Pamper your mom with these Mother’s Day gifts that keep on giving long after the day is done. We’ve got the best natural products that are sure to restore and rejuvenate–just like a day at the spa–minus any un-giftworthy ingredients. Even better, once she has them, she can repeat the experience over and over, thinking of you, and thank you each and every time.

Set the Mood

Start by giving Mom a little peace of mind in a bottle. While bubbly or a cold glass of chardonnay might be called for, we’re talking aromatherapy. Lotus Wei’s Flower Elixirs ($35-$50) harness the power of flower essences to help us increase joy, magnify love, quiet the mind, increase clarity and focus, relax the body, support sounder sleep or boost energy, depending on which of the six formulas you choose. Also great for relieving physical tension, especially in the neck and shoulders, which leads us to our next item…

Relieve Aching Muscles

Jamu Spa Massage Body & Hair Oil ($6-$29)

Now that Mom is starting to relax, up the ante with a little therapeutic massage. It doesn’t have to be professional to be beneficial. Touch is healing and you’ve got options. Have her partner, spouse or just about anyone with a smidgen of upper body strength indulge her with a massage. Whether it’s a back rub from a family member or a mini massage on her own two legs, feet, hands and arms, Jamu Spa’s Massage Body Oil ($6-$29) offers a nourishing tropical blend of sunflower, coconut, jojoba & exotic essential oils creating the perfect balance of slip, hydration and sensory experience.

A Facial To Make Her Glow

Give Mom the tools she needs for a complete facial. Cleanser, exfoliant, mask, toner and moisturizer. Depending on her skin type, we suggest a gentle creamy cleanser such as Acure Organics Facial Cleansing Cream Olive + Mint ($14.99) .

Follow this with either a fine grained facial scrub, such as Derma E’s Microdermabration Scrub, the at home alternative to an in office micro derm treatment with the perfect “grit” factor for effective exfoliation ($32.50).

No facial is complete without a mask, so treat her to a high impact, antioxidant rich one like Pangea Organics’ Japanese Matcha Tea Acai Goji Berry Facial Mask ($45) for the “wow” factor in her DIY facial. She will love the marked improvement in quality, tone, and texture of her skin.

Finally, give her a deeply hydrating treatment moisturizer to leave her skin radiant, plumped and glowing, such as Pomega5’s Grenade Anti Rides Nourishing Cream ($78 – she’s worth it…and so is this cream).

Soothing Tub Time

Sometimes, closing the bathroom door is the only “me” time Mom gets, so help her make the most of it. If she’s a bath lover, let’s amp up the skin-loving relaxation factors with a bath enhancement such as Sumbody’s Stress Relieving Bath Salts ($6.95), which help to replenish minerals in the body, soften and soothe skin, and assist in combating a number of common ailments, or moisture rich Bath Melts ($5.50) to help hydrate and seal in moisture for velvety soft skin.

Since shaving may not make the ‘Mom To Do List’ often, help her out by stocking her bath or shower with a fresh (and eco-friendly) razor from Preserve ($8.50) and some rash reducing shaving cream such as Eco Armour’s Shave With Benefits ($12.95).

This rich foam reduces knicks, ingrown hairs, and razor burns, for a smooth, comfortable shave and even helps keep that razor sharp!

Mom more a shower than bath gal? Opt for a high impact, skin loving shower gel such as Seaweed Bath Co’s Wildly Natural Soothing Shower Gel ($12.89). Packed with nourishing and detoxifying properties of seaweed, this natural body wash soothes and moisturizes even the most sensitive skin.

Mani-Pedi

Now that she’s clean, hydrated, massaged, relaxed and glowing, it’s time for a little mother child role reversal during which you play with her finger and toes. Didn’t inherit the nail painting gene? Recruit help! That artsy sister (cousin, aunt, friend…) of yours can handle a mani-pedi and Londontown ($22-$125) has a range of nail care with everything you need. From cuticle treatments to nail hardeners and amazing color lacquers, their healthier formulas are free of Formaldehyde, Dibutyl phthalate (DBP), Toluene, Camphor and Formaldehyde Resin, 5 nasties often present in other polishes. Available in a wide range of colors, Mom can flash those fingers and toes with confidence when you’re finished.

And remember, the best Mother’s Day gifts for any Mom is just time with people she loves. Be sure to make an afternoon of your gift and enjoy some of the experience with her. That’s any Mom’s wish come true.

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Aging.  As inevitable as death and taxes, right?  Some of us age more gracefully than others, and when it comes to our skin care, there are a whole host of factors that play into how well our routine can hold up over time. 

From diet to pollution, sleep deprivation to stress, there’s one culprit that does the most damage to our skin. Remember when your mom would force you to sit on the towel under the umbrella at the beach and smother you with thick, white sunscreen while warning you not to get a sunburn?  We hate to say it, but your mom was right. While we wish we could reveal some amazing new find about what really causes skin aging and how to prevent it to let you sun lovers off the hook, UV rays are in fact the biggest offender. As little as a few minutes a day of sunlight without protection over time can lead to dark spots, wrinkles, sagging skin and even skin cancer.

According to Cancer.org there are three main types of UV rays:

– UVA rays age skin cells and can damage their DNA. These rays are linked to long-term skin damage such as wrinkles, but they are also thought to play a role in some skin cancers. Most tanning beds give off large amounts of UVA, which has been found to increase skin cancer risks.

– UVB rays can directly damage skin cells’ DNA, and are the main rays that cause sunburns. They are also thought to cause most skin cancers.

– UVC rays don’t get through our atmosphere and are not in sunlight. They are not normally a cause of skin cancer.

The amount of UV rays in our atmosphere is affected by a number of factors including the time of day, time of year, elevation and cloud coverage. (To learn more about the current level of UV Rays in your area, click here.)

