Mad For Mad Hippie's Antioxidant Face Oil

*PR Sample

Mad Hippie is a brand that not only takes skincare (and ingredients) seriously, but they are also serious about environmental preservation. They constantly strive to make products that are safe, healthy, and effective while also reducing their carbon footprint.

Suffice it to say, Mad Hippie is a brand that delivers on its intent to create products that are not only clean and green, but effective as well!

 Also, how cool is their name?! Just saying...

I have been using their "Antioxidant Face Oil" for weeks now and today I'm going to spill why I am simply "mad" for this product! ;-)

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First of all, let's take a look at what ingredients are involved in this oil (info from Mad Hippie's website):

Argan Oil – Providing instant, non-comedogenic hydration to the skin while naturally occurring triterpenoids work to reduce the appearance of scars & inflammation.  Containing over 80% essential fatty acids, as well as naturally occurring vitamin E, this exotic oil works to moisturize & revitalize the skin.

Sea Buckthorn Berry – This berry native to the Tibetan Himalayas, is rich in vitamins A, B, C, D, E, K, P, carotenoids, flavonoids, phenols, folic acid & fatty acids. In fact, the buckthorn berry is the only plant in the world to contain omega 3, 6, 7 & 9 all together.

Blueberry Extract – This super fruit is rich in antioxidants including vitamins A & C that help protect the skin by neutralizing aging free radicals.  Blueberries have been shown to reduce the rigidity of capillary walls underneath the skin and are believed to promote circulation & aid in the reduction of redness & flushing.

Pomegranate Oil – Potent antioxidant that is a high source of ellagic acid, a polyphenol that has been shown in studies to help inhibit the growth of skin cancer.  Believed to also mediate the effects of ultraviolet rays & skin discoloration.

Camu Camu Berry – Amazonian berry with 30x the vitamin C of an orange.

Broccoli Extract – A recent study at John Hopkins found that broccoli extract applied topically reduced UV-induced redness & inflammation by an average of 37%.  This is thought to be a result of the sulforaphane found in broccoli.

Raspberry Seed Extract – High in antioxidants such as vitamin E, vitamin A, and omega fatty acids 3 & 6, raspberry seed extract is also known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-septic qualities.  High in ellagic acid, a natural polyphenol, raspberry seed extract helps neutralize aging free radicals and reduce the effects of photoaging.

Strawberry Extract – Another antioxidant-rich berry, Strawberry extract has been shown to have UV protective effects on the skin.

Goji Berry – Containing 18 vital amino acids, zinc, selenium, phosphorus and vitamins B1, B2, B6, C & E, goji berries provide the skin with essential nutrients and antioxidants. In fact, the superfruit contains more beta carotene than carrots, and even more iron than spinach.

Hemp Seed Extract –  Rich in omegas 3, 6 & 9, as well as antioxidants, hemp seed oil provides the skin with instant moisturizing and protective benefits.

Grape Seed Extract – One of nature’s most potent antioxidants, shown to inhibit UV generated skin damage and neutralize aging free radicals.

Sunflower Seed Oil –  Rich in vitamins A, D & E, as well as essential fatty acids, sunflower seed oil has natural moisturizing and anti-inflammatory effects on the skin.

Why I love this - I'm a sucker for a good face oil, and this one has definitely exceeded all my expectations. With an ingredients list that will make any ingredient nerd squeal with joy and a delicious fruity scent, this Anti-Oxidant Face Oil delivers deep nourishment to the skin, without feeling heavy or greasy.

A few drops applied to damp skin, and this light-weight oil absorbs quickly, leaving behind a healthy and dewy glow. I've been using this day and night and my sensitive, acne prone skin is in love! My skin looks brighter, less red and more plumped up! Definitely a cause for me to do my happy dance!

