soap

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

3 November 2022

Swap out your plastic bottles for solid beauty bars from Ethique
(Purchased products)

On our recent trip to Italy we travelled with only cabin allowance luggage and that meant a limit to the volume of liquids we could take with us. In an effort to cut back on toiletries I was looking for waterless products and decided to order a couple of skincare minis from Ethique.

The range from Ethqiue has you covered from top to toe. They specialised in solid bars ranging from shampoo, conditioners, cleansers, solid lotions, balms and deodorants. I was pleased to discover a handful of products that are fragrance free/unscented so I ordered the Mini Bliss Bar™ Gentle Solid Face Cleanser and Unscented Solid Cream Body Cleanser.

Ethique face and body cleanser bars are super easy to use. You simply need to rub in the palm of your hands to create a creamy lather. I will say that they are both of these bars are similar in their formulations with key ingredients of coconut butter, kaolin clay and vegetable glycerine. 

The Solid Cream Body Cleanser was just like using any traditional soap bar. I did find it gentle on my skin and didn't notice any dryness. I'd be more than happy to switch out my body wash for this one.
I was happy to use the Gentle Solid Face cleanser for the duration of our holiday. I didn't find it overly drying or disruptive to my skin but I must admit that I did miss my balm cleanser. As a long term skincare swap I don't think it would be for me but I find it perfectly acceptable for short periods. I know it's frown upon to wash your face in the shower but I do enjoy using it in this way for an early morning cleanse. I don't wear much makeup, it's limited to sunscreen and CC cream and for my evening cleanse I used the bar in conjunction with a cloth to make sure I'm thoroughly removing grime. 

To round this post up I was very happy to have tried these Ethique bars and they left me with a great first impression. I would be comfortable recommending to others and I'm thinking of gifting to family now that Christmas is on the way. Visit the Ethique website where you can find background information about the business and read up about their environmental ethics. 

Sarah x

3 January 2022

Top 8 Natural, organic and vegan skincare for 2021
(includes items gifted by PR which have previously been featured on this website)

Happy New Year everyone! I thought I would have a look back at 2021 and let you know which products have made a lasting impression. 

I'd rarely used hand sanitiser before the pandemic because it can be very unkind to delicate, eczema prone skin due to the high alcohol content and fragrance allergens. Needs must over the past couple of years and I was grateful that one of my favourite budget brands launched a sanitising gel which was free from linalool. Since my initial review back in January you can guess we've been through several bottles of Organii Purifying Hand Gel.

In March it was Silvan Skincare Pure Face Cream that was a hit. I recall a lovely whipped texture with ingredients that are calming on sensitive skin. Finding a decent fragrance free moisturiser has been a mission for many years and this is up there with my favourites.

Since April I've been through several jars of Maison Meunier Skincare Gentle Cleansing Gel Balm. I like this cleanser because it's an balm-oil to milk formulation. It has a beautiful golden syrup like texture which feels great massaged into my delicate skin and can be easily removed with water or damp cloth.

Over the summer Lily & Rabbit added to their product range with a vegan soap bar collection. The Coconut soap has been a pleasure to use and the bar recently came to an end. I've been impressed with how well it lasted and of course how gentle it has been on my skin.

I'd always been a fan of Odylique Repair Lotion but it can back into my life in last year and has been here to stay. I use it top to toe including on my face. Despite the name it's not a watery, runny product and is very much a light but rich cream. I've been using it as a general moisturiser but it is perfect on itchy eczema patches.

I was on a huge cleanser kick in 2021 and the next product to win me over was Adaptology Red Avert Cleanser. I loved the beautiful and unusual blue colouration from Blue Tansy with an aroma that reminded me of candy. As I mentioned balm-oil textures are one of my favourites and this one did not disappoint. 

In November I wrote about Nudge Boutique Whipped Body Butter and it has been a joy to use. I've seen a lot of body butters over the years but this one stands out. Not only do I enjoy the coconut aroma but it rarely feels greasy on my skin. I've always had a sensory aversion to heavy products and I think it stems back to years of eczema emollients. It is probably a odd thing to mention but my skin doesn't feel overwhelmed or suffocated by this product.

I rounded off the year with a review of Terre Verdi ThéBianco Camellia Oil. I think it beautifully sums up my love of simplicity. Skincare doesn't have to feel complicated and there is joy to be found in stand alone ingredients.

