cleanser

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

23 November 2022

Review Q&A Skincare Grapefruit Cleansing Balm

(I purchased this item)

I'm sure many of us are feeling like we need to watch the pennies and at times like this I've feel a little bit more mindful about my skincare budget. I was on the hunt for a new cleanser and stumbled across Q+A Skincare with a rather attractive price point.

You definitely don't have to compromise too much when it comes to budget friendly plant based skincare. Q&A promise to not test on animals, they don't distribute to places that require animal testing, majority of their products are vegan friendly, their ingredient partners are COSMOS certified and products are free from artificial fragrances and mineral oils.

The Q+A Oat Milk Cream Cleanser had initially caught my eye but I ended up ordering the Grapefruit Cleansing Balm because I prefer balm over cream. You may be wondering about the consistency of this balm cleanser as it's in a tube. It is very easy to squeeze from the tube as the consistency is more like a liquid but it has a silky texture which you'd associate with a balm. I think this is a very clever formulation which makes for an interesting experience.

The Q&A Grapefruit cleanser is super easy to use, simply apply to dry skin, massage in and then wipe away with a damp cloth. I always like to mention that during the day I wear an SPF and tinted CC cream so my nightly cleanse needs to remove daily grime alongside light tinted makeup. I have found the Grapefruit cleanser handles this easily and I don't feel the need for a second cleanse. I'm sure you can imagine the fragrance is fruity and refreshing. For those concerned about allergens it does contain *limonene but not linalool. 

I've been really impressed by this first experience of Q+A Skincare. I have been using the Grapefruit Cleansing Balm daily since mid October with no noticeable reactions to my complexion. That might be a weird comment to some but I have super sensitive skin so I think it's important to note how well I am able to tolerate new products. We are all different but it may be reassuring to some readers to know this little fact. For the price this is a good product and I'm keen to see what else I might be able to try from this brand. 

If you'd like to purchase this Grapefruit Cleansing Balm then note that I ordered directly from their website. I have also spotted a limited selection of Q+A products in Holland & Barrett. 

Sarah x

*Please check ingredients before ordering to make sure formulations haven't changed since publishing this review

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

22 May 2022

Boo Cottage Botanicals Chamomile Cleanser
(I purchased this product)

I've known Boo Cottage Botanicals for a little while as I encountered them while judging for the Free From Skincare Awards. The other year they successfully medalled. Whilst on the hunt for a new cleanser, I was browsing lots of brands but was drawn back towards them. I hadn't realised that their Chamomile Cleanser was a balm to milk formulation otherwise I definitely would have ordered sooner. I'm writing this review having just ordered my second jar so that has got to be a good indication of how much I like it.

Boo Cottage Botanicals Chamomile Cleaner is suitable for vegans and free from essential oil allergens. The formulation is made with mango butter, castor oil, kaolin clay, coconut oil and of course chamomile. I'm hooked on the texture. It's the softest, most buttery balm I have encountered in a very long time and is an absolute pleasure to massage onto your skin. As I previously mentioned, Boo Cottage cleanser is a balm to milk formulation and can easily be removed with water. If you have ever felt that oils or balms leave the sensation of a greasy film then these types of cleansers are the best solution. After cleansing I honestly feel like I've been left with silky, clean skin but never have the feeling that I can't remove all the produce from my face. You can visibly see how it cleanses daily makeup and grime especially if you use a white flannel or cloth to aid removal. 

Boo Cottage has a small business feel about it. The amber glass jar can be recycled or repurposed and the aluminium lid is also recyclable. If you are cutting back on plastics then Boo Cottage is a company that can support you in your efforts. As you'd expect the chamomile cleanser is just one of many products available. For those with sensitive skin, check out the dedicated section on their website which includes balms, soaps, face oils and haircare. 

I'm more than happy to give Boo Cottage Botanicals Chamomile Cleaner my honest recommendation and I would encourage you to check them out for yourself. 

Sarah x

23 April 2022

Review Kri Skincare Unveil Oil to Milk Cleansing Oil
(I purchased this product)

Anyone who reads my blog on a regular basis will probably know I'm obsessed with oil to milk cleansers. Back at the beginning of March I purchased Kri Skincare Unveil Oil-to-Milk Cleansing Oil and I'm writing this post as I finished up the last few pumps. 

Kri Skincare had been a recommendation and on my shopping list for quite some time. The Unveil Cleansing Oil is fragrance free making it ideal for my sensitive skin and for anyone who doesn't tolerate perfumes or essential oils. I also found Kri Skincare appealing because the formulations are simple and curated without complex and lengthy ingredient lists. 

