Kahina's Brightening Serum REALLY Works!

If you've been reading my blog, you know that I'm a HUGE fan of Kahina Giving Beauty.  Their products are of the finest quality, they use recycled and recyclable packaging (these products look gorgeous in your bathroom, as well), they donate 25% of their profits to the Berber women who harvest their Argan Oil and the list goes on.  

Currently, I'm using their super-hydrating toner, their Argan Oil, eye cream and now...Brightening Serum.  I'm Irish-American, so I have the tendency to get a lot of freckles.  I don't mind them, but I am minding these new guys called "sun spots" that have been presenting themselves as of late. With one on my cheek and one on the tip of my nose (I know, right?) I got really excited when I saw that Kahina had created a Brightening Serum.

Now, they recommend that you use this serum for four-six weeks to see more even-toned skin, but I have to say that I've been using it for just under 3 weeks and I am totally seeing results. Both of my sun spots have faded dramatically AND, as a bonus, my skin is super, super soft.  I mean really soft.  

I would say the consistency is a milky, delicious-smelling serum that is not at all greasy.  In fact, it's like a thin lotion that absorbs instantly.  

I've been using this both morning and evening before my Argan Oil.  I apply the Brightening Serum and then wait until I'm about to either go to bed or put makeup on before I apply my oil...just to give the serum time to work its magic!

From Kahina's site:

Increase luminosity and refine skin tone and texture with this organic-certified treatment complex. A blend of rare white lily, Japanese wakame seaweed, and powerful antioxidants in argan oil, maritime pine, and green tea will:

• Visibly reduce discoloration, hyper-pigmentation, post-acne spots and dark marks in four to six weeks

• • Boost radiance and even skin tone
• • Prevent future discoloration by inhibiting melanin production
• • Protect against environmental exposure
• • Support skin’s natural defense system
• • Fight free radicals that contribute to further signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles
• A lightweight, easily absorbed serum with a fresh, natural scent.  $72

**I purchased this myself and all opinions are my own.

Natural Lip Balms For People Who LOVE Balms!

I spend an incredible amount of time at my desk writing songs, writing blog posts and managing my band.  As I sit here, I have a draw full of lip balms that I apply throughout the day.  I've always need to have something on my lips and since no one is around, lipstick/gloss aren't really necessary.  Today I applied Splurge Skincare's Lemon Lip Buttah about 5 times and each time I thought about what a stellar product it is, how delicious it smells and how awesome it's texture is and then I thought, "Wow, I should be writing a post on the best balms!"   

SPLURGE SKINCARE LEMON LIP BUTTAH

Wow.  Just wow.  The smell of Splurge Skincare's Lemon Lip Buttah is just amazing.  Why hasn't everyone thought to do a lip balm in lemon?  As you can see from the picture to the right, the shape of their balms are oval, making it so much fun to apply.  Beyond that, it really, really feels great on and works!  Oh, and by the way, I just heard that they've come out with TINTED Lip Buttahs in three colors, so if you're a girl who loves to get yer tint on, check them out here.

Their ingredients are clean and wonderful, too:
Babassu oil (orbignya oleifera), organic cocoa butter (theobroma cacao), beeswax (cera alba), sweet almond oil (prunus amygdalus dulcis), organic castor oil (ricinus communis), litsea cubeba essential oil, bitter almond essential oil (prunus amygdalus amara - prussic acid free), vitamin E (tocopherol)

SKINNYSKINNY BARE & NAKED LIP BALM

I'm a BIG fan of skinnyskinny.  I've done a lot of write-ups about their products since I started this blog.

One of my favorites (next to their Foot Scrub) is their Bare & Naked Lip Balm.  Now, I've got all of their balms, but for some reason, there's something about this unscented balm that has a scent that I love...something that's all-natural in there just smells so comforting.  They also have Clover Honey Citrus and Tea Tree & Mint.  For $6, I would just say get yourself all three to try and let me know what you're loving.

Ingredients: beeswax*, avocado oil*, cocoa butter*, virgin coconut oil*, calendula-infused extra-virgin olive oil*, honey*. *certified organic ingredients

**I was just going to post about another one of my favorites, but after looking it up online, found that it contained Benzyl Benzoate, making it no longer a favorite.  Although the jury is still out on some of these ingredients, I'm not taking any chances by recommending them to my readers who are trying to stay clean and green.  Enjoy the brands posted, for they will offer only the best for your precious lips and health!

