May 2013 Empties!

I now get why in most Youtube empties videos they start with, "I can't believe (enter month) is already over". Time seems to be passing quicker and quicker every month. As usual, this will be a lengthy empties with some random products. I'm going to try and keep it short and sweet.

Skin Care

Pai Echium Biorejuvenate Eye Cream - review here - This is such a lovely eye cream. It's light, yet hydrated well, and did seem to slightly minimize the appearance of my fine lines. It worked great alone or under makeup. I've gone through two tubes of it and will likely repurchase.

Weleda Baby Calendula Face Cream - review here - LOVE.THIS.STUFF. It is so moisturizing, nourishing and just wonderful. I use it on my face and body on the regular and have already repurchased.

Camocare Organics Instant Radiance AHA Lifting Peel - review here - This was a nice chemical exfoliating product. Was it better than P+S lactic or Devita glycolic blend? No. I wouldn't repurchase.

Aura Cacia Avocado Oil - no review - I was experimenting with different oils and making my own blended facial oils in the Winter. I think Avocado oil is a bit heavy for my skin, so I ended up using it in my hair which worked great. I wouldn't repurchase though.

Thayers Cucumber Witch Hazel Toner - review here - I've gone through several bottles of this stuff, it's my absolute favourite toner at a such a great price point. I'm not going to repurchase right now because I've been experimenting with a DIY apple cider vinegar and aloe toner.

Scrubs

BambuEarth Sugar Cookie Body Polish - review here - This left my skin soft but the scent was too strong for me. Great company, great ingredients, just not the scrub for me.

Lush Popcorn Lip Scrub - review here - I really enjoyed the taste of this scrub. It's sweet and salty, and worked great at exfoliating my lips. Won't be repurchasing because I'm going to attempt (not like it's hard) my own lip scrub.

Samples

Suki Transformative Cleansing Clay/Bio-active Purifying Face Serum/ Exfoliate Foaming Cleanser - These sample packets were way too small to decide if they a. did anything and b. did anything. I've had multiple samples of the exfoliate foaming cleanser and that's lovely.

Dermalogica Daily Resurfacer - I was using the daily resurfacer while in my second skin care course and it worked really well on my skin. I found it reduced break outs and helped lighten acne scars. Obviously the sample was a one time use, but it gave my skin an overnight boost. It's pretty expensive and not totally natural, I likely won't purchase.

Dr. Alkatis Organic Cellular Repair Mask - review here - I didn't find this mask did anything special for my skin. I won't purchase the full size.

More Samples

Dr. Alkatis Organic Herbal Toner - review here - This was a nice toner. It hydrated, cleansed, didn't irritate or burn my skin, and smelled nice. A little expensive for a toner though, I won't purchase the full size.

Dr. Alkatis Organic Soothing Gel - review here - My face initially burned upon applying this soothing gel, but it got used to it. I found it helped heal acne and calm down my skin. I'm still unsure on if I'd purchase the full size. I guess if I'm that unsure, it's likely I won't.

Green Beaver Green Tea Facial Cream - I also used this in my skin care course as my moisturizer for each facial. So instead of whoever worked on me applying a chemical filled moisturizer, I used this and it was great. It hydrated and soothed my skin really nicely. I think I may purchase the full size eventually.

Tata Harper Hydrating Floral Essence - I kept this in my purse to refresh my makeup during the day. It's pretty miniature but one spritz is all I needed. It's very scented, overpowering really. It's not a scent that I could see myself getting used to. I won't be purchasing the full size.

I actually met Nancy and Patricia, who own Shoosha True, at The Big Carrot earlier this month. The line is geared towards babies and mothers/mothers to be. Patricia told me how the products can be used as skin care and how both (Nancy and Patricia) use their products on their face. Both ladies were super sweet and passionate that I ended up getting a couple of samples to try on my face.

Shoosha True Gentlest Baby Wash & Shampoo (Unscented) - It was nice, slightly foaming, unscented cleanser. It worked well at removing most of my makeup and keeping my skin hydrated. I still much prefer my Pangea cleanser though and so I won't be picking up the full size.

Shoosha True Rejuvenate Stretch Mark  Serum - Apparently this works wonders on both Patricia and Nancy. What really made me want to try it is the tamanu oil in it. Y'all know how much I love tamanu! Sadly, it gave me little red bumps all over my forehead. I ended up using it on some actual stretch marks (behind my knees, hips, etc). Of course, it's too small a sample to see a difference but it smelled really nice and could work with continued use.

