Beauty Empties | Products I've Used Up

Another month has flown by which means it's time yet again for another Beauty Empties round-up! This is something of a bumper collection as I've been on a bit of a No-Buy challenge recently so I've finished up quite a lot of products. Grab a cuppa and let's get stuck in.

Naobay Hyaluronic & Hemp Recharge Splash Facial Mist* (travel size)

I really enjoyed using this - it was super light and refreshing and also doubled up nicely as a setting spray too. Repurchase? I've gone back to using the Evolve Daily Defence Moisture Mist, but I would be happy to buy this again in the future.

Balance Me BHA Exfoliating Concentrate (travel size)

If you have oily/combination skin that's prone to blemishes and breakouts, then I highly recommend this liquid exfoliant. It's brilliant for unclogging pores and getting rid of dead skin/congestion. Repurchase? Yes.

Nourish London Probiotic Multi-Mineral Repair Mask* (reviewed here)

This is one of the best face masks that I've ever tried for helping to repair the skin barrier. It has so many beneficial ingredients like Magnesium and Zinc in it that you really do see a noticeable difference in your skin after the first use. Genius stuff. Repurchase? Already have :)

This Works Morning Expert Hyaluronic Serum* (reviewed here)

A hugely popular serum for a reason, this one combines Hyaluronic Acid with Vitamin C in a slow-release formula to really plump up and brighten your complexion. Very impressed by this and will be most definitely cutting open the tube to get the last bits out! Repurchase? Yes.

Bloomtown The Rose Garden Salt Soak* (reviewed here)

I recently featured this in my top four relaxing bath salts post so it should come as no surprise to see it here. These are gorgeous, fresh rose-scented Himalayan salts that are very relaxing and spa-like. Repurchase? Yes. 

Puur Ingrid Ultra Body Oil* (featured here)

This is a luxury Canadian natural brand that I was introduced to when I was judging the Cert Clean Beauty Awards. A delightfully silky body oil with a heavenly scent of Lavender, Eucalyptus, and Bergamot. Repurchase? I'm not sure if they have a UK stockist but I'll certainly be checking!

Greenfrog Botanic Shampoo Bar Argan & Rose Oil*

One of my favourite shampoo bars as it produces a nice thick lather and feels very hydrating. Vegan and SLS-free, these bars last forever, I'm sure I've been using it for at least 3 months. Repurchase? Yes.

Dr. Pawpaw Shea Butter Balm* (reviewed here)

Another product that's lasted for a long time has been this tube of Dr. Pawpaw Shea Butter Balm which I'm sure I opened around Christmas time to put it into perspective! Amazing for any dry skin bits like lips and cuticles, it's fragrance-free so ideal for sensitive skin. Repurchase? Definitely.

Organii Almond & Avocado Cream Soap* (reviewed here)

If you have dry hands, you must try these Organii Cream Soaps. Not only are they packed full of natural moisturising ingredients like Shea Butter and Avocado Oil, but they're an absolute steal at only £3.50. I like to use them mainly as hand soaps to cut down on my plastic waste, though they are brilliant to use in the bath and shower as well as they retain their shape and don't go mushy.

This Works In Transit Camera Close-Up (travel size)

One of the best multi-purpose beauty products to throw into your travel bag. This little gem triples up as a hydrating face mask, everyday moisturiser, and makeup primer. I particularly like it using it as a primer as it completely smooths out my face in prep for makeup and keeps everything looking fresh. Repurchase? Yes.

Fruu Watermelon Lip Balm*

Can you tell I'm getting better at using up my never-ending stash of lip balms?! I'm a huge fan of these Fruu ones which come in a range of different flavours - Watermelon is so fruity and delicious. The hydration that these lip balms offer and the curved end make me keep buying them over and over. Repurchase? Definitely. 

Vapour Mesmerize Mascara (reviewed here)

It was certainly bittersweet to finish off this mascara as Vapour Beauty is sadly no more and I'll miss several of their products including this as it was a bloody good mascara. Repurchase? Discontinued :(

Alexandra Kay Time To Relax Essential Oil* (reviewed here)

I've used this for about 2-3 years now and still love it; I'm not sure why, but it's one of the most relaxing essential oil blends that I've come across. Repurchase? Yes.

