Saturday 5 March 2016

Alice & White Botanika Eco-Chic Subscription Box: February 2016

February is here, and with it Alice & White's latest addition to their Botanika subscription box. Since announcing their latest introduction to the store, I knew Kypris would feature in this month's box, followed with 2 lovely full-size products and 3 other samples. 

There are a total seven gorgeously green and wonderfully natural products in this month's box, which include:

Meraki Bamboo Charcoal Konjac Sponge
I love a good konjac sponge, and the Meraki Bamboo Charcoal Konjac Sponge is no exception to that rule. While not too dissimilar to The Konjac Sponge Company (reviewed here), I much prefer the oblong shape of the Meraki

The lovely cushioned texture of the Meraki Bamboo Charcoal Konjac Sponge makes for an incredibly gentle, yet wildly effective exfoliation. My skin feels completely refreshed and renewed in the most caring way possible. 

I actually like to combine this with my Moss Miel Noir pH Balancing Cleanser for that extra charcoal-on-charcoal action. Charcoal is often hailed for its ability to balance and regulate over-oily skins. Cleansing in this way has really helped my skin remain clear and controlled. I have a fresher face and definitely a more regulated complexion. 

Meraki Bamboo Charcoal Konjac Sponge is available from Meraki for £5.00 for 1 piece.

RMS Beauty Ultimate Make-Up Remover Wipes

As we are well aware, I really do love the RMS Beauty Ultimate Make-Up Remover Wipes (reviewed here). They make for the perfect travel companion as their individual sachets keep them fresh, purse-friendly and fully recyclable. 

Saturated in coconut oil, they really do provide the ultimate way to remove make-up. RMS really do love their coconut oil for make-up removal (see RMS Beauty Raw Coconut Cream (reviewed here), so it's only natural that they'd provide a convenient way to use it on-the-go. I really dig that.

For me, the coconut oil can leave an oily residue. That's fine if I'm flying or travelling as I want that extra moisture, but for all other purposes, it can be an issue.

RMS Beauty Ultimate Make-Up Remover Wipes can be purchased from Naturisimo for £13.50 / 20 wipes. Alternatively, you can sample for £0.75 per wipe here.

RMS Beauty Oil

I like the RMS Beauty Oil, I really do, Rosehip and Jojoba oils happen to be two of my all-time favourite ingredients. But I can't satisfy that price tag. At £60.00 for this oil, while nice and all, I'm struggling to find the appeal to purchase it. I would argue that it's a more expensive Pai Rosehip Bioregenerate Oil (reviewed here).

With a delightful smell of rosehips, matched with that ever-so dreamy blood orange colour, it really is a luxurious experience. The consistency is silky smooth and skin feels wonderfully soft after application. Honestly, this really is a very lovely oil, but it just has a very inflated price tag attached to it. No buy. 

RMS Beauty Oil can be purchased from LoveLula for £60.00 / 30ml/ [affiliate link]

MUN No.11 Anarose Rejuvenating Rose Toner

This darling little toner from MUN is simple, all-natural, part-organic and wonderfully refreshing. Helping to balance skin's pH levels and rejuvenate skin, the MUN No.11 Anarose Rejuvenating Rose Toner is a wonderful skin saviour for sensitive skins. 

Everything about this toner is polite. The rose fragrance is very subtle, but very comforting. Skin feels very refreshed and very toned. I suffer with redness and inflammation and the anti-inflammatory properties of the Rose Water and Aloe really help to calm and balance my skin perfectly. 

MUN No.11 Anarose Rejuvenating Rose Toner can be purchased from Alice & White for 689sek / 100ml.

Kypris Clearing Serum

Something of a cult classic, the Kypris Clearing Serum has been on my want-list for a very long time. The serum is very gelatinous in texture, but manages to absorbs instantly, leaving absolutely no sticky residue.The fragrance evokes a nostalgic smell from my teenage years of tea tree and lemon blemish wands. 

I desperately wanted to like this serum, after use my skin felt exceptionally toned and firm. But after a few days my skin started to break-out. I had very large and very red blemishes since introducing this into my routine, contrary to what this serum should do. 

While this just might be an edge case, and it might just be my skin, I will not be following up with a full size because my skin does not respond very well at all. 

Kypris Clearing Serum can be purchased from Selfridges for £48.00 / 50ml.

