After a good workout, you always feel a bit buzzed. You also feel a bit gross. Whether it’s a weekly spin class or a quick sesh on the treadmill, if you haven’t broken a sweat, then either you’re cheating (sorry) or you’re a medical marvel. 

But we have some good news for all of you natural beauties out there. Just because you want to avoid the industrial strength antiperspirants out there doesn’t mean you can’t keep fit and stay fresh. Check out these natural beauty buys that make for the perfect workout partners.

5 Natural Beauty Buys to Stay Fresh at the Gym

1. R.L Linden Close To Me Uplifting Deodorant Spray
Low and high maintenance gym bunnies alike will all have one thing in common in their bags: deodorant. If you like to stick to a nasties-free solution for sweat busting (just the odor, because you definitely should sweat), then most of the time the only choices are creams. They’re more often than not the best option, but in warm bags where they can melt? Not so much. This spray not only takes this problem away, but works just as well for keeping your pits stink-free. In fact, we think after a few refreshing spritzes of this rose geranium number, they’re going to smell pretty good. Grab the 15ml travel size for the perfect gym buddy.

2. Kaia Naturals Juicy Bamboo Natural Facial Cleansing Cloths
Face wipes are a no-go when it comes to good skincare practice, but these are an exception to the rules. Rather than the usual harsh alcohols and questionable preservatives, these are brimming with skin loving honey, sunflower oil and glycerin. The result? Your face will feel both cleansed and moisturized. Don’t fret too much about the waste either, as the cloths themselves are made fully of biodegradable bamboo. Yep, Kaia Naturals thought of everything. Whether you need to remove makeup before hitting class, or want a quick refresh after, you’ll be thankful you slipped these into your gym bag.

3. John Masters Organics Essential Travel Kit

One person’s travel kit is another person’s workout recovery kit! You can’t argue with four gym beauty essentials in one convenient zip-up bag, and the fact they are all vegan and full of organic ingredients is the cherry on top. Inside you’ll find the best-selling Lavender Rosemary Shampoo and Citrus & Neroli Detangler to cleanse and replenish locks, and the Grapefruit & Geranium Body Wash and Body Lotion duo for a deliciously gentle addition to your shower.

4. Captain Blankenship Mermaid Dry Shampoo 
No time for a shower? It happens. We all need those quick fixes every now and then, and making sure they’re au natural lessens the guilt factor. This simple but sweetly scented dry shampoo will give post-workout hair back its bounce by absorbing excess oil and moisture (that’s code for sweat, of course), without leaving any tell-tale traces.

5. RMS Beauty ‘Un’ Powder
One of the biggest beauty benefits of an intense session in the gym is the immediate, healthy glow that follows. After the slightly flustered look subsides, your complexion is left looking perky from the blood flow boost you’ve given it (lucky skin). This cult translucent powder is a master at reducing any unwanted shine you might have, without masking that gorgeous glow you worked so hard for. Pure, high-quality silica is its only trick, and it will keep working as long as you need it without the hassle of reapplying.

Related on EcoSalon
8 Badass Pieces of Workout Gear That are Both Ethical and Warm
How to Not Sweat (or Stink) With Natural Deodorant
The 7 Best Beauty Products for a Post-Workout Glow

The post 5 Natural Beauty Gym Bag Essentials to Work Up a Sweat Over appeared first on EcoSalon.

EcoSalon’s Made In America Box features items that are made right here in the U.S.A! July is an all-around patriotic month here in the states, so join your fellow eco-friendly patriots with a box of products worth $494.85, for just $129 + free shipping!

Sold Out!

You see it everywhere: The words “Made in America” are proudly-displayed symbols of the self-made American spirit. With this edition of The Box, you’ll be sporting your (ethically dyed) reds, whites, and blues especially proudly – and consciously – as your skin glows and your hair shines. With everything from beautiful hand-crafted jewelry to the perfect makeup, you’ll be ready to shine as brightly as the stars and stripes themselves.

There are only 40 Boxes available.

Beginning on Friday, July 24th, we will reveal between three and four of our fabulous participating brands per day. The Box will go on sale Monday, July 27th, at 8 o’clock AM Pacific Time. So set your timers and mark your calendars–these will sell out fast! Check back daily to see the latest reveals, and read on to discover today’s products!

Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques Lip Glaze + Gift

Did you know that your skin absorbs 60 percent of anything that is applied to it? That includes those products made with petroleum, artificial colors, toxic chemicals and harmful preservatives. What’s the result? Clogged pores and aged skin! Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques has a solution to this dilemma, creating products from natural and certified organic plant oils and extracts, flower essences and minerals from the earth. This makeup is the kind that your skin craves. Filled with vitamins and nutrients for moisturizing and anti-aging, it leaves the skin rejuvenated and soft. With makeup that can do all that, AND give us the confidence that comes from that perfect shade of lip gloss, sign us up!

$50 gift card redeemable Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques Products

ColourFusion Lip Glaze: $9

Total value: $59

Nurture My Body Luscious Duo

Get ready for your best body – instantly – with these two nourishing products. Improved elasticity and skin revitalization comes from Nurture My Body’s Wild Eucalyptus Body Wash, while proactive repair and broad spectrum protection is provided by their Organic Sunscreen (SPF 32). Both products are made with organic ingredients that help keep your skin healthy and protected. While the invigorating scent of Wild Eucalyptus will make your shower energizing and fun, the fragrance-free sunscreen is made without nano-sized particles, which can get into the bloodstream. This nutrient-packed combo will give your skin everything it needs to stay safe and good-lookin’ for the rest of the summer.