Similar to repeatedly stretching out a rubber band, over time, your skin loses its ability to repair itself and the damage becomes irreversible.  Cumulative UV exposure breaks down collagen, which is the main protein connective tissue in our body, and the process of creating new tissue becomes harder and harder. The same is true for elasticity. The greater the damage, the harder it is for skin to repair itself, and signs of aging start to accumulate.

One of the determining factors for how the sun will affect your skin is color complexion. Do you have fair skin and burn easily? If that’s the case, you are more likely to see signs of aging than someone with darker skin who tans well. Genetics are capable of telling us a lot about our bodies. Do your parents or grandparents have sun damage? Did they take preventative measures? Your skin may be comparable to theirs.

Now that you’re sighing in resignation that laying out is a bad idea, or perhaps you’re beating yourself up for those reckless teenage years of baby oil and tin foil, the first step in addressing sun damage is to prevent any more. Here’s how:
1.  Neutralize UV rays, protect skin from additional assault and help reverse existing damage.

RawSkinCeutical’s RegenceC Serum is an oil based serum for easy absorption, rich in naturally occurring vitamin C from their unique herbals complex, which includes chrysanthemum, helichrysum flowers, orange peel, rosehips, eyebright, acerola cherry, cleavers, and l-ascorbic acid.  Studies  have shown vitamin C applied topically can limit UV damage due to it’s high antioxidant activity, reducing UV induced DNA damage and inflammation and increases cell survival following UV exposure.

Blissoma’s Amend Solar Repair Anti-Aging Serum is a lovely, low scent, easily absorbed, non-oily serum that includes a unique type of potent pomegranate extract that has been clinically verified to reduce UV ray related cell death and free radicals generated in exposed skin.

In addition to protecting skin from further damage, both products will also go to work to help repair the damage that’s already been done. For the best protection, wear your vitamin C and/or pomegranate products under your sunscreen during the day.
 
2.  Shield skin from damaging UV rays with a healthy, natural sunscreen, every day, all year long.

For those seeking a higher SPF but who don’t want to know they’re wearing sunscreen or tend toward oily skin, COOLA Suncare makes an incredibly lightweight, matte finish mineral sunscreen, tinted or untinted.

Those with normal to dry skin seeking SPF 30 along with sheer, tinted coverage, added moisture and a multi-tasking formula should try Suntegrity’s Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen SPF 30, which can also be called a BB cream. This luxurious formula leaves skin well hydrated with a dewy finish and features a variety of healing and protective antioxidants, including green tea and pomegranate extracts, among others. Available in five shades to work with any skin tone, it’s also available in a clear, untinted formula.

Both formulas do double duty, providing chemical free, non-nano, mineral UV protection via zinc and/or titanium dioxide, they all run in well when used appropriately without leaving a tell-tale white film (or you looking like a mime).

Don’t forget the body! Perfect for sensitive skin and those prone to breakouts, Devita’s Solar Body Moisturizer SPF 30  hits the sweet spot between body lotion and sunscreen. The light formula acts as a moisturizer and provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection without leaving you feeling oily or greasy. Perfect for daily use to protect skin during sporadic exposure (think about that arm hanging out your window while driving) when you don’t plan to spend hours and hours in direct sunlight sweating or playing in the water.

For those who live an active lifestyle (or have kids that do) All Terrain’s TerraSport SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray is the end to your excuse not to wear sunscreen. This highly rated, very water resistant formula is proven effective after 80 minutes in water and it’s easy to apply, non-whitening, non-greasy, non eye stinging, fragrance-free finish leaves you with no excuse not to use it. Also available in an uber water proof formula called AquaSport.

Just remember, in all cases, for face and for body, no matter how water resistant the formula: reapply, reapply, reapply.

3.  Protect from the inside out

Studies indicate that ingesting green tea can help protect skin from UV damage because of its powerful antioxidant, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a potent type of catechin. EGCG neutralizes free radicals, which reduces their ability to wreck the type of havoc that causes inflammation and wrinkles. A study out of Cambridge in 2013 found that oral green tea metabolites are incorporated into human skin and offer protection against UV related inflammation. The Journal of Nutrition reported in 2011 that women who consumed a drink with green tea polyphenols for 12 weeks saw improvements in skin elasticity, roughness, scaling and moisture content.

Not a fan of drinking endless mugs of green tea to get a sufficient dose? Sneak some edible green tea into your daily smoothie or pop some Green Tea Extract in capsule form for a concentrated dose.

Our last word?  Take your mother’s advice and don’t skip the sunscreen. Tune in as we address a variety of other skin agers and what you can to do help prevent them and turn back the hands of time. #stopskinaging

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top image: monimix, product images via brands

The post 3 Anti-Aging Skin Care Tricks to Protect You from the Number One Skin Ager appeared first on EcoSalon.

What woman doesn’t wish for longer, thicker, darker lashes?  Maybe there are a few fortunate ones who have them naturally, but for the rest of us, mascaras do the magic. 

Mascara is often that one conventional (read: toxic) beauty product that’s the hardest to trade in for a healthier option, and for good reason.  It’s hard to make mascaras that darken, thicken, lengthen and stay put using natural  non-toxic ingredients. But lucky for us, several great brands have stepped up to the challenge to provide good options that are far healthier than your mainstream mascara formulas.

In no particular order, here’s your guide to good options that deliver good color, shine and performance without clumping, flaking or immediately dripping down to your chin:

1. Alima Pure Natural Definition Mascara – $22 – The new kid on the block, this pure minerals pigment formula definitely fits the bill. A great molded brush helps to reduce flake and maintains color after several coats without the glop. Provitamin B5 and natural oils condition lashes and leave them healthy. Do take care when applying to avoid smudging, as this formula tends to go on wet. Fan ‘em before you flutter.

2. Pacifica Stellar Gaze Lenth & Strengh Mineral Mascara –  $14.00 – Also newer to market, this “shoot for the stars” formula stays put all day and feels light on the lashes, two qualities I really like in a mascara.  Infused with coconut oil and vitamin B to strengthen, lengthen and hydrate, it’s lash friendly and easy to layer. One swipe to keep it natural and light for day; two to three passes for more extreme volume at night.  An excellent, soft brush makes clump free application a snap.

