Aguacate & Co...

I have been really into the skincare line Aguacate & Co. I've tried a wide variety of their products and am consistently pleased. Everything about this brand is straightforward and clean, from their packaging (perfect for men too!), to their philosophy, which is as follows...

"As a company, we strive to be good citizens within our industry, community, and the environment. To that end, we have developed our range of facial skin care products made with organic and natural ingredients cruelty free, and make every effort in our daily operation to reduce, reuse and recycle materials. And that is also why when you shop with us we give back a portion of all sales towards causes in support of the arts, community, and environment."

The soothing facial lotion, rejuvenating eye treatment, and facial cleansers are my favorites. Available online at Aguacate & Co.com.

a trip to the Beautorium...

Beautorium is a new online store selling organic and natural beauty products. Started by experienced beauty executives, Beautorium has a great philosophy and wonderful brand selection criteria. They stock some of my favorite product ranges from Saaf, Juice Beauty and Dr. Hauschka. The site is well organized, allowing you to shop by beauty issue, brand or product category. An added bonus...for all purchases over $75 you'll receive a fair-trade burlap sac to carry all your goodies in!

a gift of green...

Search for the cause, a website dedicated to investigating how exposures in our daily lives increase the risk of cancer, offers a green beauty kit full of fabulous all natural beauty products. The website is great reading. It touches on many topics of importance, with their main purpose being,

• Investigate how exposures in our daily lives increase the risk of cancer
• Reduce harmful environmental conditions
• Educate communities on healthy lifestyle choices

Here are just a few of the items from the green beauty kit available online here...

• Jurlique Lavender Hand Creme
• Lafe's Natural Hemp Deodorant
• John Masters Organics Intensive Hair Conditioner
• Organic Apoteke Rejuvenating Eye Cream
  

expert skincare advice on pores...

Dr. Mah Hussain-Gambles Ph.D, the natural skincare specialist who created the aforementioned and remarkable skin care range Saaf, has much to offer the generally beauty industry disillusioned:

Primarily, a gentler, evidence-based approach to skin care that transcends outrageous beauty marketing claims and emphasizes instead what has consistently worked over her fifteen plus years of research and treating people homeopathically.

Here Dr. Mah offers us some clear insight about pores!

According to Dr. Mah there are four main factors affecting the size and overall appearance of your pores:

1. GENETICS- those with oily thicker skin tend to have larger looking pores and those with drier skin likely have pores that are hardly noticeable.

2. DIET- a diet rich in oily and fatty food promotes over production of sebum.

3. AGING- as we age, our pores appear larger due to a build up of dead cells around the pore. As collagen breaks down and production of collagen slows, the supportive structures surrounding cells looks stretched.

4. SUN DAMAGE- sun damage is linked with enlarged pores by thickening the rim of the cells around individual pores thereby creating an enlarged appearance.

A REMEDY? Dr. Mah urges us to keep skin exfoliated, the pores clear, and to remember gently does it-- using a soft Muslin cloth rather than harsh dermabrasion to exfoliate since irregular exfoliant granules will actually damage skin with long term use. Finally, she reminds us to reduce sun damage by ALWAYS using a sunscreen and make sure to be adequately hydrated so as to avoid 'compensatory' over production of oil.

don't go to the cosmetic counter without me...

I recently reviewed the book, Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me, by Paula Begoun. I have to say I was very impressed by the sheer amount of information on beauty products that the author covers! Most of the book is devoted to literally thousands of beauty product reviews. The products range from all markets and prices. Each product is broken down by content and bluntly explained how beneficial the ingredients are for your skin, or in most cases, how your skin can do without the listed ingredients. I'll admit I was a little disappointed to find that some of my favorite products did not rank very high. The book is very informational and extreme which makes for a great debate regarding what ingredients are beneficial for different skin types and what ingredients are a waste of money.

I still believe you should be your own judge, sample products and see how your skin reacts to it before ruling it out. Regardless, Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me, is a great reference to have on hand. The concept of being acquainted with just how rare the "rare ingredients" you're paying for are, or what the "fantastic claims" companies make really do for the skin is frequently overlooked. You may save a few hundred dollars on your next trip to Sephora by doing a little self-educating. Treat what you put on your skin the same way you treat what you put into your body, be aware.

a little Almond Oil can go a long way...

Above oil by Aura Cacia, available at auracacia.com.

It is still freezing in NYC and I am finding that my skin both feels and looks dry by the end of the day. I have always been a big moisture person so I tend to lather up with plenty of lotion in the AM, but the lotion isn't cutting it lately. Now I go straight to the source and use pure Almond Oil. I forget that a lot of the time less is more. Apply after a shower or bath and your skin will not only glow, but feel satisfied all day long. Oh, one tip I have for you, do not get dressed immediately after applying, let your skin soak it in, otherwise your clothing will! Available almost everywhere including your local health food store.

a new skin solution for the new year...