Best Natural Face Exfoliators from Acure Organics and Simply Divine Botanicals

I'm a firm believer in exfoliating your face. Now, I'm not going to say how many times a week you should exfoliate, as I am certain that that's something only you (or your esthetician) can determine since everyone has a different situation going on with their skin.  Naturally, if you're prone to redness and breakouts, you're not going to exacerbate the problem by scrubbing it.  Me?  I usually exfoliate between once or twice a week. These are two of my favorite natural exfoliators for the face.

Acure Organics Brightening Facial Scrub

There's a few reasons why I really love this scrub.  It's a GREAT product to have in your shower because it's so easy to use.  I love, love, love the tube.  If you're the type that loves tiny little beads to exfoliate your skin, you'll love this.  It comes out of the tube a dark, dark green and foams up once you start scrubbing your skin.  You need so little of it and the ingredients are excellent.   This really brightens the skin, is so gentle that it won't dry you out and it's super affordable at $14.99.

Simply Divine Botanicals' Peel Me a Papaya Enzymatic Exfoliant

The big guns.  Okay, you know those times when you just feel like you need a really, really good scrubbing of that face of yours?  Say you've been staying at someone's place or on vacation and haven't had time to take care of your skin?  Well, this is thee perfect exfoliator for that.  I would say that I use this every other week.  Very grainy and super effective, this powder face exfoliator also doubles as a mask.  In fact, that's how I use it.  The ingredients are excellent and work even better when you massage over damp skin and leave on your face for about two minutes.    Your skin will be so, so soft.  Look at these ingredients!  They are gorgeous:  
Unconditional Love and Gratitude, White Kaolin Clay, Dehydrated Coconut Milk, Dehydrated Organic Green Papaya, Organic Oat Bran, Rice Bran, Organic Cornmeal, and Organic powdered Roses, Lavender, Calendula, and Chamomile.  $19.95


*I purchased both of these products myself & the opinions are my own, gosh darn it!

Natural Face Moisturizers for Winter: S.W. Basics, Kahina Giving Beauty & Pai

S.W. BASICS  It's still Spring-like here in NYC, but I still feel like there's a bit of a chill in the evenings and that means it's time to start using moisturizers with a little more kick in them.  This year I'm trying S.W. Basics' Cream and, once again, these guys knock it out of the park. With only three ingredients: shea butter, coconut oil and olive oil, this balm-like cream is so pure, it really moisturizes your skin, yet doesn't clog. My skin is baby smooth and I've been putting it on before makeup with excellent results.  All their products are handmade in Brooklyn and their packaging is excellent.   This is a big jar as far as moisturizers go and you need so little. $34  Oh, and for the coming cold weather, I also recommend their lip balm!  

KAHINA GIVING BEAUTY  What can be said about Kahina Giving Beauty's Argan Oil that hasn't been said a thousand times?  If you're looking for a hydrating face oil (year 'round), this is the one to buy.  It's the real deal and I use it daily.  This oil is so pure you can also use it to hydrate your hair, nails (it's really great to rub on your cuticles and hands before bed - you wake up with such smooth and hydrated skin) and, of course, your face. My friend tried my Kahina this past summer and is now so hooked. He has me order and have it shipped to his workplace, "Get me the large and quick!"  Liquid gold.   30 ML: $36  100 ML: $82    473 ML: $200

PAI  This is another moisturizer that isn't just for the colder months, but if you don't use creams in the Summer and want to take it up a notch, this is for you. Pai's Chamomile & Rosehip Sensitive Skin Cream ($44) is definitely thicker than a lotion, but doesn't feel heavy.  Beyond the fact that it smells absolutely DELISH (I'm a huge fan of the smell of chamomile) this hydrates, goes on smooth and comes in a super easy pump.  So many of their creams are excellent, but this is the one that I use and love.   If you are in the market for a heavier cream, try their Macadamia & Rose BioRejuvenate Moisturizer. Everything is organic and awesome, trust me.  $47

Shannon Reed Soy Candles - Smell SO Amazing, Packaged in Recycled Glass & All Natural!

One thing that I really love about writing posts on green businesses is learning their back story. When I decided to write a post on Shannon Reed's essential oil candles and read the "Our Story" section on her website, I really connected with her experiences with synthetic fragrance - be it in her home cleaning products or scented candles.

