In an era when consumers are increasingly concerned about the environment, and about the potential risks of ingested chemicals and preservatives, it’s no surprise that many beauty companies are now focusing on green beauty products. They’re using pure ingredients, recyclable components, and making environmentally responsible, cruelty-free products that we can all feel good about using.
The big question is, do natural cosmetics really work? We’re happy to report that after years of hit- and-miss product launches, we are now lucky to see how the green beauty industry is blossoming with a wide variety of great products that do wonders for your skin and are gentle on the environment.
Here are our favorite tried-and-true, earth-friendly, all-natural beauty products.
Read Related: The Eco-Friendly Fashionista
Alba Botanica Natural ACNEdote Clean ‘n Treat Towelettes ($6) • These cleansing wipes relieve stubborn acne with 2% salicylic acid. They’re made with vegetarian ingredients and remove makeup and deep clean pores in just one sweep.
AHAVA Natural Dead Sea Mud ($16) • Tired after a long day, or want to prep for date night? This mud treatment will give you a spa-worthy moment at home, not to mention clearer, baby-soft skin and a reinvigorated body.
Caudalie Beauty Elixir ($49 for 3.4oz) • This perfect all-in-one beauty elixir is a miraculous product for women and men who want a fresher, brighter complexion. It contains extracts of grapes, rosemary, roses, mint, and energizing essential oils, and it smells divine.
Desert Essence Soap Bars ($5) • Made with pure ingredients, these naturally scented soap bars will nourish your skin while leaving behind a moisturizing sensation—far different from regular bars. Choose from coconut, peppermint and lemongrass fragrances.
Elemental Herbology Watermelon & Cucumber Body Moisturizer ($48) • With summer approaching, there’s nothing like a non-greasy, cooling lotion that soothes skin and prolongs your summer glow.
Goldfaden MD Doctor’s Scrub ($75) • This decadent scrub is made with ruby crystals to instantly renew skin cells and polish the surface, leaving your face looking and feeling younger. If you use it daily, it might improve fine lines and reduce pores. Totally worth the splurge!
JĀSÖN Vitamin E Oil 5,000 IU ($7) • We all know how beneficial Vitamin E is—especially for mommies-to-be. This inexpensive “liquid gold” is a superb mix of almond, apricot, avocado and wheat germ oils that will help smooth wrinkles, ease sunburn and heal damaged skin.
Josie Maran Model Citizen 100% Pure Argan Oil with Radiance (Limited Edition) ($48) • Josie Maran is the queen of eco-chic cosmetics. Now, take her ultra-famous pure argan oil and add a light shimmer, honey, lavender and chamomile fragrances and you’ll get the most moisturizing, miraculous product out there.
Jurlique Rose Hand Cream (From $25) • A favorite among beauty editors, this rich lotion will soften and hydrate your hands with a romantic, subtle aroma.
Kur by Londontown Nail Treatment System ($125) With its vegan formula and a range of essential oils and natural components, Kur promises to give you princess-worthy nails in no time. It might not be the cheapest alternative in the market, but it’s worth it if you don’t plan on wearing nail polish on a daily basis.
Marula Facial Oil ($58-$78) • Derived from sustainably farmed African Marula nuts, this pure anti-aging oil not only hydrates your face but also becomes your new multitasking product that may be added to any cream to boost results or even to double as makeup primer.
Pacifica Radiant Shimmer Natural Minerals Coconut Multiples ($14) • Busy moms don’t have time to do a full face of makeup in the morning—that’s why we need multipurpose cosmetics to conceal a tired expression. Here’s where these coconut-infused multiples come in handy. They add just the right amount of shimmer and glow for daytime hours.
Orico London Little Love Protecting Baby Skin Balm ($24) • Made from organic ingredients, this product will nourish and protect your bundle of joy’s delicate skin. It’s light, yet capable to soothe any diaper rash.
Origins 2013 Limited Edition for Earth Day ($19-$32.50) • Origins’ Plant-A-Tree Campaign has been helping to plant more than 265,000 trees around the world. This year, the brand will plant one for each of the four amazing products purchased from April 21 to April 28. Be part of the cause!
100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Makeup ($77 for Starter Set) • A makeup line made of fruits and veggies? No, we’re not crazy. This fabulous brand, founded by Susie Wang, focuses on certified organic and natural components to create rich colors and long-lasting formulas. You’ll get the benefits inside and out, as the antioxidants and healthy nutrients will go directly to your skin!
