Green Beauty: LoveLula Beauty Box - October 2020 review

Christmas is just around the corner and if you're starting your gift shopping online this week, why not consider a subscription to one of the UK's most green beauty boxes, LoveLula?

Everything inside the LoveLula boxes has been carefully chosen to ensure that they're cruelty-free and made from natural ingredients without any hidden 'nasties'. You'll also find that many products are organic and/or vegan-friendly and it's a great way to discover brands that you might not have come across before!

To whet your appetite, here are the contents of their latest box (worth £55) to give you an idea of what you can expect, and then check out my other LoveLula Beauty Box reviews to see what's been featured in previous editions.

Moi Vert Natural Deodorant (RRP £9.95)

It might sound odd but I love trying out new natural deodorants and this one from Moi Vert looks very promising. Suitable for vegans, this fragrance-free version is made from a blend of nourishing Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, Tapioca Starch and Sodium Bicarbonate to gently absorb body odour whilst keeping you nice and fresh all day long. With many of us now working from home, it's the perfect time to test out a natural deodorant and make the switch if you haven't used one before!

Laidbare Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow (RRP £10)

I've used this hair minimising gel-lotion from Laidbare many times before (read my original review here) and it does really work a treat thanks to a synergistic botanical complex which naturally helps to slow down hair growth and re-growth by maintaining the hair cells in their growth stage. I like to use it on my legs after showering sometimes instead of using a body lotion, but I must admit it's definitely a product that I use more often in the Summer months when I'm wearing skirts and shorts so I'll probably save it up for next year before cracking it open.

Emani Hydrating Lip Colour in Ava (RRP £19)

One of the reasons why I love these subscription boxes so much is because they regularly feature products that are on my current wishlist. I was so happy to see an Emani Lipstick included this month as I've heard so many positive things about the brand recently! I received the shade Ava which is a beautiful everyday peachy-pink. It goes on smoothly and has a lovely hydrating formula that's perfect for Autumn & Winter when lips are prone to dryness. I have no doubt that this is going to be a new favourite of mine!

Balm Balm Little Miracle Rosehip Serum (RRP £15.50)

An intensively rich and nourishing blend of 100% organic Rosehip, Jojoba and Borage Oils are infused with essential oils of Frankincense, Rose Geranium, Palmarosa, Juniper and Mandarin to feed your skin all the nutrients that it needs, whilst delivering essential moisture for a more rejuvenated complexion. I've tried many products from Balm Balm over the years and they never disappoint so I can't wait to introduce this Little Miracle Rosehip Serum into my winter skincare routine.

Antipodes Baptise H20 Ultra-Hydrating Water Gel (free sample)

The last product in the box is a free sample of Antipodes Baptise H20 Ultra-Hydrating Water Gel which I reviewed earlier in the year when it was released and I absolutely love it. I'm currently finishing off my jar so it's great to have this extra sample in my stash and of course, if you haven't tried it before, this is the ideal way to give it a go to see if it suits your skin.

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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Foodie Friday: Relaxing Treats - 5 Delicious CBD Edibles You Should Try #AD

If you haven’t been paying attention to the CBD health craze, you may have missed the wealth of delicious CBD edibles that have flooded the market in recent years. These treats offer the health benefits of CBD, all while being delicious and nutritious. One of the most popular CBD edibles is CBD Gummies. The best thing about it is you can buy CBD gummies for sleep online as well as offline as per your suitability. But are you aware of other CBD edibles like chocolate, jam, and many more? If you’re looking for some interesting treats to try, here are some of the most delicious CBD edibles in the market.

1 - CBD chocolate

There are two approaches when it comes to making CBD chocolate. The boring approach is to use CBD isolates, which leads to a final product that tastes just like regular chocolate. You see, CBD in isolation takes the form of a flavourless white powder, which can be added to any recipe without altering the food’s flavour. Which is good if you don’t like the distinct earthly flavour of hemp, but if you are looking for interesting culinary experiences, buying this type of product will be pointless.

Luckily, there are manufacturers that choose to make chocolate bars using full-spectrum CBD, which often carries hemp biomass. Some go the extra mile and add decarboxylated hemp to the mix, further accentuating the taste of the plant within the mixture. The result is a CBD chocolate bar that tastes nothing like anything you’ve tasted before, creating flavours that you might fall in love with.

2 - CBD ice cream

Ice cream and CBD makes for an interesting combination and a great treat for relaxing on a hot summer day. Remember: CBD remains active when ingested. Meaning that you’ll be able to enjoy all the usual benefits of CBD, which includes a reduction in your overall levels of both stress and anxiety.

CBD ice cream can be bought from different stores, but it is also relatively easy to do yourself. And while homemade CBD chocolate isn’t always that flavorful, homemade CBD ice cream can be excellent.

3 - CBD jam

One of the advantages of infused jam is the wide variety of recipes you can use it with. CBD jam can be used as part of a sandwich, eaten with crackers, or even be used as an ice cream topping. The possibilities are endless.

