Five Ways to Be GREEN and Beautiful

Many people are paying more attention to what they put in their bodies, choosing organic foods and shopping at their local farmers’ market.  However, it is just as important to consider what’s put on the body.  Sustainable clothing companies, like EcoChics Earthwear, provide beautiful, organic clothing that’s good for you and the planet.  They are among the leaders in fashionable, green casual-wear and proudly give a portion of their annual profits to support American Forests.  The co-founders of EcoChics Earthwear, also encourage people to consider green beauty, because what’s put on your face, hair, and skin is also important.  While it’s almost impossible for an entire product line to be 100% natural, the rise in consumer demand is causing more and more companies to replace chemical ingredients with natural alternatives.  There are now many green beauty options that are better for your body and the environment.

The 2EcoChics suggest the following five ways to be GREEN and beautiful:

1. Ayurveda is an ancient method of health and healing which originated in India and is practiced all over the world.  Authentic Ayurvedic products and treatments require pure ingredients so their skin and body-care lines are considered among the most natural.  The 2EcoChics love Kama Ayurveda Rejuvenating Body Treatment, which is packed with wild cherry, whey, and sesame oil.  It improves skin tone naturally.   Another popular Ayurvendic treatment is the Pratima Turmeric Cream/Mask which uses the antibacterial herb to restore complexions.

2. Organic skincare brands help keep toxic chemicals out of the soil and water, as well as off our skin.  Look for brands that contain individual ingredients labeled, "certified organic" which means their source was grown naturally.  The 2EcoChics like Origins Organics Silkening Body Spritz made from soy lecithin and sunflower oil and Eminence Organic Skin Care for toning with a natural lemon citrus twist. 

3. Biodynamic beauty products benefit from the uber-ingredients which come from this “original organic” method of farming.  Biodynamic farming follows the natural rhythms of nature to cultivate fertile soil that is rich in nutrients.  It yields the healthiest of produce and most potent beauty ingredients.  Among the best of biodynamic beauty companies is Jurlique, who offers many green choices. One of the 2EcoChics favorites is Jurlique’s Citrus Hand Cream made from biodynamic chamomile, marshmallow, and calendula.  Dr. Hauschka’s Moisturizing Mask also contains biodynamic shea butter for a fabulous natural glow.   

4. Paraben and Sulfate-Free is something else to look out for when shopping for green cosmetics and skincare. Ingredients with methyl-, ethyl-, propyl-, and butyl-paraben are frequently put into cosmetics as a preservative.  However, just because it can sit longer on the shelf doesn’t mean you want to put in on your face. Natural, paraben-free alternatives are beta-carotene, geranium, and even spearmint oil (which also smells wonderful).  The 2EcoChics are fans of Aveda products, especially the Outer Peace Cooling Masque.  Sulfates are used mostly as a sudsing agent that helps remove dirt and oils from hair and skin but are also known topical irritants.  Greener choices are Dr. Alkaitis Organic Shampoo, which uses sage, horsetail, and Aztec marigold, and Ren Neroli and Grapfruit Body Wash. 

5. Vegan is both a diet and lifestyle whose primary philosophy protects animals and the environment.  If a product has a vegan label, its formulation uses no animal-derived ingredients.  However, being called Vegan doesn’t necessarily mean its ingredients are organic.  A Green Vegan beauty product to try is Osea Skin Care Advanced Protection Cream. It uses natural plant material to stimulate collagen production for an organic and vegan approach to anti-aging skincare. When traveling, the 2EcoChics relay on Essensa Juniper Body Gel that fights jet lag with an energizing mix of cypress, juniper, and organic calendula. 

If you have any green beauty products you love – tell the 2EcoChics!  Send us your suggestions and we’ll give our beautiful green fans a special shout-out on Facebook and Twitter.