BONUS: Just catching The Box after it’s sold out? Nurture My Body is offering 15% off to all EcoSalon readers, even after all 40 Made In America Boxes have been purchases. Just use the coupon code ECOSALON to redeem this great offer!

Organic Sunscreen: $29.99

Wild Eucalyptus Body Wash: $26.95

Total Value: $56.94

Tyramin Succulent Stud Earrings

These beautiful earrings are made by socially-conscious Tyramin (only the most sustainable materials are used whenever possible, with jewelry crafted in small batches), whose unique designs are sold in high-end boutiques, museums, and fine art galleries. These earrings are especially unique; they are cast from real succulent plants in pewter. From everyday to special occasion, these fun studs will catch you compliments no matter where you go.

Value: $53

Osmia Organics Facial Calibration Serum

This serum is everything but the (all-natural) kitchen sink. Not only does it nourish the skin, but also, it helps your cherished epidermis balance and become even and smooth, helping oily and combination skin learn to behave itself over time. Plus, your skin will get a blast of antioxidants and vitamins from acai and organic black seed oil. It even smells heavenly. This super powered serum checks every box on our skin-needs list, and it’s made in the U.S.A.

Value: $50

Good Karma Skincare Lux 7 Age Defying Four-in-One Face Cream

Let’s be honest: We don’t always have the energy to apply all of the products we know they should use, day-in and night-out. Well, Good Karma Skincare doesn’t believe you should have to. Cynthia Ransom created Good Karma to address the needs of real women, including the need for a simplified system. This revolutionary face cream acts as a daily moisturizer, skin refining serum, eye cream, and night cream, all in one. Made to make skin glow, this detoxifying cream will leave your skin smooth and radiant. As a bonus, a portion of every sale goes to feeding animals in shelters.

Value: $48

Sprayology Hair + Nail Tonic

Did you ever get an awful haircut, and wish you could grow your locks back faster to recover from the hacking? With Sprayology’s Hair +Nail Tonic you can do that, and more. This homeopathic oral spray contains 17 ingredients that will also give you healthier nails and heal a dry scalp, which means you’ll see a reduction in hair shedding. The best part of this magic potion? You’ll never find anything easier to ingest. Simply spray twice under your tongue, and be on your merry way.

Value: $29

Raw Materials Skin Grit

This top-selling exfoliator is a true wonder. It can be used both by women and men, and is versatile enough to handle your face and body. Your skin will be fine tuned and softened by this antioxidant-packed exfoliant. Using everything from jojoba beads (which gently soften skin and slowly melt to release natural moisturizing components) to finely crushed walnuts (to boost up the cleansing experience by unclogging pores and removing dead, dull skin), your pores will be clear, and your body will be happy.

Value: $27.95

Divining Oil Designs Personalized Healing Bracelet

Treat yourself to a beautiful, uniquely healing bracelet with a $25 gift card from Divining Oil Designs. These beautiful, customized pieces are intended to provide holistic healing to the mind, body and soul. Each bracelet’s beads slowly diffuse oils over time, with a bead composition personalized to fit your needs. The wonderfully scented bracelets can also be refreshed as they begin to fade, simply by adding another drop of the desired oil to the beads. Take your favorite scented oils with you, everywhere you go, and enjoy the healing that they provide.

Gift Card Value: $25 (with free shipping!)

Good Clean Love Oils Rollerball Gift Set

These nourishing oils are good for your skin, and good for your love life. These love oils have aphrodisiac qualities that work with the brain’s chemistry to smell unique to everyone that uses them. How many products are in your beauty supply stock that can actually enhance a kiss? These oils send a clear message, and will excite your foreplay…only in the safest, vegan, and most edible manner possible.

Value: $23.99

Au Naturale Organic Creme Eyeshadow

We won’t say that Au Naturale’s creme eye shadow is the best thing since sliced bread, but it’s pretty close! This stuff is dripping in gorgeous color, and can be blended, used as an eyeshadow, eyeliner, or brow polisher. Not only will these eyeshadows leave you looking sultry and sexy, but they’re also free of nano-particles, sulfates, and additives. “Good for you” looks good on you.

Value: $20

Aura Sensory Hair Care Set

The problem with using shampoos and conditioners that aren’t natural, is that the chemicals will actually strip your hair of its natural moisture. That can make hair look damaged and frizzy, but have no fear: Aura Sensory’s sulfate-free Shine Enhancing Shampoo and Deep Hydration conditioner are here. These products work together with a promise to bring life back your hair, thanks to the natural vitamins, oils and amino acids that are packed into the duo. Your scalp will be healthy, and your hair will be safe with these top-selling miracle workers.

Value: $20

Beautiphyed Age Defense Antioxidant Mist

The truth is, we could all benefit from some more antioxidants in our skincare regimen. This age-defying face mist, which also doubles as a toner, makes the task easy and fun; only a couple of quick squirts will protect your face from environmental toxins with hydrated, protected skin. The spray also works to fight aging and irritation, without any funky stuff; as dictated on Beautiphyed’s website, “Good nutritional advice tells you: ‘If you can’t pronounce it, don’t eat it!’ It’s no different for your skin.”

