Acure Lemongrass and Argan Stem Cell Shampoo & Conditioner

A few months ago, I told you about a favorite body lotion of mine, Acure's Calming Body Lotion in Lavender and Lotus Flower.   Since then I've been experimenting with some of the line's other products and have found my new favorites -  their Lemongrass and Argan Stem Cell Shampoo and Conditioner.  I'm already on my second set, I can't say enough good things about this fantastic duo!

The clarifying shampoo and conditioner are gentle enough for everyday use and is good for all hair types.  My hair is combination/normal and is naturally wavy, and this works really well for me.  Used with the conditioner, my hair feels healthy, clean and super shiny.  The combination of organic argan oil, argan stem cells and CoQ10 help support hair keratin and strengthen the follicle.  Avocado oil provides vitamin B12 and moisture while cocoa butter in the conditioner makes it rich and creamy, leaving my hair nicely conditioned and smooth.

The best part is the experience I have using this shampoo and conditioner  - it just feels like hair products we're used to, without the unnecessary chemicals.  It lathers well, rinses clean and my hair feels silky and manageable while wet, something that those of us who use natural shampoos know is hard to find.  And I love the scent - it's grassy, light and refreshing.

Here's the ingredient lowdown:  these products contain no sulfates, parabens, pthalates, are gluten-free, cruelty-free and vegan!  And even better,  they cost only $10.99 each!   Do you need any more reasons to run out and get them??

Acure's Lemongrass and Argan Stem Cell Shampoo and Conditioner are available at natural food markets such as Whole Foods or www.drugstore.com.

Scotch Naturals WaterColors Nail Polish

I'm excited that I recently received a bottle of Scotch Naturals WaterColors Nail Polish. I've had my eye on this line of nail polish for a while because it's a safe and eco-friendly alternative to "3 free" polishes.  Truth is, these so-called '"safer" polishes still contain many harmful chemicals.  Scotch Naturals is a great alternative to these.

I took my new bottle of Scotch Naturals in Kiltlifter to my salon for a pedicure.  The color is a rich classic red creme with a hint of orange, and is just perfect for summer.  It went on in two coats and has lasted all week with no chipping or peeling.  The one thing I need to point out is that there are very specific instructions that come along with this polish, including the need to buff and clean the nails before applying in addition to a base and top coat.  In order to get the results you definitely need to adhere to these instructions, but if you take your polish to a salon as I do, they do all that anyway so it's no big deal.  If you try to apply this polish by itself with no top coat, it goes on very dull.  So you do need the top coat for that boost of shine.

I'm definitely going to be purchasing more bottles of this nail polish, and although it's a little more expensive than your traditional polish, it's definitely worth it.  Plus, they have more than 30 beautiful colors to choose from.  And for those of us who are familiar with what's out there, you know it's not easy to find salon-quality colors in natural nail polish lines!

And here's the best part:  Scotch Naturals contains none of the chemicals found in typical nail polish: toluene, dibutyl phthelate, formaldehyde, acetone, and heavy metals. 

Scotch Naturals is available for $14.95 at www.NaturesBasin.com, an online retailer of natural products I recently became aware of.  Check them out, they carry loads of organic and natural products and offer free shipping on orders over $49.

Please note: I was provided this product free of charge in exchange for my honest review.

Juice Beauty Daily Essentials Regimen

Hi green beauty gals, I've been away for a little while trying out some new products.  Recently, I've been using a few combo products from Juice Beauty that I wanted to share with you.  I've always been interested in Juice Beauty and I found it at my local Whole Foods so I decided to test them out.

Juice Beauty products contain 98% organic ingredients and have great, natural ingredient lists.  I've been using the Daily Essentials Regimen which includes their Cleansing Milk, Hydrating Mist and Nutrient Moisturizer.  The company claims these products are for all skin types, and after using them, I think that is true except for the Nutrient Moisturizer, which I feel is best for skin that is more on the dry side.

Juice Beauty's Cleansing Milk is a creamy cleanser that also doubles as a make-up remover.  I actually liked it better as a make-up remover than a cleanser but that's because I typically like refreshing gel-like cleansers best.  Although this cleanser doesn't lather very much, it does do the trick, and it doesn't dry out your skin; it's very moisturizing.  I hate it when you wash your face and it feels dry and tight, this doesn't happen with this cleanser.

Juice Beauty's Hydrating Mist is a toner, and I love it!  It comes in a spray bottle, and is refreshing and smells great.  Antioxidant-rich grape juice, aloe vera and other nourishing oils combine to make a great toner that balances and hydrates your skin.  Best of all, it doesn't contain harsh alcohols or anything that dries out your skin or smells obnoxious.  Awesome!

Finally, Juice Beauty's Nutrient Moisturizer is a rich moisturizing lotion. I really liked this product.  As I mentioned above, all of the brand's Daily Essential products are made for all skin types but I believe this moisturizer is best for dry and mature skin.  Having said that, it doesn't feel too heavy or greasy on, and it melts into the skin.  I think it's also great as a night cream and like that it is has a light, almost unnoticeable scent.  It's a little more expensive, but a little goes a long way so this will last you for a while.

Overall, I really like this Juice Beauty's skin regimen.  It gave me a youthful glow, and my skin feels cleansed, refreshed and nourished. The Cleansing Milk and Hydrating Mist retails for $22, and the Nutrient Moisturizer is $36.  You can also purchase a trial pack, called 'Organics to Go' that includes smaller sizes of these three products plus a few other ones, for $29.  It's a great way to test them out without shelling out the big bucks right off the bat!

Juice Beauty is available at Whole Foods, www.amazon.com or www.dermstore.com.

