face cream

27 August 2022

Review Lavera Men Sensitiv Organic Calming After Shave Balm and Moisturising Face Cream
(gifted) 

I thought I would share some products that my husband has testing for several months which includes the Lavera Men Sensitiv Organic Calming After Shave Balm (50ml) and Lavera Men Sensitiv Organic Moisturising Face Cream (30ml)

Lavera is a brand I have recommended for many years as I have a long history of using their products. I can go as far back as the start of my natural skincare journey and I'm pretty sure they were one of the original green products I tried. I find Lavera to be reliable and affordable which is why they have stood the test of time. Lavera are one of the 'old school' natural cosmetic companies having been founded in 1987.

My husband is the first to admit that he isn't great at reviewing products in depth. He says he enjoys using both the after shave balm and face cream but doesn't have a favourite. I think he isn't favouring one over the other because he enjoys using them in equal measure. From the sidelines I can see and feel how great his skin is immediately after application. He will often point out how smooth his face feels. I encourage him to moisturise daily but in reality I think it only happens after he shaves. He doesn't have a sense of smell so I'm the one who gets to judge aromas and I'm very fussy. Both of these Lavera face creams have similar scent. I like the fragrance and it's not overpowering which is perfect as I am super sensitive to scents even when on other people. I've been known to ban him from products and sneeze at strangers. If you have sensitivities then it's worth mentioning these products contain parfum and essential oil allergens. 

As with all Lavera products the price point is good on both products. Currently at the time of publication you can pick up the Lavera Men Sensitive Organic Calming After Shave Balm for £7.95 and Lavera Men Sensitive Organic Moisturising Face Cream £10.95. Both products are suitable for Vegans and made with certified organic ingredients. 

Sarah x

3 July 2022

Review Lavera Neutral Facial Fluid for very sensitive and allergy prone skin
(Gifted)

Back in January I reviewed Lavera Neutral Intensive Cream with Silver and in passing mentioned wanting to try the Lavera Neutral Facial Fluid. The Neutral range is deigned for very sensitive and allergy prone skin. The Facial Fluid is free from essential oils, flower extracts and herbal extracts.

So what does Lavera have to offer in terms of ingredients? well, evening primrose provides essential fatty acids which allergic and sensitive skin can lack. This is combined with fennel and witch hazel. Also Lavera promote a Green Ultra Sensitive Complex which is "a mixture of liquorice root and lecithin to help keep skin hydrated and moisturised, leaving it feeling supple and soft." 

As the name suggests this is a light moisturiser without greasiness but providing much needed hydration. I've been pleasantly surprised how well my skin has received this cream. My tastes are definitely changing as I get another year older. The heavy creams I favoured for many years are no longer feeling great on my sweaty peri-menopausal skin. I also think lighter moisturising creams feel better under sun cream as layering feels more favourable in summer weather.

Some readers may recall my love for Green People Anti-Ageing 24 Hour Cream (Scent Free) and I haven't changed my mind but I find it comparable to Lavera Neutral Facial Fluid. Neither one knocks the other off top spot and I would struggle to pick a favourite between them. Both are worthy of your time and attention. 

If you would like to explore products from Lavera, they are available through online retailers.

Sarah x

5 March 2022

Review Pur Eden Nourishing Fluid Face Cream (Vegan Cold Cream)
(Purchased item) 

Pur Eden are Cosmos Organic certified makers of vegan perfumes and skincare from Agen, South West France. How did I come across their products? Well you know when you're placing an order and are a bit shy of the free delivery threshold, yeah it ended up in my basket on a whim.

I bet when you saw the words 'cold cream' on the Pur Eden Nourishing Fluid Face Cream packaging you immediately thought of your grandma. I had to google it to see if Boots still sold Ponds Cold Cream and yes they do. So what is cold cream? It is an emulsification of water in oil and it gets its name from the sensation of feeling cold on your skin. Cold cream tends to have four ingredients - water, oil, an emulsifier, and a thickening agent. The amount of water and oil are added in approximately equal proportions, allowing the cream to penetrate the outer layer of skin without being absorbed as deeply into your skin as water-based products. 

