Reflections on 2024: Losses, Lessons, & New Beginnings in Clean Beauty

Happy New Year! 🎉

Wow, 2024 was a doozy for a lot of us, wasn’t it? There were SOOOOO many good parts, but also some incredibly sad moments.

For us, we experienced two BIG losses that left a lasting impact. First, we lost a dear friend who was truly part of our family. Mr. Miller was one of our favorite humans on the planet. While we are thankful that he is no longer in pain and is now living his best life with Jesus, it hurt. He made life better for everyone who knew him, and we miss him deeply.

Secondly, I lost a job that I adored. My time with Beautycounter was an incredible journey, and I loved every bit of it. When the company closed in May of 2024, many of us who were leaders instantly lost a vibrant community that would never be the same. I LOVED serving my clients and working alongside my colleagues. It took me a long while to process the loss, but I’m now able to look back at all I gained instead of all I lost—the professional tools, the personal growth, and, most importantly, the lifelong relationships.

Despite the tough moments, there’s still so much to be thankful for. One of the biggest blessings has been the friendships that have transcended Beautycounter’s umbrella. Many of my former colleagues have become close friends, and I get the honor of serving alongside them in other businesses.

What Did I Discover in 2024 After Beautycounter Shut Down?

One thing I’ve realized is that Beautycounter’s pioneering efforts in clean beauty have pushed other companies to do better since they first entered the industry in 2011. I’m genuinely proud to have been part of something that made such a positive impact. Here are some other companies that I have fallen in love with the later part of 2024:

Crunchi

Without a doubt, Crunchi has been the best and most unexpected highlight when it comes to skincare and makeup! Their products have been a game-changer for me. Their integrity, ingredient testing, purity, and sustainability efforts are like NO ONE in the industry. They are my #1 recommendation in the clean makeup and skincare space. Check them out HERE.

Mineralized Deodorant

Back in May of 2024, I had to find another deodorant. I decided to try a powder deodorant from Mineralized, and I fell in love. It can be a little messy, so it may be too much for some of you. It took a little getting used to finding the perfect technique to apply but it works so well that I didn’t mind. I love that Mineralized lets you order sample containers to try first. Since I have very sensitive armpits, using a powder is less irritating. On sweaty days, I sometimes need to reapply. As far as regular deodorant goes,my tried and true picks are: Primally Pure’s Lemongrass Deodorant or their Charcoal Deodorant for warmer days.

PawTree Pet Products

This truly is so strange I am even talking about this but I’ve even started to explore the world of cleaner pet food! You know they say you will do anything for your grandkids. Well, my kiddos are in trouble, because I am a freak when it comes to my GRANDDOG! I’m loving what I’m finding so far. PawTree was introduced to my granddog less than a month ago, and we are all in love with how much Sadie Mae loves it. I decided to become an affiliate because I know I’m not the only one struggling to find better products for our pets—not just in the food realm but supplements too. You can get 10% OFF Orders up to $100 with code INTRO4U10 & 20% OFF Orders over $100 with code INTRO4U20. I’ll dive more into this topic separately as I continue to find Sadie’s favorites.

Rowe Casa Organics

And last but not least, I’ve started testing out some body care products from Rowe Casa Organics. I ordered their cream deodorant and lymphatic lotions and creams right before Christmas, but since I’ve been out of town most of January, I haven’t given them a true try yet. I’ll report back soon with my thoughts! I will not decide to get an affiliate link until I have tested them out wholeheartedly. 

Moving forward, I will continue bringing you high-quality recommendations for cleaner, safer products, though you might see a few new brands and suggestions pop up as I explore different ways to serve you.

What Clean Products Have You Discovered Lately?

I’m curious—what clean products have you discovered and loved lately? I would love to hear about them!

Looking Ahead: What’s Coming in 2025?

There’s so much to be excited about! I’ll be focusing on sharing updates and product discoveries in my Safer Products Facebook group, where I go into the specifics of what I’m trying, what’s on sale, and my favorite clean product recommendations. If you’re not already part of the group, come join us—it’s where I post the latest updates and deals! Join the group here.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Whether you’ve been with me since the Beautycounter days or you’re just joining in now, I’m so grateful for your support. Here’s to a fresh new year filled with opportunities, growth, and healthier choices!

Cheers to a Cleaner 2025!

Dana