Mayah Parmenter – EcoSalon

5 Unmissable Films Made By Badass Female Directors

Mayah Parmenter — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 07:00:29 +0000

iStock/Franckreporter

This is a man’s world, especially in Hollywood, but these female directors are breaking and changing the rules.

It’s often talked about how women are portrayed in film; even today with cinema being as varied as it is, many movies still portray women as one-dimensional characters, falling into many gender stereotypes. But when the majority of films hitting our screens are made by men, it’s hardly surprising that the representation of women isn’t always up to scratch.

However, recent blockbusters like “Wonder Woman,” directed by Patty Jenkins, prove that the tides are turning and that there is a real desire to have stories visualized through the eyes of women just as much as men.

Discover some of the female directors we think you need to watch out for in the next few years, and their must see movies who also happen to champion complexed and strong female characters (or poke fun at stereotypes, in the case of number four).

5 Must-See Films By Female Directors

1. “Electrik Children” (2012) Rebecca Thomas

Including teenage pregnancy and fundamentalist religion, you don’t expect “Electrick Children” to be a barrel of laughs, but from start to finish it is full of infectious optimism and innocence. Centered on curious fifteen year old Rachel (Julia Garner), who believes she has been impregnated by listening to “Don’t Leave Me Hanging On The Telephone” on a forbidden cassette player, we follow her on a journey of self-discovery into the world beyond her Mormon family. Thomas handles potentially dark subjects with grace, never straying far from Rachel’s bright view of the world, with delicious cinematography as the cherry on top.

2. “Into The Forest” (2015) Patricia Rozema

Although “Into The Forest” can be described as an apocalyptic sci-fi, Rozema skips special effects and chaotic city scenes, instead favoring an inward glance into what the end of the world could really look like. Our focus is on sisters Nell and Eva (played by the equally fantastic Ellen Page and Evan Rachel Wood) who live in their remote house in the forest, whose world changes one day when the power goes out. Beginning as composed and calm, things slowly unravel little piece by piece. Brace yourself for this harrowing tale of sisterhood, loss, and survival.

3. “Queen Of Katwe” (2016) Mira Nair

Nair is a seasoned director with twenty four titles under her belt, but this latest collaboration with Disney is a must see for anyone who loves a heartwarming true story. Based on the rise of chess champion Phiona Mutesi from the slums of Katwe in Uganda. While her incredible story could have easily translated to overly soppy and out of touch on screen (and via Hollywood), it’s feel good and uplifting in all the right places, without straying far from the reality of what it’s like for one person’s life to change in such a dramatic way.

4. “Ruby Sparks” (2012) Valeria Faris and Jonathan Dayton

This may be directed by both a man and woman, but it’s so good that it has to make the list. You may know this movie making dream team better for their blockbuster Little Miss Sunshine, but this unusual romantic comedy is just as worthy of recognition. Bestselling author Calvin (Paul Dano) can’t get past his decade long writer’s block, until one day he’s inspired to write about the woman of his dreams, Ruby (Zoe Kazan). The twist in the story? Ruby soon comes to life! This fun flick has a serious side, commenting a lot of the idealization of women, and unrealistic expectations within relationships as a whole. Watch out for another release by this duo, “Battle Of The Sexes,” hitting cinemas later this year!

5. “Wadjda” (2012) Haifaa Al-Mansour

If there is one female director who is seriously killing it, it’s Al-Mansour. Not only is “Wadjda” a more than worthy watch, but it’s the first ever feature film by a female Saudi director. Elements of the film reveal just what a feat that is, in a country where life for women is wholly different from those in the West. Our protagonist Wadjda (Waad Mohammed) may be just a girl, but she’s not going to let anyone put her in a girls-only box. In fact, she is a badass. On a mission to buy the bicycle of her dreams, you’ll be rooting for her the whole way as she uses her wit, charm, and smarts to accomplish her goal with everyone against her; at times even her own mother. We’re keeping our fingers crossed for another feature from this trailblazing director in the future.

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5 Natural Tinted Moisturizers with All the SPF You Need

Mayah Parmenter — Tue, 11 Jul 2017 07:00:12 +0000

iStock/pixdeluxe

The last thing you want to do in summer is layer up. Stick to these natural tinted moisturizers to stay flawless and keep your skin protected from the sun all in one hit.

Finding the perfect piece of kit to meet your coverage needs in the natural makeup world can be a challenge, but when pairing it with an SPF it makes matters even more complicated.

Different formulas don’t always gel well together when applied on the skin, and in the summer, piling on multiple creams can get a little sticky. What you want is to feel and look fresh faced while still ticking all the necessary boxes. Meet the natural tinted moisturizers doing just that; with mineral sunscreens like titanium dioxide and zinc, these gems provide broad spectrum UV protection, all the while giving your complexion that extra boost.

5 Ways To Get Sheer Coverage and SPF All-In-One

1. Juice Beauty Stem Cellular CC Cream

A little different from your typical tinted moisturizer, this color-correcting cream has what at first appears to be a thick texture, but applies beautifully, feeling lightweight and providing just a hint of coverage. The dewy finish dishes out the glow factor promised in the names of the five shades (Natural Glow to Deep Glow) whilst acting as a great primer for any more makeup to follow. Alongside the SPF 30 protection, certified organic juices like apple and aloe, plus skincare superstar hyaluronic acid, help to keep skin hydrated all day long.

