cleansing oil

23 April 2022

Review Kri Skincare Unveil Oil to Milk Cleansing Oil
(I purchased this product)

Anyone who reads my blog on a regular basis will probably know I'm obsessed with oil to milk cleansers. Back at the beginning of March I purchased Kri Skincare Unveil Oil-to-Milk Cleansing Oil and I'm writing this post as I finished up the last few pumps. 

Kri Skincare had been a recommendation and on my shopping list for quite some time. The Unveil Cleansing Oil is fragrance free making it ideal for my sensitive skin and for anyone who doesn't tolerate perfumes or essential oils. I also found Kri Skincare appealing because the formulations are simple and curated without complex and lengthy ingredient lists. 

As far as cleansing oils go this is as expected and the elegant bottle with pump dispenser is easy to use. To give context when cleansing my skin (in the evening) I'm aiming to remove SPF, tinted moisturiser and mineral powder. Unveil Oil to Milk Cleanser is lightweight and as the name suggests it will transform to milk with the addition of water. I'm confident that this cleansing oil is able to remove all the daily grime because my flannel shows the signs of makeup. This cleanser feels gentle which is hugely important to me when dealing with eczema as I'm looking to protect my skin barrier and not strip it of any natural oils.

Sometimes the simplest of skincare is what really floats my boat. I don't require fancy ingredients or marketing promises. All I want is clean skin that looks healthy and doesn't show signs of irritation. I'm confident that my experience with Kri Skincare Unveil Oil-to-Milk Cleansing Oil delivers on this requirement. I would happily recommend to others. I find the price point fits comfortably within my budget and comparable to other cleansers. If you are interested in this cleansing oil or other products from Kri Skincare then do go check out their website - kriskincare.com. Mini sized products are available if you don't feel comfortable committing to full sizes.

Sarah x

25 July 2021

natural skincare routine for mature, sensitive, allergic, eczema prone skin type
(some of the products featured have been Gifted/Unpaid)

It has been a while since I took a snap shot of my skincare routine. Whilst my products do vary over time I try to stick to the same core principals - minimal (cleanse and moisturise), fragrance free and vegan friendly.

By Sarah London Raspberry Seed Cleansing Oil is a product I received back in April. I mention this because I want you to understand that I give products a lengthy testing before they get a write up. This cleanser is an oil that transforms into a light cleansing milk on contact with water. Long time readers will know these are my favourite types of cleansers. Oils are nourishing on my delicate dry skin and By Sarah cleanser promises to remove daily pollutants and makeup without disrupting the skin's natural pH balance. I would say that my experience would back up this claim as my skin always feels great and never stripped after using this cleanser. I'm more than happy to recommend this cleanser to anyone.

Green People Anti-Ageing Cream came back into my life in 2019 and it has pretty much been a staple ever since as I always have a back up in my drawer. Whilst I'm happy using this face cream during the winter months I do think it's a great summer addition. I find it provides the hydration I require without feeling heavy or greasy making it perfect for brief summer heatwaves. Green People have been around for years and I've been using them long before I established this website. I like the fact that they always have reliable scent free skincare and because of this I'm a loyal customer.

Wilde Fruit Bright Spark Enzyme Oil came into my life through judging for the Free From Skincare Awards. It went on to win Bronze in the Face Oils and Achievement categories. I was excited for their wins because I honestly felt so happy to have this oil in my routine. It's been a pleasure to test and I would purchase for myself. Wilde Fruit formulate with upcycled leftover ingredients from the food industry and this in turn helps to reduce waste. Bright Spark Enzyme Oil is suggested for oily, combination or blemish prone skin and my skin type is quite the complete opposite but it still works. Its formulated without essential oils, includes hemp, papaya, watermelon, cacay, tamanu with strawberry and blackcurrant seed oil upcycled from the production of jam and juice. I highly recommend giving this facial oil a try and I'm going to check out the rest of the Wilde Fruit product range.

I wasn't always successful in adding sun protection to my routine due to ingredient allergies. It's been a constant battle to find suitable products. You'll see that I recently reviewed Sukin SPF30 Sheer Touch face sunscreen and I've been using it daily since June. It doesn't smell great but it works and that's all that matters to me right now.

I hope you have enjoyed this little overview into my current skincare routine. If you have any questions drop me an email or message on social media.

Sarah x

8 February 2021

favourite skincare for dry, sensitive and eczema prone skin
(features products I have purchased & PR Samples)

I thought it might be interesting to update you on my most recent skincare routine. I've downsized my collection during lockdown and I'm happy with the products I'm currently using. My skin has been through a rough patch over the past year and I had to focus on ways to address these issues. I feel like winter is a battle in comparison to the summer months. At this time my morning and evening routine is super simple, just cleanse and moisturise. I'm trying to maintain a balance so refrain from additional products to avoid further irritation. 

