23 November 2020
(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 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
Final Diagnosis
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
7 February 2020
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
17 January 2019
24 April 2018
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.
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.
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.
8 March 2017
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.
26 August 2015
24 March 2015
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
2 January 2015
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)
Sarah x
1 November 2014
Sarah x
14 September 2013
The National Eczema Society has a Helpline is anyone is looking for advice 0800 089 1122.
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
23 July 2013
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.
Sarah x
18 December 2012
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.
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.
Fiini Naturally Oat & Honey Balm
13 December 2012
Sarah x
28 September 2011
12 September 2011
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.
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