free from Methylisothiazolinone (MI)

11 August 2020

Ocean Saver All Purpose Floor Cleaner Eco Drop Rhubarb Coral
(I paid for this product, price correct at time of publication)

I've remained loyal to the same household cleaning products for years. I've been using a combination of Bio-D, Tincture LondonGreenscents and I have a favourite product from each brand. During lockdown and with the loss of my job I was seeking accessible and budget friendly options. I thought that might be mission impossible but I'm pleased to say I found Ocean Saver.

7 February 2020

2020 Free From Skincare Awards opens 3rd February
(photo from 2019 FFSA judging panel)

Time has flown by and here I am announcing that the ninth annual Free From Skincare Awards are NOW open for entrants. I think I say this every year but I love these awards as they celebrate the best cosmetic products which happen to also be free from some of the allergens and other ingredients many consumers now wish to or need to avoid. *jumps up and down, waves hands* People like me are their intended target audience. My long list of allergies (to include Linalool and Methylisothiazolinone) and throw in living with Atopic eczema, Seborrhoeic Dermatitis and Urticaria are what lead me to explore the world of natural and organic skincare. I had a period in my life where I felt I was reacting to every mainstream brand and sometimes prescription creams.

26 September 2019

Balmonds Daily Moisturising Cream
(Gifted)

You might already be familiar with Balmonds under their former branding of Purepotions. I've been a fan of their products for some time now having previously reviewed their hand cream which quickly became one of my top recommendations. It's a hero product for me especially during the winter months when I'm prone to eczema breakouts. I wanted to explore more of the product range and I was looking for a new body cream so Balmonds Daily Moisturising Cream seems like a suitable choice.

As a brand, Balmonds is marketed towards customers with dry and sensitive skin which may also be prone to conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. The Daily Moisturising Cream is fragrance free which is great for people like me with a sensitivity to fragrance allergens. Many natural ointments marketed towards eczema contain beeswax so it's nice of Balmonds to offer a vegan friendly alternative. Overall the formulation is well considered and contains fantastic soothing and hydrating ingredients such as shea butter, hemp seed, chickweed, chamomile and calendula.

The Daily Moisturising Cream is multi-purpose so you can use it on any areas of the body but it's especially good for targeting dry patches and keeping skin hydrated. I've mainly been using this cream on my legs as they are going through a stubborn phrase and I'm battling dryness. This moisturiser is super hydrating but I like how it doesn't feel heavy or greasy and it disappears fairly quickly. I've also trialled this cream on my face and I was super happy with the results. I can see The Daily Moisturising Cream coming in handy for the winter weather when I usually switch from my lighter summer products. I really think this could be a good all-rounder for the entire family. Only the other day I was also considering how handy this would to take on holiday as you could cut down on products. It would be easy to ditch hand, face and body cream bottles for this one cream.

I think it's fair to say Balmonds Daily Moisturising Cream could easily become a permanent part of my skincare routine and I would happily buy myself another tube when this one runs out.  Have you tried Balmonds? Which product would you recommend?

If you missed my last review then follow this link Giovanni 2Chic Conditioners

Sarah x

20 August 2019

Review for Love Lula Giovanni 2Chic Conditioners
(gifted/unpaid)

Caring for my hair has been a battle over the years because of a sensitive scalp and eczema prone skin. I've been using Odylique Gentle Herb Shampoo consistently for over six years but I like to pair it with a conditioner. My hair is fine but dry as I colour regularly and use heat styling tools so it needs a little extra TLC. Around two years ago I settled on using Madara Colour and Shine conditioner but it's one of the last products in my bathroom that contains linalool (I'm sensitive to this ingredient). I'm not in a hurry to stop using Madara but I decided to start experimenting and re-visit a brand I knew and liked.

Following on from my review of Giovanni 2Chic Repairing Conditioner back in June, I decided to try Giovanni 2Chic Ultra-Moist Conditioner and Giovanni 2Chic Ultra-Sleek Conditioner. To be honest I find all three have similar qualities so the differences between them are fairly minor. If I was to rank them in order Giovanni 2Chic Repairing Conditioner is bottom of the list. As I mentioned in my previous review it misses the mark with detangling during application stage. To explain further, I like a conditioner that gives "slip" to the hair. I experience knots after shampooing so a good conditioner can help make brushing a little easier. I'm not sure if static can be a side effect of conditioners but it is odd how I have more issues after using this product, that's a real puzzler for me.

By a small margin I think I'd say the 2Chic Ultra-Moist Conditioner is top of my list and the winning factor over the 2Chic Ultra-Sleek Conditioner is how my hair feels on the day after washing. I achieve the smoothness I need for brushing and enjoy how my hair feels after styling. It still doesn't perform as well when comparing to Madara but side by side against the other Giovanni 2Chics, for me, it's the best of the bunch. Don't get me wrong the Ultra-Sleek is still a good conditioner, it's giving me the smoothness however it's a delicate balance with finding the correct amount to use. On a few occasions I'm left with that lank, weighed down feeling which doesn't work for me. It's simply a case of too much treatment for my fine hair and that's a common problem I've faced time and time again with hair care products.

