skincare – Raising Clean

I Yelled Today. Then I Cried. Then I Hugged Them Tighter.

April 19, 2025 raisingcleanLeave a comment

Mom confession:
I yelled today.
Then I cried.
Then I hugged them tighter.

It wasn’t the moment I wanted.
It wasn’t the version of me I’m proud of.
But it was real.

Motherhood has a way of holding both the most beautiful and the most overwhelming moments in the exact same day. Sometimes the same hour.

I lost my patience over something small—maybe it was the constant noise, the spilled juice, the backtalk, the mess I cleaned for the fifth time. But it wasn’t just that moment. It was the mental load I’d been carrying all day. All week. Maybe longer.

And once again, I found myself in that place of frustration…
where the tears come right after the yelling.
The guilt creeps in fast.
The shame whispers, “You should be better at this.”

But here’s what I’m reminding myself of:

We are human.
We are growing.
And our kids are learning through our imperfections, not in spite of them.

So I apologized.
I hugged them.
I started over.

And then, I took a moment for me.

Because I’ve learned that when I don’t pour into myself, I pour out stress.

I’ve had to get really honest about how I’m supporting my nervous system. And not just with bubble baths or locking myself in the bathroom for five minutes (although let’s be honest… I’ve done that too 🙃).

I’ve started building in daily rhythms that help me feel more grounded—especially on the hard days. Things like:

Taking my CBD regularly to support a calm mood
Sipping adaptogenic mushroom tea to help manage stress
Saying yes to hydration and no to perfection
Getting outside, even if it’s just for 10 minutes
Checking in with my breath before I check my phone

These small things don’t erase the chaos. But they help me show up better in it.
And on the days I still lose my cool?
I come back to grace. Again and again.

If you’ve ever had a moment like mine—where you yelled, then cried, then hugged tighter—I see you. You’re not alone.

You’re not failing.
You’re just a mom who cares deeply.
And caring is exhausting sometimes.

Give yourself a little more compassion today.
And if you’re looking for natural ways to support your stress and show up with more calm and clarity—I’d love to share what’s helped me. 💛

P.S. Want to peek at the simple wellness tools that keep me steady on the wobbly days? I’d love to see you over in my wellness community! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1698BmZ41k/

Why Crunchi SPF is the Safest Sunscreen for Your Family (and What to Avoid!)

March 19, 2025 raisingcleanLeave a comment

When it comes to sunscreen, most people assume that if it’s sold in stores, it must be safe. Unfortunately, many conventional sunscreens contain harmful chemicals that absorb into the skin and bloodstream, leading to hormone disruption, allergies, and even potential long-term health risks. Not to mention, some of these ingredients are devastating to marine life and coral reefs.

As a mom, I refuse to take chances with what I put on my family’s skin—especially something we use daily in the warmer months! That’s why I only trust Crunchi SPF. It’s not just about sun protection; it’s about protecting our health, too.

🚫 Popular Sunscreens to Avoid

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has flagged many popular sunscreen brands for containing toxic ingredients that pose risks to both humans and the environment. Some of the worst offenders include:

❌ Neutrogena – Contains oxybenzone, linked to hormone disruption. Some formulas were even recalled due to benzene contamination!
❌ Banana Boat – Uses avobenzone and other chemical filters that can penetrate the skin.
❌ Coppertone – Often contains octinoxate, a chemical that disrupts endocrine function and harms coral reefs.
❌ Hawaiian Tropic – Marketed as “reef-friendly” but still contains questionable ingredients.
❌ Supergoop – Some formulas contain avobenzone, which is known to break down in the sun and cause skin irritation.

These brands may be widely available, but that doesn’t mean they’re safe.

✅ Why I Choose Crunchi SPF Instead

So, what makes Crunchi SPF different from the rest? Here’s why I trust it for my entire family:

🌿 100% Mineral Protection – Crunchi uses non-nano zinc oxide, which sits on top of the skin to protect against UV rays without absorbing into the body. Many chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, are absorbed into the bloodstream within minutes.