Saaf pure organic skincare is a wonderful new product line founded by Dr. Mah Hussain-Gambles, a qualified homeopath and pharmacologist.

Using rare, organic, cold pressed botanicals and finest quality, steam distilled organic essential oils with scientifically proven healing and anti-ageing properties, Saaf Pure Skincare has been certified by the Soil Association. It qualifies, too, for Halal accreditations, by employing a policy of no alcohol, no GMO's and no irradiation. Further accreditations make it vegetarian and vegan approved as well as being cruelty free and Naturewatch certified. Available in select locations. I will try to update all flawless beauty readers when Saaf becomes available online or in the U.S.. I can't wait to try these products by Saaf, the skin serums sound amazing!

Naturalia's standalone organic beauty stores...

While spending time in Paris, one of my favorite health food stores was Naturalia. Naturalia also has a great selection of organic beauty products. Naturalia has now opened three bio boutiques dedicated to natural beauty. They are located in the Marais, Saint Germain and the 9th arrondissement. French beauty products are also nice because a lot have great shelf appeal and are just naturally more appealing to me because I'm not used to seeing them. I'm sure I'm not the only one whose gone into a basic pharmacy and been caught up for an hour! Naturalia also is pointing out that most materials used in the store design are organic, cleaning is done with ecologically-friendly products, and the lighting is designed to consume as little energy as possible. When in fabulous Paris, be sure to stop by...

Naturalia Beaute Bio
54 rue Lamartine
75009 Paris

126 boulevard Raspail
75006 Paris

52 rue Saint Antonie
75004 Paris

Target embraces "going green"...

Target, which is widely viewed as the hippest mass market retailer in the country is making a commitment in 2008 to stock shelves with organic beauty products. Nine product lines, including Kiss My Face, Burt's Bees, Juice Organics, Jason Naturals, Alba, Avalon Organics, Dr. Bronner's, Giovanni and Weleda are the brands included in Target's natural care set rolling out in the next several weeks. I think this is wonderful news. The more accessible organic products are the more likely it is that people will adopt them into their lifestyle. View full article on WWD.com.

clearing troubled skin...

I think the most difficult product to find when looking for all natural products is something to clear blemish prone skin. It's frustrating enough to break out, let alone not be able to do anything about it! I want to share the quick fix tips I have as well as long term treatments. I'd love to hear if anyone else has any great home remedies to clear acne. Is there any organic products out there that really do the trick? Well, the most basic way to solve this problem is to make sure your eating a well-balanced diet and drinking plenty of water.

My personal favorite trick that works great to draw impurities out of a blemish is Tea Tree Oil, which can be found at any local grocery or beauty store. Just apply a drop on any pimple and this will speed the healing process.
For longer term treatment I have discovered two products that I really like, pictured above is a clearing Amino Derm gel offered by Aubrey Organics. This gel can be spread on wide areas of the skin, never bleaches or feels tight and always dries clear. Blue Green Algae is also known for being great for clearing up skin. I haven't tried any of Aubrey Organics algae products but I'm sure they are great, I'm always pleased with what Aubrey Organics has to offer!

I also have been using this active charcoal/zinc body wash from Collective Wellbeing. The only think I am not too crazy about is the texture of the body wash, it's an intriguing black color but has a hand feel that is kind of hard to work with, it just needs to be lathered up a bit! By the way, this is the same company that makes amazing foot lotion.

...do you really know what you're putting on your body?

Do you ever wonder what is really in the products that you are using? Make-up, lotion, shampoo ect, contain lots of toxic ingredients. Flawless beauty blog is all about focusing on products that are natural, easy on the environment and/or organic. I understand it is hard for people to set boundaries and use strictly organic products so I am a believer that some is better than none. Some products should just be off limits though! How do you know? Well there is this amazing site called Skin Deep. This site is put out by the Environmental Working Group, whose mission is to use the power of information to protect human health and the environment. This site has a ton of information and focuses on children's skincare products as well. I want to thank Cathleen, a flawless beauty reader who made a comment about this site. It made me realize how all readers could benefit from getting this information. I think it's a very important site to share. www.cosmeticsdatabase.com

a few little facts about juice beauty...

I have been meaning to try products from Juice Beauty for some time now. Right now I am using the lightweight oil-free facial moisturizer. I have to say I am very pleased! It's not too heavy on my skin, I only need to use a little bit for a lot of coverage and the scent is pleasant. The moisturizer contains white grape and pomegranate juices with soothing aloe vera and leaves your skin with a matte finish. What I really love about Juice Beauty is their product content. Here are some facts about their products...

