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Recently I mentioned my love for the Daily Om. While I shared a few of my favorite DailyOm.com classes, I’m tuning in again on this topic now to share the most magical course I’ve signed up for so far : A Year of Color Therapy by Tori Hartman.

Every week  for a year Tory talks story surrounding the meaning of each color in the rainbow. I learned greatly from lesson 7: Cherry Heart, which tells a tale of cherry pies, miracles and acceptance. This weekend I received Lesson 31: Sage – Wisdom which shares a story on being authentic in the moment to reflect our true wisdom and developing the ability to observe when we’re not.

A Year of Color Therapy by Tori Hartman features illustrated Color Therapy Cards that the Daily Om believes “can unlock the secret to manifesting your dreams, and prepare you for the journey ahead.”

Included in this course:

• a new Color Therapy Card every week for a year
• card includes a fable of the week with its inspirational lesson
• in depth tools which will allow you to embody the lessons
• new, practical choices when faced with challenges
• ways to restructure old beliefs
• games that offer breakthroughs
• in depth color knowledge
• insight into how color affects you
• new tools and skills to see clearly how family dynamics have played a strong role in your life, and ways to transform them. This is multi-generational healing.

Image Source.

It recently came to my attention that there are still a huge number of us who are not sure what ingredients are particularly toxic in our personal care products. Given that there is very little oversight or regulation within the industry, we owe it to ourselves to get armed with how to make well-informed buying decisions. Learn this checklist and eliminate these 25 toxic chemicals from your beauty arsenal, and you’ll be off to a flying start with making safer, healthier choices.

1. ALUMINUM ZIRCONIUM and OTHER ALUMINUM COMPOUNDS

Function: Used to control sweat and odor in the underarms by slowing down the production of sweat.

Present in: Antiperspirants. Banned by EU.

Health concerns: Linked to the development of Alzheimer’s Disease; may be linked to breast cancer; probable neurotoxin; possible nervous system, respiratory, and developmental toxin.

2. BENZYL ACETATE

Function: Solvent; hidden within “fragrance.”

Present in: Many cosmetics and personal care products, read labels.

Health concerns: Linked to pancreatic cancer; easily absorbs into skin causing quick systemic effects; animal studies show hyperemia of the lungs; possible gastrointestinal, liver, and respiratory toxicant; possible neurotoxin.

3. BENZALKONIUM CHLORIDE and BENZETHONIUM CHLORIDE

Function: Antimicrobial agent, deodorant, preservative, biocide.

Present in: Moisturizer, sunscreen, facial cleanser, acne treatment, pain relief. Restricted in Japan and Canada.

Health concerns: Immune system toxicant; may trigger asthma; possible organ system toxicant; animal studies show endocrine disruption and brain, nervous system, respiratory and blood effects; possible carcinogen.

4. BRONOPOL

Function: Preservative.

Present in: Moisturizer, body wash, facial cleanser, makeup remover, anti-aging products. Restricted in Canada.

Health concerns: Immune system toxicant; lung and skin toxicant; animal studies show endocrine disruption and gastrointestinal, brain and nervous system effects; irritant.

5. BUTYLATED HYDROXYTOLUENE (BHT)/ BUTYLATED HYDROXYANISOLE (BHA)

Function: Anti-Oxidant; slows down the rate at which product ingredients change in color.

Present in: Many cosmetics and personal care products, read labels.

Banned by EU.

Health Concerns: Immune system toxicant; endocrine disruptor; probable human carcinogen; animal studies show brain, liver, neurotoxin, reproductive and respiratory toxicant.

The fashion industry is in hyper drive with the lead up to Fashion’s Night Out (September 10th) and the whole industry is buzzing with excitement and anticipation, but let’s not forget… it’s Beauty’s Night Out too!

For anyone who lives in NYC or is flying in for the big event,  Josie Maran will be making a live appearance at the Sephora 5th Avenue boutique.  From 7-9 PM the former supermodel and founder of Josie Maran Cosmetics, will be hosting her own in-store photo shoot, giving consumers mini-makeovers and pointers on how to pose like a pro before they step in front of the camera, where they’ll have their picture taken and walk away with a signed copy of their best shot with Josie.