I'm happy to recommend Giovanni 2Chic conditioners and suggest they are worth trying for yourself. I think it's fair to say that it's just a case of finding the right one to suit your needs. Overall Giovanni is a brand I enjoying using, I often refer to them as having similarities to salon brands just minus certain ingredients on my avoid list. They are cruelty free and many of their products are suitable for Vegans.

If you missed last months review then follow this link - Nature's Kitchen Oat Milk Cleanser & Makeup Remover

Sarah x

13 August 2019

Winners announced in Free From Skincare Awards 2019
Weleda’s Skin Food Body Butter has triumphed in the eighth annual Free From Skincare Awards, winning the Overall Award for Best Free From Skincare Product. “Fulfils its promise to banish dehydrated skin with ease,” enthused one tester. “My body is now a dry-free zone of silky moisturised skin. A beautiful formula and a pleasure to use.”

First-time participants from Finland, Laponie of Scandinavia, took the prestigious Best Free From Brand Award, while their Face Cream, jointly with Lyonsleaf’s Calendula and Marshmallow Cream, bagged the all-important Free From Achievement Award.

Free from synthetic ingredients, food allergens, and animal ingredients, Weleda’s Skin Food Body Butter beat stiff competition from 14 other category winners, including products by debutants Casa Mencarelli, NATHEO, and Bloom & Blossom, who were runners-up. 

“This year we opened up the Awards to all European brands, and the standard of entries from countries such as Spain, Greece, Finland, Bulgaria and Germany was impressive,” said Awards Co-ordinator, Alex Gazzola. “Judges and testers were excited to discover products that they wouldn’t ordinarily be able to try. Hopefully some of these brands can soon secure wider distribution across the UK.”

As you may or not know I had the pleasure of judging for my 7th year. I'm always amazed by the number of entrants and the quality of products. Aside from the task of judging I'm also keep my eye out for products that are of personal interest. Listed below, I've selected from the winners & medallists products that do not contain essential oil allergens.

Apothaka® Comforting oil booster
Fiini Naturally Oat shea butter
Fiini Naturally Oat Seabuckthorne oil serum
Honey Bee Beautiful, Sensitive Bee Face Cream
Joanna Naturals Harmony Facial Oil
Just Be Natural Be Natural Intensive Lip Balm
Laponie of Scandinavia Face Oil
Laponie of Scandinavia All-Around Balm
Laponie of Scandinavia Face Cream
Lyonsleaf Zinc and Calendula Cream
Lyonsleaf Calendula and Marshmallow Balm
Lucy Bee Fragrance Free Natural Soap
Odylique Coconut Candy Scrub
PHB Ethical Beauty Hand & Body Moisturiser with Mango & Shea Butter Scent Free
Tildas Tribe Honey & Oatmeal Goats Milk Soap

If you would like to view ALL Gold, Silver and Bronze winners then visit www.freefromskincareawards.co.uk

Sarah x

6 August 2019

Tincture London Eco Friendly Cleaning Products for around the home
I've been using eco friendly products around my home for years and I have some firm favourites on repeat purchase. I shall place links to my reviews at the end of this article. For me, one of the most common causes of allergic reactions has been household cleaning products. My allergy diagnosis to MI (Methylisothiazolinone) came much later in life but it certainly helped shed light on past situations. I'd reached the point where I had to ban the office cleaner from using their products on my desk due to experiencing itchy skin on my arms.

23 January 2018

Looking for Eco Friendly Laundry Products suitable for allergies and vegans
Ethical, cruelty and allergen free laundry products are the biggest headache in my daily life. I feel like the worst person ever for the products I currently use and I've beaten myself up about it but I'm stuck in this really difficult place. I desire a more natural formulation, I don't want it to be tested on animals, I'd like it to be Vegan, I want fragrance but need to avoid linalool, there is the dreaded MI (methylisothiazolinone) to avoid and accessibility is important.

I think the most eco-friendly laundry product available is soap nuts. I experimented with these some years ago but it just didn't suit me for the long term. I wasn't happy with the way my clothes were feeling and smelling over the long term so I ditched that plan.

When looking for ethical products available in supermarkets, most people think of Method and Ecover but both brands were acquired by S.C. Johnson & Son in 2017, a company not associated with ethical or cruelty free values. Seventh Generation has hit the shelves at Tesco, its a popular US brand but despite the claims of suitability for sensitive skin, I was shocked to see it contains methylisothiazolinone (MI). This can also be said for Tesco's own brand Eco Active. Astonish and own brands from Sainsbury's, Waitrose, Co-Op and Marks & Spencer carry the Leaping Bunny logo which gives reassurance for cruelty free but you're not getting a "natural" formulation and on my last inspection I was struggling over MI and linalool (I do need to re-visit this to check labels as things can change).

