dermatitis

23 November 2020

Eco Dreams Cloth Pads
(gifted from Eco Dreams)

I've openly discussed my experience with eco friendly and reusable period periods and my love hate relationship with them. Many people are fans of period cups but I aren't for everyone so I think it's important to be mindful that alternative options including cloth pads. We've been conditioned to believe periods are disgusting and I think those feelings are often projected onto reusable products. The thought of rinsing and washing pads seems impractical or unsightly but periods are a natural bodily function and we shouldn't be embarrassed or ashamed.

I took up an offer to try Eco Dreams cloth pads made from eco-friendly textiles and ethically manufactured in the UK. The range includes pantyliners, day pads, heavy flow pads and overnight pads in colourful prints. I have heavy periods and received a Day Pad Plus (flowers on white) and a Night Pad (green meadow). Eco Dreams make their pads from a blend of fabrics - cotton, polyurethane, polyester, bamboo viscose and the snaps are Oekotex certified. If you experience sensitive skin and irritation unlike disposables, cloth pads are free from perfumes and materials that may cause contact dermatitis.

I've put my Eco Dreams cloth pads to the test through two periods. The pads are well made with neat stitching and noticeable softness. They have gone through the washing machine several times and have held up well. My initial thoughts were how comfortable the Day Plus pad felt and you of course loose that noticeable 'crinkle like a crisp packet' sound that is common with disposables (IMO Always is the worst for this!). The pads have wings that clasp shut with a popper but you do need to wear a snug pair of undies to provide a good fit. Sadly, I have experienced leakage whilst wearing the pads. I'm unsure whether to put that down to heavy flow or movement of the pad in my underwear. Leaks are part of the course with my periods and it doesn't matter what I'm using it happens from time to time. I appreciate the black lining hides staining but I felt a little uneasy because I wasn't able to judge my flow and when to change the pad. It probably takes a bit of practice.

When I felt it was time to change my Eco Dreams Day Plus pad, I simply rinsed it under the cold tap and hung to dry (next to a radiator). I added them to the washing machine when I had a full load of laundry. This was very straight forward and I didn't find it a hassle. As someone who experiences leaks you get comfortable with rinsing out blood from clothing but it isn't something you would do in a public bathroom. That's when a wet bag would be handy and these can be purchase from Eco Dreams then you can deal with rinsing out your pads when you are at home.

I think the downside to cloth pads is the initial outlay. It's expensive upfront but keep in mind the long term value, Eco Dreams suggest they pay for themselves in a few months. I've recently been through unemployment and at these time reusables are the last thing on my mind so I appreciate it's not for everyone financially. I see them as a privilege in many ways. I'm not entirely converted to reusable period products but I use them where I can. I do still buy mainstream disposable brands from my supermarket. I prefer a mix of options as I've never found my perfect product. I like to think that reducing some plastic products is better than doing nothing at all. 

If you are curious about cloth pads, please visit Eco Dreams website for more information. Perhaps start off with one pad and see how you get on, you can then always purchase more in the future.

Sarah x

15 September 2020

National Eczema Week 2020 unmasking the truth about eczema
(gifted/unpaid/affiliate link for Odylique)
"National Eczema Week 2020 will be about the wider impact of eczema on people’s lives. We carried out a survey on different aspects of living with eczema and will be revealing results from this survey during the week on our social media channels, unmasking the truth of what it’s like to live with eczema.Through sharing these findings, we want to empower people to talk about eczema, knowing that others are going through similar experiences, and to seek the care and support they need. We also want to improve public awareness of eczema’s impact on daily life and build greater understanding of the condition." eczema.org

For those not familiar with my story, I've had atopic eczema since birth. At various points in my life I've experienced severe flare ups but at the moment it's a milder condition. Lockdown has triggered a break out around my neck and shoulders. I put it down to the worries and stress from everything that has happened, I've been made redundant and we lost friends to the virus.