Special Offer!

The first 100 consumers who make a purchase that evening will receive a limited edition, created specifically for FNO, Argan Oil Color Stick in Cherry Popsicle.
And get this, if it’s you, you’ll be one of the first to try this amazing new item because it doesn’t officially launch until 2011.

Who is Josie Maran?

In case you’re wondering who Josie Maran is, she was the face of Maybelline for about 10yrs and a hugely successful model, but grew up with very bohemian parents in California. Not content with just being the face of cosmetics and with a passion to create something that more suited her personal beliefs, she decided to start Josie Maran Cosmetics about 2yrs ago. Since then the brand has grown significantly and is now sold at Sephora, her website and QVC, with sales going through the roof.

What’s great about it?

While the collection isn’t entirely natural so you do have to be vigilant with ingredients, Josie nonetheless has created a brand of makeup that is slick, gorgeous, predominantly natural, and she was one of the first cosmetic companies to use bioplastics, so all of the packaging (in theory) is actually biodegradable. Not only that but most of the products contain Argan Oil which is a rich source of naturally occurring Vitamin E and essential fatty acids, both of which are incredible skin foods.

Writer :: Emma Pezzack – www.futurenatural.com: for the best organic beauty products in the world.

I’m often asked: When is the right age to start using anti-ageing products?

The way I like to think of it is: When is the right age to start looking after the skin?
The answer to that is that you are never too young. The care you give yourself and your skin from a young age will benefit you as you age, holding back the effects of the ageing process.

Of course, we can’t hold it back completely. There are 2 types of ageing: external and intrinsic.
Intrinsic ageing is the natural process that we inherit in our genes, we can’t stop this. External ageing is down to us and our lifestyle choices.

Top 10 anti-ageing habits

1. Moisturize: you can never start too early. Get into the habit from at least the onset from puberty, if not before, to moisturize the face and body after washing. Dry skin encourages wrinkles so keep it supple.
2. Sleep: Lack of proper sleep can cause reduced circulation leading to dull and fatigued skin. The poor circulation can also contribute to dark circles under the eyes . The body naturally repairs itself while we sleep, so its important we give it sufficient to do this.It also beneficial to sleep on your back if you can. Sleeping on your side or front can cause ’sleep lines’ which, over years can become etched into the skin’s surface.
3. Don’t smoke: The chemicals inhaled when smoking cause biochemical changes in our body that accelerate the intrinsic ageing process.Also think about that constant puckering action, causing those nasty ‘pucker’ lines around the mouth to develop.
4. Drink alcohol only in moderation: It is a little harsh to say cut it out! As long as we don’t drink in excess that is fine. Excessive consumption causes the blood to rush to the surface of the skin and this in turn can lead to broken capillaries.
5. Drink plenty of water: Our bodies are largely made up of water and if we don’t keep them hydrated properly it shows in the skin. Always drink plenty, aim for 2 litres a day. It is also essential for every other organ in the body.
6. Eat plenty of fruit: Fruits are a valuable source of vitamins needed for healthy cell function. Without sufficient levels the skin cannot properly repair and renew itself, leading to premature signs of ageing.
7. Exercise regularly: For the skin its not so important what exercise you do as long as its done regularly. Its important to increase the circulation, which in turn stimulates cell renewal and repair.
8. Sun protection: There is some controversy about certain ingredients (namely methylparabens) in suncreams actually accelerating the ageing process. The most important thing is that you avoid midday sun, use adequate protection (natural sunscreens if you can) and always avoid burning. Ageing due to sun exposure (photo-ageing) is a big problem and massively increases wrinkles, fine lines and age spots.
9. Cut the stress: High levels of stress, whatever the cause, change the skin. It compromises our immune system and can lead to higher levels of sensitivity – not to mention those ‘worry’ lines.Remember to take some time each day to refocus yourself and let your worries melt away.
10. Smile: Remember smiling uses less muscles than a frown! It also makes you feel better on the inside when you smile.If ever there was a way to look and feel more youthful its gotta be a smile…….

