Switching Deodorants is an Instant Health Upgrade

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Traditional deodorants are full of chemicals. And sure, these chemicals prevent sweat and keep your underarms smelling fresh for a full day, but did you know these deodorants also:

• Have aluminum, which has been loosely linked to Alzheimer's. 
• Have parabens which which has been found in breast cancer growths.
• Have artificial fragrances which contain allergens, and unknown chemicals as part of an FDA loophole.
• Stains your clothes - your natural sweat does not cause pit stains - deodorant does!

Why are we rubbing this poison on our skin everyday when there are so many great, chemical free options?! These four have been tested and approved by the JUGs. For newbies, we highly recommend Lavilin and Soapwalla because they last the longest. Other brands are effective, but require more frequent applications.

Convinced? Ready to make the switch to a non-toxic, natural deodorant? Head over to lavilin.com and enjoy 20% off!

Discount Code: LavilinDeodorant20

Why You Must Try Dry Brushing

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Oil pulling, charcoal teeth brushing, juicing - there have been countless beauty trends over the past couple years - all a little strange, but many effective. Our latest tested-and-approved beauty trend is dry brushing. 

I first heard of dry brushing from Jody and Ashley as a way to continue the journey to good health after completing the 14 Day Whole Food Detox. And, after spotting a selection of dry brushes at Follain, I decided to buy one and try body brushing for myself. 

WHY BRUSH: Dry brushing daily before each shower promises to exfoliate, draw toxins out from the skin, activate the lymphatic system, smooth rough spots (elbows), and even help slightly decrease cellulite. 

COST: Sustainably-made sisal brush from Follain: $10. 

ACTUAL RESULTS: Starting out, I was nervous about over-exfoliating and irritating my sensitive skin, but so far, no problems. In fact, rather than being itchy or awkward, dry brushing is really soothing and comforting - like a quick mini-massage. As far as the other claims, let's go through them one by one. Does dry brushing...
Exfoliate? Yes.
Detox & activate lymphatic system? Hard to tell, but I feel great.
Smooth skin? Yes.
Decrease cellulite? No results in this arena yet, but I've only been brushing for about a month, and I hope to start seeing results in a matter of 6 months or so (before next bikini season)!
Bottom Line: Dry brushing takes less than 5 minutes per day and the results are well-worth the time. Plus it feels great!

 

- Cameron

Week of October 13

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C O L U M B U S  D A Y

Have the day off? Now is the perfect opportunity to check a few things off your Fall to do list. Or, you can sleep in and finally catch up on all of the fall show premiers. Any favorites so far? We've heard a few good things about How to Get Away with Murder, The Affair, and Blackish.

B E A U T Y

We are excited to join our friends over at Follain on Thursday evening for their event with Snap Top Market. Hope to see you there!

Many times, beauty comes from the inside out, and we are loving The Skeptic's Guide to Meditation as a way to get started on a mindset makeover. 

And....what the eff is raw shampoo?

G O A L S

This post from The Kitchn is a serious wallet saver - 10 Tips for Creating a Grocery Budget and Sticking to It. They're also teaching us how to cook our favorite fall vegetables.

And now that we've gotten a sneak preview of how awesome Society of Grownups is, we are definitely going to sign up for our financial checkups at their Brookline office - the first is free!

Oh ya,  don't forget to order Goldfinch from the library for this month's book club! 

P A R T Y

We are thrilled that #JUGsNightOut sold out in two days - but if you didn't get tickets, definitely get on the waitlist in case extra spaces open up. Also, our after party is going to be at a TBD North End location. We just got the news that Goody Glover's is closing and can't host us that night, sadly. 

Have a great week.

- Cameron

Color Clutch is a Nail Polish Solution for Every Gal

If you're a nail polish hoarder like us (like we have a nail polish addiction) then the Color Clutch is the product you've been waiting for. No need to fill your medicine cabinet full of Essie only to have your ridiculous collection topple into the sink every time your roommate grabs an advil. Color Clutch provides a neat, organized, and sleek way to store your polishes out of sight - but handy when you need them. With Color Clutch, you can store and display 18 bottles of any size nail polish bottle in just 2.5 inches of shelf space:

Color Clutch just launched their Kickstarter this week - we are so excited to see their progress. Both the pouch and the display case are sold for $30 in robins egg blue - but more colors may be announced if they reach their kick starter goal! Make sure to check it out and support these amazing entrepreneurs.