After finding out from a doctor that she was allergic to fragrance, Shannon decided to do some investigating and found out that companies are not required to tell you what is actually in their fragrance since many times it's considered a trade "secret".  Many of the compounds to create the fragrance are linked to asthma, reproductive disorders and more.  So, Shannon decided to start creating her own line of soy candles with essential oils and botanical extracts...and they smell like PERFECTION.

I have her Laid Back candle which is a mix of Lavender and Benzoin.  The ingredients?  Simple and natural: lavender essential oil, benzoin essential oil, soy wax and a cotton wick.     It smells absolutely fantastic.  $34

I also am on my second Feisty candle which is a blend of cinnamon, orange, clove, mint, cardamom & vanilla.  This candle is excellent for Fall/Winter and smells heavenly.  Ingredients: Vanilla Absolute, Sweet Orange Essential Oil, Peppermint Essential Oil, Cinnamon Essential Oil, Clove Bud Essential Oil, Cardamom Essential Oil, Soy Wax, Cotton Wick

I'd also like to say that all their containers are made from recycled glass, the packaging is  made from recycled paper using soy ink and they're made in the USA!

This is definitely the kind of company that I love to support.  Not only are they concerned about making excellent products, but they're concerned about our health and the environment.   If you're looking for a gorgeously green candle, please give Shannon Reed a try.  They're definitely my favorite.

*Initially, I had purchased these candles myself.  Opinions are my own.

Great Natural Makeup Removers: Inika, S.W. Basics & Good Ole Coconut Oil

The good news is that companies are coming out with some great makeup removers to take off all that natural makeup that you girls are sporting now.  I've got three of my favorites here - one creamy, one oily and one that can be either oily or kinda creamy depending on the temperature (sounds intriguing, right?)

INIKA EYE MAKEUP REMOVER

Inika Eye Makeup Remover is creamy, it smells great and if you're the kind of girl who loves a a less oily feel, this is for you.  I find it takes off everything with ease.  Now granted, waterproof mascara is a little tough, but there's not too many removers that are able to get off waterproof in one swipe, anyway.  This remover works perfectly and I recommend it highly.  It's currently in my cabinet and I would definitely repurchase.  $34

S.W. BASICS EYE MAKEUP REMOVER

I was never one for oily makeup removers in the past.  I couldn't stand the burn they left on my skin (most likely from all the perfumes and chemicals) and the fact that you could never apply makeup after using them because everything would run down your face from the residue it left.  But that was before I went natural in my makeup and tried S.W. Basics' makeup remover.  This oil is spectacular.  Yep,  spectacular.   With just three organic ingredients, there's just no way you could go wrong.  I apply a little to a cotton ball and swipe it across my lids.  It doesn't leave any greasy feeling, just a clean, moisturized eye. I understand that you can use this all over, but I just use it on my eyes & I love it.  $14

ORGANIC COCONUT OIL

I must admit that I use coconut oil for pretty much everything these days.  I use it in my morning smoothie, I use it as a body moisturizer and as a makeup remover.  Coconut oil definitely removes all of my makeup, I just feel like it can sometimes be a bit too much for my skin, so using it on my eyes is one thing, but all over my face can break me out.  Everyone is different, though and I suggest you give it a try.  I also recommend only applying a small amount to a cotton ball so you don't get it in your eyes...it's not harmful, just uncomfortable.    When I do use coconut oil to remove all of my face makeup, I follow up with a toner like S.W. Basics' toner.  The coconut oil leaves the skin smooth and hydrated. $9

*I've purchased all of these products myself.  All opinions are my own.

The Green Product Junkie's Natural Shower Products

THE GREEN PRODUCT JUNKIE'S SHOWER...PRESENTLY

So, I just moved into my new cute place on the East Side of Manhattan.  I've got a gorgeous new shower (modern, just like I like it) and have placed my new products in their place.  I change up what I use all the time, but right now I'm loving my set up.

Here's what I have here and what I'm currently using and loving:

Rahua Shampoo and Conditioner - you can see my review here.  I love the stuff.

Dr. Bronner's Peppermint Liquid Soap, Body Soap and Shave Gel - if you're like me and love the tingle of peppermint, you're going to fall fast for this.  My review is here.

Sebon Organics Shampoo & Conditioner - I alternate and love this line.  Super healthy ingredients and gives you such pretty hair.  My review is here.  

Ctonics Passion Shampoo - This is not for everyone.  It's super natural and it takes some getting used to.  I happen to like it, but only use it once a month.  It really strengthens your hair.

