cruelty free

10 October 2021

Review Odylique NEW Prebiotic, Chamomile and Coconut Conditioner
(Gifted/Unpaid/Affiliate Link & Discount Code)

If you've been following for some time you'll probably already know that I'm a huge fan of Odylique Gentle Herb Shampoo. Believe me when I say it's the only shampoo I use as nothing else comes close to it. I've seen and received comments over the years that people are disappointed that there was no matching conditioner but that has now changed. Odylique recently launched two new products - Prebiotic, Chamomile & Coconut Conditioner (fragrance free) and Lavender Conditioner & Detangler.

I struggled for years to find decent natural hair care that was also free from fragrance and essential oils so I was thrilled by the launch of the Coconut Conditioner. Odylique market this as a multi-tasking product that can be used as a detangler, cleansing conditioner for co-washing, split end repair cream, hair mask/treatment and scalp conditioner.

For this review I chose to use Odylique Chamomile and Coconut Conditioner after every wash for a week and as a hair treatment. To give you a bit of background information -

* I have fine hair but lots of it so it appears thick
* I use hair dye every six weeks
* I style with a hair dryer and GHD straighteners
* I wash my hair on average every other day

Odylique have formulated their conditioners with active ingredients. Horsetail strengthens, coconut is conditioning, chamomile and calendula are soothing, aloe vera locks in moisture and shea butter is smoothing. It's free from wheat, dairy, soy and common allergen nut oils, suitable for vegans and cruelty free, free from sulphates and silicones. The tube is recyclable and made in UK from renewable sugar cane.

So what do I think of Odylique NEW Prebiotic, Chamomile and Coconut Conditioner? I'm no longer reaching for this conditioner after every wash as I prefer using it as an intensive treatment to tackle dryness. After styling my hair always feels soft, shiny and smooth. When I air dry my hair it often looks frizzy with a slight wave/curl but I see a reduction in this when using Odylique conditioner. Overall, I've been very happy with this conditioner and would be happy to recommend.

If you would like to try Odylique Prebiotic, Chamomile & Coconut Conditioner or Lavender Conditioner & Detangler, you can receive 20% off orders using my code SUGARPUFFISH at the checkout on their website.

Sarah x

23 May 2021

Grüum SPF50 5* UVA Dermatologist Face Sunscreen
(Please Note - I purchased this item/ingredients were correct at date of publication/always check with company for up to date information as formulations can change)

UPDATE JULY 2021 - I have seen a few comments on Gruum's IG that their SPF is not Vegan as has been claimed on their website and in adverts. I understand the formulation is from Altruist and their FAQ page states "Given the interest in this issue we have investigated further and we know that the components are fully vegan except for Xanthan Gum as there are enzymes used during a fermentation process to get Xanthan Gum. The typical production process of Xanthan uses Iysozyme derived from the egg white of chicken eggs."

I was window shopping for a facial SPF and a well timed instagram advert from Grüum had me placing an order. Grüum sunscreen appealed to me for several reasons. It's fragrance free, cruelty free, affordable, with high UVA and UVB protection.

We built grüum on three core principles: Simplicity, Honesty and Fairness. We’re committed to creating clean skincare products that are kind to you, your skin, and our planet.

Yes, I too am here for the dinky cute bottle, it's a standard 50ml and you'll probably get through it quickly if applying every day. According to the FAQs it is a plastic bottle made from either HDPE or LDPE (caps from PP) these are recycled plastics but it is going to depend on whether your local council accepts it. I know that this will be a deal breaker for some readers.

Grüum SPF is lightweight and feels like a standard lotion. I have a pale skin tone and so I don't notice a white cast. In that respect it's much better than other mineral sun creams I've tried over the years. I think it's possible that it could also suit a deeper complexion and suggest it's worth trying out. I'm happy to apply my tinted CC cream over the top without any noticeable issue so I'll say this works well under makeup.

I've not experienced any breakouts or irritation and I'm happy to keep using Grüum facial sunscreen for the foreseeable. Obviously with the weather being shit at the moment and no overseas summer holidays on the horizon, I can't say how it holds up on a very sunny day. For day to day activities at home I'm happy with how it feels on my skin.

I recommend checking out the Gruum website - www.gruum.com for more information and to browse their other products.

Sarah x

AD - Are you looking for a vegan, hypoallergenic, eco-friendly and reef safe sunscreen? check out Odylique (affiliate link) use coupon code SUGARPUFFISH at checkout for 20% off your order (no expiry date!)

3 May 2021

Review A'kin Mild & Gentle Fragrance Free Shampoo and Calming Hand Cream
(I purchased these products)

A'kin and I go way back. I've mentioned many times before how they were one of the first brands I discovered on my 'green' beauty journey. Last year I decided to revisit their products starting with the A'kin Mild & Gentle Fragrance Free Conditioner. I've since repurchase and sized up to the 500ml bottle as I enjoy using it. After much deliberation I decided to buy the A'kin Mild & Gentle Fragrance Free Shampoo. This was a huge deal for me as I've been loyal to Odylique Gentle Herb Shampoo for around eight years and never switched in that time.

