (Punica granatum) Seed Oil, Organic Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis) Oil, Organic Blackberry (Rubus laciniatus) Seed Oil, Organic Rose Hip (Rosa canina) Seed Oil, Organic Immortelle (Helichrysum italicum) Essential Oil, Limonene**Naturally occurring essential oil constituent.Size: 1 fl. oz.To ensure freshness, our products are handcrafted in small batches and shipped out Monday mornings. We have limited quantities available.

Organic Lip & Body Balm (3 Pack)
$19

Dry Lips? Flaky Skin Patches? Fine Lines? Rough Cuticles?Try our all-in-one product for on the go skin care.PERFECT FOR:
✔️ The entire family
✔️ All ages and skin typesWHAT CAN YOU EXPECT
You’ll experience a balm that has no synthetic flavors or fragrance, a natural light cocoa scent, and feels silky smooth upon application. It’s a unisex balm without the oily, high-gloss finish. This allows for full lip application to the edges and looks great alone or under lipstick.The superb ingredient combination moisturizes so well that you'll notice almost immediately smoother lips and skin. Check out the before/after photos!Our product is designed to have a creamy consistency that protects the lips for an extended amount of time. It will initially not glide as quickly as typical lip balms when first opened, since the raw cocoa butter tends to slightly solidify when cold. Just give it a few passes on the lips (or wrist) to warm it up.DIRECTIONS: Apply to dry lips and/or skin as needed. For best results, use at least twice a day, morning and night. For all ages and skin types.INGREDIENTS: Organic Cocoa (Theobroma cacao) Seed Butter, Organic Beeswax (Cera alba), Organic Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Oil, Organic Olive (Olea europaea) Oil, Organic Avocado (Persea gratissima) OilSize: .15 ozTo ensure freshness, our products are handcrafted in small batches and shipped out Monday mornings. We have limited quantities available.

Organic Moroccan Rhassoul Clay + Rose Face Mask with Spa Kit
$55

Luxurious Moroccan Rhassoul Clay + Rose Face Mask designed to deep clean impurities from the skin for a silky smooth complexion.PERFECT FOR:
✔️ Minimizing Pores
✔️ Diminishing Acne Breakouts
✔️ Preventing Blackheads
✔️ Reducing Fine LinesINCLUDES:
Full-size Moroccan Rhassoul Clay + Rose Face Mask
Ceramic spoon
Natural Wood Bowl
Face brushWHAT CAN YOU EXPECT?
You can expect a medium thickness mask that feels cool to the touch upon application. During the drying process, your face will begin to tighten as the clay cleans out clogged pores and excess oils. Once rinsed off, the skin may look slightly pink (this is normal due to the clay extracting impurities and will fade within the hour). Rhassoul Clay is very gentle and can be used on a regular basis. Rose, Chamomile, and Calendula flowers have been added to complement the clay’s effects for even more amazing results.TIP: For effortless removal, mask right before taking a shower and just rinse off!DIRECTIONS:
Combine one part of clay mixture to two parts water. Mix well until clumping disappears. Apply to clean, dry face (avoiding eye area and lips). Leave on for 5 minutes on sensitive skin, 10-15 minutes on normal/combination skin, and up to 20 minutes on oily skin. Remove with a warm, wet washcloth or rinse off. For maximum results, follow with a nourishing antioxidant boost from our Organic Flawless Face Serum or your favorite natural moisturizer. Recommended frequency: 1-3 times per week, but gentle enough for daily use.INGREDIENTS:
100% Natural Moroccan Rhassoul Clay, Organic Rose (Rosa damascena) Powder, Organic German Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) Flower Powder, Organic Calendula (Calendula officinalis) Flower PowderSize: 4 oz.To ensure freshness, our products are handcrafted in small batches and shipped out Monday mornings. We have limited quantities available.

FAQ

Below you will find common FAQ along with our general policies.

