Blush, Powder, Salve & A Triple Threat Wash: Saf Organics, Ora's Amazing Herbal and Limegreen.

SAF ORGANICS

Satin Mineral Blush

I've been loving everything that I've been trying from this organic, gluten free, vegan brand.  The ingredient list is pure, the products work wonderfully and everything smells like something you'd much rather be eating than putting on your face!  What really surprised me was Stephanie's Satin Mineral Blush as I expected it to be like all other mineral blushes I've tried before. What makes it different?  The fruit (pomegranate, yumberry) and vegetable extracts (pumpkin) and oils such as Evening Primrose. This blush actually looks luminous and gives a fresh and dewy look to the skin.  I was truly impressed.  So, if you're looking for a pretty Spring/Summer glow, please try this out!   $20

ORA'S AMAZING HERBAL

Simple and Silky Body Powder 

This is a talc, grain and free of anything synthetic powder.  If you're not using a talc-free powder, it's essential that you start. Why you should be talc-free?   From Ora's site:  "Talc is now known to remain airborne for an extended period of time, allowing it to get into the lungs and has also been found in other various body tissue where it doesn’t belong. Corn and grain starches, a common powder ingredient, has been shown to exacerbate certain types of rashes." Because I'm avoiding talc, I bring this powder with me when I get waxed. This powder also absorbs moisture, balances pH levels and can be used as a shoe deodorant.  Get it in Blissful Earth, Unscented and Vanilla scents.  $10.99

All-Purpose Salve  Yeah, so this does absolutely everything and it's SO smooth!  I'm loving keeping this next to my computer for my cuticles (and plan to use it on my feet post-pedis).  It feels so soft and silky when applying and, oddly enough, doesn't feel greasy - at all!  With a super herbal scent, this can also be used as a first aid ointment, on tattoos and as a wrinkle cream, too.  Oh, and it's great for the wee babies, too. $8.99 to $18.99

LIMEGREEN

Body.  Hair.  Hand.  Face Wash

Oh, Talima Davis, what art you make with those hands of yours!  I am LOVING this brand something fierce.  Because I plan on doing a full review, I'm only going to talk about their Wash that I am keeping in my shower.  I adore using this.  When an ingredient list reads like this: Water, Organic Saponified Oils, Only Essential Oils, Citric Acid, you know you're in good hands.  Why is this a triple threat? Because there's so many uses for every product.  I am especially loving this wash for my body and it has been a dream to shave with.  It goes on so smooth and silky and leaves the skin hydrated and clean.  This wash comes in Lavendula, Lemongrass, Lotus, Poppy and Zinnia scents. I'm recommending you look into this brand if you're in the market for multi-purpose products that smell great (unreal), are pure and made in super-cool Brooklyn, New York ya'll!  $9-$16

I was kindly given these products to test by the artists themselves.  I value their hard work and talent.  I hope you find something here that you love and thank you for reading!

Feisty Pinks For Spring and Summer 2014 with Ilia Beauty, Tsi-La, Alima Pure and RGB! Get Excited!

"I declare that it's all about pinks, violets and magenta for Spring/Summer!  Here's what I'm loving - and lusting for - in makeup and organic fragrance!"

ILIA BEAUTY'S JUMP

I need a late pass because I've yet to try this Magenta-hued little gem, but from what I'm hearing, it's just gorgeous and that means that I have to get on it, asap.  I'm happy to report that this is one of Ilia Beauty's Lip Conditioners, which means that the color is buildable and has a balm-like feel to it.  Like blue-toned pinks? Well, this is for you.  Have at it, women, I know I'm going to!  $26

TSI-LA'S L'ABSOLU VANILLE

Oh, you Vanilla-loving girls are in for such a treat, I can't begin to tell you.  This isn't just your ordinary, "Oh, who smells like Vanilla?" scent, but a natural fragrance made up of  "vanilla bourbon, sweet cocoa, Indonesian sandalwood and a touch of caramelized Siam benzoin resin..."  L'Absolu Vanille is a little roller ball perfume oil and is perfect for carrying around with you.  I like to put a little on my wrists, on my neck and then a touch on the tip of my nose (I know, strange, but I just love the smell and being a New Yorker, well, we gravitate towards great scents whenever we can!)  If you haven't tried Tsi-La before, I'm urging you to!   Oh, and with every purchase made in the month of April, the ladies of Tsi-la will send you a packet of Lavender Heirloom seeds that they use to grow their Lavender for their organic perfumes.  $44

• 100% Flower and Plant Based
• Plant Essences And Raw Organic Oils
• Super-Fruit And Phytonutrient Infused
• Ultra-Pure Natural Ingredients
• Vitamins And Minerals
• Zero Synthetic Chemicals
• Preservative and Colorant Free

