Don't Buy!
While I really wanted to like this lotion (in part due to the sea-buckthorn oil, which has rumored skin-healing properties), I didn't. It smelled medicinal, it made my skin look super greasy, and I didn't notice any improvement in skin tone while using it. In fact, I even got a couple of blemishes.
However, on the upside, the lotion has a perfect environmental working group score of 0.
If you're interested, you can purchase the cream on Sanre's website here.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Sanre Organic Skinfood - Lavender Dream Night Cream
Buy!
Though I tend to be skeptical of fancy nightcreams, I received a sample of this when I purchased some sunscreen from Sanre and fell in love. The cream has a lovely lavender scent, and left my skin clear and well-moisturized (but not greasy). The only downside is the price.
The moisturizer has an environmental working group score of 1.
Purchase the skin cream (free shipping!) on Sanre's website here.
Though I tend to be skeptical of fancy nightcreams, I received a sample of this when I purchased some sunscreen from Sanre and fell in love. The cream has a lovely lavender scent, and left my skin clear and well-moisturized (but not greasy). The only downside is the price.
The moisturizer has an environmental working group score of 1.
Purchase the skin cream (free shipping!) on Sanre's website here.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Rejuva Minerals - Mineral Mascara Lengthening & Thickening (Black)
Buy!
I have very sensitive eyes, and I'm extremely reluctant to put anything full of chemicals near them on a daily basis. I was pretty worried that environmentally-friendly mascara would be a bust since I was used to traditional mascara streaking by the end of the day. However, this mascara was a godsend! It lightly accentuates, separates, and lengthens my lashes the perfect amount, as I prefer that my mascara looks natural and not clown-like. It barely clumps (I don't think there's a single mascara available that never clumps) and while I'll on occasion have a small smudge below my eye, it's easy to wipe off (and the mascara comes off extremely easily with any mild cleanser). I do typically only use the mascara on my top lashes, as I think it looks more natural that way.
Best of all, the mascara has a PERFECT environmental working group score of 0!
Read more about the mascara on Rejuva Mineral's website here.
I have very sensitive eyes, and I'm extremely reluctant to put anything full of chemicals near them on a daily basis. I was pretty worried that environmentally-friendly mascara would be a bust since I was used to traditional mascara streaking by the end of the day. However, this mascara was a godsend! It lightly accentuates, separates, and lengthens my lashes the perfect amount, as I prefer that my mascara looks natural and not clown-like. It barely clumps (I don't think there's a single mascara available that never clumps) and while I'll on occasion have a small smudge below my eye, it's easy to wipe off (and the mascara comes off extremely easily with any mild cleanser). I do typically only use the mascara on my top lashes, as I think it looks more natural that way.
Best of all, the mascara has a PERFECT environmental working group score of 0!
Read more about the mascara on Rejuva Mineral's website here.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Philosophy - Hope in a Jar
Buy!
I adore this stuff - every single time I use it at night I wake up looking amazing in the morning, so much so that I actually hesitate to wash or even touch my face. I've even skipped sunscreen and makeup and gone straight to work so people can see how clear my skin is after using this moisturizer. Because of the lactic acid, the moisturizer functions as a mild exfoliant that clears away dead skin cells, so additional exfoliation isn't necessary. I do have a couple friends who experienced irritation after using this product so I'd start with a smaller jar if it's your first time trying it.
Unfortunately, it has an environmental working group score of 4, which is higher than I'd prefer for a basic moisturizer. Hopefully Philosophy will remove some of the unnecessary fragrance to improve this in the future.
Read more about Hope in a Jar on Philosophy's website.
I adore this stuff - every single time I use it at night I wake up looking amazing in the morning, so much so that I actually hesitate to wash or even touch my face. I've even skipped sunscreen and makeup and gone straight to work so people can see how clear my skin is after using this moisturizer. Because of the lactic acid, the moisturizer functions as a mild exfoliant that clears away dead skin cells, so additional exfoliation isn't necessary. I do have a couple friends who experienced irritation after using this product so I'd start with a smaller jar if it's your first time trying it.
Unfortunately, it has an environmental working group score of 4, which is higher than I'd prefer for a basic moisturizer. Hopefully Philosophy will remove some of the unnecessary fragrance to improve this in the future.
Read more about Hope in a Jar on Philosophy's website.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Colorescience - Primer SPF 20 Skin Bronzing, Wild to Mild
Buy!
