Has summery stickiness left you turning to the top knot by default? Or, worse, coming THISCLOSE to just chopping it all off? Chill out, literally. I’ve got three ridiculously chic, so-easy-your-five-year-old-could-do-them hair styles for you. First, you’re going to want this: Intelligent Nutrients Styling Gel ($29) – a plant-based product that’s basically good enough to eat. But try to refrain because it’s AMAZING for your hair. This stuff is flake-free, works its all-natural magic on all types and textures, plus smells delish to boot.
Bun Trio: Divide your hair into three parts, putting in just a touch of product before to keep things smooth. Take the right section and twist your hair all the way down to the end. Twist counter-clockwise, toward your face. Wrap the right section in on itself, just like you’re making a little bun, and leave out some pieces and pin. Twist the other two sections counter clockwise. Braid Crown: Apply product in wet hair and make two loose braids. Now, take one braid and wrap around the front (like a headband) and secure with bobby pins. With the other braid, wrap around the back – creating a crown-like effect. Fan Updo: Pull your hair all the way on the very top of your head and secure with an elastic. Now, pull out at the top to create a fan-like effect. Secure with bobby pins.
What are some of your favorite ways to wear your hair in the hot weather?
Coif Medicine: One Product, Three Cute Hairstyles
February 20th, 2012Exfoliation: Best Organic Facial Scrubs
January 20th, 2012Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the outer surface of the body. Exfoliating allows for more silky and radiant skin to be visible as tired, dull, dead skin is sloughed away. As with most things, too much of a good thing can be actually bad for you. Overexfoliation can cause skin sensitivities and inflammation.
Exfoliation can be done in two ways by either physical or chemical exfoliation.
- Physical exfoliation involves using pumice stone, loofah sponge or a naturally abrasive ingredient like jojoba beads, almond meal, or raspberry seeds that will buff away dead skin cells. It is necessary to physically or mechanically exfoliate the skin by using a circular upward motion to remove the dead skin cells.
- A chemical exfoliant uses acids or enzymes (AHA, or BHA) to remove dead skin cells that are on the skin. Glycolic, Lactic and Salicylic acids are examples of chemical exfoliants used in skincare to remove dead skin cells.
Generally people in their 30’s and older would see the greatest benefits of regular exfoliation. Teens and those in their twenties who have good skin do not need to exfoliate as often. Since their skin is rapidly rejuvenating, it is likely that they would not see the benefits of regular exfoliation.
It is best to exfoliate at least once a week. If you have particularly oily or congested skin, you may need to bump up your regimen to twice a week. If ever your skin becomes overly dry or irritated, discontinue use or exfoliate less frequently. Always remember to pile on the sunscreen after you exfoliate. Newly exposed skin is more sensitive to the sun and chemical exfoliatants such as AHA and BHA’s increase your likelihood for sunburn. As always…read your labels before you slough away
Here, a few of our favorites:
Kimberly Sayer’s Gentle Almond & Lavender Face Scrub
Sweet Almond oil and grains, luxurious jojoba beads and organic French lavender oil provide gentle cleansing and exfoliation. Skin is left feeling silky smooth and radiantly vibrant. A must have for the most sensitive skin.
Red Flower’s Bioactive Berry White Peat Exfoliate
Rich mineral sea salts, soothing aloe vera and coconut oil and bioactive white peat moss create a delicious treat for the skin. Skin will feel rejuvenated.
Beauty Resolutions for the New Year
January 3rd, 20122012 brings a New Year and a new list of resolutions that many of us try to keep for at least a few months. This year, choose beauty resolutions that will keep your skin looking its best! We asked some of our loyal customers to give us their best beauty resolutions for the New Year:
- Increase your water intake. Everyone knows that water is necessary for healthy skin metabolism. By adding just a few extra glasses a day, tissues will get more of the precious fluid they need to function more properly. Your glowing skin will thank you!
- Wear SPF Every Day! Yes rain or shine, slather on the SPF, since UVA and UVB rays cause damage every day, it is necessary to protect the skin on a daily basis. A quick way to cheat is to pick a moisturizer with natural SPF. One of our favorites is Kimberly Sayer’s Ultra Light Facial Moisturizer with SPF. This light crème applies a veil of moisture while providing essential protection from the elements.
- Wash your face before going to bed!!! This seems to be one of the hardest resolutions to keep all year long…especially after a long day. We recommend Red Flower’s Lymphatic Phytopower Sea Cleanser. Nourishing sea plants and aloe vera soothe the skin while mushroom extract and white peat revitalize. Your skin will look forward to this daily treat!
- Toss out that old makeup!!! Old makeup can be loaded with bacteria which can clog pores and cause breakouts. Make sure to throw out old makeup especially natural or organic eye makeup that is over 6 -12 months old. Ditch the old tube and replace it with 100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Mascara. Using only natural pigments from black tea and conditioning vitamin E, this mascara lengthens and thickens lashes using only natural ingredients.
Did we miss any top resolutions that you have? Let us know!