Lucy Bee Reviving Cleansing Cream - I'm on my third tube of this Lucy Bee cleansing cream. I like to use it in the mornings. It doesn't smell the best but it's fragrance free and I've always found my skin responds well to coconut oil. Often we believe that oils and balms are best for dry skin but depending on formulations it is possible for these types of cleansers to still feel stripping as wash off oils will behave differently to leave on products. I enjoy a lighter cleanser in the morning and that's why cleansing creams are my preferred choice.

Vemel Vitamin Boost Cleansing Balm - Oils and balms are heavy duty making them perfect for dissolving dirt and makeup. I use them as part of my evening routine. Vemel is a recent discovery and I'm working my way through this jar. I like the ingredients and it seems to work well for my skin type; this is also fragrance free. My only negative thought is I do prefer a softer textured balm and this one is pretty solid in the jar.

Typology Almond Oil - single ingredient oils are what I turn to when my skin is at its worst. When I want a break from products I take my routine back to barely anything. I will cleanse and moisture with almond oil or apricot kernel oil. I don't really have a preference to which brand I use and I have Typology to hand at this time.

Madara Rich Hydra-Barrier CICA Cream - I'm in the process of drafting a full review on this product which I will publish soon. As the name suggests this cream is an intensive product. I have temporarily ditched other moisturisers in order to try and repair the skin issues I've been experiencing. This is currently the only product in my routine that contains fragrance.

Odylique Superfruit Concentrate - when not using the Madara CICA cream I will opt for an oil and for a number of weeks I have gone back to this old faithful. You know I have a soft spot for Odylique products and this Superfruit Concentrate Serum is no exception. I can always rely on it. The ingredients are not overly complicated and it just works for me. I'm always happy with how my skin looks and feels after using this facial oil.

Odylique Calendula Balm - I'll use this calendula balm on stubborn dry patches, it's suitable for use all over the body. I often experience eczema patches on my face and I dab some of this balm on to soothe my skin. 

Lyonsleaf Zinc & Calendula Cream - I've been using this product to manage a seborrheic dermatitis outbreak on my face and body. It's a rich cream which I use sparingly. When I first tackle a breakout I will apply every day and then when my skin feels better I just top up occasionally to try and prevent further issues.

If you'd like to compare my 2021 skincare products to what I was using last year, here's a link to that post - My Skincare Routine April 2020

Sarah x

10 November 2020

Review Minimalist Skincare Gentle Daily Cleansing Balm - Fragrance Free
(Gifted/Unpaid)

UPDATE SEPT 2021 - rebranded to Creature of Habit Skincare

Minimalist Skincare is a newly launched venture by formulator and owner, Jaina. As the name suggests this is a brand taking products back to basics. There is no doubt that these are sophisticated formulations but the ethos is about minimising ingredients. Jaina experienced acne and similar to my own eczema story she identified that sometimes less is more with skincare. I'm a firm believer that often people are overloading their skin with complex routines and ingredients which can lead to issues.

I was fortunate to trial Minimalist Skincare Gentle Daily Cleansing Balm at formulation stages and I'm very excited to now be using the finished product. This is a soft, golden, buttery balm cleanser and with water it emulsifies to a milky consistency. The ingredients include safflower, shea butter, sunflower, castor oil, sweet almond, squalane, rosehip and bisabolol. This is a cleansing balm designed to offer soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits. It does not contain perfumes or essential oils making it ideal for all skin types and particularly appeals to those with sensitivity.

It's a luxurious experience to massage Minimalist Skincare Gentle Daily Cleansing Balm into skin. I'm already a fan of oil to milk cleansers as they suit my skin type and are easy to remove. You can rinse or use a damp cloth. If you ever find balms and oils too heavy and dislike any residue left behind you won't experience that sensation with this cleansing balm. After using this cleanser my skin has never felt overly dry or parched of moisture and it does well to keep a balance which is often tricky when eczema prone. With long term use my skin feels soft and looks bright and happy.

I'm super happy with Minimalist Skincare Gentle Daily Cleansing Balm, it's an excellent product for my dry and sensitive skin. At the moment it's the only item available from Minimalist Skincare so I can't wait to see the next product launch. For more information or to purchase this cleanser, please visit their website.

Sarah x

28 May 2020

Typology Paris based natural skincare brand
(gifted/press samples)

In between the junk mail there is the occasional gem that peaks my interest and Typology did exactly that. Products ticked all the right boxes for me - vegan, cruelty free, minimalist formulations, ethical and fragrance free (with exception of Eaux de Parfums). This is a genderless brand which is 100% online model and created by Ning Li, Founder of MADE.com. Typology designs and produces concentrated, natural products in France that are active, effective and sustainable. Many of the products are designed to mix and match to allow you to create tailored formulations.
Typology solid soothing cleansing bar
I honestly think my heart skipped a beat when I realised this is a range free from essential oils. Any long time followers will be aware of my issues with linalool (allergen present in some essential oils). When I accepted the offer to receive products I wasn't expecting so many to turn up and I'm very grateful to be able to explore the range in such depth. It certainly makes for easy reviews as there is so much to cover so I will start with the products that I would naturally gravitate towards.

