It’s no surprise to this green beauty girl that Aveda has won the Cradle 2 Cradle’s Gold certification for 7 products. The award-winning news was out faster than the latest hair trends and Aveda garnered the endorsement through their dedication to the environment for the last 30 years. I guess you can say they had a jump-start on things.

Since the new trend sweeping the beauty industry is going green – and with Aveda setting the bar high for not only salons but also beauty and cosmetology schools and engage in this new trend – most of them are stepping up to the plate and going green. And, we have found some salons are making the commitment to go green as seriously as Aveda has.

More and more, we are seeing beauty products change from the old school, chemical-laden concoction that our mothers used in the ‘70s and ‘80s into more organic, preservative-free products. While the movement is still gaining steam, some salons are making a commitment to the environment and their bodies through green products. Not only do people want to see more variety on shelves and in their salons, they want to make sure they don’t carry the laundry list of harmful beauty product ingredients that are bad for them and Mother Earth.

The salons that are changing their ways, including Aveda, range from big chains to locally-owned shops. The public has spoken, and they want green, eco-friendly products and practices. In addition to adding all natural or organic beauty products, some salons and beauty schools are also using water sensors, energy-efficient light bulbs and hair styling tools, and setting up recycling bins.

Only time will tell if Aveda will be the Michael Phelps of the Cradle 2 Cradle certifications for beauty products.

We at Beautyschool.com appreciate skin care products that are eco-friendly and cheap! I have found a great way to have a luxury facial from the comforts of your own home. When I was reading one of my favorite beauty blogs, I came across a post about French green clay and how beneficial it was to all types of skin tones. The clay acts as a great an absorbent for oily skin tones and helps with acne-prone skin types as well.

You can make your own facial right at home and know that what you are putting on your face doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals or preservatives. That can only help the minds of your eco chicks who want to have a green alternative to facial masks.

Here is what you need:

•    1 tbsp French Green Clay
•    1/2 tbsp grapefruit juice (or carrot juice, if you have dry patches)
•    1 tsp honey
•    Drop of your favorite essential oil (optional)

Directions:

Mix the clay with the grapefruit juice and then add the honey and the essential oil, if using. Smooth the mixture onto your face and leave it on for about 15 minutes or until it dries completely. Gently remove it with a warm wet washcloth.

This facial mask is so gentle; you can use it twice a week. French green clay can be found at health food stores.