I'm going to use this post as a recap for readers. As you know my blog has been built around my experiences of eczema and allergies so I've covered a fair amount over the years.

My Diagnosis
I'm in my 40's and to catch you up on my life, from birth to age 10 my eczema was severe and I had medical treatments and allergy diagnosis. Forward to 2014 when I decided to seek help for a flare up which I had been treating for years and it wouldn't go away no matter what I tried. The diagnosis that followed has been documented in the following articles -

My Oral Allergy Syndrome (also known as pollen food syndrome)
Dietitians & Dermatologists - patch test reaction for Linalool and MI, Urticaria and Seborrhoeic Dermatitis
Final Diagnosis

My Tips for managing eczema
Here are some of my articles offering personal tips for managing eczema and product recommendations

For Skin Prone to Eczema - recommended Creams and Balms

Odylique have products which I highly recommend for skin prone to eczema. I have a reader discount code to share and to receive 20% off your order use code SUGARPUFFISH at Odylique

From Past to Present
The majority of skincare reviews after 2014 will feature products that are fragrance free or at minimum free from linalool so keep this in mind when scrolling through my blog. I continue to analyse formulations as I'm conscious not to trigger eczema and allergic reactions. It's important to have on hand creams that specifically treat dry and itchy skin but the rest of the time focus on a healthy and gentle top to toe routine.

How has eczema impacted your life?

Sarah x

18 February 2020

Review Odylique Lemongrass Body Wash and Ultra Rich Balm
(features gifted items/unpaid, links to Odylique are not affiliated)

Odylique have been in my life for many years ever since I was introduced to the Gentle Herb Shampoo. Before I found this shampoo I was battling eczema and an itchy scalp, it changed all that within a week and I've been banging on about it ever since. Odylique is a family run business set up by Abi and Margaret. I've had the pleasure of meeting and working with Abi over the years and her knowledge of ingredients and formulations is inspiring. I choose Odylique not only for their products but they understand skin conditions such as eczema and formulate without lanolin, wheat, dairy and soya derivatives, salicylic acid, peanut oil, common allergen tree nut oils and more.

7 February 2020

2020 Free From Skincare Awards opens 3rd February
(photo from 2019 FFSA judging panel)

Time has flown by and here I am announcing that the ninth annual Free From Skincare Awards are NOW open for entrants. I think I say this every year but I love these awards as they celebrate the best cosmetic products which happen to also be free from some of the allergens and other ingredients many consumers now wish to or need to avoid. *jumps up and down, waves hands* People like me are their intended target audience. My long list of allergies (to include Linalool and Methylisothiazolinone) and throw in living with Atopic eczema, Seborrhoeic Dermatitis and Urticaria are what lead me to explore the world of natural and organic skincare. I had a period in my life where I felt I was reacting to every mainstream brand and sometimes prescription creams.

2 April 2019

Review Derma Sukin Daily Gentle Wash
(I purchased this item)

"Natural formulations with a dermatological approach. Derma Sukin products are dermatologist recommended as non-irritating and non-sensitising. They are soap and fragrance free to provide gentle and effective care for sensitive, and condition prone skin types." (Sukin)

Sukin is a brand I've featured a number of times over the years, not only are they affordable but I've enjoyed how the products perform. The Super Greens Nutrient Rich Facial Moisturiser is one I've repeatedly purchased for my husband. The Derma range sparked my interest and I found the range available through online retailers. Derma Sukin targets problematic and condition-prone skin and the range includes Face & Body Wash (Hydrating, Gentle or Oil Balancing), Intensive Hydrating Cream and Gentle Face & Body Lotion.