Acure Organics Brightening Scrub - I just started using this and I think it's excellent.  I'm definitely going to be reviewing facial scrubs soon...this product deserves a post.  I also think it's great for having in the shower.  Pop it open, apply in circular motion and rinse!

Preserve Razor - If you're not using Preserve, I'm not sure if we can be friends ;) .  Preserve is what everyone on the planet should be using.  Their handles are made from recycled yogurt cups...c'mon, what's cooler.  My review is here. 

SkinnySkinny Eucalyptus Foot Scrub - I will never, ever use another foot scrub.  This is serious and really, really works.  No delicate little beads in this scrub.  Pumice, pumice, pumice.  Love it.  My review is here.

Splurge Skincare Peppermint Body Scrub - LOVE!  Recently wrote a review on this new company.  When I'm feeling like a need to really scrub, I'm reaching for this.  Here's my review.

Yarok Shampoo & Conditioner - I'm at the end of these bottles.  I definitely suggest this to people who have oilier hair.  It's not a super, duper high condition conditioner.  I'm also into scents and this conditioner doesn't match the deliciousness of it's shampoo.  I use it to clean my brushes, too.

The Best Natural & Green Concealers That I've Found

When embarking on my whole chemical-free makeup and skincare "adventure," I knew there were going to be a few items that were going to be difficult to replace.  Mainly, foundation, mascara and concealer.  When I first began, there were plenty of lipstick and mineral blushes out there, but I wasn't sure if anyone was going to be able to really replicate what my favorite foundation and concealer were able to do and still keep out the nasty chemicals.

STUDIO 78's 'OFF WE GO' CONCEALER

Woman, I love this stuff.  I wear it each and everyday and never, ever thought I'd be able to replace my Cle de Peau concealer.  This has excellent covereage, will not dry out your skin, is smooth without being greasy and, in fact, has a sort of powdery feel, but not drying. I can't explain how, but I have to say, they've nailed it...the formulation and texture is perfect. Although it only comes in two shades, for some odd reason, it matches my skin perfectly and I'm thrilled about it.  I'll also use my Jane Iredale Active Light underneath it if I'm super dark.  Get it at NuboNau for  $31.

JANE IREDALE ACTIVE LIGHT CONCEALER

I recently purchased Jane Iredale's Active Light Concealer and find myself reaching for it daily.  This concealer is very light,  so if you've got really dark circles, you might want to use this and then layer with a heavier one.  The reason I say to put this on first is because it's so smooth and leaves such a nice bright glow under the eyes, I think it will compliment your concealer.  It's also incredibly easy to use and the packaging is great for travel.  It's basically a concealer pen that you just brush on.  I haven't used this on it's own yet as I'm in a new apartment and haven't been sleeping so well, but my guess is that it's great for days when you don't have the darkest circles and just want a pretty, bright look. $27

W3LL PEOPLE NARCISSIST FOUNDATION

This foundation also happens to be one of my favorite under eye concealers, too.  W3LL People's Narcissist foundation gives great coverage, has amazing ingredients, lasts a long time AND does not cake.  In fact, it's pretty much the perfect blend of moisturizing without making your makeup run.  So, I use this as my main foundation and can do under eye touchups all in one.  $38

Their ingredients are gorgeous, too:

Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Oil* infused with Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea Complex) Leaf**, Ganoderma Lucidum (Reishi Mushroom)***, Morella Cerifera (Bayberry- wildharvested); Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Cera Alba (Beeswax)****, Silica, Essential Oils, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil (and) Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Extract, Tocopherol (Natural Vitamin E), [+/-: Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, 77492, 77499), Mica (CI 77019)] *Certified Organic by Stellar, **Certified Organic by QAI, *** Certified Organic by Oregon TILTH, **** Certified Organic by Koster Keunen

RMS BEAUTY "UN" COVERUP

Straight up? I love RMS Beauty.  Their "un" coverup concealer is definitely on the creamier side.  In fact, I always use it quite a bit below where my lower lashes are because I don't want my lower lash mascara to mingle with it.  I use this concealer when I want a pretty, dewy look.  It's great for evening out skin tone, too.  It leaves behind a really fresh, clean and youthful look. The ingredients in this concealer are amazing.  If you haven't discovered the line yet, get on it it.  At $36, it lasts a really long time, too.

The Green Product Junkie's Medicine Cabinet

THE GREEN PRODUCT JUNKIE'S MEDICINE CABINET

Moving is never fun.  Especially if you live in New York City and are moving from 1,300 sq. feet to about 469 sq feet...yeah, like that.  So, one of my biggest issues was where to fit in all of my natural and organic skin care, makeup and body products.  

