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

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

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

1. Chocolate Sun 

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

Product Pick:

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

2. COOLA Suncare 

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

Product Picks:

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

Sport SPF35 Citrus Mimosa (for everyone, especially active)

3. Devita 

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

Product Pick:

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

4. Love True Natural 

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

Product Picks:

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

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

5. Suntegrity

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

Product Picks:

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

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

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

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

Part 2: 41 Facial Care Products.

Part 3: 11 Hair Care Products.

Part 4: 17 Makeup & Color Products.

Part 5: 8 Personal Care & Hygiene Products

Part 6: 6 Fragrance Products

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

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

Welcome to the sixth installment of our seven-part Eco Salon Eco-Beauty Approved Guide: Fragrance Products. Coming up next is:

SUN

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

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

THE FRAGRANCE LIST

1. A Perfume Organic 

A Perfume Organic is passionately committed to offering the finest certified organic perfumes possible. Amanda Walker’s ever- expanding range offers finely crafted fragrance items for life, travel & home and brings distinctive design, ecological consideration and attention to the smallest details.

Product Pick:

Urban Organic (for everyone, light & fresh, cirrus)

2. Aveda 

Aveda’s mission is to care for the world we live in, from the products they make to the ways in which they give back to society. Aveda strives to set an example by connecting beauty, environment and well being.

Product Pick: Personal Blends (have your own scent made)

 3. Honore Des Pres

Honore Des Pres delivers messages of happiness and is created for urban people who long for simplicity and nature. Dynamic and cheeky, their products contain no petrochemicals or synthetic perfumes.

Product Pick:

Vamp A NY (for everyone, tuberose & autumn in a bottle)

4. La Bella Figura 

Using natural, organic and wild crafted whole plant ingredients, sustainably sourced and known for their botanic therapeutic power to create performance driven products that work to protect, repair, and prevent skin conditions for the most efficacious yet gentle anti aging effects and radiant skin.

Product Picks:

Paris (lightly floral with hints of wood and vanilla

Buenos Aires (exotic, citrusy & floral)

5. Perspehenie

A Los Angeles based aromatherapist and perfumer, specializing in natural, botanical perfumery.

Product Pick:

Neroli Infusion Organic Body Oil (decadent all over scent plus rich moisture)

6. Simplers Botanicals 

A small herbalist-operated company in Northern California with a passion for providing the highest therapeutic grade organic essential oils and extracts available.

Product Pick:

Perfume Oils (for everyone, single note essential oil perfumes)

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

Part 2: 41 Facial Care Products.

Part 3: 11 Hair Care Products.

Part 4: 17 Makeup & Color Products.

Part 5: Personal Care & Hygiene Products.

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

The post EcoSalon’s 2013 Eco-Beauty Approved Guide Part 6: 6 Fragrance Products appeared first on EcoSalon.

Welcome to the fifth installment of our seven-part Eco Salon Eco-Beauty Approved Guide: Personal Care & Hygiene Products. Coming up next is:

SCENT
SUN

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

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

1. Blossom Organics 

Founder Melissa Jochim’s mission is to create naturally pure, effective and healthy alternatives in all personal care categories. In pursuit of healthy well being, beautiful intimacy and blissful pleasure, Blossom Organics creates safe, naturally pure intimate care products.

Product Picks:

Natural Moisturizer Lubricant (made to mimic a woman’s chemistry)

Pure Pleasure Arousal Gel  (nothing kinky, just a little added warmth and blood flow)

2. Erbaviva

Erbaviva was created to offer mommies-to-be and babies upscale products completely free from all harsh detergents, chemical fragrances, and other unhealthy additives. Today they offer a wide range of products for the entire family with bath, body and true aromatherapy.

Product Pick:

Deodorant (for everyone, an alcohol based spray when you prefer something light)

3. Preserve 

Reduce. Reuse. Recycle. Those are the principles that have driven Preserve since 1996 and that motivate them to encourage more households to choose our 100% recycled and recyclable products over conventional products.

Product Picks:

Toothbrush (for everyone, it’s recycled and recyclable)

Triple Razor (for everyone, it’s recycled and recyclable)

4. Quantum Health

Natural, over the counter products to help your body function more effectively – supporting bodily systems safely and naturally.

Product Pick:

Buzz Away (DEET free and it actually works, though reapply every few hours)

5. Seventh Generation

The nation’s leading brand of household and personal care products that help protect human health and the environment. Providing healthy solutions for the air, surfaces, fabrics, pets and people within your home–and for the community and environment outside of it, they want their products to make a difference—from their development through to their production, purchase, use, and disposal.

Product Picks:

Organic Cotton No Applicator Tampons (available in a variety of absorbencies, the shape is better than most)

Chlorine Free Panty Liners (for light days and added protection)

6. Sir Richard’s Condoms

They believe the power of business can help bring health and pleasure to the global community.  Their mission is to bring pleasure and health to the global community while stimulating social discourse and evolving attitudes towards contraception. For every vegan, toxin free Sir Richard’s condom you purchase, you contribute one to a developing country.

Product Pick:

Pleasure Dots

7. Soapwalla 

Soapwalla founder, Rachel Winard pulls knowledge from her study of Ayurvedic medicine, botanicals, aromatherapy and whole-body nutrition. Every product is made by hand in small batches to ensure quality, freshness and the utmost attention to detail.

Product Pick:

Deodorant Cream (for everyone, it actually keeps stink at bay and helps with wetness)

8. Vitacare 

VITACARE is a natural oral care system of vitamin-infused whitening toothpaste, alcohol-free mouthwash, whitening chewing gum and eco-friendly toothbrushes.  VITACARE’s products are infused with a powerful Vita-Boost Complex, which delivers a potent blend of essential vitamins A, C, D, E and Calcium to work in synergy to support overall gum, tooth and mouth health.

Product Pick:

Mint + Acai Toothpaste (for everyone, it’s cleansing, whitening and refreshing without being overpowering)

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

Part 2: 41 Facial Care Products.