Randoms

Pukka Tea in Chamomile & Vanilla, Harmonise, and Green Tea - Yes, I have a tea problem. I especially have a Pukka tea problem because I just love them. In all fairness, I think I have 2 bags left of both Chamomile & Vanilla and Harmonise, but in attempt to make space and throw out the boxes, I included them. I absolutely love C&V! It's so soothing and comforting, I've actually already purchased a backup. Harmonise was alright, I didn't find it to taste like much. I won't be repurchasing that one. The Green Tea was really nice because it's a blend of three different green teas. This was actually my second (or third) box. I'm going to look into a loose leaf green tea next, so I haven't repurchased.

More Randoms

Udo's Choice Flora Probiotic Super 8 Plus - I talked about this probiotic in my April Empties. I've noticed a massive difference since taking probiotics and this one is apparently really great. I've already repurchased but I go through them rather quickly, so I may look into a different brand next time.

Mega Food Women's One Daily - I really like taking a multi when I don't feel like I ate enough or ate nutritious enough. This one in particular is supposed to be a whole food multi, basically the vitamins and minerals come from actual food sources and can be better absorbed by the body. This is a great brand and even my boyfriend bought some as well. I haven't actually repurchased this brand. I'm trying another whole food brand that's a little more wallet friendly.  

Tossing

EOS Shave Cream in Pomegranate Raspberry - I bought this like two years ago, not even looking at the ingredients. I figured their EOS lip balm is pretty natural so their other products must be as well. A tip, from me to you, never assume! I don't shave often because I've had laser hair removal done, that's why this lasted me forever. It smells amazing but it's loaded with crap ingredients like fragrance, mineral oil, etc, etc.



Also tossing

Dr. Alkatis Night Crème - review here - I actually found this after I had tossed everything out, but since it's not being used I've decided to toss it. Both my mom and I don't enjoy this cream and we agree it's too heavy regardless of how much or little we use.

If you've made it through the entire post, I applaud you. It was exhausting to write, probably because it's late and I'm pretty tired, and I hope it wasn't as exhausting to read.

Let me know what you've finished up!

BambuEarth Sugar Cookie Body Polish Review

I received this adorably packaged scrub in my February Seasons Box, back in...well...February. Before I get into the review, I want to touch a little on BambuEarth. It was started by Amber in 2009 with a desire to live a more sustainable life. She believes in keeping things as simple, natural, and raw as possible in order to actually benefit the skin by providing it with living nutrients. Her products are made using sustainable, ethical, organic, and local ingredients. They're also free from phthalates, parabens, sulfates, preservatives, synthetic fragrances and dyes, and are never tested on animals. If you'd like to read more on the company, you can check out their story here. I also highly recommend checking out their website, in general, because all of products sound and look absolutely amazing. The best part is that the ingredients are minimal and recognizable in each product!
Now, for the review...

Description: Our Sugar Cookie Body Glow is hand-crafted with mineral rich dead sea salt for it's therapeutic properties and exfoliation power along with organic coconut oil for moisture. This blend is soothing to the skin and will fill your bath with the irresistible scent of fresh baked sugar cookies. The aromas of vanilla sugar, almond and a hint of lemon is a combo that's tough for any woman to resist.

The label is so adorable! I just love it! While the glass jar isn't ideal for use in a wet shower or travel friendly, it is very eco-friendly and a great reusable jar. When most people think of salt scrubs, they think aggressive. This scrub is far from that. I applied it in sections, on wet skin and gently rubbed in a circular motion. The salt slightly melts away to create a very gentle, yet effective exfoliation. While my skin was left super soft, I didn't particularly care for this scrub. It left an oily residue on my skin and tub bottom (which is expected with most scrubs), but the deal breaker was the scent. The almond was just way too strong for me and I didn't get that sweet cookie scent that I was hoping for. I'm also a little bias because I prefer dry brushing or exfoliating gloves. If you love scrubs, I've heard rave reviews on the scent and therefore, I'd recommend trying it out.

Retails for $17 - $18 USD for 8oz (a little goes a long way). Can be purchased through BambuEarth or Seasons Box.

Do you prefer scrubs, exfoliating tool (gloves, brush, etc), or both?

The All Natural Face: Magic Vegan Eye Shadow Primer Review

Back in February I did a haul, from The All Natural Face, that included their Magic Vegan Eye Shadow Primer. After having bad luck with the Oily Lid Primer, I decided that it couldn't get any worse and went for it.

Description: "Magic" has a doe tip applicator just like Urban Decay's old Potion Primer did. "Magic" is an amazing primer! Just dab a few dabs of the "Magic" primer on your lids, blend in with your fingertip, and let dry for a second or two. Apply your shadow as you usually do. "Magic" will give you all day wear and crease protection! You can also use this an under eye concealer if the tone is complimentary.

