Brand Obsession: Butter Elixir Review

Butter Elixir products generously sent for review. Eco-friendly Hemp bracelets made by my sister-in-law

The brainchild of 3 yogi friends from NYC, Butter Elixir was born out of a desire to find something pure and natural to moisturize their skin after yoga practice. Using simple and sustainably sourced ingredients, they created products that not only nurture the skin but appeal to the senses as well.

I recently had the pleasure of trying out three of their beautiful products and I'm excited to share my thoughts with you!

"We believe that BUTTERelixir is for all"

"Inspiring beauty by using quality ingredients to nourish the body and soul."

1) Elixir Body & Hair Oil - This oil is 3 ingredients of pure, absolute bliss!! Soothing Chamomile and calming Lavender combined with nourishing Sweet Almond Oil is a delight for both skin and senses. I have been using this nightly as an oil cleanse because the Lavender Oil not only helps lull me to sleep at night, but its antiseptic qualities are also great at keeping breakouts at bay! This is a highly moisturizing oil that makes the skin feel so pampered and that scent- it is simply divine!!

Price - $35 for 3oz $78 for 8oz
Ingredients - Sweet Almond Oil, Lavender, and Chamomile


2) Lip Balm - Inspired by traditional Indian Chai tea (my favorite), this luxurious lip balm is packed with moisturizing oils and butters like Avocado, Hemp, Shea, and Cacao and flavored with the warming spices of Cardamom and Vanilla to keep lips hydrated and happy! My only wish is that it came in a bigger tub! ;-)

Price - $12
Ingredients - Soy Bean oil, Sunflower oil, Bees Wax, Hemp oil, Avocado oil, Jojoba oil, Cacao Butter, Shea Butter, Vitamin E, Aloe Vera, Argan oil, Vanilla, and Cardamom

3) Elixir Face Oil - This has pretty much everything I look for in a face oil - natural, effective ingredients, quick absorption, non-greasy feel, deep hydration, won't break me out and beautiful scent. The combination of fatty acids and anti-oxidants from the Argan oil, vitamins A (think natural retinol) and C (builds collagen) from Rosehip oil, and highly moisturizing quality of the Apricot oil married with the delicate fragrance of Rose essential oil, makes this a real treat to use. A few drops of this gorgeous elixir is all you need for soft, nourished skin!

Price - $48
Ingredients - Apricot oil, Rosehip oil, Argan oil, Rose essential oil


Have you ever tried anything from Butter Elixir? What are your favorites? Let me know below!

Peace & love,

Sabrina xoxo

*Products were generously sent to me for a review. All thoughts & opinions are my own. 

Keeping Skin & Lips Hydrated & Pampered This Winter With Avitalin, Mad Hippie & ChopSaver!

With Winter (finally) officially in full swing here in WNY (though where I live we missed the blizzard thankfully!), my skin has been in need of some extra TLC lately!

And while I have been using several brands/products to help keep my skin happy (see here), I've recently incorporated a few new ones that I am really loving right now!

*PR Samples

Avitalin Lipid Repair Serum - After trying the "Bee Venom Biolift Complex" (see review here), I knew I wanted to try more of Avitalin's products and next on my list was their "Lipid Repair Serum". I've learned a lot in the last several years about how the skin works and have been particularly intrigued about the concept of corneotherapy - a method of repairing the outer most layer of the skin (stratum corneum) in order to improve the overall health and function of the skin (read more here).  In this philosophy, certain ingredients can either support or impair the skin's lipid barrier thus preventing or causing issues, like acne, rosacea, etc. Avitalin is the second company I have worked with that utilizes this approach to skin care and I have to say based on my own experience it definitely makes a difference (and that's saying a lot with my temperamental skin!)! As for the serum, it contains ingredients known for their ability to hydrate, repair and protect against environmental damage such as Rosehip Oil, Squalane and Ceramides. The texture is silky and rich, and absorbs quickly and deeply without any greasy feel. It can be used anywhere on the face, including under eyes and on lips and can even be mixed into your face oil or moisturizer (which is what I do) for extra nourishment. This has definitely been a saving grace this Winter for sure! In my opinion, this is the second win for this brand and I already have my eye on several more of their products! :-D

Price - $40
Ingredients - Olive Squalane, Rosa Rubiginosa (Rosehip Seed) Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (fractionated Coconut Oil), Ceramide-3 (Lacto-Ceramide)


Mad Hippie Cream Cleanser - I recently tried and fell in love with their "Anti-Oxidant Face Oil" (read review here), so I just knew I was going to dig this product too! I was not disappointed! A rich, creamy cleanser that feels like a moisturizer yet rinses completely clean - my skin was left feeling very soft and pampered afterward. With ingredients like Shea Butter, Macadamia Oil and Sesame Oil to moisturize and Orchid Extract to slow down cellular degeneration, this little cleanser packs a big age-defying punch! The addition of Jojoba Oil makes this a good option for oily skin as well as dry.

Price - $15.99
Ingredients - Deionized Water, Sesame Oil (Sesamum Indicum), Caprylic/capric Triglycerides, Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii), Cetearyl Glucoside, Carrageenan Gum, Vegetable Glycerin, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium PCA, Green Tea (Camellia Sinensis Leaf), Jojoba (Simmondsia Chinensis), Squalene, Organic Macadamia Oil (Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil), Organic Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia Chinesis), Yeast Extract, Glucosamine HCL, Vitamin E (Tocopheryl), Sodium Hyaluronate, Algae Extract, Orchid Extract (Orchis Mascula), Titanium Dioxide


Chop Saver Lip Balm - Created by professional trumpet player Dan Gosling in his kitchen, this lip balm was originally intended for musicians to use to prevent chapping, soreness or inflammation from playing brass or woodwind instruments. Using a "symphony" of ingredients consisting of healing herbs like Arnica, Comfrey, Calendula and White Willow combined with nourishing oils and butters of Avocado, Grapeseed, Apricot, Shea and Mango, this lip balm is like no other I have tried. My lips are soft and hydrated and the light citrus flavor is just delightful, because, you know, it's important that any lip product I use tastes good...is that weird? In addition to soothing chapped lips, ChopSaver is also good for treating fever blisters and cold sores, as well as side effects of Acitretin. I can definitely see purchasing this once I run out! They also have one that contains spf15, which I may need to get, especially when running errands in this Winter weather!