I know of Greenscents, Bio-D and Mangle & Wringer which are greener brands so tick all my boxes. I do use various cleaning supplies from their ranges and have repurchased from time to time.  Since I can only buy online (no local stockists) this leaves me agonising over courier charges and delivery slots which I find expensive and stressful. It also requires me to be organised and when you're down to the last drop it's much easier to pop to the supermarket. 

There are several brands on my list which I need to do further research on including Faith In Nature, Ecozone and The Gentle Label. I'd be interested in getting feedback from readers who have tried any of their products.

I guess I'm writing this as a personal rant because sometimes I think living your best "green" lifestyle can get a little stressful. I wanted to demonstrate that I don't have the answer to everything, I do struggle with decisions. I've spent months going round in circles but I determined to find a solution. Anyone else in the same position?

Sarah x

16 January 2018

Skin & Tonic, Isla Apothecary, Ere Perez
(Disclaimer – contains affiliate link. I'm part of the Love Lula Blogger Programme and can select PR samples each month, I am not obligated to review and all opinions are my own. Prices correct at time of publication)

One of the biggest problems I encounter with online shopping is when the item arrives I notice the packaging information differs from the website. It might seem insignificant to some consumers but when you have allergies and a vital piece of information is missing, it can be money down the drain. 

Skin & Tonic Coco Mask
I spotted on the bottle three allergens which are not listed on the website (I also check S&T site and it's not noted there either). Allergens only have to be listed when they are at a certain percentage within the formulation so I just assumed it was irrelevant due to the the nature of the product. Cosmetic laws requires labelling of 26 fragrance allergens but I don't think that stretches to websites.

Skin & Tonic Ingredient listsWhile I appreciate Skin & Tonic/Love Lula are not doing anything wrong its just extremely frustrating. I don't want the hassle of double checking everything by email before ordering. I have contacted everyone concerned, promises were made to get the situation addressed but I haven't seen the changes. I've been unable to test the mask for review and have passed it on to my sister. Perhaps at a later date I'll share her thoughts on my social media channels.

Skin & Tonic Naked lip balm
A brand that offers a fragrance free product will always receive praise from me. The ingredients are simply shea butter, beeswax and coconut oil, all of which are hydrating for skin. It might have been nice to see a vegan formulation but beeswax isn't something I've completely eliminated from my skincare routine. I find this lip balm comfortable to wear, I enjoy having no flavour and the packaging works well for application.

Ere Perez Carrot Colour Pot in Holy
I've been banging on about Ere Perez non stop recently and I ordered another Carrot Colour Pot in Holy. I actually featured this in another article so I won't go into great detail again but I really like these multipurpose products. To find out more and see swatches, follow this link - November Love Lula Reviews.

Isla Apothecary Ritual Pulse Point Therapy
I've seen many people speak highly of Isla Apothecary so that prompted me to try something from their range. It was very naught of my to pick this pulse point roll on because it does contain linalool. You're probably all confused why I'll test this but not the mask. Linalool can trigger my dermatitis and I currently have eczema on my face so I can't take the risk to worsen my situation. I've been able to tolerate the pulse point on my wrists. The blend of ingredients is lovely and includes coconut oil, roman chamomile, eucalyptus and lavender. I find the aroma pleasant and soothing. If you're someone who enjoys using aromatherapy for headaches, stress etc then I'd recommend checking out Isla Apothecary.

Have you tried any of the products mentioned? 

Sarah x

26 September 2017

Love Lula Natural Skincare Acure Sukin Preserve
Disclaimer –  contains affiliate link. I'm part of the Love Lula Blogger Programme and can select PR samples each month, I am not obligated to review and all opinions are my own. Prices correct at time of publication.

How are you doing? I'm writing this with a stinking cold feeling very sorry for myself. The month started well as I went to Majorca but within 24 hours of being back on home turf I was struck down with germs. So moving on from my endless complaining, once again I find myself writing about products I chose from Love LulaI really hope you are finding these mini reviews of use, if you have any feedback leave me a comment or send an email.

Acure Organics Day Cream
The Acure cleanser I tried last month won me over so I decided to try the day cream. It’s become a firm favourite and I am really enjoying how it feels on my skin. I probably say this quite often when it comes to moisturisers but it gives me that nice balance between hydration without feeling too heavy. The scent is an added bonus, it’s citrus specifically orange and reminds me of chewy candy but without being overbearing or sickly. The only minor criticism I have over Acure is in the USA this brand is known for being affordable. Through Love Lula you will pay £26 which puts it up there with Antipodes and Trilogy but I guess that’s the price of importing goods. 

