Pure+Simple: Cellular Repair Cream Review

I have been hopelessly devoted to my Weleda Soothing Almond Facial Lotion for quite some time now.  I always worry about venturing off but really want to discover a new daily moisturizer. When I saw that I got one from Pure+Simple, I was so excited.

Description: A medium weight cream that provides exceptional antioxidant protection with the ability to heal and repair damaged skin at the cellular level.

• Contains Green Tea, Strawberry, Chamomile, and Wasabi Extracts
• Extracts of Pomegranate, Strawberry and Date are loaded with tannins and provide three times more antioxidant activity than Green tea or Red Wine
• A combination of bioactive trace minerals and extracts are designed to boost the activity of the natural antioxidant enzymes present in the skin
• Perfluorodecalin increases oxygen and moisture level within the skin
• Increased oxygen levels aid in wound healing and the reduction of scarring in damaged or inflamed skin
• Precious organic essential oils of Bulgarian Rose and Rose Geranium from Madagascar, calm and hydrate the skin
• Skin is renewed and repaired and a healthy glow emerges
• Great cream for the prevention of fine lines

Again, this comes in the same porcelain container, that is part of their Bottle Reusing Program.  I have a real love/hate relationship with this face cream.  I hate the smell of it, it literally makes me want to gag.  I hate it so much that I have to wash my hands right after applying it.  Once it's on my face, the smell doesn't bother me.  I do get random whiffs of it throughout the morning, but it's tolerable.  Bizarre eh? I think it's the wasabi extract that causes it to smell so foul.  For the record, my mom likes the smell.  Scents come down to personal preference, so don't let my hate for it discourage you from trying it.  I love the way it makes my skin look and feel.  It hydrates so beautifully and keeps it nice and moisturized all day long, never greasy.  It allows my makeup to go on smoothly since all of my dry patches are hydrated.  It really is a superb product and I will use it up.  While I won't be repurchasing due to my lack of enjoyment of the scent, I will be checking out their line for one that has little to no fragrance.

Retails for $43.95 CAN for 50ml.  Check out www.pureandsimple.ca for more info and to purchase.

Does scent play a big factor in whether or not you purchase/repurchase or are results more important?

Ingredients: Water, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil, Cetearyl Arachidyl (Peanut) +Behenyl (Vegetal) Alcohols, Cetearyl + Arachidyl Glucosides (Plant + Peanut derivatives), Sea Algae Extract, Vegetable Glycerin, Sucrose

Polysoyate (Sucrose Fatty Acid Esters), Lecithin, Saccharomyces Selenium Ferment (Plant peptide), Wasabia Japonica (Wasabi) Root Extract, Faex (Yeast) Extract, Phoenix dactylifera (Date) Extract, Punic granatum (Pomegranite) + Fragaria Chiloensis (Strawberry) Fruit Extracts, Zinc Sulfate, Phospholipids, Retinyl Palmitate (Vit. A), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vit. E), Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vit. C), Perfluorodecalin (Oxygen carrier), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (Plant Extract), Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Crithmum Maritimum (Sea Fennel) Extract, Lonicera Japonica Caprifolium (Japanese honeysuckle) Extract, Capryloyl + Undecylenoyl Glycine (Amino Acids), Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Xanthan Gum, Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil, Rosa Damascena (Rose) Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens (Rose Geranium) Oil

Pure+Simple: Lactic Acid Plus 10% Review

Of all the products that I received from Pure+Simple, this is my absolute favourite. As much as I love the blushes, this product takes the cake! I love cake, wish I had some right now actually..ugh..on to the review.

Description: Lactic Acid Plus is a 10% concentrate of natural Lactic Acid, in a base of Algin and Aloe Vera. It is an ideal exfoliant and rejuvenator for thick + congested skin in need of a more potent peel.