If you have any questions about a topic not covered in this section, please send us a message!SHIPPINGEnjoy free U.S. shipping on all orders. No minimum purchase required.We begin working on your order as soon as it is received. To ensure freshness, our products are handcrafted once a week in small batches and shipped out Monday mornings. We have limited quantities available. Packages will be sent via USPS Ground Advantage or Priority Mail and on average arrive within 2-5 business days. A tracking number will be provided once the order ships. We are not responsible for missing packages that have been successfully delivered to the address listed on the order. However, if your package is lost in transit (tracking number not showing any movement/updates for more than 72 hours), please contact us so we can investigate and, if needed, issue a prompt replacement.NOTE: We currently only ship within the U.S.RETURNS
Due to hygienic reasons and the personal nature of our products, returns are not accepted. However, we want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase! If you are not satisfied, please send us a message with your order number plus a brief description of the issue and we’ll work hard to make it right.DAMAGED GOODS
If items are damaged/broken upon arrival, send us a message within 48 hours of receiving the package so we can arrange for an immediate replacement. Contact us with the subject line: DAMAGED PRODUCT and please include photos of the damage along with a brief description and your order number.ORDER CHANGES/CANCELLATIONS
Once an order is placed, we begin processing it immediately to ensure prompt delivery. For this reason, we are not able to cancel or make any changes once an order is submitted.ARE ALL INGREDIENTS ORGANIC?
All plant-based ingredients are USDA certified organic. Non plant-based ingredients, such as Dead Sea Salt and Moroccan Rhassoul Clay, are from 100% natural sources.DO YOU TEST ON ANIMALS?
We do not test on animals and have also verified that none of our individual ingredient suppliers are involved in animal testing. We are part of PETA’s Beauty Without Bunnies Program and all of our products are Cruelty-Free Certified. You can search for us in their company database, or find us through the following direct link: https://crueltyfree.peta.org/company/the-y-w-laboratory/ARE YOUR PRODUCTS VEGAN?
All products are vegan, with the exception of the Lip & Body Balm. The balm contains a small amount of cosmetic grade beeswax from a reputable supplier and is ethically sourced.I HAVE ACNE-PRONE SKIN, CAN I STILL USE YOUR SERUM?
Absolutely! Our antioxidant-rich, oil-based, serum is multipurpose and formulated for all skin types. It is composed of fast absorbing, deeply nourishing ingredients that have a low comedogenic rating. This means that they will not clog pores and cause breakouts. In addition, the unique combination helps balance sebum production, which in turn leads to less breakouts over time. It also works wonders on previous damage, helping fade acne scars and hyperpigmentation. Check out our before/after photos on the product page, you won’t be disappointed!ARE YOUR PRODUCTS FRAGRANCE-FREE?
All products are free from synthetic fragrances; they are not scent-free. We do work with a limited selection of organic essential oils known for their multiple therapeutic benefits and recognized as safe for kids. Since the goal is added benefit (not fragrance strength), they are used at carefully calculated concentrations deemed safe for various age groups. Any scent you experience from our products is 100% natural and comes from the blend of ingredients used.CAN BABIES USE YOUR PRODUCTS? WHAT ABOUT PREGNANT WOMEN?
All products are 100% non-toxic and safe for the entire family, however, there are a few age restrictions. In general, we do not recommend products containing essential oils for children under 6 months of age, or for pregnant women, due to safety concerns and lack of research in these populations. Please refer to individual product safety information before using. This recommendation only applies to products containing essential oils. Note: Our Lip & Body Balm is completely free of essential oils and ideal for all ages and skin types.ARE THE CONTAINERS REUSABLE/RECYCLABLE?
Yes! We worked hard during the research and development phase to find quality containers that would not only do an excellent job preserving our products, but also be non-porous and reusable. Glass jars are food safe and make great snack containers! Plastic containers are BPA-Free and can also be reused or recycled. But wait, there's more! All labels are easy-peel and won't leave all that glue residue behind.WHAT ARE THE OTHER INGREDIENTS LISTED AFTER THE ESSENTIAL OILS IN SOME OF YOUR PRODUCTS?
The ingredients listed after the essential oils in some of our products are not added ingredients, they are part of the essential oil that must be mentioned per European Union (EU) labeling standards due to their allergen potential in some individuals. All essential oils have numerous naturally occurring constituents that make up their unique profile of fragrance/therapeutic benefits. A list of 26 specific ones (which are found in most essential oils), must be listed on all products sold in the EU if the concentration for a leave-on product exceeds 10 parts per million (ppm), or 0.001%. This labeling standard is not common practice in the US, however, we do intend to eventually make our products available worldwide and feel that this information could potentially benefit all customers with known sensitivities.DO YOU OFFER WHOLESALE PRICING?
As a small-batch, made-to-order business, we maintain limited inventory on hand, which means we do not currently offer standard wholesale pricing. However, if you're considering a substantial purchase for your retail store or spa, we encourage you to reach out to us. We can discuss production lead times and explore the possibility of extending a discount based on the size of your order. Please feel free to send us a message, and we'll be happy to assist you further.
NOTE: Current products that work well for retail spaces include both the face serum and the clay mask, due to longer shelf life. The lip balms are not available for wholesale.

