Similar to Mary Kay & Avon, you can only buy Miessence products through a Independent Representative who makes commission off of how much they sell. If sales situations make your cringe, I’ve got a lady who is as no-pressure as it gets. My personal Miessence rep is Erin Ely out of Oregon. Eco-business or not, this woman is a delight to talk to & has one hell of an eclectic lifestyle.

Yeah, the products are organic and my seller is great … but how do they work? Thanks to Erin, I took on the task of testing nearly 15 different products from the Miessence line. Why? To give you the inside track on one of the fastest growing beauty brands, of course!

Since I reviewed a much larger collection of products than usual, I’m simply going to present my findings in two categories: Favorites and Not So Favorites (nothing is perfect, ya know?). Without further ado, let’s get to the findings!

:: FAVORITES ::

Aroma Free Roll-On Deodorant ($8.95): I hear folks complain about all-natural deodorants often, but this one is nothing but good. With only four ingredients, it takes “simple” to a whole other level. It is truly aroma free too – the product itself is scent-neutral. If you prefer to perfume your armpits, Miessence does have two other versions with scent.

Translucent Powder ($28.95): You’d be hard pressed to find a make-up powder that doesn’t do its job, but if you are going to use one, it might as well be eco-friendly, right? Most folks apply powder after foundation to help it stay in place. Since I don’t use foundation, the powder acts as a nice, colorless base to even out my skin tone ever so slightly.

Wind Up Jaffa Lip Balm ($5.95): It’s hard to screw up lip balm, but let me tell you, it happens! Thankfully, Miessence is right on with this one. With a subtle but pleasant taste, it goes on smooth, moisturizes well, and lasts for hours. As my teenage self would say, “it’s all good.”

Mascara in Pure Black ($22.95): Seeing how many different types of mascara are in the average drugstore still boggles my mind. Who needs that many versions of eye goop? Similar to their lip balm, Miessence’s mascara is an all-around classic that doesn’t disappoint. Few clumps, easy to apply, easy to remove, looks great. Since it is so easy to remove (I didn’t need eye make-up remover), I doubt this mascara is waterproof, but why would you swim with make-up on anyways? (rainy days are another story)

Probiotic Skin Brightener ($34.20): This is the only skin care product I tested that got my thumbs up. If eating probiotic bacteria is good for you, applying it to your skin should be too – right? That’s what Miessence says and I’m inclined to agree. After using it for just a few days, this skin brightener made my face, well, brighter! My skin tone was more even and I had an extra glow, though it didn’t do anything to reduce or prevent my blemishes.

Nourishing Hand Cream ($24.95): If you’ve never had dry hands, you are a rare breed indeed. For the rest of us, parched palms are probably a daily occurrence. Though I was disappointed with how long it took Miessence’s hand cream to fully absorb, I was repeatedly impressed with how long its moisturizing effects lasted. Looking for hard numbers? It took nearly 10 minutes for the “greasy” feeling to go away after an initial application, but the softness lasted almost 8 hours!

Shine Herbal Hair Conditioner ($20.95): Why do we care about our hair so much – it’s dead! Humans are strange, and I openly admit to being one of the strangest. For a little shine and lift, Miessence’s conditioner is right on the money, though I’m not a big fan of the price. I have very short hair, but I had to use even less of the product than usual to keep my hair from getting overly oily in less than 24 hours. Simply put: a little goes a long way.

Protect B5 Hair Repair ($28.95): For the fool hearty among us who damage their hair daily in the name of “style”, you’re probably angling for some extra moisture. Miessence’s repair spray certainly delivers. I never used it on my dry hair, but instead after just getting out of the shower – hoping the conditioners would help to seal in the moisture on my still-wet hair. It worked! This is another product where a little goes a long way; use too much & your hair will be a bit crunchy, like if you had used hairspray.

:: NOT SO FAVORITES ::

Purifying Skin Essentials [Cleanser, Skin Conditioner, & Moisturizer] ($97.95): I had high hopes for this collection, I really did, but you can’t escape the truth. My blemishes were not reduced by using these products. They all have a fantastic, soft scent, but didn’t do what my skin needed. The cleanser never made my skin feel clean; the conditioner was OK, but never seemed like it was doing anything; and the moisturizer was not strong enough – my skin was dry every morning and evening after using it.

Purifying Blemish Gel ($22.95): I tried this product both in conjunction with the Purifying Skin Essentials set & on its own, but it just didn’t reduce my blemishes. It smells great, feels great … but didn’t deliver the results I expected, even after using it for a full month.

Lemon Toothpaste ($9.95): While it cleaned my teeth comparably to other all-natural toothpastes, the lemon flavor was very unpleasant. After using it, I had to brush again with a different toothpaste to get the flavor out of my mouth. Maybe if I tried Miessence’s mint or anise versions, I would like them better, but the lemon turned me off.

Desert Flower Shampoo ($20.95): When asked by a friend what you think, this is one of those products that’s, “just OK.” Not terrible, but not great … wouldn’t buy it. The gel consistency was nice, but it was hard to spread around my scalp. After using it, my hair and scalp never felt fully clean. The website described the product as “ultra mild for daily use” – I’m thinking it might be a little too mild.

