Just use code 'trickortreat14' at checkout and you will save 20%. Not bad, eh?
Happy shopping! :-)
Peace & Love,
~Sabrina
Sunday, October 5, 2014
Save 20% on Halloween Make-Up Sets from Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques!
Hey blushing beauties! Halloween will be here before you know it, and if you are in the process of planning your make-up to go with your costume, I wanted to give you the heads up that the peeps at Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques have their Halloween make-up sets discounted til the end of month!
Just use code 'trickortreat14' at checkout and you will save 20%. Not bad, eh?
Just use code 'trickortreat14' at checkout and you will save 20%. Not bad, eh?
Friday, September 26, 2014
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!!
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
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
Monday, September 22, 2014
Product Obsession: Saint Francis Organics
Read more about their story here.
In a perfect world, all brands and products would be non-toxic and safe, however, we don't live in a perfect world, so we need to grab onto and support the brands that truly do make our health and the protection of our environment a priority.
When a company contacts me to review their products, the first thing I do is to check out their website and see what they are all about and what ingredients they use. What I liked about this brand right at first glance, besides the ingredients, was the fact that they are Non-GMO, vegan, gluten free, hypoallergenic, recyclable, biodegradable and cruelty free.
Obviously, I agreed to test their wares! Here is what I received!
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1) Natural/Organic Shampoo - Two things I found that were really unique about this shampoo was that freshly brewed organic green tea was used instead of water, and soap nuts were used as the foaming agent over harsh sulfates. Soap nuts, also called soap berries, are a natural surfactant found in India and Nepal and have anti-microbial, anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. They are also hypoallergenic and have been used to treat dermatological issues. What I loved about this shampoo is how little I needed to use and that it left my hair feeling clean and not oily or "filmy". The citrus scent is quite uplifting as well, so this will help to "get your motor running" in the mornings!
Price - $19.50
Ingredients - *Organic Green Tea, Decyl Glucoside, Vegetable Glycerin, Hickory Bark Extract, Organic Soap Berry, Panthenol (Vitamin B-5), * Organic Cucumber Fruit Extract, *Organic Avocado Fruit Extract, * Organic Mango Fruit Extract, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Citric Acid * Certified Organic
2) Natural/Organic Conditioner - I absolutely loved this conditioner! I've had a love/hate relationship with some of the natural conditioners out there lately, most being either too thick/greasy or too thin/watery. This one, as the story goes, was just right! Ingredients like Avocado, Shea Butter and Coconut Oil make this conditioner creamy, nourishing and just rich enough while leaving my hair super soft and silky. Love this!
Price - $18.50
Ingredients - * Camellia Sinesis (Green Tea), Cetearyl Alcohol, Behenyl Alcohol, Carya Ovata (Hickory) Bark Extract, Vegetable Glycerin, Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate, * Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Panthenol (Vitamin B-5), * Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Extract, * Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, * Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Fruit Extract, * Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract, * Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), * Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, * Tapioca Starch, * Cocos Nucifera (Coconut Oil), Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride. *Certified Organic
Price - $16.50
Ingredients - *Organic Green Tea, *Organic Coconut Oil, *Organic Olive Oil, *Organic Shea Butter, *Organic Jojoba Seed Oil, *Organic Sunflower Seed Oil, *Organic Cocoa Seed Butter, Vegetable Glycerin, *Organic Avocado, *Organic Mango, *Organic Cucumber, *Organic Lavender oil, *Organic Bergamot oil, *Organic Orange oil, Vitamin E, Guar Gum, Citric Acid
*Certified Organic
4) Natural/Organic Body Lotion - This rich, silky lotion left my skin baby soft and lightly scented with the subtle fragrance of peppermint with a hint of vanilla. Deeply hydrating Sweet Almond Oil, Avocado Fruit Extract and Shea Butter kept my skin feeling nourished all day.
Price - $19.50
Ingredients - *Organic Aloe Vera Gel, Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate SE, *Organic Sweet Almond Oil, Sodium Stearyl Lactylate, *Organic Rice Extract, *Organic Green Tea Extract, *Organic Cucumber Fruit Extract, *Organic Avocado Fruit Extract, *Organic Mango Fruit Extract, *Organic Sunflower Seed Oil, *Organic Olive Fruit Oil, *Shea Butter, *Tapioca Starch, Vitamin E, Guar Gum, Potassium Sorbate, Gluconolactone, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid. Essential Oils of: *Organic Orange Oil, *Organic Lime Oil, *Organic Lavender Oil, *Organic Bergamot Oil, *Organic Orange Oil, *Organic Peppermint Oil, *Organic Vanilla. * Certified Organic
5) USDA Organic Hand Soap - As someone who washes her hands A LOT, it's hard to keep them from getting dry and cracked at times (also I forget or am too lazy to put on some hand lotion..I know, I know!), so finding a hand soap that won't make my hands feel like the Sahara Desert is a must. Made with Castile Soap and several moisturizing organic oils and butters, this product is the solution to my problem. My hands stayed soft with no lotion needed!
Price - $12.50
Ingredients - *Organic Green Tea, *Organic Coconut Oil, *Organic Olive Oil, *Organic Shea Butter, *Organic Jojoba Seed Oil, *Organic Sunflower Seed Oil, Vegetable Glycerin, *Organic Cucumber, *Organic Avocado, *Organic Mango, Vitamin E, Guar Gum, Citric Acid, Essential oils of: *Organic Lavender Oil, *Organic Bergamot Oil, *Organic Orange Oil. * Certified Organic
My overall thoughts: I was quite impressed with the quality and performance of these products. I will be honest and say that the scent of the shampoo was not my favorite, but I tend to prefer more fruity/floral scents for shampoo. I did, however, love the peppermint/vanilla scents of the conditioner and body lotion, as well as the lavender fragrance of the hand soap. All in all, I think that Saint Francis Organics is a company worth checking out!
*Products were generously sent to me for review, however, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Have you tried Saint Francis Organics? What are your favorite products? Sound off below and let me know!
Peace & Love,
~Sabrina xx
Monday, September 15, 2014
Product Obsession: Scentuals Bodycare Review Part 2 - Lip Products
I posted a review a bit ago (so sorry for the long delay!) on some really great bath and body care products that were sent to me from Scentuals Bodycare (which you can read here).
Today, I want to share the gorgeous (and delicious) lip care products that were also sent.
To say that I am a lip product junkie would be an understatement. I'm so addicted to lip products, especially flavored ones (naturally of course!), that an intervention is probably in order!
With that being said, let's take a look at my latest lip obsessions!!
Lip Conditioners:
1) Vanilla Citrus - This was my favorite of the two. It not only smells delicious, like fruity candy, but it tasted good too ( I honestly couldn't stop licking my lips, bad I know, but I couldn't resist! I need help).