“They say that age is all in your mind. The trick is keeping it from creeping down into your body” ~Author Unknown

If you like this post you can catch me over at http://which1works.com and at my Facebook Page

Image courtesy of Cobalt 123 at Flickr

The new Fall face seen all over the runways this year makes a return to fuss-free and low maintenance with neutrals, earth tones, and a light-handed approach to application dominating. Creating a no makeup look using organic & natural cosmetics, without looking like you’re wearing nothing, isn’t quite as simple as it sounds, so here’s what you’ll need…

RMS Beauty – Uncoverup #22: The start of any great looking face is flawless skin. Uncoverup melds beautifully with skin to give you a smooth, radiant finish that looks like your skin, only better. Use as concealer or foundation – this is all you need for the perfect base.

Vapour Organic Beauty Mesmerize Eyeliner – Black: The best way to wear eyeliner so it looks barely there is to draw a very fine line as close to the base of lashes as you can; you get definition without the drama.

Tarte Cosmetics Natural Cheek Stain – Natural Beauty: This award-winning blush is renowned for giving a sheer, natural looking flush, now in a completely natural formula.

Alima Eyeshadow – Perfectly Tailored Collection: Go from denim to your favorite wool suit with this versatile quartet of eyeshadows that has everything you need to define, line and shade.

Josie Maran GOGO Instant Natural Volume Argan Mascara: The hydrating formula can be applied lightly for natural or layered for dramatic and it dries quickly without being ‘crunchy’.

Aveda Uruku Color Gloss – Peony: All the shine of a gloss with the pigment of lipstick, this brand new color gloss is a gorgeous every day pink to work with any outfit.

Writer :: Emma Pezzack – www.futurenatural.com: the best organic beauty products in the world.

Image :: Jeffrey Fiterman – Photographer / Julianne Kaye – Makeup

Have you taken the handmade pledge? If you’re ready to get your handmade shop on but want to find the most eco-friendly goods available, team tags make that super simple on Etsy!

What is an Etsy Team?

An Etsy team is a group of sellers that share a common goal, passion, or craft. The artists support each other, share tips and tricks, and help promote each others’ shops. (Full disclosure: I’m a member of Team Eco Etsy and Team EtsyVeg.)

That all sounds great for crafters, but what about for shoppers? For eco-friendly shoppers, the team tags can help narrow your Etsy searches to find just what you’re after! There are tons of teams on Etsy dedicated to environmental issues. By including a team’s tag in your search, you’ll find results just from those members.

For example, if I was looking for Earth friendly purses, I could search purses and then scour through all of the results looking for recycled, upcycled, and organic finds. It makes the search much easier if I add “teamecoetsy” to my search. The results are all for purses by Eco Etsy members, who strive to run green businesses and produce environmentally friendly products.

Eco-Friendly Teams

Etsy has hundreds of teams, and navigating them all can be tricky. Here are a few teams and their tags to help you search smarter!

• Eco Etsy – teamecoetsy – recycled, organic, and vintage products
• Etsy Veg – etsyveg team – vegetarian and vegan products made without any animal ingredients
• Etsy Earth – etsyearthteam – Earth friendly goods
• Etsy Organic – etsyorganicteam – uniting sellers of organic goods and promoting an organic, sustainable lifestyle

Do you guys shop for eco-friendly fashions and beauty supplies on Etsy? I’d love to hear about your favorite sellers and teams in the comments!

Image Credit: Photo via psarokokalo

We women (and some men, too) are always on the search for the perfect eye cream.  Super hydrating, but not too oily.  Matte enough to apply makeup over, but not so matte it “cracks” under eyeshadow.  And if you can use it morning and night, double bonus.

Well, I have good news for you…I am currently using such a product.  The Answer’s Ideal Eyes.  This fabulous eye cream is part of The Answer for Skin PMS line created by Caren Online co-founder, Ellen Holder.  The Answer is a unique anti-aging skincare line designed for those with hormonal-skin issues.  But let me just say, this eye cream will become a favorite whether you deal with hormonal breakouts or not.

