Since it is summer time, many of us carefully apply our makeup, step outside, and then have it instantly melt in a Joker mask of heat and humidity. Sure, there may be worse problems in the world, but we’re also allowed to be annoyed when our forehead’s oil slick gets in the way of a fun summer evening. I mean, does shiny go with our Feral Childe pleated tee dress? I don’t think so!

Luckily, there is a natural product that can assist in the battle of the shine – while nicely fitting into our handbags. Facial blotting papers by Jane Iredale are all-natural blotting papers made from organic flax seed. They come in a fashionable gold container (which can be recycled), and are designed to absorb oil, minimize pores, and give your skin a less olive oil/more matte look. And they are 100 percent natural.

Acknowledging that a paper-esque product probably isn’t the greenest item – after all, you do throw away your used slips – these aren’t a bad eco-solution. The company does offer paper refills for the container. And the use of flax seed goes back to ancient Egypt. Not to mention, Canada leads the world in their production – and what evil has ever come out of Canada?

Canadian love aside, how do the blotting papers work? Waiting until I was all greased up – see how much I love you, EcoSalon readers? – I commenced blotting. The papers worked well so well that they stuck to my forehead. Who knew my skin was such a factory of oil? I seriously feel like I should recycle the papers as candle wicks. Did they work to cut shine and give my skin a more matte look? Yes, yes they did. Will I remember to put the papers in my handbag and carry them around? No, no probably not.

Finally, if you want to combat oily summer skin pre-makeup – here’s a fun toner you can make at home. The Blushing Rose Vodka Toner (courtesy of Return to Beauty by Narine Nikogosian, you can buy the book here) is a strong, anti-bacterial combination that calms your skin. Take three tablespoons of chopped rose petals, ½ cup vodka, and two tablespoons of lemon juice. Combine the petals, vodka and lemon juice. Set aside for 24 hours, refrigerate for one week. Shake then strain. Using a clean cotton ball, swipe all over your face!

Image: jeannejo

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