My 10 Favorite Natural Cosmetics

1. Lights, Camera, Splashes 4-in-1 Waterproof Mascara, Tarte Cosmetics  //  2. BareMinerals Warmth, Bare Escentuals  //  3. Certified Organic Brow Pencil, INIKA  //  4. Organic Wear Bronzer/Blush Combo, Physicians Formula  //  5. Trick Stick Highlighter, Vapour Organic Beauty  //  6. Argan Creamy Concealer Crayon, Josie Maran  //  7. Amazonian Clay Waterproof Cream Eyeshadow, Tarte Cosmetics  //  8. Argan Lip Gloss, Josie Maran  //  9. Airblush Maracuja Blush, Tarte Cosmetics  //  10. Certified Natural Liquid Eyeliner, Lavera 

As my regular readers know, underneath it all, I'm a little bit crunchy.  I'm big into organic gardening, I've been a vegetarian for 24 years, and I own an eco-friendly clothing label.  I buy and eat local food as much as possible, I reuse like it's my job, and I'll take a nice, long, barefoot walk over driving in heels any day.  I'm not living in a tree house eating berries by any means, but for the most part, I prefer to go the natural route. And now that I'm pregnant, I'm even more cautious when it comes to things that I put in and on my body. 

I'll be honest and tell you guys upfront that makeup was the last guest to arrive to my 'lets go natural' party.  I've admittedly known for a long time that most mainstream cosmetics contain some pretty scary chemicals, and I've always taken this into account with things like moisturizers and shampoos.  But only recently have I really made the effort to be mindful about choosing more natural makeup items.  Thankfully, it is possible to avoid cosmetics with ingredients that are harmful (both to you and to the environment) and still put on a pretty face.  My simplest advice is to look for products that contain natural ingredients (plant and herb extracts, essential oils, natural dyes, etc.), and to avoid things like parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate, synthetic fragrances, phthalates, and triclosan.  The best part is that eliminating harsh toxic ingredients from your beauty routine will also improve your skin.  I notice a lot less irritation and breakouts when I'm faithful to chemical-free makeup.  Also, testing on animals is a deal breaker for me, and most natural cosmetic companies are cruelty-free.

The ten items above represent some of my current favorites when it comes to natural cosmetics.  As for brands, I'm especially a fan of Tarte Cosmetics, Bare Escentuals, and Josie Maran (who is also an awesome lady who has been a long-time supporter of my clothing line).  Do you have any favorite natural cosmetic products or brands?  Have any of you made your own using organic and/or fresh ingredients?