Value: $20

Rejuva Minerals Mega Lash Mascara

If you came here looking for makeup that made you look like a movie star, you came to the right place. Rejuva Minerals’ Mega Lash Mascara is a clump-free top seller used by celebrities and their makeup artists alike! In fact, every single Grammy nominee and VIP guest received this incredible gift at the 2015 Grammy nomination ceremony. What makes this mascara star-worthy? It actually conditions your lashes with organic cotton flower extract and avocado, as well as lengthening and thickening them.

Value: $20

Sona Organics Custom Soap (made exclusively for Ecosalon!) and Natural Deodorant

Yes, you read that correctly: Sona Organics is including an organic soap in that’s only available in THIS Box, made exclusively for the fabulous readers of EcoSalon! On top of the exciting exclusivity of this gift, Sona is also providing its awesome, all-natural, vegan deodorant to keep you smelling sweet and fresh all day. The formula is so good, it only takes a maximum of two swipes for this product application to have maximum effectiveness. Body odor is fun for no one, but this product works on everyone!

Custom Natural Soap Exclusively For EcoSalon Readers: $3

Vegan Natural Deodorant: $12

Total Value: $15

Hello Products Toothpaste Mint Medley

An all-natural toothpaste that tastes so good, it actually makes you want to brush? It’s the truth! While most toothpastes are packed with sweeteners, triclosan, artificial dyes and microbeads, which can get stuck under the gums, Hello toothpaste is free of all of those offenders, and leaves out polyethylene and microplastics found in many oral care brands. Not to mention, these great toothpaste flavors also deliver cavity and enamel protection for your pearly whites. Hello products have reached major chains like Target and Walgreens, but with our Box, you get to try three awesome flavors, including the latest flavor, peach mango mint, and decide which one you like best.

Peach Mango Mint Toothpaste: $4.99

Supermint Toothpaste: $4.99

Mojito Mint Toothpaste: $4.99

Total Value: $14.97

All Beauty Water Beauty Bundle

What if you could enjoy a drink that not only made you more beautiful, but also tasted good? Now you can, with All Beauty Water’s nutrient-enhanced water that works to make you more beautiful from the inside-out. With All Beauty Water’s patented combination of “SkinVitamins®” and “SkinNutrients®,” your skin will get everything that it needs that it can’t get from regular water, like minerals, antioxidants and electrolytes. This product is a great tasting alternative to skin-harming soda and other sugary drinks. Each box comes with four bottles of water, with delicious flavors that include Pomegranate Rose, Strawberry Açaí, and Cucumber Aloe.

Value: $3 per bottle

Total value: $12 (for 4 bottles)

Total Value for the Made In America Box: $494.85

Sale Price: $129 + free shipping! That’s a 74 percent savings. It’s our salute to you, and your loyalty to an eco-fabulous lifestyle!

Sold Out!

The Box will go on sale Monday, July 27th, at 8 o’clock AM Pacific Time. So set your timers and mark your calendars–these will sell out fast (the last one sold out in under one hour)!

Note! We recommend purchasing The Box from a desktop device vs a mobile device (while we dial in mobile purchases).

Offer good anywhere in the continental U.S. International shipping is not available at this time. Buy, one, two, or three boxes! Please allow up to three weeks for delivery. All sales are final. Due to the nature of this exclusive one-time sale, we cannot accept any returns or exchanges. Any inquiries or concerns regarding purchased Boxes must be submitted via Customer Service within 30 days from date of purchase.

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Related on EcoSalon

The Insourcing Trend: What is the Impact of Clothing Made in the USA?

8 Best Made In America Jeans Brands: On Trend

10 Memorable Quotes From the Less-Than-Memorable Film: ‘Make it in America: Empowering Global Fashion’

The post A Salute! With EcoSalon’s The Box: Made In America appeared first on EcoSalon.

Don’t choose between toxic products and stinky pits. EcoSalon reviews a natural deodorant that actually works!

Body odor isn’t something people like to talk about, but it happens to all of us. Terrified of being the source of any stink, we slather deodorants and antiperspirants into our armpits–an extremely sensitive part of our bodies. It was only recently that we learned many conventional deodorants are made with toxic chemicals that have been linked to cancer.

Some years ago, I decided I was done with deodorant and antiperspirants. I’d rather stink than bombard myself with yet another chemical. And for a while, it was OK. As long as I showered frequently the smell never got too bad. But on days when I couldn’t, or when the temperature soared into triple-digits, things got a little, uh, unpleasant.

So I asked around for natural deodorant options that I could use with less risk. I tried Crystal, a natural deodorant that uses mineral salt instead of fragrance and aluminum. It literally looked like a big salt crystal. It too worked for a minute, but had to be applied often, and only on completely clean skin. Not convenient for mid-day touch ups.

I also tried this Long Lasting natural deodorant made by Tom’s of Maine. But then a friend who was also using Tom’s did some research into their ingredient list, and found that all was not as eco-friendly as we first thought. So I quit it except for special occasions, and succumbed to the regular stink. Frustrating.