"Soothes the skin whilst cleansing. Derma Sukin Daily Gentle Wash is free from sulphates and parabens, and is formulated with Aloe Vera, Chamomile and Cucumber to effectively cleanse and soothe the face and body, without stripping the skin of its natural oils." (Sukin)

Derma Sukin Daily Gentle Wash is a runny consistency which hasn't been to my liking for a body wash however I've opted to use as a facial wash. It's ideal for those occasional days when I'm feeling super lazy and cleanse in the shower. Alternatively it can be used on dry skin and removed with a damp cloth. I've tried both methods and both options work for me. I normally shy way from facial wash but I haven't found this cleanser to be overly drying and it appears to maintain a good balance. The pump bottle packaging is useful but I suggest cupping your hand near the spout because on a couple occasions I manage to squirt product across the bathroom. The only minor downside for me is I find the scent to be "medicinal" and I was hoping for a fresh aroma of cucumber.

I've a handful of favourite cleansers which to be honest Derma Sukin Daily Gentle Wash wouldn't replace however that doesn't stop me recommending. I think the range is filling a gap for those with fragrance sensitivity/allergy or skin conditions like eczema. I would suggest it's worthy of consideration if you are struggling to find suitable skincare.

Sarah x

17 January 2019

Living with Methylisothiazolinone Allergy The Complete Guide by Alex Gazzola
In 2015 after a series of patch testing at hospital, I received the diagnosis that I had a sensitivity to Methylisothiazolinone (MI - a preservative) and Linalool (an allergen naturally occurring in essential oils). 

My skincare routine with natural and organic beauty was well established at this point. Due to the beliefs behind green beauty its not often you'll find Methylisothiazolinone in natural products but I often encounter this ingredient outside of the home. MI was Named ‘Allergen of the Year’ in 2013 and has caused an epidemic of allergic disease worldwide. In February 2017, MI was banned (in the EU) in leave on products and wet wipes but it is still permitted in rinse-off products at 0.01% concentration. As some who has spent their lifetime prone to eczema, I find it interesting that MI is a powerful sensitizer to which up to 10% of people with eczema and 1.5% of the population may react.

24 April 2018

Ere Perez Papaya SOS Marmalade, Ere Perez Quandong Green Booster Serum, Sukin For Men Shaving Gel
(Gifted)

Let's jump straight into this month's review for Love Lula as I'm sure you are all interested to hear my thoughts on these natural and organic skincare products.

Ere Perez Papaya SOS Marmalade
A fantastic product name that sounds so inviting. When choosing skincare I am quick to assess an ingredients list for suitability and with papaya I know we are off to a good start. The SOS marmalade is a multi-purpose balm to aid all those little skin care emergencies like dryness, irritation, bites, cuts and scars. Alongside papaya there is almond oil, coconut, hemp, mango, jojoba, shea butter, calendula, buriti and chia seed. You need to scoop the balm from the jar but once it hits the warmth of your skin it transforms into oil making it a delight to massage across your skin. The comfort factor is super important if you experience eczema because your skin is delicate and you don't want to drag a product across the surface as it can be painful. 

Ere Perez Papaya SOS Marmalade is formulated without essential oils so it has a natural, fairly neutral scent from the ingredients. I initially started testing on dry skin but then I had a rotten outbreak of dermatitis across my chest. I had even drawn blood from scratching. After patch testing I applied the Papaya SOS Marmalade overnight and it made a huge difference. Irritation had calmed by morning and my skin looked much better. I’ve continued applying as and when needed. It's worked fantastically at treating the condition and I'm super impressed with the results. I can’t promise everyone gets miracle results but definitely worth a shot if all else has failed. The Green Beauty market is full of amazing balms so I champion this one based on the ingredients. It is sometimes hard to find a balm that is suitable for Vegans but Ere Perez ticks that box. 

