The Organic Beauty Expert

Organicare :: Fresh Fix for that oh so uncomfortable sun sore skin

from release

Take Fresh Fix on your trip this summer and use it as a refresher on the plane and on the beach.  If, heaven forbid, you get sunburned, whip out Fresh Fix to alleviate the painful effects of your burn and do so knowing that Fresh Fix bears the USDA certified organic seal ensuring purity and safety.

Fresh Fix’s fine mist instantly cools and soothes skin with aloe and lavender while putting to work the anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile.  Coconut, ginseng, and cocoa condition while vitamin A and St. John’s Wort combat flaking and restore suppleness to the skin.

Organicare, the next generation in skincare, is a completely USDA-certified organic line of performance skincare.  Fresh Fix retails for $29.50.

Yet another reason to consider buying local instead of paying for "organic"

Since my very recent "healthy eating awakening", I have chosen to buy local fruits and vegetables instead of paying more money for the organic label at the store. Why? Well, I'm obviously cynical and don't quite trust the government to construct a system that actually protects what I eat. So this article is not shocking but should certainly make you think a bit more before you shell out the extra bucks.

The Washington Post recently reported findings of shortcomings in the USDA’s Organics program—meaning that consumers, who at times must pay twice as much for organic products, are not always getting what they expect: foods without pesticides and other chemicals, produced in a way that is gentle to the environment.

Relaxation of the federal standards, and an explosion of consumer demand, have helped push the organics market into a $23 billion-a-year business, the fastest growing segment of the food industry. Half of the country's adults say they buy organic food often or sometimes, according to a survey last year by the Harvard School of Public Health.

Oakley offers first ever eco-friendly recyclable sunglasses :: Bob Burnquist Signature Recycled Gascan®

Oakley skateboarder Bob Burnquist has long championed “green” initiatives and environmental protection. To show support, Oakley is pleased to present this special edition Gascan® eyewear. The frame is made from excess materials produced from the manufacture of other eyewear and the eco conscious design utilizes 100% certified organic bamboo for the icon accents and the included storage bag. Packaging is constructed from recycled materials and printed with eco-friendly inks.

“We are proud of this new sunglass, the first of what we hope to be numerous innovations created with Green initiatives in mind,” stated Pat McIlvain, Oakley Vice President, Sports Marketing. "Bob has long been a source of inspiration to Oakley, and he brings a wealth of knowledge to the design table. It's very exciting to see Oakley take this approach with our environment in mind."

“I am very excited to be part of the creation of this special eyewear piece,” said Bob Burnquist. “The way Oakley has bridged the gap between technical innovation and a more green route is quite an achievement.”

A portion of the proceeds from sales of the Bob Burnquist Gascan® will go to the Action Sports Environmental Coalition (ASEC), an organization co-founded by Bob in 2001. With the help of athletes and companies, the organization takes a proactive approach to educate others about environmental responsibility and the importance of preserving the Earth's valuable resources for future generations.
Price:  $100.0.

Avalon Organics NEW Deodorant Spray

from release

Effectively eliminate odor with just a few sprays of Avalon Organics NEW Deodorant Spray. Perfect for use as a traditional deodorant, an all-over body spray or as a room freshner! The 100% natural formulation relies on organic essential oils—free of parabens, aluminum, propylene glycol and artificial colors, fragrances and preservatives—to wipe out odor-causing bacteria while providing additional restorative and calming benefits.

Envelop your body and your home with the pure, clean scent of Rosemary & Peppermint Deodorant Spray; employ the antibacterial and antimicrobial benefits with the fresh scent of Clary Sage & Lemon Deodorant Spray; Relax with the calming aroma of the Lavender Deodorant Spray; and Rejuvenate your senses with the Grapefruit & Geranium Deodorant Spray. 4 fl oz., SRP: $8.95.

Available nationwide at Whole Foods Markets, CVS, Target and fine natural foods retailers.

Sabon NYC Organic Face Serum review

For an oil-based serum, this product is surprisingly light and penetrating and contains more than 70% organic ingredients.