2. Ilia Beauty Sheer Vivid Tinted Moisturizer

Although tinted moisturizers don’t need to be the perfect color match when compared to foundations, it’s certainly a bonus to have a few shades to choose from like the six that Ilia has created. With a lotion-like consistency, a little goes a long way, but it also makes it slightly buildable to go from barely-there to light coverage. The final finish is a velvety, semi-matte look; perfect for avoiding any unwanted shine on hot summer days! Touting a rating of SPF 20, it should provide enough sun protection for most skin types with the exception of very fair complexions.

3. De Mamiel Exhale Daily Moisturizing Nectar

The sun isn’t the only thing your skin could use protection from! This luxurious tinted moisturizer acts as a daily shield against the elements, not only from UV rays (with SPF 30) but including harsh air pollution, too. Antioxidant-rich oils such as red raspberry seed and rosehip work their magic against free radicals that are an inevitable part of city life, as well as sun exposure, helping keep skin healthy on all levels. The only downside to this botanical beauty is the availability in one shade only, limiting who this can work for.

4. W3ll People Bio Tint Multi-Action Moisturizer

As the newest natural tinted moisturizer on the block, this formula offers up a few perks when compared to other options. The finish hits a nice middle ground that is neither dewy or matte, but rather luminous, which is pretty ideal for an effortless no-makeup look. The airless pump and squeezy tube are other benefits not to miss, as they make this summer essential ideal for slipping into your makeup bag minus ay leakage anxiety! Just choose from the four available shades (all SPF 30) and you’re set.

5. Josh Rosebrook Tinted Nutrient Day Cream SPF 30

Using specifically non-nano zinc oxide, this tinted moisturizer is about as natural and safe as they come. It doesn’t take the job of moisturizing lightly, as this glorious cream comes packed with the likes of certified organic aloe, shea butter, and hemp seed oil (just to name a few). However, all the skin loving oils don’t stop this cream from being ultra lightweight and sinking in fast upon application, leaving only a fresh looking glow behind. Once again, the only downside is that it’s currently only available in one shade.

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

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5 Sea Salt Sprays for a Beachy ‘Do (Without the Beach!)

Mayah Parmenter — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 07:00:39 +0000

iStock/shevtsovy

Not hitting the beach as much as you’d like this summer? Bring the beach to you with the perfect sea salt spray.

Beachy waves may not be the newest or most exciting hairstyle out there right now, but when summer rolls around, we still all want that seaside babe look. There’s nothing quite like the real deal, but with pure and natural sea salt spray which use salts straight from the ocean, you get pretty close.

Not only does it look effortless, but it is effortless! With just a few spritzes of these natural hair wonders, you’ll be rocking tousled locks in no time.

How To Be A Natural Beach Babe With Sea Salt Spray

1. John Masters Organics Sea Mist

For a subtle boost of texture that’s gentle on locks, you can’t get much better than this offering from John Masters Organics. While those with poker straight hair may want to go for something a little more volumizing, this salty solution is ideal for heads of hair that already rock waves, and want something to enhance them without too much of a messy look. The helping of certified organic lavender oil will not only be a selling point for lovers of this flower but also soothes sensitive scalps.

2. Olivine Love + Salt Beach Hair and Body Mist

This concoction is to sea salt spray what four cheeses is to pizza. But vegan, of course! You’ll find Epsom, Pink Himalayan, dendritic, and organic French sea salt in amongst the mix, which each have their own unique mineral profile. This may not make a huge difference to hair, but it’s nice to know Olivine have all basis covered. Plus, it doubles as a scented body spray which improves skin hydration. Although that sounds counterintuitive, magnesium and calcium rich salts actually help keep skin’s barrier function, well, functioning. If you want as much matte texture as possible, you’ve found your match. Just keep spraying until you’ve achieved the level of texture and volume you want, while added coconut oil will make sure hair stays soft and nourished.

3. Herbivore Botanicals Sea Mist Texturizing Salt Spray Coconut

A sea salt spray that comes with some serious summer vibes (shouldn’t they all?)! The simple combination of coconut and vanilla extract, plus a dash of lime essential oil, will make your tresses smell truly tropical. It certainly doesn’t lack in the beach waves department either. Designed to have the same concentration of salt as the ocean, it imparts a naturally tousled look for every day summery hair. The addition of aloe will keep your hair moisturized too, and also makes it particularly great for dry hair types that usually steer away from sea salt sprays.

4. Rahua Enchanted Island Salt Spray

New on the scene, cult haircare brand Rahua has finally given the natural beauty world its answer to sea salt spray. Known for its use of tropical ingredients, this sea salt spray lives up to that reputation with guava juice, and hibiscus and passion fruit extracts, creating and intoxicating scent. Luxury lovers will adore the frosted glass bottle and rosy hue the pink sea salt lends to this beach in a bottle.

5. Captain Blankenship Golden Waves Sea Salt Shimmer Spray

Saving what is maybe the best ’til last, this liquid sunshine is a more summery twist on Captain Blankenship’s already popular Mermaid Sea Salt Spray. While the golden glitter looks more club than beach in the bottle, once sprayed into hair is gives is a subtle glimmer that only reveals itself when caught in the summer sun. Sea salt isn’t the only piece of ocean magic you’ll get in this formula too, as organic sea kelp extract treats both hair and scalp to a dose of minerals and vitamins. The final texture is gorgeous; while you can build it up, it never looks overly matte or begins weighing down fine hair, it just creates a soft, bouncy tousle that stays throughout the day.

