March 2013 Faves!

Last month, I didn't do a faves post mostly because I had nothing new to talk about. This month I have a bunch of new favourites to share. Be forewarned, I haven't even done a review on some of the items mentioned but I will.

Hair Care

Badger Seabuckthorn Antioxidant Hair Oil - review here - My scalp and hair just drink up this oil to reveal beautiful, luscious locks and a healthy, happy scalp. It's so nourishing and rich and amazing and I love it and you should go out and buy it and I'm done saying and. I think a 2nd grader could of written a better sentence. I've been absolutely loving it this month.

Skin Care

Homemade Makeup Removing Oil Cleanser - no review - I made this oil cleanser because I wanted to make use of the oils that I had sitting around. It removes my makeup so nicely and has been aiding in keeping my skin clear (I think). It's literally 3 parts apricot kernel oil, 1 part castor oil and chamomile (to calm) and lime (to brighten) essential oils. I don't enjoy the scent but it doesn't linger. I'll do a full DIY/review soon.

Weleda Baby Calendula Face Cream - review here - I literally reach for this cream when my skin is dry, irritated, breaking out or just angry in general. It's my go to moisturizer.

Camocare Organics Instant Radiance AHA Lifting Peel - no review - This stuff smells like straight up lemon vodka. Please refrain from drinking. I use it only a couple of times a week, at night only, because it tingles and burns but it does make my skin look brighter and dries up any acne that I might have. I have been really enjoying it this month.

Dr. Alkaitis Nourishing Treatment Oil - no review - omg this stuff smells absolutely amazing!! It's like walking into a health food/natural store but better. I love using this on my face, morning and night, for extra hydration. The full size is $80, so I'm clinging to this for dear life lol.

Dr. Alkaitis Eye Cream - no review -  This eye cream is moisturizing and I find that it does help with fine lines. It's like an instant eye lift when first applied, sadly the effects don't last. Maybe they do, I haven't been using it long enough to notice an obvious difference. It works great under makeup, doesn't irritate my eyes and I literally need a tiny, tiny amount for both eyes.

 Makeup

Ilia Lip Conditioner in Arabian Knights - no review -  My boyfriend bought this for me and I have been wearing it every single day since receiving it. It can be applied as a wash of colour, built up or layered. It's hydrating and just a gorgeous colour that I can see myself using in any season.

MarieNatie Lip Gloss in Nearly Wild - review here - These glosses taste like cinnamon and sugar, so delicious! I love applying this over any lip colour to add some shine and moisturize my lips. MarieNatie is going to be at the Green Living Show in Toronto and I plan on picking up a couple of lip glosses.

Pure+Simple Blush in Glow - review here - I think it's obvious that I absolutely love this blush colour. If not, then it will be now! I apply this on it's own or over the next fave because it's just gorgeous.

The All Natural Face Cream Blush in Touch of Rose - review here - This was my least favourite cream blush from TANF because the shade didn't match what was on their website, however, it is now the blush I reach for daily. Let me explain. This is not really a blush, it's more of a highlight than anything. I like using this on no makeup days to give my skin a dewy appearance/finish and I love layering it under Glow for the same dewy finish. I call this the "make your skin glow" blush. Love it.

Physicians Formula Organic Wear Bronzer & Blush - review here - I have been using the bronzer side of this duo for months as my crease colour. It is the perfect matte brown shade to use with any look.

Real Techniques Buffing Brush - no review - How did I live without this brush for so long?! It works fantastic for buffing mineral makeup into the skin and for cream blush. I love it and will do a full review of the RT brushes soon.

What have you been loving this month?

March 2013 Empties!

Hello lovelies! It's that time again, emptiessss!. I didn't think I'd have much to show this month but I was wrong, who knew?

Let's do this!

Body/Hair Care

Kiss My Face Whenever Shampoo - review here - I love this shampoo because of how well it lathers. It gives my hair and scalp a deep clean and removes oil treatments like a dream. I've already repurchased.

Sukin Nourishing Conditioner - review here - For the price, this conditioner is great. It hydrates and detangles my dry ends, it smells nice and doesn't weigh down my hair. It does contain phenoxyethanol, which I haven't read up on but everyone seems to be avoiding, however since conditioner doesn't go on my scalp, I'm fine with it. I would repurchase.

Sukin Botanical Protein Treatment - review here - I didn't actually finish this, there's just under half left, it expired in December. Ah well, it's still a great deep conditioner. It intensely nourishes and smells as delicious as all of the other Sukin products, faint vanilla and orange. I would repurchase.

Nourish Fresh Fig Deodorant - review here - I enjoyed using this when my underarms were feeling dry, but it didn't work for me in the BO department. With Spring/Summer arriving, I need something that's going to fight the heat and keep me fresh for as long as possible. As beautiful as this smells, I will not repurchase.

Bubs & Scrubs Coconut Milk Soap - review here - This soap was really nice. It's creamy, hydrating and has no scent whatsoever (which makes it perfect for babies and super sensitive skin types). I would love to try a different scent, but I don't think I'd repurchase this particular one.