I'm a big squeeze tube lover in general, however, the doe tip applicator is great for controlled application and reducing the use of too much product. When I used this in the colder months, I didn't really like it because I found it caked and made my lids look crepey regardless of how much or little I applied. With it now being warmer here, I find it applies much easier and doesn't give me that crepey look anymore. I like that it helps a bit with any lid discolourations. For everyday use with a more natural eye, it's great, but it's not my go to for long lasting shadow or more dramatic looks. It doesn't last all day, on me anyway, I find my shadow just disappears after about 4 hours. I know for a fact that this wouldn't last, on me, on a extremely hot day in the summer. A good natural eye primer is hard to come by and I haven't tried that many to really be able to compare the difference. What works for you will depend on your eye shape and how oily (or not) your lid is. For the price, this is great and although I wouldn't repurchase, I highly recommend giving it a try.

Retails for $7 USD for .43oz. Can be purchased directly through The All Natural Face only.

Ingredients: purified water, glycerin, mica, oxides, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide(sunscreens), organic jojoba oil, squalane oil,boron nitride(mineral),Ceteareth-6 Olivate (olive based emulsifier), xanthan gum(co-emulsifier), cosmocial cq (preservative) potassium sorbate (food grade preservative).

Kaia Naturals Juicy Bamboo Cleansing Cloths Review

I'm not a big fan of cleansing cloths because I generally find them irritating and useless. For some reason, I always want to try them anyway. What's wrong with me?! I was a little excited when I found Kaia Juicy Bamboo Cleansing Cloths in my February Seasons Box and have been using them on and off (on my lazy days) for the last month.

Description: No matter how late it is, or how tired you are before falling into bed, Kaia Bamboo Facial Cleansing Cloths will cleanse your skin and remove impurities and makeup without rinsing or water! This four-in-one product performs the combined function of a cleanser, toner, eye make-up remover, and cleansing cloth, leaving your skin feeling refreshed, soothed, and nourished. Formulated with organic Canadian honey and infused with eight pure citrus essential oils and sunflower seed oil, it cleans impurities without leaving behind a tight-skin feeling. These cleansing cloths are so effective that they remove mascara, even waterproof mascara, gently, without tugging and pulling! Suited for all skin types including sensitive.

I love the idea behind these cloths and, surprisingly, they didn't irritate my skin or eyes at all. The citrus scent is rather fresh and light. It removes my mineral makeup fantastically, however, I still cleanse with my regular cleanser after using this wipe. Now, it says that it removes waterproof mascara, is it safe to say that it's supposed to remove all waterproof makeup or just waterproof mascara? Below I did an experiment. In school, we were practising bridal makeup and, therefore, everything used was pretty much waterproof (minus brows, which weren't filled in, and mascara). I took a picture of me with makeup but, stupidly, forgot to take a picture after. Basically, I used the cloth on my face and still had a boat load of makeup left. I mean, it helped, you can see the cleansing wipe removed some of the makeup, but it wasn't enough. I also find that these clothes aren't super wet like most, which I really don't mind. If you like wet or super wet clothes, these may not be for you. Since I don't wear much makeup on a regular basis or own anything waterproof, and these don't irritate me at all, I'd consider purchasing the travel size just to keep in my purse for emergencies.

Full size (pictured below) retails for approx. $15.50 CAN for 30 wipes and travel size retails for approx. $19.50 for 20 individually wrapped cloths. Check out Kaia Naturals to purchase or find a store that sells them.

What's your take on cleansing cloths? Yay or nay?

 

Ingredients: Essential Oils: Grapefruit Oil, Lemon Oil, Lime Oil, Bergamont, Mandarin Oil, Orange Oil, Spearmint Oil, Tangerine Oil Ingredients: Water/Agua, Acacia Gum, Xantham gum, Canadian organic honey , Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate, Cetyl Alcohol, Sunflower Seed Oil, Sodium Lauroyl Oat Amino Acids, Panthenol, Benzyl Alcohol, Dehydroacetic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Benzoic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Benzethonium Chloride

Blogiversary: Pure+Simple Giveaway! (CLOSED)

A year already? Where does the time go!? My first blog post was on May 13, 2012, I'm a tad late but HAPPY BIRTHDAY to ME...to my blog? Umm, maybe just a happy birthday will suffice. It's been a fun year of growing, learning, experimenting, and (virtually and personally) meeting some amazing bloggers and companies. I very much appreciate all of the support and kind words that I've received, over the last year, and would like to thank you with a giveaway!

I've teamed up with Pure+Simple to share with you a couple of my favourite products from this fantastic company. The winner will get a Face Colour in Glow, which is my absolute favourite blush of life, and a Calming Cucumber Mask. With Summer around the corner, the mask will be especially cooling after a day of fun in the sun!

