Updates & Tips Blog

Lavera Tan & Protect - The Tanning Bed Alternative

Gigi Baker — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 19:52:20 +0000

Lavera Tan & Protect - The Tanning Bed Alternative

It has been said that the greatest amount of damage done by UV rays is that received before age 20. Research definitely indicates that over exposure to the sun's UV rays during childhood significantly increases the risk of developing skin cancer later in life.

The teen years see the most high risk sun exposure. Out of parent's watch, and insistence of sunscreen usage, teens are much more likely to get sunburns and sun damage. And this is not only happening at the beach and pool, but tanning salons too.

Teens make up a large percentage of the tanning salon clientele, and research now shows that regular tanning bed usage prior to the age of 35 can increase the risk of melanoma by a whopping 75%.

Legislation is under way to put a ban on minors using tanning beds, with 32 states currently regulating the use of tanning beds by minors. New legislation would make it illegal for anyone under 18 to use tanning beds. The current law is children between 14 and 17 first need parental approval.

The threat of skin cancer and premature aging may go a long way toward encouraging our youth to avoid the damaging effects of tanning beds. Same goes to over exposure to UV rays from the sun. Lavera presents a great alternative to that harmful glow.

Let us a lend a hand with Lavera Tan & Protect Kit. Get your glow on while saving your skin (and your health) with our Glow & Go Self Tanner and our safe and natural sunscreen.

Get started with the Glow & Go Self Tanner. Our all-natural, chemical free tanner gives skin a beautiful glow without nasty ingredients or harmful UV rays. Organic plant ingredients lend light hydration to keep skin soft and supple. Easy application and streak-free.

Now that you have your color covered, protect your skin (and your "tan") with Lavera Sunscreen Lotion SPF 20 UVA. Our pure mineral sunscreen provides the best defense against sun damage, protection against both UVA and UVB rays, and is designed to be gentle on skin.

Get your glow on and protect your health naturally, with Lavera Tan & Protect Kit. The best of both worlds.

Can eco-friendly be elegant? Cruelty-free be chic? Fair trade be fashionable?

Gigi Baker — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 16:52:04 +0000

Can you be ethical and also a babe? YES - according to Annabella Asvik

Annabella Asvik is a TV producer and has hosted numerous TV shows and series such as A&E Network's Bio Channel and Full Frontal Fashion on the Sundance Channel. She loves fashion and beauty, but wants to be stylish and sexy without hurting the Earth or the creatures that live on it. Annabella hunts down products that make her feel good inside and out, and hopes to inspire others to make beautiful choices too!

Recently, Annabella has discovered Lavera products and has created an number of video blogs at, EthicalBella.com, that we want to share with you. Her videos are extra special as she has a number of professional make up tips that you will find useful. Annabella's latest blog demonstrates how to create a summer signature look using Lavera's easy-to-apply shimmery eye shadows and eyeliners. Your eyes will shine and your tan come alive. View Annabella's makeup tutorial using Lavera eye products. You can watch now by clicking on this video!

We have packaged these eye makeup products from Annabelle's tutorial as a new product called "ECO BEAUTY: Sexy, Shimmery Eyes!"

ECO BEAUTY: Sexy, Shimmery Eyes!
Includes the following products:

Customer Feedback:
"I loved the video and used your technique on my eyes yesterday - its nice to have someone show us ladies how to do it right! Thanks!"
G. Baker

Click the following links below to view other Lavera video blogs by Annabella:

ETHICALBELLA BEAUTY: Lavera's Natural Gentle Makeup Remover Review Now that we have a glam signature look for the summer, we need to make sure we get it all off at the end of the night. It's so important to let skin breath! Annabella demonstrates in her video blog, how to use Lavera's Gentle Make-up Remover.

ETHICALBELLA: Lavera's Natural Self-Tanner Review - Amazing Tan! A great looking tan, healthy ingredients, and no sun damage! Looks like you've found your summer staple in New Lavera Self Tanning Lotion for Face & Body.