RGB'S VIOLET  

Five Free.  Yeah, that's right, RGB polishes are free of Formaldehyde, Toluene, DBP,  Formaldehyde resin, and Camphor, making them right up a Green Girl's alley.  Now, I rarely get a color painted on my nails when I get a manicure, but I always do a strong pedicure...AND I always bring my own polish, remover and cream so I can avoid their toxic products.  I love bright colors on my feet - anything from purple to hot pink...and violet!  I love this feisty pink and I'm also loving their other shades, too...they've got some gorgeous blues and greens!  Vegan & Cruelty-free! $18

ALIMA PURE'S ORCHID 

Isn't this color just so beautiful?  I can see this as a staple for the warmer months...love it!  I especially love colors that I know I can't really mess up whilst I apply it.  This is a limited edition for 2014 and I am loving the look of it.  How gorgeous to do with with black mascara, some black liner and and pink lip?  I think it's also wonderful for a clean, natural look, too!  The pigments are so luminous and can be used either dry or wet (giving it a more intense metallic look) or as a highlighter.  Oh, and for $12.50, it's a bargain, yes?


*Some of these products were generously given to me for review, contains an Affiliate Link.

WOO-HOO! SPRING MAKEUP! Jane Iredale's New Magic Hour Makeup Collection...Gorgeous!

Oh, my!  No one is happier to be writing about some new makeup for Spring 2014 than me.  I think we can all agree that it's been a loooong and brutal winter.  So, who's ready for some pretty new makeup to add to their stash?  Yeah, me too.  That's why I was thrilled to be invited to attend the launch of Jane Iredale's new Magic Hour Makeup Collection for Spring 2014.  Inspired by the light seen at sunset (which we all look good in, right?) this collection has lots of coral, mauve and golds and bronze.  Let's take a look...

Lip Fixation - I don't understand why I didn't own these before as I love the idea of clean makeup that's long-lasting.  This dual-ended lip stain and gloss are perfect for those of you who detest reapplying your lipstick.  New to this collection is Craze, a gorgeous bright coral and Compulsion, a subtle nude-mauve that I think would look great for anyone going for a natural look.  I'm also thinking that these would be ideal for the beach as you wouldn't have to think about reapplying.  All of the Lip Fixation colors are really gorgeous and I'm so excited to try out their other colors!   $30

Touch Highlighter - This is to die for!   Comfort, a coral/gold-hued highlighter is so pretty (and smells of honeysuckle) that I've been using it ever day since I received it.  I'm using it as a blush, but it can also be used on brow bones, as a lid primer and on the bridge of the nose.  It's a cream-to-powder and the feel is so silky. This is a no-brainer and a staple for the upcoming warmer weather.   I'm really recommending this!  $28

Jelly Jar Eyeliner - This is one product that everyone is really excited about...a chemical-free gel eyeliner.  This liner goes on so smoothly and is so easy to apply.  After application, it dries immediately and has wonderful staying power.  I think what I'm most impressed with is how nicely it spreads on.  Although I didn't receive it, I did see their new Angle Eyeliner Brush at the launch, which is perfect to apply this eyeliner.  Colors available are black and brown.  Eyeliner: $28  Brush: $15.50

PurePressed Eye Shadow Triple - Golden Girl is a gorgeous eye shadow trio

made up of a bronze, dusty rose and a gold shadow.  I love this look for Spring with a coral lip and cheeks.  I also think that this color palette would look great on just about anyone...even fair-skinned girls like myself.  $28

Read all about the launch here and see if you can spot me hanging out with the ever-cool Alise from Jane Iredale!  I was generously given this collection to review and all opinions are my own.

Spill It: The Green Product Junkie's *Come As You Are* Beauty Tag. What's in your makeup bag...right this minute!

Back in the 50s and 60s, they used to have something called, "Come As You Are" parties.  Now, if the name isn't obvious enough, allow me to explain...

You'd receive an invite in the mail, and you had to show up at the party (whenever it was scheduled for) dressed exactly as you were when you received the invite.  Now, if you had any bit of personality, you showed up dressed completely ridiculously to make all of your friends laugh uncontrollably (and wonder what the heck was going on in your home).  My parents went to one and the pictures were hilarious, so now I'd love to single-handedly bring that back...in a green blogger kinda way.

My beauty tag is a "Come As You Are" party for the makeup bag.  This means that I want to see exactly what's in your makeup bag AS YOU NOW READ THIS.  However...I don't want you to add things, to run and go get something to make yourself look cooler (how would that be possible, anyway?) Just simply, SPILL IT. That's right, spill your makeup bag on the table, the carpet, the couch and take a picture and then explain what you've got and what's going on in there.  Have fun and remember...no staging, let's keep this real.  

Couleur Caramel Cils Long Mascara & Brow Pencil - I love this mascara, but only for the top lashes as I think it would smudge on the lower ones.  It's my favorite mascara for volume and kapow.  Oh, and I love their brow pencil.  I'm not sure why, but I always have.  It's got a great little brow brush on one end, too.  Disco!

Dr. Hauschka Plum/White Eyeliner Duo - This is my favorite liner, but for some reason they stopped making this color and this is my last one (insert groan here).  I usually just apply it on the upper lid and the inside upper lid and it naturally smudges to give a slightly smoky eye...perfect for the girl who thinks black is a bit scary.