That’s why I was excited when PurelyGreat, a natural deodorant company out of Canada, contacted me about reviewing their products for women. This wasn’t a weird salt stick or conventional wannabe, these products were made with just three ingredients–all of which I could pronounce–and they had stellar customer testimonials.

They sent me two different natural deodorants to try: the Women’s Citrus Cream Deodorant and Women’s Lavender Cream Deodorant. Both were packaged in small, blue glass jars. A welcome relief to the excessive plastic packaging of most deodorants (did you know those plastic sticks are only about 1/16 full of product?!).

Like all PurelyGreat products, each natural deodorant is made with three base ingredients: Natural baking soda (OMRI Listed and approved for use in organic production), non-gmo corn starch, and organic vegetable glycerin. Then, essential oils are added depending on what fragrance was desired, or whether the product was intended for a man or woman. However, they also produce a completely unscented version for those with sensitive skin or scent allergies.

The directions indicated that the products would work best when applied to clean skin, so I waited until fresh from the shower to apply. The natural deodorant had the look and feel of a high quality lotion, and I only needed a fingertip-worth. I applied it by hand in the center of my armpit. Although it left kind of a weird sticky feeling on my finger, which I assume was from the corn starch, there was no such feeling or residue in my armpit. It was completely invisible with only a trace of light scent.

I waited a full 24 hours. The stink didn’t return and my underarm skin was dry and smooth. After my next application, I pushed the envelope: I waited 48 hours to shower and included a trip to the gym. Still no stink! Although there was some sweat accumulation. But of course sweating is natural and PurelyGreat never claimed to be an antiperspirant.

“PurelyGreat natural deodorant will last 2-3 months of daily usage, explains company rep Philip Pellat. “The shelf life is at least a year – but it will require a good stirring if it sits around for a length of time. The product will not grow any mold as the Natural Soda provides a PH level that prohibits bacterial growth.”

In short, I’m really excited to have found this product! Not only am I confident in the ingredient list, I’m also confident that it works! No more sneaking conventional deodorant when I’ve got an event where stinky sweat would be an embarrassment. Plus, the jars are small enough to travel with and easy to recycle when the product’s gone. Which won’t be for a while.

Related on Ecosalon

Best Organic Deodorants That Actually Work

7 Natural Beauty Products To Take To A Desert Island

DIY: Go Eco and Healthy With Your Deodorant

Images via PurelyGreat and Beth Buczynski

The post Review: PurelyGreat Natural Deodorant for Men, Women and Teens appeared first on EcoSalon.

Quick! You have 20 seconds to decide which natural beauty products you can’t live without. What would they be?

You’re sailing on the South Pacific, sunning yourself on deck while Charlie Hunnam/Kerry Washington/similarly beautiful person periodically spritzes your face with purified water. Suddenly, Melville ahoy! A whale mistakes your cruiser for a play toy and you’re being flipped around deck like wind chimes in a tornado.

Charlie, regretting nothing, sacrifices himself for your safety, but not before tossing your beloved makeup bag into your arms. Just as the ship is smashed to pieces, you grasp the bag to your chest and swim to a nearby desert island. 

Collapsing onto the white sands, you open the bag and contemplate your incredible foresight in packing your essential beauty products. You’re so thrilled with yourself that you completely miss Charlie staggering to shore in a bare-chested glory.

Charlie Hunnam is psyched about your beauty products.

But back to the bag! What would you pack if you could only take a few natural beauty products with you from here to eternity? Still thinking? Here are seven products we suggest for the cut.

1. Hair Ties from Di Hair Tie ($8.99)

Your hair may be straight, curly, kinky, thick, or fine. But if it is longer than two inches, it is going to need wrangling. My fine, straight hair starts looking like something a cat slept in if I go longer than a few days without washing. The only thing to wrestle it into place? A hair elastic.

I’m a fan of the Scunci Soft No Damage Elastics, which can usually be found dangling around my wrist at all hours. Want an eco-friendly version? Check out these hair ties (pictured above) from Di Hair Tie, which are made with plant-based dyes.

2. Thayer’s Rose Petal Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel ($9.95)

This product from Thayer has longed reigned at the top of my beauty regime. Besides sun block, it’s usually the only product I use on my face in the summer months. It moisturizes without leaving my face feeling greasier than it needs to feel in the heat and humidity. Throw some into a small spritzing bottle and mist your face after each shower. Your skin tone will thank you, usually by glowing.

3. EO Organics Deodorant ($5.99)

Made with certified organic ingredients, this product is free of aluminum salts, zinc, and propylene glycol, all questionable ingredients found in common deodorants. I’ve used it for five years now and would probably be my first line of defense in a zombie apocalypse—both for the odor emanating from myself and the undead.

4. Aubrey Organics Lip Balm ($2.95)

Have you ever checked out the beauty section at Whole Foods? It’s like the natural industry decided that lip balms must be as prolific as rabbits and just as diverse. The offering from Aubrey Organics is consistently as top balm. Available in an assortment of flavors, it is USDA organic. And more to the point, it works like a charm, leaving your lips moisturized and soothed.

5. Mineral Fusion Brush On Sun Defense ($24.99)

I have to wear sun block. (And here’s what I always wear.) Hats are key to existence. (Check out this ethical one from Pachacuti.)

But despite sun block and hats, I still can’t step outside for more than a few minutes without any exposed skin starting to burn. I’m not alone; regardless of skin hue, sun protection is key in our ozone-depleted world.