Preserve Recycled Plastic Eco Friendly Toothbrush (Medium) 
I wrote about Preserve back in 2012 and I’m slightly embarrassed to say it took me this long to try a toothbrush. The concept is great. Preserve make the handle from recycled yoghurt pots and they have a scheme to take back your old brush for recycling (applicable for both USA & UK more info on their website). I must admit I threw this toothbrush into my basket with no expectations and its ended up being my favourite find. The curve on the brush is fantastic as I’ve always struggled to reach my back teeth and with this it’s so easy. I ended up dragging out all my old brushes (I use them for cleaning around the home) and none of them had the same degree of angle. These are more expensive than my usual toothbrush but I’m sold on the fact that I can comfortably clean my teeth; it really has made a difference. Of course the eco-friendly nature of Preserve products is an added bonus. I’ve been using for a month and the bristles still look in good shape. My one criticism is you can’t pick the colour when you order.........yes I am that person! 

Sukin Super Greens Nutrient Rich Facial Moisturiser 
I’ve once again encountered an issue with Love Lula not listing ingredients correctly. I’ve ended up passing this moisturiser on to my husband because there are essential oil allergens on the product label which are not listed on Love Lula's site (F.Y.I - I avoid linalool that's why it matters to me). I've used other Sukin products so it is a brand I trust and recommend. My husband is a man of few words but he tells me he likes this moisturiser, he's happy to use it, his skin feels nice after application and he would replace when it runs out. I think it has a unisex fragrance which is not too overpowering and it’s affordable. I’d recommend as a good all rounder for most families.

Have you tried any of the products I've mentioned? What are your thoughts on them? If you missed my July picks then follow this link - Love Lula Reviews for July - Acure Organics, Madara, Trilogy.

Sarah x

22 August 2017

Reviews Natural Skincare Love Lula Trilogy Acure Madara
(Disclaimer - affiliate link & I'm part of the Love Lula Blogger Programme and can select PR samples each month, I am not obligated to review and all opinions are my own)

In July I scaled back my choices from Love Lula because I was taking time out to recover from surgery and wanted to ease my blogging workload. Let me talk you through what I have been using.

Acure Organics Sensitive Facial Cleanser
Acure’s hair care range is a cult product among US bloggers and now we have the chance to try products through a UK stockist. As I’m happy with my hair routine, I thought I’d try Acure skincare and I always feel that a cleanser is a good place for me to start. The Acure sensitive facial cleanser has a silky thick texture which is excellent for massaging across the face. I find it works better on damp skin so I hold a wet flannel to my skin before applying (I hate splashing water). It can be rinsed off but I choose to use a damp flannel. The aroma is pleasant and I’m pretty sure my skin likes this product because it currently feels nice and soft with no visible signs of irritation. It’s fair to say I’m enjoying using this Acure cleanser. I’m happy to recommend and would re-purchase.

9 May 2017

love lula ere perez hurraw rms beauty natural skincare reviews
Disclaimer - PR samples 

If you are not familiar with this series then let me explain. Every month I have the opportunity to select products from Love Lula. I then test them out for a 3/4 week period and write up my thoughts. Here's what I picked from the site in April.

Ere Perez Rich Olive Oil Lipstick – High Tea
I absolutely love this lipstick and I’m super happy I took the plunge. It’s described as a “shimmer pink-melon” and for me it’s a bright and daring pink, really out of my comfort zone at first wear. I like that even the lightest swipe over my lips will give a good colour pay off and the formulation is very comfortable on the skin. Ere Perez is fast becoming my favourite makeup brand. If you would like to see a swatch check out my previous article on my lipstick collection. Most of the Ere Perez range is suitable for Vegans but the lipsticks do contain beeswax.

Hurraw Black Cherry Tinted Balm
Sadly this has been a fail for me. I love the flavour of Black Cherry but the tint is disappointing. I’m not a red lipstick wearer so I was hoping for a subtle equivalent but this has barely any colour pay off for me. You know I love Hurraw balms as I’ve mentioned them many times so I’m not holding back here and being true to my feelings. Hurraw balms are suitable for Vegans.
Ere Perez Rich Olive Oil Lipstick High Tea RMS Beauty Swift Shadow Sunset Beach SB43
RMS Beauty Swift Shadow – Sunset Beach SB-43
Ordering makeup online is very tricky because colours do appear differently on screens. I end up comparing on every available device before ordering. Sunset Beach SB-43 didn’t end up being quite as expected but I’m still happy with it. I tend to have red/purple tones to my eyelids and this neutralises the colour making an excellent base. I’m also very happy to wear this shadow on its own but I don’t think other people would notice it on me. I would describe the colour as a pale shimmery gold/beige but I've seen other sites refer to it as "crushed pearl". I think it might stand out nicely on a darker skin tone. Staying power is a tricky one to judge because I’ve hooded eyes and shadows always slide and settle in the creases no matter what I do, with or without primers. RMS pressed shadows are suitable for Vegans but you will find beeswax in other products.