RMS Beauty - Wow, I never noticed how much RMS I carry around.  No wonder my bag is heavy!  I've got Demure Lip2Cheek, Lunar Cream Shadow, "Un" Coverup in 11, Living Luminizer and Bloom Lip Shine.

EcoTools Retractable Foundation Brush - I love this brush as it stays nice and clean for carrying and it's eco-friendly...always my goal.

Preserve Tongue Cleaner & Mint Toothpicks - Made from recycled yogurt cups, I've got these tongue cleaners in all my bags and in my bathroom.  I love Preserve.  If you don't know about their recycling practices, you should go to their site.  I love their minty toothpicks, too.

W3ll People Narcissist Foundation - What can I say?  My go-to foundation.  Light coverage, evens out skin tone, smells great and is so easy to use.  Oh, and it doesn't cake or look dry.

Tsi-La Perfume in Fiori D'Arancio - I love this lil guy.  So great to have in my makeup bag when I just want to smell pretty...on the sly.

Studio 78's Concealer "Off We Go" - If I forget this concealer, I will implode.  Okay, that's being dramatic, but between the awesome concealer and the fantastic little mirror on the inside top cover, it's a staple.  If I'm feeling dry, I'll put some RMS "Un" Coverup on top.

Zuzu Mascara - I use this on my lower lids because it NEVER flakes or smudges.  I also use it on my upper, but find myself wanting more up volume up there, hence the Couleur Caramel.  This gives a natural, pretty look.

Alima Pure Baila Lip Tint - This is from the new Kristen Arnett Me Encanta Makeup Collection.  It's so smooth and glossy feeling, I can't wait until I beg Alima enough that they start making these in pinks and brighter colors (I've already started..hee, hee)  Oh, and the scent of Cocoa is delicious.

Living Nature Lip Pencil - The color is Laughter and it's almost done, but I have a new one in my stash. This is a great neutral pencil.  

Jane Iredale Lip Gloss in Sugar Plum - This is a favorite of mine and I always carry this around.  It's a pretty medium coverage gloss in a great hot-ish pink.

Maison Scotch Makeup Bag - I love my new makeup bag.  You can't beat getting a pretty one...when I take it out, I feel happy.

Laura Mercier Lip Brush - Someone gave me this in a mini-set of brushes.  It's the only brand here that isn't green...but it's only a lip brush, so take that!

A comb - Uhm...who cares who makes it?

Thanks for playing and the rules are that you need to tag some other green beauty bloggers, keep the title as it is and, of course, have the best time.  

I'm tagging people who are probably far, far too busy to do this, like:  Life In Blush, Pemberley Jones (don't kill me), Green Beauty Bunny, 312 Beauty and Beauty by Britanie.

Need an excuse to get some new green skincare? Winter. SW Basics, Osmia Organics, Napa Organics & Alima Pure!

Looking for a good excuse to pick up a few new skincare and makeup products?  Winter.

These are some new products that I'm really excited about (almost type 'jazzed about' whew!)  Oh, and stick around for some fun discount codes from SW Basics and Napa Organics and little extra surprises from Osmia Organics!  This is going to be a two-parter because there's so many things I think you'll love this coming Winter season.

ALIMA PURE with Kristen Arnett

Me Encanta Collection - I recently hung out with Kristen Arnett (green beauty makeup artist, Instagram filter pro) in my dear olde East Village 'hood.  When she emailed me about her new makeup collaboration with Alima Pure called Me Encanta, I was giddy; yeah, I love makeup!  Inspired by beautiful flamenco dancers during a recent trip to Spain, this makeup collection is so much fun color-wise, I was so thrilled when I opened it up.

Me Encanta includes:

From top Sombra Contour, Pink Satin Matte Blush & Flamenco Shadow

Black Natural Definition Mascara - Now I haven't had the opportunity to fully test this mascara yet (I'm certain I'll have a review in the future), but I wore it yesterday (upper lashes only) and loved it. What I can talk about at this point is how much I love the brush.  You can get such nice control with it...excellent.  

Flamenco Limited Edition Eye Shadow -  A gorgeous, gorgeous navy mineral shadow.  This will be such a cool change from the typical black smoky eye.  It's deeper than the picture here...more like a midnight.  I'm so happy that Kristen chose a blue as opposed to going for the token brown or black.  This look so much less harsh than black and, in my opinion, makes creating a smoky eye so much easier. 

Sombra Contour Powder  - Kristen has got a video of how to apply Me Encanta makeup collection right here and I have to say a big thank you to her, because I was absolutely clueless about contouring before viewing.  This powder is really natural looking and it warmed up my face.  Oh, and I have a picture of me on my Instagram feed wearing the look, too!

Pink Satin Matte Blush -  I already have been raving about my Rosa blush by Alima Pure.  This blush, called Pink, is a matte and gorgeous pink that I imagine everyone could use.  It's a classic color and I love it.

