Think Dirty App Simplifies Makeup Shopping

I am obsessed with this *free* phone app. Simply type in a cosmetic product you use and the app will instantly tell you if it is safe or not and why. It is as if you have the entire Skin Deep Database at your fingertips! Think Dirty also has a mechanism for favoriting products so you already have a list of safe products handy next time you hit the drug store!

Spotlight: Follain

source image courtesy of Follain

Are you a sucker for the "Whole Body" section at Whole Foods? Even just in that tiny subsection of the store you could spend hours reading labels before you find something truly healthy, environmentally-friendly, and, most importantly, effective. Enter Follain. Follain is a new eco-beauty boutique in the South End specializing in highly curated, non-toxic, locally made cosmetics and toiletries. All brands at Follain are "spa-grade" and domestically created. The boutique also provides refills of their fastest moving products (reusable bottles pictured above). Such a great idea! 

Review Wednesday: The Wet Brush

Pros                                                                      Cons        
-Most effective, ouch-free brush ever!                      -Made of plastic
-Made in the U.S.                                                 -No company envi policy
-Affordable                                                           -Greener brush options available
                                                                          -Not rated on Good Guide

Conclusion: I have to admit, this brush is fantastic. I have long curly hair that is usually pretty knotty when I get out of the shower. The wet brush cuts through my hair like butter, and I love it. The downside, however, is that this brush is made entirely from non-biodegradable plastic. With this in mind, I will take good care of this brush so that I can use it for years to come. I don't want it to end up in a landfill! The one eco aspect of the Wet Brush is that it is made in the U.S., so at least it has a smaller carbon footprint than the millions of plastic hairbrushes produced in Asia. Still, I highly recommend looking into more sustainable alternatives to the wet brush (see link above).

Review: Shikai Natural Tea Tree Shampoo

Pros                                                          Cons     

-Cleans hair well                                       -Doesn't help detangle

-Affordable ($8)                                         -Not widely available (try Whole Foods)

-Smells nice                                             -Contains Diazolidinyl Urea (formaldehyde concerns)

-Rated 2 on EWG                                     -No environmental commitments on website

-No artificial fragrance

-No animal testing

-Made in USA

Conclusion: This product really works. In the past I've used natural shampoos that didn't foam, and the ones that did were considered hazardous by the EWG, so I am thrilled that Shikai is both effective and only a 2 on EWG! Healthwise, this is my ideal shampoo, the only negative is that Shikai has no company-wide environmental commitments (i.e. packaging, reducing carbon footprint, etc.).                                        

Glitter Guide's List of Earth-Friendly Cosmetics

A friend of mine (an avid blog reader) recently sent me this Glitter Guide post about eco-aware beauty brands. Expecting it to be the same-old list I always read on eco-beauty blogs, I was pleasantly surprised when the list featured some brands I haven't heard of (or tried) yet! I now consider this Glitter Guide post my new shopping list!! (Although, it looks like some of the products might not be wallet-friendly...but I at least need to hit Whole Foods and read the labels).

Look out for upcoming cosmetics reviews!

"Just Us Gals Boston" Launch

I am very excited to announce my new project: Just Us Gals. I've teamed up with my friends Suzanne (web designer & DIY expert) and Meredith (real estate broker & stylista) to create a new blog designed for specifically for the ladies of Boston. I hope to be the green voice of the blog, while also writing about some of my other passions like art, books, and cultural events. So if you ever get tired of reading my green living tips, definitely go check out Just Us Gals for some fun and feminine posts!

If you like it, follow us on the following platforms:
Twitter: JustUsGalsBos
Pinterest: JustUsGalsBos
Instagram: JustUsGalsBos

I'd love to hear any comments, suggestions, or questions about the new blog!

Review: Jane Carter Revitalizing Leave-In Conditioner

Pros                                                                      Cons                 

-Effective detangling conditioner                            -Nozzle makes it difficult to spray hair evenly
-Protects against heat & sun damage                    -Rated 5 on SkinDeep (moderate hazard)
-Company has socioeconomic commitments         -Contains artificial fragrance
-Affiliated with non profits                                  

Conclusion: As you may know from reading my past reviews, I really don't like to endorse products that are rated above a 3 on EWG's SkinDeep Database. Even though this product is rated a 5, there are many redeeming qualities. For example, Jane Carter's mission:

"Above all, we believe that "hair is hair," and that segmenting hair care by ethnicity does not encourage diversity, love and multicultural coexistence. We also believe that what you put on and in your body should promote wellness, and also be kind to the earth. Finally, as a company, Jane Carter Solution supports grassroots initiatives that contribute to the protection, growth and development of our global communities in need."

It is wonderful to find a cosmetics company that is committed to health, environmental responsibility, diversity and global equality. Furthermore, the only two ingredients rated above a 4 are artificial fragrance (GRRR WHEN WILL COMPANIES STOP?!) and Butoxyethanol. I didn't know what Butoxyethanol was, so I did a little research. It is illegal in Canada, but has been deemed safe for cosmetic use in the U.S. because it is only an irritant when used near the eyes or mouth. So, if used only in the hair, the product should be safe.

