Summer Beauty | Bondi Sands Face Tinted SPF 50+ & Hydra UV Protect SPF 50+ review

It might not feel very warm outside right now, but the UV is already hitting those medium levels here in the UK.  It's time to slap on that sunscreen if you haven't been doing so already! Why not try these two from Bondi Sands?

You may be more familiar with Bondi Sands' excellent self-tanning range (I'm a big fan of their self-tanning foams in particular), however, everyone's favourite Aussie brand also does sunscreen products which makes absolute sense when you think about it! 

Did you also know that Australia has much stricter regulations when it comes to producing sunscreen formulas? Again, this makes a lot of sense given their sunny proximity on the globe, and is perhaps one of the reasons why so many skincare gurus highly recommend using Australian-made sunscreen products.

Both of the Bondi Sands sunscreens below are certified cruelty-free, reef-friendly, fragrance-free, and suitable for sensitive skin types. They are also broad-spectrum sunscreens meaning that they fully protect against both harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Bondi Sands Face SPF 50+ Tinted* (75ml, £8.99)

Facial sunscreens are something that I wear all year round, regardless of how sunny it is outside, and this is mainly because sunscreens are the best form of anti-aging protection. You can use a million different types of expensive serums and fancy face maks, but if you're not wearing sunscreen, you're not properly protecting your skin!

Bondi Sands has a great range of facial sunscreens to choose from and my go-to is their SPF 50+ Tinted version. I personally find most facial sunscreens to be very 'white' for my skin tone, so a tinted version erases this issue and layers so much nicer underneath my foundation/base product. Plus on days when I don't want to wear a full face of makeup, it adds a little colour to my complexion. Not only is this a budget-friendly steal at less than £10, but it blends in easily and feels hydrating too without any stickiness.

Bondi Sands Hydra UV Protect SPF 50+ (150ml, £10.99)

For the body, there's the Hydra UV Protect SPF 50+ which I've recommended countless times to friends and family. Usually, I prefer a classic tropical/coconut-scented sunscreen to use on my body, but this one is a fantastic fragrance-free alternative and comes in really handy if I'm experiencing an eczema flare-up and can't use any scented products. 

It features a 4-hour water-resistant formula with a plant-based hydration complex with ethically sourced algae which is a godsend for dry skin. Once applied to the skin, it sinks in quickly and is invisible, whilst also being non-greasy. A real winner! 

Bondi Sands is available from numerous stockists including Boots where it's currently on a buy one, get one half price offer.

What are your favourite sunscreens?

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Currently Loving: Good Bubble Bubble Baths for Families & Sensitive Skin

 

Who doesn't love a bubble bath? Whether you're a baby or a grandmother, everyone in the family can enjoy Good Bubble's range of affordable, skin-friendly Bubble Baths!

Good Bubble is a Dragon's Den success story when founder Amy Wordsworth appeared on the popular TV show to secure £60,000 of funding to make her business become a reality. Fast forward to the present day and Good Bubble is bigger and better than ever, yet her bubble baths have remained the same thanks to their skin-friendly formulations which are developed by industry experts to be kind and gentle on newborn and sensitive skin.

Naturally derived, vegan-friendly and cruelty-free, Good Bubble's products feature fruit extracts with mild allergen-free fragrances for a fresh and fun bathtime experience. Their 'no tears, no nasties' resonates with many who only want the best for the family, at an affordable price. 

It's safe to say that I've been a fan of Good Bubble for a very long time, so it was high time that I shared some of my favourites from their Bubble Bath range with you all.

Good Bubble Bubbly Gruffalo Bath with Prickly Pear*

There's nothing prickly about this gorgeous fruity scent that has a cool and crisp fragrance. Made with Prickly Pear extract to help maintain the natural moisture levels of young and sensitive skin, this bubble bath delivers a lot of sulfate-free bubbles with just a squeeze under a running tap. 