4 - CBD cakes and brownies

Cake mixes containing CBD can be bought from different stores, or you can add your own CBD to a given mix. Just choose a mix that takes vegetable oil as part of the recipe, and when it comes time to use the oil, also add Cibdol’s CBD oil to the mix. The result will be an infused cake that can also taste quite unique, depending on how much CBD you use.

5 - CBD beverages

CBD drinks and beverages are often sold alongside edibles, since they both share the same consumption method. And a good relaxing CBD drink is definitely a treat you should give yourself from time to time. CBD can be found in everything from soft drinks to tea and coffee. You can even find sparkly CBD water for sale, which makes for a great way to stay calm and hydrated during long hikes or runs.

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Mid-Week Pamper Treat: Fair Squared Apricot Facial Mask for Normal Skin + Cotton Facial Mask review #PlasticFree

 

Face masks are a pampering staple for me and I love trying out different formulas and formats. Back when I started blogging (many years ago now!), I used to use a lot of sheet masks as the K-Beauty trend was gaining ground in the UK then and everyone who was anyone was promoting them on YouTube and Instagram.

Oh, how times have changed! As we learn more about our impact on the environment and visibly see the pollution around us, the idea of using a single-use sheet mask these days just seems so wasteful and unnecessary. Yet they still pop up in many beauty subscription boxes and are increasingly popular amongst younger skincare fans who are all too keen to show off a Sunday selfie pic on Instagram.

So what are the alternatives to sheet masks?

Well, there are three clear options that I can see. Firstly, you could choose not to use any at all and instead stick to traditional face masks, either ready-made in recyclable packaging or try out your own DIY face mask recipes. Secondly, you could explore the emergence of 'eco-friendly' sheet masks which are made from 100% biodegradable natural materials such as bamboo. They're not perfect of course as they are still single-use, but they are a better option than using the mainstream plastic-based sheet masks. 

Or thirdly, you could try a reusable cotton sheet mask which is what I've been testing out for the past month.

The Mask

I picked up this Fair Squared Cotton Facial Mask* (£6.95, 1 mask) from LoveLula after searching online for a plastic-free alternative to sheet masks. I was pleased to see that not only is this mask made from 100% organic cotton, but it's also certified fair trade so you know that the cotton farmers are being paid a proper living wage for their work and that the extra fairtrade supplement helps them to invest in their local farms and communities.

The cotton mask feels soft, durable and can, of course, be reused time and time again - simply pop it into the washing machine afterwards and it comes up good as new. When it eventually wears out after potentially a few years of usage, it can be easily recycled with other textiles.

The 'Juice'

To use with the Cotton Facial Mask, I also picked up the Fair Squared Apricot Facial Mask* (100ml, £9.95, link) which is a ready-made liquid formula packaged completely plastic-free in a glass jar with an aluminium lid and a paper label. Fair Squared have two liquid masks of this nature on offer, an Argan based formula for dry skin and this Apricot mask which is suitable for normal and combination skin types. 

This vegan-friendly Apricot mask fluid has a beautiful silky soft texture thanks to a base blend of Apricot Kernel Oil and Olive Oil and it feels amazing on the skin. Not only is it nourishing and hydrating, but it also helps to reduce any redness or inflammation as it contains Chamomile extract and Vitamin E, so it's great for soothing flare-ups and sensitive areas. 

How To Use

Combining the two is incredibly easy, you'll just need a bowl! After cleansing your face, pour some of the mask fluid (or you can use your own DIY liquid formula) into a bowl and let the Cotton Facial Mask soak in it for a few minutes. If needed, you can add some more of the fluid if you feel it's not saturated enough. This part is a bit trial and error, but I found that 25-30ml of fluid was an adequate amount for each application.

Once the Cotton Facial Mask is saturated, apply it to the face, making sure to press it down firmly onto the skin to help it to have the most contact possible. Relax and leave on for 10-15 minutes, remove the mask and massage in any excess. You can then follow up with your usual moisturiser or face oil to finish.

Overall Thoughts

Using a reusable cotton mask like this definitely has many positives for both the environment and your bank balance, but there are a couple of differences that I feel I need to point out. 

• A cotton mask is a much thicker material than the cellulose sheet masks so it doesn't adhere to the skin in the same way unless you use a lot of the mask fluid. My top tip is to ensure the cotton mask is thoroughly saturated before applying, and to use it on a cleansed face that's still wet or damp.

• As it doesn't adhere in the same way, I would recommend using a cotton facial mask whilst you're lying down so that it stays in place better - it's the perfect opportunity to switch off and relax!

• The fit of the Fair Squared Cotton Facial Mask isn't great in my honest opinion as the eye holes are too far apart and I would say I have a 'normal' sized face. The mask did shrink a little after the first use which improved the fit slightly but the eye spacing is still way off as you can see in the photos above (the first photo was taken after the first washing, and the second after the fourth washing).

All in all though, I must admit that I was very impressed with the formula of the Fair Squared Apricot Facial Mask fluid and I'd happily purchase this again. However, I will be on the lookout for a better fitting reusable cotton mask or should I just cut out bigger eye holes in this one?! 

Have you tried any great plastic-free alternatives recently?