2) Chocolate Mousse - This smells and tastes like the most decadent chocolate dessert (sans the calories or guilt!) and just like the Vanilla Citrus, this leaves my lips soft, hydrated, and a tad glossy. And with ingredients like Coconut Oil, Shea Butter and Hemp Oil, my pout is well nourished to boot.
Price - $5.95
Tinted Lip Moisturizers:
These are not your average tinted lip balms, no ma'am. These are highly pigmented, yet light and glossy lip moisturizers. Think lipstick but with the feel of a lip balm.
1) Passion - "I generally avoid temptation, unless I can't resist it"*...This gorgeous, rich, earthy pink is perfect for any occasion or season. It has a slight citrus flavor that isn't overwhelming, but still yummy. I will be keeping this one around through Fall and Winter as it really compliments my skin tone perfectly!
2) Sultry - "When I'm good, I'm very good, but when I'm bad I'm better"...If you're looking to up the ante on your sexiness, this is the shade to reach for! It's a shimmery bronze that definitely lives up to its name. And the hint of cinnamon flavor makes this muy caliente! I will definitely be wearing this one a lot this Fall!!
3) Bombshell - "Too much of a good thing can be wonderful"...The color reminds me of my favorite wine and the slight cherry flavor makes me want to eat this rather than wear it! I've been looking for a red lip color to compliment my fair skin without looking "clownish", and I think I have finally found it!
4) Flirt - "The score never interested me, only the game"...This soft, shimmery pink is my favorite of the four. Though this is probably best suited for Spring and Summer, I can see myself wearing this in the Fall and Winter paired with a sexy, smokey eye. The rose scent is calming and completely seductive too.
Price - $10.00 each
Ingredients - Organic beeswax, Organic sunflower oil, Organic coconut oil, Organic shea butter, Organic carnuba wax, Vitamin E, Flavour, Colour: natural micas
*Quotes taken from the tinted lip moisturizer tubes and were courtesy of a woman who simply oozed sex appeal - Mae West. I think Bombshell and Sultry would have been her faves! ;-)
My overall thoughts - These are some of the tastiest and most beautiful lip moisturizers I've ever used and to say that I have become obsessed is putting it quite mildly! I can't wait to play with some Fall inspired make-up looks with the tinted lip colors! ;-)
And don't forget to use coupon code chickweedandblush_20 at checkout to receive a 20% off discount on your purchase! Code is good for a year (expires 8/21/15)! Woot!
*Products were generously sent to me to review, however, all thoughts and opinions are strictly my own.
Have you tried Scentuals Bodycare lip products? Which are your favorites?
Peace & Love,
~Sabrina
Today, I want to share the gorgeous (and delicious) lip care products that were also sent.
To say that I am a lip product junkie would be an understatement. I'm so addicted to lip products, especially flavored ones (naturally of course!), that an intervention is probably in order!
With that being said, let's take a look at my latest lip obsessions!!
Lip Conditioners:
1) Vanilla Citrus - This was my favorite of the two. It not only smells delicious, like fruity candy, but it tasted good too ( I honestly couldn't stop licking my lips, bad I know, but I couldn't resist! I need help).
2) Chocolate Mousse - This smells and tastes like the most decadent chocolate dessert (sans the calories or guilt!) and just like the Vanilla Citrus, this leaves my lips soft, hydrated, and a tad glossy. And with ingredients like Coconut Oil, Shea Butter and Hemp Oil, my pout is well nourished to boot.
Price - $5.95
Tinted Lip Moisturizers:
These are not your average tinted lip balms, no ma'am. These are highly pigmented, yet light and glossy lip moisturizers. Think lipstick but with the feel of a lip balm.
1) Passion - "I generally avoid temptation, unless I can't resist it"*...This gorgeous, rich, earthy pink is perfect for any occasion or season. It has a slight citrus flavor that isn't overwhelming, but still yummy. I will be keeping this one around through Fall and Winter as it really compliments my skin tone perfectly!
2) Sultry - "When I'm good, I'm very good, but when I'm bad I'm better"...If you're looking to up the ante on your sexiness, this is the shade to reach for! It's a shimmery bronze that definitely lives up to its name. And the hint of cinnamon flavor makes this muy caliente! I will definitely be wearing this one a lot this Fall!!
3) Bombshell - "Too much of a good thing can be wonderful"...The color reminds me of my favorite wine and the slight cherry flavor makes me want to eat this rather than wear it! I've been looking for a red lip color to compliment my fair skin without looking "clownish", and I think I have finally found it!
4) Flirt - "The score never interested me, only the game"...This soft, shimmery pink is my favorite of the four. Though this is probably best suited for Spring and Summer, I can see myself wearing this in the Fall and Winter paired with a sexy, smokey eye. The rose scent is calming and completely seductive too.
Price - $10.00 each
Ingredients - Organic beeswax, Organic sunflower oil, Organic coconut oil, Organic shea butter, Organic carnuba wax, Vitamin E, Flavour, Colour: natural micas
*Quotes taken from the tinted lip moisturizer tubes and were courtesy of a woman who simply oozed sex appeal - Mae West. I think Bombshell and Sultry would have been her faves! ;-)
My overall thoughts - These are some of the tastiest and most beautiful lip moisturizers I've ever used and to say that I have become obsessed is putting it quite mildly! I can't wait to play with some Fall inspired make-up looks with the tinted lip colors! ;-)
And don't forget to use coupon code chickweedandblush_20 at checkout to receive a 20% off discount on your purchase! Code is good for a year (expires 8/21/15)! Woot!
*Products were generously sent to me to review, however, all thoughts and opinions are strictly my own.
Have you tried Scentuals Bodycare lip products? Which are your favorites?
Peace & Love,
~Sabrina
Monday, September 8, 2014
My Signature Summer Make-Up Look Tag!
The lovely Sonja from Life in Blush tagged me to share my "signature Summer Make-up look", and although it's already September, it's technically still Summer so I'm not too late with this just yet! ;-)
So, since this is a tag, there are rules to abide - acknowledge and link back to the blogger who tagged you, share your look (only using make-up you've owned for at least 6 months), and tag 5-10 other bloggers to do the tag.
Let's do this!
For me, Summer is all about a "less is more" approach to make-up. I generally tend to stick with shimmery browns on my eyes, a touch of liner and mascara, bronzer on my cheeks and a nude or light pink color on lips. That's pretty much it. If I'm going out at night, I do like to do a bright eyeliner or lip or even more dramatic eyes, but for the most part, I like to keep it simple.
Here is what I used:
Lucy Minerals Foundation in the Lucy Light formula (shade is "Light")
Everyday Minerals Face Tints in "Calm & Collected"
Terra Firma Cosmetics Multi-Tasking Eyeshadow in "Haelo"
Kjaer Weis Eyeshadow in "Magnetic" - in the crease and under eyes
Devita Naturals Softlines Eyeliner in "Absolute Obsidian"
Organic Wear CC Curl & Care Mascara in "Black"
The All Natural Face Diva Eye Stix in "Highlighter"- inner corners of my eyes
Everyday Minerals Lip Tint in "Nearly Nude"
Not the most exciting look, I know. But it's quick, easy and natural looking - which is how I like to roll in the hot and humid months!