Good Bubble The Snail & The Whale Lotus Flower & Sea Minerals Bubble Bath*

If you love classic fresh and clean scents, you can't go wrong with this one featuring the children's book illustration from The Snail & The Whale. Bursting with breezy Sea Minerals and the delightfully heady and floral aroma of Lotus Flower, it's one that adults will love just as much as the little ones.

Good Bubble Super Bubbly Bubble Bath with Dragon Fruit*

A tried and tested bestseller for a reason, this Dragon Fruit version is hugely popular with its subtle fresh and floral fragrance. Ideal for those who don't like overpowering scents such as babies and young kids, it's a real crowdpleaser in the tub.

Good Bubble Super Bubbly Bubble Bath with Cloudberry*

My last choice is quite similar to the Dragon Fruit in that it's more of a milder, subtle scent, but still wonderfully fresh and of course very bubbly! Cloudberry has more of a fruity berries aroma and it's great for sensitive skin.

Shop the full range at Lovelula.com

Have you tried anything from Good Bubble?

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Summer Skincare: Nourish Skin Protecting Daily Moisturiser SPF 25 review

 

With a heatwave on its way next week, now's the perfect time to get your hands on the brand new Skin Protecting Daily Moisturiser SPF 25 from London-based natural brand, Nourish.

What is it and what does it do?

This newbie is a great addition to Nourish's skincare range and is described as an all-year-round daily moisturiser with SPF 25 to help protect the skin against damaging UVA and UVB rays. I think it's important to mention this dual protection as some products only protect against either/or UVA/UVB and this one does both!

Packaging

Glass jar with an aluminum lid.

Natural & ethical credentials

Contains 55% organic ingredients which are certified by COSMOS. Cruelty-free and vegan certified as well.

What's in it?

Lots of antioxidants and anti-aging active natural ingredients such as Kale, Turmeric, Camellia, Rose Hip Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, Argan Oil, and Pumpkin seed oil. There's also some wonderful soothing ingredients like Aloe Vera, Borage Oil and Bisabolol. A really interesting and well-formulated blend. And not forgetting the reef-safe broad spectrum protection of SPF 25.

Full INCI: Aqua, Zinc Oxide, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Rosa Damascena (Rose) Flower Water*, Jojoba Esters, Glycerin**, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Glyceryl Behenate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate, Isostearic Acid, Lecithin, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil*, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Extract, Borago Officinalis (Borage) seed oil*, Rosa canina (Rosehip) fruit oil*, Crambe Abyssinica (Abyssinian) Seed Oil*, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil, Macadamia Integrifolia/Tetraphylla Seed oil*, Camellia Oleifera (Camellia) Seed Oil*, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe) Leaf Juice*, Sodium Hyaluronate, Alaria Esculenta Extract, Brassica oleracea acephala (kale) leaf extract*, Tocopherol, Bisabolol, Selaginella Lepidophylla Extract, Hexapeptide-11, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) seed oil**, Xanthan Gum, Glyceryl Caprylate, Glyceryl Undecylenate, Lactobacillus Ferment, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate. *From organic agriculture. **Made using both organic and non organic ingedients. 55% organic origin and 100% natural origin.

Overall thoughts

Despite being a new product, it does have a very similar look and feel to other products of this nature that I've tried from comparable brands. The texture is nice and lightweight, but it's worth remembering that it does contain Zinc Oxide as part of the sun protection so it typically feels a little more difficult to absorb into the skin. On my oily/combination skin, it feels quite fresh with a matte finish which I really like, though drier skin types may not. I'd recommend it for sensitive skin as I've experienced no problems with breakouts.

As with all-natural sunscreens with Zinc Oxide, I was a bit worried about the dreaded 'white cast/ghost face' look, especially as I have an olive coloured complexion that goes quite dark and tans very easily. Thankfully, I didn't experience too much of an issue with this personally, but it may be less appealing to darker skin tones than mine. 

Protection wise though, I have been enjoying having this in my summer skincare routine! I've had no problems with sunburn since the sun has come out in the UK so it certainly looks to be doing its intended job. The fully recyclable/reusable jar is also a winner for me as I'm trying to reduce my plastic consumption and find that many, if not most, sunscreens are packaged in those difficult to recycle plastic tubes. Definitely worth a try!