Skin Care

Honey - no review - I've been mixing honey with my clay masks, on its own as a mask, and to wash my face in the morning. This organic and unpasteurised honey from Hockley Honey (Canadian) was really lovely. It didn't crystalize which made it super easy and nonabrasive to use. I will continue to use honey in my skin care regime, but am trying a different brand.

Thayers Cucumber Witch Hazel Toner - review here - This is hands down my holy grail toner! It is gentle, smells slightly of cucumber, keeps my skin cleansed, refreshed, and soft. I've already repurchased.

Living Nature Vitalising Cleanser - no review -  I received this cleanser with my Saffron Rouge order and have been using it for the last week. There is still another use or two, but I figured I'd include it anyway. It doesn't really smell like anything, which is great, and it leaves my skin so super soft. My only issue is that it doesn't remove makeup. I zipped through it because I have to wash my face twice to get all of the makeup off and even then, there's still makeup on my cotton round. I think this would be a great cleanser for the AM or for those that don't wear makeup. I will not be purchasing the full size.

Dr. Hauschka Daily Face Care Kit - review here - I will not purchase any full sizes from this kit. It's all way too fragranced and didn't make my skin any better than it is. My mom did say that she would purchase the full size of the Rose Day Cream next winter.

Makeup

Fresh Sugar Rose Tinted Lip Balm - review here - This was a really nice lip balm. I love that it has SPF 15, it keeps my lips soft and adds a beautiful just bitten sheer wash of colour. I didn't enjoy the rose type taste that came with it and I'm pretty sure it's not as natural as they claim to be. I will not be purchasing the full size.

Origins Quick, Hide Concealer - review here - This concealer is a dream, almost. I love the colour, consistency, wear time and coverage of it. This is the second tube that I've gone through, and can't seem to find a better alternative. I'm sad that Origins is owned by Estee Lauder and that they're really not all that natural. I'm sad to say, that I have repurchased despite the negatives and saying that I wouldn't. I feel the pitchforks coming my way..eek. Concealer is a must have for me and this is the only one that works in covering my blue under eye veins. I am still open to suggestions and will keep hunting for another concealer.

Cheeky Cosmetics Lipstick in Ambrosia - review here - I didn't finish this because I didn't like it, so it's being tossed. The colour itself is beautiful, but the frosted finish doesn't work for me. It's moisturizing and wears well, if you like a frosted finish then it's worth trying. I will not purchase the full size.

Cheeky Cosmetics Lip Gloss in Siren - review here - This gloss applied really nice with a brush and gave my lips a slightly red tint. It's moisturizing and smells like mint, but it doesn't wear very long. I wasn't completely in love with the colour and therefore I wouldn't purchase the full size.

The All Natural Face Diva Stix in Fawn - review here - I have decided to throw this out because it's not usable. It's way too waxy and I feel like I'm fighting for some colour to show up on my hand. Also, it's starting to fall apart (see picture below), not sure if that's normal or not but I don't have the patience to deal with it. I have this pencil in Milk, and it's so much better. I will not purchase it again.

Random

Last is this random product, Yogi Green Tea Kombucha. I actually went through all of the boxes from my tea collection + a box ofYogi Green Tea Goji Berry + this box of Green Tea Kombucha. I love tea, I drink it daily, it's delicious. I think this has replaced my love for the Goji Berry one, maybe because I went through 4 boxes and am now sick of it lol. I've never tried pure Kombucha or anything else with it in it, so I can't even compare the taste. This tea is ever so slightly sweet and goes down smoothly. I would repurchase, however, I've found a new brand that I love and they were mentioned in my haul this month. Pukka teas are absolutely beautiful. I will do an updated tea collection soon.

What did you finish up this month?

Green Beauty Collab #1: Products I'd Repurchase!

The lovely Brianna came up with and coordinated a fun Green Bloggers collab. To see a list of who participated and read their post, click here. I absolutely love posts and videos that involve talking about products, whether it be a tag or not, because it allows me to see what others are enjoying and introduces me to brands/products I wouldn't have otherwise tried. For this specific collab, I needed to pick only 10-15 products that I basically couldn't live without. There are several products that I'd repurchase, but only a few that I actually do. After days of deliberating, hair pulling and cursing, I've finally decided on the products that I'd absolutely repurchase without hesitation. For the record, I could have been way more dramatic than that :P.

Body/Hair Care

Coconut Oil - I use coconut oil regularly. I use it to deep condition my hair, remove makeup, cook, hydrate my skin and just sniff because it smells delicious! It is, without a doubt, an oil that I will always have on hand.

Hugo & Debora Naturals Handcrafted Soap - I have raved about these soaps time and time again. I love how hydrating they are, the scents available, ingredient list and how available they are to me. I have tried other soaps and I have yet to find one I like better. I usually always have a couple of bars on hand, right now I have 3.

Dr. Bronner's Liquid Castile Soap - This brand is just amazing. I love that they use organic and fair trade ingredients, they're available everywhere, they offer great scents (including unscented), they lather well and can be used for a million and one things. I personally enjoy the citrus, eucalyptus and peppermint scents because of how uplifting and invigorating they are. I use this soap to wash my stinky bits, makeup brushes, bathroom sink and tub, and as a hand wash. I find that it can be a bit drying, so that's why I don't use it as a body wash. I pretty much always have a bottle on hand.