Hurraw! Moon Night Treatment Lip Balm

Keeping my lips in tip-top condition is always a priority for me, so the Hurraw! Moon Night Treatment Lip Balm was a welcome addition to this month's Botanika. Intended as a night treatment, this lip balm is delightfully creamy and delightfully oily. Melting away when heated, lips feel oh-so wonderfully conditioned.

Containing notes of sweet almond, coconut, cocoa and vanilla, this very scrumptious lip balm really helps to tuck you in for a good nights sleep. The yummy fragrance helps me feel calmed and relaxed. 

Hurraw! Moon Night Treatment Lip Balm can be purchased from LoveLula for £3.99 / 4.3g - or you can select from a wide variety of flavours here. [affiliate links]

The Alice & White Botankia Box is an all-natural monthly beauty subscription box which ship internationally from Sweden. Their are different price categories to choose from, starting at 249 SEK per box, plus 100 SEK for UK delivery (somewhere around £29.00).

Sunday 28 February 2016

Re-review: {SIMPLE as that} TONER

I feel as though I have committed an injustice. Two weeks back, in my post Australia; What I Bought, I reviewed the {SIMPLE as that} TONER and, in short, had nothing pleasant to say about it. I was very, very wrong. After sharing my blog post on Instagram, {SIMPLE as that} got back to me, expressing that my skin really shouldn't be reacting the way it was. The main ingredient, Organic Rose Otto Water is known to refresh, revive and tone this skin. Nothing of the drying sort. Naturally, I blamed the Witch Hazel for the drying effect, but {SIMPLE as that} mentioned the toner contains only the tiniest amount. 

Back to the drawing board it is then.

I returned to my bottle of TONER - what little I had remaining - and shook it like my review depended on it (because it does). After shaking vigorously and reapplying, I had none of the previous drying sensations. None, whatsoever. In fact, now I really rather like it. This has flipped from something I couldn't use, to something I can't be without. 

While it informs you to "shake" the bottle before use, you really do need to aggressively shake this toner. It contains just 3 organic ingredients (Rose Otto Water, Witch Hazel and French Lavender Oil), making it really quite simple as that. I blame some bizarre separation process that caused the difference between shaken and unshaken, as once correctly mixed, the toner becomes a real delight to use.

As I said in the previous post, I haven't used a physical toner in the longest time and I've really wanted something to feed that longing. When shaken correctly, the {SIMPLE as that} TONER feeds that longing and leaves no room for dessert. This gorgeously simple toner proves super effective. Simply transfer some of the toner onto a cotton round (or similar) and swipe across the face. I instantly feel revived and refreshed, as though someone has kickstarted my skin into functioning.

The toning effects are unmatched, skin really does feel clearer, cleansed and revived. I feel as though someone has hit restart on my skin. The {SIMPLE as that} TONER is testimony to the delights of simple and green skincare. You can  certainly bet I'll now be trying more from this brand.

{SIMPLE as that} TONER can be purchased from {SIMPLE as that} for $24.95 AUD / 100ml. Alternative, a list of available stockists is assessable here

Sunday 21 February 2016

Alice & White Botankia Eco-Chic Subscription Box January 2016

The Alice & White Botankia January Box delivers yet another amazing selection of luxurious, natural, eco-chic cosmetics. This month is themed around all-things English, providing a collection truly divine skin and haircare all from masters of natural beauty. 
From L-R: the box contains the following natural English beauties:

Swell Advanced Volumising Shampoo and Conditioner

The first two parts to the three-step process is the Swell Advanced Volumising Shampoo and Conditioner. Created by two of the UK's top hair stylists, Swell provide a unique collection of natural high quality haircare for those with thinning and and fine hair. That is exactly the category I fall into (thank you hereditary hair loss), so I found these products naturally piqued my interest.  

Using Swell's signature Root Nutrient Complex, the Volumising Shampoo is designed to create stronger and healthier hair by nourishing roots with a complex blend of eighteen active botanical extracts. I can definitely vouch for the stronger part. I have had less strands falling out when brushing, my hair has been cleaner for longer - far less prone to oiliness, and my hair has a certain uplift to the roots. I really do like this shampoo. While the smell isn't the friendliest, I love how thoroughly clean my hair is, with the desired volume offered from this lightweight cleanser.

