Celebrating Clean Beauty and Nature in B.C.

All that’s natural is celebrated by Burt’s Bees… in a shoreside retreat and a new collection of cosmetics.

To welcome the new natural collection of Burt’s Bees cosmetics, journalists and social media influencers from across B.C. celebrated clean, green beauty in Sechelt during a September nature retreat.After arriving via float plane at Wilderness Resort and Retreat at Cawley Point for the two-day excursion, we dove right into the innovative offering from the beauty giant. With liquid foundations and lipsticks, highlighter and bronzer sticks, concealer and more, the new products reflect the same respect for natural elements and clean beauty reflected in gorgeous B.C. wilderness.For those with a passion for the power of nature, the adventure was astounding… and informative.Ronnie Lee HillAbena Antwi, lead R&D scientist behind Burt’s Bees cosmetic and skincare formulas, took centre stage to explain about the process of creating products that are truly natural. She provided much insight on “the dirty dozen” ingredients found commonly in cosmetics but proudly avoided by Burt’s Bees new collection that is proudly “not synthetic”.

Ronnie Lee Hill

This list of 12 harmful components are used frequently in personal-care products and include possible carcinogens, reproductive toxins, pesticides and hormone disruptors. As detailed by the esteemed David Suzuki Foundation here, these toxins can be detrimental to the environment—and the body—so consumers should always read labels before making a purchase. As Antwi explained, it can be surprising how many harmful ingredients can be buried in our daily routine… and, with Burt’s Bees, one can find relief knowing that none of these chemicals will be in the products that comprise this new offering in the marketplace.Ronnie Lee HillParticipants prepared natural, locally sourced meals inspired by some of the key ingredients in the new Burt’s Bees collection, such as avocado oil and coconut oil. (And our hands got dirty during a cooking class—using natural ingredients, of course—where we made our own sweet delicacy. Doesn’t it look delicious?!)Ronnie Lee HillTo truly revel in the power and beauty of nature, a boat cruise showcased the wildlife and beautiful scenery of the province. After traversing raging rapids, guests enjoyed the sight of seals frolicking and playing among rocks on the shoreline.A morning yoga class provided serenity among the sound of birds chirping and the crisp, fresh air.Ronnie Lee HillWith all of the natural inspiration, it was time to create some original formulations. Guests undertook the opportunity to make unique liquid lipsticks using Burt’s Bees’ all-natural ingredients. (I had so much fun playing and creating my own nude shade. I’ll be using it for as long as it lasts! It’s limited edition, after all.)Ronnie Lee HillBurt’s Bees liquid lipstick is so luscious and pigmented with full coverage colour, providing all-day moisture with apricot oil, babassu oil, shea butter and essential fatty acids. The lightweight liquid lipstick glides on with a sponge-like applicator making it easy to apply with precision. Naturally free of parabens, phthalates, petrolatum or sodium laureth sulfate, they offer a rainbow of the truest pigments to tickle every fancy and create unforgettable looks.Ronnie Lee HillThe product introductions continued with the All Aglow Highlighter And Bronzer Sticks, truly another favourite things from the new line of products. Especially during long, gloomy winters in B.C., a nice glow can provide a much-needed pick-me-up. Great for on-the-go, they’re extremely hydrating thanks to coconut oil so it doesn’t cake or settle in lines or wrinkles, but also isn’t sticky or greasy. Three different shades top it all off, with a light bronzer, a medium bronzer and a highlighter, so there’s a perfect option for any skin tone.Ronnie Lee HillThis retreat with Burt’s Bees provided a relaxing getaway from busy city life, but also permitted guests to revel in the outdoors and experience nature at its finest. Like Burt’s Bees new product offering, B.C. celebrates clean, green beauty.