I remember in those early years I never rated the A'kin Mild & Gentle Fragrance Free Shampoo because I wasn't used to low foaming haircare and hadn't purged my hair of mainstream products. Now I have experience behind me and this A'kin shampoo performs better than I remembered. I can achieve a nice lather, my hair feels clean and I can do this without scalp irritation associated with fragrance. My hair does feel a little dry in the washing stages so I always follow up with conditioner (the same goes for Odylique). Now that I've experienced this A'kin shampoo again I'm confident to recommend to readers. At this time, the 500ml bottle does work out a little cheaper in comparison to Odylique.

Changing the subject over to hand creams, I don't know about you but the pandemic has been rough on my skin. I've had lots of issues with extremely dry hands and eczema. It's possible I've used A'kin Calming Hand Cream in the past but I couldn't quite remember. The fragrance free formulation contains jojoba and shea butter which offer soothing and hydrating properties. The texture of the cream feels non-greasy, nourishing and my skin absorbs the cream leaving me quickly free to go about daily tasks. I've got a couple of hand creams on the go at the moment but A'kin Calming Hand Cream does feel as if it's having an impact on maintaining the on going battle against dryness. The important part is to be consistent with using hand creams, reapply regularly and the effects on skin should become noticeable.

A'kin products are available to purchase through their website but you'll also find stockists online. All products are vegan and cruelty free. Alongside their fragrance free range you can find scented alternatives.

Sarah x

25 April 2021

what is skinimalism the a new skincare trend for 2021
I guess that in some ways I've been an advocate for skinimalism for years and now it's being forecast as the new skincare trend for 2021. I've always had a 'less is more' attitude towards my skincare routine because skin which is prone to eczema has a compromised barrier and needs to be handled gently. 

Skin minimalism or Skinimalism is about using the products that work for you but allowing your natural skin to shine through. It's about embracing and not hiding our imperfections and letting go of 12+ step skincare routines. The pandemic has more than likely contributed to and triggered a change in attitude when it comes to our buying habits. With many people working from home and not going out we've been wearing less makeup and maybe concentrating on the products that have true purpose in our lives.

Over the years we have seen a rise in single ingredient products and brands like The Ordinary have been part of this trend. As tempting as they may be, layering lots of skincare products that aren't necessarily designed to work together may have an effect on our skin's natural barrier. Alongside this I've always said that I believe people over exfoliate and now experts are warning us of the damage it can cause. 

Your skincare routine should ideally have four steps to be effective - cleanse, treat, moisturise and protect. Reducing the number of products you use and opting for multi-purpose alternatives could be beneficial for your skin, bank balance and the environment. For example, instead of buying separate day and night moisturisers you could opt for one formulation to replace them both. Cut back on overloading on trendy ingredients and zone in on what your skin truly needs. For example, I've spoken in the past about my problems with hyaluronic acid as it isn't for everyone but the media has been keen to tell me otherwise.

I think it's important to remember that skinimalism doesn't have to be a set of exact rules. You should tailor the trend to your needs as what is essential to you may be very different for other people. Consider what you skin requires, what you enjoy using and then you can thin out your routine over time. Don't feel tempted to throw everything in the bin at once. Next time you finish up a product take your time to consider your choice on whether that item needs replacing or not.

If skinimalism is of interest then may I suggest exploring the following products -

Lucky Cloud Skincare Super Balms are great for any rough, dry, flaky skin and can be used head to toe hands, feet, lips, elbows etc.

Green People One Balm is an organic multi-purpose beauty balm, use it to restores dry, troubled skin anywhere 

Nourish London Antioxidant Multi-tasking Super Balm can be used as a cleanser, a mask or an intensive moisturiser from head to toe.

Pamoja Restore Multi-purpose Beauty Oil can be used as a facial oil but you may also apply to dry, brittle nails and cuticles, softening elbows and knees and smoothing hair

Lyonsleaf Unfragrance Beauty Balm can be used for cleansing and moisturising

BYBI Babe Balm can be used top to toe to soften, soothe and repair dry skin

Sarah x

2 April 2021

Maison Meunier Skincare Gentle Cleansing Gel Balm
(I purchased this product)

I have the Free From Skincare Awards to thank for this recent discovery. They have been introducing entrants on their instagram account and up popped Maison Meunier Skincare Gentle Cleansing Gel Balm. I was immediately intrigued because I have a soft spot for balm cleansers that emulsify with water.

"Born in Paris. Handcrafted in Manchester. Our collection is designed to help you to find your bliss. It will lift your spirits, nourish your body and rejuvenate your senses."

Maison Meunier Skincare Gentle Cleansing Gel Balm can be used as a cleanser or hydrating mask. Packaging is simple but elegant, with a glass jar, outer cardboard box, wooden spoon and cleansing pad. I was immediately drawn to the ingredients of acai, baobab oil and carrot seed, promising to hydrate and brighten skin. It is free from essential oils but has a natural aroma of apple blossom which I find gentle and unique. Certified Vegan and Cruelty free by the PETA and registered with the Vegan Society. It ticks a lot of boxes for me so I was excited to get stuck in.