Alteya Organics Eucalyptus Essential Oil*

When it comes to single essential oils, you can't go wrong with the purity and quality of Alteya Organics. I use Eucalutpus a lot throughout winter to help with itchy scalps/dandruff (add a drop or two to your shampoo), and clearing blocked sinuses when I've had a cold (great for water steam inhalation). Repurchase? Most definitely!

What beauty products have you finished up lately?

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December Empties: Products I've Used Up

 

Happy New Year! Before I dive into January's shiny new content, I want to take a quick step back to December for a cheeky Empties round-up because I know how much we all enjoy a good declutter to celebrate the new year's arrivals.

Alteya Organics Tea Tree Oil*

I've been keeping blemishes at bay with this lovely Tea Tree Oil from Alteya Organics. It's one of the few properly natural options that I've found which is blended with a base oil (in this case it's Apricot Kernel Oil) so it's quick and safe to apply directly to your skin without any messy pre-mixing. Repurchase? Yes. 

Sukin Aloe Vera Gel* (reviewed here)

I've used Sukin's Aloe Vera Gel for a couple of years now and I'm not sure if the formula has changed recently, but I found this latest bottle to feel a lot more drying than usual so I'm unsure if I'll repurchase it. It does contain a small amount of alcohol so I think I'll look for an alcohol-free gel in the future instead. Repurchase? Probably not - I have my eye on the Holika Holika Aloe Vera Gel which has great reviews.

Weleda Citrus Deodorant* (reviewed here)

A long-time favourite of mine that I've been buying for years, I just can't get enough of this wonderfully zesty and citrusy natural scent! This is a good natural deo to try if you're after something light to freshen up with, or are working from home etc. Repurchase? Yes.

S5 Purity Serum* (reviewed here)

One of the best ever serums for oily/combination/blemish-prone skin. I won't mention it too much though as sadly S5 skincare is no more, but a new brand called Adaptology took its place last year which I'll need to look into at some point. Repurchase? Discontinued :(

Neal's Yard Remedies Bee Lovely All Over Balm* (reviewed here)

A staple in my skincare stash for almost a decade, Neal's Yard Remedies Bee Lovely All Over Balm is one of those genius multi-purpose skin saviours that can be applied everywhere and anywhere to instantly soothe and hydrate dry skin. Brilliant for sore noses during cold and flu season too! Repurchase? Yes.

Dr. Botanicals Hemp Infused Natural Nutrition Moisturiser*

Found this in a beauty box and I liked it enough to use up the full jar, but I didn't love it. There are much better natural moisturisers out there with more innovative formulas and ingredients in my opinion. Repurchase? No. 

Ooh! Oils Of Heaven Organic Jojoba Face Oil* (reviewed here)

I'm a big fan of the Ooh! Oils Of Heaven range of face oils as they specialise in single-based oils so it's easy to swap them in and out of your daily routine depending on what your skin needs at the time. This Jojoba Face Oil is great for oily/combination skin types as mimic's your own natural sebum, making it useful for balancing oil levels and preventing clogged pores. Repurchase? Yes. 

What beauty products have you finished up lately?

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Christmas Gift Guide 2020: The LoveLula.com Edit - Green Beauty & Lifestyle Gifts Under £25

The countdown to Christmas is fast approaching, so why not stay safe and cosy at home by shopping online at LoveLula.com? Here are my favourite green beauty and lifestyle picks, with all gifts retailing under £25!

 

The Plastic-Free Stocking Filler: Mádara Ocean Love Polishing Scrub Soap Bar* (90g, £6.90, link)

Presented in beautiful Limited Edition artwork packaging, Mádara's Ocean Love Polishing Scrub Soap Bar is a gorgeous contemporary product to gift, without any additional wrapping needed. Suitable for vegans and made with ocean-friendly natural ingredients that won't cause any harm to the environment, this Soap Bar contains black Volcanic Sand to give the skin a gentle scrub. It's also delicately scented with uplifting Cedar and Lime essential oils to boost the senses.

The Luxury Hand Cream: Neal's Yard Remedies Bee Lovely Hand Cream* (50ml, £10, link)

Our hands have been through a lot this year so everyone deserves to find a luxury hand cream under the tree! One of my all-time favourites is Neal's Yard Remedies Bee Lovely Hand Cream, which I've been been a fan of since it first launched back in 2013. I'm still utterly in love with its juicy Orange and sweet Honey scent, and the formula is wonderfully moisturising without any greasiness. Even better, Neal's Yard Remedies donates 3% of the profits from their Bee Lovely range to the Save The Bees campaign.