Price - $24.99 for 30ml
Full Ingredients - Argan Oil (Argania Spinosa), Pomegranate Seed Oil (Punica Granatum), Sunflower Seed Oil (Helianthus Annuus), Cranberry Fruit Extract (Vaccinium Macrocarpon), Pomegranate Extract (Punica Granatum) , Blueberry Extact (Vaccinium Angustifolium), Strawberry Fruit Extract (Fragaria Vesca), Kiwi Extract (Actinidia Chinensis), Watermelon Fruit Extract (Citrullus Vulgaris), Grape Seed Extract (Vitis Vinifera), Raspberry Seed Extract (Rubus Idaeus), Camu Camu Fruit Extract (Myrciaria Dubia), Acai Fruit Extract (Euterpe Oleracea), Goji Extract (Lycium Barbarum), Sea Buckthorn Berry Extract (Hippophae Rhamnoides), Hemp Seed Extract (Cannabis Sativa), Broccoli Extract (Brassica Oleracea Italica), Sweet Orange Oil (Citrus Sinensis), Vitamin E (Tocopherol)

Have you ever tried anything by Mad Hippie? What are your thoughts? Let me know below! 

Peace & love,

Sabrina xoxo

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

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.

Introducing Auve Beauty! Natural Beauty Inspired By The Bootlace Tree From Guyana!

*PR Samples. Beauty Elixir Tea, Radiance Infusion Oil & Firm & Tone Hydrator

It's always exciting to me when I am introduced to or discover new natural brands, especially ones that incorporate ingredients that have special meaning to the brand owner/formulator (and of course lots of great benefits for my skin!).

Auve Beauty is the latest addition to the green beauty world and one that I am really stoked about!

Founded by Angella Sprauve, a veteran expert to the beauty and lifestyle world (though she doesn't look older than 20 - I'll have what she's having please and thank you), and former product developer for such brands as Bare Escentuals, Yes to Carrots and more, Angella wanted to create a brand that would re-introduce old beauty rituals for the busy, modern day woman (or man).

Inspired by her mother's Guyanese heritage, she chose Bootlace Bark Extract as the primary ingredient in her products. This is an ingredient that I had never heard of before so I was very interested to learn more. Let's take a look at a few of the benefits of this amazing ingredient...

• Improves skin barrier function (this is extremely important as an impaired skin barrier becomes dry, rough and broken and can lead to inflammatory skin issues like acne and rosacea)
• Protects against oxidative stress
• Improves skin firmness 

As someone who struggles with acne and redness, my interest was definitely piqued!

When Auve Beauty contacted me to try some of their products before launching them, I was incredibly honored. After testing them for a month, I'd like to share my thoughts with you.

By the way, Auve Beauty does not use mineral oils, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic dyes or GMO's in any of their products and they never test on animals! :-D

Photo Credit

1) Beauty Elixir Tea - This delicious blend of White and Green Teas is the perfect way to start your morning or to have as an afternoon treat. Carefully crafted with skin nourishing ingredients in mind, including Rosehips (high in vitamin C), and Hibiscus Flowers (elasticity booster), this tea will help to improve skin as well as your overall health. The taste is mild and slightly fruity and I found that I didn't need any kind of sweetener as the flavor is delightful as is! Enjoy hot or iced.

Price - $14.99
Ingredients - White (Camellia Sinensis) Tea, Green (Camellia Sinensis) Tea, Rosehip (Rosa Canina), Hibiscus (Rosa Sinensis) Flower, Red Rooibos (Aspalathus Linearis) Tea

Photo Credit

2) Radiance Infusion Oil - This beautiful, rich, yet lightweight oil contains some of the most potent firming and age defying ingredients around. Bootlace Bark Extract and Apricot Seed Oil work to tone and firm skin, while Grapeseed Oil improves the overall quality of skin and Squalane infuses skin with hydration. I found that while using this just at night I wake up with zero redness and my complexion looks healthy and glowing. I also found that break outs were fewer or non-existent (even during "that time") and the annoying itchiness and dry patches I was dealing with were pretty much gone as well. Probably one of the best night time oils I have used on my skin ever!

Price - $59
Ingredients - Sunflower (Helianthus Annuus) Oil, Grapeseed (Vitis Vinifera) Oil, Squalene, Apricot Seed (Prunus Armeniaca) Oil, Bootlace (Eperua Falcata) Bark Extract, Ethyl Macadamiate, Jasmine Oil, Pthalate-Free Fragrance

Photo Credit

3) Firm & Tone Hydrator - Like the Radiance Infusion Oil, this product contains firming Bootlace Extract, as well as Coconut Water, Sodium Hyaluronate and Squalane to provide long lasting hydration. A little goes a long way and the scent is pleasing and uplifting (kind of reminds me of CK One from back in the 90's!).

