Your Daily Thread » Tracy Hepler

Insider’s Look: Eco-Facials

Tracy Hepler — Wed, 04 May 2011 14:52:51 +0000

Get an insider’s look at the latest in eco facial techniques.

We visited Diana Ralys in Santa Monica to film our favorite premium facials.

For perfectly smooth skin, we recommend organic microdermabrasion once every two months. Organic microdermabrasion is gentle enough to be used around the delicate eye area and on even the most sensitive skin types.

To read more about our other two favorite treatments, check out our article on LED Light Therapy and the Micro Current Lift.

Video courtesy of Diana Ralys’ staf

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Five Green Dates To Try

Tracy Hepler — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 17:08:07 +0000

Take your love connection to the next level.

He loves me. She loves me not…regardless you’d better go on a darn good date, right? Here are five green dates to try with that special (or not so special) someone:

Bicycle Through L.A.

Seeing the city on two wheels instead of four certainly changes your view and perspective. Fortunately huge chunks of L.A. are flat so why not try bicycling from Downtown L.A. to Venice? Believe it or not, it only takes about 2-3 hours.

Kayak for a Cause

Renting kayaks on the Marina is a great way to spend an afternoon, but doing some good while you’re out paddling is even better. Try a kayak for two, paddle along the Marina and pick up any trash you see floating by. Your date and you will feel better about yourselves (PLUS you’ll get a great arm workout!).

Explore With Metro

Let’s face it; most people in L.A. don’t use the metro. Why not be adventurous and hop on a line (subway or bus) and see where it takes you? The metro stops in many L.A. neighborhoods like Hollywood, Downtown, Chinatown and more. The best part is you won’t have to worry about parking. Still hesitant? Watch our video on how to take the bus in L.A.

Farmers’ Market Kitchen

There is something quite intimate about preparing a meal together. Head to your local farmers’ market, pick up whatever tickles your fancy then head home and cook. You’ll get to see your partner’s savvy skills in the kitchen and show off your inner chef.

Sample Local Wines and Brews

Fortunately Angelenos don’t have to venture too far for local wines and brews. Malibu wineries are giving the Central Coast vintners a run for their money and L.A. based beer makers are having their brews requested nationwide.

Don’t have a date to take with you on all this fun? Visit HowAboutWe.com and propose one of these ideas to find your perfect eco-curious mate.

Images via ginnerobot and Kent Ng.

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Eco-Accessories For Your iPad

Tracy Hepler — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 16:12:58 +0000

Make your iPad a wee bit greener.

With version two launching later this week and various other companies releasing tablet devices of their own, it’s safe to say that the iPad, like the iPod before it, is here to stay. While it might use a lot of energy due to cloud computing, it turns out that Apple has gone to extra efforts to ensure that the iPad is energy efficient and does less damage to the environment.

As consumers, however, we should demand a little more (like not using PVC in the manufacturing process). For now though, we can at least vote for green with our dollars when it comes to our iPad accessories.

For the Naturalist

If you’re into the wooden look, we think you’ll love the Vers Shellcase that is handmade in the U.S. from sustainable bamboo. The nifty stand allows you to use the device in portrait, landscape or keyboard mode. Plus with every purchase Vers will plant 100 trees. Not too shabby.

Available for $79.99

*They have an iPhone version too.

For the DODO

Vegan and handmade in San Francisco, the DODO Case (good for the Kindle too) is made with traditional artisan book binding techniques and comes in a beautiful array of bright colors. It doesn’t hurt to mention that this case was awarded “iPad Case of the Year” by MacWorld.

Available for $59.99

For the ETSY Fans

This eco-accessory is handmade using biodegradable, water resistant wool felt that is strong enough to cushion your iPad for that “unfortunate” drop it is likely destined to have (sad, but true). Contact the seller directly for customization options.

Available for $56.00

Images via Etsy user packandsmooch and byrdandbelle.

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Celebs: Green Just Like Us…

Tracy Hepler — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 18:23:37 +0000

Hollywood goes green.

With the Oscars less than a week a way, celebrities are certainly on the brain. While we’re still not sure who is going to bring home the little gold man on Sunday night, we do know which celebs have been touting green practices over the last few weeks.

Spotted: Mike, “The Situation” from MTV’s The Jersey Shore has just kicked off his own branded GTL reusable laundry bags with The Green Garmento.

Will her dress be eco-friendly? The jury is still out. What we do know is that this best actress nominee will be wearing her eco-friendly engagement ring.

From protecting animal rights to using sustainable production practices, we’ve got the scoop on the Top Ten Green Oscar Nominees from EcoRazzi.

Say no to Canadian Seafood! Starlets and local celebrity chefs banned together to boycott Canadian seafood (due to seal pup clubbing) at the Chefs for Seals event at the Montage in Beverly Hills.

While most of us are familiar with the Post-Oscar Party (Vanity Fair, Governor’s Ball) the greenest one of all is actually the Pre-Oscar Party, hosted by Global Green. Previous attendees have included Leonardo DiCaprio, Orland Bloom, Penelope Cruz and other A-listers. Unlike the after parties though, you can buy your way into this event (and support a good cause too).

Images via Vanity Fair and PuntoIni.net.

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5 Last Minute Valentine Dates

Tracy Hepler — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 17:06:04 +0000

Last minute inspirations to help you plan the perfect V-Day!

