Just before summer, I treated myself to some new makeup. Most days I’m not wearing make up as I’m just at home in lockdown but when I do, I prefer to keep things quite natural.
My new natural look:
What I used:
Madara Organic Makeup
I got the Madara Age Defying Sunscreen (SPF30) in a Natrismo box last summer showcasing different suncare products. It was my favourite in the box and I wanted to try more by the brand.
When I saw Naturismo doing a 50% off all Madara deal, I couldn’t resist trying some new products.
I’m finding the foundation a bit drying for my skin type. I think when it’s time to replace, I’ll get the sunscreen instead.
Skin Equal – Soft Glow Foundation (shade 10): RRP £33
The Concealer (shade 15): RRP £20
Vapour Beauty
Usually, I buy Vapour foundation and concealer, and love the soft creamy texture.
Last summer, Vapour were selling minis of their multi use products. Unfortunately, they don’t appear to be doing them this year which is a real shame as I prefer the minis. I used the mini on my lips and cheeks.
RunwayMinis – Aura Multi Use (shade Courtesan): N/A (NB: Full size RRP £34)
Lily Lolo
This brand was my first Organic foundation. Their mineral powders are very affordable and worth checking out.
Eye Pallette (Laid Bare): RRP £21
Jane Iredale
This brand has one of the biggest range of shades for foundation colours and types. I’ve tried and loved them all.
I once had a palette that enabled me to try a wide range of lipsticks, glosses, and eyeshadows. They were all high quality and I meant to buy the full size but never got round to it.
I’ve always been curious to try their lash builder and the minis are a great opportunity to do this. These would also be useful to anyone who rarely wears make up and just wants a small amount for a special occasion.
Mini Pure Lash – Extender & Conditioner: £2.50
Mascara – Longest Lash (shade Black Ice): £2.50
I am going to buy the full-size version. I’ve found the best price is to buy them together from a Salon in Brighton called Skin Maze.
I don’t know about you but bile, urine, and anal secretions do not appeal. I discovered what these ingredients are whilst hunting for an organic perfume.
Welcome To Eden
Eden Perfumes are organic where possible, but 100% cruelty free and because they are vegan they don’t have any of those questionable ingredients above.
If like me you can’t get to the store they are able to recommend perfumes similar to a high street perfume you may already know. This makes buying online easier.
Chloe was my favorite perfume so the first thing I did was search for something similar. They recommended:
085: Chloey
It smells as good as the designer one, if not better. Since trying this, I haven’t looked back.
The price for all this goodness is very reasonable at only £18 for 30ml or £24 for 50ml.
If you’ve not checked them out I highly recommend you do.
They used to do mini bottles spray bottles which were perfect for trying a new scent or for travelling.I was disappointed to find they aren’tcurrently doing this as I thought it’d be fun to try something new.
I’m a fan of both these designer fragrances so it was no surprise I liked the vegan equivalent at first whiff. It was tough to choose which to buy full size, but I went for 015 and treated my hubby to 151.
151: Light Blue Man similar to Light Blue Men’s by Dolce & Gabbana
I love Eden Perfumes and won’t buy high street again. I’m tempted to get get more minis so I have a variety.
My only complaint is that the bottles look identical so I can’t tell at a glance which scent is which.
So to wrap up the year, I am having a look back at what my favourite beauty products were. These are the ones that got all used up and needed to be replaced.
This shade of lipstick gives my lips a natural but better look. In addition, when I am in a rush, I have applied it to my cheeks as a highlighter/blush and think it looks awesome.
In addition, I love the tube of these lipsticks. You click the bottom to pop the lipstick up.
This foundation is brilliant. Not only is it all the good stuff and none of the bad stuff but it is also a really effective foundation. You can build up the coverage until you are happy and it has a really nice smell.
This can be used as a primer or just as a light product to even out your skin tone. I use it everyday for the school run as it gives a really natural look and is light on my skin.
I’ve had my eye on this shampoo for ages and glad that I finally gave it a go. This shampoo makes my hair feel so good. I was seriously impressed by the customer service in answering my queries.
I bought two massive bottles and they have lasted ages so they are really reasonably priced. It is almost empty and I know I will have to repurchase.
Whenever my skin needs a little TLC, I reach for this moisturiser. It comes out in a yellow colour but it is full of so much goodness and my skin really soaks it up.
As someone who finds no joy in body scrubs as they are scatchy and nasty, this one has truly converted me. It scrubs the skin but it is so rich in moisture your skin doesn’t feel raw afterwards. I look forward to using it as it is a real treat.
I saved these salts for after labour to help with healing and loved them. I look forward to when I can find time to have a bath to enjoy these are they are a real treat.