Lets talk about how it looks and feels. The gel texture reminds me of thick honey or golden syrup and feels wonderful on the skin. Applied in a thin layer it can be massage easily across the face and it feels fantastic. You get the pleasure of a balm that becomes silky smooth with the warmth of your hands and face. I take my time with Maison Meunier Skincare Gentle Cleansing Gel Balm to fully experience the product and enjoy a relaxing moment. When you are ready to remove the cleanser you simply rinse away or use a damp cloth (I prefer the latter). It will gently remove light makeup (I wear CC cream and powder) but you may choose to use a dedicated makeup removing product beforehand. My skin never feels stripped but simply cleansed and refreshed. This gel balm cleanser is a pleasure to use and very easy to recommend to others.

Maison Meunier Skincare Gentle Cleansing Gel Balm feels like one to watch and I'm certainly intrigued to see how it will perform in the awards. If you're looking for something a bit different from the crowd definitely check out Maison Meunier Skincare. 

Sarah x

7 March 2021

Review Silvan Skincare Pure Face Cream
(gifted & affiliate link)

Silvan Skincare has featured a number of times on my site and my review back in 2018 for their Skin Therapy Extra Gentle Facial Oil remains popular with readers. Today I'm introducing you to one of the newly reformulated face cream, Pure. There are a total of five face creams in the collection depending on your skin type and Pure is the one intended for sensitive skin plus it's fragrance free.

You know I adore facial oils but sometimes my eczema seems to crave creams. I've never really figured out why and it's based on instinct of how my skin feels and responds. Pure is a calming moisturiser formulated with apricot, jojoba and calendula. From my perspective finding a decent cream free from essential oils has been quite a mission.

I've quickly become a fan of Silvan Skincare Pure face cream. It has a lovely whipped texture and this appeals to me because I can apply lightly or heavily depending on my requirements for that day. As someone with dermatitis I experience extremely dry skin which is exacerbated by cold weather so it's a constant battle to keep my skin hydrated. All the ingredients combined work their magic and I welcome the inclusion of cocoa butter as that's an ingredient that packs a moisturising punch.

I've been using this face cream day and night. My skin feel smooth and soft for the entire day and revived in the mornings. Once the product settles into my skin I can happily apply makeup on top. As there are no essential oils I don't have to worry about triggering allergic reactions.

Silvan Skincare is certified cruelty free under the Leaping Bunny programme and registered with the Vegan Society. I highly recommend exploring the product range from Silvan Skincare, I'm sure you will find something you will love.

Sarah x

1 February 2021

2021 Free From Skincare Awards to open 1st February
(unpaid/press release)

Positivity is what we need for 2021 so let's celebrate the tenth annual Free From Skincare Awards will open to entries on 1st February. I support these awards because a "free from" lifestyle has been part of me since childhood. I need to avoid pesky allergens some of which are present in skincare. I assume many people probably don't look beyond the matter of food allergies and often forget that skincare can be problematic for some people. You may also fall under the "free from" umbrella for lifestyle choices e.g Veganism or Religion.

I recommend following The Free From Awards on social media as that's where you will locate general news, entrant introductions and eventually winner announcements (in June). The Awards pride themselves on their fairness, rigour and transparency, and have been running a #KnowYourAwards campaign on Instagram throughout January to answer in-depth questions about the Awards, offering ‘behind the scenes’ insights into testing protocols, judging, decision-making and much more.

"No brand should be in the dark about our procedures and processes, nor the principles underpinning them. There are many awards out there, and we feel it’s important that skincare brands, especially in these tough times, have full understanding of what ours actually stand for — and what the many benefits of participation will be - Awards’ Director Alex Gazzola"

There are sixteen product categories this year which includes two new categories for deodorants and toners, waters and spritzes.
 
Previous winners of the Best Overall Free From Skincare Product were:

* Uoga Uoga’s Intensive Care Day Cream (2020)
* Weleda’s Skin Food Body Butter (2019)
* Harborist’s Balm-Gel Cleanser (2018)
* Benecos’s Lip Balm (2017)
* Kinvara Skincare’s Absolute Cleansing Oil (2016) 
* Bloom Remedies’ Men’s Daily Moisture Care (2015)
* Tropic Skincare’s Smoothing Cleanser (2014)
* Barefoot Botanicals’ Face and Body Rescue Cream (2013)
* Qsilica’s Remove Make-up and Grime Cleansing Gel (2012)

Brands sold and distributed in the UK, Ireland and Europe are eligible to participate in the Free From Skincare Awards. The key dates you need to note are 

* Entries close 21st March
* Finalists revealed in May
* Winners announced in June

And for information on rules, terms, conditions and how to enter, visit www.freefromskincareawards.co.uk

19 January 2021

Review Organii Everyday Organics Hand Gel and Surface Spray
(Gifted PR samples & affiliate link)

I had never used a hand sanitiser prior to the pandemic as they are not eczema friendly. The high percentage of alcohol required to kill germs can be painful on delicate skin. Handwashing with soap is our first line of defence against illness but hand sanitisers have become a necessity when grocery shopping or in the office. During the last twelve months I've struggled to find a natural brand offering a formulation that doesn't contain linalool. I have been using Biovène Barcelona 70% Alcohol Hand Cleansing Gel but was excited to see Organii launch a hand gel. Any long time readers will know Organii is a brand I have supported for a long time. I like that their products are affordable, organic, suitable for vegans and effective. I can no longer be without their Shea Butter Body Wash.