Price - $3.99 (CVS website) or $13.35 - $24.75 for a 3 or 6 pack on Chopsaver's site
Ingredients - Castor Oil*, Candelilla Wax, Beeswax*, Shea Butter*, Mango Butter, Aloe Vera, Carnauba Wax*, Avocado Oil*, Apricot Kernel Oil*, Arnica, Calendula*, Comfrey, Raspberry Leaf*, White Willow, Vitamin E, Citrus Oils, Ginger Essential Oil*, Pea Isolate


I should mention too that I also just began incorporating some more amazing products from Enessa Organic Skincare and will hopefully have a post here or on social media to let you know what I am using! :-)

Have you tried anything from these brands? What are your fave products? How are you keeping your skin and lips pampered this Winter? Let me know below! 


Peace & Love,

Sabrina xoxo

*Products were generously sent to me for a review. All thoughts & opinions are my own. 

Post-Holiday Skin Woes & What I Am Doing To Make My Skin Happy Again!

Hey, loves! So, I don't know about you, but a little too much holiday food and drink indulging has left my skin looking like World War III took place on it! I thought about taking a "before pic" to show you guys but decided to spare myself the humiliation. Seriously, it's not a pretty sight! :-(

Instead of wallowing in self-pity, however, I decided to do something about it (and no, not walk around with a bag over my head, though it was tempting) - namely, put myself on a strict "diet" of particular skincare products and skin friendly only foods and cutting out the offenders.  Which means bye bye, morning coffee and two glasses of wine at night. Sigh.

Here's what I am using/doing:

Skincare:

I've found lately that there are two brands that seem to clear my skin up and calm my skin down quicker than any other and those are the two that I have been alternating. My skin can vary between oily/acneic and parched/acneic and these brands help to tame both issues.

For excess oil, cystic blemishes, and redness:

Enessa Organic Skincare (you can find out all the products I use here and here) - I am obsessed with this brand! Their Clove Acne Control Serum is the bomb.com at getting rid of painful cysts lickety split and their Seaweed Moisturizer in Cypress is lightweight, yet super hydrating. For above surface blemishes, I reach for Rescue Blemish Control - it's potent anti-bacterial properties kills acne fast, without drying out skin!


For dryness, flakiness, redness and breakouts:

Arcona Skincare's Basic 5 Dry Skin Starter Kit - Everything in this kit works pretty much immediately (like overnight) to hydrate, calm and clear up mild to moderate acne. This kit works best for me when my skin is slightly broken out, but really dry and parched. For cysts and more severe breakouts, I rely on Enessa's products to get the job done!

*I have also been adding a few drops of Avitalin's Lipid Repair (review to come soon), to my serums for extra healing benefits.


Detox from the inside:

Tastes like sadness but makes the body happy, so.....

Since Saturday, I have cut back almost completely on dairy, caffeine, sugar and alcohol. I say almost because I know going "cold turkey" just would not work for me. So, I compromised. Instead of coffee in the mornings, I now drink Organic Chai tea (it has some caffeine so I don't miss the java!), I never really eat much dairy other than cheese (though, I did go a bit overboard during the holidays), so that was an easy one to cut back on, sugar the same - don't really eat it much, except during the holidays when I was an everyday desserter! Alcohol was probably the hardest to limit. Not that I drink a lot or anything ( I have a tolerance level of like zero!), but I do enjoy a glass or two..ok, three with dinner and dessert. Now, I have been having water, tea or mineral water with dinner and one glass after as my dessert. Baby steps. My goal is to only have wine a few times a week, instead of everyday.

Another thing I have been doing is drinking a special detox drink alllll day long. It's basically just filtered water, 1/2 of an organic lemon (juice squeezed), 1 Tbsp of Braggs Raw Apple Cider Vinegar, a dash or two of Cayenne pepper and a dash or two of Cinnamon. I was originally drinking the lemon water alone and having a Tbsp of the ACV & water before meals (which tastes like all the happiness has been sucked out of me - Harry Potter fans will get it. ;)P), but because I hate the taste of the ACV so much, I decided to combine them. Thankfully, the lemon juice dampens the vinegar taste enough so I can drink it! That being said, I have noticed a remarkable difference in my digestion and a few other issues I have been struggling with. Raw Apple Cider Vinegar has soooooo many health benefits - I just can't stand the taste!


Tea, tea and more tea! 

Two of my current fave teas! I always make sure to look for Organic & non-GMO Project verified! 

Along with my Chai Tea obsession, I've been enjoying a variety of other teas that until now, were just taking up space in my kitchen! The thing is, I used to drink tea all the time (and still do when sick), and I honestly don't know why I stopped. Oh, wait, that's right - coffee happened!


Exercise!

I pretend that zombies are chasing me and that keeps me motivated! #nerd

Ok, this one is still a bit inconsistent as I deal with fatigue issues, so I need to be mindful of not overdoing it - I get addicted fast to working out and have a tendency to throw all caution to the wind and that never bodes well for me! At the same time, I need to get my butt off the couch more and be some kind of active! So, I'm working on finding the perfect balance! Right now, I am doing lots of yoga type stretching and riding my stationary bike, so progress! Yay me! :-)

As far as diet goes, I basically have been listening to my body. If I am craving eggs or chicken, or bone broth or something more vegan, I go with it. I've learned that the body is incredibly intelligent and will let you know through your cravings what it is in need of. Now, that doesn't mean if I'm craving chips or cookies that I'll give in, but I will get on my laptop and research what my body actually needs through those cravings. Unless it's craving pizza, then I definitely go with that! ;-)


Aromatherapy and deep breathing:

A little essential oil love from Annmarie Gianni Skincare & Tata Harper!

Pre-acne explosion - relaxing & listening to some Classical faves on Christmas day! 