Sukin Sensitive Calming Night Cream
In 2012 I reviewed the cleanser from Sukin sensitive range so I was already familiar with the product line when I selected the night cream. The formulation is extremely rich and feels lovely on my naturally dry skin. You need the smallest amount and even after four weeks I’ve barely made a dent in the 120ml pot making it awesome value for money. In terms of ingredients it’s a winner for me because there are no essential oil allergens to worry about. My only minor criticism with the scent is the vanilla (which I adore) has an underlying whiff of something reminiscent of antibacterial creams and I can’t quite put my finger on it. It comes and goes so I can live with it. I also realise that it might just be my sensitive sense of smell, allergies do that to you. I’m happy to continue using this night cream as my skin feels lovely and soft in the morning. Sukin is a Vegan brand.

Have you tried these products? What did you think of them? If you missed my March mini reviews then follow the link - Love Lula Reviews - Dr Hauschka, Ermana, GK Natural Creations, John Masters Organics

Sarah x

2 May 2017


Garnier Ultimate Blends Delicate Soother Shampoo - this product is aimed at soothing sensitive scalps but I believe it contains ingredients which would cause irritation. Shampoo is an easy swap and many brands have dedicated products to try and help scalp problems. Check out Odylique, John Masters Organics (Bare range), PHB Beauty (Scent free), Akin, Barefoot SOS, Green People and Weleda.

Cover Girl Outlast All Day Pressed Powder - Many natural brands offer loose mineral powders but there are pressed options. Check out Ere Perez, Living Nature, Organic Pharmacy, Lavera and Zao. You will have to compromise on price as I know Cover Girl is a drugstore brand.

L'oreal Revitalist Cleansing Towelettes - I have previously written an article about wipes, I urge you to consider not buying high street brands because of the environmental impact. Please bin and do not flush! Swaps are available from RMS Beauty, Pacifica, Organyc and Ecocare. Also check out the baby wipe options in your supermarket, often Sainsbury's and Waitrose stock eco-friendly brands. 

Unite 7 Seconds Condition Leave in Detangler - If the ingredients I found online are correct then this detangler contains water, silicone, fragrance and the dreaded allergen Methylisothiazolinone (one of mine!).  You can do a lot better than this, my personal favourite brand for styling and treatment products is Giovanni. Others to consider are John Masters Organics and Intelligent Nutrients.

Nars Hot Sands Highighter – described as 'Peach Champagne' which I did find tricky to match exactly but there are highlighter options from 'Green' brands like RMS Beauty, Inika, Ilia, Lavera, Ere Perez, Kjaer Weis, Tata Harper, W3LL People, Pacifica - this list covers a variety of budgets.

You can purchase the products mentioned from my favourite sites - Content Beauty and Naturisimo.com If you would like to read my last swap article click here - No 6 - Green Beauty Alternatives featuring Madara, Joik and Odylique

Sarah x

6 April 2017

Dr Hauschka, Ermana, GK Natural Creations, John Masters Organics
Disclaimer - PR samples 

Here we go with another month of testing products I've selected from Love Lula. I do hope you enjoy these posts and find them useful. As always I'm providing my honest opinions and if you have any questions just leave them in the comment section below.

John Masters Organics Bare Unscented Body Wash
You’ll have noticed I’m slowly working my way through the John Maters Bare range. I’m a sucker for fragrance free body washes so whenever I spot a new one I’m all over it. Shower Gel isn’t the worlds most exciting product to write about but this one does the job, bubbles up nicely and doesn’t dry out my skin. Would I repurchase? – yes

Ermana Cleanse Balm (15ml size)
I loved the Soothe Mama Body oil and had my eye on the cleanse balm. I picked up the trial size which is super cute and ideal for testing without commitment to full sizes. I’ve mixed feelings about this cleanser. On the one hand the scent is a delightful mix of grapefruit and shea butter (with added bonus of no linalool). The formulation isn’t as buttery as I would have liked and I was struggling to melt between my palms. With advice from Ermana, I dip the jar into hot water to soften the balm and that makes a difference. I do find this cleanse balm a little on the heavy side compared to others so I use sparingly and follow with a toner. Would I repurchase? – maybe – as you can tell I’ve mixed feelings due to formulation and performance, also you will notice that I often lean towards Vegan choices and this product contains beeswax so doesn’t fit those ethics. 

