Tag Archives: beauty

ILIA BEAUTY

Posted on June 7, 2013 | 1 Comment
Sasha Plavsic Founder- ILIA BEAUTY

Sasha Plavsic
Founder- ILIA BEAUTY

“I now know that a natural cosmetic brand can be filled with organic goodness, packaged with class, and perform above the rest…”

These are the words spoken by Sasha Plavsic, the gorgeous genius behind the brand on everyone’s lips (literally!!) ILIA. Renata and I have been so very lucky to be able to try the entire new collection, and for lack of a better word- it just ROCKS!!  We were so taken with this rainbow of colors that  we accessed our inner Martha Stewart, hunkered down at the kitchen table, and created our very own ILIA palettes, which are filled with all these stunning formulas. This has become our go-to palette on the set- with everyone coveting these shades. It makes looking beautiful  simply effortless! QGkCBf_FpKJwqIIHDMjX6EAMAmhtTJOoT8m8eCn7egU

The MULTI STICKS and ILLUMINATORS are chic blocks of color made with Vitamin E, Shea butter, and all types of other organic ingredients. These totally brilliant products define the word multi-task! SWAY is an amazing bronzy shade that I blend onto my cheeks for instant bone structure, and smudge onto my upper and lower eyelids. I top it off with POLKADOTS and MOONBEAMS, a subtle, luminous highlighter that makes me positively glow-great for cheeks, inner corners of eyes and brow bones. A yummy pop of ALL OF ME (a deliciously warm coral ) or TENDERLY ( just about the sexiest pink you’ve ever seen) on the apple of my cheek and I am instantly transformed. These are great for lips too! I must confess, I made yet another mini palette of these sticks and that will sit all by itself in my Hamptons holiday travel bag- because I won’t need anything else!!

iliadotsOf course, Sasha didn’t stop there- her lip collection is so stunning, my formerly dull wear-the-same-gloss-everyday self is a woman of the past! I am normally not a lipstick person, I usually find them too drying. Maybe its the sunflower seed and the jojoba oils that make the ILIA LIPSTICKS so deliciously creamy- I am a total convert! I am wild for PINK KASHMIR, an electric shade that has successfully taken me out of my nude comfort zone. Same goes for NEON ANGEL, a hot magenta that I love wearing with just a little mascara.Try IN MY ROOM for days when you are feeling a little less daring- its a totally universal pinky-brown that will work on ANY skin tone.

THE LIPSTICK CRAYONS are the perfect, tapered, slightly chunky stick that are formulated with healing oils of sesame, rose hip, and papaya. I am currently obsessed with COME UNDONE, which I am officially declaring the perfect nude- pair it with a sultry smoky eye- can you say Brigitte Bardot??? 99 RED BALLOONS ( how great is that name?!) is a total classic red- think 40′s glam. Like the perfect Chanel bag, it’s a forever color. KARMA CHAMELEON is a spicy coral that literally makes me happy when I put it on.

Renata and Amy's DIY palette!

THE COVETED ILIA PALETTE

More things to adore about ILIA: It’s entirely cruelty free, was created with the highest level of ethical responsibility, and is a member of the esteemed Compact for Safe Cosmetics, which supports the global production of safe personal care products for women. Oh, and the packaging is TRES CHIC!! ILIA is truly a star in every sense of the word- Thank you Sasha!!

This post written by contributing expert Amy Holiber.

This post written by contributing expert Amy Holiber.

Amy Holiber is a makeup artist and  has been a contributor to LUCKY, MORE, and ELLE magazines.

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Calm, Cool, Collected Dr. Hauschka

Posted on April 26, 2013 | Leave a comment

Dr-Hauschka-Bath-productsSometimes the hardest thing to do is nothing. Whether it’s trying to fall asleep or even meditate, it’s difficult to silence that little voice in the back of your head. After the last week or so, I imagine there are many people who are feeling more tense than usual. There are a multitude of relaxation techniques to try, and most people have different things that work for them.  I have my favorites, but I had never realized the potential of a bath.

