moisturiser

10 March 2024

odylique organic skincare and makeup

(affiliate)

Times are tough and many green skincare brands that I've featured on this website are no longer available. The one brand which has remained a constant in my life is Odylique.

Odylique Gentle Herb Shampoo first featured on my blog in April 2013 when the company was known as Essential Care. That's how long I've been a customer. I refuse to be without this product. I'm less fussy when it comes to conditioner or styling products. 

I went on to write about other products I enjoyed - Creamy Coconut Cleanser, Lavender Hand & Body Wash, Repair Lotion, Superfruit Concentrate, Baby Gentle Wash & Shampoo, SPF30 Sun Cream, 3 in 1 Maca Mask, Coconut Candy Scrub, Ultra Rich Balm, Timeless Rose Moisturiser, Prebiotic Chamomile & Coconut Conditioner, Calendula Balm

Out of all these products here are my Top 5 which remained a constant in my life

Many people don't realise that Odylique also have makeup options. My Mum loves their lipsticks so those come highly recommended. Recently they expanded the range to include the NEW Cream Foundation and NEW Natural Foundation. Both are Vegan, Cruelty Free and Organic Certified. 

If you would like to try these amazing products then I can offer you a 20% off coupon code, simply use SUGARPUFFISH at checkout. Visit the Odylique website for more information (affiliate link)

Sarah x

26 December 2022

Green Beauty Brands that stood the test of time: A look back at 2011 Blog Posts

As 2022 draws to a close I thought it might be interesting to look back on my first year of blogging. It all began in May 2011 and I was curious to see how many of those early posts had stood the test of time. Sadly there a several brands that no longer exist but there are some products that remain staples in my home.

Whilst the Faith In Nature Cacao Body Wash has long since disappeared I'm still using their products. Currently in my collection I have the Jojoba and Avocado body washes and Dragonfruit hand wash. I've always found Faith in Nature to be a reasonably priced brand and these days you can find on the high street and local refill stores. I had paired up my original body wash review with a post about Nakd raw fruit & nut bars. I'm still a loyal customer and eat them on a daily basis. Current favourite flavours are Bakewell and Peanut.

I don't use Dr Bronner's as often as I once did but you'll still find it in my home as it's the best liquid soap to use for washing out makeup brushes. Over the years I found it a little too drying on my skin so for me, its main purpose is now household cleaning.

I'm still using Naturtint Hazelnut Blonde hair colourant but honestly I'm now contemplating whether it's time to ditch it and embrace the grey; only time will tell.

I can safely say that I'm still bitter that Alpro still haven't launched the Macchiato drink which I had on my trip to Amsterdam.

Konjac Sponges have remained in my life but I now only use the body sponges. Over the years I tried out several brands but we (my husband and I) are currently re-purchasing from Friendly Soap.

I'm still sadden to this day at the loss of Brownearth body butters. They were a favourite for a long time. You can of course find lots of decent green brands offering different variations of shea body butters either with this standalone ingredient or combining with others such as coconut or cocoa butter.

I'm can't quite believe that I first discovered Evolve Organic Beauty back in 2011. I remember the branding was very different back in the day. Evolve is definitely one of those brands that I revisit over and over again, dipping into products as the range has expanded. Currently I'm trying out the Bio-Retinol + C Booster and I've placed an order for the Bio-Retinol Gold Mask in the Boxing Day sales!

I remember using Organic Surge shower gels regularly back in the early years. I thought they were lost forever but recently discovered they re-branded to Organic Works (OW).

Oh my the photo on this post about TK Maxx is terrible but I wanted to say that I still visit stores looking for beauty bargains.

In my first month of blogging I wrote about my struggles with sun cream that was suitable for eczema prone skin. I just wanted to say that through many trials I eventually settled on Green People. This is a brand I had been using long before the blog started. It is very much a staple to this day. I am a fan of their scent free moisturisers and of course facial sun cream.

I hope that you have enjoyed this look back over 2011 and comparing it with 2022. At this time I'm not sure whether I'll continue blogging into 2023 but you can always find me over on social media if you'd like to connect.

Happy New Year to you all!

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

15 April 2022

Nourish London Skin Protecting Daily Moisturiser SPF 25
(Gifted)

Nourish London recently launched their NEW certified organic and vegan Skin Protecting Daily Moisturiser with SPF 25. This anti-ageing moisturiser has natural mineral SPF non nano zinc oxide to protect the skin from daily pollution and environmental damage, whilst providing broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection.