Dr. Hauschka Eye Revive (10 x 5ml)
My day job (that pays the bills) involves spending 9 hours in front of a computer screen (with glasses) and then I come home and blog! I often end up with sore and tried eyes so the Dr Hauschka Eye Revive was rather appealing to me. The box contains cotton pads and 10 vials of solution. Application is simple. You split the 5ml bottle between two cotton pads and place on your eyes for 10 minutes. I do find the product relaxing and reduces the tired sensation but I’m not blown away or thinking “where have these been all my life”. It’s a nice at home spa treat but certainly not an essential. Would I repurchase? – maybe as a treat

GK Natural Creations Grapefruit and Rosemary Shaving Soap
Over the years I’ve slowly encourage my husband to try shaving soaps. When we first met he was using popular shaving foams found at the supermarket but his face always looked inflamed after using them. I haven’t come across GK Natural Creations before now so when I spotted the Grapefruit and Rosemary Shaving Soap I thought I’d give hubby the chance to try it. This soap comes in a tin and there is an unscented version which is ideal for anyone avoiding essential oils. My husband is a man of few words when it comes to reviews but he does appear to be enjoying the product. I’ve seen him whip up a good lather with his brush and his skin looks fresh and clear after shaving. I’m tempted to try on my legs but you do need a brush so for ladies it’s less convenient than a bar which you can massage with your hands. Would I repurchase? – yes, although I can see this lasting a long time before it runs out so good value for money! 

If you’d like to read my February Love Lula picks follow the link - Madara, Rio Rosa Mosqueta, Trilogy

Sarah x

23 March 2017

Review Alucia Organics Certified Organic Deep Cleansing Balm Fragrance Free
Fragrance free products are a huge part of my life, it might be dull not to have scent but it keeps my skin happy. Any company which offers a fragrance free version of their range is going to get a high five from me. Essential oils are beautiful and beneficial to some but they can be problematic to those with very sensitive skin. Lavender was my hero for many years before skin tests which revealed linalool could be triggering my eczema.

21 March 2017

Green Beauty Empties Joik Skin & Tonic Balm Balm Ermana Rossi Evolve
(Disclaimer - some products are PR samples others I bought myself)

I’m not entirely sure why Empties are so interesting but they allow me the opportunity to show you I enjoyed every drop and give my final thoughts on products. Usually I would film for my YouTube channel but I haven’t found the time recently. I think people underestimate how consuming it can be. Anyway let’s chat about the product pictured above. I’ll link any reviews I previously wrote.

Joik BB Cream - I like using tinted creams under my powder foundation. The Joik BB cream is great and I have enjoyed using it up but I’m back using my previous favourite the Madara Moonflower Rose Beige tinting fluid. I was swayed by a discount, no other reason really to switching out as I like them both equally.

Rossi Uvema Cleansing Oil - I’m easily pleased with cleansing oils and enjoyed the marzipan scent of the Rossi Cleanser. Fragrance free products are a lifesaver for me so this wins me over easily. I did replace this with my all time favourite Handmade Naturals (it was on promotion at the time I ran out) but I would happily go back to the Rossi one at some point in future.

Skin & Tonic Makeup Remover - I enjoyed using this makeup remover as a daily cleanser. Again an unscented product so it worked really well for my delicate skin. I would happily buy another one in the future but as mentioned above I do go back and forth between brands I love. 

Ermana Mama Soothe Body Oil - I loved this oil, perfect for me as unscented and great to use across the body after getting out of the shower. During the winter oils are a go-to product to keep my very dry skin hydrated as much as possible. I like to layer with body creams.

Ermana Cleanse Balm - This is the trial size pot but still lasted me a couple of weeks. I’ve ended up with mixed feelings about this cleansing balm which I plan to share in my next Love Lula Monthly Review. I enjoyed the scent (grapefruit and no linalool) but it feels a little too heavy for me. I’m undecided whether I would move up to the full size.


Evolve Satin Leg Gloss - I bought this oil for my sister’s beach wedding last summer as I wanted a shimmery product for the occasion. Evolve products are always beautifully scented and this leg gloss was a pleasure to use but I would have preferred a little more sparkle (it gives a sheen to the skin). The bottle needs a good shake before using as the mica settles at the bottom.

Balm Balm Rose Floral Water - Rose isn’t my favourite scent but I didn’t mind this floral water from Balm Balm. I wouldn’t buy for myself but was happy to use the product up. I like to use floral water for toner and have previously used the chamomile version from Balm Balm. Great brand and product for anyone who likes to keep things organic and simple.

Sarah x

14 March 2017

Madara, Rio Rosa Mosqueta, Trilogy
(Gifted PR samples)

I have to say that a month of testing is flying past as here I am again with another review of products available from Love Lula. I’ve chosen products with ingredients that are suitable for Vegans.