Ere Perez Quandong Green Booster Serum
It’s no secret that I love serums so again Ere Perez was an obvious choice. I was intrigued by the ingredients and vibrant green colour. The formulation is quandong (for vitamin C), chlorophyll, spinach, alfalfa, raspberry seed and Sodium hyaluronate (the salt of hyaluronic acid and it has lower molecular size). This serum feels like water and I find it works best mixed with other products. Curiosity may have got the better of me with this one. I’m appreciative of the formulation but I’m not completely sold on whether I need the extra step in my routine. The jury is out but if you are a skincare junkie then I think you’ll feel that pull to try it. I'm sitting on the fence with Ere Perez Quandong Green Booster Serum, it is a lovely product but it's not doing anything special for me to ditch everything else I'm using.

Sukin For Men Shaving Gel
You may remember last month I selected the Sukin body wash from the same line. Have you noticed how shaving products in the Green Beauty world are marketed to men? You’d have thought there could be unisex marketing and packaging. When shopping online I always have to hit up the Men’s section to find shaving products rare that you see them listed under women's beauty.

My husband and I usually opt for a solid shaving soap. Since we have only tried a couple of natural shaving gel/creams over the years I was curious about Sukin. As with the body wash this is free from linalool which makes it a great option for me. It contains baobab, Tasmanian pepper, sesame and chamomile. The fragrance isn’t overpowering and has a hint of citrus spice probably from the cinnamon, lime and mandarin. The pump dispenser is handy for in the shower, cuts down mess in comparison to a soap dish and I don’t need a shaving brush for application. The gel doesn’t generate a bubbly lather, it's creamy but easily softens skin and protects from the blade. I like how my legs feel during and after shaving. My husband has used on his face without any complaints. Overall I think it’s a good product to consider so don’t put off by the labelling.

Have you tried any of these products? What did you think of them? If you missed my reviews for February then follow this link - The Handmade Soap Company, Santaverde, Organii

Sarah x

8 March 2017

Review Ooh! Oils of Heaven Organic Baobab Rejuvenating Face Oil
(Gifted PR sample)

UPDATE - THIS PRODUCT IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE, ALTERNATIVE BRANDS THAT SELL BAOBAB OIL INCLUDE FUSHI & ALUCIA ORGANICS

Random skin flare ups are an annoyance for anyone who experiences eczema. Why is it that a cream that worked six months ago makes little difference the second time around, is it just me? It drives me crazy at times. When my dermatitis flared again I was rummaging around in my skincare collection desperate for anything which might work. I ended up using Ooh! Oils of Heaven Organic Baobab Rejuvenating Face Oil.

At some point I'd received this Baobab oil and didn't think much of it when applied to my face but after reading the label again I noted what I had previously missed - "suitable for skin prone to eczema and psoriasis". I applied to the areas of my body affected by eczema/dermatitis (chest & shoulders) and finally I had relief from the dreaded itch. I have been applying to my skin after getting out of the shower (damp skin aids absorption of oils) and I am so relieved. With time I've seen great improvements and my skin is feeling calm once again. I've no idea if it's simply down to luck but Boabab is rich in Omega 3, 6 and 9 so maybe that has something to do with it. 

As Ooh! are marketing this as a face oil the 30ml bottle is not an ideal size for the body but I'm not using it all over so it goes a long way. A couple of drops for my chest and same again for shoulders. If you wanted to experiment then a 15ml size is also available. That would be sufficient to patch test and see what you think.

If you enjoy oils then the Ooh! Oils of Heaven line also includes Rosehip, Moringa, Cacay, Marula and Argan.

Sarah x

26 August 2015

Review MooGoo Irritable Skin Balm for Babies Adults Prone to Eczema Psoriasis
(gifted PR sample)

UPDATE 2020: this product is now known as MooGoo Sensitive Skin Balm

MooGoo is an Australian brand who specialise in products for those of us with problem skin (e.g eczema, psoriasis). I have known MooGoo for some time now and was more than happy to accept a product for review.

MooGoo Irritable balm is marketed for babies and adults prone to eczema, dermatitis & psoriasis so it’s an ideal product to have in the home because you can use on every member of the family. Just a word of advice, some of MooGoo’s products contain ingredients derived from milk. There are full ingredients lists on the website so you can check before purchasing. Keeping this in mind I opted to trial the Irritable Skin Balm which is free from milk, paraffin and fragrance. 