I have always been more of a shower kind of gal, so I just never really considered the bath.  Always willing to try new things, I was more than ready to go when Renata suggested I review a line of bath oils. We are no strangers to Dr. Hauschka’s line of products here at Renata’s Blog, so I admit that was another motivating factor for me. When I first tried it, I was tempted to bring a notepad and do some word association, but then I felt just how relaxing it was (especially coupled with a nice playlist) and all of that went out the window. And believe me, the little voice in my head got pretty quiet for once. I sampled four different oils- each one totally unique in character. After my first month of really experiencing each one, I have to admit I have an affinity to each one for different reasons, moods, and specific needs.

  • Lavender Bath: I am probably the most familiar with lavender, as many natural beauty products use it. It is extremely calming and perfect for letting your mind rest a bit, especially at night after a tough day. The Dr. Hauschka blend also helps to eliminate redness, a must-have for sensitive skin. This is a great one to try if you are a first time bath oil user.
  • Sage Bath: I am used to seeing sage on the counter, but in my kitchen, not the bathroom! The sage bath is best used after a workout or physical stress to prevent breakouts. I love this because it reminds me to spend a little time decompressing after I exercise. It can also be used for a relaxing foot bath, and is perfect for the hot summer months when we all perspire a little more.
  • Rosemary Bath: Rosemary is another one of those that I am used to cooking with or keeping in our herb garden, and I had no idea was so versatile. It actually helps to eliminate cellulite (what a plus!) and has one of those heady scents that seems to literally melt my anxiety.
  • Spruce Bath: I immediately thought of Christmas when I opened up the Spruce! Dr. Hauschka’s blend uses Norwegian spruce essential oil to help perk up pale, tired skin with its warmth. The more I use this one, the more I fall in love with it. My senses come alive, leaving me recharged and ready to tackle anything!

For a regular bath,  fill the tub and then add about a tablespoon of the oil to the water. They’re incredibly easy to use and are made with essential oils instead of fragrance so you don’t have the cloyingly sweet or strong scent that you find in most bath products.

Don’t be afraid to step away from the directions on the label for these either, they have SO many uses! I wouldn’t recommend applying them directly to your face, but you can fill your bathroom sink with warm water, cover your head and indulge in a facial steam bath. They are also great for soaking your feet, especially after a long night in those stilettos!  I even put a drop of the lavender when prepping my pup for his bath. (He didn’t love it, but he became resigned to his fate quite a bit faster than normal.) No time for a bath? Just put a few drops on a cloth and BREATHE…. AHHH…. I also appreciate the fact that the brand takes care to assure that all of the ingredients they use are fair-trade and grown to support global communities.

drhauschka_complete-logo-4CAs for me, I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to embrace the benefits of a good, old-fashioned soak.  Turn off the phone, the computer, your boss’s voice inside your head, and TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF. With the therapeutic benefits of rosemary, sage, lavender, or spruce, it makes it easier. The Dr. Hauschka baths are the surest way to emerge calm, cool, and collected.

This post written by Bernadette Silva, intern for RenataHelfman.com.

This post written by Bernadette Silva, intern for RenataHelfman.com.

Bernadette Silva is a student, animal lover, and intern for RenataHelfman.com.

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Posted in Body, Natural Skin Care

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MAY LINDSTROM

Posted on March 11, 2013 | Leave a comment

“I launched this line because I yearned to create something beautiful and indulgent. I wanted to feel something when I picked up a bottle and entered my cleansing ritual. I wanted to feel peace, joy and celebration all in that one moment. It was time to embrace my own beauty.” -MAY LINDSTROM

theyouthdewUsually I don’t start my blogs with a quote, but honestly, the above statement by self-proclaimed skin chef MAY LINDSTROM is so completely descriptive of the essence of her skincare that I could not have said it better myself. I try a lot of wonderful lines, but this one almost leaves me at a loss for words- it is THAT INCREDIBLE. May Lindstrom Skincare is Simple. Effective. Indulgent. It consists of 4 products- which, after using them, convinces me that less is, truly, more.

THE GOOD STUFF RADIANCE OIL – May says, “It will change your relationship with your skin.” Truer words have never been spoken.  From head to toe, it is a feast for the senses. Cocoa, Rose, Lavender and Ylang Ylang combine to create skin that begs to be caressed. I  literally look forward to treating my body to this liquid gold, and go into a slight panic when I think about running out of it! Hours later, the deliciously soft skin lingers on.