Part 3: 11 Hair Care Products.

Part 4: 17 Makeup & Color Products.

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

The post EcoSalon’s 2013 Eco-Beauty Approved Guide Part 5: 8 Personal Care & Hygiene Products appeared first on EcoSalon.

Welcome to the fourth installment of our seven-part Eco Salon Eco-Beauty Approved Guide: Makeup and Color. Coming up next is:

PERSONAL CARE & HYGIENE
SCENT
SUN

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

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

THE MAKEUP & COLOR LIST

1. 100% Pure

100% Pure strives to always provide the best and most nourishing skincare products while loving and being charitable towards animals, offering the only makeup colored from the antioxidant rich pigments of fruits and vegetables. Absolutely no synthetic chemicals, artificial fragrances, chemical preservatives or any other toxins!

Product Pick:

Fruit Pigmented Mascara (for a natural look, high gloss, deep color, good shine)

2. Alima Pure 

Based on the premise of minimal ingredients for maximum impact, they know that a few natural ingredients can give every woman the power to present her best self to the world with confidence.  Their collection of mineral makeup uses only the purest cosmetic-grade, skin beneficial mineral pigments without irritating additives, fillers or fragrances.

Product Picks:

Shimmer Shadows (for everyone, rich pigments, huge color selection)

Mineral Foundations (for everyone, color to match any skin tone)

3. Couleur Caramel 

Couleur Caramel USA makes natural and organic makeup and skin care lines designed to give you access to sustainable, healthy and comfortable products.

Product Picks:

Mascara (a favorite of make-up artists)

Eyeshadow (a favorite of make-up artists)

4. Devita 

One of the fastest growing all-natural, 100 percent paraben free, PETA certified, vegan cosmeceutical skin care line in the country, offering more than 100 different DeVita Natural Skin Care products, a complete line of revolutionary aloe-infused mineral color cosmetics, and a professional line of skin care products sold exclusively through

Product Pick:

Prime Corrective (for make-up lovers, clear primer for all skin types to minimize imperfections)

5. Dr. Hauschka 

Dr.Hauschka natural skin care products and holistic home remedies respect the body’s natural rhythms, working with these processes to restore balance and bring about lasting beauty. Dr.Hauschka believes that when individuals feel healthy and balanced, they are better able to care for others and the planet on which they live.

Product Picks:

Eyeliner with Applicator (rich pigment and smudge friendly applicator)

Pure Care Cover Stick (for blemishes, treat them while covering them up

6. Eve Organics 

Eve Organics proudly offers expert blends of nature’s abundant gifts, formulated to support the reversal of specific skin conditions using wholesome, nourishing skin food infused with vitamins, minerals, enzymes, botanicals and therapeutic grade essential oils. Their mission is to educate about the lack of regulation in the cosmetic industry by making harmful ingredient information available to their customers.

Product Pick:

Stick Concealer (for everyone, creamy, blends well, light to dark skin tone options)

7. Jane Iredale 

Committed to providing a product line that has the utmost integrity and the ability to enhance the lives of women through its effectiveness, simplicity and beauty.  By combining skincare with makeup, Jane Iredale created a new concept in beauty that’s had a lasting impact.

Product Picks:

Pure Pressed Mineral Base Foundation (creamy for a powder foundation, good coverage)

Bitty Brow Kit (sculpt perfect brows)

Glow Time Full Coverage Mineral BB Cream

8. Juice Beauty 

Clinically validated, authentically organic beauty products supported by solid eco-values created by a team of experienced professionals and scientists who are pioneering organic efficacy within the beauty products industry. Formulated using a unique, antioxidant packed organic juice base, they use powerful ingredients such as alpha lipoic acid, coenzyme Q10, DMAE, peptides, fat soluble Vitamin C and essential fatty acids for optimum results.

Product Picks:

Purely Kissable Lip Color (super creamy with great shine, flattering on most skin tones)

Irresistible Glow Facial Highlighter (blends well for a natural flush, nearly universally flattering)

9. Lavera

Lavera provides truly natural cosmetics with proven effectiveness and designed for sensitive eyes and skin.  They are committed to making sure you and your family is safe from potentially harmful ingredients by subjecting their contents and production processes to the stringent third party oversight.

Product Picks:

Volume Mascara (good color, definition, thickening and staying power)

 10. Primitive Makeup 

Beauty should not come at the expense of our health.  With the hope and intention of contributing to the wellbeing and beauty of women everywhere, Primitive Makeup understands that women will not make the switch to natural cosmetics unless the performance, colors, taste and feel are on par with ‘traditional’ products, and delivers.

Product Picks:

Lip Liner (high pigment defines well and stays put)

Lip Stick (rich, creamy colors glide on)

11. Priti NYC 

Vegan, completely non-toxic, and are free of toluene, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, and camphor, these luxury polishes are fast drying, chip resistant, contain a UV inhibitor, and are extremely durable and glossy. Available in over 100 different shades from metallics & bright neons to rich darks and everything in between.

Product Picks:

Nail Polish (stays put, vibrant colors)

Soy Nail Polish Remover (works quickly and effectively)

12. Revolution Organics 

Revolution Organics was created out of the desire to simplify women’s lives and to make healthy, responsible lifestyle choices when it comes to beauty products. Hence, they came up with luxurious, beautifully formulated, healthy multi-purpose beauty products that could do more so woman can use less.

Product Picks:

Freedom Glow Beauty Balm (universally flattering multi use balm)

Freedom Lip Gloss (glossy, not sticky, highly moisturizing

13. RMS Beauty 

RMS Beauty is dedicated to transforming the way women use makeup and it’s about more than simply using organic ingredients. This is where RMS Beauty breaks away from the pack of natural cosmetics because they are formulated with raw, food grade, organic ingredients in their natural state, allowing their, living, healing attributes to penetrate and rejuvenate the skin.