- Cameron

Healthy Lip Color Guide

1. Ilia Lipstick in Wild Child, $26
EWG SkinDeep: not rated
Think Dirty: not rated
GoodGuide: not rated

Why to Buy: Though Ilia lipstick is not rated by any of my go-to makeup ingredient checkers, it is sold at Follain, which has unparalleled standards for the safety and efficacy of their products. This lipstick is my absolute favorite because it is bold, fairly matte, and has major staying power. Wild Child is the perfect color to transition from the bright pinks of summer to the darker tones of fall.  

2. RMS Lip Shine in Sacred, $25
EWG SkinDeep: not rated
Think Dirty: 3 (clean)
GoodGuide: 10 (best!)

Why to Buy: RMS has quickly become our favorite healthy beauty brand, and the lip shine is no exception. This pocket friendly lipstick is easy to wear as a light gloss, or to layer on for a more bold look. Plus, the RMS lip shine passes the ThinkDirty App and Goodguide criteria with flying colors!

3. Mineral Fusion Lip Sheer Moisture Lip Tint in Glow, $10
EWG SkinDeep: 4 (moderate hazard)
Think Dirty: not rated
GoodGuide: 3.9

Why to Buy: I am a huge fan of lip crayons. They are super easy to apply, even without a mirror. This super-affordable mineral lip tint is perfect for daytime wear. The company offers a variety of colors but I am loving "glow" which is a fun bubble gum pink. This lip tint didn't get amazing grades from our third party reviewers mainly because it contains Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A additive) which can make your skin more sensitive to the sun - so make sure to wear a lip balm with sunscreen under this product.

4. Vapour Organic Beauty Siren Lipstick in Hint, $22
EWG SkinDeep: 2 (low hazard)
Think Dirty: 0 (cleanest)
GoodGuide: 4 (not enough information)

Why to Buy: Vapour Organic is an awesome brand. It is like RMS but for makeup lovers - or for a night out when you want a bit more coverage and color. Wearers can rest assured that their lips will be healthy, protected, and look beautiful while wearing this product. It doesn't contain any concerning ingredients.

- Cameron

Flash Tattoos

Last week, Cam, Suz and I attended an even hosted by Nine West to introduce their new line and collaboration with InStyle magazine.  Although the shoes were major, we were also very much into the flash tattoo table.  This trend is a great one to try, especially if you're like me and have never been ready to commit to a tattoo for longer than the great 3-4 day staying power of flash.  The metallic colors appear more like jewelry than something stamped onto your body and for short money!

What do you think, will you be trying this trend?

- Meredith


all photos via pinterest

Summer Beauty Routine

moisturizer ($55) // eyelid primer ($20) // corrective pen ($34)
eyeliner ($20) // highlighter ($38) // curler ($20) // lash lifter ($24)
brush ($54) // bronzer ($40) // mist ($36) // perfume ($80)

The thing with this summer humidity in Boston is that it doesn't make me want to wear makeup. At. All.  On the plus side, (safe) sun exposure provides a base so you can put that foundation away until at least September and keep it light!  Here are a few products that will still help you look put together but will not feel heavy on your skin.  You'll note two moisturizing products, something so important, in every season!

- Meredith

Latest Obsession: Miranda Kerr and Kora Organics

Typically, celebrity endorsement of a product doesn't make me any more likely to buy it. I am very aware that purchasing a J.Lo perfume will not make me look like her, so I'll stick to the scents I like (pure lavender essential oil), thanks. But when Miranda Kerr recently came out with her line of organic skincare, I was impressed - not by her name on the package but by the values behind her company. Miranda Kerr is a great example of a celebrity who really walks the talk when it comes to health and environmentalism and her brand, Kora Organics, proves it. Plus - Miranda Kerr is an Earth Hour ambassador!

Why to buy:

• Pure, premium quality certified organic ingredients formulated in accordance with Eco-Cert's and OFC's  guidelines
• No sulfates, parabens, synthetic fragrance, synthetic colours, T.E.A., D.E.A., Glycols, Silicones, PEGS, Ethoxylate or Formaldehyde or Formaldehyde derivatives
• No animal products or animal by-products
• Vegan, cruelty free, not tested on animals
• The products are luxurious and effective. (I've tested the body wash, rejuvenating day and night cream, and the foot cream - they are all fantastic!) 