Personally, my skin does not do well with products targeted for acne of any type.  If it is out of balance at all, it will err on the dry side.  Still, this eye cream is the perfect combination of ingredients for all skin types.  Nice and moisturizing when you pat it on.  Quickly absorbed by the skin with no greasy after-feel.  And the skin around the eyes looks fresh and smooth.

The Anwer’s Eye Fix contains high-quality natural ingredients –Sea Algae, Green tea, Rosehip oil– and will definitely satisfy your craving for a sublime eye cream.  And the entire skincare line has received rave reviews.  If you are battling hormonal skin, pick-up the The Answer PMS Starter System, a great way to try the line.

Ellen is offering a great deal just for Feelgood Style fans:  Receive 15% off The Answer products when you use coupon code FGS15.  A great time to try Ideal Eyes or any of the highly effective The Answer PMS skincare products.

Image:  Colton’s Photography at Flickr.com, Creative Commons license.

Increasingly we see ‘Certified Organic’ on natural beauty products, but what does this really mean? And is it important?

I believe the answer is YES.

Many products will carry the word Organic or Naturally Organic or some other combination containing the buzz word. The problem is this labeling is not actually regulated, meaning the product may contain 1 or 2 ingredients that are organic but may also contain some ‘nasties’ – synthetic chemicals that are far from organic.

Organic vs Certified Organic

Products that carry the Certified Organic logo on the other hand have gone through the certification process which involves meeting standards on all ingredients for production, handling, processing and labeling. There is no law or regulation that states these processes must be undertaken by any brand and there is no law that states any action can be taken with brands falsely labeling their products as organic. The whole thing is self –regulated!! Great for the brands who don’t want to bother!

Ah, but for the brands who do bother there is an up-side. The consumer is becoming more savvy, this is a good thing. If you make the choice to go organic with your beauty then don’t always believe what it says on the bottle- look for the logo – then you know!! There are also other certifications that show a brand values the integrity of their products and is completely transparent regarding their ingredients, these are the brands to look out for.

If a brand goes through the certification process then it shows they are bothered about the concerns of their customers and that they value the term organic – it is not something that should be thrown onto all packaging just to make more sales!!

The food industry uses the term ‘organic’ but is regulated, meaning they can’t say its organic unless its certified. The cosmetics industry is a different kettle of fish, maybe one day it will catch up!!

Finding Brands with Organic Integrity

So this is what you should look out for:

And these are some of my favourite brands providing it:

Weleda
Alva
Suki
Neals Yard
Aubrey Organics

…all giving real results.

You can also find more information at the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics

If you like this post you can find me at which1works.com and also over on my facebook page.  There is so much hype in the beauty industry, integrity is key!!

Photograph courtesy of epsos.de

Direct from WWD Eye Scoop and written by Miles Socha: Bono and his wife Ali Hewson are starring in a new ad campaign for Louis Vuitton featuring Edun, the first time a label other than Vuitton is getting a fashion credit.

Instead of Vuitton, the two wear Edun, the ethical clothing label they founded in 2005 to encourage trade with Africa, and in which LVMH took a 49 percent stake last year. What’s more, Hewson totes a handbag co-designed by Edun and Vuitton that comes dangling with a special charm that is the French firm’s first made-in-Africa product. (It’s also sold separately.)

The image of Bono and Hewson disembarking from a small airplane in an arid South African vista — with the tag line “Every journey began in Africa” — is slated to break in mid-September in a range of daily newspapers, October magazines and on louisvuittonjourneys.com. The collaboration also will dovetail with an event during Paris Fashion Week, when Vuitton and Edun will unveil Africa Rising, a temporary exhibition of contemporary African art along with a showcase for the campaign and Edun’s spring collection. Bono and Hewson are expected to attend.

Antoine Arnault, Vuitton’s director of communications, said Edun’s presence in a Vuitton campaign would give the small brand — and its mission to eradicate poverty through sustainable enterprise in Africa — international exposure.

Posted by Emma Pezzack: www.futurenatural.com – the best organic beauty products in the world.

This gorgeous print silk is actually sustainable! No, it’s not Peace Silk, but it is digitally printed. Digital printing requires no water, and produces far less waste than traditional printing & dyeing. And look how gorgeous the colors are! I love it when high-tech is also eco. Textile courtesy of Hansun Textile.