Now, to keep this going...
Tianna from Storybook Apothecary, Crystal from Clean Beauty Craze, Stephanie from She's So Eco, Megan from Seed to Serum and Kate from Living Pretty Naturally - Tag you're it!!! :-P
Peace & Love,
~Sabrina
So, since this is a tag, there are rules to abide - acknowledge and link back to the blogger who tagged you, share your look (only using make-up you've owned for at least 6 months), and tag 5-10 other bloggers to do the tag.
Let's do this!
 |
| *Not shown - Organic Wear Mascara as I had ran out & tossed before I took this pic...oops |
For me, Summer is all about a "less is more" approach to make-up. I generally tend to stick with shimmery browns on my eyes, a touch of liner and mascara, bronzer on my cheeks and a nude or light pink color on lips. That's pretty much it. If I'm going out at night, I do like to do a bright eyeliner or lip or even more dramatic eyes, but for the most part, I like to keep it simple.
Here is what I used:
Lucy Minerals Foundation in the Lucy Light formula (shade is "Light")
Everyday Minerals Face Tints in "Calm & Collected"
Terra Firma Cosmetics Multi-Tasking Eyeshadow in "Haelo"
Kjaer Weis Eyeshadow in "Magnetic" - in the crease and under eyes
Devita Naturals Softlines Eyeliner in "Absolute Obsidian"
Organic Wear CC Curl & Care Mascara in "Black"
The All Natural Face Diva Eye Stix in "Highlighter"- inner corners of my eyes
Everyday Minerals Lip Tint in "Nearly Nude"
Not the most exciting look, I know. But it's quick, easy and natural looking - which is how I like to roll in the hot and humid months!
Now, to keep this going...
Tianna from Storybook Apothecary, Crystal from Clean Beauty Craze, Stephanie from She's So Eco, Megan from Seed to Serum and Kate from Living Pretty Naturally - Tag you're it!!! :-P
Peace & Love,
~Sabrina
Friday, September 5, 2014
Make Up Products I am Lusting After Part One - Face
Since I can't seem to get my brain motivated to write the several reviews I have yet to do, I thought I would take a break and write about some products that have recently caught my attention.
Today is going to be all about the face. Foundation, Primer, and CC/BB creams to be more specific.
Let's dive right in, shall we?
Up first...prime that canvas!
As someone who has way less than perfect skin (thanks to some indented acne scarring), a primer is a must for me. I try to avoid ones that use dimethicone (or any silicones), as that ingredient usually causes me to break out. Unfortunately, those are the primers that make my skin look the smoothest..sigh.
1) Studio 78 Paris Luminous Primer - I've heard a lot of great things about this primer from a few bloggers, so I definitely would like to add this to my collection at some point soon!
It contains Clary Sage and Sweet Almond Oil, both of which are great for acne prone skin, and Mica which helps to reflect and diffuse light (for me that means this takes the focus off my scars!).
Price - $38
Ingredients - ECO Cert Organic Certified AQUA, SALVIA SCLAREA FLOWER/LEAF/STEM WATER*, PROPANEDIOL, ISOSTEARIC ACID, HEPTYL UNDECYLENATE, MICA, SUCROSE PALMITATE, CETEARYL ALCOHOL, GLYCERYL STEARATE, SILICA, PRUNUS AMYGDALUS DULCIS OIL*, POTASSIUM PALMITOYL HYDROLYZED WHEAT PROTEIN, TOCOPHEROL, OLIVE GLYCERIDES, HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED OIL*, PARFUM, MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE, CELLULOSE GUM, OLEA EUROPEA LEAF EXTRACT, MALTODEXTRIN, OLEA EUROPAEA LEAF EXTRACT, ALCOHOL, CELLULOSE, CHAMOMILLA RECUTITA FLOWER EXTRACT*, BENZYL ALCOHOL, DEHYDROACETIC ACID. MAY CONTAIN: CI 77891
Next...a little Color and Correcting...
2) Juice Beauty Stem Cellular CC Cream - From the website: "Beyond BB Cream, the 12-in-1 multi-tasking CC cream (color correcting) for the ultimate in age defying, skin perfecting results." I only got that far before I started panting over this. Also, it's good for all skin types, and contains a broad spectrum spf of 30. Score and score!
Price -$39
Ingredients - Zinc Oxide 20%
Today is going to be all about the face. Foundation, Primer, and CC/BB creams to be more specific.
Let's dive right in, shall we?
Up first...prime that canvas!
As someone who has way less than perfect skin (thanks to some indented acne scarring), a primer is a must for me. I try to avoid ones that use dimethicone (or any silicones), as that ingredient usually causes me to break out. Unfortunately, those are the primers that make my skin look the smoothest..sigh.
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| Photo Credit |
1) Studio 78 Paris Luminous Primer - I've heard a lot of great things about this primer from a few bloggers, so I definitely would like to add this to my collection at some point soon!
Price - $38
Ingredients - ECO Cert Organic Certified AQUA, SALVIA SCLAREA FLOWER/LEAF/STEM WATER*, PROPANEDIOL, ISOSTEARIC ACID, HEPTYL UNDECYLENATE, MICA, SUCROSE PALMITATE, CETEARYL ALCOHOL, GLYCERYL STEARATE, SILICA, PRUNUS AMYGDALUS DULCIS OIL*, POTASSIUM PALMITOYL HYDROLYZED WHEAT PROTEIN, TOCOPHEROL, OLIVE GLYCERIDES, HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED OIL*, PARFUM, MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE, CELLULOSE GUM, OLEA EUROPEA LEAF EXTRACT, MALTODEXTRIN, OLEA EUROPAEA LEAF EXTRACT, ALCOHOL, CELLULOSE, CHAMOMILLA RECUTITA FLOWER EXTRACT*, BENZYL ALCOHOL, DEHYDROACETIC ACID. MAY CONTAIN: CI 77891
Next...a little Color and Correcting...
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| Photo Credit |
2) Juice Beauty Stem Cellular CC Cream - From the website: "Beyond BB Cream, the 12-in-1 multi-tasking CC cream (color correcting) for the ultimate in age defying, skin perfecting results." I only got that far before I started panting over this. Also, it's good for all skin types, and contains a broad spectrum spf of 30. Score and score!
