body cream

19 November 2023

Unscented Body Butter for sensitive skin and those prone to allergies

For dry skin, prone to sensitivity, eczema and essential oil allergies try unscented Body Butter to hydrate all year around but especially during cold, winter weather

Akamuti Cocoa and Almond Body Butter

Conscious Skincare Pure Body Butter

Ezape Naturals Mango and Cocoa Butter or Shea Body Butter

Fushi Wellbeing Shea Butter

Green Woman Green Cream Unscented Body Butter

Heavenly Organics Unscented Body Butter

Hurray for Shea Whipped Body Souffle Fragrance Free

Kutis Skincare Naked Body Butter

Liha Raw Shea Butter Gold

Mrs Frisbee's Jojoba Butter

Naturally TIWA Yara Body Food

Nudge Boutique Fragrance Free Whipped Body Butter

Wild Seed Botanicals Naked Whipped Shea Butter (nut free)


(provided for information only/not sponsored/no affiliate links)

16 September 2022

Review Sukin Hydrating Body Lotion with Coconut and Pineapple

(NOTE: ingredient correct at publication, please check before purchase as formulations may change)

Long time readers will know I'm a fan of Sukin. I feel like I've mentioned them a million times in the last 12 years. I was recently in need of a new body lotion and purchased the Sukin Hydrating Body Lotion with Coconut & Pineapple.

I'm going through a phase at the moment where I'm choosing lighter lotion over heavy creams and balms. I finding myself getting a bit overheated and my skin feels as if it's sweaty under the weight of some products. It isn't a pleasant sensation so I've held back on some products over the last year.

Sukin hydrating body lotion is light in texture but it feels moisturising. I have naturally dry skin but it's coping just fine with this product. What I love most is the scent. Oh My! I am in love with the tropical, vanilla aroma which isn't overpowering but delightfully delicate.

Lets chat about the ingredients. Unfortunately if you're allergic to sesame seed oil you will need to avoid this one. For those concerned about essential oil allergens you'll find citronellol and geraniol in the ingredient list. Aside from these you will spot aloe, jojoba, rosehip, wheat germ, cocoa, shea, borage and vitamin E.

"Our Coconut & Pineapple Body Lotion refreshes and stimulates the senses, while a nourishing combination of Rosehip, Avocado and Jojoba Oils, along with Shea Butter and Cocoa Butter hydrate and smooth skin. An infusion of Aloe Vera, Nettle, Horsetail and Burdock restores the skin’s moisture barrier and helps to nourish dry skin." (Sukin)

Also I'm loving that Sukin body lotion comes in a 500ml size as lets face there is a lot of surface area to cover. Smaller sizes don't last very long when covering head to toe on an almost daily basis. Current RRP is £14.95 but I bought it for less on special offer. I've now discovered there is a matching scented body wash and I definitely need to buy that at some point in the near future.

I recommend exploring what Sukin has to offer and definitely check out Sukin Hydrating Body Lotion with Coconut & Pineapple.

Sarah x

20 August 2022

Review Green People Scent Free Hand and Body Lotion
I'm going through a phase right now preferring body lotions over butters and balm. Saying that I struggle to find vegan body lotions without essential oils or at best without linalool. Long time readers will not be surprised to find me mention Green People again. I've a long history to this brand that stretches over many years. If you're not already in the know, Green People have a Scent Free collection of products that I'm always talking about but I don't think I've given blog space to their hand and body lotion.

I'm sure you're all familiar with the texture and look of a body lotion and this one from Green People is no different to the norm. As you may expect it doesn't feel greasy and hydrates to moisturise the skin. The formulation is packed full of ingredients including Chamomile, Marshmallow, Organic Perilla, Evening Primrose, Olive and Shea butter. You will probably find that a little goes a long way which I think is common for natural skincare. The less is more thing is often true due to concentrated formulas. From top to toe this body lotion feels good on my skin. I have dedicated hand cream in my collection but this works in a pinch, it saves on space when travelling to have a multipurpose product. Personally when using as a hand cream I'd say the packaging is probably a little large for carrying in a handbag so it will likely be something you keep at home.

As I've said before dedicated reliable skincare which is free from perfumes and essential oils can sometimes feel like a mission to find. I honestly can't fault Green People products, perhaps the only very small and silly criticism is never knowing when you're about to run about due to the airless pump packaging. Moral of that story is always have a back up on hand.