This giveaway is open internationally, yippee, and you must enter using Rafflecopter below. Good luck!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

The winner is S. Montoya. I had a few issues with Rafflecopter, that's why her name isn't displayed above.  Congrats Sara! 

**A big thank you to Pure+Simple for this giveaway

Lush Fresh Faced Masks: Oatifix Review

Booya! This is the last Fresh Faced Mask review that I will be doing in my one day mini series. As in my previous two reviews of these masks, they are not 100% clean.

Description: Few things are more soothing than a big bowl of banana porridge, all sweet and squishy. Did you know the same is true for your skin? Sensitive, dry or irritated faces love Oatifix for its calming oats, softening mashed banana and ground almonds to slough away flaky skin. Keep in mind that dry skin doesn’t just occur in the winter! The sun can be equally harsh, as UV rays penetrate the dermis and heat can leave you feeling tight and dry. Treat your face to our most moisturizing mask all year round, and follow up with a spritz of Breath of Fresh Air toner for seriously soothed skin.

Let me start off by saying that this mask smells like delicious banana muffin/bread batter, I want to friggen eat it! Now, most of the ingredients in this mask sound like they'd be fantastic for your skin. I'd totally make a mask with bananas and oats to soothe and moisturize, however, this mask burns my face! For a mask that's targeted towards sensitive skin, I did not expect to feel the burn. Silver lining? It left my face soft and hydrated. If you're extremely sensitive, steer clear because you will not be happy. If you can handle a little burn and want moisturized skin, go for it.

Retails for $6.95 CAN for 2.1 oz and can only be purchased at a Lush store.

Have you ever tried this "sensitive skin" mask?

Image from Lush.ca

Ingredients: Glycerine , Fine Oatmeal (Avena sativa) , Fresh Organic Bananas (Musa paradisica) , Water (Aqua) , Ground Almonds (Prunus dulcis) , Illipe Butter (Shorea stenoptera) , Kaolin , Talc , Vanilla Pod (Vanilla planifolia) , Vanilla Absolute (Vanilla planifolia) ,Sandalwood Oil (Santalum austro-caledonicum vieill) , Benzoin Resinoid (Styrax tonkinensis pierre) , *Coumarin , *Benzyl Cinnamate , *Linalool , Perfume , Gardenia Extract (Gardenia jasminoides)

Green ingredients = Natural ingredients
Black ingredients = Safe synthetics

Lush Fresh Faced Masks: Catastrophe Cosmetic Review

I'm doing a Lush Fresh Faced Masks review bonanza! I started with Brazened Honey and now I will be discussing my favourite, Catastrophe Cosmetic! Again, Lush is not the cleanest of brands and I fully know that.

Description: Still learning about proper skin care? No need to be embarrassed. After all, every face has different needs! We recommend starting here. Prevent disasters by taking regular care with our deep cleaning blueberry mask, Catastrophe Cosmetic. The little blue bulbs are packed with vitamins, with a gentle calamine base to cleanse the skin without stripping it of its natural oils. Use this one weekly as a deep cleansing treatment to kick off your regular skin care routine.

This mask is my favourite of all their masks because it leaves my skin soft, clean, radiant, and completely calms down any redness on my face. I also enjoy the way it smells, like fresh blueberries, even though it's perfumed. It doesn't irritate my skin or cause any negative reaction whatsoever. As with the Brazened Honey mask, it needs to be kept in the fridge and has a fridge life (get it? cute huh?) of 2 - 3 weeks. I would recommend this for all skin types. While I wouldn't repurchase, I wouldn't throw it out if someone gave it to me. It's probably one of the only masks of theirs that I would gladly use if I was in absolute need.

Retails for $6.95 CAN for 2.1 oz and can only be purchased at a Lush store.

What's your favourite Lush mask?

Image from Lush.ca

Ingredients: Calamine Powder , Talc , Irish Moss (Chondrus crispus) , Fresh Blueberries (Vaccinium myrtillus) , Glycerine , Almond Oil (Prunus dulcis) , Rose Absolute (Rosa damascena) ,Chamomile Blue Oil (Matricaria Chamomilla) , Sweet Wild Orange Oil (Citrus Dulcis) , *Limonene , Methyl Ionone , Perfume

Green ingredients = Natural ingredients
Black ingredients = Safe synthetics

Lush Fresh Faced Masks: Brazened Honey Review

As some of you may know, I worked at Lush over the holiday season and got to try a few (and avoid many) of their products. They are by no means a clean brand but I do love that they support so many different causes. Their Fresh Faced Masks, which must be kept in the fridge and expire within 3 weeks, are top sellers world wide. A few people have asked for reviews and so I will be reviewing a few of them, starting with Brazened Honey.