Price -$39
Ingredients - Zinc Oxide 20%
Inactive Ingredients: Juice Beauty proprietary blend of fruit stem cells: apple buds, grape buds & lemon bark. Organic juices of pyrus malus (organic apple juice)*, vitis vinifera (organic white grape juice)*, aloe barbadensis (organic aloe leaf juice)*, cocos nucifera (organic coconut oil)*, caprylic/capric triglyceride, sorbitan stearate, ricinus communis (castor seed oil), polyglyceryl-10 laurate, magnesium sulfate, helianthus annuus (organic sunflower seed oil)*, simmondsia chinensis (organic jojoba seed oil)*, tocopherol (Vitamin E), magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (Vitamin C), sodium hyaluronate (vegetable hyaluronic acid), malus sylvestris (apple buds), vitis vinifera (grape buds) & citrus limonum (lemon bark), iron oxides, phenethyl alcohol, ethylhexylglycerin, citrus reticulata (mandarin) & citrus aurantium (petitgrain) pure essential oils.
Finally...foundation!
I never, ever go out of the house without some kind of foundation on my face. Even now that I am able to openly talk about my skin issues, those deep rooted insecurities just won't allow me to show my bare skin in public. Maybe someday I'll be brave enough, but until then, I'm keeping my "security blanket"!
Of course, that means I am always on the look out for my most perfect foundation. Here are the latest two to catch my eye...
Liquid:
3) Gressa Skin Minimalist Corrective Serum Foundation - This is a foundation that has been eagerly awaited by many a green beauty blogger/lover. It's not just make-up, it's skincare as well. It contains ingredients you'd find in most skin serums, and with the inclusion of Broccoli Seed Oil, this also triples as a face primer (Broccoli Seed Oil gives the same effect on skin as silicone does, without clogging pores), which makes this all the more attractive to me.
Price - $48
Ingredients - *Brassica oleracea (Broccoli) Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Silica, GRESSA Healing ComplexTM *Silymarin, *Neem (Azadirachta indica) Extract,*Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) Extract, *Lemon Balm (Melissa officianalis) Extract, *Barberry (Berberis vulgaris) Extract, *Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) Seed Extract, *Elder Flower (Sambucus nigra) Extract, *Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia) Extract, Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate Non-GMO, Coenzyme Q10, Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, (Vitamin C), *lecithin, *glycerin, mica, iron oxides, titanium oxide. *CERTIFIED ORGANIC
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| Photo Credit |
3) Gressa Skin Minimalist Corrective Serum Foundation - This is a foundation that has been eagerly awaited by many a green beauty blogger/lover. It's not just make-up, it's skincare as well. It contains ingredients you'd find in most skin serums, and with the inclusion of Broccoli Seed Oil, this also triples as a face primer (Broccoli Seed Oil gives the same effect on skin as silicone does, without clogging pores), which makes this all the more attractive to me.
Price - $48
Ingredients - *Brassica oleracea (Broccoli) Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Silica, GRESSA Healing ComplexTM *Silymarin, *Neem (Azadirachta indica) Extract,*Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) Extract, *Lemon Balm (Melissa officianalis) Extract, *Barberry (Berberis vulgaris) Extract, *Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) Seed Extract, *Elder Flower (Sambucus nigra) Extract, *Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia) Extract, Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate Non-GMO, Coenzyme Q10, Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, (Vitamin C), *lecithin, *glycerin, mica, iron oxides, titanium oxide. *CERTIFIED ORGANIC
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| Photo Credit Google Images |
4) Studio 78 Paris Chamelion Foundation - What intrigues me the most about this product is the whole "color match" technology it is formulated with. I have one of those really hard to match skin tones so if this works like it says it does, my problem is solved! Also, the ingredients are way cleaner than the other "color matching" foundations out there, so another plus.
Price - $52
Ingredients - AQUA, SALVIA SCLAREA FLOWER/LEAF/STEM WATER*, MICA, SQUALANE, OCTYLDODECANOL, ZINC STEARATE, SUCROSE PALMITATE, GLYCERYL STEARATE, CETEARYL ALCOHOL, POTASSIUM PALMITOYL HYDROLYZED WHEAT PROTEIN, COCOS NUCEFIRA OIL*, PRUNUS ARMENIACA KERNEL OIL*, PERSEA GRATISSIMA OIL*, TOCOPHEROL, OLIVE GLYCERIDES, HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED OIL*, MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE, CELLULOSE GUM, OLEA EUROPEA LEAF EXTRACT, CELLULOSE, ALCOHOL, MALTODEXTRIN, OLEA EUROPEA EXTRACT, CHAMOMILLA RECUTITA FLOWER EXTRACT*, PARFUM, BENZYL ALCOHOL, DEHYDROACETIC ACID.
MAY CONTAIN: CI 77891, CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499
Powder:
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| Photo Credit |
5) W3LL PEOPLE Altruist Satin Mineral Foundation - What I find unique and attractive about this foundation is that the pigments have been triple milled so they would feel weightless, yet creamy on the skin. I love powder foundations, but most tend to cake or streak on me, so if this performs like the description says, I will be one happy chica. This foundation also contains Organic Aloe for extra soothing and nourishing benefits.
Price - $31.50 (sample $1.50)
Ingredients - Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Ultramarine Blue, Mica, Kaolin Clay, Serecite, Silica, Organic Aloe Barbadenis (Aloe)*, Matricaria recutita (Chamomile)**, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea)*
These are the five face products I am coveting the most right now. I'm sure in a month or two, I'll have a new list of must haves! ;-)
Have you tried any of these products? What are your favorite face products at the moment? I'd love to know!
Peace & Love,
~Sabrina xx
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Five Affordable Green Beauty Brands You May Not Have Tried Yet! And a Few on My Own Wishlist!
Last year (wow! Time sure does fly!) I shared some of my top picks for affordable green beauty brands (which you can read here), today I'd like to add to that list.
My goal is to provide brands that are not only affordable to the average person, but are also good introductory brands to those who are new to green beauty. I personally know how overwhelming and confusing it can be to know which brands to choose in the green beauty world, especially when you are just starting to switch over, so hopefully these lists will help you newbies out (and also perhaps introduce new brands to you veterans too)! :-)
With that in mind, here are my 5 latest picks!
1) Batty's Bath - I found this gem on Etsy, and was so impressed by what I saw both ingredients and price wise, that I ventured on over to her website and placed an order. If you have suffered or are suffering with skin issues like acne or rosacea, this brand is worth checking out! I ended up purchasing her Detox Kit, as well as a few samples of other products. You'll save big on shipping if you sign up for her newsletter too, which is what I did! Prices vary from $2 (samples) to $50 (kit). Review to follow (hopefully soon!).
2) Shea Terra Organics - I've loved everything I have tried by this brand, especially the Rose Hips face wash (see review here), Hibiscus Oil, and their Rose Hips and Carrot Perfecting Serum. The ingredients are pure, therapeutic and ethically sourced. The prices are great and if you sign up for their "VIP Specials", you'll receive emails with discount codes and other deals. Prices range from around $3 to $32 depending on product.
