babies

20 May 2022

Review Good Bubble Bish Bash Bosh! Hair and Body Wash with Dragon Fruit Extract
(Gifted/PR)

Good Bubble is aimed at kids but that doesn't mean it's off limits to grown ups. The range is cruelty free, vegan, made with allergen free fragrance and suitable for newborns and sensitive skin. I recently packed for a trip and took with me 100ml Hair and Body Wash with Dragon Fruit extract.

Good Bubble aim their packaging to children with bright colours and cartoon characters. It's adorable. The bottle is made from 50% recycled plastic and is fully recyclable. The range includes body wash, shampoo, conditioner, moisturiser, bubble bath, hand gel and coconut oil in a selection of aromas. I view the price point of products to be family friendly.

When it comes down to it Good Bubble Bish Bash Bosh! Hair and Body Wash with Dragon Fruit Extract performs as expected. Using a konjac sponge I can create a lovely lather. The fragrance is delightful and I don't have to worry about the presence of linalool as it's allergen free (aka no essential oils). I haven't experienced any noticeable issues with my skin whilst using this body wash. 

I am happy to suggest trying out Good Bubble on you and your family. Always patch test first but I have comfortably tolerated with daily use. If you are buying for a child then Good Bubble have some cute gift sets which include a bath mitt.

Sarah x

26 March 2022

Review Green People Organic Babies Baby Wash and Shampoo Scent Free
(Gifted)

For those of us with fragrance allergies finding scent free skincare can feel like a bit of a mission at times. Thankfully there are some decent brands who are catering for us and I've mentioned many times before Green People is one I've been reliant on for many years.

Before I talk about Green People baby wash lets talk about the differences between fragrance free and unscented. I have a sensitivity to linalool, under Cosmetic Regulations there are 26 fragrance allergens which need to be declared on labels when they are at a certain % in a product. This is a legal requirement and linalool is on this list. When we talk about 'fragrance free' we are generally referring to a formulation which does not contain natural or synthetic fragrance and it will have an aroma which naturally derives from the ingredients it is made from. On the other hand 'unscented' skincare has no smell but can contain substances which neutralise the aroma of the ingredients in its formulation. 

One issue which I believe can be confusing is to claim a cosmetic/skincare product 'allergen free' when the formulation is only free from the declarable 26 fragrance allergens. I think that consumers could misunderstand the product to be also free from top 14 food allergens. 

When it comes to baby products they tend to be gentler on the skin with lower levels of essential oils or even better they are fragrance free. It can be a go to option for any age group so I don't let the 'baby' labelling put me off. When I recently discovered my favourite body wash had been discontinued I was on the look out for something new and that's how I ended up testing Green People Organic Babies Baby Wash and Shampoo.

Green People Organic Babies Baby Wash and Shampoo has been created for children with sensitive skin prone to eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis. As the name suggests it's a multi-purpose product intended for body washing, bubble baths and shampoo. The formulation contains gentle cleansing properties to retain natural skin and scalp oils with key ingredients of Organic Aloe Vera, Yucca and Chamomile.

I've been using Green People Baby Wash in the shower with a konjac sponge. The concentrated formula means you don't need much to create a gentle lather. I can certainly vouch for the fact it feels gentle on my skin and whilst my skin remains prone to dryness it doesn't appear to exasperate this problem. As a body wash there is little reason to be unhappy as it performs exactly as expected.

I know many of you have concerns about packaging and may prefer zero waste options such as soap bars. I'd just like to mention that Green People state the following on their website - "Plant-based packaging. Ethical responsibility is at the heart of what we do. We are proud to present this conditioner in a fully recyclable, renewable sugar cane tube. Farmed on sustainable land, this plant-based packaging is completely carbon-neutral."

If you or your children can tolerate gentle scents then Green People Baby Wash & Shampoo is available in Berry Smoothie (I have previously reviewed) and Lavender.