Andalou Naturals Healthy Shine Shampoo Sunflower and Citrus

I've been using this shampoo for the past few weeks and wanted to tell you about it.  I love the lather and the citrus smell, which is derived from natural sources.  Washing my hair with this shampoo is very close to using traditional shampoos, so it's a great natural alternative for those not wanting to compromise on the richness of the lather.

The company's focused on their 'Advanced Fruit Stem Cell Science' which claims to improve hair follicle longevity and vitality for healthy hair.  Citrus gently clarifies and brightens while the sunflower, rich in Vitamin E, nourishes and conditions the hair.  I certainly saw the results myself, my hair was shiny and looked really healthy!

Best of all, it's made naturally without sulfates, GMO, petrochemicals, phthalates, parabens, synthetic fragrance, colors or preservatives. It's also pH Balanced & Hypo-Allergenic for those with sensitive skin.

Andalou Naturals Shampoo can be purchased for approximately $10 at natural food stores or online at www.Amazon.com Andalou Sunflower and Citrus Shampoo.

My Top Picks for Kids

Many of my mom friends have been emailing me for recommendations on baby/kid products, so I've compiled a list of my favorite ones below.  I have lots of other recommendations on baby products beyond this so if anyone has any questions, please let me know.  Hope it's helpful!

Baby Shampoo/Bodywash
For infants, I love Angel Baby Shampoo & Bodywash since it's really natural.  California Baby Calming Shampoo has also been a favorite and is great for toddlers.

Baby Lotion
I don't believe in applying moisturizer for the sake of it.  But when we have needed it, we like Erbaviva's Baby Lotion, a light and fresh lotion with an herbal scent.  For something more heavy-duty, we like California Baby's Calendula Cream for dry/red spots; it clears any rash right up. 


Diaper Rash Cream
Burt's Bees Diaper Ointment is a zinc-based, healthy diaper rash cream that really works.  It's also good for other dry skin issues.  Another favorite of mine is Arbonne's Diaper Rash Cream.

Sunscreen
We've used California Baby No Fragrance SPF 30 Sunscreen for a few years now. The reformulated product is a bit runnier, but I prefer that to the thick mineral sunscreens on the market that are hard to spread.


Diapers
Earth's Best Diapers diapers were the best in terms of wetness protection for us, even compared to regular brands.  For overnight, we now use Seventh Generation Overnight Diapers since they came on the scene last year. 


Wipes
Whole Foods 360 Unscented Wipes are my favorite baby wipes, they don't have a scent or strange smell (which I experienced with a few natural wipe brands) and are safe enough for little faces.  They are a little bit soapier than traditional wipes but this has never bothered me.

Cleansers
I use Dapple's Surface Cleaner for Highchairs, Toys & More for my son's highchair and tray and use it multiple times a day.  It acts like a soap and water wash and thoroughly cleans safely and effectively.  I also used Dapple's Baby Bottle and Dish Liquid for the first two years of my son's life to wash bottles, dishes, utensils, pump parts, pacifiers, everything!  Now we use Seventh Generation Natural Dish Liquid for all our dishes.

Laundry Detergent
You don't need a specific 'baby' laundry detergent, just a safe and gentle one with no artificial fragrances, such as Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent.  For stubborn stains, a friend and fellow green mom recommends pre-treating the stain with dish liquid or/vinegar and baking soda prior to washing.

Kiss My Face Potent & Pure Eye Repair Creme

I've been using Kiss My Face's Eye Repair Creme for a few months now and can tell you I'm a fan!  It's a lightweight moisturizer with a subtle smell that goes on smooth and easy.  I like that it's not heavy and greasy like many eye creams out there.  I don't have deep-set eye wrinkles but I do have my share of fine lines so I put it to the test. To be clear, we are talking about a natural product here but I'm actually pretty impressed with what its been able to do.

I dot the lotion (I'll call it lotion since it feels more like a lotion than a cream to me) around each eye and rub it in lightly in a circular motion to make sure I'm not pulling my skin.  Since using it, I've definitely noticed that my fine lines are reduced.  It also helps with puffiness in the morning if I don't get enough zz's and gives the skin around my eyes a brighter appearance in general.  I don't believe it works for dark circles, so if you have that as an issue, tune in as I'll be testing out some other products specifically for dark under-eye circles.

I like that this new product has healthy, organic ingredients and with no pthlalates, parabens, artificial dyes or fragrances and limited preservatives.  It seems that many natural brands are listening to their consumers and changing their formulations to exclude artificial fragrances (parabens) and other chemicals from their products to ensure they are as healthy as possible without compromising efficacy.

You can purchase Kiss My Face Potent & Pure Eye Repair Creme for $19 at natural food markets such as Whole Foods, or on www.drugstore.com or www.amazon.com.

Hope it works for you too!

EO Liquid Hand Soap in Rose Geranium & Citrus

What can I say about hand soap?

I just like soap that is safe for my family to use and that smells good (naturally).  I'm currently using EO's Liquid Hand Soap in Rose Geranium & Citrus and am hooked on the scent.  With none of the phthalates, parabens, sulfates or artificial fragrances I typically steer clear of, this hand soap cleans my hands leaving a great, subtle smell.  EO stands for essential oils, which are what the company uses to add fragrance to their products. 

EO's Liquid Hand soap comes in other scents, including French Lavender, Rosemary & Mint and Peppermint & Tea Tree, among others.  EO is sold on www.amazon.com or at natural food markets such as Whole Foods, and their liquid hand soap is approximately $7.

Lather up!

California Baby Sunscreens for the Whole Fam!