This is one of those great getting-to-know you questions, and my answer comes to me in a heartbeat: by the water. Brooks, streams, rivers, oceans – moving water makes my soul as light as air. Watching or simply hearing it flow naturally (out of the faucet is never the same) can make any destination heaven in my eyes.

Still on the hunt for the best eco-friendly beauty products, it was easy for me to want to try San Diego-based Wai Hope Organic Skincare.

All of Wai Hope’s goodies are made with their trademarked Biomarine water “that has been enhanced through our proprietary ozonation process. It features the rare Red Fijian Sea weed and Brazilian Rainforest Super-antioxidant fruit juices , this biomarine^TM water replaces the ‘water’ phase in the skin care formulation, which is the main ingredient of all skin care formulas. ”

Reading through the ingredient list of my received products makes me soul even lighter. I can pronounce them all and, in many cases, have eating them before. I’ll be the first one to pipe up and say that food-based products are my favorite.

Wai Hope Seawater Recharging Mist ($30)

This spray came in really handy during a recent heatwave here in Connecticut. While it was cool and refreshing to spritz on my skin, I found my skin actually drying out once the product was absorbed. The smell of the mist is simply delightful; knowing it was all-natural made it all the easier to be transported to quiet island with cool breezes.

The website says, “Anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the skin, lighten pigmentation, and diminish broken capillaries.” As a long-time acne sufferer, this was music to my ears. My skin did undoubtedly feel soothed and reduced the redness of existing blemishes.

Wai Hope Daybreak Ultra Replenishing Moisturizer ($40)

I didn’t think it was possible for a seawater product to smell better than the Recharging Mist, but this moisturizer does! Meant to be used after said Recharging Mist, the Daybreak Moisturizer is delightful. While the scent can easily perk up my mood, I was disappointed at its actual moisturizing abilities. I often had to use more than I normally would to prevent my skin from getting flaky. It did help to make my acne less noticeable, but did little to prevent future acne.

Bottom Line: Both products were a joy to use, thanks to their texture and scent. Unfortunately, they weren’t effective enough for me to justify spending the money to buy them.

Most recently, the folks over at Wai Hope premiered their DermOxyZone System spa treatment. I haven’t had the pleasure (or the need) to experience this treatment, but research has shown it can have fantastic effects on severly damanged skin. I encourage you to check it out if you feel your skin has suffered moderate-to-severe damage (i.e. sunburns, medications, cancer).

Her discovery? The parabens, phlalates, and artificial fragrance in her cosmetic products are likely the source. And we thought that beauty companies wanted us to be happier and healthier! With the help of a chemist friend, Stephanie started her own personal products line called Bubble & Bee that runs on 5 simple pledges:

1. Use Certified Organic ingredients whenever possible.
2. Never use synthetic fragrances.
3. Never use a synthetic ingredient if there’s even a small question about it!
4. Give our customers choices.
5. Always stand behind our products.

Of course, you know I don’t write about a company unless I’ve had a chance to experience it. For the past month, I’ve been using Bubble & Bee’s Squeezed Lime Organic Shower Gel … what a title! Whenever my lips needed a boost, I applied Bubble & Bee’s Organic Root Beer Lip Balm … yes, it is as good as it sounds.

Both products feature short, pronounceable ingredient lists – big bonus! On top of that, they actually work wonderfully. The shower gel kept me moisturized all day, even without putting on lotion. I’m a fan of using it for shaving as well; my nick-free armpits and knees are a testament to its usefulness.

There is only one drawback with the lip balm, and that is that the root beer flavor is sublimely realistic. It tastes like you are downing your favorite glass bottle of flavored fizz, minus the calories. What’s the problem them? I makes me very thirsty.

Bubble & Bee is a wonderful, small brand that authentically understands what beauty products ought to be: organic, simple, and effective.

The great folks over at BuyGreen.com (a one-stop-shop for green consumers and businesses with all goods shipped in reused packaging) teamed up with me to test one of the most popular all-natural sunscreen lines, UV Natural. During the unbearable heatwave that hit New England 2 weeks ago, my fiance and I slathered up & took a long walk to see how they really fair.

UV Natural Sunscreen SPF 30+ ($29.50 at buygreen.com)

This stuff is hefty! Not quite as thick as syrup, but it still doesn’t spread very well. The smell is pretty neutral and the initial feeling is moisturizing. The “water resistant” claim is very valid – rinsing my hands caused the water to bead-up on my skin and the sunscreen to stay put. The only way I could remove it was by wiping it off with a towel. During our walk, neither of us burned or even turned pink – mission accomplished!

Main problem: removing the sunscreen afterward. We both had to shower twice, scrubbing down twice per shower, just to get it all off. Clearly, all that washing dried out our skin terribly, negating any possibly moisturizing effect from the sunscreen. If you are very active outdoors (jogging, hiking, swimming, surfing … etc.), this formula would be perfect for you. It does not work for your average day-to-day usage.

UV Natural Lip Sunscreen SPF 30+ ($9.95 at buygreen.com)

Lip balm is pretty straightforward, and so is this one. Not much of a flavor since the SPF 30+ factor is more important. It is very effective (no burns or peeling), glides on easily, and lasts a long time – a great trifecta!