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

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These 6 Sustainable Sunglasses Don’t Skimp on Style

Mayah Parmenter — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 16:27:31 +0000

iStock/manley099

Need a little inspiration of where to find your next staple shades? These sustainable sunglasses will cater to anyone’s style needs.

We’ve all been there with cheap sunglasses. It seems like a good idea at the time (even if they do sit a little wonky on your face), but it’s not long until they start to fall apart and you find yourself throwing away yet another pair.

You’re not the only one. While most of us don’t have hundreds of dollars to throw down on a pair of the big name designer sunglasses, there is another option, and it comes with less waste, less cost, but no less designer appeal.

6 Sustainable Sunglasses Designers You Need To Know

1. Warby Parker

It’s easy to forget that poor sight is not so easily fixed for everyone. Huge props to Warby Parker for using bio-acetate (made from cellulose), but we’re even more impressed by its commitment to donate a pair of glasses for each and every one sold through partnering with VisionSpring. The array of styles within the sunglasses collection is also pretty staggering. Find classic shades like Lowry the to more on-trend frames like the retro rose gold Fleta.

2. Carla Colour

Sometimes, sunglasses need to be a statement, and it turns out you can still make one sustainably. Taking inspiration from the arts, the shapes you’ll find here are soft and dreamy, with plenty of colors to choose from whether pastels are your thing, or you want to go bold with brights. Even with all the eccentric NYC flare these sunnies have to offer, the eco credentials are still solid as the bio-acetate is made from wood pulp and cotton (farmed sustainably, of course).

3. Karmoie

With Scandinavian style behind the design, all of Karmoie’s shades are simple, elegant and modern. Much like Warby Parker, the company employs a buy-one-give-one practice, donating a pair of eyejusters for every pair sold through four projects located across Africa and Asia. Karmoie also boasts the Positive Luxury Butterfly Mark which ensures they use ethical and sustainable practices across the board, such as fair pay and energy conservation.

4. Capital Eyewear

For those who love classic shapes, quality design, and prefer their fashion made in the USA, head to Capital Eyewear for your next pair of sunnies. Created in San Francisco with bio-acetate and sustainably sourced hardwood, every pair also has all measurement details available online to help you find the right pair for your face shape. And it’s not just about manufacturing locally; ten percent of all sales are put into the Capital Fund, a piggy bank set up for local entrepreneurs to make their own business ideas a reality and put back into the community. You can even nominate someone on the website!

5. Dick Moby

Made in Italy (like all the great sunglasses are), Dick Moby shades are handcrafted with sustainability at the heart alongside fashion. Using a mix of recycled acetate to create its black frames, and bio-acetate for the rest, this is one designer who proves you don’t have to opt for bamboo to protect your peepers the eco-friendly way. It’s not just the shades themselves that tick the eco box; each cleaning cloth is made from seven recycled plastic bottles, and the chic leather cases are no less than recycled material, too.

6. Wires

If you love minimalist design, prepare to swoon over Wires’ ultra-contemporary look and concept. The lens holders are made using a 3D printer (oh yes, this is the future), which means there’s zero waste as only the necessary materials are used. The designs are then completed by talented craftsmen in Zimbabwe use traditional skills to turn a single piece of enamel-coated copper or brass wire into a final pair of sunglasses. The beauty of the wire is that they can easily be adjusted to your face shape. Plus, if Lily Cole is on board, so are we.

Related on EcoSalon

Bioplastic Sunglasses from Zeal Optics: Healthy Eyes, Healthy Planet
Sustainable Fashion Designers Changing the Game
5 Summer Hat and Sunglasses Combos for Sunny Days: Friday Finds

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5 Totally Natural Floral Perfumes for When You’re So Over Rose

Mayah Parmenter — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 17:17:01 +0000

iStock/Anchiy

Ready to embody summer head to toe? Tick off all the senses with a natural floral perfume that differs from the norm.

There are many things to love about this time of year, but one of the subtle differences is the smell of flowers everywhere. Even in the city, gardens and parks release the scent of summer all around. Wishing you could walk wafting around that perfect summer fragrance yourself?

There are, of course, plenty of floral perfumes out there, but finding one that is contemporary, and both light and fresh as the real thing, can be a challenge. There’s always one flower that steals the show too; we can’t argue with rose’s reputation as the queen of scented flowers, but with so many other gorgeous florals to douse yourself in, it’s time to try something different.

5 Natural Floral Perfumes That Skip Rose, But Smell Just As Sweet

1. Vered Botanicals Blue Violet Perfume

Despite the namesake, this is no one-note wonder. Old-fashioned violet has been updated by pairing it up with mouth-watering jasmine and exotic citrus, yuzu, to create a clean but delicious floral delight. Don’t be surprised if you find the scent tantalizingly coming and going throughout the day, as violets contain a compound that can momentarily switch off your sense of smell!

2. Call Of The Vialed Dream Parfum Pur

This is not your traditional floral. Dream forgoes the usual sweet and heady choices, and instead puts greener smelling flowers of chamomile and yarrow, plus herby lavender, at the center stage. If walking through a meadow on a warm summer’s day is what you want to capture, this is the fragrance to turn to. For a perfume oil, this also lasts an impressive amount of time, while softening and warming the longer it sits on the skin.

3. Strange Invisible Perfumes Epic Gardenia

Know for its exotic, intoxicating fragrance, the perfume world is full of attempts to create the perfect Gardenia scent, which is a challenge as the flower has yet to be successfully made into an essential oil. It is no wonder then, that this illusive scent evokes opulence and glamor. Strange Invisible perfumer, Alexandra Balahoutis, has created her take with layers of headiness, warmth, and wetness to bring the experience of this famous scent straight to your pulse points.