It's that time of year, the sun is getting stronger, and if you're like me and outside with your tot all day, you know you need to protect their (and your) skin from the sun's damaging rays. The challenge with sunscreen is that there are no truly safe ones.  Many contain the horomone-distrupting chemical oxybenzone or Vitamin A (retinal palmitate), which, according to recent scientific research, may be photocarcinogenic - that it may heighten skin cancer risk when used on sun-exposed skin.  So the very sunscreen we were using to prevent skin cancer may very well give us skin cancer!  Ugh. 

So how do you choose a safer option?  Look at the ingredients, particularly the active ones.  You want to select a mineral sunscreen, containing zinc or titanium.  These sunscreens sit on top of the skin scattering and reflecting rays instead of being rubbed into the skin like their chemical counterparts.  The challenge with zinc/titanium sunscreens is that they are thicker, and spreading can become a chore, depending on the brand.  A few months ago my husband and I had ran out of our California Baby sunscreen so at the last minute, I purchased another natural brand and we couldn't spread it evenly across our skin and were ghostly white.  So annoying!

I love California Baby SPF 18 Everyday/Year-round Sunscreen since I use it myself.  It's scented with a natural aromatherapy blend that includes lemongrass and is so light on the skin, you won't believe its not a traditional sunscreen.  When I'm going to be out all day, I use it as a daily moisturizer lotion for my face.

For my son, we use California Baby No Fragrance SPF 30.  It's just a tad thicker but safer for his sensitive skin.  We use this one ourselves from time to time too, when the sun is really strong and we need more coverage.

California Baby products can be purchased at Whole Foods, www.soap.com, or www.amazon.com and they range from $18 - $23.  A bit pricey but a worthwhile investment!  

Pur Minerals 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Foundation with SPF 15

Pur Minerals Pressed Mineral Foundation with SPF is not just a foundation, it's a concealer, powder and sunscreen all in one!  This is the only makeup you'll need for full coverage.  This natural foundation with organic shea butter and vitamin E is actually good for your skin!  Plus, it doesn't contain any harsh chemical dyes, alcohol, fragrance or preservatives. 

My favorite thing about this foundation is the coverage, it looks like my skin has been airbrushed and the Golden Medium matches my skin tone perfectly.  I'm in love!  Plus, it won an Allure Best of Beauty award a few years ago, so you can take the experts' word that it's great.

The company claims that it's good for every skin type, although in my experience if you have very dry skin, this might be a little drying in the winter so just be sure to moisturize before applying. 

I found my Pur Minerals Pressed Foundation at my local Duane Reade, but you can find it at Ulta, Dillard's or online at purminerals.com and dermstore.com for approximately $26.  Totally worth it!

Karma Organics Nail Polish

Do you ever get a headache when you apply nail polish?  Or when you're getting a manicure?  I don't need to tell you that nail polish is extremely toxic - just the smell alone proves it!  Fortunately, there are some healthy alternatives out there that you can use at home and even take to the salon with you (I do).

Over the past few years, there has been a push to remove the top three toxic ingredients in nail polish - formaldehyde, toluene and DBP.  Although it's great that companies are removing these three major offenders, many nail polishes still have loads of chemicals in them, and I personally don't feel like they go far enough to be truly labeled safe.  Thankfully there are a few polishes that I've tried that work well and have a host of colors to choose from, including Karma Organics Nail Polishes, which are safe even for pregnant women and kids.

Karma Organics' Nail Polish is a chip-resistant and durable, long-lasting polish.  There are over 80 shades to choose from, so you can always find the right shade for you.  The formula is non-yellowing, too.  The one thing I did find was that the consistency is a tiny bit thinner than traditional formulas, so you may need to apply a third coat, depending on the color (I found this to be true for the darker shades and the creamy pink/beige shades).  And the best part - this polish has no harsh odors!

The shades I like the best include: Bride to Be (light creamy pink), Two Dozen Roses (rich creamy red) and Venom (super dark plum cream, similar to Essie's Wicked).

I found Karma Organics Nail Polishes at Whole Foods but you can also purchase them at karmaorganicspa.com for approximately $10.

Dr. Bronner's Magic All-One Liquid Soap

Need a new, natural body wash?  How about one for your child?  What about a facial cleanser or shampoo?  Or maybe even a new floor cleaner?  Yep, this one does it all - its Dr. Bronner's Magic All-One Liquid Soap, a pure, organic castile soap that will change your life!

I use this liquid soap daily and I just love the way it leaves my skin feeling super soft and velvety.  It is made from nourishing jojoba, olive and coconut essential oils and Vitamin E.  As a castile soap, the consistency is different from traditional liquid soaps, it seems a bit thin and liquidy when you first pour it out but it lathers quickly and spreads well.  It also might take a tiny bit more effort to rinse but you may not even notice!

This multi-purpose (the company states it has up to 18 uses) liquid soap comes in several natural scents, including Almond, Pepermint, Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, Citrus and Lavender.  And if you're like me and want something totally pure and unscented, the Baby Mild is just the ticket (and perfect for your baby's delicate skin, too).  Best of all, it contains no synthetic foaming agents, thickeners or preservatives and truly is all-natural. 

A 16 oz bottle retails for approximately $10 at several retailers nationwide.  If you can get passed the jibberish on the label, try it and you won't regret it, I promise!

Acure Calming Body Lotion with Lavender and Lotus Flower

I've been on the hunt for the perfect body lotion.  Something that moisturizes without being too thick, that has a natural ingredient list, that smells great with no synthetic fragrances and that isn't too expensive.  And by golly, I've found it: Acure's Calming Body Lotion with Lavender and Lotus Flower!

Let's see how it matches my requirements:

1. This lotion goes on nice and light and isn't too thick or greasy
2. The ingredient list is amazing!  Ingredients are either Organic or Fair Trade Organic and there are no parabens, sulfates or artificial fragrances
3. I typically don't go for lavender since fake lavender smells too strong and sweet to me, but this lotion seriously smells like you're standing in a lavender field in Provence.  Absolute heaven.
4. It retails for just $9.99!