3.  Organic Glam Mascara – £20.95 – Five years of research and testing proved worth the wait for this lash conditioning, organic aloe and beeswax based formula, enriched with vitamins A, E and C for a high performance mascara that’s a treat for your lashes.  Ideal for sensitive eyes, it’s free of artificial colors, preservatives and fragrances. Well worth the conversion to U.S. currency and shipping from across the pond!

4.  Josie Maran Go Go Instant Natural Volume Mascara – $22 – Goes on beautifully for well defined, clump-free, dark, thicker looking lashes.  Water resistant formula wears well throughout the day for a glossy, define fringe that can really take a beating. Even better, sales of  Go Go Mascara support cancer patients and survivors at the City of Hope.

5.  Physicians Formula Organic Wear Lash Boosting Mascara – $9.99 – While I’m not sure about the long term, lash enhancing benefits when you’re not wearing it, it performs well as a mascara, delivering good color in a non-clumping/flaking, volumizing formula.  The Organic Wear collection is widely available at drug stores and a low price point, making it easily accessible and the most affordable option on the list.

6. Jane Iredale Longest Lash Thickening and Lengthening Mascara – $33.00 – This petroleum-free formula contains a blend of seaweed lipids to condition, moisturize and protect lashes while reducing splitting and breaking. Interestingly packaged in a squeezable tube with an oversized brush to prevent clumping and to create separated, defined lashes. Will stay put without runs throughout the day unless you plan to get super sweaty at the gym after work.

7. Dr. Hauschka Volume Mascara – $29.95 – Gentle and soothing way to add full volume to lashes while still keeping it smudge-free. It may take a few applications to achieve a very noticeable look, but if you’re going for day-to-day au natural this is a good choice. Contains beeswax, rose and candelilla waxes to plump and protect your black beauties. Black tea extracts take care of the delicate skin around the eyes while neem leaf extract strengthens lashes.

8. Tarte Lights Camera Lashes –  $19.00 – While not as super-natural as some of the others on this list, this 4 in 1 formula is a great, less toxic option for newbies switching from conventional mascara to something cleaner. It conditions, thickens, lengthens and curls, just like your favorite tube of dirty mascara.  It also won’t run or flake for hours and creates great volume after only one coat. Infused with olive esters to condition, treat and protect lashes, this paraben, mineral oil, and phthalate-free formula is also gluten-free.

9. Honeybee Gardens Truly Natural Mascara – $11.99 – Inexpensive, USA-made, vegan and paraben-free formula boasts a light as a feather base and zero clumping due to the absence of clay. Botanically enriched recipe includes palmetto fruit and avocado butter to condition lashes from base to tip. Has a good amount of staying power – work out with it on – but don’t jump in a pool and expect to have vibrant lashes when you get out!

10. Devita Absolute Length Mascara – $23.95 – Great for sensitive eyes, the advanced brush and synthetic preservative free formula strengthens and lengthens. Additives such as biotin-D and carrot oil keep your lashes healthy while pure pigments of black tea and pomegranate with iron oxides add rich, deep chemical free color. Free from coal tar, TD&C colorants and other mainstream mascara toxins. Only downside: oddly, the wand sometimes is hard to get back into the tube.

11.  100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Mascara – $18 – glosses, conditions, colors and enhances with fruit pigments, proteins and vitamins, this formula is a favorite for many and smells amazing (not in a perfume on your eyes way, but in a fruity goodness way).  Works well for just about everyone, including those with sensitive eyes and contacts. Decent staying power unless you plan to sweat a lot or get wet.

12.  Coleur Caramel Cils Longs Mascara – $24.25 – a favorite among make-up pros with a penchant for natural, the formula is rich in plant based active ingredients to pamper lashes. The brush is a wee bit stiff, but it layers well, taking you from subtle to glam in a few swipes with rich color and good definition. Stays put for regular daily activities.

A last piece of advice: you’re not committed to the wand supplied. Find one you like that coats without clumping, and perhaps another that helps to separate lashes.  There’s no monogamy required here! In fact, using a wand other than the one supplied may even make your mascara last a little longer and stay a little fresher, keeping the tube free from bacteria that can be transferred from lashes to tube with each dip & swipe.  Here’s to creating your best fringe yet!

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Top image: starlights, all other images appear by courtesy of the brands

The post 12 Totally Not Gross Natural Mascaras That Actually Work appeared first on EcoSalon.

Guess what? October is Fair Trade Month!  It tends to get a little overshadowed by Breast Cancer Awareness month, but is an equally critical issue to be educated about and support.  

You may be familiar with Fair Trade coffee and tea, but did you know you can support Fair Trade through the beauty products you purchase?  There are a growing number of companies that work to source Fair Trade Certified, and if not certified, ethically sourced ingredients.  We’ve put together a cheat sheet of companies from A to Z that make up our favorite ethically made beauty products that support Fair Trade. 

Since 1998, the work of Fair Trade USA and its partners has resulted in Fair Trade farmers earning more than $114 million in community development premiums.  These funds have been use to support community projects in education, health care, environmental preservation, business management, quality improvement and productivity, allowing these communities to move further down the path toward economic stability.

Acure Organics (acureorganics.com) – Acure Organic’s wide range of technologically advanced, organic skin, hair and body care making use of growth factors and stem cell science in conjunction with active oils, and botanical and herbal extracts & vitamins, uses Fair Trade Certified ingredients in each of their products in support of the  Fair Trade movement’s positive impact upon people and the planet.

Image courtesy Alaffia

Alaffia (alaffia.com) – The ultimate in Fair Trade founded beauty, this rich collection, ideal for the driest skin and hair, was founded to empower individuals and communities through the fair trade of indigenous, sustainable resources, far surpassing Fair Trade minimum commitments to provide far reaching support of Togolese communities.