I'm happy to recommend Green People Organic Babies Baby Wash and Shampoo for all age groups. If you would like to buy this products or view other items from Green People they are available online.

Sarah x

21 April 2020

review Organii SPF 50 Sun Milk and After Sun Cream
(Gifted PR)

It's important to use SPF when enjoying the sunshine whether you are at the beach, in your garden or on a walk. I often mention Organii products because I repeat purchase and think they offer good value for money. The liquid soaps and shower gels are essentials in my household but did you know they also have a range of suncreams? This includes SPF 20 Sun Milk, SPF 30 Sun Cream, SPF 15 Facial Sun Cream, SPF 50 Sun Milk and After Sun Cream.

Organii kindly sent me SPF 50 Sun Milk and After Sun Cream just in time for the glorious sunshine we had Easter weekend. Organii SPF 50 Sun Milk protects against UVA & UVB with a formulation containing Non-nano Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. The ingredients are skin nourishing and moisturising with extracts of organic Calendula, Mallow Leaf, Argan, Jojoba, Sunflower, Olive Fruit, Linseed, Rice Bran, Karanja oils to protect while keeping skin soft and supple. Chamomile works as a anti-inflammatory and Vitamin E defends the skin against radicals.

Organii SPF 50 Sun Milk and After Sun Cream are both fragrance free (no essential oil allergens). SPF 50 is going to be the one you'll use on the whole family (babies, children and adults) as it's suitable for delicate skin. Sun Milk does imply a fluid consistency which I would agree with and this was a pleasant surprised because from personal experience natural sun cream can often be thick and gloppy. It was my preference to apply SPF 50 Sun Milk on my body because I didn't like the feeling on my face. I am extremely fussy about texture and it wasn't right for me. On my arms and legs I thought it was quite good at not leaving whiteness but felt a little tacky at the end of the day however this is not an uncommon sensation with sun cream. I'm not sure why but I felt this product applied differently on my face and left a whiteness to my skin but I didn't think the same of my legs and arms. I have a medium fair skin tone so this might be something to be mindful of if you have a darker complexion. You may be able to combat this by mixing in some foundation before application.

When it comes to the Organii After Sun Cream it's the perfect follow up product but suitable for daily use for moisturising and soothing your skin. It's formulated with some lovely ingredients - shea butter, argan oil, aloe vera, calendula and Vitamin E. It's a lovely light lotion, which applies easily but also fragrance free. I struggle to find scent free body creams and after sun so I'm very pleased to be able to recommend this one. It's a very pleasant lotion, ideal for use during warmer weather regardless of whether you've been out in the sun.

Let me know on social media if you have tried Organii suncream and whether you enjoy using these products.

Sarah x

22 May 2017

Review Lyonsleaf Zinc & Calendula Cream
(Gifted/Lyonsleaf affiliate link)

Lyonsleaf is a company I am more than happy to support and I’ve be trialling the new Zinc and Calendula cream. This product is intended as a nappy cream but the ingredients can be beneficial for those with sensitive skin issues. You can think of Lyonsleaf Zinc and Calendula cream as a natural alternative to Sudacrem and it can be used in similar ways. Lyonsleaf's cream is suitable for skin that needs some TLC and protecting from moisture damage.

It is suggested that Zinc Oxide helps repair skin and people report that it works well for acne, rosacea, dermatitis and rashes. Many of you know that I experience seborrhoeic dermatitis on my chest (sometimes face) so I was curious whether Lyonsleaf Zinc and Calendula cream could offer me a solution to the discomfort of itchiness. I’ve had moderate success so far in conjunction with other products which I’ve been using. The cream has a smooth texture and a little goes a long way. On application the zinc can cause a white cast to your complexion but it disappears as long as you massage well into your skin. I envisage that this may be more noticeable on darker skin tones. I'm pleased to report that when applied at bedtime by the morning I have experienced relief of symptoms. The inflamed redness associated with seborrhoeic dermatitis has calmed and itchiness has reduced. 