7 Ingredient Makeup Removing Oil - I adore using a cleansing oil and naturally opt for ones with minimalist formulations as I don't require a long ingredient list. Typology has created a good product here which is light and easily removed without leaving greasy residue. It's a winner for me and I honestly can't fault it.

Dry Skin Serum (100% Squalane) - Before anyone panics this squalane is derived from olives. I've never use squalane as a stand alone ingredient so I was keen to see how my skin would react. It sits on my skin for some time which is interesting but feels nice and hydrating. At first I didn't feel there was much "wow" factor to this ingredient but it has grown on me with time. I think this is an ingredient which would do well in combination with products and it is suggested to follow up with your daily cream or oil.
Typology Dry Skin Serum and Hydrating Serum
Hydrating Serum (3% Hyaluronic Acid + 2% B5) - As name suggestions this serum could be ideal for those who experience dry skin. Hyaluronic acid has been a buzz word in skincare for quite some time. The B5 in this serum stands for Pro Vitamin B5 (aka Panthenol) like hyaluronic acid it helps retain moisture and softness. I have to be truthful and say that hyaluronic acid as a stand alone ingredient does very little for my skin and I would argue it can have a drying effect. For me, the mix and match concept of Typology comes into play with a product like this one. 

10 Ingredient Hand Balm - at the moment we are all battling with dry skin and a decent hand cream is a must have item. Despite the name, this is a cream formulation which feels silky on the skin without greasiness. It sinks in beautifully and feels lovely. The packaging is stylish and practical. The formulation is simple with hydrating ingredients including Hyaluronic acid. I quickly became a fan of this one and again one that I can't fault at this time.

Sweet Almond Oil - Typology have a full range of single ingredient oils which can be applied daily to the face, body or hair. Almond has always been a personal favourite and I can understand why it was sent to me. Almond oil nourishes and protects which is exactly what I need when dealing with my sensitive skin. I will use this to cleanse and moisturise (body & face).

Roman Chamomile Hydrolate - as with the oils there are several hydrolates to choose from according to your skin type and needs. Chamomile is known for soothing sensitive skin and would be one I would select for myself. I use this as a toner step in my routine, it will remove traces of cleanser whilst calming the skin.
Typology Eaux de Parfums
I can't really find a reason to fault Typology. The packaging is recyclable (more info available on their website) and you can't deny it looks super stylish in your bathroom which is an added bonus. As someone with sensitive skin it's lovely to be able to select products to my individual needs and Typology would easily slot into an established skincare routine. I also believe the price point will appeal to most people. I will always celebrate brands with fragrance free products. Essential oils can be wonderful and uplifting ingredients but some people do not understand they are potent and contain allergens. If you ever feel your skin is fragile and sensitive then it could be worthwhile leaving out fragrances be it artificial or plant based. There are so many products in the range that I highly recommend exploring the Typology website for yourself.

Sarah x

19 March 2019

Conscious Skincare Organic Cold Pressed Oils Almond & Apricot Kernel
(Gifted PR Samples)

If you ever want to simplify your skincare routine then cold pressed oils are a great starting point. From the perspective of someone with sensitive skin prone to eczema, oils can be an excellent way to scale back on products to help restore balance from flare ups. They are budget friendly, reduce plastic waste and multipurpose. One of my travel tips when packing light is to opt for multipurpose oils, you could skip cleanser, moisturiser, body cream and hair conditioner in favour of one good oil alternative.

19 February 2019

Reviews Love Lula, Ere Perez, Nature's Wish, Saint Come
(gifted/unpaid)

I'm very selective about the products I choose. I study ingredients for a number of reasons, allergies are of course top of the list but also knowing what my skin loves and hates. I don't always get it right and once in a while something that looks good on paper doesn't work out so well for my skin. The reviews that follow were a good selection of products and I made some great choices even if I do say so myself.

Ere Perez Cranberry Lip & Eye Butter
It’s quite unusual for me to experience dry lips but this winter has been a little unkind to me so I was looking for a product to boost the balms I’ve been using. I was initially a little surprised by this product because I would describe it as a light cream and the word “butter” conjures up a richer, thicker texture. Despite this the formula is deeply moisturising and packed full of lush ingredients such as shea butter, almond oil, coconut, cranberry, cucumber and olive oil. I like to apply in the evenings as an intensive treatment so in the morning my lips feel soft and smooth. It does make for a delicate light eye cream however I haven’t made it part of my daily routine. You’ll know from past reviews that Ere Perez is a firm favourite with me, I'm regularly signing the praises of the SOS Marmalade balm and the Cranberry Lip & Eye Butter has also not disappointed.