As for the Volumising Conditioner, you really need just the tiniest, tiniest drop to see you through. This is a very heavy conditioner, and if you over-apply, you may find it a little difficult to thoroughly rinse out - I know I did. As someone with very long hair, I find I go through conditioner twice as fast as shampoo, but with the Volumising Conditioner I am able to make it go the distance because I only need to use very little. This conditioner is creamy and thick, coating hair once more in the signature Root Nutrient Complex, helping to moisturise and nourish my hair and providing me with very healthy ends. 

Swell Advanced Volumising Shampoo is available from Swell for £7.00 / 50ml (or £25.00 / 250ml here). The Swell Advanced Volumising Conditioner is available from Swell for £7.00 / 50ml (or £28.00 / 250ml here).


Mel Mills Phytonutri Rose Hydrolate Mist Tonic

As we're all well aware by now, I am a big fan of facial mists, and the Mel Mills Phytonutri Rose Hydrolate Mist Tonic might just be my favourite yet. This elegant blend of organic waters and oils delivers unmatched hydration. One-to-two pumps of the refreshing tonic provides my skin with all the moisture and hydration is needs, instantly reviving dull and fatigued skin to nourished and healthy.

Used post-cleanse, this divine mist helps to rebalance and support skins natural pH levels, providing skin with the moisture it so desperately craves. It soothes and tones, helping to balance any redness and revive any dullness. Its quick absorption rate totally prepares my skin for further applications; anything that follows the Mel Mills Phytonutri Rose Hydrolate Mist Tonic penetrates deeper and is far more effective.

You can bet I will be buying this gorgeous organic face mist time and time again.

Mel Mills Phytonutri Rose Hydrolate Mist Tonic is available from Mel Mills for £15.00 / 30ML, or £22.00 / 50ml here.


Aurelia Probiotic Skincare Cell Revitalise Day Moisturiser

As one of my favourite brands of all time, Aurelia Probiotic Skincare have done it again with their Cell Revitalise Day Moisturiser. I was certain this luxuriously rich moisturiser wouldn't gel with my oily skin, but how wrong I was. This product is just beautiful. Lightly whipped and delightfully creamy, the Cell Revitalise Day Moisturiser is a very rich moisturiser indeed. Containing a list of free-from ingredients, including probiotics and essential oils, this moisturiser is exactly what my skin asked for, and my skin usually never asks for Shea butter. 

While rich to touch, this moisturiser fells anything but heavy when applied to skin. Heavenly nourishing and delightfully absorbent, my skin feels the power of this moisturiser instantly. It feels supportive to skin, helping to protect and nourish throughout the day, providing healthier and hydrated skin. 

Their is the subtle yet desirable dewy glow after application, making my skin appear almost luminous and highlighted. Don't mistake that for greasiness, as it's a completely natural looking radiance that gives my skin the appears of freshness, youthfulness and good health.


A. S. Apothecary Cleansing Oil #5 and Cleansing Cloth #1

Made in a small distillery in Sussex, A. S. Apothecary create some of the finest all-natural artisan skincare available. Their Cleansing Oil #5 and Cleansing Cloth #1 are testimony to that. Arguably, one cannot exist without the other, as it's always best to remove cleansing oils with a physical cloth (and this might just be the best one you'll use yet), and it's always best to remove make-up with a cleansing oil - these two are like two peas in a cleansing pod.

I found the scrumptious Cleansing Oil #5 to be quite viscous in consistency, almost like a honey-syrup. As I massaged this thick, rich oil into my skin, I could feel how nourishing and nurturing it was. I knew I was in safe hands. This warm oil soothes and nourishes as it cleanses my skin, there's quite a comforting sensation to it really. I feel like my skin is being gently cleansed in the most delicate way. There's is no stripping, no drying, no tightening, there's nothing but nourished and healthy skin in its wake. 

The Cleansing Oil #5 is also incredibly powerful at make-up removal. Make-up almost disappears as it effortlessly just wipes it away. It provides the ultimate cleanse, being clearing and refreshing all without damaging the skin.

As for the miniature Cleansing Cloth #1 (I already have the full size, which is a far better fit), this hand-knitted crochet pure cotton cloth is the perfect match for removing cleansing oils, all while providing a mild exfoliation. Hand-crocheted by a friend of A. S. Apothecary (Anne Seaton), each cloth is custom made with a double stitch to provide that exfoliating texture and endure countless washes.