Kiss My Face Whenever Shampoo - This is a new love for me and one of the first shampoos that I have actually repurchased immediately after finishing up it up. It has a citrusy lime scent, lathers nicely, deep cleans and works amazingly well for removing hair oil treatments. As long as I do oil treatments, this will be in my shower.

Weleda Skin Food - Do I even need to explain why I love this? It's a cult favourite. I use it as a hand cream but also apply it to dry areas of my body when they need some TLC.

Skin Care

Pangea Egyptian Calendula & Blood Orange Cleanser (not shown above) - This is the cleanser that I keep going back to. I have repurchased time and time again, and just reordered yesterday. It's the only cleanser that I can use on lazy days to remove my makeup (instead of using an oil first), smells nice, keeps acne at bay, doesn't dry out my skin and lasts a very long time. I absolutely love it.

DeVita Solar SPF 30 for Face - I never thought that I'd find an SPF that doesn't break me out, but I did! It doesn't smell like anything, is so light, hydrating, doesn't leave a white case and works. It's pretty expensive here, around $35 CAN but it's well worth it.

Thayer's Cucumber Witch Hazel Toner - This toner is so affordable, gentle and hydrating. It removes all traces of dirt, oil and cleanser. It's a great pick me up and makeup setting spray. I've gone through several bottles of this stuff and it's always on hand. I actually stopped using it for about a year, probably to try other toners, but I'm so glad that I decided to buy it again.

Weleda Baby Calendula Face Cream - Two Weleda products? Geez. This is a brand new love and one I see myself keeping around. It is so moisturizing but never leaves me greasy. It helps soothe the skin and, I think, control acne as well. The smell does linger but it's not overwhelming. I really like using it on my arms and anywhere that tends to get red or irritated. Love, love, love.

Sea Buckthorn Oil - I don't enjoy the bottle of the New Roots one, so I wouldn't repurchase this particular brand but I love sea buckthorn oil in general. It has a tea, almost rosehip, type smell. It absorbs beautifully into the skin, hydrated, softens and just feels wonderful. I love trying new oils but I think this one will be in my permanent collection for a while.

Tamanu Oil - This is a miracle oil! I'm still on my first bottle of this (and sea buckthorn) but I love the combination of the two on my skin. Tamanu has fantastic healing properties which makes it ideal for using on acne (which I get), as well as cuts and bruises (I'm clumsy). The smell is a bit strong but I've gotten used to it.

Makeup & Misc.

Badger Cocoa Butter Lip Balm - These lip balms are my absolute faves. I have 3 on the go right now and reach for them all the time. They're so moisturizing, big and affordable.

Pure+Simple Blush in Glow - The most perfect raspberry colour I've ever found. The formula is a little soft, as you can see above, so it's slowly cracking but I LOVE this blush so much. I wear it alone or over top of a cream blush.

Pacifica Indian Coconut Nectar Solid Perfume - I was on the fence about this solid perfume because it doesn't last very long but I've fallen in love. It's a multi use product really. I use it to freshen up, tame brows and tame frizz. I love the entire Indian Coconut Nectar line.

The All Natural Face Cream Blush - These blushes are amazing! They do vary in texture and the colours online are different but if you end up loving the colour you get, these are a total win. They're super affordable, blendable, natural looking, dewy, moisturizing and last a while on the skin.

That's it! Have you tried any of the products mentioned or have any must haves yourself? Let me know!

Wish List Wednesday #2

Coming atcha is another Wish List Wednesday blog hop, courtesy of Dana at Live Green Beauty. These are honestly so fun!

I sat here trying to figure out what I'm lusting after, seeing as I got what I put on last weeks wish list. Thank you lovely boyfriend! This week, and for several weeks now, I've been lusting after Vapour Organic Beauty's Stratus Soft Focus Instant Skin Perfector in s903 ($54 CAN).

Image taken directly from Vapourbeauty.com

Description: Vapour raises the bar for performance and purity with Stratus Soft Focus, velvety variation of Vapour’s revolutionary original organic BB Cream; a 3–in–1 moisturizer, primer and no-color foundation. Soft Focus balances all skin types, including combination and oily skin. Soft Focus leaves a smooth base for color makeup application while achieving a natural soft satin finish. Vapour’s Light Reflective Technology immediately perfects the appearance of your skin— you immediately appear younger and refreshed. For a flawless finish use Stratus Instant Skin Perfector alone or under any Atmosphere Foundation.

It all sounds so amazing doesn't!? It's a product that I could see myself throwing on, on a "no makeup" type of day, just to even out the redness on my cheeks.

I also want to add Sappho Cosmetics concealer in Neutrality ($27 CAN) to my list. It looks to be more on the salmon side, which is perfect for concealing my under eye veins and darkness. I've been on the hunt for a natural under eye concealer, could this be it?