THE CLEAN DIRT -A dream come true. This is microdermabrasion in a bottle. A superfine powder-y blend of warming spices, cleansing clay and healing salts that scrubs off the old, uncovers the new, and basically you are left with a transformed complexion that looks like you had a really expensive  facial. As you scrub, you start to feel an invigorating heat and tingle. This must be the cayenne pepper, antioxidant carotenes and vitamins A and E at work. May also added nutmeg, which is a natural skin brightener, and clove, which has a stimulating effect on the mind. Mood lifted, skin gorgeous-heaven….

THE PROBLEM SOLVER-This masque is the one that you put on, luxuriate in the tub, drink a great glass of whatever, and emerge looking like you just came back from a fabulous vacation. It purifies, heals, tightens and detoxifies.And the formula! Its unlike anything I have ever tried. Blend it with a little water, and instantly you have this splendid, lighter than-air mousse-like concoction, 45 minutes later you may not recognize yourself.

YOUTH DEW-This opulent cocktail of 20 plant and botanical oils is the almighty queen of hydration!  A few drops morning and night covers all the bases. Filled with sea buckthorn, borage and avocado, this decadent deep red oil heals, has a ton of anti-aging ingredients and gives me such instantly radiant skin, I’ve actually been saying no to my foundation!  After you apply this your skincare journey is officially complete.

May Lindstrom

May Lindstrom

May Lindstrom is an amazing woman. What we love so much about her is she embraced a painful situation and turned it into a passion that healed not only her skin, but her soul. Here are a few excerpts from our interview:

What inspired you to start your line?  When I was young, my chemical sensitivities began to reveal themselves, and my skin became a battleground of blisters and hives. Bleeding rashes covered my body and I felt like a monster. I combined what I knew from my world in the kitchen (cooking was my greatest passion) and I began to blend new potions-researching skin friendly plants and minerals to heal myself.

How is it that your line works for all skins? I believe that our skin has the ability to heal itself if we give it the space to do so. This skincare is built on a foundation that has been around since the beginning of time: borrow from the earth, indulge in nourishing plant oils, flowers, clays, salts and spices. Skincare does not have to be complicated.

What are you “essential, stand-out ingredients?”  Both The Clean Dirt and The Problem Solver contain powerful blend of warming spices, and the beauty benefits are serious! Cayenne pepper stimulates blood flow and reduces inflammation. Nutmeg and clove are both anti-fungal and anti-bacterial. Cinnamon faciliatates the synthesis of collagen in the skin. I am also completely infatuated with plant oils. They are incredibly healing and beautiful additions to all my formulas.

SO much about May Lindstrom Skincare is inspiring. Like so many positive things in life, it was bred out of necessity, and even though there was pain, May was able to use her talents to create and channel a positive healing solution that we are so fortunate to benefit from. Look beautiful, feel beautiful, be healthy. Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated…

This post written by contributing expert Amy Holiber.

This post written by contributing expert Amy Holiber.

Amy Holiber is a makeup artist and  has been a contributor to LUCKY, MORE, and ELLE magazines.

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A Rose By Any Other Name

Posted on February 8, 2013 | Leave a comment

DuchessMardenLogo_lrgRoses have always been a symbol of love, beauty, and passion. From the Wars of the Roses to William Shakespeare’s sonnets to painting the Queen’s roses red in Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, roses have long been a part of our history. When I was younger, I remember wanting to just immerse myself in roses, and being fascinated by the idea of rose water. As an adult, not much has changed.  It seems like such a bastion of the so-called “old days,” things my grandmother might have used, the staple of a silent film star, and I have always wanted to find one. It was during that search that I found Duchess Marden, and discovered that they actually have a whole line of products with that succulent scent.

