Brand Obsession: Viñali Skincare - Harnessing The Antioxidant Power Of The Wine Grape!

Anyone who knows me knows that I have mad love for wine (dry only, though please!), so finding an organic skincare line that harnesses the antioxidant power of the wine grape in its formulations definitely piqued my interest!

Add to that that it comes from Spain (I'm 50% Español) and I am really interested!

The idea for VIÑALI Skincare was first conceived in 1995 at vineyards that belonged to the Lopez de la Osa Escribano family in Ribera del Duero, Spain, where they had founded the first biodynamic estate in the area. After the marriage in 2003 of Alfonso de la Osa and Marie-Sixtine de Coral, a French entrepreneur who had worked for years in various high-end cosmetic companies, the birth of Viñali began. 

Frustrated with the amount of pollution in the both the environment and the products she worked with, Marie-Sixtine began to search for more natural options. Not happy with the lack of choices Europe was offering at the time, she began the process of creating her own. She researched the antioxidant properties of the grapes in their vineyard, and with her husband's help, created a method that naturally enhanced the presence of Resveratrol in their grapes up to 10% more than regular ones. Because in biodynamic agriculture no toxic chemicals are used, the plant is forced to protect itself naturally, which in turn, results in a higher concentration of Resveratrol.

I was sent two products to test out and I have to say, I was very impressed with both!

Let's take a look at each one:

PR Samples

1) Soin Visage Facial Moisturizer - A lightweight, silky moisturizer that is perfect for the daytime (especially as a primer under foundation), I fell in love with this at first use! Lately, my skin has been a bit more on the dry side, but still has a tendency to become oily by mid-day so this moisturizer handles both issues for me like a champ! And with nourishing ingredients like Grapeseed, Jojoba, and Sweet Almond oils my skin is kept hydrated all day! I love that this also contains one of my favorite age-defying ingredients, Hibiscus Flower Extract (aka: nature's botox) to help keep skin smooth and firm! The scent is clean and fresh, though may be a tad strong for sensitive noses (it does lessen a bit after a while). All in all, a really lovely product!

Price - $58
Ingredients - Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Water*, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Decyl Oleate, Aqua, Glycerin, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat Germ) Oil*, Glycine (Soy) Oil, Vitis Vinifera Leaf Extract*, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract*, Zingiber Officinale Root Extract*, Squalene, Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower Extract*, Agropyron Repens Root Extract, Benzyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate, Sodium Hydroxide, Dehydroacetic Acid, Tocopherol, B-Sitosterol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Sorbic Acid. *Ingredients from Organic farming


2) Soin Mains Hand Cream - A rich, nourishing cream that is perfect for these Winter months! With ingredients like Shea Butter, Grape Seed Oil and Calendula, hands will be kept soft, hydrated and protected no matter how brutal the weather! I loved that even though the texture was on the heavy side, it wasn't greasy at all and the scent was extremely subtle too! This has been a life saver (or hand saver rather) this season!

Price - $18
Ingredients - Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Water*, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Stearic Acid, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract*, Vitis Vinifera Leaf Extract*, Aqua, Benzyl Alcohol, Cera Alba, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Dehydroacetic Acid, Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate, Benzoic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Sorbic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Hexyl Cinnamal, Hydroxycitronellal, Linalool, Limonene, Geraniol. *Ingredients from Organic farming.




Have you tried anything from Viñali Skincare? If so, what were your favorites? Let me know below!

Peace & Love,
Sabrina xo


*Products were generously sent for review consideration, however, all opinions are my own.

Product Obsession: Avitalin's "Bee Venom Biolift Complex"

PR Sample

Avitalin is one of the most unique brands I have ever tried. One of the reasons for this is that their products are transdermally active - meaning that the ingredients used in their products are successfully transported in high concentrations to the deepest layers of the skin. This advanced delivery system allows Avitalin's formulas to begin the process of healing and strengthening the skin, which in turn means clearer, healthier, younger looking skin!

Founded by Marina Volod, a renowned clinical aesthetician, who has devoted herself to the study of the physiology of the skin, cosmetic ingredients and skin nutrition, Marina concentrates on making skincare products using high quality ingredients from both nature and science. Her goal was to create a line that would restore the skin's barrier, preserve the skin's health and help maintain its youthful appearance.

"Avitalin products feature nourishing oils, floral waters, plant extracts, essential oils, purified rare raisins, and therapeutic blends of herbal extracts whose benefits have been proved over the centuries. These and other natural ingredients restore healthy function, boost the skin's immune system, and help the skin retain moisture."

Avitalin’s formulas do not contain ingredients such as sodium lauryl sulfate, parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, artificial colors, fragrances, silicones, formaldehyde-releasing ingredients, ureas, propylene glycol, ammonia compounds or triclosan. Their ingredients are Fair Trade and Certified Organic whenever possible and are approved by the UK Soil Association and Ecocert (internationally recognized organizations known for their high standards in the regulation of cosmetics).

