Following on from last week’s post on skincare baddies and the harsh chemicals found in many popular beauty products, today Beauty Contributor Elfreda McGowan shares some non-toxic alternatives you might want to have in your beauty armour.
Nail Polish: One of my favourites is Zoya. It’s available in Holland & Barrett for €14.09. It’s free from the potentially harmful toxins found in most nail polishes and I find it lasts longer than most other non-toxic brands I’ve tried. My nails aren’t in fabulous shape at the moment and I found the first little chip at the end of day four, however if your nails are in good condition, it will probably last longer for you.
Nail Polish Remover: Benecos Natural Nail Polish Remover. It’s available on www.nourish.ie for €6.99. Its free from acetone, is vegan and will gently and effectively remove nail polish.
Make-up: I’ve mentioned many natural brands in previous posts, and another one to try is Couleur Caramel. Happy Magazine Editor Holly is a big fan. These products are certified Ecocert organic, have a really good range of colours and the products feel of a high quality, go on easily and stay put as long as you want them to. They cover everything from make-up base to mascara and the products range in price from €12.50 for a lip pencil to €34.50 for a foundation. Their products are available online at www.couleurcaramel.ie and you will also find a list of nationwide stockists on the website too.
Cleanser: Kinvara Absolute Cleansing Oil €22.95 from www.kinvaraskincare.com. This is a hot cloth cleanser, it feels so nice to take your make-up off with, and is packed full of plant oils. This formulation won’t strip the skin, has a very uplifting fragrance and is chemical-free.
Hair: Jason Organic Sea Kelp Shampoo & Conditioner €9.99 each from www.hollandandbarrett.ie these products are pure and natural and are really gentle on the hair and scalp, i personally think they have helped my hair to grow.
Body: Dr Bronner’s Soap is currently 20% off online at www.nourish.ie for €5.40. My favourite is All-One Hemp Rose Pure-Castile Bar Soap. All oils and essential oils used are certified organic. Another must-have is Dr Bronner’s Lavender Liquid Castile Soap. Currently €8.60-€19.60 at www.nourish.ie, it’s great if you prefer a body wash, and I love using it at night time, as the lavender is very de-stressing for your body and mind and helps you sleep better. Voya Softly Does It – Hydrating Body Lotion for €33.50 from www.voya.ie is the perfect follow-on after any shower or bath. Your skin feels instantly hydrated and so luxurious. It’s packed full of organic ingredients and is safe for anyone undergoing treatment for cancer.
Deodorant: Weleda Natural Deodorant Sage €10.50 from www.earthmother.ie. This pump-action spray doesn’t block the skin from functioning properly. The smell is really fresh and the bottle lasts for ages. It’s free from aluminium salts and can also be used on the feet. I’m also trying out Nuud, ‘the carefree deodorant’, and will write a separate review on that for you soon.
It makes me so happy that there is more and more choice and brand accountability when it comes to non- toxic ingredients. Unlike before, if you choose to go the non-toxic route, you don’t have to scrimp on colour or effectiveness, there are definitely non-toxic products out there to suit all budgets and tastes. Happy shopping!
By Elfreda McGowan.