With a #1 ranking from the Environmental Working Group (EWG), I was a bit disappointed by UV Natural’s products, but not due to their quality. They work! They are also a pain in the ass to remove … so the search for my favorite eco-sunscreen continues. Any suggestions?

Run solely by Juliet Ames, The Broken Plate Company is quite self-explanatory – she makes jewelry (rings, necklaces, earrings, belt buckles, hair clips, brooches … etc.) from vintage plates that she breaks herself.

Reuse + recycle + hammer = stress-relieving eco-accessories. (haha)

Recently, she began offering custom collections and wedding sets, which include necklaces for the bride + bridesmaids, along with matching cuff links for the husband-to-be.

Visit Juliet’s official website & Etsy shop for a full experience of the great work that she does. As she says, “may the next plate be broken for you!”

[Images courtesy of The Broken Plate Company]

Each book (see the first four in the series at left) covers a general topic and offers 250 tips to making your life a bit more sustainable. Since the books are published in the UK, they do have some tips and statistics that are Euro-based and, as an American, can be a bit tough to relate to.

Despite this, I highly enjoyed each edition and the many helpful hints they contain. To boost its eco-cred, each book is printed on paper from sustainable forests. In January 2009, Carlton released two new books to The Little Green Book … series, on Nutrition and Health, that I haven’t had the pleasure of reading – but I bet they are just as great as the first four!

Keep reading for a round-up of 3 of my favorite tips from each book and a chance to win all four for your own library!

The Little Green Book of Shopping by Diane Millis

#9 :: Be Wary of Eco ‘Junk’ :: Being green is about saving the planet, not your status. Don’t fall into the trap of buying goods that are labeled as ‘eco’ or ‘fairtrade’ just because they are ‘worthy’. Whereas many of these products are perfectly legitimate, you may not actually need them and the best thing you can do for the planet is not to buy things you don’t need in the first place. Find ways of reusing what you do have or trading with someone else instead.

#27 :: Remember the Four Rs :: Few products seem to be built to last and many of us don’t know how to carry out basic repairs. Before buying, you should check whether a products is Rechargeable, Repairable, Refillable, or Reusable.

#184 :: Wash Clothing Less :: Even the most eco-friendly garment, such as an organic cotton t-shirt, can be costly in green terms due to the frequency it needs to be washed. Try to get several uses out of a garment before washing it, and sponge off small stains and marks rather than washing the entire garment.

The Little Green Book of Gardening by Diane Millis

#60 :: Use Your Old CDs :: Put those unwanted CDs to good use by hanging them over your plants or newly laid lawn to scare away the birds. String them up on a length of twine supported by bamboo canes.

#90 :: Leave the Leaves :: Use your lawn mower to mow over leaves on the lawn with the grass box off – the shredded leaves will soon disappear into the lawn. Or keep  the grass box on and add the chopped-up mown leaves and grass to a compost heap. They will rot more quickly than whole leaves.

#228 :: Eat Your Weeds :: Perhaps this will help encourage you to get on your knees and start pulling them up – some weeds make tasty additions to salads. Try eating varieties such as dandelion, purslane, and lamb’s quarters when young and tender, but don’t pick them at the roadside where they may be affected by dirt and pollution.

The Little Green Book of the Home by Sarah Callard

#63 :: Choose Powdered Detergent :: Liquid detergents generally contain a great deal more surfactant than powders and usually they also come packaged in plastic. Surfactants, commonly used in household and bodycare products, have been found to be slow to biodegrade as well as damaging to plants and animals. Both powder and liquid compacts use less detergent per wash than other forms.

#163 :: Rediscover Your Library :: We live in a consumer culture but do you really need shelves and shelves of books and DVDs that you rarely watch again? Libraries lend CDs and DVDs and are a great way to cut back on your conspicuous consumption without missing out on the latest releases.

#174 :: Buy Cheap, Buy Twice :: It makes much more sense to buy fewer, better-quality items that will last longer and perform better than to purchase a lot of cheap things. This is true for everything from clothes to kitchen appliances. Cheaper definitely isn’t always better, and can often mean that workers aren’t being paid affair amount for their labor.

The Little Green Book of Beauty by Sarah Callard

#17 :: Use Perfume Sparingly :: To cut back on chemicals, cut back on perfume. If you can’t live without your favorite scent, try to reduce the number of times you apply it. Instead of spraying it on day and night, keep it for special occasions and nights out. There are a growing number of natural and organic perfumes on the market so look out for these.

#197 :: Use Sage for Healthy Teeth :: Traditionally the herb sage has been used for dental care. It is thought to whiten the enamel of the teeth as well as strengthen the gums. The herb is often included in natural toothpastes and mouthwashes but you can make your own handmade products by mixing sage, fennel and cinnamon essential oils with water.

#234 :: Look for Shampoos with the Fewest Ingredients :: Detergents in shampoo can be problematic because they may break down into formaldehyde during storage. When formaldehyde-forming agents mix with other ingredients they can form nitrosamines, which are linked to cancer. Avoid this cocktail effect by choosing formulas containing minimal ingredients.

And now … the EXCLUSIVE GIVEAWAY!

What will you win? A set of the first 4 books (Shopping, Gardening, Home, + Beauty) from The Little Green Book … series!

