How to Go Green: Choosing Cosmetics and Makeup

Concerning cosmetics and makeup, there are generally a few good rules of thumb to follow: don't share them with friends; throw out mascara every 3-6 months depending on its usage; avoid using too much bronzer in the winter. However, if you care about the environment, there are some ways you can avoid using harsh chemicals on your face-- that you wash off eventually, and end up going down the drain and into our waters. Here are some tips...

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Skin assessment beforehand (aka know if you're oily, dry, combination)

1. The Draize Eye Irritancy Test AVOID PRODUCTS THAT USE ANIMAL TESTING. Europe has already set to ban cosmetic testing on live animals. (For more info, check out an article from The Daily Telegraph at the bottom of this page under "Resources.) To be more explicit, consider The Draize Eye Irritant Test that is used on rabbits. A substance is placed in the eyes of conscious rabbits, who are restrained. The rabbits are watched for 3 days for signs of injury such as redness or ulceration; if there is damage to the eye, they may be observed for up to 21 days to see if the injury ever heals. The rabbits are killed at the end of the test. Nonetheless, many defenders of the process claims it doesn't hurt-- yet I'd like to see them volunteer! I've included a link below of companies that DO and DO NOT engage in animal testing.
2. Beauty shouldn't be chemical AVOID SYNTHETIC INGREDIENTS as much as you can. I know it's near impossible to find a 100% natural product, but some brands, such as Burt's Bees, list just now natural that they are. Also look for makeup in recyclable materials and packaging made from recycled paper.
3. Mineral Makeup CONSIDER MINERAL MAKEUP. Because its made up of simple minerals, mineral makeup rarely irritates your skin with unnecessary dyes and perfumes. The best forms are blush, face powder and eye shadow. Keep in mind, however, it best benefits young, oily/combination skin, as it can settle right into wrinkles.
4. Beauty is more natural than this! REALIZE LESS IS MORE. Save the dramatic looks for special occasions. It's good to let your skin breathe, and above all, never, ever go to bed with makeup on.