Nature's Wish Cleanse Unscented Facial Cleansing Oil
When Nature’s Wish popped up on my radar it seemed the obvious choice to select this cleansing oil. I’m very keen to support brands who offer options to consumers with sensitive skin and fragrance allergies. Nature’s Wish unscented cleansing oil has a good formulation with ingredients rosehip, apricot kernel, evening primrose, avocado, macadamia, chia seed, coconut and flower essences of crab apple and olive. If I compare the texture to the Mono cleanser which I reviewed last month, Nature’s Wish feels heavier on the skin. 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 which I'd happily recommend.

Saint Come Aromaspray Thyme Cinnamon
You may remember I’ve previously reviewed the mint eucalyptus from Saint Come. It’s been a pleasure to use so I decided to try out another fragrance. I love cinnamon so it seemed a great choice for me. It’s a scent often associated with Christmas and Winter so it feels the perfect fit at this time of year. I obviously encourage people to air their houses naturally, I do crack open the windows but there are times when you need a little pick me up or to mask a little unpleasant odour (like coming home to the bin giving off a whiff because you forgot to empty it). Saint Come uses ingredients that are vegan and natural, packaging is a 100% recyclable bottle.

Did you miss my January reviews? Here’s a link for you - Crazy Rumors, Ethically Organic, Fair Squared & Mono Naturoils

Sarah x

22 January 2019

Reviews for Love Lula Crazy Rumors, Ethically Organic, Fair Squared & Mono Naturoils
(I participate in the Love Lula Blogger Programme and can select products from their site each month, I am not obligated to review)

It always amazes me how I never seem to run out of product to try from Love Lula. I face the restrictions of allergies, yet I still manage to fill my basket. I've a lovely selection to tell you about so lets crack on. Just as a heads up everything here is suitable for Vegans and free from linalool (an ingredient that natural occurs in essential oils and happens to be one of my allergies).
If you're a regular reader then you'll know I adore Crazy Rumors lip balm but I hadn't tried any from their tinted range. I'm not much of a lipstick wearer so thought this would be my perfect lip product. Coral is described as medium neutral pink which I would agree with. It's sheer and provides a wash of colour with a hint of shimmer. I was won over straight away. Very easy to wear and all the benefits and flavour you'd expect from this brand of lip balm.

Ethically Organic Radiance Glow Face Soufflé 
A new-ish brand for Love Lula and it caught my attention because some of their products are free from essential oils. The Glow Face Souffle appealed to me based off the ingredients of shea butter, baobab and jojoba. This is a super rich formulation thanks to the shea butter but in all honesty it's far too intense for my face and that saying something given my history with eczema. In order not to waste an great formulation I'm loving this as a body butter as it tackles dry skin with ease. I certainly would champion this brand on the basis of simple but effective ingredients and for offering a fragrance free solution for consumers with sensitive skin. 

I've spoken about Fair Squared in the past and it's an interesting brand. I consider them to be family friendly and their range includes skincare but also extends to intimate items such as condoms and period cups. The vanilla shower gel is suitable for the entire family and formulated with Olive oil to gently cleanse and moisturise the skin. The scent is delicate and reminiscent of foam ice cream sweets; it's very pleasant without being over powering. It's nice to see a formulation without an overly lengthy ingredient list. The consistency is runny and low foaming which is to be expected. 

I was initially attracted to Mono Naturoils Rose & Cucumber Cleansing Oil because it ticked a couple of boxes for me. Firstly, no essential oil allergens and secondly a blend of ingredients which personally appeals to my skin type. There is no escaping that Mono is a luxurious brand with packaging and prices reflective of that image. This cleansing oil is light with a delightful delicate scent, its the cucumber that hits my senses first followed by undertones of rose. If you're a fan of Mallow + White Soothe cleansing oil (as I am) then this one will also be an instant hit. Mono Naturoils Rose & Cucumber Cleansing Oil is an absolute pleasure to use and it turns your cleansing routine into a ritual that you don't want to skip.