Description: The best of the best concealer for anyone with a medium to light skin tone. Preserved with essential oils, this concealer moves with the skin. It's our biggest seller! Not vegan. 8gms.

Image taken directly from Sappho Cosmetics

Don't forget, you can join in on the fun too! Do a blog post or let me know below, what is on your wish list this week?

Ingredients of Vapour Skin Perfector: Organic/Bio Camellia Oleifera (Camellia) Seed Oil, Organic/Bio Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Oil, Silica, Organic/Bio Cera Alba (Beeswax), Lysine, Organic/Bio Lecithin, Tocopherol (Natural Vitamin E) Organic/Bio Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil & Organic/Bio Lecithin & Organic/Bio Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil & Organic/Bio Papain (Papaya), Sambucus Nigra (Elderberry) Fruit Extract, Mica (CI 77019), Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Essential Oils & Natural Fruit Essences, Boswellia Serrata (Frankincense)*, Organic/Bio Ocimum Sanctum (Tulsi/Holy Basil), Organic/Bio Nelumbo Nucifera (Lotus) Flower Petals

Ingredients of Sappho Concealer: Prunis dulcis (sweet almond) oil, titanium dioxide, apis mellifera (beeswax), palm christi oil, butyrospermun parkii (shea) butter, theobroma cacao (cocoa) butter, iron oxide, simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) oil, limnanthes alba (meadowfoam) oil, oenothers biennis (evening primrose) oil, persea americana (avocado) butter, tocopherol (vitamin e), rosa mosqueta (rosehip) oil, aloe barbadensis (aloe) oil, zinc oxide, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) oleoresin, azadirachta indica (neem) oil.

Badger Seabuckthorn Apricot & Pomegranate Antioxidant Hair Oil Review

I love hair oils and I usually make my own. They're fantastic for scalp and hair health, in my opinion. Marcella has a sick obsession with Badger and kindly sent this to me to try out. This is another winning product from Badger! They can do no wrong!

Description: Daily life takes a toll on the hair: sun, wind, earth, water, pollutants, and styling can impact hair health. Badger’s here to help restore the balance – let us pay the toll for you! Treat your hair to vitamin and antioxidant-rich oils and extracts, and watch the shine and luster return to overworked hair. We’ve selected our most powerful oils to deliver naturally occurring vitamins A, B, C, E, and K to nourish and replenish hair. Seabuckthorn and Pomegranate promote hair strength and elasticity, and Apricot is a potent emollient, imparting moisture and shine. Rosehip possesses regenerative properties, helping hair to return to its healthiest state.

This oil is beautiful! First off, I love the packaging. The oil comes in a sturdy, leak proof (so it seems), clear glass bottle with a pump. The pump is convenient because you can dispense as little or as much as you want/need and it's not messy. It smells like seabuckthorn oil but sweeter. If you haven't smelled seabuckthorn before, it smells very similar to rosehip but not as intense. The smell doesn't linger at all once washed out. It applies really nicely to the hair and scalp, leaves them both nourished, smells nice, washes out great and doesn't weigh down my fine hair.

I like using this treatment twice a week because my scalp hates me and my ends are damaged. I put a few pumps in my hand and fully saturate my scalp and hair, massage my scalp for a few minutes, and then tie my hair in a bun. If I'm leaving it on overnight, which I usually do, I put a towel on my pillows and rinse out the morning. I do wash my hair twice, to remove it all, only because my hair is so fine.

I highly recommend this oil and would definitely repurchase!

Retails for approx. $22.99 CAN for 2 fl oz.  You can purchase directly through Badger or your local health food store.

Have you ever tried any of Badger's wonderful hair oils?

Unboxed: February "Love Yourself" Seasons Box

This is the first box that I've ever received because there are literally no natural beauty boxes in Canada, until now. I won this beautiful box from Kendra, vlogwithkendra on YT, and was so excited to receive it! If you haven't checked her out yet, you must! She's absolutely stunning and does a variety of videos like hauls, tutorials, follow me around, etc. I adore watching her videos.

Seasons Box is available to US and Canadian residence for $29.95 + $4.95 shipping (USD), which is kind of expensive but you get 3-4 full size products. They say, "We strive to introduce you to luxurious environmentally conscious products that meet our highest quality standards and that will stimulate your senses. Each month we carefully compile 3-5 luxurious full size seasonal must-have products for your home, body, and spirit. Each month's box is completely different and each box is tailored to one season (Winter, Spring, Summer, or Autumn), or Seasonal Holidays and Occasions". Umm, how fun is that!? Tailored to each season and perfect for those who love natural products in general? Sign me up. From what I've heard, people can collect quite a number of samples from beauty specific boxes. A box like this would limit those because of the range of products and they're full size, so you're likely to start using them sooner instead of tossing them in your samples drawer.

Now, lets see what came in the February Box!

Products received:

• Galerie Au Chocolat Fair Trade Bar in Crisped Rice - DELICIOUS, fair trade and Canadian! 

• Dream Organics Rose Water - Not a fan of the smell of roses and this sure smells like it. I love the packaging, it screams luxury. I haven't used it yet but it'll be used to set makeup.