Madara Colour and Shine Conditioner 
This was another attempt at finding a replacement for my beloved Desert Essence Conditioner and I have to say it’s the closest I have come matching my holy grail. The Madara conditioner is thinner in consistency but I’m getting the bounce and softness I desire. I’m also not getting the second day lanky hair which I have with others. Only minor dislike is it doesn’t detangle wet hair quite as well as Desert Essence. I’m not great at deciding how my colour is lasting as I find my greys are stubborn. I struggle to hold colour regardless of hair care products. Desert Essence does give me better ml for ml value but Madara is easily available in the UK. Would I replace? – Yes, I'm happy to continue using this conditioner.

Rio Rosa Mosqueta Skin Brightening Exfoliator
I try not to over exfoliate but I do like having products on hand to tackle dry skin patches. I chose this exfoliator from Rio Rosa Mosqueta based on value for money and it's free from linalool. The formula is a cream with bamboo powder to polish the skin. I must say I do prefer a thicker cream base but the scrub particles are small and fine (which I like). I can tolerate on my sensitive skin but it must be damp skin otherwise it can feel a little scratchy. Would I replace? Maybe – it’s a great budget option but if my bank account is healthy I would go back to Antipodes Reincarnation Facial Exfoliator

Trilogy Very Gentle Moisturising Cream
As the name suggests the “Very Gentle” range is formulated for sensitive and easily irritated skin. No essential oils is a win for me as I'm avoiding linalool. Truthfully I’m totally hooked on this moisturiser as it ticks all the boxes and makes my skin feel wonderful. This Trilogy moisturiser is ideal for dry skin types as the texture feels heavy enough to be effective but without the greasiness. It hasn’t triggered my dermatitis and I’ve noticed improvement in redness. Would I replace? Yes, normally I use oils but I’m enjoying this change to my routine.

As a side note I’d like to mention that both Trilogy and Rio Rosa Mosqueta state on their packaging “Against Animal Testing” this is something that would normally have me raise an eyebrow. Madara do not make any reference on their packaging but they are ECOCERT and claim not to test on animals. Certification is always preferable and makes it easier for a consumer to recognise. The statement “Against Animal Testing” needs clarification to ensure it meets your own personal standards so please visit the websites (TrilogyRio Rosa) or contact the brands. I had déjà vu about Rio Rosa and delved into my email archives and sure enough I had questioned them back in 2014 about the vague policy but can’t find or recall a response. I’m not suggesting these brands have done anything wrong, it has just made me stop and think that I need to question things more often and I’ve got into bad habits.

If you missed my last Love Lula review you can read it here - Hurraw, Joik, Kinvara, Rossi Uvema

Sarah x

26 February 2017

Series: Swap YouTuber Favourites for Green Beauty Alternatives

For those not familiar with this series I pick out mainstream products mentioned in Favourite videos and suggest Green Beauty Swaps for them. 

NARS Tinted Moisturiser – I use tinted moisturisers on a daily basis and my current favourites are Madara Moon Flower Tinting Fluid and JOIK BB Cream. Other alternatives are Dr Hauschka Tinted Day Cream, Estelle & Thild All-in One Tinted Moisturiser and Green People Age Defy SPF 15 DD Tinted Moisturiser.

Bobbi Brown Bronzer - I struggled to track down ingredients online so I suspect the worst with this brand. Green Beauty Bronzers are quite easy to find and there are brands to suit every budget. Check out Ere Perez, Inika, Bellapierre, Lavera and W3LL People.

Dior Sugar Lip Scrub – I am astonished that anyone would spend £24 on a lip scrub, you really are just buying into a label. Lip Scrubs are easy to DIY from the contents of your kitchen cupboard. Simply use caster sugar with olive oil or coconut oil or honey. I guess the benefit of the Dior scrub is it's portable and not messy so you could swap for ILIA Balmy Nights

GlamGlow Supermud – you might be surprised to spot these on my swaps but there are some undesirable ingredients in the Glam Glow range (e.g. mineral oils & Methylisothiazolinone). My first thought as an alternative is the Madara Ultra Purifying Mud Mask but there are many others I'd recommend such as Odylique 3 in 1 Maca Mask, Botanicals Balancing Detox Mask, Evolve Raw Cacao & Coconut Radiant Glow Mask. 

The Body Shop Almond Milk & Honey – I’ve seen this range recommended for sensitive skin prone to eczema and it doesn’t sit well with me. To promote a range as almond and honey when those ingredients are very low down on the list feels like a rip off. This range contains possible eczema triggering ingredients like parfum and other undesirables. Also “almond milk” is interesting phrase for what is actually almond oil. I can't find you an exact swap but Weleda and Dr Hauschka have an almond range. Many Green Beauty lovers will just use almond oil and honey by themselves. 