Whenever hormones makes my skin play up, this cleanser brings it back to being balanced. It is so gentle I have even used it to remove eye makeup. I like the strong honey smell but that might not suit everyone.
I never thought I would trust a scrub on my face but this polish is really gentle and feels like a treat on my skin.
What I want in 2019
I discovered a lot of the above products through my Skin Organics Clean Beauty Box. If I can afford to subscribe again then I definitley will.
Other than replacing the above products when they run out, I would be interested in trying out other products by the brands.
I also enjoyed using a lot of lip balms, body oils and facial spritz but although I loved using them, I wasn’t in love with one that it was my most favourite. I think in 2019, I would like to try more of those products to find the one.
Have you tried any of the above products? Have you got any recomendations for me.
I’ve had a total of six Skin Organic beauty subscription boxes! At the end of this article, I will include links to reviews and first impressions of those boxes.
When I started taking more interest in the ingredients used in my heart products, I was horrified. There I was thinking I was treating myself only to discover all the harmful chemicals I was putting on my skin.
Switching to organic skincare wasn’t easy and I had to do it gradually. I began by switching the product I use most first – my cleanser. I wish I had known about the Skin Organics box back then as it is a great affordable way to discover new organic products and brands.
What ingredients to avoid?
There are many harmful ingredients in highsteet/designer makeup and skincare products. Once you are aware what these ingredients can do to your body it is shocking that they are even allowed.
Here are some examples to give you a taste of what you might be putting into your body through your skin everyday.
Parabens: can cause breast cancer, skin cancer, decrease sperm count. Some types will disrupt the endocrine system, cause reporductive and development disorders.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): can cause skin irratiations, canker sores, disrupt natural oil balance, eye damage and cystic acne.
Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA): can cause skin depigmentation, liver damage, stomache cancer, interferes with the repoducitve system and thyroid hormone leveles.
There are more but that is not the purpose of this post. I just want to illustrate why you might want to rethink ‘treating’ yourself and start looking into products created using natural and organic ingredients.
Why get a Skin Organics subscription?
Skin Organics Clean Beauty is a subscription box with a selection of non-toxic, cruelty-free, organic and natural products. These may be skincare, body care or beauty products. Their aim is to help you discover clean, green and cruelty-free products and brands. They dispatch on 20th of the month.
Your box will contain five products. All of these will be free from nasty harmful ingredients like Parabens, SLS, pthalates, petrochemicals, suylphastes, silicones and GM ingredients. And, the brands with be ethical and cruelty free.
If you don’t want to subscribe you can buy a one off box (or send one as a gift), you can also buy gift vouchers and buy seasonal boxes (for example, this Chrsitmas they have a Christmas Gift box with 5 festive products or a Mini Christmas box with 2-3 festive products).
Here are the highlights:
Here are links to my first impressions and reviews of the Skin Organics box when I was a subscriber. I’ve also tried really hard to choose a favourite product each month.
I am not a fan of scrubs but I loved Revive Body Polish by Butter Bar Soapery. I am going to buy it as a gift for people at Christmas (and for myself). And, I’ve shocked myself by loving BAO Skincare‘s Apricot Rose Face Polish. Both of these are products I never would have bought myself but I now look forward to using as a treat.
I have loved most of the items in this box. I must confess I’ve not really used the Lola’s Apothecary Body & Massage oils but everything else is well used. It’s trick to pick just the one but I am going to go with the Green People‘s Damask Rose moisturiser and face oil.
From this box, I have still not used the Lucidlure Allava Hair Mask although due to my hormones changing, my hair is currenlty falling out so I have been thinking about using this – just need some me time. The Bespoke Aroma Peppermint and Lomongrass Pulse Point Oil was a life saver when I got a cold whilst pregnant. I also loved their facial mist in the hot weather.
This has to be one of my favourite edits as I am really struggling to choose a favourie. I’m going to tell you my three favourites! A.S Apothecary‘s Wild Beauty Balm is so good that I am wondering how I will afford it on materntiy leave – it makes my skin so happy. I also love Roques O’Neil Himalayan Detox Bath Salts. These were my go to after labour for a soothing bath and now I can’t get enough of them. Sadly, I did not like the dark chocolate – yuck, not for me!
I really love NKnaturals‘ London’s Delicate – Healing Cleansing Balm. It has been so delecate I have used it to on my eyes to remove make up. Although it is delicate it has still removed waterproof makeup. I must re-buy this!
My first impressions of this box can be found here.
Overall thoughts…
If I could afford to subscribe to only one beauty box, it would be this one. I love the chemical free, cruelty free and ethical products and brands that I recieved. All the products were of good quality and didn’t cause me any irritation. My only wish is that they’d sometimes include a makeup item.