3) Luminance Skincare - This brand is my new obsession. This is truly a unique brand, and the more I use their products, the more in love I fall with them. I especially love that they use Tamarind Seed extract, which is far more effective than hyaluronic acid in terms of moisture retention. See review here.
4) Acure Organics - Though I still have yet to try this brand, I have heard nothing but good things from my fellow bloggers, and I trust their opinions. Not only does Acure Organics use the purest, most effective fair trade natural and organic ingredients around, but they use a high concentration of Chlorella Growth Factor, which is proven to protect collagen and elastin fibers from the enzymes that would destroy them. I've got my eye on their Seriously Firming Facial Serum! Prices range from around $3.99 to $29.99
5) Blissoma - Another brand that is on my wishlist, Blissoma is not only extremely inexpensive for the quality of ingredients, but like Acure Organics, I have heard nothing but rave reviews about them. Founder Julie Longyear is one of the most knowlegeable people I've come across in the green beauty world. She is "fluent" in both chemistry and herbalism so you just know that her products will be amazingly effective. I'm especially lusting after the Smooth A+ Perfecting Serum and the Lift Intelligent Energy Creme. Prices range from about $3.50 (samples) to $33.99 (but full sized skincare kits can range up to $122).
I could probably list several more, but these are the current stand outs for me right now. As I discover more affordable and effective (which is key) green brands, I will be sure to share them with you!
Have you tried any of these brands? If so, which are your favorites and if not, which ones are on your wishlist? Let me know! :-)
Peace & Love,
~Sabrina xx
My goal is to provide brands that are not only affordable to the average person, but are also good introductory brands to those who are new to green beauty. I personally know how overwhelming and confusing it can be to know which brands to choose in the green beauty world, especially when you are just starting to switch over, so hopefully these lists will help you newbies out (and also perhaps introduce new brands to you veterans too)! :-)
With that in mind, here are my 5 latest picks!
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| Top 3 photos by Chickweed & Blush; Acure and Blissoma from Google Images |
1) Batty's Bath - I found this gem on Etsy, and was so impressed by what I saw both ingredients and price wise, that I ventured on over to her website and placed an order. If you have suffered or are suffering with skin issues like acne or rosacea, this brand is worth checking out! I ended up purchasing her Detox Kit, as well as a few samples of other products. You'll save big on shipping if you sign up for her newsletter too, which is what I did! Prices vary from $2 (samples) to $50 (kit). Review to follow (hopefully soon!).
2) Shea Terra Organics - I've loved everything I have tried by this brand, especially the Rose Hips face wash (see review here), Hibiscus Oil, and their Rose Hips and Carrot Perfecting Serum. The ingredients are pure, therapeutic and ethically sourced. The prices are great and if you sign up for their "VIP Specials", you'll receive emails with discount codes and other deals. Prices range from around $3 to $32 depending on product.
3) Luminance Skincare - This brand is my new obsession. This is truly a unique brand, and the more I use their products, the more in love I fall with them. I especially love that they use Tamarind Seed extract, which is far more effective than hyaluronic acid in terms of moisture retention. See review here.
4) Acure Organics - Though I still have yet to try this brand, I have heard nothing but good things from my fellow bloggers, and I trust their opinions. Not only does Acure Organics use the purest, most effective fair trade natural and organic ingredients around, but they use a high concentration of Chlorella Growth Factor, which is proven to protect collagen and elastin fibers from the enzymes that would destroy them. I've got my eye on their Seriously Firming Facial Serum! Prices range from around $3.99 to $29.99
5) Blissoma - Another brand that is on my wishlist, Blissoma is not only extremely inexpensive for the quality of ingredients, but like Acure Organics, I have heard nothing but rave reviews about them. Founder Julie Longyear is one of the most knowlegeable people I've come across in the green beauty world. She is "fluent" in both chemistry and herbalism so you just know that her products will be amazingly effective. I'm especially lusting after the Smooth A+ Perfecting Serum and the Lift Intelligent Energy Creme. Prices range from about $3.50 (samples) to $33.99 (but full sized skincare kits can range up to $122).
I could probably list several more, but these are the current stand outs for me right now. As I discover more affordable and effective (which is key) green brands, I will be sure to share them with you!
Have you tried any of these brands? If so, which are your favorites and if not, which ones are on your wishlist? Let me know! :-)
Peace & Love,
~Sabrina xx
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Product Obsession: Kaia Naturals Bamboo Tapioca Beads
Kaia Naturals is a Canadian based company which uses Bamboo as their primary ingredient in their products. Bamboo is rich in the mineral Silica (also known as the "beauty mineral"), which helps to rebuild collagen in the skin. I have several products that contain natural silica, but nothing with Bamboo, so when they reached out to me to try their new exfoliating cleansing powder, I was very interested to check it out.
Kaia Naturals Bamboo Tapioca Beads are extremely gentle and can be used daily. This fine powder is made with crushed Bamboo spheres which are suspended in Tapioca powder and includes White clay for extra purifying properties.
What I liked most about this product is that although it comes in a powder form, it lathers like a face wash when you add water to it. I've never used an exfoliating powdered cleanser quite like this, so I was impressed by the uniqueness of it.
I also loved how gentle it was on my sensitive skin, and how smooth and incredibly soft my skin was afterwards. I tend to experience a little dryness on certain areas of my face even during the humid days of Summer, so this definitely helped to alleviate that!
You only need to use about 1/4 teaspoon of the product for your entire face, and trust me, that little bit goes a very long way! And while this didn't really remove any of my make up on its own (I used my oil cleanser to do that first), it definitely ensured that no traces of make up remained after cleansing.
You can also substitute your favorite oil for water to create an exfoliating oil cleanser - see here for various options! I will be trying this method out tonight!
Overall, I was really impressed by this product. It didn't scratch or irritate my skin, it left my skin soft and supple and it didn't break me out. Pretty much everything I want in an exfoliating cleanser.
Have you tried anything from Kaia Naturals? What are your thoughts? Leave me a comment below!
*product was sent to me for review, however, all thoughts and opinions are my own
Peace & Love,
~Sabrina xx
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| Photo Credit |
Kaia Naturals Bamboo Tapioca Beads are extremely gentle and can be used daily. This fine powder is made with crushed Bamboo spheres which are suspended in Tapioca powder and includes White clay for extra purifying properties.
What I liked most about this product is that although it comes in a powder form, it lathers like a face wash when you add water to it. I've never used an exfoliating powdered cleanser quite like this, so I was impressed by the uniqueness of it.
I also loved how gentle it was on my sensitive skin, and how smooth and incredibly soft my skin was afterwards. I tend to experience a little dryness on certain areas of my face even during the humid days of Summer, so this definitely helped to alleviate that!
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| Sample generously sent for review |
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| I used a very tiny amount in this pic, but you get the idea... |
You only need to use about 1/4 teaspoon of the product for your entire face, and trust me, that little bit goes a very long way! And while this didn't really remove any of my make up on its own (I used my oil cleanser to do that first), it definitely ensured that no traces of make up remained after cleansing.