Nourish Skin Protecting Daily Moisturiser SPF 25* (50ml, £28) available from nourishskinrange.com

What's new in your summer skincare routine?

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The Best Cruelty Free Cleanser For Sensitive Skin: REN Evercalm Gentle Cleansing Milk review #WinterSkincare

 

Whether you find that your skin feels more sensitive during the Winter months, or if you simply live with sensitive skin all-year-round, REN's Evercalm Gentle Cleansing Milk is hands down the best cleanser I have tried (and I've tried a LOT!).

Sensitive skin is not fun, especially if you're a blogger or someone who absolutely loves skincare. Whenever my skin is suffering from an eczema or seborrheic dermatitis flare-up, I get the most insanely itchy red patches all over my face, neck, chest, arms - it can be everywhere. Along with the constant desire to want to scratch your skin off, there's a tight dryness that also occurs with it and this is certainly exacerbated in colder weather thanks to indoor central heating and cold dry air conditions outside.

Thankfully, there is always one cleanser that I turn to when my skin is throwing a tantrum and being difficult to treat; the amazing REN Evercalm Gentle Cleansing Milk.

Why REN's Evercalm Gentle Cleansing Milk Is The Best Cleanser For Sensitive Skin

I have used this cleanser on and off for around five years now and I always have one in my skincare stash. My sensitive skin is mainly triggered by seasonal changes, allergies, eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis and often my skin will be in a 'difficult' phase for anything from a week to three months at a time; it varies so much.

I love REN's Evercalm Gentle Cleansing Milk because it's ultra-gentle, yet still effective enough to thoroughly cleanse my skin and remove all traces of daily dirt and impurities. There are three key plant-based actives at play here; Seabuckthorn Berry Oil which is rich in Omega 7 and helps to soften the skin without overloading it with too much moisture. Secondly, there's Blackcurrant Seed Oil with high levels of natural Omega 3 that soothes away any redness and irritation, and thirdly, Fennel Seed Extract which adds another extra layer of protection for the skin's barrier against environmental aggressors such as pollution (a common trigger for sensitive skin). 

The creamy formula of the cleansing milk is just the right texture to easily rub into dry skin without dragging or pulling, and it rinses just as easily off with a wet flannel. My skin is left clean, redness and irritation is gone or vastly reduced, and I can get on with my day. Please never stop making it REN!

REN Evercalm Gentle Cleansing Milk* (150ml, £22, link)

Do you have any sensitive skincare favourites?

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Give Your Hands Some TLC - Balmonds Intensive Hand Cream & Skin Salvation Balm review #BetterWithBalmonds + 20% Reader Discount Code

Are your hands prone to dryness, eczema, or sensitivity? If the answer is yes to all or any of those, you must try the award-winning Balmonds Intensive Hand Cream.

I've suffered from eczema since I was a child, and whilst my skin condition is tolerable most of the time, there are specific times of the year when I tend to experience nasty flare-ups. The change of seasons is definitely a trigger for me as my skin severely dislikes the often rapid fall in temperature here in the UK when Winter is on its way, so I've been taking extra special care of my skin right now to manage it.

Luckily, there are a lot of natural and cruelty-free skincare helpers out there who can alleviate the worst symptoms of eczema, and one such English brand which truly excels in this area is Balmonds. They have made it their mission to help sensitive skin and common problems such as eczema and they have a wide range of natural and safe products available.

If you're new to the brand, I would start with these two below; the Intensive Hand Cream and the Skin Salvation Balm.

Balmonds Intensive Hand Cream* (50ml, £10.99, link)

Suitable for all skin types, this vegan-friendly Intensive Hand Cream is the perfect remedy for dry and irritated hands this Winter. The 99% natural formula is fragrance-free and manages to be light and non-greasy, yet feels incredibly nourishing at the same time. Perfect for the most sensitive of skin types, it uses natural ingredients such as Sea Buckthorn, Organic Hemp Oil, and Shea Butter to instantly soothe and moisturise. It's also so gentle and free from a long list of nasties that it's safe to use on babies from 6 weeks of age. 