They manufacture their products in small batches and each batch is made to order. They never test on animals, and when they obtain ingredients from them, it is done without harm.

After reading up on them and reaching out to Marina, I was beyond excited to be able try one of Avitalin's outstanding products and today I want to share my thoughts with you!

"This skin- transforming gel-cream formula with bee venom and royal jelly helps to increase blood flow to the skin while reactivating the cellular renewal process providing an instant lifting and plumping effect."

Benefits of Bee Venom: 

• Increases blood flow to the skin and improves blood circulation
• Creates an instant plumping effect 
• Boosts the repairing process and activates skin's rejuvenating mechanism
• Reduces skin inflammation

Key Ingredients: 

• Bee venom:  helps to increase circulation; stimulates production of collagen; plumps and firms the skin
• Royal jelly: supports the skin's connective tissue; evens skin tone; reduces inflammation
• Phospholipids: protect the barrier function; provide sufficient delivery of the nutrients into deeper layers of the skin
• Hyaluronic acid: restores skin's natural hydration balance
• Argan oil: promotes healing; reduces free radical damage

My thoughts:  I really loved the gel like cream consistency, the subtle clean scent and how only a tiny bit was needed to moisturize, plump and smooth my skin. I also noticed that while I was using this, that my skin seemed to calm down quite a bit - there was a definite reduction in redness, dry patches and breakouts! That combined with the stellar list of ingredients used in this was enough to make me an instant fan! In fact, I am so impressed with how my skin has reacted (or not reacted) to this moisturizer, that I want to try more of Avitalin's products! I do wish that they would list the full ingredients of the products on their website (they are listed on the product and package). Other than that, I'm a smitten kitten for this brand! 

Price: $70
Full Ingredients: Aqua/eau (distilled water), Aloe Barbadenis (Aloe Vera) Juice, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Emulsifying Wax, Vegetable Glycerin, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Oil, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid), Stearic Acid, Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) Extract, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Extract, Algae Extract, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Phospholipids, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Apis Venenum Purum (Bee Venom) Extract, Apis Mellifera (Royal Jelly), Bee Pollen, Xantham Gum, Leuconostoc (Radish Root) Ferment Filtrate, Potassium Sorbate, Fragrance (Essential Oils)

*Note - Do not use this product if you are pregnant, breast feeding or are allergic to bee stings!

**Product was sent for me to review, however all thoughts and opinions are my own

Have you ever tried anything by Avitalin? If so, what are your favorite products?

Inspired By Hollywood: Airelle Skincare

*PR Samples

 I'm always on the look out for natural products that are not only great for acne prone skin, but that contain ingredients to keep skin looking young and firm as possible. In Hollywood, these are things that many actors and performers search for as well. The pressure to have perfect, youthful skin is even higher now for them, especially due to certain technological advancements that have recently been made in the film world.

The transition to HD cameras not only brought a more vivid clarity to the images they captured, but also various imperfections on the skin of many actors, resulting in more time being spent in the make-up artist's chair. This revelation led Stephen D'Amato, a Prime-Time TV First Assistant Director, to seek a solution from his Dermatologist wife, Kasey Drapeau D'Amato.

Together, they searched the globe to find the most effective and innovative natural ingredients. They needed to create products that would deliver immediate, noticeable and lasting results, as Hollywood actors often have extremely hectic schedules and they rely on skin care products more so than in office procedures to look their best.

Thus, Airelle Skincare was born. 

Formulated with Berrimatrix, a proprietary ingredient developed by Airelle containing blueberry extract and other anti-oxidants, these products work to protect the skin from collagen breakdown as well as photo-aging.

When Airelle contacted me to try a few of their products I was of course beyond thrilled! All of their products are free from artificial fragrances, parabens, sulfates, GMO's, are cruelty free, eco-friendly and made in the USA. They are also great for sensitive and acne prone skin, as well as containing potent anti-aging ingredients!

Here is what I tried and my thoughts on each product:

1) Exfoliating Cleanser -  Containing Bambo microbeads to exfoliate and Alpha Hydroxy Acids such as Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid to brighten and smooth, this non-abrasive cleanser is basically a cleanser and facial scrub in one. While this was a little too strong for me to use on my sensitive skin daily, on the days that I did use this, I noticed that my skin was left nice and soft and any dry or rough patches were gone. I also noticed my skin didn't break out as much and the redness on my upper cheeks had pretty much faded as well. I think this is a great exfoliant and is probably one of my favorites ever!