The Zinc and Calendula cream is also free from essential oils so no need to worry about those pesky allergens. The formulation is suitable for vegetarians but not vegans as it does contain beeswax. I have the 30ml jar which is the perfect size for pockets and handbags plus a great way to test out the product at a lower price point. You’ll need to use a little spatula to get the cream out of the jar as it can be tricky with fingers. 

I think Lyonsleaf Zinc and Calendula cream is certainly worth trying whether on a baby’s bottom or on you but what do you think?

Sarah x

18 October 2016

Natural and Organic Skincare for Children
A while back I was chatting on #allergyhour about skincare and there were a number of parents looking for suggestions for children with sensitivities and eczema. My number one piece of advice for young and old alike is ditch products with sulphates (SLS/SLES) and artificial colours and fragrances. If you or your child is hyper-sensitive then be mindful of essential oils are they contain allergens.

I have previously blogged about skincare for babies should you wish to read this article. I am always asked about shampoo for sensitive scalps and my personal favourite is Odylique's Gentle Herb. Many of the brands I have reviewed over the years might not have a dedicated children’s range but products would suit the whole family and anything fragrance free would be ideal. 

I’m going to list out brands that I think are worth looking at for your family. I've used products from a number of these brands but others are new to me. Please do check websites for ingredients if you have specific allergies. 

Green People
Heavenly Organics
Lavera
Fair Squared
Child’s Farm
Jason Kids
Weleda
Organii 
Sophie La Girafe
Pai Skincare
Storksak Organics
Eco Kid
MooGoo
Luke & Lilly
Akamuti
Urtekram
Little Butterfly

A simple Google search will help you find these brands with local stockist and if you are looking for online retailers I can suggest Naturisimo.

Sarah x

29 September 2016

Review Ermana Soothe Mama Body Oil
(Gifted PR Sample)

These days I'm always on the hunt for products free from essential oils. Sometimes you have to think outside the box and look in the unexpected places, that's what lead me to Ermana Soothe Mama Body Oil.

I love to apply body oils immediately after taking a shower. I pat off any excess water and then slather myself. I understand that applying products to damp skin helps with absorption and I believe in that process. The ingredients are simple, a lovely blend of Prunus Armeniaca (apricot) oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed (macadamia) Oil , Simmondsia Chinensis (jojoba) oil, Tocopherol (vitamin E). Perfect for hydrating skin from top to toe including a baby bump should you have one.

Ermana Soothe Mama Body Oil has been a life saver for my itchy dermatitis on my chest. I have found heavy creams exasperate the issue because they "hang" around on the surface and my skin gets a "sweaty" feeling (the delight of having boobs doesn't help, ladies you'll be on my wave length). This oil doesn't feel like it sits on my skin and I can control the application from as little or as much as I like but still reap the same benefits.

Ermana products are hand blended in the UK in small batches to ensure they are fresh and they do not test on animals. The range is free from preservatives and contains no parabens, sulphates, artificial fragrances or colourings. 

Have your tried Ermana Natural Skincare? Did you find a new favourite product?

Sarah x

6 September 2016

review Odylique SPF 30 Natural Sun Screen for Sensitive Skin
September crept up on me so quick and my summer holiday feels like a distant memory right now. Greece was the perfect place to trial *Odylique’s new SPF30 Sun Screen. I am someone who has regularly experienced irritations and heat rash with sun creams so it was the ultimate test to use this in 30+ degree heat whilst basking on a sun lounger (in the shade of course!).

20 August 2016

August Empties featuring Gerlinde Natural, Mallow & White and Angela Langford
Disclaimer - *PR Samples

I'm struggling to find the time to sit down and film so I've resorted to a blog post for my recent empties. It's a little collection of bits and bobs that have accumulated over the months as I don't film/write these on a regular basis.