Blog

Organic & Natural Skincare: Why? How?
and Where Do I Start?
by The Y & W Laboratory

Synthetic ingredients found in many skincare products, such as fillers and preservatives, often include potential carcinogens, endocrine disruptors, and skin irritants.Although the effects of harmful ingredients will not be immediately evident, cumulative exposure can result in health problems years down the road. It’s important to read and understand product labels and find safer alternatives whenever possible.Some common examples of toxic ingredients found in cosmetics include:- Formaldehyde
- Phthalates
- Parabens
- Fragrance
- TriclosanYes, even fragrance!The word "fragrance" in cosmetic product labels tends to be used as a catch-all term for hidden ingredients not required to be disclosed individually. These are a combination of ingredients (usually synthetics) used to scent a product. The lack of full ingredient disclosure when it comes to fragrance makes it impossible to accurately evaluate what you're using on your body. If you have sensitive skin, stick to products with no added fragrance, or all-natural fragrance components, that are fully disclosed on the label.Most common skincare issues can be safely addressed with natural alternatives. The cleaner, the better. Organic ingredients take things a step further by meeting additional certification standards when it comes to pesticides and fertilizers used, which further reduces toxin exposure.HOW DO I DO THIS?
It will be a gradual process. Don't get overwhelmed. No need to throw out every single skincare item you own. You can’t avoid all toxins, all the time, but you can at least try to implement small changes to reduce your exposure.1. Focus on that handful of go-to products that you use on a daily basis.2. Familiarize yourself with potential carcinogens and endocrine disruptors found in skincare products.3. Find safer, natural alternatives and try them out.Overtime, you'll reduce the amount of toxic ingredients without compromising effectiveness.WHERE DO I START?
There are various resources that can help you get started when it comes to reading labels for beauty and skincare products, for example:https://ewg.org/skindeephttps://cosmeticsinfo.orgThese are not comprehensive databases for specific brands, but they're a good place to start when it comes to researching individual product ingredients and potential health effects. While this first step might seem intimidating, reading labels and making healthier choices will eventually become second nature.Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @theyandwlab for more natural skin care tips!

DIY Calendula Oil Recipe for Healthy, Glowing Skin
by The Y & W Laboratory

Incorporating calendula into your skincare routine can work wonders for your skin! Whether you choose to make your own calendula oil using our easy DIY recipe or explore our organic skincare product line at The Y & W Laboratory, which uses calendula as one of our key ingredients, the benefits of this amazing oil are within your reach.Give this recipe a try and tag us @theyandwlab on Facebook or Instagram to let us know what you think!

What Are “Forever Chemicals” (PFAS)? Plus 4 Tips To Reduce Your Exposure
by The Y & W Laboratory

