Biodynamics are a Step-Up from Organic


Today I am talking about a new organic beauty trend that I just learned about myself. It is called Biodynamic and I read about it in the November 2007 issue of Shape magazine (on news stands now). Red Flower, a popular organic skin care line, as well as an all-natural skin care online store, Saffron Rouge, both carry biodynamic products. According to Jill, a Saffron Rouge beauty advisor I spoke with, "Biodynamic means that they practice organic planting and cultivation and there are no herbicides or pesticides involved in the growing of the plants. The plants are then harvested based on the solar system, as it is believed that when the planets are aligned a certain way, the plants are most potent, which is why they are harvested at this time." As described in Shape magazine, "if you consider yourself to be a true purist" you should be using biodynamics. Instead of simply avoiding pesticides and chemicals in creating the products, biodynamics actually nourish and feed the soil in a healthy way.


According to a Red Flower representative, their mission is "to create a 100% pure and sustainably sourced body wash and body lotion that exceeds every expectation of scent, moisturization and performance. By 9 am the average American puts more than 1,000 chemicals on their skin. Red flower sees a better way to start and end the day. We have created a nutrient for the skin and earth."


Red Flower takes a unique approach to organic skin care. The skin of 100% organic flowers is used to create body washes, lotions and scents. Red Flower has always created pure, organic skin care. However, biodynamic products raise the standards for those who crave an even more holistic approach to skin care. Not only are the actual products as pure as they come, but the packaging is eco-friendly as well. "Flower skin is packaged in p.e.t. plastic, the same plastic that is used for water bottles which makes it the most recycled and recyclable type of plastic," said the Red Flower representative.

The representative told also told me a few ingredients they regularly use and why:

• Biodynamic Honey***: This is a flower nectar that includes "hygroscopic properties that actually attract moisture from the air", while still thoroughly cleansing the skin.


• Wild Blue Green Algae: Contains "chlorophyll, B vitamins, beta carotene, pro vitamin A, lipids, active enzymes, essential amino acids."


• Spirulina: An organic hydrating mechanism.


• Laurel: Soothes skin and fights bacteria.

***According to the representative, "the bio-dynamic honey used as a key ingredient is produced in its natural habitat. Honey from this family of flowers is known for its rich, gingery tone and flavor." This honey is free of any dyes, perabins, sulfates, petrochemicals and preservatives, the representative said.


Red Flower has been featured in many publications and magazines for their unique approach to creating good-for-the-earth products. Check it out!


As I mentioned earlier, Saffron Rouge is a great place to find organic skin care and beauty products. According to Jill, "We carry organic products yes, and include all ingredients for every product, so if there are some that are considered to be 'yellow flagged' we make our clients aware, so they can make the choice for themselves". Their biodynamic page includes products like:

• Organic/Biodynamic Peppermint Oil--Helps fight nausea, tiredness, weakness and fevers.


• Organic/Biodynamic Lavandin Oil 'Super'--Fights muscle pain and infections, but can also be added to water for cleaning uses and protects against moths in the house.


• Organic/Biodynamic Floral Water--Clears up blemishes on skin.


• Wild Rose Deodorant--Includes all-natural herbal extracts as well as biodynamic lemons to fight bacteria.


• Calendula Cream Bath--Uses almond oil and biodynamic calendula flower extract. Can be used for both babies and adults!

According to the article in Shape Magazine, two other biodynamic brands to try are Jurlique and Dr. Hauschka. Enjoy!



Amy