Chances are, you bought something organic the last time you went to the grocery store.  Selecting healthier options, reading ingredients and knowing what we put in our bodies is no longer considered ‘crunchy’, but essential.  But when it comes to keeping the largest organ in your body – your skin- healthy, that’s another story.    Thankfully, a few beauty brands are answering the call and providing more natural, eco-friendly products. I know with all the terms out there {organic, natural, green}  it’s like learning a new language.  For the most part, organic or natural labels guarantee safety – these plant derived ingredients are healthier than synthetic options {banana vs. a Twinkie}.  But you need results as well.  You’re in luck! Many natural products don’t use petroleum or mineral oil, which are cheap fillers.  Removing these ingredients {think of them as high-fructose corn syrup}, results in a more concentrated formula. Since I am using more natural products,  I’m sharing the items currently in my beauty routine and giving a little background into these brands.  

Ursa Major 3 Minute Flash Mask

I did an early post on  Ursa Major’s Brighten Up Vitamin C Serum {which I still use BTW}.  I love a good mask treatment and apply the Bright & Easy Flash Mask once a week to resurface my skin.   This product is 99.99% naturally-derived and 82% organic.  If you’re thinking about getting a peel, do your skin a favor and try this gentle alternative first. After using, I felt an immediate tightness. About the Brand: Ursa Major is committed to creating effective, healthy, and sublime products.  Expect each product to be 98.6-100% naturally derived,  free of chemicals, and gluten and cruelty free. Find them at Credo and Revolve. 

 

Herbivore Coco Rose Body Polish

I made many mood boards during my days at beauty companies.  While scouring the internet,  I discovered Herbivore.  On social, their aesthetic is so beautiful, but I hadn’t tried their products until recently.  I picked up the Coco Rose Luxe Hydration Trio and fell in love.  Strange fact about me:  I gag at the thought of eating coconut, but absolutely love the scent!!! My favorite of the set is the Coco Rose Body Polish.  With winter months approaching, my legs become dry and itchy – exfoliating is a must. While I haven’t yet tried the Blue Tansy (on my list!) Jenna, our Finding Beauty Insider from Birchbox divulged they can’t keep it in stock at the SoHo store. About the Brand: With an emphasis on organic, high quality, and food-grade ingredients, Herbivore creates safe, non-toxic, and highly effective products. The packaging is recyclable and reusable. No synthetic ingredients, parabens, sodium laurel sulfate, phthalates, chemicals, fillers, animal testing, mineral oils, or petroleum.  Find these products at Birchbox, Nordstrom, Sephora.

 

Indie Lee Squalane Facial Oil

At least once a week, I try to go makeup-free. On these days, I use this facial oil and my skin feels super hydrated. I was using a vitamin E oil on my face, but only at night since my skin looked wet and greasy.  This facial oil dries down quickly, so I look refreshed throughout the day. About the Brand:   Facing a life-threatening brain tumor, brought on by environmental toxins, the founder, Indie Lee channeled her energy to create this eco-chic collection of skincare products.  You won’t find bad ingredients that you can learn about  here.  As a natural brand, she is also cruelty-free.  Find these products at Anthropologie, Birchbox, and Nordstrom.

 

Florapy Sweet Dreams Sheet Mask

I have tried almost all the products in this line.  In the summer, I used the Calendula Sage.  As part of my Back to School Detox, I used the Jasmine Peppermint.  Now that I’m in the mindset of rest and relaxation, time for the Sweet Dreams Mask. I really need to unwind, unplug and turn off the day more once I get in bed. About the Brand:  Inspired by Korean skincare, Florapy combines flowers and aromatherapy in a easy-to-use 100% coconut sheet mask.  The masks are vegan, paraben-free, safe for sensitive skin and cruelty free. Find them at Anthropologie and Amazon

 

Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm

This is a new addition, and I’m obsessed! I had never used a balm to clean my skin.  I honestly can’t remember using anything but a pump.  The first time I washed my face, I was wowed.  My skin felt so soft, smooth, and squeaky clean.  I will be scraping this balm down to the very last drop.  Oh, and it just won Allure’s Best of Beaty 2017.  After cleansing, I follow with the Root Cell Anti Aging Serum. Last note:  The packaging is amazing! About the Brand:   Farmacy products are a synthesis of nature and science.  Think of it as farm-to-lab beauty.  No animal testing,  parabens, formaldehyde or artificial coloring. Find them at Sephora and QVC.

 

Skincando Luxe Eye Balm

I met the founder, Sara Damelio, and received an amazing organic facial using her products.  I really like her Luxe Eye Balm and use it before bed and occasionally during the day if my eyes are looking a little puffy. It’s light and works well under concealer.  I have to add that my daughter cannot pass the jar of Combat Ready Balm without requesting a dab on her hands. About the Brand: Made from 100% organic ingredients, Sara handcrafts  Skincando products with care from start to finish in her Washington, DC workshop.  Find the Combat Ready line the Tot and Follian.  

RMS Lip2Cheek in Demure

I featured this product  in my first ever blog post {awww..memories}.  This product plays double duty for lips and cheeks – perfect for a 5 minute makeup bag.  Every second counts!  After trying a creme blush, I don’t know if I’ll ever go back to powder.  I use the shade Demure almost every day. Jenna also mentioned their Master Mix as a fall favorite. About the Brand: RMS Beauty products are formulated with raw, food grade and organic ingredients.  Their packaging is minimal, biodegradable, recyclable or reusable. Like everyone on this list, they are cruelty-free. Find at Anthropolgie or Goop.

 

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