Despite the name, Irritable Skin Balm is a light lotion which sinks into my skin quickly without leaving behind the sensation of a heavy sticky residue. It is ideal for the summer months and for those who like to get dressed quickly. My eczema is very mild at the moment (across my neck and shoulders) but whilst it’s not overly visible I still have the dreaded itch. I have to be honest and say that the Irritable Balm does not make my eczema disappear but I am suitably impressed with how quickly this cream soothes my skin. I reckon it would be a good one to keep in the fridge for those times when my eczema radiates too much heat.

I know this is a short and sweet review but I really like MooGoo Irritable Balm and I am more than happy to recommend.

Have you tried any products from the MooGoo Range?

Sarah x

24 March 2015

Mount Purious Starflower Oil Body Moisturiser
You may have noticed that in recent months I have turned my focus to vegan products. I mentioned Mount Purious Raw Skincare in a blog post and was approached to review the Starflower Oil Body Moisturiser. The oil is extracted from the seed of the Starflower plant (Borago Officinalis). Starflower oil is rich in the fatty acid GLA (Gammalinoleic Acid) and has twice the level of Evening Primrose. You may already be familiar with its medicinal properties because supplements are often recommended for Women’s Health but it can also be used for skin conditions such as Eczema and Psoriasis.

Using the Starflower oil from top to toe has not necessarily 'cured' me of my eczema/dermatitis but what it has done is provided a new level of comfort. I have found it to be hugely beneficial at calming the dreaded itch, of course that may be down to my skin being overly dry but my skin appears to absorb quickly and the effects last longer than other oils I have tried.

As Mount Purious Skincare is certified organic and free from additives you are buying oil in its purest form. I do not have to worry about perfumes or filler ingredients and where my skin is concerned this is a huge bonus to me. So far, this product has been the only one which gives me temporary relief from the irritation of Seborrheic dermatitis which is recurrent around my eyes and mouth. I am hopeful that with continued use I might be able to win the battle which has been ongoing for over two years.

As you can tell it’s very hard for me to be critical of this product. You all know I love skincare which is simple and Mount Purious ticks the boxes. The range extends beyond Starflower oil to include Argan, Camellia, Evening Primrose, Hemp, Jojoba, Rosehip, Tamanu and Rosewater toner. I highly recommend you have a browse of the website and let me know if you decided to buy a product.

Sarah x

Disclaimer - *PR sample, no affiliated links

2 January 2015

Dermatologist Patch Testing for Skin Allergies
Disclaimer - The information provided is for guidance and is not a substitute for medical advice. My sources 
www.bad.org.uk & www.eczema.org

December was a busy month for Hospital appointments. The Allergy Consultant I saw in August had referred me to a Dietitian and Dermatologist. I don’t have much to say about my dietitian appointment. I was assured that I have been managing my free from diet well and I clearly know my way around the Free From aisle. The only advice was to up my calcium intake and challenge my OAS. (click here to read about my Oral Allergy Syndrome diagnosis)

As I have never seen a Dermatologist for my eczema the consultant thought it was worth a referral for further skin tests. Dermatologists are able to test substances like metals, perfumes, plants and household chemicals. Testing involves three appointments in the same week as reactions can take a longer time to develop. As the photograph shows during my first appointment, substances were applied to my back in special small containers held within a tape. On the second visit the patches were removed, the tests were marked out and any reactions noted. On the third visit, the Dermatologist takes a final reading and discusses any results.

The outcome of my patch testing was a mild reaction to Hydroperoxides of Linalool and MIT (Methylisothiazolinone), however, I was warned about false positive due to my eczema. MIT is a preservative I have always avoided but perhaps my love of lavender will have to end given the linalool result. For as long as I can remember my eczema has always been referred to as Atopic. The dermatologist confirmed this but also believes I have Seborrhoeic Dermatitis and Urticaria. 