• Ideal for normal to oilier skin types in need of decongestion + rejuvenation.
• Lactic Acid is the gentlest type of AHAs used by both estheticians and doctors to stimulate collagen production + reduce the appearance of facial lines
• Lactic acid is our preferred AHA because is does not dehydrate the skin like other AHAs
• Use lactic acid to reduce the incidence of comedomes by deep cleaning pores + rejuvenating skin for a fresh, moist look
• Because Lactic Acid is a naturally occurring human metabolite, there is a lower chance for an allergic reaction
• Apply it to face + neck to rejuvenate mature, dry skin
• Great for reducing the appearance of scars + acne
• For most skin types it is recommended that you prepare your skin for this strong exfoliant with first using Lactic Acid Original 5%

We all know by now, hopefully, how much I loveeeeeeee lactic and glycolic acid. Seriously, they're the best for all skin types. Lactic is definitely more gentle and great for dry skin because it does provide moisture. It's also great for lightening scars. It's great for all skin types because it's still an acid which helps bring the gunk under your skin to the surface. This nightly treatment, comes in a glass bottle with a pump which can be returned for $1 towards your next purchase. It's best to keep it out of direct sunlight since it's not in a dark glass bottle. Also, make sure you use sunscreen in the morning. Acids make your skin more sensitive to the sun which means you can easily burn.

I have been using this product almost every night, alternating between this and the Pai Rosehip Oil and am in love. It's so gentle and has been aiding in the reduction and lightening of my acne and acne scars. Damn you acne and damn you scars that were left behind as a horrible reminder :*(! I curse you! I do still get hormonal breakouts and it`s been exceptionally bad this month, so I`m really glad I have this superb serum on hand. It is rather watery in consistency, probably because the first ingredient is water *duh*, but you only need 2 pumps or so for your face and neck because it spreads so nicely. I have officially added this to my skin care routine and have decided that I cannot live without it. I highly recommend this product and if you`re going to give one of Pure+Simple's skin care products a try, it should be this one. You will not be disappointed. My nightly dream team: Pure+Simple Lactic Plus, DeVita High Performance Glycolic Blend and Pai Rosehip Bioregenerate Fruit &Seed Oil Blend!

Retails for $54.95 for 50ml. Check out www.pureandsimple.ca for more info and to purchase.

What`s your favourite type of acid?

Ingredients: Water, Algin (Sea algae derivative), Aloe Barbadensis (Organic Aloe Vera) Powder, Vegetable Glycerin, Lactic Acid.

Pure+Simple: Calming Cucumber Mask Review

Another mask?! Yes please! This was another wonderful product that got sent to me and again, I was excited to use it as part of my weekly facial routine.

Description: A nourishing mask that helps calm the skin with its cooling and soothing properties

• Contains Sea Algae which helps restore moisture in the skin
• Contains antioxidants Grape seed Extract, Vitamins A C + E
• This mask infuses skin with hydration + plumps up skin cells, leaving it feeling renewed + rejuvenated
• Can be used as an eye mask to relieve puffy eyes and dark circles
• Can be refridgerated before use
• A cooling treatment for irritated skin conditions such as sunburn + rosacea

It comes in the same heavy porcelain container, as the nourishing exfoliant+mask, that can be returned to Pure+Simple for $1 towards product. I love this mask because it does exactly what it says it's supposed to. It is so refreshing, hydrating and soothing/calming. It's a jelly like texture that smells like cucumber but not as crisp.  The first couple of times I used this mask I wasn't a big fan, I just didn't notice it doing anything. Then, I had spilled some oregano oil and without realizing it was on my hands, I started touching my face. All of a sudden, my face was on FIRE. I looked in the mirror and my face had red blotches in every spot I had touched, basically my whole face. I washed my hands and rinsed my face with cold water. Still burning! I quickly grabbed this and slathered it on *ahhh...relief*. I left it on for 40 minutes or so and rinsed it off with cold water. All tof he redness in my face was gone. No joke, no exaggerating, it was ALL gone. That is when I fell in love with this product. I think it's a must have for anyone with red, irritated skin (rosacea) and it would be amazing to take on vacation or use on those summer days when you get burnt. I haven't put it in the fridge or used it as an eye mask, so I'm not sure how well it works in that department. I don't really have puffy eyes or dark circles. I will definitely purchase when I run out!