Sarah x

23 January 2022

Review Lavera Neutral Intensive Cream with Silver
(Gift PR/prices correct at time of publication)

I've been using Lavera products on and off for probably around twenty years. It's a brand which is reliable and affordable. When it comes to my face and body in recent years I have been opting for creams. Oils are great but when my skin is irritated or on the brink of breaking out with eczema, I think it can respond better to lotions and creams.

Lavera has a Neutral range which is fragrance free for sensitive skin. You will have to check individual product labels if you are looking for Vegan skincare as not all are suitable. I chose the Lavera Neutral Micro Silver Intensive Cream, a body cream suitable for those with sensitive and allergy prone skin.

Even though this product is marketed for the body, I've ended up using as a daily face cream and in my opinion it's suitable for both functions. I'm not sure I'm qualified to comment on whether Silver is a crucial ingredient in your skincare but a quick google search will show you the supposed benefits for reducing inflammation and suitability for skin prone to eczema. It's an interesting ingredient which you may wish to explore further.

So here are my thoughts on the Lavera Neutral Micro Silver Intensive Cream. It has a nice balance on texture. I place it somewhere between not feeling too heavy but providing a good level of moisturisation on dry skin. It's an all round simple cream which comforts my skin and can be used under makeup. At under £20 for 75ml I consider that a reasonable price for a face cream but may not be seen this way if using as intended on the body. Lavera does have a Neutral Face Cream but it isn't suitable for Vegans due to beeswax. The next alternative would be the Neutral Facial Fluid but I would associate the word 'fluid' as having a lighter texture and therefore I wonder if it may suit my very dry skin. Perhaps in the future I will give this a try and report back.

Lavera is a German company. Despite an Austrian grandma and a GCSE in German it doesn't get me very far when trying to read the packaging. Beside the disappointment in myself it may be a problem for others. The front of the box is in English but there isn't an English translation elsewhere or on the tube. I can see how this cuts down on costs but it does present a challenge when understanding how the product should be used and explaining all the other wonderful benefits I'm sure they would like you to know about. You can seek out the information online but I don't recall this situation with other Lavera products so that's why it stands out to me on this occasion.

I think that Lavera Neutral Micro Silver Intensive Cream is worth your consideration if you have sensitive skin. Lavera is a huge brand with many products so even if you don't require fragrance free skincare you can easily find other suitable products. 

If you missed last month's review here's a link for you - Lucky Cloud Unscented Soap Bar and Terre Verdi ThéBianco Camellia Oil

Sarah x

31 October 2021

Pumpkin skincare for glowing skin
(not sponsored collated from research)

Pumpkin season is upon us and if you don't fancy carving them up for Halloween consider looking out for this ingredient in your skincare. The nutrients in pumpkin are mighty. It's full of vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids (omegas) and zinc which are ideal for dry, mature and damaged skin. If this sounds like an ingredient you need, then here is a little selection of products with pumpkin in their formulations-

Angela Langford Skincare A Little Lift - this plumping and firming serum contains electric daisies, frankincense, pumpkin seed, argan and hyaluronic acid to nourish, refine and hydrate skin.

Awake Organics Frankincense Brightening Serum - this is said to target fine lines and discolouration because it's contains Vitamins A, C and E found in Sea Buckthorn, Carrot Seed, Rosehip and Pumpkin.

By Sarah London Hero Facial Oil - a nourishing formulation which includes Sweet Almond Oil, Apricot Oil and Pumpkin Seed Oil that can be used day or night, all year round. It's also free from fragrance and essential oils so for me that makes it perfect for sensitive skin.

BYBI Acid Gold AHA Resurfacing Face Mask - an exfoliating face mask packed with natural AHAs to banish dulling, dead skin cells. The pumpkin enzyme in this mask derives from pumpkin flesh, a by-product of the pumpkin seed industry and usually gets thrown away.

Nourish Radiance Firming Facial Oil - formulated with omega-rich oils to lift, firm and hydrate the skin. Improves elasticity and reduces fine lines. It includes pumpkin seed for toning and protecting the skin.

Pai Pomegranate & Pumpkin Seed 2-Step Stretch Mark Oil A fragrance free stretch mark oil and cream duo to support you through pregnancy and beyond.

Skin & Tonic Inner Glow Face Oil - packed with vitamin C, alongside rosehip oils to rejuvenate your skin and pumpkin seed oil for skin-loving vitamin E and nourishing omega oils.

Sarah x

25 August 2020

eview Nature's Kitchen Summer Skin Box, PoaPoa Soap Dish, Skinlove Shower Gel
(gifted)

It's a mix bunch this month so lets jump straight in and tell you about these 'new to me' products that I've been testing.