Baila Lip Tint -  Smelling of rich cocoa, this lip tint is, in a word, luscious.  Truly.  This does not have a balm-like feel, but rather a juicy and smooth feel.  The color is a  warm brownish rose and goes on so smoothly, it feels like a dessert.  I can't wait to check other the other colors, too.  $50 for the collection.

SW BASICS

Cream - I've written about this several times, but I have a thing for repeating myself, so here goes. Sure, I could've just written about the mask, but I want you to have one of the best creams for Winter and this is it.  Honestly, your skin will never be softer than this.  Soft, creamy and so effective, this cream is perfect for the upcoming colder months.  It smells heavenly and again, has only three ingredients:  Fair Trade Shea Butter, Organic Coconut Oil and Olive Oil.  I give this out to friends like it's candy and everyone gets hooked on it.  Do yourself a favor.  $32 for a big jar!  

NAPA ORGANICS

Organic California Almond Oil  - This is a totally new company for me and the only problem with Napa Organics is that there name isn't all over the place yet.  Hilary Glass' family has been ranching in California since the 1880s.  This is a family-run business and everything is so natural and affordable, I'm excited to share this with ya'll.  I've been using their Almond Oil as a body moisturizer for the past week and it's gorgeous.  It's so pure and feels so wonderful on the skin.  There's just nothing like organic oil.  The thing that I also love about this is that so it's so multi-functional;  this can be used as an intensive hair conditioner, massage oil, body oil and, when applied lightly, a face oil.  $16  

Prune & Walnut Face Scrub -  Prunes (more antioxidant power than blueberries) are mixed with finely ground up walnut shell powder.  This product is a "booster" meaning that you can add it to your cleanser or mask to give yourself some extra brightening or exfoliation.  I love the idea of that.  This can also be mixed with the Organic Almond Oil above for a master hydrating and exfoliating party for your skin.  $12 for what I think is a jar that will last forever!  

OSMIA ORGANICS

Coffee Mint Soap - The first time I learned about Osmia was on Pinterest when I saw a picture of their soap.  I couldn't click quick enough to figure out what the gorgeous pattern was on the top of it.  I am now hooked.  After hearing about how it's made, the care and craft that goes into it, well as a girl who is a huge fan of homemade soap, it was a no-brainer.  I recently purchased three bars and started off using Coffee Mint.  Why am I recommending it?  Because it's a big, gorgeous bar o' soap that smells like mint and EXFOLIATES with fresh coffee.  I just love an exfoliating bar of soap.  $12

Night Body Oil - I fell in love with this immediately.  So much so that I emailed Sarah (creator of OO) and asked her what the heck was in this magnificent body oil.  Turns out that it's some of my favorites, lavender, roman chamomile and some wild atlas cedar.  This is so calming and pretty, I can't get enough of it.  In fact, I have it on my desk because there's a teensy little bit left in the bottle and I sniff it throughout the day.  Suggested use is before bed and I can understand why.  If I had to give it one adjective, I would use "peaceful."  2.0 oz. $20 / 7.5 oz. $65

*I was kindly gifted several of these products and happily purchased others.  My opinions are all my own.

Looking For A Non-toxic Medium To Full Coverage Foundation? Introducing Studio 78's Paris' Chameleon Foundation

It's no secret (mainly due to my big mouth) that I'm a huge, huge fan of Studio 78's Concealer.  It is, by far, my favorite concealer.  And since concealer was one of the last "unclean" makeup products I was looking to replace, I feel really fortunate to have found it.  So, when Hazel from NuboNau recommended that I give the new Studio 78 Chameleon Foundation "We Oxygenize."  a try, I was more than happy to go for it!

the coverage

I've gotten so many emails from women asking if I knew of a foundation with a fuller coverage since many of the "cleaner" foundations are more light with a dewy finish.  Well, I'm really happy to report back this this is, in fact, a medium to slightly full coverage foundation.  In fact, of all the clean foundations I've tried, this gives the most coverage.

Now, my skin is on the dry side, and being that this is pretty matte, I chose to mix it with a moisturizer before applying (I used Dr. Alkaitis Organic Day Cream).  But, if you do not have dry skin issues and love a matte look, this is the ticket.

the shades

I'm ivory with yellow undertones and I purchased the lightest shade, Sunny Terrace.  I don't recommend this for pale Ivory skin as it's got a fair amount of yellow in it.  Currently, Chameleon foundation comes in three shades. Oh, and the reason it's called Chameleon is because this mousse-textured foundation goes on white and changes into said color...don't ask me how, but it's very cool.

*I purchased this foundation myself and all opinions are my own!

Beauty Tag!

One of my makeup bins.  There's some RMS Beauty, Intelligent Nutrients, Ilia Beauty, Studio 78 & Vapour

So, every now and again a Green Beauty Blogger will send out a Beauty Tag where they answer some questions and then "tag" us and have us answer them.  This tag, a very cute one I might say, was created by Sonja of Life In Blush.

On my nightstand you'll find:  Sans Lip Balm, Lotus Wei's Inner Peace Serum & KYI Moisturizing Mask (I use it for my hands & face before bed) and my iPad.