Retails for $25.25 for 50ml. Check out www.pureandsimple.ca for more info and to purchase.

Do you like using gel masks to soothe and hydrate your skin? Will you be trying this one?

Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Cassia Angustifolia (India Senns) Seed Polysaccharide, Sclerotium Gum Powder, Vegetable Collagen, Moringa Pterygosperma (Moringa) Seed Exract, Leuconostoc (Radish) Root Ferment Filtrate, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Extract, Copper PCA, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Distillate, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) Extract

Pure+Simple: Skin Nourishing Exfoliant + Mask Review

Since I enjoy weekly at home facials, I'm always looking for new masks and exfoliants.  Mask and exfoliant in one? Even better!  I was thrilled to see this in my Pure+Simple box and even more thrilled to have it take over and replace my other products for the last 3 weeks.

Description: Clients love how this simple and inexpensive product can improve their skin's appearance by reducing dryness and blemishes.

• This exfoliant + mask is ideal for dull or mature skin as the Lemon + Algae Extract promotes circulation in the skin creating a natural glow
• Brightens dull, congested skin with gentle Jojoba Beads + Lemon
• Extra hydration from ingredients such as Sea Algae + Vegetable Glycerin + Natural oils + butters

It comes in a heavy porcelain container, which is part of their Bottle Reusing Program, and not travel friendly. But, once your container is empty, you can return it to one of the spa locations for a $1 credit to purchase more products! How awesome is that?  Pure+Simple ensures containers are reused, the environment is happy and you get some money back!  Now, this exfoliant and mask is great.  It smells citrusy, it's not abrasive and doesn't irritate my skin.  I've used this a few different ways and the 3rd is my favourite.

1. apply to skin, let sit for about 10 minutes,  massage on skin, rinse
2. massage on skin, let sit for 10 minutes, rinse
3. massage on skin, let sit for 10 minutes, massage again, rinse

I like the 3rd way best because it just softens up the dead skin cells before the acid in the lemon eats it up.  The last massage is just to ensure all dead cells get lifted and washed away.  It leaves my skin so smooth and glowing.  It's a small jar, but a little goes a long way and for that reason I would purchase this product once it's done.

Retails for $21.95 for 50ml.  Check out www.pureandsimple.ca for more info and to purchase.

Do you like two in one products such as this exfoliant + mask?

Ingredients: Water, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol + Glucoside (Plant Waxes), Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Wax Beads, Vegetable Glycerin, Faex (Yeast) Extract, Arachidyl (Peanut) + Behenyl (Vegetal) + Benzyl (Vegetal)  Alcohol, Arachidyl (Peanut) Glucoside, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Nut Butter, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Water, Citrus Medica Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Xanthan Gum, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Squalane, Litsea Cubeba (May Chang Shrub) Fruit Oil, Dehydroacetic Acid (Sodium Salt), Phospholipids, Tocopheryl (Vit. E) Acetate, Retinyl (Vit. A) Palmitate, Ascorbyl (Vit. C) Palmitate, Cupressus Sempervirens (Cypress) Leaf Oil, Tilia Cordata (Linden) Blossom Oil, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract.

Pure+Simple: Sensitive Skin Face Wash Review

I think that gentle cleansing is really important.  I did, at one point, use products specific to acne prone skin and just ended up irritating my skin more.  I remember my friend saying, "are you washing your face with battery acid or something?" lol.  Using gentle cleansers is essential in not stripping your skin of its natural oils, therefore, drying out your skin and causing your skin to product even more oil to compensate for the loss during cleansing.  I was super excited to try this cleanser because..well..it's gentle which is what I like.

Description: A thorough but extremely gentle gel face wash for the most sensitive skins.