Balmonds Skin Salvation Balm* (30ml, £7.99, link)

Skin Salvation is a pot of magic that everyone who has eczema should have in their skincare stash for those impromptu flareups. This 100% natural moisturising balm is a paraffin-free alternative to most eczema products you'll find in the chemist, and it's also free from synthetic additives, fragrances, and parabens. Highly emollient thanks to a blend of just eight carefully chosen natural ingredients like Beeswax, Safflower Seed Oil, and Hemp Seed Oil, Skin Salvation delivers results fast, helping to bring down inflammation and irritation quickly. Best of all, it can be used anywhere on the face and body, and a tiny amount goes a long way.

Shop the full range of Balmonds products at balmonds.co.uk and use the discount code BEAUTYWOLFGIRL for 20% off your next order

Do you have eczema?

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Introducing: Naturecan Beauty - CBD Skincare

You're probably already familiar with the benefits of taking CBD Oil as a dietary supplement, but did you know that it's also a useful and effective natural ingredient to look out for in your skincare? 

Despite discussing the many health benefits of CBD Oil on here over the past few years, it's only been fairly recently that I've properly started to explore some of the brands that are utilising this ingredient in their skincare products. One such brand is Naturecan, which has a whole range dedicated to just CBD-infused skincare on its website.

Why does CBD do in skincare?

Naturecan use carefully selected broad-spectrum CBD Oil that is grown and extracted in Oregon, USA to ensure their high-quality standards can be met. Their unique process uses whole-plant extraction to maximize the CBD concentration, whilst also filtering out any substances that aren't required. The final formulas are then tested for certified quality via a third-party lab. Needless to say, everything is vegan, GMO, and parabens-free, as well as containing no THC.

CBD Oil is an antioxidant-rich natural ingredient so it can help to fend off free radicals which cause premature skin ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles when it's added to skincare products. It also has anti-inflammatory properties so is ideal for sensitive skin and skin types that are prone to redness.

Always intrigued to try something new and to see what all the hype is about, I dived straight into a box of Naturecan Beauty products as soon as it arrived last month - here are my thoughts!

 

Naturecan Restore Hand Cream* (30ml, £18, link)

With 100mg of CBD and plenty of nourishing and soothing plant-based natural ingredients such as Shea Butter, Avocado Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, Squalane Oil, Hemp Seed Oil, Cocoa Butter, and Vitamin E, the Restore Hand Cream does what it says on the tube and is a must-try for anyone who has dry or cracked hands. The rich texture absorbs easily without any greasy feeling.

Naturecan Hydrate Moisturiser* (30ml, £25, link)

The perfect daily facial moisturiser for sensitive skin types, the Hydrate Moisturiser is packed full of antioxidants to smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, whilst Hyaluronic Acid and 100mg of CBD is included to boost the skin further. Aloe Vera and Squalane Oil also offer additional skin-soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits. Glides on and makes a great base for makeup so I like to apply it in the mornings.

Naturecan Purify Clay Mask* (50ml, £30, link)

A high-quality purifying clay mask is an essential in my weekly skincare routine and this one from Naturecan ticks all the right boxes. Formulated with CosGreen Green Clay and Vanatrual Bentonite Clay to draw out impurities, this is a brilliant facial treatment for blemish-prone skin types. Unlike other clay masks which can leave the skin feeling dry and stripped, Naturecan has included Aloe Vera juice, CBD, and Hemp Seed Oil to help put the moisture back in for a smoother and more comfortable clear complexion result.

Naturecan Nourish Multi-Use Balm* (30ml, £20, link)

You guys know how much I love a multi-purpose beauty balm and I've been really impressed by this one! With a blend of 100mg CBD, Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, Avocado Oil, Chia Seed Oil, Hemp Seed Oil and Vitamin E, the Nourish Multi-Use Balm is a seriously intensive skin-loving product that repairs, protects and hydrates any dry skin areas that need some TLC. Apply it everywhere and anywhere!