Organii Hand Gel - this gel does contains limonene but not linalool so that helps eliminate one of my personal concerns. Organii hand gel is certified natural by Eco Bio Control with 60% alcohol including aloe vera and glycerin for skin hydration. The smaller bottle is perfect for deep pockets and bags so I carry it with me when I make those occasional trips to the supermarket. If hand santisiers are our new future then it's important to me to opt for cruelty free brands and Organii ticks the box. This hand gel is a liquid consistency compared to others but I have no issue with that. I can't prevent the long term effects of alcohol on my eczema as it will always be stripping of moisture but Organii hand gel feels comfortable on my skin which is important.

Organii Surface Spray - pocket sized so works well on the go. I've been using this one on shopping trolley handles but it is suitable for other surfaces such as door handles and tables. The formulation is based on alcohol and tea tree essential oils due to its anti-bacterial and anti-viral effects. As expected with Organii products the surface spray is also certified natural and cruelty free.

Once again I'm more than happy to recommend Organii to you. Even though I wish sanitising hand gels were not a staple part of daily life and that this virus would bugger of. If we must use products to help prevent the spread I'm comfortable relying on Organii to help me out. 

Organii Hand Gel and Surface Spray are available to buy through online retailers If you missed my December review then hop across to this blog post - Sukin Spot Banishing Gel

Sarah x

12 January 2021

Review Vemel Waterless Skincare Vitamin Boost Cleansing Balm
Most of the Instagram adverts that come my way are pure trash but up popped an interesting looking skincare brand and suddenly my bank account was £25 lighter. What exactly caught my eye? well if it's not already obvious then let me introduce you to Vemel Vitamin Boost Cleansing Balm. According to their website Vemel is a waterless skincare brand manufactured in Berkshire. 

Vemel was born as an antidote to the chemical overload that we find in our every-day lives in our quest to help our children who suffered for years with eczema related skin conditions and allergies. We believe that by reducing the chemicals that we absorb on a daily basis we can make long terms benefits to our overall health.

I'm not a huge fan of the message above as everything in life is a chemical but I understand the sentiment behind it due to my own lifetime of eczema and allergies. I am a firm believer that our skin is often overloaded with unnecessary and irritating ingredients. Many of us with skin problems need to strip back our routines and heal or protect our skin from further damage.

For me, Vemel ticks a number of boxes when I'm looking for skincare. As they are a waterless skincare brand that allows formulas to be free from preservatives and allows other plant based ingredients to shine through. I am not against preservation as it's important for the health and safety of products but since I have an MI allergy I have an awareness that some preservatives may be irritants to sensitive skin. Another important factor for me is Vemel chooses not to use essential oils in their products which reduces allergens. They are also plastic free and certified Vegan.

Now that you have a little understanding of why I chose to purchase from Vemel Skincare, let me introduce you to the Vitamin Boost Cleansing Balm. You can see that a lot of care and attention has been spent on packaging and it's certainly attractive. This cleansing balm is formulated with shea butter, apricot oil, sunflower oil, berry wax, vitamin E, sea buckthorn and carrot. It's a solid balm consistency in the jar but melts with the warmth of your skin. If you have ever tried Lyonsleaf Beauty Balm then it's very similar in texture. The addition of a wooden spatula is necessary as I don't think I could scrap the balm from the jar as it's not super soft to the touch. Vemel also includes a cloth which is always great to include for those starting out with a balm cleanser but for me it's just another to add to my vast collection so not a necessity.

Cleansing balms are simple to use. Once I have scooped a small amount I warm it in my fingers (to melt) and then slowly and gently massage across my face. I take time to enjoy the process and when I'm ready I remove with a warm damp flannel (or the cloth provided). My makeup is minimal (Madara CC Cream and Everyday Minerals Powder) and I have no issues with removing the dirt and grime, the cloth is filthy with makeup so that's a good indication. I love balm cleansers because they don't strip my skin of moisture and I'm left with a silky, soft and hydrated face, vital in these winter months.

I really enjoy using Vemel Vitamin Boost Cleansing Balm and it's comparable to many others on the market in terms of formulation, usage and performance. It is very easy for me to recommend a product like this one. At the moment I'm definitely showing signs of stress in my skin and I've been unhappy with my complexion so it's important for me to use the right products. I have trusted Vemel to deliver quality ingredients in a way that isn't overly complicated and that's what I find works best for me. It's also great to see a brand that avoids fragrance, as regular readers know I am sensitive to linalool (found in essential oils).

If you'd like further information on Vemel Vitamin Boost Cleansing Balm or to view the rest of their skincare range, please visit Vemel Waterless Organic Skincare.

Sarah x

1 January 2021

top natural skincare products for 2020 sensitive skin prone to eczema
(some products featured may have been gifted, others will have been purchased)

2020 may have been shit but natural skincare has been excellent. Lets just step away from all of the world's problems and be a little selfish and indulgent. I enjoy looking back on the products that have given me some joy over the last twelve months. Skincare is self care and those of us with problem skin are often battling against exasperated conditions at times of great stress and anxiety. Let me jump in and talk about some of the products which became firm favourites.