I don't know about you but I'm already excited to see what I discover in 2022.

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

27 November 2021

5 hand care duo sets suitable for any gifting occasion
(I have previously been gifted items from BAO & Nourish)

Surely I can't be the only one who secretly loves a luxurious hand care set to adorn the bathroom or kitchen sink. It makes a mundane daily task a little more special and can add a finishing touch to a stylish bathroom. Perfect for treating yourself and guests in your home. I believe hand wash and hand lotion can make the perfect gift so let me share with you some personal picks which you may wish to check out for yourself.

The Brightening Hand Cream nourishes sensitive, cracked, and dry hands with shea butter, baobab oil and vitamin e. The matching hand wash has an SLS free formulation which is kinder to skin, never leaving it feeling stripped or dry. Products are scented with Sweet Orange and Geranium

This set contains SOS Skin Shield+ which kills 99.99% germs, Fragrance Free Organic Vegan Soap Bar, Hand Wash and Hand and Body Cream. Beauty Kitchen states "this kit will not only have your hands and face squeaky clean but beautifully moisturised as well"
Lucky Cloud Soothing Hand Care Duo
This set contains a soap bar and balm ideal for reducing plastic waste. The soap contains shea butter, sunflower seed oil and castor oil for a luxurious feel and gives a rich, creamy lather. Pair it with the super soothing balm which contains oat oil to help itchy and dry skin.

Zesty lemon, ho leaf essential oils and black pepper leave your skin smelling fresh with a naturally antibacterial formulation. Nourish don't include sulphates, parabens, phthalates, mineral oils, retinyl palmitate, coal tar, hydroquinone, triclosan, triclocarban or formaldehyde in their ingredients, making products better for your skin and the environment. Follow up with the matching scented hand lotion to help keep skin feeling nourished with added shea butter.

Designed in collaboration with Australian artist Anna Cole, you can cleanse and moisturise your hands, while indulging in an enhanced Sukin Signature scent of of Mandarin, Tangerine, Lavender and Vanillin

Sarah x

2 October 2021

unscented vegan soaps for sensitive skin
Long time readers will know that I have to avoid linalool, it's a naturally occurring allergen found in essential oils. These days I'm mindful of my plastic waste so I've been introducing solid soap bars into our home. It's not easy to find fragrance free products, especially those that are truly unscented. When pitching to brands I'm often presented with claims of fragrance free but products are full of essential oils. The language we are using is interpreted in different ways as many are more likely referring to not adding artificial perfumes/fragrances.

I've decided to compile a list of brands with at least one or more soaps that are unscented and free from fragrance allergens. My other focus is suitability for vegans. I hope that you will find this helpful and who knows you may find a new soap that you adore. Even if you're not interest in unscented products soaps do check out these companies as they also have fragranced options.

Beam Naked Unscented - made with coconut, olive, castor oils and kaolin clay

Isle Soap Naked & Oatmeal - two great options available

Lily & Rabbit Coconut - I recently reviewed this one, it's made from coconut oil and coconut milk

Lucky Cloud Clean & Pure Soap Bar - Made with certified organic ingredients including shea butter, sunflower seed and castor oils this soap is rich and creamy

Nathalie Bond Gentle Unscented - like many others it's made from coconut, olive oil and shea butter

Odylique Olive Soap Bar - made from hydrating extra virgin olive oil and moisturising cocoa bean butter, suitable for delicate skin types. Get 20% off your order using my affiliate code SUGARPUFFISH

Organii Neutral Cream Soap Bar - plant based, organic ingredients in a mild formula specifically for those with sensitive and allergy prone skin

Pure Thoughts Olive & Castor - contains nourishing oils and butters including olive, shea and coconut.

Soap Daze Oatmylk Unscented - a base of coconut oil, shea butter and olive oil, with Oatmylk instead of water to add creaminess

Soap Folk Calendula - an olive oil based soap with calendula flowers

The Kentish Soap Co Naked & Oatmeal - another company with two unscented options

The Wrinkly Elephant Simply Natural Unscented and Natural Oats - great to see two unscented options, both made with Shea Butter from Ghana harvested by a women's cooperative.