Description: Brazened Honey was inspired by traditional Indian ayurvedic principles, which put emphasis on balance as the foundation to health. Helen combined fresh free-range eggs and honey to soften, with astringent lime oil, antiseptic rosemary and exfoliating ground almonds. Kaolin reaches deep down into pores to pull out dirt and impurities, leaving your skin noticeably brighter and fresher. Our deepest cleansing mask, Brazened Honey is the perfect way to revive sluggish or congested skin.

This mask is nice and is best suited for dull complexions. I apply it, let it sit for 10 minutes, wet my fingers and then massage it in to get the benefits of the ground almonds before washing it off completely. It definitely leaves skin noticeably brighter and softer but, also a little red (if you're sensitive). I actually like that it's kept in the fridge because it's very cooling when first applied. Is it my fave Lush mask? No. I say, mix up a similar concoction at home suited to your skin's needs and conditions. Kaolin clay + honey = BAM! If you're not a stickler about ingredients, then I recommend this mask because it does deliver. Would I repurchase? No because I prefer my clay mask mixtures.

Retails for $6.95 CAN for 2.1 oz and can only be purchased at a Lush store.

Have you ever tried this mask?
.

Image from Lush.ca

Ingredients: Kaolin , Talc , Fresh Organic Lime Juice (Citrus aurantifolia) ,Sage (Salvia officinalis) Infusion , Rosemary and Juniperberry Infusion (Salvia officinalis, Rosmarinus officinalis, Juniperus communis) , Fresh Free Range Eggs , Honey (Mel) , Glycerine ,Fresh Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) , Ground Almond Shells (Prunus dulcis) , Almond Oil (Prunus dulcis) , Bentonite Gel ,Fresh Ginger Root (Zingiber officinalis) , Fresh Parsley (Carum petroselinum) , Fresh Coriander (Coriandrum sativum) , Ground Turmeric (Curcuma longa) , Ground Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) , Clove Bud Oil (Eugenia caryophyllus) , Ginger Oil (Zingiber officinale) , Vetivert Oil (Vetiveria zizanoides) ,Juniperberry Oil (Juniperus communis) , *Benzyl Salicylate ,*Eugenol , *Geraniol , *Benzyl Benzoate , *Linalool , Perfume
Green ingredients = Natural ingredients
Black ingredients = Safe synthetics

The Bees Knees! - Bee 23 Hotty Body Balm Review

I am so excited to share this review with you guys. Back in April, I went to the Green Living Show in Toronto. If you haven't already checked out my haul and experience  posts, you can do so by clicking the words. I came across Michelle's booth, early in my walk around the show, and was instantly intrigued by her and her products.

Michelle Rosetta, creator of Bee 23, started this line out of need. She regularly suffered from headaches and realized it was from her (chemical filled) perfume. In recognizing this, she started doing more research and came to the realization that there are many products out there that are filled with chemical nasties which heavily and negatively impact our body and those around us. Michelle began playing around with ingredients and came up several products, one of which is the Hotty Balm. None of the products contain water, which make the shelf life rather long, they're free of all chemicals, not tested on animals, and proudly made in Canada. Right off the bat, Michelle is vivacious, excited, proud, happy, and all around a beautiful person. She's passionate and proud of her products and with good reason.

Description: Mango Mornings soothes and revives your skin gently with jasmine and lavender, while awakening your inner essence with notes of tangerine. There are no synthetic chemical additives in this all natural product. Let the magic of high quality essential oils, herbs and carrier oils in these creamy body balms caress your skin.

After much deliberation and standing at Michelle's booth like weirdo, my boyfriend helped me decide and actually bought the hotty balm for me. I love the reusable tin, how much product you get, how bright the labels are, and how minimal the packaging is. Eco friendly? I think so. The tin closes tightly which is great for when you're travelling. The balm itself is hard in texture, yet soft enough to scoop with your (clean and dry) fingers. It melts beautifully between your hands and on your body. It easily and quickly absorbs into the skin, resulting in grease free skin. I've been using this on my super dry bits, usually after showering, and it's made them SO soft. I'm sure if I was better at reapplying then I wouldn't have dry bits, but what can ya do? Reapply, I know. When I first saw Mango Mornings, I was expecting the sweet scent of mangoes but my nose quickly acknowledged that there is no scent. A little disappointed? I was too until I thought of all the positives to no scent: 1. I can't get sick of a scent that doesn't exist. 2. It can't offend anyone. 3. Those sensitive to scents can use it. 4. I can use it in combination with a more fragrant body oil. 5. That's all I got right now.  Okay, I shouldn't say that there is no scent because there's an ever so slight sweet jasmine aroma. I typically hate the way jasmine smells on me (it smells like ass in case you were wondering) but, like I said, it's practically unscented. I think this body balm is the bees knees and you should definitely try it out. Would I repurchase? Yes! 