This gentle cloth is just incredible when it comes to product removal. It just takes the product - whether that be the cleansing oil or my make-up - fully away. There is no residue or need to wipe repeatedly, everything is just effortlessly removed in one clean sweep. It has an interesting feature of drying the skin after clearing. The cleansing clothes I tend to use leave my skin wet, but the Cleansing Cloth #1 leaves absolutely no water behind, meaning I can go straight into the next step of my routine.

The gentle bobbley-bits of the cloth offer a very gentle exfoliation, helping to clear and decongest the skin. Its texture also encourages circulation, helping to revive the skin and allow the following steps in your routine to be far more effective.

A. S. Apothecary Cleansing Oil #5 can be purchased from 
A. S. Apothecary for £39.00 / 25ml. The A. S. Apothecary Cleansing Cloth #1 can be purchased from A. S. Apothecary for £7.25 / 1 Cloth. 

The Alice & White Botankia Box is an all-natural monthly beauty subscription box which ship internationally from Sweden. Their are different price categories to choose from, starting at 249 SEK per box, plus 100 SEK for UK delivery (somewhere around £29.00).

Sunday 14 February 2016

Beauty Heroes X Beauty Counter: The February 2016 Box; The Box of Love

I doubt it will be heavily disputed when I say that Beauty Heroes has to be one of the greatest beauty subscription boxes of all time. Focusing on greenerhealthier and safer cosmetics, their monthly brand focus have been continued success after continued success. For February, we're introduced to the safer, cleaner and toxin-free brand BeautyCounter. As you can see from their comprehensive Ingredients GlossaryBeautyCounter believe in transparency, using only the safest ingredients in a vow to combat the US's current inadequate regulations. 
The hero product in this month's Beauty Heroes is the BeautyCounter Lustro Rose Neroli Body Oil (unfortunately this link takes you to the Rosemary + Citrus Body Oil because I can't seem to find the Rose Neroli anywhere). This golden oil somehow proves to be both rich and thick, while simultaneously fluid and absorbent. This nourishing blend of natural and organic oils is deeply moisturising, improving skin's condition and providing a divine glow. My skin feels smoother and silkier after application, giving me an all-too-delightful suppleness without the oily residue.

This nutrient-rich premium oil instantly hydrates my skin, making my body both feel and appear firmer. The glow it provides, complemented by the slight sheen, makes my skin truly luminous. My body feels liberated when wearing the BeautyCounter Lustro Rose Neroli Body Oil, perfectly conditioned and with optimum hydration. 
The sidekick in this month's box is BeautyCounter Lip Sheer in Petal. Unlike traditional lipsticks, this product provides subtle colour while conditioning and moisturising your lips. The rich creaminess of the sheer lipstick hydrates my lips, protecting them in a silky smooth layer of colour. I love how nourishing this product feels, my lips truly revel in it.

The soft petal tone is a perfectly delicate shade of pink. It's both subtle and strong, giving lips a definite colour without being overpowering. The Lip Sheer has real staying power, helping to keep my lips colourful and moisturised. Containing Vanilla Fruit Extract, the Lip Sheer has an aroma that really is good enough to eat. I feel super delicious when wearing this lovely product.

You can subscribe to Beauty Heroes here from $39.00 a month plus a $18.95 international shipping fee. You may also face customs charges upon delivery. Depending on the current exchange rate, it will cost you upwards of £40.00, billed monthly.

BeautyCounter Lustro Rose Neroli Body Oil is priced at $73.00 / 80ML and the BeautyCounter Lip Sheer in Petal is $30.00 / 3.4G, making that a total value of $103.00 (~£71.00).

Saturday 13 February 2016

Australia: What I Bought

If you're at all familiar with my buying habits, you'll know that, quite frankly, there was never a chance of me resisting flying part-way round the globe without bringing back at least a few beauty souvenirs. Australia seems to be very, very big on its skin and beauty, bringing you familiar lines such as Aēsop, Lanolips, MV Organics and Alpha-H, to name but a few. They are also very big on their natural and organic products, offering a bounty of independent and handmade wholesome cosmetics, which of course, I got my mits on.

I was fortunate enough to be able to shop both online and in-store, picking up some real skin treats, all of which I've now tried, loved and would pick up again, if they were a little more accessible to purchase. Round 2 to Australia, anyone?