Everyday Favourites
Most of you will already know that my routine always includes products from Balmonds, Odylique and Organii. I'm a regular customer when it comes to creams, shampoo and shower gels from these brands. I've become reacquainted with Lyonsleaf products especially after introducing a fragrance free version of their best seller Beauty Balm. I also rekindled my affections for A'kin Mild & Gentle Fragrance Free Conditioner, a product I once used regularly at the start of my green journey, long before I started blogging.

Favourite for coconut oil lovers
I love that fragrance free has been at the forefront of many new discoveries this year. With a rise in allergies and sensitivities I think it's an important focus for skincare brands. I fell hard for the fantastic Lucy Bee. I've gone through several tubes of the Reviving Cleanser and recently finished a jar of Radiance Boosting face cream. If you love coconut oil as part of your skincare routine then you are sure to become a fan.

Favourite minimalistic skincare
I've always enjoyed skincare which has a minimalistic approach to ingredients and with this in mind I welcomed Eden Days Sensitive Soul Body Butter, Minimalist Skincare Gentle Daily Cleansing Balm, Bunch Skincare Body Oil and Lily & Rabbit soaps.

Parisian Favourites
Typology was another launch which took me by surprise. I enjoyed the no-frills approach with mix and match products tailoring to individual needs. Their products are also free from essential oils. Following on with my love of minimal ingredients I particularly enjoyed using the Typology 7 Ingredient Makeup Removing Oil and 10 Ingredient Hand Balm.

There are so many brilliant small businesses out there and I hope to find more newcomers. I will do my best to continue supporting your business into 2021 which also happens to be my tenth year of running this blog. Fingers crossed for a brighter and healthier future.

Sarah x

AFFILIATE LINKS & DISCOUNT CODES
20% off Odylique using code SUGARPUFFISH
20% off Balmonds using code SUGARPUFFISH20

3 November 2020

faith in nature grapefruit and orange hand wash
(I purchased this product)

I've used products from in Nature for many years and they have featured on my blog a handful of times. In fact let me be nerdy and tell you their Chocolate Body Wash was the fourteenth post I ever wrote. Sadly that has since been disappeared off their site but I wanted to give a shout out to Faith in Nature Grapefruit & Orange hand wash. It was one of many soaps I purchased during lockdown.

When you plant a tree, you commit to a long term vision of how beautiful that tree could be in decades to come. Sometimes even centuries. Starting Faith In Nature back in 1974 was a bit like that. It was a vision of what could be possible one day. A belief that the best companies could be ethical. That natural could be affordable. That doing right by the planet and its people was not only a choice, but our duty. Change doesn't always come quickly. But that's exactly why Faith matters so much.


I'm only a few years younger than this brand but it's great to see Faith in Nature has stood the test of time. I've seen it go through many changes over the years from branding to product range but you can rely on their quality and affordability. Currently the range includes hair care, body washes, soaps and hand washes and refill options.

Faith in Nature does have fragrance free options but I went for Grapefruit and Orange as it doesn't contain linalool (Citral and Limonene are present on the label). I love a citrus scent so it was a winner straight away. It doesn't feel drying on skin and foams up well making it easy to use. I'm not a fan of the bottle cap as you need to pour onto hands but that is easily resolved by decanting into a soap dispenser.

Faith in Nature is an affordable product to have in the home and suitable for all the family. You can purchase directly from their website but you'll also see them on the shelves of independent retailers, Holland & Barrett, Boots and Sainsbury's.

Sarah x

27 October 2020

By Sarah London Organic Hair Oil and Georganics Oil Pulling Mouthwash
(Gifted/prices correct at time of publication)

Georganics is a brand I've known for a while and they recently launched onto Love Lula's site. They are a natural, sustainable and ethical oral care brand. Georganics pride themselves on being zero waste, plastic free, biodegradable, vegan and cruelty free (certified by PETA). Products are free from free from fluoride, glycerine, SLS, parabens, gluten, GMO ingredients and alcohol.

I'll be the first to hold my hand up and say that switching to natural dental products feels the same as the struggles to finding natural deodorants. I personally would like to see natural oral care with backing from dentists. I feel it's important to be mindful about the long term health of my teeth.

I believe Oil Pulling is associated with Auyrveda, the traditional medicine system from India. Studies suggest that oil pulling can kill bacteria in the mouth and improve dental health. I've been trialling the Georganics Oil Pulling Mouthwash in English Peppermint. The suggested usage is 1-2 teaspoons of oil and swish around the mouth for five to twenty minutes. I think you have to work up to the twenty minute time frame and honestly I don't have the will power or time for it. 

My mouthwashes have always been non-mainstream and I've used Sarakan for many years. Georganics Oil Pulling Mouthwash is a pleasant product but it doesn't have the punchy kick of peppermint which I enjoy. I'm certainly not a convert to oil pulling at the moment but maybe I need more time.

By Sarah London Organic Facial Oil featured on my blog last year so I'm familiar wit their products. I particularly like them as they formulated without using essential oils. It can be a little tricky to find fragrance free hair products so I was keen to try By Sarah London Organic Hair Oil. It is a unisex product and the formulation is a blend of argan oil, sea buckthorn oil and vitamin E. The write up for this product states "Sea Buckthorn Oil is a key active ingredient that helps to prevent dryness, thinning and split ends."

