Spring 2021 Green Beauty | 7 Brands You Have to Try!

Many people are making the switch to natural beauty brands because they are eco-friendly and better for the environment. My carbon footprint is not perfect but I continuously strive to make changes that will help reduce waste. 

Farleyco Marketing recently sent me a green beauty box that includes some fabulous brands! Many of these products are organic, sustainable, vegan, gluten-free and non-toxic.

The Bamboo Toothbrush ($5.99) from The Humble Co is one of my favorites! Did you know that 3.6 billion plastic toothbrushes are produced each year and most of them will end up in oceans or landfills.

This brush is 100% biodegradable, vegan, cruelty-free and BPA free. The handle is bamboo and the packaging can be thrown out with organic trash. Proceeds from every Humble purchase goes towards funding oral-care projects that benefit children in need. The toothbrush is available at shophali.com and London Drugs. 

7Th Heaven has created biodegradable sheet masks that are up to 99% natural, vegan and cruelty-free. The 24h Hydration Turmeric Calming Mask is formulated to brighten and fade blemishes. I also received two avocado masks - 1 clay and one sheet. Avocado oil makes my skin feel incredibly soft, supple and hydrated - it's one of my favorites. You can find 7th Heaven at London Drugs, Rexall, Pharmachoice, Jean Coutu and Uniprix.

The Foamie Shampoo and Conditioner Bars ($14.99 ea) smell amazing and cleanse from root to tip! I decided to go with the coconut formula to strengthen, soften, and enhance shine. The bars are 100% plastic-free, vegan and environmentally friendly with NO mineral oil, soap, parabens or silicone. They also come with a handy ribbon so you can hang them up to dry after each use. Foamie is available at shophail.com.

I guess you can tell I really like coconut because I also chose the Inecto Marvellous Moisture Coconut Shampoo and Conditioner. The small, travel size bottles retail for $5.49 each and the organic formula is great for dry, frizzy, damaged hair. The lush ingredients deeply nourish to promote healthy growth, stronger strands and thickness. You can find Inecto at Rexall, Pharma Plus, London Drugs, Guardian IDA and Pharmasave.

I’ve never dyed my hair because it is long, strong, healthy and shiny. If I do decide to change the color I would use something safe like Splat Naturals Semi-Permanent ($24.99). They make fun shades like purple, blue, teal and pink that last up to 30 washes. The formula is vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free and contains no bleach, parabens, sulfates, ammonia of fragrance. To order visit shophali.com.

Last but not least - some goodies from Shoppers Drug Mart. Honest Beauty makes safe, organic products that won’t trigger allergies or cause breakouts. They specialize in plant-derived cruelty-free products with zero toxins. 

The Vitamin C Radiance Serum ($39.99) brightens dull skin with a potent blend of light reflecting pearl, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants and of course Vit C. The ingredients work together to help increase skin firmness and create a smooth, glowing, youthful complexion. You can purchase the serum online at Shoppers by clicking HERE or visit honestbeauty.com for more information.

If you’re looking for a gentle daily moisturizer try the Texture and Smoothing Cream ($25.99) from Cocokind. This brand is also plant-powered, gluten-free, sustainable, cruelty-free and affordable! 

The celery superseed complex can be used morning and night to smooth, plump, hydrate, refine, retexturize and brighten. It contains a long list of natural ingredients including: cucumber, sunflower, shea butter, squalane, ginseng, camellia oil and peppermint extract that help maintain a clear, healthy complexion. You can purchase the cream at Shoppers Drug Mart by clicking HERE or visit cocokind.com.

Merlot Natural Grape Seed Skin Care Review

It seems like I’ve tried almost every beauty product on the market so when new trends and passing fads become overwhelming, I go back to the basics.

Merlot was one of the very first companies I worked with when launching my website. I used their products for many years and my entire family saw visible improvements in the health of their skin.

The brand’s philosophy is simple – they believe that their customers can look like a million bucks without spending that much and as someone who uses five thousand dollar face masks, this ideology is very refreshing. Sometimes simple ingredients are all you really need and Merlot features the natural power of grape seed antioxidants to reverse signs of aging and environmental damage.