Retails for $19.95 CAN for 6.76 fl.oz. You can purchase it through Bee 23 directly and through these retailers.

Have you ever tried any Bee 23 products? Which looks the most appealing to you?

Ingredients: Mangifera Indica (Mango) Seed Butter, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower)Seed Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil, Cera Alba (Beeswax), Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) Seed Oil, Vitis Vinifer (Grape) Seed Oil, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula Oil), Tocopherol Acetate (Vitamin E), Lavendula Officinalis (Lavender), Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Oil, Jasiminum Officinalis (Jasmine)

Review: Indulge Yourself with Weleda's Pomegranate Regenerating Body Oil

I've never been a body oil lover, I think it's because I was always afraid of it not soaking in and staining my clothes. When I won a gift basket, from a local health food store, I was so excited to see that there were some samples of the Weleda Pomegranate Body Oil. It was actually Ana, from Ana Goes Green, who convinced me to want to try this oil because of how much she's raved about it. Guys, it lives up to the hype!

Description: Aging and tired skin is revitalized by this renewing body oil. It’s a nourishing full-body treatment that regulates moisture balance and restores your natural vitality with potent antioxidants and essential fatty acids. Organic pomegranate seed oil contains powerful antioxidants that help promote skin renewal and protect against free radical damage. Organic jojoba seed oil preserves your natural moisture and acts as an emollient, nurturing your skin and improving its firmness.

I love this oil so, so, so much. The scent is sweet, but very light. If you're sensitive to scents, don't worry, this doesn't linger and it's not overwhelming by any means. I love the tinted glass bottle because it's reusable and the tint preserves the oil better but, of course, it's a little heavy to travel with. The dispenser isn't quite a dropper, it's easy to pour too much but easier to pour less than if it wasn't there. Did that even make sense? I hope so because I have no idea how to explain it. As you can see from the pictures below, this oil has a very light yellowish/orange colour and absorbs beautifully into the skin. Doesn't leave me greasy at all, just soft and well nourished the entire day. I still have dry patches (elbows, knees, etc) which I have to use a body balm on. In terms of it improving the firmness of my skin, I'm not sure. I haven't noticed a difference and Lord knows I could use some...or lots of...firming. Is this the world's best body oil? Maybe, I haven't tried many. Is it an oil worth indulging yourself in? Hell yes! I have already purchased a backup for myself and I'm not even half way through my first bottle.

Retails for approx. $30 CAN for 100ml. Can be purchased at most health food stores and through Weleda. I bought mine on sale at Whole Foods for $17.99 CAN (both of them).

Have you tried any of the Weleda Body Oils?

Dr. Alkaitis Travel Kit Review

I am finally done my advanced skin care course and can write this review (and many others)! Woohoo!

Back in March, I ordered the Dr. Alkaitis travel set from Saffron Rouge and was pretty excited about it because I love what they're about and their ingredients. They use pure, raw active plant ingredients that benefit your skin by "feeding" it. All of the ingredients are selectively chosen for their therapeutic benefits, they're certified organic, and biodynamic or ethically wild-crafted. The line doesn't test on animals, is free of chemical nasties and can be eaten. How amazing is that? Pretty amazing I'd say :).

Set Description: This Travel Kit contains the following products: 1 Mask (Organic Cellular Repair Mask is what I got), Purifying Facial Cleanser 30ml, Herbal Toner 30ml, Eye Crème 5ml, Night Crème 7ml, Day Crème 7ml, Soothing Gel 30ml, & Nourishing Treatment Oil 30ml

This Travel Kit with daily use will last anywhere from 7 to 12 days. Our products do not contain water and are quite concentrated. For instance, after using one of the crèmes, the skin should not be shiny; this is an indication that you have used too much. A rosy dewy blush is the desired result

Set retails for $51.95 CAN and can be purchased through Saffron Rouge or Dr. Alkaitis.

In order of set description above

Organic Cellular Repair Mask: This mask has enzymatic properties which helps to reveal a brighter complexion and promote cell turnover/repair. Umm, it was alright. I feel like this mask is comparable to The All Natural Face Skin Food cleansers line, even though I've never tried TANF, the ingredients are very similar. It was a nice to try and it definitely left my skin noticeably brighter and softer, but I don't think it's worth the price. I wouldn't purchase the full size.
Retails for $56.95 for 1.25oz/38g.

