Brand Focus: Pure Daily Essentials

Discovering new products is fun, but discovering new Canadian products is even funner! That's a word, right?

Pure Daily Essentials is a small home-based business in Langley, British Columbia. We are committed to providing all natural skin care products working with ethical ingredients. All of our products are paraben and chemical free. 

Being small, all of our products are handcrafted in small batches and made fresh to order. We respect that what goes onto your skin, goes into your body! We are environmentally friendly and are against animal testing. We test all products on ourselves and family members.

Read more about Pure Daily Essentials here.

*Makeup Remover ($16.95 CAD/50 ml): Our all natural Make-Up remover easily removes all make-up without rinsing. Remove all traces of eye shadow, eyeliner and mascara with this gentle natural eye make up remover but also use it as a dual cleanser for the rest of your face. It's gentle enough for all skin types and won't dry your skin or clog your pores. 

This makeup remover is light, effective, gentle, soothing, calming, and wonderful. With oils like sweet almond and olive, and extracts of comfrey, calendula, and chamomile, it's no surprise why. It easily removes makeup, smells heavenly, and doesn't break me out. I enjoy how fluid it is and those that cleansing oils with castor will understand what I mean, as castor oil is pretty thick. Of the four products that I had the opportunity to try, this one is hands down my favourite.

*Revive Hydration Mist in Sandalwood ($14.95 CAD/60 ml): A refreshing and nutritious tonic of all natural skin care ingredients blended to provide hydration and balance for your skin, while counteracting the damages from environmental influences; it regulates your skins natural oils. This skin tonic is made with healing essential oils such as Sandalwood essential oil to help soften skin by increasing and restoring its ability to retain moisture. Using this tonic after cleansing, prepares your skin for the ultimate experience of whichever Pure Daily Essentials moisturizer you choose. 

This mist feels really nice on the skin, is refreshing, and hydrating but I don't enjoy the scent. It's a combination of geranium, sandalwood, vetiver, palmarosa and ylang ylang. If you're into either of those, or all of them, then you'll love this. 

*Gentle Oatmeal Scrub ($24.95 CAD/60 ml): Our oatmeal face scrub is made without harsh chemicals that often strips away too much of the skin. This all natural cleansing and exfoliating scrub is gentle enough for everyday use and is the basis for every effective facial care routine. Our oatmeal facial scrub, made with plant granules such as Lavender and Chamomile flower tops, will polish the skin just enough to rid dead skin cells without irritating the skin.

I was really hoping that this would replace my beloved Angels on Bare Skin by Lush, but it's completely different than what I was expecting. It's oilier, as you can see from the picture, and chunkier. While I do love how soft it makes my skin feel and the fact that I don't need to moisturize after using it, I do wish it wasn't as oily and the oats were ground up more. Still, this scrub is gentle yet effective, and a little goes a long way.