4. Lurk NSTV7 Perfume Oil

No natural floral perfume list could be complete without a nod to the wonderful tuberose. There is nothing airy about this flower, as much like the aforementioned gardenia, its presence is exotic and provocative. Because of that, it can easily be overpowering, but Lurk has interwoven this flower with lotus and citrus notes, lifting it to make it a wonderful summer scent.

5. Leahlani Pua Lei Perfume Oil

Sometimes you want less garden variety florals and more tropical paradise! Hawaiian darlings Leahlani have the answer with Pua Lei, a beautifully sweet mixture of island flowers, including puakenikeni, which is indigenous to Polynesia. Sniff a little harder and you might even smell the ocean.

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

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6 Pastel Lipsticks to Get You in The Mood for Summer

Mayah Parmenter — Wed, 07 Jun 2017 07:00:34 +0000

iStock/KarinaUrmantseva

Things are looking lighter for summer, and we’re not just talking about longer days. Pastel lipstick is the way to go this season for an edgy but fresh look.

Fashion’s obsession with all things pastel doesn’t look like it’s going to die down anytime soon, and now beauty mavens are hoping on board, too. After all, you need to match your lipstick to your outfit, right?

Swap out the usual bright lips for spring, and give this softer but equally as bold look a whirl this summer with these naturally gorgeous lippies.

6 Ways To Achieve The Perfect Pastel Pout

1. Ilia Beauty Lipstick – Pink Kashmir

If fun came in a lipstick, this would be it. A pink that’s cooler than cool and has a bit of pop, it’s on the brighter side of the pastel spectrum, so great for those who aren’t afraid to sport a barbie worthy lip.

2. Rituel De Fille Forbidden Lipstick – Hex

If you’re looking for a lip color with a difference, Rituel De Fille are always there to provide. In amongst the array of vampy, bold, and pigmented, shades available is this cool lilac which verges on gray. If the warm juicy colors which typically populate summer aren’t your jam, then Hex will still give you the statement you crave without going bright or dark.

3. Axiology Beauty Lipstick – Philosophy

Spring, summer, winter, whenever! This is the perfect lippy for an all year round pastel fix. Although, let’s not pretend it doesn’t look great with a tan. Perhaps the most subtle and natural-looking pastel on the list, the peachy pink tones will suit most complexions and looks just as good with a smokey eye as it does with a bare, fresh summer face.

4. Kjaer Weis Lip Tint – Amazed

Soft and pretty, if you’ve ever wanted to try a purple lip but felt intimidated by the thought, start here. This light pinky lilac is easy to wear, and the buttery balm texture means you don’t have to make the full commitment of an opaque lipstick. But, don’t be fooled by the name tint. The pigment payoff is still enough to build it up from stain to full pastel.

5. Lily Lolo Lipstick – Demure

Most pastel lipsticks out there fall under pink and purple, but Demure means you can rock this trend with a sixties inspired peachy nude. Unlike most light nudes, this won’t give you that dull foundation-lips look. The effect is warm and effortless, with a creamy finish.

6. Bite Beauty Amuse Bouche Lipstick – Souffle

Don’t want to settle for anything less than a truly untouchable pastel? Meet your match. Opaque and matte, but still creamy in Bite Beauty style, Souffle is what pastel-obsessed Instagrammers dream about. If you have naturally pigmented lips it can be difficult to wear light lipstick shades without serious prep, but not here. Just apply straight from the bullet and your pout will be perfectly pastelicious.

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

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How to Eat Your Way to Glowing Skin (and a Happy Gut!)

Mayah Parmenter — Tue, 06 Jun 2017 17:43:15 +0000

iStock/lechatnoir

The secret to a gorgeous glow isn’t all in the skincare. The key is to nourish your skin from the inside out.

We’re all familiar with the skin hangover you get from going overboard on junk food. Breakouts? Check. Dark circles? Double check. What isn’t so clear is why the way we eat affects the way our skin functions so closely. We’re not just talking negative effects either; with the right diet, you can actually work toward healing skin issues, and slow aging.

But don’t just take our word for it! Nutrition and beauty expert Paula Simpson, who is also the brains behind ZSS Skincare, has spent her entire career exploring the deep connection behind the way we eat and the impact it has on our skin. We chatted with her to find out more about essential nutrients skin needs to stay healthy, why a skin condition could be a sign of poor gut health, and got the scoop on the best glow-inducing, wrinkle-fighting foods on the block!

EcoSalon: The road to beautiful skin can be tough! Why is it so important to start from the inside out?

Paula Simpson: Dietary toxins are often stored in skin tissue. A growing body of research suggests that many of the chemicals we ingest daily through food, water, and air can build up in our system, especially when the diet lacks certain nutrients impairing our natural ability to neutralize and remove chemicals. Over time they can overload our eliminative organs, causing toxins to be stored in the skin or fat tissue. The typical western diet is acidic and concentrated with simple sugars, chemicals, and preservatives. The combination of a poor diet, lifestyle and environmental pollutants can offset the skin’s natural balance affecting its function and overall appearance.

A plant based, low glycemic and antioxidant-rich diet (similar to the Mediterranean diet,) offers the best source of nutrition because it supports skin cell renewal and metabolism (which slows as we age), alongside antioxidant defense in skin tissue to protect skin from environmental aggressors and internal stressors (such as excess sugar), keeping skin firm and even in tone. This type of diet also provides the right balance of omega fatty acids to support strong skin cell membranes that plump and smooth out skin, bringing out a natural glow and shine to hair.