bodyserumComing down from a harsh Southwestern winter, the Damascena Foaming Cleanser was a lifesaver. I was particularly grateful after I had the misfortune of walking by a construction site and being completely sandblasted. My face was pummeled by bits of gravel! There are very few things as relieving as washing gobs of sand off of your face and being able to feel clean and even pretty after. The cleanser is wonderfully nondrying. Followed by a spritz of the Damascena Rose Water and Face Crème, and my skin actually felt about fifty percent softer than usual, plus the smell was gentle and calming. The nice thing was that each of the scents worked together so it wasn’t overwhelming. Don’t get me wrong, I love some rose, but too much of anything is never a good thing. The product, though, that has been getting the most use from me is the Body Serum. Made from a blend of several oils, the serum smoothes and refreshes parched skin and can even help with discoloration of bruises. As someone who doesn’t watch where they are going very often, I love this. Even my mother, a true skeptic who has never really believed that oils can be used on skin, is super impressed with this serum and its absorbency. In one whiff, the gorgeous scent erases the stress of any day.

Marla Steuer, founder of Duchess Marden

Marla Steuer, founder of Duchess Marden

Duchess Marden was created by Marla Steuer and named for her grandmother who she describes as, “a woman of exacting standards, who affectionately nicknamed me ‘The Duchess’”. After learning the benefits of rose while on a trip to Southeast Asia, Steuer chose to incorporate them into a natural skincare line that provided results. Duchess Marden uses only plant-based ingredients. The products are free of:

  • petrochemicals
  • parabens
  • chemical preservatives
  • artificial ingredients

Most are also suitable for all skin types. If, like me, you love the lush and heady scent of a rose, Duchess Marden (it even sounds regal) is an outstanding skincare solution.

This post written by Bernadette Silva, intern for RenataHelfman.com.

This post written by Bernadette Silva, intern for RenataHelfman.com.

Bernadette Silva is a student, animal lover, and intern for RenataHelfman.com.

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Let It All Go

Posted on January 8, 2013 | Leave a comment

BayberryShampooAt the start of just about every year, I decide that I’m going to just cut the crap. Actually, I think most people do. We pledge to start eliminating the bad things in our lives, to be more honest, and to LET GO. This is tough! It’s hard to let go of things, especially the little bad habits that are familiar, and it’s nice when the forces around you make this process a bit easier. Whether it’s a sale on day planners to keep you more organized or cookbooks that help you eat a little healthier, its appreciated. A brand like Bayberry Naturals  is the perfect way to start a new year. Bayberry Naturals  tells you what it’s all about nice and bold on the label in clear black and white- upfront and honest, “No Sulfates – No Parabens – No Pthalates – No Artificial Fragrances or Dyes” as well as the percentage of organic and vegan content. Completely in tune with my goal of keeping it real…

Where the bad little habits have a familiarity, there’s also an element of comfort to Bayberry. The scents are simple, light, and soothing. I sampled the Tea Tree Mint Refreshing Shampoo, which was a welcome pick-me-up and one of the few things that actually felt calming while I battled to get over a cold last week. I was surprised that I could actually smell it a little through my general stuffiness, but didn’t have to deal with that overpowering coolness on my scalp that sometimes comes with minty shampoos (I may have mentioned in the past, my scalp can be a little sensitive). The shampoos are also available in Aloe & Shea, Lavender Chamomile, and Simple and Soothing Baby Shampoo and Bodywash.

bayberrydetanglerI also happen to be adjusting to the fact that my hair is about the longest I have let it grow in several years which, for me, means I’m in the extreme danger zone for tangles. Woe to the person (my sister, right now) who has to deal with my mood when my hair is knotty. I was glad to see that, for seeming very gentle, my comb went straight through with no problems after using the Soft & Pure Moisturizing Conditioner. My sister, who has extreme curls that are the total opposite of my locks had similar results. For the stray tangles that do manage to work their way in, Bayberry also has an Organic Leave-In Detangler that works like an absolute charm. It helps control frizz without making hair seem oily and can be used on wet and dry hair. I basically spend my whole day styling and restyling, taking down and putting up my hair, so I am now devoted to this detangler. The conditioner I sampled was unscented, but it is also available Lavender Chamomile and Tea Tree Mint.

Nancy Liddell, founder of Bayberry Naturals

Nancy Liddell, founder of Bayberry Naturals

Bayberry Naturals was started by Nancy Liddell, who decided, as a new mother, to limit exposure to chemicals in common products. After becoming frustrated with the lack of available products, she decided to develop her own line and ran them by her own family. As I mentioned before, everything is so gentle and simple but work, so it’s easy to see how anyone in the family can use them. As so many try get back to basics in the new year, Bayberry provides a nice little push to help us along.