Nature's Kitchen Go Glow Summer Skin Box 
This gift set contains Summer Skin Cooling Spray and Summer Skin After Sun Lotion, both are fragrance free. Aloe Vera is the key ingredient to both products and I can say that during the recent heatwave the Cooling Spray was a delightful addition to warm days. The After Sun Lotion has a pleasant texture which feels hydrating on skin but doesn't feel sticky, an important factor for me in the high temperatures. The presentation box is a nice touch for gifting. It works well general sun exposure and if we ever get to go on Summer Holidays again I can see this as a nice addition for the beach or pool.

PoaPoa Coconut Soap Holder 
A soap dish upcycled from coconut shells and handmade by skilled artisans in Ghana. Poa Poa use coconut oil in their soaps so these dishes use up leftover shells after extraction of ingredients. A unique soap dish that serves it's purpose and gives back. It has draining slots in the base so you will find yourself having to wipe over your sink from day to day. Stylish and eco-friendly, what more could you ask for.

Skinlove Invigorating Shower Gel Grapefruit, Lime & Ginger
A pleasant body wash that produces a soft creamy lather but for me it lacks the promise of an invigorating scent as I find the fragrance mild. I chose this shower gel because it doesn't list linalool in the ingredients (one of my allergies!). It doesn't feel drying or stripping of moisture, an important point for me having eczema prone skin. Performance is as you would expect from this type of product it's just the scent which has let me down.

If you missed last months reviews then hop across via this link - Green People Deodorant, Lavera Shampoo, Ooh Oils of Heaven Face Oil

Sarah x

4 August 2020

Annwyn Botanicals Hydrating Hand & Body Lotion with A Hint of Patchouli, Natural Body & Hand Wash with a Hint of Patchouli, Exfoliating Cleanser with Papaya, Soft Citrus & Herb, Sensitive Skin Moisturising Cream Fragrance Free
(gifted PR)

I've been introduced to Annwyn Botanicals through the Free From Skincare Awards 2020. Annwyn have picked up two medals - Gold in Face Care Wash Off for the Exfoliating Cleanser with Papaya, Soft Citrus & Herb and Bronze in Body Care Leave On for the Sensitive Skin Moisturising Cream Fragrance Free. Tester feedback was very complimentary for both products.

Lets me fill you in on a little background information for this natural skincare brand. Annwyn Botanicals give consideration to the environment when it comes to their packaging and ingredients. Products are lovingly handmade and inspired by the North York Moors. Where possible they responsibly source local herbs and essential oils and also use Fairly Traded Women’s Cooperatives from around the world. Many of their products are suitable for Vegans. Packing is recyclable amber glass and sustainably produced biopolymer bottles. I was kindly sent Hydrating Hand & Body Lotion with A Hint of Patchouli, Natural Body & Hand Wash with a Hint of Patchouli, Exfoliating Cleanser with Papaya, Soft Citrus & Herb but the stand out product for me is the Sensitive Skin Moisturising Cream (Fragrance Free).

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

14 January 2020

favourite green beauty skincare reviews for 2019
(features previously reviewed products gifted through a blogger partnership programme for Love Lula)

I had the idea to look back over the last year of reviews for Love Lula. There are a number of products which impressed me and have made it into my routine for the foreseeable future. I have gone on to re-purchase a number of products since my initial review which I think says a lot about them.

My April review featured Jason and Organii and whilst I did not go on to purchase these particular products again, I did explore product range for the brands. Jason Smoothing Coconut Body Wash has been a staple in our shower which both myself and my husband have been using. The giant 887ml bottle is very economical and it's nice to have found something which we can share as it was getting a little cluttered having separate bottles. Organii liquid soaps and shower gels are a firm favourite and I've re-purchased plenty of times. I generally have the fragrance free hand wash and shea butter body wash in my home but I will mix it up from time to time.

In June and August I reviewed the Giovanni 2-Chic conditioners and they have been very economical as I am only now reaching the end of the bottles. It's surprising how a change of scenery makes all the difference to performance of hair care products. It seems so silly but in our new house I'm not sure if the water or a better shower is the key factor but I switched up my preference from the original review. All three conditioners have their own merits but I will be repurchasing either the Repairing or Ultra Sleek and won't be swapping back to Madara.

In September it was Balmonds Daily Moisturising Cream that won me over and I'm still using up the bottle. My thoughts remain the same and I've been reaching for it more often in recent weeks following a break out in eczema. It's an excellent staple for all the family and I can't imagine not having it in my routine.