Fast Fashion Takes Over Las Vegas

MAGIC is the largest apparel industry trade show in the world, held biannually in Las Vegas, that bastion of rampant consumerism. (The pink stretch Hummer below sums it up.) With thousands of mass-market brands on display, the show represents the full spectrum of the mass apparel industry. There were also a number of great panels on a full range of topics. Having spent over a decade in this industry, I am always surprised by the number of people who want to be fashion designers. If they only knew…

Well, with the help of the FBI, they were able to learn from industry experts and other early-stage designers on a series of panels aimed at startup brands. My favorite moment in the panels was when the room emptied after Peter Kallen, Nau’s Design Director, had spoken, but before the final panelist. This showed that I wasn’t the only person keenly interested in what he had to say. Afterward I asked him why they weren’t making more business-appropriate clothing, as they were closer to that than any other eco brand. Peter told me they were indeed working on expanding their office wear offerings, which is very exciting!

The Best and The Worst of Fall 2010 Fast Fashion

In the main hall, there was one brand that really upset me, while the majority were offering more of the same old throwaway fashion we’re so tired of. One brand even had a (not recycled) nylon spandex tee with pleather and ink lettering saying some platitude about saving the planet. Organic cotton tees are bad enough, (because most of us don’t spend our entire lives in yoga class) but this was too much. I won’t name the brand for the same reason I didn’t take a photo. The clothes on display are there for buyers, not press. People taking photos at trade shows are usually copyists and asked to leave, as they should be.

One exciting eco brand was Amour Vert. Although they don’t use recycled materials (yet), they do use the most sustainable raw materials- Organic cotton, Bamboo, Tencel, Peace Silk, etc. What makes them so special is that these are clothes you can wear in the rest of your life- work, dinner, etc. It’s a very chic and wearable collection.

To go with your organic cotton tees, pick up a pair of Reuse jeans. Reuse makes denim from 80% recycled cotton, which they source from cutting room scraps throughout China. Recycling is the best way to sustain the fashion industry, because it’s not so much that we need fewer clothes, but that we need to consume less raw materials. Even organic cotton uses as much as 1,800 gallons of water just to grow and make a pair of jeans. (Reuse source) Plus the styles and prices are great, retailing for less than $100. While China’s air quality problems may seem too remote to affect us, Reuse quotes the US EPA in saying that on certain days as much as 25% of the particulate matter in Los Angeles originated in China! Like Becky Striepe wrote about in her article on Zero Waste Fashion, more and more designers are finding ways to either eliminate or use scraps. Zero Waste Design is fabulous, but having worked as a patternmaker for 14 years, I know few designers are willing to invest in the extra development time it takes.

The Source of All That Cheap Clothing

MAGIC includes a Sourcing expo, so that designers can find manufacturers and textiles. I attended the sourcing expo to speak with vendors about sustainability. I work with and know many designers interested in sourcing eco materials, so I am always on the lookout.

MAGIC did an excellent job of clearly marking eco suppliers in the guide book, yet some were left out. I came across a vendor that carried recycled polyester fabrics and had a long discussion with the sales rep about recycling Nylon 6, the fiber used for Cordura. Nylon 6 is infinitely recyclable, but I have not been able to find recycled apparel textiles made from this, only carpeting.

I also discovered an exceptional digital printing company, Hansun Textiles, whose prices are competitive with any traditional printed fabric supplier, but much better quality. Because the company considers themselves more as “high tech” than “eco” they did not get the leaf next to their name. However, digital printing is extremely eco because it requires no water, and is generally more accurate than traditional dyeing. Dyebath mixing is a very difficult science, and even the most accurate equipment and perfect conditions can go wrong. With digital printing, color correctness is almost guaranteed.

The highlight of the show for me was explaining “recycled polyester” to Chinese textile mill reps, and telling them I have many clients interested in this. Recycled polyester is upcycled post-consumer plastic, thus creating beautiful fabrics from what often winds up in landfill. I hope to see many more of them offering eco fabrics next year.