How to Enter :: It’s easy! Just comment on this entry with your answer to this question – “Tell us the strangest eco-tip you’ve ever heard. Did you try it?”

That’s it! Make sure to include your e-mail address in the space provided or I can’t contact you if you win.

The Rules/Fine Print :: One entry per person, per e-mail address. Winner will be selected at random via Random.org.

Contest runs from today, Tuesday, April 21st til next Tuesday, April 28th.

Acne, wrinkles, flakiness, blotches – no matter your skin quandaries, part of the cause is likely to be moisture (or lack thereof). Soft, supple skin comes in many forms, and a key to obtaining it is finding the right moisturizing ingredients for your needs – especially if you have “sensitive” skin.

Thanks to Britain’s Sarah Brown, that search has gotten exponentially easier. Her cosmetics line, called Pai Skincare, is formulated with a variety of natural (and certified organic) moisturizing ingredients (and free of chemicals). “I was first inspired to create a natural skincare range after years of suffering from a bad skin allergy,” Sarah says. “Doctors told me that the only treatment was to take high dose anti-histamine tablets on a daily basis. Fed up with popping pills that just masked the problem, I decided to take matters into my own hands.”

After a collection of natural skincare workshops, Sarah founded Pai … and the rest is history. Formulated especially for those with sensitive skin, Pai is perfect for those with complexions that fall into the three “traditional” categories - dry, normal, and oily/combination. Each skin type has a moisturizer made just for its special needs.

My skin is currently in a state of transition - moving from my hormonal oily days to a more “mature”, dry skin type that runs in my family. Sarah graciously send me a bottle of her Geranium & Thistle Combination Skin Cream to try for myself. Within a week of beginning to use the cream, my cheeks were softer and my forehead was drier - it worked! According to Sarah, the geranium “has a cooling and calming effect on the skin, making it great for balancing combination complexions.” The cream’s other main ingredient, thistle, “is packed with skin-friendly omega 6 and is excellent at clearing congested skin and reducing large pores.”

Also featuring a lip balm, eye cream, and cleanser, Pai Skincare is a brand that I would recommend to anyone and everyone. I haven’t been this impressed with a product’s effectiveness in years. Do yourself a favor and check out Pai’s online store for more details about their products – including free samples!

Just like many of you, it is the little things that remind me of how good life really is and that things will always get better: family, flowers, nature walks, ice cream, smiles – and a positive attitude can make an exponential difference!

Now …

the time has come …

DRUM ROLL PLEASE!

ra-tat-tat-tat-tat-tat-tat

The winner of the HollyBeth’s Natural Luxury EXCLUSIVE GIVEAWAY is …

(as picked by Random.org) …

Leslie D.

Note: Leslie, I’ve sent you an e-mail (to get your mailing address) so I can send you your swank HollyBeth’s Natural Luxury winnings.

Didn’t win? Don’t frown – there are many more contests, eco-discounts, and useful reviews coming your way on Victoria-E.com, so stay tuned!

[Image: Winner badge made by a minor thread]

Made from minimum 95% organic ingredients and family recipes in artisan-sized batches, HollyBeth’s creations feature numerous luxurious essential oils, like geranium, lavender, basil, lemon, tea tree, and rose.

Need moisture? Then HollyBeth’s products are perfect for you, thanks to intense all-natural shea butter, honey, beeswax, and sweet almond oil.

Even HollyBeth’s packaging is sustainable, made from SFI-certified sustainably harvested wood. The packages also feature inspirational and heart-warming quotes from native culture and intelligent minds:

“People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.” – Elizabeth Kubler-Ross

“There’s a few things I’ve learned in life: always throw salt over your left shoulder, keep rosemary by your garden gate, plant lavender for good luck, and fall in love whenever you can.” – William Shakespeare

“May you have warmth in your igloo, oil in your lamp, and peace in your heart.” – Eskimo proverb

If I don’t have you drooling over HollyBeth’s yet, wait until you read my reviews!

Citrus Body Cream ($22 USD)

One word: wow! Applying this cream to my freshly-shaved legs and pedicure-missing feet transformed them from ordinary to extraordinary. I felt like I should be taking out insurance on my gams after sporting this intense moisturizer. The citrus scent is not overwhelming, but it is delightfully present, energizing me even during the most boring days. Like all the other HollyBeth’s products, you need not use much to see and feel the full benefits.

Lavender Hand Cream ($22 USD)

The first thing that struck me about this hand cream is the peaceful yet snappy scent, likely a combination of the lavender and sweet almond oils. Perfect for right before bed, I also like to use this cream when I need a 5-minute break from the business of the day. A hint of the balancing scent sticks around even after I get back to work, helping to keep my head clear and fingers typing.

Marigold & Sweet Basil Shea Butter Hand Cream ($22 USD)

For chapped, cracked, or aging skin, this is the cream for you. Unquestionably intense, the shea butter in this cream makes its texture very different from the Lavender Hand Cream (see above). Inspired by HollyBeth’s visits to India and Thailand, the African marigold and sweet basil clears the fog out of my head while reminding me of fresh summer days in the garden. Speaking of the garden, applying this cream after a day digging in the dirt is just what the doctor ordered!