They have:
-Organic ingredients in a 100% organic juice base, making the total organic content up to 95%.
-Powerful antioxidant technology for optimum age-defying results.
-A strict no animal testing policy.
-A 100% vegetarian ingredients policy.

They NEVER have:
-Pesticides.
-Petroleum or petroleum derivatives.
-Toxic preservatives.
-Artificial colors or dyes.
-Synthetic fragrances.

Unfortunately most skincare products contain if not some but all of the above toxic ingredients. Something to think about because the skin absorbs up to 64% of what we place on it!

as soft as it gets...

Thanks to my roommate, I came across an amazing facial scrub that I am so excited to share... Eminence Organics Pear and Poppyseed Microderm Polisher. I instantly felt a difference on my skin, actually I don't recall my skin ever feeling this soft! I wish I could actually do a full body scrub with this, it's that amazing. The scent is nice as well and I love the directions it gives on the packaging, "Mix the polisher with an equal amount of water, tea or juice. For sensitive skin, mix with an equal amount of the Pear & Green Apple Masque. Gently apply to the skin with a circular motion for one to two minutes. (It is recommended to place a wet gauze or cotton strip over top). Steaming is possible while the masque is on. Remove with a warm wash cloth." I love how it says mix with water, tea or juice...fabulous. Eminence products are never tested on animals and packaging is 100% recyclable. Available online.

for your eco-conscious shopping efforts...

Image from pangeaorganics.com.

I have a great last minute offer for all Flawless Beauty readers. The people at Pangea Organics ( The makers of the new "it" mask from the gift guide) are offering all friends of Pangea an opportunity to purchase Pangea Organics products at WHOLESALE Pricing -that's 50% OFF. Yes, 50% OFF. They do ask, however, that each order meets a MINIMUM of $200 (wholesale), plus shipping & handling. That is a lot of product, lol, but makes for great gifts and maybe a few people could go in on one order. Hurry! Offer expires December 20, 2007. So get your holiday orders today! This offer is limited to the first 500 Friends.

To take advantage of this special offer, you must email info@pangeaorganics.com with FRIENDS in the subject line. They will then email you the Wholesale Order Form with instructions on how to place your order. This offer is not available online at pangeaorganics.com or in stores. This offer is available via email only. The website is a great way to familiarize yourself with the product though (and know what to order).

And here is a message from Pangea, "With this very special offer, we encourage you to continue to be part of the solution by choosing to be a responsible consumer this holiday season. It is because of people like you that companies with the environmental and social ethics of Pangea Organics have found success in a very competitive market. With your help and in combination with the work you do in your own lives everyday, together, we will change the world. Happy Holidays!"

On that note, I am off to California again for the holidays but will try to do my best to keep up on posts...

winter is here...

Winter is officially here tomorrow I believe and it has been in the 30's in New York. Time to stock up on winter products! I walk to work in the morning and find that by the time I get to the office the skin on my face feels cold and dry. I decided I had to get some heavier face lotion so at Whole Foods I picked up Weleda Everon face balm. I have to say, I am completely satisfied with my purchase. The lotion goes on thick but does not leave my face feeling coated or greasy. My skin also feels moisturized all day, even when I was running around the city outside doing errands. This product is also perfect for use during winter sports. I noticed they have a lip balm as well that I have not tried yet...

still looking for holiday gifts?

The holidays are close to being over but if your like me, your probably still looking for last minute stocking stuffers or gift ideas. I've pulled together a few products below that are favorites of mine or that I bought for gifts this year. All products can be ordered online and most can be found at your local health food or beauty supply store.

(1) Multi-use palatte from Josie Marans organic makeup line, no parabans or fragrances and comes in a biodegradable compact!
(2) Jurlique rose hand creme, also available at Saffron Rouge in citrus and lavender scents.
(3) CO Bigelow lip gloss. A staple for my purse, desk, bedside table...this gloss comes in many amazing scents and has .1% Peppermint oil which gives an amazing scent and never leaves my lips dry or chapped (also you can get these 2 for 10$ at Bath and Body works).
(4)Pangea Organics Japanese Matcha Tea with Acai & Goji Berry mask. Now this I have not tried but is supposed to be one of the new "it" masks. One of my lucky friends is getting this for Christmas...and I need to pick one up for myself as well!
(5) Ren Morrocan Rose massage oil. Whats a sweeter gift than massage oil? And it doubles as a body oil or bath oil. Ren makes amazing products! Available at Whole Foods as well as online.
(6) Alba Kukui Nut organic body oil. I use this regularly, the scent is sweet and exotic and my skin never feels greasy afterwards. Also great for a massage or bath oil.