Stress has pretty much been a "normal" part of my life for the past several years now, so it's not really surprising that Acne and Adrenal & hormonal issues have been as well. And while I do see a Naturopath to help with those, I have recently found that adding a bit of aromatherapy products as well as doing deep, diaphragmatic breathing (which as a singer is pretty much how I breathe normally, just doing it more deeply) have been helping a lot to keep my stress levels down.

Hopefully, one day, I won't have to deal with skin issues regularly or at all, but until that day comes, I'll keep fighting those dirty b's with everything Mother Nature has got!


How do you guys handle your skin issues? Any tips you can share? I'd love to know! 

Peace & love,
Sabrina xoxo


*Enessa Organic Skincare, Annmarie Gianni & Tata Harper products were all sent to me, however, I do use these and truly recommend them! All other products were purchased by me.

**Affiliate links are used

Tips For Starting A Brand New Skincare Regimen!

Hey, lovelies! I hope you have a fantabulous New Year's tonight! Anyone have any special plans? Me, I'm keeping it low key with the hubs and our furry babies - just a quiet evening of pizza, detox salad (which we'll need after the pizza - I'll share the recipe in another post if you'd like!?), roasted Brussels Sprouts, wine and maybe a movie! :-) 

I'm still trying to rest up as much as possible, but I get too bored easily - I'm literally the worst person when it comes to "taking it easy" (nervous energy?)! I'm trying to stay off of Social Media and I won't be really working much on my blog posts until Monday or so, but I do have a few contributed posts that I figured I'd continue sharing - it'll give me a chance to work on some of the changes I am making to "TBE" and also..rest...if I can handle that! lol

Anyhoo...this post is all about starting a new skincare regimen - and any of you beauty bloggers out there know how testing multiple brands can affect your skin - breakouts anyone? (goal #29383883379 for 2016 is to figure out a better testing timetable)! 

So, without further ramblings..I hope you enjoy this post! :-)

Peace & Love & have a safe and Happy New Year!!! 
~Sabrina xoxo

Tips For Starting A Brand New Skincare Regimen!

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The New Year brings with it resolutions and hopes of changing ourselves for the better. To start your new year off in the best way possible, why not start a new skincare regimen? It might not be as drastic as losing weight or cutting back on wine, but it’s something that will make you feel great. Treating your skin better will make putting your makeup on much easier and may even give you the confidence to go without. So if you’re ready to start pampering your skin a bit more, follow these tips!

Find out your skin type

Before you head to a store (or online shop) and buy all of the skin care products in sight, it would be beneficial for you to determine what kind of skin you have. Look in the mirror and take a good look at your skin. Does it look dry? Or oily? Or sensitive? Or is it a combination? Whatever it is you need to buy the right products to cater to your skin’s needs. Your skin is never going to look fantastic if you’re using the products that are aimed at a skin type that is different to your own. Do your research on products that will work efficiently on your particular skin type. Also, read other people’s reviews before you buy. Your skin might benefit from organic and natural ingredients or a deeply nourishing moisturizer. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice from the experts to ensure you know which products will suit you.

Don’t mess with your skin

When you’re starting your new skin care regimen, as tempting as it might be, don’t mess. Your skin is more delicate than you think. Squeezing and pulling at your skin is not going to get rid of your blemishes and pimples, it will just make them worse. It will also damage your skin making it scar and wrinkle prematurely. Your fingers and nails will also cut your skin and fill your pores with oil and dirt. Which is likely to cause more spots and blemishes. This is obviously not what you want. Visit howtogetridofpimples.com.au to find out how to remove spots and blemishes safely and hygienically.

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Remove your makeup every night

While you are asleep, your skin repairs itself, which can be made more difficult when you have makeup on. One of the best tips for healthy skin is to remove all makeup before you go to bed. Invest in a good makeup remover which will remove the buildup of foundation that has become lodged into your pores. Taking off your makeup gives your skin a chance to breathe and feel lovely and fresh. Remember to make sure the remover is not too harsh on your skin but effectively gets rid of all your makeup (like this one found here).

Don’t be discouraged if your new skincare regimen doesn’t work instantly. It’s going to take time for your skin to adjust to the new products you are using. The key is patience and consistency and within a few weeks, you’ll be able to see changes occurring.

~This post was contributed by Amie Wright


What are your tips for starting a new skincare regimen? Let me know in the comments below!


*I received compensation for publishing this post. Post contains an affiliate link.

Product Obsession: Neal's Yard Remedies - Frankincense Age-Defying Skincare Kit Review

Photo Credit

Neal's Yard Remedies is one of the top organic skincare companies in the UK, having started in a small depot in London in the 80's and driven by the belief that health and beauty should be more natural and less synthetic. Using ingredients that are pure, non-toxic, ethically sourced and sustainable, they create products that benefit mind, body and well-being.

You can read more here, here and here.

I had the pleasure of trying out some other of NYR's products (see here) and today, I am going to talk about their Frankincense Age-Defying Kit.

First of all, I really love the whole idea of trial/travel kits - they allow you to sample an entire range in a line (and sometimes the entire line itself, depending) in amounts that let you see how the products will work for you at a fraction of the price. It's perfect for those of us with sensitive skin or are on a budget!

What I love about this particular skincare kit is not only the price ($28 for 4 products and one sample), but the sizes are big enough for about 2-3 weeks worth of product usage (though if you are like me and only use a tiny bit of product or supplement other products in your routine, you can stretch it to 4-5 weeks).

The main ingredient in all of the products is organic and wild harvested Frankincense Oil - an oil renowned for its ability to improve skin tone and firmness, it's probably one of the most potent plant ingredients for treating aging skin. I love the benefits that Frankincense provides to the skin, so I was really excited to try out all of the products in this set!