• Suggested for use where a cream cleanser may be too rich
• This gentle cleanser is made from the mildest botanical cleansing + highly effective anti-bacterial phospholipids
• This cleanser will remove make up without irritating the eye area
• The surfactant disodium laureth sulfosuccinate is the mildest available from botanical sources
• Plant phospholipids from fatty acids are hypoallergenic and are highly effective anti-bacterial ingredients
• No harsh surfactants or parabens
• Safe enough for babies and the most delicate skin

I was really disappointed in this product and it was definitely my least favourite of all the Pure+Simple products that I received.  Packaging-wise, it's great.  It's very light and comes in a plastic container with that top that you push down to open (see below because I have no idea what it's called or how else to describe it).  The possibility of it leaking is there but it can always be taped down to avoid that when traveling.  The consistency is very watery.  It feels like..hm..when you wash your hands but don't get all of the soap off, so you rub your hands together again (before rinsing) and create a light, airy foam.  I didn't find that it removed much of my makeup at all.  It's best used in the morning (for me) because it's very gentle, doesn't irritate or dry me out.  I won't be purchasing this product once it runs out but I'm very interested in checking out their Sensitive Skin Cleansing Milk and will likely purchase that instead.

Retails for  $19.95 CAN for 100ml. Check out www.pureandsimple.ca for more info and to purchase.


What sort of consistency or texture do you like best in a cleanser?

Ingredients: Water, Decyl Glucoside (Coconut/Corn derived Cleansing Agent), Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate (Coconut Derived Surfactant), Sodium Lauryl Glucosides Hydroxypropylsulfonate (Non-toxic Surfactant), Sodium Lauryl Glutamate (Amino Acid Derived

Cleansing Agent), Rosa Damascena (Rose) Flower Water, Glycerin, Zizyphus Joazeiro Bark Extract, Trehalose (Plant Derived Moisturizer), Maltooligosyl Glucoside (Tapoica Derived Surfectant), Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate (Sugar Derived Thickener), Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Tilia Cordata (Linden) Blossom Extract, Plantago Major (Plantain) Extract, Potassium Sorbate (Food Grade Preservative), Citric Acid, Gluconolactone (Fruit Acid), Sodium Benzoate (Food Grade Preservative), Lavendula  Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil

Alima Pure Organic Nourishing Lip Balm Review

Hi. My name's Nicole and I'm a balmaholic *puts head down in shame*.  I purchased a lip balm.  I couldn't resist!  In all fairness, if I hadn't added this to my cart then I would have had to pay $10 for shipping.  It's like I got it for free really.  Stop judging me!  I purchased this from Fresh Faced when I picked up a couple of other things. 

Description: Treat your lips to a little taste of heaven with Alima Pure's Organic Nourishing Lipbalm. Filled with soothing antioxidants, rich pigments, and organic plant oils and butters, our lovely organic lipbalms keep you covered. Lightly scented with a touch of organic peppermint oil.

I believe this comes in 9 shades and 1 of those is clear, but I got mango which is supposed to be a shimmering coral pink.  The first thing that I noticed is that it doesn't look like a coral pink in the tube.  I, of course, put it on as soon as I got it and noticed that the taste is weird.  It is minty but has a weird stale peanut taste to it as well.  I don't know if I'm crazy or if mine is a bad batch but I swear it's very obvious! I'm still going to use it though.  I like how smooth and creamy it glides on and and the packaging is super cute. The colour looks great on my hand but I don't love it on my lips.  Maybe it's all the shimmer.  I usually mix it with a pink gloss and it looks better, however, I bought it to be a tinted balm that would look great alone.  Aside from the colour disappointment, I will be repurchasing in other colours.  That's 2 for 2 on my Alima Pure purchases.  Now, if only I could find a seller of the foundation (Warm 2) that has reasonable shipping....

Have you tried any of Alima's balms?  What colour is your favourite?


**I took pictures while I had a mask on.  I'm very professional, I know :P

I know that it's upside down, I still try to remove the bottom because I think it's the cap lol.

Ingredients: Organic sweet almond oil, organic castor seed oil, organic shea butter fruit, organic beeswax, organic safflower seed oil, organic coconut oil, organic white tea extract, organic cocoa seed butter, organic pomegranate seed oil, organic jojoba seed oil, organic peppermint essential oil, organic pomegranate extract, tocopherol. May contain mica, titanium dioxide, iron oxides.

It's a Bird..It's a Plane...It's...Oregano Oil?