As far as cleansing oils go this is as expected and the elegant bottle with pump dispenser is easy to use. To give context when cleansing my skin (in the evening) I'm aiming to remove SPF, tinted moisturiser and mineral powder. Unveil Oil to Milk Cleanser is lightweight and as the name suggests it will transform to milk with the addition of water. I'm confident that this cleansing oil is able to remove all the daily grime because my flannel shows the signs of makeup. This cleanser feels gentle which is hugely important to me when dealing with eczema as I'm looking to protect my skin barrier and not strip it of any natural oils.

Sometimes the simplest of skincare is what really floats my boat. I don't require fancy ingredients or marketing promises. All I want is clean skin that looks healthy and doesn't show signs of irritation. I'm confident that my experience with Kri Skincare Unveil Oil-to-Milk Cleansing Oil delivers on this requirement. I would happily recommend to others. I find the price point fits comfortably within my budget and comparable to other cleansers. If you are interested in this cleansing oil or other products from Kri Skincare then do go check out their website - kriskincare.com. Mini sized products are available if you don't feel comfortable committing to full sizes.

Sarah x

20 March 2022

Review MSA Skincare Apricot and Banana Face Mask
(Gifted)

Making Skin Amazing Skincare (MSA) was started in 2019 by Suprina following a change in circumstances which affected Suprina's wellbeing and skin. MSA is a product range that is founded on passion and a commitment to protecting the planet through natural, organic, vegan and plastic free skincare.

MSA use essential oils in their formulations which means a few products were out of my scope for testing. However I was kindly sent the Apricot and Banana Face Mask because it is made without essential oils, therefore no allergens for me to worry about.

Face masks are fun products to use. Their suitability for all ages and skin types makes them attractive to consumers. If you enjoy self-care and wellbeing then masks can easily be slotted into your routine. They can be enjoyed in the bath, while reading a book or watching TV. You may find that they improve your complexion by leaving dull skin looking brighter.

The Apricot and Banana Face Mask is clay based (French pink clay and Kaolin) with banana and apricot for their nurturing, smoothing and moisturising properties. It also contains coconut milk and mango powder. As this is a powdered mask you will need to add water or another liquid to mix it into a paste. You'll then be able to apply to your face, sit back and relax for 8-10 minutes before rinsing off. As I have naturally dry skin I don't allow the mask to harden completely and prevent this from happening by adding a facial oil to the mixture. This allows me to remove the mask without having to drag a flannel over my skin and prevents prolonged redness or inflammation. 

It's been a pleasure to try out this MSA face mask and I would happily recommend to people. If you'd like to purchase MSA Apricot and Banana Face Mask or view other products in the range, please visit their website.

Sarah x

19 February 2022

Review Dee's Organics Soothe Facial Elixir and Petals & Clay Cleanser
(Gifted)

I've come to know Dee's Organics Skincare through the Free From Skincare Awards and Dee has also been in touch over social media. To give you a bit of background, Dee is passionate about skincare and has been working in reflexology and aromatherapy since 2003. She is also a Formula Botanica graduate so you know you should be in good hands with these products.

Dee's Organics Soothe Facial Elixir was the first product I tried. I was attracted to the beautiful formulation which includes prickly pear, chamomile and calendula. You'd naturally assume that this facial serum would be full of essential oil (and their allergens) with Dee's background in aromatherapy. I was of course delighted not to see that dreaded word 'linalool' on the label.

I find the Soothe Facial Elixir to be a gorgeous lightweight golden oil which feels soothing on my skin. As the name suggests Dee has this product in her collection because she has considered the needs of customers with sensitive and rosacea prone skin. Its natural fragrance is very mild so it comforts but never overpowers the senses. Something I appreciate as I easily sneeze at fragrance in skincare. This facial oil is suitable for all, it can be used whenever you choose and it's suitable as a makeup primer or post shave oil.

Dee has kindly adapted the Petals & Clay cleanser to suit my allergies but its original formulation contains lavender, chamomile and calendula flowers blended with brightening hibiscus and vitamin C. These are combined with kaolin clay, coconut powder and collodial oatmeal to draw out impurities and soothe sensitive skin. Powdered products are interesting to work with. For this cleanser it is recommended to add a few drops of water to half a teaspoon of powder in the palm of your hand and combine together. It can be a little messy but equally quite fun to use because it's unique from other cleansers. I image it is the hibiscus which gives the earthy red tones to this cleanser.