Roses are red, violets are blue, you forgot to plan something for Valentine’s Day so what can you do? Fear not, we’ve got five ideas for you to do tonight. Don’t say we don’t love you.

XOXO

For Romance: Gaze at the stars at the Griffith Park Observatory.

For Arts and Culture: Take a nighttime stroll through the LACMA lanterns.

For Sea Breezes: Enjoy the view of the Pacific and the LED lights that adorn the Ferris wheel at the Santa Monica Pier.

For Adventure: Jump on the Metro and get off in a new part of town and see what you discover.

For Simplicity: Pack a picnic with your favorite food and wine, jump on your bikes and head to your favorite park.

*Remember if you do spend the night with that special someone, always practice safe green sex.

Image via weheartit.com.

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Bringing Sexy Back

Tracy Hepler — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 14:00:06 +0000

Green sex is good sex.

*Warning kiddies, these tips contains mature content that might not be suitable for younger readers.

Sex—we all love it and need it (well, most of us at least). But when it comes to the bedroom, many of us leave our eco-principals at the door. Why? If you care about the chemicals in your lipstick or shampoo, shouldn’t you also care about what’s going inside or on your . . . ?

So this Valentine’s Day, whether you’re spending it with someone you love or just by yourself, be creative, have a little fun and keep it green.

Condoms: Regular condoms are great for preventing unwanted pregnancies and STDs. Though latex is derived from trees, most condoms have a milk enzyme added. Those wanting a vegan option should check out Glyde or Sir Richard’s Condoms. And remember, you can’t recycle used condoms, so when you’re done, throw them in the garbage (not the toilet)!

Lube up: Who wants petroleum and parabens touching their most intimate parts? Yeah, didn’t think so. There are plenty of lubricants out on the market that are made without these chemicals. We suggest Good Clean Love for well, good clean love!

Green the Sheets: You’re not just sleeping on these; you’re rolling around stark naked. Wouldn’t you rather have organic cotton touching your derriere? Check out our guide to greening your bedroom for great ideas on keeping it natural when you’re au naturel. Ohh la la!

Sexy Skivvies: No need to run to Victoria’s Secret for sexy lingerie. We rounded up a sexy collection of knickers, bras and other goodies to make your man go gaga and make you feel like the sexy green seductress that you are.

Aphrodisiacs: Dark chocolate, essential oils and candles can all enhance you and your partner’s mood. Certain foods, organic beer and wine are known to do this, too.

Self-Love: Self-love can be just as important as couple love. Make sure you opt for sex toys made from safe materials like silicone, glass, metals and hard plastics. Again, you don’t want any funny stuff going anywhere near down there.

Image via We Heart It.

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Save (Your) Face: DIY Winter Mask

Tracy Hepler — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 14:30:50 +0000

Don’t let the blistering cold blister your face.

Let’s FACE facts: Between dry, cold air, harsh winds and even having the heat blowing when you’re indoors; winter can take a toll on your skin.

But have no fear, a simple at home DIY mask is here that is sure to help turn your winter skin frown upside down and leave you with a beautiful complexion (take that, Old Man Winter!).

Ingredients

1 Cup Plain Greek Yogurt
½ Cup of Uncooked Oatmeal
1 teaspoon of Honey

Combine all in a bowl and blend until ingredients are evenly distributed.

*Make sure you gently cleanse your skin beforehand.

*Using an unwanted makeup brush (a fan brush would be ideal), gently apply the mask on your face, neck and décolletage.

*Allow mask to dry for 10-20 minutes, based on your preference. I like to lie down while using this mask so it can penetrate the skin better.

*Wash off mask with water or a very gentle cleanser, then moisturize as usual.

Old man winter ain’t got me down.

Images via Flickr users JCasa *handmade, airymist, smitten, and OrenG’D.

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Founder’s Favorites

Tracy Hepler — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 16:01:59 +0000

During the holidays even the best of us let things fall through the cracks. So in case sugar plum fairies kept you from checking out your favorite daily email, we’ve rounded up the crème de la crème of Your Daily Thread in December.

Isn’t staying fit on everyone’s resolution list? Our friends from Exercise LA share where to go to keep in tip-top shape.

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No money, no money, no! We love the idea of paying for things with a different kind of currency. At the Echo Park Time Bank you give your time in exchange for someone else’s. Plumbing help, guitar lessons, home cooked meals, painting services (you get the point).

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If there’s one thing that will transfer from 2010 to 2011 it’s this: Minimalism is always in style.

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In a world where there is so much to choose from, we break it down really simply with green tools you’ll actually use.

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It’s still winter, so keep rocking these OrGLAMic eco-fashion items.

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Need to get your eco-beauty fix on? Our Beauty Editor shares 12 of her favorite skin care products from 2010.

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Need a quick vacay? Take a trip to the Malibu vineyards. Wine country is closer than you think.

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Now that the holidays are over, you can still satisfy your sweet tooth without grandma’s sugary cookies.

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And what better way to end this list than by saying “cheers” to winter beers.

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Images via Schadenfreudian Therapy, Apartment Therapy, Global Ghetto Organics, myperfectlullaby, Malibu Family Wines, Etsy user maiziejane, and honeytree and Flicker users artwolf2009. alanhynes and Christian Montone.

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