The formulation is full of great ingredients with antioxidants, including Turmeric, Bisabolol and Tocopherol. Hyaluronic Acid and Hexapeptide hydrate skin, whilst ceramide rich Argan, Kale, Pumpkin Seed Oil and Rose of Jericho protect the lipid layer. Soothing actives of Aloe Vera and Borage Oil calm redness and inflammation. For those who are sensitive to essential oils, the ingredient list doesn't list these allergens so I have been able to try out this moisturiser.

What do I think of Nourish London Skin Protecting Daily Moisturiser with SPF 25? To the touch it feels like a lightweight moisturiser but on contact with skin you can tell it contains Zinc Oxide. It takes a little more effort to massage into skin as you're trying to work with a noticeable whiteness. I have a fair to medium complexion and this may be more noticeable on darker skin tones. I'm finding it hard to put into words how I feel about the sensation this product leaves on my face. Whilst my skin feels smooth it has an almost dry texture and it doesn't feel dewy. As someone who experiences eczema and dryness it leaves me feeling a little stuck on the fence. This is also a feeling I've had with other natural sun creams so it's certainly not unique to this product.

If you are in the sun for extended periods of time then I wouldn't solely rely on this face cream. You are likely to want to top up throughout the day. Many of us will use moisturisers sparingly and you'll probably apply a pea sized amount however the recommendation for SPF is at least half a teaspoon. The British Association of Dermatologists has advised that moisturiser with an SPF will only help protect you against small amounts of UV exposure. Of course there is always the logic that something is better than nothing so a product such as Nourish London Skin Protecting Daily Moisturiser with SPF 25 can have a place in your routine so just be mindful about how you use it.

Nourish London’s New Skin Protecting Daily Moisturiser SPF 25 at the time of publication is priced at £28.00. It is also dermatologically tested (suitable for sensitive skin), pediatrician approved (safe for use on babies) and reef safe. You can purchase this product from nourishskinrange.com

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

19 December 2021

Lucky Cloud Clean & Pure Unscented Natural Soap Bar
(Gifted)

Long time readers will know that my quest for unscented, free from essential oil skincare products is never ending. I am always trying to seek out the best natural products for people like me that experience allergies. With that in mind let me introduce to you a couple of new items that I've been testing.

This is another company who I am very familiar with and have gifted their products to friends and family. I thought it was time to try out their soap bars so naturally I gravitated towards the Unscented one (fragranced versions are available). Lucky Cloud handcraft their soap bars in Edinburgh and package the product in recycled sustainably sourced kraft boxes and print with eco-friendly toners.

Not only does this Lucky Cloud soap look beautiful with it's swirled edge, neutral colour tone and brand stamp but it performs well. Soap bars aren't exactly the most thrilling of skincare products. What I am looking for is a bar that holds its shape, remains sold throughout use (aka doesn't go mushy) and most importantly doesn't dry out my skin. Lucky Cloud ticks all these boxes and for those reasons becomes an easy recommendation to everyone.
I've known Terre Verdi since 2015 and Alessandra, the founder, participated in an event I co-hosted in 2016. This is a luxurious brand that is certified by Soil Association COSMOS, vegan and cruelty free approved. When I selected ThéBianco Camellia Oil, I was drawn to it because it stands out from the crowd in terms of an ingredient that offers something a bit different. According to the product write up this ingredient has been.... 

"widely used in Japan for centuries, white tea oil was incorporated into the daily skin and hair routines of Japanese women due to its highly beneficial skin properties. This 100% certified organic superfood for skin is cold pressed from the seeds of the Camellia Oleifera flower, also used to make white tea."

Apparently this oil is suitable during pregnancy and can be used on babies and children so I knew it was going to be perfect for my delicate skin type. It's rich in fatty acids and vitamins and good for all (dry, mature, acne prone and oily skins). 

Terre Verdi ThéBianco Camellia Oil can be used across the body, face and hair. I would describe this oil as dry and by this I mean it disappears quickly without leaving a greasy feeling to your skin. It really is a beautiful ingredient which I enjoy using on my face and body. Personally the simplicity of using a stand alone ingredient has always been appealing due to my reactive skin type. I am comfortable applying to delicate and sensitive areas of my body.

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

24 October 2021

Review Bowe Organics, Green People, Odylique, Organii
(Purchased/Gifted/Unpaid)

I thought it might be interesting to provide a re-cap on products previously featured on this blog. In fact some of these have been repeat purchased since initial reviews were written. I am a creature of habit and whilst I enjoy testing out new products you should know that in the background I have firm favourites.