Best of all, here is what you won't find in any of these products:

NO PARABENS – linked to estrogen overproduction
NO SYNTHETIC FRAGRANCES – many contain synthetic chemicals that are harmful to health
NO GMO INGREDIENTS – not enough is known about the long-term implications
NO animal testing – unnecessary and cruel
NO SILICONES – coat the skin, impeding its natural function
NO PHTHALATES – reported to have toxic impact on human and animal life
NO NANO – not enough is known about the long-term implications
NO MINERAL OILS – derived from petroleum, have a tendency to block the skin
NO EDTA – doesn't readily biodegrade
NO PROPYLENE GLYCOL – derived from petroleum
NO CARBOMER – derived from petroleum
NO DEA – associated with known carcinogens
NO ACRYLATES – derived from petroleum
NO BHT – linked to breathing and lung impairment

Here's what you get with this kit:

1) Rejuvenating Frankincense Refining Cleanser - This luxurious cream cleanser is formulated with skin firming Frankincense, antioxidant & EFA rich Baobab and moisture rich Organic Cocoa Butter to make skin feel soft, smooth and hydrated. This has become my favorite creamy cleanser to date!

2) Rejuvenating Frankincense Toner - Sweep away any last trace of cleanser while prepping skin to better absorb oil or serum with this refreshing and cooling toner. Aloe Vera and Glycerin hydrate, while Frankincense and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 rejuvenate and smooth skin for some serious age-defying benefits. I love how soothing this is and how it leaves my skin feeling oh so soft too!

3) Rejuvenating Frankincense Facial Oil - With nourishing ingredients like Macadamia, Hemp Seed, Castor Seed, Apricot Kernel and Grapeseed Oils just to name a few, this face oil is pure decadence for the skin! Apply a few drops while skin is still slightly damp from toner and let fully absorb before putting on your make-up. Skin will be left silky, not greasy, and so far no break-outs have occurred since using this either!

4) Frankincense Hydrating Cream - This rich cream moisturizer doesn't feel the least bit heavy on the skin, but rather leaves skin feeling soft, smooth and pampered. I found that I only need the teeniest amount so this 0.71fl oz jar will probably last me quite awhile yet! Lovely product for sure!

5) Frankincense Intense Cream (sample) - Using Gardenia Plant Stem Cells and a 3-Peptide Complex to firm, tone and lift, this moisturizer packs a hefty anti-aging punch! While it's difficult to gauge its efficacy from such a small sample, I can say that this does moisturize skin as well as the Hydrating Cream. At some point, I would like to try out a larger size of this product to see how well it actually works!

Price - $28
Ingredients - Rejuvenating Frankincense Refining Cleanser Aqua (Water), Ricinus communis (Castor) seed oil*, Cocos nucifera (Coconut) oil*, Glycerin, Theobroma cacao (Cocoa) seed butter*, Cetyl alcohol, Cetearyl olivate, Sucrose cocoate, Sorbitan olivate, Cetearyl glucoside, Sorbitan stearate, Palmitoyl tripeptide-5, Caprylic/Capric triglyceride, Adansonia digitata (Baobab) seed oil*, Alaria esculenta (Algae) extract, Boswellia carterii (Frankincense) oil, Citrus nobilis (Mandarin) peel oil expressed*, Citrus bergamia (Bergamot) peel oil expressed*, Aloe barbadensis (Aloe vera) leaf juice powder*, Tocopherol, Helianthus annuus (Sunflower) seed oil, Curcuma longa (Turmeric) root extract, Sclerotium gum, Sodium hyaluronate, Sodium dehydroacetate, Potassium sorbate, Levulinic acid, Sodium levulinate,Citral, Citronellol, Limonene, Linalool. * Organically produced ingredient. Natural constituent of essential oils listed.

Rejuvenating Frankincense Toner Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Aloe barbadensis (Aloe vera) leaf juice powder*, Palmitoyl tripeptide-5, Boswellia carterii (Frankincense) oil, Citrus nobilis (Mandarin) peel oil expressed*, Citrus bergamia (Bergamot) peel oil expressed*, Commiphora myrrha (Myrrh) gum oil, Coco-glucoside, Levulinic acid, Potassium sorbate, Citral, Citronellol, Limonene, Linalool. *Organically produced ingredient. Natural constituent of essential oils listed. Made with 97% organic ingredients.

Frankincense Intense™ Cream Aqua (Water), Macadamia ternifolia (Macadamia) seed oil*+, Behenyl olivate, Octyldodecyl olivate, Glycerin, Glycine soja (Soya) oil*, Theobroma cacao (Cocoa) seed butter*, Cetearyl glucoside, Cetearyl olivate, Sorbitan olivate, Argania spinosa (Argan) kernel oil*, Vitis vinifera (Grape) seed oil*, Adansonia digitata (Baobab) seed oil*, Aloe barbadensis (Aloe vera) leaf juice powder*, Ricinus communis (Castor) seed oil*, Sodium hyaluronate, Curcuma longa (Turmeric) root extract, Caprooyl tetrapeptide-3, Trifluoroacetyl tripeptide-2, Palmitoyl tripeptide-5, Gardenia jasminoides (Gardenia) meristem cell culture, Boswellia carterii (Frankincense) oil, Boswellia neglecta resin oil*, Commiphora confusa resin oil*, Citrus nobilis (Mandarin) peel oil*, Citrus bergamia (Bergamot) peel oil expressed*, Citrus aurantium amara (Neroli) flower oil*, Commiphora myrrha (Myrrh) oil*, Helianthus annuus (Sunflower) seed oil*, Tocopherol, Xanthan gum, Dextran, Levulinic acid, Sodium levulinate, Potassium sorbate, Dehydroacetic acid, Citral, Citronellol, Farnesol, Geraniol, Limonene, Linalool. *Organic. From essential oils. +Nut/seed derived ingredient. Made with 75% organic ingredients.

Frankincense Hydrating Cream Aqua (Water), Helianthus annuus (Sunflower) seed oil*, Simmondsia chinensis (Jojoba) seed oil*, Glycerin*, Cetearyl alcohol, Alcohol denat.*, Calendula officinalis (Marigold) flower extract*, Cetearyl glucoside, Prunus amygdalus dulcis (Almond) oil*+, Prunus armeniaca (Apricot) kernel oil*+, Borago officinalis (Borage) seed oil*, Daucus carota (Carrot) fruit oil*, Aloe barbadensis (Aloe vera) leaf juice powder*, Glyceryl stearate, Cetearyl olivate, Sorbitan olivate, Levulinic acid, Glycerin, Tocopherol, Potassium sorbate, Sodium hyaluronate, Boswellia carterii (Frankincense) oil, Commiphora myrrha (Myrhh) oil, Limonene. *Organically produced ingredient. +Nut/Seed-based ingredient.Natural constituent of essential oils listed. Made with 91% organic ingredients.

