Celebrating Earth Day 2012















Earth Day is just around the corner and there's no better way to celebrate than by greening up our beauty regimens. Many of the products we use in our daily routines can be harmful to the earth. Whether you consider the materials that go into the products, the energy used to manufacture them, or even the packaging that brings them to market, some products are more environmentally responsible than others. Luckily, we have a wide variety of choices to ensure we're doing everything we can to live sustainably. From our skin care to our sleepwear, the choice is up to you.

Natural Beauty Products - One of the greatest things you can do for the environment is make the switch to natural beauty products like those from Neutrogena Naturals. Their products are naturally derived and never tested on animals. They make the most of recycled materials and even use a Green Server to host their website. Neutrogena Naturals Lip Balm is 100 percent naturally derived from beeswax, plants, seeds, and oils. One of its key ingredients is Vitamin E, an antioxidant that nourishes, soothes and protects your lips from free radicals.

Natural Bristle Hair Brushes - Ever since we were little girls we've been taught about the benefits of brushing our hair regularly. Plastic bristles can damage hair and don't do much to distribute your hair's sebum, a natural conditioning oil secreted by the glands at the base of each hair. So why not splurge on yourself this Earth Day and get a natural boar bristle brush? As an added benefit, boar bristle brushes with natural wood handles are virtually 100% biodegradable.

Organic Cotton Sleepwear - Cotton makes up about half of the world's fabric needs, but is considered the world's dirtiest crop due to the industry's dependence on fertilizers and pesticides. These toxic chemicals end up in the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat. Organic cotton is grown and harvested without any of these toxic chemicals and is much better for the environment and our health. This Earth Day, treat yourself to a luxurious organic cotton night gown. You'll sleep more soundly knowing your choices are helping to save our planet.

Natural Fragrances - Whether it's the perfume we dab behind our ears or the scents we use to freshen our closets, natural oils can replace the chemical-ridden, alcohol-based brands we grew up with. You can purchase most of the same essential oils used in designer fragrances from local specialty shops or over the internet. Use them as they are or design your own special blend to match your personality and mood. Without all the alcohol that's in most commercial brands, you'll suffer fewer allergies and enjoy longer-lasting scents.

Doing what we can to ensure a healthy planet makes us feel good about ourselves. When we feel good, we look good. Why not switch to these earth-friendly alternatives and make every day Earth Day?

Content by Cherri Megasko.