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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Top image: Youthful Sins

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Simple beauty tips for a balanced budget.

Green beauty has flourished in the past several years, bringing clean ingredients to the masses. And nothing ushers forth an ageless natural beauty like products free of harmful chemicals. But the price of clean beauty can sometimes be more than a green goddess wants to pay. The good news? You can still get age-defying, top-shelf products without composting the innards of your wallet.

Here are ten green beauty products that will brighten your age-less beauty on a budget.

Raw Sugar Scrub by Strawberry Hedgehog ($20.00)
For a youthful glow, toner and moisturizer are your best friends. But a good body scrub is your wise, cool auntie who can talk about the days of Woodstock yet still crack you up on Twitter. The key to skin renewal is to make dead skin the enemy, and this organic Raw Sugar Scrub from vegan experts Strawberry Hedgehog does just that. Made with organic sweet almond and apricot kernel oils, vegan sugar, and pure essential oils, this sweet but simple products offers up an excellent exfoliation.

Not to mention it’s in a mason jar.

Sensitive Care Lotion, Chamomile, by Seventh Generation ($7.99)
Dry, flaky skin is the bane of aging—seriously, it should be wearing a cape and twirling a moustache, it’s so evil. But even the most supple-skinned maiden knows to reach for a daily moisturizer to maintain her dewy hue. Green product giant Seventh Generation offers up this gentle, 95% plant-based product which provides deep moisture with a light application.

Bearberry Oily Skin Balancing & Toning Mist by John Masters Organics ($20.00)
Toner is like the available nice guy we’re supposed to live happily ever after with at the end of the romantic comedy. We ignore toner when, the entire time, the answer is right there in front of our face. One of the best ways to maintain and brighten your complexion, toners can restore your skin’s natural pH levels while protecting your skin against stress and pollutants. This offer from organic skin experts John Masters Organics provides a moisturizing coverage made up of certified organic ingredients.

Apple Brightening Cleanser by MyChelle Dermaceuticals ($13.39)
As we age, our skin can take on a dull tone which only works to add years to our complexion. This product from MyChelle Dermaceuticals promises to gently cleanse away the look of discoloration and sun damage, all the while offering up a fun, fruity scent. It is free of sulfates and gluten and is vegetarian-friendly.

Organic Coffee Bean Eye Cream by 100% Pure ($19.00)
Nothing ages you more than puffy, dark-rimmed eyes that look like they just dragged themselves through the sewer after a night of partying. (Or sitting up with a baby, without the sewer part.) This Coffee Bean Eye Cream from 100% Pure offers up anti-inflammatory, caffeine-rich green tea, great for reducing puffiness and increasing circulation. It is 100% natural, 100% vegan, and gluten-free.

Certified Organic Leave-In Conditioner by Intelligent Nutrients (Travel Size—$12.00)
Dry, brittle tresses do nothing for a youthful visage, so it’s important to keep locks feeling hydrated and healthy. From eco-beauty giant Horst Rechelbacher (founder of Aveda) comes this fantastic conditioner from Intelligent Nutrients. Certified USDA Organic, this conditioner offers the mysterious Intellimune ingredient, described as a “blend of nature’s powerhouse antioxidants.”  It is vegan and gluten-free.

Baking Soda and Lemon Teeth Whiteners (Less than $5)
Bright pearly whites are a key indication of youth, but who wants to use the harsh, chemical whiteners gracing our drug store shelves? Try lemon juice and baking soda as a simple, home remedy to freshen up your choppers. In a small bowl, mix together the juice of one freshly-squeezed organic lemon with a small amount of baking soda. After using a tissue to wipe excess salvia from your teeth, apply the mixture. Leave it on for one minute before brushing it off with your toothbrush. (Note: Do not exceed the one minute mark. You don’t want the lemon acid to damage your tooth enamel.)

Bronzer by Alima Pure ($20.00)
Sun-kissed skin is seen as the signal of health and youth in our culture. However, some bronzers can make you look more Snooki than siren. This bronzer from Alima Pure offers a light color in multiple shades to produce just the right hint of health. Alima Pure is a preservative-free line with a BDIH natural cosmetics certification, putting it on standard with European brands.

Fingerless Gloves by Coolibar ($19.00)
Did you spend your youth, like most of us, waving your hands in direct sunlight with nary a sun block smudge to be had? These fingerless gloves from Coolibar can help halt the march of time across your hands. With a UPF rating of 50+, they keep your hands sunshine-free and, while driving, offer up a nice grip on the steering wheel. Not to mention, they serve as a great visual reminder to keep the sun block flowing. (Here are our picks for green sun blocks.)

Correcting Concealer by Juice Beauty ($18.00)
Dark spots from sun damage are the enemy of the clear, even skin many of us covet. But mainstream lightening products can contain chemicals such as hydroquinone, which is so toxic that the FDA has proposed banning it. Instead, consider this correcting concealer from Juice Beauty, which offers up coverage with certified organic and natural ingredients.