This will probably be my most random post ever but I had to do it.  I have been using oregano oil for probably a year now and am so obsessed with it.  It is a super hero oil!

I originally purchased oregano oil because I heard it was great for fighting off infections whether on your skin (rash) or in your body (sore throat).  Getting sore throats and sinus infections regularly, I ran to get this.  I took it at the first sign of a sore throat and BAM it was gone.  I put 2 to 3 drops under my tongue at night and let it work it's magic.  Right now, I only take this when needed.  During the colder months, I take it a few times a week to boost my immune system.  Since using this, I have not been sick *knock on wood*. The taste is pretty horrible.  It lingers and you're burping up oregano (TMI!) and ew *gag*.  That was beyond dramatic, I know.  Surprisingly, I can hack it!  I can't eat zucchini but can take oregano oil.  Does anyone else think that's weird?  The potent taste of oregano burns your throat and causes a fit of coughing.  Wonderful.  I suggest drinking some water with it.

I have also used this, diluted with water, on skin rashes and acne and can say it really works.  At first, I wasn't diluting the oil and found it to be burn...really bad...like a bad reaction...red patches all over my face...cold towel on face..that kind of burn.  Learn from me, never do it.  Now that I realize it works best diluted *Ohhh! Duh!*, that's what I've been doing.  It calms itching immediately and reduces the swelling or irritation within an hour, including acne bumps.  Seriously, try it. 

There are so many uses for oregano oil it's incredible.  Just Google the benefits of oregano oil youself and you'll be able to find several uses and benefits of this super hero oil.

I HIGHLY recommend you try it out next time you're sick, there are pill forms as well but the straight oil works amazingly fast.

What do you use oregano oil for?

Pure+Simple Face Colour (Blush) Review

My first review, of many to come, of Pure+Simple will be the blush! I have been loving it so much, in the 2 weeks that I have been using it, that I went a bought another one.  They're both really different and very beautiful.  I just want to recommend that you (if you're able to) go swatch colours because they can definitely be different from the monitor and real life. That's with anything though right?

Description:

• Pure + simple’s line of Mineral Makeup - made of 100% pressed minerals (Zinc, Titanium, Iron, etc.)
• Multi-use colours – can be used on eyes, cheeks + lips
• 100% pigment since mineral makeup’s colour is derived from the minerals themselves.
• Compacts are pressed with organic butters and oils without Silicons or Petroleum-based derivatives
• No chemical fillers, dyes, or perfumes to clog or irritate the skin

I'm going to discuss Soleil first since I've had more time with it. It's described as a bronzy red glow on the website, BUT I personally think it's more of a bronzy peach glow. Almost like you're on or were on vacation and got a nice tan but slightly burnt (pink, not red) cheeks.  There is a little shimmer in the blush that adds to the beautiful glow it gives. I look forward to seeing how it looks when my face is much lighter. 

Next up is Glow!  It's described as a corally pink, BUT (of course there's a but) I would say it's more raspberry pink. Nevertheless, I love it!  I tried it on at the spa and Alaina (Hi Alaina!) helped me decide on the colour.  It was between Glow and Rosehip.  Rosehip is more matte and Glow is very shimmery, more than Soleil I'd say.  I haven't worn this long enough to give a detailed review on how I like it daily so I'll leave it at that.

All of their blushes are super pigmented but blend nicely.  Most have shimmer but I think there were a couple of almost matte colours, don't quote me.  It's so small and light that it's perfect to travel with, however, there is no mirror.  No mirror is not a big deal to me, I always have one around anyway.  It lasts all day on my skin with very little fading, obviously it's not as vibrant as when I first applied it but you can still see the beautiful colour on my cheeks.  I don't know if I would use this on my lips or lids but that's because I like to stick to neutrals.  If you have, let me know. I think the small packaging is clean, simple and sturdy.  Great product and I highly recommend.  The fact that I bought one myself, says it all.

Retails for $16.95 CAN for 5g.  Check out www.pureandsimple.ca for more information.

Will you be trying these beauties?
 