Image courtesy Dr. Bronner’s

Dr. Bronner’s (drbronner.com) – Organic liquid soaps, hair rinse and more use Fair Trade coconut oil from Sri Lanka, olive oil from the Holy Land, and palm oil from Ghana to further their vision of a more sustainable, economically just planet.

Dr. Hauschka (drhauschka.com) – Dr. Hauschka’s goal “to support the healing of humanity and the earth” is alive and creating self-reliant and economically sustainable communities from a shea butter cooperative in Burkino Faso, Africa producing butters used in their lipsticks to a rose cultivation project in Ethiopia that contributes to over 50 Dr. Hauschka products including Rose Day Cream, Rose Body Oil and many of their lip and eye cosmetics.

Image courtesy Emtage

Emtage – (emtagebeauty.com/pure-ingredients/) – Emtage’s ultimate passion is to free people from dry, damaged, dull hair and skin using only the purest, highest-quality natural, organic ingredients that are fairly traded, sustainable & ethically sourced. Signature Fair Trade ingredients in their Silktage line include Argan oil from Morocco and Monoi oil from Tahiti.

Kahina Giving Beauty (kahina-givingbeauty.com) – A high performance, luxury skin care line based on the traditional wisdom and beauty rituals of Moroccan women. Kahina Giving Beauty is dedicated to supporting the social and economic freedoms of the women producing their ethically sourced Argan oil and other key ingredients.

Marula The Leakey Collection (marula.com) – The Leakey Collection’s highly prized Marula Oil enhances skin health and radiance along with people’s lives by creating work opportunities for the Maasai in an environmentally- friendly, sustainable way while supporting cultural and traditional lifestyles.

Primavera (primaveralife.com) – A full range of natural, effective, sustainable skin and bodycare, PRIMAVERA has maintained fair trade relations with its world-wide agricultural partners for over 25 years, supporting famers who cultivate in a sustainable, environmentally-friendly cultivation.

Salve Sister (www.salvesister.com) – A lovely collection of luxury Fair Trade skin care products, they use only raw, unprocessed, and naturally powerful botanicals sourced from small farmers in the U.S. and abroad. Investing in small farmers – especially women –  has a major impact on poverty reduction and economic justice.

Savvy Boheme (savvyboheme.com/) – Certified Fair Trade ingredients make up the foundation of nearly all Savvy Bohème’s face & body moisturizers, treatments and scrubs.  For every product purchased, a portion of the profit goes back into the Fair Trade system, benefiting the hard-working people making their ingredients.

Shea Radiance (shearadiance.com) – A spa quality range of body butters and creams, Shea Radiance works with over 500 shea producers in Northern Nigeria to support economic opportunity of native women, allowing them to generate income to clothe and educate their children.

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Image courtesy Shea Terra

Shea Terra (sheaterraorganics.com) – Indigenous, organic African ingredient based facial, body and hair care grounded in traditional skin care practices,  Shea Terra uses a wide range of exotic ingredniets, all ethically sourced with the goal of aiding the preservation of wildlife habitat and supporting local communities.

S.W. Basics (swbasicsofbk.com) – A  range of simply formulated, clean and effective facials care, all of S.W. Basics’ ingredients are either certified organic, Fair Trade, or sourced from small, family farms. They are committed to creating the most effective products in the most responsible way.

Tay (tayskincare.com) – Tay is about bringing simplicity to skincare products that address signs of dryness and everyday pollution that can lead to aging.  They work to include as many fair trade ingredients as possible.

Weleda (usa.weleda.com) – Passionately committed to fair trade even before there was a popular buzzword for it, Weleda has forged partnerships around the world to spread the word to other farmers about the benefits of organic and biodynamic principles. Today, local Turkish farmers harvest wild rose for their Wild Rose Day Cream and their Sea Buckthorn oil is created on a biodynamic farm in Tuscany, Italy.

Image courtesy Zhena’s Gypsy Tea

Zhena’s Gypsy Tea – (www.gypsytea.com)  It may not be a topical skin care line, but this rich range of aromatherapy & wellness based tea boosts antioxidant activity for skin and overall health and can be used in a variety of DIY beauty treatments.  The first woman owned and operated Certified Fair Trade tea company in the United States, Zhena’s Gyps Tea is dedicated to improving the lives the of the people growing their tea.

Vote for economic justice with your dollars in the beauty aisle, this month and every month, by purchasing ethically made beauty products using Fair Trade ingredients.  You’ll be looking good while doing good – a win-win.

Main image courtesy Malala

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The post Celebrate Fair Trade Month with Ethically Made Beauty Products: A to Z appeared first on EcoSalon.

Your best summer accessory is smooth, healthy, glowing skin.  The best (and quickest) way to stellar skin is to remove that surface layer of dead skin cells that can build up over time, making it look dull, clogging pores, and accentuating wrinkles.  Here are four lovely options to have you glowing in no time.

1. Don’t skip your scalp. We’re not kidding when we say head to toe.  Even your scalp (and overall health) can benefit from a deep clean & detox to counteract past chemical damage from synthetic products and processing. Morocco Method’s Zen Detox Hair & Scalp Therapy contains volcanic clay, hydrolyzed prickly pear cactus proteins & rare Celtic trace minerals which work to support scalp health and hair growth by detoxing the follicles, roots, and oil glands and scalp.  Note:  It takes a few rinses to wash it out completely, so have patience.

2. Off with the old.  To brighten delicate facial skin, opt for an enzyme or natural fruit acid treatment such as Arcona’s Raspberry Resurfacing Peel.  A blend of natural fruit acids dissolves dead skin cells to resurface, hydrate and oxygenate the skin while smoothing fine lines and minimizing pores and brown spots.  A great pre-event treatment for nearly instant glow.

3. Smooth and juicy.  We hate lumpy looking lipstick.  The solution?  Even lips benefit in multiple ways from a good scrub.  Exfoliate, condition and plump in a single step with The Natural’s Organic Lip Scrub.  Made using organic sugar, natural oils and beeswax, daily use eliminates flakey skin and decreases fine lines on and around the lips with continued use.