The Vegan Lip Balm That Everyone Will Love: Crazy Rumors Zodiac Lip Balm in Gemini* (4g, £4.49, link)

Lip balms make excellent little stocking fillers in my opinion, as everyone's lips always feel dry and chapped in winter due to the cold weather. This year, Crazy Rumors have released an exciting new range of their vegan and natural lip balms which are inspired by the constellations and the elements. Simply shop by finding the zodiac sign that you're after and put in your order! Gemini is mine which is a sweet and airy blend of Vanilla Cream, Fresh Berries and Botanical Lavender. A bargain for less than a fiver.

The Health & Wellbeing Gift: Alteya Organics Essential Oil Pure Gratitude Gift Set* (£14.95, link)

Fans of essential oils will simply love this Pure Gratitude Gift Set from Alteya Organics. Comprising of four essential oils which are ready to use thanks to their Apricot Kernel Oil bases, the scents have been carefully chosen to help lift the spirits and soothe the mind (something that we could all use during the busy festive season!). The set features 5ml bottles of Lavender Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Orange Oil and Lemongrass Oil.

The Luxury Happy Mood Pamper Kit: Kathleen Natural Christmas Special Mini Citrus Cheer Duo* (£23, link)

Spread some Christmas cheer this year with Kathleen Natural's lovely Christmas Special Mini Citrus Cheer Duo. Inside, there are two bestselling minis to enjoy; the Citrus Cheer Bath & Shower Gel (50ml) and a Citrus Cheer Roll-On Oil (10ml). I've used both of these in the past and absolutely love them - the natural fragrance of Citrus Cheer is a stunning blend of zesty Lemon, warming Rosewood notes and floral Geranium. Both products are suitable for vegans and of course, cruelty-free.

The Winter Treat For Hands & Feet: Natura Siberica Oblepikha Spa Therapy Gift Set* (£11.99, link)

Treat dry hands and feet to their very own gift set from Natura Siberica. Inside the Spa Therapy Gift Set, your recipient will discover two of the brand's superstar products, a Hand Cream and a Foot Cream (both 75ml sizes) which feature an ultra-nourishing plant-based blend of Organic Oblepikha Hydrolate and organic botanicals, many of which are wild-harvested in their native Siberia. 

The Multi-Purpose Balm: Trilogy Everything Balm* (45ml, £13.50, link)

For the person who seems to have literally everything, you can't go wrong with Trilogy's Everything Balm. This award-winning, multi-purpose balm is loved by skincare gurus and makeup artists alike, thanks to its intense healing, repairing and skin-conditioning properties. You can apply this anywhere and everywhere as the name suggests; it's great for dry lips, rough elbows, tired feet, flaky cuticles, weak nails, the list goes on. A practical dry skin saviour that everyone can use and without any nasty mineral oil or petrochemicals in sight!

The Beautiful Soy Wax Candle: JOIK Vanille Et Noisette Candle* (145g, £13.50, link)

I love giving and receiving candles as gifts, especially at Christmas when we naturally spend more time indoors and need the extra cosy effects of a warming scented candle in our living spaces. My top pick this year comes once again from JOIK as I adore their hand-poured soy wax candles which have a clean burn and an excellent scent throw. The Vanille Et Noisette Candle has the hallmarks of a traditional creamy Vanilla fragrance with added layers of sweet Caramel, rich Maple and roasted Chestnuts.

Shop all of these gifts and more at LoveLula.com

What will Santa be bringing you this Christmas?

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Summer Beauty: 3 Cruelty-Free Sunscreens To Try This Summer

The weather is finally brightening up and feeling much more like Summer so it's a great time to stock up on that all-important essential for you and your family - sunscreen! Here are three cruelty-free brands you should try this Summer.

Best For Those Who Want A Tinted Sunscreen - Alteya Organics Organic Whole Body Sunscreen SPF 30* (90ml, £13.40, link)

I know a lot of people who dislike wearing sunscreen because of the white cast that can often be left on the skin and if that sounds like you, I'd recommend this one from Alteya Organics. Their Organic Whole Body Sunscreen SPF 30 has a clever sheer tint to it which blends into your natural skin tone as you rub it in so that you're not left looking as pale as a ghost after applying it. This broadspectrum formula is water-resistant for 40 minutes (always reapply after you've been swimming/in the water), and contains 95% organic certified natural ingredients which are kinder to sensitive skin types. It can be used all over the body and I'd also say it's suitable for the face thanks to the tinted formula.