Soleil

Glow



Soleil (left) & Glow (right)

Glow (top) & Soleil (bottom)

 Glow (left) & Soleil (right)

 

Glow (top) & Soleil (bottom)

Ingredients 

 

PURE+SIMPLE = LOVE

When I was looking for natural/organic spas in my area, I came across Pure+Simple.  I had never heard of or seen them before even though they have four locations. Three of which are in Toronto and one in Oakville.  I popped into the Oakville location to take a look at the spa and products and was instantly greeted by Alaina, Spa Manager, who was super informative and friendly despite me calling her a bunch of other names.  By that, I mean I couldn't get her name right for some reason.  How embarrassing.  This place is heaven to me.  For one, it's all natural/organic products (skin care and makeup).  Two, it's a spa!  What woman doesn't enjoy a spa?! Three, the staff is really friendly.

The spa offers a variety of facials which include IPL, microdermabrasion and peels.  It also offers laser hair removal through IPL.  They have several different product lines such as Dr. Hauschka, Green Beaver, Jane Iredale and of course, the Pure+Simple line of products.  Overwhelmed by all the product choices, I left empty handed.

I recently contacted Pure+Simple in hopes of getting a couple of things to try out and was shocked by what I received.  I just have to say how great my experience has been with the people both at the spa and head office.  Regardless of whether I got sent out products or not, the people are really nice.  Anyway, they sent me a bunch of full size products to try.  I will do reviews on each product individually and all opinions will be my own. I am still testing out a few of them.  That being said, I have been pleasantly surprised by how great these products are.

This is what I got (from left to right):

Lactic Acid Plus 10% Peel
Cellular Repair Face Cream
Blush in Soleil
Calming Cucumber Mask (gel)
Sensitive Skin Face Wash
Skin Nourishing Exfoliant+mask

You can go to www.pureandsimple.ca for more information on them as well as find a location close to you.

 

 

Carina Botanical Therapeutic Moisturizing Shampoo Review

I've mentioned before that I have seborrheic dermatitis on my scalp, which sucks.  My scalp isn't red, it's just itchy sometimes and flakey.  You probably wouldn't even know I had a scalp condition if you saw me.  Anyway, I read about this shampoo in a book and decided to give it a go.

Claim: A moisturizing shampoo formulated with natural, organic and Botanical Tree & Plant Essence. This extra mild formulation is also recommended for all facial, hand and body areas. Improves the appearance of your skin and scalp in 7 days or less.

It is definitely moisturizing and has helped my scalp!  My issue isn't gone but it's gotten so much better.  It's less itchy and flakey. I'm trying to use up my other shampoos before I use this religiously as I think this is now my go-to shampoo.  The smell isn't wonderfully fruity or floral but it's not offensive in any way, shape or form.  I actually like the scent but can't describe it, it's nothing like I thought it was going to be.  It's not really herbal smelling or "green" smelling.. just go smell it yourself lol.  It's clear and lathers really nicely, it's easy to work into your scalp and rinses out well. It did improve my scalp within the first 7 days but I wanted more time using it before writing a review. It also made my hair softer and easier to comb through. I would recommend to anyone who has a skin and/or scalp condition or just wants to try a new shampoo.  I will repurchase for sure. OH! OH! AND this is a Canadian brand :) Booya!

Retails for approx. $19.99 CAN for 360ml.  Check out www.carinaorganics.com for more info. 

Have you tried it?

Ingredients: Aqua, Elaeis guineensis (palm) oil, Cocos nucifera (coconut) oil, Glycerin, Pinus divaricata (pine) extract, Pinus banksiana (pine) extract, Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Leaf, Chamomilla recutita (matricaria) flower extract, Echinacea purpurea flower extract, Urtica dioca (nettle) leaf extract, Trifolium pretense (clover) flower extract, Thuja plicata (cedar) oil, Caramel color

Pai Does it Again! - Rosehip Bioregenerate Fruit & Seed Oil Blend Review

Pai has, once again, stolen my heart! I purchased this a few months ago but haven't been using it regularly until recently.  I did a review on their Echium Biorejuvenate Eye Cream back in June, which I'm still loving.  They are a British company, founded by Sarah Brown and the entire line is targeted towards sensitive skin.  Having sensitive skin, I always worry that all the botanicals and essential oils in many natural products will irritate my skin.  I don't have to worry with Pai, Sarah's got it covered.