Blossom Lip Nectar in Lavender Geranium ($7 USD)

Ah lip balm – one of my all-time favorite products. I can never try too many! With a slightly rough texture (likely from the shea butter), this balm quickly melts onto your lips and adds the most pleasant sheen. The lavender and geranium oils invoke memories of blooming spring days, full of promise and possibility. Sounds like a lot for a lip balm? Maybe, but it is the little things that count, and this “nectar” will make the good times even better.

Limited Edition SHINE Vanilla & Peppermint Soy Candle ($20 USD)

I thought vanilla and peppermint seemed like a bit of an oxymoron - one is known for being sweet and calming, while the other is crisp and energizing. HollyBeth managed to balance the two scents seamlessly, creating a blend that reminds me of warm hugs and hearty laughs. Made for the holiday season, I happily burn this candle year-round – especially good for while you are taking a shower.

Now, your favorite part of the post … the EXCLUSIVE GIVEAWAY!

What will you win? Full-size jars of both HollyBeth’s Lavender Hand Cream and Marigold & Sweet Basil Shea Butter Hand Cream – time to get those digits ready for warmer weather.

How to Enter :: It’s easy! Just comment on this entry with your answer to this question – “How do you keep yourself inspired during difficult times?”

That’s it! Make sure to include your e-mail address in the space provided or I can’t contact you if you win.

The Rules/Fine Print :: One entry per person, per e-mail address. Winner will be selected at random via Random.org.

Contest runs from today, Tuesday, March 3rd til next Tuesday, March 10th.

+ Green Girls Global celebrates Fairtrade Fortnight 2009 at the Fabulous Fairtrade Fashion Show.

+ Fashion, Evolved shares Terra Plana’s new line of “Barefoot” shoes.

[no fashion or beauty-related posts on Victoria-E.com this week ]

For the record, I have a serious weakness for beauty products, so my brands-to-try list is long! Just some of the brands I’m yearning to sample are: Jurlique, Suki, 100% Pure, Szepelet/Ilike, Lisen Organics (from Sweden!), and Body Deli.

Now …

the time has come …

DRUM ROLL PLEASE!

ra-tat-tat-tat-tat-tat-tat

The winner of the Jane Iredale Mineral Cosmetics EXCLUSIVE GIVEAWAY is …

(as picked by Random.org) …

Amanda McFillen

Note: Amanda, I’ve sent you an e-mail (to get your mailing address) so I can send you your swank Jane Iredale winnings.

Didn’t win? Don’t frown – there are many more contests, eco-discounts, and useful reviews coming your way on Victoria-E.com, so stay tuned!

[Image: Winner badge made by a minor thread]

+ Green Grechen takes a look at how far you may have to go, to go green.

+ Victoria Everman (that’s me!) shares a detailed review of some of Jane Iredale’s most popular sustainable cosmetics and an EXCLUSIVE GIVEAWAY.

Having been, literally, covered head-to-toe in makeup over the years, I’ve long since learned that not all brands are created equal.

Upon finding out that so many cosmetics contain highly untested chemicals, I vowed to only use sustainable options during photo shoots and special occasions that call for makeup (I don’t wear it on a day-to-day basis). There are numerous options on the market, but most well-known is likely to be Jane Iredale, a no-animal-testing, mineral-based extensive cosmetics line.

I’ve never used Jane Iredale’s products before, but not for lack of interest. Since I don’t wear makeup that much, it didn’t seem worth the investment to buy a full-size product that I didn’t even know if I would like. The universe is mysterious and just as I thought about finally ordering some of Jane’s creations, I was given the chance to test them for you – my fantastic readers.

Read on for my scathingly honest reviews and, by popular demand, an EXCLUSIVE GIVEAWAY of some of Jane Iredale’s most sought-after products.

Dream Tint SPF 15 Cream Foundation (shade reviewed: Light; $36 USD)

I tend to shy away from any foundation out of fear that I will look like I’m wearing a clown mask. This particular foundation is more like a tinted moisturizer and it does a wonderful job on both counts. Dream Tint does a fantastic job blending in, especially when you use their suggested Blending Brush. The foundation also comes with directions on the easiest way to apply it, so I didn’t feel like I was walking blind.

From a moisturizing angle, I was even more impressed - algae extracts are listed as the main ingredients for this purpose and they do a great job; my skin was noticeably softer after removing the foundation at the end of the day. I can easily see myself using this on a more daily basis, both as a light-coverage foundation and an SPF-providing moisturizer.

Circle\Delete Under-Eye Concealer (shade reviewed: #2; $29 USD)

Openly loved by the folks at Allure and Natural Health Magazines, I’m always looking for a quality product that will cover my genetically-caused under eye circles. Using either a finger or a camouflage brush, it is easy to see why this product is so widely publicized - it rocks! Of course, being a “skin care makeup” brand, there is a delightful selection of moisturizers that make your skin even healthier.

I wish this product had come with directions since there are 2 colors inside. A little further reading into their website and I found your are supposed to start with the lighter shade, which you can use alone or layer with the second shade to help it match your skin seamlessly. Either way, I was elated with how well this product worked on both my under eye circles and concealing stray zits on my face. You do need to make sure to “set” your skin with loose powder after applying, otherwise Circle/Delete doesn’t seem to last all day.