Image: pedrosimoes7
FTC Compliant 

The post 10 Ways to Look Younger for $20 or Less appeared first on EcoSalon.

There has been much ado about everything lately in the world of sunscreens. First, you have to stay out of the sun. Then you have to stay in the sun for at least a few minutes of the day. Then you have to be careful what kind of sunscreen you buy, how much you use it, and how well you use it. Because if you don’t, clearly the media is going to come after you waving sticks tipped with cancer. Or so it seems.

We’ve already learned about the dangers of sunscreen. As we recently reported, the Environmental Working Group has put the world on notice that the excessive amount of chemicals in sunscreens may be doing damage on a cellular level. As we discussed “Common sunscreens contain cinnamates, benzophenones and amino benzoic acid, which counteract sunlight when it is absorbed by the skin, thus causing genetic-material to damage.” Further, experts point out that sunscreen can create a false sense of security amongst its users. You still need to cover up and watch your time in the sun, regardless of what sunscreen you may or may not have put on your body.

But news out of the health world shows that doctors are starting to take notice about these chemicals. Harvard Health Publications reports that the FDA is requiring new rules for sunscreens, which are set to take effect in October of 2010. According to the experts, “UVB is the main cause of sunburn and the more carcinogenic of the two, although both contribute to skin cancer. UVA, which moves at a longer wavelength and is more penetrating, is responsible for tanning and contributes to skin aging.” Companies would be required to test and rank UVA protection claims, and not just UVB. And UVA and UVB will get “equal billing.”

Further, the FDA would make sure reapplication is emphasized while discouraging claims that sunscreens reduce aging and skin cancer risks. SPF ratings would also top off at 50+. Want to know more? You can read in detail about these requirements here.

But what does this mean for the chemicals in sunscreen? At present, not much – though Congress has just introduced the Safe Cosmetics Act of 2010, which will give the FDA authority to make sure dangerous chemicals are not present in our beauty products. (Because right now they don’t have that right. Seriously.)

In the meantime, keep your eye on the prize when it comes to reading your labels. Look for eco-friendly packaging, titanium oxide over zinc oxide, (which Skin Deep rates as less hazardous) and less chemicals in the labels, especially cinnamates, benzophenones and amino benzoic acid.

Image: unconstructive_bry

The post Hooray FDA: New Rules for Sunscreen Are Finally on the Way appeared first on EcoSalon.

Sunscreen can be, well, complicated. It’s like the bad boyfriends of our earlier twenties. We were told they were necessary at the time, but were they really worth the hassle in the end? As we recently reported, the Environmental Working Group declared that skin cancer is on the rise partially due to the extensive chemicals found in common sunscreens. Common sunscreens are causing damage on the cellular level. Just like our ex-boyfriends did. See how it’s all circular?

So it’s imperative to keep our sunscreens as chemical-free as possible. This brings us to the tactile portion of your reading experience – and that is how the sunscreen feels. I’ve been lucky enough to sample organic and natural sunscreens galore, so I feel like I’ve run a marathon of sunscreens. Texture is everything. A sunscreen may be made from wild berries grown organically on Venus, but if it’s too oily, I’m out. And if it has a hint of chalkiness to it, it might as well be battery acid. “˜Cause I ain’t using it.

Why am I admitting to be a total sunscreen diva? Because I know I have secret sisters out there who have the same worries. Well worry no more, my divalicious brethren! I’ve found a face sunscreen that serves up the best of all worlds. Coola Suncare’s Mineral Face Matte Finish SPF 30 is like the holy grail of sunscreen. It’s free of parabens, preservatives, and chemicals, and it is made with certified organic ingredients. It offers both UVA/UVB protection.

And best of all? It goes on like air. Due to the matte finish, it offers up an almost powdery application that leaves your skin feeling like you just dusted with cover up, not slicked with sunscreen. It was so ingenious that I immediately contacted the founder of Coola Suncare, Chris Birchby, to ask the secrets to this matte finish. (Full disclosure: Chris is also a friend of mine from Lafayette College. Does this mean I’m biased? Only against Lehigh University – Go Pards!)

I asked Chris to explain how the “matte” concept came about for this sunscreen. According to Chris, “While our chemists were experimenting with the best way to achieve a transparent zinc and titanium dioxide based sun block, they developed this wonderful powdery matte formulation. The cashmere powder feel immediately hooked us!”

Chris goes on to explain just what makes this matte so special. As Chris told me, “All our products are unique in their own way, but this matte powder cream offers a perfect counterpoint to our ultra sheer SPF lotions and is ideal for normal to oily skin types.”

Now, this product isn’t cheap at $36 for almost two ounces. Coola’s Suncare is preservative free, so you’re going to want to use it and use it well. You can order it here or find a store near you.

