dry skin

19 November 2023

Unscented Body Butter for sensitive skin and those prone to allergies

For dry skin, prone to sensitivity, eczema and essential oil allergies try unscented Body Butter to hydrate all year around but especially during cold, winter weather

Akamuti Cocoa and Almond Body Butter

Conscious Skincare Pure Body Butter

Ezape Naturals Mango and Cocoa Butter or Shea Body Butter

Fushi Wellbeing Shea Butter

Green Woman Green Cream Unscented Body Butter

Heavenly Organics Unscented Body Butter

Hurray for Shea Whipped Body Souffle Fragrance Free

Kutis Skincare Naked Body Butter

Liha Raw Shea Butter Gold

Mrs Frisbee's Jojoba Butter

Naturally TIWA Yara Body Food

Nudge Boutique Fragrance Free Whipped Body Butter

Wild Seed Botanicals Naked Whipped Shea Butter (nut free)


(provided for information only/not sponsored/no affiliate links)

16 September 2022

Review Sukin Hydrating Body Lotion with Coconut and Pineapple

(NOTE: ingredient correct at publication, please check before purchase as formulations may change)

Long time readers will know I'm a fan of Sukin. I feel like I've mentioned them a million times in the last 12 years. I was recently in need of a new body lotion and purchased the Sukin Hydrating Body Lotion with Coconut & Pineapple.

I'm going through a phase at the moment where I'm choosing lighter lotion over heavy creams and balms. I finding myself getting a bit overheated and my skin feels as if it's sweaty under the weight of some products. It isn't a pleasant sensation so I've held back on some products over the last year.

Sukin hydrating body lotion is light in texture but it feels moisturising. I have naturally dry skin but it's coping just fine with this product. What I love most is the scent. Oh My! I am in love with the tropical, vanilla aroma which isn't overpowering but delightfully delicate.

Lets chat about the ingredients. Unfortunately if you're allergic to sesame seed oil you will need to avoid this one. For those concerned about essential oil allergens you'll find citronellol and geraniol in the ingredient list. Aside from these you will spot aloe, jojoba, rosehip, wheat germ, cocoa, shea, borage and vitamin E.

"Our Coconut & Pineapple Body Lotion refreshes and stimulates the senses, while a nourishing combination of Rosehip, Avocado and Jojoba Oils, along with Shea Butter and Cocoa Butter hydrate and smooth skin. An infusion of Aloe Vera, Nettle, Horsetail and Burdock restores the skin’s moisture barrier and helps to nourish dry skin." (Sukin)

Also I'm loving that Sukin body lotion comes in a 500ml size as lets face there is a lot of surface area to cover. Smaller sizes don't last very long when covering head to toe on an almost daily basis. Current RRP is £14.95 but I bought it for less on special offer. I've now discovered there is a matching scented body wash and I definitely need to buy that at some point in the near future.

I recommend exploring what Sukin has to offer and definitely check out Sukin Hydrating Body Lotion with Coconut & Pineapple.

Sarah x

19 June 2022

Review Sukin Sensitive Micellar Scalp Masque
(this item was purchased)

Anyone who experiences sensitivity or allergies probably lives with a constant fear about products being discontinued. You spend ages finding the perfect skincare, become a brand loyal customer and then one day you can no longer get hold of that product you love so much. This happened to me over the course of several months as A'kin Mild & Gentle Fragrance Free Conditioner seemed to be unavailable in every reputable stockist and I was almost in tears.

You see, it wasn't until Odylique Gentle Herb Shampoo came into my life that my journey with haircare became less of a nightmare. I continued using various conditioners until years later when I was diagnosed with a sensitivity to linalool. I had to go back to the drawing board. Over time I found conditioners that work until they changed formulations and in 2020 I went back to using Akin on a full time basis.

So this long winded story is to set the scene and tell you that with all the trials and tribulations that followed not having Akin in my life, I've experienced the most annoying itchy scalp. Randomly it tends to be located to one side of my scalp and I don't know if it was brought on by trialling products, stress or eczema. Nothing felt like it was working and after searching online for many hours trying to locate a possible treatment I purchased Sukin Sensitive Micellar Scalp Masque.

"Our calming Sensitive Scalp Masque helps gently soothe dry scalps and reduce the appearance of dry flakes with Chamomile Extract & Maize Complex. Whilst Argan, Coconut & Avocado Oils deliver essential moisture to the scalp."