The literary character I'm most like is: I'm blanking on this.  You tell me...I'm neurotic, chatty, funny, dramatic and driven.  Go.

I'm currently obsessed with:  Ilia Beauty's Bang Bang (didn't think I could wear red before), Mun's No. 1 Aknari Serum, Lurk's RSW005 perfume (big into rose, here) and Intelligent Nutrients' Plant Stem Cell Science Renewal Complex.  I'm also obsessed with the big plans I have for my blog in the future...can't wait!

My favorite superhero is: Wonder Woman.  Who else is there?  How hot did she look in that little outfit?  And the gold lasso?  She slays me!

Favorite beauty product of 2013: Okay, hardest question ever!  Uhm...oh, I think it's my Studio 78 concealer.  

If I could have dinner with anyone dead or alive:  I haven't met him yet, but he's around 6'2", witty and lives in NYC...and he's adorable.  I'm sure he's out there somewhere...

Winter is coming, how do you prep your skin for battle?  I dip into the SW Basics Moisturizer and start removing makeup with coconut oil.

My perfect date night makeup consists of: Crush by Vapour Organic Beauty on the cheeks, Dr. Hauschka liner and Call Me & Love Buzz by Ilia Beauty.  If I'm feeling really feisty (pretty common) I'll go for Sacred by RMS Beauty on lips and cheeks.

My go-to skin-beautifying snack/drink is: Wheatgrass.  God, I detest it, but it works.

My TV boyfriend is: Hmmm...the guy who plays Peter Russo on House of Cards (not conventionally gorgeous, but he does it for me) and uh...the main guy from Walking Dead.  Sure, I'd date him...who wouldn't?

If my evening clutch could hold only one beauty item it would be:  Time to get a new evening clutch.  No, okay, I'll play along...whatever my gloss was for that night.  I don't leave the house without some kind of lipstick or gloss.

One beauty tip I would pass on to my fictional daughter is:  "Be just like your fictional mother.  She's adorable."  Kidding.  Beyond confidence and telling her how cool she is all the time, I would pass on natural sunblock and lead-free lipstick.

The most nostalgic item from my childhood is: My doll Noo-Noo (she was the blond doll in pink that was called "Drowsy").

My favorite show of the moment is:  Well, now that Breaking Bad is over (RIP), I'm going to say I like House of Cards, although I lose the plot whenever Robin Wright saunters on the screen, hot damn!

My favorite quote is: "Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.  Be kind.  Always."  Hits home every time I read it.  

I tag:  Alexis from The Green Beauty Bunny, Kasey Michelle from Plein Vanity and Marcella from Naturally Marcy

My Natural Open Sky favorites from Lotus Wei, Lollique Beauté & Waxelene!

When the peeps from Open Sky contacted me and asked for me to pick out and review some products that would appeal to me and my green-minded readers, I was very excited.  These are three products that I just loved.

Lotus Wei's Inner Peace
I love Lotus Wei.  I'm a huge fan of Infinite Love and Joy Juice, but think I've always truly needed Inner Peace (I'm a big worrywart).  I tested out the Inner Peace serum and the mist.  If you've never tried  these, I suggest you do and here's why:  

Inner Peace Mist -  Unlike many other aromatherapy products out there that are kinda strong and medicinal-smelling (why is that?) Inner Peace smells so relaxing and pure.  It's an absolute pleasure to sniff.  I find myself spraying the mist while I'm at my desk and then taking it in my bag and spraying it whenever I come upon it in my makeup bag.

Inner Peace Serum -  I've been keeping this right next to my bed and applying it to my face, neck and hands each night.  It's glorious (yeah, I'm bringing back the word glorious)!  Cup your hands and lift them up to your face and just breathe in to feel "deep calm, confidence and contentment."  This is great for relieving anxiety, nerves over public speaking, stress, etc.  I actually feel relaxed when I take time out to apply this. 

Lollique Beauté
I hadn't heard of this line before and I'm a little confused as to why as their skincare is super natural and really well made. 

Mask de Miel - Honey, honey, honey, it's all I'm hearing about lately...and quite frankly, I love the idea of it.  These ingredients are superb (raw Manuka honey and dried botanical plants, to name a few). This is one super-thick and hearty mask that's handmade in small batches and very high quality.  It left my skin toned, hydrated and glowing.  This can be used as a mask and/or face cleanser.  

Polissant - I have to admit, I'm a huge sucker for a delicious-smelling natural product.  This smells like a just-baked sugar cookie...so good.  I love using this.  If you're in the market for a great cleanser that will exfoliate gently, this is the way to go.  This product also contains some natural alpha hydroxy acids, so I like to keep it on my skin for a minute, but remember your sunblock post-use!  Oh, and this product contains nuts, dairy, honey and bee pollen...allergic types, take note!