Organic Purifying Facial Cleanser: This cleanser is supposed to deeply cleanse while still hydrate and soothe the skin. I found that it burned and dried out my skin. I tried using it morning and night, then just at night, and finally gave up altogether because it doesn't seem to want to work for me. I find it smells like the Dr. Bronner's baby (unscented) castile liquid soap, which isn't all that appealing. It does cleanse and remove most of my face makeup. I wouldn't purchase the full size.
Retails for $66.95 CAN for 120ml/4fl.oz

Organic Herbal Toner: This herbal toner is supposed to balance, calm (anti-inflammatory properties), and tone the skin. I really enjoyed  using it and it was the first product of the bunch to get used up. I enjoyed the herbal scent, how it left my skin slightly hydrated, it never burned, and it removed excess cleanser, makeup and dirt. I love toners and go through them rather quickly, especially in the summer. Because of that, I think this one is a tad expensive and therefore I wouldn't purchase the full size.
Retails for $56.95 CAN for 120ml/4fl.oz

 

Organic Soothing Gel: This soothing gel is supposed to do exactly what it says, soothe. It also has antibacterial properties which makes it ideal for use on bug bites, after waxing, acne, eczema, rosacea, etc. I wasn't sure how I felt about this in the beginning because it burned and made my face red the first few times that I used it. I actually ended up giving up on it until recently. I kept coming across amazing reviews and decided to try it again and actually stick with it for a couple of weeks. The burning stopped and I found that it left my skin nicely hydrated, calm, and helped speed up acne healing time. I don't have eczema or rosacea but I'd be a little skeptical of trying it on someone with those conditions because of how it made my face feel the first few times. Even with all that said, this is one of the products I liked the most and would consider purchasing the full size of. 

Retails for $61.95 CAN for 120ml/4fl.oz

Organic Nourishing Treatment Oil: Omgosh guys, this smells divine. It is so luxurious and amazing and I am trying not to use it up because it's expensive. It's supposed to nourish while boosting skin's elasticity and increase circulation. It can be used on the hair, body, and face. This is hands down my favourite product of the entire kit! I can't even describe the scent but it's beautiful. I've used this on my hair and face and love how it feels. My skin is always left feeling soft, hydrated, dewy, nourished, and any other word that describes healthy, touchable skin. For my hair, it leaves it so lustrous and manageable. The smell lingers which I friggen adore. Amazing oil!  I am strongly considering buying the full size, once I finish the sample, as a treat to myself.

Retails for $81.95 CAN for 120ml/4fl.oz

Day Creme: This cream/creme is apparently great for all skin types. It's supposed to bring oxygen to the skin, promote circulation, and has natural sun filters (not sure if that means no additional SPF is required). I found this moisturizer odd. It hydrated but left my skin feeling and looking greasy. When I applied less of it, I felt it didn't hydrate enough. It didn't burn or break me out but it wasn't anything special in terms of a moisturizer/cream/creme. I didn't like the smell either, which I can't explain. All of the products are herbal but no specific references come to mind. I wouldn't purchase the full size.
Retails for $66.95 CAN for 30ml/1fl./oz

Night Creme: This cream/creme is supposed to do the same thing as the day creme; oxygenates the skin and promotes circulation to leave your skin beautiful, dewy and hydrated. Again, weird product for me. I couldn't find a perfect balance in terms of how much to use. I also couldn't stand the scent either, it was stronger than the day creme and it almost reminded me of boiled meat (don't ask). I had my mom try it out, who has mature/aging/dry skin, and she also didn't enjoy it. She found it heavy or not enough. I wouldn't purchase the full size.
Retails for $66.95 CAN for 30ml/1fl.oz

Eye Creme: This eye cream is supposed to help with dark circles, puffiness and lines while protecting from environmental damage. I love this eye cream! A little goes a very long way, it hydrates, instantly plumps up fine lines and works great under concealer/makeup. I haven't noticed a difference in dark circles, I mainly have darkness on the inner corners of my eyes. I, luckily, don't suffer from puffiness so I can't speak for that claim. It is a rich cream and so I think it would be best for those with dry or mature/aging eyes all year round, and in the winter for everyone else. I would definitely consider purchasing the full size, but my sample is still pretty full.

Retails for $61.95 CAN for 15ml/.5fl/oz

Vedict: This was a great set and I'm really happy that I ordered it. It's reasonably priced for the sizes of each sample and it's a fantastic way of trying out the line before investing. There will always be products that work well and others that don't, however, we all have skin that reacts differently. I highly recommend giving this set a try if you've been eyeing the brand.

Have you tried Dr. Alkaitis before? Any fave products? 

_______________________________________

INGREDIENTS

Organic Cellular Repair Mask: Raspberry*, Blueberry*, Blackberry*, Oat Buds*, Grapes*, Strawberry*, Bilberry*.
*Certified organically grown.

