Beauty: Organic Products for Brides

Once upon a time, organic beauty products lined a couple of shelves at the local health food store. No more. The organic trend is widespread and its growth explosive. Beauty companies are reacting to consumer demands and what’s happening in the food industry. With women taking note of what they put inside their bodies, they also started to question what they put on the outside. Clearly, there’s never been a better time to be a naturally radiant bride.

THE GREEN GLOSSARY Knowing these terms will help you read labels right. 
NATURAL The term has not been defined (or regulated) by the FDA but commonly assumed to refer to products containing such ingredients as essential oils, herbs, roots manufactured without the use of synthetics.
ORGANIC Refers to how ingredients are grown and processed. Organic production avoids pesticides, synthetic fertilizers or hormones, genetic engineering or irradiation. Organic products are minimally processed, minus artificial ingredients and preservatives. According to the National Organic Program (NOP) of the US Department of Agriculture, products that contain at least 95 percent organic ingredients can display the USDA “Certified Organic” seal. Products with at least 70 percent organic ingredients can be labeled “made with organic ingredients” but cannot wear the seal.

FRESH PICKS 
The Latest Lotions & Potions.Today it’s easier than ever to find top-quality green skin care and makeup products. Here, some of my favorites to include in your big day beauty regimen. 

Africology USA A luxury line of face and body care products made in South Africa. Products contain indigenous plants, including rooibos, aloe ferox and African potato, along with essential oils. The active ingredients in the skin care products are powerful agents in repairing and restoring damaged skin.
 BEST BET: Anti-Oxidant Serum contains vitamin A palmitate for increased collagen and DNA stimulation. Works wonders for eyes and lips.

Me & The Girls This popular brand creates products using certified organic cupuacu butter that is sustainably harvested from the Amazon rainforest. You’ll find a unique line of alternative, safe moisturizers and exfoliants that polishes and replenishes skin to silky soft perfection.
BEST BET: Bar Beleza, a solid stick made of capuacu butter, tanunu oil and coconut butter with vitamin E. It can be used as a makeup remover, day moisturizer and eye treatment.

Neocell This company specializes in collagen-building supplements designed to promote radiant beauty and overall wellness with ingredients that include skin-plumping collagen, hyaluronic acid and anti-oxidant vitamin C. 
BEST BET: The chewable Beauty Bursts (a 30-day supply) are a delicious way to radiant skin. A truly sweet way to being a beautiful bride! 

Shamanuti Based in Boston this modern skincare line is built on the rich botanical heritage of the Americas. Ingredients like North Atlantic kelp and blue-green algae are carefully formulated to create luxurious products which optimize skin function while calming, nourishing and hydrating.
BEST BET: The popular Crème No. 1 works to balance imperfections and shine while providing stimulation cell repair. The formulation also blocks against environmental pollution and sun damage.

Zao Essence of Nature This certified organic makeup line hails from Italy and uses essential minerals, antioxidants, amino & natural fatty acids to nourish and beautify. Best of all: Products are refillable in bamboo packaging.
BEST BET: The lipstick (shown here in Pearly Pink) goes on smooth—and lasts. Bonus: All lipsticks are refillable in bamboo packaging. 

By Patricia Canole
For more beauty tips and trends, visit ForTheBrideMag.com

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