Naturecan Care & Protect Lip Balm* (4.5g, £8, link)

Although you can use the Nourish Multi-Use Balm on dry chapped lips, if you'd prefer just a standalone lip balm as a cheaper option, Naturecan has got you covered with their Care & Protect Lip Balm. It has added Vitamin E and natural UV protection so you really can't go wrong.

Naturecan very kindly included a sample of their Broad Spectrum CBD Oil 3% which has a refreshing Spearmint flavour so it's more palatable when taken under the tongue. The tincture contains 240 drops and the recommended daily dosage is 10 drops, to start with, so if you're new to the world of CBD Oil, this is a good one to try out.

Shop the full range at uk.naturecan.com

Have you tried any CBD skincare?

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Winter Skincare: Natura Siberica SOS Soothing Night Face Mask + Anti-Fatigue Eye Patch-Effect Mask review

Baby, it's cold outside! Whether it's currently snowing where you are, or an icy forecast is on its way to you soon, it's time to reach for those Winter Skincare staples to protect your skin against the freezing temperatures. Here are two mask-style treatments from Natura Siberica to add to your skincare routine this month.

When it comes to cold weather, it's always best to look towards those countries which handle it far better than we do here in the UK! So it's no surprise to learn that my inbox has been inundated with skincare brands that are based in the chilly Nordic countries as well as further east across the icy expanses of Siberia and beyond.

Focusing on the latter, I particularly love an affordable brand called Natura Siberica who ethically work with local tribes across Siberia to wild-harvest the most potent natural and organic ingredients for their products. These adaptogenic herbs and plants contain extraordinary antioxidant properties which help them to survive the freezing temperatures and harsh conditions of Siberia, and in turn, these offer many benefits to the skin to protect it from the same elements.

I've been trialling the following two mask treatments from Natura Siberica since December, and with the recent snowfall across England, it's been the perfect time to put them to the test!

Natura Siberica SOS Soothing Night Face Mask* (50ml, £10.49, link)

An award-winning face mask which was recently shortlisted in the ASOS 2020 Beauty Awards, Natura Siberica's SOS Soothing Night Face Mask is an overnight leave-on treatment mask that you can use once or twice a week whenever your skin is feeling dry, tight, stressed or sensitive. Simply apply to cleansed skin like a normal moisturiser and let it do its magic as you sleep! Key ingredients include everyone's favourite skin hydrator Hyaluronic Acid, as well as Vitamin E, Organic Siberian Pine Oil, Organic Rhodiola and Rose Hydrolate to quickly bring back life to tired, lacklustre complexions. Come the morning, my skin feels as soft as a baby's bum and I've noticed that I need to use far less face oil and moisturiser on the other days of the week following just one treatment with this.

Natura Siberica Anti-Fatigue Eye Patch-Effect Mask* (50ml, £11.49, link)

Give your eyes some TLC this winter with this ingenious Anti-Fatigue Eye Patch-Effect Mask. As the name suggests, this product works in a similar manner to those popular single-use undereye patches that you see all the time on Instagram, but without the plastic waste - win-win! Perfect for sensitive skin, it features many of the same hardworking plant-based actives as the SOS Soothing Night Face Mask, but in a lighter, gel-like texture instead. To use it, just apply a small amount in a thin layer under the eyes and leave on for 10-15 minutes, before gently wiping away with a warm flannel/cotton muslin cloth. It's great for reducing puffiness and relieving tired eyes so they feel soothed and more comfortable. I love it!

Have you tried anything from Natura Siberica?

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Sensitive Skincare: Odylique Lemon Butter Hand Smoothie and Honey & Oat Cleansing Bar review

If your hands are feeling worse for wear after all that hand sanitiser and extra hand washing, you need the Odylique Lemon Butter Hand Smoothie in your life ASAP.

English green beauty brand Odylique has been a favourite of mine for a long time - in fact, they were one of the very first British companies that I discovered when I was looking for natural skincare many years ago! Their Gentle Herb Shampoo is one of the best products that I've ever tried for a sensitive scalp and one that I regularly recommend to family and friends.

