As I write, I am scrutinizing a certain conventional mascara that will remain nameless. I see a natural and nourishing ingredient I can stand behind! Jojoba oil. Maybe this isn't so bad ... wait a second. My eyes scroll down the label (I am writing this in real time, I assure you). There are more than two dozen ingredients, some of which I recognize and loathe like methylparaben, others that are still foreign to me and I would not be able to pronounce. Worse yet, there are others with names so long I can't even google them. And finally, there's an addendum to this worrisome list: a "may contain" list. There are so many numbers and dashes and signs I feel like Tom Hanks in the DaVinci code only not quite as astute and what am I searching for? A nontoxic mascara. I realize I probably won't be solving any mysteries until I review the green makeup tips I got from Lina Hansen, celebrity eco makeup artist.

What are the top 5 natural ingredients people should seek out in their makeup?

Makeup products that contain natural oils and antioxidants like cocoa butter, vitamin E, aloe vera, jojoba oil

What are the top 5 ingredients people should avoid?

Parabens, talc, tar, alcohol, dyes and fragrances.

Which types of makeup products tend to be the most toxic?

Conventional mascara tends to have the ingredient tar which can actually be a very toxic ingredient. I would recommend looking at the ingredient list of the products before you purchase them.

What are your top 3 natural skin care tips that can apply to any skin type?

Always wash your face properly after wearing makeup, preferably using a mild natural cleanser.

Get a facial done at least once every other month. You can also make your own homemade facial using ingredients from your own kitchen. Whenever in the sun, wear a moisturizer with SPF in it. It's important to protect your skin from the sun's rays.

What are your favorite natural cosmetics?

Mineral Fusion and Dr. Hauschka are two of my favorite brands, both available at natural products stores.