I am no stranger to the health benefits of red wine and grape seeds. The extract is 50 times more potent than Vitamin E and nearly 25 times more effective than Vitamin C. I use the oil to cook with and drink non-alcoholic red wine to keep my cholesterol in check. It is also known to prevent certain cancers, increase blood flow, strengthen collagen and improve brain and organ function.

Merlot’s entire range is cruelty-free, vegan, paraben free and the family-owned business is based in the U.S.A.

Day Routine

In the morning I always use a good face wash to cleanse my pores, control oil and remove bacteria that may be lurking beneath the surface. The nourishing soap-free Grape Seed Cleanser ($11.00) eliminates impurities, moisturizes and soothes with a fragrance-free blend of cucumber, apple and papaya extract. My face never feels tight, itchy or dry and it is safe to use around the eyes. The rich cream feels great but it doesn't lather. 

Before applying makeup I prep, hydrate and replenish my skin with the Sunrise Serum ($22.00) which contains high-tech, anti-aging peptides. The lightweight, water-based liquid absorbs instantly without greasiness and creates a smooth, silky base for flawless foundation. It also improves texture and tone by plumping and firming.

On top of the serum I apply a layer of Merlot’s Grape Seed Moisturizer ($17.00) with powerful antioxidants and botanicals. Enriched with SPF and free radical defense, the formula helps inhibit the aging process and shields skin from daily aggressors without oil or heavy fragrance. You can tell the cream is infused with a lot of grape seed extract because it has a purple tint and a supple finish.

Evening Routine

At bedtime I use the Grape Seed Cleanser to eliminate makeup and pollutants before applying the Moonlight Radiance Night Cream ($20.00). The consistency is a bit richer than the daily moisturizer and the revitalizing anti-aging complex renews tired looking skin that has been damaged by natural or external elements. State-of-the-art peptides reduce the appearance of wrinkles while boosting collagen, enhancing elasticity and balancing pH to restore the dermal layer. For very dry skin I recommend using a generous amount. The cream never clogs pores and when used frequently it brightens, softens and firms.

For velvety skin, apply 2 drops of Vineyard Gold Facial Oil made with 100% pure grape seed ($18.00). This is my favorite product in the line because it repairs and rejuvenates as you sleep without causing breakouts. It also works wonders on cracked heels, brittle nails, ragged cuticles and chapped lips. The light, dewy sheen makes skin glow without greasy buildup.

Don’t forget to apply the Grape Seed Eye Cream ($13.00) if you want to look well rested and refreshed. This invigorating treatment improves circulation, reduces puffiness, diminishes dark circles, moisturizes, boosts collagen and smooths fine lines.

Merlot Skincare is available at merlotskincare.com.

MyChelle Skincare Review

2018 has commenced and many of us are making resolutions to better ourselves physically, spiritually and emotionally. One goal that should be on everyone’s list this year is healthy skin so today I’m sharing my new beauty routine using MyChelle.

I test and review a lot off skincare but to see visible results I used this collection everyday for a few weeks to give each product time to work. If you haven’t heard of MyChelle their philosophy is simple – combine advanced bioactive ingredients with high efficacy anti-aging peptides, stem cells and clinically proven dermatological components to yield amazing results. You can expect clean, ethically sourced products and targeted treatments that provide professional results. The line is free of harmful chemicals including: parabens, gluten, petroleum, artificial color and fragrance plus they are cruelty free and vegan.

I customized my routine based on my skin’s requirements and since I love a good face mask I chose the Clear Skin Cranberry Mud ($32.00) – a blemish fighting, detoxifying mask. This potent blend contains 3 types of clay to refine pores, absorb excess oil and reduce the occurrence of breakouts for clear, healthy skin. The formula is loaded with nourishing ingredients like Green Tea, Lilac, Grape, Rosemary, Honeysuckle, Jasmine, Lavender and many other essential oils, extracts and proteins that fortify and protect.

Another mask I love is the Fruit Fiesta Peel ($28.00 U.S). This is a great treatment to use when your complexion looks dull and tired. After all the rich holiday food and partying, I think we can all use a little pick-me-up for the New Year and this formula is infused with Alpha Hydroxy and fruit acids that rejuvenate and revive. After a few minutes I notice a mild tingling sensation (which is completely normal) and after rinsing my face is radiant and refreshed.