Best For For Those Who Want A More Sustainable Option - Suntribe Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30* (60ml, £16.99, link)

It's not easy looking for a sunscreen which is more sustainable but this Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 from Suntribe ticks two important boxes. Firstly, its broad-spectrum formula is made from natural and organic ingredients which are reef-safe so they won't have a negative impact on aquatic life, and secondly, this sunscreen is sustainably packaged in a bio-based sugarcane tube that biodegrades much faster than regular plastic. Free from potentially harmful chemical UV-filters, parabens, alcohol, preservatives, perfume and synthetic chemicals, it's a good all-round option that can be used on the body and face. It has a subtle tint to it which prevents ghost face too.

Best For Babies & Sensitive Skin - Ayan Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50* (100ml, £23.90, link) & SPF 35* (100ml, £21.90, link)

One of the best sunscreen brands that I've tried for sensitive skin is Ayan and their Mineral Sunscreens are also suitable for use on babies as they're so gentle. They're made from just seven natural ingredients (77% of which are certified organic), are reef-safe and feature 20% non-nano zinc oxide to fully protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Sweat and water-resistant (always reapply after swimming/in water), they have lots of nourishing plant-based ingredients such as Shea Butter, Sunflower Seed Oil, Cacao Seed Butter, Coconut Oil, Beeswax and Vitamin E to stop your skin from drying out in the sun. Available in SPF 35 and SP 50, they absorb easily without any stickiness. I've tested them during a recent eczema flare-up and had no problems!

What are your favourite cruelty-free sunscreens?

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Good Hand Hygiene: Keeping your Hands Clean & Soft during Coronavirus and beyond

Practising good hygiene at home and when you're outside is one of the best ways to protect yourselves and others from the spread of Coronavirus. Here are some of my top picks from the green beauty world which include hand sanitisers, soaps and hand cream to keep your hands clean and soft.

Hand Sanitisers

Depending on which organisation or Government guidelines you're looking at, you want to make sure that your hand sanitiser contains at least 60% alcohol for it to be effective at killing off bacteria and germs. Anything below 50% is considered too diluted which will compromise its disinfecting abilities. Unfortunately, there are a lot of 'natural' hand sanitisers on the market that are alcohol-free and these are absolutely pointless as they won't do anything - you need alcohol as the main ingredient!

For green beauty fans who want to use something that's more natural and kinder to their hands than the likes of Dettol, but still serves the purpose of being a high-quality sanitiser, you can look out for products which incorporate alcohol with ingredients such as aloe vera, vegetable glycerine, essential oils and plant-based flower waters or essences.

I recommend trying The Castillian Soap Company Hand Sanitiser with Peppermint & Chamomile* (50ml, £9.50, link), a travel-friendly size which includes 62% organic grain alcohol, organic chamomile floral water, natural plant glycerin and peppermint essential oil. It smells wonderfully fresh and doesn't leave hands feeling dry or sticky afterwards. 

For families or anyone who requires a larger size bottle, Alteya Organics Hand Cleanser* (100ml, £7.95, link) has an easy to use spray applicator and a formula which boasts 70% alcohol (denatured ethyl alcohol) with organic glycerin and lavender essential oil for further antibacterial protection.

Hand Soaps & Moisturisers

At home and in bathrooms, the NHS state that washing your hands with any kind of soap and water is a highly effective way to stop the spread of Coronavirus and practising good hygiene is something that we should all be doing to protect ourselves and others. It doesn't matter which brand or type of soap that you use, the focus is more on how often you wash your hands (it should be done on a regular basis throughout the day) and how long for. The NHS recommends washing your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds each time and you can check out their techniques video with further info here.

Personally, I'm a big fan of an old-fashioned bar of soap. They're a great way to cut down on your plastic waste and usually last longer than the bottled versions. I currently have Ayumi Naturals Neem & Tea Tree Soap* (100g, £2.49, link) by my bathroom sink which is vegan-friendly and has the naturally antibacterial benefits of neem, tea tree and lemongrass oils to keep your hands super clean. It also doubles up as a purifying facial cleanser for acne and blemish-prone skin types.