This is why the Mineral Fusion Brush On Sun Defense permanently lives in my bag. Usually an hour or two into my day, I’ll sweep it across my face for added protection. And the best part? It’s in powder form, so it helps with sweat and oil. Free of parabens, SLS, phthalates, artificial colors and synthetic fragrances, it is also gluten-free.

6. Skinny Skinny Rose and Black Pepper Dry Shampoo ($32.00)

Many of us don’t like to wash our hair daily. Between the excessive water use and the dubious products out there, it’s enough to make you want to shave your head and invest in the best hat collection this side of Kensington Palace. (Your move, Kate Middleton.)

This is why dry shampoo is a great alternative to daily washings—it picks up the dirt and oils in your hair, leaving you to wash another day. This vegan product from Skinny Skinny is simply made with certified organic ingredients like brown rice powder, white clay, and rose and black pepper essential oils.

7. Strawberry Hedgehog Whipped Body Crème ($22.00)

Be it the height of a humid summer or the depths of a frigid winter, moisturizer is a skin’s best friend. This vegan organic whipped body crème offers up some of the purest hydration your body can ask for. Made with ingredients like organic aloe vera juice and organic fair trade unrefined shea butter infused with herbs, it’s like buttering your skin.

Best of all, it goes on lightly without leaving a greasy residue. Which will come in handy when you’re rolling in the sand on your desert island, tearfully thanking Charlie for saving your life—and your natural beauty products.

Lest we forget.

photo credit: Andrew Bartram (WarboysSnapper) via photopin cc

Charlie Hunnam photos courtesy of Warner Bros.

For Further Reading:

Toner: Why Do We Use It?

EcoSalon Approved Beauty Guide: Bath and Body

The post 7 Natural Beauty Products To Take to a Desert Island: From Dry Shampoo to Balms and Creams appeared first on EcoSalon.

Make your own natural deodorant and not only protect yourself from toxins but also radiate freshness!

For most of us, deodorant is part of our morning ritual and is as necessary as brushing our teeth or hair before we hit the daily grind. But did you know that deodorants and antiperspirants are often made with toxic chemicals that can contribute to breast cancer?

Aluminum is an active ingredient in antiperspirants that blocks sweat glands so that you stay dry. If it builds up in your system, aluminum can be toxic. Other potentially dangerous substances found in deodorants and antiperspirants include parabens, propylene glycol, TEA & DEA, triclosan, FD&C colors, and talc. And because of the armpits proximity to the breast and the regular absorption of aluminum and these other preservatives and additives into the skin, antiperspirant and deodorant application has been linked to cancer and Alzheimer’s Disease.

In a 2003 study conducted by the European Journal of Cancer Prevention of 437 women with breast cancer, those who used deodorant at least two times per week and shaved their armpits at least three times per week developed breast cancer some 15 years earlier than those who did neither.

While far more studies are needed to confirm the causation, aluminum and other toxins’ influence on breast cancer are enough to cause concern. The best way to avoid the possibility of contributing to the onset of cancer is to control what goes in your deodorant by purchasing one of the many natural deodorants on the market, or by making your own version. This homemade deodorant recipe is a great start!

Homemade Natural Deodorant

 Makes enough to last 6 months

Ingredients

• ½ cup coconut oil (solid)
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 1/4 cup arrowroot powder
• 15-20 drops essential oil of choice

Directions

Place the baking soda and arrowroot powder in a bowl and mix until evenly combined. Add the coconut oil and mix thoroughly, either in a food processor or with the back of a fork. Add the essential oils as you mix.

Image: Amber Karnes

The post DIY: Go Eco (and Healthy) with Your Deodorant appeared first on EcoSalon.

From sunblock to liver cleansing, we celebrate 20 uses of green tea you may never have known about.

Green tea is hailed as an antioxidant-rich, anti-aging phenomenon. With reports that regular green tea consumption can lower the risk of heart disease and certain cancers, it’s a popular drink among the health conscious. However, green tea is more than just a cup of tea. Here are 20 unusual, thrifty and eco-friendly uses for green tea that will surprise, challenge, and excite you.

Dark Circles and Puffy Eye Relief

After you’ve enjoyed a cup of green tea – or two – let the tea bags cool and place one over each closed eye. Tea contains polyphenol particles known as tannins. Tannins are an astringent and are able to shrink living tissue, including human skin. Green tea bags can reduce swelling and tighten the skin around the eyes by reducing the dilation of the blood vessels under the eyes.

Irritation and Redness Alleviation

Green tea has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce redness and irritation. Steep a few bags in boiling water. Allow the water to cool and soak a washcloth in the water. Wring the washcloth of excess water and use the rag to pat irritated or red skin.

Facial Scrub

Take advantage of green tea’s skin-tightening ability and use it in a facial scrub. With the addition of water and white sugar, you are not only infusing the skin with the benefits of green tea, but also exfoliating it to a smooth finish.

Teeth Health Boost

According to a research study published by Preventive Medicine, drinking one cup of unsweetened green tea could increase teeth health. People between the ages of 40 and 64 who drank one cup of green tea per day were less likely to lose their teeth. According to the study, antimicrobial molecules called catechins are the reason for this effect. Grab a green tea infused toothpaste off pharmacy shelves or be sure to get your daily dose of tea.