Being a redhead, I have always had a love for the Little Mermaid, ever since Disney released the movie.
https://youtu.be/ai1RlvqicrU
It was one of the first films I watched at the cinema. It was my birthday and my mum took me and my best friend. Before the cinema we went swimming and pretended to be mermaids. Afterwards, we ate at McDonald’s who had Little Mermaid toys and we both got Flounder. It was late night Christmas Shopping and the Body Shop had just opened. Mum treated us to a bar of soap and when we got home, my best friend and I had a bath together.
I’ve continued to love mermaids and if you follow my blog you’ll know I have even written a YA novel about one.
Today is Little Mermaid Day!
To celebrate, I thought I would share with you my wish list of mermaid themed ethical beauty products.
They also do a mermaid dry shampoo, hair oil and face mask.
Tropics Skincare – Blue Lagoon Blemish Prevention Skincare
This is a brand new product to this ethical brands collection! Mermaid’s need flawless skin to capture sailor’s hearts. With a name like ‘blue lagoon’ it’s a siren call to your nearest ambassador or visit their site – costs £42.
Bellapierre – Eye Shimmer Kit in Deep Ocean
I found this gorgeous kit on Naturismo for £29.99 (worth £81). This kit makes uses of blues and complimentary shades, perfect for fans of the ocean. The brand uses natural ingredients for their pigmented mineral products.
100% Pure – Fruit Pigmented Mermaid Palette
If blue is not your thing then this alternative eye palette with shades of coral, gold and green might be more your thing. The fruit pigmented palette costs £45.26.
Tarte Cosmetics
This cruelty free brand has so much for mermaid lovers to choose from. Here is a small selection of their fintastic products:
Skin Organics Clean Beauty is a subscription box with a selection of non-toxic, cruelty-free, organic and natural products. These may be skincare, body care or beauty products. Their aim is to help you discover clean, green and cruelty-free products and brands. They dispatch on 20th of the month.
Cost: £19.00 (+£3.95 P&P) subscription, UK
*****
As I am now on maternity leave, I have cancelled my subscription so there is no new box of cruelty free products to reveal.
My skin likes this mist and I’ve been using it daily as a toner. I, however, do not like bottle. When it is screwed up, it doesn’t spray. I have to loosen it for it to work and then it is still tricky to mist.
Although I’m not keen on the bottle the product is effective. I am still interested in trying lip venom by this brand and have high expectations that it will perform well.
Casa Mercarelli: Lemon & Clay Face Mask (sheet lists price as £8.00)
When am I suppose to have time to do a face mask? I now have a few face masks waiting. I feel my daughter is starting to get a routine but I don’t want to jinx it or scare her by appearing to attend to her wearing a face mask.
Butter Bar Soapery: Revive Body Polish (Exclusive product for subscription box – not yet for sale. Expected RRP £15.00)
I’m not a fan of scrubs so it has to be pretty special to win me over and this one did. This scrub deep cleaned my skin, removed any dryness and really hydrated my skin. My legs felt so soft, like silk. I was blown away! This felt like a luxury spa treatment. I would buy this again. It is so good!
BAO Skincare: Apricot Rose Face Polish (RRP £14.00 for 50ml)
Again, I’m not a fan of scrubs but I’ve been using this once a week and I look forward to using it. It’s very gentle although you can feel it working. My skin looks better as a result. I think it gets rid of dry skin and enables my moisturiser to be more effective. I’d buy this again too!
Eden Days Body: Hawaiian Haven Whipped Body Butter (Sheet lists price as RRP £6.50)
My underfloor heating has ruined this product. After melting into a messy oil, it has partial solidified. It is not in two parts, one oily and the other waxy. I can mix it up and it’s still great a moisturise but I don’t think the product is as good as it would have been in its original state.
It is a very affordable price so I may buy it again and give it another chance. I did really like it as an oil so I may let my underfloor heating melt it again lol.
Would I recommend?
My subscription is now cancelled but only while I adjust to a ‘maternity pay lifestyle’. I can’t express how much I will miss these monthly edits. I have loved discovering new products and organic brands.
If you are interested in being chemical free then this is the beauty subscription box for you! It contains a range of organic products from brands that are high end, award winners or start ups. I have not been disappointed by the contents and it’s encouraged me to try products I otherwise wouldn’t have and I’ve been pleasantly surprised.
All the products meet the promise of clean, green and cruelty-free – so if that’s something you desire, this is a great box for you.