🚫 No Chemical Sunscreens – It’s free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone, and other harmful chemicals commonly found in traditional sunscreens.

🌊 Truly Reef-Safe – Unlike many brands that claim to be “reef-safe” but still contain harmful ingredients, Crunchi is Hawaii-compliant and free from any chemicals that damage marine life.

🧴 No Artificial Fragrances or Toxic Fillers – Many sunscreens are loaded with synthetic fragrances, parabens, and preservatives that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Crunchi keeps it clean with gentle, nourishing ingredients that are safe for babies, kids, and those with sensitive skin.

✔️ Certified Clean Beauty – Crunchi is EWG-verified and held to the highest safety standards, ensuring that every ingredient is safe, effective, and non-toxic.

Because Sunscreen Shouldn’t Come with a Health Risk

Sunscreen is meant to protect us from harm, not expose us to dangerous chemicals. That’s why I’ve made the switch to Crunchi SPF, and I’ll never go back! It’s a simple swap that makes a huge difference for both our health and the planet.

Want to try Crunchi SPF for your family? Drop a ☀️ in the comments, and I’ll send you all the details!

Or grab yours here for 24% off the entire month of March! -> https://crunchi.com/?als=jessicaderico

✨My 2025 Mood? Peaceful.✨

December 21, 2024 raisingcleanLeave a comment

As a mom juggling all the things, peace doesn’t just happen—it’s something I’ve had to be intentional about. This year, I’ve committed to showing up for myself so I can better show up for my family. One of my biggest helpers in maintaining my sanity? My Green Compass Nano Jellies.

These tiny but mighty jellies are my daily reminder to breathe, stay grounded, and keep my cool no matter what chaos is unfolding around me. They’re more than just a supplement—they’re part of my self-care routine.

What Are Green Compass Nano Jellies?

Green Compass Nano Jellies are not your average CBD gummy. They’re formulated using nanotechnology, which breaks down CBD particles into smaller, more bioavailable sizes. This means your body absorbs them faster and more efficiently, making them one of the most effective ways to experience the calming benefits of CBD.

Here are some quick facts about these jellies:

Organic & Clean Ingredients: As with all Green Compass products, the Nano Jellies are crafted with USDA-certified organic hemp and clean, natural ingredients you can trust.
Nano-Emulsified CBD: This advanced technology enhances absorption, so you get maximum benefits in less time.
Supports Calm & Focus: Each jelly is carefully formulated to help reduce stress, promote a balanced mood, and support mental clarity.
Convenient & Delicious: They’re easy to take on the go, and let’s be honest—they taste great!

How They Fit Into My Day

Life as a mom is full of surprises—some wonderful, others… a little more chaotic. These jellies help me approach those moments with a sense of calm I didn’t realize how badly I needed until I started taking them. Whether I’m navigating a tough day with the kids, tackling a mountain of work, or simply trying to carve out a little me time, these jellies keep me centered.

Why I Trust Green Compass

I’ve always been picky about what I put into my body, and Green Compass makes it easy to feel confident in my choices. Their commitment to clean, organic products and transparency sets them apart. Every batch of their hemp is grown in the U.S. under the strictest standards, and the third-party testing ensures the highest quality.

A Peaceful Year Starts Here

If you’ve been looking for a natural way to support your mood, focus, and overall wellness, I can’t recommend Green Compass Nano Jellies enough. They’ve been a game-changer for my mental health and a lifesaver for navigating busy mom life.

Here’s to creating a peaceful, intentional 2025—one jelly at a time.

Get $10 off (+ 20% off) a jar of my life changing jellies here -> https://jessicaderico.greencompassglobal.com/cart/138313

🕊 How are you prioritizing peace in your life this year?

Water in your Skincare?