I have fine hair so I only use 2-3 drops of By Sarah London Organic Hair Oil on damp hair before styling. I did have to experiment with the quantity as there were times my hair felt a little weighed down which I attributed to this product. I'm hoping there are long term benefits to using hair oil but it's not easy to monitor. All I can say is my hair feels silky and smooth to the touch, with a reduction in the frizzy texture of my dry ends. At £23 for a 20ml bottle it's probably one of the most expensive hair oils I've used. 

If you would like to buy By Sarah London Organic Hair Oil and Georganics Oil Pulling Mouthwash please visit their websites. If you didn't catch last months review then follow the link - Lyonsleaf Unfragranced Beauty Balm

Sarah x

20 October 2020

Pamoja Skincare Restore Multi Purpose Beauty Oil Essential Oil Free
(gifted product)

You may recall my interview with Sarah founder of Pamoja Skincare back in lockdown. I had the pleasure to try Restore Multi-purpose Beauty Oil Essential Oil Free through the Free From Skincare Awards. I'm keen to support small business and Sarah's journey to formulating skincare shares similarities to my own struggles. I feels this adds a level of trust which gives a unique selling point over their competitors.

I suffered severe skin sensitivities on my face and contact dermatitis. As a family living with food allergies, we were already conscious of what we were eating and the importance of fully understanding a product label. So, I began a journey to understand better what I was putting on my skin and found a solution in nourishing botanical ingredients jam-packed with nutrients, that would soothe, hydrate and protect my skin - Sarah, Pamoja Skincare

When you live with allergies there are so many hurdles to overcome and your day consists of reading labels. I'm always super excited to discover formulations without essential oil and Pamoja Skincare provide this choice to customers. For those of you lucky enough not to worry about allergies, there is the option to buy a fragranced version of Restore Multi-purpose Beauty Oil.

Restore Beauty Oil (essential oil free) is packed with interesting ingredients which includes Sacha Inchi, Kahai, Sea Buckthorn, Blackcurrant and Pomegranate. It's packed full of fantastic minerals and vitamins including Omega 3, 5, 6, 7 and 9 essential fatty acids, vitamin A and E. Restore is a golden oil with a distinct natural earthy aroma similar to fresh cut grass. I've been applying in the evening after cleansing. The key is to apply to slightly damp skin to lock in moisture. My skin absorbs the oil beautifully, feels fresh and hydrated. It can be use in the mornings and would make a good base for makeup. Packaging is simple, effective, nicely branded and practical with a push button pipette dispenser.

Restore is ideal for facial massage, nourishing dry, brittle nails and cuticles, softening elbows and knees, smoothing hair and soothing skin that's spent time in the sun and sea - making it a perfect multitasking holiday companion!

My final thoughts are that Pamoja Restore Multi Purpose Beauty Oil Essential Oil Free is a lovely facial oil which I'm very happy to recommend. I'm sure it would suit many skin types but especially appealing to people with sensitivity and essential oil allergies. If you would like to explore the product range in more detail then please visit Pamoja Skincare.

Sarah x

15 October 2020

review Fill steel and glass cleaner
(I purchased this product)

Cleaning is a chore but we all have to do it at some point. For years now I've been seeking out household cleaning products with plant based ingredients. I've always struggled with sensitivity to mainstream brands that are highly perfumed or overbearing with bleach.

I was having trouble re-purchasing Tincture London Glass, Mirror & Steel Cleaner during lockdown so I was looking for an alternative. I ended up buying Fill Steel and Glass Cleaner. What stood out to me with Fill products is there are fragrance free options

"WE MAKE EVERYTHING OURSELVES, AT OUR OWN FAMILY RUN FACTORY IN NORTHAMPTONSHIRE WITH REAL CHEMISTS… COMBINING BIODEGRADABLE INGREDIENTS TO CREATE SIMPLE, MODERN & EFFECTIVE ECO CLEANING & LAUNDRY PRODUCTS. NO DYES. NO HARSH CHEMICALS. NO PLASTIC BOTTLES. LESS WASTE."

You may wonder why I buy a specific glass and steel cleaner over using a multi purpose product. Well the reason is I have found that some surface sprays don't cut through the grease and leave streaks on the steel hob and my glass back splash. I've a shiny new home and like to keep it that way.

Fill Steel and Glass Cleaner makes light work of cleaning surface around my home. It doesn't take much elbow grease to get everything looking 'spick and span'. This cleaner is packaged in a glass bottle and I purchased with a spray nozzle which is plastic but if you re-purchase or re-fill you can hang onto this part and re-use it. I did opt for the fragrance version and the scent of geranium is pleasant and not over powering.

I've been happy to discover Fill. Their ethos looks great with options to bulk buy and refill, products are vegan and cruelty free, packaging is cardboard and glass, ingredients are biodegradable and you can support local business. If you would like to buy the steel and glass cleaner or explore the entire product range then visit fillrefill.co

Sarah x

13 October 2020

Bunch Skincare
(Gifted PR Sample)

I'm always excited to discover brands that offer fragrance free products and that's why I accepted a body oil from Bunch Skincare. Founded by Gosia, the brand is about fun and beautiful, luxurious natural products with a passion for science, nature and caring for the environment. Packaging is practical and minimum with bright and colourful branding. Ingredients are plant based and suitable for Vegans.

