Green and Glam

Archive for the ‘Fragrance’ Category

« Older Entries

Pretty Up Your Summer Place

Friday, July 20th, 2012

Summer homes provide a much-needed retreat for rest and relaxation, so it only makes sense to upgrade them with a few smart, seasonal beauty buys. Think: delicate candles to help unwind after a long day at the beach, bath salts by the tub for after dinner treat, and pretty soaps to impress your guests.
Here, a few of our favorite finds for inspiration:

Green Girl Soy Candle in Pure Lavender, $9

Pure, pesticide-free soy provides the perfect base for these slow-burning scentsations. They’re affordably priced so you can stock up and scatter throughout the house. We’re huge fans of the Lavender – it’s the perfect fragrance to sweetly lull you into mellow, post-beach bliss.

Baby Bear Baby Bird Soap, $9

Isn’t this just the sweetest? Yes, it’s intended for super-sensitive baby skin, but the adorable bird design is too cute not to put on display. Oils of palm, coconut, aloe vera, and lavender combine to create a delightfully decadent and mega-moisturizing treat for sun-worn hands.

Priti Deep Rosemary and Mint Organic Bath Soak, $24

Every summer home bathroom should be stocked with these rosemary and mint scented bath salts. The packaging is display-ready gorgeous and the revitalizing scent is just the treat to freshen up after some serious swim time.

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Bath & Body, Fragrance, Uncategorized | No Comments »

Green Stocking Stuffers

Thursday, December 8th, 2011

The 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.

Posted in Bath & Body, Face, Fragrance, Hair, Mom & Baby | No Comments »

Organic Perfumes

Thursday, October 20th, 2011

The art of making perfumes dates back to antiquity and evidence suggests it began in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt. Many Egyptians adorned their tombs with perfume to ensure an aromatic spirit in the afterlife. Throughout history men and women have used perfume or burned incense for sacred rituals and to self beautify.

Traditionally all perfumes were naturally derived, containing essential oils, plant or wood resins and even secretions from certain animals.
With the advent of modern technologies, scientists were able to isolate particular chemical constituents such as vanillin from vanilla, to create synthetic substitutes of real oils. The synthetic varieties of chemicals were cheaper to manufacture and the perfume industry exploded. Over the years, many of us became used to the noxious smell of someone wearing strong perfume in the office or out in public. For some, physical symptoms such as headaches arose from these synthetic chemicals being sprayed
on our bodies. Luckily, as we move into greater awareness of toxic and synthetic chemicals we also discover true artisan perfumers who are doing it the old fashion way…Naturally and Organically!!!
Organic perfumes are made with organic essential oils, resins, and spices and usually combined with certified organic alcohol, fractioned coconut or jojoba oil. Since the perfumes are natural, they absorb into your skin more quickly and do not “hover over” your body like a cloud. With natural perfumes, you don’t smell someone a mile away; more over; the scent of a natural perfume bonds with a person’s unique body chemistry to give a natural and distinct scent just for you! Here are some of our favorites:

Fleur Savage by Tsi La-
Made with intoxicating jasmine, neroli and rare tuberose, it is a floral masterpiece and can be used for day or night.

Mejicca by Amanda Walker
They say that vanilla is the most seductive scent and with this perfume, you’ll have no problem in the seduction department. Made with three different types of rare vanilla and a exotic variety of spices, this warming sweet fragrance is soft and delicate.

Tags: ,
Posted in Fragrance | 1 Comment »

Coffee and Chocolate

Tuesday, September 27th, 2011

COFFEE & CHOCOLATE DELICIOUS INDULGES FOR THE SKIN

Next time you crave that strong espresso, or luscious piece of dark chocolate…go for it and consider it part of your beauty ritual. After decades of deprivation and guilt, scientists are now discovering that these delicious treats actually have incredible benefits to the skin.

Most of us love our cup of Joe in the morning but did you also know that caffeine is the first line of defense against swollen eyes and cellulite? When used topically, caffeine works to constrict blood vessels, reduce inflammation and decrease the appearance of dark circles under the eye or the appearance of cellulite. Caffeic acid is a polyphenol or antioxidant that is found in caffeine. This acid scavenges all of those nasty free radicals which cause damage and premature aging. For a java jolt to your skin, try SkinnySkinny Organic Black Coffee Scrub. Exfoliating sugar and organic coffee will leave your skin smooth and radiant.

Chocolate is truly a gift from the gods. Not only does it taste incredible but also does miraculous things for your skin. Chocolate contains high amounts of cocoa butter which is the rich emollient fat found within the cocoa bean. The moisturizing benefits of cocoa butter are well known which makes it the go to skin softener during pregnancy. Chocolate also contains flavanoids, an antioxidant that prevents cellular damage and acts as a skin protectant. A recently published study demonstrated that those who consume high flavanol cocoa (like dark chocolate) displayed a decrease in skin roughness and scaling as well as thicker and more hydrated skin by the end of the study. For a truly decadent treat, try the Dark Chocolate Truffle Body Scrub by Chocolate Sun. Pure dark chocolate and Dead Sea Salts invigorate and exfoliate.