July 10, 2024 raisingcleanLeave a comment

Let’s bust a beauty myth

Myth – a skincare product is not good/effective if water is the first or second ingredient

If you’ve heard that water should not be in skincare because it makes it less effective let me just tell you that I have found very few brands that do not use water in their products (including ones that claim to be waterless…) + I’d be much more concerned about a brand using toxins in their products than water, but that’s just me

The brand that has built itself on bashing companies for using water in their formula USES WATER… Sometimes it’s even the second ingredient. They also use fragrance (while claiming to be fragrance free). They claim to be organic without a single organic ingredient in their labels. Their brand is built on misleading consumers and tearing down other companies. It’s very sad. (This brand is Oliveda if you’re curious).

But let’s actually bust this myth…

Water is a crucial ingredient in skincare for several reasons:

Hydration: Water hydrates the skin, keeping it moist and supple. Proper hydration is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing dryness and flakiness.

Nutrient Delivery: Water helps deliver essential nutrients to skin cells, ensuring proper functioning and overall skin health.

Detoxification: Water helps flush out toxins from the skin, promoting a clear complexion and reducing the risk of breakouts.

pH Balance: Water helps maintain the skin’s natural pH balance, which is important for healthy skin function and protection against environmental stressors.

Cooling Effect: Water has a cooling effect on the skin, which can help soothe irritation and inflammation.

Enhanced Absorption: Water-based products can be absorbed more easily into the skin, allowing for better penetration of beneficial ingredients.

Overall, water is an essential ingredient in skincare products and plays a key role in maintaining healthy, radiant skin.

I hope this post helps clear up a common misconception!

Here’s to safe, healthy skincare!

If you liked this post, make sure you join my wellness community -> https://www.facebook.com/share/VwtiHeNLmwiS7AZQ/

If you want to try my favorite skincare brand that has the best ingredients + best performance + is eco-friendly shoot me a message here for a custom recommendation & link ->
M.me/Jessie.rae.31

Hydroquinone

August 27, 2023 raisingcleanLeave a comment

Hydroquinone is a topical skin-lightening agent commonly used to treat skin conditions such as hyperpigmentation, melasma, and certain types of dark spots. It works by inhibiting the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color.

A nutrition company known for being clean and toxin free recently posted “Must have skincare ingredients” which is interesting because they don’t carry skincare and after seeing this post it’s clear that skincare is not in their wheelhouse. Which is fine, but maybe don’t share must have ingredients because one they shared, Hydroquinone, is very toxic…

A couple of benefits of Hydroquinone are:

Effective Skin Lightening: Hydroquinone is considered one of the most effective ingredients for lightening dark spots and evening out skin tone.
Treatment of Melasma: Melasma is a common skin condition that causes dark patches on the face. Hydroquinone is often prescribed to help fade these patches.

But… are the benefits worth the risks?

For me, it’s a hard no.

Check out this chart that compares Hydroquinone with Crunchi’s Brightening Complex Technology and let me know your thoughts below!

http://ltl.is/sky3rcd

Like what you see here? Make sure to join my clean living community over on Facebook!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisingclean/

We have an awesome promo coming this week for anyone who is ready to detox their makeup and/or skincare, info will be shared in the Facebook group!

Vitamin C!

August 11, 2023August 7, 2023 raisingcleanLeave a comment

We’re digging into some Vitamin C info this month!

Vitamin C offers tonssss of skin benefits, making it a highly sought-after ingredient in skincare products

Let’s talk about some of its key benefits:

1. Powerful Antioxidant: Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals, which can cause oxidative stress and damage to the skin. This protection can help prevent premature aging and maintain a youthful appearance.

2. Collagen Synthesis: Vitamin C plays a crucial role in collagen production, a protein responsible for maintaining the skin’s structure and elasticity. By promoting collagen synthesis, vitamin C can help improve skin firmness and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

3. Skin Brightening: Vitamin C inhibits melanin production, making it effective in reducing the appearance of dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone. It can also impart a radiant and more luminous complexion.

4. UV Protection: While not a substitute for sunscreen, vitamin C has been shown to offer some level of photo-protection by neutralizing free radicals generated by UV exposure.

5. Wound Healing: Vitamin C is involved in the synthesis of collagen and elastin, crucial for wound healing and tissue repair. It can help accelerate the healing process and improve the overall appearance of scars.