If you prefer a liquid hand soap that contains alcohol, Organii Citrus Liquid Soap* (300ml, £4.95, link) comes in a large 300ml bottle with a pump. Made from a blend of 100% plant-based ingredients, it features organic olive oil, alcohol denat, vegetable glycerin and citrus essential oils for a fresh and thoroughly clean feeling every time.

It should come as no surprise that regular and longer hand-washing sessions can result in dry skin quite quickly, so a hand cream is an absolute must-have to help restore the moisture balance. My current favourite is Lavera Basis Sensitiv Hand Cream* (75ml, £4.95, link) as it's packed full of ultra-hydrating ingredients such as organic sweet almond oil, shea butter, jojoba seed oil. Bye-bye dry hands!

What are your hygiene must-haves?

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December Empties: Products I've Used Up

Happy New Year! It made sense to me that the first blog post of 2020 should be an Empties one as I know a lot of people are currently embarking on No Buy and decluttering challenges (myself included), so I hope this helps to provide some additional motivation! Here's everything beauty-wise that I've used up recently and my overall thoughts about whether I'll be repurchasing them again.

Eco By Sonya Coconut & Mint Body Wash*

This massive bottle of body wash lingered in my bathroom for much of 2019 and I loved the unusual coconut and mint scent which was nice and refreshing for an early morning shower. Great SLS-free formula. Repurchase? I have a million other body washes to get through, but it's something that I would happily pick up again in the future.

Bali Balm Sandalwood & Ginger Lip Balm* (featured here)

A gorgeous luxury lip balm with a thick texture and surprisingly delicious flavour - it lasted ages and was perfect to apply before bedtime. Repurchase? I'm currently using up another Bali Balm in a different flavour so keep an eye out for that in a future Empties post.

REN Moroccan Rose Otto Ultra-Moisture Body Oil*

I'm a huge fan of REN's Moroccan Rose Otto range and this body oil was such a pleasure to use. Heavenly scented and with such a rich and nourishing formula, it's hard not to fall in love with this luxury pampering treat! Repurchase? Yes.

Tropic Deep Hydration Soothing Cooling Mask* (reviewed here)

If your skin is in need of some deep hydration, I can't recommend this Tropic face mask enough. I enjoyed using this after a clay mask to put moisture back into my skin, or whenever I felt like it was feeling tight or dry. Lovely cooling effect that just sinks right in. Repurchase? Will do in the future.

Alteya Organics Bulgarian Rosewater*

A simple 100% natural and organic rosewater spritz - I always have a bottle or two on the go as I regularly use it in my daily skincare routine to instantly calm any redness or irritation, as well as being a gentle toner for sensitive skin types. Repurchase? I have others to use first but would buy again.

Bodhi & Birch Nordic White Body Oil* (travel sizes)

Everything from Bodhi & Birch is ultra-luxurious and smells amazing, and this is no exception! I adore this Nordic White fragrance which is a mix of Spruce and Fennel - to my nose, it's very clean, piney, refreshing and spa-like. The Body Oil formula is also simply glorious to use on dry skin. Repurchase? Yes!

Nathalie Bond Himalayan Pink Salts Rose & Patchouli* (travel size)

Although I loved the relaxing scent of these bath salts, they sadly left a sticky residue all around my tub which was very disappointing. Repurchase? No.

a.po.the:ca Rosewater Face Mist* (reviewed here)

Surprise, surprise, another rosewater spritz - told you I liked them! Similar to the Alteya Organics one above, this one is also 100% natural and 96% organic, but it has the addition of Glycerin and Radish Root Ferment which makes it feel more hydrating. Repurchase? Will do once I've used some others up.

Tropic Passion Fruit & Ginger Lily Luxury Bath Foam* (travel size)

Last month, I finished off the Monoi & Orange Flower travel size bath foam from Tropic (post here) and now it's the turn of Passion Fruit & Ginger Lily, an equally beautiful fragrance with a fantastic SLS-free formula that generates lots of bubbles. Repurchase? Definitely.

Mitchell And Peach Flora No.1 Eau De Parfum* (travel size)

I finally emptied a perfume - hooray! OK, it's a travel size but considering how rare it is for me to actually get through a full-size bottle, I'm still counting it as a victory. Flora No.1 is a very sophisticated floral fragrance that really grew on me the more I wore it. Repurchase? I'm on a perfume buying ban at the moment until my stash is decreased, though it's certainly on my future wishlist.