Benefits:

• Removes impurities and dead skin cells and helps brighten skin
• Gently exfoliates with natural, biodegradable Bamboo microbeads
• Prepares skin to absorb antioxidants and nutrients
• Leaves skin clean, smooth and refreshed

Price - $64 for 4oz
Ingredients - see here

2) Age Defying Serum - This serum is definitely the "star" item in the collection in my opinion. Like all of the products, this contains Berrimatrix, as well as Hyaluronic Acid, Peptides, Vitamin C and Manuka Honey. A few drops of this lightweight serum is all you need to cover face, neck and decollete, and skin is left hydrated and supple all day. I noticed after using this for a few weeks that my skin seemed to look brighter, less red with fewer breakouts and more firm. It's a bit on the pricey side, but if you can afford it, it is definitely worth the splurge!

Benefits:

• 16% reduction in fine lines and wrinkles after only 28 days; 27% reduction after 56 days
• Vitamin C brightens skin and decreases the signs of damaged and aging skin
• Peptides reduce the appearance of wrinkles and create noticeably smoother skin
• Grass seed extract reduces facial shine and oil production

Price - $158 for .85fl
Ingredients - see here

3) Intense Hydrating Repair Complex - My other favorite is this silky light moisturizer containing Hyaluronic Acid, Acai Berry, Manuka Honey and Squalane, among other fab ingredients! This is the perfect counterpoint to the Age Defying Serum and using the two together seemed to achieve even greater results in my skin!

Benefits:

• Rescue treatment for damaged and aging skin
• Vitamin E helps condition and hydrate the skin barrier
• Enhances skin firmness and elasticity
• Improves overall skin texture with a unique combination of antioxidants and botanicals
• Unique combination of ingredients help reduce MMP-1 production and prevent collagen breakdown

Price - $116 for 1.7oz
Ingredients - see here

4) Hydrating Manuka Mask - This is a lovely, super hydrating mask that is great for parched or reactive skin. I actually loved to use this as my morning cleanser on days when I wasn't using the Exfoliating Cleanser. My skin felt so calm and soft and dewy afterwards. 

Benefits:

• Antioxidant rich therapeutic mask
• Vitamin B to soften, smooth and condition the skin
• Manuka Honey soothes the skin
• Leaves skin clean, nourished and hydrated

Price - $90 for 2oz

Ingredients - see here

My overall thoughts: Even though the price tags may seem a bit scary, if you are looking for a truly effective skincare line that is natural and non-toxic, and it is in your budget, this is definitely one to try! They do offer a travel kit for under $50, so for those who might not be able to afford the full sized products you can still try them out. And don't let the size of the samples fool you - you will still get amazing and noticeable results and these will last you quite awhile as you only need the smallest amount!

The Arielle line may have been developed for improving Hollywood faces, but it works great for everyone else too!


Have you ever tried Airelle Skincare? What are your thoughts? Let me know below!

Peace & Love,
Sabrina xo

*Products were sent to me for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Guest Post: Argan Oil Benefits For Skin, Hair & Body!

Hey loves! So, it's been a while since I had a guest post appear on my blog, and today I am happy to have this little gem written by Australian author, Amy Mia Goldsmith to share with you! You can check out more of her work here!

This post is all about one of my fave oils, and the many ways you can use it!

So, without further ado, let's talk Argan Oil!


Guest Post: Argan Oil Benefits for Skin, Hair & Body!

Keeping your skin youthful, fresh and smooth and your hair healthy and strong is essential when looking to achieve a well-kempt look. Still, industrial creams and lotions usually contain harmful ingredients and can often do more harm than good to your hair and skin in the long run. For adequate skin, hair and body nourishment, try Argan oil: extracted from Argan tree kernels, this fragrant liquid is rich in vitamins A and E and linoleic and Omega-6 fatty acids crucial for skin and hair growth, strong structure and healthy look. Here’s a short list of Argan oil benefits, so if you’re not already using it, you’d better start ASAP! ;-)

1. Argan oil as skin moisturizer

Thanks to the beneficial properties of its superior nutrients, argan oil is probably the best organic moisturizer available on the skincare market. Easy to absorb and 100% non-irritating even when applied to the eye area, Argan oil will provide all fatty acids, vitamin E and other critical nutrients your skin needs to stay smooth, soft and well hydrated. Gently rub a few drops of Argan oil onto your face, neck and the rest of the body and let your skin soak it in.

2. Argan oil as hair conditioner

Well-known among hair stylists for its outstanding benefits, argan oil will make your mane silkier and shinier. When used as a hair conditioner, Argan oil can remedy split ends and coarse hair, so your hair will stay attractive and healthy longer than with most regular artificial conditioners and balsams. On top of that, Argan oil can also be used as a leave-in hair styling agent to improve the look and condition of dry, fly-away or frizzy hair – simply pour a few drops onto your palm, rub your hands and comb your hair with the fingers to add an extra dash of shine.

3. Argan oil anti-aging and wrinkle removal properties

In addition to its moisturizing properties, Argan oil is also an extremely efficient remedy for wrinkles and aging-related skin conditions. Due to the rich antioxidant content, Argan oil helps boost elasticity and volume of the skin and eliminate wrinkles in your facial area. When using the oil as an anti-aging product, apply a couple of drops to your neck and face and rub them in gently before bedtime.

