168. The Dirty Truth About Your Skincare Routine with Mercedes Pepper

When it comes to skincare, we all want products that are safe, effective, and good for the planet.

But the reality is that many skincare brands, even those marketed as "natural" or "eco-friendly," hide some dirty secrets. From greenwashing tactics to hidden microplastics and PFAS, the industry is full of misleading claims that can make it hard for consumers to know what they’re really putting on their skin.

In episode 168, I sit down withMercedes Pepper from Nation Botanics to uncover the truth behind skincare marketing and explore how different ingredients shape effective skincare formulations. We’ll talk about how to spot greenwashing, why microplastics and PFAS are a growing concern, and what choosing sustainable, plant-based ingredients really means.

Mercedes helps people who get outdoors - particularly surfers, skiers, and snowboarders - get healthy skin without the fuss. She is an international development and social impact director turned skincare founder and formulator of Nation Botanics. The brand’s flagship product, Surf+Slope, provides easy, high-performance skincare designed to combat the elements while supporting North American small businesses, farmers, and our environment.

I haven’t had much of a skincare routine until the last two years. During that time, first of all, I struggled to find anything I could use because I am allergic to aloe, but I also wanted to avoid products that not only harmed the planet but likely contained toxins. When I learned about Nation Botanics, I was excited to try their products because of the brand's mission and clean ingredients.

That said, I’ve been using their Surf+Slope moisturizer for the last few weeks, and I've appreciated it, especially after a day of cross-country skiing with my dogs when my face is dry and my cheeks might be a little wind-burned.

If you listen to this episode and want to check out Nation Bonanic’s Surf+Slope, go to nationbotanics.com and use the code minimalist to get 15% off.

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Nation Botanics

Website:https://nationbotanics.com/

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