This month I had the pleasure of meeting up with Alexandra Nicolau, the co-director of Ecologic Cosmetics, a brand of natural, effective, and environmentally conscious skin care made in Mallorca.
Alexandra’s Mother Linda Nicolau founded the company in 1993, having trained as a cosmetologist and therapist, and working with prestigious companies such as Estée Lauder, Harrod’s, Versace or Dolce & Gabanna to name a few. Her passion for beauty along with her interest in the environment motivated Linda to create her own brand of high quality, climate friendly, natural cosmetics made in Spain.
In 2003 after completing a Business course at college Alexandra joined her mother at Ecologic. Alexandra is also passionate about health and wellness and she recognises the importance of protecting our planet for ourselves and future generations.
In the early 90’s, there were not many products that claimed to be ecological and “natural”. These days, “natural” can mean anything and nothing. When reading the label on any of your beauty products, how many names of the long list of ingredients do you recognise? In traditional cosmetics synthetic ingredients are used, derived from fossil fuels like petrol. Harmful to both your skin and general health.
Quality products with non-toxic ingredients
Ecologic products however are completely transparent. You can buy all their products and know that they are safe, cruelty free, mostly vegan, 90-100% organic, and 99.5% natural. They only use a non “natural” ingredient such as an emulsifying agent on a few products when absolutely necessary, to ensure the quality and effectiveness of the product.
A full list of ingredients can be found on their website here: www.ecologiccosmetics.com/ingredients
Not only are the products formulated from natural, ecological and environmentally sustainable resources-the packaging, from it’s manufacture to disposal is also environmentally friendly ensuring the lowest carbon footprint. Bottles are made from recycled PET plastics which are the safest and most recyclable and biodegradable available. Packaging is limited and cartons are compostable-made from recycled paper and manufactured using wind energy in Germany.
Alexandra stresses that this transparency is essential. Ecologic products are not officially certified Organic , since for a small family company the cost per product is prohibitive, however they purchase fully certified ingredients from fully certified sources, which is enough reassurance for most.
The products
Ecologic offer a range of products for face and body, for men and women. Alexandra describes Ecologic products as “intelligently formulated” for all skin types, adapting to the skin to restore it to a healthy, glowing and natural complexion. Expect age defying serums, creams, cleansing milks, scrubs and masks, body oils and lotions, shower gels and hair care. Delicious citric scents of sweet orange and Grapefruit to Mediterranean body oils with rosemary, mint infused Evening Primrose, Tea Tree and sweet white almond.
Being of a “certain age” I decided to try the anti-aging line, recommended by Linda. I bought the Bio Facial Elixir serum with rosehip, chia seed and geranium, and was given the newly launched Facial Liposome Serum with marine Plants and Botanical Hyaluronic Acid, with Vitamin C and E to try. I also believe in layering so purchased the 24h Anti-Stress cream with mimosa.
The verdict
I LOVE the whole essence and philosophy of this company! The texture of the products are both silky and light and rich and creamy. The fragrances are subtle, natural and delicately fragrant. The packaging, very elegant and ecologically and environmentally sustainable packaging.
Effective? Ecologic has ticked all the boxes so far so I would be very surprised if they didnt work their natural magic!
Written by Amanda Butler
About the authorIn 2002 Amanda arrived in Mallorca, seeking a change of pace and lifestyle after 15 years in London working in the hotel industry in international sales and marketing. She had a big wake-up call whilst nursing her dear, sweet and loving Mother through cancer. She became disillusioned with the main stream medical profession in the UK and began her own journey into alternative therapies and treatments. Since arriving on the island, her time has been spent combining a full time career in luxury real estate and pursuing her interest in personal development, alternative therapies and an holistic lifestyle. Amanda’s drive and passion is to share her experience and knowledge to enable her friends, family, and the Nourish community to help find a healthier balance in life and embrace a more holistic lifestyle. We can all take responsibility for ourselves, our lives, the society we live in, as well as the beautiful island and planet we live on. |