SEEING GREEN

I never leave the house without mascara. Ever. Even to go to the gym (okay, on the occasion I go to the gym). One coat applied and I instantly feel like I got a better night’s sleep. Finding an eco-mascara has remained on my to-do list for some time. It’s not that I haven’t tried but so far I’ve haven’t liked the consistencies or found brushes awkward. And as a photographer, it has to stand up to hours behind the lens without leaving me with raccoon eyes.

I’ve been a fan of tarte cosmetics since their first cheek stain almost a decade ago and was thrilled when they created their eco-cheek collection. Recently, I decided it was time to give their new mascara a whirl. Why did I wait so long?

All tarte cosmetics are paraben, petro-chemical, phalate, sulfate and synthetic fragrance free. And tarte Lash Hugger mascara is the perfect example of eco-beauty inside and out. Even the tubes are created using recyclable and post-consumer recycled material. This eco-friendly mascara also cuts out GMOs, gluten, talc and dyes. So, what is in it? The company calls them skinvigoratingTM ingredients like carnauba and rice bran waxes, mineral pigments and olive esters. Perfect for both eco-conscious and sensitive skins.

I love the brush. It creates volume and define lashes. Though I generally choose a brown mascara for day, Lash Hugger is only available in black. But it's actually quite light and fine for am or pm. In the evening, I’d probably start with a smoky liner and add an extra coat or two. The non-waterproof formula was put to the test this week during a long photo shoot in 90 degree temps. After hours in the sun I was exhausted but not a flake or smudge.

Lash Hugger is available in stores or on the tarte website. xo a.