Gerlinde Naturals Manuka Floral Water - an effective toner which I love because I'm a huge fan of Manuka essential oil. I use this as part of my cleansing routine and manuka has great healing properties so I will often spritz elsewhere on my body if I am experiencing problem skin.

Mallow + White Soothe Cleansing Oil and Facial Oil* - I'm loving the new cleansing oil, the cucumber gives a refreshing scent and feels lovely on my skin. Mallow & White have been so generous in providing me a facial oil without lavender and I adore using this product. I've just started another bottle and use it morning and evenings.

Kate Logan Beauty Manuka Tonic - this has a few extra ingredients compared to Gerlinde Naturals. Whilst I enjoyed using it I would hesitate to buy again because I have a few concerns about the brand.

Vedani Botanicals Organic Skincare* - a bespoke facial oil which I enjoyed using, Vedani products are luxurious and carefully formulate with wonderful ingredients.

Petit Pai Body Wash - this is a mini size from the trial set I purchase, great product which I liked but wouldn't buy again as my Desert Essence body wash is better value for money.

Angela Langford Repair & Renew Facial Oil* - a lovely product which sadly I was unable to tolerate on my face (due to linalool) but I didn't waste it and used it up on my legs (which are less sensitive to my face for some weird reason!).

Sarah x

23 July 2015

Mia & Dom Organic Skincare for Pregnancy and Babies
Mia & Dom Organic Skincare is another one of my recent Twitter discoveries. They offer a range of products for pregnancy and babies. I reached out to the founder, Jennifer Feltham and asked if she would participate in an interview.

Tell us a little bit about how Mia & Dom began?
I have always had an interest in herbs, ​I am a qualified Medical Herbalist and a trained Aromatherapist so I knew quite a bit about there benefits and when our son Dominic suffered badly with eczema as a child, we tried many products natural and synthetic to try and heal him but nothing worked, so I decided to learn how to make it myself. Once I had a salve that worked, friends kept asking for some for their children and it grew from there.

Why is natural and/or organic skincare important to you
​Our Skin absorbs whatever we apply to it therefore we should be concerned about the products we use for ourselves and our children.​ Typically, commercial products contain mineral and other petroleum based ingredients like liquid paraffin. These oils are occlusive, they block the skins natural eliminative process for several days as well as drying out the skin.

What was the first product you formulated and why?
The first product was the Soothing Skin Salve for Doms eczema and is our best seller to date!​

What do you find most challenging when formulating products?
​Every ingredient is added for a reason, making sure the combination of botanical oils and essential oils is balanced correctly, and safely for delicate skin, whilst providing maximum benefit.​


Mia & Dom Organic Skincare for Pregnancy and Babies
Do you have a favourite natural ingredient and what makes it special to you?
Oh dear, I have at least three!! Rosehip Seed Oil, Calendula Oil and Tamanu Seed Oil would be the top three. They are all "super" oils in terms of their health benefits on the skin. A recent study in Canada stated "Tamanu oil has been thoroughly researched, and the conclusive evidence on its ability to heal damaged skin is overwhelming. Its benefits are notable for scarring, stretch marks, minor cuts and abrasions, rashes, sores, and much more"I recently wrote a blog about it click here.

What have been the highs and/or lows of establishing Mia & Dom?
The industry has very strict Cosmetic Regulations​, which is fantastic, but also quite daunting when you first start up. Getting your products cosmetically approved and registered is an expensive and quite slow process.

​The highs are the positive reviews I get for my products from people all over the world you have benefited from my products. Also, I have just been stocked in a national retailer Natures Purest ​which make organic childrens clothes and bedding.

What does the future hold for Mia & Dom?
​We want to increase our profile across the UK, Ireland and then take on the world!!​

Do you have any skincare tips to share with readers?
  • Avoid synthetic fabrics and opt for cotton clothing and bedding as it allows the skin to breathe and prevents overheating.
  • Use non-biological washing powder and avoid fabric conditioners and anything perfumed which may cause itching.
  • Keep the bedroom cool at night as heat can aggravate itching.
  • Take care at bath time – hot water is a major culprit at drying skin out. Keep bath time short use soap-free cleanser or pure natural soap.
  • Drink plenty of water, and limit sugar intake – sugar is one of the most important food substances to avoid, as it is often an eczema trigger
....end of interview....