I shall soon be looking back at past boxes and sharing the products that stood out. Please share if you’ve tried any of these and what organic products or brands you love? Are your skin/body care products chemical free?
Skin Organics Clean Beauty is a subscription box with a selection of non-toxic, cruelty-free, organic and natural products. These may be skincare, body care or beauty products. Their aim is to help you discover clean, green and cruelty-free products and brands. They dispatch on 20th of the month.
Cost: £19.00 (+£3.95 P&P) subscription, UK
What was in my box?
Refresh
This months theme is Refresh. Inside this box are five products.
The card has details about all the products and discount codes if you decide to buy.
The Neroli essential oil in this mist has antibacterial properties to help combat breakouts and boosts skin elasticity. The Orange gives skin a vitamin C boost and is anti-inflammatory.
The brand is cruelty free, organic, vegan and uses sustainably sourced ingredients. Founder Luigi, created the first product, Lip Venom, for his sister and her friends as he didn’t agree with luxury skin care companies charging a fortune for products full of harmful ingredients and I must say, I was impressed with the prices. I never would have guessed this affordable brand is organic. I plan to return to try more, especially the debut product!
Casa Mercarelli: Lemon & Clay Face Mask (sheet lists price as £8.00)
The Lemon will exfoliate skin and remove dead skin. The uncontaminated mineral rich green clay from Sicily will draw out impurities and toxins from your skin.
This Italian brand is organic (certified by the soil association), has recyclable packaging and is free from nasty ingredients. The founder, Lucia, developed Multiple Chemical Sensitivity and had to change her lifestyle to recover from her illness. As a result, she developed this Italian inspired organic skincare brand.
Butter Bar Soapery: Revive Body Polish (Exclusive product for subscription box – not yet for sale. Expected RRP £15.00)
Packed with organic ingredients to buff & repair, cleanse & calm, boost circulation & target cellulite, and to firm & tighten skin tone. That’s a lot of promises!
I love that the products are created in a little workshops in London. The products are cruelty free, palm oil free and don’t use preservatives. They also had some beautiful and reasonably priced gift sets on the site and offer to custom make a gift set.
BAO Skincare: Apricot Rose Face Polish (RRP £14.00 for 50ml)
This product will exfoliate to reveal soft, smooth skin. It is full of nourishing ingredients so it won’t dry your skin out.
The founder has over 10 years experienced in the beauty industry and created a skincare line that actually delivers the results promised using botanicals and plant ingredients. All packaging is recyclable.
Eden Days Body: Hawaiian Haven Whipped Body Butter (Sheet lists price as RRP £6.50)
NB: think the underfloor heating has melted this product – I don’t think it should be an oil!
The Ylang Ylang is to nourish dry skin. The Neroli is to heal stretch marks and broken capillaries, and prevent scarring. It also rejuvenates and regenerates skin. The Lavender is to reduce scaring and speed up healing. It also reduces redness and blotchiness. Geranium is to fade scars and marks on the skin and improves melanin levels.
This 100% natural brand was born from a desire to go chemical free due to skin problems. This mother & daughter team handmakd all their products fresh for their customers.
First impressions on August’s edit:
I’ve recently fallen in love with face mists so I’m really pleased to have a new one to add to my collection. I’m not really a big fan of scrubs but I’ve already tried these since receiving and both the body polish and face scrub are so good I could be converted. I’ll try to find time to use the mask but I’m not a fan of the dry powder one’s as I find them messy, tricky to get right and time consuming.
Reflect on previous box
I’ve had a month to use the products I received and share my thoughts.
This is how I got on using the products from my July “Rose theme” box:
This box arrived just before my newborn arrived. The last week of pregnancy was exhausting and once my baby girl got here on 6 Aug 2018, I forgot all about me. It was a struggle to even find time to do this post – Aghhh!
However, all the products in this box are the usual high standard I’ve come to expect from skin Organics. They meet my ethical desires and feel luxurious. For me, this is the beauty box to beat.
Lola’s Apothecary: Delicate Romance Perfume Delux Roll On (sheet lists price as £20.00)
As pretty as this looks, I’ve not had a chance to use it. I was fortunate enough not to get any stretchmarks whilst pregnant and that could be down to the products I use or good genes. I will keep this in my cupboard as I do sometimes get trouble in the winter with dry skin and this helps with that too.
Odylique: Lip Liner – Rose (sheet lists price as £12.50)
I didn’t have time to check online how to use it so I just applied it how I felt worked and I really like it. The pencil is smooth and doesn’t drag along the skin but it has decent staying power. I used it with my …. lipstick and felt they were a good colour match.