Review: Clear Scalp & Hair Therapy Shampoo

image courtesy of amazon.com

Pros                                                                    Cons            

-widely available                                                  -rated 4 on skindeep  (moderate hazard)

-good price (under $5)                                         -contains artificial fragrance

-contains natural oils (coconut, almond, etc.)         -contains formaldehyde

-cleans & conditions effectively                            -no info on policies re envit/social responsibility

Conclusion: Though this shampoo does a great job cleaning hair, it is certainly not an eco-friendly product. It contains a few potentially hazardous ingredients and the company doesn't seem to have a regard for environmental packaging or other product line concerns. The price is tempting, but I will probably pay the extra few bucks to get a safer and more responsible product next time. 

The Skin Deep Database is Back!

Good news makeup lovers, the Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep Database, which lists health, environmental, and labor concerns of thousands of products, is back in action. The new site looks great, and is more complete than the old one - so I look forward to reading more updated information.

Get ready for lots of beauty reviews over the next few weeks!

Required Reading: Gorgeously Green by Sophie Uliano

Not unlike Starre Vartan's Eco Chick Guide to Life, Gorgeously Green is a fun, girly, and informative guidebook to making your daily life as sustainable as possible without giving up style or little luxuries. The 8-step guide is a great resource, I want to carry a copy with me whenever I go shopping! It has lists of chemicals and products to avoid, product recommendations, and even recipes. The book also corresponds with Sophie's website Gorgeously Green - which has countless more green lifestyle ideas. The book and the website have checklists and quizzes to test your progress (like a girls-only version of Practically Green). 

Gorgeously Green is a New York Times Bestseller and has been recommended by many of the world's most stylish women (I mean, come on, the foreword is written by Julia Roberts!). Its easy to see why people love this book - it is super user friendly. I highly recommend checking out a copy from the Boston Public Library or surfing the website. 

A Pocket Guide to Safer Cosmetics

These are super-helpful, pocket-sized shopping tips for cosmetics pulled from the EWG 2011 Safer Cosmetics Guide:

Review: Nature's Gate Tea Tree Shampoo

Pros                                                                          Cons                       

-Effectively cleans hair & soothes scalp.                     -Rated 5 on EWG (moderate hazard)

-Lasts a long time                                                      -Doesn't smooth out knots well

-Company is partnered with WaterAid                       -Has artificial fragrance

-Innovator on Compact for Safe Cosmetics                -Has COCAMIDE DEA

-Not tested on animals                                               

-Reasonable price ($10)

-No parabens or phthalates

Conclusion - I am disappointed that this product has a "moderate hazard" rating on EWG. I purchased it at Whole Foods and thought, therefore, that it would get a good score. I appreciate that Nature's Gate is associated with charities and is part of the Compact for Safe Cosmetics, but I am still searching for a shampoo that is rated 0-3 on EWG.

Review: Bumble & Bumble Hair Tonic

Pros                                                                         Cons                      

-Effectively de-tangles and smooths hair                    -Rated 4 on EWG/Moderate hazard.

-Smells great/No artificial fragrances                          -Moderate price - $20

-No single ingredient is rated above 4 by EWG         -Company has not signed Compact for Safe Cosmetics

-Widely available                                                      -No green commitments listed on website

-Not tested on animals

-Salon preferred

Conclusion: As I've written in other reviews, I am a big fan of tea tree extract - especially in hair products because it soothes the scalp. I was also drawn to this product because it doesn't have artificial fragrances, which is rare in the world of hair products. On the downside, this super-chic company does not have any green commitments! So while, the product contains many natural ingredients, it is not part of a sustainability or health goal. Next time I'm going to grab a product that soothes my scalp AND is consciously mindful of its environmental impact. 

Blog Spotlight: Green Bride Guide

Green Bride Guide is a great resources for couples planning the celebration of their lives! Weddings require a lot of attention to detail and can potentially be quite wasteful, but the Green Bride Guide can help future brides (and grooms) plan a responsible wedding. From decor to dishes to dresses, the Green Bride has tips for everything you may need - and has real wedding examples and photos! Definitely check it out this wedding season.

The "real green wedding" of Hannah and Marc

And don't forget to sign up for the Wedding Season Swap & Shop with The Swapaholics. Use the code "BostonGreenBlog" for 25% off tickets!