Product Picks:

Living Luminizer (add glow & light anywhere on the face, skin beneficial)

‘Un’ Cover Up (creamy, blends perfectly, skin beneficial)

14.  Spa Ritual 

Dedicated to the spa tradition, SpaRitual is committed to creating eco-friendly products and packaging perfectly crafted for the enlightened consumer. Their formulas use Vegan ingredients from around the world, including specially selected, organic and wild crafted plant essences and are naturally colored and free of synthetic dyes.

Product Pick:

Nail Lacquers (chip resistant & a large color palette)

15. W3LL People

Their modern approach to beauty is powered by “3” core principles: advanced performance, premium 100% natural/organic ingredients, and sustainability. These principles at work result in innovative cosmetics using extraordinary quality, integrity and purity to achieve beautiful aesthetic results outside and healthy results inside.

Product Picks:

Universalist Luminous Multi-Use Stick (versatile, flattering color for all over)

Nudist Colorbalm Stick (super moisturizing sheer lip color)

16. Vapour Organic Beauty 

Revolutionizing luxury and performance cosmetics with pure, organic formulation, unique light-as-air textures and sophisticated color artistry. Made from natural mineral pigments suspended in certified organic botanicals, Vapour delivers the look of flawless, glowing skin without compromise.

Product Picks:

Trick Stick Highlighter (camouflage dark shadows and add light to cheeks and eyes)

Soft Focus Instant Skin Perfector (minimize skin imperfections & pores)

17. Zosimos Botanicals 

Zosimos Botanicals LLC is a woman-owned business that handcrafts their mineral make-up and natural skincare in a 100% wind-powered studio. Zosimos Botanicals’ products are the antithesis to mass-produced cosmetics.

Product Pick:

Eye Liners (for everyone, tons of colors, many vegan)

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

Part 2: 41 Facial Care Products.

Part 3: 11 Hair Care Products.

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

The post EcoSalon’s 2013 Eco-Beauty Approved Guide Part 4: 17 Makeup & Color Products appeared first on EcoSalon.

Welcome to the third installment of our seven-part Eco Salon Eco-Beauty Approved Guide: Hair Care. Coming up next is:

MAKE-UP & COLOR PRODUCTS
PERSONAL CARE & HYGIENE
SCENT
SUN

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

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

THE HAIR CARE LIST

1. ACURE Organics

Natural, organic and fair trade skin care products that provide visible results founded on a simple concept: provide healthy skin care products using the purest organic and fair trade certified ingredients in order to help raise money in the fight against breast cancer and to support environmental causes.

Product Picks:

Moroccan Argan Oil + Argan Stem Cell Shampoo (dry or damaged hair, thick, textured)

Moroccan Argan Oil + Argan Stem Cell Cell Conditioner (dry or damaged hair, thick, textured)

2.Alaffia (and sister Brand Beautiful Curls) 

Founded to advance gender equality and alleviate poverty through the fair trade of handcrafted shea butter products formulated based on indigenous beauty knowledge.

Product Picks:

Alaffia Neem & Shea Scalp Recovery Shampoo (for all hair types, but especially flaky, sensitive scalp)

Beautiful Curls Fortifying Curl Lotion (for dry, wavy to curly hair)

3. Aubrey Organics 

Providing all natural, safe and effective personal care and lifestyle products to the consumer.  We offer a true and authentic alternative to many of the mass produced synthetic products on the market today.

Product Picks:

Honeysuckle Rose Moisturizing Shampoo (for thick, dry hair)

Honeysuckle Rose Moisturizing Conditioner (for thick, dry hair)

4. Emtage

Founder Robyn Emtage, personally committed to her customers, to the health of their hair and skin, and to the health of the planet, creates formulas that improve the health of the hair while making it silky, smooth and abundant shine using pure, unprocessed oils and botanicals from Japan, Tahiti, India, and other parts of the world.

Product Pick:

SILKtáge ™ Rejuvenating Styling Serum (for all hair types, especially curly and dry)

5. Intelligent Nutrients 

Founded by Horst M. Rechelbacher (he created Aveda), Intelligent Nutrients is a leading innovator of certified organic health and beauty products utilizing 100 percent food-based and organic certified ingredients and free of harmful toxins.

Product Picks:

Harmonic Shampoo (for all hair types, color safe)

Harmonic Conditioner (for all hair types, color safe)

6. Jason 

A full range of personal care products, including skin care, soap & bath, hair care, oral care, kids care and sunscreens, to care for you and your family formulated without toxic ingredients.

Product Picks:

Tea Tree Scalp Normalizing Shampoo & Conditioner (for oily hair & flaky scalp)

7. John Master’s Organics 

Caring about yourself and caring about the earth don’t have to be mutually exclusive. For more than 20 years, this has been the guiding force in creating Super Natural Beauty for your hair, your skin, and your home that treats the earth with respect.

Product Picks:

Lavender Rosemary Shampoo (for all hair types, color safe)

Citrus & Neroli Detangler (for all hair types, especially easily tangled, color safe)

8. Original Moxie 

Eco friendly hair products for a diverse range of hair types, featuring a unique diagnostic approach and natural ingredients.  Their bottom-up product development begins and ends with real people and takes a problem-solving approach to real hair care needs.

Product Picks:

Get Fresh Shampoo (fine, limp or oily hair, color safe)

Featherweight Conditioner (fine, limp or oily hair, color safe)

Mane Tame (for most hair types, especially frizzy, curly or fly away)

9. Rare Elements 

Built on the principles of luxury and performance, this distinct brand delivers the same gratification that salon-professionals depend on and the healing benefits that only nature can provide. Made using the most exotic and quintessential ingredients in the world, they’ve developed a simple yet effective collection that is ideal for restoring and maintaining the hair’s integrity.

Product Picks:

Pure Shampoo (for all, but best for dry, damaged, processed hair, color safe)

Essential Conditioner (best for dry, damaged, processed hair, color safe

10. The Wonderseed 

The Wonder Seed’s mission is to nurture, heal and protect skin and hair with a complete line of products rich in virgin organic hempseed oil, the most nutritious oil on Earth.