If you missed my December reviews then here's a link for you - Silvan Skincare, Benecos, The Handmade Soap Co

Sarah x

28 August 2018

Mallow + White Soothe Cleansing Oil and Dr. Botanicals Kale Superfood Nourishing Day Moisturiser Love Lula
(Gifted PR/prices correct at time of publication)

Before I jump in, I just wanted to follow up a suggestion that my reviews included ingredient lists. As someone who double checks ingredients daily I understand why readers might like to see this information but I have refrained over the years because formulations can change. At this point I have 1000+ published articles so imagine the leg work for researching and editing to make sure I have up to date information. If it helps to put your mind at ease I will only work with brands and retailers that list FULL ingredients on their websites. This ensures you can research them beyond my site to check suitability. My cosmetic allergens are linalool and MI. Post diagnosis in January 2015, the skincare products I have written about should be free from linalool. There are exceptions but at this point almost 90% of what I use on my skin is fragrance free, the rest may contain perfume or one of the other fragrance allergens that isn't linalool. It's worth noting there are 26 fragrance allergens which if applicable to a formulation are required to be listed on packaging.

I hope this clarifies the situation but if you are ever in doubt about ingredients ping me a tweet or email but for now lets proceed with this review

I'd had my eye on Dr. Botanicals Kale Superfood Nourishing Day Moisturiser (30ml) for some time. This is a brand that caught my attention for its suitability for Vegans. With the extreme warm weather I had been on the look out for a lighter cream and this one ticks that box. In terms of ingredients there is almond oil, shea butter, jojoba, cocoa butter and a couple of unusual ones like Crambe Abyssinian Oil and Echium Plantagineum Seed Oil. It may interest those that are ingredient savvy to see Kale (Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Extract) far down on the ingredient list. I personally would question why it isn't higher up. I finished this moisturiser and returned to an old favourite. I'm happy to suggest you try it but it isn't for me in the long run. I would like to explore the rest of Dr Botanicals product range.

Mallow + White Soothe unfragranced cleansing oil has featured on my site before now. It's no surprise that I adore this product as much as the Soothe Balm. This cleansing oil is light and delicate but it certainly works extremely well at removing daily grime. The cucumber aroma is delightful in this hot summer weather as it gives an air of freshness. Mallow + White's ethos is to use six ingredients or less and whilst that sounds simple enough it makes for an interesting formulation. With all the botanical ingredients available it takes skill to select only a handful. Alongside the Cucumber see oil there is Rice Bran Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Apricot kernel oil and Jojoba oil, these are ingredients that work well for sensitive skin. The absence of essential oils reduces the risk of reactions. I honestly can't fault and highly recommend to everyone.

If you missed my review for them from last month, follow this link - July reviews for Antipodes, Sukin, Ere Perez and Ooh! Oils of Heaven

Sarah x

17 July 2018

Review Bodhi & Birch Avo Bao Cleansing Balm
You may have heard that Bodhi & Birch launched a Superfoods Series consisting of five new skincare products – Avo Bao Cleansing Balm, Lemon Water Hydrosol Tonic, Super25 Botanical Serum, Tomato Seed Cleansing Oil and Renshen Root Exfoliant & Mask. The collection is multi-use and mixable allowing you to create a bespoke routine and every product is suitable for Vegans.

The Superfood Series is unlike other products from Bodhi & Birch as the range is free from essential oils. I was absolutely ecstatic to hear this. Although I buy Bodhi & Birch for others, I had to cease using them on myself following my diagnosis with linalool* sensitivity in 2014. I’d go as far as to say its a dream come true to once again enjoy Elijah's amazing creations. 

I had the pleasure of being part of the focus group prior to launch so I’ve sampled the entire range. The stand outs for me are the Avo Bao Cleansing Balm, Super25 Botanical Serum and Tomato Seed Cleansing Oil which will come as no surprise to those who know me. During initial testing phase, I felt these products improve the look of my skin and whilst it might be coincidental there was a significant improvement in my dermatitis. After launch I received a full size Avo Bao Cleansing Balm and Super25 Botanical Serum. The serum is safely stashed away at the moment because I need to work through open products but I know already how much I love it. 

I immediately got stuck into the Avo Bao cleansing balm and seriously this product is a beaut! It contains some fantastic ingredients – Avocado, Baobab, Green Coffee and Spirulina and one of my all time favourites Plum Kernel. The latter gives this wonderful delicate scent of marzipan and anyone who follows my reviews closely knows it’s a fragrance I adore and talk about regularly. I love when brands are creative with their formulations by using naturally fragrant ingredients that avoid allergens. As a side note, I really would love to see Bodhi & Birch Superfood Series entering the Free From Skincare Awards next year.

I’m using Avo Bao as sparingly as possible because I never want to run out. A little goes a long way and it has a wonderful buttery texture. The balm is fragile in the recent heatwave but regardless this cleansing balm feels luxurious to massage across the skin. It’s almost a spiritual moment to cleanse at the end of the day and I take my time allowing a moment to feel like I’m having an expensive spa treatment. Avo Bao cleansing balm is very easy to remove with a damp cloth and doesn’t leave behind a greasy residue. I adore the green colour it makes me smile and stands out from the crowd.

