It’s time, friends! Let’s shake out those makeup bags and dive in. If you’ve been putting off the makeup detox because it seems daunting, don’t worry—I’m here to help. Here’s a guide to easily switch to clean, green beauty products.
**Step 1: Take Inventory**
The global cosmetics market is worth a staggering $250 billion, and I know I’ve spent more than I’d like to admit on the latest beauty products. The first step toward a greener beauty routine is to evaluate what you already have. Familiarize yourself with the ingredients using resources like the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep database. You might also want to read about the “Dirty Dozen” cosmetic chemicals from David Suzuki’s list.
**Step 2: Prioritize Gradual Changes**
Going green shouldn’t happen overnight—it can be wasteful and expensive. Plus, like extreme diets, sudden changes often fail. This advice applies to your makeup, as well as body and hair products. Sort your makeup into three piles based on the inventory you’ve taken: keep, reconsider, and discard. Always check your local guidelines for disposing of hazardous waste safely.
**Step 3: Enjoy the Replacements**
This is where the fun begins! You might find some items don’t even need replacing—they were only there due to clever marketing. Be cautious of “green-washing,” and research thoroughly. Get familiar with local beauty retailers, as they might stock natural products not available in big chain stores, and offer valuable advice, too.
If you need recommendations, feel free to ask! I’m always trying new products and can share my thoughts. And for those adventurous souls, try your hand at DIY beauty recipes—you might be surprised at what you can create!
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Hello! I appreciate your article. All my skincare and makeup products are natural except for my eyeliner. If anyone has a recommendation for a good natural eyeliner, I would be grateful!
Hi, I’ve been on the lookout for an excellent mascara that thickens and lasts all day. Any recommendations? Thanks a lot!
I need an eye pencil that doesn’t smudge and a mascara that provides volume without flaking. Josie Maran’s GOGO Mascara was perfect, but it’s been discontinued. Any suggestions?
Hi Beth, Vapour Organic Beauty offers a great eyeliner called Mesmerize; it’s highly pigmented and smudge-resistant. For liquid liners, 100% Pure’s Fruit Pigmented Gel Eyeliners are excellent.
Hi Bryn, try RMS Beauty for a mascarathat doesn’t flake; Ilia and 100% Pure also offer nice options, though the latter might smudge a bit more.
Hi Whittney, RMS Beauty’s mascaras are made with oils, butters, and waxes, providing long-lasting wear without flaking. While I find their “Volumizing” mascara doesn’t thicken as much as I’d like, you might explore W3ll People’s Expressionist Bio Extreme Mascara.
Thank you! I’ll definitely try those suggestions!
I’ve been impressed by Red Apple Lipstick’s The Lash Project mascara. It stays put all day, doesn’t smudge or flake, and offers buildable volume. It’s pricey but worth it!
I’ve had success with ZuZu Luxe’s liquid eyeliner—the Taureg shade is a rich brown-black that lasts all day. And Red Apple Lipstick’s mascara is incredible.
Hi, I’m looking for a good natural foundation and concealer that match my skin tone. Any thoughts on Sappho products? I’m hoping to eventually stop wearing foundation. Thanks for any help.
I’ve transitioned all my hair and body products to natural/organic and am tackling makeup and nail polish now. Do you know any similar natural alternatives to NARS multi-stick in Orgasm? Nothing else seems to measure up.
Thanks for the suggestion!
I’ve used various concealers and foundations, currently using Sappho, and I really like them. The colors match well, and the texture is appealing. The foundation is light and could be a good transition if you’re looking to stop using foundation altogether. For more natural coverage, check out RMS Beauty’s “Un” Coverup if coconut oil works for you.
Yes, W3ll People has a multi-stick similar to NARS ‘Orgasm,’ called Universalist Colorstick 8. Give it a try!
Thanks, Seanna. I’ll check these products out.
Thanks for responding! How do you like the Kjaer Weis line, particularly their mascara and foundation? Also, where’d you buy your cute makeup bag?
Hi Seanna! I’ve been a beauty product enthusiast since my teens, accumulating loads of makeup and nail polish. After cleaning up my diet, I’m converting to organic brands. Can unused products be donated, or do you just recycle? It’s tough to see all that money go to waste. Also, any waterproof natural black eyeliner recommendations? Love your blog!
Hello! I need advice on a good eyelid primer—something natural, as I currently use Bare Minerals. Would appreciate any recommendations!
Hi Joy! I read your recent Globe & Mail article and would love your product recommendations. I’m looking for daily moisturizers and SPF 30 sunscreen. I’m in Vancouver. Best, Diane.
Hi Diane, here at Joyous HQ, we really like the Consonant line. They offer clean SPF 30 sunscreen. Check their store locator here: consonantskincare.com.
Hi! I recommend Saje Natural Wellness for skin care—100% natural and Canadian-based. They have fantastic cleansing and moisturizing options, although they don’t offer makeup.
Thanks for sharing, Jenessa!
Joy, what’s your favorite concealer, foundation, or powder? I need a natural one that won’t clog pores. Thanks!
Hi Rosemary! While I don’t use concealer or foundation, I love Gabrielle Cosmetics’ or Eminence Sun Defense’s face powders for their light, mineral-based coverage. For personalized advice, contact Mindy at the spa in Owen Sound.
Hi Karen, sorry I missed your comment earlier. Thanks for your kind words about the blog! Disposal and recycling vary by location. This article might help: ecolife.com.
For eyeliners, consider trying a liquid liner—100% Pure has some smudge-resistant options. Hope this helps!
Hello Joy! I’m in search of skincare products without hopping between brands. I’m in my 30s with combination skin and mild acne. I’ve used Eminence but looking for more affordable options. Thoughts on brands like Simple? And are all mineral foundations similar?
Hi Kelly, not all mineral foundations are equal. It’s best to consult a holistically-minded esthetician for recommendations. Local natural beauty stores can also offer great advice.
Hi! I’m joining the conversation late, but what about blush and lipstick? Many natural lipsticks taste a bit like crayons. Any suggestions?
Hi Jenn, I recommend Ilia, Josie Maran, and Bite for lipsticks. Bite has the best taste, while the others are neutral.
Joy – Did you find an organic blue mascara? Let us know if you did!
Hey Janet, Joy’s favorite is Pure Ananda. Rachel – Joyous Health Team
Thoughts on Nude By Nature products?
Hey Elena, we’re not familiar with that brand. It’s Australian, right? Is it available in Canada? Rachel – Joyous Health Team
Great post! It’s true, we often forget to trust our intuition and feelings. I appreciate the “inner goddess” analogy—thanks for sharing! Congrats on the blog, it looks fantastic.
