With my focus on natural beauty for KOTUR’s summer collection, I scoured the Orient for new materials, from tribal straws to unusually-colored shells. And when my quest led me to another kind of natural beauty, those of the fresh-smelling, soothing and chemical-free variety, I became a convert and have not looked back. Here are my picks…
Odacite Developed by Valerie Gandury, a cancer survivor who moved from France to LA to launch her toxin-free line. Every product is freshly made with wild crafted plant extracts and individually dated so it delivers optimal ingredients to your skin. It is sent straight from the lab to your door so it doesn’t sit on a store shelf for an age prior to purchase.
Nude The brainchild of Bono’s wife, Ali Hewson, who is also the founder of eco-fashion line Edun, Nude’s Cleansing Facial Oil has a cult status among beauty editors while the Advanced Cellular renewal serum uses probiotics to repair DNA damage to the skin. The sleek minimalist packaging (made from recycled plastics) and blush colored bottles also look great on your bathroom shelves.
Tata Harper Tata manufactures and grows most of the ingredients for her 100% natural and non-toxic ingredients at her 1,200 acre Vermont farm. The products are minimally packaged, with soy-printed labeling and includes body and aromatherapy products. Amazing mask treatment and Herbal Essence – I recommend her sample pack to start… better than a week away at a spa!
Osea Founded by Malibu resident Jenefer Palmer, whose marine based line was bourne of her obsession with the natural healing powers of the ocean, and seaweed in particular. Using only the best seaweed, sourced in remote Patagonia for a line of spa-like products that are used by luxury resorts and spas, including the Four Seasons.
A personal favourite find is Josie Maran’s organic argan oil…
Argan oil is found only in the Morrocan desert and has been touted by the natural cosmetics industry as a miracle ingredient, brimming with EFAs and tocopherols. You can use this oil everywhere – it’s great for the skin, hair, nails… you can even eat it!
Main photo courtesy of KMB Photography / Korinne Batschelet