The Superfood Series is luxurious and in comparison to others you feel a sense of love, care and attention to details in their creation which warrants a higher price tag. Bodhi & Birch have taken a bold step formulating without essential oils and for anyone who feels unsure about this don’t be, Elijah is a skincare genius these products are truly wonderful, you are in safe hands. 

Sarah x

Disclaimer – PR Samples 

*Linalool naturally occurs in some essential oils, it’s one of 26 fragrance allergens which must be declared on cosmetic labels when present over a certain % in the formulation.

22 March 2018

Review Balmonds Omega Rich Cleansing Oil and Intensive Hand Cream
(Gifted)

Many products formulated for eczema prone skin have a familiar background story. Someone formulates a product because everything else has failed to treat their dry and itchy skin condition. Often people have noticed undesirable ingredients in their prescription products and their focus becomes natural alternatives. It’s a similar story for the Skin Salvation range which was created by Natalie for her daughter’s skin conditions.

I’ve known Balmonds for a while, in fact going as far back as when they were called Purepotions. I often recommend their products to people based from my experience using the Skin Salvation Balm. I hadn’t realised how much their range has expanded over the years and whilst the ointment isn’t vegan friendly (contains beeswax) a number of other products are suitable. I was kindly offered the chance to try some products and chose the Omega Rich Cleansing Oil and Intensive Hand Cream (both suitable for Vegans).

Omega Rich Cleansing Oil - this oil is fragrance free and with a simple but effective formulation of sunflower seed oil, safflower seed oil, rosehip and calendula. I love cleansing oils so it no surprise that I am enjoying this one. The ingredients are perfect for my sensitive skin, it feels rich and luxurious but once removed I’m not left with any greasy residue. I think anyone can use this cleansing oil but I certainly see the benefits for those prone to eczema. You can remove makeup and daily grime without harming the sensitive balance that comes with dry skin.

Intensive Hand Cream - I’ve mentioned a million times how awful my skin is in cold weather. I’m a summer baby and can’t wait for the sunshine to sort out all my skin aliments. Hand cream is an essential when I'm face with eczema breakouts and visibly dry skin which started to bleed from cracking. This hand cream been has been amazing from the first use. As you might expect it is super rich and nourishing with shea butter, seabuckthorn and hemp seed oil. A little goes a long way and my skin drinks it up. It can feel heavy at first but will disappear. Even when I wash my hands I still feel protected and there is no need to immediately re-apply.

I’m very impressed with both products and the hand cream has been a life saver. For reference, if you are vegan the following Balmonds products are also suitable for you - 

Bath & Body Emollient Oil 
Daily Moisturising Cream 
Scalp Oil
Natural Shampoo & Body Wash
Intensive Facial Oil
Cooling Cream
Rosehip Scar Oil

Sarah x

15 August 2017

Review Siskyn Skincare Oils Camellia & Safflower Hot Cloth Cleansing Oil
(Gifted PR) 

I was introduced to Siskyn Skincare Oils through the Free From Skincare Awards as their Elixir Rosehip & Tamanu Scars & Stretchmark Body Oil (fragrance free) scooped a Gold Award. Siskyn is a natural and vegan brand using only botanical oils and avoiding synthetic fillers like petrochemicals, dyes, silicones, artificial fragrance and preservatives.

The Camellia & Safflower Hot Cloth Cleansing Oil was shortlisted in its category and the product I had my eye one. Fragrance free cleansing oils can sometimes be a little tricky to locate and whilst I have firm favourites I always desire to find alternatives. This Siskyn cleanser contains a lovely blend of oil ingredients – castor, safflower, avocado, olive, sunflower, jojoba, rosehip and camellia. It’s suitable for all skin types whether you’re oily or dry, mature or sensitive. A blend without essential oils allows it to be safely used around the eye which is important to those who wish to remove makeup.

If you’re been a long time follower of my site you will know that I always celebrate the use of oils. As someone who is sensitive and eczema prone I find them hugely beneficial for managing my skin. Cleansing Oils allow me to remove dirt and grime without too much water which for me only exasperates dryness. I would describe Siskyn as a luxury brand which is reflected in their packaging and prices. The glass bottle is heavy, comes in an outer box and a quality cleansing cloth is provided. My only criticism is sometimes I struggle with the pump. I’m not sure if it’s the design or my clumsiness but it doesn’t always dispense with ease. Putting this aside I can’t fault the product as it does exactly as I would hope. I can cleanse without fear of irritation and removal is straight forward without leaving my skin feeling stripped or without a feeling of excess greasy residue.

Siskyn ticks several boxes for me so I am without hesitation to recommend them to you. If you are unsure whether to invest your pennies then you could always buy the 'try me' size kits which are generous and offer you ample product to test.