Based in Suffolk, Odylique's products are made from natural ingredients, most of which are also certified organic by the Soil Association, and everything is tested by human volunteers who have sensitive skin. This is a great brand for anyone who has dry, sensitive, eczema and psoriasis prone skin as there are no 'nasties' anywhere to be found here - everything is free common irritants and allergens. 

This month, I wanted to shine a spotlight on one of Odylique's hidden bestsellers, their Lemon Butter Hand Smoothie* (60ml, £12, link), a product that really should be raved about more often. This intensely rich and ultra-hydrating hand cream is made from 100% natural ingredients (93% of which are certified organic), and it has a beautiful buttery consistency thanks to lots of plant-based oils and butters such as Coconut Oil, Cocoa Bean Butter and cold-pressed Avocado and Sunflower Oils. 

Surprisingly though, this natural hand cream absorbs into the skin pretty quickly without any lasting greasiness and the moisturising effects are immediate. In addition to the oils and butters, there's Aloe Vera, Calendula and Sea Buckthorn which have been chosen for their healing, soothing and regenerative natural properties, whilst Vanilla, Geranium, Lemon and Lemongrass deliver a fresh and uplifting scent.

If you're struggling with dry hands this winter, Odylique's Lemon Butter Hand Smoothie is the intensive hand cream that you've been searching for and even better, they have 10% off this superstar on their website until the end of November so now's the perfect time to try it for yourselves!

On a side note, I wanted to quickly mention Odylique's Honey & Oat Cleansing Bar* (100g, £6.50, link) pictured in the background in my sustainable PoaPoa Coconut Soap Holder above. This is a very gentle moisturising and exfoliating soap and solid cleanser which you can use for face and body, and it works a treat for sensitive skin that seems to react to everything. Made from just saponified Extra Virgin Olive Oil, saponified Coconut Oil, Oats and Honey, it produces a light lather that leaves skin feeling soft and cared for.

Shop online at odylique.co.uk

Have you tried any products from Odylique?

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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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Introducing: Aromatica - Clean & Vegan Beauty Products from Korea

It's always exciting to receive packages from abroad, especially when it comes to discovering ethical beauty brands who are leading the way in sustainability and clean beauty values in their home countries and beyond. This week, I'd like to introduce you to Aromatica from Korea.

Aromatica prides itself on offering a wide range of cruelty-free and vegan-friendly products that covers, well, everything! From haircare and skincare to body care and items for the home, Aromatica has something for everyone. Born in 2004, it is involved in researching cosmetic ingredient safety campaigns for Korea and works alongside the EWG (Environmental Working Group) to help educate consumers who are concerned about the impact of certain ingredients on their health and the environment. 

Needless to say, all of Aromatica's products are certified by ECOCERT & COSMOS, Vegan, EWG VERIFIED™ and follow the company's own strict standards when new formulas are tested and developed. I was kindly sent a selection of Aromatica's bestsellers to try out to give you an example of what they have to offer.

 Aromatica Rosemary Scalp Scaling Shampoo* (400ml, $26, link)

The colder months can often spell trouble for those who have sensitive and dry scalps, and they can even trigger symptoms in people who generally don't have any problems throughout the year. If your scalp is feeling itchy, irritated or you're suffering from dandruff, give this Rosemary Scalp Scaling Shampoo a go.

Free from silicones and sulphates, as well as a vast range of other potentially irritating known ingredients, this shampoo produces a light lather when plenty of water is added to it and it has a pleasantly fresh and herbal scent. The 97% natural ingredient formula does an excellent job of gently cleansing the hair and scalp, but like many shampoos of this nature, it did leave my hair feeling a little drier than usual afterwards, so a good quality conditioner is a must to use alongside it. On the plus side, it's great for clearing up dandruff!