Green People: Price of sample is unknown… Damask Rose Facial Oil (full size 30ml is £29 on website) & Damask Rose Moisturiser (full size 30ml is £20 on website)
The Damask Rose duo from Green People didn’t disappoint. I don’t know if I was meant to use them together but I did. They smelt lovely and made my skin feel so hydrated which was great as I have been suffering with some dry flakey skin recently.
Weleda: Price of sample is unknown… Wild Rose Creamy Body Wash (full size 50ml is £3.95 and 200ml is £7.95 on website) & Wild Rose Body Oil (full size 100ml is £25.95 on website)
Blame it on ‘baby brain’ but I have no idea where I put this. I’m sure it’s somewhere to prompt me to use it but I’ve no idea where. It will turn up and when it does, it’ll be a lovely surprise.
Zenon Kition: Floral Beauty Mist (sheet lists price as £9.99)
This has been refreshing on the hot days and first thing in the morning. Dare I say, I found floral scent a bit heavy for me – although it doesn’t last long. I’m not sure I would buy again but I’d certainly try other products by the brand.
Balm Kind: Alpine Rose & Lysine Lip Balm (sheet lists price as £12.00)
Initially, I didn’t like how oily this is as I hadn’t expected that. I continued to use it each morning and I really like it. It will last a long time as you only need a tiny amount for your whole lip. It’s very moisturising. I really like it and would consider buying again.
Alteya Organics: Age Defense Certified Organic Hand Cream (sheet lists price as £6.20)
My hands are seriously neglected so this was a lovely treat and the ideal size to throw in my changing bag. It had a rich traditional rose scent. It has a runny texture but dries quickly and leaves hands feeling well nourished.
Would I recommend?
My subscription is now cancelled but only while I adjust to a ‘maternity pay lifestyle’. I can’t express how much I will miss these monthly edits. I have loved discovering new products and organic brands.
If you are interested in being chemical free then this is the beauty subscription box for you! It contains a range of organic products from brands that are high end, award winners or start ups. I have not been disappointed by the contents and it’s encouraged me to try products I otherwise wouldn’t have and I’ve been pleasantly surprised.
All the products meet the promise of clean, green and cruelty-free – so if that’s something you desire, this is a great box for you.
I shall soon be looking back at past boxes and sharing the products that stood out. Please share if you’ve tried any of these and what organic products or brands you love? Are your skin/body care products chemical free?
Skin Organics Clean Beauty is a subscription box with a selection of non-toxic, cruelty-free, organic and natural products. These may be skincare, body care or beauty products. Their aim is to help you discover clean, green and cruelty-free products and brands. They dispatch on 20th of the month.
Cost: £19.00 (+£3.95 P&P) subscription, UK
What was in my box?
Rose
This months theme is Rose. Inside this box are nine products.
The card has details about all the products and discount codes if you decide to buy.
Lola’s Apothecary: Delicate Romance Perfume Delux Roll On (sheet lists price as £20.00)
This is a multi-tasking product that can be used a perfume, aromatherapy or body oil. It is packed with ingredients that are good for your skin and can treat dull dry skin, stretch marks, ageing, redness, inflammation and has antiseptic properties. It has natural sources of omega 3, 6 and 9 and Vitamin E.
It sounds very impressive and I looks so pretty with the dried flowers floating inside.
Odylique: Lip Liner – Rose (sheet lists price as £12.50)
First to achieve certified soil Association and Fairtrade standards for their lip pencils, this is 100% natural and uses sustainable sourced wood. I’ve not tried this brand before and on viewing their website I can see they have a baby range…
I haven’t used a lip pencil in years so I’ll probably need to look up how to use it to check I’m doing it right. It is a very pretty colour.
Green People: The price of the sample size is not listed on the sheet.
Damask Rose Facial Oil (full size 30ml is £29 on website)
Damask Rose Moisturiser (full size 30ml is £20 on website)
I do really like rose so I’m keen to try this oil and moisturiser. I do have a few oils on the go but if I throw this into my hospital bag to try when I am staying overnight as it is a perfect travel size. This product is something I’ve considered buying in the past so I am really pleased to see it in my box and to finally use it.
Weleda: The price of the sample size is not listed on the sheet.
Wild Rose Creamy Body Wash (full size 50ml is £3.95 and 200ml is £7.95 on website)
Wild Rose Body Oil (full size 100ml is £25.95 on website)
I’ve always admired Weleda because the brand brings good ingredients and very competitive and affordable prices. I’m looking forward to giving these a try. They would be ideal in my hospital bag but I do already have a wash and oil packed…
Zenon Kition: Floral Beauty Mist (sheet lists price as £9.99)
It is 100% pure rose water and can be used on hair or skin to nourish and soothe. It can help with acne and rosacea and to be used after cleansing as a toner or on hair to strengthen. It can calm the mind from stress, anxiety and sleeping problems.