You can also substitute your favorite oil for water to create an exfoliating oil cleanser - see here for various options! I will be trying this method out tonight!
Overall, I was really impressed by this product. It didn't scratch or irritate my skin, it left my skin soft and supple and it didn't break me out. Pretty much everything I want in an exfoliating cleanser.
Have you tried anything from Kaia Naturals? What are your thoughts? Leave me a comment below!
*product was sent to me for review, however, all thoughts and opinions are my own
Peace & Love,
~Sabrina xx
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Product Obsession: Scentuals Bodycare Review #1
Scentuals Bodycare creates all natural personal care products handmade in Canada. They use ingredients which are sourced from all around the globe, their products are never tested on animals and are Eco-friendly.
Their goal is simple - "to provide the finest quality, affordable bath and body care which adds to your well being while delighting your senses."
I can honestly say that after trying their products that they most certainly achieved their goal!
Here is what I received:
1) Daily Skin Repair - This moisturizer will definitely come in handy during the Fall and Winter months, especially for my husband, who struggles with dry, itchy skin during those times. Made with nourishing and deeply hydrating Shea, Mango and Cocoa Seed Butters, you can kiss dry skin goodbye! I received this in "Lushberry" and I loved the scent of citrus combined with the rich scents of the Shea and Cocoa butters. It comes in a solid stick form, very much like a deodorant, yet melts seamlessly into skin when applied.
Price - $12.95
Ingredients - Theobroma Cacao (cocoa) Seed Butter, Stearic Acid (vegetable derived), Butyrospermum Parkii (shea butter) Fruit, Cocos Nucifera (coconut) Oil, Organic Mangifera Indica (mango) Seed Butter, Pure essential Oils, Tocopherol (vitamin e)
2) Vanilla Velvet Natural Hydrating Body Spray - This will be another Fall/Winter favorite of mine, not just because it's hydrating, thanks to moisture retaining vegetable glycerine, but because I love the luscious, musky fragrance of Vanilla and Sandalwood in the cooler months.
Price - $14
Ingredients - Filtered Water, Vegetable Glycerine, Pure Essential Oils, Fragrance
3) Vanilla Velvet Natural Handmade Soap - Like the hydrating mist above, this soap is a luscious combo of Tahitian Vanilla and Sandalwood, with the added healing benefits of Hemp Seed Oil and Nutmeg. So, not only will this keep your skin soft, but the antiseptic properties of Nutmeg will keep blemishes at bay. It's a win win situation in my book! :-)
Price - $6.50
Ingredients - Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Filtered water, Sodium hydroxide, Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil, Pure essential oils, Beeswax, Pure Essential Oils, Organic Cannabis Sativa (hemp) Seed Oil, Myristic Fragrans (nutmeg), Fragrance
4) White Cranberry Hand and Foot Repair Cream - This was probably my favorite moisturizer of the bunch. I loved the fruity, almost candy-like scent of cranberry and how it melted into my skin, leaving it so silky soft and not the least bit greasy, despite how rich of a cream this is. It also reminds me of Christmas, which is probably due to the sweet cranberry scent.
Price - $15
Ingredients - Filtered Water, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Emulsifying Wax NF (plant derived), Vegetable Glycerin 99.5% USP, Stearic Acid (plant derived), Cetyl Alcohol, Pure Essential Oil, Organic Butyrospermum Parkii (shea) Fruit Butter, Silk Amino Acids, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Extract, Organic Aloe Barbadensis (aloe) Leaf Extract, Fragrance
5) Grapefruit Moisturizing Body Wash - Made with 76% Aloe Vera juice as well as organic Argan Oil, this body wash has left my skin so soft that I don't need a moisturizer after I shower. It's energizing citrus scent really helps to wake me up in the morning too! This is a great natural alternative to some of the popular mall brands out there!
Price - $12
Ingredients - Aloe barbadensis (organic aloe juice), Coco glucoside (coconut derived , Coco glucoside and glyceryl oleate (natural lipid layer enhancer), Citric Acid, Pure essential oils , Argania spinosa (organic argan oil), Xanthan gum (natural thickener), Potassium sorbate & Sodium benzoate (natural preservatives)
6) Tangerine Dream Natural Hydrating Hand & Body Lotion - I loved the fragrance fusion of citrus and vanilla with this lotion. It's both energizing and relaxing at the same time, and completely intoxicating. And with ingredients like organic Aloe, Olive Oil and Argan Oil, skin is healed, nourished and rejuvenated.
Price - $12
Ingredients - Filtered Water, Oryza Sativa (rice) Bran Oil, Emulsifying Wax NF (plant derived), Persea Gratissima (avocado) Oil, Vegetable Glycerin 99.5% USP, Stearic Acid (plant derived), Organic Olea Europaea (olive) Oil, Pure Essential Oils, Silk Amino Acids, Tocopherol (vitamin E), Citrus Grandis (grapefruit) Seed Extract, Organic Argania Spinosa (agran) Oil, Organic Aloe Barbadensis (aloe) Leaf Extract
7) Pink Grapefruit Moisturizing Hand & Body Lotion - Another fruity scented lotion, this one was slightly richer than the Tangerine Dream, yet not at all greasy. It contains Olive, Rice Bran and Avocado oils to deeply moisturize and regenerate skin, as well as Aloe Vera to help maintain skin's elasticity. This is a perfect "day at the beach" companion.
Price - $10
Ingredients - Filtered Water, Oryza Sativa (rice) Bran Oil, Persea Gratissima (avocado) Oil, Emulsifying Wax NF (plant derived), Vegetable Glycerin 99.5% USP, Stearic Acid (plant derived), Pure Essential Oils, Organic Olea Europaea (olive) Oil, Silk Amino Acids, Tocopherol (vitamin E), Citrus Grandis (grapefruit) Seed Extract, Organic Aloe Barbadensis (aloe) Leaf Extract
I received several of their lovely lip products as well, which I will be including in a separate post, so stay tuned! :-)
The wonderful people at Scentuals were also kind enough to give a coupon code to be used for their site. Just use code chickweedandblush_20 at checkout to receive the discount! And, it's good for a year (it expires 8/21/15), how sweet is that??!
*All products were sent to me for review, however, all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own.
You can follow Scentuals Bodycare on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Have you ever tried Scentuals Bodycare products? What are your thoughts?
Their goal is simple - "to provide the finest quality, affordable bath and body care which adds to your well being while delighting your senses."
I can honestly say that after trying their products that they most certainly achieved their goal!