 Aromatica Organic Jojoba Golden Barrier Oil* (30ml, $36, link)

If you're a fan of aromatherapy, you'll be all too familiar with the concept of barrier oils and these multi-purpose oils are a great way to customise a skincare routine. This one features quite simply a high quality, 100% natural and organic cold-pressed Jojoba Seed Oil, without nothing else added to it for the ultimate purity. The luxurious glass bottle comes with an inbuilt dropper dispenser and you can use this in so many different ways.

Create your own facial, bath or body oil by mixing it with your favourite essential oils, or simply just apply it on its own to reap the natural moisturising properties of this liquid gold.

Aromatica Rose Absolute First Serum* (130ml, $44, link)

Perhaps one of Aromatica's most popular products is the Rose Absolute First Serum and this may be partly due to the Korean beauty trend of including an essence in their famous multiple-step skincare routines. This highly concentrated treatment triples up as a toner, essence and serum, all-in-one and it boasts a formula which is 97.3% natural and 80.4% organic.

Perfect for dry and mature skin types, the serum has a thick but easily absorbed consistency with the unmistakable scent of fresh roses. It helps to balance and brighten the skin, boosting hydration levels and smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles, so if you're looking for an all-round anti-ageing skincare product to add to your Christmas gift list, this is definitely one to try!

Aromatica Organic Aloe Vera Gel* (300ml, $14, link)

I also want to give a special mention to this Organic Aloe Vera Gel because I've been using it on a regular basis to soothe my dry skin for the past month or so. Made from 99.5% natural ingredients, 96.5% of which are certified organic, this is a wonderful multi-purpose gel which will appeal to those who don't like using heavy or sticky body creams or butters. Instead, this lightweight gel sinks quickly into the skin and it helps to calm down and reduce any irritation. A pleasure to use on the face and body, it's also ideal as an after-sun treatment to combat sunburn.

Shop the full range at thearomatica.co with free shipping over $100

What are your favourite natural Korean beauty brands?

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Green Beauty: LoveLula Beauty Box - February 2019 review

February is drawing to a close, so it's time to recap on the LoveLula Beauty Box which arrived earlier in the month. I've particularly enjoyed trying out these products and as always, the variety included is fantastic value for money with the overall contents being worth £60!

Here are the beauty treats inside this month's LoveLula Beauty Box.

Seascape Island Apothecary Soothe Sleep Oil (full size, RRP £8)

You guys know how much I love anything that helps to promote a better night's sleep as an I'm a terrible sleeper and this little rollerball is a handy product to have on your bedside table. Described as a 'true lullaby in a bottle', Seascape's Soothe Sleep Oil features a blend of calming Lavender, Bitter Orange Flower and Mandarin Orange Peel Essential Oils to relax and balance the mind. Just swipe it across your pulse points before bedtime and breathe in the gorgeous fragrance for the best results. I do find it rather relaxing so I think it does help!

Balm Balm Fragrance-Free Face Balm (full size, RRP £9.50)

If you have dry and sensitive skin like I do, you'll find this next product to be a particularly useful addition to your skincare/self-care routine. 100% organic and natural, this is the fragrance-free version of Balm Balm's bestselling Face Balm which is a multi-purpose treatment that can be used everywhere and anywhere - not just for the face! I like using a little bit of this on my cuticles if they're cracked to instantly soothe and hydrate, and it's also great for lips, feet, elbows and hands.

Crazy Rumors Hot Cocoa Lip Balm (full size, RRP £3.99)

I'm a lip balm addict and Crazy Rumors are one of my favourite lip balm brands - all of their products are cruelty-free and 100% natural, plus they have a massive range of different flavours so there's lots to try out from them. I've used the Hot Cocoa Lip Balm before and loved it, so I'm very happy to have it back in my life! It tastes and smells delicious, and keeps my lips moisturised for longer.

PHB Ethical Beauty Gentle Moisturiser (full size, RRP £16.95)

Next up, I found a full-size bottle of PHB Ethical Beauty Gentle Moisturiser which is perfect for very sensitive skin types including eczema and psoriasis (though I always recommend that you check the ingredients and patch test first if you suffer from either of these skin conditions). I've been enjoying the texture of this 100% natural, fragrance-free moisturiser, which sinks into the skin quickly and provides a nice smooth base for makeup so it's a good one to try as your morning moisturiser. Key ingredients include Organic Aloe Vera Extract and Organic Shea Butter to thoroughly hydrate your complexion, so if you struggle to find moisturisers that work for your sensitive skin, you should definitely try it.