• Kaia Naturals Bamboo Facial Cleansing Cloths - We all know how I feel about cleansing cloths, but these look promising. 

• Bambu Earth Sugar Cookie Body Scrub - I was most excited for this scrub because I love products that smell like dessert. When I first opened it, it took me by surprise. The almond essential oil is so strong that it kinda smelled like gas. After taking a few more sniffs, I realized it was the almond essential oil. It's not what I expected, but not bad. We'll see how I feel about it once I use it.

• Perfume Essence Breathe Bath Bomb - Haven't used it yet but it smells lovely. It has Eucalyptus, mint, rosemary and lavender essential oils.

Verdict: I am so impressed with this box. I love how they package the box with a bow matching the theme, the products are neatly secured, every product is full size, and everything is natural and eco friendly. Also, if you go to their website, you can see what the next box will consist of. I think that's great because if you're not really interested in the products, you can skip that month. I will 100% be purchasing a box in the future.

Thanks Kendra and Seasons Box for the giveaway!

What do you think about Seasons Box? Have you or would you try them out? 

Collective Haul + First Impressions!

Running out of everything all at the same time really sucks. Mostly because I have to spend so much money in one shot and I hate saying goodbye to money :(. Some of the items that I picked up were repurchases and others are brand spankin new!

Lets see the goodies that I picked up over the last month and a half...

Weleda Skin Food - Repurchase! It's in my bag as we speak and making my skin softer one use at a time.

Adama ClayDry Deodorant - This is a new purchase that I'm actually returning because it makes my underarms so damn dry and itchy that I literally scratched them till they bled. Sexy? I think so. It smells so fruity and delicious though, hurts my heart to part ways.

Oneka Balancing Shampoo - Also a new purchase. It's a Canadian company, Vegan and smells like citrus. I have been enjoying it so far.

Kiss My Face Whenever Shampoo - Repurchase! I love the smell and feel of this shampoo. It gives my hair a deep clean and works like a dream to remove oil treatments from my hair.

Camocare Organics Instant Radiance AHA Lifing Peel - This is a new purchase for me. I actually had the Devita glycolic blend in my hand and got intrigued by the price and promise of this "peel". So far it's alright. I only use it a couple of times a week, any more than that and my skin starts flaking like flaky pastry.

Thayers Cucumber Witch Hazel Toner - repurchase! Love this stuff. Good value for money and works so well.

Castor Oil - I purchased this to add to my makeup removing oil, which I made myself. I heard it's great for acne and figured it couldn't hurt to try out. No thoughts on it yet.

Yes to Cucumber Makeup Removing Wipes - I hate wipes but I bought these because I really desperately wanted to remove my makeup at my boyfriend's house. The thought process behind this purchase was that I can keep it in my purse for future desperate situations. It does a good job of removing my makeup but it burns a little.

Badger Cocoa Butter Lip Balm in Poetic Pomegranate - I'm obsessed! It's sort of sweet and looks pretty on my bed side table. Not much else I can say.

Real Techniques Core Collection Set - I had just washed my brushes and honestly didn't want to put them back in the box, sorry *slaps hand*. I nearly jumped for joy when I saw that my Walmart (in Canada) now carries some of these brushes. I'm loving these! I should really do a review about them.

Pukka Green Tea and Chamomile & Vanilla Tea - I friggen love Pukka tea, it has replaced my love for Yogi. It just tastes so delicious and it better for how expensive it is. Oh! And my boyfriend, who only drinks special loose leaf tea and never wants to try any of my teas because he's so fancy or something, even likes their green tea! He's a tea diva, don't ask.

No more hauls for another few months, hopefully you enjoyed this one. Also, if you've ever tried any of the above products let me know. I'm super curious about whether or not anyone has specifically tried or heard of Camocare Organics.

xo!

Saffron Rouge Haul + First Impressions!

I was going to put this into my collective haul post, that will be up after this one, but there was just too much to show and say. I've seen Saffron Rouge before, browsed their site, saw their prices, and clicked the X on the top right corner. Then I did that all over again, like a million times. Since I've finished virtually all of my skin care, I thought I'd splurge a little and try some higher end products that I've never used before.

I ordered the Mini Firming Flax Eye Cream from The Body Deli ($20 CAN for 5ml) and a travel kit from Dr. Alkaitis ($51.95 CAN for a 30ml Purifying Cleanser, 30ml Herbal Toner, 30ml Soothing Gel, 30ml Nourishing Treatment oil, 7ml Day Creme, 7ml Night Creme, 3.5ml Eye Creme and a little bag with a powdered mask). I've only tried The Body Deli eye cream, once, and it feels really nice. Only the tiniest amount is needed for each eye, so I think this sample is going to last me a long time.

Then I got to pick 5 samples, fun! I picked the Primavera Hand & Nail Cream, ilike St. John's Wort Eye Contour Cream, Suki Exfoliate Foaming Cleanser, Suki Transformative Cleansing Clay and Erbaviva SPF 30. I've tried the Suki exfoliating cleanser before and really enjoyed it, everything else will be like opening a present! You know when you open something for the first time and you're really excited to try it or use it? That's how I feel about new skin care.

