VUE

C osta came across some of Brazil's most unique natural resources during his visits, whether by journeying off on his own or staying with local tribes. Today, the brand's main ingredients come from materials used for sacred ceremonies or scents that capture the very essence of his country. Costa Brazil refers to their unisex products as "rituals," designed to put you in touch with nature's harmonious rhythms. Not only do they benefit your body and spirit, but they also give back to the earth. "Brazil gave me an inherent appreciation of nature and an understanding of the beauty of simplicity. We celebrate ease and happiness in our culture. is delicate and perfect harmony of nature and the earth is the essence of beauty," said Costa. Costa Brazil's formulas, whether it's their luxurious body creams or anti-aging face oils, are certified clean meaning they're free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates and artificial colorants. Instead, they're building products from what they've trademarked as their Jungle Complex—a holy trinity of raw materials including Kaya, a nourishing superfood; Cacay, a natural source of retinol rich in vitamins; and Breu, a skin-soothing resin. In order to harvest these specific (and oentimes rare) ingredients, Costa Brazil partners with Conservation International, a non- profit environmental organization that's currently the leader of reforestation efforts in the Brazilian Amazon. Sustainability was by no means an aerthought when conceptualizing Costa Brazil, but rather the very foundation in which the brand was built. It just so happens to fall in line with the increase in demand for eco-friendly businesses. Costa Brazil's sustainable practices apply most obviously to their ingredients and sourcing methods, but also to their manufacturing and packaging—the latter of which Costa himself designed to be chic, minimalistic and hopefully a vessel to either be appreciated or reused later on. Since their inaugural launch, Costa Brazil's beauty offerings have included body oils, face oils, lotions and even burnable incense—believed to enhance peace of mind, focus and to balance the sixth chakra. ey've ventured into self-care products such as a $165 jungle- scented candle, and the line is rumored to eventually include soaps, haircare, unisex fragrances and a body scrub. More importantly, Costa wants the core of the brand to remain intact—simple, beautiful and able to reach those who share the same commitment to preserving the planet. "This delicate and perfect harmony of nature and the earth is the essence of beauty." V U E N J . C O M 60

• Cover