- Cameron

Daily Read: The Conversation, Amanda de Cadenet

Amanda de Cadenet, photographer and former TV personality is back, in a big way!  This Brit returned to television with a show called The Conversation for Lifetime.  I just discovered the episodes online via Amanda's website, and her descriptions of the show being a way for women to "help navigate their lives," and a "universal language for women," are completely accurate.  The celebrity lineup is great, too, and the honest dialogue is reassurance that even celebrities have issues with self, relationships and health.

The web series is addicting, be sure to start an episode today!  It seems like Amanda is onto something fantastic.  We can't wait to see what else she has to come!

- Meredith

photos from Amanda's Instagram and website

The Best Non-Toxic Sunscreens

1. Block Island Organics Non-Toxic Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40
EWG SkinDeep: 1 (Low Hazard)
Think Dirty: Not Rated
GoodGuide: Not Rated

Why to Buy: First off, the JUGs love Block Island. How can we not support a skincare company named after one of our favorite New England getaways?! This high SPF sunscreen has no nano-particles or artificial fragrances. It is perfect for the beach because it is water resistant and absorbs instantly. The formula is vegan, paraben-free, phthalate-free, made in the USA, and was not tested on animals.

2. Beautycounter Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Face Sunscreen
EWG SkinDeep: 1 (Low Hazard)
Think Dirty: Not Rated
GoodGuide: Not Rated

Why to Buy: We love that this broad spectrum sunscreen is nourishing and light enough to use as an everyday moisturizer. Hyaluronic acid and safflower oleosomes supply and retain hydration, green tea and geranium extracts soothe, calm, and balance skin. This product does not contain nano particles which can often irritate sensitive skin. This can even be worn under makeup, so there is no excuse to leave the house unprotected.

3. Erbaviva Sunscreen SPF 30
EWG SkinDeep: 1 (Low Hazard)
Think Dirty: 0 (Neutral)
GoodGuide: 7 (Significantly Above Average)

Why to Buy: This sunscreen contains only natural ingredients, including: zinc oxide (a naturally occurring mineral), aloe, sunflower, olive and jojoba oils, chamomile essential oil, and lavender essential oil. Unlike many "all natural" sunscreens (cough, cough Burt's Bees), Erbaviva doesn’t leave white residue. Plus it provides UVA/UVB protection in water for up to 80 minutes.

4. Coola Cucumber Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Matte
EWG SkinDeep: 3 (Moderate Hazard)
Think Dirty: 4 (Half N' Half)
GoodGuide: 10 (Best)

Why to Buy: Coola is the JUGs' favorite sunscreen because it blends in completely for a matte finish. I repeat, you will not look shiny or oily after applying this sunscreen! It is also perfect for daily wear because it is antioxidant-infused for a line-smoothing finish. Most of the ingredients in the formula are USDA certified organic, making this not only a safe product for your body, but also for the environment.

5. Badger Lavender Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Cream SPF 30
EWG SkinDeep: 1 (Low Hazard)
Think Dirty: 1 (Neutral)
GoodGuide: 8.2 (Good)

Why to Buy: Badger is a local skincare company, based in New Hampshire. Their products contain some USDA certified organic ingredients, are non-nano, and are not tested on animals. Plus, this sunscreen is budget friendly so you can really slather it on!

- Cameron

Daily Read: Tuula Vintage

No, Jessica Stein is not a model.  She is a mid-twenties beauty from Australia with a serious case of wanderlust and someone with the best. job. ever.  She left the real estate world in 2010 and started an online visual diary, easy to see why she has built a solid following over the past four years!

Jess travels the world for fashion shoots and documents everything for her blog, Tuula Vintage.  The title was chosen based on the word "wind" in Finnish, which describes her lifestyle as a traveling fashionista.  Her statement is made in designer pieces, and she keeps accessories to a minimum.  I love seeing the various cities and landscapes that she visits. 

 Tuula Vintage feeds my daily case of wanderlust!

- Meredith

all photos from Tuula Vintage

Sunless Tanners

clockwise, from top: 1 // 2 // 3

Quick soapbox moment on this topic, I am a huge proponent of not using tanning beds.  I frequented them regularly in my youth (including a job working at one during high school...stupid), and ended up paying for it as a young adult.  Even though I was always good about sunscreen use, you're never invincible to the strength of the sun.  Especially with Boston being such a seasonal city, I make sure to slowly build a base tan to avoid burning, which is always the goal (plus leaving the dermatologist after an annual visit with the OK is an amazing feeling!).