I've decided to post a picture.  Now this is just a picture of the medicine cabinet...there's several shelves of my stash (I don't like to be out of anything, clearly).  

Can you recognize any products that you know and love?  I've got my Dr. Hauschka, Pai, Dr. Akalitis, Lotus Wei, Living Nature, Patyka, Sprout Skincare, Acure Organics, Kahina Giving Beauty, Naturopathica, Preserve toothbrush, Intelligent Nutrients, Pangea, Honore des Pres, Tallulah Jane, Rahua, Buddha Nose, DeVita, Skinnyskinny and some things I can't make out!

Would love to hear about what you love, what you think I should try and see your green medicine cabinet!

Excessive? Perhaps, but everyone's got their thing, right?

The Best Natural Foundations: Organic Glam, Logona & Dr. Hauschka. Light-Weight and Green!

I'm the type of green girl who has two kinds of foundations: medium coverage for times when I've got blemishes and light coverage for when my skin is in good condition and I'm only hoping to even out the tone.    Here are my picks for some of the best natural foundations that give light coverage.  If you do need more coverage, I'm going to suggest you check out my post on my favorite natural/organic foundations.  Now, for the lightweights....

ORGANIC GLAM  LUMINOUS ANTIOXIDANT FOUNDATION

I had heard this recommended by natural makeup artist, Jessa Blades several times in interviews and decided to give it a shot.  This is a super lightweight foundation that does NOT leave your skin cakey or dry it out.  It goes on really smooth and lightly evens out skin.   It almost feels like a very light lotion going on.  Again, if you're looking for major coverage or even medium coverage, this probably won't do it for you.  I recommend this for a good skin day when you just want to even out your skin tone.  $58

LOGONA NATURAL FINISH FOUNDATION
I purchased this from the Nature of Beauty without having heard anything about it.  This is super, super light, but goes on really nicely and doesn't dry out or feel like you're wearing anything.  Similar to Organic Glam, I would have to say that this is probably even lighter.  It has a really nice, clean scent to it and I just love the consistency of it.  This is definitely a "no makeup" look makeup. $24.95

DR. HAUSCHKA TRANSLUCENT FOUNDATION
I was really into this product for a while there, but I found that it's probably much better on oilier skins.  This foundation gives a little more coverage than the above-mentioned foundations, but it's still a light coverage foundation.  It's a bit on the drier side in terms of consistency, so I'm going to suggest that if you're dry, go for Organic Glam or Logona.  If you've got an oiler complexion or just like a drier foundation that's lightweight, try Dr. Hauschka. $36.95




*I purchased all of these products myself.  The above opinions are mine, so take that!

The Girls of Splurge Skincare Perfect The Body Scrub with, "The Rub"

THE RUB

I fully agree with the founders of Splurge Skincare, Christine Cunningham and Kara Kivi (BTW, I'm loving the alliteration, girls), getting the right body scrub consistency is hard to do.  I've got tons of body scrubs that I've used once and just detested. They're either so oily that you're slipping in the shower and come out feeling like your pores are clogged or the entire container is filled with loose sugar or salt that falls all over the place before you even get down to scrubbin'!

Well, I'm excited to announce that these girls (and very close friends) have nailed it. The Rub has thee perfect consistency.  It's gritty, but not too gritty, is easy to pick up, doesn't disappear when you apply it to wet skin AND it works...exfoliation and hydration city!

The Rub is available in Lemon, Peppermint, Almond and, a soon-to-be-released scent named, "Autumn" which is a delicious blend of cinnamon, clove, nutmeg with a hint of orange...oh, my!  I can't wait to try the other scents...this one is delicious.  I can honestly say that out of all of the body scrubs I've tried, this is my favorite...and I've tried a TON!  $26

LIP BUTTAH

I also tried their Lip Buttah in Lemon.  This is wonderful.  It's so smooth, has excellent green ingredients and also lasts.  I've been wearing it on my lips before bed and wake up and it's still on there, hydrating like it's nobody's business!  The Lip Buttah also comes in Peppermint, Almond and Orange Chocolate. $7

Oh, and by the way, these ladies aren't messing around, their pure and natural ingredients are listed right underneath their products...no greenwashing here!  I love to support small, green businesses who are churning out great product.  I hope you'll give Splurge a shot.