Sukin Sensitive Micellar Scalp Masque can be used in two ways, either apply to scalp pre-wash (leave for 1 minute & rinse) or after washing (leave for 1 minute & rinse). I've tried both methods and I don't really have a preference both work adequately. In terms of performance it seems to soothe the itch to an extent either that or it's a placebo effect. I get a decent level of relief between washes which reduces my desire to scratch but long term I don't have a "cure" as the issue does eventually return. If you are looking for a masque treatment to improve overall hair health then this is not the one  for you as it is solely intended to be massaged directly onto the scalp and you don't apply through the lengths.

Overall I've been super happy with using Sukin Sensitive Micellar Scalp Masque. Hopefully one day I'll figure out the trigger to my itchy scalp but in the meantime this scalp masque helps gives me a break from the problem. I purchased Sukin Sensitive Micellar Scalp Masque online for a very reasonable £8.95, that's one of the things I like about Sukin, they fit into my budget constraints. Sukin Scalp Masque comes recommended by me not only because it's a good product but Sukin are a vegan brand, Australian made, cruelty free, use natural ingredients and care about the environment. 

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

5 March 2022

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sarah

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

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

3 May 2021

Review A'kin Mild & Gentle Fragrance Free Shampoo and Calming Hand Cream
(I purchased these products)

A'kin and I go way back. I've mentioned many times before how they were one of the first brands I discovered on my 'green' beauty journey. Last year I decided to revisit their products starting with the A'kin Mild & Gentle Fragrance Free Conditioner. I've since repurchase and sized up to the 500ml bottle as I enjoy using it. After much deliberation I decided to buy the A'kin Mild & Gentle Fragrance Free Shampoo. This was a huge deal for me as I've been loyal to Odylique Gentle Herb Shampoo for around eight years and never switched in that time.

I remember in those early years I never rated the A'kin Mild & Gentle Fragrance Free Shampoo because I wasn't used to low foaming haircare and hadn't purged my hair of mainstream products. Now I have experience behind me and this A'kin shampoo performs better than I remembered. I can achieve a nice lather, my hair feels clean and I can do this without scalp irritation associated with fragrance. My hair does feel a little dry in the washing stages so I always follow up with conditioner (the same goes for Odylique). Now that I've experienced this A'kin shampoo again I'm confident to recommend to readers. At this time, the 500ml bottle does work out a little cheaper in comparison to Odylique.

Changing the subject over to hand creams, I don't know about you but the pandemic has been rough on my skin. I've had lots of issues with extremely dry hands and eczema. It's possible I've used A'kin Calming Hand Cream in the past but I couldn't quite remember. The fragrance free formulation contains jojoba and shea butter which offer soothing and hydrating properties. The texture of the cream feels non-greasy, nourishing and my skin absorbs the cream leaving me quickly free to go about daily tasks. I've got a couple of hand creams on the go at the moment but A'kin Calming Hand Cream does feel as if it's having an impact on maintaining the on going battle against dryness. The important part is to be consistent with using hand creams, reapply regularly and the effects on skin should become noticeable.

A'kin products are available to purchase through their website but you'll also find stockists online. All products are vegan and cruelty free. Alongside their fragrance free range you can find scented alternatives.

Sarah x

21 March 2021

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

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

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

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

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

Sarah x

7 March 2021

Review Silvan Skincare Pure Face Cream
(gifted & affiliate link)

Silvan Skincare has featured a number of times on my site and my review back in 2018 for their Skin Therapy Extra Gentle Facial Oil remains popular with readers. Today I'm introducing you to one of the newly reformulated face cream, Pure. There are a total of five face creams in the collection depending on your skin type and Pure is the one intended for sensitive skin plus it's fragrance free.

You know I adore facial oils but sometimes my eczema seems to crave creams. I've never really figured out why and it's based on instinct of how my skin feels and responds. Pure is a calming moisturiser formulated with apricot, jojoba and calendula. From my perspective finding a decent cream free from essential oils has been quite a mission.

I've quickly become a fan of Silvan Skincare Pure face cream. It has a lovely whipped texture and this appeals to me because I can apply lightly or heavily depending on my requirements for that day. As someone with dermatitis I experience extremely dry skin which is exacerbated by cold weather so it's a constant battle to keep my skin hydrated. All the ingredients combined work their magic and I welcome the inclusion of cocoa butter as that's an ingredient that packs a moisturising punch.

I've been using this face cream day and night. My skin feel smooth and soft for the entire day and revived in the mornings. Once the product settles into my skin I can happily apply makeup on top. As there are no essential oils I don't have to worry about triggering allergic reactions.

