q+a

Q: My friend and I were talking the other day about make-up. She went to see a dermatologist recently after she developed a rash on her chin that wouldn’t go away with the normal face-washing regimen. Her dermatologist recommended she use only paraben-free make-up to keep it at bay. Do you have any tips who makes good paraben-free make-up? K.L, Boston, MA

A: This has been a question at the forefront of my mind recently after a rash (NO pun intended.. ok maybe a little) of office incidents that have left my coworkers and I troubled. My assistant had a problem last year with her eyes; specifically, that they were itchy and red with no apparent explanation. It turned out that one of the chemicals being used at her manicure salon was making her eyes irritated. Think that’s crazy? Another co-worker just discovered she had the same problem. There are chemicals and skin irritants all around us and our bodies can react mildly or violently in response.

Sephora has taken a dedicated approach to providing more natural and organic options for consumers. They have a specific definition for what “natural” and “organic” mean, which is outlined here. They even have a glossary so you can learn more about this side of cosmetics. Basically, product ranges containing 90% or more antioxidants, botanicals, essential oils, marine bioactives, vitamins, and minerals, and which exclude a minimum of 6 of the following 8 ingredients: GMOs (genetically modified organisms), parabens, petrochemicals, phthalates, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, synthetic dyes, and triclosan, can be defined as natural/organic. Some natural brands that I am familiar with which I enjoy are Korres (I use their Wild Rose 24-hr Moisturizer), and Caudalie, which are focused on skincare, and Tarte, which is primarily makeup. One of my friends swears by Bare Escentuals, which her mom gave her because she was always falling asleep in her makeup! It would be a good idea to go to Sephora with some products in mind and ask for some samples. If you explain your situation, I am sure a sales associate would be happy to help you try a few things out. If things backfire, they have a no-questions-asked return policy.

Since organic products can add up to a big purchase, it’s important to check out competitively-priced lines as well. I am a big believer in French drugstore brands, many of which are now available in stores like CVS stateside. La Roche-Posay is my favorite; I have used the Toleriane Dermo-Cleanser, the Rosaliac Gelee Makeup Remover, and the Anthelios sunscreen line. On the website there is a handy skin-type guide that recommends specific products. Another new cosmetics line out of Peabody, MA, Luxx Cosmetics, has great quality products in simple packaging with an online platform to minimize costs. More than half of their range is parabens-free and enriched with vitamins and minerals. I particularly like their eye shadows. If any readers have suggestions/experiences: share!