Cosmetics have historically been manufactured with a host of harmful, synthetic, toxic substances. Heavy metals, plastics, synthetic dyes, carcinogenic preservatives, and petroleum-based synthetics are all found in typical cosmetic products — even the expensive ones. Only companies who make natural make-up and skin care a priority, are truly healthy and eco-friendly. The majority of the industry is, in essence, polluting the environment, and polluting your face.
Natural cosmetic brands that are safe to use
- Burt's Bees is a North Carolina-based company, with a focus on providing the most natural products possible, and educating people on the benefits of natural ingredients, for human beings, and the environment. They are a green company, from the top down, using recycled materials for packaging, and emphasizing sustainability, not excess. Burt's Bees makes everything from facial cleansers and shampoos to natural make-up. They are reasonably priced, and today are widely distributed.
- Aveda is a well-respected natural cosmetics company. They diligently provide plant-based natural care products, with a wide range of eco-friendly, herbal-smelling hair products, make-up, skin care, and even botanical perfumes. Aveda uses fair-trade, sustainable, environmentally-safe ingredients and packaging. They take green to a whole new level, supplying energy for their manufacturing with 100% certified wind power! Aveda products can be found at their retail stores, and online.
- Jane Iredale is the natural cosmetic brand for mineral make-up. They have a wide range of colors for eyeshadows, blushes, and other products. Everything is safe for even sensitive and allergy-prone skin. This line of natural make-up can be found in some spas and salons, or online.
photo by Ana Filipa Machado