Product:
Organic Face Serum, 1.05 oz, $49
INGREDIENTS :: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Macadamia Oil (Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil), Peucedanum Graveolens (Dill) Extract, Marrubium Vulgare, Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Seed Oil, Saccharide Isomerate, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Leontopodium Alpinum (Edelweiss) Flower Leaf Extract, Artemisia Umbelliferous Extract, Xanthum Gum, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Maris Sal (Dead Sea Salt), Maris Limus (Black Dead Sea Mud), Squalane, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Perfume, Glycerine, Aqua, Alcohol, Benxyl Alcohol, Dehydroacetic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Benzoic Acid, Gluconolactone, Sodium Benzoate, Mica, Iron Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Silica, Citronellol, Linalool, Limonene, Benzyl Benzoate.
Number of times used :: 10+
Overall :: Sabon NYC launched an organic line of products that are created in accordance with ECOCERT standards. This macadamia nut oil-based serum is very light and is great for use under your foundation or before heading to bed. Although they stress the ECOCERT stuff, taking a glace through the ingredient listing doesn't read totally organic to me; I'd say it leans more toward natural, but nevertheless, the end product is effective and works well on my greasy-prone skin.

My only issue with this particular is the price point. Fifty bucks for one ounce is a little steep and seems a bit out of step with the pricing of the rest of this line, (though the other serums are equally priced.) Sabon would do better to offer more product or bring that price down because the serum is really quite nice.

Origins Organics Totally Pure Deodorant review

During the last year I've had an on again, off again love/hate affair with natural deodorant. I have enjoyed several brands over the last three years and ultimately end up disappointed once I put the deodorant to the real test. Yet, I persevere in the search for a natural deodorant and so far things are coming up roses with Origins.

Product:
Totally Pure Deodorant, 3.4 oz, $15
Number of times used ::  20+
Overall :: Happy, happy , joy, joy! Happy, happy joy! I've used this deodorant during lazy days, days packed with massage sessions that had sweating like a whore in church and recently tested it during my cardio workout and wasn't afraid to raise my arm afterward.

The scent blend is very nice, a bit strong for some, maybe but better to smell fresh essential oils than funk, I always say. Even better, if you forget to spray the next day, worry not. This deodorant keeps working. Very nice.

Of course, you can't run down to your local health food store to purchase, but if you've been looking for natural that works, it's tiem for a trip to the mall!

Livin' la vida Lavender :: Here's to a little purple relaxation

When I was younger, I was never fond of lavender. For me, it was like the old lady smell that rose can conjure for some. So as I drift lazily through my 30s, I have come to appreciate the relaxing overtones that lavender lends to the day. Here's some lavender suggestions to consider and feel free to add your own in the comments.

Dr. Hauschka Lavender Bath, $32.95

One With Nature Dead Sea Mineral Soap, $3.79

Ole Henriksen Body Oil, $28.00

And because there's no such thing as too much LUSH... The Big Hair Affair

It’s time to toss your plans and titillate your senses by having a steamy affair – with your hair.  LUSH Cosmetics is introducing The Big Hair Affair, a limited edition, customizable kit that will romance your hair with the freshest ingredients and the finest essential oils, so you can sit back, relax and fall in love with your hair again.  Begin an affair with your hair tonight and romance those dull locks back to life – and don’t worry, we won’t tell your stylist.

The Big Hair Affair contains seven indulgent hair products for just $15. You will get a taste of three shampoos, two conditioners, one hair treatment and one styling gel – all of your choice and customized to suit your hair needs.  Whether you’re looking to tame your tresses, define curls, or max out volume, you’re just 5 steps away from sultry and seductive hair with The Big Hair Affair.

LUSH Vanilla line review

I am seriously waiting for a LUSH product that I can ding! I mean how is it possible that these people create such fabulous products all the freakin' time! LUSH recently launched their new Vanilla line of products and quite frankly, they make me want to cover myself in whipped cream and lick myself. Seriously!