My only issue with this product is that it contains Dimethicone and Phenoxyethanol (though they are 2 of the last ingredients listed so yay!) and for that reason, I only used this sparingly to avoid break outs. That being said, this is a lovely and very lightweight hydrator that works beautifully as a primer under foundation. So, if you do not have a sensitivity or aversion to silicones or Phenoxyethanol, I recommend you give this a try!

Price - $49
Ingredients - Deionized Water, Coconut (Coco Nucifera) Water, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Jojoba Esters, Ethyl Macadamiate, Maltodextrin (and) Bootlace (Eperua Falcata) Bark Extract, Squalane, Dimethicone, Phthalate-Free Fragrance, Phenoxyethanol



Parting Thoughts - Overall, I am so impressed with everything by this brand and so excited to have been able to share it with you on my blog! I really hope you check it out and love it as much as I do and I can't wait to see what else Angella and the Auve Beauty team come up with next!

Keep up with the latest from Auve Beauty here:

Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

Pinterest

Website

Peace & Love,
Sabrina xoxo

*products were sent to me to review, however all thoughts are 100% my own

Even More Green Beauty/Lifestyle Deals For Cyber Monday!

Hey guys! Here are a few more sales just for Cyber Monday that I thought you might be interested in (check here for my previous post on Black Friday/Cyber Monday sales)!

1) Raw SkinCeuticals - Amazing products for acne, aging or rosacea, plus some really beautiful make up products too! Pure, natural ingredients of course!

• 60% Off Storewide (today only- sale ends at Midnight)

2) Acure Organics - One of my absolute fave natural, organic brands that is super affordable! 

• 50% Off ALL orders when you use coupon code "CYBER2015"

3) Thrive Market - Tons of discounts on name brand organics can be found on this site!

• 50% Off year membership! 
• For only $29.95, you can gain access to healthy, all-natural foods and non-toxic products for up to 50% off retail prices––for the entire year!
  Just use code "MONDAYDEAL" at checkout. 

4) Skinny Bunny Tea - All natural, nothing toxic, non-gmo teas to help rev up your metabolism and detox your bod after all that yummy Thanksgiving food! ;-) I personally am a fan of the AM Chocolate Puerh Tea! 

• 82% Off Weight loss & Detox Bundle - choose from the 14 or 28 day plan
• Includes:
• Weight Loss 14 or 28 Day Tea - Chocolate Flavor (AM)
• Detox  14 or 28 Day Tea - Tropical Flavor (PM)
• + FREE  14 or 28 Day Weight Loss Tea (Chocolate) ($29 or $39.99 Value)
• + FREE  14 or 28 Day Detox Tea (Tropical) ($29 or $39.99 Value)
• + FREE Workout Plan ($29.99 Value)
• + FREE Eating Guide ($29.99 Value)
• + FREE Yoga Guide ($29.99 Value)
• + FREE Skinny Water Bottle ($30.00 Value

5) Suja Juice - My fave organic, non-gmo juice brand! 

• Get the 3-day Fresh or Core Start packs for $99 (reg. $162)
• Use coupon code "UNSTUFFED" at checkout
• Sale ends tonight at 11:59pm

6) 100% Pure - One of my fave natural make-up brands! Love, love, love their liquid foundation - great for oily skin! 

• Up to 80% off - get 10 items for $10!!! Limit 5 per item
• Get a Free Coffee Bean Eye cream with $80 purchase

7) Auve Beauty - (review to come soon) One of my new favorite face oils and teas can be found here! You won't want to miss out on this sale!!

• 50% Off ALL orders until Midnight

There are many more fab sales going on, but I wanted to share a few that you may not have seen or heard about! 

Have fun shopping! :-) I'd love to know what deals you came across this weekend! Sound off below! 

Peace & Love,

Sabrina xoxo

*post contains some affiliate links

Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals You Don't Want to Miss!

Hey guys! I hope you all have an amazing and yum-tastic Thanksgiving today! I don't know about you, but I can't wait to dig in to all the delish foods that only make an appearance this time of year - like my mother-in-law's homemade bread stuffing (with apple and onion..sooo good!), mashed potatoes and the pecan pie my hubs and I are bringing (it's not Thanksgiving in my opinion without pecan pie!!)! Tomorrow I can go back to eating healthy, but today..it's a free for all! lol

Anyhoo...besides wishing you all a happy turkey day, I also wanted to give you the deets on a few Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sales that will be starting tomorrow (and a few already happening), so without further ado...get your shopping on! :-)

1) Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques 

ALL BLACK FRIDAY WEEKEND:

Buy a Gift Card, Get a Gift Card!