Weight Loss Aid

According to a 2009 study by the Department of Human Biology, Nutrition and Toxicology Research Institute Maastricht, the catechins in green tea proved to significantly decrease body weight an as well as maintain body weight after a period of weight loss. This is good news to those looking to shed a few pounds.

Bleeding Reduction

The tannins found in green tea help stop bleeding by coagulating the blood. Steep a tea bag in hot water, remove it after one minute, and then let it cool. Place the tea bag on top of the bleeding area or dip gauze into the tea water and apply the gauze to the gash. You could also use a green tea extract for application.

Sunburn Treatment

While green tea does not block UV light, it protects exposed skin cells from damage. Studies have shown that when green tea is directly applied to the skin, it helps to protect the skin from sunburn and skin cancer. You could apply a green tea extract to the skin or a cooled cloth that was soaked in brewed green tea. Drinking green tea regularly a few weeks prior to sun exposure can also reduce the possibility of skin damage, due to the tea’s powerful antioxidant epigallocatechin gallate.

Fridge Odor Elimination

Sometimes things can get a bit stinky in the refrigerator. To counteract an odor that just doesn’t seem to budge, take a handful of green tea leaves and place them in a thin cloth bag or cheese cloth. Place in the refrigerator. The leaves will absorb the odor and render your fridge fragrance-free.

Humidity Reduction

Much like it reduces odor, green tea also diminishes ambient humidity. Take a thin cloth bag full of green tea leaves and hang it in a room or area of your house that collects too much humidity. The leaves absorb the moisture.

Silk Worms Fodder

Got silkworms hanging around? Feed the harmless little creatures leftover green tea leaves. Apparently, what goes around comes around – it is said that silkworm extract is a natural aphrodisiac.

Wrinkle Reduction

The potent antioxidant epigallocatechin gallate found in green tea prevents the activation of collagen-digesting enzymes called matrix metalloproteinase. These enzymes are what causes wrinkling of the skin. Green tea also has anti-inflammatory properties that assist in preventing wrinkles and fine lines. By applying lotions and creams with green tea extract or drinking the tea on the regular, you can steer clear of premature aging and the onset of wrinkles.

Carpet Cleaning

Take a handful of moist, but not wet, green tea leaves and scatter them across the carpet. The tea leaves attract dust, so vacuuming is twice as effective.

Foot Bath

Soak your feet in a strong green tea brew to get rid of foot odors. Green tea is anti-fungal and anti-bacterial. It also helps to get rid of bad smells.

Plant Water

Green tea is packed with antioxidants and is a great way to improve the health of plants. Soak tea leaves in water for a few days, remove the leaves, and then use the water to fertilize plants.

Liver Protection

Everyone’s liver could use a little help these days. Given the toxicity of our environment and diet, even if we live as eco-conscious and healthy as possible, our lifestyles still take a toll on our livers, which processes just about everything you ingest and absorb. The antioxidants in green tea help us to prevent liver disease as well as to boost the overall health of our livers.

Lingerie Freshening

Place green tea leaves in a thin cloth bag and toss it into your lingerie drawer. The leaves will absorb any odor and leave your precious apparel fresh and ready to rock.

Anxiety Remedy

An amino acid called theanine is found in green tea leaves and it is thought to give a relaxing and tranquilizing effect on the body.

Acne Treatment

Due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, antioxidant, and anti-fungal properties, green tea is a powerful anti-acne treatment. Find a moisturizer or cleanser with green tea extract or take the homemade route and simply rub green tea leaves on your face and body before rinsing.

Deodorant

Dab green tea water that has cooled to your underarms and you can avoid a smelly summer afternoon. It’s a cheap and effective way to battling the effects of heat and stress.

Ice-Cream Flavor

Oh, how surprisingly delicious green tea ice cream is! Many Japanese restaurants feature a green tea ice cream on their menus. Considering all the benefits of the green tea, we have yet another excuse to indulge in dessert. Order it or try your hand at a homemade version.

Aylin Erman currently resides in Istanbul and is creator of plant-based recipe website GlowKitchen.

The post 20 Unusual Uses for Green Tea appeared first on EcoSalon.

Life is good. We’re eating healthier, exercising more and we remember to bring our reusable bags to the grocery store. But do you feel as if something is missing? Do you ever wake in the middle of the night, wondering what final piece of the green puzzle will make your life complete? Well, I do. And the puzzle piece I’m looking for is an organic deodorant…that actually stinkin’ works.

I’m sure many of you are aware of the dangers of regular deodorant – that it contains aluminum chloride and aluminum chlorohydrate to stop you from sweating. Of course, no one likes to sweat, but sweating is how our bodies process food, expel toxins and regulate temperature. Blocking this bodily function isn’t a good idea. Plus, aluminum has been established as a neurotoxin and has been shown to adversely affect the blood-brain barrier, cause DNA damage and have adverse gene effects.

But hey, as long as no one sees you sweat!

Our point is that you want to keep your deodorants made with natural and organic ingredients. As with all less conventional deodorants, you might sweat a bit more than you’re used to, but you usually won’t smell. And one more tip – deodorant sprays work far better than sticks.