In addition to calming lavender, this lotion also has Omega-3 fatty acids and argan oil to nourish and hydrate the skin.  Acure has three other body lotions in their line, including Firming Lemongrass, Energizing Mandarin Orange and Mango, and Ultra-Hydrating Cocoa Butter.  I'm definitely going to be trying them all!

Acure's body lotions are available at Whole Foods Markets or online at www.acureorganics.com.

Josie Maran's Argan Bronzing Powder

I'm channeling Spring today with this gorgeous sunny day in NYC, so I figure I'll feature a fabulous bronzer I found a few weeks ago.

Josie Maran's Argan Bronzing Powder is a great, lightweight bronzer that gives me a soft, sunkissed look.  I like the glow that this bronzer gives me, it looks very natural against my fair to medium skin.  Because it is so light, I don't have the issue of overapplying and looking too tan, which I've run into before.  There is a hint of shimmer that I really like, which - don't worry - is really subtle.  The universal shade was created to complement all complexions and is buildable, meaning you can layer the bronzer to your liking. 

The formula does not include fragrances or parabens, and contains only natural, non-toxic ingredients including hydrating Morrocan Argan Oil, which I featured a few weeks ago.

What's more, the beauty extends to the packaging -- the compact is biodegradable.  How cool is that?

Josie Maran's exclusive retailer is Sephora, but you can also find her Bronzing Powder, which runs for $30, at JosieMaranCosmetics.com.

What You Need to Know About Cosmetics & Chemicals

Check out the link below to a really cool infographic that highlights some of the top offenders in cosmetics and potential health effects, courtesy of CosmetologySchool.org.

Important stuff!

What You Need to Know About Cosmetics Chemicals

Eco Store Lemongrass Bar Soap

Happy Friday!  I'm so happy it's the weekend.  Ok - here is likely the most affordable product I'll ever put on this blog.  It's only $1.80 and something we all use: soap!

It's been hard to find a truly natural soap that is as moisturizing and non-drying as some of the big brand name soaps out there, but I'm really happy with this soap from Eco Store.

Eco Store's products are simple and effective and this soap is no exception.  It's created with pure vegetable oils, natural fragrances, and nothing artificial.  Soothing lemongrass oil leaves a subtle lemony scent, and is just very fresh.  This soap creates a nice, soapy lather in the shower and my skin feels moisturized afterwards.  It's not as 'creamy' as my previous soap, but I'll give a little of that up for a healthier alternative.

Eco Store's products carry a No Nasty Chemicals message, which means:

• NO toxic petrochemicals
• NO lauryl laureth sulfates
• NO propylene glycol
• NO dyes
• NO artificial perfumes
• NO parabens
• NO cocamide DEA
• NO cocomidopropyl betaine

Best of all, Eco Store's products carry a seal of approval from one of my favorite organizations and go-to websites Healthy Child Healthy World.  If you're a mom or soon-to-be-mom, check out their 'Wake Up' video at www.healthychild.org.  Powerful stuff!

I buy Eco Store products at my local drug store, but you can find them on amazon.com or EcoStoreUSA.com.

First Aid Beauty Daily Face Cream

After my post last week about Pure Argan Oil, I got a few questions about traditional face lotions, so here's one I wanted to share: First Aid Beauty Daily Face Cream.  Although not 100% natural (full disclosure!), this face cream has a really good set of ingredients, and is free of the worst offenders, including parabens, phthalates, sulfates, synthetic dyes or fragrances.

FAB's Daily Face Cream is a non-comedogenic, light-weight moisturizer which is infused with a powerful botanical antioxidant blend that works hard to fight free radicals.  I love that it's lightweight and not greasy at all -- it just acts like the perfect face moisturizer should to hydrate and nourish my skin.  FAB claims to improve the skin's natural barrier function and that daily use calms redness and irritation.   This face lotion is best for sensitive, oily and acne-prone skin, but it works really well with my normal/combination skin.  And I love that its fragrance-free, too.  I hate walking around all day smelling my face!

I bought FAB's Daily Face Cream at Sephora for $18.  Worth a try if you're looking to switch to a healthier option!

100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Lip Gloss

There are several lip glosses that I use, so you'll see me post about them over the next few weeks.  Here's one of the most natural ones: 100% Pure's Fruit Pigmented Lip Gloss.  I love the Sheer Strawberry color, it gives my lips a nice, reddish pink shine.  This juicy color will be perfect for when spring arrives, too.

I love that this lip gloss is sheer and not sticky, I wear it a lot during the daytime since it's very low maintenance and isn't irridescent, which I feel is better for night.   It also doubles as a lip moisturizer which is good for me since I'm always looking for something to moisturize my lips throughout the day.  100% Pure's Lip Glosses are made with Vitamin E from organic rice bran and fruit pigments which give them their beautiful colors, naturally.  Vitamin E acts as a powerful anti-aging antioxidant that also drenches your lips with moisture and softens them.  And the natural strawberry also adds to the yummy flavor!

100% Pure's Fruit Pigmented Lip Gloss comes in a bunch of shades, and I purchased it at my local Duane Reade but you can also find it on www.100percentpure.com.  It retails for $13 - not bad!

Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil

I'm in love with a new facial moisturizer.  It's not what you think, either.  It's not your typical cream or lotion - it's pure argan oil.  I know what you're thinking, an oil for your face??  I had been hearing all the buzz around argan oil and had to try it for myself.  I've been using it for over a month and can positively say I am completely hooked and haven't used my regular daily moisturizer since.