October featured Green People Anti-Ageing 24 Hour Cream which I immediately re-purchased when it ran out. I still don't like the anti-ageing message but the formulation and performance is spot on for me. It's been a long time since I was 100% sold on a face cream. Of course there are other creams I enjoy from different brands but I was going back and forth between them. Green People fits my skin type perfectly and I'm feeling much better about my appearance. I had struggled with dermatitis and redness and whilst I would never claim to be "cured" I am definitely feeling happier when using this product.

Nature's Kitchen featured three times this year as I reviewed the Oat Milk Cleanser & Makeup Remover, Purifying Skin Toning Gentle Care Face Mask and Gentle Therapy Rescue Cream. I enjoyed using all three products but it's the Gentle Therapy Rescue Cream that stood out to me the most. I struggle with dry hands over the winter months and it can be hard to find creams that are not thick and greasy but effective in protecting my skin. Nature's Kitchen ticks this box for me and the rescue cream has become a staple for my bedside table. The price point is great, a little goes a long way and I can see myself replacing once this tube is used up.

Sarah x

Further reviews for Love Lula in 2019 can be located through these links -

18 December 2019

Skincare Routine for Dry, Sensitive, Mature and Eczema prone skin
(some of the products featured have been gifted and previously reviewed)

It has been a while since I talked about my skincare routine and I thought it might be a nice way to round off the year. For anyone who is new to my blog for reference my skin is mature (I'm over 40) dry, sensitive, allergic and prone to eczema. I keep things very simple because I feel some times using too many products at once can contribute to eczema flare ups. I choose to avoid linalool (present in some essential oils) so many of the cosmetics I use are fragrance free.

I'm still very much a fan of cream cleansers and have switched back to Handmade Naturals Unscented Plum & Avocado Face Cleanser. It's a budget friendly option which I find effective and gentle on my delicate skin. It isn't scented with essential oils but has a lovely aroma from plum kernel oil. When I want to switch over to oil cleanser I generally opt for Handmade Naturals Cleansing Oil. I'm not currently using a toner, it's often the first item I skip when tightening the purse strings and it's also one of the hardest products to find without my allergens. My day cream is currently Green People Neutral Scent Free Anti-Ageing 24 Hour Cream. I recently ran out and repurchased so that should indicate how much I enjoy using this product. I feel it has been keeping my skin hydrated and soft throughout the day. In the evenings I switch over to a facial oil and I currently have two products on rotation, it really just depends on what mood. Myroo Super Boost Brightening Blackberry feels like a nice treat and a little different for me since I've never used Blackberry as a stand alone ingredient. I've also been reaching for Apothaka Comforting oil booster which I picked up in the Summer when judging for the Free From Skincare Awards. The ingredient blend includes cucumber, jojoba, macadamia, seabuckthorn, calendula and co-enzyme Q10. Both products are free from essential oils and helps maintain the balance to avoid further dryness.

I have some firm favourites when it comes to body products. Urtekram No Perfume Hand Cream currently lives in my handbag as the winter chill plays havoc with my hands and I'm battling constant dryness. On my bedside table I have Nature's Kitchen Gentle Therapy Rescue Cream to use at bedtime. Since my original review back in September I have continued to repurchase Organii Organic Shea Butter Shower Gel and team it with my Konjac Pink Clay Bath Sponge. My shampoo is still Odylique Gentle Herb and I'm working my way through a trio of Giovanni 2Chic Conditioners. I'm forever changing my mind on which one I prefer the most and it's a toss up between the Ultra-Moist and Repairing Conditioner. Before styling I'm still using the Evolve Organic Beauty Nourishing Hair Elixir and it takes me about a year to get through the bottle as you need very little. 

I recently bought in TK Maxx Alba Botanica Very Emollient Shave Cream (Coconut Lime) and I wish I had discovered it a lot sooner. My legs are super flaky in the winter and shaving can become an issue because my skin bleeds however the Alba emollient shave cream helps to prevent this from happening. Keeping my legs and body moisturised feels like a full time job during Winter but Balmonds Daily Moisturising Cream helps make the task a little more bearable and is effective at hydrating my skin. Regular applications are worthwhile to keep on top of flaky skin issues. If I want to target a specific patch of eczema my go to is Ere Perez SOS Marmalade balm, it's very soothing and quickly calms redness. 

I hope you have found this article of interest and I want to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Sarah x

26 November 2019

Nature's Kitchen Gentle Therapy Rescue Cream
(Gifted)

Eczema can be seasonal, some people flare up in the summer months and for others its the winter that causes them discomfort. For me as soon as the temperature drops I see a visible difference in my skin, it becomes overly dry, flaky and I feel like my eczema is laying in wait to jump out and yell "surprise remember me?". In winter my skincare routine switches from lotions to balms and rich creams with my entire body feeling rough but in particular my hands and legs. Balmonds is still a firm staple at the moment but through Love Lula I have the advantage to explore other brands for comparison. Nature's Kitchen has been a bit of a hit with me recently so the Gentle Therapy Rescue Cream was next on my list.