Go-To Skincare

With a brand focus on cruelty-free, all-natural skincare, Go-To Skincare provides a simple, silky collection of effective and charming skin, body and lip products. Go-To Skincare like to have have fun with language, their cheeky descriptions and so-bad-its-good wordplay put a smile on my face while their wonderful oils make my skin glow.

I picked up the Oil Have Some of That Bundle (see what I mean), at which point there was an additional Christmas Candle ioveded - which smelled just like their Exceptionoil (bliss). The bundle includes: Exceptionoil; Face Hero; and Lips! all of which have a silky texture, a golden colour and a wonderful feel on skin. 

Lips! might just be one of my favourite lip products of all times. It has an unmatched texture, that glides over my lips and leaves them with that long lasting smoothness. It has a wonderful feel, thanks to its oil-like texture, and its fragrance is gorgeously soft and edible. My lips feel in stellar condition and look truly kissable thanks to that sheen.

Exceptionoil turned out to be a bit of a dark horse, as I'm generally more concerned about face products than I am body, but this smelled too good to not use. Starting as a balm, it instantly melts into a slinky oil when heat is applied. It is warm and comforting and the texture feels so smoothing as it runs over my skin. I'd argue that this is a wonderful natural alternative to Bio-Oil, helping to keep skin hydrated, firm and super supple. I would absolutely purchase this again, a hundred times over.

The Face Hero is an oil of pure gold. It's rich and thick, therefore reserved only for nighttime use. While I find it exceptionally nourishing, the heaviness of the oil just doesn't absorb well with my skin. It keeps my skin protected and hydrated, a resurgence of moisture that leaves my face with a comfortable nourishment. 

The Go-To Skincare collection is available here. The Oil Have Some of That Bundle is priced at $111 AUD for 1x Exceptionoil ($51AUD / 85ML), 1x Face Hero ($45AUD / 30ML) and 1x Lips! ($15AUD / 15G).


The Little Alchemist

There were a lot of items I wanted to pick up from The Little Alchemist and I wish my wallet and luggage allowance had permitted me to do so. These artisan natural skincare treats are ideal for soothing my sensitive, yet oily skin, providing a refreshing and clearing cleanse. 
I purchased the Wild Apple & Mint Antioxidant Balancing Mist, Wild Apple & Mint Purifying Gel Cleanser and the Pineapple & Zeolite Micro Polish, all of which really do have that wild and natural freshness, complemented by their zesty fragrances. 

I love a good facial mist, and the Wild Apple & Mint Antioxidant Balancing Mist is no exception. This fresh, reviving mist is nothing short of hydrating. I feel an instant surge of moisture, my skin is instantly hydrated as the waters quickly absorb into my skin. Complemented by its fruity scent, this is the perfect facial mist for when you need to hit refresh.

Usually, I'm not a lover of gel-type cleanser, so I took a gamble on the Wild Apple & Mint Purifying Gel Cleanser but it definitely paid off. This gelatinous cleanser seems to be perpetually cool, allowing for an instantly refreshing and revitalising sensation. It's lightweight and gentle, softly cleansing my face and providing nourishment. The freshness of the product leaves my skin feeling invigorated and brighter, the perfect kickstart cleanser for the mornings. 

The  Pineapple & Zeolite Micro Polish is very similar in consistency and fragrance to the Wild Apple & Mint Purifying Gel Cleanser, meaning it gives the sensation of both polishing and cleansing. Using all-natural jojoba spheres to exfoliate, this polish offers an ever-so-gentle buff, helping to clear any congestion while retaining skin's suppleness. I really like the freshness of this product, a real friendly skin pick-me-up.


The Organic Project

The Organic Project is an online-only webstore specialising in a range of artisan and boutique organic and natural cosmetics and skincare. From the budget(ish) to the truly luxurious, you really are spoiled for choice of Australia's own green cosmetics. But, like a sensible little shopper, I limited myself to just two items: the Simple As That Toner and the DnA Elements Firming Eye Gel, but sadly, made some just terrible choices.
DnA Elements are a truly organic, hand crafted, artisan brand, using simple and nourishing natural ingredients. The DnA Elements Firming Eye Gel, consisting of very minimal ingredients, all of which are 100% organic certified, and while that's all very well and nice, it unfortunately seems to lack any performance. Radioactive orange in colour, and the consistency of runny egg yolk, adding to whole to meaning to "you've got egg on your face", the contents inside this little plastic pot makes application difficult, for seemingly no visible reward.