Products: (all vegan)

Heavanilli Massage Bar, 1.9 oz, $9.95
INGREDIENTS :: Cocoa Butter (Theobroma cacao), Fair Trade Shea Butter (Butyrospermum parkil), Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (Cocos nucifera), Perfume, Vanilla Absolute (Vanilla planifolia), Jasmine Absolute (Jasminum officinale), Tonka Absolute (Dipteryx odorata), Hydroxcitronellal*, Gardenia Extract (Gardenia jasminoides), D&C Red 30.  *Naturally occurs in essential oils

Vanilla Puff Dusting Powder, 3.5 oz, $10.95

INGREDIENTS :: Cornflour (Zea mays), Magnesium Carbonate, Talc, Perfume, Vanilla Absolute (Vanilla planifolia), Jasmine Absolute (Jasminum officinale), Tonka Absolute (Dipteryx odorata), Powdered Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia), Vanilla Pod (Vanilla planifolia), *Coumarin, Hydroxcitronellal. *Naturally occurs in essential oils 

Vanillary Solid Perfume, 2.5 oz, $11.95

INGREDIENTS :: Japan Wax, Perfume, Fair Trade Organic Cocoa Butter (Theobroma Cacao), Camauba Wax (Copernicia cerifera), Hydroxcitronellal, Vanilla Absolute (Vanilla planifolia), Organic Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia chinensis), Jasmine Absolute (Jasminum officinale), Tonka Absolute (Dipteryx odorata), *Coumarin, *Benzyl Alcohol, *Benzyl Cinnamate. *Naturally occurs in essential oils

Number of times used :: 10+

Overall :: What more can I say? I usually am not that fond of vanilla as a main scent, but the way LUSH created this line made this girl change her mind. Being a massage bar virgin, the Heavanilli was a wonderful first time. How sensual, how sexy, how absolutely divine! This massage bar is heavily scented and makes me  want lick myself. Yes, that's the only way to explain the way this bar makes me feel. Like a sexy scented girl who wishes her man wasn't 5,000 miles away.

The Dusting Powder is a different story. I'm of the black girl ilk when back in the day we brown misses would throw some Shower to Shower on our chests and underarms and walk out proud in daylight with the white powder glaring for all to see. So believe me, there was some hesitation in figuring out how best to use this powder. It goes on smooth and clear and is deliciously scented. I even use this powder to freshen up my dreads. I dig it. Very much!

Sadly, the perfume gives me hesitation. Once you can get the perfume on your skin, it's lovely. But this perfume is a bit too tightly packed and takes some work to finagle it onto the skin. This would have been the perfect solid perfume if it were just a bit more flexible. The scent is rich, deep and very sensual and last about four hours before re-application is needed.

ecoStore USA cleaning products review

After a disappointing venture into natural cleaning with Method laundry detergent and Seventh Generation dishwashing powder, it was nice to find this decently priced line from ecostore USA. My biggest gripe is that they are not yet readily available in local stores, so you have to buy online, which never seems to happen. On the plus side, they are now available in all 185 Meijer supercenters in five states.

Products reviewed ::
Citrus Spray Cleaner, $9
Ingredients :: D-Limonene (from citrus), Palm and coconut based non-ionic and anionic surfactants, Fatty acid derivative, Ethanol, Filtered water
Dish Wash Liquid, $8.50
Ingredients :: Palm and Coconut based non-ionic and anionic surfactants, Mineral hydroxide, natural citrus oil
Laundry Liquid, $11
Ingredients :: Palm and Coconut based non-ionic and anionic surfactants, Fatty acid derivative, Mineral hydroxide, Certified organic Eucalyptus oil
Number of times used :: 40+
Overall :: Let's state the obvious -- these products cost more than your usual cleaning products. And I'll be honest, I still use the "other" laundry detergent, simply because it's more convenient to go to Costco and buy it bulk. However, once this bottle of "other" is gone, I am going solely natural from here on out.

The laundry liquid is very effective and I love the fresh eucalyptus smell. I tested it by using it to wash my massage sheets, which are usually heavily laden with lotion and /or oil. The scent didn't linger in the sheets, they were clean, crisp and white and honestly, that bottle lasted about three months. Considering I wash sheets three to four times a week, that's pretty efficient.

Additionally, not suggesting that you do this, but I also used the dish wash liquid to clean my fruits and vegatables and for the first time, I didn't hesitate, wondering what else I was putting into my body. There's no heavy scent and the product does what it's meant to do, which is clean the grease and grime from my dishes.

Looking for a natural hair dye? Research teams say it's just around the corner

Hair dyes made with only natural ingredients could be on the market within two years, according a research team at the University of Leeds.

Read the full article.

Now, Advanced Cosmetics offers a 100% plant-based permanent hair color system. I haven't used it personally so can't state for sure about the ingredients, but might be worth looking into until the fully all-natural option comes around.