At the moment, any facial mist is my best friend. I am spritzing like it is going out of fashion. It is all that is getting me through this heatwave. To know this product has all the additional benefits and is full of good ingredients is an amazing bonus that is going to make me feel even better using it.
Balm Kind: Alpine Rose & Lysine Lip Balm (sheet lists price as £12.00)
This product is fully of natural ingredients and very hydrating with a gentle shine. Ingredients can reduce the occurrence of cold sores. Checking out this website it appears to be their only product – I think it is great to be supporting the start of UK business and it has already won an award as Finalist in the Beauty Shortlist Awards 2018!
I don’t suffer from cold sores but I do love a balm. I did apply this today and it came out a little oily which may be caused by the heat. I am going to try it again and obviously share how I get on in a months time.
Alteya Organics: Age Defense Certified Organic Hand Cream (sheet lists price as £6.20)
This hand cream is designed to fight the signs of ageing and discoloration but I am eyeing it up as a useful changing bag essential. It is 100% natural and promises to be easily absorbed and non-greasy. I am looking forward to putting it to the test.
Would I recommend?
Sadly, this is likely to be my last box for a little while as I am about to go onto maternity pay. However, what a beautiful box to end on.
I love the scent of rose and hoping that all of these products will become firm favourites. I know I will get a lot of use out of the mist because every day at the moment I am misting to keep cool. I also think the hand cream will be incredible useful in the weeks to come.
All the products meet the promise of clean, green and cruelty-free – so if that’s something you desire, this is a great box for you.
Reflect on previous box
I’ve had a month to use the products I received and share my thoughts.
This is how I got on using the products from my April box:
Sadly, I have been a bit stressed at work and returning home too exhausted to even pamper myself which has resulted in some products not getting used as expected. In addition, the past two weekends my little boy has been ill which steals my time and energy. Hopefully, June will be a better month and I’ll find a little bit of ‘me’ time.
Sofia Latif: Facial Oil (sheet lists price as £20.00)
Currently, I have too many facial oils so I’ve not had a chance to try this out yet.
Bowe Organics: Organic Lash Oil (sheet lists price as £19.99)
This month I got a lash lift and tint but before I did I gave this go. I don’t think I used it long enough to really notice a difference. It is a yellow oil and feels very natural and very hydrating. It did not irritate my eyes so that is good. I think once my tint has gone I’ll give this another go to see if it does make my lashes longer and fuller. I put it on before bed.
The Cosy Cottage: Mango Butter & Lemon Foot Balm (sheet lists price as £5.00)
My feet have been swelling so badly in these final weeks of pregnancy and during a heatwave. My husband has given me a foot massage more than once to help and it smells good and brought the swelling down. I love this product… and foot massages.
Lucidlure: Allava Hair Mask (sheet lists price as £5.50)
I’ve not used this. It has been so hot my hair has felt sweaty and gross. The last thing I want to do is put a mask on it. I’ve saved this treatment for the end of summer when the heatwave is over.
Refreshing Peppermint Facial Mist (sheet lists price as £4.25)
I am loving this. Peppermint is a lovely refreshing smells that perks me up. In this heat, I am loving anything I can spritz on my face and cool myself down. It is so good!
Peppermint & Lemongrass Pulse Point Oil (sheet lists price as £4.25)
I honestly can’t believe that I have managed to catch a cold in this heat wave. I struggled through my last day at work and today but this product has made it possible. I am determined to kick this cold before the baby arrives which is any day now (due next Saturday)!
Skin Organics Clean Beauty is a subscription box with a selection of non-toxic, cruelty-free, organic and natural products. These may be skincare, body care or beauty products. Their aim is to help you discover clean, green and cruelty-free products and brands. They dispatch on 20th of the month.
Cost: £19.00 (+£3.95 P&P) subscription, UK
What was in my box?
Hydrate
This months theme is Hydrate. Inside this box are six products.
The card has details about all the products and discount codes if you decide to buy.
Sofia Latif: Facial Oil (sheet lists price as £20.00)
This product was shortlisted for the Free From Skincare Awards 2018. This is a night oil that you can use to massage you cleansed face before bed and lift your senses. You can also add a drop to your morning moisturizer.
I have got a lot of facial oils at the moment but I will try it out before the end of the month so I can let you know how I got on with it.
Bowe Organics: Organic Lash Oil (sheet lists price as £19.99)
This product was also shortlisted for the Free From Skincare Awards 2018. You massage the oil into clean dry lashes and it helps them become thicker and longer.