Now let’s get down to business – the Good, the Less than Good and the Yes, It Really Does Work of deodorants! The following list includes deodorants containing natural and/or organic ingredients that we tested over an extended period of time, in hot Los Angeles temperatures and even on a trip to Las Vegas.

The Holy Grail: Grapefruit and Geranium Deodorant Spray by Avalon Organics

(Note: According to Avalon Organics, the direct link is not yet available because this product is new to the market, but it’s coming!). This is the best of the best, and I’m anticipating a long relationship with this spray. It smells fruity and pleasant. I kept reapplying it just to experience a mini aromatherapy session. And most importantly, it works. I wore one application for a day and night, and didn’t notice any body odor (my boyfriend didn’t, either). It’s certified organic and made with various citrus peel oils. It contains no parabens, aluminum or other synthetic ingredients.

The Close Runner Up: Jasmine and Grapefruit Organic Deodorant by Erbaviva

When I can’t find my Avalon Organics, I reach for this spray. As above, it contains grapefruit extracts which help eliminate the odor-causing bacteria. It really does smell good, like something you’d find in the middle of a spa. It also works really well, though you may want to keep it on hand for touch ups. It’s made with certified organic ingredients like grapefruit peel oil, cedar wood oil and jasmine oil.

The Perfume Impersonator: Wild Rose Deodorant Spray by Weleda

This spray is most like a perfume, with a fun, floral rose scent. The first application lasted for a few hours, though I found myself sniffing for a second application earlier than the aforementioned products. The floral scent goes on strong, but it mellows with time. If you like an old-style, cool perfume-y scent, you’ll like this spray. This UK product is made with natural essential rose oils and fragrances.

The Old Standard: E Plus High C Natural Roll-On Deodorant by Aubrey Organics

I have used this product for years – pre-spray, it was the closest I got to a working natural deodorant. It has more of a traditional scent, with hints of baby powder. It works, but doesn’t last as long as the sprays. However, Aubrey makes a Calendula Blossom spray that keeps the protection going longer than the roll-on. Both are made with natural and organic ingredients like rose water, coconut cream and organic aloe vera.

The Pioneer: Deodorant Crystal by Naturally Fresh

Back when natural deodorants were new to the market, deodorants crystals were at the forefront. This company first discovered the crystal while in Thailand, where the process of wetting a crystal and rubbing it under your arm has a long tradition of killing odor-causing bacteria. There’s a spray and a roll-on, and apparently the spray is the number one recommended product by oncologists, allergists and dermatologists.

But does it work? Happily, it does. A friend of mine often uses the crystal in conjunction with other natural deodorants. One word of caution though – you need to wet it before applying, which can prove a little messy.

The Experience: Geranium Lime Pit Putty by Bubble & Bee Organic

This is a new concept that literally involves putty for your pits. It has a great lime-y, fresh and clean-smelling scent. You apply it with your fingers, which is a little odd. It turns to power, which is cool. But if you start sweating, you will be running for the sprays.

The Good Stick: Clear Enzyme Deodorant Stick by Alba Botanica

Like I said, sticks in general don’t seem to work as well as the sprays. But many do offer decent protection. This one from Alba Botanica offers a fresh scent and a decent run of it. It has antibacterial properties from coriander and lichen and certified organic aloe vera. It is also 100% vegetarian!

The Fruit on a Stick: Mandarin Orange and Patchouli Deodorant by Nature’s Gate

This is another fruity scent that proves much more pleasant than anything you’ll find at the supermarket. It lasts for a bit, but then you will have to follow up. The ingredients for this product are grown on a family-owned farm in California with a water source derived from the winter rains and snow pack of the Sierra Nevadas. It is paraben-free and naturally contains no aluminum.

The Nice Scent But: Naturally Fresh Deodorant Stick for Men by JASON Pure, Natural and Organic

I wanted to like this product because JASON products are generally outstanding. And upon opening the deodorant, I found it has a light, green tea scent that goes on smooth. But a mere hour after applying it, I found myself reaching for the sprays.

Yes, I know it’s for men – so I had my boyfriend try it out, and he agrees. It’s certified organic and is enriched with lavender oil, Vitamin E, shea butter and certified organic corn starch.

The Reason No One Thinks Natural Deodorants Work: Unscented Deodorant Stick from Tom’s of Maine

This deodorant from Tom’s of Maine works well – if you sit motionless in a chair and under an air conditioner all day.

Each week here at EcoSalon, the editors choose a post from the archives that we think you’ll love. This original post can be found here.

Image: TheAlienessGiselaGiardino

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Not too long ago, I wrote about my favorite natural deodorants. I was lucky enough to test out the best of the natural and/or organic sprays, the roll-ons, and the sticks that the world has to offer. Some deodorants worked harder than an actress pretending she hasn’t injected her 40-something face with so many fillers that she looks like she’s about to float away. (Don’t speak Hollywood? In other words – badly and without success.) Other deodorants worked great – as long as you remained motionless into a climate-controlled environment, only daring to move your eyeballs. And the purveyor of some not-so-great deodorants? They came from the old toothpaste-standby: Tom’s of Maine.

Don’t get me wrong. Tom’s of Maine is a fantastic company, with certifications ranging from Peta-approval to an endorsement from the American Dental Association. They have a vigilant company-wide policy of recycling and they are 100 percent transparent. But their deodorant? It’s never worked for me. Nor for friends. Nor for my mail carrier – I suppose, if I were to ask her.

