Many of us have become aware of product testing and what’s actually in the products we are applying, and how they might be effecting our over all health and the environment. We’re reaching for greener choices, and reading labels, choosing products that are paraben, and petro-chemical free, as well as products that are cruelty-free (not tested on animals).

Earth Month is now upon us, and we wanted to showcase some companies that are truly contributing to the cause of helping the planet remain a beautiful place for all of us.

 

Aveda: A brand that spa and salon professionals have known since 1978, Aveda incorporates the “Art and Science of Pure Flower and Plant Essences” into everything they do. All their products are developed with certified organic materials. Aveda even tries to incorporate products grown in indigenous communities and countries. Every year, Aveda gives back to these communities in the form of help for clean water, support for farmlands and growers. This year’s focus is once again on water. Both protecting water quality and conserving our resources. Find out more here.

 

Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics: Youngblood is the number one luxury mineral cosmetics line created by Pauline Youngblood, a former medical aesthetician. Their products are made of natural, finely ground minerals from the earth — without any of the common irritants (including chemicals, dyes and preservatives) found in traditional makeup. Many products contain a signature mineral blend of Malachite, Rhodolite, Hematite and Zincite to help protect cells and tissue. You can visit their website online to find out more.  Our pick is the Mineral Radiance Creme Powder Foundation which is a long-wearing 2-in-1 cream to powder foundation that provides buildable, smooth coverage. This comes in eight shades in neutral, barely beige, honey,warm beige, tawnee, rose beige, toffee and coffee. $56

There is a ton of BODYCARE that is organic and natural and most of those products are very effective, but we’re talking about the foundation of your beauty: the foundations, brushes, concealers, primers.

Ever since I got my hands on a perfectly movie-star worthy concealer from Alison Raffaele Cosmetics at The Makeup Show New York, I’ve been hooked to the brand like cat to catnip.

Check out our Q&A with the founder, Alison Raffaele, below:

What is the primary difference between organic and green makeup? As I understand it, organic has to be 100%, while green makeup can have synthetic ingredients in them as well?

AR: Precisely. “Green” makeup is more about not containing harmful chemicals, like parabens, talc, mineral oil, synthetic fragrances, aluminum, etc., whereas “Organic” makeup must be made with only certified organic ingredients. It is very difficult to create makeup that is “organic” that still performs, however, many “Green” brands are beginning to use organic ingredients whenever possible.

Are you planning an organic line soon? Why or why not?

I am looking to use organic ingredients in my formulas, but not to go 100% organic. One thing people must remember is that just because an ingredient is “organic” or “natural” doesn’t mean that it is good for you. In fact many naturally occurring substances – take lead for example – can be very harmful to one’s health. The guideline I generally follow is for an ingredient not to be ranked more than a 3 or a 4 on the Enviormental Working Group’s “Skin Deep” database.

Tell us a bit about why you created your line. Was there a niche or need you wanted to fulfill?

Alison Raffaele

I am proud to say that Alison Raffaele Cosmetics was the first makeup artist developed line to go “Green”. The need I saw that wasn’t being addressed was profession quality makeup that was free of harmful chemicals. As a result, we have a great following among makeup artists!

Any new products on the horizon?

Right now I am working on a propylene-glycol free version of my Inner Glow gel blush and a Pressed Mineral Powder – I’m hoping to launch them in the summer or early fall.

Thank you Alison! Now, it’s your turn. ASK Alison anything and enter your comments below. You’ll be entered to win some great cosmetics from her line. FIVE WINNERS will be picked in two weeks.

Just do it and be pretty.