Fair-Trade Beauty

September 18, 2008, 4:00 pmmarieclaire

Beauty brands are joining forces with indigenous communities around the world to take a stand against the exploitation of developing nations.

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From the Amazon jungle to the savannas of Africa, we take you on a global journey to discover the latest tribal beauty remedies making their way into your bathroom cabinet.

Guatemala

The harvest: Aloe vera
The story: Twenty-five farmers, from the Guastatoya co-op in the El Progreso region of the country, harvest, hand filter and process the aloe vera within 12 hours of picking to ensure optimum quality and avoid the need for preservatives.
The benefits: Renowned for its cooling sensation, aloe vera is the ideal choice for soothing sunburn. Sensitive complexions will also benefit from its healing and hydrating properties.
The buy: The Body Shop Aloe Soothing Body Lotion Sensitive Skin, $21.95.

Namibia

The harvest: Marula oil
The story: Kernels from the native marula tree are picked, sun-dried, de-husked and cold-pressed by the Eudafano Women's Co-operative in North-Central Namibia.
The benefits: With high levels of anti-oxidants and fatty acids, this oil is perfect for dry or irritated skin, while continued use encourages healthy new cell growth.
The buy: Trilogy Everything Balm, $29.95.

The West Bank

The harvest: Olive oil
The story: With the olive branch symbolising peace, it's fitting that Canaan Fair Trade - one of the largest fair traders of olive oil in this politically unsettled territory - was founded by Palestinians who support peaceful coexistence with Israel.
The benefits: An all-round star performer in skin, hair and nail care thanks to its moisturising and protective properties.
The buy: Dr. Bronner's Magic Pure-Castile Soaps, $6.95 each.

Peru

The harvest: Brazil nuts
The story: Every year, between January and March, more than 1000 families travel down the Tambopata River and into the depths of the Amazon basin to gather nuts from the jungle floor.
The benefits: The oil extracted from this nut is full of vitamin E and has hydrating properties, making it an ideal choice for managing and repairing damaged and over-styled hair.
The buy: Aveda Shampure Shampoo, $24.95.

Find out about fair-trade beauty programs in Morocco, Madagascar, Honduras, Ghana and Turkey in the October issue of marie claire.

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