“Forever Chemicals” have made recent news in the context of cosmetics due to a study published in the Journal of Environmental Science & Technology, in which various products were tested for the presence of PFAS. Significant levels were found in many cosmetics, some which were not even listed on the product label. Bipartisan legislation was introduced last month hoping to stop the use of these chemicals, requiring the FDA to ban their intentional use.WHAT ARE THEY? AND WHY ARE THEY IN COSMETICS?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “Forever Chemicals”, are a class of thousands of compounds that are widely used in many industries due to their water repelling properties. They are called forever chemicals since, once released into the environment, they do not easily break down and essentially last forever. They are now, unfortunately, part of our daily lives and according to the CDC, “most people in the United States have been exposed to PFAS and have PFAS in their blood”. In cosmetics, these compounds are intentionally added to help achieve specific qualities or textures. The highest concentrations tend to be in long-lasting and waterproof products, such as mascara, lipsticks, lip liners, etc.WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Long-term exposure to PFAS chemicals is potentially linked to numerous health issues. Per the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry / Centers for Disease Control, “A large number of studies have examined possible relationships between levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in blood and harmful health effects in people…Research involving humans suggests that high levels of certain PFAS may lead to the following: increased cholesterol, decreased vaccine response in children, changes in liver enzymes, increased risk of high blood pressure, decreased birth weight, and increased risk of kidney or testicular cancer.”HOW TO REDUCE EXPOSURE?
Start by reading your labels! Cosmetic products that intentionally use PFAS compounds should have the words “perfluoro - ”, “polyfluor - ” or “PTFE” (polytetrafluoroethylene, also known as Teflon) listed on the product label. Sometimes the compounds may not be listed if they occur as a byproduct of the ingredients, but reading labels is a great place to start.However, in order to significantly reduce your exposure, you’ll have to step back and look beyond the use of cosmetics. The issues surrounding “Forever Chemicals” are widespread -- be on the lookout for consumer products that have oil or water repelling properties (non-stick cookware, food packaging, coated fabrics, etc.) and find suitable alternatives whenever possible.It's now obvious that these chemicals are used in many industries, which leads to environmental contamination as a result of product manufacturing, use, and disposal. Drinking water near certain military sites and manufacturing facilities tends to be heavily contaminated. PFAS contamination is usually not part of the regular monitoring for water quality, at least it wasn’t in our area back when I inquired about it in 2018, but I was able to obtain values after emailing the local water department directly. I was told they were not on the water report because they are currently unregulated but being assessed as “contaminants of concern”. If levels are not listed on your water report, contact your local water department for information. If your water tested positive, or if you are near a potential source of PFAS contamination, look into a good reverse osmosis filter (tap, whole house, or countertop). Keep in mind that PFAS levels are measured in parts per trillion (ppt), not parts per billion (ppb), or parts per million (ppm) so make sure you convert accordingly. While a standard is currently not in place for safe levels, according to the EPA, drinking water should be < 70 ppt. According to the EWG, < 1 ppt. See links below.HELPFUL TIPS:
For cosmetics and other personal care products, stay away from the ones that mention “perfluoro - ”, “polyfluor - ” or “PTFE” on the label. You should be able to easily find comparable products without these compounds.Replace your non-stick pans with stainless steel or cast iron. They do require slightly different temperatures and cooking times, but you’ll come to love them! Plus, they pretty much last forever! Same for bakeware – consider glass or ceramic instead of Teflon coated.Choose non-coated fabrics over coated ones whenever possible, even if it means having to wash them more frequently. 100% cotton is our go-to for linens and pjs, especially for the kids. Small steps will make a difference over time, especially when it comes to products you use on a daily basis.Check your water!! If positive for PFAS contaminants, compare water filter options. You’ll have to read the Product Specifications sheet to see that it actually has “PFAS” listed as part of the contaminants it filters out. Not all do. Most refrigerator water filters don’t. My personal preference is a countertop reverse osmosis filter, but there are many options out there.Here’s a quick list of common household products that contain PFAS:- Contaminated water
- Non-stick cookware
- Grease resistant food wrappers or containers
- Stain resistant coatings on carpets, fabrics, and furniture
- Water repellant fabrics or clothing
- Microwave popcorn bags
- Cosmetics
- Personal care products
- Cleaning products
- Paints, varnishes, and sealantsResources to help guide water filter selection:EPA: Reducing PFAS in Drinking Water with Treatment TechnologiesEWG: Water Filter GuideCDC: Choosing Home Water Filers & Other Water Treatment SystemsFollow us on Facebook and Instagram @theyandwlab for more wellness tips!

3 Super Easy Natural Lip Scrub Recipes You Can Make At Home
by The Y & W Laboratory

Let's talk lip care! We all know what it's like to deal with flaky dry lips from time to time. Exposure to extreme conditions, especially dry winter and summer months, tend to make things even worse. Adding a natural lip scrub to your skin care routine (in combination with a soothing lip balm) can make all the difference!Incorporating natural remedies does not have to be difficult, especially when it comes to lip scrubs.They're super easy and fun to make!A basic recipe involves at a minimum 2 ingredients: one to gently exfoliate (think ingredients like sugar, coffee, salts, oats, etc.) and one to serve as a base and help bring some nourishment to your lips (such as a seed butter or a non-toxic plant-based oil).Additional ingredients help customize your blend to achieve specific results. For example, adding natural ingredients with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can help prevent infections and speed up lip repair.Here are 3 super easy lip scrub recipes to try that will help you achieve smooth, healthy lips in no time.1. Coffee Lip Plumper Scrub – This scrub smells delicious and it's perfect for coffee lovers! However, it will feel very grainy and require a more gentle application. The caffeine will help rejuvenate lips, while the coconut oil and cinnamon will smooth and create a slight plumping effect. A slight tingling/warming sensation is completely normal for a few minutes post application due to the cinnamon increasing blood flow to the skin.- 1 tsp of ground, dry coffee (unused)
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp of coconut oil2. Sugar Lip Scrub – For a sweeter approach, whip up a quick sugar scrub with just 2 ingredients found in most kitchens. This is the perfect recipe for when you’re short on time and need a quick exfoliation.- 1 tbsp white and/or brown sugar
- 1 tsp olive oil3. Honey Oat Lip Scrub – Using oats will give you a gentle exfoliation. Honey has antibacterial properties and will help with lip repair, while the coconut oil and avocado oil will add a moisturizing component to the mix. If you prefer a smoother consistency, grind the oats prior to mixing.- 2 tsp organic oats
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp avocado oil (substitute olive oil if you don't have avocado)
- 1/2 tsp coconut oilDIRECTIONS:
1. Wipe down a clean bowl, measuring spoons, and small air-tight container(s) with rubbing alcohol.
2. Let air dry.
3. Measure all scrub ingredients and add to bowl.
4. Mix thoroughly.
5. Transfer scrub to the air-tight container.
6. Repeat per scrub.STORAGE TIPS:
The scrubs can be stored for up to two months in a cool, dry place or refrigerated. Discard if you notice any changes to the texture or smell, this could indicate bacterial contamination (even if before the two months).
Avoid introducing any water into the scrub. Always use a clean, dry, scoop every time you take some out.USING A LIP SCRUB:
NOTE - As with any new skin care product, an inner arm patch test is recommended prior to full application as a quick check for potential irritation.- Apply a small amount to clean lips and massage in a gentle, circular motion.
- Let sit for 2-3 minutes and rinse off.
- Pat dry with a clean cloth.
- Follow up with your favorite nourishing lip balm!Use as needed, 1-3 times per week. Avoid using on broken skin.And that's it!Let us know if you enjoyed this post and show us your scrubs!Tag us on Facebook or Instagram @theyandwlab to share a picture and let us know which was your favorite!