If you would like to explore the Mia & Dom product line visit the website miadomskincare.com

Sarah x

Disclaimer - this is not sponsored & links are not affiliated

9 July 2015

Review Nom Nom Skincare Camillia and Vanilla Stretch Butter
I had mentioned Nom Nom Skincare a few times on my blog but I had not sat down to write a full review. This post is perfect timing as I finally meet Jayne at the LNLO show at the weekend. I discovered Nom Nom in 2014 whilst judging for the Free From Skincare Awards. They won Gold and Silver in 2014 but did not enter this year.

8 April 2015

Natural and Organic Skincare for Babies
We all know babies have delicate skin so in the first month it is recommended you only use water to cleanse and after this time slowly introduce products. The idea is to allow the skin to develop its natural protective barrier and this may help reduce the occurrence of allergic reactions and eczema. Be careful not to over bathe your baby, two to three times a week is recommended.

My first tip is an important one - always read the labels. I recommend you avoid sulphates (SLS - sodium lauryl sulfate/SLES - sodium laureth sulfate), parabens, petrochemicals (paraffin/mineral oil), artificial colours and fragrances. When opting for natural and organic skincare I recommend you select products developed specifically for babies as the essential oils will be at a lower percentage compared to skincare suitable for adults. It is still possible to react to essential oils so I would always recommend patch testing. Watch out for the term "hypoallergenic/dermatologically tested" as it can be misleading. It's a marketing term used to imply a product is less likely to cause an allergic reaction but that does not necessarily make it natural, organic or free from synthetic ingredients.

In your kit of baby products include soap/body wash, shampoo, body lotion/oil and nappy rash cream/balms. Avoid high street brands of baby powder (talc) as the ingredients can be considered harmful on baby’s lungs if inhaled (and same can be said for adults). I am also not a fan of lanolin and urea, common ingredients found in nipple balms and emollients. If you chose to use wet wipes, consider biodegradable brands that are free from perfume and alcohol. Please remember that unless the packet tells you otherwise, don't flush wipes down the toilet as they end up on our beaches. You may also wish to consider switching to a laundry detergent and fabric conditioner free from perfumes.

Many of the brands listed below offer products for Mum as well as baby. Gift sets are ideal if you are looking for value for money or a present for the new arrival.

Balm Balm - the fragrance free balm and oils are suitable for babies. I can also recommend the Chamomile floral water, a great multi purpose soothing mist for itchy skin.

Handmade Naturals - another personal recommendation, I have used many their products including the unscented baby oil. Alongside their own range they also sell Eco-friendly Baby wipes.

Konjac Sponge - I highly recommend a Konjac sponge for delicate, sensitive skin and their product line includes face and bath sponges for newborns and children.

Nom Nom Skincare - I had the pleasure of judging these products at last years Free From Skincare Awards. The Camillia & Vanilla Stretch Butter was delightful and suitable even if not pregnant. The range includes body butters and oils, balm, body wash and gift sets.

Odylique - again another favourite brand and I have tried the baby gentle wash & shampoo. The repair lotion is good for irritated skin and mild eczema.

Remember all these brands are suitable for adults as well but I do hope expectant and new Mums have found my post helpful. 

Sarah x

30 October 2014

Balm Balm Organic Chamomile Floral Water - Soothing Baby Mist
I have been using Balm Balm Organic Chamomile Floral Water for months and it some how slipped my mind to write a review. I love Balm Balm products because they are organic, have simple ingredients and affordable prices.

The website blurb for this floral water is - "Mist over sore, inflamed or itchy skin; rashes; cracked nipples or any areas that need a little soothing. Also perfect for spritzing over bed linen to induce sleepiness. Suitable for use from newborn but a ‘must-have’ for grown ups too."