FTC Compliance

Image: Adam Witwer

The post Meet the Holy Grail of Sunscreen appeared first on EcoSalon.

It happens to all of us. You spend your teens and 20s running around without a skin care in the world. Rosy cheeks are the norm and crow’s feet are more Snow White than Betty White. Then it happens. After actually living a full life of sun and, well, living, you start to notice. As Dolly Parton says in Steel Magnolias, “Time marches on and it’s marching across your face.” Yep. It is.

And we love that! Obvs, due to the eco in EcoSalon, you’re not going to find tips for Botox or fillers here. I live in a town (cough cough Hollywood) where meeting an old friend for dinner can mean you’re suddenly staring down at their high school face. But this is one greenie who will never put a toxic chemical or needle near her face. So what I will do? Attempt to naturally address the dark spots – okay, age spots – that have been making themselves known on my face in recent years.

First, the facts. Dark spots are sometimes the result of too much sun and sometimes the result of hormonal changes. They can be caused by pregnancy, birth control pills, acne scarring, some antibiotics, certain diseases and more. Melanin is a key component in our skin’s defense from the sun. And dark spots are simply an excess of melanin in the skin.

Now, the tips. First, prevention. I will say it thrice for emphasis. Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen, and sunscreen. Okay, four times. In case you’re wondering, here are some great recommendations for natural and/or organic sunscreen, for face and body.

Exfoliate at least twice a week. This will encourage new skin cells to the surface of the skin and help maintain a more radiant glow. Want great natural products? Yep, we have you covered there as well.

Next, start lightening. Juice an organic grapefruit two times a day. Using a clean cotton swap, smooth the juice all over your face. Grapefruit contains natural lightening properties.

Potatoes also have lightening agents in their juice. Cut a thin slice of organic potato every evening and rub it into your skin.

Dried oranges also make a great mask. One beauty expert suggests the following: “Dry orange peels in sun. When they are fully dried, grind them in a mixture and make powder. Add raw milk to it, make a paste and apply it on your skin every day. Rinse it off with lukewarm water when dries.”

Narine Nikogosian of “Return to Beauty” suggests a pigmentation mask best for oily skin: Mix one tablespoon of chopped parsley with one tablespoon of honey. Mix ingredients together. Apply to the affected area and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse with cold water. If you have dry skin, substitute the honey with one tablespoon of sour cream.

Image: C.K.H

The post Handy Home Solutions to Treat Skin’s Dark Spots appeared first on EcoSalon.

Tell me if you relate. You’re outside frolicking in the sun (swimming, reading, secretly stalking your cute neighbor who pretends not to notice you walk by his house three times a day) and you think “Darn it, I should have brought a hat.” Sure, you’ve already carefully spackled your skin with all things SPF, but you forgot the hat. Maybe it was too hot, maybe it clashed with your outfit, or maybe you didn’t think you’d be so long in the sun. But now you’re cooking your scalp in the noon-time rays and you know it ain’t going to end up pretty.

Scalp sunburns are never pleasant to deal with. First, they hurt. Second, they flake off like dandruff. I’ve been able to actually peel my scalp, leading to a whole lot of grossed out friends and family members. You can treat a scalp sunburn with organic aloe vera, and some experts even advise against shampooing your hair while your scalp is burned. Harsh detergents can irritate it, so make sure you use a gentle organic product. (And here are some great ones to consider.)

But the best way to treat a scalp sunburn is to not allow it to happen in the first place. Yes, wear a hat. You can also simply slather sun block onto your exposed scalp – though this isn’t a favorite due to the excessive goop that can end up in your hair.

Or you can check out these products!

Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil

I Love This Product. Why? Because It Works. (Caps for emotion are necessary – recall that I have been able to peel said scalp.) For the sake of you, appreciated reader, I just spent four hours in the sun with no hat and exposed scalp. But before I embarked on this experience, I slathered my hair up with this product – and no burn! We’d never suggest our readers head out sans hat – but I can say that I’ve found a product that seems to protect your scalp, and presumably hair, from the sun’s rays.

It has a wonderfully citrus smell that is very appealing. It does leave a little bit of a residue – sort of like you haven’t washed your hair that day. This cruelty-free product comes in a container that is 100 percentpost consumer PET. It contains some organic ingredients, as well as shea butter, green tea extract, and Vitamin E.

Aveda Sun Care Hair and Body Cleanser

Aveda recommends this product for your post-beach shower. It is a “color-safe formula that gently and effectively removes chlorine, salt and product build-up, while helping to maintain moisture balance.” Like the hair veil, this product comes in a container that is 100 percent post consumer PET and contains some organic ingredients. I used it on my hair and really liked it. Sure, it wasn’t after a day at the beach, (I merely hadn’t washed my hair in a couple days,) but it has a terrific orangey smell and really does get your hair squeaky clean.

FTC Compliance

Image: kaibara87

The post Protecting Your Hair and Scalp From the Sun appeared first on EcoSalon.