Sarah x

Update: Since publishing Siskyn have told me they have changed the pumps so you shouldn't have the same problems as me

18 February 2017

Hurraw, Joik, Kinvara, Rossi Uvema
(Gifted PR samples)

Rossi Uvema Rice Bran & Borage Seed Face Cleansing Oil
I discovered Rossi back in 2015 so I was already familiar with their range when I was looking for a new cleanser. Rossi Uvema cleansing oil is free from essential oils which is great as I don’t have to worry about the presence of linalool. The formulation is a blend of oils ideal for sensitive skin – rice bran, grapeseed, plum kernel, jojoba, borage seed and avocado. I’ve always been a fan of plum kernel as it gives a scent which reminds me of marzipan (yes I’m the person who enjoys eating their own body weight in marzipan fruits!). You'll know from reading my blog that I love oil cleansers, they rarely disappoint me and I knew I would enjoy this one from simply glancing at the ingredients. I think lighter oils are the perfect balance as they remove easily but hydrate without leaving greasy residue. My one criticism for this cleanser is with the packaging. I would prefer a pump as the spray cap can be a little messy unless I cup my hand close to it. Also I’ve always been informed that oils should be in dark glass bottles so you have to be mindful about storage. Final verdict....really like this one for simple ingredients and that delightful marzipan scent, would I replace? ....YES

Kinvara Skincare Eye Wow! Eye Serum
I rarely use eye products. It's partly due to laziness but I'm also prone to dermatitis and milia. I’m familiar with Kinvara as a brand from judging duties at for Free From Skincare Awards. I’m totally sitting on the fence with the Wow serum. I like the metal roller ball application as it gives a cooling sensation (which is pleasant when tired) but the formulation is super light. I have to hold the bottle upside down and give it a shake because at times it feels like the serum isn’t dispensing. My knowledge of eye creams is pretty poor so I don’t have much comparison. Final verdict.....overall it’s a pleasant product but I don’t quite get the Wow factor, would I replace.....NO

I’m terribly lazy when it comes to taking care of my feet so I thought a foot scrub might spur me on to do something about it. The Joik scrub is made from sea salt which is coarse but bearable on my feet. It’s full of oils so you have to be extremely careful as it made my bath tub slippery and I needed to wipe off the excess using a towel. Super soft feet were the end results and it was nice to have a little pamper session. Final verdict....only disappointment was I miss read the ingredients thinking this scrub was vegan but it contains beeswax.

This is not the first time I’ve tried a Hurraw balm, they are one of my favourite but I fancied adding a new flavour to my collection. Whilst it won’t replace a chocolate bar it does help lift my spirits when I’m trying not to give in to the demands of my sweet tooth. Hurraw balms are suitable for Vegans. Final verdict....love it and have repurchased these balms many times!

If you missed my last review you can read it here - Ere Perez, John Masters Organics, Odylique

Sarah x

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

25 July 2016

To be honest I've got a little behind with the blog as work and life are generally busier during the summer months which I'm sure everyone can appreciate. This post is a round up of recent launches which have come my way. 

Odylique Natural Sun Screen Vegan Fairtrade Organic

Odylique* - launched a new SPF 30 Natural Sun Screen for sensitive skin, it's the first to be approved by the Fairtrade Foundation and organically certified. It is also Vegan and cruelty free. The British weather has been so fickle up until recently that I had stashed this away to try on a beach holiday next month. 

26 January 2016

Review Vedani Botanicals Organic Skincare
You may have already heard about Vedani Botanicals Organic Skincare, their elegant packaging has been gracing many a blog and instagram page. The current range includes cleansers and moisturisers for different skin types. Sadie, the founder of the brand, is planning to add to the line with products free from essential oils. These would be suitable for all but particularly ideal for those with allergies, who are pregnant or those on chemotherapy/radiotherapy. The new products are not quite ready yet but I have been treated to a bespoke fragrance free cleanser and moisturiser.

Whilst my experience of Vedani is unique, I can quickly tell why everyone is talking about this brand. My personal blends include beautiful ingredients and my skin has been lapping them up. You all know I adore oil cleansers and moisturisers especially now winter is finally here. My skin is under huge pressure and being prone to eczema means I lack the ability to produce oils and retain water in the same way as people with “healthy” skin. I am also totally in love with the quality of the bamboo muslin cloth (to be used with the cleanser). I have a huge collection of cloths from various brands and these outshine them all. The are super soft, wash well and a good size. 

I know I am gushing over Vedani but I honestly mean every word. There is always controversy that PR samples sway reviews but I’ll eat my hat if you buy these products and don’t agree with me. I am still searching for a criticism in order to offer a balanced review but seriously the only thing I can come up with is to warn allergic readers that products currently listed on the website contain sesame oil and/or hazelnut oil.