The Green Product Junkie's Daily Green Routine

The always green & gorgeous Figwittage suggested that I write a blog on my daily green skincare routine.  Being that I love nothing more than to yap about green products, I'm excited to do so and hope she'll let me in on her routine, as well...I'm a sucker to hear about a new product that I've never tried before.

Please note:  my routine might seem a little excessive and nuts to some of you, but you have to understand that this is my "thing."  I've always loved skincare and makeup, but when I got into the green thing...well, things just got a lot more fun and made a lot more sense.  Having a medicine cabinet filled with elixirs is heaven to me.

THE MORNING SKINCARE:

Wake up, grab my Preserve Toothbrush made from recycled yogurt cups and brush with my Eco-Dent Tooth Powder.  

Since I don't wash my face in the morning (to keep my natural face oils) I go straight to spraying either my Kahina Toner or Sanre Rosy Fresh Toner on my face. *

I then apply Kahina Argan Oil (best stuff on Earth) and apply that all over my face.  If you haven't tried this oil, I suggest you do so right away.  I've got everyone I know hooked on it.

I wait for that to absorb into the skin and apply my DeVita Solar Protective Moisturizer SPF 30.  

Then I'll grab for my eye cream.  I'm loving Naturopathica's Vitamin K Brightening Eye Serum.  

*Sometimes I'll do a mask in the morning.  I have several favorites, but it's usually either a FAGE yogurt mask (just get the one with the most fat and apply) or the Pangea Japanese Matcha Tea Mask.


THE EVENING SKINCARE:

Grab my SW Basics Cleanser (only 3 ingredients...and AWESOME).  If my skin is acting up,  I'll follow up with my SW Basics Toner.  Honestly, though, my skin rarely acts up since I began using organic/natural products a few years ago.

Rinse off the cleanser, grab one of my toners and apply my Pai Rosehip BioRegenerate Fruit & Seed Blend Oil or my Kahina Argan Oil.  I usually like to alternate these oils at night.

At night I like a heavier eye cream so I use Holly Beth's Natural Luxury Eye Cream. 

Body Moisturizers:  Post-shower, I will often apply my Patyka Precious Woods Body Oil or my Acure Organics Mandarin Orange & Mango Body Cream if I'm in a rush.  Oh, and before applying these, I spray myself head to toe with Solar Recover's Save Your Skin.  It's basically just a bunch of hydrating essential oils that help spread the oils and/or body cream.  I love it!

THE MAKEUP ROUTINE

Naturally, this varies.  If I'm going to the beach, I'm not doing all of this.  If I'm going to be performing on stage, I do more of this.  This routine is probably my day to day one, give or take a step and I vacillate between pinks and/or coral-pinks.  I'm fair with blue eyes, so I know what works and what doesn't

For primer, I'm putting on my Vapour Stratus Soft Focus Instant Skin Perfector.  I then take my Eco-Tools foundation brush and apply my W3ll People Narcissist Foundation - a definite favorite.  I don't apply a lot, just down the center of my face and spread outwards.  I love it.

I use Couleur Caramel mascara on the top lashes, Zuzu mascara on the bottom (it doesn't smudge at all and is pretty light...using it on the top doesn't give me enough oomph!  

My eyeliner of choice is Dr. Hauschka's Eyeliner Duo 04 in Plum/White.  I don't really use the white ever, but the plum is gorgeous when you smudge.  The shadow I usually use is Lunar from RMS Beauty or Cloud Nine from Kjaer Weis.

My blush these days has been either Revolution Organics in Blushed or RMS Beauty Lip 2 Cheek in Smile.

For lips?  Well, I'm obsessed with lipsticks and glosses so it's ever-changing.  My staples would be RMS Beauty in Sublime, Jane Iredale's Forever Pink Lip Stain, Ilia Beauty's Shell Shocked (a very strange and retro pinkish coral that I wasn't sure about in the beginning, but coupled with Smile blush from RMS...GORG!) and many others.  I generally reach for the pink, though.

No matter what, I'm using my RMS Beauty Living Luminizer on my cheeks, little down the center of the nose and a little in the corner of the inside eye...beautiful!

Oh, there's so much more, but I don't want anyone sending me for a straight jacket fitting.

Mucho Love for the Doctor! Dr. Bronner's Soap & Shaving Lotion Rule

THE ORGANIC SHAVING GEL

I'm a huge fan of peppermint and love nothing more than smelling it in my shower. Enter Dr. Bronner's Shave Gel and Classic Liquid Soap.