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Bath & Body, Face, Fragrance | No Comments »

Organic Lavender Oil

Tuesday, August 16th, 2011

When trying to find my “happy place” during stressful times, I often imagine fields of Lavender in the South of France. Since I can’t jump on plane and be there, I find that a quick aromatherapy vacation does the trick. French Lavender essential oil has a unique combination of herbal and floral notes which are exquisite and if I close my eyes long enough….I can pretend I’m there. As we all know, Lavender oil is both physically and mentally calming. In skin care, it soothes inflammation including cuts and burns. Mentally it is relaxing and clearing and can elicit calm in almost any situation.  Organic French lavender can be found in many products and here are some of our favorites:

Blue Tansy & Lavender Balancing Day Crème by Cupcake Organic contains organic French lavender oil and lavender floral water to hydrate and balance the skin. Blue Tansy also provides soothing relief to dry or inflamed skin.

For the ultimate moment in tranquility, indulge in a soothing bath with Organic Lavender Bath Salts by SkinnySkinny. French lavender essential oil, organic shea butter and olive all combine to provide luxurious relaxation that leaves your skin smooth and supple.

Tags: , ,
Posted in Bath & Body, Fragrance | No Comments »

Striking it Rich: A Guide to Plant Oils

Monday, August 1st, 2011

Plant oils can help detoxify, ward off the signs of aging, and treat a bevy of skin disorders. Talk about sustainable resources. And they’re not just for the winter season.

Here’s a quick briefing on some lesser known oils and how to take advantage of their skin-benefiting abilities:

Carrot Oil

Why you need it: Plagued with acne? Suffering from dry skin? Pretty much everyone benefits from this natural detoxifier. Carrot oil, cultivated primarily in Europe and the US, is noted for its rejuvenation properties and success in treating problem skin disorders (including eczema, acne, and psoriasis). Beta carotene and vitamin A make it a parched complexion’s best friend.

Find it: Shea Terra’s Nighttime Nourishment Nutrient Facial SerumEvening Primrose Oil

Why You Need It: Looking for the ultimate “anti-aging” oil? Evening primrose is it. This oil is loaded with Omega 6 fatty acids AKA the key to glorious skin. These essential fatty acids, or EFAs, are totally essential for your body to maintain healthy cell structure and promote skin elasticity. If that isn’t enough, the oil’s anti-inflammatory properties can also help combat the occasional breakout.

Find it: [Youth Glow Omega Face Complex from Mambin
Jojoba Oil

Why You Need It: Jojoba (which is actually a liquid wax) has a long history of therapeutic use. Native Americans would use it to create a healing skin and scalp salve by melting and softening the seeds. Packed with alpha, delta, and gamma tocopherols (all different forms of vitamin E), Jojoba mimics the natural sebum structure found in our ski and is the perfect moisturizer for all skin types.

Find it: [Madara’s Ecoface Deep Moisture Cream

Seabuckthorn Oil

Why You Need It: Seabuckthorn oil contains a high amount of antioxidants that protect against free radical damage (a trigger of premature aging). Loaded with beta carotene, the bright red oil helps slow down the signs of aging while well repairing the skin. Those with sensitive or mature skin will want to stock up!

Find It: [Jiade’s Truly Organic Healing Serum]

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Bath & Body, Face, Fragrance, Hair | No Comments »

Primp Like an Egyptian

Tuesday, July 12th, 2011

PRIMP LIKE AN EGYPTIAN

Anyone who’s ever liberally lined their lashes or chilled out in a milk bath knows the natural beauty secrets of Ancient Egypt are legendary. In fact, many of the top secret ingredients are still used today.

Below, we present a history lesson for the beauty books:

Milk: Credit Cleopatra (known for her love of milk baths) for this dairy special beauty remedy. Milk, which contains lactic acid will exfoliate your dead skin cells, and leave you with super soft skin. Try Madara’s Ecoface Delicate Cleansing Milk with lactic acid from milk to gently cleanse away dirt and impurities.

Black Cumin essential oil: Ancient Egyptians used essential oils to keep hair healthy and prevent pests such as head lice. The oil of black cumin protects the scalp from sun while conditioning and stimulating hair growth. Intelligent Nutrients uses black cumin seed oil in many products, including USDA Spray-On Detangler. This organic detangler conditions hair while attacking knots.

Clay: In ancient Egypt, both men and women wore makeup to look more beautiful and enhance the face. Red or pink clay was used to give color to the cheeks or lips. Nvey Eco uses kaolin clay for color and coverage with their Organic Compact Powder. With nourishing oils and clay, skin absorbs oil and provides a light smooth texture.

http://www.organicbeautynow.com/organic-compact-powder-604.html

Neroli Oil: Sweet and intoxicating, the aroma of neroli or orange blossom is unforgettable. It has been said that Cleopatra soaked the sails of her ships with the scent of neroli before she set sail to Rome to seduce Mark Anthony. For a little seduction of your own, try Tsi La’s Fleur Savage Perfume.

