My Spring Product Wishlist | 2014

Spring is here and I can't wait to wash away the winter grime! Here is a list of products I have my eye on this season.

1. Badger -  Damascus Rose Antioxidant Face Oil - $13.99
2. Acure - Facial Cleanser Gel Superfruit + Chlorella Growth Factor - $14.99
3. Badger - Sports Sunscreen Cream SPF 35 - $15.99
4. Desert Essence - Blemish Touch Stick - $8.99
5. 100% Pure - Fruit Pigmented Brightening Concealer- Cream - $19.99
6. Organic Wear Origin Bronzer - Light - $13.95
7. ILIA - Tinted Lip Conditioner - Hold Me Now - $26.00
8. Benecos - Natural Eyeliner - White - $8.99
9. Eco Tools - Flawless Face Set - $14.99
10. Eco Tools - Sleek + Shine Finishing Brush - $10.99

Friday Finds - April 2014 - #1

1. Art: I love these cool colors and the shallow dept of field the photographer used to cast a soft focus on the background. Find more images by this photographer here.
2. Furniture: This gray chair is AMAZING! It would be the perfect green inspired design for a casual dinning set or desk. I love how it looks kind of like a leaf. Check out this chair in more detail here.
3. DIY: I am always looking for cute and inexpensive gift ideas. I have seen Sharpie mugs all over Pintrest and these are some of the best I have seen. Check out the artists Etsy shop here. 
4. Product: These mini stickers are an easy way to share and save your Instagram images. They are super cute and the small size means they can go almost anywhere. Check them out here.
5. Decor:  I love the idea of mixing warm metallic accessories in clean white environments. Super stylish! Check out more pretty things here.
6. Recipe: I love a good Spinach Artichoke Dip! This healthy version uses whipped white beans. Find the recipe here.

Cleansing with Oil

image via recipe-finder.com

Natural Beauty has been a big topic of research and consideration in the back of my mind over the last few month. For me a big factor in my hesitation to making the switch had everything to do with money. I found myself searching “natural beauty on a budget” on Google and coming up with products priced all over the board. In reality, the natural beauty market has products for everyone and every budget. The difficulty in making the transition is that natural beauty information and products are less mainstream and, therefor, require research and testing to find what works for you.

Like me you may be thinking, “but, I don’t want to waste my money on something that doesn't work”. So after a lot of consideration I have been slowly building a list of items I can use to replace my toxic products. (Stay tuned for a full list coming in the future.) That said, i still want to continue to provide natural beauty information along the way so you can make the change with me.

Since we moved to North Carolina I have noticed my face breaking out a lot more, probably due to hormones and stress. Since I was a teenager I have received compliments about my skin, so I take my skin care seriously. However, I have never experienced acne like I have in the last 10 month. As a result, my first natural beauty priority was to find something that could combat this new development. The first product I choose to replace was my toxic and drying facial cleansers.

MY SKIN: I have combination skin with an oily t-zone and a dry chin. My acne is not normally the big and severe kind of pimples, even though i get those once in a while. My acne tends to be a mix of small red bumps, blackhead and the occasional whiteheads.

Acne Illustration Chart

One of the methods of cleansing I have discovered that is budget friendly is cleaning with oil.

You might be thinking, "What!? Using oil to clean? That's what I'm trying to avoid." While that is a totally natural response, you might feel differently after further explanation.

“One of the most basic principles of chemistry is that “like dissolves like.” The best way to dissolve a non-polar solvent like sebum/oil, is by using another non-polar solvent similar in composition: other oils. By using the right oils, you can cleanse your pores of dirt and bacteria naturally, gently and effectively, while replacing the dirty oil with beneficial ones extracted from natural botanicals, vegetables and fruits that heal, protect and nourish your skin. When done properly and consistently, the [Oil Cleansing Method] can clear the skin from issues like oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, blackheads, whiteheads and other problems caused by mild to moderate acne–while leaving your skin healthy, balanced and properly moisturized.”

- Acne.com

I could not have said it any better myself! Now that you know that oil can remove impurities from the skin. Your next question might be, “What oil should I use on my face?” The answer can be simple or as complex as you like. It seems that everyone has there own recipe for oil cleansing. Personally my goal was to find something inexpensive so I selected grapeseed oil to start with. 

Update: Unfortunately, after trying the gapeseed oil for 3 months I have decided to move on to something new. This oil didn't seem to give me the results everyone was raving about. That doesn't mean grapeseed oil won't work for you! My next purchase will be Jojoba or Argan oil for use as a moisturizer.