Walden Natural Perfume Oil in Gentle Rain (10ml, RRP £17)

The last product is a beautiful Natural Perfume Oil from Walden, a brand who are exclusive to LoveLula. I've tried out many of their fragrances in the past (check out my previous reviews here), and was excited to see this new addition called Gentle Rain which is their latest scent. Described as a blend of Oak Moss, Labdanum and Patchouli, it's a fresh, woody and luxurious fragrance that's completely different to anything else that I currently own and it will certainly appeal to those who are seeking out more unusual natural scents.

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.

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Tried & Tested: Grahams Natural Manuka Honey Soap for Dry Skin and Psoriasis Cream review

One of the best things about the internet is being able to find a wide range of products to help treat Eczema and Psoriasis, both of which I've had since I was a child. If you've been following my blog for a while now, you'll have no doubt seen me mention my struggles with eczema flare-ups, especially at this time of the year and when the seasons change.

Both Eczema and Psoriasis can be incredibly debilitating depending on the severity of the individual's symptoms, and I had one of the worst Pompholyx flare-ups (also known as Dyshidrotic Eczema) over Christmas which I'm still trying to get under control now. For these reasons, I'm always open to trying out products which are specially formulated to help these conditions as I have found that it can sometimes take a lot of trial and error before you find something that really works for you.

Lately, I've been trying out these two products from the Australian brand Grahams, and like so many companies that specialise in this area, Grahams was set up by a husband and wife team to help their son who was suffering from eczema and needed a more natural alternative to what was available on the market. After 17 years of perfecting their formulas, they now have a range of products which are dedicated to those who need something more natural based and steroid-free, to soothe their Eczema, Psoriasis and Dry Skin problems.

Grahams Natural Manuka Honey Soap* (100g, £6.99, link)

If you have any kind of dry skin condition, you may find switching your regular hand wash and/or your shower gel to a more gentle soap can really help to alleviate some of the symptoms. I personally find that my eczema is often triggered by SLS that's the commonly used foaming ingredient in many mainstream products, so I try to avoid it as much as possible. 

Grahams Natural Manuka Honey Soap is free from SLS and sulphates, and instead is made from just seven natural ingredients; Palm Oil, Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, Purified Water, Glycerin, Manuka Honey and Neem Leaf Powder. It produces a light lather and feels very moisturising, but doesn't have any noticeable scent to it so I like using it mainly as a hand soap, although it does work well in the shower if you want something that feels very neutral and 'clean'. The only negative is that I would prefer to use a soap that's made without palm oil, so I'm not sure that I would repurchase it.

Grahams Psoriasis Cream* (75g, £19.99, link)

I've had a stubborn patch of Psoriasis on both of my hands since the start of the year so this Psoriasis Cream arrived at the perfect time for me to test it out! Described as a 'Class 1 Formulated Medical Device' in Australia, this product is an effective, non-sterile topical emollient with clinical data to back up its formula. Key ingredients include Purified Water, Manuka Honey, Calendula, Urea, Avocado Oil, Gotu Kola Extract, Jojoba Oil and Shea Butter to bring instant relief to the symptoms of Psoriasis.

It's a relatively thick cream product as you'd expect from a product of this nature, but it doesn't feel overly sticky or greasy and depending on how much you apply, you may be surprised by how quickly this absorbs compared to similar emollients that I've tried in the past. The fragrance-free formula will also be appreciated by those who have sensitive skin, and the cream can be used anywhere on the body and face. It's not been a miracle worker for my psoriasis, but it has definitely helped to improve the worst of it by keeping the skin nicely moisturised, so if you're looking to try something different, it's certainly worth a go.

Grahams products are available in the UK via LoveLula.com

What do you use for managing eczema and psoriasis?

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