Nature's Kitchen Gentle Therapy Rescue Cream is intended to target dry skin and maintain moisture. It can be used anywhere on the body and the 50ml tube is the perfect size for carrying around in my handbag. Obviously it's a bit small for using as a daily body cream, that wouldn't be economical, but it's purpose would be to offer an intensive solution to smaller dry patches. I'm finding this product particularly useful as a hand cream. Straight away it get a tick in the box for being free from essential oils and vegan friendly. The ingredient formulation is packed full of ingredients which moisturise, calm and protect sensitive skin. This isn't a sticky or heavy balm consistency, it's a medium thick cream which my skin has no issue absorbing. As a hand cream it sinks in and I can quickly return to daily tasks without a greasy sensation. 

To round up this little review, I'm very happy with the Nature's Kitchen Gentle Therapy Rescue Cream. I would recommend to others and considering purchasing when this tube runs out. 

If you didn't catch my last review for Love Lula then this link will take you to the article - Green People Neutral Scent Free Anti-Ageing 24 Hour Cream and Nature's Kitchen Purifying Skin Toning Gentle Care Face Mask

Sarah x

15 October 2019

15 natural skincare brands with fragrance free products
(I have linked my reviews which include PR gifts & affiliate links are marked *)

For me the term "fragrance free" isn't just about artificial ingredients it also includes essential oils. I am someone with a sensitivity to linalool which is one of 26 fragrance allergens which needs to be declare on labels (when applicable to the formulations and present at a specific percentage). I thought I would offer readers a little recap list and recommendations for fragrance free products I've tested. I hope that some of you will find it a useful resource. As a heads up there is a mix of vegan and vegetarian friendly recommendations.

1. A'kin Sensitive Facial Moisturiser - one of the first brands I discovered on the start of my 'green' journey and to this day remain a reliable source of fragrance free products. The range includes hair, body and face products.

2. Balm Balm Super Light Coconut Cleanser - a firm favourite of mine for many years for it's simplicity because this is coconut oil with no added ingredients. Balm Balm also have some balms and a body oil which are fragrance free

3. Balmonds Daily Moisturising Cream - worth checking out if you experience skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or dermatitis. A number of products are fragrance free and suitable for Vegans

4. Bodhi & Birch Avo Bao Cleansing Balm - just one favourite from the amazing Superfoods series, totally free from essential oils but magically scented with the natural formulations, luxurious and beautiful.

5. Ere Perez SOS Marmalade & Green Booster Serum & Cranberry Lip & Eye Butter - I think (don't quote me) that majority of the Ere Perez skincare line is free from essential oils. The SOS Marmalade balm is a dreamy product and a total lifesaver when it comes to my eczema.

6. Ermana Soothe Mama Body Oil - the Soothe range is formulated without fragrance and includes balm, body oil (my personal favourite) body wash and lotion.

7. Ethically Organic Radiance Glow Face Soufflé - there are a couple of fragrance free options in the range,  this is a super rich formulation with simplistic ingredients of shea butter, baobab and jojoba. 

8. Green People Scent Free - probably one of the few brands that offer customers an extensive range of fragrance free products to include hair, face and body care including sun cream. Over the years I've reviewed a number of products from this line (moisturiser & hand cream review).

9. Handmade Naturals Unscented Plum & Avocado Face Cleanser - like A'kin this was one of the earliest brands I discovered and I've purchased from them many times over the years. Several of their products come in a fragrance free version. Alongside this cream cleanser the Face Cleansing Oil with Organic Coconut, Monoi de Tahiti, Japanese Camellia & Rice Bran is one of my all time favourite cleansing oils.

10. Lyonsleaf Marshmallow Soften and Rejuvenate Facial Oil (Unscented) - I found Lyonsleaf in 2013 and was one of the first to blog about them, they have done so well over the years and I love to see the growth in popularity. This facial oil contains a lovely blend of ingredients and feels rich and luxurious on my dry skin. This is not the only fragrance free product available there is the Calendula & Marshmallow Balm, Zinc & Calendula Cream and the newly launched unfragranced Beauty Balm.

11. Mallow + White Soothe Cleansing Oil & Balm - an ethos to use six ingredients or less and whilst that sounds simple enough it makes for an interesting formulation. Both products are fabulous and offer the consumer fragrance without essential oil allergens.