Speaking of opening a present, there was one in the box! I honestly had no idea what the heck this was but I was dying to rip it open. It took every bit of restraint to wait until I took a picture before tearing into it like a kid on Christmas.

In it were MORE samples!!!!!!!!!! Who doesn't like samples!? I will say, I saw Dr. Hauschka and cringed, until I saw that it was the cleansing cream (insert happy dance). They also sent me a Primavera Rose Pomegranate Intensive Renewing Cream, Inika Liquid Mineral Foundation in Beige, Living Nature Vitalizing Cleanser, Tallulah Jane Aiyana Perfume and John Masters Evening Primrose Shampoo. There was also a little card with 10% off my next purchase. I'm not sure if this little package is something that they send with first time orders or all orders, but it was such a wonderful and lovely surprise.

My first impressions is more on my Saffron Rouge experience than the products themselves. The website is user friendly, customer service is fantastic, checkout is easy and quick, and my package arrived within days. I love that you get to pick your samples with every order. It allows the customer to pick based on their specific needs and provides a customizable experience that sets them apart from other etailers. I absolutely loved the additional samples and 10% coupon code! My only issue is my total at check out didn't match up to my charged total. I emailed Saffron Rouge right away (it was a Saturday) and received a response from Kim first thing Monday morning explaining that the taxes are defaulted until your province and all that jazz is put in. I guess that means once you hit "place my order" because it only showed me my actual total after the fact. She kindly asked if I wanted to proceed or cancel my order, I obviously proceeded. They should definitely change their checkout total update as soon as the province/state is inputted so that customers know exactly what is being charged prior to completing the order. Just a friendly suggestion :). Aside from that, I am 100% pleased with my first order and experience with Saffron Rouge and will be purchasing from them again.

Have you ever ordered from Saffron Rouge or tried any of the products above?

Wish List Wednesday!

I have been wanting to do a Wish List Wednesday or What I Ate Wednesday for quite some time now, but never got around to it. Since Dana from Live Green Beauty suggested doing it as a blog hop, it forced my hand. I love hearing what beauty products others lust over. It's late in the night, I'm tired and there's only one thing on my mind. Ilia tinted lip conditioner in Arabian Knights. I want it as bad as I want to swim in a salted caramel hot chocolate pool!  

Also on my list is the lip conditioners in Blossom Lady & Shell Shock and their lipsticks in In My Room, Ink Pot & Wild Child. That's all that's on my wish list for now.

What's on yours? Feel free to join in on the fun!

Image taken directly from Iilia

Face of the Day/Eye Shadow of the Day featuring MarieNatie

I recently posted a couple of pictures on Twitter showing a shadow of the day and the entire look of the day, I guess it should be face of the day since I only showed my face right? Just started playing more with makeup and I'm still working on finding good lighting in my house to take pictures. A million windows and I still struggle. Anyway, thought I'd put up a more in-depth post with better pictures for those of you who aren't on Twitter. A little disclaimer before you continue reading. I am not a makeup artist and until late last year, never really played much with makeup beyond the basics. My brows desperately need to get done and I fully realize that one is darker than the other, luckily, they're getting done today lol. You may now proceed...

Here are the products that I used, you can pretty much guess where I used each one :P/

L to R: 100% Pure Lip Glaze in Seduce, MarieNatie gloss in Nearly Wild, Zuzu Luxe mascara in Onyx, Alima Pure foundation in Warm 2, MarieNatie pigment in Emerald, MarieNatie pressed shadow in C'est bon, All Natural Face cream blush in Cotton Candy & Physicians Formula Organic Wear liner in Black Woods

MarieNatie was kind enough to send me these shadows to try out. This is the very first time that I'm wearing them and must say that I'm impressed. I will do a full review of them at some point. I used C'est bon all over the lid and in the crease, then used Emerald as a liner on the top and bottom lash line. I don't often wear liner but I added Physicians Formula dark brown liner to the bottom lash line, which seems to have come off in the pictures already, then coated my lashes with some mascara. The whole look, especially Emerald, really makes my eyes pop!

sassy! Fun makeup = fun/stupid faces? 

TA-DA, the complete look!

Hope you guys enjoyed, let me know if you'd like me to do more of these posts. Maybe the more I do the better I'll get!

xo!

*MarieNatie sent me the gloss & shadows. I am in no way being compensated for using or reviewing  them. All opinions are my own. 

Dr. Hauschka Daily Face Care Kit for Normal, Dry, Sensitive Skin

Dr. Hauschka is well known for it's luxurious and effective products. I say this about everything I buy but I have literally been eyeing this travel kit for a couple of years now. I find the products expensive and the idea of spending $30 on a kit of extra mini mini sized products irritating. Nevertheless, I cringed and bit my tongue as I finally purchased it!

Description: Keep your skin fresh, clean and supple. Discover a combination of products that results in healthy, toned and radiant skin. Includes travel sizes of Cleansing Cream (10ml), Cleansing Milk (10ml), Facial Toner (10ml), Moisturizing Day Cream (5ml), Rose Day Cream (5ml) and Quince Day Cream (5ml).