Chamomile Hydrosol - I love a good toner.  I use them constantly...spraying whenever I need some moisture, before I apply my moisturizers and also to set my makeup.  If you don't use one, I'm confused how we're friends.  Lollique's Chamomile Hydrosol was an instant favorite due to the fact that I absolutely love chamomile.  They also have hydrosols in Cornflower (intriguing...) Lavender, Witch Hazel, Rose, Lemongrass, Lemon, Orange and Pure Aloe Vera.

Lipstick Couleur in First Date Pink - I also tried their lipstick/balm in First Date Pink.  If you're looking for a balm with some very subtle pink (bright pink in tube, comes out a light baby pink) I suggest you go for this.  I love wearing it to the gym...a little color, but I don't feel like I've got lots of lipstick on.

Waxelene
I do not have enough AMAZING things to say about this.  If you're using petroleum jelly in any capacity, this is one of the first changes you need to make.  Don't believe me?   Read up on what's in it. Blech!  Not only does this smell like the sweetest honey, it's non-greasy, goes on clear, doesn't clog pores like petroleum jelly and is super multi-purpose.  You can moisturize every body part (including feet), remove makeup, use on your lips and, of course, it's perfect for wee babies.  The ingredients? Organic Soy Oil, Beeswax, Natural Vitamin E, Organic Rosemary Oil.  Oh, and I will be most definitely purchasing this when my lil tube runs out...and that's saying A LOT!  Get it on Open Sky here!

*I kindly received these products to review and thankfully, I loved them.  

The Greener Mascara Clinic is Open: Come On In, Ladies...featuring Zuzu Luxe, Dr. Hauschka, Couleur Caramel & Juice Beauty!

Zuzu Luxe, Dr. Hauschka, Juice Beauty & Couleur Caramel

Natural

ZuZu Luxe by Gabriel Cosmetics  This mascara will not smudge or flake on you...at all!  Trust me on this one.  I use this on my lower lashes everyday and if I'm going for a all around natural look, on my top as well.  If you a more dramatic look, just add another layer.  This mascara is one that I will never stop using, plus the ingredients are great.  This also comes in Espresso and Navy as well as the Onyx.   $16.70

Volumizing

Dr. Hauschka Volumizing   I find that volumizing mascaras can be a little "wetter" than other mascaras and they can definitely smudge.  That's why I only use this mascara on the upper lashes and I'll use my ZuZu on the bottom.  I think this gives a really pretty full lash and is great for adding on for even thicker looking lashes. $29.25

Couleur Caramel Cils Longs This is my favorite for the upper lashes.  Again, there's no way I can wear this on the bottom as it will get all over the place.  So, I wear this on the top and ZuZu or Juice Beauty on the bottom.  I also love the smell of it...I know, strange, but it's got this super clean powdery smell that I love.  $24.25

Separating & Lengthening

Juice Beauty Lash Defining Mascara  I recently did a full review on this, but wanted to add it to the 'clinic' (who  do I think I am using that term, right?)  Anyway, this mascara is going to define lashes and separate them, but if you're looking for a big voluminous look, this isn't the one for you. This has never smudged on me and if you give a few seconds to dry, you'll be good to go all day.  $19

Some of these products I was given to test, others I purchased, all I loved.  

My New Crushes: One Love Organic's Skin Savior, Juice Beauty's CC Cream & Eyeliner, Not.A.Sponge, La Bella Figura & Kahina's Fez Body Serum!

One Love Organics Skin Savior Beauty Balm + Shammy

I'm going to strongly recommend you get on this. The best thing about Skin Savior?  It is super multi-functional and can be used as a cleanser, pomade, moisturizer and, when mixed with mineral powder,  a foundation.  As a cleanser, it completely removes any makeup or dirt from your face and it moisturizes your skin.  I find that with the majority of cleansers (unless it's oil-based) I have to use a toner afterwards to get any residual makeup off, but not so here. The shammy, a cloth that has a suede-like feel, really removes any and all traces of makeup.  I just rinse the shammy out with some Dr. Bronner's soap and water after each use and I'm good to go.  I also love that this 3-in-1 beauty balm has some of the best ingredients, too: coconut oil, mango seed butter, chia seed extract and vitamin E.  Oh, and the scent is a light orange from the delicious orange peel wax.    $48

Love Buzz over Call Me on lips, Demure on cheeks &
 Juice Beauty's Eyeliner & CC Cream

La Bella Figura's Bio Active Purifying Mask
I've recently discovered that La Bella is a definite force in natural skincare.  The second you open this mask up, you know you're in the big leagues, baby!  This is not, I repeat, not your typical mask.  This feels completely natural and you just know by the consistency that the ingredients are the real deal.  La Bella isn't trying to give you a mask you already own or one that feels like a commercial brand;  they've created a mask that is thicker going on and does what it sets out to do:  hydrate, nourish the skin and gently exfoliate.  I loved having this mask on my skin and felt like someone handmade this for me...it's that pure.   Removing it was easy and my skin was hydrated, sooo soft and bright, like I spent the day in the mountains...which, being in the middle of NYC, I did not.  This mask is recommended for dry and mature types, but I can't imagine that everyone wouldn't benefit from it.  $60