12. Myroo - offering fragrance free versions of their products, also free from top 14 food allergens, it's a personal favourite which I will have recommend to many of you. It's difficult to pick one favourite but I'd probably say the Superfood Balm and the new Super Boost Drops(UPDATE 2022 - MYROO IS NO LONGER TRADING)

13. Nature's Wish Cleanse Unscented Facial Cleansing Oil - It’s a good product which removes makeup and daily grime without disrupting the delicate balance of my skin. This is a good all rounder. Nature's Wish also have an unscented facial oil which I am yet to try.

14. Odylique Aloe Vera Bodywash - I've been using this body wash on and off over a number of years, this gives creamy foam and feels good on my delicate skin, I'm pleased that it now available in 500ml bottle. My other favourites which are also free from essential oil allergens are the Superfruit Concentrate, Gentle Herb Shampoo, Ultra Rich Balm, Repair Lotion.

15. Skin & Tonic Naked Beauty Oil - a simple but effective blend of my favourite ingredients - rosehip, pumpkin, apricot oil - I wish Skin & Tonic would branch out more with their essential oil free blends as they do have a lovely ethos when it comes to ingredients. Also worth noting that Skin & Tonic Makeup Remover and Naked Lip Balm are also free from essential oils.

You can shop these products online direct from the brands or at the following online retailers.

Sarah x

26 September 2019

Balmonds Daily Moisturising Cream
(Gifted)

You might already be familiar with Balmonds under their former branding of Purepotions. I've been a fan of their products for some time now having previously reviewed their hand cream which quickly became one of my top recommendations. It's a hero product for me especially during the winter months when I'm prone to eczema breakouts. I wanted to explore more of the product range and I was looking for a new body cream so Balmonds Daily Moisturising Cream seems like a suitable choice.

As a brand, Balmonds is marketed towards customers with dry and sensitive skin which may also be prone to conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. The Daily Moisturising Cream is fragrance free which is great for people like me with a sensitivity to fragrance allergens. Many natural ointments marketed towards eczema contain beeswax so it's nice of Balmonds to offer a vegan friendly alternative. Overall the formulation is well considered and contains fantastic soothing and hydrating ingredients such as shea butter, hemp seed, chickweed, chamomile and calendula.

The Daily Moisturising Cream is multi-purpose so you can use it on any areas of the body but it's especially good for targeting dry patches and keeping skin hydrated. I've mainly been using this cream on my legs as they are going through a stubborn phrase and I'm battling dryness. This moisturiser is super hydrating but I like how it doesn't feel heavy or greasy and it disappears fairly quickly. I've also trialled this cream on my face and I was super happy with the results. I can see The Daily Moisturising Cream coming in handy for the winter weather when I usually switch from my lighter summer products. I really think this could be a good all-rounder for the entire family. Only the other day I was also considering how handy this would to take on holiday as you could cut down on products. It would be easy to ditch hand, face and body cream bottles for this one cream.

I think it's fair to say Balmonds Daily Moisturising Cream could easily become a permanent part of my skincare routine and I would happily buy myself another tube when this one runs out.  Have you tried Balmonds? Which product would you recommend?

If you missed my last review then follow this link Giovanni 2Chic Conditioners

Sarah x

30 August 2016

Giovanni Vitapro Fusion Leave in Hair Treatment and Raspberry Winter Body Lotion(gifted PR samples)

I'm already a fan of Giovanni hair care and I've tried a few products from them over the years. I decided to branch out and try some products which were new to be starting with the Vitapro Fusion Protective Moisture Leave in Hair Treatment and Raspberry Winter Body Lotion.

My hair is dry and damage from heat styling and sometimes it needs a little extra treatment, this is why the Vitapro Fusion Protective Moisture Leave in Hair Treatment appealed to me. This a product which promises to protect and smooth the hair cuticles to reduce frizz. Vitapro Fusion combines vitamins and protein to treat the hair. It is colour safe, paraben free and cruelty free. I have to say Vitapro Fusion didn't win me over in quite the same way as the 2 Chic Ultra-Sleek Flat Iron Styling Mist. There is nothing particularly wrong with the product but I'm not sure it suits my hair in quite the same way. I still recommend giving it a try as we all have different needs.

The Giovanni Raspberry Winter Body lotion was a big hit with me. It does have a delightful raspberry aroma and it's reminiscent of my teen years spending all my pocket money at The Body Shop. You might think that the scent is fake but Giovanni claim to be using natural fragrances. The lotion has a lovely texture that really does feel hydrating and soft on my skin. I think this would be lovely paired with the matching body wash. 