I recommend visiting Dee's Organics website to explore all of the products available. If you are in the local area you can also book bespoke facials and reflexology.

Sarah x

15 January 2022

Review Pamoja Reset Cleansing Balm Essential Oil Free
(I purchased this product)

Pamoja has featured on my blog a couple of times. Firstly, with an interview with the founder, Sarah and then I reviewed the Restore Multi Purpose Beauty Oil. Now I'm here to offer my thoughts on the Pamoja Reset Cleansing Balm Essential Oil Free which had been on my shopping list for some time.

Cleansing balms have always been an easy choice for me. Over the years I found that reducing the amount of water used when washing my face seems to help with dryness. Splashing my face to rinse off products always leaves me with an ugly tight sensation and I feel desperate for moisturiser. 

So what tempted me to Pamoja Reset Cleansing Balm? well for starters the ingredients sound wonderful......

"Murumuru and Mango butter nourish the skin. Moringa, Sacha Inchi, and Safflower Oils gently cleanse while helping to support and protect the skin barrier. Organic Calendula CO2 soothes, and antioxidant Organic Carrot CO2 helps protect skin from environmental stress." - (extract from Pamoja website)

Pamoja Reset Cleansing Balm has a luxurious, silky, buttery feel and something which immediately stands out to me above others. It's a gorgeous texture which fills me with joy. I can't get over how smooth and soft this cleansing balm feels. When you're prone to eczema as I am, often skin feels delicate and tender so it becomes important to take care. In my opinion, this balm is perfect on sensitive skin because you don't have to drag it across your face. It melts almost immediately into a beautiful oil. Pamoja cleansing balm feels like a real treat. A product that you can't wait to use at the end of the day because cleansing doesn't feel like a chore. 

I chose to buy the essential oil free version of Pamoja Reset Cleansing Balm due to my allergies. If you prefer fragrance then the scented version will give you the aroma of Rosemary, Geranium Bourbon, Chamomile and Lavender essential oils. I'm sure I've said it before but I love that Pamoja offers the choice. The core ingredients in both remain the same so the overall performance shouldn't be any different.

I'm sure you can tell that Pamoja Reset Cleansing Balm has been a big hit. This review has been written after I have finished up my jar so it's my experience down to the last drop. I'm more than happy to recommend and would encourage you to visit the Pamoja skincare website to explore their products.

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

6 November 2021

Review Nudge Boutique Cocoa & Avocado Oil to Milk Cleansing Bar and Fragrance Free Whipped Body Butter
(Purchased Products)

2024 - THIS STORE IS NOW CLOSED

I adore oil to milk cleansers and happily received a recommendation over on IG to check out Nudge Boutique (thank you Emma). I decided to order the Nudge Boutique Cocoa & Avocado Oil to Milk Cleansing Bar and Fragrance Free Whipped Body Butter.

By now you've realised that using skincare that is free from essential oils is of huge benefit to me. I will always champion new and innovative products that consider consumers with sensitivities. Nudge Boutique Cocoa & Avocado Oil to Milk Cleansing Bar stands out from the crowd for being a solid cleanser. This is a great way to reduce waste and refill options are available. It's also super handy for travel because I'm sure like many of you know leaking bottles can be a problem. There is nothing worse than loosing a precious oil to your wash bag.

Nudge Boutique cleansing bar fits perfectly into the palm of your hand which makes application easy. All you need to do is rub the bar over dry skin and your natural warmth melts the cleanser to leave a lovely oil on the surface of your face. Then you can take the time to massage across your skin to remove dirt and makeup. When you are happy to finish cleansing simply apply water to emulsify the oil into a milk and rinse away. After a bit of experimenting I decided my chosen method is not to emulsify on the skin but to wipe the oil away with a damp cloth. Not only is this cleanser a joy to use but it has a delightful aroma that naturally comes from cocoa butter.

I've been using Nudge Boutique Cocoa and Avocado Oil to Milk Cleansing Bar for weeks now; morning and evenings dependant on my mood. It has felt kind and gentle on my skin. I have to be honest and say that sometimes I experience a little dryness immediately after cleansing but there could be a number of factors for me to feel this way. It's not unusual for me to experience this when using an emulsifying cleanser. As it's only an occasional issue then I am happy to continue using the product. It would not be recommended to do so if you felt this way after every cleanse.