ES: Sometimes it can feel like despite eating a clean, healthy diet that skin conditions don’t improve. What could be the cause of this?

PS: There is a gut-skin axis. Many chronic skin conditions are correlated with digestive health (i.e. leaky gut syndrome, food allergens, harmful bacteria overgrowth within the gut,) that can depress skin immunity and offset normal skin function and structure. Numerous studies have shown a correlation between increased oxidative stress, bacterial overgrowth, and chronic skin conditions such as acne, atopic dermatitis, rosacea, and eczema. Consuming a plant-based, high fiber diet with lacto-fermented foods along with dietary supplements and pre/probiotics may help neutralize toxic by-products, defend the lining of the intestine, increasing the bioavailability of nutrients and protect against infectious microbes. Promoting the health of the digestive system and can be a primary defense to restore health and balance of your skin.

ES: Which simple easy sources do you recommend to get a daily dose of good bacteria to positively impact the gut-skin axis (and are any of them vegan)?

PS: Definitely! Plant-heavy diets, in general, improve microbial diversity. Focusing on plant-based foods with pre and probiotic rich foods can build and balance a healthy skin barrier and microbiome. Prebiotic foods help build good microflora, such as fermented sauerkraut, kim chi, kombucha, and pickled veggies. Probiotic rich foods include live-cultured yogurt, kefir, miso or kimchi!

ES: While that covers skin conditions, there’s one thing none of us can avoid – aging! What beautifying foods you can easily introduce into your diet to keep skin youthful?

PS: Wrinkles are rooted from within. Aging is, of course, a natural progression, but our diets and lifestyle we choose can make our skin age faster. The most visible effect of skin aging occurs when there is a weakening in the structural foundation of skin within the deeper dermal layers (collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans). Visibly, skin becomes thinner losing its smoothness and structural strength and elasticity. When this connective tissue is healthy and strong, nutrients and oxygen can easily reach skin tissue while efficiently removing toxins and wastes. This is the site where new skin cells are produced then pushed towards the epidermal (outer) skin layer, keeping skin plump and healthy.

By adding certain protein-rich foods to your diet, you can promote a healthier rate of collagen renewal and protect your skin from premature aging. Mineral copper that is found in nuts, raisins, sweet potatoes, kidney beans, lobster, and oysters facilitates collagen production and therefore should be included in your diet. Lastly, be sure to include foods rich in Vitamin C as it is essential for collagen synthesis. Some top collagen boosting foods include; poultry, eggs (particularly egg whites,) cod, crab, lobster, oysters, oranges, tomatoes, lemons, bell peppers, sweet potatoes, sunflower and sesame seeds, almonds, raisins, adzuki, kidney, chickpeas, seaweed (spirulina, dulse).

Seeking out antioxidant-rich foods is also key! As we get older, our bodies become less efficient in neutralizing harmful free radicals that may permanently damage healthy cells (including skin cells.) Clinical studies have shown that catechins from green tea, anthocyanins from berries and red cabbage, bioflavonoids from citrus, carotenoids such as lycopene and lutein from tomatoes, and resveratrol from red wine offer potent secondary antioxidants that protect the skin cells from free radical damage. By including these types of foods more often in the diet, their additional antioxidant protection can support skin health particularly with regards to photoprotection.

ES: Are there any new superfoods on the block you think will be big this year in the beauty world?

PS: Spices are hot right now! Paprika is rich in zeaxanthin, which is a fantastic free radical fighter, especially when it comes to skin. Although other dietary sources include dark greens like kale and spinach, the purified and concentrated amounts from paprika pepper have been shown more effective to help protect the skin from premature photoaging and bring out a natural radiance and glow

Turmeric is another big one. It is a great detoxifier with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin is the active ingredient in the spice turmeric, which gives it its yellow color and promotes liver and digestive health while calming the skin. Turmeric has also been used in the treatment of cicatricial alopecia, a scalp condition caused by inflammation that damages the hair follicles and prevents the growth of new hair. Try adding turmeric to foods more often. A dash of turmeric brings color and flavor to rice, soups, root vegetables or eggs.

Let’s not forget ginger, too. Active constituents found in the rhizome and root may offer a soothing and calming effect to the skin. When it comes to hair, ginger has long been used in ayurvedic medicine as a hair treatment. The antiseptic properties help to combat dandruff and the natural source of vitamins, minerals, and essential oils help to rebuild thinning dull hair.

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How this Small-Batch Beauty Guru Turns Petals to Potions

Mayah Parmenter — Thu, 01 Jun 2017 08:00:52 +0000

Do you ever wonder how your lotions and potions are made, or who made them? We delve into the natural beauty staple, flower water, to get a glimpse into the world of distillation.

Flower waters come in various forms, and while a floral scented water appears simple, the process to create them is not. Long and highly precise, it takes a delicate touch, plenty of experience, and a patient mind to craft floral waters by hand (the best way, of course), and Amanda Saurin, founder of A.S Apothecary, certainly possesses all those qualities.

A master of her craft, Amanda knows flowers and herbs inside-out when it comes to their therapeutic properties, and exactly how to extract them. We chatted to her to find out more about life at her very own distillery in the beautiful English countryside, and how the finest floral waters are forged all the way from the ground to the bottle.

