With the rise of “green chic” and a growing awareness about the use of medically questionable ingredients in mainstream beauty products (parabens, phthalates, GMOs, synthetic dyes), natural cosmetics have become an increasingly potent force in the market. This shift in eco-consciousness has seen companies move toward the use of natural and environmentally sustainable ingredients, introduce recycling initiatives, establish conservation programs and even develop more sustainable packaging. Not only does this encompass a much broader perspective of eco-awareness, but it also speaks to a much broader range of consumer tastes. This feature is dedicated to beauty and cosmetics products that meet the highest standards of natural sustainability while also delivering outstanding results.

Alima Pure Mineral Cosmetics
Perfect for all types of skin sensitivities and available at virtually every level of retail, mineral cosmetics are officially a mainstay in the beauty industry. Most brands are free of chemicals, synthetic dyes and parabens, are ideal for those with very delicate and/or acne-prone skin and even for what is known as Cosmetic Intolerance Syndrome or (CIS). With the European seal of approval for natural products (also known as BDIH certification), Alima Pure truly stands up to the highest standards of purity while simultaneously excelling on all performance levels. These 100% natural mineral cosmetics are highly pigmented and free of nano-particles as well as any potential irritants, including the all-too-common bismuth oxychloride. The brand offers one of the most extensive ranges of foundation shades available as well as a beautiful selection of enticing loose mineral eye shadows and blush, finishing powders and a complete range of synthetic brushes that are even vegan-friendly. The Nourishing Lip Balm receives our top ratings for the rich, nourishing texture and selection of extremely wearable shades.

Kjaer Weis – Refillable Make-up System
Danish born, New York-based make up artist Kjaer Weis has certainly created a stir in the cosmetics industry with her recently launched namesake make-up line. With a CCPB certification (the Italian organic certifying authority, which requires the use of at least 95% organic ingredients), Weis’ passion for natural beauty is truly apparent in this very clever color cosmetics line. The beautiful red lacquered, grain textured packaging was designed to mimic small jewelry boxes and is completely refillable. Each ingredient was specifically selected for its color, scent or natural properties, and each batch is closely monitored for its consistency in color and texture for an almost handmade standard of quality. Simple, functional and absolutely gorgeous in rich, blendable textures, this is a color line that is definitely worth checking out!

Tarte High Performance Naturals
Maureen Kelly was inspired to create Tarte cosmetics due to both a deep passion for beauty as well as a deep frustration over the lack of healthy and environmentally sustainable cosmetics options. Tarte is now a multi award-winning brand with a leading industry reputation for earth-friendly, high-performance natural ingredients as well as for packaging that is either recyclable or made from post-consumer recycled materials. Tarte is also recognized for supporting numerous charities and environmental causes, including the Sustainable Amazon Project (SAP), which provides sustainable support to the Amazon Rain Forest and the indigenous tribes that farm the land. Beyond its Earth-minded ethos, Tarte is by far the most complete natural based color cosmetics line with textures and colors that rival any top color cosmetics line on the market. An exclusive list of skin-vigorating ingredients—including the proprietary t5 super fruit complex as well as a variety of other highly potent vitamins, minerals and natural fruit and plant extracts—make Tarte an extremely beneficial cosmetics line. Our top rated must-have products include the incredible Cheek Stains, the Eraser Concealer, Smooth Operator Tinted Moisturizer and MultiplEYE Mascara, which is the first effective natural-based mascara to truly deliver amazing results.

Vapour Organic Beauty
Vapour is formulated and produced at an artisanal cosmetics lab in Santa Fe that boasts more than 30-years of natural, non-toxic cosmetics. The lab’s rich pioneering experience with exquisite natural and organic products for other brands eventually led to what is now Vapour Organic Beauty, an in-house line of color cosmetics made of 100% organic, sustainable and recyclable ingredients. Besides the rich natural history, pure ingredients, and sustainable packaging, Vapour Organic Beauty is about convenient delivery (most of the line is in stick form) and incredible textures (particularly the Atmosphere Luminous Foundation and Aura Multi Use Blush).

For more valuable information about natural cosmetics and a complete list of toxic ingredients to avoid, check out www.safecosmertics.org.