People have been touting the benefits of eating organic for ages, and now, research is showing that pretty much everything we touch, use or put on our bodies has a harmful chemical associated with it, otherwise known as the “dirty dozen” – 12 synthetic cosmetic ingredients known or strongly suspected of causing cancer, birth defects or endocrine disruption. Ick.

I’ve never been a huge proponent of organic living until I started feeling some of the effects a bit myself. I break out a little more often with certain cosmetics. I have a random candida yeast issue I’m dealing with. There’s weird toxins and whatnot floating about in my system, so now, whenever possible, I reach for organics.

The Green Beauty Guide is a one-stop resource for creating a green beauty regimen. Not only can you find tips and recipes for “Do It Yourself Green Beauty”, there are chapters on green cleansers, toners, home facials, moisturizers, sun protection, body care, hair care, baby care, and more. The Appendices include several recommended resources and a list of the top 100 toxic cosmetic ingredients to avoid.

If you have an interest in organic or green cosmetics, or want to learn ways to make your own products, pick this book up. It’s a great investment at $12 from Amazon.com.

[image source provided by The Green Beauty Guide]

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Review – The Green Beauty Guide

WHAT YOU WILL NEED
Towels
Face cloth
Cotton Pads
Warm Water
Large Bowel
Kettle
Makeup Remover
Gentle Cleanser
Exfoliator
Mask
Eye cream
Moisturizer

CLEANSE
Start by gently removing makeup from around your eyes.  Use a cleanser specifically for that delicate skin and rinse off if necessary. For your face use a cleanser that is designed for your skin type: gels are great for oily skins, creams for dry skins.  Splash you face with warm water – not hot and then take a dime size amount into wet hands, lather slightly and then apply to skin.  Work the product into skin using circular movements, missing the eye and mouth areas. Rinse the cleanser off using clean warm water.

EXFOLIATE
Exfoliation is extremely important because it improves the the surface appearance and function of the skin, resulting in clearer, smoother, more even-toned skin. Choose a gentle exfoliant, you do not want to tear the skin but rather polish it. Using your fingers apply the product in a circular motion to the skin, focusing on congested areas.  Rinse well using clean warm water.

STEAM
You want to open your pores before using a mask so that all the impurities are removed. Boil some water in your kettle and pour into a large ceramic bowl. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to cool down.  Cover your head with a towel and place your head 10 inches above the water.  Let the steam penetrate your pores for about 8-10 minutes, then pat your skin dry.

MASK
I love a good mask.  My skin always feels so clean and smooth after using one. Choose a mask that is designed for your skin type – clay masks are great for drawing out impurities in oily or acne prone skin, a moisturizing mask for dry skin.  Apply a generous amount to your face, avoiding the eye and mouth areas.  Most masks should be left on for about 10-15 minutes and then I like to remove it with a wet face cloth.  Gently pat skin dry.

MOISTURIZE
Every skin type needs a moisturizer.  It will keep your skin hydrated and balanced.  Choose one to suit your skins needs and then apply a thin layer to the skin avoiding the eye and mouth area.  Finish off with an eye cream.

There you have it – your very own home facial routine.  What products do you like to use for your facial? I’d love to hear about them.

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Home Facial: How To