Cleansing Cream: This is my favourite item of the entire kit even though it smells like alcohol and "organic", as my boyfriend would say. It's a thick and ever so slightly sticky textured cream with sweet almond seed meal that gently exfoliates the skin. It doesn't remove makeup, but I don't think it's supposed to. The price is what keeps me from purchasing the full size.  I'll stick with my Angels on Bare Skin. 

Retails for approx. $31.00 CAN for 50 ml.

Cleansing Milk: This milky, almost water like, cleanser doesn't remove makeup at all. I find I have to use quite a bit of it to even cleanse my skin, it leaves a weird film and it's so strongly scented.
Retails for approx. $40.00 CAN for 145ml.

Facial Toner: This is a lovely toner with a light herbal rose scent and my second favourite product in this kit. It doesn't irritate my skin and works great at removing any excess dirt and cleanser but for approx. $40 CAN for 100ml, I will not be purchasing the full size.

Moisturizing Day Cream: This cream makes me breakout and leaves my skin greasy. It's not really a thick cream, it's borderline a lotion texture but very hydrating. I actually ended up giving it to my mom and she likes it. She says it would be great a winter moisturizer for those with normal to oily skin and a summer moisturizer for those with dry skin.
Retails for approx. $37.00 CAN for 30ml.

Quince Day Cream: I actually really enjoy this face cream, aside from the scent that is. It keeps my skin moisturized, slightly dewy, works under makeup and doesn't break me out. I'm not sure yet if I'd purchase the full size.
Retails for approx. $38.00 CAN for 30ml.

Rose Day Cream: I honestly didn't even try this. It smells like a bouquet of roses which I can't stand in skin care and it's so thick. I gave it to my mom and she LOVEEEEEES it. She says it's very moisturizing, smells great and leaves her skin soft all day. She would purchase the full size.
Retails for approx. $50.00 CAN for 30ml.

Verdict: I was extremely disappointed in the Dr. Hauschka set and products. Most of the products contain fragrance which doesn't say it's a component of natural essential oils, it's all way too fragrant (pungent really), ineffective in terms of the cleansing milk removing makeup and being suited for (my) sensitive skin, and overpriced. I don't like fragrance, unless it's from essential oils, on my face. I'm just glad I can finally stop lusting over this set and the Hauschka products.

Have you tried and loved/hated any of Dr. Hauschka's products?

Ingredients

Cleansing Cream: Water (Aqua), Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Seed Meal, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Anthyllis Vulneraria Extract, Alcohol, Arachis Hypogaea (Peanut) Oil, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Hypericum Perforatum Flower/Leaf Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Bark/Leaf Extract, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Fragrance (Parfum), Citronellol*, Geraniol*, Malpighia Punicifolia (Acerola) Fruit Extract, Xanthan Gum, Algin *Component of natural essential oils

Cleansing Milk: Water (Aqua), Alcohol, Anthyllis Vulneraria Extract, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Glycerin, Fermented Grain Extract, Cetearyl Alcohol, Bentonite, Lecithin, Xanthan Gum, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Fragrance (Parfum), Limonene*, Geraniol*, Linalool*, Citronellol* *Component of natural essential oils

Facial Toner: Water (Aqua), Anthyllis Vulneraria Extract, Alcohol, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Bark/Leaf Extract, Fragrance (Parfum), Linalool*, Citronellol*, Geraniol*, Limonene* *Component of natural essential oils

Moisturizing Day Cream: Water (Aqua), Anthyllis Vulneraria Extract, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Alcohol, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Bark/Leaf Extract, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract, Arachis Hypogaea (Peanut) Oil, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Hypericum Perforatum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Glycerin, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Lecithin, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Fragrance (Parfum), Limonene*, Linalool*, Farnesol*, Benzyl Benzoate*, Geraniol*, Citronellol*, Citral*, Eugenol*, Benzyl Salicylate*, Algin, Xanthan Gum *Component of natural essential oils

Quince Day Cream: Water (Aqua), Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Anthyllis Vulneraria Extract, Pyrus Cydonia Seed Extract, Alcohol, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract, Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Althaea Officinalis Leaf Extract, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Beeswax (Cera Alba), Pyrus Cydonia Peel/Fruit Wax, Lysolecithin, Bentonite, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Bark/Leaf Extract, Fragrance (Parfum), Citral*, Citronellol*, Geraniol*, Limonene*, Linalool*, Eugenol*, Benzyl Benzoate*, Xanthan Gum *Component of natural essential oils

Rose Day Cream: Water (Aqua), Arachis Hypogaea (Peanut) Oil, Althaea Officinalis Root Extract, Beeswax (Cera Alba), Hypericum Perforatum Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Sucrose Distearate, Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil Unsaponifiables, Fragrance (Parfum), Citronellol*, Geraniol*, Linalool*, Limonene*, Citral*, Farnesol*, Benzyl Alcohol*, Eugenol*, Rosa Damascena Flower Extract, Rosa Canina Fruit Extract, Rosa Damascena Flower Wax, Lanolin, Lecithin *Component of natural essential oils

Lush's Mange Too Massage Bar Review

Over the Christmas season, I worked at Lush. I've mentioned it before but in case you're new to my blog, Lush is not as natural as they claim to be and if you're familiar with ingredients, then you'll already know that. I did happen to find a few products that I didn't mind using. This delicious massage bar was one of them.

