Great Green Idea: Green Cosmetics: Green Lips and Toes - Some New Products for Planet-friendly Primping

Green Lips and Toes - Some New Products for Planet-friendly Primping

Cosmetics might seem some of the last players in the going-green field, but more manufacturers are stepping up to the plate. Take the initiative to be an educated consumer. In an internet age, these cosmetics are readily available. Care about what products you put on your body and the health of our planet will benefit, too.

Don't trust a product simply because it states "100% Natural" or "Organic" on the packaging. Dig deeper and read the contents. Read consumer reviews. Educate yourself about the chemicals to avoid so the often complicated small print makes more sense. If the task of switching to green cosmetics seems overwhelming, just take it one little tube at a time.

Foundation makeup: Especially with a product worn over the entire face, it's essential to experiment with new foundation makeups on the market for a healthier body and life. Manufacturers are adding more vitamins and eliminating harmful parabens. New foundations with trace or zero iron oxides are available, which means lower health hazards than foundations of the past. Pure water, vitamins, herbs â€“ makeup labels are listing more of these authentically natural ingredients.

Lipstick: Some of the new lipsticks contain healthier ingredients like organic sunflower oil, shea butter, and coconut oil. There is no reason to buy lip products anymore that contain possibly harmful FD&C color dyes, so be aware of where lipstick pigments are coming from, too. Avoid any lipsticks that contain lead as an agent for those bright pinks and deep reds you love to wear.

Blush/rouge: Natural clays and even various blends of teas are helping make blush makeup healthier. As with all cosmetics, keep an eye out for the new blushes with low iron oxides and allergy-tested ingredients. New cream rouges are available with essential oils and organic beeswax. That glow on your cheeks can be healthier than ever before if you choose wisely.

Mascara: No matter what mascara you use, keep in mind it's best to buy a new tube often to avoid bacteria build up on the wand and in the tube. Choose the new mascaras with low iron oxides and a higher percentage of safer plant-derived ingredients like essential oils.

Nail Polish: Your fingers and toes will benefit from the new formaldehyde-free nail polishes. Many are carcinogen and petroleum free and still have a beautiful shine. Always double check any "non-toxic" claims via customer reviews and green industry standards.