But my lack of luck with Tom’s of Maine changed one warm winter’s day in southern California. I was attending a natural products expo when one of TOMs reps handed me a sample of their latest deodorant, Crystal Confidence. This product promised to rid its wearer of an unfortunate body smell while remaining natural and less toxic than other brands.

The TOMs rep even winked that Crystal Confidence would stop wetness, something no organic or natural deodorant I know of has ever been able to do. And for good reason: anti-perspirants contain aluminum zirconium, which some link to Alzheimer’s Disease. And when it is not possibly messing with your brain, it prevents you from sweating – something you’re supposed to do. While I’m not a fan of the sticky underarms, it is hard to argue with evolution. No truly natural or organic product would contain aluminum zirconium. I was skeptical – what next, lasting organic lipstick? But I decided to try it out for myself.

Crystal Confidence had a nice, citrus smell that was pleasant enough. And it does work. Does it cure wetness? No, not at all. However, I was unable to find any evidence that it claims to do so on their web site, so perhaps I imagined this declaration from the TOMs rep. However, I did remain stinky free. And this is fairly significant in the world of natural deodorants.

Tom’s of Maine has a lot to say about Crystal Confidence. According to TOMs, “the antimicrobial actions of potassium alum and zinc citrate mineral salts fight odor.” (Check!) “It is long-lasting 100 percent natural and organic fragrances.” (Seems so!) “Goes on clear with no white residue” (Yes, it does!) Further, it “contains natural benzoic acid preservative. No parabens, phenoxyethanol, or propylene glycol.” (I am taking your word for it, TOMs.) To which I say – well done, Tom’s of Maine! You are finally out of the stink zone.

Finally, want to make your own deodorant? Here’s a cool recipe which will help you do just that.

The post Tom’s of Maine’s Natural Deodorant: To Stink or Not to Stink? appeared first on EcoSalon.

Ever imagine what it would be like to walk into a gigantic Whole Foods and have sample after sample handed to you of all that is good and organic? Last weekend I got that and more when I walked into the Natural Products Expo West. The foremost show of the natural products trade industry, 53,000 industry professionals from across the globe gathered March 12 – 14 in Anaheim, California, to look over the latest in organic products and natural trends. I must admit, walking through it was something akin to twirling through Willy Wonka’s giant chocolate candy room – except this chocolate was organic and to my knowledge, untainted by Augustus Gloop.

Any large gathering of people is going to stamp a carbon footprint bigger than Godzilla’s paw (does he have paws? Claws? Claw paws?), but this convention made an effort to go green. Recycling bins abounded throughout the center. All of the press kits were online (saving 487 fully grown trees) and badges were picked up on site, saving four metric tons of carbon emissions. I was thoroughly impressed, but how about the products?

My duties involve writing a green beauty column, so I made a beeline towards the health and beauty section. I practically went skipping with glee through the aisles. All of my favorite lines were there: J.R. Watkins peddled their lip tint, Nature’s Gate offered up moisturizers, and Lavera showed off their latest mascaras. It was like that dream I have where every question about organic and/or natural beauty was laid out in clean aisles with an expert stationed at every stop.

So what did the experts have to say about what’s new in the organic or natural beauty market?

First I checked out the Dr. Bronner’s booth. Here I met awesome Ariel, who told me all about the latest offerings from this legendary skin care line which she discusses in the video above. Then it was off to Lavera Cosmetics, the BDIH certified cosmetics company which produces makeup and body care. Their representative showed off their newest release, which is the Lavera sun spot Glow Go Self-Tanner for your legs and entire body. This product is 100 percent chemical and toxin-free and claims to provide safe, natural looking color and “subtle shimmer” without harmful ingredients or sun exposure. It contains organic soy extracts which is said to “infuse skin with a natural looking glow.” Before I realized what was happening, my entire arm was sprayed with self-tanner, which left it a bit glittery and well, self-tanned.

Sparkling like a Twilight vampire, I headed over to Thayer’s Natural Remedies. There I spoke with John Gehr, who co-owns the company with his mother. Not familiar with Thayer’s Natural Remedies? Get thee to a Whole Foods immediately – their Rose Petal Witch Hazel holds the title as my favorite all-natural beauty product.  I use this product daily and am now sporting a skin tone I haven’t seen since my early 20s – meaning clear skin and rosy cheeks. As John explained to me, witch hazel is a natural astringent with anti-inflammatory properties. It works great as a gentle cleaners and daily toner by tightening pores.

The key to Thayer’s Witch Hazel is the way they extract it. Tannins are the key ingredient in this product and they extract it without heat from the bark of the witch hazel. And it is the tannins that give you that beautiful rosy hue. As John joked, their witch hazel is not “made by witches, but magic for your skin.”

Newly spritzed with rosy cheeks, I stopped by Tom’s of Maine. Here I spoke with friendly representative Staay, who told me all about their new releases. She showed me the latest development for their deodorant line, a new product called Crystal Confidence. This deodorant offers 24 hour protection with a crystal built right into the device. Staay assured me that the product is clinically tested and consumer qualified – in other words, it was tried by customers. She says this is the closest item to a natural antiperspirant on the market.

I’m already looking forward to next year’s Expo!

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