Sea Buckthorn; Powerful Nutrient for Radiant Skin

Gigi Baker — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 18:07:22 +0000

Lavera's Orange Sea Buckthorn products are the perfect summer cocktail for your skin! Why is Sea Buckthorn such a power house in the skin care industry right now? When it comes to vitamin C, sea buckthorn has about 16 times as much of this nutrient as kiwis. Not only does vitamin C protect your skin from the ravages of free radicals, it also plays a role in collagen production. This fruit is also loaded with vitamin A & E. These three antioxidants combined help to fight those dreaded wrinkles and play an important role in shedding the dead surface skin cells.

Sea Buckthorn also contains EFA (essential fatty acids), these natural lubricants that help your skin maintain a natural balance.

Using the Sea Buckthorn products is a great way to kick your summer into high gear and maintain the perfect balance of collagen production and moisture retention. Lavera isn't the only one that stands behind Sea Buckthorn, even Dr. Oz LOVES his Sea Buckthorn. The incredibly high antioxidant properties of the sea buckthorn berry, along with its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties and its ability to be immune-supportive, make this an outstanding oil to improve total body wellness. The oil used from the sea buckthorn has even been used to reduce the risk of radiation burns for Russian astronauts working in space. Read the full blog article on Dr. Oz's website about additional benefits of the sea buckthorn.

The sea buckthorn berry, which is native to Europe and Asia has also been recently featured on the June 2nd segment of "The Dr. Oz Show," in which the health benefits of this berry were explored. Dr. Oz noted that sea buckthorn oil can keep the skin young and beautiful as a moisturizer for the face and body. Sea buckthorn provids more protection and nutrition to the skin due to it's high levels of free fatty acids, phytosterol, phosphatide, vitamins E and A, and carotenoids. The free fatty acids is easily absorbed by the skin keeping it slightly acidic which helps to fight infection. Linoleic acid and linolenic acid promote repair of tissue damage. Phosphatide, hydrocarbon and phosphatide forms a protective film to prevent excessive moisture loss. Sitosterol improves mirco-circulation in the skin. Sea buckthorn softens and lubricates the skin and keep it smooth and fair.

With this in mind, we created a collection of Lavera's Orange Sea-Buckthorn products together as our new Spa Package. Designed specifically for rejuvenating and nourishing your skin with high concentrations of antioxidants; vitamins A, C and E from the sea buckthorn berry. This Spa Package includes one each of the following Orange Sea-Buckthorn products:

Create Your Own Custom Skin Care Regime

Gigi Baker — Wed, 04 May 2011 19:28:11 +0000

While there are the four most common skin types oily/acne, dry/mature, sensitive, and normal/combination — none of us have cookie-cutter skin. You may have normal skin with an oily T-zone, or dry skin that is also sensitive, or oily skin that is sensitive...the list goes on and on.

The most important step in choosing your skincare is first determining exactly which products work for your skin. You may need to use a different moisturizer on your forehead, nose, and chin than on your cheeks and neck. Or maybe you have dry skin but require a cleanser with acne-fighting ingredients. Tailor-make your skincare to your individual needs.

Two very common issues are dry skin or oily/acne skin that is also sensitive. First, many women believe their skin to be sensitive when it may be a reaction to the toxic chemicals used to make conventional skin care. You may find that your sensitivity lessens, or even disappears, once you begin using natural skin care. You may also have sensitivity to certain ingredients. Look over your product labels and see if you can identify a common culprit.

Another cause of irritation is often due to over-cleansing and drying out the skin. If you are concerned about breakouts you may be using too harsh a cleanser on your face, sapping the skin of moisture (even oily skin needs hydration), which results in over-production of oil and breakouts. In this case, a mild cleanser and light moisturizer usually works wonders.

Just because you love a couple of products from one line does not mean you have to use the entire line or can't substitute a product from another. You may love the FACES Calendula Cleansing Gel from the Normal/Combo line, with the Wild Rose Toner for balance, Calendula Balancing Cream on the T-zone, with MyAge Eye Cream and Night Cream for over-night. It is all about finding what works for YOU.