4. Argan oil as lip balm and moisturizer

When exposed to extremely hot, dry or cold air, lips can get cracked, sore and dehydrated. That’s where Argan oil can come in handy: an organic skin care product that will make sure your lips stay soft, silky and plump, Argan oil will soak in fast upon application and unlike most lip balms, it’ll leave no greasy or cakey residue. Simply tap a drop or two of Argan oil onto your lips, remove excess oil and get ready for the supplest kisses ever!

5. Argan oil as remedy for dry skin and scalp

If you’re prone to dry, itchy or flaky patches on your skin and scalp, Argan oil will provide adequate hydration and accelerate healing of damaged skin. Thanks to vitamin E, antioxidants and Omega-6 fatty acids, this versatile oil helps soothe irritation, minimize inflammation and prompt healing of cracked, flaky or sore skin. To accelerate healing and eliminate dryness of the skin, apply small quantities of Argan oil to the problematic areas and massage gently.

If you want one skincare product that has it all, look no further than Argan oil. Soothing, moisturizing and 100% organic, Argan oil is a one-stop solution to a range of skin, hair and scalp conditions so make sure you get a bottle ASAP! 

About the Author

Amy Mia Goldsmith is an Aussie literature student who loves to read and has been writing novels and short stories as long as she can remember. Amy is a regular contributor at High Style Life. She is currently studying and working in a bookstore. Her passion is beauty and organic makeup and she loves to spend her free time hiking and of course – make up shopping! You can contact Amy on her Facebook page.

How do you like to use Argan Oil? Any ways different than what Amy mentioned? What are your favorite brands of Argan Oil? Let me know! 

Thank you again to Amy for being so kind to contribute to my blog! :-) xx

Peace & Love,

Sabrina xo

Get Your Glow on with Acure Organics & Nordic Naturals!

Hey beauties! Today, I am excited to share a special promotional offer from one of my all time favorite natural brands, Acure Organics (read review here). They have recently partnered with Nordic Naturals to help spread the word to consumers about the benefits of using natural, organic skincare products and high quality, sustainable nutritional supplements for optimal health and beauty.

As part of this promotion, they are hosting a Pinterest Sweepstakes celebrating inner and outer beauty. By entering, you have a chance to win some seriously amazing swag from Acure & Nordic Naturals! Score times ten! ;-)

All you need to do is click on the link below and follow the instructions! So easy! Hurry though, this contest only runs through March 31st! Open to US residents only. Make sure to read the Official Entry Rules for all restrictions and what prizes you can win!! Winners will be randomly selected on or about April 3, 2015. 

#WholeBodyGlow

*Photos provided courtesy of Acure Organics

How do you get your glow on? 

#WholeBodyGlow #HealthYeah #InnerGlow #OuterGlow

Peace & love,

~Sabrina 

Guest Post: DIY Natural Anti-Aging Recipes

Hey lovelies! It's been awhile since I have had a guest post here on my blog so I was stoked when Emily Kristina, a blogger who contributes to Lifecell Skin's blog, contacted me to offer a contribution! This post is all about keeping your skin youthful and glowing and healthy...with items you may have right in your own home! :-)

DIY Natural Anti-Aging Recipes

Everyone hates those annoying, inevitable aging signs. While they cannot be averted, there are some anti-aging remedies to combat them so that they can be delayed or at least you can make them look not so prominent. Unfortunately, we rely a lot on readymade products for our aging woes, where as there are many home remedies that can provide excellent benefits. Trust me, I have tried most of them and they do work!

Here are some anti-aging home remedies that you can try:

Banana
This is the easiest of all the home remedies, as most every household has bananas. The fruit is rich in Vitamins A, B and E. It also contains potassium, iron and zinc making it a powerful anti-aging skin  remedy. Below are some steps to use it:

• Take a small ripe banana
• Peel it and then mash it.
• Add honey, rose water and yoghurt (1 teaspoon each) to it.
• Mix well
• Apply it evenly
• Wash away with cold water 

Avocado
Dry skin starts showing aging signs faster than any other skin type. Avocados along with olive oil make amazing anti-aging remedies. The duo provides natural oils to the skin, keeping it moisturized all the time. Here is how to use it:

• Take 1 tablespoon puree of avocado. 
• Add 2 tablespoons olive oil followed by 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
• Mix
• Apply it on the entire face
• Leave overnight
• Wash off in the morning.

Coconut milk
Coconut contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. It is an anti-aging topical fruit and makes your skin smooth and supple. This is how you can use it:

• Take a coconut, grate it 
• Prepare milk from it.
• Apply  
• Wash with cold water after 20 minutes.

Alternatively, you can massage your skin everyday with coconut oil as an anti-aging remedy.