4. Polish it up.  The perfect partner for smooth, moisturized summer skin, Trillium Organic’s Body Polish features ultra purified salt crystals shaped into perfect cubes to exfoliate effectively without damaging skin.  De-congest the dermis, stimulate cellular regeneration and leave skin moisturized, smooth and glowing. Unlike other oil based salt scrubs, their unique oil blend absorbs quickly and rinses clean, leaving no greasy film behind.

While exfoliation is a great way to brighten and smooth skin, too much of a good thing can be a bad thing.  To preserve the health of your skin and keep it’s natural lipid layer intact, consider exfoliating 3-4 times a week instead of every day and pay attention to how it’s feeling. If it’s feeling tight or looking red or irritated at all skip the scrub and opt for a gentle moisturizer until it’s ready for a little deep cleaning again.

Photo Credit: Miriam Cardoso de Souza

The post Exfoliate from Head to Toe (Literally) with 4 Natural Scrubs appeared first on EcoSalon.

The long, warm days of summer most likely have you craving smooth skin as you wear fewer clothes, indulge in languorous afternoons in the sun and frolick in the water at every opportunity. All that heat, sun and water may feel fantastic in the moment but your skin may react in a less than pleasing manner, leaving you a little rough around the edges.  Treat skin suffering from over exposure to a little TLC with these top 5 picks to sooth, smooth, and hydrate.

Get all the relief you need  and the smooth skin you want by reducing redness, smoothing rough patches, soothing sunburns & eliminating rashes with these 5 skin savers.

1. Bumps be gone.  ‘Tis the season for LOTS of shaving and frankly, who isn’t tired of razor burn, nicks and ingrown hairs? We all want a simple solution short of laser hair removal, especially for those extra sensitive underarm and bikini areas.  The special blend of oils in Bikini Soft Smooth Shave Oil coats the epidermis and hair follicles, allowing the razor to glide over the skin for a tight, close shave.  Say goodbye to razor burn and hello to smoother skin for all that summer lovin’.

2. Quench parched skin. When skin feels tight, hot and dry after too much sun, wind or water, reach for something to soothe.  Astara Skincare’s Golden Flame Hydration Mask fits the bill.  Packed with Sodium PCA and Hyaluronic Acid to attract and bind moisture to the skin for nearly instant plumping, the mask simultaneously calms skin and reduces inflammation thanks to cucumber, aloe, chamomile, comfrey and calendula  extracts.  It’s a no brainer to avoid the raisin look post beach day, or to prep for a hot date.

3. Soften up.  Soften rough patches with something rich and emollient like Hollybeth Organics’ Lemon Lime Shea Butter Cream.   Ideal for dry knees, elbows, feet and hands, it also works like a charm for softening beach-weathered hair to help avoid scarecrow locks.  Bonus! Shea butter provides some natural sun protection (but don’t skip the sunscreen) and pesky summer mosquitoes are less than fond of citrusy scents.

4. Healing from the sea.  All that fun in the sun can leave sweaty and grimy, and underneath that layer of scum, your skin may be less than thrilled. Get clean while soothing dry, flaking, irritated skin with a nourishing, healing body wash like this Wildly Natural Seaweed Body Wash by Seaweed Bath Co. This gentle wash combines naturally healing seaweed with nourishing including kukui and neem oils, to soothe and moisturize summer skin. It’s like a mini spa treatment with every shower.

5. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.  If you do nothing else for your facial skin this summer, at least give it plenty of moisture to compensate for all that’s lost to the elements. Precious Drops Super Hydrating Serum by Pure + Remedy firms, tones and evens out texture for fresher, younger looking skins that’s plump and well hydrated.   This hyaluronic acid rich formula binds moisture to the skin, while horsetail extract helps heal broken capillaries, MSM reduces inflammation and green tea reduces helps to minimize sun damage. This is your go to serum for every skin type, every day, all summer long.

Enjoy the dog days of summer, just don’t make your skin pay the price.

Discover & try healthy beauty & natural wellness products with Goodebox.

Legs Image Photo Credit: Alex Dram; Main image Photo Credit: Helga Weber

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The last thing you need on your summer vacay is a complicated makeup routine and backbreaking toiletry bag. Lighten your load and keep it simple, fresh and on-trend with these six go-to natural summer makeup products to stash in your bag.

May the wind be always at your back, the sun shining on your face and your perfectly stocked summer makeup bag weigh less than 50 lbs. Happy summer travels!

1.  Play It Safe.  You know you need moisturizer and SPF all summer long, so why not keep it simple and opt for a 3-in-1 product that protects skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays, functions as a moisturizer, and a make-up primer? Suntegrity’s Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen and Primer SPF 30 is a top-rated, non-greasy, “chem-free” sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection and is infused with youth promoting antioxidants and a high concentration of uncoated, non-nano zinc oxide to protect the skin and reduce inflammation. Also available in a tinted variety.

2.  Bronze It Up.  While many of us with paler complexions crave a little summer color, garnering it on the beach or poolside is less than ideal for healthy skin.  Achieve the perfect combination of “bronze” and “glow” with Christopher Drummond’s Sol Bronzer, a warm blend of sun kissed color and luminosity. Free of irritating ingredients and vegan friendly, it’s best for fair, light and medium skin tones and even doubles as a subtle eye shadow.

3.  Pink Matte Lips.  Matte lips in vibrant, punchy pink hues are hot this summer and the perfect way to set off summer’s golden glow.  Pull it off in a slightly more subdued shade that runway neon with a two-in-one product like W3LL People’s Universalist #7, a creamy peony that’s flattering for most skin tones. Apply several coats for a solid pink lip and a thin veil over the apples of the cheeks for healthy looking flush.  Made using nothing but the best natural & organic ingredients,

4. Lots-O-Lashes. Long, dark, thick lashes may well be your best summer accessory.  Use an all natural mascara that lengthens, separates, thickens and leaves lashes super glossy, like 100% Pure’s Fruit Pigmented Mascara. Provides great color thanks to black tea and berry pigments, and it’s gentle enough for even the most sensitive eyes. While there’s no such thing as waterproof in the world of natural mascara, this formula is decently water and smudge resistant.