Product Picks:

Hemp Seed Oil Shampoo – Sweet Orange (for all hair types)

Hemp Seed Oil Conditioner – Sweet Orange (for all hair types)

11. Yarok 

Their focus is to make the greatest positive impact on hair and scalp health with the least negative impact on the natural environment. Whether it’s our packaging, our product formulations, our day-to-day operations or our strategic partnerships we are dedicated to supporting environmental causes.

Product Picks:

Feed Your Do Styling Whip (for all hair types, especially dry, frizzy or in need of texture)

Feed Your Youth (for all hair types, especially thinning or sensitive scalp)

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

And Part 2: 41 Facial Care Products here.

*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.

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

The post EcoSalon’s 2013 Eco-Beauty Approved Guide Part 3: 11 Hair Care Products appeared first on EcoSalon.

Welcome to the second installment of our seven-part Eco Salon Eco-Beauty Approved Guide: Facial Care. Coming up next is:

HAIR
MAKE-UP & COLOR PRODUCTS
PERSONAL CARE & HYGIENE
SCENT
SUN

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

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

THE FACIAL CARE LIST

1. 100% Pure

Striving to always provide the best and most nourishing skincare products while loving and being charitable towards animals, 100% Pure offers the only makeup colored from the antioxidant rich pigments of fruits and vegetables. Absolutely no synthetic chemicals, artificial fragrances, chemical preservatives or any other toxins!

Product Picks:

Coffee Bean Eye Cream (circles and puffiness)
Superfruits Reparative Cream (for anti-aging & dry skin)
Lavender Seafoam Facial Cleanser (for combination skin)

2. Acure Organics

Natural, organic and fair trade skin care products that provide visible results founded on a simple concept: provide healthy skin care products using the purest organic and fair trade certified ingredients in order to help raise money in the fight against breast cancer and to support environmental causes.

Product Picks:

100% Certified Organic Argan Oil (for all skin & hair types.  Good for added shine in hair)

Radical Resurfacing Facial Lotion (for all skin types, especially sun damaged or maturing)

3. Anatomy Naturals

Amazed and the effectiveness of natural remedies, Kelly Green formulated her collection with nourishing, therapeutic, and effective ingredients to create luxurious, delicious smelling products to make your skin glow with youthful, radiant health! Free of synthetic ingredients, chemicals, parabens, artificial preservatives, artificial colors and fragrances, the line is gluten-free, vegetarian, and cruelty-free.

Product Pick:

Revitalizing Dead Sea Mud Mask (for all skin types, especially congested or prone to break outs)

4. Arcona 

Dedicated to offering the highest quality, most effective skin care, the enzyme-based ingredients include high concentrations of antioxidants, plant lipids and extracts, sea vegetables, essential oils, vitamins and minerals, cold processed in small batches and manufactured according to state-of-the-art, chirally correct technology.

Product Picks:

Triad Pads (for all skin types, essential pre-moisturizer treatment)

Brightening Gommage (for normal, dry and aging skin, good for hyperpigmentation & dullness)

5. Astara 

Astara Skin Care is a profoundly effective natural skin care regimen that integrates powerful antioxidants, raw organic plants, flower essences and sea extracts to supply life force to cells for age prevention, repair and deep hydration. The products provide health, harmony, balance and a youthful glow to the skin.

Product Picks:

Daily Refining Scrub (for all skin types, perfect ‘grit’ level and refreshing)

Activated Antioxidant Infusion (for all skin types, especially mature)

6. Blissoma 

Blissoma is a raw plant-based, super pure skincare and apothecary collection using herbs and essential oils to enhance natural health and radiance. Known for innovative, niche body products made from premium, raw, vegetarian ingredients; they provide a pure, natural, and effective experience for conscious consumers who seek products of substance and style.

Product Picks:

Amend Facial Solar Repair Anti Aging Serum (for all skin types, prevents sun damage and repairs existing sun damage)

Amend Antioxidant Soothing Lotion (for all ski types, perfect after sun treatment to minimize damage)

7. By Nieves 

Super natural ingredients expertly blended to create handmade skincare served with a wink and a smile. Everything Good. Nothing Bad.

Product Pick:

“C” Perfect Skin (normal & mature skin, great preventative & to address fine lines & pigmentation)

8. Celtic Complexion

Celtic Complexion is luxury organic skin care. It is based on the healing properties of coconut oil. Hand blended by master esthetician Jennifer Devlin without chemicals, dyes or fragrance, all products come with a 100 percent money-back guarantee

Product Picks:

Calming Serum (rosacea, acne prone or sensitive skin)

Celtic Complexion Cream (dry, sensitive skin)

9. Clairvoyant Beauty

A marriage of age-old natural remedies and the latest in skincare science delivers luxurious, handcrafted anti-aging formulas that restore the skin to its most beautiful and balanced state.  Using natural and organic ingredients from the purest and most powerful wild-crafted botanicals, their formulas are developed in small batches to ensure the highest quality and eliminate the need for extraneous chemical preservatives.

Product Picks:

Depuffing Eye Gel (for everyone, serious depuffing action for the worst bags)

Exfoliating AHA Scrub (great for large pores, oily skin & dullness)

10. CV Skin Labs

A skin care line with an unprecedented standard for safety plus potent ingredients to return to skin a youthful radiance and glow, these highly functional products may be used with full confidence by men and women, specifically by those with chemical sensitivities, sensitive skin, and conditions like eczema, dermatitis and chronic dryness.

Product Pick:

Calming Moisture for Face, Neck and Scalp

11. Desert Essence

Inspired by the desert and all that it has to offer, in 1978, Desert Essence became the first company to market jojoba oil, followed by tea tree oil, and since then have expanded to include natural and organic beauty care products specifically formulated to improve the lifestyles of today’s most health-conscious consumers.