This post written by Bernadette Silva, intern for RenataHelfman.com.

Bernadette Silva is a student, animal lover, and intern for RenataHelfman.com.

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PAULA’S CHOICE

Posted on December 12, 2012 | Leave a comment

paulalogoSkincare is kind of like finding the perfect boyfriend. At first, you just can’t believe your good luck, and then you just keep finding more and more things to like. This brand rocks for so many reasons, it’s hard to know where to begin. Founder Paula Begoun had a endured a lifelong struggle with acne and eczema. Her discovery of  acetone ( yes, the stuff in nail polish remover) in one of her products led her to take charge and build her own skin care routine that was healthy and chemical free. She went on a quest to educate the public about ingredients and products claims, wrote over 20 books, and eventually created PAULA’S CHOICE. I have to mention first and foremost, this line proves that quality and luxury don’t have to break the bank! The products are so reasonably priced, you will have extra cash to buy yourself everything you need to achieve holiday hotness….

Lets start with my first can’t-live-without. The LIP and BODY TREATMENT BALM is a little tub of  super emolient balm that is great for all places dry and parched. Lips, elbows, feet- anywhere that is dehydrated is instantly transformed. What I really love is that its not at all greasy or sticky. I routinely use it under my lipstick for added moisture, and slather it on my poor heels nightly. This is a great winter staple.

tonerThe SKIN RECOVERY ENRICHED CALMING TONER is quite unique and really captured my love for this brand.  I am not really a toner gal, most of them seem to leave me feeling kinda dry and tight. This one is actually milky and really hydrating. I find myself putting it on first thing when I wake up-it’s just yummy and makes my skin look all dewy and glowy. Perfect for anyone with rosacea or any kind of irritation. Filled with evening primrose and borage seed oils- It literally makes your skin go AHHHH. It is the best toner I have ever used.

I am a mask person. I love to slather on something and emerge 20 minutes later a new person- (hopefully)  The SKIN RECOVERY HYDRATING TREATMENT MASK is just so lovely. It does just what it says: nourishes thirsty skin and basically leaves you looking totally radiant. I also love that it multi-tasks. You can use it just around your eyes as a super charged nightly eye cream, or put it on your whole face and leave it on while you sleep. In the morning you will look rested and years younger- which of course, is  my favorite perk. A tip on the website says to submerge the tube in warm water for a few minutes before use- which I now do everytime I use it. Like going to the spa-it’s heaven in a tube.

Founder Paula Begoun

Founder Paula Begoun

I find it especially fitting that I post about Paula’s Choice as we enter the holiday season. I took this quote off the website, and find the spirit of it so perfect for this time of the year.

“It is Paula’s deepest belief that every individual and business can make a significant difference in the world by contributing their time or money to worthy causes.”

Paula’s Choice are huge supporters of tons of charities, from the Humane Society to Save the Children and countless others. Not only do we love spreading the word about fantastic, eco-friendly brands, but it makes it especially sweet to give applause to people who give back. Thank you Paula!

This post written by contributing expert Amy Holiber.

Amy Holiber is a makeup artist and  has been a contributor to LUCKY, MORE, and ELLE magazines.

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LIVING NATURE

Posted on November 8, 2012 | 1 Comment

I discovered LIVING NATURE SKINCARE totally by accident. It was one of those mindless internet surfing marathons when I  wander around different natural beauty sites casually looking for something that will WOW me . What first intrigued me was the fact that LIVING NATURE is produced exclusively in New Zealand-a destination on my never ending bucket list of places to visit.  They makes all their products entirely from ingredients sourced from New Zealand’s natural landscape. It sounded really dreamy, and then I started reading… ALL of their products are BDIH certified, which is actually a company that audits natural skincare and cosmetics. And not only do they dissect the ingredients, but they have undergo  rigorous testing about how they are sourced and handled.

I was lucky enough to try 3  brilliant  products, and now I am  hooked..