5.  Oil Slick Free.  While you want to glow, you do not want to resemble an oil slick.  When skin kicks up the oil production during warmer weather, use these handy Beauty Papers by Tatcha to reduce excess shine.  Made from Abaca Leaf, a close relative to the banana, they absorb excess oil without disturbing your natural makeup or leaving a film behind for fresh skin all day long.  Powder free, fragrance free and pulp free, they’re great for all skin types, especially oily.

6.  Grunge or Glow.  Pick your look for a little summer evening drama:  shimmering upper lids for fresh faced fun or subtly shaded lower lids to rock the latest grunge trend.  Choose from Alima Pure’s wide selection of Luminous Shimmer Eyeshadow for shimmery lids or Satin Matte Eyeliner in a dark hue for a create a shadow along the lower lashes.  Made using nothing but the finest minerals, specially processed to be light, silky and designed to stay on your skin.

 top image: in this fleeting moment

The post 6 All-Natural Summer Makeup Kit Musts appeared first on EcoSalon.

On Earth Day, we hosted a Natural Beauty Chat on the EcoSalon Facebook page with celebrity green make-up artist and beauty expert, Kristen Arnett.

Kristen expertly fielded questions covering a wide range of beauty topics, from BB and CC creams to applying foundation, dealing with dark circles, to dry skin. In the event that  you missed it, we’ve got the recap here for you. After all, who can’t benefit from a little insider knowledge from an expert when it comes to cleaner, better beauty solutions?

Q: Laura: What do you recommend for morning puffy eyes?
A: Clairvoyant Beauty has a really nice Depuffing Cucumber & Cranberry Eye Gel that is quite soothing and helps. Otherwise, just about anything cool and a light facial massage.

Q: Robin: Are there any secret potions to lengthen and thicken eyelashes? I saw a YouTube video with a girl saying to put petroleum jelly on your eyelashes to make them grow–but WE know that’s not safe. Any suggestions?
A:  Let me get up off the floor laughing first about how someone could actually make a video saying how petroleum would help eyelashes grow. Now, there are some products on the market that are more natural and promote lash growth, BUT this all depends on much of a purist you want to be with it. It really takes a science lab kind of thing to do that.

Q: Megan: I have combination skin that breaks out easy, is there a foundation that will keep an even tone (not shiny on my t-zone) and won’t mess with my skin ?
A: In my experience, most traditional makeup these days won’t cause pimples, rather irritations. So are you getting pimples or irritations from your makeup do you think? Most foundation lines these days are going to leave skin glowy, because that’s the modern look, then you can use a setting powder in the t-zone to take away extra shine.

Q: Sarah: I’ve already learned so much from your site about safe SPFs and BB creams. Do you have any advice for the best BB creams on a budget? Thank you!
A: I am going to step on some toes with this answer, but I honestly think you are better off not buying a BB cream. Just get the right products that are good for your skin and put them on layer by layer.  I did write this article hoping to offer some good background information on the subject as well.

Q: Marcella: I’m pretty bad at putting on foundation but do you have any tips for dry skin types and using foundation? I also have to work around small bumps (from stubborn acne scars) that I want covered.
A: First let me ask you, is your skin dry because you dry it out to control the acne or has it become dry on its own since you had acne? The reason I ask is that your skin is the first thing to address so you don’t have to wear so much makeup – but it also helps me determine what texture of foundation might be right for you.
Reader response: Ooh that’s a great question! I’m in my 20s right now and I have noticed my skin has become noticeably dryer. At least compared to my oily/teen-acne filled skin in the not-so-good old days. But actually, I don’t use any products to dry my acne out out. I normally use a light facial oil and sometimes a Konjac sponge for gentle exfoliation.

Q: Tricia:  Is there a particular brand of green skincare you recommend for sensitive/reactive skin?
A: To me ALL skin is sensitive and reactive so I really think it’s about keeping things very simple and trying it out in sample size first. Shall I just plug the heck out of Goodebox now – that’s the beauty of it. Low commitment sampling. You can check out this article for some great ideas on caring for sensitive skin.

Q: Sharon: What clean shampoo do you recommend that won’t leave my hair looking limp or oily?
A: Regarding a shampoo, that’s tricky without knowing your hair and skin type. Limp and oily comes from using a shampoo that leaves behind residue. I’ve had good luck with Neuma, Giovanni and the brands listed here.
Reader comment: I LOVE NEUMA….fab shampoos, conditioners and the mousse is to die for! They also make a great argan treatment. I just discovered Andalou Naturals. LOVE their argan and sweet orange shampoo. It smells like candy!

Q: Beth: What is the difference between BB and CC creams?
A: The thing about BB and CC creams is that they are multitasking formulas. What I’ve found is that I prefer CC creams to BB Creams. The one from Juice Beauty is actually really nice. CC creams are lighter and not as thick/chalky. I find it’s a bit less pigment than a tinted moisturizer however. Both formulas offer SPF protection.

Q: Nathalia: What primer and foundation do you use during photo shoots?
A: I don’t always use a primer on shoots – I think they are 80 percent unnecessary. For foundations, I really dabble between a variety of brands such as rms beauty,Vapour Organic Beauty, Alima Pure, Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics and W3LL PEOPLE.

Q: Barbara: Is there anything I can do about the dark, dark “circles” under my eyes? Besides just try to conceal them (which doesn’t really work)?
A: Dark circles can be related to so many things. Here’s an article about dark cirles that may be helpful.

Q: Lauren: How can I whiten discoloration on the back caused by acne scarring?
A: Your question about lightening acne scars is a good one, but to be honest there’s very few things that are truly effective which are natural. Depending on how dark the scar is laser might be the only option. If they are lighter, then fruit acids could work. Generally all acne scars will fade on their own over time. Remember, don’t pick at the pimples!