Seborrhoeic (pronounced seb-or-A-ik) simply means a rash appears in areas of the skin with large numbers of grease (sebaceous) glands, such as the scalp, face and centre of chest. According to the literature provided to me, Seborrhoeic is not fully understood, but yeast called Malassezia that lives on skin plays a part in causing it (FYI this is not the same yeast present in foods or that causes thrush). 

Urticaria is also known as hives or nettle rash. It is caused by the release of histamines from cells in the skin called mast cells and can be triggered in many ways. From my research, it looks like this may explain my reactions to penicillin, some foods and grass.

Where do I go from here? It certainly has been an interesting set of appointments. I have confirmed in my own mind that I was not wrong about my extremely sensitive skin and my decision to avoid certain ingredients is worth continuing. I have been informed taking anti-histamines on a regular basis (normally I only take during hayfever season) may help with the Urticaria. The Seborrhoeic dermatitis is the tough one as it appears treatments manage the condition but do not cure it. At this stage I have declined prescription creams and steroids. Antifungal treatments are the recommendation but I will be seeking a natural alternative. Some people may think I am bonkers to turn down treatment but I quit prescription eczema medications 16 years ago after noticing damage to my skin so I am extremely reluctant to use them again. I return to my Allergy Consultant in February and I will be blogging my progress following the Dermatologist's diagnosis. I am now googling like mad and if any readers have experience of these conditions and can offer advice then please do leave a comment below.

Sarah x

1 November 2014

living with eczema and sensitive skin
When a Doctor passes comment that your eczema isn't severe and almost implies that you should stop moaning, it's not easy to take that on the chin. I had terrible eczema as a child. The kind that cracks, bleeds and weeps every time you move. I don't suffer to that extent any more. I am very much aware that my eczema isn't severe. Some may say I am lucky but I certainly don't feel it. Why am I made to feel like I can't cry about my eczema? Surely it does not matter how much or how little your body is affected, eczema is still eczema, it carries the same woes and feelings.

For several years I have been experiencing eczema on my chest. Right there on my lady bumps and sometimes it slowly creeps towards my belly button. I am also experiencing redness under my eyes and shoulders. My eczema is fickle, it comes and goes. It can be mild one day and nasty the next. Eczema anywhere on the body knocks your confidence but I hate that my body decided to chose my boobs. It doesn't make me feel sexy. I hate having bra fittings even after all these years I feel like people are worried they may catch my "disease". I find myself rambling to shop assistants that I have eczema and I am sorry she has to see it. I am mortified when I try on black clothing and it looks like I have dandruff. Sometimes it doesn't matter how much moisturiser you apply it is never enough. 

I dread the winter months. No one likes dark nights and cold weather but for me I have to face my kryptonite. Hibernating does you no favors because if the weather doesn't get you the central heating will. Your handbag is suddenly over flowing with moisturisers, hand and body creams so you can maintain dignity at work because come lunch time you'll have crocodile skin. 

I am stubborn with my skin. I won't resort to prescriptions. I am anti-steroids. My own experience teaches me that these treatments solve my problems in the short term but the long term damage is irreparable. I believe in natural remedies. I see positive results but they are not miracle “cures” and take time to work. I have a routine. I carefully chose ingredients and rotate my products to accommodate how fickle my skin appears to have become. 

I am writing this blog post after suffering a raging skin flare up. My skin is itchy, sore, inflamed and looks like I have a burn. I have narrowed this episode down to three possible triggers. For me eczema is a grieving process. You cry at the pain, you feel sorry for yourself, you bury your head into a bucket of ice cream (dairy free of course!) and then you decide to tackle it head on. You formulate a master plan determined that this time you will see the back of it. 

I am certainly not looking for sympathy or advice. I just want to moan. I want people to understand how shit it is to have eczema. I am telling you, my readers, that even though I write about fantastic products, I am still (at times) looking for my magic “cure”.

