Beautiful, Naturally

GOING GREEN IS EASY WHEN IT COMES TO SKINCARE.

Gone are the days when "natural" beauty products meant lackluster shades, questionable consistencies and stodgy design. Thanks to skyrocketing interest in eco-friendly offerings, the new generation of green goodies is more effective, abundant and downright glam than ever before.

What's the appeal of going green? First, natural-based products contain fewer harsh or potentially harmful ingredients, making them a healthier choice for daily use. They're also manufactured in environmentally conscious ways.

"The single biggest thing you can do to work towards a greener bathroom is to be discerning when choosing your cosmetic products," says Mark Constantine, co-founder of natural beauty giant LUSH Cosmetics. "Think about what you actually need, and do your research. Check the ingredients to see if there are any that you don't like and what effect the product will have on you."

Constantine also advises to "avoid products that are heavily packaged. Be aware that sometimes the contents cost less than the actual packaging of a product."

Pur-Lisse Pur-Bright

Nine plant extracts plus vitamin C reduce signs of sun damage for a more radiant complexion.
$135, www.purlisse.com

LUSH Cosmetics Shave the Planet

Cold-pressed organic oils leave skin soft. Although it's marketed toward men, it leaves ladies'laegs super smooth.
$15, www.lushusa.com

Thymes Essentials Face Wash

This light, mild cleanser is infused with magnesium, zinc and cooper to help shield skin from stressors.
$23, www.thymes.com

Korres Guava Body Butter

This ultra-rich cream leaves even the roughtest spots (think knees and elbows) silky smooth. It's enriched with guava, shea butter, sunflower almond and avocado oils.
$27/7.25 oz, www.sephora.com

Tammy Fender Epi-Peel Formula E-517

This exfoliating-mask-and-peel-in-one sloughs off dead cells for a brighter complexion, and helps refine pores and remove impurities so skin looks rejuvenated.
$80, www.tammyfender.com

COOL PRODUCT ALERT

Forget about packing a different bathing suit for each day of your trip. The "Trickster" swimsuit by Christina can be worn five different ways. $88, www.christina.ca