EcoSalon: Most of us have heard of flower waters, but can you explain exactly what they are?
Amanda Saurin: Flower waters are quite magical – they are the gentler relative of essential oil. In artisanal production, when a plant is distilled, it either sits in or above the water in the retort (the big copper pot). As the water heats, the oil glands break open releasing the essential oil into the water. The oil and water soluble elements of the plant become steam in the heat of the Alembic (distilling apparatus) rising through the onion top, along the swan neck and finally into the condenser. The condenser is cold and so as the steam meets the cold coils it turns back into a liquid. The liquid exits the condenser into a separator. This liquid is a mix of both flower water and essential oil. Generally, essential oil is lighter than the flower water so it slowly comes to rest on top. The flower water contains some of the essential oil that have remained in solution and other aromatics from the plant itself.

ES: How have they been traditionally used in health and beauty?
AS: Flower waters have been used in health and beauty for as long as there have been Alembics. They are intensely therapeutic. Of a few of the plants I distil I use Clary Sage to speed along births and to aid concentration, Orange Blossom as a mood lifting slightly astringent spritz, Lavender to calm and relax as well as for its antiseptic properties, Rose to cool the skin and heal the spirit and Pink Pepper to refresh and brighten the skin and as an amazing flavor enhancer in gin. We probably sell most Geranium for its phenomenal effects on skin prone to hormonal change. It is such a precious plant. Flower Waters are incredibly versatile. Scent is utterly evocative, a spritz of a familiar plant can transport you back to a time or place, it is powerful indeed.

ES: At your distillery, what is the process to create a floral water from the plant right to the end?
AS: We are unique in that we go to the plants rather expecting them to come to us. We grow 200+ Roses and Lavender, Clary Sage, Chamomile, Calendula and many other plants. We travel to Cyprus to pick and distill Orange Blossom, Pink Pepper and Geranium. At the farm, we grow organically, tend, pick and distill our plants at exactly the right moment. They are fresh, they haven’t had to travel for miles and they are all picked by hand. This gives us the very best quality flower water. For the plants in Cyprus we keep a large Alembic a few minutes from where we pick.

Our distillations are very slow and careful, we distill for flower waters and essential oils separately so that we can keep the essential oils in suspension in the flower water – the therapeutics are so much greater that way. This is never done commercially because it is time-consuming and the most commercially valuable part of a plant is the essential oil. We like to think about it differently – in therapeutics rather than profit.

At the end of a distillation, we give the remaining water in the Alembic to a friend to use as a dye and the spent plant matter is composted and used to feed the new plants. Nothing is wasted.

ES: What led you to set up your own distillery and create AS Apothecary?
AS: I set up my own distillery because I come from a therapeutic background and I wanted my patients to have access to the best quality products. I didn’t seek out distilling in the first place, I was living in Cyprus and met a wonderful woman, Mariam Khan, who introduced me to this amazing art. I was immediately hooked, making my own aromatics was such a brilliant contrast to smelling adulterated or poor quality essential oils and flower waters. Also with 30 years of working with plants, I really felt that I understood how to get the best out of every plant I used.

A.S APOTHECARY is an extension of my work as a Homeopath and Herbalist, it has allowed me to offer products into the beauty industry that are uncompromising, absolutely beautiful, made by hand and with as much care as a therapeutic preparation for a patient. The beauty industry is built on making women feel dissatisfied with themselves, on producing ever more products, but most of all it is driven by huge profits. This means that most companies look for a palatable part of their process creating a whole story around it but failing to reveal most of the process. We wanted to offer something different, products that work well, are gentle and effective. We also wanted our methods and ingredient production to be transparent. Having the distillery means that we can invite customers into our world, they can chat with us, volunteer to pick or plant and really understand what we are doing.

ES: How does the art of distilling, and using the final product, tie into mindfulness?
AS: The way I distill is to listen. I’m often asked about the temperature of the water, length of distillation, temperature of the condenser and so many other questions. In the end, it comes down to listening and understanding the needs of each plant. I load the Still grateful for the harvest and then slowly seal the joints before lighting the burner. Loading the Still is wonderful – there is total joy in putting handful after handful of flowers into the water and becoming immersed in the scent and process. Once the Still is lit I listen to the sound, I know exactly the sound of the plants moving in the water that will yield the best flower water and essential oil. I turn the heat up or down until it is exactly right. I feel the vibration of the moving water through the swan neck. It is both mesmeric and deeply soothing.

Once the sound and vibration are right, I wait and wait for the moment when there is a little puff of vapor from the exit to the condenser. It is called the angel’s breath, the moment that precedes the flow of flower water when the vapor captures the very essence of the plant. It still delights me, even after hundreds of distillations.

I love the idea that our products are used to create a ritual of self-care – an opportunity to engage fully with ourselves. Many women use our Cleansing Oil as a transition between work and home. They get home, go to their bathroom and slowly allow a few drops to fall onto their fingers before massaging it onto their skin to wipe away not only make up but also the day’s events that precede it. It is transformative. The scent is enveloping, comforting and intensely soothing. The process of massaging it into the skin and rinsing with warm water to remove the grime of the day is cathartic, healing both for skin and spirit. When products are made with such care, they are so much more than the sum of their parts, each little pot is imbued with our care and positivity. Human scale production makes such a difference.

