W3LL PEOPLE

I met the founders of W3ll People last year when I was doing a Gorgeously Green Getaway in Austin, TX. The dynamic trio, who are the 3 founders, blew me away with their vision and philosophy of a green and functional line of cosmetics. They gave me a makeover and what I really loved most about their products, was the texture and scent – both of which are quite unique. Their sticks are really creamy and so are very easy to apply and their signature scent – a blend of essential oils, is divine.

They started off with a small store in Austin and quickly gained a lot of attention.Since meeting them, I’m so happy that they’ve gone from strength to strength and are now to be found in all the really cool green boutiques in LA. I asked them to answer a few burning questions:

Tell us about the 3 founders of W3ll People?

W3LL PEOPLE’s dynamic founding trio combine the best of artistry, science, nature and social responsibility. With unsurpassed professional expertise in cosmetic dermatology, makeup artistry, sustainability and branding, the W3LL PEOPLE team care not just about how you look – but how you live.

 

What made you want to start a non-toxic cosmetic line?

After 23 years in the cosmetics industry working with models, celebrities and private clients, one request constantly came through loud and clear to makeup artist, Shirley Pinkson… “I want foundation that is good for my skin.” Who wouldn’t?! It was then that Shirley began her journey with W3LL PEOPLE. She contacted long time friends (we’re talking since college) Renee Snyder, Cosmetic Dermatologist, and James Walker, Sustainability Planner, to join her on a new mission: create the ultimate in toxin-free eco-beauty.

 

What sets you apart from other eco-friendly lines?

One word: PERFORMANCE. Unlike faceless corporations hungry for market share, or well-minded naturalists who don’t really understand makeup, W3LL PEOPLE cosmetics are designed by an elite, professional make-up artist who is best in her game, Shirley Pinkson. Having worked with the most demanding divas, her understanding of what a woman wants emotionally and aesthetically is unsurpassed. We apply a “conventional” approach to our line in terms of performance and color, but demand a completely clean product. The real innovation is creating luxurious products that can out last and out perform harsh chemicals with gentle and beneficial natural ingredients. It can be quite a challenge – but it CAN be done. And it’s fun!

What are the main ingredients in your products?

All W3LL PEOPLE products are made with premium quality 100% natural and organic ingredients. Period. We include organics whenever possible – as long as there is no compromise to performance. For example, all our cream based products are in 60% certified organic bases made with EFA rich sunflower and rose hip as well as our organic antioxidant complex of Green Tea, Pomegranate and Rei Shei Mushroom. The ingredients in our makeup are better and more beneficial than most of the “skin care” out there. The next step we are working towards are fair trade ingredients. We’re constantly striving to improve the quality of our makeup AND the world we live in.

How come they smell so divine?

 

We want our products to provide a completely elegant experience from color, to texture, to fragrance. The interesting thing is when you take out all the crappy chemicals and petroleums, makeup suddenly stops smelling like “makeup.” And you know what I mean. We then worked to create a proprietary blend of botanicals, including Italian blood orange, holy basil, tomato leaf and vetiver to create the “W3LL SMELL.” Simply put, it’s intoxicating without being overpowering. And it’s in consistent throughout the entire line.

Are they suited to all skin types?

DUH?! The brilliant part of our gentle, natural products are they rarely, if ever, cause irritation with sensitive or breakout prone skin. Since we only use premium natural and organic ingredients, like shea butter and grape seed oil, the formulations are hydrating providing perfect, elegant texture – even with mature skin!

What If I want a lot of coverage for perhaps going out at night – do your foundations work for that?

The stand outs of our line are the complexion products including our magical Narcissist Foundation + Concealer Stick and our
Altruist Mineral Foundation. Though they are both designed at a “medium” coverage level to impart a risk-free, natural beauty. They are both easily buildable to suit each individual’s coverage comfort level. A great trick is to use the two together, with the Narcissist as a base and Altruist dusted on top. With this combo you are Runway-ready guaranteed – in HD no less!

What is the best way to apply w3ll people cosmetics?

 

What’s cool about W3LL PEOPLE is, thought it’s designed by an elite makeup artist, it’s not fussy, or complicated. In fact, most of it is designed to be used like finger paint. One can use any of the travel friendly, purse friendly stick products to tap from finger to face and blend – EASY. That and a Kabuki Brush for powders and you are good to go.

If I could only afford to start off with a couple of your products, which are the 2 must-haves?

1. A Narcissist Foundation + Concealer Stick. Trust, you will love this forever.

2. A Universalist Multiuse Color Stick. With 9 shades that range from natural matte tones to luminous lively color,
you can add the perfect amount of life to the complexion that’s right for you.

With these two you products you can truly go anywhere.

Where can I buy them?

We’re featured in fine independent boutiques across the country form Exhale Spas in NYC to Fred Segal Apothacary in LA. Check out our website for a complete list, or to buy online: w3ll.com <http://w3ll.com>