Q: Veronica: What can we use for glowing skin, any cream or milk? What do you recommend for a natural lip gloss? Can you give us a moisture cream recipe to make at home ?
A: You have quite a few questions that actually can be answered by more articles on Green Beauty Team, so I’ll direct you there and tell you that I have quite a few favorite natural lip glosses. It’s actually the most common natural product to find in the beauty market. Primitive Makeup, Juice Beauty, BITE Beauty, Dr.Hauschka,  and about 100 more brands make great ones.

Q: Stacey:  I’m in my mid-40s and would love a recommendation for an all-natural wrinkle cream. Thanks!
A: It really depends on your skin type and a whole variety of conditions that are unique to you. Obviously we have some great natural skin brands represented here such as Clairvoyant Beauty and Juice Beauty. I’m also a big fan of Dr. Alkaitis Holistic Organic Skin Food.  Some people just use coconut oil and call it good.

Q: Maria: Is there a tinted moisturizer with SPF that you could recommend for hot/humid Miami weather?
A: I have been to Florida and will say that a tinted moisturizer sounds torturous to me! That humidity would just make me feel as if I were melting. My suggestion: put your SPF on, then concealer under the eyes, and do mineral powder like Alima Pure over the rest of the face.

Q: Heather: Do you have makeup free days or low makeup days? If you just throw on a few products instead of a full face of makeup, what products do you use? Do you suggest them for everyone?
A: I have makeup free days ALL the time! Sometimes I forget to put makeup on before leaving the house, then it’s a mad dash to put something on at the last second. I fully support that women do not need to fully cover their faces! When you really want to go for it, there’s truly a myriad of brands out there to use that depend on the finish you’d most prefer. I do a lot of makeup lessons (both virtually and in person) for women in every walk of life (actresses, singers, moms, business women, teens, brides) and there’s not one formula that I give out.

Q: Lillian: Any recommendations for treating dry skin?
A: Dry skin is often related to internal imbalance (as is acne and oily skin). So check out a few of our articles on the topic. Maybe you are deficient in potassium, or maybe you just naturally have dry skin, or maybe it’s the weather…  see where I’m going with this?

Q: Jade: Have any favorite facial oils?
A: I have SO many facial oils that I love. Current obsessions include Kahina Giving Beauty, there are 3 bottles in my bathroom right now. The blend of oils (not just the argan) is really luscious and nourishing. I also like the toner which isn’t drying  and is great for more arid climates.  Other favorites include Josh Rosebrook, Dr. Alkaitis, May Lindstrom SKIN, and MUN.

Q: Abbie: I have a question about blush…what do you like better, cream or powder?
A: I am a BIG fan of cream blush, but to be honest I often layer them. So I’ll use something like a hot pink from Revolution Organics and then go over it with a bit of shimmery bronze powder – ever so lightly – the Alima Pure in Belize is nice.

Q: Zerlyn: Do you have recommendations for lightening some sun spots? I have some under my eyes, and no serum (natural or not) works.
A: Yes, you are kind of reiterating a point I made earlier about acne scars. It’s really tough to find skin care that is both totally natural and will lighten those pigmentation areas effectively. Actually, as you get older those spots get darker…so what the natural brands can do for you is keep things at bay and protect you from them getting worse. I’ve done a lot of sun damage in my youth, but I actively prevent it from showing up on my face now and if I accidentally get too much sun – those spots come right out.

A few final words of natural beauty wisdom from Kristen:

1) Your makeup will only look good if your skin looks good
2) Your skin only looks good if your body is healthy
3) Your body is only going to be healthy if you care for it and you believe you are worth that kind of care (which YOU ARE!). For more tips from experts on all of these points, please keep up with us at Green Beauty Team!

The post Kristen Arnett’s Earth Day Natural Beauty Chat Roundup appeared first on EcoSalon.

As the thermometer climbs and we see more sun each day, it’s time to (sigh) reach for the sunscreen. 

As we all know by now, UV rays cause skin damage, accelerate aging and skin cancer. While there is some debate as to whether sunscreen prevents skin cancer,  it does, at the very least, reduce the incidence of sunburn and slows photo aging   caused by too much UV exposure. That said, some sun exposure is important to help your body produce vitamin D, so total avoidance is also not advised.

The key here is to prevent sunburn and skin damage while avoiding a slew of  chemicals used in many sunscreens that may pose significant health risks.  The most commonly used active chemical UV absorbers are Oxybenzone, Octyl / Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate), Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, and Avobenzone.  The biggest offender is Oxybenzone, which has been shown to cause cellular changes, developmental and reproductive toxicity, allergies, immunotoxicity, and organ toxicity. It also tends to be persistent in the body and accumulate over time. Oxybenzone also acts as a penetration enhancer, which means it, and other less than desirable ingredients in the formula such as parabens, may be more readily absorbed by the skin. Translation?  Steer clear.

While a few of these chemical UV absorbers do rate a low risk level on the EWG’s cosmetics database, I still prefer to avoid them, opting for a mineral physical block instead. Part of the challenge of mineral sunscreens, though, is the ‘suck factor’ in using them.  They’re hard to put on, spread and get rubbed in, they’re uncomfortable to wear in warm weather, they’re tend to be sticky or really greasy, and often, they leave you looking chalky, which no doubt isn’t your preferred poolside look.  The solution?  A spray.

Spray sunscreens tend to lead to better compliance because the ‘suck factor’ is significantly reduced by lighter weight formulations that are easier to apply, spread and rub in.  They also tend to be more comfortable to wear in warm weather than their heavier, cream-based counterparts. But, a truly non-toxic spray sunscreen is hard to come by, since the only two options in the non-chemical realm are titanium dioxide and zinc oxide–minerals that act as physical UV blockers that reflect the sun instead of absorb it.