Microplastics in Tea Bags: Tips for a Safer Brew
by The Y & W Laboratory

Microplastics have become a significant concern due to their widespread presence in the environment and potential long-term health risks. One surprising source of microplastics is tea bags. Before you brew your next cup, let’s discuss what you can do to ensure delicious and plastic-free tea.What Are Microplastics and Why Are They Harmful?Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, usually less than 5 millimeters, resulting from the breakdown of larger plastics or manufactured at that size for various applications. Nanoplastics are between 1 and 1,000 nanometers across. These particles have infiltrated many aspects of our lives, including our food and beverages. An article from The New England Journal of Medicine mentions that patients with carotid artery plaque in which microplastics and nanoplastics were detected had a higher risk of myocardial infarctions, stroke, and death.A study published in Toxicological Sciences analyzed tissue samples from both human and dog testes and found microplastics in all of them. The chemicals released from these microplastics are believed to be linked to hormone disruptions and potentially declining sperm counts.The health impacts of microplastic/nanoplastic ingestion are still being studied, but they have the potential to accumulate in the body over time, leading to long-term health problems such as fertility issues and cancers.Why Are Microplastics in Tea Bags?Some tea bags contain plastic, such as polypropylene, to seal the bags or to create the mesh filter. When these tea bags are steeped in hot water, they can release billions of microplastic particles. A 2019 study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that a single plastic tea bag can release around 11.6 billion microplastics and 3.1 billion nanoplastics into a cup of tea.The issue is not the occasional cup, but rather long-term accumulation. There is no need to lose sleep over past tea ingestion, just do your best going forward to minimize unnecessary microplastic consumption.Here are some practical tips to minimize your consumption of microplastics while brewing your next cup of tea:1. Choose Loose Leaf Tea
The best option is simply switching to loose leaf tea and completely eliminating the risk of plastic contamination from tea bags. Use a stainless steel or ceramic infuser whenever possible. They come in all different styles. If you don’t want to use an infuser, brew tea the traditional way with a teapot and tea strainer.2. Opt for Plastic-Free
Tea bags are practical, and we can’t always carry an infuser or teapot around. The good news is that not all tea bags have microplastics! Look for brands using plastic-free materials like cotton, hemp, or biodegradable substances. If the specific material is not listed on their website, check the packaging, or contact the brand directly for more information. It might take a few minutes to find this information, but it's worth the effort, especially for those go-to brands that you consume on a regular basis.Here is a short list of the brands I’m familiar with that do not use plastic in their teabags:Traditional Medicinals - Tea bags are made from a combination of wood pulp and abaca fiber. The tea bags are attached with food-grade aluminum staple wire to a raw cotton string and a paper tag.Numi - Tea bags are made from biodegradable, unbleached manila hemp. The tag is made from 100% recycled materials and soy-based inks, and the strings are made from cotton.Bigelow - Tea bags are made with paper derived from materials such as wood pulp and abaca fibers; they are sealed in foil packaging.Don't hesitate to research your tea brands, or any brand you support, to ensure they are transparent about their materials, sourcing, and manufacturing processes. Many brands are already striving to do the best they can for their customers and the environment. As more information emerges about the harms of microplastics, other companies will likely follow suit, but it may take some time.Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @theyandwlab for more natural skincare and wellness tips!