Organic Purifying Facial Cleanser: Into Dr. Alkaitis’ Organic Castile Cleansing Base (compounded from virgin, cold pressed organic Olive*, organic Shea*, organic Jojoba*, organic Coconut*, organic Sesame*, organic Castor* and organic Borage* oils) the following ingredients are added: Distilled water, Organic Herbal Skin Repair Complex (made up of Chamomile*, Plantain*, Black Elder*, Greater Nettle*, Myrrh†, Bitter Orange*, Rosemary*, Marsh Mallow*, Benzoin†, Marigold*, True Lavender*, Sea Wrack†, and Atlantic Seaweed†). Vegetable Glycerin, Citrus seed extract, natural Vitamin A complex, natural Vitamin C complex, full spectrum natural Vitamin E complex (D-alpha, beta, gamma, delta tocopherols and tocotrienols), 100% pure Essential Oils
* Certified organically grown
† Ethically wild-crafted

Organic Herbal Toner: Into a base of organic Aloe Vera Gel*, Witch Hazel† and organic gape alcohol* (from the fermentation of organically grown grapes), the following organic and wild-crafted herbs are blended: Greater Nettle*, Wild Chamomile Flowers†, Myrrh†, European Elder blossoms*, Marsh Mallow*, French Lavender flowers*, Curacao Orange*, Benzoin†, Rosemary*, Wild Fennel†, and Balm Mint*. Grapefruit* and Lemon* extracts, Sea Oak†, Atlantic Kelp† and Pearl Moss†. Also added are natural vitamin B and Vitamin C complexes and 100% pure Essential Oils
* Certified organically grown
† Ethically wild-crafted

Organic Soothing Gel: Into a base of Organic Aloe Vera gel* and Witch Hazel† the following organic and wild-crafted herbals are blended: organic grape alcohol* (from the fermentation of organically grown grapes). Greater Nettle*, Wild Chamomile†, Myrrh†, European Orange*, Benzoin†, Rosemary*, Olibanum†, Wild Fennel†, Balm Mint*, Sea Oak†, Atlantic Kelp† and Red Seaweed†. Also added are natural vitamin B and vitamin C complexes
* Certified organically grown
† Ethically wild-crafted

Organic Nourishing Treatment Oil: Into a base of virgin cold-pressed organic oils (organic Jojoba*, St. John’s Wort*, and Andean Mountain Rose Hip Seed* oils), the following organic and wild-crafted herbals are blended: Indian Madder†, Country Sarsaparilla†, Amazon Root* and Liquorice*, Country Mallow†, Turmeric*, China Root†, Costus† and White Sandalwood†, Cuscus Grass†, Olive*, Eagle Wood†, Nut Grass†, Bermuda Grass† and Ashwagandha*. Full spectrum natural vitamin E complex (D – alpha, beta, gamma, delta tocopherols and tocotrienols). A blend of 100% pure Essential Oils
* Certified organically grown
† Ethically wild-crafted

Day Creme: Organic Aloe Vera gel*, virgin cold pressed Organic Shea butter*, Organic Herbal Skin Repair Complex (compounded from the organic herbs St. John’s Wort flowers*, Water Navelwort*, Horsetail*, Coltsfoot*, Marigold Blossoms* and Echinacea root*). Vegetable Lecithin, full spectrum natural vitamin E complex (D- alpha, beta, gamma, delta tocopherols and tocotrienols), Natural vitamin C complex, Citrus seed extracts, 100% pure Essential Oils.

* Certified organically grown.
† Ethically wild-crafted

Night Creme: Organic Aloe Vera Gel*, virgin cold pressed organic Shea butter*, Organic Herbal Skin Repair Complex (composed of the organic herbs Jojoba*, Olive*, Brier Rose blossoms†, Wild Carrot†, Echinacea root*, Coltsfoot*, Horsetail*, Water Navelwort*, Marigold blossoms*, and Roman Chamomile flowers*). Vegetable Lecithin, Citrus seed extract. Full Spectrum natural vitamin E (D- alpha, beta, gamma, delta tocopherols and tocotrienols) complex, natural vitamins A, B and C complexes, 100% pure Essential Oils
* Certified organically grown
† Ethically wild-crafted

Eye Creme: Into an Organic Aloe Vera gel* base, the following herbals are blended: Herbal Eye Renewal Complex (consisting of Wild Rose buds*, Linden blossoms*, Roman Chamomile flowers*, Quince?, St. John’s Wort blossoms*, Green Tea*, Cornflowers* and Mate*). Eye Rejuvenation and Support Complex (virgin cold pressed organic Jojoba*, Andean Mountain Rose Hip seed* and Borage* oils, and virgin cold pressed organic Shea butter*). Vegetable Lecithin, natural vitamin A, C, and full spectrum E (D-alpha, beta, gamma, delta tocopherols and tocotrienols) complexes, Citrus seed extracts.
* Certified organically grown.
† Ethically wild-crafted.