I'm not sure what you're using to shave, but I have to tell you that nothing, and I mean nothing, is going to be more natural, work better and smell better than their shave gel.  It's a little daunting when it comes out of the container because it's dark brown, but you know what?  I'm not really 'buying' stuff that's hot pink or lime green, either.  This just makes more sense.  It's organic and has amazing ingredients, so the fact that it's brown makes A LOT of sense.  

This gel leaves your skin so soft, it's so easy to lather and it smells so delicious.  Oh, and if you're not a peppermint fan, no worries, it also comes in Peppermint, Tea Tree, Lavender, Lemongrass Lime and Unscented.   $8.99

THE CLASSIC LIQUID SOAP

Another item I adore from Dr. Bronner (everything is excellent, mind you) is their Classic Liquid Soap.  

The ingredients are so natural and it hydrates, cleans and has so many uses.   Again, I'm a fan of the peppermint...I love that tingly feeling it has on the skin and the smell is so invigorating.  The liquid soap also comes in Rose, Almond, Citrus, Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, Baby-Mild (Unscented), and Lavender. I highly recommend getting into the Dr. Bronner line.   $10.50

Completely Biodegradable and Vegetable-Based Made with Certified Fair Trade and Organic Oils Multi-Purpose: 18-in-1 Uses No Synthetic Foaming Agents, Thickeners or Preservatives

100% Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) Cylinder Bottles and Paper Labels Simple, Ecological Formulations Based on Old-World Quality and Expertise #1-Selling Natural Brand of Soaps in North America

Kure Bazaar: Non-Toxic Nail Polish That's Kicking Regular Polish To The Curb!

KURE BAZAAR'S FUJI

I absolutely adore Spirit Beauty Lounge.  So much so, that as soon as I hear someone has a new product out, I head on over to there because I'm sure they have it.  Spirit's a chick with her finger on the pulse.

Onwards...I had never heard of Kure Bazaar before seeing the brand showcased on SBL.  Intrigued, I purchased Fuji as I'm a real sucker for any kind of purple or lavender.  The bottle just looks so pretty, how could I resist?

Okay, so how was it?  In a word, excellent.  I usually don't paint my fingernails because I do so much with them that it just chips and looks, well, you know, chipped.  But, it was sitting on my desk winking at me and between emails, went for it.  I put on Karma Hues clear polish as a base and two coats of this lovely lavender.

It lasted for several days, looked pretty and didn't chip.  I also loved the consistency and that it's eco.  I'm excited to get some other colors.  Oh, and by the way, the colors are beautiful.

From Spirit Beauty Lounge's website:  

Kure Bazaar is the first nail lacquer of the next generation to combine the ethics of an Eco-natural formula with vibrant colors of fashion. A technological innovation after years of research, has led to dramatically reducing the use of petro-chemicals without compromise. Impeccable resistance, ultrashine & quick-dry. Formula up to 85% of natural origin based on wood pulp, wheat, cotton, potatoes and corn. Kure Bazaar Nail Lacquer preserves the vitality of nails respecting their natural cycle of regeneration. Smooth, strong and healthy... detox your nails in color - it’s that simple! 0.4 oz.  $16 4-Free: • No toluene • No formaldehyde • No dibutyl phthalate • No synthetic camphor Made in the France.

Mwah! The Perfect Beach Lip & Cheek Stain by Jane Iredale

FOREVER PINK LIP & CHEEK STAIN

I've been spending the last two weekends at my friends' beach house.  I'm usually not much of a beach girl, but with some serious natural sunblock, an umbrella and a home conveniently across the street, it's a much, much different beach experience than what I remember.  

Being a lipgloss/lipstick addict (and pretty pale) I always need to bring something with me to swipe on my lips throughout the day.  So before I left, I applied my Jane Iredale Lip & cheek Stain in Forever Pink on my cheeks (gives a rosy pink glow & lasts) and a swipe of it on my lips.

I love this stuff.  Not only is it great for lips and cheeks, it's also so easy to carry and you won't look made up.  It's not glossy at all, it's a stain, but it won't dry out your lips.   $25

JANE IREDALE'S SUGAR PLUM GLOSS

At night, I whipped out my Jane Iredale PureGloss.  It comes in a gorgeous new tube and it's a true, true gloss.  I love the applicator.  The more you put on, the deeper your color.  