Product Pick:

Blemish Touch Stick (oily, acne prone or occasional break-out, easy application spot treatment)

12. Devita 

One of the fastest growing all-natural, 100 percent paraben free, PETA certified vegan cosmeceutical skin care line in the country, offering more than 100 different DeVita Natural Skin Care products, a complete line of revolutionary aloe-infused mineral color cosmetics, and a professional line of skin care products sold exclusively through licensed professionals.

Product Picks:

High Performance Glycolic Acid Blend (all skin types, especially acne prone & mature)

Acne Solution Pads (acne prone)

13. Dr. Hauschka

Dr.Hauschka natural skin care products and holistic home remedies respect the body’s natural rhythms, working with these processes to restore balance and bring about lasting beauty. Dr.Hauschka believes that when individuals feel healthy and balanced, they are better able to care for others and the planet on which they live.

Product Picks:

Cleansing Milk (normal to dry skin, doubles as make-up remover, lightweight soap free cleanser to use with or without water)

Toned Day Cream (all skin types, lends a hint of natural color, lightweight, soaks right in)

14. Epicuren 

Offering pure, innovative skincare using the most luxurious natural ingredients available, their true passion is to combine the infinite discoveries within nature and technology. Skin care and wellness provide the perfect platform to integrate these inspirations, resulting in endless possibilities.

Product Picks:

Hydro Plus Moisturizer

Hydrating Mineral Mask

15. Evolue 

Created for those who were either born with sensitive skin or became very sensitive over time through using harsh products/procedures. Evolue Sensible Skincare incorporates most effective and pure ingredients with gentle methods for naturally glowing skin.

Product Picks:

Gentle Cleanser & Makeup Remover (creamy, gentle yet effective waterless cleanser to keep skin’s moisture barrier intact)

16. Golden Path Alchemy 

Golden Path Alchemy is a holistic, handmade, herbal skin care company created by two licensed acupuncturists and herbalists in Southern California. They combine Chinese herbs, Western herbs, therapeutic essential oils, flower essences and gem elixirs to create powerful healing blends that transform your skin from ordinary to extraordinary.

Product Picks:

Awaken Cleanser (oil cleanser for all skin types, refreshes, purifies and awakens skin)

Purify Serum (congested, oily skin loves it but for all skin types)

17. Josh Rosebrook 

Convinced of the human body’s power to rejuvenate itself with the potent agents found in natural plants, herbs, and enzymes, Josh’s high-grade formulas that include alive, active and all-natural ingredients deliver dense nutrition, youthful vitality and supremely effective results.

Product Pick:

Active Enzyme Exfoliator (for all skin types, gently brightens, tightens, removes dead skin cells, allows penetration of treatments)

18. Juice Beauty 

Clinically validated, authentically organic beauty products supported by solid eco values created by a team of experienced professionals and scientists who are pioneering organic efficacy within the beauty products industry. Formulated using a unique, antioxidant packed organic juice base, they use powerful ingredients such as alpha lipoic acid, coenzyme Q10, DMAE, peptides, fat soluble vitamin C and essential fatty acids for optimum results.

Product Pick:

Stem Cellular Repair Moisturizer (feels amazing, lovely moisture, reduces wrinkles over time with skin repairing stem cells)

19. Kahina Giving Beauty 

A holistic line of organic skin care named for a Berber Queen and prophetess, a symbol of empowerment and a heroine for the Berber women, the indigenous people of North Africa, many of whom live in Morocco’s argan region. All Kahina products are made with high concentrations of the highest quality certified organic argan oil from this region, paired wit the highest quality natural ingredients nature has to offer from around the world, each offering profound benefits for all skin types.

Favorite Products:

Argan Oil (for everyone, dry to oily, anti-oxidant, skin balancing, absorbs quickly, no residue left behind)

Antioxidant Mask (for everyone, a great pre-event, soothing mask to plump skin & give it a glow)

20. Kimberly Sayer Organics 

The product of a combined passion for organics, aromatherapy, physics, chemistry and biology, Kimberly Sayer has mastered the science of skincare using only organic ingredients to create an unparalleled collection of holistic face and body treatments.

Product Picks:

Tangerine & Calendula Healing Light Night Cream (light moisture for oily, break out prone skin)

Ultra Light SPF 30 (oil control, moisture plus SPF, soaks in fast with no shine)

21. La Bella Figura 

Using natural, organic and wild crafted whole plant ingredients, sustainably sourced and known for their botanic therapeutic power to create performance driven products that work to protect, repair and prevent skin conditions for the most efficacious yet gentle anti aging effects and radiant skin.

Product Picks:

Rainforest Rehydration Cream (highly concentrated, intensive moisture for super dry skin)

Decouverte Eye Serum (firming, fine line reducing for a smoother under eye area)

22. Ladybug Jane

Unlike any other balm, Flavor Balms are all about pure ingredients without compromising fun or flavor. Each balm is handmade with the finest plant based vegan and organic ingredients.

Product Pick:

Flavor Balms (vegan, super moisturizing, deliciously flavored lip balms)

23. May Lindstrom Skincare 

Euphoric concoctions for the beauty gourmand formulated for results and unparalleled pleasure. Sublime luxury direct from the source, May Lindstrom Skin inspires you to take your self-care routine to a new zenith of delight and indulgence. As a catalyst for decadent skin-care rituals, they invite you to create the time and space for the personal connection you deserve.

Product Pick:

The Youth Dew (intense antioxidant infusion for glowing skin)

24. Marie Veronique Organics 

Provides therapeutic benefits for all skin types, including sensitive, rosacea and acne-prone and aging skin, their collections work holistically to deliver the essential nutrients your skin needs to maintain its vitality, resilience and integrity and to address the challenges of aging skin with the most potent ingredients available.

Product Picks:

Pacific Face Oil (for dry, mature skin, potent anti-oxidant protection & repair of damage)

Pacific Night Serum for Skin Lightening (for sun damaged skin, treats hyperpigmentation & dullness)

25. Me & The Girls

Beneficial Organic Beauty combines the development of luxury facial and body moisturizers with strategies to fund organizations that serve women and girls while supporting domestic income for families and organic farmers in their efforts to produce safe crops and sustainably harvest lush ingredients and raw materials at fair wages.

