The 8 Commandments of Natural Beauty

Following these 8 commandments will get you on the right track to gorgeous and green beauty – both outer beauty, and inner beauty. Your cosmetics bag is an easy place to start to reduce your exposure to toxic chemicals. Doing so will not only leave a lasting impact on your own health, but on the health of your family and the environment, too.

I don't want to be the spokesperson for doom and gloom. Thankfully, lifestyle changes now, whether you're age 2 or 52, can reduce the chance that you or your children will suffer from the chronic diseases certain cosmetic ingredients are linked to.

Remember that the only thing you have to lose is an arsenal of old beauty products. But if you're anything like me, they'll be the best things you've ever thrown away.

Access to safe, natural cosmetics is still hard to find in certain parts of the country. If you're a New Yorker like me, you have a plethora of options at your fingertips. But convenience reigns supreme, and online shopping is one of the most convenient ways to buy products. Some sites even offer samples — like Saffron Rouge, where with every purchase, you get two free samples.

Shopping online is almost like going to a brick and mortar store anyway, thanks to perks like free shipping on many orders, and free returns.

Small Beauty E-Tailers

• Saffron Rouge
• Skin Active Scientific
• Mountain Rose Herbs
• There Must Be a Better Way

Large Beauty E-Tailers

• Amazon: Natural & Cruelty Free
• Drugstore.com: Green & Natural
• Sephora.com Natural & Organic Cosmetics
• Beauty.com: Natural Selection