Eggs
Eggs are laden with all the anti-aging essentials like omega-3, zinc and proteins. It tightens the skin making it appear young. Use it as indicated below:

• Take a bowl and add 1 teaspoon of egg whites
• To this add 1/2 a teaspoon of fresh cream
• Finally add a teaspoon of lemon juice
• Mix well and apply
• Let it remain for a minimum of 15 minutes
• Rinse off with cold water
• Apply it on alternate days

Oil massage
Massages ensure proper circulation to the skin thus lending it a natural glow. This is what you can do additionally to benefit from one of the best home remedies.

• To the almond oil, add a few drops of glycerin 
• Massage gently

These anti-aging remedies are inexpensive and can be done easily at home. The best thing about these is that they will not make a big hole in your pocket and have no side effects.



Author Bio
Emily Kristina is a skin expert by profession. She loves to share her knowledge and experience with people. She regularly contributes her write ups to health or skin care related websites and blogs with most of her writings based on tips for best anti aging skin treatments. In her free time she loves to travel, attend fashion shows and music.You can follow her on Twitter  @EmilyKristina1

What do you think of Emily's anti-aging remedies? Have you tried any of these? What are your favorite DIY recipes for keeping your skin youthful and healthy?

Peace & Love,
~Sabrina xx

DIY Raw Chocolate Face Mask...Because..Chocolate!

Happy Friday loves! This week I thought I would mix things up a bit and do a DIY post instead of a "Flashback Friday" post. I have so many recipes floating around in my head that I really need to just start making and sharing them with you guys!

I submitted this recipe for a blogger collaboration over the Summer that Annie from Hello Purple Clouds put together and recently decided that I wanted to share this on my blog as well. I hope to find the time to create more DIY recipes as I absolutely love doing them!

For this mask, I chose raw chocolate as my ingredient inspiration because, well because I am a bona fide chocoholic! But also because the benefits of this delicious superfood make it the perfect base for a healing skin treat! Like now, when my skin is all broken out with hormonal acne. Ugh...

In addition to the chocolate, I used various spices that I know work well for my skin, but feel free to adjust the amounts or to add or leave out ingredients to suit your skin type. This mask is not only anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant, but it is extremely hydrating and nourishing as well. My skin was super soft after I used this! :-D

What you will need:

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon Raw Cacao Powder

½ teaspoon Cinnamon

½ teaspoon Nutmeg

⅛ teaspoon Tumeric

pinch of Cayenne Pepper

1 drop Clove Essential Oil

Water (enough to make a thick paste)

Tools:

Measuring spoons, small metal whisk, glass bowl/container

Directions:

Mix ingredients in a bowl until it becomes a thick, chocolately paste, but resist the urge to eat it! :-) Once it is mixed well, apply onto cleansed skin and let sit for about ten minutes. To remove, use a warm, wet washcloth and gently wipe off. Rinse with tepid water to get all traces off and follow with a toner and face oil or moisturizer. Your skin will be simply glowing!

What is your favorite DIY recipe for glowing skin? Would you like to see more DIY recipes here on my blog? Let me know below!

 

Peace & love,

~Sabrina xx

*All photographs were taken by Chickweed & Blush unless stated otherwise. The pics used were taken specifically for this post and differ from the ones used in the collaboration piece.

Brand Obsession - Celtic Complexion

If you follow the beautiful Stephanie Deline from She's So Eco, then you have undoubtedly heard her profess her love for Celtic Complexion Skincare.

Since I trust that everything Stephanie recommends will be awesome, and after reading up on it, I knew I needed to try this brand!!

Photo Credit

What makes this brand so special, you ask?

Well, first of all, each product is lovingly and thoughtfully hand made using the purest and highest quality of ingredients -  which also happen to be wild crafted, certified organic, kosher and raw vegan.

Secondly, not only does founder and owner Jennifer Devlin Waller truly understand skin issues, having suffered from rosacea since her 20’s, she uses her experience to create amazingly effective products that work to heal those issues. Honestly, since using her products, my skin has never been more calm, nourished, and glowy.  Oh, and did I mention?  She’s drop-dead gorgeous to boot!  You would never know that this lovely lady ever experienced something like rosacea!

Jennifer was kind enough to send me the Love Your Skin Travel Kit and I'd like to share not only what products came in it, but also why they are so darn spectacular!


"Organic skincare made with the finest raw ingredients that have been safely used for centuries, and once available only to wealthy aristocrats, and traded like gold..."

1) Coconut Creme Cleanser - This rich, decadent cleanser made me a cream cleanser convert in just one use! From the scent to the texture to the way it makes my skin feel after rinsing it off, I am completely hooked. You only need a dime sized amount to remove make-up and impurities, and if your skin is feeling a tad on the dry side, Jennifer suggests first applying a bit of raw coconut oil before using the cleanser for extra hydration. I think it is safe to say that I see myself entering into a long term relationship with this cleanser!