I read online that people with sensitive, dry or itchy skin will benefit the most from using this type of cream as it may improve the texture and appearance of their complexion. I battle dry skin, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis and redness on my face and the winter weather just loves to bring them all out to play. I am fortunate my symptoms are mild but you can probably appreciate why Pur Eden Nourishing Fluid Face Cream was so appealing to me.

Pur Eden Nourishing Fluid Face Cream has a fluid texture so I think it's a modern version of traditional cold creams. This moisturiser is formulated with cocoa butter, Nordic cotton and aloe vera which "protects and slows down the dehydration process". I find this face cream mildly refreshing, it doesn't feel overly cold in a way that would shock you. At first I was surprised how light it feels but equally I do find it hydrating. You can easily apply morning and night, plus it works well as a base for makeup.

For those concerned about packaging, according to website information the tube is composed of 95% of materials from renewable resources (sugar cane and spruce wood, PEFC certified) with a carbon footprint 40% lower than a regular polyethylene tube. The outer box is made of PEFC certified cardboard from sustainably managed forests.

To round up this review, Pur Eden Nourishing Fluid Face Cream is a really nice, fairly priced facial moisturiser. As it is free from fragrance allergens it is likely to be appealing to those with sensitive skin. I enjoy the texture and moisturisation provided by this product and I would happily repurchase. It is a product that I feel comfortable recommending to others.

If you would like to try Pur Eden Nourishing Fluid Face Cream or any other skincare products from this brand, then head over to mypure.co.uk which is where I purchased this moisturiser.

Sarah

23 January 2022

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sarah x

21 November 2021

Hydrate sensitive skin with Green People Scent Free Hydrating Calming Serum and Odylique Repair Lotion
(Gifted)

When the colder weather arrives I usually reach for the thickest of moisturising creams however this year it has been a little different. I adore luxurious facial creams but recently I've found the unpleasant effect of feeling too clammy and sweaty (I blame the hormones!). Through a little trial and error I discovered light layering suited me better and so far it has been the right decision. Currently my morning facial moisturising routine consists of Green People Scent Free Hydrating Calming Serum and Odylique Repair Lotion.

I'm already a regular user of the Green People Scent Free 24 Hour cream however having recently run out I took the opportunity to try the Scent Free Hydrating Calming Serum. If you don't like facial oils then you might enjoy the texture of this serum. It's runny but feels cooling and lightweight. You don't require too much product and one pump seems sufficient for me. After cleansing my skin I apply the serum allowing time for it to sink in before following with up with other products. This mighty formulation contains Everlasting Flower, Chamomile, Tara Bush, Green Marine Macro Algae, Marshmallow and Aloe Vera, ingredients which are soothing, moisturising and anti-inflammatory. The Green People Scent Free Hydrating Calming Serum feels like to is working well with my skin type. My skin feels lovely and looks happy (by that I mean it feels free from irritations). I don't really ask for much more than that when it comes to moisturising. 

I've previously reviewed the Odylique Repair Lotion but if you haven't seen that post I shall give you a quick run down. Repair Lotion is for irritated, itchy skin on the face and body. It's lightweight and soothing, working quickly to calm skin. I am prone to eczema patches so this product is very handy to have in the bathroom cabinet. Even when I don't have irritated skin I still enjoy using Repair Lotion because it's a good staple all-rounder that I can rely on. I can comfortably use on my face knowing that it won't trigger or upset any underlying conditions. Layered on top of the Green People Calming Serum provides me with the type of moisturisation I am searching for. Dryness is kept at bay for the day and I can apply makeup over the top. Perfect as far as I'm concerned.

If you experience delicate skin but don't enjoy heavy creams or oils then consider trying one or both of these products. 

Sarah x

15 August 2021

review Odylique Repair Lotion
(gifted/unpaid/affiliate links)

We're living through some difficult times and stress is tough on our skin as well as on mental health. I currently have mild eczema patches on my neck, shoulders and back. It can be very upsetting to know you are never truly free of eczema. Whilst I don't experience the extreme breakouts of my childhood it's forever dormant lurking under my skin.

Long time followers know that I'm a fan of Odylique but I don't think I've ever written down my thoughts on the Repair Lotion. If you experience irritated and itchy skin you'll know that what you desire most is skincare that helps to soothe and calm as quickly as possible.