Wild Sage and Co Pure Olive Oil - this soap contains only olive oil and water, that's quite an interesting formulation. They also have Mama & Baby soap which has a chamomile and calendula infusion (no essential oils)

Sarah x

8 August 2021

Review Lily & Rabbit Coconut and Salted Coconut Soaps
(gifted/unpaid)

Truth is I haven't always been a fan of solid soap bars. Of course bars are a great way to help reduce plastic waste but they can be a bit messy on the bathroom sink. I finally over came this annoyance by investing in soap dishes with an integrated rack. It makes such a difference on containing drips and gives longevity to the soap as it can dry out been uses. It also pays to invest in a quality soap as from experience I have found many differences between brands.

Talking of quality, you may recall last year I wrote about Lily & Rabbit soaps. Goat milk is a core ingredient in their products but I'm excited to announce the launch of their Vegan range. The key ingredients in the new soaps are coconut oil and coconut milk.
Review Lily & Rabbit Coconut and Salted Coconut Soaps
The current vegan range consists of Coconut (unscented), Lemon Coconut Smoothie, Lime & Coconut and Coconut Ice plus their Salted soap counterparts. Lily & Rabbit Salted soaps have a swirl of Himalayan Pink Salt. Soap makers include salt for the benefits of exfoliation and acne prone skin may benefit from minerals naturally found in this ingredient.

As you can see Lily & Rabbit kindly sent me the Coconut and Salted Coconut soaps, both of which are fragrance free. We currently have the Coconut soap on the go in our bathroom for handwashing. It's holding up beautifully with no cracking or sogginess. I find this soap gives a lovely creamy lather and doesn't feel drying on my skin.

If you would like further information about Lily & Rabbit products then I recommend you check out their website - lilyandrabbit.co.uk

Sarah x

16 May 2021

Gallinée Prebiotic Perfume Free Cleansing Bar
(gifted/unpaid)

Back in March, I reviewed the Silvan Skincare Pure Face Cream and it quickly become a firm favourite in my skincare routine. As that product comes to an end it reminded me that I hadn't featured the other items included in my February delivery from Love Lula.

Gallinée Prebiotic Perfume Free Cleansing Bar - an interesting brand because products contain prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics to support the good bacteria on your skin. I'm a bit sceptical about the use of these ingredients in skincare as I have questions about the effectiveness in products without stable packaging. Apparently the original scented Cleansing Bar is a best seller and now Gallinée have followed up with a fragrance free version. At first I thought this bar was intended for facial cleansing but the formula is gynaecologist tested and can be used over the body. 

Gallinée are very keen to inform customers that their cleansing bar is not a soap. You may be wondering what makes soap, soap free! It's all in the ingredients. Soap is formulated with natural oils or fats, sodium hydroxide (or other strong alkaline solutions) and surfactants. A 'soap-free' cleanser doesn't contain these ingredients.

This cleansing bar looks, feels and lathers like soap. It promises to be gentle and non-stripping on the skin. I'm going to be honest and say I'm struggling with this product. I'm sitting on the fence with my opinions in that I don't hate it but it hasn't got the 'wow' factor. For me, it may be better as a body cleaner but I lost interest in using it.
Lamazuna Solid Cocoa Butter
Lamazuna Solid Cocoa Butter (Frangipani) - first up this one smells delightful because I find it hard to dislike the scent of Frangipani. The tropical vacation vibes are what we all need right now. Lamazuna's ethos is zero waste which I am sure will appeal to many people. 

I'll be honest and say I have struggled with the concept of a solid moisturiser. Some people like their skincare waterless however I think my dry and eczema prone skin is better suited to creams and lotions. I've ended up using this solid cocoa butter to scent my skin rather than provide long lasting moisturisation. I simply don't feel as if I can get the traction and moisture that my skin craves. If you have an uncomplicated skin type and you crave plastic free skincare, then give Lamazuna Solid Cocoa Butter a try, you never know you may end up loving it.
Organically Epic Conscious Cotton Buds
Organically Epic Conscious Cotton Buds - there is nothing thrilling about cotton buds but I do like to use them for various beauty tasks. These buds are made from sustainable bamboo and organic cotton, they are compostable and recyclable. I do limit my usage but I'm also conscious about not contributing to plastic waste. These cotton buds are an easy product to recommend as there isn't anything to dislike about them.

If you are interested in purchasing any of the items featured here, please visit websites for more information.