Have you tried any Vedani Botanicals Organic Skincare? What are your thoughts on this range of products?

Sarah x

Disclaimer - PR samples

3 December 2015

review sugarpuffish Natural and Organic Facial Cleansers
The idea of this article is to re-cap on four years of products testing, a daunting task when it comes to cleansers as I did not realise how many I have reviewed. Of course I have my favourites and have repeat purchased a number over the years. If you follow my YouTube channel you'll know which ones these are. Which type of cleanser I enjoy really all depends on my mood, time of year and how my skin is behaving.

4 April 2015

Sugarpuffish Empties March 2015

I had spent the afternoon recording a video but I've had technical difficulties with the sound being out of sync. It's very frustrating so I am now here writing this post instead. I did not have many products in the empty basket this month. 

16 March 2015

Gerlinde Naturals Face Cleansing Oil
I first mentioned Gerlinde Naturals in my post about Vegan natural and organic skincare. They are a small artisan vegan business based in the South of England. I accepted an offer from Gerlinde, the founder, to try some products. She went above and beyond for me sending cleansing oil and whipped shea butter formulated without essential oils. That right there is why I love handmade skincare and smaller brands because their owners listen to customer needs and have the ability to adapt their products.

The key ingredients for the cleansing oil* are coconut, hemp, jojoba, apricot and caster oil (complete list is available on the website). It is slightly heavier than others I have in my collection but just as effective and a pleasure to use. My cleanser came with a Washi cloth and I was pleased to see Gerlinde had this partnership. It does make a pleasant change to the usual muslin cloths. Washi cloths first featured on my blog in 2012 but for those not aware they are similar to a traditional flannel but slightly thinner. 

Gerlinde Naturals Vegan Skincare Whipped Shea Butter
Anyone who has been following this blog for a while will know that I love shea butter. For me, it is perfect for my naturally dry skin and works well on mild eczema patches to maintain moisture levels. The Gerlinde Natural shea butter*(face & body cream) is whipped which makes it light and fluffy to the touch. No need to dig into the jar with a spatula this one is easy to scoop out with your fingers. Mine is missing the essential oils but it does contain calendula, evening primrose and vitamin E which are excellent ingredients for sensitive skin. 

Gerlinde Naturals gets my seal of approval. These are honest products with good ingredients and certainly what I look for when choosing skincare.

Sarah x

Disclaimer - *PR samples, links are not affiliated

20 October 2014

Blue Labelle Biologique Chamomile & Avocado Cleansing oil
You all know my favourite cleansing oil is from Blue Labelle (the dry/sensitive skin formula). I have lost count of how many times I have bought it but one thing I do know is it is a staple product in my beauty cabinet. Blue Labelle recently launched the Biologique range, a line of oils which are 100% Organics and includes Supercritical CO2 extracts of Amaranth, Sea Buckthorn & Chamomile as well as cold-pressed (raw) oils of Marula, Moringa, Red Raspberry Seed & Argan. I have been testing the Chamomile and Avocado Cleansing oil. 

You are probably wondering what is Supercritical CO2 extract (I know I was). It is a method of extraction which produces superior plant oil that has not been altered by heat associated with steam distillation.

"The CO2 extraction process consists of pumping pressurized carbon dioxide into a chamber filled with plant matter. When carbon dioxide is subjected to pressure it becomes "supercritical" and has liquid properties while remaining in a gaseous state. Because of the liquid properties of the gas, the CO2 functions as a solvent, pulling the oils and other substances such as pigment and resin from the plant matter. Thus, the difference between CO2, or supercritical, extraction and traditional distillation is that CO2 is used as a solvent instead of heated water or steam. The temperature involved in the supercritical extraction process is around 95 to 100 degrees F as opposed to 140 to 212 degrees F in steam distillation." (source - edenbotanicals.com)

The Chamomile and Avocado cleansing oil contains sweet almond, caster oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil, amaranth (CO2 extract) Chamomile (CO2 extract), geranium oil, palmarosa and rosemary (CO2 extract). For me, it is a lovely blend and a pleasure to use. All the ingredients offer great benefits to my skin. If I compare the Biologique to my old faithful from Blue Labelle’s original range, there is not a significant difference in terms of performance. Both contain ingredients that do not disrupt my skin and without putting the product under some sort of laboratory testing, to the naked eye there is not a dramatic difference. 

Overall, I like the Biologique cleansing oil but I am also very happy with the original formula. I feel that the decision of which range to purchase from would be purely based on personal preference. The Biologique does contain a higher quality of essential oils because of the extraction technique and is 100% organic. I imagine that is a selling point which will be embraced by some customers. I highly recommend Blue Labelle products, which ever product you buy, I do not think you would be disappointed.

Sarah x

Disclaimer - PR sample & contains affiliate link

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