Bambootiful: Earth-Friendly Beauty

Everybody wants to go "green" or environment-friendly these days, but with the mainstream cosmetic industry offering few alternatives to traditional makeup and cosmetic tools, it's difficult to be a beauty enthusiast and environmentally-conscious at the same time. Until now. Did you know that the bamboo is a highly sustainable plant that can grow up to 4 feet daily? With such abundance of this versatile, highly usable plant, a company spawned the concept of an entire cosmetic brush collection made of bamboo handles and recycled materials that is as gorgeous as it is unique. EcoTools launches a collection of amazing bath and body accessories this month, as well as cosmetic tools that make it easy to go "green".

Green is no longer just an eyeshadow hue in your compact, or a candle on your countertop - it's become a lifestyle choice. With the launch of EcoTools, the premiere mass eco-conscious cosmetic brush and bath accessories collection, going green has never been more rewarding.

The cosmetic collection features animal-free taklon bristles (made from soft and pliable synthetic hair), with the metallic ferrule made from recycled aluminum cans. The beauty brushes are housed in reusable pouches and printed with plant-based ink, utilizing resources that minimize the negative impact on the environment. As an added bonus, the brushes are professionally designed to maximize beauty and minimize effort. Use the expertly-tapered Blush Brush ($6.99) to highlight and contour cheekbones with the precision of a pro. Or, when the occasion calls for a sexy, smokey eye, opt for the Angled Eyeliner Brush ($3.99), with the ultra-flat angled bristles. EcoTools gives skin a flawless finish while giving your spirit peace of mind.

In addition, EcoTools has a line of bath accessories that transform any bath from blah to bliss in seconds. Instead of scheduling massages and facials at the nearest spa, bathing beauties and beaus are enjoying the taste of eco-conscious clean with these plush, yet practical, products in their very own homes. For a genuine bath experience, the Bamboo Bathing Sponge ($3.49) cleanses and soothes tired skin. The Bamboo Loofah Brush ($4.99) combines an exfoliating sponge to smooth and polish, leaving you feeling fresh and rejuvenated. The complete EcoTools collection enhances the beauty and bathing experience and changes conventional thoughts of green products. Wherever you apply makeup or spend hours during soak sessions, cosmetic brushes and bath accessories from EcoTools make beauty simple and natural.

In a continued effort to give back, EcoTools has joined with 1% For The Planet, an alliance of businesses committed to leveraging their resources to create a healthier planet. Members recognize their responsibility to, and dependence on, a healthy environment. Therefore, 1% of EcoTools annual sales will be donated to the organization. In addition, every EcoTools product has a "green" tip on the back of the package. Everyone who purchases a piece of the collection discovers another small step that can create a greener lifestyle.

EcoTools products can be found at select Walgreens, Kmart and Ulta stores or visit www.parispresents.com for a store locator.

I love the Zen-ish appeal of this cosmetic and bath accessories collection. I love, love the bamboo handles, they look so classy and expensive, and I did a double-take when I saw the prices. Aren't those reasonable or what? I especially love that the synthetic hairs are uber-soft and very silky on the skin. I will definitely be using the powder and blush brush for my application of my minerals, and the eyeshadow brushes are also great, vegan and eco-friendly additions to my eye brush collection.