Aveda Damage Remedy Daily Hair Repair (reviewed here)

An old favourite that I've been using for well over five years now, this easy to use treatment has seriously saved my hair many, many times from too much blow-drying and straightening. I've gone through countless tubes and rest assured that I'll be taking the scissors to this one soon to get out every last drop! Repurchase? Of course.

P.S - Recycle your beauty empties with Terracycle! 

Most of these plastic and glass containers can be recycled through my local council service (blue bin in my area), however, things like the pumps have metal springs in them which are not accepted as they require a different method in order to be recycled. Luckily, Garnier have teamed up with Terracycle to recycle beauty and personal care waste which is deemed difficult to recycle. It's free, all brands are accepted and there are drop off locations all over the UK. Read more here.

What have you used up recently?

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Currently Loving: Summer Skincare Favourites for Oily/Combination Skin Types

What do hydrating, soothing, balancing and purifying all have in common? They're the main benefits of my current Summer Skincare Favourites.

Keeping your complexion in check when the mercury rises can be a tricky challenge, so let's make it as simple and fuss-free as possible. In Summer, I use SPF every single day, and I like to add a self-tanner to my routine once or twice a week for a healthy bronzed look. I always stick to the same daily principles no matter the weather though, with cleansing, toning and moisturising at the top of my skincare agenda.

Here are a couple of products that I'm currently loving:-

Dafna's Purify Cleanser* (100ml, £36, link)

Dafna's is such a beautiful, luxury natural skincare brand and I adore their Eye Care and Revival Bio-Active Beauty Mask (check out my review on those two here). I was excited to try out the Purify Cleanser for Summer as I tend to switch from a cream to a lighter gel-based cleanser, and this has been working so well for my oily/combination skin type. This cleanser is 100% natural and features nourishing Olive Oil, Ayurvedic Pomegranate extract which is rich in anti-ageing Vitamin C, and an interesting complex named MelaCare TM Oil that's composed of three different types of plant-based oils to help photo-ageing symptoms. I find it really refreshing to use and it balances my oily skin without leaving it tight or stripped.

Alteya Organics 100% Pure Bulgarian Lavender Water* (100ml, £9.85, link)

For years, I've automatically reached for Rosewater toners and spritzes without giving much thought to the benefits of other infused waters, but when I came across Alteya Organics' 100% Pure Bulgarian Lavender Water, I decided to test it out for a change. Made from fresh, hand-picked organic Lavender flowers which are steam-distilled for purity, this fine mist gently soothes, tones and clarifies the skin thanks to Lavender's antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Use it morning and night as part of your routine, or pop it into the fridge and enjoy a cooling and calming spritz anytime you feel that your skin needs it.

Zuii Organic Flora Gradual Tan Face Water* (150ml, £22.50, link)

We all know that the only safe way to get a tan is to fake it, and if you've been looking for a natural and organic self-tanner that's specifically for the face, this is it. Zuii Organic's Flora Gradual Tan Face Water is an amazing product that offers a really natural-looking finish without any hints of orange. It's surprisingly easy to use too as it looks and feels just like water - simply apply with your hands or a cotton pad after cleansing and the colourless fluid will quickly absorb into the skin. The active natural tan ingredients will then start to work gradually, giving you a gorgeous healthy glow!

True Skincare Certified Organic Balancing Safflower & Basil Facial Oil* (30ml, £13.50, link)

One of the best budget-friendly, natural and organic skincare finds that I've recently discovered comes from True Skincare, a British brand who specialise in making affordable and effective products. Not only is everything organic, cruelty-free and suitable for vegans to use, but their products have been winning awards left, right and centre, so I couldn't wait to try out this Balancing Safflower & Basil Facial Oil. 

Formulated for oily and combination skin types, this facial oil won a Beauty Shortlist Award earlier in the year and it's easy to see why! It has a wonderful, ultra-light texture that almost feels like a dry oil and is infused with Safflower Oil (high in omega-6 rich Linoleic Acid) and Basil (known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties). The two combined perfectly balance fussy, acne-prone skin conditions, helping to fight off breakouts, unclog pores and keep the skin moisturised without overloading it. I've been using 2-3 drops in the evenings to keep pesky spots at bay throughout the hot Summer months.

What are your current favourite skincare products?