I usually incorporate some type of brightening product in my skincare routine to achieve an even, luminous complexion – not to be confused with skin lightening. These products do not alter your natural skin tone they boost and brighten to promote a lovely glow. The Perfect C Pro Serum ($65.00) is my favorite product in the brightening line. It has a 25% Vitamin C concentration which is professional-grade and very high in antioxidants that help renew and correct skin tone. It also reduces visible signs of aging while strengthening and improving resiliency against environmental damage.

The Apple Brightening Cream ($35.00 U.S.) is all about balancing and evening. It helps diminish the appearance of blemishes, scars, hyperpigmentation and age spots with anti-pollution properties. Like all of the products from MyChelle, this non-greasy formula is packed with natural fruit extracts, oils and antioxidants for smooth, supple results. The scent is quite strong and reminds me of apple cider vinegar (not very pleasant) so I prefer to use it before bed for deep hydration.

If your main objective is simply to replenish and moisturize then I recommend the Deep Repair Cream ($39.00). This rich, botanical blend is perfect for resurrecting dry winter skin, alleviating discomfort and healing rough, peeling patches. The star ingredients are Rosehip, Black Currant Oil, Kombuchka Tea and Vitamin B for anti-aging benefits, youthful vitality and incredible softness that lasts all day.

The Apple Brightening Serum ($45.00 U.S.) is similar to the Apple Cream with a lighter texture so choose the finish you prefer. Sometimes I layer both formulas to create a fabulous night mask or mix and match with other products depending on my needs. With repeated daily use I began noticing a difference in the clarity of my complexion but it takes time.

Before snuggling into bed for your beauty sleep don’t forget to pat on some eye cream, it will help you look well rested and energized in the morning. The Magnolia Fresh Treatment ($37.00) is a light, refreshing gel that melts in and hydrates haggard eyes. It also brightens dark circles, decreases puffiness and improves the look of fine lines – pretty much everything you’d want in a good eye cream.

For more immediate results you can always rely on the Clear Spot Treatment ($19.00) – a powerful cream that stops breakouts in their tracks, diminishes discoloration, cleans pores, absorbs oil and smooths so you can get on with your day. 

MyChell is available at Murale, beautyboutique.ca and mychelle.com

Please note that the products with U.S. pricing are not currently available in Canada

Eminence Organic Skincare Review

Many people are trying to live healthier lifestyles and cut out as many preservatives as possible which is why finding amazing, all-natural skincare is so exciting! Recently I’ve been testing the organic, handmade products from Eminence and I’m totally obsessed with the efficient formulas and luxury ingredients. The skincare is made in Budapest Hungary (a top destinations on my travel bucket list) and the brand utilizes the most natural cultivation methods and nutrient rich soil to capture high levels of fresh fruit extracts and vitamins. The process of biodynamic farming yields a potent concentration of active ingredients which enhances regeneration of the skin for a healthy, youthful complexion.

I usually begin my skincare routine with a refreshing blast of the Stone Crop Hydrating Mist infused with essential minerals. This soothing tonic alleviates dryness, balances uneven skin tone by reducing pigmentation, removes impurities and prepares my skin to absorb moisturizer and serum. The liquid looks like a nutritive green smoothie but dries clear with no residue. I also spritz it on before makeup application and keep it at my work desk for an invigorating boost of moisture throughout the day. It retails for $46.00.

As I write this article heavy snowfall is blanketing Toronto and the harsh weather can cause dry, flaky skin. To counteract the effects of winter or any extreme seasonal weather, the Rosehip & Lemongrass Repair Balm makes a fabulous reparative treatment. Enriched with Vitamins A, C, D, E, antioxidants and a variety of minerals, fruit extracts, rich oils and nourishing herbs - the balm improves texture, deeply moisturizes, heals and protects from environmental stress. It also minimizes pores, firms and revives dull, tired skin. The texture is a bit thick and chunky when you dig it out of the jar so it does take some time to melt as you massage it in. Once the formula liquefies and absorbs, my skin feels supple, soft and bouncy all night! The consistency isn’t ultra lightweight but it isn’t pore clogging or heavy either and as it sinks in the residue tends to dissipate. The balm also makes a wonderful cuticle and hand treatment and I like to rub the excess into my lips. It retails for $88.00 and even though the jar is small, a little goes a long way.