It sounds very promising. I will need to get using this right away as I’ve booked in for a lash tint and lift at the end of the month and I’m not sure I can use it after that.
The Cosy Cottage: Mango Nutter & Lemon Foot Balm (sheet lists price as £5.00)
An intense foot balm to smooth and hydrate feet with mango butter, coconut oil, aloe vera and lemon oil.
I’m hoping this smells so good that I can entice my husband into giving me a foot rub *fingers crossed*.
Lucidlure: Allava Hair Mask (sheet lists price as £5.50)
This hair mask is suitable for all hair types. You can either leave it on for 2 hours or over night for a deep condition.
I have never used a hair mask before. I’m excited to see how I get on and whether this is something I should add to my beauty regime.
Refreshing Peppermint Facial Mist (sheet lists price as £4.25)
This is a floral water for refreshing your face throughout the day to pick you up when feeling sluggish in the heat.
I recently bought the Naturismo limited edition box which included Odacite, black Mint Cleanser. I’ve found the cleanser to be an amazing refreshing way to start the day and love the minty smell. That’s why I think I am going to get on well with this facial mist. Plus, it is just what I need in this hot weather and being heavily pregnant.
Peppermint & Lemongrass Pulse Point Oil (sheet lists price as £4.25)
This is for sharpening your senses and to treat headaches. Also helps treat cold or flu, jet lag, and combat tiredness and stress. Simply apply to pulse points.
This sounds really good and just what I need as I am finding it increasingly hard to stay awake at work by the afternoon – I am counting down the days to maternity leave (24 July – not long now).
Would I recommend?
Yes, another amazing selection of high quality products and by brands I’ve not heard of before.
I’m keen to use the Bespoke Aroma products and can’t believe how affordable they are. I’m looking forward to using the foot butter. I’ve never used a hair mask or lash oil, so I am unsure how I’ll get on with those. I never would have thought to buy them. My bathroom cabinet is full of facial oil, I doubt I’ll get around to using this one this month.
All the products meet the promise of clean, green and cruelty-free – so if that’s something you desire, this is a great box for you.
Reflect on previous box
I’ve had a month to use the products I received and share my thoughts.
This is how I got on using the products from my April box:
Sadly, I have been a bit stressed at work and returning home too exhausted to even pamper myself which has resulted in some products not getting used as expected. In addition, the past two weekends my little boy has been ill which steals my time and energy. Hopefully, June will be a better month and I’ll find a little bit of ‘me’ time.
A.S Apothecary: Wild Beauty Balm (website lists price at £42 for 30mls & sheet lists price as £21.00)
This has easily been my favourite product in this box. It is quite pricey so I am not sure if I will be able to afford it on maternity leave but it definitely will be on my wish list.
Just Be Botanicals: Loved Aromatherapy Chocolate (website & sheet lists price as £2.75)
I knew right away that this wouldn’t be for me as I don’t enjoy the bitter taste of dark chocolate. However, it is the most beautiful chocolate I have ever seen. It has rose petals within the bar and looks very elegant.
I’m going to share give it to my mum (she won’t mind that I had a little nibble). She’s not usually a chocolate person but does indulge sometimes in dark chocolate, plus, I need to find out how her holiday went.
Isla Apothecary: Neroli Body oil (website lists price as £32 for 100mls & sheet lists price as £4.50)
I haven’t used this. I put it in my hospital bag as it is a handy travel size bottle. I’m sure it will be lovely after my post birth shower.
Bodhi & Birch: Desert Rose Facial Oil (website lists price as £38 for 15mls and sheet lists price as £9.95)
I’ve just got too many face oils at the moment that I haven’t had a chance to use this.
Lucky Cloud: Nourishing Cleansing Balm (website and sheet lists price as £8.00)
This is the sort of cleanser I do really love but I’ve got a few cleansers on the go at the moment so I’ve decided to save this one for later in the year. I’m afraid I haven’t tried it out.
Roques O’Neil: Himalayan Detox Bath Salts (website and sheet lists price as £10.00 travel size)
A salt bath is very healing so this is in the draw in my bathroom ready for a relaxing bath when I return from hospital. I remember feeling very sensitive after delivering my son and a salt bath did help soothe and make me feel better.
Skin Organics Clean Beauty is a subscription box with a selection of non-toxic, cruelty-free, organic and natural products. These may be skincare, body care or beauty products. Their aim is to help you discover clean, green and cruelty-free products and brands. They dispatch on 20th of the month.
Cost: £19.00 (+£3.95 P&P) subscription, UK
What was in my box?
Beauty Balm
This months theme is Beauty Balm. Inside the box were seven products.