The Oils

• Grapeseed  - can actually help regulate your natural oil production, it's packed with antioxidants, including skin-brightening vitamin C
• Jojoba - this heavy-duty oil can be used year-round to prevent moisture loss and soothe red, irritated skin. It’s especially great for dry and mature complexions, since these two skin types tend to have underactive sebum glands
• Argan - it’s a lightweight hydrator that softens face, body, and even hair. Rich in natural vitamin E, argan also works to lighten acne scars and other forms of discoloration.
• Safflower - contains some heavy-duty nutrients like vitamin E and essential fatty acids that can do right by your skin

• Sunflower - balanced and rich nutrient composition with a large amount of vitamin E and fatty acids.

image via beautyeditor.ca

You can find some of these items in the cooking oil aisle at your local grocery store or in the beauty aisle of your local health/organic food store. You might have noticed I left two popular oils off this list...I purposely did not list Olive Oil and Coconut Oil because I have seen mixed review using these oils for cleansing. They tend to be more rich in texture and some found that they clogged the pores. I recommend you try one of the lighter oils listed above for the cleansing method. The closer the oil is the skins natural oil consistency more effective it will be. 

Something else to consider -- Caster Oil is often used in the oil cleansing method because of its astringent properties. It is never used alone directly on the skin, but instead mixed with “base” oils to boost cleaning. There are many other natural oils you can add to this method to formulate your perfect recipe. Do your research on what will be best for your skin and budget.

Always make sure your are putting the best on your skin, whenever possible purchase 100% organic cold-pressed oils.

Once you select your oils try using it as a moisturizer for you skin first. Apply after your normal cleansing routine to see how your skin reacts to the oil. Take note of absorption and which areas become shiny later on into the day. Until your skin begins to regulate oil production carry a powder compact with you and/or blotting sheets to absorb any excess oil throughout the day. You will begin to see the moisturizing benefits of oil pretty quickly. When you're ready, progress to cleaning with the oil.

The Oil Cleansing Method

1. 

   image via beautyeditor.ca

   Wet your face with a splash of warm water (even if you are wearing make up)
2. Take a small amount of your oil and warm between your hands. ( I suggest you keep the oil as close to your finger fits as possible)
3. After a few seconds of warming, rub the oil on to your face in general circles. If you are wearing makeup make sure you can see the makeup lifting from the surface of your skin before you proceed.
4. Warm a clean washcloth in hot water. Place cloth over your face and let sit for a few moments pressing it gently against the surface of your skin until the cloth begins to cool.
5. Gently wipe off the layer of oil from the skin in general circular motions with the washcloth. If you are wearing makeup, do not proceed until you are satisfied with the removal of any mascara, foundation, etc.
6. Repeat the process once or twice more until your skin looks clean and feels fresh again.
7. Take care of any "picking" (plucking eyebrows, pimple maintenance, etc.)
8. Apply a natural toner. Let dry.
9. If your skin feels tight, apply a light layer of oil for a moisturizer. If you are going to apply makeup, let your skin drink in the oil the lightly blot any shiny areas. If this is in the evening, I like to apply a thicker layer of oil under my eyes to help with puffiness, dark circles, and light wrinkling.

Things to consider:

• Your skin will go through an adjustment period, some call this the detox stage. People have reported their skin getting “worse” before it gets better. Refrain from jumping back to your old cleanser till you have given the oil cleansing method a solid try (about a month or more). If you don’t see any change. Try experimenting with a different oil or a new combination of oils until you find the perfect blend for your skin.
• WARNING: if you use oil in the shower, make sure to clean the floor of the shower. Oil buildup will create a slick surface. DON’T FALL!
• Keep a fresh pillowcase on your pillow. While sleeping access oil may be transferred to your pillowcase. Make sure you clean your pillowcase regularly to avoid bacteria and impurities that may have built up overtime.
• Research, Research, Research! I know I say it frequently, but it’s very important especially when using new ingredients. Natural ingredients can also do harm when not used correctly.There are many different oil cleansing recipes out there, so never put anything in or on your body that you are not well informed about.

Now that you know about the Oil Cleansing Method try it and feel free to share your results in the comment section down below!

UPDATE COMING SOON!
I have some things I want to say about my trials with the use of natural oils on my skin. Look for that post in the future. Just know that this method is not for everyone.