$25 will receive a FREE $5 Gift Card  

$50 will receive a FREE $10 Gift Card

$75 will receive a FREE $15 Gift Card

$100 will receive a FREE $20 Gift Card

   

Friday - Sunday:

 Get a FREE Gift with every purchase of . . .

• Creme Foundations = FREE Pure Complexion Blending Sponge
• Powder Foundations = Free Large Kabouki Brush
• Pressed Foundations = Free Large Kabouki Brush
• Creme Concealer & Corrective Concealer = FREE Oval Eye/Concealer Brush
• Finishing Powder = Large Powder Brush
• Pressed & Powder Cheek Colours = FREE Cheek Brush
• Bronzers = FREE Fan Brush
• Pressed & Powder Eye Duos/Trios = FREE Oval Eye/Concealer Brush
• Creme Eyeshdows = FREE Oval Eye/Concealer Brush
• Powder Eyeliner & Brow Colours = FREE Eyeliner Brush
• Lip Colour, Lip Gloss or Lip Glaze = FREE Lip Brush
• Eyeliner & Lip Liner Pencil = FREE Eco-friendly Pencil Sharpener

Cyber Monday, November 30: 

ALL full-sized products 

on our Website 30% OFF!!!

2) The Choosy Chick

Black Friday thru Cyber Monday:

• 15% off everything in the boutique and Free shipping on US orders over $40. Use code THANKS15 at checkout. (International shipping is offered and Canadians can receive Free Shipping on orders over $150).

3) The Detox Market

11/25 - 11/27: Black Friday Sale:

• $10 off $100 | code: GIVE10
  $30 off $200 | code: GIVE30
  $100 off $400 | code: GIVE100
  - Our Biggest Sale Ever! 
  - Free Shipping
  11/28 - 11/29: Extended Black Friday Sale

11/30: Cyber Monday Sale 

• $10 off $100 | code: GIVE10 
• $30 off $200 | code: GIVE30 
• $100 off $400 | code: GIVE100 
• - Secret Cyber Monday Only Sale collection 
• - URL goes live on Monday oy: http://www.thedetoxmarket.com/collections/cyber-monday-deals 
• - Up to 60% off your favorite brands!  
• - Sale on Sale 

4) Citrine Natural Skincare

Black Friday & Small Business Saturday:

• 10% off $100+ | code: Thanks10
• 15% off $250+ | code: Thanks15
• 20% off $500+ | code: Thanks20

Sales are valid in-store and online! 

Other Black Friday/Cyber Monday Deals worth checking out...

EcoHabitude.com  - up to 50% off on select brands

Elaaskincare.com - Get 10% off storewide with coupon code HOLIDAYWONDER (good until 11/30 so hurry!)

Do you guys know of any great Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sales going on? Do you prefer shopping in stores or online? Let me know in the comments! 

Peace, Love & Happy Thanksgiving (and shopping!),
Sabrina xoxo

*post contains some affiliate links

Crazy For Cranberry This Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving is tomorrow and today I am feeling all things Cranberry! Here are a few things that have me going crazy for this little tart, red berry!

First up, some more gems from Lemongrass Spa .... 

Bath, body & home:

PR Samples 

1) Frosted Cranberry Hand & Body Soap - Tangy Cranberry mixes with sweet Plum for the most delish scent combo! Handmade with moisturizing oils, like Coconut and Apricot to keep your skin super soft, this soap is my fave for this season!

Price - $6 (on sale)
Ingredients - Purified Water, Palm Oil, Coconut Oil, Apricot Oil, Jojoba Oil, Merlot Mica Color (for sparkle), Phthalate-Free Fragrance

2) Frosted Cranberry Room Spray - Made with the same fruity scent as the soap (and body lotion below), this room spray will make every room in your house smell like Thanksgiving - without the nasty toxins conventional room sprays contain! You can even use this on your sheets/pillow if you'd like too!

Price - $9 (sale)
Ingredients - Purified Water, Phthalate-Free Fragrance Oil

3) Frosted Cranberry Hand & Body Lotion - Keeping with that tangy and sweet scented theme is this travel size hand and body lotion - perfect for on the go to keep your hands soft, smooth and hydrated!

