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Beauty for a better planet

April 23, 2008

A group of beauty companies (including Estee Lauder, Aveda and L'Oreal) recently announced the creation of OASIS, the first "organic and sustainable industry standard" for certifying organic cosmetic products. Critics contend it's not strict enough, ignoring animal-testing and packaging. Look for OASIS seals on goods within the next year. In the meantime, other brands are greening in their own way.

Physician's Formula's new Organic Wear 100 percent Natural Origin Blush, $11.95, and Bronzer, $13.95, come in all-paper compacts - when done, simply toss out with your recycling. Certified by Ecocert; Available at drugstores nationwide.

Starting this month, a portion of sales of Naturopathica's Environmental Defense Mask, $56, benefits StopGlobalWarming.org. The mask's black-cherry puree and beta-carotene enzymes revitalize the complexion and, like SGW, combat environmental aggressors. Available at naturopathica.com.

Cargo's PlantLove lipstick tubes are made of PLA, a greenhouse gas-neutral polymer derived from corn that reportedly biodegrades in less than 50 days. The outer packaging contains wildflower seeds - plant and watch grow. PlantLove's new Cherry Bliss shade, $20, designed by "Lipstick Jungle's" Kim Raver, is available at Sephora and sephora.com.

Kiehl's Since 1851 this month introduces Superbly Restorative Body Lotion, 6.8 oz, $35, and Dry Oil, 4.2 oz., $30, with fair-traded, certified organic Argan Oil. This is their first fair-trade and - hard to believe - first organic ingredient. Kiehl's works with Berber women, who harvest nuts from Morocco's Argan trees and plant new ones. Bottles are made of post-consumer recycled plastic. Available at Saks Fifth Avenue; Nordstrom; Kiehl's stores; and kiehls.com.  



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