Price - $39.95
Ingredients - Organic aloe juice, organic coconut oil, organic green tea extract, cetearyl olivate, sorbitan olivate, certyl palmitate, organic olive oil, xanthan gum, palm stearic acid, essential oils of ylang ylang, lavender, rosewood, tangerine and bergamont.

2) Gentle Creme Exfoliant - Micro-sized Jojoba beads provide gentle exfoliation that even the most delicate skin will appreciate. With oils like Coconut, Olive, and Avocado to nourish and hydrate, Aloe to soothe and Rooibos Tea Extract to provide powerful anti-oxidant benefits, this creamy exfoliant pampers and softens skin like none I have ever tried.

Price - $39.95
Ingredients - Organic aloe vera juice, organic coconut oil, organic rooibos tea extract, emulsifying wax, vegetable glycerin, organic olive oil, palm stearic acid, jojoba beads, organic jojoba oil, avocado oil, witch hazel, vitamin E, xanthan gum, black willow bark, rosemary extract, neem oil, essential oils of ylang ylang, lavender, rosewood, tangerine and bergamont.

3) Calming Serum - This serum is perfect for those who are super sensitive, acne prone, suffering from rosacea or even sun burn. Created with the most healing and soothing essential oils as well as the richest sources of essential fatty acids, this serum works to reduce redness, inflammation, and sensitivity, while bathing the skin in vital nutrients. As someone who is acne prone, this has definitely helped to keep breakouts and redness at bay!

Price - $69.95 or $12 (travel size)
Ingredients - Fractionated coconut oil, German chamomile oil, neroli oil, lavender oil, evening primrose oil, borage seed oil.

4) Youth Infusion 7 High Potency Serum -  There is a reason why this serum is considered to be the crown jewel of the Celtic Complexion skincare collection - it's bottled perfection, plain and simple. Containing rare and precious essential oils like Indian Sandalwood, Frankincense, Indian Rose and Bulgarian Rose, skin is rejuvenated and transformed at the cellular level. The sweet scent of rose both uplifts and calms my senses and my skin feels so amazingly pampered when I use this. Though I've only been using a trial size, and I know the full size will provide greater benefits, I still feel my skin has improved in this short amount of time. If anything, it is calmer, and much more hydrated, which in turn makes it look younger!

Price - $97.50 or $17 (travel size)
Ingredients - Fractionated coconut oil, carrot seed oil, Indian rose oil, Indian sandalwood oil, frankincense oil, borage seed oil, evening primrose oil, Bulgarian rose oil.

5) Vida de Fleur Liquid Moisturizer -  Thicker than the other serums, this "liquid moisturizer" is the one to reach for when your skin is feeling particularly thirsty. It contains Squalane oil (from vegetarian sources of course!) which helps to hydrate as well as balance skin, making this perfect for my oily yet dry complexion. Use under the Celtic Complexion Creme for an even bigger moisture boost.

Price - $69.95 or $23 (travel size)
Ingredients - Squalane oil (derived from vegetarian sources), evening primrose oil, jasmine grandiflorum, jasmine sambac.

6) Celtic Complexion Creme - Ok, I'll admit that I was a little worried that this moisturizer was going to be a bit too heavy for me when I first heard about it. However, even though this is super concentrated (as it doesn't contain water), it imparts just the right amount of moisture as well as absorbing deeply into skin without any kind of greasy feel. My skin was left soft, and glowing and just plain radiant from using this! I also love that I need only a teensy, teensy amount to make my skin look so good!

Price - $69.95 or $18 (travel size)
Ingredients - Certified organic shea butter, certified organic raw coconut oil, certified golden jojoba oil, certified organic vegetable glycerin oil, vanilla extract, carrot seed oil, sandalwood oil, grapefruit oil, tea tree oil.

7) Tinted Moisturizer SPF 31 in Light - What I love about this product, besides that it provides non-toxic broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, is that the coverage is adjustable depending on how you apply it. I like to apply this with my (clean) fingertips for full coverage, but if you prefer a more medium or sheer look you can use a foundation brush or beauty blender. I also love the color, which is the perfect light neutral for my skin. It blends seamlessly and doesn't feel heavy or greasy, but since my skin has a tendency to become shiny during the day, I do use a mineral or setting powder over this. This has become another "can't live without" product for me!

Price - $59.95 or $15 (travel size)
Ingredients - 25% zinc oxide, artesian spring water, cert. organic organic jojoba oil, cert organic extra virgin olive oil, organic shea butter, vegetable glycerin, vegetable emulsifying wax, vegetable vitamin e, iron oxide.