I've been trialling Bunch Skincare Aftersun Body Oil. As the name suggest this is a product to be used after soaking up the sun. The formulation consists of almond, jojoba, rice bran, olive, sunflower and bisabolol. These are ingredients known for anti-inflammatory, nourishing and soothing properties, ideal for skin exposed to the drying conditions of salt and chlorine. Even though this body oil is marketed as a summer product don't let that put you off using it all year round.

I'd describe Bunch Skincare Aftersun Body Oil as a dry oil and by that I mean it feels invisible on the skin, there is no greasy residue following application. This isn't one of those products where you'll be standing naked in the bedroom waiting for it to absorb before getting dressed. I experience dry skin prone to eczema and Bunch Skincare oil feels wonderful on my skin. It instantly improves the appearance. I am fair toned with a hint of sun kissed tan (thanks to lockdown and a back garden) and the oil rejuvenates to a golden glow.

Bunch Skincare Aftersun Body Oil is a beautiful product. It is priced on higher end compared to others so it may not be suitable for all budgets. If you would like to explore the product collection in more detail, then may I suggest visiting their website - Bunch Skincare.

Sarah x

6 October 2020

Review Nourish London Kale Anti-Ageing Eye Cream
(Gifted PR sample)

It has been a while since I featured products from Nourish London. In fact you'll have to dig around in the archives to circa 2012/2013 when I reviewed products from the Relax collection. The branding has been updated over the years but the range still exists. I had a huge love for lavender back in the day but sadly that came to a end when I was diagnosed with a sensitivity to linalool. Eye creams are often formulated without essential oils. I imagine the reason for this may be due to the sensitive and delicate nature of this part of the face. 

Nourish London Kale Anti Ageing Eye Cream is formulated with plant extracts but it's the Kale extract which is the key ingredient that is highlighted. It's a vitamin rich component combined with Maqui Berry and Pomegranate enzymes to help counter puffiness and dark circles. Amino acids, B vitamins and antioxidants firm and reduce the appearance of fine lines.

The packaging for this Nourish eye cream is sleek and practical. A pump dispenser helps eradicate the fear of germs often associated with dipping fingers in jars and exposing creams to air. Of course you should always apply products with clean hands. This is a light cream which absorbs quickly without greasiness. It has a gentle cooling sensation and a pleasant aroma. I am in my 40s but I have never been overly concerned about dark circles and wrinkles. I find it hard to judge long term performance however my eyes look more awake when applied in the mornings. I have since passed it onto my Mum who took a keen interest in this product. 

I know sometimes gifted reviews are taken with a pinch of salt but Nourish London Kale anti-ageing eye cream comes highly recommended by others. It has been recognised in several awards, most recently Highly Commended as Best Anti-Ageing Range by Natural Health Magazine International Beauty Awards 2019

All Nourish London products are organic, certified vegan, alcohol free and cruelty free. The outer boxes are made with cardboard certified by FSC who promote ethical management of forests and can be recycled. For further information on Nourish London Kale Anti Ageing Eye Cream or any other product in the Kale collection, please visit Nourish London Skincare.

Sarah x

Archived Review Posts

1 October 2020

akin mild gentle fragrance free conditioner
(I purchased this product)

I've been struggling with eczema on my neck and shoulders during lockdown which lead me to rethink my haircare routine. I enjoy using Giovanni 2Chic Ultra-Sleek Conditioner but I've temporarily stopped using it opting for a fragrance free replacement. Akin was one of the first natural brands I ever tried and I regularly used their shampoos and conditioners in those early years. I'm sad to say they fell off my radar following the increase in green beauty products and growing market. 

My quest for fragrance free conditioner had been right under my nose the entire time. I'm so pleased I decided to buy A'kin Mild & Gentle Fragrance Free Conditioner as it has provided much needed relief. Of course it may be purely coincidence but I've seen a difference. I always advocate stripping back your hair or skin care routine and going scent free when experiencing allergy and eczema flare ups.

This Akin conditioner lives up to its name - Mild and Gentle. It's formulated with rosehip oil, shea butter, jojoba oil and oat extract to soothe dry itchy scalps and provide moisture. I have shoulder length hair which is fine but thick and I colour it every 6-8 weeks. I need a conditioner that combats dryness but doesn't weigh it down. A little does go a long way and I'm cautious not to overload my fine hair. During application I feel this Akin conditioner detangles knots caused during the shampooing process. My hair feels silky and smooth during application and retains this through to styling. After the first use I pondered why I hadn't been using A'kin Mild & Gentle Fragrance Free Conditioner all along. Maybe I was side tracked by marketing promises, curiosity for new products or tightening of purse strings. 

I've always recommended A'kin fragrance free products to others based on old experiences but now I feel happy having a fresh perspective under my belt. It's enjoyable to revisit long lost brands and I'm sure I'll delve back into the product range once more. In the meantime, I'm happy and with fingers crossed I'm hoping this itchy free lifestyle will continue for the foreseeable. One day I may venture back into the arms of Giovanni but for the moment A'kin Mild & Gentle Fragrance Free Conditioner has saved me from bad hair days.

