Healthy organic food alternatives are mainstream items in most grocery stores today, but organic cosmetics are just beginning to take hold in the marketplace.  It makes sense that what you put on your skin is just as important as what you put into your body when you eat and drink. Chemicals, preservatives, dyes, fragrances, solvents and emollients can be potential hazards, so it’s important to know what to look for even when buying organic cosmetics.

According to Environmental Working Group’s “Skin Deep” Database emollients in the products you buy and try to avoid chemical petroleum based moisturizers like hydrogenated oils, butyl blycol, mineral oil, monostearate dimethicone, oleth 2, paraffin, stearic acid, petrolatum, potassium stearate and octyl palmitate.

Instead, look for natural oils and waxes like almond oil, beeswax, coconut oil, cocoa butter, jojoba oil, shea butter and olive oil.

The same is true for preservatives and fragrances.  Natural preservatives include essential oils, vinegar, grain alcohol, honey, vitamins A, C, and E and grapefruit seed extract.  Also avoid synthetic fragrances and look for organic plant extracts like cedarwood, lemongrass, citronella, orange, eucalyptus, tea tree and fennel.

One of the best solvents to look for is water, but apple cider and grain alcohol are also good natural solvents. When it comes to natural colorants, look for saffron, tumeric, annatto, paprika, caramel and beets. Synthetic colors are typically obtained from coal tar.

Ready to green up your beauty regimen for 2009? Check out the following fabulous products! They are sure to make you look and feel better.

ORGANIC MINERAL MAKE-UP
Holeco organic minerals foundation is handcrafted in the U.S. with the highest quality ingredients of mica, organic arrowroot, iron oxide and zinc oxide.  The makeup provides full sun protection and has anti-microbial properties. This loose mineral powder is vegan and conveniently located inside a retractable dispensing brush made of cruelty-free goat hair. The organic mineral foundation, which comes in shades for all skin types, helps absorb excess oil and is hypo-allergenic, weightless and water resistant.

Dr. Saulius Antony Alkaitis is a highly respected scientist in the fields of chemistry and plant science.  He has taken his knowledge and created a holistic organic skincare line.  From daily skin toners to mascara, the Dr. Alkaitis line is the premiere brand for healthy skin treatments.  These products are made from all natural ingredients and are so pure you can eat them. Only living ingredients are used - naturally all chemicals, synthetics, “plant derived products,” trans-fats and GMO’s (genetically modified organisms) are rigorously excluded.

Pangea Organics is a skincare line that has a Zero Waste pledge, which means all containers and packaging can be disposed of in an earth-friendly fashion.  The containers are fully recyclable and the packaging contains seeds that will grow into plants like sweet basil or amaranth.  Pangea Organics products are biodegradable and petrochemical-free.

Look for these skin care products for your teen in your nearest Whole Foods Market.  These products were designed for teens by teens (although they are great for adults too).  Teens Turning Green is group that raises awareness about ways teens can reduce their impact on the environment.

NAIL POLISH

Priti is an environmentally friendly spa in New York City that has a line of nail polishes that are safe, long lasting and free of harsh chemicals like Toluene, Formaldehyde, DPB’s.  They come in a variety of classical and seasonal colors.  To buy them online, click here and then click “Visit our online store!”

LIP BALM

Mojo Spa in Chicago knows how to spice things up! They have created a homemade line of lip gloss and lip balm using all natural ingredients and special crystals.  With products like Light My Fire or Sweet Success, you are sure to find the perfect product for your mood.