Sarah x

14 September 2013

National Eczema Week starts today (14 - 22 September), there will be events held across the country by the National Eczema Society. The statistics are 

1 in 5 children and 1 in 12 adults suffer from eczema
Eczema affects 10% (approx. 6 million) people throughout the UK
Eczema affects 20% of babies in the first year of their life

The National Eczema Society has a Helpline is anyone is looking for advice 0800 089 1122.

As you all know I have had eczema on and off over the years since I was a baby. My eczema has been linked to allergies so it makes sense that certain ingredients will flare up my skin. The last time I used a prescribed eczema product (emollient or steroid) was around 1998. Last year I wrote about eczema products that may help. Since I wrote it I could add a few more to the list so definitely have a look through my Eczema page (link under my header). I have also written up my Eczema Tips, what I do to try and manage my skin flare ups

I have been asked to co host (with @hopesreliefuk) a twitter chat for Eczema Week on the 17th September at 8pm. We will be using the hashtag #eczemachat. Hopefully, we can gather together and discuss our eczema woes and help each other deal with our skin.

Sarah x

19 August 2013

skin problems and living with eczema
I have to confess that I am struggling for product reviews at the moment. I’m suffering from random rashes and eczema breakouts and it is making testing products a struggle because I have to be so careful. This is the reality of my life. Just when I am lulled into a false sense of security and preaching to the internet, then this happens.

It is always frustrating trying to pin point what triggered the latest eczema breakout. My skin is not my friend at the moment and it is driving me around the bend. Random rashes are make me feel less confident in my skin and do not make me feel sexy. People often compliment my skin but this is what is lurking under my clothes. Luckily this time my eczema is not causing me too much trouble in terms of pain or irritation.

I'm often asking myself why does my body hate me so much? why can’t I just be normal? I am not going to lie, at this moment in time I absolutely hate my eczema and allergies. How do I deal with it? I have a moan about it and then take positive steps to manage it.

Anyone else struggling with their sensitive skin and eczema? Lets all have a cry about it together and I'm sending out virtual hugs to you.

Sarah x

Update: this flare up on my shoulder pictured above was later diagnosed as Urticaria

23 July 2013

Lyonsleaf 100% Natural Skincare

(not sponsored/includes affiliate link)

Whilst I was researching for a post about skincare for eczema prone skin, I discovered the brand Lyonsleaf. At this time I haven't tried any of their products but have added them to my shopping list. As part of my Introduction series I wanted to give them a mention. I love to share these discoveries with my audience as a helpful resource when shopping online.

Lyonsleaf product range is small and they focus on formulating with natural ingredients. They currently offer Dead Sea Salt Scrubs, beauty balms and aromatherapy  bath teas. The reason Lyonsleaf first caught my attention is for their use of Calendula, this is an ingredient which heavily features in my skincare routine. Calendula oil is extracted from marigold flowers (Calendula officinalis). It's often used as a complementary treatment for hydrating, nourishing and soothing skin therefore it may be useful when managing eczema and dermatitis. It has anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial properties and the ability to reduce scarring when treating wounds

For further information and to purchase products please visit Lyonsleaf 

Sarah x

18 December 2012

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

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

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

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

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

Sarah x

13 December 2012

Sukin Sensitive Cleansing Lotion
(Gifted PR Sample)

Sukin is an Australian brand that has been on my radar for some time. Sadly pretty much the entire range of products contains tangerine so I am not able to try them. However, they have launched a Sensitive Skin range specifically targeting those of us with skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and dermatitis. This range does not contain tangerine so I accepted an offer to try the Cleansing Lotion pictured above.

Sukin products are Vegan and free from sulphates, synthetic fragrances, animal derivatives, harsh detergents, petro-chemicals, artificial colours, triethanolamine, mineral oils and parabens. The sensitive range consists of cleansing lotion, cleansing gel and moisturiser. These products are full of lovely ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, rosehip, cucumber, shea butter, avocado and jojoba. You may have notice from the picture above that Sukin do use Phenoxyethanol which I know some of my readers prefer to avoid.

