In case you haven’t noticed, finding organic skincare or make up can be a challenge. Most makeup products are piled with preservatives and emulsifiers that are actually harmful for you. Leading skincare expert Tata Harper says to watch out for an ingredient often found in skincare products and makeup called PEG. This ingredient is used as an emulsifier in makeup and is also found in battery acid.
There are a few reasons people stray from organic makeup/skincare products. The first reason is whether it actually works (visible difference). Second is the cost. Finally, the shelf life of organic makeup/skincare (usually around a year) may be a problem for some people. However, my rule is if you don’t use a makeup product in your drawer at least once a month, it’s worth the toss.
I took the opportunity to ask makeup artist and holistic nutritionist Amanda Gangoso some questions about organic makeup products that people wonder about. I’ll also be sharing some of my favorite organic beauty products and where you can find them in Vancouver!
Q: What is the difference between all-natural and organic when it comes to beauty products?
A: This can be confusing for people - the easiest way to explain is "natural" products usually refer to products made from ingredients like plants, minerals, they can have algaes as well, synthetic ingredient free. The problem is, in this industry of health, wellness and beauty, "Natural" is a word that can be used without regulation and put on anything for marketing purposes. The best thing to do is take a look at the ingredients list.
Organic is much more regulated - it means ingredients or substances grown without chemicals, pesticides or fertilizers manufactured by man and non GMO. The USDA organic logo is one we often see, you can read labels and see what has been derived from organic farming practices. When we are choosing local products or organic products we are also supporting sustainable and more environmentally friendly practices. Many local products are hand made which I love.
Ingredients to avoid - parabens, mineral oils (dervied from petroleum), Sodium Lauryl Sulfate or Sodium Laureth Sulfates (SLS) and Phthalates. Some people may even be looking for vegan products - meaning no animal products like beeswax or carmine ( from an insect), cruelty free.
Q: What are your 3 must have all natural or organic beauty products?
A: This is a tough question! So many amazing things out there; right now I'm loving the lip and cheek tint from Tata Harper. It’s perfect for summer, easy to use, versatile, and smells amazing. I also use the tinted moisturizer from Sweet Leilani. It’s very light on my skin and evens out skin tone very nicely. A little goes a long way so it lasts. I regularly use her foundations on my clients as well. I often use and recommend the Evelyn Iona lip glosses (gorgeous colors and moisturizing) and concealors (great coverage and nourishing). The company has a fabulous story, anyone that's used these products has told me they absolutely love them.
Q: Does the application and care of all natural or organic beauty products differ from non-organic?
A: The shelf life of most natural and organic products usually need to meet the same standards as conventional products. There is a little symbol on the back of the package or bottle that looks like a tub - It usually says 12m (months) or 6m.(months) that’s how long the product will last after opening it. Heat, light and air can make oils go rancid faster. It’s good to keep that in mind.
Q: Where is the best place in Vancouver to find all natural or organic beauty products?
A: We are lucky in Vancouver there are a lots of place to find healthy products. To name a few, Lynn Steven in Gastown has a great selection of makeup and skin care, very knowledgeable staff too, Wish List Boutique in Kitsilano, Finlandia on West Broadway a large selection of skin care and makeup with trained staff. Whole Foods and Choices Markets have many brands to choose from as well.
Q: Do you have any organic DIY recipe for beauty you can share with us?
A: I use coconut oil for so many things, its moisturizer, makeup remover, fabulous healing for skin irritations (add it to your diet or apply topically) it can also be used as a lubricant! Coconut oil has antibacterial, anti fungal, anti - viral properties. I love body scrubs with a sea salt base, essential oils like lemongrass and natural oils like coconut or olive oil. Coconut oil, brown sugar and vanilla is a super awesome combo. There are endless simple recipes online - store them in a glass jar. To be honest I don’t have as much time as I would like to play with DIY recipes... hopefully soon!
Writer’s Choice:
Da’lish lip and cheek balm (you can go for a darker shade for contouring) $15 from LynnSteven
Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask (Detoxifies, minimize pores and exfoliates) $55 from Beauty Mark
Butter Elixir Body and hair oil $35 from LynnSteven
Ilia tinted lip conditioner $26 from Beauty Mark
Zoe Organic insect repellent $22 from LynnSteven
Rodin Crema moisturizer $84 from LynnSteven
Tata Harper Hydrating Floral Essence Toner $85 from Beauty Mark
Amy Yew is a contributing columnist at Vancouver Courier and a fashion and style writer. She is also the author of a blog Style du Jour. Tell us what you think and submit any questions you have to [email protected].
Stay connected!