Product Review: Organic Wear Mascara

Physicians Formula Organic Wear 

100% Natrual Fakeout vs. Origin Mascara

In the world of natural cosmetics there is one item everyone is searching for: an amazing natural mascara. When I was playing with the idea of switching to natural beauty products I had just run out of mascara. So after doing some research with the help of a popular beauty blogger I saw Organic Wear 100% Natural Fakeout Mascara getting some attention and decided to give it a try because it was readily available at my local Target store. I tried it and I can tell you I am now a fan of natural mascara. Recently, after my Fakeout Mascara was on it’s last leg, I purchased Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin Mascara. The following is a review and comparison of my experience:

Product Claims

100% Recyclable Eco-Brush defines each lash with ultra-soft plastic bristles. 100% Free of Harsh Chemicals, Synthetic Preservatives, Parabens, Clumping, Smudging, Flaking, Fibers & Dyes. Hypoallergenic. Safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

Ingredients

Fakeout: Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Water*, Glycerin*, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Beeswax*, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax*, Tapioca Starch*, Hydrolyzed Corn Starch, Stearic Acid, Jojoba Esters, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Powder*, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract*, Ceiba Pentandra Fiber Powder, Cellulose, Nylon-10/10, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract*, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract*, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil*, Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract*, Glycerin, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Water, Glyceryl Caprylate, Leuconostoc / Radish Root Ferment Filtrate May Contain: Iron Oxides, Titanium Dioxide *Produced From Organic Farming.

Origin: Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Water*, Glycerin*, *Iron Oxides, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Beeswax*, Jojoba Esters, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax*, Tapioca Starch*, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract*, Stearic Acid, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil*, Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract*, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract*, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract*, Cellulose Gum, Glycerin, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate May Contain: Titanium Dioxide  *Produced From Organic Farming.

Price & Quantity

Fakeout: $9.95

Origin: $9.95

These products are not hard to find. They are available at a number of national stores and online.

How to Use

Sweep mascara brush from lash base to tips. Apply multiple coats for added volume.

Comparison

The biggest difference between these two products is the packaging and the applicator brush.

Fakeout: I am a fan of this packaging because it does not look like an eco or green product. The shape of the applicator handle is very unique without feeling strange in your hand. This product has a fatter rubber applicator of the two and is slightly shorter with finer rubber bristles. The size did not take long to adjust to and seems comparable to other applicators on the market. With that in mind, this mascara separates the lashes well without clumping while it lengthened and added volume. I would attribute the volume I experienced to the applicator.

Origin: This packaging is more eco and green inspired. This product has a slimmer rubber applicator of the two and is slightly longer with thicker  rubber bristles. The size was comfortable and seems similar to other applicators on the market, however the thicker rubber bristles act to separate better then the Fakeout mascara. With that in mind, this mascara separates the lashes very well without clumping while adding length. I would say of the two this did not add as much volume. I would attribute the results I experienced to the applicator.

The Good and the Bad

Here are the pros:

• Lengthens

• Separates

• Less Clumping

• Covers from base to tip

• Easily washed away

Why I liked them:

I have long eyelashes that stick straight forward (they don’t have much natural upward curl) and being a blonde, my eyelashes are also not very dark. I’m happy to report that these mascaras cover from base to tip very nicely and highlight the length of lashes. Both applicators do separate lashes and do not encourage clumping (however, this does not always apply to additional layers of mascara or reapplication). I love how it has made my naked eyelashes feel! They feel moisturized and soft, not dry or brittle. These mascaras are also easily washed away with gentle soap or oil. I like that I can easily correct any mascara applying accidents.

Here are the con’s:

• Flakes

• Smudges

• Does not hold curl

• Minimal volume

Why they fell short for me:

Knowing that I have long eyelashes that stick straight forward (that don’t have much natural upward curl) finding a mascara to hold curl is always something I look for. Unfortunately (I’m not surprise), I did not find that with these mascaras. This is something I have learned to live with and is only a minor issue for me. Also, these mascaras don’t provide a great amount of volume. I might have long lashes but I am always looking for added fullness. These don’t quite hit the mark, but do provided a natural look for everyday.

The biggest issues I noticed was the smudging and flaking. I have noticed that with my oily skin smudging does occur unintentionally. I try my best to avoid touching my eye area. Additionally, flaking is something that I did noticed. This usually happens if I itched my eyes. Also, I have noticed flaking at the end of the night or when I have had the mascara for a while. I would suggest replacing your mascara if you are experiencing frequent flaking.

The Verdict

Overall, I have to say this is a decent natural mascara for the price and availability. The ingredient lists look very similar to me (I'm no chemist by any means), which only gives me further validation of my feeling that these two products are similar in many ways. However, my favorite of the two products would be the Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin Mascara. Why? Because while Fakeout has some added volume. Origin is better suited to lengthen and separate my long lashes. It really comes down to preference of applicator for me. I would buy these products again, but I am still on the hunt for the holy grail of natural mascaras.