*Lavish Hydration Lavender ($26.95 CAD/250 ml or $11.95/60 ml): The best body lotion to deeply balance, soften and delicately scent the skin with the aroma of Lavender. Our rich and luxurious all natural body lotions are formulated with botanical infusions that are known to revitalize, rejuvenate, and nourish the driest of skin. Full of fatty acids, antioxidants, and a concentrated blend of vitamins and minerals, we worked with the earth to create a luscious treat for all skin types.
This is my least favourite of the bunch. I chose it because I love lavender, but the ylang ylang and geranium essential oils completely take over. Also, the lotion doesn't fully absorb and leaves me feeling greasy. It definitely boasts a list of impressive ingredients, like coconut oil, sunflower oil, calendula, chamomile, and comfrey, so it's unfortunate that it didn't work for me. 
Get it here: Pure Daily Essentials and these retailers. *Products provided for review consideration. All opinions are my own. Makeup Remover Ingredients: Prunus amygdalus dulcis (Sweet almond) oil, Olea europaea (Olive) fruit oil, Symphytum officinale (Comfrey) root extract, Calendula officinalis (Calendula) flower extract, Anthemis nobilis (Chamomile) flower extract, Lavandula angustifolia (Lavender).
Revive Hydration Mist Ingredients: Aqua, Pelargonium graveolens (Geranium) oil, Santalum album (Sandalwood) oil, Cymbopogon martinii (Palmarosa) oil, Vetiveria zizanoides (Vetiver) oil, Cananga odorata (Ylang ylang) oil. 
Gentle Oatmeal Scrub Ingredients: Avena sativa (Oatmeal), Prunus amygdalus dulcis (Sweet almond) oil, Lavandula angustifolia (Lavender) flower tops, Matricaria recutita (Chamomile) flower tops, Plantago lanceolata (Plantain) leaf extract, glycerin, Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) leaf extract, Lavandula angustifolia (Lavender), Styrax benzoin.
Lavish Hydration Lavender Ingredients: Aqua, helianthus annuus (Sunflower) seed oil, Cocos nucifera (Coconut) oil, Cera alba (Beeswax), Calendula officinalis (Calendula) flower extract, Symphytum officinale (Comfrey) root extract, Anthemis nobilis (Chamomile) flower extract, Lavandula angustifolia (Lavender) oil, Citrus aurantium dulcis (Orange peel) oil, Cananga odorata (Ylang ylang) oil, Pelargonium graveolens (Geranium) oil, Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) leaf extract, Styrax benzoin, Prunus oenothera biennis (Evening primrose) oil, Glycerin, Sodium borate, Xanthan gum, d-alpha Tocopherol (Vitamin E).

Goodness Me! Online Grand Opening!

                      
Goodness Me! has been working hard on their online store and want to celebrate its official launch with you. From November 26th to December 1st, 2014, you can:

• Enter to win $100 gift card to the online store by signing up for their newsletter

• Sign up for a FREE Webinar with Janet Jacks (Founder of GM) to learn about "The Hidden Signs of Stress & What to do About Them". This Webinar is only offered on November 26th from 7-8 p.m. EST. You can sign up here.

• Enter to win a swag bag worth over $100 by using the hashtag #GMonlinestore on Twitter. Swag bag contains a box of Stash Tea, Theo chocolate bar, shaker cup, Imagine Organic tomato basil soup, Manitoba Harvest hemp hearts, St. Francis butter ghee, Deep Immune and Mineral Matrix, plus a copy of Discover the Power of Food by Janet Jacks.

You can read more about the grand opening, as well as all of the fun stuff they will have going on by heading over to their blog.

Shop at Goodnessme.ca. 

*I am a Goodness Me! Brand Ambassador, however, I do not receive any sort of monetary compensation. I may received free product(s) from time to time. I'm sharing this post not because I am a BA, but because it's a great opportunity for you to receive discounts, win free stuff, and learn more about GM. I shopped at Goodness Me! stores before being asked to be a Brand Ambassador.

Brand Focus: New Leaf Naturals

A few months ago, I was contacted by the super sweet Shawna who owns New Leaf Naturals. They are a USA based small business that hand makes (in small batches) all natural, tea inspired bath and body products. In love with the extensive range of products and the sound of the scents, I happily offered to provide some feedback.

Shawna was kind enough to send me a full sized *Chai to Relax Foaming Hand Soap, samples of *A Hint of Mint, *Chamomile Lemongrass, and *Lovely Lavender Foaming Hand Soap, *Stink Stopper Natural Deodorant, and three lip balms; *Honeyed Grapefruit, *Peppermint Stick, and *Lime in the Coconut.

 

Foaming Hand Soap: After long hours deliberating with our legal, marketing, and communications teams, we have gained a consensus on the following description of our foaming hand soaps: they are soaps, and they foam. Ok, that's not entirely true...we don't have a legal team, and I am the marketing and communications team. In truth, our soaps are handmade in small batches with the highest quality ingredients we can find so that they are tough on dirt and germs, but gentle on your skin.  

