exfoliator

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

4 August 2020

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

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

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

19 May 2020

review Nature's Kitchen Face and Body Milk Smoothie and Berry Beautiful Skin Polish
(Gifted)

I'm gravitating towards Nature's Kitchen Skincare at the moment because I have realised many of their products are free from linalool (one of my allergies). It's a brand that takes me back to my teenage years when I used to spend all my money in The Body Shop. I think it has a similar vibes because of it's fruity and chocolate products.

Nature's Kitchen Chocolate & Vanilla Face and Body Milk Smoothie is a new addition to the product range. The fun and novelty factor is sure to win over everyone. Packaging is super cute and recyclable, it also comes with a smoothie recipe. I will say I am always cautious of large glass jars in the bathroom so I am mindful of this as you don't want to drop it. Nature's Kitchen Milk Smoothie is for use in the shower and use it as you would a body wash. It took me a couple of shakes to get the smoothie out of the jar as it's a thick 'milkshake' consistency. The aroma is pleasant and not overpowering with gentle hints of cocoa and vanilla. I found this product was best applied with my hands as it didn't work quite so well with a sponge. The smoothie feels silky smooth and washes off easily.

"Our Chocolate & Vanilla Face & Body Milk Smoothie Wash has been created to indulge your skin and your senses to leave you with super soft, healthy skin, all day long." 

My skin did feel smooth and soft after leaving the shower but sadly that feeling didn't last all day as my dry and flaky skin was noticeable later on. I wasn't expecting any miracles from this product and I honestly chose it for the novelty factor. It's innovative and attractive so I would certainly enjoy gifting but I don't feel its the new 'must have' in my routine. If chocolate & vanilla doesn't appeal to your senses then Strawberry & Cranberry or Banana & Coconut Milk Smoothies are available. Ingredients are vegan so do not be put off by the name 'milk smoothie' if you are allergic to milk (as I am!).

As I mentioned I have flaky skin at the moment so it felt like a good opportunity to try Nature's Kitchen Berry Beautiful Skin Polish. Exfoliators are not part of my daily skincare routine as my skin is often too sensitive but I usually find a use for them when the season changes from winter to spring. This scrub uses natural bamboo cane and red berry fruit seeds plus extracts of red grapes, cherry, raspberry, blackcurrant, blueberry, pomegranate, strawberry, cranberry, acai and goji berries to gently buff skin. It's a fluid consistency with very small granules. As someone with sensitive skin this is a gentle exfoliator because it isn't overloaded with scrubbing particles but I think it might disappoint some and could do with a little more 'scrubby' action. Overall it's a pleasant product to use and doesn't scratch the skin to leave it red raw or irritated.

I've had great fun exploring more products from Nature's Kitchen and it's lovely to have skincare which brings a little cheer to your bath time routine. I recommend exploring the range for yourself. If you didn't catch my last review then click this link - Alteya Liquid Soap, Benecos Lip Balm, Organii Shower Gel, Nature's Kitchen Moisturiser

Sarah x

12 December 2017

Swap clairns glossier palmers the body shop for green beauty alternatives
Its been a few months since I wrote one of these posts. I watch a fair amount of Favourites on YouTube and that often gets me thinking about greener alternatives. I certainly don't want to make anyone feel guilty if they use "mainstream" products but I hope this helps for those who do want to change their skincare routine.

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