8) Lip Balm - I was also sent a lip balm, and though it is not listed as part of the kit and I couldn't seem to find it on the website, I wanted to share it as well. As a bona fide lip balm fiend, I actually did a little happy dance when I saw this in my kit. Sad, maybe, but I don't care. This little lip treat deserves a happy dance. Flavored with the refreshing coolness of peppermint combined with the tangy citrus of lemongrass, plus the nourishing oils of Hempseed and Grapeseed  lips are left super soft and kissable.

Ingredients - beeswax, certified organic hempseed oil, grapeseed oil, evening primrose oil, calendela oil, rosemary extract, comfrey oil, cupuacu butter, vitamin E, essential oils


My overall thoughts - Jennifer clearly not only puts her heart and soul into her products, but she has created a skincare line that truly produces results. Try it for yourself and see!


*products were generously sent to me for review, however, all thoughts and opinions are my own.


Have you tried Celtic Complexion yet? What are your thoughts?

Peace & Love,
~Sabrina

Product Obsession - Authentic Skin Remedies 7 Piece Trial Kit & Gloss

There comes a time when you come across a brand that looks so amazing that you just need to try it. Such was the case with Authentic Skin Remedies.

This is a brand that needs to be tried to fully understand how great it is, and if you browse the green beauty blogosphere, you'll see many a glowing review on this line. And after finally getting on the bandwagon and trying it myself I can say all those rave reviews are highly warranted.

Authentic Skin Remedies was founded by the stunningly gorgeous Amy Rueda, who at the young age of 35 was diagnosed with a rare form of neuroendocrine system cancer. Because her cancer had strong environmental and hormonal links, Amy started taking a much closer look at what she was putting in and on her body. When she realized that up to 70% of what we put on our skin gets absorbed into our bloodstream, she made the decision to formulate her own, natural and plant based skincare line.

I purchased the Gloss and in return, Amy was kind enough to send me the 7 piece Multi-Purpose Facial Kit to try out as well. :-)

Here are my thoughts on each:

 

1) Gloss Essential Bath and Body Oil - A multi use oil that contains skin softening avocado and sunflower seed oils. All I have to say is I am hooked on this product! I use it as a pre-cleanser to take off my make up, as a hair serum and as an all over moisturizer. You can also use this as a bath oil, massage oil, shave oil, or perfume oil. And if that is not enough to impress you, Gloss comes in two intoxicating scents - Italian Lavender and Island Bamboo (which I chose - a very subtle, clean unisex scent, kind of like CK One without the nasty toxins). I would definitely repurchase!

Price  - $33
Ingredients - Persea gratissima (Organic Avocado) Oil, Helianthus annuus (Organic Sunflower) Seed Oil, Fragrance


Now for the 7 Piece kit. This is the perfect way to experience several of ASR's products and I promise you, once you try them, you will be going back for more! Price of trial kit is $36

2) Cleanse Sulfate Free Calming Gel - This has to be without a doubt, the most delicious smelling face wash I have ever used! It smells like vanilla cake batter and yes, I had to resist the urge to squirt it in my mouth! That little bit of TMI aside, I loved how hydrating this was for a gel cleanser and how soft my skin felt after using this. With ingredients like aloe, sunflower seed oil, vegetable glycerin and jojoba to name a few, it's easy to see why. If you like gel cleansers, and are looking for one that not only gets every trace of dirt, oil and make up off and moisturizes like a cream cleanser - then look no further! This is your new BFF.

Ingredients - Aloe barbadensis (Organic Aloe) Leaf Juice, Lavandula angustifolia (Organic Lavender) Flower Water, Anthemis nobilis (Organic Roman Chamomile) Flower Water, Helianthus annuus (Organic Sunflower) Seed Oil, Organic Vanilla Flavor, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Disodium Laureth Sulfoacetate, Vegetable Glycerin, Pro-Vitamin B5, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Simmondsia chinensis (Organic Jojoba) Seed Oil, Rosa mosqueta (Organic Rosehip) Seed Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Tetrasodium EDTA, Citric Acid.

3) Balance Seawater Facial Mist - I adore this face mist! It smells great and really perks you up so you can get on with your day - I almost felt like I could skip my morning coffee! Ok, not really, but it still helped to wake me up a bit. Like all of ASR products, this one also has a multitude of uses, but I mainly used this as a toner as I loved how it made my skin feel and seemed to intensify the benefits of the serum and moisturizer I applied after this. And with ingredients like lavender, sandalwood, rosewood and geranium, my skin was not only kept supple, but free from blemishes as well. Score! 

Ingredients - Purified Seawater, Santalum album (Organic Sandalwood) Oil, Aniba rosaeodora (Organic Rosewood) Oil, Lavandula angustifolia (Organic Lavender) Oil, Pelargonium graveolens (Geranium) Oil


4) Enrich Nourishing Lipid Serum - I seriously want a vat of this so that I can bathe in it daily! No, really. I have used a lot of oils on my skin, and I have several that I love, but this is something that is in a class of pure awesomeness all by itself! The main thing I noticed was how dewy and glowy (but not greasy) my skin felt. It was like I just stepped out of a spa. This is a very rich serum too, so only a tiny amount is needed to do its job. This serum is perfect for all skin types!

