Green Your Routine: Advice From Kim Carlson

Getting dolled up for the day is a habit most women have mastered.  Sadly, the products used in a normal day- to-day regime can be just as damaging as our acts. The good news is that most of the products already being used have eco-friendly alternatives.   Kim Carlson, eco-expert and founder of EarthSmart Consumer Certified is exposing some green and eco-friendly beauty product for the start, in-between and end of your day.  These beauty products are not only chic and fabulous, but all boast eco-friendly elements making any woman a natural green diva.   
 
Getting ready for the day:
 
Brush teeth with Tom’s of Maine Whole Care Toothpaste
Shower with Kiss My Face bar soap (bar soap is purchased without a container)
Shampoo and condition with Belegenza product which are paraben-free, Pthalate free, no sodium laurel sulphates AND they are concentrated so water isn't being shipped as part of the formula.
Moisturize your body with Alba Very Emollient Body Lotion
Use Dr. Hauschka make-up for eye shadow – containing black tea leaf an extract of black tea is rich in antioxidants and tannins having astringent, toning, skin-soothing, anti-inflammatory and strengthening properties. Another great Dr. Hauschka product is the mascara – containing Neem leaf which is anti-microbial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory. Rounding out a beautiful face are lovely lips.  Dr. Hauschka lipsticks containing Rose Hip Fruit Extract is ideal.  Rose hip extract is high in vitamins A and C and has a strengthening effect on capillaries and connective tissue. Rose hip extracts are antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and astringent and have been used to soothe and heal irritated chapped skin.
 
Getting dressed:
 
Holista High Cut Organic Cotton Panties found at Nordstrom that comes in five colors (not just white).
Go casual for the day, wear organic cotton jeans by Karmel & Alden.  Pair it with a Stewart+Brown Half Sleeve Lengthened T $73.00 made in the USA from 100% organic cotton
Getting fancy, then dress up in an eco-designer, Linda Loudermilk Chitin Dress
The right accessories always tie an outfit together.  Accessorize with second hand or third hand vintage jewelry to set the right tone.
Shoes are most women’s first love and complete an out fit. The animal-friendly and eco-conscious shoes by NeuAura are fashionable and reasonably priced.  
 
Getting ready for bed:
 
Remove make up with a Shammy Cloth from Aveda (no chemicals needed)
Take a bath with Avalon Organics Lavendar Bath & Shower Gel
Moisturize face and hands with Organic Shea Butter from L’Occitane
 
From sudsing up to putting on your chic pair of jeans, there is a way to green your daily routine.  Changing or breaking your typical routine can be difficult but starting with small changes can make a big difference and impact.  Carlson recommends switching to organic beauty products and ones where they use recycled or recyclable packaging to ease in gradually.
 
Do you think you can include Kim and her green your routine tips in your upcoming editorial?  Please let me know if you would be interested in interviewing or having her sound off on related editorial.  For more information on Kim, please visit www.earthsmartconsumer.com.