Lately, I've been looking into and trying a few different sunless tanning solutions.  My most recent trial was a spray tan at Elizabeth Grady for an upcoming wedding this weekend.  It was completely customized and results are expected to last 7-10 days, not bad for $40!

A few of my favorite products above are so easy to use that they're a part of my daily regimen the first day that "tights season" ends.  LC and other online sources present a wide variety of products for the sunless tanning user.  Do you have a favorite you would recommend?  Leave a comment so we can try it, too!  And, while you're at the store picking it up, grab that 30-50 SPF, nothing less!  You'll be grateful when people think you're still in your 20s in another 10-15 years, wrinkle-free and a clean bill of health to boot!

- Meredith

Mini Daily Read: Nina Garcia's Pinterest Boards

In the spirit of summer and being outside instead of on our computers, we are continuing on with our "Mini" Daily Read series and this week's feature is on the ever-so-stylish Nina Garcia and her pinterest boards.

Many of us know Garcia for her role as the tough judge on Project Runway, but previous to the show her resume built up to be quite the laundry list of accomplishments. It is from her experience at top fashion magazines like Elle and Marie Claire that Garcia has gained the utmost respect from every gal out there, from the "it" girls to the fashionably clueless, and it's because of this we can turn to her for inspiration.

While I could spend hours devoting to combing her pinterest boards, I am deeming this a "Mini Daily Read" because many times throughout the week I visit Garcia's many style boards for quick, easy and complete work and weekend attire ideas. Running late for a meeting but not sure what to pair with your outfit? Check out one of her many accessory boards. Not sure how to wear a latest trend? Check out her outfit boards conveniently categorized by trend. 

All you have to do is follow Nina Garcia on Pinterest and you're ready for a stylish day. You're welcome.

- Suzanne

Pssst, fun fact: Garcia attended the Dana Hall School in Wellesley! 

Healthy Summer Shampoo Choices

1. Hair Cleanser No. 724, $19.95
Did you know that shampoo companies add unnecessary chemicals to their products to make them foamy? This product protects your long-suffering locks against mechanical distress caused by flat ironing, blow drying without foaming. Whether your hair is dry, oily or in between, this revolutionary shampoo, with its combination of healing oils and patented stem cells, cleans and heals without soap or suds!

2. Rahua Shampoo, $32.00
This 100% natural, organic and light-lather shampoo creates and maintains healthy, bouncy and lustrous hair. It works for all hair types and is especially effective for color-treated hair. You can find it at our favorite eco-beauty boutique, Follain!

3. 365 Lavender Blend Shampoo, $10.00
This budget friendly shampoo is great for people that are new to the whole eco-beauty thing. This product smells fantastic without artificial fragrances and is made with organic ingredients. Plus it works similarly to the traditional shampoos you're used to.

- Cameron

Week of June 2

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Happy June!  In case case you missed it, jam out to our playlist for this month!  

B E A U T Y
Are you a fan of face masks?  Don't forget these guidelines.


C A R E E R
Okay, it's summer!  Here's some more evidence that you should take that much-earned vacation.

Do you think your cell phone is killing your productivity?  This answer isn't too surprising...

What you're really trying to say in that email...


L O C A L
Spend 20 minutes of your day to watch Mindy Kailing's speech (or at least skim the highlights) from last week's Harvard Law School commencement.  Our favorite from Cambridge native never disappoints.

Burlington gal, Amy Poehler, just announced her new book cover and release date!  Hopefully it will make the JUGs book club list in its next cycle.

The second location of The Handle Bar opened in Fenway back in April.  I can't wait to try it out this week with other Boston Bloggers!  (Feel free to leave some first-time spinning advice in the comments, please!)


M I S C E L L A N Y
An oldie but a goodie, just let. it. go.

If you're a beer drinker, don't read this (well, read it, you're just not going to like it.)  A few of my favorites are on there.


Have a great week!


