Wellness Destination: Follain, Bethesda, MD (DC Metro Area)

Shopping for clean beauty can seem daunting, but there are a few notable shops I’ve come across both online and via brick and mortar that stocks many of my skincare and make-up favorites that are also non-toxic and often cruelty free. One of these spots I’d recommend is Follain in Bethesda, MD right outside of DC. Follain also has locations in Boston, NYC, Dallas and Seattle. According to Follain’s founder, Tara Foley, “You absorb 60 percent of everything you put on your skin.” That’s definitely a reason to transition to more clean beauty products as far as I’m concerned! Follain—Gaelic for “healthy, wholesome and sound”—aims to help people eliminate the harmful chemicals in their beauty routine, one product at a time.

While I visit Follain to purchase my handsoap in a refillable bottle (that you can purchase at the store), I peruse the shelves to see what skincare and make-up items I may want to try. It’s a bright and cheerful spot to visit and in close proximity to other shops and restaurants on Bethesda Row. If you don’t happen to live near a Follain location, you can easily shop their online store. If you are as stumped on what actually makes a beauty product “clean,” Follain’s website lists health comprising ingredients that can be found in many mainstream beauty products with an explanation of what each is used for and what makes them toxic.

Follain sells products from make-up and skincare brands I frequently use like Ilia Beauty, RMS Beauty, W3LL People, Indie Lee, Herbivore, among many others. Follain also offers make-up appointments and skin consultations by their knowledgable staff (check out their website to find out the latest pricing for these offerings).

So the next time you’re in the DC area and want to do some beauty shopping, check out Follain. FYI: YOU CAN USE THIS DISCOUNT CODE: REF15_UP9GRN TO GET 15% OFF ITEMS THERE (WITH SOME EXCLUSIONS).