Photo credit: Material Boy

The current economy is forcing most of us to cut spending anywhere we can. But it looks like we are still willing to fork over a little green when it comes to green cosmetics.

I have recently spoken with a few organic cosmetics retailers on this subject and was surprised to find out that sales have actually been up since Election Day. There are two schools of thought on why this may be.

People want to feel good, and nontoxic organic beauty products are an affordable way to obtain this optimistic state of mind. While most of us are watching our dollars very closely these days, a vacation or even a massage may be out of the question. But a new lip shimmer or deliciously scented body oil is something that we can allow ourselves. And when that product is also free from toxic ingredients, it not only glams us up on the outside but also makes us feel better about what we are doing for our health.

Ellen Holder of Caren believes their consistent growth in sales is due to a more natural response to healthier choices. “Most of [our customers] aren’t buying organic beauty products from us. They are buying skin care solutions. Period. Our sales keep growing because many of our customers, both men and women, have no other choice. Synthetic chemicals in other products, whether mainstream or the health food stores’ “green washed” line up, have failed them.”

This is good news not only for those who are using safe organic skincare and beauty products but for the larger picture, as well. Simply put, the more organic products purchased, the more organic ingredients needed, which is good for our communities and our earth. Our purchasing power at work!

Whether a small pleasure or an absolute necessity, it seems nontoxic skincare and beauty products are securing their place in the mainstream.