Sarah x 

28 February 2021

Mother's Day Gift Ideas
(includes gifted samples, paid promotion, affiliate link marked *)

For those of you who would like to celebrate Mother's Day (14th March 2021) then I have put together a little gift selection. As lockdown continues I am sure many of you, including myself are going to be reliant on postal deliveries. These gifts would be suitable for all occasions so it may also be worth bookmarking for future celebrations.

ethically handmade scarves which are all one-off, unique, luxury pieces, made with recycled, organic, ethical yarns where possible as well as ensuring a zero waste policy in the production of the scarves and a no plastic post service. The Not Your Mum Not Your Milk scarf is 100% Organic cotton and could easily appeal to vegans wishing to put across their message.

artisan, hand crafted chocolate that is suitable for almost everyone including vegans and multiple allergies. They work hard to ethically source all ingredients and use eco-friendly packaging. For Mother's Day there is the Limited Edition Pinks Gift Box, choose Dark Raspberry or Strawberry Blonde flavours (or one of each), it's gift wrapped and letterbox friendly delivery.

For those that enjoy a glass of wine how about Mother Rock! an organically farmed estate in Swartland South Africa and the wines are bottled without fining or filtering so suitable for vegans. Mother Rock do a lovely Grenache Noir with 96pts from Jamie Goode (London-based wine critic) and a skin-contact “orange wine” Chenin Blanc

I've introduced my family to award winning soaps from Lily & Rabbit and that's why I believe they would make lovely gifts. With so many of us trying to do our bit for the planet, a solid soap bar is ideal plastic free solution. The Bee Naked bar is formulated with local honey from Harrogate bees and organic Irish Oatmeal, it's an all natural exfoliator without fragrance and suitable for sensitive skin types.

The Super Choc Bundle is a great option. 8 bars of yummy, organic chocolate packed up into a letterbox sized box and you can include a personalised gift note. 

I don't hide the fact that I'm a big fan of Odylique skincare and they have lovely gifts set options so I recommend you browse their website. I can also offer a 20% off using the code SUGARPUFFISH (affiliate link/code)

I think Nourish London’s Relaxing Retreat Gift Set or Sleepy Pillow Mist are perfect for Mother's Day or any other occasion you have coming up.  Nourish products are award winning, organic, vegan and cruelty-free.

Melt 
The Melt Starter Kit is a fun activity you can do at home and a fabulously fruity way to make vegan and cruelty free wax melts. Choose from a range of fragrances including Blueberry, Coconut & Lemongrass, Cranberry, and Pomegranate & Hibiscus. Every kit contains a step-by-step guide and enough supplies to fill your home with scent for up to 180 hours. Use code SUGARPUFFISH when checking out before 15th March and get 10% off your order while stocks last.

A range of beautifully wrapped gifts which can be sent directly to loved ones. Silvan Skincare is suitable for Vegans, they offer stylish sustainable and recyclable gift wrapping with hand written notes plus free UK delivery. 

A beautiful collections of gift options choose between a cleansing balm, hand bam, luxury bath oils or candles, I'm sure you will find something to suit your budget to make Mother's Day extra special

Sarah x

19 January 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sarah x

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

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

3 November 2020

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

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

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


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

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

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

Sarah x

3 September 2020

Free From Gift Awards New skincare awards for gift boxes and sets
(press release, not sponsored)

I have some exciting news to announce, readers and natural skincare brands should pay attention. We all love the buzz surrounding beauty awards and the team behind the Free From Skincare Awards have announced the launch of the Free From Gift Awards which will run from September to November.

25 August 2020

eview Nature's Kitchen Summer Skin Box, PoaPoa Soap Dish, Skinlove Shower Gel
(gifted)

It's a mix bunch this month so lets jump straight in and tell you about these 'new to me' products that I've been testing.

Nature's Kitchen Go Glow Summer Skin Box 
This gift set contains Summer Skin Cooling Spray and Summer Skin After Sun Lotion, both are fragrance free. Aloe Vera is the key ingredient to both products and I can say that during the recent heatwave the Cooling Spray was a delightful addition to warm days. The After Sun Lotion has a pleasant texture which feels hydrating on skin but doesn't feel sticky, an important factor for me in the high temperatures. The presentation box is a nice touch for gifting. It works well general sun exposure and if we ever get to go on Summer Holidays again I can see this as a nice addition for the beach or pool.