Sarah x

28 June 2016

Petit Pai for sensitive baby skin
I was super excited to hear about the launch of Petit Pai and I don’t even have kids! Pai is a brand I trust for sensitive skin products. You all know how I like using unscented products and the Apple & Mallow Blossom Hair & Body wash and Face & Body cream are free from fragrance, SLS/SLES and parabens (also certified organic, vegan and cruelty free).

20 May 2014


natural skincare for dry skin and prone to eczema
Disclaimer - this is not intended to replace medical advice

I'm following up on a previous post I wrote - Skincare brands for sensitive skin prone to eczema. As time passes I discovered more brands with products formulated for delicate skin. By sharing this information I hope it proves to be a helpful resource for one or two people at least. MooGoo is a favourite of mine but the others I am yet to try. As always please check ingredients are suitable for you, always do a patch test and seek medical advice if you are unsure of using any product.

Herbfarmacy Skin Rescue Balm - this won Silver in the Problem Skin Category for the Free From Skincare Awards 2013. It is a blend of herbs and essential oils, full ingredients are available on the website. Also recommend is the Chickweed Balm

Soothe Me Dry Skin Fix - this is a blend of Shea butter, Sweet Almond & Avocado

Gem’s Dry Skin Cream - a new discovery for me and they entered the Free From Skincare Awards 2014. This is described as an ointment made with cocoa butter, beeswax, sweet almond oil and a blend of essential oils.

Hope’s Relief - was developed by Melbourne Naturopath Jacqueline Hope. It's ingredients were too strong for me but I've seen many rave reviews for the cream.

Shaloah Skincare Calendula & Borage Soothe & Repair Cream - a new discovery, I don't know much about this company but their cream popped up in a Google search and it's been on my list ever since.

Moo Goo Skincare - a company I know from my time in Australia and their entire range is always highly recommended. Please note there is a nut free cream available but be aware other products in the range contain milk proteins, all ingredients are listed on website.

Sarah x

20 March 2014

Toulou Organics Avocado Butter Creme
"Toulou Organics source certified organic ingredients from around the globe. Where organic is not an option we use cold-pressed and wild-crafted ingredients because they retain their vitamins, essential fatty acids, minerals etc; after harvest."

Most days you will find me at my desk with a salad sandwich packed full of avocado. They are considered one of the healthiest foods because they are full of vitamins and minerals. If you are not a fan of eating avocados (my Mum says they are remind her of soap!) then I would recommend making sure your skincare contains this mighty green fruit and TouLou Organics Avocado Butter Crème may be a good place to start. 

Tou Lou's cream is packed full of ingredients I enjoy using on my skin, shea butter, avocado, cocoa and macadamia. I would describe this as body butter with a luxurious thickness that is soft and easy to massage into skin. I am not a massive fan of the fragrance but it is natural and derived from the contents. I have an abundance of lavender based shea butters so I think that’s why I find this one a little different. The oils in this product can separate on the surface but you just need to give it a stir. 

Overall, I would say this is a nice rich cream which would be of benefit to anyone with dry skin. I like to make readers aware that products are preserved using Phenoxyethanol. The 120g jar retails for £16 and full ingredients are available on the website. Other body butters/crèmes are available along with products for face and hair so have a browse around the site.

Have you heard of Tou Lou or tried any of their products? Do you like avocado in your skincare or in your sandwiches?.

Sarah x

Disclaimer - PR sample, 100% my own opinions from testing, links are not affiliated

23 January 2014


Organic Botanics Mini Trial Set Fragrance Free

I came across Organic Botanics in a magazine that I had lying around since last June. After checking out their website I decided to order a Mini Trial Set of Fragrance Free products which included 10mls of cleansing milk, daily moisturiser and hand & body lotion (£11.50 & free UK delivery).

"Organic Botanics is an ethical company which was established in 1998 by herbalist Celsi Richfield & her family who are long-time vegetarians. It is a pioneer company of organic skin care. Celsi has been formulating natural skin care for over twenty-five years & has gone to great lengths to produce a unique organic range of unusually high quality. It took an extremely long time to formulate our unique preparations, especially as certified organic ingredients were harder to source in 1998. We go through a rigorous process to exclude toxic chemicals, artificial colours & perfumes"

For those interested the full ingredients are on the website but make sure you click "more info" to view the complete list. The preservatives being used are phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol, potassium sorbate, propyl gallate.