Claim: Refines appearance of damaged skin and fine lines, has high levels of Trans-Retinoic Acid delivers Pro-Vitamin A to the skin without causing irritation and has the most concentrated Rosehip Oil on the market today.  With regular use, it conditions the skin, improving skin firmness and elasticity.  Clinical studies show Rosehip is effective at improving the appearance of scars, stretch marks, sun damage and fine lines.

This oil comes in a beautiful glass bottle with a dropper.  It smells like rosehip tea and is a bright orange colour (as you can see below).  I enjoy the smell, even though it can be a tad overpowering, I enjoy it.  2 - 3 drops is all you need for your entire face and neck.  It takes a few minutes to absorb into the skin, the scent definitely lingers and my face feels a little greasy at first.  Once absorbed, she's a beauty!  I haven't noticed any stains on my sheets or clothing, I guess if you were to put this on and then rub your face into white sheets there might be some transfer.  I don't know who would do that though..that would be weird.  I have a lot of acne scarring on my cheeks and chin, thanks hormones!  It's hard to say if, this alone, has faded those scars because I've been using glycolic and lactic acids regularly in combination with this oil.  It leaves my skin hydrated, plump, radiant and all around gorgeous the next morning (I apply it at night only).  It hasn't broken me out or irritated my skin. While this is great right now, Summer, I think this will be even better in the cooler months. I will be repurchasing for sure and highly recommend.

Retails for approx. $35 CAN for 30ml.  For more information, check out www.usa.paiskincare.com.  It can be purchased through www.use.paiskincare.com, www.well.ca, www.freshfaced.ca and www.hipapotheca.com.

Do you love this oil as much I do?

Ingredients: rosa canina (rosehip) seed extract*, rosa canina (rosehip) fruit extract*, mixed tocopherols (natural vitamin e)

*Certified Organic by the Soil Association (Organically produced 99% of product).
Suitable for Vegans. Not tested on animals.

mbeze Once Bitten Deodorette Review

I've done a couple of reviews on deodorants already and before trying those, I had purchased this one from www.hipapotheca.com.  I had high hopes, my high hopes were shattered.

Claim: Deodorant has never been so chic! These fun and flaunty Deodorettes fit in any clutch, purse, bag, or even your pocket. With a cosmetic look versus a deodorant stick, you can freshen up in style whenever and wherever! Cruelty-free.  Once Bitten is an empowering, uplifting scent of apple blossom, vanilla, and a twist of lime that will give you an extra bite back!

It really is super chic and tres adorable!  It fits anywhere because it's so small.  It smells soooooooooo delicious, NOM NOM NOM.  I want to eat it, I didn't..and I won't...but that was for dramatic explanation of how much I enjoy the scent.  The performance is total...and utter...crapola.  It doesn't feel like it evenly distributes product, it starts clumping on the stick itself almost like you're pulling fuzzy or wool material), it leaves a white film and clumps under my arms, scent doesn't last, feels wet and it's just horrible.  The concept of this product is great and I really wish that it had worked for me.  It's not worth the money and I won't be repurchasing ever.

Retails for approx. $10 CAN for 9g

Have you tried this deodorette yet?

I apparently forgot how to take a picture *shakes head*

Ingredients: Beeswax, Limnanthes alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Sodium Bicarbonate, Vitis vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Cocos nucifera (Organic Virgin Coconut) Oil, Helianthus annuus (Organic Sunflower) Seed Oil, Ethyl alcohol (Natural Grain Alcohol), Fragrance (phthalate-free), Distilled Water, Vanilla planifolia (Vanilla) Oil, Simmondsia chinesis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Zinc Oxide, Maranta arudinacea (Arrowroot) Root Powder, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Citric Acid, Citrus aurantifolia (Lime) Oil

100% Pure Organic Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream Review

There has been so much hype and buzz over this eye cream, it's crazy.  I purchased the small .5oz from Pretty In Pink Spa several months ago.  I have used and enjoyed many other 100% Pure products but this was a disappointing one.