Rejuvenating Frankincense Facial Oil Macadamia ternifolia (Macadamia) seed oil*+, Adansonia digitata (Baobab) seed oil*, Prunus armeniaca (Apricot) kernel oil*, Ricinus communis (Castor) seed oil*, Oenothera biennis (Evening primrose) oil*, Cannabis sativa (Hemp) seed oil*, Vitis vinifera (Grape) seed oil*, Boswellia carterii (Frankincense) oil, Citrus nobilis (Mandarin) peel oil expressed*, Citrus bergamia (Bergamot) peel oil expressed*, Commiphora myrrha (Myrrh) gum oil, Curcuma longa (Turmeric) root extract, Helianthus annuus (Sunflower) seed oil, Tocopherol, Citral, Citronellol, Limonene, Linalool. *Organically produced ingredient. +Nut/seed derived ingredient. Natural constituent of essential oils listed.

Have you tried anything from Neal's Yard Remedies? What are your favorites? Let me know in the comments below! :-)

Peace & love,

Sabrina xoxo

*Products were generously sent to me for review, all opinions are my own.

Hold On To That Summer "Glow" All Year Round With These Tips...

One of the things I love about living in Western New York is the change of seasons. I especially love the transition from Summer to Fall - the beautiful red and gold jewel tones that begin to appear in October and that crisp, almost "burnt" smell that perfumes the air. Oh, and pumpkins..and of course Halloween! 

The thing I don't like is that along with the cooler temps generally comes drier, duller complexions. 

Inspired by some posts I found on Aloha.com's Pinterest boards (their website is pretty awesome too!), I started thinking about ways to keep my skin from looking drab and blah during this time of year. 

Some of these tips are definitely not unique, and most (if not all) of you probably already do these, but hey, they work so this is what I've got. ;-)

1) Water with lemon everyday all day! We all know that water is important in keeping the skin hydrated, but adding fresh (no fake bottled stuff!) lemon to your daily H2O not only provides an extra boost of hydration, it also detoxifies your body (and thus skin - buh-bye breakouts!) and provides skin brightening vitamin C. I generally drink 2 liters of water with lemon a day at room temp. 

*bonus tip - Swap out plain water for mineral/sparkling water and add organic cucumber slices or berries of choice with lemon for an extra special (ie "fancy schmancy") mocktail!

2) Glow from the inside out - In keeping with the eating (and drinking) for beauty tips, making sure to supply your body with tons of skin beautifying nutrients is key in achieving a healthy, glowing complexion! A few of my fave beauty foods include dark leafy greens, sweet potatoes, nuts and seeds, avocados, berries and bananas, plant based proteins and raw cacao (umm hello, chocolate!). For some really mouth watering and uber healthy recipes, check out these from Aloha.com! I definitely want to try alllll of them! YUM-O!

3) Gentle exfoliation - To help keep skin smooth and bright, I love to use a non-abrasive, gentle exfoliant once or twice a week. My favorite right now is the Acure Organics Brightening Facial Scrub. I also like to dry brush my whole body before I jump in the shower. Doing this not only wakes me up and gets the blood circulating, but it also helps to keep my lymphatic system functioning properly and can reduce cellulite too! 

4) Sleep, sleep and more sleep! It's not called "beauty sleep" for nothing - while you are catching zzzz's, your body takes this time to repair itself, renewing skin cells and literally rejuvenating your skin. To make sure you get enough sleep, nix any caffeine before bedtime and try going to sleep at the same time each night!

5) Exercise - Any kind of movement that gets your heart pumping and the blood flowing will instantly make your skin look more radiant! As someone with back issues and a few other (sometimes) debilitating health problems, this can be a difficult thing to accomplish. But I find that even something as simple as lunges, stretches and squats can make a difference and I've been known to dance around the house to a few tunes too! However you prefer to get your fitness groove on, go for it! My personal fave total (or targeted) body workout (when feeling up to it) is this one here! 

6) Go for the bronze(er) - The quickest and easiest way to get your glow on is to "fake it"! A few strategically placed strokes of bronzer and a bit of highlighter and voila! Instant glow! Also, use a liquid or hydrating cream (my faves are this, this and this) rather than a powder foundation for a more dewey look, A swipe of gold or peachy-bronze lip gloss and you're good to go! 

7) Don't forget the sunscreen!!! You don't need to be a vampire and shun the sun completely, but if you're going to be out and about during the day, make sure to include some spf into your morning skincare routine. Seriously guys, I have been wearing sunscreen religiously since my teens and I swear it is at least one of the reasons why I don't look my age (44 going on 45 in Feb)! Look for non-toxic ones that offer broad spectrum protection. Some of my current faves are this one and this one. I also use make-up that contains UV protection like this or this.

Photo by The Brunette Ecoholic. A few of my fave glow inducing products! 

Photo by The Brunette Ecoholic. Elate Cosmetics shadow in "Ethereal" & Pacifica "Bronzing Body Butter"

Photo by The Brunette Ecoholic. "Tara California Bronzing Cream" by Delizioso Skincare

Bring that Summer glow into the Fall baby! 

What are some of your tips for keeping that glow all year round? I'd love to know! 

Peace & Love,
Sabrina xoxo

*post contains affiliate links. 

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

Saving Face With Enessa Organic Skincare Part 2!

Hey guys! So, a few posts back I shared with you my experience using some products from Enessa Organic Skincare (read post here), and today I want to share a few more that I have since tried!

Since my last post, my skin has calmed down quite a bit (knock on wood!), and I think part of the reason is using the right ingredients and the right skincare.

The very kind and lovely, Michelle Ornstein from Enessa, graciously sent me a few more of her amazing products to try out and today I want to share my thoughts on them!