Available in: Chai to Relax, A Hint of Mint, Lovely Lavender, Chamomile Lemongrass, and Orange You Glad. Retails for $7 USD for 8.75 oz. Click here to view ingredients.

ha! Soaps that foam, there ya have it folks! Love their wit. These soaps are lovely for getting off dirt or, in my case, makeup. Since castile soap tends to irritate and dry out my skin with continued use, I only use these when my hands need a deep clean. While all four scents are nice, my favourite has to be A Hint of Mint. I've been digging the minty scents lately, they're so refreshing. In terms of fragrance, they're all lightly scented and don't linger. Personally, if something smells nice, I like it to linger a bit. While that's a downfall for me, I know that there are many who would appreciate the faint/light fragrance of each of these.

Stink Stopper All Natural Deodorant: A natural deodorant that works! Tamanu and Coconut oils lend their anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties to a skin pampering body butter base. Add in some bakng soda and tea tree and lavender essential oils, and you have an all natural deodorant with some serious stink stopping power.  

Retails for $7 USD for 1 oz. Click here to view ingredients.

This is the very first baking soda containing deodorant that actually works, for me, without irritating my pits! It's always creamy, no stirring required, and applies easily under the arms. The texture is actually whipped, like a whipped mousse or something. Ready for it? I'm not a huge fan of the scent. It smells like cilantro, which I know one of my good pals just loves. I got used to it for sure, I just wish there were more scents available. On really hot days, this deo did need at least one reapplication. For the most part though, it stands up to stink well! Another thing to note, it has a light green colour to it (thanks tamanu) which can transfer (a bit) on white clothing. So when I wear white, and sweat, it turns the under arm part a little green. Luckily, it washes out but I thought I'd let you all know. This is my absolute favourite product of all the ones sent to me by New Leaf Naturals and one to check out!

 

Lip Balms: Winter's cold, dry air taking its toll on your lips? Our natural lip balms, made from beeswax and mango butter, will help to heal and protect them. Keep those lips healthy, soft, and kissable!  

Available in: Honeyed Grapefruit, Peppermint Stick, Lime in the Coconut, Chai to Relax, Orange Smoothie, and Chocolate Covered Orange. Retails for $3 USD. Click here to view ingredients.

I have really mixed feelings about these lip balms. The texture and formula is spot on; smooth and creamy. It's, once again, the scents that don't do it for me. All three smell exactly like you think they would but, the scents have changed over the last couple of months. Peppermint Stick smells stale (might be the vanilla), Lime the Coconut smells like nothing, and Honeyed Grapefruit smells like a very faint sweet grapefruit/orange. All of the balms were never strong in scent to begin with, but they shouldn't have changed. So while I enjoy the formulas, the scents need work.

My American friends can purchase New Leaf Naturals directly from their website. Anyone outside of the USA can contact Shawna for an estimate on how much shipping will cost.

 

*Products provided for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Anise Apothecary in Burlington

Anise Apothecary is an adorable little shop located in downtown Burlington. I have been following them on Twitter for a little while now and wanting to visit them every since. Finally, my schedule allowed me to make my way to Burlington and meet Monique (owner). I can't even tell you how excited I was to a. be in Burlington (love this city), b. meet Monique (so sweet, beautiful, and knowledgeable), and c. see the shop (cutest shop ever!). The front entrance immediately invited me in and the homey feel, plus everything else inside, made me never want to leave. They carry all sorts of brands like Graydon, Olie Biologique, One Love Organics, Zoe Organics, Rahua, Antipodes, PurelyGreat, Nyl, Sappho, On a Branch Soaps, and the list goes on and on. They also carry local raw honey, vitamins, chocolate, herbs, olive oil, tea, and much more. Considering the variety of products carried, it was really well organized and laid out. 
I thought it would be fun to share some pictures from my "trip" to Anise Apothecary, enjoy :)

In love yet? No? You will be..

Look at all that tea!! Monique had some Rooibos Vanilla ready to sip on, it was delicious.

Seriously, look at this place! If you're not in love yet, then something is wrong with you!

Delicious, raw, local honey! Nom, nom, nom!

I actually missed the stand that had Antipodes, Rahua, Organic Matter and some other stuff on it..damn..sorry guys. Anise Apothecary carries so many different local and worldwide brands, at so many different price points, that you're bound to find something for yourself and others. Whether you live in the area or not, it's a shop worth visiting. WARNING: You'll feel like a kid in a candy store and want to buy one of everything!