As Liz Thompson, beauty editor of Organic Beauty Source, stated in this month's issue of JAYE Magazine..."Your beauty drawer should be as individual as you are. I think many women make the mistake of using what their best friend uses on her skin, or their sister, or their favorite movie star. Use products that are suited to your individual skin type and issues. If you are uncertain what your type is, ask a professional. And you do not have to use all of the products from a line just because it matches your skin type." Lavera skin care is all natural and completely free from harmful chemical ingredients. Unsure of which products you need for your skin type or skin issues? Rebecca, can help - call her at 1.877.528.3727

Alicia Silverstone blogs about Lavera Skin Care

Gigi Baker — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 22:13:36 +0000

It is as important to be healthy as it is beautiful - after all good health is the foundation of true beauty. And with Lavera organic cosmetics and skin care you can have both!

One time of life when you may tend toward a lower maintenance level is during pregnancy and raising young children. Who has the time or energy for elaborate skin care and makeup sessions?

You do not have to have much of either to maintain beautiful, glowing, healthy skin. As expectant mom Alicia Silverstone knows, vegan/organic cosmetics and skin care are the answer to caring for your skin and protecting your baby at the same time.

As a matter of fact, Alicia loves Lavera products. Just check out her blog on her website - theKindLife.com

Calendula Cleansing Gel - This gentle foaming cleanser gets rid of dirt and makeup without irritating skin. Contains Organic Calendula, Witch hazel, and Mallow extract.

Wild Rose Moisturizing Cream - Light and nourishing, instantly restores radiance to dry or tired skin. Made with Organic Sweet Almond Oil and pure flower extracts.

Wild Rose Eye Gel - Brighten and refresh sleepy eyes with this light and gentle gel made with Organic Evening Primrose.

Volume Mascara - Nothing opens eyes and gives the finishing touch like our natural-look Volume Mascara. Contains Organic Jojoba oil and natural minerals.

Rose Milk Shampoo - Add luster and tone to dry or stressed hair. Made with Organic Macadamia and Avocado oils, plus Wheat proteins for elasticity.

Mango Milk Hair Treatment - This deep conditioner contains anti-oxidant rich Organic Mango and Green tea extracts to protect hair, while Organic Cocoa and Shea butters seal in moisture.

Treat yourself or a mom you know this Mother's Day with organic cosmetics that pamper and protect not only the skin, but the entire body.

Self Tanners Also Need Protection

Gigi Baker — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 20:53:58 +0000

Its important to note that Lavera self tanners do not protect against the damaging effects of the sun. That's the job of Lavera's sunscreens. Lavera uses 100% natural mineral pigments to deliver effective UV-A, B and C protection in the SUN product line. Mineral pigments create a physical shield that sits on the surface of the skin to block UV rays. Unlike synthetic sunscreen ingredients, mineral pigments do not accumulate in the body and affect the healthy functioning of internal organs or the normal balance of reproductive hormones. The current sunscreen line has been reformulated to meet the strict European Union sunscreen regulations, requiring UVA protection be at 1/3rd of the stated SPF, ensuring you have the best protection possible.

Lavera Self Tanners — A Healthy and Safe Approach to Tanning

This unaltered photo shows a smooth, natural tan develop on the right arm compared to the untreated left arm. Lavera self tanners give you a healthy sunkissed tan within only 3 hours after initial application. There are two organic self tanning lotions from Lavera - one for the face, another for the body, that's completely chemical and toxin free!

Lavera's “Tan and Protect Kit” — Healthy Looking Tan & Sun Protection

Kit includes:

Now you can have the best of both worlds! Enjoy being in the sun without exposure to the damaging effects of the sun AND have a great looking tan without exposure to harmful chemicals!

First apply a tanner for that sunkissed glow of being in the sun then apply sunscreen to protect against the damages of the sun. You will look and feel great.

Serums and Eye Care - LAVERÉ, MyAge, & FACES

Gigi Baker — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 20:50:23 +0000

So far in our anti-aging series we have covered moisturizer, peels and masks, and even bronzers. Last week we talked about all that the SOLUTION Anti-aging line has to offer mature skin. But what about the true heavy-hitters in our anti-aging line up? The ones that specifically target fine lines and wrinkles. Those products that provide the extra boost we are looking for in an anti-aging line.

This week let's take a look at facial serums and eye care products. While these are items that some women do not add to their skincare arsenal, serums and eye creams/gels are very important components in any regimen.