Unlike most lotions, this oil is actually absorbed into my skin instead of sitting on top of it.  It leaves my skin feeling moisturized, velvety and surprisingly, not oily!  At first I thought, no way am I putting oil on my face, it's certainly going to cause me to break out...but no!  It's amazing.  I just love the way my skin feels after using it, and I also like how my skin stays hydrated without needing re-application.  I just use two drops for my face and that's enough for the whole day.  I also apply it after I wash my face at night.  I've noticed you can spread it around a little easier if your face is still damp.  And since I prefer unscented facial lotions, I also like that this has no smell.

Vitamin E and essential fatty acids make this legendary oil work its magical hydration which claims to have healing and antiaging properties as well.  Participants in a study reported a visible reduction in coarse wrinkles and fine lines in the eye area after four weeks of use. 

100% organic, pure Morrocan argan oil is not just for your face, you can also use it anywhere on your body, for split ends, to soften cuticles, to shave and as a bath oil. 

And how cool is it that this product only contains one healthy ingredient?  Can't get more natural than that.   You don't need to buy this particular brand of oil, as long as you purchase pure, organic, first cold pressed argan oil, you can receive these skin hydrating benefits just as well. 

Josie Maran's Pure Argan Oil can be purchased at Sephora or www.amazon.com.  A small .5 fl oz bottle costs $14 if you want to test it out first, and prices go up from there.  I love it and I hope you do too!

The Story of Cosmetics

Here's a neat video from the folks over at Story of Stuff that visually explains the lack of regulation in the cosmetics industry, its implications on consumers and workers, and what we can do to start breaking the cycle.  

http://www.storyofstuff.org/movies-all/story-of-cosmetics/

Jane Iredale PurePressed Eye Shadow

It's taken me a long time to find natural eyeshadow that I like.  The most natural ones are the loose, powdery mineral versions, and although healthy, don't have staying power and just kind of fall all over my face. They also don't go on evenly and are hard to blend. 

So I'm excited to tell you about Jane Iredale's PurePressed Eye Shadow.  Although not 100% natural, it's pretty darn close, and I promise you its much, much better for you than the current eye shadow you're wearing these days.

Jane Iredale has luxurious beauty products that perform like the high-end department store makeup products many of us love.  Her products are favorites among dermatologists and estheticians because of the healthy, natural formulas which are developed with no talc or parabens and are great for sensitive skin.

Jane Iredale's PurePressed Eye Shadows come in a variety of great shades, the one I'm using right now is pictured above, the Duo in Oyster (a champagne hue) and Supernova (a metallic purple/brown).  It goes on nice and even, and feels a little creamy for a powder eyeshadow, which helps it stay on my eyelids for long-lasting wear. The only problem with Jane Iredale's products is that they are hard to find in person, but I guarantee you'll love this eyeshadow even if you have to buy it online!

Jane Iredale's PurePressed Eye Shadows come in single colors ($19) Duos and Triples (both for $28).  You can find them at www.DermStore.com, which gives you a description of each color.  If you're not familiar with this website, definitely check it out, they offer free shipping and carry a nice selection of natural brands.  You can also visit www.JaneIredale.com to search for a store near you.  Enjoy!

Lavanilla Healthy Fragrance in Vanilla Grapefruit

In honor of St. Valentine, here's a product for you that your loved one will also enjoy - perfume!

Traditional fragrances are loaded with unhealthy chemicals and unnatural scents.  Check the back of your perfume bottle if you don't believe me!  I spent several years trying to spray perfume only on my clothes to try to avoid direct exposure to the phthalates and parabens that make up most fragrances.  This is why I love Lavanilla Laboratories, they make 100% natural perfumes with the purest of essential oils so you can still smell nice without spraying toxins all over yourself.

Currently I'm into Vanilla Grapefruit, a crisp, invigorating citrus scent with grapefruit, lime, sandalwood and madagascar vanilla.  I'm not typically a vanilla fan, but the combination in this scent is really delicious!

Lavanilla has other fragrance options, including Vanilla Coconut, Pure Vanilla, Vanilla Blossom, Vanilla Passionfruit, Vanilla Blackberry and Vanilla Lavender.  Check them out at a store near you and test them on your skin to see which scent you like the best.  They also have a perfume roller ball, which is small and thin and great for travel or just to throw in your bag.

You can find Lavanilla Healthy Fragrance at Nordstrom and Sephora.  A 1.7oz bottle retails for $58 and the roller ball goes for $19.  Moms - check out their baby products too, they're great.  Look out for more Lavanilla reviews soon, they're a favorite of mine!

Yes to Blueberries Brightening Face Towelettes

These Brightening Facial Towelettes cleanse, remove makeup, and moisturize skin all in one!   They leave my skin feeling clean and refreshed.  These towelettes are part of 'Yes to Blueberries' Age Refresh line, which claims to improve skin firmness, reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles and repair and nourish aging skin.  Um...yes, please!  Blueberries rich in anti-oxidants help fight the formation of free radicals that can damage the skin while apple and lemon work to brighten the skin naturally.

I pop these in my bag for after a workout and for travel, since my current facial wash is too big for my carry-on suitcase and I hate bumbling with those travel refill bottles.   I like that they are not too soapy but contain just the right amount of moisture to clean my face.  I also like the subtle apple/lemon scent which is naturally-derived, an extra bonus.

These 'Yes to Blueberries' Brightening Face Towelettes are 99% natural and free of parabens, phthalates and SLS.  I found them at my local drugstore for $7.99 for a pack of 30.  If you need any more convincing, they've won beauty awards from both Women's Health and Fitness magazines.  Sweet!