ES: Are there any kinds of plants and flowers that are better for distilling than others?
AS: There are plants that will fairly easily give up their treasure like Lavender for example. It is a plant that is full of oil and tough. Other plants such as Orange Blossom are much harder – it’s easy to get a flower water but very difficult to capture the scent without undesirable notes. Equally with Roses. I have smelled some horrid flower waters of both Neroli and Rose where I can smell that the petals have been overheated or the process has been too violent. Some plants just won’t distill well – Lilac is a good example. Within seconds it smells of cabbage, not nice at all. Sometimes I’ve thought that a plant was impossible only to realize that actually I was too impatient or picking it at the wrong part of the season. What many people don’t realize is that plants change scent during a flowering season – early Lavender is green smelling, sharp and bright. At the end of the season, it is so much richer, rounder, fuller. These are the things you learn as you experiment. Equally, depending on the rainfall, sunlight, soil conditions, a plant will produce a very different scent – every year is an adventure.

ES: What are some of the more unusual flowers you’ve managed to create a water from?
AS: I have distilled Ladies Bedstraw (Galium verum) which smells of honey and dry meadow hay, Heather (Caluna vulgaris) which reminds me of creamy butter, Cistus which captures some of the glorious Labdanum resin, Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) full of nutty sweetness and so many more. Being a plantswoman and a distiller is dangerous indeed – I’m constantly thinking of things to experiment with.

ES: If you’re introducing a floral water into your skincare regime for the first time, what are some of the best botanicals to start with and their benefits?
AS: There are four flower waters to always have on hand – Rose to cool, soothe redness and refresh sensitive skin, Orange Blossom to very gently tone and treat the skin and Lavender to calm the mind and aid restful sleep, to help prevent infected breakouts and treat any kind of minor burn or sting. Finally, Geranium which is the most glorious hormone balancer and treatment for spots.

ES: Could someone potentially create a floral water at home using the distillation method?
AS: Yes, you can make flower waters at home using a very big pan. Put the pan on the cooker, put a brick inside and stand a bowl on top. Put plant matter around the outside of the bowl in the pan until it’s level or just above the height of the brick. Add water to the pan but be careful not to splash it into the bowl. Fill it until it is just below the top of the brick. Put the pan lid on upside down so that there is an inverted apex and fill the outside of the pan lid with ice. Turn on the cooker and heat it until steam starts to form. The steam will rise in the pan, hit the cold lid and then run into the apex finally dripping into the bowl. It’s not sophisticated but it does work.

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5 Peachy Blushes for a Fresh Spring Glow

Mayah Parmenter — Mon, 22 May 2017 07:00:24 +0000

iStock/soup_studio

We’ve been on the hunt for the perfect peach blush to embrace this season’s hottest look.

Trends come and go, but there are some so simple (and timeless), that everyone can get on board. While most of us stick to tried and true pink for our spring time makeup fix, delicate and softer tones of peach are actually far more flattering to most skin tones. With a warmth that mirrors more of a she’s-born-with-it flush, you can sport a cheeky, fresh glow with minimal effort thanks to these natural peach blushes.

5 Ways To Do Peach Blush, Naturally!

1. Ilia Multistick – I Put A Spell On You

You might be familiar with Ilia for the lipsticks, but its multitasking sticks are also worth a look. Best serving as blush, the creamy formula glides on with ease but is still dry enough to have staying power (and not melt in your bag in the seasonal heat!). I Put A Spell On You is a punchy peach which you can dab onto cheeks on the go for a quick color lift, or build up for a more noticeable pop of tangerine.

2. Lily Lolo Cheek Duo – Coralista

Not many people do mineral makeup like Lily Lolo, so when the company launched duo pressed blush, we were paying close attention. This gorgeous kit doesn’t just look the part, but lives up to Lily Lolo’s self-set standards and then some. With two peachy perfect shades, you can go matte with the darker shade alone, or add a touch of radiance with the illuminating highlight. With a soft and featherlight texture, you’d be forgiven for thinking this blush was more pricey than its super affordable price point.

3. Kjaer Weis Cream Blush – Precious

Masters of eco-luxe makeup, it’s no surprise Kjaer Weis is hot on the peach trend with its offering Precious. A dreamy, pastel peach, reach for this when you want to channel some serious sixties vibes. The ultra buttery texture makes it easy to apply as little or as much as you desire; the more you apply, the more pastel it begins to appear rather than brighter, compared to most blushes. The finish is fresh and youthful and sits equally as beautiful on bare faces as it does on made-up ones.

4. Gressa Lumiere Luminous Complexion Fluid – Amelia

A cross between peach and grapefruit, there’s no shortage of juicy color here. A little different from your usual blush, this liquid vegan formula, not only covers your blush needs but leaves skin feeling hydrated, too. We can all use a little extra of that, right? The color is incredibly concentrated, so although the bottle appears small, a little goes a very long way. The results? Vibrant and dewy, but blends so seamlessly that it creates an I-woke-up-like-this freshness you won’t be able to get enough.

5. Antonym Cosmetics Baked Blush – Peach

If you’ve been looking for the natural beauty world’s answer to MAC’s marble blushes, it’s time to take Antonym for a spin. Baked to transform from a cream to a fine powder, the vegan formula is lightweight and non-cakey. Best applied with a big fluffy brush, this multi-dimensional peach blush is a great option for an all-over, natural looking flush.

The post 5 Peachy Blushes for a Fresh Spring Glow appeared first on EcoSalon.

OSEA Malibu is Bringing the Sea to Your Beauty Cabinet (Sustainably!)

Mayah Parmenter — Wed, 26 Apr 2017 16:32:07 +0000

Clean beauty is all about finding power in nature, but there aren’t many people within the world of natural skincare that connect with the ocean in the same way as the brains behind OSEA Malibu.