MyAge and LAVERÉ Serums

According to Susan Stuart, MD, a dermatologist for Martha Stewart's Whole Living Magazine, "Serums have smaller molecules, so they can get active ingredients like antioxidants deeper into your skin than a cream." Due to smaller molecules of facial serums, it is easily absorbed into the deepest layers of the skin. Whereas a moisturizer, containing larger molecules than a serum, is only absorbed into the first layer of the skin, the serums ability to penetrate deeper allows the powerful organic ingredients in LAVERÉ and MyAge products to do their work.

You'll find in our serums and eye creams higher concentrations of anti-aging active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, coenzyme Q-10, sepilift, and green tea extract. These ingredients perform a variety of functions - some are anti-oxidants, others are powerful humectants which absorb and retain moisture to help reduce lines and wrinkles.

One particular ingredient - Bearberry Leaf Extract - is a natural skin lightener that helps lighten age and sun damage spots. Bearberry Leaf Extract, can be found in the LAVERÉ SOLUTION Intensive Lifting Serum. Lighter weight than a moisturizer, facial serums absorb quickly, leaving skin refreshed and toned. Serums improve skin tone, brighten, and smooth fine lines and wrinkles.

Developed for mature skin, LAVERÉ SOLUTION Intensive Lifting Serum provides nourishing, light hydration. Sepalift is a plant-derived super anti-aging ingredient used in this serum to strengthen skin. Used regularly, skin looks healthy, smooth and youthful.

LAVERÉ Hydro Lifting Serum provides anti-aging protection to skin of all ages. Organic aloe vera provides light hydration without being heavy, perfect for those with oily or acne-prone skin types. Hyaluronic acid strengthens connective tissue and improves skin elasticity. Skin is left smoothed, soft and refreshed.

MyAge Lifting Serum is packed with anti-aging Green tea and Karanja Seed Oil. This serum provides nutrients to skin resulting in healthy-looking radiance. CoQ10 and Cova B Trox are used to supply maximum skin-firming benefits.

LAVERÉ and MyAge Eye Care

The thin, delicate skin around the eyes is one of the first places we notice signs of aging. Fine lines and wrinkles form here from squinting, smiling, and laughing. And because skin tends to get thinner as we age, we may notice dark circles and puffiness as well. Targeted ingredients in our eye creams and gels will keep your peepers looking fabulous for years to come.

For Puffiness, Dark Circles, Premature Aging

To revive tired eyes use LAVERÉ HYDRO Cool Eye Gel Roll-On, designed for all skin types. This gel helps to stimulate circulation, reducing the appearance of dark circles. The cooling action helps to soothe any puffiness. Eyes are bright and young-looking.

MyAge Cooling Eye Roll On is formulated with anti-aging white tea and CoQ10 to diminish puffiness and revitalize the eye area. Skin feels cooled and revived.

For Fine Lines and Wrinkles, Dry/Mature Skin

For extra anti-aging power try an eye cream. LAVERÉ Intensive Eye Cream boosts hydration while soothing the delicate skin. This moisturizing cream provides a matte surface, perfect for applying makeup, and leaves eyes bright and luminous.

LAVERÉ SOLUTION Eye Cream (Power Eye Glow) is a sure fix for mature skin - brightens, tightens, smooths, and reduces puffiness all in one. Anti-aging Argan oil delivers rich, non-greasy hydration, while carrot root tones and improves skin elasticity.

MyAge Eye Cream contains Sepalift and Nutri Ceramide for skin-firming and smoothing action. Natural plant oils provide rich hydration in this nourishing cream.

For Tired eyes & Dry skin

If a straight forward eye soother is what you are looking for, try FACES Wild Rose Eye Gel. Reduces puffiness, seals in moisture, and pampers delicate skin around the eyes. This light eye cream is designed for dry and mature skin types, but is light and effective enough for anyone.

Get serious about anti-aging skincare with our powerful facial serums and eye care products. You will be glad you did!

Help for Keratosis Pilaris

Gigi Baker — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 20:19:45 +0000

Keratosis pilaris is a common genetic skin condition which appears as rough, bumpy, sometimes red skin most often found on upper arms, thighs, and cheeks. These bumps are due to a buildup of keratin, a hard protective protein found in skin, hair, and nails. This built up keratin forms a plug which blocks the opening of hair follicles. When these plugs, or bumps, become irritated it causes redness.