PoaPoa Coconut Soap Holder 
A soap dish upcycled from coconut shells and handmade by skilled artisans in Ghana. Poa Poa use coconut oil in their soaps so these dishes use up leftover shells after extraction of ingredients. A unique soap dish that serves it's purpose and gives back. It has draining slots in the base so you will find yourself having to wipe over your sink from day to day. Stylish and eco-friendly, what more could you ask for.

Skinlove Invigorating Shower Gel Grapefruit, Lime & Ginger
A pleasant body wash that produces a soft creamy lather but for me it lacks the promise of an invigorating scent as I find the fragrance mild. I chose this shower gel because it doesn't list linalool in the ingredients (one of my allergies!). It doesn't feel drying or stripping of moisture, an important point for me having eczema prone skin. Performance is as you would expect from this type of product it's just the scent which has let me down.

If you missed last months reviews then hop across via this link - Green People Deodorant, Lavera Shampoo, Ooh Oils of Heaven Face Oil

Sarah x

20 August 2020

Review Lily & Rabbit Naked, Bee Naked and Lavender Soap
(gifted)

Lily & Rabbit had three soap shortlisted in the Free From Skincare Awards and they came away with a Silver for Sea Kelp with Rosemary & Spearmint and Bronze for Nettle with Spearmint. This adorably named company are handcrafting soaps in North Yorkshire. Lily & Rabbit have focused on their favourite ingredients olive oil (inspired by Italian soaps) and raw goat milk. They are mindful of sensitive skin and use natural colourants, exfoliators and essential oils. For fellow vegans, Lily & Rabbit are in the process of creating suitable soaps and so you may wish to follow them on Instagram for launch information.

Here's some feedback from the testers for the Free From Skincare Awards -

“Still rock solid after a month’s testing … didn’t go soggy, break or lose fragrance … An extremely gentle, non-drying soap that lathers lightly over the skin and leaves hands feeling clean and refreshed” (Sea Kelp with Rosemary & Spearmint)

“Really enjoyed this product .. Lather wasn’t excessive, but worked efficiently without drying out skin … cleansed effectively, leaving clean, fresh and reassuring fragrance, which wasn’t lost throughout month long use … It delivered constantly and I would buy it again” (Nettle with Spearmint)
Review Lily & Rabbit Naked, Bee Naked and Lavender Soap
Lily and Rabbit kindly sent me three soaps - Naked, Bee Naked and Lavender. It's my husband who has carried out the majority of testing and we have started with the Naked soap. This one is a simple gentle soap with no scent and formulated with goats milk, olive oil and castor oil. In comparison Bee Naked includes the addition of oatmeal and honey. It is these two soaps that I would recommended for sensitive skin and some people may find oats beneficial for skin prone to eczema.

I agree with the testers in that Lily & Rabbit soaps are solid and don't go soggy. Over the years we've had soaps that turn to mush almost instantly but these hold up to daily use. The lather produced is gentle and just enough (to be expected from a product free from SLS). As I'm prone to dry hands the Naked soap hasn't worsen this condition and leaves skin feeling soft and not stripped of moisture. I've been impressed and as for my husband he's commented a few times on how he is enjoying using the Naked soap, how it holds up well and feels nice and solid.

If you would to explore the full soap range from Lily & Rabbit then please consider visiting their website - lilyandrabbit.co.uk

Sarah x

25 June 2020

Dr Botanicals Cocoa & Coconut Superfood Hydrating Body Lotion and Lavera Berry Care & Gentle Care Hand Wash
(Gifted)

I hope you well and coping through current world events? There have been plenty of ups and downs for me and I'm finding blogging a welcomed distraction. As I now have plenty of time on my hands, I am able to explore new products and build relationships with brands so I hope you will join me in this latest review.