Dead Sea Salts worth your dollars :: Adovia Dead Sea Salts with Acai Berry Oil

You will very rarely find a recommendation for sea salts on OBE because more often than not, companies simply buy sea salts bulk and jack up the price more than 200%, offering 8 ounces for $25. What a rip off!

In my practice, especially after I give someone a deep tissue massage, I often suggest they take a hot bath with salts to reduce the pain and relax their muscles. The sea salts from Adovia, however, offer more than two pounds of muscles loosening goodness for just $20 bucks. Seriously? Oh yeah!

The newest addition to the Adovia Dead Sea Salt family offers the addition of acai berry oil. "The pulp of Acai berries has been used for centuries by the natives of Brazil for its unmatched healing and nutritional properties. The Acai berry is abound with essential fatty acids such as Omega 3, Omega 6, and Omega 9. There are also many other vitamins such as B1, B2, B3, E, and C and minerals such as Phosphorus, Calcium, and Potassium, as well as polyphenols, anthocyanins, and phytosterols," says Alex Keyan, President of Adovia Mineral Skin Care.

Like nothing else, these salts will warm & relax your muscles, stimulate circulation and are effective for the relief of eczema, acne, psoriasis & pain.

Seriously? Journalist kills fish on live TV to prove toxic point

A danish journalist faced big punishment recently because of an idea. Lisbeth Kloester went on live TV to showcase the dangers of using everyday products like shampoo. That these products are toxic to our health.

To prove this point, she added anti-dandruff shampoo to a tank full of fish. Twelve of the 13 fish died and she was charged with causing unnecessary cruelty to animals after a viewer complained. This happened in 2004, though the case just came before the court late May. Because of this, the journalist was found guilty, but was not sentenced because of the delay the case took in coming to court.

I don't know... is no one else calling BS on this? Sucks that she even came on charges, but her demo was silly to begin with. Fish would probably die if you put baking soda in their water. It's agreed that some ingredients need a second look, but this was kind of silly.

Sugar-licious launches from LUSH

Having mastered the art of glowing skin and to-die-for hair, LUSH is ready to tackle the ultimate bathroom battle against cellulite and those dreaded dimply bits! In true LUSH fashion, LUSH is fighting the fight in its own innovative way with two brand new solid Sugar Scrubs. Sugar, sodium bicarb and cream of tartar together make for a gorgeous solid exfoliator for the shower and one that is free from the modern constraints of packaging. The new scrubs launch July 2009.

LUSH Sugar Scrub :: Sugar Scrub uses exfoliating Fair Trade sugar to scrub away dead skin cells, tackling cellulite and invigorating sluggish skin for a fresh start this summer. Its stimulating blend of fresh fennel and fennel oil acts as a great tonic for the skin, while lavender oil has a healing effect on the skin and warming ginger kicks the circulation up a notch. All in all, a great way to get your body polished in preparation for summer exposure! (Vegan) $4.95.

LUSH Sugar Babe :: Sugar Babe is tough on the outside but don’t let that fool you – this super scrub is filled with a soft, soothing center that will leave skin refreshed and rejuvenated. The Fair Trade sugar exfoliates skin for a smooth result – it’s perfect for those dimply bits on thighs, stomach and upper arms. As the sugar melts away, the nourishing center of extra virgin coconut oil is revealed. The light, protein rich oil softens and moisturizes the body, while beeswax absolute, a natural antiseptic, soothes and protects. Skin is seductively scented with mimosa absolute and ylang ylang making your newly smoothed and sexy skin even more irresistible. $4.95

from BeautyPress.com

Tsi La Organic perfume review

Call me a cynic. Call me jaded. But as a woman who loves scents, creates perfumes, lives by aromas and knows a thing or two about blending, perhaps I am expecting more of natural scents for my money than the average.

Products reviewed ::
Tsi La Organics Mini Eau de Parfum Collection, $95
INGREDIENTS :: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride(coconut) Oil, Natural Fragrance (No synthetic fragrance, preservatives or artificial colors. 100% pure plant essences), Cymbidium Grandiflorum (Orchid) Flower Extract, Limnanthes alba (MEADOWFOAM) SEED OIL, Tocopherol
Number of times used :: 20+
Overall :: This mini collection offers the four scents in 4ml roll bottles. While the packaging is nice, the scents could be so much more. For example, Fleur Savage combines some of the most erotic scents available, Jasmine, Tuberose and Neroli and what I experienced is an utter letdown. These specific oils should tantalize the nose, tickle the brain and allow me just a moment of olfactory orgasm. What I got what equal to an aromatherapy blend, which is a nice scent, but no full body experience, which is what I desire from my perfumes.