You can say that overall the cleansing bar has been effective and enjoyable to use but for me it's the Nudge Boutique Fragrance Free Whipped Body Butter that has made a lasting impression. This body butter contains delicious ingredients perfect for dry skin like mine - Coconut Oil, Kokum butter, Murumuru butter, Shea butter and Cocoa Butter. There is no added fragrance so it's aroma comes naturally from all the ingredients but in particular coconut oil. I use a spatula to scoop the butter from the jar as it's not as soft as other butters I own but it will melt when in contact with warm skin. What I love most is this feels like a 'dry' body butter and by that I mean it doesn't feel overly greasy. The absorption rate on my skin leaves me feeling silky smooth without any lasting stickiness. This experience has been quite unique in comparison to other body butters. I really rate how it vanishes fairly quickly. I find the best time to use a body butter like this one is straight after a shower. I feel comfortable using Nudge whipped butter on all areas of my body and it keeps dry, flaky skin at bay for the entire day. 

On behalf of consumers with sensitive skin, I'd like to thank Nudge Boutique for offering fragrance free skincare. It's lovely to see this inclusion and consideration when formulating products. I recommend you check out Nudge Boutique and browse their entire store. 

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

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

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

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 

2 April 2021

Maison Meunier Skincare Gentle Cleansing Gel Balm
(I purchased this product)

I have the Free From Skincare Awards to thank for this recent discovery. They have been introducing entrants on their instagram account and up popped Maison Meunier Skincare Gentle Cleansing Gel Balm. I was immediately intrigued because I have a soft spot for balm cleansers that emulsify with water.

"Born in Paris. Handcrafted in Manchester. Our collection is designed to help you to find your bliss. It will lift your spirits, nourish your body and rejuvenate your senses."

Maison Meunier Skincare Gentle Cleansing Gel Balm can be used as a cleanser or hydrating mask. Packaging is simple but elegant, with a glass jar, outer cardboard box, wooden spoon and cleansing pad. I was immediately drawn to the ingredients of acai, baobab oil and carrot seed, promising to hydrate and brighten skin. It is free from essential oils but has a natural aroma of apple blossom which I find gentle and unique. Certified Vegan and Cruelty free by the PETA and registered with the Vegan Society. It ticks a lot of boxes for me so I was excited to get stuck in.

Lets talk about how it looks and feels. The gel texture reminds me of thick honey or golden syrup and feels wonderful on the skin. Applied in a thin layer it can be massage easily across the face and it feels fantastic. You get the pleasure of a balm that becomes silky smooth with the warmth of your hands and face. I take my time with Maison Meunier Skincare Gentle Cleansing Gel Balm to fully experience the product and enjoy a relaxing moment. When you are ready to remove the cleanser you simply rinse away or use a damp cloth (I prefer the latter). It will gently remove light makeup (I wear CC cream and powder) but you may choose to use a dedicated makeup removing product beforehand. My skin never feels stripped but simply cleansed and refreshed. This gel balm cleanser is a pleasure to use and very easy to recommend to others.

Maison Meunier Skincare Gentle Cleansing Gel Balm feels like one to watch and I'm certainly intrigued to see how it will perform in the awards. If you're looking for something a bit different from the crowd definitely check out Maison Meunier Skincare. 

Sarah x

12 January 2021

Review Vemel Waterless Skincare Vitamin Boost Cleansing Balm
Most of the Instagram adverts that come my way are pure trash but up popped an interesting looking skincare brand and suddenly my bank account was £25 lighter. What exactly caught my eye? well if it's not already obvious then let me introduce you to Vemel Vitamin Boost Cleansing Balm. According to their website Vemel is a waterless skincare brand manufactured in Berkshire. 

Vemel was born as an antidote to the chemical overload that we find in our every-day lives in our quest to help our children who suffered for years with eczema related skin conditions and allergies. We believe that by reducing the chemicals that we absorb on a daily basis we can make long terms benefits to our overall health.

I'm not a huge fan of the message above as everything in life is a chemical but I understand the sentiment behind it due to my own lifetime of eczema and allergies. I am a firm believer that our skin is often overloaded with unnecessary and irritating ingredients. Many of us with skin problems need to strip back our routines and heal or protect our skin from further damage.

For me, Vemel ticks a number of boxes when I'm looking for skincare. As they are a waterless skincare brand that allows formulas to be free from preservatives and allows other plant based ingredients to shine through. I am not against preservation as it's important for the health and safety of products but since I have an MI allergy I have an awareness that some preservatives may be irritants to sensitive skin. Another important factor for me is Vemel chooses not to use essential oils in their products which reduces allergens. They are also plastic free and certified Vegan.