A special thank you to Monique for taking time out of her day to share information about the shop, products, and herself with both my boyfriend and I. 

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.

April 2013 Empties Part 2!

I finished so many products this month, full size and sample size. I love the feeling of finishing up products and making space in my drawers. Generally, samples are reserved for travelling but I don't want them sitting around forever nor do I want to bring home empty sachets. Here are the samples that I finished up this month..

Primavera Hand & Nail Cream - I'm not usually a fan of ginger scents but this was really nice! It was light, fresh and the scent didn't linger for too long. It moisturized really well without feeling greasy or sticky. I adore my Weleda Skin Food though and, therefore, wouldn't purchase the full size.

Weleda Citrus Hydrating Lotion - This hydrates alright. I didn't think it was anything special and I didn't enjoy the super citrusy scent. It's not something that I'd purchase.

Weleda Pomegranate Regenerating Body Oil - I just love this oil! It smells ever so slightly sweet, hydrates wonderfully and leaves my skin feeling amazing. I've already purchased the full size.

Weleda Pomegranate Regenerating Body Lotion - I finished 3 of these little samples and really wanted to love it. This smells just a little stronger than the body oil, which is nice, but I don't find it hydrates all that well on its own. I won't purchase the full size.

Cocoon Apothecary Petal Purity Exfoliating Facial Cleanser - I really enjoyed this sample. It doesn't have a very strong scent, but it does smell slightly like roses (which I normally don't like). It's provides a very gentle exfoliation, left my skin smooth and glowing. I'd consider picking up the full size.

Primavera Moisturizing Face Care Starter Kit (the 4 in the middle) - My mom and I weren't huge fans of this line. You can read the full review here.

John Masters Evening Primrose Shampoo for Dry Hair - I love John Masters hair products. Sadly, there was only enough in here to use once (maybe twice but I got a little product happy) and I couldn't tell if it did anything amazing for my hair. Not sure if I'll purchase the full size.

Suki Color Tinted Moisturizer in Porcelain - I was setting myself up to hate this product because Suki usually smells so strong but, to my surprise, this didn't smell like much. I mixed in a little Alima Pure Warm 2 foundation to make it slightly more yellow, applied it with my hands and out the door I went. It didn't cover, just evened out my complexion and made it glow. It's pretty expensive, not sure I'd purchase the full size.

I made quite a dent in my samples, feels sooooo good! 

Have you tried any of these products? I'd love to hear what you thought.

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?

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?

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

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)

February 2013 Empties!

My bathroom is looking pretty bare as I have literally used up most of my skin, hair and body care items these last few months. In terms of my skin care, I'm trying to be as minimal as possible for my skin's sake but of course you all know how hard that is. My goal is to buy things as I need only. My monthly empties going forward will likely consist of much less product.

Let's see the ridiculous number of products I finished this month...

Pangea Egyptian Calendula & Blood Orange Cleanser - review here - I adore this cleanser. Pretty sure I've been through 2 or 3 bottles of this and it is hands down my favourite cleanser ever. It smells nice, emulsifies with water beautifully, removes all of my makeup, keeps my skin clear and lasts for months. I am not going to repurchase right now but likely will in the near future.

Essencia Lavender Floral Water - review here - I'm so glad to have finished this. It doesn't smell well and the bottle is so damn heavy. I won't be repurchasing.

DeVita High Performance Glycolic Acid Blend - review here - I have been holding on to the last few pumps for as long as possible. I have really enjoyed using this serum/treatment because it helped smooth and even out my complexion, bring blemishes to the surface, and exfoliate my skin. It is a brilliant product. I will definitely be repurchasing.

Eminence Stone Crop Cleanser (tiny sample on the top right) - no review - This was a sample I received with an order, not sure when. I took it with me on a weekend getaway and boy is it even crap! It smells like Herbal Essence shampoo, which is lovely, but it didn't remove any of my makeup and it left my skin dry. I literally had to wash my face twice and still had makeup left on my skin. It's a gel texture that doesn't lather or emulsify much. I will not be purchasing the full size.