If you want exploding scent and professional perfume blends, suggest Aftelier Perfume Miniatures. While they offer less perfume by volume, they more than make up for it longer lasting and unique scents.

Sponge Skincare :: Ladi Avokanto review

Avocado oil has been praised for its therapeutic value and is rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, D, E as well as other essential fatty acids. Sponge Skincare were first used with the pregnant patients of the founder Dr. Costas Tympanidis. All Sponge Skincare products are based in olive oil and mixed with organically grown herbs.

Product reviewed ::
Ladi Avokanto, 1.7 oz, $100
Number of times used :: 10+
Overall :: This oil is exquisite. It's moisturizing and smells divine and is the perfect oil to use under makeup and before heading to bed. However, $100 for a little under two ounces is absurd; especially considering that you can go to any beauty wholesale site like From Nature with Love or Essential Wholesale and buy avocado oil (sometimes organic) for about $10 bucks. You do the math and follow your budget sense.

Ootanga Body Oil :: New from Jaimeeearl

New from Jaime Earl :: Ootanga Body Oil. Pressed from fresh Kalahari watermelon seeds, Jaimeearl’s Ootanga Body Oil is on-greasy, penetrating and great for all skin types. The composition of essential fatty acids in Kalahari seeds helps to nourish, moisturize and restore elasticity to the skin. This fast-absorbing body oil is light but packs incredible moisturizing ability.

Jaimeearl’s Ootanga Body Oil is lightly scented with organic pink grapefruit essential oil. It is wonderfully uplifting and also a great astringent for balancing oily skin and hair. 4 oz, $32

INGREDIENTS ::  citrullus vulgaris (watermelon) seed oil, citrus paradisi (organic pink grapefruit essential oil)

Expecting? Then enter to win a bundle of joy from Nine Naturals

Nine Naturals is hosting their biggest ever natural beauty give-a-way. The new product line is giving $200 in natural beauty products to ONE lucky winner. To enter, just type in your email address on their site.

It's a great way to introduce the newest natural products, as the give-a-way features not just the Nine Naturals brand but some of the best in the market.

The giveaway launches today and winner will be announced July 22!

Orissa Cometics :: UKs newest brand for ethnic women

According to the 2001 Census, the UK has approximately 3.6million people of Black African/Black Caribbean/Indian/Pakistani minority. Orissa Cosmetics is hoping to offer a perfect match for women with darker skin tones.

Hand made in the UK using natural minerals, Orissa Cosmetics is specially developed for ethnic women with darker skin tones. Founding directors Bhimal Hira and Mona Parekh state that “women with dark skin tones are not being adequately catered for by the mainstream beauty industry, leaving many ethnic women using makeup product’s that does not suit their skin type”.

The Orissa range includes carefully selected shades of foundations, blushers, bronzers and eye shadows that dramatically enhance and perfectly match darker skin tones. What’s more, the entire range is hand made using crushed natural earth minerals that is easy to apply, allows skin to breath throughout the day, does not require constant re-application, has a natural UVA/UVB protection (SPF 15-20) and is highly water and humid resistant.

Nude Cleansing Facial Oil review

I was first introduced to this product last summer during a facial I received at Barney's Beverly Hills. Previously, due to my tendency toward oily skin, I was a bit leery of a straight oil facial cleanser. Not anymore!

Product:
Nude Cleansing Facial Oil, 200 ml/6.76 oz, $52
INGREDIENTS: glycine soja (soybean) oil, polyglyceryl-4-oleate (vegetable oil), squalene (olive oil), tocopherol acetate (plant sources), natural fragrance (parfum), benzyl benzoate (essential oil), linalool (essential oil), eugenol (essential oil)
Number of times used : 20+
Overall : A bit pricey in terms of ingredients, but offers great results and is nourishing and moisturizing without being greasy. Works well as an after cleanser when using medicated washes or other products that may tend to dry your skin.