Dr Botanicals Cocoa & Coconut Superfood Hydrating Body Lotion
Lets start with whats important to me. This body lotion is suitable for Vegans and does not contain fragrance allergens making it a good all-rounder for a variety of skin types including sensitive skin. It's key ingredients are Coco Butter and Coconut oil both of which work to hydrate, smooth and restore. For me this is a light cream which works well in the summer weather as it disappears quickly without feeling sticky or greasy. As someone with very dry skin when applied in the morning it will last through to the evening but visible flaky skin does return so I need to reapply regularly. This isn't a major negative just something to keep in mind and I almost come to expect this from a of a body lotion as I'm prone to eczema my skin barrier is weakened. I was hoping for a rich coconut and cocoa scent but it's not there, now it might just be my hayfever stricken senses however the neutral aroma is pleasant and doesn't clash with other skincare products. Over the years I've tried a handful of Dr Botanicals products, each one has it's own merits but I've never been won over enough to repurchase. This body lotion wouldn't get me through the winter months as I'd need to layer with oils but it's great for warm sunny days. I recommend Dr Botanicals Cocoa & Coconut Superfood Hydrating Body Lotion if you enjoy a simple skincare routine without overpowering fragrances.

For obvious reasons we are getting through hand soap like it's going out of fashion. It's important to me that our soap is free from ingredients that may strip the skin of moisture. Pre-existing dry skin and eczema have been tricky to manage as the stresses of extra hand washing takes its toll. Lavera has been around for 25 years so they are one of the first pioneers into the world of natural and organic skincare and makeup. I've never been disappointed in their products and they offer affordability for the entire family with an extensive range of products. The liquid hand washes are new and suitable for Vegans, they are available in 250ml pump bottle or 500ml at home refill which is a great option and allows you to reuse packaging. Basis Sensitive Gentle Care Hand Wash is extra mild and caring (it replaces the Lavera Basis Sensitive Liquid Soap), Berry Care Fruity Hand Wash has a fruity fresh fragrance and Lime Care Hand Wash is for citrus lovers. I've been very happy with the performance of these liquid hand washes. I would have preferred if the Gentle Care hand wash was formulated without fragrance allergens but these are in my home for my husband and any future guests to use. Lavera is always my recommendation for any budget conscious consumers.

If you missed my review for May, please follow the link and support that article - Nature's Kitchen Face and Body Milk Smoothie and Berry Beautiful Skin Polish

Sarah x

19 June 2020

The Free From Skincare Awards 2020 Shortlist is Announced
Wow can you believe this is the ninth year in which I share with you the Free From Skincare Awards shortlist. I'm a long time supporter of these awards because I seek skincare which is free from certain ingredients because of multiple allergies and eczema. Of course this year the testing stage of the awards has taken place in lockdown which brings some challenges to the team but they have successfully pulled through and we now have an amazing shortlist of over 200 products from 120 brands. I'm always surprise that with my extensive knowledge of brands there are name on the list that are new to me. It's wonderful to see how much the marketplace for natural skincare has grown over the years.

The Free From Skincare Awards were founded in 2012 by Michelle Berriedale-Johnson – an expert in free from and director of the Free From Food Awards – and Alex Gazzola – a writer specialising in allergies and free from – to encourage and reward manufacturers of skincare products that are ‘free from’ many of the allergens, ingredients, additives and fragrances associated with skin sensitivities, health issues, as well as ethical, personal and environmental concerns. This year’s Awards are sponsored by Lyonsleaf, previous winners of twenty medals, including five gold, during the history of the Awards.

Awards director Alex Gazzola says “The soap bars in particular were put through their paces. It was especially challenging for our testers, some of whom were NHS workers, to adapt and manage their skincare routines, especially those with caring and home-schooling responsibilities. The pampering products, such as face masks, bath jellies and even a night cream for feet, were particularly valued, both for their skin benefits, and for their therapeutic ones.”

The soap category is the one where majority of the entrants are new to to me. Everyone is deserving of their place but you'll spot that Lily & Rabbit and The Kentish Soap Company were successful in getting three products each onto the shortlist.

Overall the leading brands with six shortlisted products each are Tropic – overall Champions back in 2014 for their Smoothing Cleanser – and first-time participant Codex Beauty. I'd also like to congratulate familiar brands who have recently featured on my blog - Balmonds, Skin Genius, Naturekissd, Odylique, LouLou Belle Skincare, Lucky Cloud Skincare, Lucy Bee, Pamoja, Solo Skin London and Nature's Kitchen.

The Shortlist can be viewed at the Free From Skincare Awards site - freefromskincareawards.co.uk - shortlist 2020 and Gold, Silver and Bronze winners will be announced online at the end of July or early August.