Keratosis pilaris usually presents in childhood, often at its worst during puberty, but can continue into adulthood. The condition usually improves in warmer weather, while dry weather seems to exacerbate symptoms.

There is no known cure for Keratosis pilaris, though steps can be taken to keep minimize bumps and redness.

Regular exfoliation removes dry, dead skin cells and keeps follicles clear. This helps to prevent roughness and bumps. A mild scrub made with fruit enzymes works best. Sea Buckthorn Oil has also been found to work well on skin with Keratosis pilaris, and can be found in Lavera Orange-Sea Buckthorn Body Scrub. Remember to be gentle, and never exfoliate irritated or broken out skin.
Dryness will exacerbate symptoms, so keeping skin hydrated will help to ward off bumps. Lotions and creams with Jojoba are very effective in treating this condition. Jojoba oil is actually a wax ester very similar to the sebum (oil) our skin produces naturally. Lavera Basis Body Lotion Moisturizing is formulated with Jojoba oil for sensitive skin. Lavera Milk & Honey Body Lotion is also a great choice. Milk proteins are highly emollient and provide rich hydration, while lending mild exfoliation to keep skin smooth.
Use mild body cleansers made for those with sensitive skin to avoid dryness and irritation. Lavera Shower & Bath Gel Milk & Honey cleans gently without stripping the skin of natural oils. Organic milk proteins nourish and protect dry skin, while organic honey soothes and calms.
In dry winter months a humidifier can help to increase moisture in your home and keep skin hydrated. Limiting shower/bath time to under 15 minutes and using warm, rather than hot, water will help skin to retain natural oils.
In summertime, some time spent in the sun can greatly reduce the appearance of bumps. Just be sure to limit yourself to 10-15 minutes so your skin doesn't burn.
A diet rich in vitamins A, B-complex and E, and essential fatty acids are said to improve symptoms. Avoiding dairy, wheat, and sugar are also said to help in extreme cases.

Avoiding skincare with synthetic ingredients will also help to minimize symptoms of Keratosis pilaris. Lavera products are all natural and contain no harmful synthetic ingredients. Read the following review from one of our customers who has found success with Lavera products.

"I recently spoke with my doctor about my arm bumps, Keratosis pilaris. I have had the hardest time finding an organic product that would calm down the redness and smooth out the bumps. I told my doctor about Lavera and he mentioned that the milk in the products should provide an anti-inflammatory effect. I tried the Milk & Honey Body Lotion and Shower Gel, to my surprise it helped! I have seen such a difference with my arms in a few weeks. I would recommend this to everyone who has Keratosis pilaris. Thank you so much Lavera!"

-Mary J.

Products listed above are all vegan.

Lavera's NEW MAKEUP LINE has arrived!

Victor Tang — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 17:46:24 +0000

Open Your Eyes to The Latest in Eco-Chic Cosmetics

From sultry smokey eyes to red-hot lips, Lavera has everything you need to try out the trends for the season. Lavera’s new fall cosmetics help you get the look naturally—no chemicals necessary. Developed with good-for-you ingredients such as organic oils and flower extracts, Lavera develops every formula according to the strictest possible standards of natural and quality, offering products that are as green as they are effective.

Lavera does not use harmful synthetics such as parabens, emulsifiers, petroleum, phthalates, lead, preservatives and fragrances. Instead Lavera uses natural, effective plant-based alternatives that are certified organic whenever possible. Every cruelty-free, biodegradable product represents a smart, gentle choice for the skin, body and planet.

What has improved?

Foundations: (expected Nov 1)

All foundations were reformulated - there are now 4 colors of liquid foundations and 2 compact foundations as well as a Tinted Moisturizer(available NOW). There is a new ingredient used, an all natural Silica- Mineral, that will make the complexion appear soft, silky and smooth.

All items are non-comodegenic, they are all light and don't clogg the pores.

Powders and Shadows: (partially available)

In all products, we are no longer using Talc, but a natural Rice-Powder, which is especially suitable for very sensitive skin types. Furthermore, Rice Powder is popular as it is used by Makeup artists in the film industry, it gives a matt look to the skin and so works well on stage & for photography.

