It's so easy to get sucked in by the catchphrases more and more cosmetic and beauty companies seem to be dropping. Of course we want to believe the products we are using are all-natural, and therefore, good for our skin and the environment. The writer of Pretty by Nature, a beauty blog dedicated to finding the best in organic and natural beauty products, has some tips to help you discern between the brands that really are worth spending your hard earned money on and those that simply appear to have hopped on the natural beauty bandwagon.

Dos

- Always read the ingredient list. You can’t go based solely on what the product says it has in it. Be sure that you know what you are buying.
- Natural beauty is better than anything you can get out of a tube. Buy makeup that will make you look like a better version of you; not someone else entirely.
- Ask yourself if you really need to buy this product or if you could make something better, greener and cheaper at home.

Dont’s

- Don’t buy into the hype. Everyone and their mama is jumping on the Eco-chic train using buzz words like”natural” and “organic”. Find out what that really means and what the company is really about.
- Don’t walk around feeling morally superior because of your lifestyle choices and act all self-righteous (although I have been guilty of that myself too many times). As my friend once said, “be the sweet fragrance that draws people to you”. You don’t have to beat anyone over the head with it. Let them poison themselves if they want. See, I’m a don’t.
- Don’t confine yourself to only established big name stores. While they are great, there are so many great finds in smaller local shops and apothecaries.

These are just some of the guidelines that I try to follow. Especially when I get caught up in the need to have more stuff. I find if I really think about it I can narrow down the list.

Most health-conscious individuals read the nutritional labels on the food that's going to end up in their body. Therefore, doesn't it seem to be common sense to have a glance at the ingredients contained in the products you'll be using on your body?

Hit the jump to see more of the recommendations offered on Pretty by Nature.

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