The Hero Edit

Villain Ingredient Concern: Birth Defects

Birth defects, such as pre-term birth, low birth weight and abnormal development, have been scientifically linked to a variety of ingredients that are widely used in cosmetics. Some do their damage when applied during conception and pregnancy but it is unknown how long they remain in the body, potentially affecting long-term personal health as well …

Rose Oil

WHAT IT IS Precious and exotic, rose oil in skincare is pressed from the blossoms of Bulgarian Rosa Damascena – or the slightly sweeter smelling Moroccan variety, ­Rosa Centifola. Rose oil and the hydrosol liquid released during the steam distillation process are among the most universally used skin-loving plant essences. WHY WE LOVE IT Rose …

Behind The Scenes: Laurel Whole Plant Organics

“Plants are the strongest, anti-aging tool we have,” says Laurel Shaffer, founder of her namesake flower-and-herb-based, organic facial care line Laurel Whole Plant Organics. Based in Northern California, Laurel takes extreme care in channeling that ethos into every gorgeous product – including this month’s featured Antioxidant Facial Serum. You have an affinity for plants and …

Villain Ingredient Concern: Neurotoxins

A neurotoxin is a substance that causes damage to your brain. These dangerous toxins can harm the central nervous system, interfering with normal brain development and neurotransmitters, among other detrimental effects. There is alarming evidence in several studies that found more than 200 neurotoxins in the umbilical cord blood of newborns, demonstrating not only how …

Argan Kernel Oil

(Argania Spinosa) What It Is Argan oil is nutrient rich golden oil that is pressed out of the hard nut that is encased in protective fruit-like pulp. Why We Love It Argan Oil is not only rich in Omega fatty acids; it is particularly rich in the harder to come by Omegas 6 and 9. …