Product Picks:

MOON Anti Aging Night Moisturizer (for dry skin, anti-aging, those who prefer a balm to a cream)

Bar Beleza (for everyone, multi-use moisture & shine stick)

26. MiEssence

The world’s first extensive range of internationally certified organic products for skin, hair, body, cosmetic, oral and nutrition.  Products are delivered directly to you fresh, within a short time of being made in a unique cold formulation to ensure fully potent living active ingredients.

Product Pick:

Firming Eye & Neck Serum (anti-aging & reparative, smoothes fine lines)

27. MyChelle 

With a singular obsession to create the most effective, nontoxic skin care products in the country. MyChelle products use the highest quality plant extracts, plant stem cells and essences with unique and proprietary ingredient combinations at the highest concentration levels to deliver powerful, quick and visible results without using nasty ingredients or toxic chemicals.

Product Picks:

Fruit Fiesta Peel (intense peel, not for sensitive skin, highly effective to brighten & tighten)

Supreme Polypeptide Cream (great for wrinkle reduction & collagen building)

28. Pangea Organics 

Pangea products support sustainable agriculture and culture through fair trade sourcing, organic farming, living wages and renewable, recycled and recyclable resources. All products are honestly labeled and crafted in small batches, using pure, organic ingredients that replenish the skin and soothe or stimulate your senses and preserved using the gentlest of methods to retain the nurturing properties of the botanicals in each customized blend.

Product Pick:

Italian Red Mandarin with Rose Facial Cream (for dry and sensitive skin, absorbs quickly, feels like a drink for the skin)

29. Pure + Remedy

Committed to providing high quality holistic skin care products that effectively meet the specific concerns of your skin. Their products are formulated with the highest quality natural, non-toxic, clinically proven and organic ingredients that offer great benefits to the specific needs of your skin.

Product Pick:

Damage Repairing Facial Serum (a light weight serum full of skin repairing goodness or mature or sun damaged skin.

30. Shobha

Leaders in natural hair removal, Shobha creates meticulously formulated natural products created with your safety in mind.

Product Pick:

Rosewater Freshening Cloths (for everyone, anytime, anywhere to freshen up)

31. Shamanuti 

Shamanuti embraces the time-honored medicinal and spiritual practices of traditional plant medicine to restore skin’s optimal balance. The products provide essential native ingredients which calm, hydrate and nourish the skin. Shamanuti is a true urban brand that combines organic botanicals with the best natural ingredients to create luxurious and effective products.

Product Picks:

Activated Charcoal Cleanser (great for oilier skin & detoxification)

Seaweed Toner (for all skin types, shrinks pores, stabilizes ph)

32. Shea Terra Organics 

For over a decade, Shea Terra Organics’ founder, Tammie Umbel, has been helping native Africans to preserve their wildlife habitats by sharing their indigenous, healing ingredients with the world. Not only do Shea Terra Organics’ skin care treatments assist in preservation, they are also the backbone of economic sustainability for many hardworking families across the continent.

Product Pick:

Rose Hips Black Soap Deep Pore Face Wash and Mask (for all skin types, deep clean, detox & anti-aging)

33. Stark Skincare 

Using modern twists on traditional skincare regimes, Stark uses plant-derived oils, butters, clay and extracts to provide effective yet gentle solutions for city-ravaged skin. With a bounty of naturally occurring antioxidants, protective barriers, soothing botanicals and naturally exfoliating or cleansing extracts, skin not only feels and looks immediately healthier using Stark Skincare’s all natural formulas, but the long-term benefits are equally remarkable.

Product Picks:

Grapefruit Cleanse + Hydrate Balm (multi purpose cleanser, moisturizes, hair tamer & lip balm)

Cypress Purity + Defense Oil (amazing smell, purifies & moisturizes all skin types, no oily residue)

34. Sugared Beauty

Sugared Beauty is a line of skin care made from the freshest, purest organic and food grade ingredients. Each product is designed for sensitive skin and most have been formulated in the founder’s kitchen!

Product Pick:

Foaming Face Wash (scrub plus foaming cleanser for a squeaky clean, smooth finish)

35. Suki 

Your skin is remarkably adaptable, continually responding to internal and external changes like temperature, stress, pain, humidity, toxicity, diet, lifestyle, sunlight & hormonal shifts. Suki evolutionary skincare systems are clinically proven to address the many faces of your life and evolve with your needs each day, month and year. Suki helps you achieve a state of harmony and ultimately a clear, radiantly healthy and glowing complexion.

Product Picks:

Renewing Bio Resurfacing Facial Peel (for all skin types, even sensitive to refresh & renew)

36. S.W. Basics 

At S.W. Basics, they use the simplest possible blends of whole, high-potency ingredients to create products that truly work. You do want great skin, but you don’t want to hurt yourself or the planet to get it. And that’s why founder Adina Grigore started S.W. Basics.

Product Pick:

Cleanser (for all skin types, a basic, gentle, effective cream cleanser)

Cream (for all skin types, a simple yet effective moisturizer)

37. Tata Harper 

As a company Tata Harper seeks to challenge the assumption that “natural” means less effective. They are passionate about promoting a modern, health-conscious natural beauty lifestyle that’s committed to safety, honesty and sustainability. Tata Harper’s founding mission was to give the skincare industry a fresh start with highly effective and luxurious anti aging beauty products that are completely free of synthetic and chemical ingredients.

Product Picks:

Regenerating Cleanser (for all skin types, a gentle, yet effective cleanser)

Replenishing Nutrient Complex (for all skin types, a multivitamin for the skin)

38. Tay 

TAY is about bringing simplicity to good skincare. TAY brings out purity and embraces only high-grade botanical ingredients in its formulas. Having been an insider to the beauty industry for several years, founder and creative director, Sarah Tay, wanted to bring a natural and organic collection that would be potent and effective.

