Organic Beauty View

I’ll admit I’m more interested in trying a product than examining its container. But sometimes I’m blown over by the great lengths eco-conscious companies go to in their quest for responsible packaging. Take SoCal Cleanse. When I checked out the company’s cool detoxifying soaps this week (more on that in a moment), I was amazed at the content of their boxes and bottles. Tree-free labels (made from rocks!), non-toxic soy ink, water-based adhesive and seed-imbedded, 100% post-consumer recycled paper, to start. The company also ships with packing peanuts that dissolve in water, leaving no toxic residue. There’s clearly a lot of thought behind the line and it sets an example for the rest of the beauty industry. So tell me, where have you found the best eco-friendly beauty packaging? As for SoCal Cleanse’s Charcoal Detox body wash and soap, fragranced with punchy peppermint, I’m hooked. Both the wash and the soap bar contain activated charcoal (famous for its detoxifying, adsorptive properties) and lather from black to a light grey foam that rinses away without any color residue. It’ll feel a little odd using black soap, but go with it. Both detox cleansers are gentle enough to use every day. And if fashion week has taught me anything, it’s that there can never be too much grey in my beauty routine (grey lips, anyone?). Writer :: Jolene Hart