Description: The sweet scent of chocolate and honey combined with skin-softening bananas and the melt-y abilities of Shea and cocoa butter equals one downright delicious massage. Glide all over your partner (or do some self-pleasuring and rub into your arms and legs), and find out how soft and smooth it gets the skin. We won’t blame you if you take a lick (and maybe a nibble, if it’s consensual); this one tastes almost as good as it smells.

The Good:

• super moisturizing
• lickable!
• delicious ingredients (with the exception of perfume)
• perfect as a solid moisturizer
• great for travelling
• looks like a honeycomb!

The Bad:

• overwhelming scent
• contains perfume
• expensive

Verdict: I picked this up for myself and Marcella because I liked the idea of using it as a solid body butter and I liked the way it smelled. I guess my sense of smell was shot while working there because the scent is so strong. Sickening strong. It works fantastic as a body butter though. It is extremely moisturizing, my legs haven't been dry or itchy since using it. It melts into your skin with ease and not much is needed for each body part. I also love that I can take it when I travel and don't have to worry about it spilling everywhere. Don't judge me on this next part since it technically is lickable but....I licked it! Yes, it's true, I licked it. Just once! It was delicious but the idea of licking a body butter kind of made me sick lol. Aside from the scent, I'm not keen on perfume as an ingredient. Lush claims that most of it is from essential oils but I'm not entirely sold. Was it a big enough issue to keep me from trying it anyway? No. Would I repurchase? Maybe if I was going on a long trip or backpacking across the world.

Retails for $10.95 CAN for 100g. Can be purchased at Lush only.

Have you tried any of the massage bars before? What's your favourite?

Ingredients: Fair Trade Cocoa Butter (Theobroma cacao) , Shea Butter (Butyrospermum parkii) , Perfume , Mango Butter (Mangifera indica) , White Chocolate (Sugar, Cocoa Fat, Dry Whole Milk, Soy Lecithin, Natural Vanilla) , Fresh Bananas (Musa paradisiaca) , Honey (Mel) , Peppermint Oil (Mentha piperita) , Vanilla Absolute (Vanilla planifolia) , Sweet Orange Oil (Citrus dulcis) , *Limonene

Green ingredients = Natural ingredients
Black ingredients = Safe synthetics

Lafe's Crystal Deodorant Stick Review

Most green beauties will tell you that an effective natural deodorant is hard to find. It's true. We all have different needs for it; limit sweating, prevent odor, both, and some just don't need deo at all. If you're one of the lucky ones, that doesn't need it, I hate you (with love of course). I personally need something to keep me smelling fresh for as long as possible. Dr. Mist was my go to for months, however, after going through two bottles I thought it was time for a change. Crystal deodorant sticks have long intrigued me. Enter Lafe's Crystal Stick.

Description: 24 hour deodorant protection made with natural mineral salts that eliminate odor-causing bacteria. Convenient package makes using a crystal deodorant easy while protecting the crystal from breakage. The smaller size is ideal for travel.

The Good:

• mini travel size
• no residue or white marks
• effective in keeping me odor-free and dry
• stick lasts a long time
• easy to find in stores
• affordable

The Bad:

• most effective when applied after a shower or on freshly washed underarms, not as effective when reapplied
• need to keep another deodorant around to freshen up
• if you drop it, you're screwed

Verdict: It works! I mean, it's not warm or hot here just yet so I can't say that this holds up in the most extreme of heats or through an intense workout. I do like, that it keeps me dry and stink free for almost 24 hours, it doesn't leave any marks or residue on my clothing and it's affordable.  What I don't like is that it does nothing when reapplied. I tend to shower after school (anywhere between 3 -5 pm), apply it and go on with my day. By noon the next day, I can notice a slight odor beginning and if I reapply, there's really no change in the odor. I tend to keep a regular natural deodorant stick to freshen up, when needed, in my bag. On the odd day that I do shower in the morning, this stick works all day long. Another thing to be cautious of is not dropping the crystal deo. I dropped mine, on carpet, and a tiny piece broke off. I found it when I stepped on it, OUCH! That little bastard hurt. Can you imagine it was dropped on a solid, hard surface?! It's like a stick of tiny glass pieces waiting to prick the bottom of your feet. It's worth trying out. Would I repurchase? Not sure. We'll see how it holds up when the weather gets warmer.

How to apply: wet the stick and rub under one arm (I rub until it's dry). Then, wet again and rub under other arm. Ta-da!

Retails for approx. $3.69 CAN for 2.25 oz. Can be purchased at most health food stores or through Lafe's.

What do you think about crystal deodorant sticks? Love em or hate em?

Ingredients: Potassium Alum (Natural Mineral Salts)

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xo