It's Make-Up - Naturally!
If you ask me, it makes as much sense to pay attention to the ingredients found in beauty products as it does to the food we eat. Skin is the body's largest organ, it contains over 2 billion pores and through absorption it has a direct link to our bloodstream. According to EWG (Environment Working Group), an average woman uses 12 personal hygiene/cosmetic products a day, resulting in exposure to about 168 different chemicals!
While men used slightly less products, on average they were exposed to 86 chemicals daily.
The fact is that the industry that's trying to make us beautiful has a ugly side. It is a big business market of more than $60 billion that is purely self-regulated! That’s right – the FDA’s website states that
“it is up to individual companies to
ensure their products are safe”
While the FDA seems to trust these cosmetic companies implicitly, we know that most products out there contain chemicals such as plasticizers (the same chemicals used to make concrete soft); degreasers (used in the auto industry) and surfactants (used in paint and inks), many of which have been put to question and some are even known carcinogens, pesticides, and hormone disruptors. It might surprise you to find out that in Europe (which has stricter regulation laws) there are over 1300 chemicals banned from cosmetic use, while only 11 here in Canada and US.
On a personal note, it has now been 6 years since I decided to ditch these type of “traditional” beauty products and my skin has improved trumendiously. Funny enough, this all started amidst one of my “ pregnancy-rage” type moments when I decided to throw away all my cosmetics in the trash. Don’t worry – no one was hurt by my crazy pregnant-lady antics (except maybe my wallet), and although the pregnancy meltdowns ceased (thankfully!), I continued to research information about this subject. The more I did, the more I was convinced that this was a lifestyle I wanted to continue.
A new study from Berkeley University discovered that switching traditional make-up with natural alternatives was extremely effective in reducing chemical exposure. Taking even just a 36 hour break can lower up to 45% the levels of these chemicals in your body.
Simple actions can lead to results. Spending a bit of extra time in finding the right cosmetics that work for you but don't ruin your health does pay off in the long run. When it comes to purchasing make-up, put your money where it counts the most. Investing in a good, all-natural foundation or powder and mascara is well worth the money...and I speak from experience. For that reason I would like to share with you some of my favorite natural products (note that I am not sponcered by any of these companies):
1. FOUNDATION: 100% pure fruit pigmented healthy skin foundation
With a EWG SkinDeep rating of 1, it doesn't get much better that this completely organic foundation which is packed with nourishing oils and is completely safe for sensitive and reactive skin. This low to medium coverage foundation will blend in the imperfections yet remains very light on application. It actually feels more like a tinted moisturizer than foundation so if you are looking for something heavier, this might not be the product for you. It averages at about $52 CAD per bottle but it lasts a long time. As a cost-effective alternative, I would recommend (Au Naturale Cosmetics Organic Crème Foundation $38CAD)
2. LOOSE POWDER: Rejuva Minerals loose mineral foundation
I have been using this powdered foundation for 3 years now. Everytime I run out and have to purchase something different temporairly, my skin dries out or breaksout. This is the only loose powder I have tried that won't dry out my skin. It's certified organic, fully vegan, gluten-free and comes in a recyclable eco-friendly container which is always nice. Average price $20CAD
3. MASCARA: Gabriel Cosmetics natural mascara
Most natural mascaras have a tendency to flake, however this one is without a doubt an exception. It can last a whole day without any smudges. One coat is great for that natural look while two coats with give a more va-va-voom appearance. Gabriel mascara is gentle enough for sensitive eyes at only $18CAD, it's one of the more affordable products out there.
4. LIP MOISTURIZER: Lip Therapy by La Vigne
I am not much of a lipstick girl but I do enjoy keeping my lips well moisturized. Lavigne Organics is a home-grown company from Vancouver, B.C. that carries high quality, natural cosmetics. Their skincare line uses an ancien Mayan ingredient called Tepezcohuite which is known for amazing skin-healing properties. It's got a lovely soft-scent and soothes and nourishes dry lips. I absolutely love this product and don't leave home without it.
(price $12CAD)
5. MAKE-UP REMOVER: DYI
Why buy expensive make-up removers when you can simply use some coconut oil? Over the years I have tried many brands of natural make-up removers but I have to say that coconut oil works like a charm. Not only is it inexpensive and easy to use but it also leaves skin feeling nourished and hydrated.
6. LAST BUT NOT LEAST: Agent Nateur (Holistick)
One of my absolute favorite beauty product is actually not even a "beauty" product but simply I had to add it because for those of you who know a little bit about the green beauty industry, know that finding a good deodorant is like finding the holy grail. This product is fairly new on the market but so far reviews have been off the charts. I am definitely in love with it: Its got simple, all – natural ingredients, smells great, has easy application, smooth texture and best of all it does not stain your clothes. What more can you ask for - right?
The only downside is the price, averaging at about $28 per bottle it doesn't come cheap but seeing as it contains ingredients you can practically eat (not recommended LOL), I think its well worth the money.