My dehydrated skin cannot get enough of the lush Stone Crop Masque! This indulgent formula is loaded with vitamins, Coenzyme Q10, antioxidants, honey, fruit and many other incredible ingredients that fight free radicals, correct skin tone, hydrate, recuperate damaged areas and boost overall health. Looking at the jelly-like masque you can actually see the fresh fruit pulp and smell the aromatic herbs. After 10-15 minutes (or longer depending on your preference) the formula boosts hydration levels for ultra silky, incredibly soft, resilient skin. The slick texture is a bit tedious to rinse off (I prefer to do it in the shower) but it has fabulous brightening effects. This is one of my new favorite moisture masks because I see and feel results immediately after treatment. It retails for $46.00.

Calendula Oil has become a popular ingredient in skincare because it contains high concentrations of Beta Carotenoids, antioxidants and vitamins that enhance the skin’s natural healing process for smooth radiant results. For me the oil has also helped reduce the occurrence of breakouts while keeping my complexion clear, soft, even and blemish-free. I’ve also noticed gradual lightening of discoloration and the disappearance of dry patches. I prefer to layer the oil with moisturizer and use the excess on my hands and cuticles. It retails for $36.00.

After a relaxing shower when skin is still moist and warm, a good body oil locks in moisture and improves skin texture. The Eminence Apricot Oil smells deliciously sweet, and candy-like with a juicy fruit formula and reconstructing oils that drench skin in lush layers of moisture. The light finish creates a radiant sheen that doesn’t transfer or feel greasy and the hydrating effects last all day. The oil also protects the cell membrane, heals and reduces lines, wrinkles and roughness while boosting elasticity, clarity and suppleness. The other oils in the formula are: grape seed, jojoba, seabuckthorn, pomegranate and carrot plus a long list of essential vitamins. It retails for $29.00.

My night time routine always includes a comforting eye gel since dark circles are prevalent in my family and I do some of my best work late at night. The Cucumber Eye Gel ($68.00) is light, cooling and loaded with organic ingredients that relieve stressed eyes.

The main components include:

Cucumber: reduces puffiness and rehydrates

Shea Butter: moisturizes and revitalizes

Bearberry (antioxidant): evens skin tone

Eyebright: reduces irritation and swelling

Atlas Cedar: calms the skin

The gel rejuvenates and lifts while diminishing signs of fatigue and aging. The darkness under my eyes seems to be improving (especially when used my Foreo Iris Massager) and the entire area is smooth and well hydrated.

Eminence is available online at thefacialroom.ca and for more information or to find a retailer near you visit eminenceorganics.com. 

Rocia Skincare Review

While searching for great skincare reading labels helps ensure you are getting sufficient amounts of beneficial ingredients. Many brands recognize the value of quality formulas but some only add miniscule amounts of active nutrients which can lead to delayed results. Rocia is a Canadian brand that prides itself on delivering natural skincare, body care and makeup that is safe, effective clinically proven and intensely nourishing. Their collection is free of parbens, colorants, dyes, preservatives and fragrance with vegan and gluten-free formulas.

The Mixer Masque comes as loose glacial marine and kaolin clay granules that you mix with water, yogurt or mineral water to form a detoxifying, rich mineral paste. It cleanses disinfects and exfoliates with potent antioxidants, vitamins, antiseptics and conditioning agents. The nourishing ingredients include: sandalwood, green tea, seaweed and mango for an invigorating treatment that draws out impurities and leaves skin feeling revitalized and fresh! Clay masks can be quite messy and since this one is a dry powder requiring mixing I found it to be even more so. The scent is a bit raw and not particularly my cup of tea but since I rinse it off in 10-15 mins the smell isn’t a deal breaker. It retails for $18.00.

For dehydrated, parched skin the Hydrate Moisturizer provides a light, silky layer of botanicals and organic extracts to condition, reduce wrinkles and increase elasticity. Like the masque it also has many anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, regenerative and antiseptic properties which can be beneficial for sensitive, mature and acne prone skin. The ingredient list for this cream is very impressive it includes: lavender, vanilla, bergamot, vitamin E, shea butter, olive oil, grapefruit, avocado, radish root, mushroom, oil and more! Due to the natural elements and lack of fragrance I find the scent a bit spicy but if you are looking for a moisturizer infused with the best nature has to offer then this product may be for you!  It retails for $35.00.

