time-tested Burt’s Bees, JASON, and Weleda. In a busy world, convenience can be a significant
factor, which is why many of us ditch the idea of green beauty simply because there are not many
products available. Luckily, there are many ways to take existing green products and tailor them to
our needs. In Chapter 5, you learn new ways of transforming basic cleansers and dull lotions into
exciting potions that wipe the floor with their synthetic counterparts.
Since green skin care products contain close to zero preservatives, it’s important to use them up
quickly. You should expect to purchase at least one cleanser, toner, sunscreen, or moisturizer every
month or two. If you don’t have time to hit the local Whole Foods Market or there’s no good health
food store in your neighborhood, buy your basic beauty products online once a month. If you happen
to grab a bargain, keep your beauty possessions in a cool, dark place, ideally in the fridge, but not in
the freezer.
For convenience and selection, nothing beats the Internet. Many reputable online stores, such as
Sephora and Saffron Rouge, post complete lists of ingredients and allow you to choose your free
samples. By ordering samples, you don’t have to invest in products that may not work.
Lesson 10: Develop a Routine and Stick to It
No matter how you mix and match your cleansers, toners, sunscreens, and antiaging serums, stick to
a routine. Cleanse your face every morning and evening, boost the effectiveness of your moisturizers
by spraying or padding on some toner, and always put on a moisturizer with sunscreen when you
leave home. At night, double-cleanse your skin and dab a little lightweight oil or serum to nourish, not
suffocate, your skin when it needs oxygen more than ever.
Be consistent in your quest for green beauty. This means that each product should be natural and
contain no synthetic dyes, fragrances, preservatives, or detergents. Not ready for a big green leap?
Take one step at a time. One natural product won’t mean much of a difference, but it’s a nice start.
Switch from a foaming cleanser containing several sulfate-based cleanser detergents to a mild olive
oil soap. Replace your alcohol-based toner with witch hazel or rose water and dot a few drops of
jojoba oil instead of night cream. As you progress with this book, you’ll become more
knowledgeable and informed in the green beauty trade. You’ll be able to compile an easily
personalized beauty routine that will perfectly suit your needs. Just keep in mind that several natural
products used consistently will produce noticeable results within a few weeks. One product is not a
cure-all. Regular use of green beauty products will make a real difference.
Lesson 11: Clear Up Your Act
Before we discuss green beauty products, let’s edit your beauty routine and reevaluate your beauty
habits. Take a close look at products you already own. Read the labels. Spot unwanted chemicals.
Check expiration dates and get rid of everything that contains one or more toxic ingredients that are
listed in the previous chapter.
You don’t have to throw out everything right away. Some “holy grail” beauty products are almost
impossible to let go of. Can’t part with that caviar-based moisturizer that is loaded with paraben
preservatives? Don’t use it as a hand cream. Your brand-new designer leather bag or butter-soft
leather boots can use some fancy massage with posh moisturizer. Just make sure not to treat your
suede or soft lambskin bags to oily face creams. You may keep a miracle hair balm if it does wonders
for your hair and doesn’t cause back or neck irritation. However, I strongly suggest that you double-