A time-honoured favourite, originally created by Margaret as a moisturiser for her own and her family’s eczema prone skin, and is now recommended by homeopathic doctors.

Odylique Repair Lotion contains chickweed to ease itching, anti-inflammatory chamomile, soothing calendula, aloe juice and hypericum. The formulation is also free from tree nut oils, wheat, soy and dairy making it suitable for people with common allergies.

Remember that mini heatwave we had? Well I was thankful to have rediscovered Odylique Repair Lotion. I personally find many of the balms and creams marketed for eczema prone skin are too heavy in extreme temperatures. Repair Lotion is different because it's lightweight with a silky texture. Not only does it moisturise but it disappears quickly and doesn't exasperate sweaty skin. It's suitable for use across face and body so no need for additional products. I've had those moments when I've wanted to scratch my skin off but Repair Lotion has honestly been a life saver at soothing my irritated skin. 

It is suggested that Odylique Repair Lotion can be apply to affected areas 3-4 times daily. I have done this but I'll also use liberally across my body even when my skin isn't irritated. I find it particularly nice applied after shaving my legs. To maintain the hydration of very dry skin the recommendation is to follow with frequent applications of Ultra Rich Balm.

Of course everyone is different and there are no guarantees but if you experience irritated or eczema prone and allergic skin then maybe try Odylique Repair Lotion. As with all new skincare products remember to patch test first just in case it doesn't suit you. 

You can get 20% off an order with Odylique using the code SUGARPUFFISH

Sarah x

20 June 2021

Bloomtown, Butterwhips and GrĂĽum
(gifted/unpaid)

Here we are again with a round up of products I've been testing from Love Lula. An important note for readers with allergy prone sensitive skin, these products are fragrance free and do not contain essential oil allergens.

Bloomtown The Spring Sweet Almond & Shea Sugar Scrub - I know this brand having sampled their products on the judges table for the Free From Skincare Awards. Over the years I have stayed away from exfoliating because my delicate skin can't handle it and it can be damaging. Saying that the one place that gets a yearly scrub is my feet as my tough trotters can handle the course sugar grains which I can't tolerate anywhere else on my body. I'm really bad at looking after my feet. I'm guessing most of us have had that moment of panic when the sun starts shining, the flip flops came out and the horror of cracked heels are unveiled to the world. Bloomtown sugar scrub is course and gritty but with the right amount of oil to give moisturisation and not a trip to A&E (slippery bath tubs are not what we want). Spring is the unscented version but there are five fragrant options in the sugar scrub collection. It comes in two sizes, I have the smaller 60ml jar which gives the perfect amount to road test before investing further. Overall a good product but I'd use sparingly as over exfoliating skin can cause issues.

Butterwhips Perfectly Pure Apricot Whipped Butter - If you enjoy using shea butter for hydrating your skin then I am sure this brand will appeal to you. Rich and luxurious which works well for dry skin. I have been using this butter on my legs which leaves them feeling silky smooth and lasts the day. I'd sum up Butterwhips as simple recyclable packaging with honest and straight forward ingredient formulation. Fragranced versions are available.

GrĂĽum PĂĽr Gentle Moisturiser - having previously shopped directly with Gruum to purchase their facial sunscreen. I'd refer to GrĂĽum as affordable, uncomplicated, genderless and no gimmicks. The gentle moisturiser isn't promising to deliver any miracles but it will hydrate as expected. It's a lightweight lotion which works well on my mature, naturally dry skin. I will say that my skin generally glows in the summer months so it's easier to look after in comparison to the dryness of winter. The only criticism I have is with the packaging. The compact size is great to reduce waste but I struggle to squeeze product from the bottle. I have to shake hard, hold upside down and nudge the cream out. 


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

8 February 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sarah x

8 October 2020

odylique timeless rose moisturiser
(gifted PR and affiliate link)

We are surrounded with beauty innovations but Rose is a timeless ingredient, an old faithful that many would argue you can't beat. It's a powerful extract proven to be toning, moisturising, antibacterial, therapeutic, antioxidant and anti inflammatory. 