Price - $17 (price is for 8oz & 2oz duo)
*Ingredients - Distilled Water, Aloe Vera Juice, Vegetable Emulsifier, Sweet Almond Oil, Stearic Acid, Glycerin, Grapeseed Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil, Fractionated Coconut Oil, Jojoba Oil, Primrose Oil, Shea Butter, Vitamin E Oil, Phthalate-free Fragrance Oil, Orange Essential oil, hydroxypropyl starch phosphate, Optiphen (preservative).

*You can read more on Lemongrass Spa's ingredients here.

Cranberry-esque colored make-up:

PR Samples - Cocoa Berry Lipstick, Merlot Blush, Cool Blush Lipliner. Review & make-up look to come soon! 

How gorgeous are these colors from Lemongrass Spa? These 3 products are perfect for creating a bold & glam "Cranberry inspired" holiday look and can be mixed, darkened, or lightened (add a dab of highlighter or a pale gloss) to achieve the hue that best suits your skin tone or preference! 
(Check out my other post on Lemongrass Spa here!)


Other Cranberry obsessions at the moment....

Cranberry Kombucha! 

This recipe for Cranberry Sauce!

Also, check out this Pinterest page for even more Cranberry inspo!

What are your thoughts on Cranberries? Do you love or hate them? Sound off below!


Have a Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Peace & Love,
Sabrina xoxo

Some New Faves From Lemongrass Spa, Neal's Yard Remedies & Indie Lee!

*PR Samples

I never get tired of discovering or being introduced to new green beauty brands and I always get so excited when I find ones that I truly, unconditionally love...like the 3 I want to share with you today!

And while I do have quite a bit more to test/review for two of them, I just couldn't keep these a secret any longer! So, without further ado.....

Lemongrass Spa

When founder Heidi was pregnant with her daughter, she realized that there were many toxins in everything she was using. Determined to find safer solutions, she began making her own products and in no time "Lemongrass Spa" was born! Free from phthalates, mineral oils, parabens, sulfates, bismuth oxyxhloride, formaldehyde, talc, lake dyes, carmine, nano-particles, gluten and gmo's, Lemongrass Spa uses only high quality, Organic ingredients that are good for you, your skin and the environment! They are also cruelty free!

1) Prebiotic Facial Wash - I am in love with this cleanser! Ph balanced so that it won't strip your skin of its natural oils, this foaming gel cleanser removes make-up, dirt and grime like a champ! I like to use this at night after I oil cleanse and my skin is left feeling soft and clean. I've noticed that since I have been using this every night that my skin is getting clearer, which of course makes me very happy! I definitely recommend this to anyone, but especially those who are acne prone!

Price - $14
Ingredients: Purified Water, Coconut Oil, Sea Salt, Kelp, Chamomile Extract, Citric Acid and Glycerin (plant derived)

2) Prebiotic Facial Mist - This hydrating facial mist with Coconut Oil, Sea Kelp and Organic plant extracts helps keep skin clear and healthy by promoting good bacteria already present in the skin to flourish and eliminating the bad. The perfect companion to the Prebiotic Facial Wash!

Price - $14
Ingredients: Purified Water, Saponified Coconut Oil, Sea Kelp, Organic Plant Extracts, Soy Lecithin, Aloe and Citric Acid

*Stay tuned for more reviews from this awesome brand!

Indie Lee

A favorite among green beauty bloggers, Indie Lee is an eco-chic brand that proves that "green" is definitely glamorous! From the sleek, modern packaging, to the clean, nourishing ingredients, this is a brand that needs to be on your radar..asap!

1) Rosehip Cleanser - Formulated with vitamin C rich Rosehip, this creamy gel cleanser has become a staple in my morning routine! My skin can be very sensitive, but this cleanser is so gentle and nourishing that my skin is only left clean and hydrated. Highly, highly recommend!

Price - $32
Ingredients - Aqua, Sodium Olivate (Fatty Acid from Olive), Glycerin, Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil, Chondrus Crispus, Eriobotrya Japonica Extract

2) Vanilla Citrus Body Oil - Hands down, this is my favorite body oil..ever! It's multi-tasking (can be used on body, face and hair), smells like heaven (vanilla with a hint of orange..mmmmmm), makes your skin feel softer than a baby's bottom, and the scent lasts allllll day! I seriously can't rave enough about this!