Brush-Me Matte Loose Finish Powder ($46 USD)

Loose powder is a vital part of any makeup bag, and this is one of the best I’ve ever tried. The travel-ready brush is helpful for touch-ups throughout the day, which I often need thanks to my oily forehead. Yet this is another product that could use directions. With the graphics printed inside, it can be a bit tough to tell when the brush is locked and unlocked – if you leave it unlocked and carry it around, you can be sure you will have a mess of loose powder waiting for you. That issue aside, the powder itself is great and a perfect finish to any makeup routine.

PurePressed Triple Eye Shadow (shade reviewed: Khaki Kraze; $27 USD)

Choosing eye shadow can seem very daunting with the thousands of options available. Jane makes it uber easy with her Triple Eye Shadow, which is grouped into shades that enhance each eye color and skin tone in particular. Using the Crease and Eye Contour brushes, you can create countless moods and looks for both day and night with just three shadow colors. Keep in mind that, since they are mineral powder-based, a little goes a long way – start with a light touch and add more as needed and your style will last all day.

24-Karat Gold Dust Powder  (shade reviewed: Gold; $12 USD)

Even as a teenager, I was never much for sparkly, glittery products. I recently read an interview with a make-up artist, who said that gold is one shade that looks good on every skin tone. Not keen on gold either, I knew it was time to take the plunge and try both with the Gold Dust Powder.

Only one word can describe this product: fun! Just like with the eye shadows, a little goes a long way, but it is widely versatile - eyes, lips, cheeks, hair, shoulders – it looks good everywhere on you. Jane doesn’t cut any corners either, using food-grade gold for this series of powders.

PureGloss for Lips (shade reviewed: Strawberry; $19 USD)

It’s no secret that I am not one for lipstick – as it fades and flakes (which truly natural lipstick will eventually do), it looks just awful. So you’ll find an array of lip glosses in my makeup bag instead, which are much more forgiving in both fading and color coverage. The Jane Iredale PureGloss has a great sheen that doesn’t make you look tacky.

The Strawberry shade I tested looks bright in the tube, but remember – it is lip gloss, so the color ended up being a flawless pink/red that would easily work on anyone. Add in the fantastic all-natural moisturizers inside and you have a great replacement for your average lip balm.And now … you’re favorite part of the week … the EXCLUSIVE GIVEAWAY!

What will you win? Jane Iredale PureGloss for Lips in Strawberry AND More Lip Plumper – a perfect combo for looking good while fighting off dry, cracked lips. For some added “bling”, use your new Jane Iredale 24-Karat Gold Dust Powder in Gold.

How to Enter :: It’s easy! Just comment on this entry with your answer to this question – “Which eco-beauty brand have you always wanted to try?” (for an extensive list of companies for men & women, click here)

That’s it! Make sure to include your e-mail address in the space provided or I can’t contact you if you win.

The Rules/Fine Print :: One entry per person, per e-mail address. Winner will be selected at random via Random.org.

Contest runs from today, Tuesday, January 27th til next Tuesday, February 3rd.

+ Green Cotton helps you find the perfect green gift  for your sweetheart for Valentine’s Day.

+ Green Girls Global gives tips on how to be more self-sufficient with your wardrobe; learn some dress-making skills for the planet.

+ Victoria Everman (that’s me!) features an exclusive, in-depth interview with fashion design and Mountains of the Moon founder, Melissa Baswell.

+ Green Cotton features Print*Pattern*Paper’s unique and modern eco-totes & art.

+ Green Grechen helps us learn about and shop some of Portland’s eco-friendly designers.

+ Victoria Everman (that’s me!) presents the newest collection of reusable bags from Envirosax + an EXCLUSIVE GIVEAWAY!

+ Green Cotton rounds-up their year in review.

+ Green Girls Global is helping to organize the UK’s first ever eco-friendly wedding & home show.

+ Green Grechen wonders how much is too much to pay for eco-friendly products?

+ Victoria Everman (that’s me!) features a review and exclusive giveaway of all-natural flower sprays by Nectar Essences.

+ Eco-Chick’s editors share their Green New Year’s Resolutions.

+ Fashion, Evolved features ZAUM’s newest line of eco-friendly handbags.

+ Green Cotton lists the Green Festivals’ top 10 green books for 2009.

+ GreenGirls.tv has a great ‘how to’ video on turning your old sweater into a sporty dress with jacket.

+ Victoria Everman (that’s me!) shares an interview with Juliene Ebner, founder of Philadelphia’s first eco-friendly salon & spa.

Knowing that sustainable hair and spa services can be few and far between, I jumped at the chance to interview Juju’s founder, Juliene Ebner.  Started in 2005, with the spa added in 2007, Juju has been a pioneer in the ongoing eco-transformation of Philly. With numberous online and local awards, and an online retail eco-shop coming in 2009, Juju Salon & Spa is a great example of a green business making a true name of themselves.

Whether you live in the Philadelphia area or not, I am sure you will enjoy my interview with Juju’s founder, Juliene. We had the chance to chat about beauty brands, the benefits of eco-salons, unique events, and more!

Victoria Everman: What first inspired you to open a salon, let alone an “organic” one?

