In honor of Earth Day this month, many beauty companies are going green and launching new organic and earth-friendly products. And as part of a special Earth Day promotion, a portion of proceeds from any Physician's Formula Organic Wear purchase ($7-$14) will go to Global Green USA, a non-profit organization dedicated to "fostering a global value shift toward a sustainable and secure future by reconnecting humanity with the environment." In addition, you get a free lip gloss with a purchase of the blush/bronzer and a free mascara when you buy the tinted moisturizer. Christina Applegate and Laura Linney are fans. Here's why: The brand's EcoCert seal means it's internationally recognized certified organic, ie: the company guarantees the genuine practice of environmental respect throughout the formulation and manufacturing of the product, 100% of the total ingredients are of a natural origin and 16% of the total ingredients are produced from organic farming. It's 100% free of harsh chemicals, synthetic preservatives, parabens, GMO's (genetically modified organisms), synthetic colors, synthetic fragrances and it's cruelty free. OK, we get it. It's all good. But what about the makeup itself? Made with OrganiSoy to help even skin tone and Eco-Olive, a natural antioxidant that helps shield skin from harsh environmental factors, the fine Italian powder offers buildable color to naturally enhance and accentuate cheeks. I swap the conveniently compact mini brush that's included for my favorite full-size model, brush it across the product to evenly blend the two shades and swipe it on. The color is subtle but can be layered to meet your desired coverage. The compact is equally eco-friendly. At first, it looks a bit cheap in the package but take it out and it feels totally substantial. It looks like it's made of a light-colored wood (but it's really recyclable paper!) and is adorned with green leaves. One side opens to reveal the product and the other houses the mini brush and mirror. It snaps shut easily and securely without any cumbersome latches or hinges (or at least none that show). All in all, it makes me excited for spring. Also try the Loose Powder, Matte Finishing and Bronzing Veil, Eye Shadow Duo, Eyeliner Pencil, Lip Veil and Foundation, all available at Target, Duane Reade, CVS and other mass retailers. Additional info at www.physiciansformula.com.
*This Saturday from 10AM to 6PM, stop by the Go Green Expo at the Hilton Hotel in Manhattan (1335 Avenue of the Americas at 53rd Street). Just bring any old plastic compact to the Physician's Formula booth and trade it in for an Organic Wear 2-in-1 blush/bronzer recyclable paper compact for FREE!