Dirt on Cleansing Clays
December 19th, 2011Does the thought of a soaking in mud, or smearing colored clays on your face typify the image of health and beauty? It should!! Clays and muds have been used for thousands of years dating back to ancient Egyptians, Romans & Greeks. It was long believed that mud and clays found in certain locations contained specific healing powers. These properties are now thought to be due to the rich mineral content and plant substances dissolved in the clay and mud sediments of certain areas. Some of these treasured clays are still considered the most therapeutic and used today:
White Clay or Kaolin clay is one of the most versatile clays and is often used in skincare due to it soft fluffy texture and gentleness. It easily draws impurities from the skin while effectively exfoliating and can be used on all skin types. White Clay can be found in SkinnySkinny Organic Rose & Black Pepper Dry Shampoo. The white clay absorbs extra oils from the hair and scalp and hair is left feeling refreshed and smelling great.
French Green Clay is a very absorbent clay and is considered to be one of the most detoxifying. The clay contains trace minerals such as silica, aluminum, magnesium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, copper, zinc, such selenium, cobalt, manganese, and silicon. In addition to its anti-inflammatory benefits, it stimulates blood and lymphatic circulation while removing impurities. Try Kimberly Sayer’s Deep Cleansing French Clay Mask. With detoxifying montmorillonite clay and essential oils, skin will be smooth, clear, and radiant.
Red Clay- A mineral rich clay that is often called Moroccan clay, since it was originally found in the Atlas Mountains near Morocco. It contains a high mineral content therefore it acts as a good astringent and effectively unclogs pores. This clay is best suited for oily and congested skin. Miessence’s Soothing Mineral Mask contains rich red clay and soothing Chamomile extract to renew the skin surface.
Pretty Thoughtful: Shopping for the Beauty-Phobic Guy in Your Life
December 12th, 2011Sure, he may claim indifference to skin smoothers and scrubs but your suddenly empty body lotion doesn’t lie. Has your boyfriend/husband been secretly stealing your beauty loot? This holiday, treat the man in your life to a little natural goodness. Even if he balks at the idea of beauty, we can’t imagine any guy objecting to the organic goodies on our list.
Below, my top picks for the ultimate man-approved grooming gifts:
Living Nature Men’s Soothing Shave Cream, $39
Guys hate shaving. I’d like to place the problem on products. This year, treat him to a dream cream as luxurious as it is eco-friendly. This non-irritating, non-foaming cream eliminates the odds of inflammation and is suited to even the most sensitive of shavers.
Vitamen Sea Salt Body Scrub, $46
Searching for a decidedly non-frou frou skin softening scrub? Scoop up this mega-masculine black-hued tub of exfoliating goodness. He’ll become easily addicted to this product’s all-guy natural scent, enhanced with soothing aloe vera. Perfect after a long workout or day on the slopes.
Yarok Serum 5 Triumphant for Men, $58.20
Initially, he might not be into the idea of a scalp moisturizer. Until he tries this miracle worker, that is. Packed with all-natural ingredients, this delicious oil works double-duty to condition and prevent unsightly dandruff.
Tell us, what beauty products does your boyfriend/husband secretly steal?
Green Stocking Stuffers
December 8th, 2011The stockings were hung on the chimney with care with the hopes that their contents wouldn’t poison the air …..
Ok perhaps we’re being dramatic but how much do we think about the items we put into our stockings? We manage to incorporate being green in our daily lives but how bout when Jolly Old St. Nick comes to town? Take a look at the average stocker stuffer item: overly packaged, artificial color & flavor and made in who knows where??? This year, choose products that are made in the USA with the finest organic ingredients. Most importantly, choose items that have been sustainably made and support small businesses that make these wonderful products. It’s a win win for everyone involved. Your loved one will get a stocking stuffer that they will actually use and you won’t pollute the planet in the process.
Here are some of my favorite stocking stuffers this year.
Badger Balm- Winter Wonder Balm.
This is my go-to remedy for colds & flu symptoms all year long. Made with cooling eucalyptus, tea tree, rosemary and peppermint, this organic balm with soothe all of your aches and stop your sniffles.
100% Pure Lip Gloss-
We love these natural lip glosses made with only fruit & plant pigments. Rich vibrant colors, delicious flavors, and soothing ingredients such as shea butter and vitamin E.
Green Girl Candles Simply Lemongrass
These soy based candles use only therapeutic essential oils and no sickening artificial fragrance. I love the cleansing purifying scent of lemongrass. It is one of the few scents that can be used anywhere from bathroom to bedroom and it makes a great small gift.
Beauty and the Feast: The Sweetest Beauty Treats
November 21st, 2011This holiday, enjoy your sweets in the shower instead of on your spoon. Go ahead and gorge: mega-indulgent body washes, super yummy lotions, and good-enough-to-eat facial lotions. Just because our organic beauty buys aren’t chemical-laden doesn’t mean they can’t smell and feel utterly decadent. Whether you’re planning to stuff these prettifying treats in a stocking or simply stash in your bathroom, here’s my secret recipe for a truly gourmet getting-gorgeous routine:
Shea Terra Pink Guavas and Pomegranate Whipped Shea Butter Body Cream, $18
Want to smell absolutely incredible with baby-soft skin? Post-shower, make like pumpkin pie and liberally load this stuff on. The smell is light, citrus-y, and super pretty. Plus, the frothy texture feels amazing against just showered-skin.