Let's dive right in to the goods, shall we?

1) Moringa Balance Elixir - This is probably one of the best oil blends I have ever put on my face! What makes it so special is the use of Moringa Seed Oil - a nutrient rich oil high in free radical fighting antioxidants, essential fatty acids and vitamins A & C. It also penetrates deeply into skin without leaving a greasy residue, which I love. In addition to the Moringa Oil, this also contains Golden Jojoba, Meadowfoam Seed Oil, Black Cumin and Tamanu (a personal fave!) to round out its nourishing and healing benefits. This elixir leaves my skin so soft, and feeling so pampered, I seriously want a vat of it to bathe in! I also noticed my skin looking a bit brighter and less red in the mornings! Woot!

Price - $59.95 for 1oz
Ingredients -  Moringa Oil**, Golden Jojoba*, Meadowfoam Seed Oil, Black Cumin Seed Oil, Tamanu Oil*, Non-GMO Vitamin E, Proprietary blend of Essential Oils.
*Certified Organic, **Organically grown

2) Seaweed Nourishing Gel Cypress - This light gel moisturizer hydrates as well as a cream, but without the heavy feel on your skin. It contains cell regenerating Tamanu Oil, Soothing Oat Beta Glucan and antibacterial and antiseptic essential oils like Neem, Lavender and Cajeput. This is a perfect moisturizer for oily skin, as well as for the Summer, as it is light, yet nourishing and won't break you out! Definitely one of my new favorite moisturizers...ever!

Price - $44.95 for 1.75oz
Ingredients - Aloe Vera Juice*, Golden Jojoba*, Tamanu Oil*, Rosehip Oil*, Avocado Oil*, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Vegetable Glycerin*, Black Cumin Seed Oil, Sodium Phytate, Kelp Extract, Rosemary CO2 Extract*, Sodium Levulinate, Olive Leaf Extract*, Green Tea Extract*, Coconut Fruit Extract, Lactobacillus Ferment, Sclerotium Gum, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract*, Sodium Hyaluronate, Maltodextrin, Panthenol, Sodium Anisate, Oat Beta Glucan, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein, Allantoin, Xanthan Gum, Non-GMO Vitamin E, Proprietary blend of essential oils.
*Certified Organic ** Wild Harvested

3) Rescue Blemish Control - Whereas the "Clove Acne Control" serum is perfect for getting rid of painful cystic acne (read more here), the "Rescue Blemish Control" is great for taking care of acne that has made its way above the surface of the skin. It is a very potent blend of antibacterial essential oils such as Tea Tree, Manuka, Lavender, Neem and Cajeput to name a few, and can also be used on insect bites, skin warts and skin tags. I found this to be slightly more drying than the Clove oil, probably due to the essential oils used, but I did not experience any irritation or excessive dryness. I did notice that any small blemishes I had seemed to disappear overnight when I used this!

Price - $38.95 for 1/2 oz
Ingredients - Certified Golden Jojoba, Neem Oil, Essential oils of Tee Tree,Manuka, Cajeput, Organic Lavender, Juniper, Organic Eucalyptus, Cypress, and others.



Have you tried anything by Enessa Organic Skincare yet? What are your favorites? Let me know!


Peace & Love,
Sabrina xo

*Products were generously sent to me for a review, however, all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own.

Trying to "Save Face" Part One: Help from Enessa Organic Skincare

For the past few months. my skin has been throwing what I can only call a "class 5 temper tantrum". I have no idea what caused it to freak out like it has (stress, chronic pain, PMS?), but it's been annoying, depressing and frustrating to say the least!

I'm currently trying a few different approaches to try and calm it down and keep it calm, one of which I will share with you today.

About a month ago or so, I reached out to Michelle Ornstein from Enessa Organic Skincare, (which I discovered while reading the Empowered Sustenance blog) to see if she could recommend anything that would help me. She very kindly sent me several products created for acne prone skin, and though I've only been using them a short while, I felt I needed to share with you how they have been working for me.

First off, if you've never heard of Enessa, let me give you a bit of info:

Founded by Michelle Ornstein, a licensed esthetician and aromatherapist, Enessa Organic Skincare is dedicated to purity in skincare and uses only the highest quality essential oils, bioactives and plant and marine extracts available. What they don't use are parabens, sulfates, petro-chemicals, synthetic dyes, synthetic fragrances or fillers. Any preservatives used are completely natural and plant based. And they do not test on animals. All products are made in small batches to ensure potency and freshness and they are packaged in dark bottles to protect the integrity of the ingredients.

Now, let's take a look at some of these lovely products! :-).

*PR Samples. Photo by The Brunette Ecoholic

1) Bergamot Purifying Cleanser - Formulated for normal to oily skin, this gel cleanser is rich in anti-oxidants and draws out impurities using natural foaming agents from Coconut Oil and Organic Aloe Vera Leaf Juice. It also contains potent ingredients such as Red Seaweed and Bladderwrack to stimulate circulation and eliminate toxins, and Ginko Biloba and Rooibos to fight inflammation and help with collagen production. The citrus-y scent is due to essential oils of Bergamot and Orange, which also provide antiseptic and calming benefits. What I loved about this cleanser the most is that it left my skin feeling really clean, yet hydrated. My skin sometimes (lately especially) has a tendency to get dry and irritated on certain areas after cleansing, but so far, so good with this cleanser! :-)

Price - $29.95 for 4oz
Ingredients - Aloe Vera Leaf Juice*, Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate, Lauryl Glucoside, Coco- Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Vegetable Glycerin, Bladderwrack Extract, Ginko Biloba Leaf Extract*, Roobios Leaf Extract*, Red Seaweed Extract, White Tea Extract*, Olive Leaf Extract*, Green Tea Extract*, Japanese Honeysuckle Extract, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Essential Oils of Bergamot*, Grapefruit* and others.
* Certified Organic

2) Tea Tree Hydraclear - This facial toner contains a plethora of powerful anti-acne ingredients (besides Tea Tree), such as Lavender Hydrosol, Aloe Vera Extract, Olive Leaf and Reishi Mushroom to name a few, all of which were carefully chosen for their anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, nourishing and healing properties. Like the cleanser, this is a very hydrating product, which I love. What I am not loving is the scent - I don't know how to describe it, other than it's maybe a little too "medicinal" smelling? Strange smell aside, I still love this product and will continue to use it as it seems to be helping my skin!