I love this stuff. I generally put on a touch of bronzer (I'm pretty pale, think Kate Hudson) and everyone instantly assumes that I've been tanning. This actually looks natural and even gives me a slightly dewy/glowy complexion! However, I think this product is best used as a foundation, the coverage is more than that of a primer and it provides just as much coverage as any foundation I've ever worn; I've never layered anything on top of it and I fear that I would look overly made-up if I tried.
Even better, the primer is SPF 20 (good enough for me to wear to and from work without any additional sunscreen) and is zinc oxide and titanium dioxide based (meaning no chemicals and better protection).
Finally, the primer has an environmental working group score of 3, which for a combination foundation/sunscreen isn't bad.
Read more about colorescience's wild to mild primer here.
I love this stuff. I generally put on a touch of bronzer (I'm pretty pale, think Kate Hudson) and everyone instantly assumes that I've been tanning. This actually looks natural and even gives me a slightly dewy/glowy complexion! However, I think this product is best used as a foundation, the coverage is more than that of a primer and it provides just as much coverage as any foundation I've ever worn; I've never layered anything on top of it and I fear that I would look overly made-up if I tried.
Even better, the primer is SPF 20 (good enough for me to wear to and from work without any additional sunscreen) and is zinc oxide and titanium dioxide based (meaning no chemicals and better protection).
Finally, the primer has an environmental working group score of 3, which for a combination foundation/sunscreen isn't bad.
Read more about colorescience's wild to mild primer here.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Vanicream - SPF 35 Sunscreen Sport
Buy!
So far, this remains the best sunscreen I've found to wear when I plan on spending more than half an hour running around in the sun. While a bit thick to put on, once you make the effort to thoroughly rub it in (which may take a minute or two) the whiteness disappears and it doesn't feel thick or sticky. Even better, while in general no matter how much sunscreen I use I emerge with a slight tan, this keeps me pasty white all summer long! (I understand that may not be everyone's goal, but I don't plan on wrinkling until I'm well into my 40s!)
The sunscreen has an environmental working group score of 2, which is amazing. The EWG states that it has good UVB and UBA protection and balance, and excellent stability.
Read more about Vanicream Sunscreen here.
So far, this remains the best sunscreen I've found to wear when I plan on spending more than half an hour running around in the sun. While a bit thick to put on, once you make the effort to thoroughly rub it in (which may take a minute or two) the whiteness disappears and it doesn't feel thick or sticky. Even better, while in general no matter how much sunscreen I use I emerge with a slight tan, this keeps me pasty white all summer long! (I understand that may not be everyone's goal, but I don't plan on wrinkling until I'm well into my 40s!)
The sunscreen has an environmental working group score of 2, which is amazing. The EWG states that it has good UVB and UBA protection and balance, and excellent stability.
Read more about Vanicream Sunscreen here.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Aveeno Active Naturals - Daily Moisturizing Lotion with Sunscreen
Buy!
While I've documented my general dissatisfaction with Aveeno elsewhere, and I generally try to use non-chemical sunscreens, this SPF 15 lotion is the best option I've found to wear on a daily basis for my walks to and from work. I'm only outside for half an hour total, so SPF 15 is sufficient for my commute. Moreover, I'd (almost) rather go sunscreen-free than sit around the office all day sticky from a non-chemical sunscreen. However, I read something recently that a lot of women are getting diagnosed with skin cancer on their shins, precisely because they don't use any sunscreen during brief -- but repeated -- sun exposure.
The sunscreen has an environmental working group score of 4, which isn't bad for a chemical sunscreen. Moreover, the sunscreen has good UVA/UVB balance (though only moderate protection from both) and excellent sunscreen stability.
The sunscreen/moisturizer is available for purchase at drugstore.com.
While I've documented my general dissatisfaction with Aveeno elsewhere, and I generally try to use non-chemical sunscreens, this SPF 15 lotion is the best option I've found to wear on a daily basis for my walks to and from work. I'm only outside for half an hour total, so SPF 15 is sufficient for my commute. Moreover, I'd (almost) rather go sunscreen-free than sit around the office all day sticky from a non-chemical sunscreen. However, I read something recently that a lot of women are getting diagnosed with skin cancer on their shins, precisely because they don't use any sunscreen during brief -- but repeated -- sun exposure.
The sunscreen has an environmental working group score of 4, which isn't bad for a chemical sunscreen. Moreover, the sunscreen has good UVA/UVB balance (though only moderate protection from both) and excellent sunscreen stability.
The sunscreen/moisturizer is available for purchase at drugstore.com.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Avène - Thermal Water / Eau Thermale
Don't buy!