If you prefer to moisturize with natural oil and layer it under face cream for intense suppleness the Quench Extra Hydration Oil is great! This lush formula pampers with potent skin softening agents, vitamin E, antioxidants, emollients and anti-aging components with a bit of UV protection. I prefer to apply the oil before bed so it works as I snooze and I wake to dewy, supple skin! It retails for $22.00.

I never go to bed without applying my eye cream since I battle dark circles on a daily basis. The Soufflé is gentle and helps diminish the look of pigmentation, lines, and puffiness. I love that the formula doesn’t burn and it has a nice lightweight consistency that revitalizes the look of tired eyes for a brighter, more youthful appearance. Like all products from this brand the ingredient list contains a long list of impressive natural extracts rich in antioxidants and skin loving components that are ideal for quick results. It retails for $27.00.

Environmental elements can wreak havoc on your skin and with cooler temperatures around the corner the Gardener’s Glove Hand Therapy is a great purse essential. With a fresh botanical scent the formula is packed with nourishing oils including: rose, apricot, carrot, shea, geranium, olive and more to heal rough, cracked skin and relieve discomfort. The cream also moisturizes brittle, stripping nails and damaged cuticles for youthful, soft hands that will inspire you to show off that cute mani! The hand cream retails for $20.00

Overall I enjoyed this line and I appreciate the organic quality. Although the products are quite small they seem highly concentrated so you can use less to achieve a radiant complexion. Check out Rocia on their website by clicking HERE.

*Press samples featured 

Pelle Beauty: New Beauty Serum and Luxe Beauty Balm

With the abundance of artificial additives and unrecognizable ingredients in many beauty products I try to use natural, healthy brands whenever I can. Pelle Beauty has been one of my favorites for the past year and their luscious face oils infused with quality ingredients, botanicals and antioxidant rich formulas has been an integral part of my daily routine. You won’t find anything artificial or harmful in this line, just pure natural goodness with the benefits of plant extracts and aromatherapy.

Recently Pelle Beauty has launched two new products that I have added to my nightly regime. The Bloom Beauty Serum like most products in the line has a soothing floral scent and absorbs quickly. It is formulated to be lightweight so that it can be layered with other products and I usually apply it prior to the Beauty Balm, face oil or moisturizer. Along with anti-aging benefits and maintaining skin elasticity, the addition of hyaluronic acids provides concentrated hydration with no greasy residue and once dry the serum is almost undetectable.

The beneficial ingredients include: neroli flower, aloe leaf juice, hibiscus flower extract, coconut fruit juice and radish root.

The consistency of the serum is very nice, it isn't sticky or too runny and you don't need much to coat the face. The pump can be a bit finicky but the formula works well with just about any other product I layer it under. It makes my skin feel fresh and smooth and it even works well under makeup although I still pair it with face cream for more moisture. The serum retails for $80.00

The luxurious Beauty Balm is wonderful for battling dehydrated skin and boosting the complexion. The consistency in the jar is solid so you do have to press into it a bit for extraction but the texture is rich, creamy, smooth and easy to blend. The balm has a waterless, highly concentrated formula that targets dry sensitive skin and it is packed with essential fatty acids and powerful antioxidants.

Although it contains natural oils, plant extracts and botanicals it isn't thick, heavy or too greasy and I like that it gives my skin a healthy, long-lasting, hydrated glow! The delicate floral waxes provides a layer of protection and fruit oils nourish the skin with vitamins: A, B1, B2, D, E and beta carotene.

The beneficial ingredients include: broccoli seed oil, raspberry seed oil, (rice) bran oil, avocado oil, cocoa seed butter, jasmine flower, rose flower and neroli/bitter orange flower oil.

I like applying the balm after cleansing; it soothes skin with a layer of moisture and eliminates dry patches and discomfort for soft, supple results. The Balm is perfect to use after beauty treatments and facials and it is vegan friendly, free of dyes, preservatives, fillers and synthetic fragrances, it retails for $65.00

Together the serum and the balm work wonders for parched skin and I wake up with a glowing complexion! To check out these great products and more from Pelle Beauty visit the website by clicking HERE

**Disclaimer: products provided for review