The watery consistency means you either apply too much, or it dribbles merrily along your face and fingers. Its absorption rate is almost too good, feeling as though it disappears when applied. There are very little short-term or long-term visible effects to this product. There is no cooling and refreshing sensation on application, and there have been no noticeable improvements to firmness or puffiness.

After sharing this post on Instagram, Simple As That got back to me, a little confused as to why I found such a small amount of witch hazel so drying. Since then, I went back and tried the toner once more (of the third that still remains), shaking the bottle ferociously to make sure the ingredients mixed. I didn't find it drying at all, I found it very lovely and very toning.

In light of which, it turns out the issues I have faced may be due to a separation in ingredients. I have kept the initial review for clarity, but plan to re-review this product more accurately and will update shortly with a follow-up link:
[It's been a very long time since I used a physical toner. As a long standing convert to facial mists, the Simple As That Toner was a very welcome change indeed. Contain only 3 ingredients, this toner really is as simple as that. The rose otto water takes its place at the top of the ingredients list and really is the dominant scent, and nobody is complaining about that. But, followed by witch hazel, which I find to be incredibly drying, the toner leaves my skin with that tightening sensation. I find it uncomfortable to wear, and needs to be immediately followed by a moisturiser, if I let this sit on my skin, my skin rapidly becomes dry and tight, far from offering that soothing sensation as it claims.]


Aēsop, Melbourne

Borne out of Melbourne, Aēsop likes to define themselves as scientific skincare, stressing heavily that their ingredients firmly comply with EU safety regulations, which is very good news for consumers indeed (but no, not green, like you may have hoped). 

This is my first foray with the cult brand Aēsop and I couldn't stress cult more heavily. Walking into their Melbourne store, sprinkled with ghostly polite female staff, wearing what can only be referred to as brown sacks, I felt by signing my receipt I have inadvertently signed up for whatever glass of x-crazy they were peddling. 
I picked up one very petite item while there, because it was ever-so-slightly cheaper than in the UK (if you look after the pennies...). The Control Blemish Gel is a targeted spot treatment, used to decrease inflammation and soothe those pesky little blemishes.

This is quite a neat little product. It smells wonderful for a blemish gel, a very fresh and botanical fragrance. It's cooling to touch, instantly helping to calm any redness, and throughout the day will help minimise the size of the blemish. I have found it doesn't leave any of the sticky or shiny residue you normally get with gels, meaning it blends seamlessly, while helping to fight the blemish. Top marks for it's resolve; once you set Control into fight mode, it goes in stealthily and effectively, the prefect day-wear anti-blemish treatment. 

Alongside ControlAēsop also threw-in 3 sample sachets of the  Chamomile Concentrate Anti-Blemish Masque. I really did fall in love with this little number. Once more, it features that lovely cooling technology that helps to calm and deflame any redness. It's far creamier than most masks and doesn't harden on skin as it dries, keeping your skin under a dynamic and nourishing barrier. Mostly contributing to decreasing inflammation, Chamomile Concentrate Anti-Blemish Masque is perfect for calming and soothing, providing a more balanced and even complexion.

Control Blemish Gel can be purchased from Aēsop for £15.00 / 15ML. The full-size Chamomile Concentrate Anti-Blemish Masque can also be purchased from Aēsop for £33.00 / 60ML.


The Lab Organics, Melbourne

I could spend a lot of time in Melbourne's own The Lab Organics. This picturesque little boutique is structured from prettily painted-white wood, adorned with wild ivy and flowers, naturally lit to demonstrate the collection of beautiful displays. I wish I could shop here more. I want one just like it in Manchester. The friendly staff are polite, invested and know this organic lark inside and out. I picked up three decadent little gifts for myself: the Mr. Smith Sea Salt SprayProspector Co. All-Purpose Dirt and the Lavanila Vanilla Coconut Deodorant, on one of those, exit-the-shop-with-more-than-you'd-bargained-for ventures.
I always like to add a bit of texture to my hair when styling. Coming from one of those families who only holidayed in Cornwall as a child, I feel at one with the beach and the beach hair that comes with it. Mr. Smith Sea Salt Spray is a delightful salt spray that is lightweight, conditioning and has a deliciously sweet fragrance, not too dissimilar to that of Mini Eggs. I was able to achieve that same ocean-fresh hair style, adding stability and firmness while also providing UV protection, moisture and hydration. My hair looks, feels and smells just lovely when wearing this smart little sea salt spray.