Juliene Ebner: Simply put, it was a no-brainer.  Using organic, non-toxic products, in a friendly, non-intimidating environment, was the only way to go!

After 2 years, you opening a spa to accompany the salon – was that a natural expansion of the business for you?

Yes.  My loyal and wonderful clients kept asking “Where can I get a facial that’s organic…”  They definitely aren’t the medi-spa types!  Our spa is botox-free and more!

Along with using organic products, what makes Juju Salon & Spa eco-friendly?

Wind-powered electricity, membership in local sustainable organizations, i.e. Philadelphia’s Sustainable Business Network, serving only filtered water (no bottled water here!) and organic teas, using non-toxic, earth-friendly cleaning products, hiring local, green contractors…big, blue recycling bins EVERYWHERE!  The list is endless.

Juju also hosts events, workshops and exhibits – how do you select what who/what to feature for guests?

Hanging an organic sign lures a bunch of interesting people – with amazing talents!  Upcoming events will include a Classical Indian music concert (tabla and sitar), a Bach Flower Remedy workshop and meditation classes.

Are there any other eco-options you hope to add to Juju?

Yes – I’m dying to host a clothing swap – with juju staff and  clients, soon….and, we have an impromptu baby/toddler clothing exchange already in existence that I’d like to take to a more organized level, a clothesline for our towels….and, though not an obvious eco-cause, raise money and bring heightened awareness to the plight of retired greyhounds.  When a society cannot respect its animals, how can it tend to the rest of its environment?  We recently rescued a retired racer, named Neshi.

Have you ever received any negative feedback from customers? What are some of the nicest, most surprising things you ever heard from customers?

We’ve not received any memorable negative feedback directly.  I’m hoping the public doesn’t think we’re simply “green” for marketing purposes, i.e. greenwashing, etc.  Our patrons always arrive and leave with good wishes.  We’ve been able to soothe and help nurture those clients that are physically compromised (cancer, chemo, auto-immune issues) with our natural, organic and non-toxic products and services.

Why should people seek out an all-natural, “organic” salon?

The obvious trio: to maintain and achieve better health, to be socially responsible and to look great!

What are some of your favorite products that Juju sells?

Morocco Method, Sevi Organics, Aromabliss …

Where do you see Philadelphia on an environmental scale from 1-10 (1 being the worst, most polluted)? How is the eco-community in Philly working to make city-wide changes?

5.  Unfortunately, with the economy as it is, and Philadelphia being hard hit and needing a financial bail-out, city-wide eco projects may be at a standstill.  That’s not to say that Philadelphia doesn’t have a 1st class recycling system, many community gardens and green landscaping projects in the works.

[Image courtesy of Juju Salon and Spa]

——————————————

Don’t forget to visit my new ECO-INDIE WEDDING BLOG!

+ Green Grechen looks at the myth that eco-friendly means wallet un-friendly.

+ Fig+Sage features an exclusive interview with brand new Organic Beauty Magazine’s Editor-in-Chief.

+ Green Cotton wants you to be carbon neutral for a day, thanks to Brighter Planet’s new campaign.

+ Victoria Everman (that’s me!) displays small, sustainable wedding favors in preparation for her upcoming nuptials.

Now …

the time has come …

DRUM ROLL PLEASE!

ra-tat-tat-tat-tat-tat-tat

The winner of the Anti-Body Fair Trade Body Care EXCLUSIVE GIVEAWAY is …

(as picked by Random.org) …

Susan DeBourcy!

Susan, I’ve sent you an e-mail (to get your mailing address) so I can send you your very own Anti-Body Free Range Bath Fizzers in Petal Scent.

Didn’t win? Don’t frown – there are many more contests, eco-discounts, and useful reviews coming your way on Victoria-E.com, so stay tuned!

DON’T FORGET! Use the code “victoriae” during checkout at Anti-Body’s online shop and you’ll receive 10% off your total order. This code only lasts until December 31st, 2008, so shop soon!

[Image: Winner badge made by a minor thread]

+ Alternative Consumer is trying to kick the habit of being a trendy fashion victim with Zoica Matei.

+ Eco Chick shows us how to rock an ugly Christmas sweater.

+ Green Cotton wonders if there is anything we can do about the economic downfall crippling the recycling market.

+ Green Girls Global welcomes new editor and ethical fashion stylist, Lou Taylor.

+ GreenGirls.tv interviews eco-fashion designer Nicole Facciuto.

+ Fashion, Evolved has just the thing to give to the girl who has everything this holiday.

+ Green Glam Girl sings the praises of the Goody Green Bags.

+ Victoria Everman (that’s me!) hosts a triple-threat: an Anti-Body all-natural beauty products review, discount code, and giveaway!

When I was unexpectedly introduced to Anti-Body, I jumped at the chance to sample their products and am exceptionally eager to share my findings with you.

But first, let me tell you more about the company itself. Started in 2005 by twin sisters Tamara Johnston-McMahon and Shelby Moser, along with Shelby’s husband Steven, Anti-Body works to not only create planet-friendly beauty products, but also to help support fair trade in poverty-enveloped countries (mainly Togo and Liberia, both in Africa).