Price - $38.95 for 100ml
Ingredients - Tea Tree Hydrosol*, Lavender Hydrosol*, Aloe Vera*, Goldenseal Extract*, Reishi Mushroom Extract, Echinacea Extract*, Carya Ovata Bark Extract, Pink Himalayan Salts, Olive Leaf Extract*, Lactobacillus Ferment, Sclerotium Gum, proprietary blend of anti-bacterial essential oils. *Certified Organic

3) Seaweed Bio-Exfoliant - Since my skin has been so overly sensitive lately, I've only been able to tolerate this as a spot treatment, which even as such has been quite effective at helping to reduce the amount of blemishes on my face. This is in large part due to the inclusion of Dead Sea Salts, which kills bacteria, and Lavender, Lemon and Orange essential oils, which have antiseptic, anti-viral and anti-bacterial benefits. To use, I dab a small amount on blemishes, leave on for 5-10 minutes then rinse off and say buh-bye to those painful pimples!

Price - $37.95 for 2.5oz
Ingredients - Seaweed Powder, Flaxseeds*, Dead Sea Salts, Water, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate (derived from Coconut), Lauramidopropyl Betaine, Cocamidopropyl pg-dimonium chloride (a phospholipid complex derived from pure Coconut Oil), Glycerin, Sucrose Cocoate, Rose water*, Aloe Vera Gel*,Plantain extract*, Linden Flower extract*, Hydroxyethylcellulose,Gluconolactone, Sodium Benzoate and Essential Oil of Lavender*, Lemon* and Orange*. *Certified Organic

4) Clove Acne Control - This is hands down my favorite product of the bunch! I love Clove Oil as an acne treatment (read more about my love for it here), so I was really excited to see I had been sent this! And I was not disappointed in the least! Because Clove Oil is so very potent, only a small amount is needed to do its job! I've been using this on any nasty cystic blemishes that have popped up and this takes care of them pretty much overnight!

Price - $37.95 for 1/2 fl oz
Ingredients - Certified Organic Golden Jojoba, Essential oils of Clove and others

5) Juniper Sebum Control - This light, soothing serum helps to control oil production by restoring the acid mantle to a healthy state. And balanced, healthy skin equals less breakouts! Juniper essential oil works to kill acne bacteria, while Calendula Extract calms irritated skin, and Green Tea Extract provides anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant benefits. My skin has definitely shown improvement since using this!

Price - $48.95 for 1oz
Ingredients - Aloe Vera Juice*, Tea Tree Hydrosol*, Olive Leaf Extract*, Calendula Extract*, Vegetable Glycerin*, Reishi Mashroom Extract, Cocoyl Honeyate, Epilobium Fleischeri Extract, Carya Ovata Bark Extract, Anise Extract, Sodium Hyluronate, Juniperus communis, Origanum marjorana, Sclerotium Gum, Green Tea Extract*, Sodium Phytate, Lactobacillus Ferment, proprietary blend of anti-bacterial essential oils.

My overall thoughts - Even though I've only used these products for about four weeks, and my skin has been extremely temperamental, I have still noticed some improvement. And honestly, right now, any improvement is a huge deal for me! I will continue to use these products and would love to try more in the future!


Have you ever tried anything from Enessa Organic Skincare? What are your favorite products for calming down overly reactive skin? Let me know below!


*products were generously sent for review, however, all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own


Peace & Love,

~Sabrina xx

The Best Shaving Cream..Ever - Acure Organics Foaming Shaving Gel!

The past several months I have been on the hunt for a truly natural, non-toxic shave gel (that I also like), only to continually come up short of my goal. Thankfully, one of my favorite brands, Acure Organics, has recently come out with one and they kindly hooked me up!

So what's so great about this shaving gel?

Well, first off  it's powered by air, which means no nasty or toxic gasses to worry about. It's  also vegan, gluten free, sulfate free, paraben free, phthalate free, petroleum free, PEG free, cruelty free, and fragrance and silicone free. Whew!

PR Sample

So how does it work?

Like a dream! It's not messy, which I love because who wants to waste precious shower time cleaning shaving cream off the shower walls (am I the only one that's happened to?)? It contains soothing ingredients such as Aloe, Calendula and Blue Chamomile, has a faint, yummy Cucumber scent, and it's also extremely moisturizing.

Though the description states that this "foams", I haven't experienced that. For me, it comes out as a thick, rich gel that "preps" my legs nicely for shaving. It also makes shaving a lot easier (ie. I don't nick or cut myself with the razor as easily) and my legs/arms/bikini area are so hydrated and without any irritation.

I like this product so much that I am willing to overlook the use of Phenoxyethanol in its ingredients list (something I don't normally do)!

Would I purchase this once I run out? Yes. Would I recommend this to friends & family? Hell yes! This stuff rocks!


Price - $8.99
Ingredients - Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycerin, Babassu Oil Polyglyceryl Esters, Xanthan Gum, Carageenan, Citrus Bergamia (Bergamot) Essential Oil, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Extract (and) Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Ferula Galbaniflua (Galbanum) Resin Oil, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil, Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil Phytosterol Esters, Salix Nigra (Willowbark) Extract, Arnica Montana Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Extract, Calendula Officinalis Extract, Avena Sativa Kernel Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Azulene.


Have you tried this shaving gel yet? If so, what did you think of it? Let me know below! 


Peace & Love,
Sabrina xx

*Product was sent to me for review, all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own

Brand Obsession: Kari Gran Skincare

Kari Gran Skincare, a.k.a. "The Little Black Dress of Eco-Skincare" is a brand that provides simple, yet elegant natural products that work for any skin type or age.

Their hand-poured products are made using only the purest natural, organic, wild-crafted and non-GMO ingredients and are completely free of parabens and toxins. And to guarantee freshness, each bottle is marked with a hand written expiration date.