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Health & Lifestyle: 4 Supplements To Get You Through Autumn

The change of seasons can often be a stressful and difficult time as we adapt mentally and physically to the colder weather and fewer daylight hours. So it's more important than ever to ensure that your body is getting everything that it needs, and these four supplements can help to make the seasonal transition go much more smoothly.

Disclaimer: I have personally tested out all of the supplements below and they are all suitable for vegans, but please see a GP first if you have any queries, are taking any medication or you have any underlying health problems.

Best All-Rounder: Feel Multivitamins (£11.95 per month, link)

If you have never taken any supplements before or you're simply looking for a 'bit of everything' so that you have all your health bases covered throughout Autumn and Winter, Feel Multivitamins are the one for you. Hailed as one of the 'cleanest' multivitamins available on the UK market, Feel has come up with a superb in-house formula that boasts 33 of the best ingredients in their highest bio-availability and absorption rates. 

This ensures that taking just two capsules a day will deliver all of the essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs to perform at its best, plus some extra botanicals are included such as Reishi Mushrooms (for heart and brain health), Spirulina (for extra immunity support), Turmeric (for digestion) and Grape Seed extract (for heart health). These capsules are certified vegan-friendly, non-GMO, gluten-free and free from all the main known allergens with no additives, fillers or bulking agents. 

In addition, Feel Multivitamins come packaged in a plastic-free biodegradable paper pouch and are delivered in a slim cardboard box every month direct to your door on a subscription basis - it doesn't get more convenient or sustainable than that!

Best for Women's Health (UTIs, BV, Thrush etc) & Boosting Gut Health: Kiki Health Body Biotics* (60 x 400mg, £27.95, link)

There's been a big focus on gut health over the past few years and rightly so, but did you know that by boosting your gut health, you're also helping to improve, treat and even eradicate many common women's health problems such as UTIs, thrush and BV (bacterial vaginosis)? That's because many beneficial bacteria strains that are often found in probiotic gut health supplements can provide antimicrobial support e.g Bacillus subtilis can inhibit the growth of Candida (AKA thrush) and Lactobacillus strains have proven to be able to help treat recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bacterial vaginosis (BV).

Kiki Health's bestselling Body Biotics is a unique blend of SBO (soil-based organisms) bacterial cultures and prebiotics with eight highly-effective friendly bacteria super-strains:- Bacillus Subtilis, Bacillus licheniformis, Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Lactobacillus Casei, Lactobacillus Plantarum, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus, Lactococcus Lactis and Bifidobacterium Bifidum.

These strains are activated when ingested with water so it's recommended to take one capsule daily 30 minutes before a meal with a 250ml glass of water. You can then increase this to 2-3 capsules daily after a week to further maintain the benefits. Naturally free of gluten and wheat and made with a vegan-friendly hypromellose shell, the capsules don’t contain artificial colours, preservatives, sweeteners or fillers. Body Biotics does not contain salt, sugar, yeast, chemical solvents or artificial additives and comes packaged in glass.

Best for Stress, Anxiety & Fibromyalgia: Zen Bears CBD Gummies* (30 gummies, £39.95, link)

Perhaps the cutest supplements that I've ever had the pleasure of trying out, Zen Bears have been voted the UK's best CBD gummies and it's easy to see why. Made with all-natural and vegan-friendly ingredients, the THC-free CBD used is sourced from an organic hemp farm in Oregon, USA and each gummy contains 20mg. 

CBD has been making waves in the health world for its positive benefits that can help alleviate mild anxiety, depression and stress symptoms, and mild-to-moderate pain associated with arthritis and fibromyalgia. In some countries, people have also cultivated a few cannabis plants of a particular strain to help relieve their anxiety and stress. It's believed that one of the best strains is the OG Ocean Grown classic. With no known side effects, it's been touted as a natural alternative to mainstream medications but do check with your GP first if you have any concerns before taking them.

It's been a crazy year so if your anxiety has gone through the roof, why not try these? They come in a mix of fruity flavours with a sweet coating and you can start on one a day to build up to a higher dose if required. There are no artificial ingredients and the jar is made of glass.

Best Budget Option for Gut Health & Weight Loss - Jolly Jelly (60 gummies, £9.99, link)

Many gut health supplements can be pretty expensive so if you're on a budget, I would recommend trying Jolly Jelly which cost around £10 for a month's supply. Made with 95% organic ingredients, these tasty tapioca based gummies contain a carefully chosen blend of beneficial superfoods, vitamins and probiotics such as Apple Cider Vinegar, Tumeric, Ginger, Beetroot extract, Pomegranate, Vitamin B9, Vitamin B12 and the popular strain of Lactobacillus Acidophilus. 

Jolly Jelly can help to boost your overall gut health, whilst also helping to maintain a healthy weight (some people find that Apple Cider Vinegar helps them to lose weight) and a healthy metabolism. If you have a sensitive stomach, you may find these much easier to digest than other gut health-related supplements and the Apple Cider Vinegar content can help with bloating and sugar cravings too (plus they're more palatable if you find you can't tolerate drinking ACV!).

Which supplements are you currently taking?

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