Silvan Skincare is certified cruelty free under the Leaping Bunny programme and registered with the Vegan Society. I highly recommend exploring the product range from Silvan Skincare, I'm sure you will find something you will love.

Sarah x

13 February 2021

Madara SOS Rich Hydra Barrier CICA Cream for very dry, stressed skin
(Gifted PR samples/unpaid)

My face has been red and very dry with signs of mild dermatitis. I've gone easy with my cleansing routine but felt my facial oils and creams have been letting me down on this occasion. In my effort to find something a little more intensive, I decided to try Madara SOS Rich Hydra Barrier CICA CreamMadara is a brand I've known and used for a few years and the Madara Hyaluronic Anti-Pollution CC Cream is a staple part of my daily routine.

The Madara SOS Hydration collection is a range of products aimed to protect and recharge reactive skin. The key ingredient in Madara SOS Rich Hydra Barrier CICA Cream is Centella Asiatica (CICA) commonly known as Brahmi, Gotu Kola, Indian pennywort and Asiatic pennywort. After a little research I understand that this ingredient is popular in Korean Beauty (K-Beauty). Centella Asiatica is known for its hydrating benefits and Madara claims -

this rich hydra-barrier cream instantly soothes and comforts very dry, dehydrated, stressed and reactive skin, bolstering its protective barrier and helping to restore the epidermal balance.

For those of you who need to be cautious with allergens, at this time Madara SOS Rich Hydra Barrier CICA Cream is free from Linalool but does contain Citronellol, Geraniol, Benzyl Salicylate and Eugenol (please always check ingredients before purchase as formulations can change). This is probably my one criticism because I would prefer that the SOS range to be fragrance free. I proceeded to use with care and have been lucky to tolerate the ingredients.

I've been using Madara SOS Rich Hydra Barrier CICA Cream for over a month and I feel a positive effect on my skin. I noticed improvements in dryness, with a soft and smooth texture. Redness has reduced in places but I've also been tackling dermatitis so I wasn't expecting a miracle overnight. You may naturally assume that a barrier cream would feel heavy but it has a cream texture straight out of the tube. As you massage into skin it feels silky and mildly thicker or perhaps balm like. If you have anything other than a very dry skin type I would hazard a guess you won't enjoy this product. Anyone prone to eczema will understand the relief when you apply emollients and Madara SOS Rich Hydra Barrier CICA Cream is reminiscent of that feeling.

I can see that Madara SOS Rich Hydra Barrier CICA Cream contains scientifically proven ingredients so commands a higher price point. It may not be within reach of everyone's budget but I also feel this cream doesn't have to be one that you use twice a day on a weekly basis. Perhaps it can be viewed as a treatment for occasional use when your skin feels taut and lacks hydration to simply give it a boost. Using overnight I can certainly feel a difference in the morning and it works alongside other face creams.

If you would like to try Madara SOS Rich Hydra Barrier CICA Cream or any other product from this brand, you can purchase through online retailers. If you missed last month's review hop across to that post by following this link - Organii Purifying Hand Gel and Surface Spray

Sarah x

8 February 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sarah x

1 January 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sarah x

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

17 November 2020

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

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


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

 

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

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

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

Sarah x

10 November 2020

Review Minimalist Skincare Gentle Daily Cleansing Balm - Fragrance Free
(Gifted/Unpaid)

UPDATE SEPT 2021 - rebranded to Creature of Habit Skincare

Minimalist Skincare is a newly launched venture by formulator and owner, Jaina. As the name suggests this is a brand taking products back to basics. There is no doubt that these are sophisticated formulations but the ethos is about minimising ingredients. Jaina experienced acne and similar to my own eczema story she identified that sometimes less is more with skincare. I'm a firm believer that often people are overloading their skin with complex routines and ingredients which can lead to issues.

I was fortunate to trial Minimalist Skincare Gentle Daily Cleansing Balm at formulation stages and I'm very excited to now be using the finished product. This is a soft, golden, buttery balm cleanser and with water it emulsifies to a milky consistency. The ingredients include safflower, shea butter, sunflower, castor oil, sweet almond, squalane, rosehip and bisabolol. This is a cleansing balm designed to offer soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits. It does not contain perfumes or essential oils making it ideal for all skin types and particularly appeals to those with sensitivity.

It's a luxurious experience to massage Minimalist Skincare Gentle Daily Cleansing Balm into skin. I'm already a fan of oil to milk cleansers as they suit my skin type and are easy to remove. You can rinse or use a damp cloth. If you ever find balms and oils too heavy and dislike any residue left behind you won't experience that sensation with this cleansing balm. After using this cleanser my skin has never felt overly dry or parched of moisture and it does well to keep a balance which is often tricky when eczema prone. With long term use my skin feels soft and looks bright and happy.