I was fortunate enough to try their Starter Kit , as well as two of their Lip Whips and today I want to share my thoughts with you.

PR samples. Photo by Chickweed & Blush

What's included:

• Essential Serum, 10 ml
• Lavender or Rose Hydrating Tonic, 15 ml ( I received the Rose Tonic)
• Cleansing Oil, 15 ml

Price for kit - $35

Total testing time - 3 weeks

1) Cleansing Oil -  Designed for night time cleansing, this beautiful, rich oil removes every trace of make up, dirt and impurities from the skin. It's light Lavender scent is relaxing, while the blend of Sunflower, Castor and Avocado oils are nourishing and hydrating. I honestly looked forward to cleansing my face at night while testing this. Following the ritual Kari Gran suggested, my skin felt so soft and clean afterwards! This is probably my new favorite oil cleanser ever! 

Ingredients: Organic Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Oil, Organic Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Organic Ricinus Communis (Castor Seed) Oil, Organic Lavandula Hybrida (Lavender) Oil, Tocopherol (non-GMO vitamin E from Sunflower)

The Kari Gran Ritual: 

• Apply 8-10 pumps of Cleansing Oil into your dry palm.
• Liberally massage onto dry face and neck.
• Apply a hot (not scalding) washcloth to face and let cool. Rinse and repeat.
• Gently wipe face and neck with the washcloth to remove excess oil while providing a light exfoliation.

2) Hydrating Tonic - I was sent the Rose Tonic and it was love at first spritz! I am a fan of anything rose scented and of the ingredient in general so I was really happy to receive this. As the name of the product implies, this toner is incredibly hydrating as well as refreshing, which came in handy recently when the weather reached the high 80's where I live! 

Ingredients: 100% fractionally distilled Aloe Barbadensis Miller (Aloe Vera Leaf), Organic Glycerin (Vegetable Glycerin), Organic Rose Damascena (Rose) Oil

The Kari Gran Ritual:

• Mist 3-4 pumps on cleansed face—damp skin will improve the absorption of our essential serum.
• To make fresh moisturizer: mist 3-4 pumps into the palm and add one or more pumps of serum, rub together and apply to dry skin.
• The tonic also sets makeup and is a lovely pick-me-up when your skin is feeling parched.

3) Essential Serum -  This gorgeous serum is truly the creme de la creme of face oils, in my humble opinion, and here's why - it's a glorious blend of 15 of the most nourishing and skin beautifying plant oils around, it's a multi-tasker (use it day or evening, as your  face, neck and eye serum, and also can be mixed with your mineral make-up to create a tinted moisturizer). But most of all, it works. It calms down "hyperactive" skin and causes redness and irritation to greatly reduce. It absorbs deeply into the skin, without leaving an oily feel. It smells amazing and it just feels good to use it. It's a total win for your skin! :-)

Ingredients: Organic Camellia Oleifera (Camellia Seed) Oil, Organic Rosa Canina Fruit (Rosehip Seed) Oil, Organic Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Oil, Organic Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Oil

Organic Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Organic Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Organic Olea Europaea (Olive), Organic Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) & Organic Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Oil, Organic Olea Europaea (Olive) & Organic Arnica Montana (Arnica) Oil, Organic Lavandula Hybrida (Lavender) Oil, Wildharvested Boswellia Sacra (Frankincense) Oil, Rosa Damascena (Rose) Oil, Jasminum Sambac (Jasmine) Oil, Organic Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn Seed) Oil, Organic Cananga Odorata (Ylang Ylang) Oil, Tocopherol (Non-GMO Vitamin E from Sunflower)

The Kari Gran Ritual: 

• Start with one pump for day use, add more if you like more moisture.
• Double the amount used during the day for your nightly treatment.
• Treat your neck and décolleté area as an extension of your face.
• Apply extra around the eye area in place of an additional eye cream.
• To create a custom moisturizer mist 3-4 pumps of tonic in the palm of your hand and add one to two pumps of Essential Serum, rub together and….voila! A batch of fresh moisturizer has just been made without a preservative in sight.
• Gently apply to cleansed skin. 

Lip Whips:
What do you get a bona fide lip product junkie? Well, if you really want to make them happy, you'd give them one (or all) of these delectable and highly moisturizing Lip Whips that's what! I was generously gifted with two (cue happy dance) of these gorgeous lip treats and they very quickly became two of  my favorite things ever! 
*If you are vegan or look for vegan products, it should be noted that the Lip Whips do contain Beeswax and Carmine. 

1) Naked - A clear balm that tastes like cinnamon and leaves your lips baby soft and slightly glossy. This is the one I reach for as a daily lip moisturizer or under my lipstick for a little extra moisturizing. 

2) Tinted - A soft pink blush tone that enhances your lips natural color and tastes delightfully minty. I love to use this one when I don't want to wear a lot of color on my lips, but I still want a slight tint. 

Price: $15
Ingredients: Organic Ricinus Communis (Castor Seed) Oil, Organic Beeswax, Organic Camellia Oleifera (Camellia Seed) Oil, Organic Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Organic Olea Europaea (Olive), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) & Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Oil, Tocopherol (Non GMO Vitamin E from Sunflower), Wildharvested Pimenta Racemosa (Pimenta Berry) Oil, Organic Cinnamomum Zeylanicum (Cinnamon Bark) Oil or Organic Mentha X Piperita (Peppermint) Oil
*Tinted Lip Whip contains Carmine

My overall thoughts: My experience with using the Kari Gran System was an extremely positive one. My skin had no issues with any of the products, which with the way my skin has been behaving lately is a real plus! I love their philosophy as well as their approach to skincare and skin health. I also love Kari Gran's attitude about aging, that she puts aside all the popular anti-aging stereotypes, and believes that true beauty comes not from how young or old one is, but by being kind to yourself and your skin. And we all know that nourished, healthy skin is beautiful, regardless of age. :-)


Have you tried Kari Gran Skincare? What is your favorite product? Let me know below!



Peace & Love,
Sabrina xx

*Products were generously sent to me for review, however, all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own