Sarah x

16 June 2020

Odylique natural and organic skincare and makeup
(Gifted Press Samples)

Many of you know that Odylique is one of my favourite skincare brands and I've spoken about their Gentle Herb Shampoo for many years. I thought it might be interesting to share with you other products because there is more to Odylique than hair care. Lets start off with a little background information for any new readers. Originally known as Essential Care, the business was founded by Margaret who started making skincare from natural ingredients to help her family's eczema problems and her own allergy prone skin. The company was launched in 2003 with daughter Abi, products are hand made in Suffolk and re-branded to Odylique in 2014.

28 May 2020

Typology Paris based natural skincare brand
(gifted/press samples)

In between the junk mail there is the occasional gem that peaks my interest and Typology did exactly that. Products ticked all the right boxes for me - vegan, cruelty free, minimalist formulations, ethical and fragrance free (with exception of Eaux de Parfums). This is a genderless brand which is 100% online model and created by Ning Li, Founder of MADE.com. Typology designs and produces concentrated, natural products in France that are active, effective and sustainable. Many of the products are designed to mix and match to allow you to create tailored formulations.
Typology solid soothing cleansing bar
I honestly think my heart skipped a beat when I realised this is a range free from essential oils. Any long time followers will be aware of my issues with linalool (allergen present in some essential oils). When I accepted the offer to receive products I wasn't expecting so many to turn up and I'm very grateful to be able to explore the range in such depth. It certainly makes for easy reviews as there is so much to cover so I will start with the products that I would naturally gravitate towards.

7 Ingredient Makeup Removing Oil - I adore using a cleansing oil and naturally opt for ones with minimalist formulations as I don't require a long ingredient list. Typology has created a good product here which is light and easily removed without leaving greasy residue. It's a winner for me and I honestly can't fault it.

Dry Skin Serum (100% Squalane) - Before anyone panics this squalane is derived from olives. I've never use squalane as a stand alone ingredient so I was keen to see how my skin would react. It sits on my skin for some time which is interesting but feels nice and hydrating. At first I didn't feel there was much "wow" factor to this ingredient but it has grown on me with time. I think this is an ingredient which would do well in combination with products and it is suggested to follow up with your daily cream or oil.
Typology Dry Skin Serum and Hydrating Serum
Hydrating Serum (3% Hyaluronic Acid + 2% B5) - As name suggestions this serum could be ideal for those who experience dry skin. Hyaluronic acid has been a buzz word in skincare for quite some time. The B5 in this serum stands for Pro Vitamin B5 (aka Panthenol) like hyaluronic acid it helps retain moisture and softness. I have to be truthful and say that hyaluronic acid as a stand alone ingredient does very little for my skin and I would argue it can have a drying effect. For me, the mix and match concept of Typology comes into play with a product like this one. 

10 Ingredient Hand Balm - at the moment we are all battling with dry skin and a decent hand cream is a must have item. Despite the name, this is a cream formulation which feels silky on the skin without greasiness. It sinks in beautifully and feels lovely. The packaging is stylish and practical. The formulation is simple with hydrating ingredients including Hyaluronic acid. I quickly became a fan of this one and again one that I can't fault at this time.

Sweet Almond Oil - Typology have a full range of single ingredient oils which can be applied daily to the face, body or hair. Almond has always been a personal favourite and I can understand why it was sent to me. Almond oil nourishes and protects which is exactly what I need when dealing with my sensitive skin. I will use this to cleanse and moisturise (body & face).

Roman Chamomile Hydrolate - as with the oils there are several hydrolates to choose from according to your skin type and needs. Chamomile is known for soothing sensitive skin and would be one I would select for myself. I use this as a toner step in my routine, it will remove traces of cleanser whilst calming the skin.
Typology Eaux de Parfums
I can't really find a reason to fault Typology. The packaging is recyclable (more info available on their website) and you can't deny it looks super stylish in your bathroom which is an added bonus. As someone with sensitive skin it's lovely to be able to select products to my individual needs and Typology would easily slot into an established skincare routine. I also believe the price point will appeal to most people. I will always celebrate brands with fragrance free products. Essential oils can be wonderful and uplifting ingredients but some people do not understand they are potent and contain allergens. If you ever feel your skin is fragile and sensitive then it could be worthwhile leaving out fragrances be it artificial or plant based. There are so many products in the range that I highly recommend exploring the Typology website for yourself.

Sarah x

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