After viewing this product suspiciously for years, I was in the airport returning from a French vacation involving copious amounts of sun and sunscreen -- leaving my face dry and irritated. Wanting to arrive back looking fresh and dewy (nearly impossible after a long flight) I grabbed a bottle of this at the airport and misted myself once an hour until I landed. Though I didn't notice a single change in my skin upon my return, that didn't necessarily mean anything. However, I've since kept the bottle on my desk at work and used it once or so a day and, similarly, no change. While it's undeniably refreshing to spritz yourself on a hot day or while at work, a spray bottle with plain water (and perhaps a few drops of olive oil for moisture) would work just as well.
Unsurprisingly, the product has a perfect environmental working group score of 0, since it's essentially water.
Read more about Eau Thermale here.
After viewing this product suspiciously for years, I was in the airport returning from a French vacation involving copious amounts of sun and sunscreen -- leaving my face dry and irritated. Wanting to arrive back looking fresh and dewy (nearly impossible after a long flight) I grabbed a bottle of this at the airport and misted myself once an hour until I landed. Though I didn't notice a single change in my skin upon my return, that didn't necessarily mean anything. However, I've since kept the bottle on my desk at work and used it once or so a day and, similarly, no change. While it's undeniably refreshing to spritz yourself on a hot day or while at work, a spray bottle with plain water (and perhaps a few drops of olive oil for moisture) would work just as well.
Unsurprisingly, the product has a perfect environmental working group score of 0, since it's essentially water.
Read more about Eau Thermale here.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Aveeno - Positively Radiant Cleanser
Don't buy!
I have issues with Aveeno. I feel like they market themselves as a green, organic brand (in fact, I know a former Aveeno employee whose job was to brand them as green and organic) while, in reality, they're owned by Johnson & Johnson and a lot of their products are packed full of chemicals I'd rather avoid. Also, they test on animals.
I purchased this before I began my quest to green my beauty routine, to use as a mild cleanser for the winter. It did its job, but no better than -- say -- Cetaphil (a greener option) would. To Aveeno's benefit, my skin didn't dry out, I suffered no bad breakouts, and it did a great job of removing makeup.
The cleanser has an environmental working group score of 5, which isn't that impressive for a company that markets itself to conscious consumers.
Read more about the cleanser on Aveeno's website.
I have issues with Aveeno. I feel like they market themselves as a green, organic brand (in fact, I know a former Aveeno employee whose job was to brand them as green and organic) while, in reality, they're owned by Johnson & Johnson and a lot of their products are packed full of chemicals I'd rather avoid. Also, they test on animals.
I purchased this before I began my quest to green my beauty routine, to use as a mild cleanser for the winter. It did its job, but no better than -- say -- Cetaphil (a greener option) would. To Aveeno's benefit, my skin didn't dry out, I suffered no bad breakouts, and it did a great job of removing makeup.
The cleanser has an environmental working group score of 5, which isn't that impressive for a company that markets itself to conscious consumers.
Read more about the cleanser on Aveeno's website.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Aubrey Organics - Blue Camomile Hydrating Conditioner
Buy!
My usual complaint with organic or "green" conditioners is that they're not hydrating enough. While this doesn't match the faux silkiness achieved by chemical laden shampoos such as Pantene (which I find a little creepy anyway), it's one of the most moisturizing natural conditions that I've found yet. Also, this conditioner is great for bringing out highlights in my blond hair because of the camomile.
Even better, the conditioner has an environmental working group score of 2, which is pretty amazing.
Read more about the conditioner on the Aubrey Organic's website.
My usual complaint with organic or "green" conditioners is that they're not hydrating enough. While this doesn't match the faux silkiness achieved by chemical laden shampoos such as Pantene (which I find a little creepy anyway), it's one of the most moisturizing natural conditions that I've found yet. Also, this conditioner is great for bringing out highlights in my blond hair because of the camomile.
Even better, the conditioner has an environmental working group score of 2, which is pretty amazing.
Read more about the conditioner on the Aubrey Organic's website.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Badger - SPF 30+ Lightly Scented Lavender Sunscreen
Don't buy!
Do not purchase this, I actually just gave away my half-used bottle to a random lady that asked to borrow my sunscreen because I couldn't bear the thought of using it anymore. It's incredibly thick and sticky, and I always felt gross while wearing it. Perhaps that's the advertised cocoa butter and shea butter? I don't think such heavy moisturizer is typically necessary when running around on a hot sunny summer day.
Read more about it on badger's website.
Do not purchase this, I actually just gave away my half-used bottle to a random lady that asked to borrow my sunscreen because I couldn't bear the thought of using it anymore. It's incredibly thick and sticky, and I always felt gross while wearing it. Perhaps that's the advertised cocoa butter and shea butter? I don't think such heavy moisturizer is typically necessary when running around on a hot sunny summer day.
