Aveda products

Tried & Tested: Three reasons why Aveda should top your list of favourite beauty brands

There are three reasons why Aveda tops my list of favourite beauty brands. Firstly, it is genuinely eco-conscious, not just for show. The company has already been awarded a Cradle-to-Cradle certification for seven of its products, thanks to its combination of renewable energy, organic ingredients and environmental packaging.

Secondly, Aveda and fair trade go hand in hand. It works with Third World countries, where it offers fair wages, and regularly spends part of its proceedings on social causes.

And thirdly, its products just smell so darn good.

I recently treated myself to the Caribbean Therapy range. The body cream and body wash have natural aromas of Caribbean lime, amyris, bay leaf and vetiver, combined with mango and cocoa butter. These natural oils and butters are packed with minerals, vitamins and beneficial antioxidants, and don’t require any added chemicals or preservatives.

Moreover, they moisturise without preventing the passage of moisture, like synthetically fabricated alternatives, so that your skin can function normally. The scrub contains natural salt and Caribbean cane sugar to exfoliate, while coconut, avocado and passionfruit oils soften your skin. The scrub feels rather rough, but at the same time the oils leave skin so hydrated, some might not even need a moisturiser afterwards.

I love how Aveda has launched a special gift-packaged Caribbean Therapy range for the holidays, using paper produced by the inhabitants of the Himalayas. By supporting the local production of Lokta paper, Aveda fights deforestation and helps local families.

Caribbean Rejuvenation Gift Box, Aveda, €39.66,
Available at Aveda Lifestyle Salon Amir,
180 Chaussée de Charleroi/Charleroise Steenweg, Brussels