Claim: Anti-inflammatory, caffeine rich green tea and coffee de-puffs and reduces swelling while increasing circulation to alleviate and brighten dark circles. Concentrated with potent anti-aging vitamins, antioxidants, and nourishing rosehip oil. Truly, 100% Pure.

I wanted to try this eye cream because of the hype and I loved the fact that there was a mini version because it's perfect to travel with.  I think the size won me over more than the hype to be honest.  I went through a tube and didn't notice a difference at all.  I picked up another one, thinking perhaps I just need to use it longer, still nothing.  It is hydrating and absorbs well but it's not my favourite.  It definitely didn't deliver, maybe I just don't need the benefits this eye cream is supposed to provide.  It's worth trying, I mean, there have been so many amazing reviews but I won't be repurchasing.

Retails for approx. $13 CAN for .5oz.  Check out www.100percentpure.ca for more info.

Are you in love with this eye cream, going to try it or don't care for it?

Ingredients: Organic Aloe Juice1, Organic Rose Hydrosol2, Organic Rosehip Oil3, Organic Green Coffee4, Vitamin E (tocopherol), Vitamin C (Sodium Ascorbate), Extracts of: Coffee Cherry, Rosemary, Oregano, Thyme, Goldenseal, Vanilla Absolute, Candelilla Wax

1 Certified Organic by QAI
2 Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth Certified Organic
3 Certified Organic by USDA
4 Certified Organic by Hawaii Organic Farmers Association

MRS. BUNNY SIGMA BRUSHES!

WOOHOOO got my Mrs. Bunny travel set from Sigma!  Loving them so far.  Thought I'd share and will do a review soon :)

MarieNatie Lip Gloss Review

I love gloss and actually prefer it to lipstick. I think I might own a couple of lipsticks right now, which I've had for a few years and should probably throw out lol. I got sent these 2 wonderful glosses to try out and review. Of course, I will be completely honest as always :).

MarieNatie is an all natural cosmetic company that was founded by Marie Yang. With the growing consumer awareness of natural cosmetics and her own concern over what she uses on her skin, she was encouraged to create the best natural products available. You can read more about her and the company by clicking here.

Claim: An all-natural lip gloss providing sparkling colour and shine without the stickiness. The natural oils will offer protective antioxidants and lasting hydration for your lips.

I'm going to try not to talk about this for too long but O-M-G the smell and taste of this gloss is amazing. It tastes like burnt sugar with caramel, vanilla and a hint of cinnamon..seriously! It is SO hard not to lick my lips whenever I wear this and I'm obsessed with the scent. Moving on, it is very hydrating and not sticky whatsoever. It offers gorgeous gold micro-shimmer to lips that make them glisten and appear plumper. It's definitely a mix of two things I love so dearly, gloss and balm. The packaging is very chic and classy, as you can see below. I do have two negatives about this gloss. The first pains me because I had such high hopes...the colour is practically sheer (on me anyway) that what I thought would be a gorgeous hue, wasn't. The second is the staying/lasting power. I love Buxom glosses because they're a little sticky. I find sticky lasts longer and I don't know if this didn't because I couldn't stop myself from licking my lips or if my lips just soaked up all the amazing ingredients. Aside from that, I really like this gloss. I will likely purchase a couple of other shades and will have my fingers crossed that the colours translate on my lips.

Retails for $18 CAN and can be purchased through www.marienatie.com.

Will you be trying out these glosses? What's your favourite shade?

Adorable Packaging

Left to right: Nearly Wild & Cotton Candy

Nearly Wild

Cotton Candy

Top to bottom: Nearly Wild & Cotton Candy

Nothing on my lips

Nearly Wild

Cotton Candy

 Ingredients:  Jojoba oil, carnauba wax, candelilla wax, vitamine E and vitamin E Acetate, pomegranate oil, sunflower oil, grapefruit seed oil, mica, essential oil