As a big fan of all things all-purpose, the Prospector Co. All-Purpose Dirt. This brown powdery dirt can be used on skin, hair and body. Looking online and on the packaging, I can't actually find the complete list of ingredients - now that is very disconcerting. Described only as containing "a blend of all-natural fine-grained clays and minerals", it makes for the perfect compliment for oily skin and oily hair, moping up any excess sebum or grease. It has a gritty, earthy feel to it, yet remains soft and silky when using. I'm just really concerned about the lack of transparency over the ingredients now...

I converted over to natural deodorants around 8 months ago and I haven't looked back since. While I am sensitive to sodium bicarbonate, the Lavanila Vanilla Coconut Deodorant instead contains sodium stearate (coconut derived), which I've found to be far less intrusive, causing no irritation. Applying via a stick instead of a balm makes life so much easier, there is no mess and a cleaner application. The deodorant is very nourishing, I can feel the rich creaminess of the deodorant as it glides along. Don't get me started on the smell, oh the smell. Vanilla and coconut makes for two peas in a vanilla pod, a scent that so perfectly complements one another, while fairly subtle and in no way overpowering, this is a scent that lasts throughout the day.

All three items can be purchased from The Lab Organics. The Mr. Smith Sea Salt Spray is priced at $35.00 AUD / 150ML, Prospector Co. All-Purpose Dirt is priced at $55.00 AUD / 113G and the Lavanila Vanilla Coconut Deodorant $26.95 AUD / 50G (or Net-A-Porter for £10.00). 

The Raw Kitchen, Perth

I'm almost a little reluctant to admit, that this is my first experience in a vegan restaurant, but I will very happily disclose that it was one of the best meals I have ever had the pleasure of enjoying. Within The Raw Kitchen, there is a very small vegan shop selling a range of crafts, books, utensils, and, my personal favourite, cosmetics.

I couldn't believe my luck when I came across a Kahina Giving Beauty Antioxidant Mask by the side of the till, marked down from $89.00 AUD to $45.00 AUD. That's very nearly 50% off, and given that, at the time, the pound was scoring twice as profitable to the dollar, it cost me around £22.50 to pick up a mask that normally retails at £64.00. Back of the net. I'm kicking myself now, after falling so madly in love with the mask, I wish I'd picked up a couple more.
The Kahina Giving Beauty Antioxidant Mask is one of the most nourishing masks I have ever applied. It has an unmatched richness to its creamy texture, that, when applied, will remain moist and nourishing - never drying or hardening. It's one step away from being a night cream, as a thin layer of this mask will readily absorb into the skin, providing a deep-down hydration that my skin just revels in. Afterwards my skin looks plumper and feels softer. There's a delicateness to my skin, it's supple now and it's radiant. The argan oil smells scrumptious, holistically refreshing my body as the mask works to refresh my skin.

In addition, I picked up what can only be described as a very expensive soap. By my standards, I wouldn't bat an eyelid at these prices, but £7.50 for a soap is enough to make anyone's head spin. I picked up Maple Soaps Pink Grapefruit and Tangerine as it smelled just too good to not purchase. I bought it as a gift, so I can only personally vouch for its divine scent. I have heard nothing yet as to the quality of the product so we can only assume that no news is good news, right?

The Raw Kitchen do not have an online webstore for their boutique, so alternatively, the Kahina Giving Beauty Antioxidant Mask can be purchased from Alyaka for £64.00 / 50ML and the Maple Soaps Pink Grapefruit and Tangerine can be purchased from Maple Soaps for $15.00 AUD / 135G. 

For the next time I'm back in Australia - because yes, I will be back - I'm going to allow myself a bigger budget for  both luggage allowance and monetary requirements. Australia has a lot to offer on the beauty scene and I feel like I've only just scratched the surface.

Thursday 14 January 2016

Welcome Back to 2016: Goodbye Australia

A very belated Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to one and all! How have you been? I had the opportunity to spend December in Australia, visiting both Perth and Melbourne during the festive season. Let me tell you, this is a must-visit country. Utterly gorgeous and dynamic landscapes, incredible food, weather, beaches and people, amazing wildlife and habitats and there are countless things to see and do. 

