I went to college in Maine, so I have a special affinity for Burt's Bees, which originated there. This 99 percent natural body lotion is my favorite product from the line. It's ultra-hydrating and has a great creamy consistency and a clean, sweet scent.
There are certain things every beauty editor keeps for herself: the newest mascaras, fancy designer candles, and natural products that are beautifully packaged. We know we're supposed to share -- or at least show them to our colleagues -- but most of them go directly into our bags to take home and test ourselves.
While mascaras and candles have been coveted forever, natural products weren't always so appealing. Ten years ago most of them smelled like "hippy," had odd consistencies, or came in such unattractive tubs that we'd rarely take them home. Back then, brands seemed to think consumers wouldn't believe something was green unless it smelled like grass and patchouli. But a lot has changed over the last decade, and there are more natural options than ever before.
In fact, now the biggest problem in the category isn't lack of interest, but rather "green washing" -- where products that are only kind of natural are marketed as such. And there's even more confusion about organics. While USDA certification is the only way to guarantee that what you're getting is organic, there are plenty of natural beauty products companies out there that can't afford certification but use responsibly-grown ingredients -- you just need to know which ones are telling the truth.
A lot of our favorite brands don't have official seals, but we trust their products. In many cases, we've met the creator and learned about the company's philosophy first-hand. Plus, this new generation of natural beauty products smells and feels fantastic and comes in beautiful packaging -- very different from the old days. Keep reading to see the natural lines we keep coming back to again and again -- and our favorite products from each.