I'm super happy with Minimalist Skincare Gentle Daily Cleansing Balm, it's an excellent product for my dry and sensitive skin. At the moment it's the only item available from Minimalist Skincare so I can't wait to see the next product launch. For more information or to purchase this cleanser, please visit their website.

Sarah x

20 October 2020

Pamoja Skincare Restore Multi Purpose Beauty Oil Essential Oil Free
(gifted product)

You may recall my interview with Sarah founder of Pamoja Skincare back in lockdown. I had the pleasure to try Restore Multi-purpose Beauty Oil Essential Oil Free through the Free From Skincare Awards. I'm keen to support small business and Sarah's journey to formulating skincare shares similarities to my own struggles. I feels this adds a level of trust which gives a unique selling point over their competitors.

I suffered severe skin sensitivities on my face and contact dermatitis. As a family living with food allergies, we were already conscious of what we were eating and the importance of fully understanding a product label. So, I began a journey to understand better what I was putting on my skin and found a solution in nourishing botanical ingredients jam-packed with nutrients, that would soothe, hydrate and protect my skin - Sarah, Pamoja Skincare

When you live with allergies there are so many hurdles to overcome and your day consists of reading labels. I'm always super excited to discover formulations without essential oil and Pamoja Skincare provide this choice to customers. For those of you lucky enough not to worry about allergies, there is the option to buy a fragranced version of Restore Multi-purpose Beauty Oil.

Restore Beauty Oil (essential oil free) is packed with interesting ingredients which includes Sacha Inchi, Kahai, Sea Buckthorn, Blackcurrant and Pomegranate. It's packed full of fantastic minerals and vitamins including Omega 3, 5, 6, 7 and 9 essential fatty acids, vitamin A and E. Restore is a golden oil with a distinct natural earthy aroma similar to fresh cut grass. I've been applying in the evening after cleansing. The key is to apply to slightly damp skin to lock in moisture. My skin absorbs the oil beautifully, feels fresh and hydrated. It can be use in the mornings and would make a good base for makeup. Packaging is simple, effective, nicely branded and practical with a push button pipette dispenser.

Restore is ideal for facial massage, nourishing dry, brittle nails and cuticles, softening elbows and knees, smoothing hair and soothing skin that's spent time in the sun and sea - making it a perfect multitasking holiday companion!

My final thoughts are that Pamoja Restore Multi Purpose Beauty Oil Essential Oil Free is a lovely facial oil which I'm very happy to recommend. I'm sure it would suit many skin types but especially appealing to people with sensitivity and essential oil allergies. If you would like to explore the product range in more detail then please visit Pamoja Skincare.

Sarah x

8 October 2020

odylique timeless rose moisturiser
(gifted PR and affiliate link)

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

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

6 October 2020

Review Nourish London Kale Anti-Ageing Eye Cream
(Gifted PR sample)

It has been a while since I featured products from Nourish London. In fact you'll have to dig around in the archives to circa 2012/2013 when I reviewed products from the Relax collection. The branding has been updated over the years but the range still exists. I had a huge love for lavender back in the day but sadly that came to a end when I was diagnosed with a sensitivity to linalool. Eye creams are often formulated without essential oils. I imagine the reason for this may be due to the sensitive and delicate nature of this part of the face. 

Nourish London Kale Anti Ageing Eye Cream is formulated with plant extracts but it's the Kale extract which is the key ingredient that is highlighted. It's a vitamin rich component combined with Maqui Berry and Pomegranate enzymes to help counter puffiness and dark circles. Amino acids, B vitamins and antioxidants firm and reduce the appearance of fine lines.

The packaging for this Nourish eye cream is sleek and practical. A pump dispenser helps eradicate the fear of germs often associated with dipping fingers in jars and exposing creams to air. Of course you should always apply products with clean hands. This is a light cream which absorbs quickly without greasiness. It has a gentle cooling sensation and a pleasant aroma. I am in my 40s but I have never been overly concerned about dark circles and wrinkles. I find it hard to judge long term performance however my eyes look more awake when applied in the mornings. I have since passed it onto my Mum who took a keen interest in this product. 