Eminence Apricot Whip Moisturizer - review here - I finally finished up this sample! Woohoo! It smells lovely, hydrates beautifully and feels great on the skin. They're going to be at the Spa Show in Toronto, in April, so I may pick up a few things then. Until then, I won't be purchasing the full size.

John Masters Zinc & Sage Shampoo - review here - If you are trying to avoid sweets, skip on this shampoo because the smell of vanilla cupcakes will make you want to eat one! This is a great hydrating and scalp soothing shampoo. I find it can weigh my hair down with continued use, so I do need to incorporate a more deep cleansing shampoo once a week to wash away the build up of oils. It does cleanse well but my hair is fine and everything weighs it down. That's generally why I don't wear styling products even if I curl my hair. I won't be repurchasing right now, perhaps next winter!

Hugo Naturals White Chocolate Raspberry Soap (little sliver in front of the JM Shampoo) - haul here -  OMG this stuff smells so delicious. My whole washroom smelled like this soap. It lathers ever so slightly, cleanses and hydrates, and leaves my skin smelling edible. I did find that I went through this rather quickly though, quicker than their handcrafted soaps. I love the scent and therefore would likely repurchase as a treat to myself.

John Masters Citrus & Neroli Detangler - review here - This bottle lasted me about 10 months, and I used it pretty regularly. It says to use within 6 months of opening it, is that even possible? I really like this detangler. It left my hair soft, easy to comb through and lightly fragranced. I have a couple conditioners to finish up before I repurchase this one. I think I might purchase a travel sized bottle since this one took me so long to use up.

Figs and Rouge Cherry & Vanilla Balm - review here - Thank goodness I finished this disgusting smelling balm. I used it on my feet, which worked to hydrate them, just to use it up because the smell made me want to throw up. If smell isn't an issue, it's worth a shot because of how hydrating it is. I much prefer Badger Balm to this. I will never repurchase.

Shea Terra Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Shea Butter - review here - I had a love/hate relationship with this body butter. There were times when I felt I had to use to much to get it to spread and moisturize evenly but I loved how it moisturized in general. The smell is intoxicating and it helped heal my dry, chapped hands. My boyfriend is actually going to be purchasing a jar of it for himself, but I don't think I will pick up another one. I want to try making my own, one day...lol.

I had written this post a few days ago, but didn't upload it. In the last couple of days I finished these last four products.

Weleda Skin Food - review here - I love this stuff! It's so light and easy to throw in my purse. I'm washing my hands so frequently in school that they've been drying out, throw in the wonderful Canadian weather and you got yourself a dry skin party! I love how hydrating this is without feeling greasy. I will definitely be purchasing another tube.

Shea Terra Rose Hips Black Soap - review here - At first, I used this on my face daily. Then, it started drying me out so I used it a couple of times a week only. After that, I began using it on my shoulders, chest and back to remove the stupid and crappy massage oil that we've been using at school. I like that it gives my skin a really deep clean while exfoliating but I'd rather use an actual face scrub or body exfoliating mitts. I won't be repurchasing.

ZuZu Luxe Mascara in Onyx - review here - This stuff really grew on me. With the right lash curler and proper consistency, I can get beautiful looking lashes. It's a little wet (for me) when I first open a fresh tube, but after a few weeks it thickens up and applies much better. Everyone likes their mascara to look and feel a certain way. I hate clumps of any kind and would rather my mascara thicken my lashes than lengthen, although I won't complain if it does both. My lashes are naturally long and somewhat thick, so I need a mascara to enhance what's there. This does that after the formula thickens. I have already repurchased.

Bite Beauty Lip Shine in Vintage - review here - This was a sample gloss that came in the Sephora Lip kit that I bought. I have fallen head over heels in love with this gloss. It looks great over any lip colour, smells like medicinal cherries (ew right? a little. I actually don't mind it because it doesn't linger or maybe I just learn to forget it's there lol), and is slightly sticky which makes it last longer on my lips. I keep debating with myself on whether to buy the full size or not. Even though it's not the most natural, I think I may purchase the full size at some point.


Have you tried any of the above mentioned products or finished up anything this month?