Odylique Timeless Rose Moisturiser is a luxurious, soothing and regenerative day cream. Of course it's suitable for most skin types (combination, normal-dry, mature) but may particularly appeal to those with sensitive skin, including people prone to rosacea. Rose is calming on redness and promotes skin restoration. The formulation also include rosehip, sea buckthorn, aloe vera, shea butter, jojoba and coconut. These are ingredients which soothe, hydrate and protect our skin.

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

4 August 2020

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

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

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

23 April 2020

Clean Beauty Awards 2020 Caldera Lab winner of face serum category
(I received a parcel of products in 2019 so that I could participate in judging, it included the items pictured above)

Last year I once again participated in a judging round for the annual Clean Beauty Awards. A parcel of face serums landed on my doorstep and I set to work looking at formulas and putting products to the test. We're now at the point where the Winners have been announced in all categories and you can locate the full information here - www.cleanbeautyawards.com. The awards were launched by CertClean and recognises the best performing green beauty and personal care products from across the globe. This year there were 21 categories, 127 judges, 371 entrants and 146 finalists. Products were primarily evaluated based on overall performance and ease of use.

I'm delighted to see that two products I handled have succeeded in their category. The Winner of Face Serum is Caldera + Lab The Good. This brand was founded in the US by Stacy and Jared, they decided that there wasn't a green and clean men's beauty brand that stacked up against women's skincare. Their product is formulated with naturally superior ingredients backed by clinically proven results. Caldera + Lab is the first men’s skincare in the USA to be certified by both ECOCERT and MADE SAFE®.The Good is a lightweight all in one treatment designed to restore, nourish and protect the skin.

Runners up in the serum category were Immersion Botanica Rosehip Facial Serum for Dry/Damaged Skin and Okanagan Lavender & Herb Farm Sensitive Skin Face Serum (the later was not in my judging parcel). Immersion Botanica was founded by Cydney who is passionate about nature and loves formulating herbal personal care products. The Rosehip serum is packed full of botanical ingredients which replenish and nourish. This is a face serum rich in antioxidants, vitamins and omega 3 & 6 essential fatty acids. The clue is in the name with Okanagan, this is a family run farm on which they grow the plants and herbs used in their products. They compliment home grown ingredients with sustainably sourced, organic and Fair Trade oils, butters, essential oils and botanicals.

Participating in the awards process is always a delight. The awards are open to International brands but I think the large majority are based in USA and Canada so may not offer shipping to Europe and UK. If you have allergies please be mindful that labelling regulations are different outside of Europe. The biggest issue I personally come up against is many overseas brands are not detailing fragrance allergens however I saw an improvement on previous years when it came to INCI labels.

Congratulations everyone and I look forward to seeing what next year brings for the Clean Beauty Awards.

Sarah x

3 April 2020

Review Lucy Bee Reviving Cleansing Cream Unscented
(I purchase this product & decided to review)

I've been using the same cleansing routine for a year and a few weeks ago, before crazy lockdown, I'd decided to switch things up. I placed an order with Lucy Bee and bought their Reviving Cleansing Cream. Now you might know Lucy Bee for their pantry staples but were you aware they made skincare products? Their natural fragrance free soap had been on my radar since the 2019 Free From Skincare Awards so I'd been meaning to explore the range. At the heart of Lucy Bee is the love for coconut oil and this includes their skincare range. I'm a huge fan of coconut oil and my skin tolerates this ingredient very well. As a brand, Lucy Bee are ethical, conscious of their impact on the environment (No Palm Oil) and have several certifications - Fairtrade, Organic, Vegan and Cruelty Free.

18 December 2019

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sarah x

22 October 2019

Reviews for Love Lula - Green People Neutral Scent Free Anti-Ageing 24 Hour Cream and Nature's Kitchen Purifying Skin Toning Gentle Care Face Mask
(Gifted)

I've been a customer of Green People for a long time and switched to the scent free range after tests revealed I have a sensitivity to linalool. Green People was established in 1997 and founded by a mother dealing with her daughter's skin allergies and eczema. Over the years I've mentioned the Scent Free Light Day Moisturiser but I branched out and decided to try the Green People Neutral Scent Free Anti-Ageing 24 Hour Cream