Ingredients - Helianthus annuus (Organic Sunflower) Seed Oil, Cannabis sativa (Organic Hemp) Seed Oil, Oenothera biennis (Organic Evening Primrose) Oil, Cupressus sempervirens (Organic Cypress) Essential Oil, Salvia officinalis (Organic Sage) Essential Oil, Ocimum Basillicum (Organic Basil) Essential Oil, Citrus aurantium var. (Petitgrain) Essential Oil, Lavandula angustifolia (Organic Lavender) Essential Oil

5) Renew Botanical Face Cream - I love the light, silky texture of this face cream. I love even more that it keeps my skin nourished without breaking me out. The fact that is contains acne busting ingredients like lavender, geranium, rosemary and rosewood could be why. I also love that it is loaded with powerful anti-aging goodies like pomegranate extract, rose flower water and hyaluronic acid. So, yeah, I love this face cream!

Ingredients - Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf, Cocos nucifera (Organic Coconut) Oil, Rosa damascena Flower Water (Organic Rose Distillate), Simmondsia chinensis (Organic Jojoba) Seed Oil, Emulsifying Wax NF, Palm Stearic Acid, Organic Plant Glycerin, Organic Pomegranate Extract, Pelargonium graveolens (Organic Geranium) Oil, Aniba rosaedora (Organic Rosewood) Wood Oil, Lavandula angustifolia (Organic Lavender) Oil, Rosmarinus officinalis (Organic Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Polysaccharide Gum, Citric Acid

6) Refine Fruit Enzyme Exfoliation - As soon as I saw that this contained pumpkin, I knew I was going to like this. It exfoliates well, doesn't sting, leaves skin soft, and yes, smells like Thanksgiving! You can also use this as a spot treatment for blemishes, which I have not tried, but will do so tonight since I am currently sporting some nasty breakouts on my chin. 

Ingredients - Water, Aloe barbadensis (Aloe Vera Gel), Bromelain, Hippophae rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Oil, Papain enzyme (Papaya), Cucurbita pepo (Pumpkin) Glycerin, Lactic Acid, Matricaria recutita (Chamomile) Flower Extract, Glucose, Fructose, Sucrose, Vegetable Alanin, Plant Glutamic Acid, Glycosaminoglycans, Lecithin, Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (Guar) Gum, Yeast Extract, Daucus carota sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil, Alginate, (Seaweed Extract), Sodium Hyaluronate, Iron Oxides, Potassium Sorbate (Potassium Salt) as a preservative, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid

7) Replenish Intense Hydration Masque - The ingredients in this mask alone are enough to entice one to try this. Balancing geranium, hydrating aloe juice, brightening lemon peel oil and one of my favorites, vetiver, oil. Vetiver is not only calming to the senses, but attracts and holds moisture to the skin, which is great for dry, dehydrated skin. 

Ingredients - Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Vegetable Glycerin, Hamamelis virginiana (Witch Hazel), Citrus medica limonum (Organic Lemon) Peel Oil, Pelargonium graveolens (Organic Geranium) Oil, Juniperus communis (Organic Juniper) Fruit Oil, Vetivera zizanoides root (Organic Vetiver) Oil, Aniba rosaeodora (Organic Rosewood) Wood Oil, Ocimum basillicum (Organic Basil) Oil, Lavandula angustifolia (Organic Lavender) Oil, Carbomer, Citric Acid

8) Soothe Cooling Masque - If Replenish is the perfect treatment for dehydrated skin, then Soothe is the answer to congested, inflamed skin. All other ingredients aside, this contains what I have come to know as the "trifecta" of anti-acne oils - rosemary, lavender and thyme. Of all the essential oils I have used on my skin, nothing and I mean nothing, works as well as these three together. And in this mask, combined with the other potent skin clearing and healing ingredients, makes this a force to be reckoned with! Use this overnight for even quicker results.

Ingredients - Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Vegetable Glycerin, Hamamelis virginiana (Witch Hazel), Mentha piperita (Organic Peppermint) Oil, Rosmarinus officinalis (Organic Rosemary) Oil, Thymus vulgaris (Organic Thyme) Oil, Eucalyptus citriodora Leaf Oil, Melaleuca leucadendron (Cajuput) Oil, Cymbopogon schoenanthus (Lemongrass) Oil, Citrus medica limonum (Organic Lemon) Peel Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Organic Lavender) Oil, Carbomer, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate

My overall thoughts - I was deeply impressed by these products and I would highly recommend these to anyone who is looking for a line that is pure, results oriented and just plain amazing.

Thank you so much Amy for sending me the trial kit! xx

Have you ever tried Authentic Skin Remedies? 

Peace & Love,
~Sabrina