Ideally, you want to avoid products that use nano-sized minerals  as well, which are small enough to be absorbed into the blood stream or inhaled, which some feel post health risks. If a spray is what you want, your best bet is a non-nano sized, zinc oxide based formula, and honestly, there aren’t many out there. Here are the top 3 we’ve found:

1.  All Terrain Terra Sport SPF 30.  The winner here, this lightweight, easy to use formula is perfect for everyday use when spending long hours outdoors sweating, swimming and sporting. Proven to be highly water resistant, it’s also proven to still be effective after 80 minutes in the water, and is virtually sweat proof.  Uses 19 percent non-nano, transparent zinc oxide for UVA and UVB protection at 30 SPF, and won’t leave you looking chalky and white, though you will be a little shiny.  Free of fragrance and any other potentially harmful chemicals and it doesn’t sting the eyes if it happens to get in them.

2.  Aubrey Organics Unscented Natural Sun SPF 30. Made using 15 percent zinc oxide for broad spectrum UV protection, this spray lotion comes in a hand squeeze trigger bottle for easy of application. Highly moisturizing, it’s also water-resistant for up to 40 minutes of swimming and perspiring and free from any concerning chemicals. Virtually scent free other than the natural smell of the ingredients, it’s a great option for those who really prefer something with very little odor.

3.  Goddess Garden Kids Natural SPF & Continuous Spray. This continuous spray, 94 percent certified organic formula is super easy to apply to hard to reach places when you don’t have anyone on hand to get your back, so to speak. Made using sheer 6.4 percent titanium dioxide and 6 percent zinc oxide, it provides broad spectrum SPF of 30, but not quite as much protection as the higher concentration of zinc oxide in the All Terrain. It’s made using gluten-free, vegan and non-GMO ingredients.  The non-aerosol container is fully recyclable and it’s made in the USA.

Have fun in the sun, but keep your skin safe and remember to reapply any sunblock after any time spent in the water or sweating, despite claims of water resistance. Better safe than lobster.

 Top image: Youthful Sins

The post Top 3 All Natural, Mineral Spray Sunscreens appeared first on EcoSalon.

Welcome to the seventh and final installment of our seven-part Eco Salon Eco-Beauty Approved Guide: Sun Care Products. 

We’ve worked really hard to gather this list from professionals in the field, including Kristen Arnett, Paige Padgett, Jessa Blades, Greta Eagan, Sophie Uliano, Todra Payne, Renee Loux, Starre Vartan and others, along with our very own editors and writers. We’ve looked at ingredients, brand missions and philosophies, considered skin and hair types, all types of concerns and tested several products in each line. We’ve broken it down by category, with multiple options in each, so get ready for lots of options.

We’ve also considered price and tried very hard to include a broad range from luxury to affordable for just about any budget. Even though we’ve listed just one or two product recommendations per brand, it’s hard to go wrong with these companies, so experiment until you find your new must have products! Without further ado, please read on for the 2013 EcoSalon Approved Eco-Beauty Guide!

1. Chocolate Sun 

Created by natural skincare enthusiast Susie Phillips and a botanist using botanicals, herbs and essential oils as the foundation for all formulas, the ingredients is what differentiates the Chocolate Sun Collection from other products on the market.

Product Pick:

Self Tanner (three shades for a variety of skin tones, streak free application)

2. COOLA Suncare 

High performance suncare products that are both delicate and luxurious enough to compliment anyone’s daily skincare regimen, COOLA offers sun protection for a range of skin types and lifestyles; from the sensitive nature of the FACE and LIPS, to the versatile BODY, and the demands of SPORT.

Product Picks:

Face SPF30 Cucumber Matte Finish (everyone, especially oilier skin prone to shine)

Sport SPF35 Citrus Mimosa (for everyone, especially active)

3. Devita 

One of the fastest growing all-natural, 100% PARBEN FREE, PETA Certified, Vegan cosmeceutical skin care line in the country, offering over 100 different DeVita Natural Skin Care products, a complete line of revolutionary aloe-infused mineral color cosmetics, and a professional line of skin care products sold exclusively through

Product Pick:

Solar Body Block (moisturizer with spf, for all skin types & those who hate to wear sunscreen)

4. Love True Natural 

The LoveTrueNatural Team studies and stays current on matters of organic cosmetic news, rules and regulations. They keep their finger on the pulse of the organic and conventional beauty worlds, to provide you with the most cutting edge and safest natural beauty products.

Product Picks:

Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Baby & Family Water Resistant Sunscreen (for everyone, stays put well)

Anti Aging Face & Body Self Tanner (for everyone, good natural color, not orange or streaky)

5. Suntegrity

Suntegrity Face and Body SPF 30 products use only the best physical block (non-nano size zinc oxide) to provide broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, super anti-oxidants and amino acids to enhance protection and assist skin repair, paired with  non-toxic preservatives to maintain product integrity without sacrificing safety or health.

Product Picks:

Suntegrity “5 In 1” Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen, Broad Spectrum Spf 30 ( Light & Medium skin tones, normal to dry – can use instead of a lightweight foundation)

Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen & Primer, Broad Spectrum Spf 30 (everyone, better for normal to dry skin)

And there you have it.  Our First Annual Eco Salon Approved Eco Beauty & Personal Care Guide.  If that doesn’t provide you with at least ONE option to trade out, well, you’re way more high maintenance than us.  No excuses!

Read Eco Salon’s 2013 Eco Beauty Approved Guide Part 1: 19 Bath & Body Products here.

Part 2: 41 Facial Care Products.

Part 3: 11 Hair Care Products.

Part 4: 17 Makeup & Color Products.

Part 5: 8 Personal Care & Hygiene Products

Part 6: 6 Fragrance Products

Looking to try healthy beauty products before you buy?  Goodebox delivers 6-7 personalized samples per month to take the guess work out of cleaning up your beauty routine. Try Goodebox today.

The post EcoSalon’s 2013 Eco-Beauty Approved Guide Part 7: 5 Sun Care Products appeared first on EcoSalon.