Bowe Organics Versatile Hair Oil Fragrance Free - I reviewed this hair oil back in April and I'm still using it on a weekly basis. Out of all the hair oils I've tried this is the one I gravitate towards. It doesn't feel greasy, it conditions dry ends and fingers crossed over the long term it helps maintain healthy hair. To the eye you may not see a huge change in your hair but to the touch the performance is noticeable. I take comfort in the fact that I feel like it makes a difference to me and that's what counts.

Green People Neutral Scent Free Anti-Ageing 24 Hour Cream - this product featured in 2019 and I've been through several bottles. I've always been a fan of Green People's Scent Free range as it supports people with fragrance allergies, alongside offering affordability and trustworthy results. As much as I love using facial oils, to be honest I often feel that my skin responds better to creams. I'm not a skin expert or scientist but I wonder if water based products help because I am prone to eczema. Whatever the reason I just find the 24 hour cream offers me exactly what I'm looking for. I don't need fancy branding or miracle claims, I just need relief from dryness to get me through the day.

Odylique Creamy Coconut Cleanser - my original review for this cleanser dates back to 2013. At that time I wasn't reviewing for Love Lula and Odylique was known as Essential Care. Regardless of this back story Creamy Coconut Cleanser has featured multiple times which I hope demonstrates that it has stood the test of time. I've been through many bottles because it's an all-round reliable product. Yes I adore balm and oil cleansers but there are times when I enjoy the simplicity that comes from using cream based products. For me Odylique is a trusted brand and you'll know I'm a fan of several of their products. They understand people with allergies and eczema and I find that hugely comforting in a market saturated with brands.

Organii Shea Butter Shower Gel - this featured in a review back in 2018 and it's now the only shower gel I use. I battled for years finding a decent, affordable body wash which didn't contain linalool but had a pleasant aroma. Organii hit the spot for me and has certainly stood the test of time. It does the job and doesn't irritate my delicate sensitive skin and I can't ask for much more than that.

Sarah x

19 September 2021

NEW LAUNCH Nourish London Limited Edition Celebrating 10 Years of Green Beauty Collection
(Gifted/Unpaid)

This Autumn, Nourish London are celebrating their 10th birthday and are marking the occasion with a New Limited Edition - Celebrating 10 Years of Green Beauty Collection. Looking back through my archives I can see I was blogging about Nourish London in 2012 so I wasn't far behind their initial launch when I discovered them. Of course things did change for me over the years with further allergy tests so I had to stop using their products. I want you to know that I do buy for other people and just because I can't use something it doesn't stop me being able to recognised a good natural brand for others.

Nourish was founded by Dr Pauline Hill, a renowned organic skincare expert with over 30 years expertise. This British brand are offering scientifically developed, certified organic, vegan and cruelty free skincare. Forty eight of their products are now registered with the Vegan Trademark. Formulations are created using ingredients from nature that are kind to the planet and skin. Whatever your skin type might be, Nourish is likely to have a product to suit your needs. Nourish use essential oils so check ingredients labels for fragrance allergens if you need to avoid specific ones.

If you've never tried Nourish London Skincare then the new Celebrating 10 Years of Green Beauty collection may be a great way to get a feel for their products. For those who are already familiar with the brand it's a lovely gift or handy sized travel set. The collection is presented in an organic handmade toiletry bag from fair trade organisation Freeset and contains Nourish London’s Kale 3D Cleanse (30ml), Antioxidant Peptide Mist (15ml), Argan Anti-Ageing Peptide Serum (15ml), Argan Skin Renew Moisturiser (50ml) and Probiotic Multi-Mineral Repair Mask Sachets (2 x 5ml). These products are full of omega rich oils, antioxidants, essential vitamins and mineral to hydrate and rejuvenate your skin.

If you are interested in finding out more information about Nourish London please visit their website - nourishskinrange.com

Sarah x

28 August 2021

Review Adaptology Red Avert Cleanser for Sensitive Skin
(Gifted/Unpaid)

Any long time readers will know I'm a fan of Evolve Beauty and its founder, Laura Rudoe was a speaker at an event I co-organised back in 2016. Under the parent company, Laura also had the brand S5 Skincare but that has been discontinued and replaced by Adaptology.

"Adaptology is a targeted range of adaptogenic skincare solutions that help you adapt your skins biology to the challenges of modern living. These adaptogenic ingredients derive from extremophile plants that thrive and have evolved in the extremes of nature, such as deserts, oceans, rainforests, arctic and high altitudes." - extract from website

I was excited to receive the Adaptology Red Avert Cleanser which is aimed at sensitive skin. It's been developed to boost the skin barrier. The formulation includes the botanical ingredients of Laminaria to reduce redness, Blue Tansy to calm and Nigella Oil to protect and nourish. Blue Tansy is in the same family as Roman Chamomile and German Chamomile. It's this ingredient that gives this cleanser the delightful colour. I found it fascinating to discover that the Blue Tansy flower is yellow and the indigo blue colour occurs during the distillation process due to a chemical compound called chamazulene.