Read more about it on badger's website.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Burt's Bees - Baby Bee Shampoo and Wash
Don't buy!
While this sulfate-free shampoo actually lathers, something that I realize is unnecessary to clean hair but I'm not yet quite willing to give up, I probably wouldn't purchase it again. To be clear, I was using this to clean my own (adult) hair, not an infant's, so I'm sure it works quite well for its intended purpose. I did really like the scent, and it worked well enough as a daily shampoo supplemented once or twice a week by something more deep-cleaning. However, this shampoo tended to leave my hair limp and lifeless.
The shampoo has an Environmental Working Group score of 4, which is pretty good but not amazing.
Read more about the shampoo and wash on the Burt's Bees website.
While this sulfate-free shampoo actually lathers, something that I realize is unnecessary to clean hair but I'm not yet quite willing to give up, I probably wouldn't purchase it again. To be clear, I was using this to clean my own (adult) hair, not an infant's, so I'm sure it works quite well for its intended purpose. I did really like the scent, and it worked well enough as a daily shampoo supplemented once or twice a week by something more deep-cleaning. However, this shampoo tended to leave my hair limp and lifeless.
The shampoo has an Environmental Working Group score of 4, which is pretty good but not amazing.
Read more about the shampoo and wash on the Burt's Bees website.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Keys - Solar Rx Broad Spectrum Sunblock
Buy!
Once I became committed to locating a sunscreen that used either zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as its base, I suffered through a lot of white skin and thick, sticky creams. Solar Rx is perhaps the ONLY sunscreen I've tried thus far that doesn't suffer from these downsides. It blends seamlessly into my skin and looks great alone or under makeup. I love the scent, and because of the zinc oxide base I'm more protected from aging UV radiation than if I was using a chemical based sunscreen. I've recommended it to countless friends, and all of them have been satisfied. Though it's admittedly a bit expensive, it does seem to last for quite awhile.
Even better, the sunscreen has an Environmental Working Group score of 1, out of a possible 10, meaning it's incredibly safe.
You can read about the sunscreen on Keys' website or purchase it on Amazon.
Once I became committed to locating a sunscreen that used either zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as its base, I suffered through a lot of white skin and thick, sticky creams. Solar Rx is perhaps the ONLY sunscreen I've tried thus far that doesn't suffer from these downsides. It blends seamlessly into my skin and looks great alone or under makeup. I love the scent, and because of the zinc oxide base I'm more protected from aging UV radiation than if I was using a chemical based sunscreen. I've recommended it to countless friends, and all of them have been satisfied. Though it's admittedly a bit expensive, it does seem to last for quite awhile.
Even better, the sunscreen has an Environmental Working Group score of 1, out of a possible 10, meaning it's incredibly safe.
You can read about the sunscreen on Keys' website or purchase it on Amazon.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Organic Olive Oil!
Buy!
By far the best beauty product I've discovered thus far is olive oil. It's not greasy. Really.
I first started using it as an occasional face moisturizer. It's extremely hydrating, and aside from making you smell "like a salad" (or so says my boyfriend) there isn't a single downside; olive oil is extremely cheap and about as natural a product as you can get. (As an aside, my boyfriend now uses olive oil to moisturize more frequently than I do.) My only caveat is that does get a bit greasy if used as a body moisturizer, and I wouldn't recommend it unless you're going to put on head to toe pajamas immediately after application.
I've also started to use olive oil as a shaving lotion (after being repeatedly disappointed by some of the other options available). To make it easier to use, I put my olive oil in a stainless steel mister (I use Misto brand) and spray a bit on my legs. It provides a completely smooth surface, I never cut myself or get shaving bumps, and it moisturizes as well!
By far the best beauty product I've discovered thus far is olive oil. It's not greasy. Really.
I first started using it as an occasional face moisturizer. It's extremely hydrating, and aside from making you smell "like a salad" (or so says my boyfriend) there isn't a single downside; olive oil is extremely cheap and about as natural a product as you can get. (As an aside, my boyfriend now uses olive oil to moisturize more frequently than I do.) My only caveat is that does get a bit greasy if used as a body moisturizer, and I wouldn't recommend it unless you're going to put on head to toe pajamas immediately after application.
I've also started to use olive oil as a shaving lotion (after being repeatedly disappointed by some of the other options available). To make it easier to use, I put my olive oil in a stainless steel mister (I use Misto brand) and spray a bit on my legs. It provides a completely smooth surface, I never cut myself or get shaving bumps, and it moisturizes as well!
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