Organic Beauty View

It’s not quite spring on the east coast, judging by the snow and icicles outside my window, but I haven’t lost hope that it will arrive soon. And my very first sign of spring, before the robins and crocuses, is a flawless, sandal-worthy pedicure. It signals that my poor toes are ready to be boot-free and flip-flop-clad! Even if you’re cutting back on your salon pedicures this year as part of a recession beauty budget, I’m betting that you’ll still want to treat yourself to perfect-looking feet this spring. If you’re pedi-ing at home, the PedEgg (of infomercial fame) will change your life. Recommended to me by the seasoned celebrity manicurist Jin Soon Choi, this callous-removing device looks scary but really is your heels’ best friend. As for color, there’s no 100% natural polish, but choosing a formula that’s free of the big three (toluene, dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and formaldehyde) is absolutely essential. A nude like Serenity from Honeybee Gardens is on trend, as is a soft, shimmering grey like Zoya’s Harley (you’ll wear this one for fall as well). Still stuck on brights? Mahalo by Acquarella will get you there. And you’ll love that the brand’s water-based colors are free of fumes. Priti’s Princess polish in Shooting Star reminds me of another sparkled polish that sold out everywhere this winter. It’s a little much on hands but perfect for toes! Priti’s clear 2-in-1 coat is also a must-have multitasker that doubles as a top and base. When it’s time for a polish change, use a non-toxic remover like the sugar-based formula from PeaceKeeper Cause-Metics. You won’t miss the noxious smell and nail-drying acetone! Writer :: Jolene Hart