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Bath & Body, Face, Fragrance | No Comments »

Q&A Wild Crafted Essential Oils

Monday, June 27th, 2011

Q. What are wild crafted essential oils?
A. Wild Crafted Essential Oils are oils that have been steam distilled or Co2 extracted from plants growing in the wild. Traditionally many essential oils came from wild sources but as the demand for certified organic essential oils grew, this type of cultivation has become less practiced.

Q. Are they always certified organic?
Not necessarily. Although plants grown in the wild rarely have pesticides, they are not certified as organic. If an essential oil is cultivated from the wild it is important to get as much information as possible from the supplier or distiller. Some oils are wildly cultivated from remote parts of the world such as Indonesia, Brazil, and India.

Q. What else should I know before I buy?
It is also important that an essential oil, such as Brazilian Rosewood or Indian Sandalwood has not been obtained from illegal cutting in the wild. This practice has been done for decades and the population of Mysore Sandalwood trees has become almost extinct in India. Because the government has now severely limited the exportation of Indian Sandalwood oil, many people are looking towards different oils such as Australian Sandalwood that has similar therapeutic benefits but is sustainably cultivated and distilled.

Q. What can I find at Organic Beauty Now?
A. We carry a variety of certified organic essential oils for all of your Aromatherapy needs, such as certified organic Ravensara oil from Balm Balm Organics. This incredible oil was once only distilled as a wild essential oil in remote areas of Madagascar but now is distilled and cultivated from certified organic lands. Ravensara has anti viral properties and is a must in your medicine cabinet during the cold and flu season. More effective than eucalyptus, it clears bronchial and nasal passages and strengthens the immune system. Add a few drops of Ravensara to a hot bath to remedy winter time aches and sniffles.

Tags: , ,
Posted in Bath & Body, Face, Fragrance, Hair | No Comments »

Mad Beauty: Madagascar Oils

Monday, May 30th, 2011

Most people are unaware that this tiny remote island boasts some of the most unique and therapeutic plants on earth. For 85 million years, the flora and flaua of this island grew in isolation from the rest of the world. As a result, the plants are distinctive and carry exceptional potency for essential oils. The oils from Madagascar stand apart from oils produced elsewhere in the world. Here are just a few that are in products we love:

Ravensara- means “good leaf” in Malagasy and has been used to treat a variety of ailments. It is considered a noble plant due to its strong medicinal properties. When faced with a cold or bronchial problem, people would often rub of the oil from the leaves onto their chests then steam the leaves and inhale the vapors. This strong camphorous oil is a strong anti viral and antiseptic. The perfect remedy against cold and flu season, it is a must in your medicine cabinet.
For Organic Ravensara distilled in Madagascar, be sure to check out Balm Balm Organics Ravensara Oil. For a soothing treatment against cold and congestion, slather on Badger’s Winter Wonder Balm containing organic Ravensara:

Ylang Ylang: These fragrant flowers were introduced to Madagascar from the Reunion Island. This plant flourishes in the volcanic soil and tropical climate and gives a distinct seductive aroma. The flowers are picked at dawn to retain its unique floral scent and the oils is distilled fractionally or in different parts. Ylang ylang has calming and relaxing benefits and many consider the oil to be an aphrodisiac. This luscious oil will leave you centered yet euphoric. Indulge yourself in the sweet aroma of ylang with SkinnySkinny Grapefruit and Ylang Ylang Bath Salts.
We love the ylang in Skin & Bones Liquid Cleanser. The strong floral notes combined with woody scents of Frankincense make this cleanser a refreshing part of your skin care routine.

Posted in Bath & Body, Face, Fragrance | No Comments »

Rose Gold: The Rich Benefits of Rose Oil

Friday, May 6th, 2011

Did you know it takes appropriately 60 rose flowers to produce one single drop of precious Rosa damascene, perhaps one of the most exquisite essential oils known throughout the ages? It’s also one of the most expensive. The pricey production process requires literally tons of petals to produce a single pound of the luscious liquid.

Bulgaria’s known for producing the finest quality rose oil, which is distilled in the Valley of the Roses. Rosa centifolia, also highly regarded, is usually cultivated in France or Morocco. Best known as the oil used in perfumery in Grasse, France for centuries, its color is more clear than golden. It also gives a softer, more powdery floral note than Bulgarian rose oil.

Known for its calming proprieties, rose oil is also a therapeutic beauty jackpot. Suffering from dry skin? Looking to reduce the signs of aging? Strike it rich with rose oil-infused skincare. The sweet stuff works wonders for dry or mature skin types.

Earth Mama Angel Baby uses organic rose centifolia petals in its Angel Baby Bath Blossoms. We love using it to calm our little one in a relaxing bath of soothing herbs.

Nothing feels more luxurious and pampering than the Damascus Rose Antioxidant Body Oil by Badger. Rich rose damascena oil heals and nourishes dry skin. Try it for the ultimate skin softening treat.

Posted in Bath & Body, Face, Fragrance | No Comments »

« Older Entries