Interestingly, Australia seems to be especially organic - or at least take a special interest in it. While I'm speaking primarily foods here, it has migrated into beauty and cosmetics (how fanatic for those of us who are green-inclined). Natural ingredients featured heavily among a lot of Australia's own independent brands, closely followed by organic brands. Naturally, I brought a few of these home with me.

Packing light and reducing my skincare routine has never really been my strong suit, so you can imagine the struggle I had trying to minimise my routine into something that really was travel friendly. This means, I had to take only the best-of-the-best, the crème de la crème. That's a toughie when you have as many options and as many favourites as I do. But, as I am wont to do, I soldiered on, and brought with me a routine that was simple, effective and complimentary to my skin and the Australian climate. 

Okay, maybe I tell a slim lie. I did take slightly more than what's pictured here, including some additional skincare, haircare, bodycare, suncare, flight essentials and make-up. What's featured here is my daily routine plus weekly face masque, so let's take a look from left to right:

S.W. Basics Make-Up Remover  

This little, and I mean little, bottle of oil, has only three organic ingredients: sweet almond oil, olive oil and jojoba oil. This golden oil is the master of make-up removal, easily sweeping away dark and heavy make-up without a second glance. To be paired with a cleansing cloth, this oil smells scrumptious, feels silky and gets the job done right. 

S.W. Basics Make-Up Remover can be purchased from abeautifulworld for £14.00 / 59ML.

Aurelia Probiotic Skincare Miracle Cleanser

Now, you may consider 'Miracle Cleanser' to be a bold claim, but this luxurious jar of creamy cleanser certainly lives up to its name. Very delicately cleansing the skin with a silk-like cream, this cleanser super effectively clears the skin and reveals a very supple and nurtured complexion. Providing softer feeling skin, this cream cleanser is hydrating and masterfully cleansing. 

Aurelia Probiotic Skincare Miracle Cleanser can be purchased from Cult Beauty for £34.00 / 120 ML.

Bloom Skin Essentials Hydrate Toning Mist

Last July, when I first discovered Bloom Skin Essentials, I nearly gave up my skincare search altogether. These products have remained solid staples in my routine ever since (you can read my full review here). Hydrate is, as I'm sure you can already guess, wonderfully hydrating. Just a few little spritz of this toner provides my skin with all the hydration it needs in an instant, keeping me fresh faced, toned, hydrated and revived. 

Bloom Skin Essentials Hydrate Toning Mist can be purchased from Bloom Skin Essentials for $36.00 / 118ML.

SkinOwl Eye+

This minuscule jar is loaded with cucumber enzymes which have absolutely altered the way I perceived eyecare (reviewed fully here). This powerful gelatinous concentrate has smoothed, revived and brightened my under-eye area, helping to fix my dark circles and smooth my dragon scales. This concentrate smells divine and feels divine as the gel-like texture absorbs easily and provides a cooling sensation to the skin. 

SkinOwl Eye+ can be purchased from Cult Beauty for £36.00 / 0.8OZ.

Bloom Skin Essentials Nourish Facial Oil

This is the silkiest and most nourishing oil I have ever used (full review here). Catered specifically for your skin type, the Nourish for Oily Skin is the perfect compliment, helping to balance oil production, stimulate a healthy blood flow and regenerate and maintain normal skin structure. This oil absorbs brilliantly and keeps my face balanced, hydrated and shine-free throughout the day. 

Bloom Skin Essentials Nourish Facial Oil can be purchased from Bloom Skin Essentials for $48.00 / 30ML.

May Lindstrom The Honey Mud Cleansing Silk

The May Lindstrom line-up has to be the Queen when it comes to luxury green skincare. The Honey Mud can be used either as a tough-working cleanser or as a softening masque. I prefer the latter, as the scrumptious honey-chocolate scent is something I like to indulge in. This thick, mud-like masque converts my skin into a dreamily soft and supple complexion, providing healthier looking and feeling skin in a 10 minute to 1 hour treatment, depending on your preference. 

May Lindstrom The Honey Mud Cleansing Silk can be purchased from Cult Beauty for £64.00 / 100ML.

Simplifying my routine in this way has really made me re-evaluate the products I use. Admittedly, I picked nothing but stellar products for this routine, bound to deliver incredible results, so maybe there is a little bias. However, reducing what I use, the complexity of the ingredients, using only natural and organic, has really had a positive effect on my skin. I really am quite content with how my skin looks right now and I have this routine (and that Australian sun) to thank for it.