Mascaras: (available NOW)

First of all: Rest assured, our all time favorite, our Volume Mascara is still available! The new items are: Intense Volume Mascara, Double Black Mascara, Lengthening Mascara, and a clear Style & Care Gel. In all Mascara products, we are using Licorice root extract, Beeswax and Seabuckthorn to offer lasting and shine effect. A new ingredient we are using is from the Camelina plant - it gives a quick drying effect, so the staying power of the product is improved.

The formulations are compatible with the new brushes and silk was added to obtain even more Volume.

Eyeliners: (expected Nov 1)

All eyeliners were improved. Key ingredients are Jojoba oil, Shea butter, Carnauba wax and Vitamin E. They are soft and stay on very well.

We also offer a new Eyebrow Pencil and a new Liquid Eyeliner in 2 shades, black and brown.

Lipsticks: (partially available)

All Lipstick formulations were reformulated to achieve a longer lasting and more smooth look. The key ingredients are: Shea butter, Cocoa butter and Coconut butter. Due to the Silica-mineral used, a stronger pigmentation and color effect can be achieved also.

Also new are two shades of soft lipliner: apricot beige and plum brown

Ingredients & NaTrue Certification Improvements:

A higher concentration for Certified Organic Ingredients is used in the new formulations. For some items, such as the Powders and Liquid Foundations, the percentage is 95%. Furthermore, we have items in the new line with the highest European NaTrue Ranking of 3 Stars - one of only 4 cosmetic brands with this ranking.

We are very proud about all the new products - and the beautiful new colors & packaging!

If you have any questions about the new items, need help choosing a color, or to place your order, please feel free to talk to our esthetician at 877-528-3727.

Lavera Keeps You Glowing Beyond Summer

Richard Huston — Sat, 11 Sep 2010 00:42:48 +0000

Days at the beach, summer vacations, and time spent with family may be memories. But summertime skin is still a reality.

Fresh, glowing, bronzed skin is possible any time of year with Lavera Self Tanners. Pure natural ingredients impart sun-kissed color with no nasty ingredients. Sugar actives and vegetable-derived DHA (Dihydroxyactone) react with the skin’s amino acids resulting in a natural looking tan. The safe alternative to chemical tanners.

For a beautifully bronzed body choose from Lavera Sunless Tanning Lotion or Glow & Go Spray. Both deliver natural, streak-free results with easy application. For quick tanning with a bit of shimmer opt for Glow & Go Spray. Spritz on and blend into skin. If you desire a bit more hydration with your tanner, go for Sunless Tanning Lotion. Goes on like body lotion and both products possess a fresh, fabulous scent.

If you are not quite ready to use foundation or bronzer to keep your face summer-ized, FACES Summer Glow Facial Moisturizer is just what you need. May be used as a regular facial moisturizer, but includes a bit of self tanner for added color. Super subtle, this long lasting color will not wash off and looks oh-so-natural. Go from pale to perfect – quick and easy.

You may have to say goodbye to summer (for now) but not to your summer glow.

Perfect Tan Clearance Kit - Save 30% on the Self Tan Lotion and Summer Glow Facial Tanner – the perfect combination for extending that summer tan.

Updates & Tips Blog

Lavera Tan & Protect - The Tanning Bed Alternative

Can eco-friendly be elegant? Cruelty-free be chic? Fair trade be fashionable?

Sea Buckthorn; Powerful Nutrient for Radiant Skin

Create Your Own Custom Skin Care Regime

Alicia Silverstone blogs about Lavera Skin Care

Self Tanners Also Need Protection

Lavera Self Tanners — A Healthy and Safe Approach to Tanning

Lavera's “Tan and Protect Kit” — Healthy Looking Tan & Sun Protection

Serums and Eye Care - LAVERÉ, MyAge, & FACES

MyAge and LAVERÉ Serums

LAVERÉ and MyAge Eye Care

For Puffiness, Dark Circles, Premature Aging

For Fine Lines and Wrinkles, Dry/Mature Skin

For Tired eyes & Dry skin

Help for Keratosis Pilaris

Products listed above are all vegan.

Lavera's NEW MAKEUP LINE has arrived!

Open Your Eyes to The Latest in Eco-Chic Cosmetics

What has improved?

Lavera Keeps You Glowing Beyond Summer

Shop Now!