Product Pick:

Safflower Seed Night Cream with Jojoba (for all skin types, even oily, rich, quickly absorbed)

39. Tatcha 

Enduring beauty is a culmination of the wisdom of centuries. Having heard that many of the world’s greatest beauty secrets originated with geishas, Tatcha explored scientific journals, unearthed historical archives and studied the ageless beauty rituals of the iconic geisha to shed light on a highly evolved approach to beauty. Their mission is to share with a new generation the inspired approach to a beautiful life that they discovered on their journeys East.

Product Picks:

Petal Fresh Original Aburatorigami Japanese Beauty Papers (excellent shine control)

40. Tilvee 

Tilvee Eco Ethical Skincare creates innovative all natural skin care products that a divine experience for the skin. Rich in super-fruits, potent antioxidants and nourishing EFA’s without the use of toxic chemicals. Their tagline is “Eco Ethical Skincare” and they take that commitment seriously. Tilvee is passionate about green business practices and using ingredients that support sustainable, organic and fair trade agriculture.

Product Pick:

Acai & Pomegranate Rejuvenating Mask (customizable for any skin type for smooth, glowing skin)

41. Weleda 

Weleda cultivates beauty with biodynamic  farming methods, by developing fair trade partnerships for a more positive impact on the world and by empowering the individual to make positive change in the world. Of course, they also cultivate beauty with meaningful products that work with your body’s own natural vitality and ability to nurture and heal.

Product Pick:

Pomegranate Eye Cream (for mature/aging or defense against aging, great for fine lines)

Refining Toner (for all skin types, minimizes pores)

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

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

The post EcoSalon’s 2013 Eco-Beauty Approved Guide Part 2: 41 Facial Care Products appeared first on EcoSalon.

The Bath & Body Guide – is the first  in our 7 part series beauty guide. Coming up next is:

FACIAL CARE
HAIR
MAKE-UP & COLOR PRODUCTS
PERSONAL CARE & HYGIENE
SCENT
SUN

Ladies and gentleman:  It’s time to make a new resolution. In honor of Earth Day, why not do something good for you AND the planet by making the switch to healthier, more sustainable, natural beauty and personal care products?

What does this mean?  It’s certainly a sliding scale, but in general, it means ditching toxin-laden products made by companies that don’t engage in responsible business practices in favor of healthier products made by companies that give a damn. You’d think it seems like common sense, however, it’s often easier said than done.

We women have a pretty deep connection with our beauty products, and I don’t just mean your foundation and lipstick. I’m also talking basic personal care: deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, face and body care, and of course, cosmetics.  We find one we like, that works for us, and tend to stick with it like white on rice, ingredients be damned…it works!  Whether it’s the perfect stay-put, lash thickening mascara, your “signature” scent, or the under eye cream that keeps those bags at bay, most of us have at least one “can’t live without” beauty product (more likely several) and chances are, they might not be that good for you or the planet.

So what’s a girl to do?  Start with what you use the most and search hard for a healthier option made by a responsible company.  Scratch that one off the list and move on the next item.

Not sure what to try or where to look?  After all, there are a boatload (aircraft carrier size) of so called “natural products” on the market.  Not to fret, we’re here to help with our first annual Earth Day round up of EcoSalon ‘Eco Beauty Approved’ beauty and personal care products to help you make the switch.

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

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

THE BATH & BODY LIST

1. Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm 

Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm resides at an elevation of roughly 4,000 ft. and is home to approximately 55,000 lavender plants and 45 different varieties of lavender. Built on a value-centered philosophy of “Aloha” which means love, friendship and responsibility, Ali’i Kula Lavender’s founding principle speaks to the quality of our relationships with the land, the community and each other.

Product Pick: Organic Lavender Gardener Lotion (lovely all purpose moisturizer for everyone)

2. Buddha Nose 

All of the ingredients used in Buddha Nose products are totally free of all synthetics and chemical preservative systems. The skin is your largest organ, and by using only organic ingredients, Buddha Nose not only respects the health and well being of your body, but also respects the health and well-being of the environment.

Product Picks:

Bodhi Sugar Scrub (for soothing aromatherapy & smooth skin)

I Booster Salve (provides bacterial & viral protection and a boost of immunity)

3. Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps

Offering a range of high quality organic and Fair Trade personal care products, from lotions to shaving gels – all certified under the same USDA program that certifies organic foods. Major causes and focuses Dr. Bronner’s currently supports include fighting for organic integrity in personal care, recommercialization of industrial hemp in the US, and promotion of Fair Trade certification of product supply chains to ensure fair wages and prices are paid.

Product Pick:

Almond Liquid Soap (for everyone, ideal multi-purpose, gentle cleanser)

4. Duchess Marden 

Following a desert trek in India, Founder Marla Steuer came upon pure rose water and discovered charm, ritual, scent and pleasure all at once. When she learned of the many benefits of the rose, she was smitten. Wishing to share this precious secret with everyone, Marla set out to incorporate the healing, hydrating benefits of rose, once coveted for only royalty, into a completely natural skincare line.

Product Pick:

Damascena Body Serum (intense body treatment for moisture & firmness, soothing, quickly absorbed)

5. EO Organics

EO acknowledges the independence of all things, puts people and the planet before profits and works collectively to make responsible, sustainable and authentic personal care products.

Product Pick:

Lemon Verbena Body Lotion (for all skin types, quickly absorbed, fresh scent)

6. Evolue Beauty  

Sensibly created to provide the best natural and chemical-free skincare that everyone can afford in light, break resistant, and inexpensive BPA-free packaging. Not a fad or a trend, Evolue uses the best pharmaceutical grade natural ingredients and stays authentic to their purpose which is to be pure, effective, and logical skincare for those who truly seek it.  Enjoy!

Product Pick:

Must Have Chocolate Body Scrub (for everyone, ideal amount of grit, decadent chocolate)

7. Erbaviva 

Erbaviva was created to offer mommies-to-be and babies upscale products completely free from all harsh detergents, chemical fragrances, and other unhealthy additives. Today they offer a wide range of products for the entire family with bath, body and true aromatherapy.