I've also pulled together some great gifts sets, aside from my favorite that I posted before, I also think these are wonderful options.


(7) For the new babies and expectant mothers, Jurliques Baby's Bathtime Kit, it's on sale at Saffron Rouge!
(8) Dr.Hauschkas Aromatherapy Bath Kit. A wonderful way to explore different oils for stress-free bathing.
(9) An adorable gift set from Zia that comes with a soy candle, body butter and Madagascar Vanilla Red tea to complete your pampering experience. This set is on sale, I guess there are some benefits to last minute shopping!
(10) Juice Beauty Organics to go travel kit! A great way to try out this much talked about skincare line, there seems to be just about a little bit of everything in this box! And the kits on sale for $29 when you order from the Juice Beauty website.
(11) Lastly for the friend who likes the finer things or should I say more expensive things in the product world there is the Care by Stella McCartney Discovery Set. The set has great shelf appeal and will only set you back $38.

I hope these suggestions helped solve some shopping dilemmas or if anything provided you with some new product for yourself! What I love about the holidays is that there are a lot more gift sets and trial sizes offered by companies. This gives opportunities to be adventurous and try new product samples without having to spend too much money.

sweet beauty...

Looking for tips for beautiful skin? Try a sweet, fragrant honey mask. It's a wonderful way to moisturize and hydrate the skin. Honey is a natural humectant, which means it attracts and retains moisture. This mask always leaves my skin feeling soft, moisturized and creates a nice glow. Honey can also be added to the avocado mask for extra benefits or to create a smooth consistency.

Spread raw or organic honey over a clean face (be sure to always avoid eye area). Let honey sit for 20-30 minutes. To promote pore cleansing, tap you fingers over your skin in the areas your pores seem to be congested. Doing this creates tiny suctions that help clear clogged pores. Rinse and wipe face off well with warm water.

flawless basics...the importance of sleep

Image courtesy of Toast.com.

Much of the body’s healing work takes place while you sleep. Without the need to attend to all of the functions of daily life, your immune system and organs that detox the body (kidneys) can focus attention on cleansing and restoration. This is the time when your body does major housecleaning, taking care of wastes that have accumulated during the day and repairing cellular damage. This is also why it is important to try to refrain from putting anything on your skin at night, your body is working hard to expel waste from your skin. When you wake in the morning use a cleanser to eliminate the toxins expelled during the night.
You may notice when you are stressed and tired your skin is more prone to rashes, blemishes and lacks vitality. If you are going through particularly stressful times try to nap on the weekends as well. So how much sleep do you need? Most likely 7-10 hours a night, you have to figure out what your body needs and be willing to make sure it receives. Here are some tips for getting a good nights sleep and figuring out how much you need...

:: cultivate the habit of going to bed early, your body is naturally set to fall asleep when it gets dark out so in other words, the earlier the better :: avoid eating for at least 2 hours before sleeping, if you need a snack eat fruit because it is easily digested :: avoid caffeine in all forms, alcohol, cigarettes and drugs :: use cotton bedding/sleepwear to let your body breath and crack a window for fresh air if you can :: do NOT fall asleep to the television, you have to make sure you create an environment that is peaceful and quiet :: take baths and drink herbal teas, both are natural sleep remedies that help the body relax and unwind :: also try meditation, peaceful conversation, or reading ::

If you listen to your body and get on a schedule you naturally will find yourself falling asleep and awaking at the same time. This isn't always realistic in our busy lives but trying some of the above tips can hopefully provide the body with and extra restful night...

beauty on the go...

With all the holiday travel that is going on, I thought now would be a good time to post about my favorite express skincare masks by the Greek company Apivita. I love the product line and they seem to have skin and haircare masks for just about every need. Apivita express products are available in single dose, travel-friendly packaging which allows you to mix and match different creams and masks to create your own personal skin "diet". These are small enough to throw in your purse and perfect to add onto any gift! A few of my tried and true favorites are the firming face mask with grape, the age management face mask with green tea and the eye zone mask with ginkgo biloba. I am very interested in trying the instant lifting mask with red wine...Click here to order online, also available at CO Bigelows in NYC.


All images from Apivita.com.

perfect gift for the holidays...

As I said may have said before I LOVE all and any products by Jo Wood Organics. The shelf appeal is so great and the product is such nice quality. The scents are both sensuous and luxurious. So, to say the least, I was very excited to come across this Amka gift set available online at Saffron Rouge. The gift set includes the Amka Organic Body Dew, Organic Body Oil, Organic Bath Oil and Organic Body Lotion. Amka (which is Swahili for 'to wake') is enchantingly fresh with top notes of Bergamot and Neroli and a romantic heart of Egyptian Jasmine and Iranian Rose Otto. This set is definitely number one on my holiday wish list!