Starbucks Iced Black Americano – when I saw a blogger recommend their favourite coffee it got me thinking, if you’re a regular customer have you considered switching to a reusable cup to cut down on landfill waste? According to the latest statistics, the UK throws away around three billion disposable cups a year. The problem is many disposable cups can only be recycled at a handful of specialist places (its polyethylene which waterproofs them that causes problems) so majority end up in landfill. If you'd like to help the planet then take a look at Ecoffee Cup for stylish designs. 

Many of the products mentioned above can be found at Naturisimo and Content Beauty. If you would like to read my last swap article then click here - No 5 - Green Beauty Alternatives featuring Nathalie Bond Organics, S5 Skincare, Balm Balm and Trilogy

Sarah x

21 February 2017

Review Sukin Nourishing Chia Seed Oil

Over the years I’ve only tried a handful of products from Sukin so when I was given the opportunity to try something from the Super Greens range I accepted. Sukin is an Australian brand launched in 2007, offering affordable natural skincare with an impressive free from promise (no sodium lauryl sulphate, sodium laureth sulphate, synthetic fragrances, animal derivatives, harsh detergents, propylene glycol, artificial colours, triethanolamine, mineral oils, EDTA or parabens).

The Super Greens range includes a mask, scrub, serum, moisturiser and oil, all of which sound great but I chose the Nourishing Chia Seed Oil because it is free from essential oils. The blend of ingredients is quite interesting. Chia seed is the top ingredient but the “super green” name comes from the combination of kale, spirulina, parsley and chlorella. There is also hemp seed, avocado, olive and baobab. I’m certainly not going to make any claims about putting “super green” ingredients on to your skin but if you love them in your diet then why not go that extra step?

The other day I spotted a question asking how people use oils and I think many people are still hesitant or unsure how to use them. Once you figure out what ingredients are best for you, then I believe you should use them depending on your mood and how your skin feels. I will use on a morning and evening some days and just evenings on others. I use them alone or under moisturisers if my skin is feeling parched. I tend to use oils more often in winter than summer. 

In comparison to others, I find Sukin Nourishing Chia Seed Oil feels light and my skin absorbs it quickly. It is recommended for all skin types so worth a try even if you have an opposite skin type to my own (which is dry & eczema prone). Since there are no essential oils in this serum I’d describe it as bland and neutral in scent (nothing too offensive on the nostrils). In all honesty this oil wouldn’t completely replace other favourites as I would miss my much loved rosehip. Saying that what I do think is totally awesome to see is authentic natural products on the high street as Sukin is now available at Holland & Barrett and Boots (it’s also widely available online). 

Have you tried any Sukin products? Do you have a favourite?

Sarah x

Disclaimer – PR sample

31 January 2017

Review Green People Scent Free Conditioner
If you have been with my blog since the beginning, you will know my love for Desert Essence Red Raspberry Conditioner. Sadly I have suspicions that my most recent bottle has been causing irritation. I don’t know if the formula has been tweaked, maybe I’m imaging things or perhaps it’s just one of those weird unexplained events often common to having sensitive skin.

17 January 2017

Ere Perez, John Masters Organics, Odylique
(Gifted/Unpaid/Affiliate Link)

John Masters Organics Bare Unscented Body Lotion
After buying the Bare detangler conditioner in TK Maxx, I was curious to try more from the range. This lotion has a light texture, I usually go for something a little heavier but I’m really enjoying changing things up. I find my skin absorbs the product very quickly making application easy and fuss free. It's perfect for lazy days when you don’t have patience for rubbing in heavy balms. 

I picked this because it does not contain essential oils plus I was getting a little tired of ordering my Desert Essence body wash from the US. You all know I’m a massive fan of Odylique (no they don’t sponsor me!) it's genuine appreciation of their products. There isn’t much to be said about body washes but this gives creamy foam and feels good on my delicate skin. I can see myself buying a new bottle once this one is used up.

When I order this I had a massive pimple on my chin so it was a good opportunity to give this serum a try. I must say its unusual for me to get spots but the spot on serum is an all-rounder suitable for those little medical emergencies like cuts and bites. I picked up the 20ml size which is perfect if you simply don’t need this product on a regular basis. Spot on Serum has a medicinal scent which I associate with tea tree and lavender. A little goes a long way and it packs a punch as it helps reduce pain and inflammation, it doesn’t clear a pimple overnight but it aids with the healing process in the long run. Great product and one I'm happy to recommend.

You’d be mistaken if you thought this was a lipstick as it leans more towards a tinted lip balm. The colour pay off is a sheer tint and I find it nourishing. Perfect for lazy days when you want a little pick me up but you don’t want to spend time on makeup. The colour is similar to my own skin tone you might not notice I’m wearing it but that's ok as I still see a difference. I also love the fact that the Lipbar is suitable for Vegans. I'm definitely tempted to try other colours.

Have you tried any of these products? What are your thoughts on them?

Sarah x

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