The products in this trial set are nice but there is nothing about them which has sparked a desire to purchase full sizes. The cleansing milk is creamy but I do feel I need to cleanse twice in order to completely remove my mineral foundation, not a major issue but one which I can avoid with other cleansers. I do find the less water I use on my face the better chance I have of not causing additional dryness. A sweep with toner feels like a must with this cleanser. I feel as if the daily moisturiser would be more suited to me in the summer months. It is not heavy enough for me at this time of year and the same goes for the hand & body lotion. The pump on the bottles failed to work for me and I assume it is because of the dinky size. I ended up just tapping the bottle against my hand to dispense the creams. It's frustrating but not the end of the world.

I commend Organic Botanics for offering a fragrance free range and would certainly say it is worth considering if you have sensitivities or if you like to keep ingredients simple. The Organic Botanics range is extensive - moisturisers, facial oils, eye care, lip care, face masks & scrubs, hand & body, cleanser & toners, soaps & body wash and baby care. I also note they have won several Green Parent and Natural Health awards plus have vegetarian and vegan approval. I have not been put off by the trial kit and would look to explore the rest of the product line in the future.

Have you heard of or used any products from Organic Botanics?

Sarah x

16 September 2013


As it is National Eczema Week I thought my next blog post should follow that theme. I have mentioned a few times that my eczema has been causing problems in recent months. Stress has always triggered my eczema so I am blaming the day job rather than diet or skincare. My skin is hot, angry red and itchy as hell at times and that is where the Essential Care Repair Lotion comes into its own. 

Essential Care developed the product from personal experience of atopic eczema so you know that you are in safe hands. The lotion contains calendula and chamomile, two of my favourite ingredients because of their effectiveness on my sensitive skin. The formula also contains chickweed (to relieve itching), olive oil (to moisturise) and aloe vera (reduce inflammation & promote healing). 

The packaging is a pump bottle so that's always handy to avoid spills. It is very runny and light but that makes it rather good for easy absorption into skin. It also makes application pleasant because you do not need to pull or drag the skin when applying. To a certain extent I can live with my ugly skin but I cannot stand the need to scratch. I honestly feel as if this does a fabulous job at relieving the itch. It just works for me. I still love balms for my eczema but this is especially nice when the weather has been hot and sweaty. My biggest patch of eczema is on my chest, around my boobies where my bra sits. The lotion sinks in quicker than balm which means I can get dressed and not worry about getting residue on my underwear. 

Repair lotion is suitable for Vegans which is great because I know that many of the balms I recommend contain beeswax. With Essential Care you also know you are getting Organic ingredients and zero nasty ingredients. If you have an itchy skin condition then I think you should consider trying this product. Repair Lotion is also suitable for babies and children. I have grown very fond of Essential Care products. I honestly can't find fault and I am happy to recommend to others.

Sarah x

Disclaimer - I have purchased this product & have also received one as a PR sample, links are not affiliated

18 December 2012

natural skincare for skin prone to eczema
(Disclaimer - contains *affiliate link/contents is not intended to replace medical advice, for reference only)

My parents will tell you I was born with eczema as it didn't take long before my skin was covered. My most vivid memory was around the age of 9 or 10 when I was covered in severe eczema and scratching until I bleed. Then I developed skin infections to the point I was banned from sports and swimming. The turning point for me was diagnosis of allergies. As an adult I have small eczema patches but nowhere near the extent I had as a child. Currently my triggers are cold weather, stress and sensitivity to ingredients and of course allergies.

Winter Skincare articles are popping up all over the web and whilst it's important for everyone to look their skin, eczema management can often be hard work at this time of year. I decided to gather a list of brands that offer products which may be suitable for anyone prone to eczema or other skin conditions. I personally prefer using products formulated with plant based ingredients and chose to avoid traditional emollients than can be loaded with perfumes, lanolin, urea and paraffin. When choosing a cream, balm or ointment, I carefully consider products containing calendula, chamomile, chickweed and oats as these are known for their soothing properties.

Eczema is a fickle beast and we are all affected differently, it's what makes it so troublesome to treat. It usually takes a bit of trial and error to find the correct product. I'm hopeful that this list gives you a good starting point for finding suitable creams.

Conscious Skincare (opt for fragrance free)
Ere Perez SOS Marmalade (paw paw - papaya is the soothing ingredient)
Fiini Naturally Oat & Honey Balm
Fushi (a range of oils and shea butter)
Green People (opt for Scent free range)
If you are interested in finding out how I manage my skin and eczema, then I have jotted down my personal tips here - 7 Tips for managing Eczema - speaking from personal experience

Sarah x

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