Here is what I received:
Price - $12.95
Ingredients - Theobroma Cacao (cocoa) Seed Butter, Stearic Acid (vegetable derived), Butyrospermum Parkii (shea butter) Fruit, Cocos Nucifera (coconut) Oil, Organic Mangifera Indica (mango) Seed Butter, Pure essential Oils, Tocopherol (vitamin e)
2) Vanilla Velvet Natural Hydrating Body Spray - This will be another Fall/Winter favorite of mine, not just because it's hydrating, thanks to moisture retaining vegetable glycerine, but because I love the luscious, musky fragrance of Vanilla and Sandalwood in the cooler months.
Price - $14
Ingredients - Filtered Water, Vegetable Glycerine, Pure Essential Oils, Fragrance
3) Vanilla Velvet Natural Handmade Soap - Like the hydrating mist above, this soap is a luscious combo of Tahitian Vanilla and Sandalwood, with the added healing benefits of Hemp Seed Oil and Nutmeg. So, not only will this keep your skin soft, but the antiseptic properties of Nutmeg will keep blemishes at bay. It's a win win situation in my book! :-)
Price - $6.50
Ingredients - Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Filtered water, Sodium hydroxide, Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil, Pure essential oils, Beeswax, Pure Essential Oils, Organic Cannabis Sativa (hemp) Seed Oil, Myristic Fragrans (nutmeg), Fragrance
4) White Cranberry Hand and Foot Repair Cream - This was probably my favorite moisturizer of the bunch. I loved the fruity, almost candy-like scent of cranberry and how it melted into my skin, leaving it so silky soft and not the least bit greasy, despite how rich of a cream this is. It also reminds me of Christmas, which is probably due to the sweet cranberry scent.
Price - $15
Ingredients - Filtered Water, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Emulsifying Wax NF (plant derived), Vegetable Glycerin 99.5% USP, Stearic Acid (plant derived), Cetyl Alcohol, Pure Essential Oil, Organic Butyrospermum Parkii (shea) Fruit Butter, Silk Amino Acids, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Extract, Organic Aloe Barbadensis (aloe) Leaf Extract, Fragrance
5) Grapefruit Moisturizing Body Wash - Made with 76% Aloe Vera juice as well as organic Argan Oil, this body wash has left my skin so soft that I don't need a moisturizer after I shower. It's energizing citrus scent really helps to wake me up in the morning too! This is a great natural alternative to some of the popular mall brands out there!
Price - $12
Ingredients - Aloe barbadensis (organic aloe juice), Coco glucoside (coconut derived , Coco glucoside and glyceryl oleate (natural lipid layer enhancer), Citric Acid, Pure essential oils , Argania spinosa (organic argan oil), Xanthan gum (natural thickener), Potassium sorbate & Sodium benzoate (natural preservatives)
6) Tangerine Dream Natural Hydrating Hand & Body Lotion - I loved the fragrance fusion of citrus and vanilla with this lotion. It's both energizing and relaxing at the same time, and completely intoxicating. And with ingredients like organic Aloe, Olive Oil and Argan Oil, skin is healed, nourished and rejuvenated.
Price - $12
Ingredients - Filtered Water, Oryza Sativa (rice) Bran Oil, Emulsifying Wax NF (plant derived), Persea Gratissima (avocado) Oil, Vegetable Glycerin 99.5% USP, Stearic Acid (plant derived), Organic Olea Europaea (olive) Oil, Pure Essential Oils, Silk Amino Acids, Tocopherol (vitamin E), Citrus Grandis (grapefruit) Seed Extract, Organic Argania Spinosa (agran) Oil, Organic Aloe Barbadensis (aloe) Leaf Extract
7) Pink Grapefruit Moisturizing Hand & Body Lotion - Another fruity scented lotion, this one was slightly richer than the Tangerine Dream, yet not at all greasy. It contains Olive, Rice Bran and Avocado oils to deeply moisturize and regenerate skin, as well as Aloe Vera to help maintain skin's elasticity. This is a perfect "day at the beach" companion.
Price - $10
Ingredients - Filtered Water, Oryza Sativa (rice) Bran Oil, Persea Gratissima (avocado) Oil, Emulsifying Wax NF (plant derived), Vegetable Glycerin 99.5% USP, Stearic Acid (plant derived), Pure Essential Oils, Organic Olea Europaea (olive) Oil, Silk Amino Acids, Tocopherol (vitamin E), Citrus Grandis (grapefruit) Seed Extract, Organic Aloe Barbadensis (aloe) Leaf Extract
I received several of their lovely lip products as well, which I will be including in a separate post, so stay tuned! :-)
The wonderful people at Scentuals were also kind enough to give a coupon code to be used for their site. Just use code chickweedandblush_20 at checkout to receive the discount! And, it's good for a year (it expires 8/21/15), how sweet is that??!
*All products were sent to me for review, however, all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own.
You can follow Scentuals Bodycare on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Have you ever tried Scentuals Bodycare products? What are your thoughts?
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Guest Post: Aloe Vera - The Wonder Herb to Enhance Your Health and Beauty
I haven't done a guest post in quite awhile, so I am excited to finally have one to share! Vanessa Gallo is a talented writer from Zurich, Switzerland, who has a Masters in English Literature and who has worked with other professional writers.
She contacted me to see if I would allow her to write a guest post and I was happy to oblige, even more so once I learned she was going to be writing about one of my all time favorite medicinal plants - Aloe Vera!
My mom has had an Aloe plant in her home for as long as I can remember. It was essentially one of our main sources of "first aid". Now, I have an Aloe plant and it is still an integral part of my natural health regimen.
Read on to find out why this plant is so darn amazing!
Aloe Vera- The wonder herb to enhance your health and beauty - Guest Post by Vanessa Gallo
Aloe vera belongs to the lily family and has many therapeutic and cosmetic properties. It is a key ingredient in many of the herbal medicines and beauty products. The use of aloe-vera dates far back to 4500 B.C. Queens of Egypt used to use the leaves of this plant to enhance their beauty. This magical plant is the powerhouse of a variety of nutrients which are necessary for our health. Let us list out the benefits of aloe-vera in developing our health and beauty.
⦁ Aloe-vera contains more than seventy five effective components which include twenty amino acids. Of twenty, eight amino acids are indispensable for the human body. In addition to this, some enzymes, vitamins, minerals and polysaccharides are hidden in aloe vera. Salicylic acid, Saponins and Sterols have analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
⦁ It reduces triglycerides and helps in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. It works amazingly well in reducing weight. It is used in the form of medicines and helps in treating piles, ulcers, ameneorrhoea and jaundice.
⦁ Aloe-vera is known to reduce the growth of cancer cells. Polysaccharides are found in aloe-vera which with an increased production of nitric oxide weaken and reduce cancer tumors. Acemannan is a phytonutrient which also has anti cancer properties.
⦁ Aloe-vera is effective in reducing the burns caused by the radiation therapy treatment for cancer. Both the internal and external uses of aloe-vera quicken the healing process and provide great relief.
⦁ Aloe-vera is globally used as a cosmetic product. It moisturizes the skin, gets rid of fine lines, wrinkles and dead cells on the surface of the skin. It removes stretch marks and helps in retaining the smooth texture of the skin.