I have been testing the cleansing lotion for a couple of weeks. I know you all like to hear I have been testing something for months but I knew straight away this cleanser was perfect for me. The consistency falls between a cleansing milk and cream. What I mean by this is it's not runny like Nourish which I tried last month but it's not as heavy as Tropic. I use it morning and evenings. It feels lovely on my skin and you can easily massage across the face. I opt to remove with a damp muslin cloth but you could use cotton pads or rinse with water as it works well in the shower. I find it removes my foundation which is evident on my cloth. The fragrance is gentle and sugary from vanilla. It just suits me perfectly. I have a little patch of eczema on my chin and I have not notice any added irritation when using this cleanser.

You can buy Sukin skincare in the UK from a variety of retailers including cressuk.com and the prices are very reasonable. I'm happy to recommend Sukin products to you as I can see myself buying this Sensitive Cleansing Lotion when it runs out.

Sarah x

28 September 2011

I will always be attracted to products that claim to help people manage skin conditions such as eczema. I received a free sample of La Roche-Posay Lipikar Baume AP and Lipikar Lait. This was something I had signed up for via the UK National Eczema Society. La Roche-Posay's Lipikar range is marketed to dry, itchy skin and "works in partnership with the skin to decrease the re-occurance of flare-ups in eczema-prone skin". Also free from soap and parabens. They also like to push that they have dermatologist approval.

The biggest hurdle that brands and customers face is that when it comes to eczema prone skin we all have different needs. There will always be products that work for me and not for others. As I have Atopic eczema it's connected to allergies so I scrutinise labels and I'm on the hunt for any ingredient that may trigger a reaction. I'm also looking to treat the itch and soothe overall appearance of my skin condition.

I'm personally disappointed in some of the ingredients in the La Roche-Posay Baume AP and Lait. They contain parfum, paraffin, dimethicone and acetylated lanolin alcohol which are not very appealing to my skin and the plant derivatives are few - shea butter, bisabolol, rapeseed. I strongly believe that any product intended for sensitive or eczema prone skin should be free from perfume. Fragrance is a known trigger so much so that there are 26 fragrance allergens which must be labelled if present at a specific percentage in cosmetics.  Mineral oils (paraffin) and dimethicone are intended to coat the skin and to give product a silky 'slip' for ease of application. If you experience eczema with infection then these ingredient may trap germs in place and offer no healing properties. If you haven't tried it before may I suggest you buy a tub of shea butter and see how you get on, it will be fragrance free and without paraffin. 

If La Roche-Posay works for you then fantastic but I simply wish to demonstrate how I go about choosing products and accessing labels. Always patch test your skincare and in the long term if you can't see an improvement then move on to something else.

12 September 2011

(disclaimer: this is not medical advice, please speak to your Doctor if you have any ongoing concerns regarding allergies & sensitive skin)

I am the Queen of Allergies and I often mention in my posts the importance of patch testing a new product.  Even if you have chosen a natural product there is still a possibility of an allergic reaction.  I thought it may be helpful to provide a guide to patch testing at home.

The best place to test a product is on your inner forearm or wrist. Firstly, make sure the area of skin you are testing is clean and dry. 

Put a small amount of the product onto a band-aid and affix it to your skin. Use hypo-allergenic band-aids as some people (including me) are allergic to the adhesive.  

Leave the band-aid in place for 24 hours and avoid getting the band-aid wet during this time. 

When 24 hours has past remove the band-aid and check for signs of a reaction e.g. redness, itching, blisters, rash. 

If you patch test several products and get reactions it may be an idea to compare ingredients, you may find a pattern which could help you to figure out what you are sensitive to.



Instagram

Sugarpuffish. Theme by STS.