For those of you not aware, a floral water is the by product of steam distillation of essential oils. They will have similar properties to essential oils but they are less concentrated. Floral water is a good product to have in your beauty cabinet as it has a number of uses. As I find chamomile works well with my sensitive skin, this suits me as a facial toner or for spritzing liberally when my skin is feeling delicate. Chamomile has a pungent earthy scent which may not be to everyone's taste. Balm Balm have four floral waters (including chamomile) in their range so you can chose according to personal taste or skin type. 

Have you tried Balm Balm products? Do you like to use a Floral Water?

Sarah x

10 July 2014

tiddley pom baby wash
Just recently it's been battle of the baby washes in my bathroom. Over the last few months, my sensitive skin had a hissy fit so I have been seeking out gentle products and looking at natural ranges aimed at babies. I had been using Dr Bronner's Baby Mild Bar Soap but I wanted to switch it up as I like the convenience of a liquid soap.

I knew of Tiddley Pom because they entered the Free From Skincare Awards in a category which I judged. The range includes body wash, lotion, nappy balm, massage oil, baby massage DVD and spa music CDs. The products are designed to complement each other and provide a step by step baby spa experience.

The baby wash contains lavender and chamomile, two of my favourite ingredients. It has a lovely delicate aroma. Full ingredients are available on the website. The lotion and wash do contain Phenoxyethanol should that be a concern for you.  The body wash has a good liquid consistency which easily squirts from the pump. I mention this because I have encountered other shower gels which are gloopy and hard to pump from the bottle. It also lathers perfectly on a shower puff. I have enjoyed using this product and would happily repurchase. My one criticism is I dislike the phrase "free from harmful chemicals" which is printed on the packaging. I think companies need to step away from using these words. At what point do we classify an ingredient as harmful? What I regard as dangerous may be regarded as safe by another person. For example, some people strongly believe Phenoxyethanol is harmful and so I do not feel the phrasing is appropriate.

Tiddley Pom offer bundle packages so if you are looking for a present for an expectant mum, I would certainly recommend browsing their website. Products are also available in Boots, Debenhams, Harrods and Whole Foods. The baby wash retails for £9.99. Have you heard of Tiddley Pom and purchased any of their products? 

Sarah x

26 June 2014

hannah & hugh baby
Just before I took my trip to Lisbon, I received products from Hannah & Hugh to review. Hannah & Hugh offer a small range of products for babies. The range consists of Rosehip & Calendula baby cream, Nappy balm, Hair & Body Wash. Products are free from parabens, SLS, PEGs, petrochemicals, artificial colours, synthetic fragrances and not tested on animals. Ingredients are sourced locally and manufactured in the UK.

My favourite product is the Rosehip & Calendula baby cream. I like the natural scent and the consistency is not too heavy which makes it easy to massage onto skin and absorb quickly without any stickiness. The cream contains two of my favourite ingredients – calendula and rosehip – so it really was no surprise that I have enjoyed using it. I am not as enthusiastic for the body wash, the scent and constancy are not to my personal taste. As for the balm, sadly I was not able to test it as I avoid orange oil. 

For those of you who monitor preservatives, the body wash and cream contain Phenoxyethanol. As these are products for kids then the level will be no more than 1%. I have clarified this with the founder who confirmed that it falls well below this level. Overall, Hannah & Hugh products are affordable (£8.50 - £12.99) and should be commended for good free from ethics. I certainly recommend over mainstream brands like Johnson & Johnson.

Have you heard of Hannah & Hugh? Have you tried any of their products?

Sarah x
Disclaimer - PR samples, links are not affiliated

18 June 2014

Nom Nom Skincare for Mothers and Babies
Kadria Skincare is no longer trading, their skincare range was intended for expectant mothers, new mothers and babies, here's an alternative suggestion Nom Nom Skincare

18 August 2013

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