I recently received several complimentary eco beauty products from Spirit Beauty Lounge for the purposes of this Tried and True Green Products Review. This trial was a real treat. Here’s the scoop…

backstory – Spirit Demerson, organic beauty expert and founder of Spirit Beauty Lounge, (the only carbon-neutral online boutique specializing in luxury green, organic and cruelty-free beauty and lifestyle products), recently selected a Top 10 list of Natural Beauty Essentials for Fall/Winter 2011. A treasure trove of body-friendly goodies – here’s what we tried:

• Hydrea London Carbonized Bamboo Exfoliating Gloves – These are very cool. I’m a big proponent of exfoliating (year-round), and I usually do so by using a dry body brush. It was nice to be able to slough away dry flakes with an actual pair of gloves – made of bamboo fibers, no less. But their uniqueness goes even further. Silver in color, these carbonized gloves release Anions, which purportedly help discharge the body of positive ions from use of everyday electronic devices. They also release far infrared waves that help energize the body and metabolism as well as regulate body temperature, while the gentle exfoliating texture washes away dead surface cells, encouraging skin cell rejuvenation for silky smooth and radiant skin. Here’s what I know – using the gloves feels great. They gently rid skin of flakes and prepare it nicely for applying moisturizer after a quick shower. Psychologically, it’s nice to know it’s doing all that other good stuff, too.
• Maya Water Facial Mist is energizing Norwegian Thermal Spa Water, infused with Organic Acai. An eco luxury item for sure. It helps fight wrinkles and repairs sun damage; is ideal for all skin types; and skin absorbs water immediately. It’s lovely. I keep it by my desk and spritz whenever I feel my skin needs hydration. It has a feint scent, (nothing bad). It’s refreshing and energizing. $32
• Vapour organic makeup – comprised of 70% certified organic ingredients and 30% natural mineral pigments and vitamins which are not available certified organics. Eye colors are infused with organic botanicals to help nourish delicate eye area skin. I tried Lure, a new Aura Multi-Use Stain. It’s a one-stick wonder – a fast and easy-to-use multi-tasker that provides color to cheeks, lips and eyes – for when you want a bit of beautiful color but you’re in a hurry. (color-wise, think burgundy/brick/bordeaux), $28. I also tried  3 new Mesmerize Eye shimmers: Night, Stealth and Smitten. You twist a stick – and gently apply these gorgeous colors to the eye area. With a beautiful texture, they glide on easily. The formulas feel light yet last and look beautiful. When you’re ready, they wash off easily. $18
• Sheswai nail lacquer – yes, to polish things off, my toenails are now topped with rich and delicious, Metallic Chocolate. It’s really important to stay clear of toxins when it comes to nail polish. Thankfully, no worries here – Sheswai is free of formaldehyde, DBP’s and Toluene; made in the USA and the bottle is capped with a sustainably-harvested wood caps. So sexy and sustainable. I love not only the color, but how it goes on nice and thick and wears well. It’s been 4 days and not a chip in sight. $16
• WIDU’s revolutionary brushes have bristles comprised of a combination of sustainably forested hard wood and natural rubber, and feel great on my scalp as I brush my hair. The bristles are nice and long, and set wide apart. Called, the Sunshine Orange brush, it’s compact (easy to stash in purse or carry-on) and makes me feel happy every time I use it. $25

I’m feeling quite glam and ready for a change in seasons. You can find these, plus much more @ spiritbeautylounge.com … btw, don’t miss all of the sample/trial size green goodies.