Product Picks:

Embrace Body Lotion (sensual scent, soaks in quickly for light moisturizing)

Lemon & Sage Deodorant (alcohol & herb spray keeps odor at bay – nice and light)

8. Essence of Vali 

Beyond the products, Essence of Vali loves inspiring people to love themselves, age gracefully and experience a whole new way of life.  They believe in challenging your mind, honoring your body and celebrating your spirit.

Product Pick:

Sleep Concentrate (a few drops on the pillow will lull you to sleep)

9. Farmaesthetics 

Natural ingredients vibrate with energy. They have the power to restore balance and sustain your unique skin health. In keeping with the traditions of American herbalism, each herb  and flower chosen for a Farmaesthetics preparation plays a functional role. Each ingredient is there for a reason. The result is not just skin that looks healthier, but is healthier.

Product Pick:

Vapour Bath Elixir

10. John Master’s Organics 

Caring about yourself and caring about the earth don’t have to be mutually exclusive. For more than 20 years, this has been the guiding force in creating Super Natural Beauty for your hair, your skin, and your home that treats the earth with respect.

Product Picks:

Blood Orange & Vanilla Bodywash (for everyone, decadent & moisturizer)

11. Metropolis Soap Company

Metropolis Soap Company is the result of over a decade of research into natural and cruelty-free skincare. All of our products have 12 ingredients or less and contain no animal byproducts, sulfates, or parabens.

Product Pick:

Honeysuckle & Violet Bath Soak (smells divine, soothes and nourishes skin)

12. Pangea Organics 

Supporting sustainable agriculture and culture through fair trade sourcing, organic farming, living wages, renewable, recycled and recyclable resources. All products are honestly labeled and crafted in small batches, using pure, organic ingredients that replenish the skin and soothe or stimulate your senses and preserved using the gentlest of methods to retain the nurturing properties of the botanicals in each customized blend.

Product Pick:

Chilean Rosehip with Tamanu & Red Clover Hand Cream (rich and moisturizing, yet not greasy)

13. Savvy Boheme 

A portion of the sale of each Savvy Boheme item made with organic and fair-trade ingredients goes to Family Legacy, whose goal is to foster a dynamic and growing relationship between the families of America and the orphaned and vulnerable children of Zambia.

Product Pick:

Shea Butter Spain (richly moisturizing & soothing, starts as a solid and melts into skin)

14. Shea Terra Organics 

For over a decade, Shea Terra Organics’ founder, Tammie Umbel, has been helping native Africans to preserve their wildlife habitats by sharing their indigenous, healing ingredients with the world. Not only do Shea Terra Organics’ skin care treatments assist in preservation, they are also the backbone of economic sustainability for many hardworking families across the continent.

Product Picks:

Whipped Shea Butter Body Creams (like a drink for your skin, creamy texture soaks right in)

15. Simple Sugars 

Founder of Simple Sugars, Lani Lazzari believes, “If you wouldn’t eat it, then you probably have no business putting it on your skin!” Simple Sugar products are all-natural, are safe and effective for sensitive skin, are fun to use and smell great too.

Product Pick:

Body Scrubs (for everyone, smell good enough to eat, leave skin silky smooth)

16. Skinfare

All SkinFare sticks contain the same powerful base blended from just four recognizable ingredients: coconut oil, palm fruit oil, beeswax and castor oil. They have medicinal and cosmetic properties. Each individual flavor combines this multi-purpose base with different essential oils that provide additional benefits to your skin. Every ingredient is USDA certified organic, harvested sustainably, and traded fairly.

Product Picks:

Verdant Green (great for warding off insects and treating bites and rashes)

Thunder Cake (good for bug bites, sunburn, rashes, & irritation)

17. Strawberry Hedgehog  

Strawberry Hedgehog products are 100 percent vegan and therefore free of animal byproducts as well as free of any animal testing. They assure that no critter was ever hurt to give you fabulous skin and that you are helping the planet by not contributing to the ecologically devastating effects of massive factory farming.

Product Pick:

Hand Made Soaps (lovely natural scents, moisturizing cleansing for all over)

18. Sustainable Worth 

Nutrition from the outside-in, these products are hand crafted in small batches and made with only the purest organic food-grade ingredients with the help of an expert herbalist to develop intoxicating aromatherapy-grade essential oil mixtures that are medicine for both the body and soul.

Product Picks:

Organic Body Honey (rich and soothing, intense moisture)

Organic Bath & Body Oil 

19. Suki

Clinically-proven to address the many faces of your life & evolve with your needs each day, month & year. Suki® helps you achieve a state of harmony & ultimately a clear, radiantly healthy & glowing complexion. The products provide the advanced interactive formulations of essentials, balancing & nourishing – that allow you to create a unique skincare regimen for who you are today.

Product Pick:

Velvet Moisturizing Body Cream (firming and toning, plus tons of moisture for all skin types)

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

The post EcoSalon’s 2013 Eco-Beauty Approved Guide Part 1: 19 Bath & Body Products appeared first on EcoSalon.

Consider this a token of the ritual of bathing, a refreshing alternative to grimy shower gel.

Soap-on-a-rope producers Senteurs d’Orient are based in Lebanon, where the soap making business has been going strong for some 6,000 years. Before Dove and mesh sponges cornered the market, taking a bath was considered a luxurious and leisurely privilege, a sentiment that the Senteurs d’Orient soaps recall.

Made from pure vegetable oils, ultra-moisturizing shea butter and hand-picked flowers and blossoms, they’re completely natural and toxic-free (unlike so many of our other cosmetics).

Available for purchase at Prince Charles’ eco-luxury shop at the royal Highgrove estate in Gloucestershire or on the company’s website for about $10.

Look for Lustables daily at EcoSalon. 100% gorgeous green finds, and never sponsored. Submit your favorite to tips@ecosalon.com

The post Lustables: Soap On a Rope 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!

The post EcoSalon Hits the Natural Products Expo West appeared first on EcoSalon.