6. Hydration and Moisture Retention: Vitamin C can help improve the skin’s moisture barrier and enhance its ability to retain moisture, leading to better hydration and softer skin.

7. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Vitamin C has anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm and soothe irritated or red skin, making it beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin or conditions like acne.

8. Protection Against Environmental Stressors: By neutralizing free radicals caused by pollution and other environmental stressors, vitamin C helps protect the skin from damage and maintain its overall health.

So, incorporating vitamin C into your skincare routine can contribute to healthier, more radiant, and youthful-looking skin! I must add that the effectiveness of vitamin C can vary depending on its form (not all vitamin C is created equal!) concentration, and the overall formulation of the skincare product.

Need a recommendation for a safe Vitamin C product? Just let me know!

Like what you see here and want more low-tox info? My wellness community is my main hub for all things clean living! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisingclean/

Detox your makeup/skincare bag today!

August 2, 2023 raisingcleanLeave a comment

I don’t normally do posts like this, but I know some of you may be reading my posts and are thinking about swapping out products in your life. My favorite thing to help with is makeup and skincare!

Over in my wellness group on Facebook,we are just $250 away from maxing out our July reward link and someone getting a free facial essence and up to 5 half priced products!

SO I DECIDED TO MAKE IT EVEN MORE FUN – ALL ORDERS TODAY GET DOUBLE ENTRIES INTO THE REWARD DRAWING!!

Shop here – http://Crunchi.com/Jessicaderico/event/36910

New clients get $10 off $50+ as well!

Check out some life changing before and afters below to see what can happen when you ditch the toxic and start using products full of skin loving, clean ingredients 🙂

Embrace Youthful, Radiant Skin!

June 9, 2023 raisingcleanLeave a comment

We all desire to look and feel our best, regardless of our age. While aging is a natural process that brings wisdom and experience, it can also take a toll on our skin. That’s why incorporating anti-aging skincare into your routine is essential. It is generally recommended to start using anti-aging products in your mid-20s or early 30s. This is because, while signs of aging may not be immediately visible at this age, using anti-aging products can help to prevent and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging as you get older. So, let’s chat about the importance of anti-aging skincare and why it’s worth investing your time and effort into maintaining youthful, radiant skin.

Slowing Down the Aging Process: Anti-aging skincare helps slow down the visible signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, sagging skin, and age spots. It aims to preserve the elasticity, firmness, and overall health of your skin. By following a consistent anti-aging skincare routine, you can proactively address these concerns and maintain a more youthful appearance.
Boosting Confidence and Self-Esteem: Taking care of your skin not only improves its health but also enhances your confidence and self-esteem. When your skin looks and feels good, you radiate positivity and feel more comfortable in your own skin. A youthful, glowing complexion can boost your self-assurance and make you feel more vibrant and empowered.
Preventing Future Damage: Anti-aging skincare is not just about reversing the signs of aging; it’s also about preventing future damage. By incorporating preventive measures into your routine, such as sun protection and antioxidant-rich products, you can minimize the impact of environmental factors, such as UV rays, pollution, and free radicals. Prevention is key to maintaining healthy, youthful skin in the long run.
Nurturing Skin Health: Anti-aging skincare is not solely focused on aesthetics; it also prioritizes the overall health of your skin. A well-rounded routine includes cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing, and nourishing your skin with essential vitamins and nutrients. By providing your skin with the care it needs, you promote its resilience, hydration, and natural rejuvenation processes.
Personalized Skincare Approach: Anti-aging skincare is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Each individual has unique skin concerns, preferences, and goals. That’s why it’s important to personalize your skincare routine based on your specific needs. Whether you’re targeting fine lines, hyperpigmentation, or loss of elasticity, tailor your regimen by selecting products with appropriate ingredients and formulations that address your specific concerns. I’m here to help with this!

Remember, consistency is key when it comes to anti-aging skincare. Results may not appear overnight, but with dedication and patience, you can achieve long-term benefits. Embrace the importance of anti-aging skincare as a self-care practice, and invest in yourself by nurturing and cherishing your skin. Let your radiant, youthful glow shine through!