Price - $36
Ingredients - Simmondsia Chinensis (jojoba) Oil, Prunus Armeniaca (apricot) Oil, Vanilla Planifolia (vanilla), Citrus Aurantium Sinensis (sweet orange)

Neal's Yard Remedies

Creating products that benefit body, mind, well-being and environment, Neal's Yard Remedies is passionate about helping people to transform their lives, educating and empowering them to be more healthy through the power of nature.

1) Organic Inner Strength Tea - With ingredients like Echinacea and Elderberry to boost immunity and Acerola, Elderflower and Ginger to warm and soothe, this spicy tea is the perfect drink for when fighting off a cold or just as a treat in the colder months to come. I love to add a touch of honey to sweeten things up! It's pure bliss in a mug!

Other benefits:

• Warms and comforts
• Naturally caffeine-free
• Oxygen-bleached bags (chlorine free)
• No staples or glues
• Compostable bags
• Plastic-free bags
• 100% organic
• Non GM

Price - $4.99
Ingredients - Astragalus root*, Elderberry*, Elderflower*, Echinacea herb*, Ginger root*, Acerola extract*.

*Organically produced ingredient. Made with 100% organic ingredients. This is a vegan product.

2) Bee Lovely Body Butter - Lightly scented and decadently rich, this body butter is a true skin treat! Organic Honey, Shea and Cocoa Butters leave skin soft and deeply moisturized, while the subtle fragrance from Mandarian Orange Essential Oil uplifts the senses. This is the first body butter I have tried that doesn't leave my skin feeling greasy, which I love. The texture is creamy and silky and it absorbs pretty quickly too. A little goes a long way.

Price - $32
Ingredients - Aqua/Water/Eau, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower)Seed Oil*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter*, TheobromaCacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter*, Cetyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder*, Mel*, Citrus Sinensis Peel Oil Expressed*, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil*, Styrax Tonkinensis Resin Extract*, Alcohol Denat.*, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Levulinic Acid, Sodium Levulinate, Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Potassium Sorbate, Dehydroacetic Acid, Citral, Citronellol, Eugenol, Farnesol,Geraniol, Limonene, Linalool.

*Organically produced ingredient. Natural constituent of essential oils listed.

Made with 89% organic ingredients.

*Stay tuned for a review on some of their facial products!



So far, I am extremely impressed with everything I have tried from these 3 brands and I hope to try more in the future!

Have you tried anything from these brands? If so, what are your favorites?

Peace & Love,

Sabrina xoxo

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

A Hot Toddy For Colds Works Wonders!

Hey guys! This is going to be a really quick post as I am sick with another nasty cold/flu and am about to make my new favorite natural remedy, so I thought I would share it with you!

Years ago, when I would have a cold, I would take NyQuil or Thera-Flu in addition to my usual natural remedies to help me sleep. Now, after learning what goes into them...ummmm yeah, no thanks - I started looking into more natural versions of these popular medicines.

I came across a recipe for a "Hot Toddy" the other day and decided to try it . I felt immediately better! So now, whenever I get sick with a cold, I will add this to my routine!

Please excuse the mess in the background!

Drink up, buttercup!

What you will need:

• Mug or glass
• Rum of choice
• Raw Honey
• Fresh Lemon
• Cinnamon (I used Pumpkin Pie Spice..because I'm addicted)
• Hot Water

Recipe:

• 2 Tbsp of Rum
• 1 tsp of Raw Honey 
• 1 slice of Lemon (you can add extra juice if you like)
• 1/4 tsp of Cinnamon (or one Cinnamon stick if you prefer)
• Hot Water

To Make:

• Boil water
• Add the Rum and honey to mug/glass 
• Once water is ready, pour into mug/glass and stir 
• Add Cinnamon and slice of Lemon
• Drink up and feel better! 

Why it works:

• Raw Honey is anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, strengthens the immune system, and is a powerful anti-oxidant!
• Lemon is a rich source of vitamin C, which helps boost immunity as well as breaking up nasty phlegm
• Cinnamon is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-oxidant
• Rum has anti-microbial benefits and helps to relax the body, allowing for more rest or sleep. 

Have you ever tried a Hot Toddy for a cold? 

Peace & Love,

Sabrina xoxo

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

PR Sample

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Benefits of Bee Venom: 

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

Key Ingredients: 

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

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

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

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

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

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