- Meredith

Latest Obsessions

1 // 2 (the only way to start a party) // 3 //
4 ($17!) // 5 (truth) // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9 // 10 // 11

Memorial Day Weekend is upon us!  This upcoming holiday is typically the kickoff for summer, which was especially long-awaited this year.  Before you party, check out this chic invite, J.Crew's latest collaboration with Paperless Post!  Ever since touring the NikeBoston renovations last month, I've had my eye on a pair of Frees, and love the hilarity of this Biggie bracelet.  I think I need to pickup that weekly calendar pad to stay organized this summer.  I recently purchased this perfume at Saks and it is the perfect light, summery scent!

Which would you want to pick up before your long weekend?  Enjoy, everyone!


- Meredith

Nail Polish for Memorial Day Weekend

The long weekend is just one day away! Hopefully the weather is nice, because I know all of us gals are hoping to log some hours at the beach/lake this weekend! If you're like me, your toes probably haven't seen the sun in a while, so prepare for a BBQ-filled weekend with a good mani-pedi in our JUGS approved color choices. Whether you're gettin' classy in Newport or keeping it low key on a camping trip, a festive mani will keep you feeling fresh. Enjoy the weekend ladies!

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6

- Cameron

Daily Read: The Chalkboard Mag

This week's daily read is one of my favorite healthy living and style resources. The Chalkboard Mag was founded by the team at Pressed Juicery, but Chalkboard has taken on a life of its own and doesn't seem like a promotional blog at all. Instead, the Chalkboard is a hub of information on fitness, interior design, nutrition, and beauty. One of my favorite columns on the site is "Toxic Timeout" which details the possible risks of chemicals we come into contact with via food or personal care products. It also doesn't hurt that the blog features an impeccable design and pin-worthy photography.

The diversity of their content gives many reasons to come back. I follow their RSS on my feedly reader so I can keep up to date on multiple topics. They have fabulous interviews and collaborations with artists, doctors, celebrities and more.

- Cameron

Life as a Mermaid

hat // polish // scent // sail bag // washed-out T // statement skirt // casual dress

I've had many nicknames over the years, one being Mermaid, which has stuck for a while now.  I've embraced it so much that it has seen its way into my wardrobe somewhat.  I already own the hat, so, without going overboard, I'd consider some of the other items above as future purchases. 

What about you, readers, do you have any favorite items related to your namesake?

- Meredith

Spring Skin Savers

Ever since meeting the lovely founder of Follain, the South End's eco-beauty boutique, the JUGs have been working hard to detoxify our skincare. As someone that's prone to the occasional zit, I've spent years applying all sorts of chemicals to my skin in order to keep "clear." Of course, I've recently discovered that non-toxic  remedies are not only healthier and better for the environment, they actually work better! Here is my secret recipe for truly clear skin:

1. First, rinse your face with warm water to open your pores. Then, use a cotton ball to apply Clairvoyant Beauty Refreshing Cucumber Toner. Though this product has not yet been rated (NR) by our favorite healthy beauty resources, The SkinDeep Database and GoodGuide, we know it is safe because we've checked the ingredients with the SkinDeep list, and everything looks good! (Note: be wary of any food or skin product that has ingredients that you don't recognize or can't pronounce).

2. Treat problem areas with OSEA Essential Corrective Complex. I am obsessed with this product. Not only is it a 0 on the SkinDeep database (no hazard), it smells amazing, and is highly effective.

3. If you are going somewhere soon and need to make huge zit look as small as possible before heading out, the miracle cure is the most natural of all: ice. Ice that bad boy for 15 - 20 minutes to help the swelling go down before applying makeup.

4. Especially if you are using products like toners and astringents (step 1), you'll need to moisturize. If you don't, your skin will go into overdrive and create excess oil to make up for the natural oils you removed with the toner. To battle this dilemma is Shamanuti Face Oil. Tara Foley, the founder and owner of Follain, recommends this product for people with "oily" skintypes. It is particularly good for acne-prone skin because it has sential fatty acids that help protect skin against infection and inflammation caused by bacteria. BONUS: Shamanuti is a Boston-based company!!!

5. The final step, of course, is to cover up the zit! RMS Uncover Up is the perfect chemical-free way to achieve a flawless face. The main ingredient is coconut oil, and the SkinDeep Database rated this product a 3 (no hazard). Impressively, RMS has received GoodGuide's highest rating of 10 because they don't use any ingredients in their products that could be considered health concerns.

Voila, now you have better skin than Natalie Portman. P.S. Don't forget the sunscreen!

- Cameron