Born from a love of the sea, this range of skin loving concoctions harnesses the unique benefits of marine botanicals, alongside the usual plant-based beauty heroes. This is no brand hopping onto a trend; OSEA has been in the game for more than twenty years and counting, and hasn’t stopped making waves the whole time.

Sustainability is also high on the priority list at OSEA, which is oh-so-important when you’re working with ingredients from such a fragile source. We chatted with founder Jenefer Palmer to find out more about the story behind the products, how our beauty regimes affect the ocean, and why there’s more to seaweed than meets the eye.

EcoSalon: Where did your personal connection with the ocean begin, and why was it important to you that it was core to OSEA’s ethos?

Jenefer Palmer: I’ve always been drawn to the ocean. I come from a long line of women connected to the sea. My grandmother, Elsa Reuschle, one of the first female chiropractors in the U.S., swam daily in the frigid Long Island Sound (outside of NYC) until her mid-nineties. Through her mentorship, I learned about the full spectrum of vitamins, minerals and trace elements present in seaweed and the incredible healing benefits they have on skin.

In the late ’80s, as a spa director in southern California, it was nearly impossible to find skin care for our clients that weren’t loaded with toxic synthetic chemicals. OSEA was born in 1996 from my desire to create natural luxury seaweed-based skin care. Products that not only were free of toxic synthetic ingredients but actually delivered powerful, age-defying results. As my grandmother taught me and chemistry confirmed, seaweed is a nutrient-dense superfood. Seaweed, the star ingredient in OSEA products, contains powerful bioavailable nutrients that are readily absorbed to rejuvenate the skin.

ES: OSEA has been around for over twenty years! How have your products and the natural beauty changed in that time?

JP: OSEA was definitely a pioneer in the natural luxury skin care world. Back in the ’90s, Aveda was one of the only other truly natural brands available. It’s so inspiring to see now in 2017 how the personal care landscape is changing—there are so many more natural options. Natural retail stores such as Credo Beauty, Follain, and The Detox Market are really leading the way. Even with OSEA’s immense growth over the past 21 years, I’m proud to say that we continue to use only the highest quality and most effective plant-based ingredients.

ES: Your formulations feature some beautiful marine ingredients. Can you tell us a bit about them and their unique benefits to skin?

JP: USDA certified organic Gigartina, Undaria and Macrocystis marine algae are rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants, trace elements, and essential fatty acids.

Our seaweed contains bioavailable ingredients, meaning that the active, nutrient-rich compounds are more readily absorbed by your body. Greater absorption of nutrients means better results for your skin! Our seaweed extracts deliver results. They visibly minimize fine lines and wrinkles, plus address hyperpigmentation. Seaweed concentrates also naturally brighten skin, deeply hydrate plus reduce the look and frequency of blemishes, breakouts and that good old “oily shine”.

ES: How do you go about sourcing your ingredients from the ocean sustainably without upsetting the delicate ecosystem?

JP: We source our USDA certified organic seaweed from the Sea of Patagonia, some of the most pristine waters in the world. Many companies pollute the ocean by venturing out on industrial diesel-powered boats to harvest seaweed using invasive methods that damage marine life and the ocean floor. OSEA’s seaweed is eco-responsibly hand-foraged in small batches. Oddly enough, we are actually helping to balance the delicate ecosystem by harvesting Undaria algae, as it is globally one of the most invasive (albeit incredible) species.

ES: What inspires you when it comes to creating new formulations?

JP: I find inspiration to create new formulations in many places: the Malibu farmers market, Zuma beach, my garden, places I travel to and even cookbooks. It’s hard not to be inspired by the transformational power of plants. Some of my best inspiration comes in the kitchen. I love to cook. I love to eat. I find myself thinking, how can I incorporate that persimmon into a product? Pesto body polish anyone?

ES: You also manage to keep your products completely vegan! Has keeping animal ingredients out of your products been a challenge?

JP: There are so many vegan ingredients available now that it’s really very simple to formulate without animal by-products. What’s more challenging, however, is being a plant-based vegan company. A lot of skin care is technically vegan but loaded with toxic synthetic chemicals. Being plant-based vegan takes more thought and creativity.

ES: What is some of the most positive feedback you’ve ever gotten from an OSEA convert?

JP: Our Blemish Balm has frequently been called the “Holy Grail” of lightweight moisturizers for treating blemish-prone skin. Can’t really top that!

ES: Are there any ways conventional beauty products damage the ocean that you think most people are unaware of?

JP: If you live in a coastal region, everything you rinse off your body, i.e. soap, creams, shampoo, etc. ends up going down the drain and into our oceans. So when you apply that toxic petrochemical-laden lotion, you’re not only harming yourself, you’re also polluting our oceans. Oxybenzone, a common ingredient in sunscreen has been directly linked to the death of the coral reefs. This happens when swimmers wear sunscreen! Plastic packaging, especially the soft plastic of your favorite beauty cream continues to clog our oceans, disrupting the delicate ecosystem. Always, always opt for beauty products packaged in glass or hard plastic. Refill items such as soap or shampoo, or better yet, make your own! Ocean health is interconnected to human health.

ES: If you had to pack for a beach vacation, which OSEA products would be a must have for you?

JP: Sea Minerals Mist and Essential Hydrating Oil for serious hydration and soothing after-sun care.

ES: What would your dream sea adventure be?

JP: To be on a small research vessel in Antarctica with scientists working to study and prevent climate change.

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

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