Bare Escentuals 100% Natural Lip Color

Hey green beauty gals!  I recently discovered a new lipstick I wanted to share with you that I think you're going to love: it's Bare Escentuals' 100% Natural Lip Color.  I love this lipstick because while its formulation is natural it feels like a traditional lipstick, which is hard to find.  It's creamy, leaves my lips conditioned and is long-lasting.  Plus, it's easy to find and not that expensive at $15 a pop.  And with a recent report that lead (among other toxins) is still prevalent in mass lipstick brands just cements the fact that natural is the way to go.  It's difficult to find natural lipsticks in person and makeup is something you just need to try to ensure the color works for you.  Several natural lipsticks are only available online or in specialty stores and I want to make sure the products I'm recommending aren't impossible to find! 

Bare Escentuals in itself isn't a natural brand, but they have some new products - including their 100% natural lip color - that are made without chemicals (yay!).  That means no artificial dyes, preservatives or irritants whatsoever.  The nourishing blend combines pure minerals, exotic oils, natural waxes and conditioning plant extracts.  So it seems like at least some mainstream companies are listening and making some formulation changes, which is great news.

Sephora carries Bare Escentuals' 100% Natural Lip Color in only eight colors but many other colors are available at department stores like Nordstrom's and Macy's.  My favorites are Rock Candy (a soft, primrose pink), Parfait (a neutral pink shade) and Black Currant (a ripe blackberry shade).  I like to layer a gloss on top of the lipstick for just the right amount of shine.  I plan on testing out Bare Escentual's other 100% natural products soon, so stay tuned!

eos sweet mint lip balm

For the third installment of this week's dry winter skin remedies, here is a favorite one of mine: eos lip balm!

How much do I love eos lip balm?  Let me count the ways:

1. it's super smooth
2. it's really moisturizing with soothing shea butter and jojoba oil
3. the sweet mint makes my lips feel fresh and tingly
4. the smell is yummy
5. the packaging looks sooo cool
6. it's 95% organic, 100% natural, paraben and petrolatum free
7. you can find it pretty much everywhere for approx. $3
8. it makes me smile!

John Masters Organics Evening Primrose Shampoo and Lavender Avocado Conditioner

Go figure the week I decide to blog about products for a cold, dry winter, it turns out to be 60 degrees!  Oh well, will continue as planned...

Today I'll be featuring two products from one of my favorite brands, John Masters Organics.  John Masters is a hairstylist with an amazing salon in NY and a celebrity following for his products.  Twenty years ago, seeing the need for healthier hair products with unnecessary chemicals, he began the first certified organic haircare line.   Today, his products include not only haircare but skincare and bodycare as well.  His products are natural, luxurious and work great.

I've recently been using two of his hair products together, the first of which is his Evening Primrose Shampoo for Dry Hair.  This shampoo is made with evening primrose oil, which strengthens the hair and adds moisture.  It also includes a combination of amino acids and proteins for comb-through and shine, and certified organic plant oils and natural extracts to hydrate and soften hair.  And the smell is great - a soft herbal smell, reminiscent of Aveda's Shampure.

I paired John Master's Shampoo with his Lavender and Avocado Intensive Conditioner, which includes 10 certified-organic plans extracts and oils to bring intense moisture and vitality to dry hair.  The one thing I noticed is that when wet, my hair didn't seem quite as conditioned compared to traditional conditioners, but once I started brushing I noticed it was super silky!  My hair was left shiny, soft and with a nice light lavender scent.   It didn't clash with the shampoo either, it left a clean, herbal smell.

Both the Evening Primrose Shampoo ($16) and the Lavender and Avocado Intensive Conditioner ($22) are safe for color-treated hair and available at many retailers, including Whole Foods and www.drugstore.com.  Best of all, they don't contain any parabens, sodium laurel sulfate, petro-chemicals, GMO's, artificial colors, dyes or fragrances.  Sweet!

Nubian Heritage Shea Butter

This dry winter is creating havoc on my skin and hair, so this week I'll be featuring products that have helped me out in this area and hopefully they will work for you too!  First up: for dry, cracked skin in need of serious hydration, I've been loving Nubian Heritage's Shea Butters.  There are several variations to choose from, including the super natural and healthy Raw Shea Butter, but my current favorite is the Lavender & Wildflowers Infused Shea Butter.

The butter is thick, so you have to melt a bit of it in your hand before applying, and is especially good for elbows, knees, heels, hands and knuckles.  You can even take a bit of the butter and mix it with your everyday lotion so you can apply it more easily to any part of your body.

Lavender has traditionally been used to treat all types of skin due to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, rejuvenating, soothing and deodorizing effects.  The line is formulated with 100% organic shea butter, lavender oil, wildflower essence and Vitamin E.  That's it!  And the smell is great, with hints of sweet flowers and refreshing herbs.

If your skin is in need of a great balm for dry problem areas, try this shea butter.  It is 100% natural and 100% works!

Nubian Heritage Shea Butters can be purchased at Whole Foods or www.amazon.com for approximately $12.

Korres Deep Colour Mascara

Do you know how hard it is to find a natural mascara that works??  Well, hopefully you don't and you haven't wasted your time and money like I have.  Just please take my advice and go get this one - Korres Deep Color Mascara.  Told you I liked this brand!  But no really, this one is a must-have, especially considering the other 'natural' options on the market.  Just today I tested out another option with an only slightly better set of ingredients only to find it stinging my eyes and running down my face.  Ugh.

Korres' mascara goes on easily, is super conditioning, doesn't clump, and you won't get any racoon eyes after a day in this, either.  And there is no smell, unlike most mascaras out there.  One of the things I like best is when you remove it, it comes off your lashes easily and doesn't tug on them making your lashes fall out.  I've been wearing this one for months and just haven't been able to find an alternative that is better for you and that really works.  Korres' mascara will give you a more natural look (hard to get va-va-voom lashes with natural mascara) but just a few coats make my eyes pop.