The FIRMING FLAX SERUM is an oil free concoction that has really delivered me smoother, firmer skin. I am generally an oil girl, since my skin is super dry, but this serum shed a whole new light on oil free serums. The secret weapon here is Harakeke Flax gel that actually causes your pores to contract, which prevents your skin from losing moisture, which in turn, is an amazing defense against wrinkles. Sign me up! It also contains Active Manuka Honey, sourced from local bees ( of course) and  does all kinds of magic like stimulate your skins immune system and clear up dead cells. Great for all skin types- I religiously use it morning and night.

I must say, I love something that does the big work while I get my much needed beauty rest. RADIANCE NIGHT OIL is filled with all the heavy hitters: rosehip, frankincense, jojoba and carrot oils. A few drops before you settle in to watch the E Channel stimulates collagen production and works all night long to rejuvenate your skin cells. It also multi-tasks. The team at LIVING NATURE suggest adding it to their hand cream, masks and nighttime moisturizers for an extra boost. Mornings have looked infinitely better since I added this potent oil to my routine!

Christchurch Countryside, Canterbury, New Zealand

New Zealand-Where the Magic Happens

Ok, I’m a freak about masks. Nothing is better than a Sunday late afternoon bath, my face slathered in something that promises to elevate me to supermodel status in 20 minutes. the VITALISING EXFOLIANT does just that! Its one of those very gentle feeling treatments that actually is super active. Loaded of honey and fruit acids, it gives a huge dose of instant gratification: Apply a thin layer, have a soak, and uncover a bright, rejuvenated complexion- I can’t explain how great my skin looks after I use this.

LIVING NATURE products also smell fantastic, and the packaging is super chic. From a far-away land, LIVING NATURE has given us a real treasure. Until I can actually get there, I am fortunate enough to have sampled what is truly the best of New Zealand. We know its a bit of a trek, so until you can book your next flight, visit www.livingnature.com  for beautiful skin now!

This post written by contributing expert Amy Holiber.

Amy Holiber is a makeup artist and  has been a contributor to LUCKY, MORE, and ELLE magazines.

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The Little Bar that Can and Does

Posted on September 26, 2012 | 2 Comments

Ever since I was really young, I’ve had some serious hair envy. Whether it was catching a shampoo commercial on the television or longing for gorgeous curls like my sister’s, I’ve always expected too much from what my hair is willing to give me. It didn’t help that it was pretty long for a bit and I could never get it through to my brain that pulling harder on tangles doesn’t make them go away, but I’ve gotten better now that I’m older and understand that I have to work with it, not against it.

I’ve tried liquid shampoos and ones that come with a foaming pump, but my first encounter with J.R. Liggett’s Old-Fashioned Bar Shampoo was also my first experience with a solid shampoo at all. Though I was little unsure as I rubbed the 3.5 oz bar on top of my head, the pretty substantial amount of lather (especially compared to some other natural formulas) it produced for all of my hair put my fears to rest. According to the wrapper, the bar is good for as many washes as a 24 oz. bottle. After using it for a while (and I’m pretty sure my sister is too), I definitely believe in the punch that little bar packs. Plus, you really don’t have to worry about it spilling everywhere or trying to figure how much of your bottle to divide while along while traveling. My favorite thing, especially with the Ultra Balanced formula, is that I have found that I actually do have much more manageable and soft hair that requires minimal styling, but still has all of the shine that I love and even gets way less oily between washes. I never thought I would be able to forgo conditioner, as the package states is best for some hair types, but after trying it a few times, I was proved wrong.

The bar comes in a neat, white wrapper that is also biodegradable. According to their site, each bar is made from 100% natural oils, won’t strip hair of its own oils, and is especially good for hair that has been colored or permed. There are several different blends of oils that vary depending on the issue you want to target, though I tried the Ultra Balanced and Virgin Coconut and Argan Oil blends and loved them. Each of the bars is hand cut in New England and made from an old recipe.

Between the feel of the brand being my best kept secret and the minimal fuss with full-on shine I have right now, I’m pretty sure my younger self would be pretty jealous.

This post written by Bernadette Silva, intern for RenataHelfman.com.

Bernadette Silva is a student, animal lover, and intern for RenataHelfman.com.

