Everviolet Chats: Monica Behan, Modicum Skincare Owner & Creator
We are strong believers that what we put into our bodies is just as important as what we put on them. So it was pure kismet that we recently met Monica Behan, owner and creator of Modicum, a plant-based, organic skincare line. Due to an accident after which doctors told her she would need plastic surgery to remedy scarring on her face and neck, Monica decided to create a topical cream using the powers of Mother Earth. The result was her highly-coveted Essential Serum, which incorporates plant chemistry, essential oils and chemical building blocks and allowed her skin to rejuvenate naturally, leaving no visible scars – without surgery.
Now, with an expanded line and as a proponent of total transparency with regard to ingredients, Modicum now includes a Birch Tree Water Spritz, tapped from local trees in Upstate New York, natural cleansers, exfoliants, serums and repellents. This summer, they are also releasing a Breast Balm that helps with scarring after surgery (we can't wait!). To learn more about Modicum's wellness philosophy, what ingredients Monica prioritizes in beauty products, how she gets her glow and more, read our latest Everviolet Chats below.
What path led you to creating your natural skincare line, Modicum?
A snowmobile accident on a glacier that left lacerations on my face and neck. Plastic surgery was a consideration but I didn’t have insurance and none of the over the counter products were helping with the scarring and healing of my wounds the way I had hoped. That’s when I created the serum which led me to starting Modicum.
What is your brand’s wellness philosophy?
Whole Health, mind body and spirit. Compartmentalizing only separates our connection with our whole self. Looking at our wellness as a whole and not as separate parts. Skincare is only one aspect. Feeding the skin cells the nutrients they need and allow the body’s own natural intelligence to restore balance.
What qualities or ingredients do you prioritize in your beauty products?
Plant based first Plants are powerful. Plant cells and human cells are similarly comprised, so the phytonutrients are more readily received and absorbed. Raw materials that are organic. Plants that have the most antioxidants and are nutrient specific to skin cell proliferation.
What are you favorite natural beauty tips, tricks and secrets? What does your daily skin regimen look like?
My favorite beauty tips are to feed the skin from the inside and out. I believe one of the greatest beauty tips is to have a healthy microbiome! Many of the whole foods we eat for a healthy gut can also be used to make a mask to put on your skin. I say learn as much as you can about the nutrients in the food and then get creative with your masks. Pumpkin, turmeric, spirulina, coconut oil and raw honey is one of my favs! I eat it every morning and put it on my face! LOL
In a long list of culprits, what are some harmful ingredients commonly found in skincare products that we should avoid?
Aluminum, DEA, Mineral Oil, Parabens, Phthalates, Propylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Lauryl sulfate, synthetic fragrances and so many more.
How do you get your glow? Internally or externally?
Being calm as much as possible. Not always easy. So I take walks in nature everyday, meditate and do yoga. I try to surround myself with people who have a positive attitude like myself and are always seeking to raise the vibration whenever possible. Laughing, dancing and sharing food and drink with ones I love! Some days are more difficult than others for all of us and those days I try to just let it be and try to practice a little self-compassion.
What are the biggest benefits of switching over to a completely natural skincare regimen?
Not taxing the immune system and the endocrine system. The skin acts as an interface between environmental toxins and our internal organs. 90 percent of cancers are environmental. That should say enough.
What’s a wellness essential you can’t live without right now?
My Modicum Essential Serum which is why I called it that. I don’t need anything else. It is a panacea for the skin. I also can’t live without my sea buckthorne juice everyday.
What are you favorite podcasts and/or books that you’re loving right now?
Books I am reading now. Fiber Fueled: The Plant-Based Gut Health Program for Losing Weight, Restoring Your Health, and Optimizing Your Microbiome by Will Bulsiewicz MD,MSCI and The Gratitude Curve, living with chronic disease. They both are helping me tremendously living with chronic Lyme disease.
What mantra do you live by?
1. Believe in the magic of your intentions. 2. I am the love I need
What makes your heart sing?
Being in nature, being with loved ones and being with animals!
Please complete this sentence: I fee most beautiful when…
I am giving or receiving love.