I just want to briefly mention that I wish brands would drop their Anti-Ageing labels as I honestly think we should be celebrating life and "anti-ageing" just feels negative. I'm in my 40s and when it comes to moisturisers I judge performance on maintaining hydration of dry skin, improving appearance of dermatitis and avoiding skin reactions. This moisturiser has a lovely texture which feels rich and hydrating without greasiness. It works well for morning and evening routines and sits perfectly under makeup. There are similarities in the formulations between the Light Day Moisturiser and the Anti-Ageing Cream but the latter is perhaps marginally feels better suited for the winter months when I'm greatly affected by dryness. The ingredients are suitable for Vegans and there are some personal favourites in the formulation - shea butter, jojoba, aloe vera, marshmallow, green tea, evening primrose and avocado. It is the ingredient Baicalin that gives the anti-ageing claim, apparently it is proven to reduce wrinkles but I'll let you be the judge of that. I like how my skin looks and feels when using Green People Neutral Scent Free Anti-Ageing 24 Hour Cream and I can see myself replacing this tube once empty.

Following on from my review of Nature's Kitchen Oat Milk Cleanser & Makeup Remover, I decided to try the Nature's Kitchen Purifying Skin Toning Gentle Care Face Mask. I'll be totally honest in that face masks are not my favourite products as I struggle finding formulations that are suitable for allergy and eczema prone skin. This mask from Nature's Kitchen stood out to me because it's free from fragrance allergens and contains oatmeal, oat milk, rice milk, cucumber, shea butter, green clay, chamomile, avocado - all of which are known for their gentle and soothing properties. Finding time to use a face mask isn't always easy but I'm enjoying using this product and so far I've had a positive experience. I like how my skin feels soft and refreshed after use. This is a mask that "disappears" into skin and that's a positive point for me as my skin can not tolerate masks that dry out and tighten. It's very easy to remove any left over residue with a damp cloth, another plus point as I'm not pulling at my delicate skin causing friction and irritation. Many Green Beauty brands have powder face masks which you mix to a paste but Nature's Kitchen is applied straight from the tube. I think it's fair to say that Nature's Kitchen Purifying Skin Toning Gentle Care Face Mask has tick all my boxes and I would happily recommend to others.

If you missed my last review then please click the link - Balmonds Daily Moisturising Cream

Sarah x

26 September 2019

Balmonds Daily Moisturising Cream
(Gifted)

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

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

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

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

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

Sarah x

25 June 2019

Review Akin Sensitive Facial Moisturiser
A'kin is a 100% Vegan and Australian company who have been around for many years. My history with the brand goes back to the early days when I began my green skincare journey, in fact they were probably one of the first discoveries I made. At that time I was using their cleansers, haircare and the rosehip oil has been a trusted staple over the years. Skip forward to present day and I've returned to the brand because I knew they have a range of fragrance free options. Over the past few months I've been experiencing mild eczema breakouts so I was looking to switch things up and decided to purchase a moisturiser.

A'kin Sensitive Facial Moisturiser is lightweight which is a departure from other products I use, at first I was worried it wouldn't be enough for my dry skin but it's working out well. If you are someone who switches to lighter skincare in the summer months then this is a perfect option. I recently visited Italy where the temperature hit 30+degrees and this moisturiser worked out perfect. The formulation is fragrance free and contains aloe vera, macadamia, shea butter, rosehip, jojoba which are ingredients that suit my skin type. If I feel the need for an extra boost of hydration I will layer with facial serum but that isn't something I have need to do regularly. 

I would suggest that A'kin Sensitive Facial Moisturiser is suitable for all skin types especially sensitive skin. I've been using morning and evenings after cleansing and it works well under makeup. I also think the price point is good value given the 150ml bottle size, for comparison the average face cream is usually around 50ml. 

Overall I'm super happy to have the A'kin Sensitive Facial Moisturiser in my skincare routine. I would certainly give consideration to re-purchasing if I ever reach the bottom of the bottle :D

Sarah x

22 January 2019

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sarah x

5 December 2017

I've been part of the Love Lula Accredited Blogger Program for a year and thought I might look at my favourite products that I've found through the site. I chose to work with Love Lula because I shopped with them long before I started blogging and outside of the program I continue to buy products.

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