Review: GUD Vanilla Flame™ Natural Nourishing Shampoo

Pros                                                                              Cons              

-Good price ($7)                                                          -Not yet rated on SkinDeep Database

-Smells great                                                                 -Not suited for sensitive scalps

-Foams better than other natural shampoos                    -Non signer of the Compact for Safe Cosmetics

-No parabens, petrochemicals, or phthalates                 -Contains artificial fragrances

-Not tested on animals 

-Contains many organic ingredients

-Widely available (Target)                  

Conclusion: This product makes my hair clean and shiny and is a great price for a natural product, but I usually prefer shampoos with Tea Tree Oil or other ingredients for scalp care because I have sensitive skin. I could definitely tell that this shampoo did not contain those healing ingredients. While it is a great option for making the tradition from traditional shampoo to natural shampoo (the foaming action is key!), I am ready for a product without artificial fragrances and will probably go back to Hugo Naturals after I finish this shampoo bottle.

8 Ways to Green Your Shower Routine

Image courtesy of Anthropologie.com

1. Take cooler showers, and keep them 5 minutes or under. Try using a timer  - you'd be surprised how long you actually have the water running.

2. Turn off the water while shaving or soaping up. This is called a navy shower and is a great way to reduce water waste.

3. Rub your shampoo between your palms for a few seconds before applying it to your hair. Many natural shampoos don't lather as well as traditional shampoos and can be tricky to spread over your whole scalp, but getting the lather started in your hands beforehand is a tried and true solution.

4. Put your shampoo and conditioner on at the same time and leave it in while you're doing whatever else you need to do, this gives more time for the products to work.

5. Shower only every other day. This is better for your hair and your skin - and saves water. If your hair gets greasy after just one day, try a dry shampoo.

6. Use natural and organic shower products, and use bar soap instead of liquid shower gels. Not sure what to buy? Check Boston Green Blog often for product reviews! (click the "Eco Beauty" and "Hair" tags to see past reviews).

7. Put a bucket in the shower to collect exess water that can be used for watering plants or other grey water uses.

8. Avoid PVC (vinyl) shower curtains. PVC emits harmful chemicals including VOCs. They may also contain lead.

Green at the Academy Awards

Yes, yes, yes! There was some eco-fashion at last night's Academy Awards! 

Meryl Streep in Lanvin for the Green Carpet Challenge. Best actress and my pick for best dressed!

Livia Firth in recycled PET plastic gown by Valentino and sustainably sourced pink diamonds by Calleijia, and Colin Firth (probably also wearing something sustainable, but sadly I haven't found any info on it yet!)

Viola Davis in Vera Wang. While I'm not sure the gown is eco, Viola has signed on to the Green Carpet Challenge, which may be why she rocked her natural hair last night (which looked great!).

Review: Carol's Daughter Tui Moisturizing Leave-in Conditioner

Pros                                                                                Cons                
-Effective                                                                         -Not rated on EWG Skin Deep Database
-No parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals                             -Not available at typical drug stores (try Sephora)
-Good Price ($12.00)                                                      -Has some artificial fragrances

I've been using this product a lot, especially since I'm not a huge fan of my current conditioner. I am happy with the results - my hair feels great, but I am disappointed that this product is not yet rated on the Skin Deep Database because I really trust Carol's Daughter as a brand. I'd like to know if this product meets the same standards as the other Carol's Daughter products. I am also wary that there are some artificial fragrances included on the ingredient list. Most of the good scent can be attributed to natural oils like lavender, but the last ingredient listed is: Fragrance (Parfum) - which is not a good sign. I probably won't buy this product again, but I'll keep you posted because natural leave-in conditioners are hard to find! (Let me know if you use a good one!)

Burt's Bees Super Shiny Grapefruit & Sugar Beet Conditioner Review

Pros                                                                                    Cons           

-Available at most drugstores                                               -Doesn't smell that great
-Effective at smoothing out tangles & conditioning hair          -Rated 4 on EWG, high for a "natural" product
-Good price (under $10)                                                     -MAY contain artificial fragrances


Conclusion: While 4 on the EWG Skindeep database is pretty good (moderate hazard) compared to many drugstore brand conditioners, I was disappointed that Burt's Bees still uses some harmful chemicals. I also discovered that Burt's Bees has not signed The Compact for Safe Cosmetics, which made me a bit sad since I trust Burt's Bees claims of making natural safe products. This was the first eco-aware conditioner I've tried and I was definitely pleased to find it was effective, but next time I need to purchase conditioner, I'm going to try an even greener, healthier product.

Hugo Naturals Tea Tree and Lavender Balancing Shampoo Review

Pros                                                                             Cons            

- Great price (under $10)                                              - Doesn't get very foamy/lathery

- No parabens, sulfates, petroleom products                  - Not carried in standard drugstores

- Smells great                                                                   (try WholeFoods instead)      

- Vegan                                                                       - Company based in LA (not local)

- No synthetic colors/fragrances

- Effective

      Conclusion: I love this product! At first I didn't think it would work because it didn't get as lathery as shampoos I was used to, but my hair was squeaky clean afterwards. Plus the tea tree is great for the winter when my scalp tends to get a bit dry. And, as you may know from reading this blog, lavender is my favorite scent! I was absolutely thrilled when I found a lavender shampoo made by a responsible company. I would definitely buy this product again.