The card has details about all the products and discount codes if you decide to buy.
A.S Apothecary: Wild Beauty Balm (website lists price at £42 for 30mls & sheet lists price as £21.00)
This is an everything balm. The brand hand make all their products using natural ingredients. They think of the way they do this as an artistic or meditative process. They even create bespoke products for individuals as one of their services.
Just Be Botanicals: Loved Aromatherapy Chocolate (website & sheet lists price as £2.75)
I’m not really a fan of dark chocolate. I think I’ll pop round to see my mum and share it with her. I’ll try a tiny piece to check if I’m missing out but I think it will be more her thing than mine.
I checked their website and they do different chocolate like milk or white (more me) and a ton of other beauty products, tea and home-ware. They appear to be pretty big – I’m surprised I’ve never come across them.
Isla Apothecary: Neroli Body oil (website lists price as £32 for 100mls & sheet lists price as £4.50)
This body oil was the winner of the Beauty Shortlist Awards 2018 for best Body Oil. It sounds very promising and I look forward to using this as specially as one of the benefits is preventing stretch marks which is great as I am in my third trimester of pregnancy and need to improve on remembering to use a body oil.
Bodhi & Birch: Desert Rose Facial Oil (website lists price as £38 for 15mls and sheet lists price as £9.95)
This facial oil also won the Beauty Shortlist Awards 2018. I do love the scent of rose so perhaps this face oil will be a winner with me too. This oil is designed to even skin tone, boost cellular regeneration and diminish age blemishes.
Lucky Cloud: Nourishing Cleansing Balm (website and sheet lists price as £8.00)
This certainly looks like the sort of cleaner that I love. I do have a few cleansers on the go at the moment so I am not sure I’ll get a chance to use it this month but I’ll try to give it a try just so I can let you know my thoughts at the end of the month.
Roques O’Neil: Himalayan Detox Bath Salts (website and sheet lists price as £10.00 travel size)
There is a warning on website to say that this product is not safe to use during pregnancy – perhaps because it is designed to make you sleepy and pregnant women are already struggling to stay away.
However, I’ve read that a salt bath is very healing after birth so I’ll use it when I return from hospital as a little pamper.
This facial oil was the winner of the Beauty Shortlist Awards 2018 for Editors Choice. Another award winner and appears to be suitable for all skin types for reducing aging. I hope the sample will be enough to get a good idea of what I think of the product.
Would I recommend?
Once again this is another great box, introducing the sort of brands I want to know and use. Everything feels like good quality and was beautifully wrapped.
All the products meet the promise of clean, green and cruelty-free – so if that’s something you desire, this is a great box for you.
Reflect on previous box
I’ve had a month to use the products I received and share my thoughts.
This is how I got on using the products from my April box:
Sadly, I have been a bit stressed at work and returning home too exhausted to even pamper myself which has resulted in some products not getting used as expected. In addition, the past two weekends my little boy has been ill which steals my time and energy. Hopefully, June will be a better month and I’ll find a little bit of ‘me’ time.
I’ve not had a chance to use this. Mixing up a face mask whilst my little boy was being sick didn’t seem like a good idea. I feel like I’ve constantly been doing laundry this month and I forgot face masks even exist.
I have used this oil almost everyday and love it. It is a bit rich on a hot day but my skin has been less problematic when I have used it. My skin is definitely more hydrated by this product.
Mono Naturoils:Facial Steam (This trial size is a gift from the founder of Mono. No price is given.)
I still haven’t had a chance to use this. I have been a little stressed at work this month and it has resulted in me being too tired to even pamper myself. I really want to use it and I got as far as taking it to the kettle.
Naissance: Certified Organic Rosehip Oil (website & sheet list price as £8.99)
I haven’t used it. I don’t feel I need it at the moment so it is just sitting in my bathroom cabinet until I do.
Green People: Quinoa & Calendula Shower Gel (website RRP £9.99 (100ml), £4.00 on the sheet for sample size)
I have used this every time I’ve had a shower. I can’t decide if I like the smell or not but it is friendly to my skin. I’d definitely try other Green People products but doubt I’ll replace this one when it is used up.
Anita Grant: Vanilla Cocoa Body Butter Sample (website & sheet RRP £3.45 for 15g sample size)
I can’t use this. It smells too edible and makes me hungry. I really like the brand, it has a very luxurious feel to the products and I am keen to check out more they have to offer.
Maybe this product is the reason my skin is looking so good. Every time my skin looks a little stressed I’ve dabbed a little of this oil on. It feels lovely on my skin. I wasn’t sure I’d have a need for this but I really love it and would buy again. Did I mention how good it smells? Mmm….