The Red Avert Cleanser is a gel-balm texture which transforms to oil when massaged into skin. It feels wonderfully silky smooth and is a real pleasure to cleanse with. When you'd like to remove the cleanser you simply apply water and it will transform into a milk which is easily washed away (or remove with a cloth). It honestly feels as if the delicate balance of my skin is maintained as it never strips my skin of moisture. I'm very pleased with how soft and happy my face is looking at the moment whilst using this product. It really comes as no surprise as it's the quality I'd expect from a brand founded by Laura. If you'd like to see a demonstration of the Red Avert cleanser there is a reel on my IG account.

When it comes to packaging I know it's a hot topic of conversation. Full details can be found online for you to check out. Adaptology uses Miron Glass which is recyclable however you will need to remove the labels before dropping into the recycling bin.

My overall verdict is I honestly can't find fault. Adaptology has sophisticated formulas that would rival any premium high street brand. I can see from the ingredients list that there is a great deal of science and research going into these products. I recommend visiting the Adaptology website for more information as you can shop according to your skin concerns - Time Warp (anti-ageing), Red Advert (hyper sensitive), Dry Spell (dryness) and All Sorts (boosting).

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

25 July 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sarah x

20 June 2021

Bloomtown, Butterwhips and Grüum
(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.

Grüum Pür Gentle Moisturiser - having previously shopped directly with Gruum to purchase their facial sunscreen. I'd refer to Grüum 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

21 March 2021

The English Mineral Makeup Company Lip Massive Moisture Drench (Barely There)
(Gifted Unpaid Sample)

I know The English Mineral Makeup Company (EMM) through their makeup products but they do have a small skincare range. Recently they launched a lip moisturiser. This product is more than your average lip balm, it's an intensive hit of moisturisation which I am sure would tackle the driest of skin. 

The little pot of Lip Massive Moisture Drench packs a mighty punch and soothes sore lips. It's a vegan formulation without flavourings and contains jojoba, caster oil, calendula, sea buckthorn, rosehip, apricot, shea butter and hemp. The texture took me by surprise as it's super soft, buttery and not sticky which makes for a delightful application. You can use as you wish but overnight applications provide the maximum moisture drench and you'll wake up with soft skin.

Lip Massive Moisture Drench is available in Barely There (a colour free version) and Barely Peony which gives a soft touch of colour to flush your lips. The English Mineral Makeup Company pays attention to packaging and it never disappoints. The beautiful imagery and glossy cardboard make their products feel luxurious and special. The Lip Massive Moisture Drench comes in a glass pot with aluminum lid and both can be recycled.

I'm happy to recommend Lip Massive Moisture Drench because I enjoy using the product and I feel the benefits on my lips. I enjoy the texture, ease of application and the end results. Sometimes it's the simplest of products that are the most impactful. For more information on this lip balm or other products, please visit The English Mineral Makeup Company website.

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

1 January 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sarah x

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

17 November 2020

Review Baya Beauty Superfruit Priming Oil
(gifted product - my original image has been removed at the request of Baya due to label imperfections on my bottle)

I've recently had the pleasure of getting to know Mandy of Baya Beauty. Her company is new to the natural skincare market and I accepted an offer to try Baya Beauty Superfruit Priming Oil. The business is based in the Cotswolds and Mandy is passionate about helping people achieve glowing skin with natural skincare. She ensures Baya products are made with high quality ingredients from ethical suppliers.


Our elegant, conditioning oil serum is fast absorbing and non-greasy. The skin's lipid barrier is protected, improving moisture retention and suppleness. Happy customers say their faces are revitalised, clarified and feel comforted, silky soft and nourished. Suitable for all skin types, even acne-prone and the most sensitive.

 

'Superfruit' is a trendy term in marketing but there is truth in this buzz word because fruits are 'super' good for us. Fruits are natural sources of antioxidants vitamins which can help protect, repair and rejuvenate the skin. The key ingredients in Baya Beauty Superfruit Priming Oil are raspberry, grape, pomegranate, watermelon, blueberry and kiwi. It's a cocktail of ingredients which hydrate and improve the skin giving that desired glow which we are all seeking. Winter months can be particularly harsh and drying on skin so anything which gives a boost and improves dullness is sure to be a winning product.  