Korres Deep Colour Mascara contains Provitamin B5 that conditions and strengthens lashes while rice bran expands to provide length, volume and fullness (kind of how rice expands in water). Cool!

Here's what it doesn't include:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Mineral Oils
- Petro-chemicals
- Propylene Glycols
- Synthetic Fragrances or Dyes
- Synthetic Dyes

Even if you don't know what everything on that list is, just be assured that this product is light-years healthier than most mascaras on the market. Yay!

On a side-note, I've also tried Korres' other mascara, simply named Korres Mascara but I like this one better.  You can purchase Korres Deep Color Mascara at Sephora, www.sephora.com for $18.

Angel Baby Shampoo and Body Wash

I promised moms a review of a truly natural baby shampoo so here it is - Angel Baby Shampoo and Body Wash!

We actually used this product when our son was first born and I think this is perfect for infants because of the gentle, all-natural ingredients.  This shampoo and body wash is a real castile soap made with soothing organic calendula, zero toxins and no artificial fragrance.  The scent is just a sweet, light natural scent from pure organic vanilla and organic sweet orange essential oils.

Because this product has no foaming agents, it comes with an ingenious self-foaming pump which gives it a nice lather, naturally.

One thing to note - this is not a 'no-tear' formula, so make sure you use extra care around your baby's eyes.  The sting in most products is masked by numbing agents and other chemicals and this contains none of that!  A few times this did get into my son's eyes, but he didn't seem to be bothered at all by it.

The best news is that this shampoo and body wash contains no petrochemicals, synthetic surfactants, foaming agents or toxins of any kind.  In fact, it's one of the most natural ingredient lists I've found!

Angel Baby Shampoo and Body Wash can be purchased at Whole Foods or www.amazon.com for approximately $10.

100% Pure Sugared Lemon Peel Juicy Body Scrub

My skin has really taken a toll this winter, and to help get rid of my flakes I decided to test out a natural body scrub I had heard about, 100% Pure Juicy Body Scrub in Sugared Lemon Peel.  I picked it up this weekend and couldn't wait to report my findings!

The scrub polished away my dry, flaky skin and the essential lemon and grapeseed oils made my skin feel super soft and silky, even long after the shower.  I didn't apply any lotion afterwards and didn't have to since my skin retained its moisture and stayed nice and soft.  And I love the citrus scent of the natural lemon essential oil.  One thing to note: like most natural, oil-based scrubs, you have to mix the scrub mixture with the oil before applying.

One other thing -- just check out the ingredients:

Grapeseed Oil, Sugar Cane, Vitamin C (calcium ascorbate), Vitamin E (a-tocopherol), Lemon Juice, Lemon Essential Oil, Lemon Peel, Extracts of Lemon, Raspberry, Blueberry, Strawberry, Blackberry, Rosemary, Cinnamon, Golden Seal, Thyme, Oregano, Concentrates of Pomegranate and Cherry             

Can't get much more natural than that!

100% Pure has a host of other 'flavors'  - including eucalyptus, vanilla, strawberry lemonade and blood orange, to name a few.   The other great thing is that the scrub also comes in a mini size if you can't commit to just one scent. 

I picked mine up at my local Duane Reade but you can find all 100% Pure's products at www.100percentpure.com.

California Baby Calming Shampoo and Bodywash

UPDATE: We just heard the news that new formulations of certain California Baby products, including this shampoo, will contain the preservative sodium benzoate.  Although sodium benzoate has a low EWG  (Environmental Working Group) rating of 1, we believe this important to report and will be posting other alternatives soon.

So I'm sure many of you saw the news late last year about certain Johnson and Johnson's Baby products containing formaldehyde-releasing ingredients.  I'm so thankful it created such a firestorm in the mainstream press because companies are facing pressure to change their formulations in addition to the FDA starting to actually do their job (ok, maybe not quite).  But the fact is, this is not new news.  And just a quick scan of the ingredients on some your favorite products - baby or not - will reveal a host of poisonous substances.  And those are only the ones that are disclosed on the label.  Yikes.

So I digress...but first and foremost, I'm a mom.  So limiting chemical exposure for my son during his most vulnerable years is a main priority for me.  And I guess I couldn't wait even a week to post my review of California Baby Calming Body Shampoo!  Plus, I've had a lot of questions about my favorite baby products.  I'm a big fan of California Baby ever since our son Nicolas was born two years ago.  When he was younger, we used the brand's unscented body shampoo but once he was older, we switched to the Calming version and I just love it.  It's great for baby's hair, face and body, is super gentle and non-drying.  It leaves his skin so soft we rarely use any lotion on him. 

The Shampoo and Bodywash uses organic, all-natural vegetable glucoside cleansers that are non-stripping, sulfate-free and extremely biodegradable.  It's also allergy-tested and tear-free, so you can use it for baby's first bath.  In full transparency, because the bodywash is sulfate-free, it won't lather like your typical bodywashes but baby doesn't know the difference, right?  What you do get with this product is the peace of mind that you are using something safe and gentle for your child.

The soft and subtle scent is a calming aromatherapy blend that includes French lavender and clary sage which promote calmness. I won't name names but there are designer baby shampoos out there that smell way too strong - and I think a baby should smell like a baby!   Plus, California Baby uses natural ingredients to scent their products instead of chemical fragrances.

One of the things I love most about this brand is that it's also great for adults with sensitive skin and this cleanser is no exception, it acts as a great non-drying facial wash for mom or dad.

An 8.5 oz bottle of California Baby Calming Shampoo and Bodywash retails for approximately $12.00 and can be purchased at Whole Foods and www.diapers.com.