And, by the way, if you're a girl who's trying to go green but can't get rid of your chemical-laden gloss, I recommend you give this a shot.  It's just as great as anything else I used to use.  $20

Best Natural Body Creams & Oils I've Tried...So Far: Patyka, Tallulah Jane & Acure Organics

There's nothing like scrubbing up in the shower and then getting out and putting on some delicious-smelling natural body cream (or oil if you have the drying time).  Here's a few of my favorites:

PATYKA
I'm loving body oils lately but honestly, they take some time to dry and putting clothing on when it's not fully absorbed is going to leave you with some oily-smelling clothes down the road.  So, I usually use my creams when I'm on the the run, and my oils when I've got some time to lollygag around.  One of my favorites that I usually put on before bed is Patyka's Precious Woods Body Oil.  This oil smells subtle and so pretty.  Patyka recommends that you put this on before bed to activate cell regeneration.  Not sure how that works, but I do know that my skin is super, super soft and has a nice hydrated glow the next morning.  It's a little steep in price (around $65) but it's well worth it.  I treat this stuff like it's liquid gold.

TALLULAH JANE
Hmm...I love smelling like a lemon grove.  I do, I do!  Tallulah Jane's Halona Body Oil is wonderful.  I just used it this weekend whilst away and after my shower my friend came into the bathroom and said, "I love how you leave a room and it smells like lemon."
I love the consistency of this oil and how well it hydrates.  It comes in a gorgeous glass bottle (not ideal for my travel, but when there's a will, there is a way).  BTW, try their perfumes, too.  My favorite is 333.  $38 

ACURE ORGANICS

I find that many of the organic and natural products I buy aren't exactly what I'd consider inexpensive.  I really was made aware of it when after a week at my friend's beach house he said, "Okay, your skin looks awesome, I'm sold.  What is all of this stuff and how much does it cost?"  After adding it all up, it was a small fortune.  But there's one company that is truly wonderful and so, so affordable.  In fact, I would have to say that Acure Organics is even more affordable than stuff that you'd purchase in a drugstore (and without all the nasty chemicals).  I am a huge fan of their Mandarin Orange & Mango Body Cream.  Not only does this smell great, but it is organic, natural and really hydrates.  The consistency is perfect.  And, for a mere $9.99, it's totally affordable.  Make sure to check out their other products, too.  I'm a huge fan!

*I purchased all of these products myself.  All opinions are my own!

Intelligent Nutrients Gives Good Lip & Hair!

INTELLIGENT NUTRIENTS LIP DELIVERY ANTIOXIDANT GLOSSES

Intelligent Nutrients is the latest health and beauty line by Horst Rechelbacher, the founder of Aveda.  I own many of their products, but want to chat about my favorites today:

Organic Perfect Hold Hairspray When I first became interested in changing all of my skincare and haircare products to natural/organic, there were a few items I thought were going to be a bit challenging to change.  Because I'm a performer, hairspray was one of them, but I managed to stumble upon Intelligent Nutrients' spray pretty quickly and that was that.  I don't use this every day, but when I do need hold, I reach for this baby.  The sprayer does get clogged often, but if you run it under some warm water, you should be good to go. 

Organic Volumizing Spray This is the best natural volumizing spray that I've used so far and I've used quite a lot of them.  It's not sticky, doesn't smell funny and it works.  I just get out of the shower, comb my hair out, lift up my hair and give it a few sprays.  I highly recommend this if you're looking for some extra bounce.

Organic Lip Delivery Antioxidant Gloss This is my latest love.  I was kindly sent Purple Maize by Nubo Nau (awesome natural/organic online shop for all things gorgeous) and later got myself some Pink Hibiscus.  These glosses smell and taste FANTASTIC!  I'm not kidding.  It's like you wiped your lips with some wonderful fruit.  It's not a super glossy look, but I can honestly say that I really haven't had to re-apply this gloss too often.  I don't want to say it's a stain, but it definitely leaves it's color behind when the initial gloss wears off.  From their site:

Looks good, tastes good, and good for you. Intelligent Nutrients® Lip Delivery Antioxidant Gloss is abundant in vibrant antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables like cranberries, blueberries and purple corn. Nutrient-dense oils of acai, rosehip and black cumin—along with Intellimune and soothing, antioxidant-rich waxes and butters—aid in fighting the visible signs of aging. Brush on any of our certified organic flavor blends, and you’ll enjoy a refreshing balance of sweet and tart.

They've got so, so many products in this line and it really does appear that everything is super high quality.  I really recommend giving this line a try.