Green and spring go hand in hand, which makes this the perfect season to talk about green beauty products. To begin, a little lesson in what it means to be “green,” where makeup and skincare are concerned. The two labels you want to look for when scouting for green beauty products are:
Paraben/Phthalates/BPA-free, which means there are zero traces of these chemicals in the ingredients or in the packaging. In case you’re curious: Parabens are preservatives. Phthalates and BPA are chemicals added to plastics that improve flexibility, elasticity and clarity. All of these are controversial, purportedly cancer-causing chemicals. Lots of debate and banter related to their use in the blogosphere.
USDA Organic: The USDA only regulates “food” ingredients found in cosmetics (think avocado, honey, lemon). It does not regulate plant-derived ingredients and essential oils. There are four different classifications for organic labeling on cosmetic products.
- 100% organic: the product is only made with USDA certified organic food ingredients. Labeled with a USDA Organic seal
- Organic: the product must contain at least 95% USDA certified organic food ingredients. Labeled with a USDA Organic seal
- Made with organic ingredients: the product must contain at least 70% USDA certified organic food ingredients. The label will not display a USDA seal, but it may list organic products on the front of the product as well as in the ingredient list
- Organic ingredients: Any product with less than 70% USDA certified organic food ingredients. The front label cannot claim organic ingredients but organic ingredients can be listed in the ingredient list on the back. (www.thedailygreen.com)
Enough science! On to some of our favorite green beauty products!
MyChelle Pumpkin Renew Cream
This ultra hydrating, yet super lightweight cream is formulated with antioxidant-rich Pumpkin Seed Oil and reparative Peptides that neutralize free radicals while reducing moisture loss. Great for all skin types. www.mychelle.com
Sally B’s Skin Yummies
This Atlanta-based company makes wonderful natural and organic beauty products. Sally B’s has her own store in Inman Park in Atlanta or, for those of you reading in other SB cities, purchase online here: www.sallybskinyummies.com.
Caudalíe
Straight from France, Caudalíe strives to use natural ingredients and pledges to keep their ingredients Paraben/Phthalates/PCB-free. https://us.caudalie.com
Tata Harper
Tata Harper prides itself on being 100% natural and non-toxic. We love how they clearly list the percentage of organic ingredients on their website. www.tataharperskincare.com
Josie Maran
A beauty line created by super model Josie Maran. She makes sure all ingredients are natural and organic when possible! She particularly believes in the power of argan oil, a plant-derived ingredient. www.josiemarancosmetics.com
Korres
I fell in love with Korres beauty products while on a trip to Greece. No need for a transatlantic flight now, Sephora carries the line the all-natural line. www.korresusa.com
Dr. Hauschka
Another all-natural skin care line that we have loved for years. Dr. Hauschka is a favorite among celebs for his natural products that still pack a punch. www.drhauschka.com
Dr. Bronner’s
Dr. Bronner’s Magic soap is one of those magic all-in-one products that declares there are 18 different uses in just one bottle. We love it for everything from a body wash to a gentle cleanser for clothing that needs to be hand washed. www.drbronner.com
Yes To
We’ve featured Yes To products a few times on our monthly FINDS list. It is a great natural skin care line at a great price point. Their towelettes and face moisturizers are some of our favorite products, too.
Oh, and lastly, Pretty in my Pocket is a great app for giving you even more of the 411 on beauty products and which one is the best for you! Click here to download. https://prettyinmypocket.com