Boscia Purifying Cleansing Gel

I have to admit,  I've never been the most regimented when it comes to washing my face with facial cleansers.  In the past, I've resorted to just using whatever my husband had (Cetaphil, which is loaded with parabens) or just my normal soap.  I know, I know - blasphemy!  But for a few years now, I've been on the search for the perfect natural facial cleanser for my skin.

Which is why I'm psyched my friend at Sephora turned me onto Boscia's Purifying Cleansing Gel, a natural daily cleanser for normal to oily skin.  I'm really digging this gentle cleanser because it makes my skin feel refreshed and conditioned and doesn't dry out my face like so many others I've tried.  I am partial to gel cleansers because they make my face feel really clean, and this one is no exception.  It doubles as a make-up remover and has a very soft, subtle herbal smell.   I also like the pump dispenser, it's easy to use and just one pump is enough.  A little bit of this gel goes a long way, which is a good thing at $26 a pop!

The Boscia Purifying Cleansing gel contains a powerful combination of botanicals, including hydrangea leaf to purify and refine the look of pores and jojoba leaf that acts as an antioxidant.  And there aren't any parabens, sulfates, pthalates or any other nasty chemicals to be found.

Boscia is one of the world's first preservative-free, botanically-based skincare lines.  I'm a fan of this brand and you'll see me review several of their products in the weeks ahead.  Enjoy!

The Boscia Purifying Cleansing Gel is available at Sephora or www.amazon.com for around $26.

Karma Organics Nail Polish Remover with Soybean and Tea Tree Oil

I've tried a few different natural nail polish removers and I've had a hard time finding one that I like.  They either have a really strange smell or just flat out don't work.  Recently I stumbled on Karma Organics Nail Polish Remover with Soybean Oil and Tea Tree Oil and I can say with certainty - I'm a fan!

Karma Organics removes polish easily and quickly.  Unlike acetone-based nail polish removers, it doesn't dry out your skin.  Some may not like the fact that it is a a tad oily but I happen to love that since it conditions my nails and cuticles, leaving them feeling healthier and moisturized.  Plus, the gentle tea tree scent is great -  I no longer get a headache from the harsh acetone smell of traditional removers. 

Karma Organics Nail Polish Remover is one of the first in the US to contain this organic soy remover mixture that works so well.  It's 100% biodegradable and 100% soy and corn based.  Best of all, it's non-toxic, non-carcinogenic and free of any petroleum ingredients.

If that's not enough to convince you, I just found out it received Allure Magazine's Editor's Choice Award - even the experts love it!

$12 at Whole Foods markets or www.karmaorganicspa.com

Burt's Bees Super Shiny Natural Lip Gloss

I'm loving this Burt's Bees gloss - half moisturizing lip balm, half lip gloss - it's the perfect non-sticky consistency with just a hint of color for everyday.  I  pop them in my bag whenever I go out and I'm sure to have something if I need color or moisture.  Plus, they smell and taste great.  My favorite shades are Nectar Nude and Sweet Pink.

The best part - they're 100% natural!

Burt's Bees Super Shine Natural Lip Gloss is available at most drugstores and at Whole Foods, for approx $7.  Pucker up!

Try to Look Pretty Without Poisoning Yourself

The Canadian organization Environmental Defence has launched a new ad campaign in an effort to educate Canadians to the many cancer-causing, hormone-disrupting and allergy-inducing substances contained in the personal care products they use every day.  Wouldn't it be great if something like this ran in the US?  Take a look!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YxbnvXRY-7Q&noredirect=1

Korres Zea Mays Blush in Peach

I am currently obsessed with the Greek brand Korres.  And particularly, the Zea Mays blush in Peach.  It's a powder blush that's the perfect shade for most skin colors, and leaves a natural look that works for day or night.  It's formulated with the Korres' proprietary botanical blend of phytosteroles, soy, and licorice.  And the best part - it doesn't have any parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances or phthalates!  If the peach isn't your favorite, there are three other gorgeous shades to choose from. 

You can find Korres Zea Mays Blush at www.sephora.com and it retails for $24.  Totally worth it!

Renpure Organics I love my hair! Shampoo

Ahh shampoos...it's so tough to find one without sulfates that gives you the desired lathering required for you to fully wash your entire hair and feel like it's actually clean.  And another pet peeve of mine are the overpowering scents many shampoos have - I don't want to walk around smelling like a coconut!  That's why I'm a fan of Renpure Organics I love my hair! Shampoo, made for normal hair.  It offers a good amount of lather, has a nice, subtle smell and for the price - around $7 - it really can't be beat.  Plus, my hair is nice and clean!  The best part is that it's made of 100% pure organic extracts and safe, pure, natural ingredients with no nasty sulfates, parabens, colors or dyes. 

I found mine at my local drugstore but you can also order it on www.drugstore.com for $6.99.  I'll definitely be buying this one again!

Hello and Welcome!

Hi everyone!  For my first entry, I just wanted to tell you a little bit about why I decided to start this blog.  For years, I've been concerned about the toxic chemicals companies put in their products, which for the most part, are unregulated by the FDA.  And once I became a mom, I really took notice.  My problem is, I've had a hard time finding natural, green beauty products that perform as well as traditional ones.  I've spent way too much time, and money, on things that simply just don't work.  Which is why I'm starting this blog, to help you navigate the world of natural and organic beauty products and to give you my honest reviews.  So you can expect a few reviews a week - from products ranging from shampoos and body lotion to nail polish and even hair color - to make it on the blog.  (I might even throw in some baby and household products once in a while for good measure!)  I promise to do my part and make sure that the products I review not only work as expected, but are better for your health, your family's health and the environment.

Enjoy!

Ana