Now that you have a little understanding of why I chose to purchase from Vemel Skincare, let me introduce you to the Vitamin Boost Cleansing Balm. You can see that a lot of care and attention has been spent on packaging and it's certainly attractive. This cleansing balm is formulated with shea butter, apricot oil, sunflower oil, berry wax, vitamin E, sea buckthorn and carrot. It's a solid balm consistency in the jar but melts with the warmth of your skin. If you have ever tried Lyonsleaf Beauty Balm then it's very similar in texture. The addition of a wooden spatula is necessary as I don't think I could scrap the balm from the jar as it's not super soft to the touch. Vemel also includes a cloth which is always great to include for those starting out with a balm cleanser but for me it's just another to add to my vast collection so not a necessity.

Cleansing balms are simple to use. Once I have scooped a small amount I warm it in my fingers (to melt) and then slowly and gently massage across my face. I take time to enjoy the process and when I'm ready I remove with a warm damp flannel (or the cloth provided). My makeup is minimal (Madara CC Cream and Everyday Minerals Powder) and I have no issues with removing the dirt and grime, the cloth is filthy with makeup so that's a good indication. I love balm cleansers because they don't strip my skin of moisture and I'm left with a silky, soft and hydrated face, vital in these winter months.

I really enjoy using Vemel Vitamin Boost Cleansing Balm and it's comparable to many others on the market in terms of formulation, usage and performance. It is very easy for me to recommend a product like this one. At the moment I'm definitely showing signs of stress in my skin and I've been unhappy with my complexion so it's important for me to use the right products. I have trusted Vemel to deliver quality ingredients in a way that isn't overly complicated and that's what I find works best for me. It's also great to see a brand that avoids fragrance, as regular readers know I am sensitive to linalool (found in essential oils).

If you'd like further information on Vemel Vitamin Boost Cleansing Balm or to view the rest of their skincare range, please visit Vemel Waterless Organic Skincare.

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

28 November 2020

Lamazuna Gentle Cleansing Duo Set and Eco Refillable Toothbrush
(gifted/unpaid)

This month my attention was drawn to Lamazuna, a french cosmetics brand available through Love Lula. Zero waste skincare is currently on trend and everyone is turning their attention to improving their packaging and overall waste materials. There were two items which caught my attention - Lamazuna Gentle Cleansing Duo Set and Lamazuna Eco Refillable Toothbrush

Lamazuna was founded in 2010 by entrepreneur Laetitia Van de Walle. The brand's mission is to make it easier for anyone looking to find a more eco friendly alternative to disposable plastic beauty products. Every product is vegan and cruelty free. They are made from either minerals or plants and all of the packaging is printed with vegetable inks and fully compostable or recyclable. I recommend looking further into this brand because on paper it all sounds very impressive. 
I fell under the spell of super cute packaging and this cleansing set would make an excellent Christmas Gift. Lamazuna Gentle Cleansing Duo Set contains a solid facial cleanser and five eco friendly cleansing wipes. The solid cleanser is the adorable yellow cloud shape that you see in my photos. It lathers up in your hands, the creamy suds feel pleasant on skin and easily rinsed away. The set is marketed towards 'normal' skin types and I would agree as it didn't suit my mature dry skin. The formulation contains parfum but does not use essential oils. I would suggest the set would be ideal for teens or minimalist skincare types. The cleansing wipes are soft and gentle. The instructions say that you add water and swipe away makeup. I admit I haven't put this to the test but the pads have a multi-purpose use and replace disposable versions. I am sure they would be very useful.
Lamazuna Eco Refillable Toothbrush
Lamazuna Eco Refillable Toothbrush
I haven't found my perfect bamboo toothbrush so this one seemed a good compromise. The handles is 'bioplastic' made from 70% castor derivatives and 30% plastic. The design allows you to replace the head and re-use the handle, you could say it's a concept similar to electric toothbrushes. Lamazuna are part of the Terra Cycle Zero Waste Box programme. Toothbrush heads returned to them will be sent for recycling and same goes for the handle (although they claim the handle will last you a lifetime). My thoughts on this item are the handle is very comfortable to hold and has a good weigh and grip compared to bamboo toothbrushes. I have found the head a little on the large size but that is probably easily resolved by selecting a smaller option next time. I will be interested to see how this holds up on a long term basis. The concept is only future proof if replacement brush heads are readily available to purchase.

If you wish to buy these Lamazuna products please visit their website. If you missed my reviews for last month then follow this link By Sarah London Hair Oil and Georganics Mouthwash

Sarah x

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