Karen’s Botanical’s Peppermint Pimple Zapper, $10
OK, treating your pimps isn’t always the most fun of beauty treatments. But it is a necessity, especially when navigating the super social party circuit, and especially when you’re using this zingy little miracle worker. With an intense candy cane-smell and loads of nourishing plant extracts, just a few applications and you’ll be clear and cool.
Chocolate Sun Dark Chocolate Truffle Scrub, $38
Take one part raw, unbleached turbinado sugar, mix with mineral-rich sea salts, add a Wonka-approved scent and get ready to experience a total calorie-free body-benefiting indulgence unlike anything you’ve experienced before. Apply in the shower, toss on a cashmere robe, and snuggle up with a mug of hot chocolate in front of the fire. Isn’t that what the holidays are all about?
Tell us: what are your favorite holiday indulgences?
Play Time: Pretty, Natural, Play Makeup for Kids
November 14th, 2011Beauty addictions start young. Ever swirled up your favorite lipstick to discover it in a suddenly-smashed state? Safeguard your stash by stocking up on some amazing geared-towards-the-girls play make-up kits. In addition to being the perfect stocking stuffers, these glamorous gift ideas install the importance of natural beauty at a young age AND are completely free of icky parabens and dyes (which are totally common in most kids play makeup).
Here, a list of products to will ensure the prettiest of play times:
Little Earth’s Beauty 5-piece All Natural Make Up Set, $19.99
Adorable and entirely organic, this kit mimics all the grown-up sophistication of the real deal. Inside the 4×6 clear zipper makeup bag, you’ll find a pretty pink glitter gel, creamy pink eye shadow/blush, rose tinted lip balm, 3 inch mirror, and an eye shadow applicator.
The packaging, featuring a cute butterfly design, only adds to the charm.
Is your young one manicurious? Indulge her with this totally safe and easy-to-apply pink from Priti. All polishes are non-toxic, making them totally safe for mommys-to-be, too.
Lunastar Sparkle Fair y Kit Play Make-up, $19.99
Fairy dust makes everything just a bit more magical – and the formulas in this kit are completely natural. Glittery powders and sparkling green shadows, plus a bubble gum shimmer lip balm provide your little princesses with hours of fantastical face-glamorizing fun. Everything washes off super easy with soap and water.
Tell us: what are your kids’ favorite beauty finds?
Teen Skin Care
November 10th, 2011We all have those days when we feel as if we are losing the battle in the war for good skin. A pimple or blemish will appear, and we instantly become self conscious and less confident. For teenagers, this experience is particularly difficult. During puberty and adolescence, hormones go into overdrive often causing the skin to produce more sebum. An accumulation of sebum clogs pores and creates blemishes and acne. As a result, acne ridden teens often spend an enormous amount of money of dangerously toxic products to rid themselves of embarrassing acne. The remedy is simple. Use organic and naturally derived skin care products to establish a proper skin care routine early and you minimize breakouts and blemishes.
Abrasive toxic cleansers, oily moisturizers loaded with petrochemicals only create more of a disturbance to delicate skin. Feed your skin proper nourishment and it will reward you will healthy skin in return. Here are some of my favorite products that are great for teens:
Blemish Wash from Good for You Girls
This is a great natural alternative to the harmful anti acne cleansers you find in the drug store. Suited for teens that have problem skin or acne, it contains jojoba beads and fruit enzymes from papaya to gently exfoliate the skin.
Willowbark Exfoliating Anti-Acne Toner by Artisan Naturals
An alcohol free toner that is a teen’s best friend!! Made with organic lavender water and owhyee to sooth inflamed blemished skin. Willowbark contains natural salicylic acid which exfoliates dead skin cells. Cinnamon bark extract is a natural antiseptic and produces a calming effect on the skin.
Eye Believe: 3 Eye Products That Will Change Your Life
November 7th, 2011It’s easy to neglect the under eye area. When it comes to skin care routines, we’re often too preoccupied with masks and moisturizers to remember the importance of dabbing on product on this delicate region. Thankfully, ridding oneself of wrinkles and unsightly under eye circles doesn’t involve the use of harsh chemically-laden beauty booty.
Check out 3 of my all-time favorite eye do’s below:
100% Pure Organic Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream, $19
This super potent blend of organic ingredients (think soothing rosehip, anti-aging vitamins, and rich powerful antioxidants) jolts circulation and instantly works to de-puff your peepers. Proof that caffeine isn’t always killer for your complexion.
Dr. Alkaitis Organic Mascara and Eye Makeup Remover, $40
I used to loathe taking off my eye makeup every night. The formulas were always so drying and it felt like the process took forever. Then I discovered this all-natural formula. It’s made of virgin almond oil and literally wipes makeup off in one quick swoop.
Living Nature Firming Eye Cream, $47
Just a teeny dab of this lush cream is all it takes to leave the under eye area dewy, plump, and noticeably firmer. I love blending a bit in the morning with my concealer to start the day with super alert eyes.
Tell us, what are your favorite eye area products?
