MANILA, Philippines - Having been let down by numerous companies because of unsavory practices and ingredients that were possible irritants, I sought some alternatives. At first, I thought it awfully hippy-dippy and boring to go the green beauty route, because of a lot of misconceptions about that area of the beauty industry. I’m not quite sure how I stumbled into the world of “clean” cosmetics, but it’s not as bleak or boring as it might seem at first.
Many companies have been “greenwashed,” that is marketed and branded to appear natural and “healthier” than the competition. But “natural” isn’t the same as “organic,” and neither is automatically the better option. Semantics aside, I made the decision to educate myself about the ingredients that I put on my face because I’ve grown to mistrust some of the brands that I used to love. It can be a bit daunting to jump into the green beauty world, and I myself am not completely immersed in it, but here are some of my favorite natural finds that have helped ease my way to greener pastures.
Kjaer Weis Organic Cream Blusher
Funnily enough, Kjaer Weis foundation was my expensive gateway into the world of green beauty and just how excellent it could be. This gluten-free cheek color is formulated with 95 percent organic ingredients, including beeswax, sweet almond oil, jojoba seed oil, and coconut oil. It has no artificial ingredients, such as are found in most commercial products. The best part about this is that the compact is refillable, so you don’t keep throwing out your pretty compacts — KW isn’t called the “Cartier” of green beauty for nothing! — when you run out of product. My favorite shade is Abundance. Buy: http://ecodivabeauty.com/
Milea Jojoba Oil
I searched high and low for jojoba oil, only to find a supplier here. I used to use sunflower oil to remove my eye makeup but found it too heavy. Jojoba oil is just right, and doesn’t sting my eyes or leave a cloudy film when I try to wash it off. Plus, it’s fun to say “jojoba.” Buy: http://mileabeefarm.com/
Ellana Minerals Intensive Blend Mineral Foundation
Although the ingredients are not as recognizable or familiar as that of the aforementioned products, the Ellana Minerals Mineral Foundation is comprised of ingredients that scored low on ewg.org’s toxicity scale. This locally made mineral foundation is my go-to, reliable face base if I want a natural-looking finish that will last the entire day. Buy: http://ellana.com.ph/
ILIA Beauty Tinted Lip Conditioner
I started out with one shade, Crimson & Clover, then I quickly ended up with five, and I still want some more. These sheer lip products contain 85 percent certified organic ingredients like castor seed oil and jojoba oil, which nourish and condition your lips. ILIA is known as the fashionable color cosmetics line in green beauty, with products that come in a range of berries, pinks, MLBBs (My Lips But Better), and even a beautiful melon shade called Dizzy. These are also designed to be layered to create a unique shade, so there is always an element of fun. Buy: http://ecodivabeauty.com/
Kaolin Clay
Kaolin Clay is a superstar in the natural beauty and skin care world. It is used to exfoliate and detoxify your skin. There are many types of Kaolin Clay and many ways to use them. I bought mine online, but it is available at a number of natural stores such as Satinka Naturals (1137 Kamagong St. cor. Pasong Tamo, Makati City)
One Love Organics Skin Savior Waterless Beauty Balm
One Love Organics has grown to be a fast favorite and their Skin Savior Waterless Beauty Balm has become my go-to skin care product as of late. Made from pure, cold-pressed plant oils, mango butter, and critical extracts, it takes off makeup, cleanses, moisturizes and conditions skin, and even tames fly-aways. Among all the great products I have tried in the OLO range, I would recommend this the most. Buy: http://ecodivabeauty.com/
Human Nature Sunflower Beauty Oil
Another multi-purpose product, this time homegrown! I love Human Nature’s face and body products, and this oil is no exception. It has 23 listed uses including makeup remover, moisturizer, and treatment for skin pigmentation, making it ideal for travel or minimizing product usage. Buy: http://humanheartnature.com/
Milea Organic Honey
Did you know that most honey sold in the supermarket is made of high fructose corn syrup? Real, raw honey has a lot of antibacterial properties that can battle acne, slow down aging, clarify your skin, and boost your complexion’s glow. You can use it as a mask or exfoliator, spot treatment, or cleanser. I use it every morning to wash my face. Buy: http://mileabeefarm.com/
Indies
Last but not the least, I have to mention my love for indie or independent cosmetics. Often found in a loose format, indie cosmetic brands have dared go where not many commercial outfits have gone, creating a lot of nuanced shades and fun colors in tiny, easy-to-digest sizes. Some of my favorite brands are Femme Fatale, Shiro, Victorian Disco, Hello Waffle, and Geek Chic. (Shown: Oslo Cosmetics’ Vela)
The synthetic vs. natural debate has been and is a long discussion, riddled with both deception and fear-mongering. Personally, I like finding ethical products that work for my skin type, so do what makes you feel most comfortable. Reading ingredients and paying attention to them is already a big step towards wellness