Juice Beauty's Defining Eyeliner
My new favorite!  You're probably wondering what can possibly make a black eyeliner interesting.  But I love this.  In fact, I haven't stopped using it since I received it.  First off, the formulation is great;  it's not too hard, not too soft and it's great for smudging (it comes with a smudger on the other end).  I line the inside tops of my lids and then the top of the outer lids, smudge that and get a great smokey eye.  On top of it all, the ingredients are stellar.  $16

Juice Beauty's Stem Cellular CC Cream

This lil multi-functional cream is getting a TON of buzz lately, mainly because it's so well done. What does CC stand for?  Color correcting.  The first time I saw this cream was on the creator of Juice Beauty, Karen Behnke.  How do I know she was wearing it?  She was glowing and I asked.   I was immediately obsessed.  So what will this jack of all trades cream do for you?  Well, first off, it's got an SPF of 30, but it also hydrates, gives a nice tint of color to correct discoloration and gives a pretty radiance to the skin (and so much more).  I really, really love this and think everyone should own it. As long as you need an SPF, why not have one that does so much else and leaves your skin looking so pretty and youthful?  Oh, and a bonus is that it smells wonderful...a light herbal scent?  $39

Not.A.Sponge
I'm very addicted to this now.  Have you tried one of these yet?   Hmmm...how to explain.  Well, it's made from a vegetable super food called Konjac and it's a great addition to your cleansing routine. When dry, it's a stiff little guy, but when wet, it turns into thee most lovely, super soft and fun exfoliating/cleansing aid there is.  It stimulates new cell growth and gets the blood flowing.  I can totally attest to this as I've found my skin has a lot more life to it since I'm using it.  It gives the skin that, "I just got back from working out" look...fresh and youthful.  I tried the In The Raw sponge, which is the basic one, but they've got so many others and ones for the body, too.  Oh, and it's 100% natural, biodegradable and vegan.  $10-11

Kahina Giving Beauty's Fez Body Serum
Well, it's no secret that I love Kahina.  I mention them every time I'm in a conversation with someone who is contemplating converting to natural skincare.  Their argan oil the first thing I recommend next to coconut oil.  So, it's no surprise that Kahina's Fez Body Serum knocks it out of the park with their new body serum.  It's incredibly smooth...I mean, incredibly.  It's just so well done that you know immediately when you pour it into your hands it's like nothing else out there...I'm not being dramatic, I'm being serious. Their standards are beyond.  In terms of scent, if you love a warm, antique sandalwood/patchouli scent, you will be in heaven.   $98


All of these products were kindly sent to me for review and all are my own opinions!  Hope you find something you love to try out here.

studio 78 paris: A great natural concealer, primer and a lipstick you really should own.

STUDIO 78'S CONCEALER, PRIMER & LIQUID LIPSTICK

I'm not going to play around here, we're not going to do this little dance where I tell you I think you should try a brand; I'm straight out telling you to please try this brand.  The products are so well made, the packaging is gorgeous and they carry the ECO CERT organic certification.

ANTI-DARK CIRCLES CONCEALER, "OFF WE GO"

As I've mentioned many times before, Studio 78 makes thee best concealer I've ever used. Ever. Yes, toxic ones included.  You can read about my love for it here.  I love this concealer so much that  before I leave the house, I check to see if I have my phone, keys and concealer. Truth.  And the little mirror on the top of the compact is so fantastic for touch-ups during the day.  $31

So, now that that is out of the way, let's get on to the new products that I tried from Studio 78 that you can purchase at NuboNau (an excellent online store for natural and organic makeup and skincare).

STUDIO 78'S LUMINOUS PRIMER, "WE TAKE SOME AIR"

First off, the numbers...99% of the total ingredients are from natural origin and 22% of the total ingredients are from Organic Farming.  

I love this primer and have found myself reaching for it as soon as my moisturizer is set.  The scent is a light coconut that I just love.  It's super light but what's really great about this primer is the luminous look it gives to the skin.  It's not frosty, but more of  pale gold-toned look that is just so pretty and makes the skin glow.  I'm fair-skinned and I think this would work well on all skin tones.  This is not a heavy look, but rather very natural and fresh.  $38

LIQUID LIPSTICK, "LET'S GET MARRIED"

The numbers...100% of the total of the ingredients are natural and 40% of the total of the ingredients are from organic farming.

I was sent this to test and although the color was in the brown family and I wear pinks/reds/corals, I had  tested it for a week in my apartment to see how it looked, felt on the lips and wore.  

For starters, the packaging is beautiful.  With a few clicks from the bottom of the lipstick, you're good to go.  The applicator is perfect and it's so easy to apply. 

I love this lipstick.  I think that if you're the kind of woman who likes an opaque lipstick that isn't going anywhere, this is for you.  The color is bold, it feels hydrating, but isn't too glossy on the lips.  I would say this is a semi-matte, full-coverage lipstick.  $32

01 - Ivory Wedding, Classic Nude

02 - Satin Wedding, Pink Nude

03 - Rose Wedding, Rose Pink

04 - Coral Wedding, Summer Orange

05 - Ruby Wedding, Parisian Red

06 - Velvet Wedding, Pretty Purple Plum

NuboNau has pretty much the entire line from Studio 78.  Head on over there to check out their blush, foundation (which I'm going to try next) and eyeshadows!