All of Anti-Body’s products are presented in recyclable packaging and are not tested on animals at any stage of the product’s development. As a company and a member of the eco-focused marketplace, Anti-Body’s goal is to become a 100% fair trade manufacturer. Most recently, the story of Anti-Body’s beginnings was made into a breathtaking and dramatic documentary, titled The Fair Trade.

There’s no question that Anti-Body is a fantastic brand with honorable goals. What are the products really like? Let’s get on to the product reviews!

Lemongrass Moisturizer ($9.95 US)

It is easy to see why this is one of Anti-Body’s best selling products. Made with fair trade-certified shea butter and coconut oil, this is the only moisturizer I’ve ever used that was emptied down to the last drop. Hands, feet, legs, arms …it will soften you anywhere and everywhere. The distinctive lemongrass scent is both energizing and centering at the same time – an anomaly that is hard to describe. I’ve already ordered another bottle and am quite sure I’ll have this product in my bathroom for many months to come.

Green Tea Mint Nourishing Shampoo and Conditioner ($8.95 US & $11.95 US)

Of all the products I tested, these two had numerous ingredients that I couldn’t identify. I checked the Skin Deep Database and didn’t learn much about those mystery chemicals, other than that much testing hasn’t been done on them. It seems they are all-natural, but I’m not 100% sure on that. The green tea mint scent is fantastic and did a wonderful job at managing the psoriasis my boyfriend has on his scalp. A great duo, the shampoo and conditioner wasn’t as gentle as I was expecting. Also, the conditioner was too “heavy” for my fine hair, which was weighed down after just one day.

Chocolate Raspberry Lip Balm ($2.49 US)

Another Anti-Body best seller, I was expecting this lip balm to actually increase my craving for chocolate. Unexpectedly, it did exactly the opposite, oddly quelling my frequent urges for sweets (a major problem when trying to eat healthy). The balm glides on smoothly and has a subtle enough flavor that you will enjoy it but won’t end up eating it off your lips. Even the most chapped puckers will be treated kindly and luxuriously.

Nutcracker Sweet Collectible Lip Balm Set ($7.95 US)

Holiday-themed in both package and flavor, this set of 3 lip balms is the perfect stocking stuffer. The Sweet Strawberry flavor is the most subtle of the three and my least favorite. I’m not sure why strawberries are considered seasonal, but it is still a nice contrast to the other two flavors. The Sugar Plum flavor is my personal favorite and falls in the mid-range of taste intensity. Strongest and most decadent of the three is the Chocolate Hazelnut flavor, which I also highly enjoyed and still use.

And now … the EXCLUSIVE GIVEAWAY!

What will you win? A full six-piece set of Anti-Body Free Range Bath Fizzers in Petal Scent. Raved about on Oprah’s website and Viva Terra’s Eco Salon blog, these bath treats are all-natural and made with fair trade-certified shea butter.

How to Enter :: It’s easy! Just comment on this entry with your answer to this question – “What is your favorite sustainable splurge?”

That’s it! Make sure to include your e-mail address in the space provided or I can’t contact you if you win.

The Rules/Fine Print :: One entry per person, per e-mail address. Winner will be selected at random via Random.org.

Contest runs from today, Thursday, December 11th til next Thursday, December 18th.

Let’s not forget the EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT!

Can’t wait for the contest? Ready to do some holiday (or personal) shopping? Use the code “victoriae” during checkout at Anti-Body’s online shop and you’ll receive 10% off your total order. This code only lasts until December 31st, 2008, so shop soon!

+ Green Grechen shows us how to truly shop eco-friendlier this holiday season.

+ Fashion, Evolved is drooling over the 100% sustainable and ethical jewelry by Dawes Design.

+ Green Girls Global shares where we can be taught a lesson…in ethical fashion.

+ Fig+Sage talks about Amala Beauty, “an intersection of purity & luxury”, and a $152 giveaway!

+ Green Glam Girl loves to make her own eco soap (and shows us how).

+ Alternative Consumer features the sustainabiliTee brand – “look and feel great while delivering that eco message.”

+ GreenGirls.tv has a fun video that teaches you how to make cute sandals out of an old bicycle tire.

[no fashion or beauty-related posts on Victoria-E.com this week ]

+ Eco Chick shares info about nifty Dr. Alkaitis Therapeutic Skin Food.

+ GreenGirls.tv has the scoop on an internship with Summer Rayne Oaks.

+ Fashion, Evolved invites all eco-fashionistas to participate in their virtual fashion show.

+ Green Grechen ponders how eco-friendly is faux fur?

[no fashion or beauty-related posts on Victoria-E.com this week ]

+ Eco Chick “gets Eairth-y with some fabulous Phillipino eco-fashions.”

+ GreenGirls.tv explains why “knockoffs and fakes are a crime of fashion.”

+ Fashion, Evolved “interviews Sara Seumae, the founder and designer of the eco-fabulous line SPUN.”

+ Alternative Consumer talks about natural-fiber wrist warmers – “tre chic and handmade; a yummy accessory for fall, winter and spring.”

+ Green Cotton congratulates the Washington D.C. Green Festival “for a terrific eco-fashion show and impressive recycling for 30,000+.”

+ Victoria Everman (that’s me!) features an interview with sustainable accessory company I’m Tired Of’s co-founder Dan Hoffman.