I'm a super fan of facial oils so it's no surprise that I have only positive feedback about Baya Beauty Superfruit Priming Oil. It's a delightful serum which provides me with the levels without feeling greasy and my skin easily absorbs this serum. I prefer oils as part of my evening routine but you can use Baya Beauty Superfruit Oil in the mornings before applying your make up. I also love that this serum is free from essential oils so I would recommend to anyone with sensitive skin. 

As Baya is a new and growing company, I eagerly await further product launches. For more information, please visit Baya Beauty and show Mandy your support on social media.

Sarah x

7 November 2020

Ethical Christmas Gift Ideas for 2020 featuring Natural Skincare, Jewellery, Toys and Vegan Chocolate
(includes PAID placement/gifted Ombar chocolate)

As we go into another lockdown I think many of us will be shopping Christmas presents online and I would encourage you to support local independent businesses. There are so many wonderful eco-friendly sellers out there that it becomes impossible to feature them all. I've put together a small selection of brands offering beautiful handcrafted gifts which I am sure many of you will love and cherish.

Beth the founder of Bao handcrafts natural skincare in Dorset. When visiting the website make sure you select the 'Christmas' tab to discover a beautiful collection of gift boxed products. I am sure you will find something to suit your budget. I can recommend the Brightening Hand Wash and Cream, this certainly has been a tough year on our hands so I sure this combination would be a winner for your loved ones.

This year the gift of hand sanitiser might be the perfect present for some. If you know of anyone experiencing eczema or they're prone to dry skin then Balmonds is brand I recommend. 

Delicious biscuits which are handmade in a variety of themes, available as selection sets, individual cookie cards, letterbox sets and suitable for Vegans

A beautifully curated website which supports artisans, they incorporate the principles of fair trade to create opportunities for economically disadvantaged producers. Harfi has a collection of unique handcrafted quality products which include jewellery, towels, accessories and homeware. Using the 'Gift' tab you can filter according to your budget. The Sylvia Ring and Earrings are eye catching, ethically handmade jewellery with azurite gemstones.

A lovely business based in Hampshire making handmade skincare to include soaps, lotions, soaks and gift sets. Love to b Skincare is now stocked in some of the South West’s finest spas, hotels and boutiques. 

Discover Nourish London’s natural, organic, vegan, ethically sourced and cruelty-free Seasonal Gift Sets powered by plant-based ingredients that are kind to the skin and our planet. The Antioxidant Duo Gift Set is a vegan and organic stocking filler to hydrate and replenish the skin. It contains Nourish London’s Antioxidant Multi-Tasking Super Balm (15ml) and Antioxidant Peptide Mist (15ml), encased in an organic and handmade toiletry bag from Freeset.

When you have allergies, it's no fun watching everyone tuck into the Quality Street so make sure you don't forget dietary needs this Christmas. Ombar chocolate is vegan and free from dairy, gluten, soya and refined sugar (not recommended for nut allergies). 

Seekology
An independent beauty and wellbeing with a wide selection of products. On the site click "trending" and select the Christmas Gift Sets option, here you will find curated gift sets. I'm a fan of Evolve Beauty and would select the Candlelight Glow Collection which contains Radiant Glow Mask and Serenity Candle. The Bowe Organics set contains their popular brow oil and our nourishing lip rescue balm.

Marian is the founder of Silvan Skincare, her ethos is to create gentle skincare that is natural and doesn't irritate or harm the environment. The product range includes balms, face oils, creams, lip balms and body oils. Depending on your budget, you could choose individual products or select the 'Gift' tab for skincare sets. As 2020 has been such a rough year for everyone I feel as if the Silvan Soothe Duo gift set could be a perfect gift as it includes a full size Face Oil and a Sleep Balm. 

Beautiful soaps that are handmade using traditional cold pressed methods, formulated without palm oil and using certified organic ingredients. Explore the website because the range includes individual bars, soap dishes, bundles and gift box sets. I'm sure there is something to suit most budgets and Vegan options are available.

If you are looking for fair trade toys and gifts for children then visit Weaving Hope. Toys are made by artisans in Sri Lanka, working within a guaranteed Member of the World Fair Trade Organisation. Products are made from cotton woven on traditional handlooms. The toys are vegan friendly, plastic free and coloured with non toxic dyes and compliant with safety regulations (CE mark). Check out the latest addition to the range which are cute food baskets, for a play kitchen.

Sarah x

Instagram

Sugarpuffish. Theme by STS.