Sarah 

8 September 2020

Green People Nordic Roots Scent Free Cranberry Micellar Foam
(gifted PR sample)

I was very excited to learn of Green People's new skincare launch, Nordic Roots. Why was I so excited? because every product is scent free and I don't have to worry about fragrance allergens. I'm a long-time customer of Green People products, I trust the brand and I was keen to explore this latest addition.

Nordic Roots is inspired by the upbringing and heritage of Green People's founder, Charlotte Vøhtz. It celebrates native flora and fauna offering Scandinavian values of simplicity with scent free, gender neutral, clean and functional skincare that delivers results. Key ingredients include sugar beets, apple cellular water, hop flowers, oat kernel and Atlantic seaweed. Care and attention have also been applied to the packaging which is made with 25% grass, a renewable raw material that requires less water and energy during production. The Nordic Roots collection consists of four products - Hyaluronic Booster Serum, Scent Free Apple Complex Moisturiser, Scent Free Marine Facial Oil and Scent Free Cranberry Micellar Foam. 

Scent Free Cranberry Micellar Foam
A foam cleanser takes me out of my comfort zone as I usually opt for cream and oil products. This dispenses as foam out of the pump bottle and so naturally it's a very gentle and soft sensation when applied to skin. Your instructed to massage one or two pumps over the face and remove with a soft cloth and rinse with warm water. The key ingredients are antioxidant cranberry extract and apple cellular water to refresh and hydrate. Cranberry Micellar Foam is suitable for all but I can see the benefits of using on very sensitive skin. During the heatwave this cleanser was the one I reached for. It's ideal to use when you're feeling hot and sweaty as the lightweight foam feels refreshing, it's also a quick and easy cleansing process. I'd recommend following up with a toner if wearing makeup as on occasions I couldn't quite achieve the perfect level of removal and need that extra step. Cranberry Micellar Foam is still a little out of my comfort zone but I do find it an interesting and innovative new product. I would certainly look to purchase other products from the Nordic Roots collection.

If you would like to explore the Nordic Roots range or discover other products from Green People, please visit their website for further information - Green People Nordic Roots Skincare

Sarah x

7 July 2020

BAO Skincare Natural Organic Vegan
(Gifted PR Samples)

At the heart of BAO Skincare is its founder Beth who created her organic and vegan products to managed sensitive skin. I think it would be fair to say it's a familiar back story as to why Beth started creating her products. Many of us turn to a holistic and natural lifestyle when experiencing skin issues or ill health. BAO skincare is handmade in Dorset and formulated without the synthetic ingredients that many of us choose to avoid. When using preservatives BAO states they will be free from palm oil. Products such as balms, salts and scrubs are formulated without water and do not require the same preservation systems. You can also be assured that products are certified by COSMOS Soil Association and The Vegan Society. I was kindly sent a couple of products from BAO's skincare range so let me talk you through my thoughts. For my readers with sensitivities please note these products contain nut oils and essential oil fragrance allergens.

Brightening Hand Cream (with sweet orange & geranium) - a light texture cream infused with the scents of orange, geranium and may chang. The formulation includes moisturising oils of avocado, macadamia, apricot, shea butter and sweet almond. The glass bottle with pump not only looks stylish but it's practical and recyclable. BAO hand cream doesn't feel sticky or greasy yet it hydrates the skin with lasting performance. You can pair this with Brightening Hand Wash for a complete hand care routine. Overall it's a lovely hand cream which I am sure many people would enjoy using.

Luminosity Body Scrub (with coconut & grapefruit) - I don't naturally gravitate towards scrubs but I can experience flaky skin with seasonal changes so I need to tackle that a couple of times throughout the year. I think the recyclable aluminium pouch is not only creative but practical, it's resealable and safer than glass jars. The scrub isn't swimming in oil and drier than others I have tried. This isn't a criticism as I prefer this type of formulation, some body scrubs are impractical and leave you with a dangerous slippery bath/shower. The scrubbing action comes from cane sugar but also includes green clay, almond oil, apricot kernel, coconut and cocoa butter to help moisturise the skin. It has a delicate scent from grapefruit, may chang and red mandarin. I found the scrub comfortable to use and it didn't leave my skin red raw but was suitably rough to be effective in removing visible flaky skin. That being said I would always advise caution when using scrubs as they disrupt the skin barrier.

I've enjoyed using the Brightening Hand Cream and Luminosity Body Scrub and appreciate the consideration that has gone into the naturally derived formulations. From my own experiences I am happy to recommend BAO Skincare and would suggest you visit their website to explore the full product range.

Sarah x

3 June 2020

Pamoja Skincare vegan, palm oil free, free from allergens
(not sponsored)

Pamoja is a Swahili word which means ‘together’ and that feels like a great place to start this interview with Sarah, the founder of this wonderful natural skincare brand. Pamoja caught my attention because products are vegan, palm free and free from many of the major declarable food allergens. For those of you with sensitivity to essential oils they offer a fragrance free option.

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