*I was sent the primer and lipstick to test.  All opinions are my own and I only write about that which I love and think you need to know about!  

the natural skincare transition made easy: marie veronique organics has everything you need in one place!

Okay, here's how the majority of my conversations go when someone approaches me about their desire to make the switch to "greener" skincare:

Me:

"Okay, well you can look into this brand, this brand and this brand..."

Them:

(heavy rolling of the eyes)

"Ugh, really?  Where do I get all this stuff?  I'm exhausted already.  

Can't I just buy everything from one brand?" 

My usual answer was, "Not really," but now that I've tried Marie Veronique Organics, I can simply answer, "Yes, you brat."  

Marie Veronique Organics is the perfect brand to do your one-stop shopping.  The kit that I tested, the Everyday Essentials Kit, was so easy to use that when I opened it up, I actually smiled.  There are two sizes for this kit - the full-sized at $175 and the travel size at $60.  I think the travel size is just right for trying out the line (but make sure to check out the deal below before ordering).   Now, I have pretty dry skin and I found that I wanted a little more hydration with this kit, so if you don't like a super heavy moisture routine, this will be great for you.   

EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS KIT:

MVO Exfoliating Cleanser:  This opaque, gel-ish cleanser smells wonderful, cleans and refreshes the skin and has adzuki bean powder to gently, and I mean, gently exfoliate.  With the first three ingredients being green & white tea, adzuki bean powder and aloe vera juice, you can't lose.  It has a pretty, herbal scent.

MVO Mist:  This mist smells like tea and since the first ingredient is such, there you have it.  I love a good mist before my serums/creams.

MVO Face Oil:  The key ingredients in their Face Oil (from their site):

• Krill oil: Omega-3, 6 and 9 balance, this oil is an excellent source of astaxanthin, an extraordinary antioxidant, and phosphatidyl serine, which Korean scientists have dubbed the “anti-aging fat molecule.” 
• Argan oil: Rich in Omega-6 and 9, Vitamin E, carotenes, squalene, and phenols.
• Blackberry seed oil: High in natural Vitamin C as well as several types of Vitamin E and lutein making it an excellent ingredient for repairing damaged skin.

MVO Everyday Coverage SPF 30:  

This is where it really gets to be one-stop shopping.  Marie Veronique Organics makes tinted moisturizers with an SPF of 30.  The tints come in three shades:  Extra Light Tint, Light Tint (a bit more yellow in it) and Medium Tint.  I received the Light and Medium Tints, but think I could've probably used the Extra Light.  It feels smooth, texture is light and I loved the herbal scent.

FREE MVO DUET SAMPLER WITH PURCHASE!

This deal expired on 10/12/2013.

*All opinions are my own.  I received this kit to test.

Juice Beauty's Lash Defining Mascara Works...really works!

KAPOW!  Here it is!  I've tried it! Juice Beauty's Lash Defining Mascara.   Because I received many emails from readers wondering how it stacks up, I pushed up the review. 

I was introduced to Juice Beauty's new makeup line by owner, Karen Behnke at Juice Beauty's "Just Juice" event here in NYC earlier this month.  As expected, their new mascara was a big topic of conversation as finding a clean mascara that works requires quite a bit of searching.  

HOW DOES IT WEAR?
Wonderfully.  There is absolutely no flaking, no smudging and no clumps!  When I came in yesterday after having worn it for over 8 hours, it was as if I had just put it on.

HOW DOES IT MAKE THE LASHES LOOK?
It separates and defines the lashes.  This look is natural, defined, pretty.  I like to apply 2 coats as I'm used to a lot more volume on my upper lashes.  This is not a volumizing mascara, so if you're looking for thick lashes, you might have to look elsewhere.  I think one of the reasons that this stays on so well is because the mascara really dries, so I suggest putting on your two coats before it dries.

INGREDIENTS:  Organic botanical extracts of serenoa repens (organic saw palmetto extract)*, aloe barbadensis (organic aloe extract)*, euphorbia cerifera (candelilla wax), triisostearyl citrate, hydrogenated glyceryl abietate, brassica campestris/aleurites fordi oil copolymer, copernicia cerifera (organic carnauba wax)*, vegetable glycerin, theobroma cacao (organic cocoa seed butter)*, persea gratissima (avocado butter), methylcellulose, xanthan gum, tocopherol (Vitamin E), sodium hyaluronate (vegetable hyaluronic acid), ethylhexylglycerin, phenethyl alcohol. May Contain: mica, iron oxide.       * = Certified organic ingredient

Would I re-puchase this?  Most definitely.  I think the formulation is fantastic and from what I understand, creating this mascara took Karen and her team many, many, many tries.  I think she's nailed it.  $19