⦁ Aloe-vera gel is beneficial in treating skin ailments like dermatitis, burns etc. It is also helpful in protecting the skin against sun burns, it prevents itching and scratching of the skin, heals wounds and stops bleeding from minor cuts. It prevents skin allergies and blisters from insect bites.
⦁ Inflammation in the body like rheumatism, arthritis, inflammation of the eyes and ears will be cured with the regular consumption of aloe-vera juice for more than fifteen days. This juice offers relief from digestive disorders. It eradicates gastrointestinal disorders such as heart and acid reflux, acts as a laxative and avoids constipation. It also reduces the risk of developing irritable bowel syndrome. Applying the gel externally helps to reduce muscle and joint pain.
⦁ Aloe-vera boosts the antioxidant effects of vitamins E and C. It improves the quality of blood and enables the circulation of nutrients and oxygen to various tissues and cells of the body. A sedentary lifestyle may result in blood clots in the circulatory system. Aloe-vera removes blood stickiness and promotes circulatory health. Once the blood is less sticky clots will not get formed. This entails there is a low risk of heart attack and stroke.
⦁ It contains anti diabetic properties also by which blood sugar levels are stabilized. The major symptom of peripheral neuropathy is the numbness in hands and legs. This will be avoided by using aloe vera.
⦁ Aloe-vera helps to flush out the excess water from the body. It prevents renal diseases caused by type 2 diabetes. It protects the body against the risks of kidney stones as well.
⦁ It is said to improve gynecological health. It regulates menstruation and helps in the proper functioning of uterus, cures fibroids and ovarian cysts with herbal treatment. Aloe-vera has antimicrobic properties which prevent fungal, bacterial and viral infections like herpes, Candida infections and vaginal itching. The anti inflammatory properties of this plant protect the human body against gynecological inflammations.
⦁ Aloe-vera functions as the best first aid solution. It makes a wonderful dressing for wounds and prevents harmful bacteria and infections.
Author Bio: I am Vanessa Gallo, a freelance writer from Zurich and prefer both academic and non academic writings. Normally I do help in writing all the academic papers and also content editing for all sorts of students. A good writing experience in creative writing with many professional services, made me effortless to prepare all kind of papers. Currently I am working out by providing the articles to the bloggers.
Thank you, Vanessa, for sharing!
What are your thoughts on Aloe Vera?
Peace & Love,
~Sabrina
She contacted me to see if I would allow her to write a guest post and I was happy to oblige, even more so once I learned she was going to be writing about one of my all time favorite medicinal plants - Aloe Vera!
My mom has had an Aloe plant in her home for as long as I can remember. It was essentially one of our main sources of "first aid". Now, I have an Aloe plant and it is still an integral part of my natural health regimen.
Read on to find out why this plant is so darn amazing!
Aloe Vera- The wonder herb to enhance your health and beauty - Guest Post by Vanessa Gallo
 |
| Photo Credit Google Images |
Aloe vera belongs to the lily family and has many therapeutic and cosmetic properties. It is a key ingredient in many of the herbal medicines and beauty products. The use of aloe-vera dates far back to 4500 B.C. Queens of Egypt used to use the leaves of this plant to enhance their beauty. This magical plant is the powerhouse of a variety of nutrients which are necessary for our health. Let us list out the benefits of aloe-vera in developing our health and beauty.
⦁ Aloe-vera contains more than seventy five effective components which include twenty amino acids. Of twenty, eight amino acids are indispensable for the human body. In addition to this, some enzymes, vitamins, minerals and polysaccharides are hidden in aloe vera. Salicylic acid, Saponins and Sterols have analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
⦁ It reduces triglycerides and helps in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. It works amazingly well in reducing weight. It is used in the form of medicines and helps in treating piles, ulcers, ameneorrhoea and jaundice.
⦁ Aloe-vera is known to reduce the growth of cancer cells. Polysaccharides are found in aloe-vera which with an increased production of nitric oxide weaken and reduce cancer tumors. Acemannan is a phytonutrient which also has anti cancer properties.
⦁ Aloe-vera is effective in reducing the burns caused by the radiation therapy treatment for cancer. Both the internal and external uses of aloe-vera quicken the healing process and provide great relief.
⦁ Aloe-vera is globally used as a cosmetic product. It moisturizes the skin, gets rid of fine lines, wrinkles and dead cells on the surface of the skin. It removes stretch marks and helps in retaining the smooth texture of the skin.
⦁ Aloe-vera gel is beneficial in treating skin ailments like dermatitis, burns etc. It is also helpful in protecting the skin against sun burns, it prevents itching and scratching of the skin, heals wounds and stops bleeding from minor cuts. It prevents skin allergies and blisters from insect bites.
⦁ Inflammation in the body like rheumatism, arthritis, inflammation of the eyes and ears will be cured with the regular consumption of aloe-vera juice for more than fifteen days. This juice offers relief from digestive disorders. It eradicates gastrointestinal disorders such as heart and acid reflux, acts as a laxative and avoids constipation. It also reduces the risk of developing irritable bowel syndrome. Applying the gel externally helps to reduce muscle and joint pain.
⦁ Aloe-vera boosts the antioxidant effects of vitamins E and C. It improves the quality of blood and enables the circulation of nutrients and oxygen to various tissues and cells of the body. A sedentary lifestyle may result in blood clots in the circulatory system. Aloe-vera removes blood stickiness and promotes circulatory health. Once the blood is less sticky clots will not get formed. This entails there is a low risk of heart attack and stroke.
⦁ It contains anti diabetic properties also by which blood sugar levels are stabilized. The major symptom of peripheral neuropathy is the numbness in hands and legs. This will be avoided by using aloe vera.
⦁ Aloe-vera helps to flush out the excess water from the body. It prevents renal diseases caused by type 2 diabetes. It protects the body against the risks of kidney stones as well.
⦁ It is said to improve gynecological health. It regulates menstruation and helps in the proper functioning of uterus, cures fibroids and ovarian cysts with herbal treatment. Aloe-vera has antimicrobic properties which prevent fungal, bacterial and viral infections like herpes, Candida infections and vaginal itching. The anti inflammatory properties of this plant protect the human body against gynecological inflammations.
⦁ Aloe-vera functions as the best first aid solution. It makes a wonderful dressing for wounds and prevents harmful bacteria and infections.
Author Bio: I am Vanessa Gallo, a freelance writer from Zurich and prefer both academic and non academic writings. Normally I do help in writing all the academic papers and also content editing for all sorts of students. A good writing experience in creative writing with many professional services, made me effortless to prepare all kind of papers. Currently I am working out by providing the articles to the bloggers.
Thank you, Vanessa, for sharing!
What are your thoughts on Aloe Vera?
Peace & Love,
~Sabrina