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Spare Me My Lashes, Please

Posted on July 26, 2012 | 3 Comments

Long before I became acquainted with the more eco-friendly areas of the cosmetics counter, I searched high and low for a great makeup remover. From harsh pre-moistened wipes to cold cream, I could never really find anything that thoroughly removed everything and didn’t wreak havoc on my skin. I especially needed a remover that was gentle on my lashes after a particularly harrowing incident with an eyelash curler left them pretty sparse. Since then and even pretty recently, I have read about DIY recipes but have always been cautious to try them as I have also heard that recipes take a little tweaking and can be hit or miss, depending on certain skin types. Given my rocky history, I was excited to find that Vapour Organic Beauty not only offered an oil cleanser, but that it actually worked.

With just a pump or two, depending on the intensity of the makeup, their Clarity Makeup Removing Cleansing Oil easily takes care the thickest mascaras and most resilient of eyeliners with no worries over harming lashes. For me, an effective remover would be enough, but what sets Vapour’s cleanser goes the extra mile by offering a formula that helps balance and brighten skin, provides anti-aging benefits, and a scent designed to calm busy minds at the end of the day. The oil is 95% Certified Organic and 5% wildcrafted essential oils, biodegradable, and created with wind power.

While they certainly provide a great way to remove makeup, it would be absurd for me not to mention Vapour’s other outstanding products as well. As Amy wrote in her Summer Beauty 411, the Aura Multi-Use Blush is wonderfully portable color with staying power that I wouldn’t travel without. My favorite variety, the Aura Multi-Use Blush Stain (they also offer it in Classic and Radiant) in Lure is a deep shade of wine that is basically glamour in a tube. The Elixir Plumping Gloss is another new necessity of mine. It can easily be worn to enhance other colors or on its own and is wonderfully glassy without becoming sticky.  Formulated with acai and goji berry extracts, it also has a pleasant juicy flavor, which is nice as most of us will inevitably end up tasting our lip gloss at one point or another. Though, Amy and Renata (who is head over heels for Vapour too) would be upset with me if I didn’t mention the amazing line of foundations and face products Vapour offers. The Stratus Soft Focus Skin Perfector moisturizes, primes, and even brightens, creating a great base for the Atmosphere Soft Focus Foundation or even to be worn by itself.

Whether you happen to be applying or removing makeup, Vapour’s biodegradable ingredients and recyclable packaging offer guilt-free, superior alternatives to some of the more popular but harmful cosmetic brands. Personally, I am always eager to welcome a little more elegance into my life, but it’s better when that elegance is portable, and best when I get to keep my eyelashes while I’m at it.

This post written by Bernadette Silva, intern for RenataHelfman.com.

Bernadette Silva is a student, animal lover, and intern for RenataHelfman.com.

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A Little Help from EWG

Posted on June 2, 2012 | Leave a comment

If you are a newbie, like I am, the world of eco-friendly beauty can be overwhelming sometimes. There are so many products out there that claim to be “natural”, but are just as dangerous as their competitors and the products you thought you’d be able to use guilt-free are not as great as they claim to be. While I have had Renata and Amy to guide me, there are other resources out there for those who don’t have experts so readily available.

Anyone even remotely interested in an eco-friendly beauty should know about EWG’s (Environmental Working Group) Skin Deep Cosmetics Database. A staple for beginners and experts alike, the database contains and scores over 74,000 products. Products and ingredients have two scores, one based on how hazardous an ingredient is, and another based on the amount of available data on the ingredient. Users may search by brand, company, ingredient, product, or just type in what you are looking for and see results for all of the categories. You can also go to a category (e.g. hair, makeup, skincare) and look for safer alternatives to the products you have now.

After spending quite a bit of time looking at the scores for products I used to use, I am even more glad and relieved to have made the switch. The results were eye opening, but they definitely help reaffirm the commitment. So don’t give up, all you newcomers, with EWG’s Skin Deep Cosmetics Database, separating the truly great products from the ones that deserve to be trashed immediately just got a lot easier.

This post written by Bernadette Silva, intern for RenataHelfman.com.

Bernadette Silva is a student, animal lover, and intern for RenataHelfman.com.

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