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Green Beauty: LoveLula Beauty Box - April 2019 review

I hope everyone had a good Easter! I've been catching up with a couple of my monthly beauty subscription boxes and wanted to share the contents of one of my faves from LoveLula.

If you haven't heard of LoveLula before, they're a natural and organic online retailer who specialises in all aspects of green beauty shopping. They offer a monthly beauty box subscription where all of the products fit in with their ethics, so everything is cruelty-free with no parabens and no SLS.

Curious to find out more? Here's what's inside this month's box!

Dr Botanicals Lemon Superfood All-in-One Rescue Butter (RRP £19)

With the Summer holidays coming up, multi-purpose products are brilliant for popping into your travel bag and this bright yellow tube of moisturising goodness from Dr Botanicals is a must-have! The Lemon Superfood All-in-One Rescue Butter is a super-thick balm that can be applied to lips, elbows, heels, face, body - anywhere that is feeling very dry and in need of some hydrating TLC. A little goes a long way so this tube will last a good while.

Alteya Organic Bulgarian Chamomile Water (RRP £7.95)

Packaged in an amber glass bottle, Alteya Organic's Bulgarian Chamomile Water is a beautiful product for the warmer months ahead and the perfect way to refresh and hydrate the skin. It helps to soothe, tone, revitalise and brighten your complexion with just a quick spritz and works well with Alteya's other skincare products, some of which I've reviewed in the past here.

Gallinée Body Milk (RRP £28)

Worth £28 on its own, LoveLula have included another full-size product in this month's box with Gallinée's Body Milk - a 94% natural body moisturiser that's infused with probiotics to keep skin smooth, soft and supple for longer. I've used this in the past and loved it so I'm very happy to have another bottle in my skincare collection.

Glossworks Nail Polish in Raspberry Parade (RRP £12)

The last main product is by Glossworks and this shade Raspberry Parade is from their brand new Spring collection. It boasts a 9-free formula which delivers a high shine glossy finish, and this juicy pink colour looks amazing on toes!

To round off the box, there are also two samples from Kimberly Sayer to try; the Gentle Face Cleanser and the Restore Anti-Ageing Cream.

LoveLula Beauty Box* is a monthly subscription box priced at £13.95 with free postage in the UK. Visit lovelula.com to find out more.

Have you subscribed to LoveLula's Beauty Box?

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Christmas Gift Guide: The Green Beauty Edit 2018

2018 has been another amazing year for Green Beauty and with more and more consumers wanting to make the switch to cleaner and more natural beauty products, I just had to include a whole host of my favourite brands in this special Gift Guide edit.

Stocking Filler / Secret Santa Ideas from Benecos, Crazy Rumors, Lavera, Madara and The Humble Co

If you want to introduce a friend or family member to the world of Green Beauty, these stocking filler friendly products are ideal - you could even buy a few and make them a festive beauty box. My top picks include Benecos Body Lotion in Pomegranate & Rose* (150ml, £5.95, link), which is a lovely vegan and budget-friendly option with a light and hydrating texture, plus it smells beautiful too. I'm also a big fan of Crazy Rumors Lip Balms and this one in Hot Cocoa* (4.4g, £3.99, link) is not only super moisturising for dry lips, but tastes good enough to eat!

Lavera has released some special editions for Christmas and their Winter Bloom Body Butter* (150ml, £10.90, link) is a gorgeous product with a real luxury feel for instantly velvety soft skin. It smells so festive with Organic Mandarin and Coconut - I think this would make a great Secret Santa gift as well. 

Going plastic-free has been big news this year (and rightly so), and there are plenty of plastic-free stocking fillers out there. Two that I would highly recommend are Madara Cloudberry Oat Milk Hand & Body Soap* (150g, £6.50, link), a heavenly, ultra-nourishing formula that's gentle on sensitive skin, and The Humble Co. Humble Brush* (£3.99, link), the world's bestselling plastic-free toothbrush that's made from sustainable, eco-friendly organic bamboo. Available in a range of different bristle colours and with options for adults and children, this ethical brand also funds The Humble Smile Foundation which supports healthcare projects around the world for children in need.

 The Festive Candle: JOIK La Bohème Soy Wax Scented Candle* (145g, £13.50, link)

I love JOIK's range of soy wax candles with its impressive variety of fragrances, there's something for everyone and they do festive/wintery candles particularly well. This one named La Bohème is a sultry and enchanting blend of Musk, Spices, Sandalwood, Patchouli, Carnation, Bergamot, Jasmine and a little Vanilla thrown in for good measure. Each candle burns for around 30 hours and because it's made from natural soy wax, it will have a cleaner burn than traditional paraffin-based candles.