To get $10 off my favorite toxin free anti- aging products -> http://Crunchi.com/Jessicaderico/event/36438

To get a personalized skincare recommendation take this quiz -> https://forms.gle/T6jhuuByf1XVdvwp9

To chat with me directly message me here -> M.me/Jessie.rae.31 or send me an email -> raisingclean@gmail.com

Mother’s Day

April 27, 2023 raisingcleanLeave a comment

Give the gift of Clean Beauty this Mother’s Day!

Whether you have a mother figure you are looking for something special for or you’re a mom and want to treat yourself or give a great idea to a spouse or child, what gift is more special than clean beauty. It is a way to feel beautiful, practice self care, and it doesn’t cause you harm or disrupt your hormones like other makeup and skincare out there!

So, I present to you… our Mothers Day Offers!

Available through May 14th – or while supplies last!

Daylight & Nightlight Facial Cream Bundle w/ a complimentary Crunchi Spa Headband

Advocate Price: $91.20

Client Retail Price: $114

Everluxe® Lip Crayon in Limited Edition shade, Sienna Red

Advocate Price: $22.40

Client Retail Price: $28

Everluxe® Lip Crayon in Limited Edition shade, French Mauve

Advocate Price: $22.40

Client Retail Price: $28

Limited Edition Lip Dream Duo ( Lip Scrub + Lip Treatment )

Advocate Price: $33.60

Client Price: $38 – (Retail $42 – $4 savings!)

Special Client Bundle

Snag all four of the offers and receive special 20% off – making this deal just $175 PLUS free shipping!

If you are ready to make the change to clean beauty and/or skincare this link will get you entered to win a free facial essence + half priced coupons! You also get $10 off your first $50 order using this link if you are new to Crunchi!

http://Crunchi.com/Jessicaderico/event/36077

And… if those Advocate prices look good to you, just click Get Involved then Advocate Enrollment to choose the best discounted kit for you, start getting 20% off your orders immediately, and get an affiliate link to share with others and make 20-40% in commission!

(Make sure you see shopping with Jessica DeRico in the top right corner to be entered to win rewards)

Safe Swap – Exfoliator

August 12, 2022 raisingcleanLeave a comment

Because I’ve recently added this product to my skincare regimen, I decided to look into the conventional ones that a lot of women are using. As I scoured labels, I found a plethora of Exfoliators containing:

Methylisothiazolinone: Lab studies suggest this may be neurotoxic. Additional studies have shown it to be toxic during neural developmental stages to fetus, increasing the risk of seizures and visual abnormalities. The EWG also states that MI is a skin sensitizer and irritant, which means that it can cause contact allergies such as eczema.

Phenoxyethanol: The product of the reaction of highly corrosive phenol with carcinogenic ethylene oxide. Not worth the risk!

EDTA: This ingredient, although not toxic, breaks down the outer layer of the skin to INCREASE penetration of other ingredients. This is of major concern when toxic ingredients are part of the rest of the formula.

Parfum (Fragrance): A sketchy loophole which allows hundreds of additional ingredients to hide under that single word on a label.

Japanese Honeysuckle: Sounds very natural and innocent, but it contains parahydroxy benzoic acid, which is found to behave in a very similar way (with very similar molecular structure) as a paraben in the body.

Parabens: Possess significant estrogen-mimicking properties that are associated with increased risk of breast cancer. These chemicals, directly implicated in breast tumors, are ABSORBED through the skin. 𝘼 𝙨𝙩𝙪𝙙𝙮 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙅𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙏𝙤𝙭𝙞𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 99% 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙘𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙪𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙢𝙥𝙡𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙥𝙤𝙨𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙗𝙚𝙣𝙨, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 60% 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙙𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙗𝙚𝙣𝙨 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙩.

Not to worry… I have a safe swap coming for you SOON!

To be the first to hear when a safe, toxin free, insanely high performing Exfoliator is available, text raisingclean to (607) 662-7060