I know sometimes gifted reviews are taken with a pinch of salt but Nourish London Kale anti-ageing eye cream comes highly recommended by others. It has been recognised in several awards, most recently Highly Commended as Best Anti-Ageing Range by Natural Health Magazine International Beauty Awards 2019

All Nourish London products are organic, certified vegan, alcohol free and cruelty free. The outer boxes are made with cardboard certified by FSC who promote ethical management of forests and can be recycled. For further information on Nourish London Kale Anti Ageing Eye Cream or any other product in the Kale collection, please visit Nourish London Skincare.

Sarah x

Archived Review Posts

29 September 2020

lyonsleaf unfragrance beauty balm
(Gifted/Lyonsleaf Affiliate Link)

I introduced the green community to Lyonsleaf back in 2013 when I stumbled across their website. I believe I was the first blogger to write about them and I introduced my readership to this fantastic natural skincare brand. Over the years I've watched them grown in popularity, expanded their product range, re-branded and win multiple awards. I had to put my love of Lyonsleaf on hold due to my diagnosis of a linalool allergy but I'm pleased to say they have slowly introduced fragrance free products. I have previously reviewed Lyonsleaf Unscented Marshmallow Soften and Rejuvenate Facial Oil if it's of interest to you.

Lyonsleaf products are cruelty free and handmade in the UK. They formulate with home grown herbs harvested by workers earning a living wage. The packaging is mostly plastic free and can be recycled. Lyonsleaf are committed to an ongoing program of reducing carbon emissions, environmental impact and waste. 

Lets focus our attention to Lyonsleaf Unfragranced Beauty Balm which is the unscented version of their best selling Beauty Balm. This multi purpose skincare balm contains babassu oil, shea butter, macadamia nut, jojoba oil, sunflower oil, calendula flower extract and vitamin E. The bonus with a water free formulation is it does not require the addition of preservatives and emulsifiers. Beauty Balm is designed to protect, nourish and rebalance skin making it ideal for all but especially suitable for people prone to acne, perioral dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis. Beauty Balm is one of a handful of Lyonsleaf products which are suitable for vegans.

Lyonsleaf Unfragranced Beauty Balm is a rich and luxurious balm which suits the oil cleansing method, this is a very popular way to cleanse skin. Beauty balm feels heavy in texture but easily melts with the warmth of your skin. After massaging into your skin simply wipe away using a damp wash cloth. For an additional spa like treatment at home, try holding a warm cloth to your face for a few seconds before removing the product. Beauty Balm doesn't leave a greasy residue behind but there is a noticeable difference and your skin feels extremely hydrated. It's a sensation which you will either enjoy or dislike but if you ever cleanse and feel parched of moisture this is the cleansing balm I would recommend to you. Speaking as someone with dry skin, Beauty Balm can be applied as a rich facial or body cream so it's perfect for those biting Winter winds which often leave skin feeling parched and uncomfortable.

Lyonsleaf products are available to purchase through their website. If you missed last months reviews for this retailer then click this link - Nature's Kitchen Summer Skin Box, Poa Poa Soap Dish, Skinlove Shower Gel 

Sarah x

22 September 2020

review eden days sensitive soul whipped body butter
(Gifted PR sample)

There is nothing I love more than simple, honest, natural skincare and I feel Eden Days ticks this box. Eden Days is run by a mother and daughter team who are passionate about skincare that is ethical, vegan, sustainable and eco-friendly. Products are handmade, packaging is recyclable, ingredients are ethically source, biodegradable and palm oil free. The range of products varies from body butters, soaps, face care, hair care and pets.

I was introduced to Eden Days Sensitive Soul Whipped Body Butter from the Free From Skincare Awards. This body butter is targeted towards people who experience sensitive skin and may be prone to eczema and psoriasis. It's formulated with cocoa, coconut and shea butter but the key standout is Redbush. This herb is known for high contents of iron, zinc, copper, magnesium, vitamins a natural alpha hydroxy acid (AHAs) and antioxidant. When topically applied I'm sure that can only be a great for our skin. As expected this body butter is rich and luxurious, fragile to heat but creates a gorgeous oil when applied to the warmth of your skin. Body butters are intensive emollients which easily hydrate dry skin with lasting effect. Unlike lotions or creams, body butters are formulated without water so are concentrated formulations that also don't require preservatives. I adore the scent of cocoa butter and coconut oil so for me this is a heavenly natural fragrance. 

A quick review but I am more than happy to recommend Eden Days Sensitive Soul Whipped Body Butter. It honestly feels wonderful on my skin and improves dry patches. I love to apply on my legs after shaving, it adds a silky texture whilst combating dryness which I am prone to. If you'd like to explore the range of products available then please visit the website - Eden Days

Sarah x

Instagram

Sugarpuffish. Theme by STS.