 The Luxury Bath Oil: The Rose Tree Revitalising Bath & Shower Oil in Juniper & Grapefruit* (40ml, £19, link)

Give the gift of relaxation with The Rose Tree's Revitalising Bath & Shower Oil in Juniper & Grapefruit, which will de-stress busy minds and help to uplift and invigorate the senses. The beautiful heart shaped glass bottle houses a sublime blend of powerful botanicals and flower oils so your recipient can recreate their own spa experience in the comfort of their bathroom. Looking for something more floral? Check out The Rose Tree Calming Bath & Shower Oil in Rose & Ylang Ylang which I featured in this post earlier in the year - it comes in the same gorgeous bottle and smells oh-so-good.

 Fragrance Fans: Balm Balm Single Note Perfumes Gift Set* (£16, link)

Fragrance lovers will adore the Balm Balm Single Note Perfumes Gift Set which features five mini bottles of the brand's bestselling single note fragrances. There's Lavender, Rose Geranium, Ylang Ylang, Mandarin and Bergamot, for a complete scent wardrobe that can be worn individually or layered to create your own bespoke fragrance.

 For Gardeners & Hardworking Hands: Neal's Yard Remedies Bee Lovely Hand & Body Gift Set* (£15, link)

Neal's Yard Remedies have really outdone themselves with their exquisite range of gifts this year, all of which feature lovely festive packaging. My top pick from them is this Bee Lovely Hand & Body Gift Set that comprises of a Bee Lovely All Over Balm (15g) and a Bee Lovely Hand Cream (30ml). Both of these products are perfect for anyone who deserves some TLC, and especially for gardeners and people who use their hands at work a lot. And being from Neal's Yard Remedies Bee Lovely range, they have a gorgeous uplifting and citrusy scent to help chase away those winter blues.

 The Luxury Mood & Skin Booster: Dafna's Active Mist* (100ml, £38, link)

Aromatherapy products are always popular around the busy and often stressful Christmas period, and this unique Active Mist from the luxury brand Dafna's, marries together an expert blend of essential oils with skin-boosting plant extracts and oils. This 100% natural and vegan-friendly product will help to create calm, reduce anxiety and irritability, and leave the skin hydrated, fresh, nourished and glowing at the same time.

 The Luxury Anti-Ageing Skincare Treat: Alteya Organics Rose Regenerating Concentrate* (30ml, £55, link)

I'm a big fan of Alteya Organics, having recently reviewed some of their products here, and I'm thrilled to feature this luxury skincare treat from them - the Rose Regenerating Concentrate. This high performance, anti-ageing serum is packed full of natural bioactive organic ingredients which help to transform the texture of the skin, making it smoother and more even; improve radiance, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and give the skin its youthful bounce back. Quickly absorbed, this concentrate gets to work fast and you'll be able to see a noticeable difference after just the first use, with more results evident in just 30 days. One for mums, grans and aunties!

Best Festive Skincare Set Under £16: Trilogy Skin Treats Mini Celebration Cracker Set* (£15.30, link)

You can't beat a Christmas cracker that's filled with natural skincare minis, can you? This affordable festive gift set from Trilogy features three of the brand's most popular products from their bestselling Rosehip range; Cream Cleanser (30ml), Hydrating Mist Toner (20ml) and Vital Moisturising Cream (20ml). A lovely introduction to the brand and ideal for anyone who travels a lot and wants a three-step, travel-sized skincare routine to pop into their carry-on bag.

For The Person Who Has Everything: Forrest & Love Aroma Sachet Collection* (£25, link)

Looking for something truly unique and different for that person on your shopping list that has everything? Surprise them with the Forrest & Love Sachet Collection - a gift set of five mini aromatherapy cushions that they can use around the home and in the car to restore balance to the mind, body and soul. Each handmade, cruelty-free and biodegradable cushion is made from 100% cotton and contains a blend of different herbs, spices and essential oils. There's one for Love, Meditation, Positivity, Tranquillity and Energy, and these can be placed in handbags, clothes drawers, in the car etc, to replace artificially fragranced products that are bad for your health. They smell wonderful!

Which green beauty gifts are on your wishlist this year?

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