Thursday, 17 March 2022

Trilogy Rosehip Transformation Cleansing Oil

skincare

Cleansing the skin is an essential part of your skincare routine by not only removing daily dirt, pollution and impurities effectively but also being gentle with the skin. The Trilogy Rosehip Transformation Cleansing Oil utilises plant oils to breakdown previous applied products that are designed to stick to the skin such as sunscreen and makeup but also nurture the skin with its beneficial content. The multi-purpose face wash is ideal for all skin types and is the ideal first step to use in your cleansing routine because it provides a deeper cleanse as oil-based cleansers remove oil-based dirt and sebum that water based cleansers cant remove. I love cleansing oils, balms, and hot-cloth creams because not only do they work brilliantly to cleanse the skin but more importantly they respect the skins natural barrier function by not being aggressive, harsh, or overly-stripping. Disclaimer: The links used are not affiliated and are placed for you to discover the product. 

The Trilogy rosehip transformation cleansing oil features the following ingredients:

Prunus amygdalus dulcis (sweet almond) oil - Emollient plant oil that contains beneficial fatty acids oleic and linoleic while also containing antioxidants vitamin E and B.

Polyglyceryl-2 sesquioleate - Emulsifying that brings water and oil ingredients together so they do not separate in a formulation while also gently cleansing the skin. 

Coco-caprylate - Emollient oil that helps spread-ability of the product on application while also boosting the skins smoothness. 

Polyglyceryl-2 caprate - Multi-functional emulsifier that helps water and oil ingredients mix together while also leaving a nice feeling after cleansing the skin. 

Vitis vinifera (grape) seed oil - Antioxidant and emollient plant oil that supports the barrier function of the skin with fatty acids oleic and linoleic while also containing vitamin E and polyphenols.

Rosa canina (rosehip) seed oil - Emollient plant oil that contains linoleic, linolenic and oleic fatty acids while also containing antioxidants vitamin E and carotenoids pro-vitamin A.

Carica papaya (papaya) fruit extract - Non-Abrasive exfoliant, the enzyme helps to remove dead skin cells which helps improve texture and tone of the complexion. 

Helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil - Emollient plant oil that has a high fatty acid content that helps to improve a compromised or damaged skin barrier. 

Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract - Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits because of the active rosmarinic acid it contains while also having anti-bacterial, astringent and toning properties.

Tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E) -  Esterified version of the pure form of vitamin E but may or may not have antioxidant benefits. 

Parfum (fragrance), citronellol*, geraniol*, limonene*, linalool*

*Components of natural essential oils

100% of total ingredients are from natural origin.

Presented in a recyclable bottle with pump applicator, it is ideal to gently massage 3-4 pumps into dry skin with light and gentle massaging movements even around the delicate eye area. Wetting your hands and then applying gentle movements over the face, neck, and décolletage you will then notice the oil transforming to a light and delicate milk before either rinsing the skin with your hands or using a face cloth to wipe off. The skin is left perfectly cleansed without feeling stripped of its moisture and you can then follow up with your water-based cleanser to perform a second cleanse if you wish in the evening or apply the Trilogy active enzyme cleansing cream that utilises two fruit enzymes proteins that work together to break down and dissolve dead skin cells by biological action that i have previously blogged about and love to use. A quick but effective cleanse that respects and nurtures the skin, priced at £22.50 and available here: Trilogy cleansing oil x Neil. .

Wednesday, 9 March 2022

Exfoliate The Skin With Trilogy Skincare

skincare

Exfoliating the skin is an essential task in your skincare routine because not only does it improve the texture of the skin but it can also help your other skincare products absorb much better by removing built-up dead skin cells and unclogging the pores. Typically there is more choice of products to choose from such as chemical exfoliants that contain acids, retinol, or enzymes while physical exfoliant products contain compounds that buff the surface of the skin which are typically natural ingredient particles because microbeads are no longer being used. Keep reading to find out more about the two Trilogy products that help exfoliate the skin to encourage cell turnover but still kindly respect it, disclaimer - the links used are not affiliated.

Physical Exfoliant. 

skincare

The Trilogy triple action jelly exfoliator combines three natural exfoliators which are jojoba spheres, bamboo stem and super-fine pumice to gently buff to reveal a softer and smoother skin surface. The great thing i like about this physical exfoliant is the jelly texture that helps remove impurities without drying the skin out or making it feel tight. Applying after cleansing, to dry skin for an intensive treatment or to damp skin with gentle massaging movements (making sure to avoid the eye area) the hydrating jelly base combines hydrating Sodium hyaluronate and nourishing Rosa canina (rosehip) seed oil with soothing Mel (honey) and cooling Aloe barbadensis (aloe vera) leaf juice. Rinsing the skin with warm water i loved how my skin felt smoother and softer but more importantly respected! Ideal for guys to use before shaving to gently exfoliate and lift hairs away from the skin to stop ingrowing hairs while also use before any face mask to help boost its effectiveness. Typically you can use either morning or evening and at least 2 times a week to boost and improve the skins radiance and clarity.     

Chemical Exfoliant.

skincare

The Trilogy active enzyme cleansing cream utilises two fruit enzymes proteins that work together to break down and dissolve dead skin cells by biological action, rather than physical scrubs that require manual action like the one above. I personally love cream-based cleansers because not only do they effectively cleanse the skin but they also don't over-strip it which means they are quite nourishing while being suitable for all skin types. The nourishing cleanser features vegetable based and vegetable origin surfactant/cleansing ingredients combined with emollients and pure plant oils to give a silky feel and texture to the enjoyable cleansing cream. Papaya gently exfoliates by removing the rough outer layer of the skin but still respects viable cells by not exfoliating them while also helping to refine skin tone by lightening brown spots. The other fruit enzyme pineapple exfoliates but also reduces inflammation, speeds up wound-healing, dissolves cross-linked collagen cells to combat wrinkles and pigmentation while also promoting and boosting elasticity. Complexion brightening for a more uniformed skin tone are helped by the Licorice and Mulberry included which also having anti inflammatory and antioxidant benefits along with the vitamin e included in formula. I like to use this in the morning for a refreshing cleanse by applying to damp skin and leaving it on for a minute before removing with warm water or a face cloth. The cleanser can be used in the evening but i would suggest using an oil-based or your normal cleanser first to effectively remove your SPF, makeup, and any impurities picked up during the day because you want to take advantage of this cleanser working on a clean base of your skin rather than previous products applied. I love how this cleanser effectively cleanses, exfoliates, and brightens but still feels nourished while prepping the skin for your skincare products.  

skincare

The Trilogy exfoliators both use different techniques to exfoliate the skin but work exceptionally well in being gentle and are easy to slot into your skincare routine at the cleansing step. Restore your skin's natural vitality and radiance by checking out the full range here: Trilogy x Neil 

Sunday, 6 March 2022

Made by Sunday Got It Like That - 2% Bakuchiol Booster (Retinol Alternative)

skincare

Exploring the product range of Made by Sunday i came across their Got It Like That - 2% Bakuchiol (Retinol Alternative) that caught my attention. Bakuchiol has certainly become a popular ingredient plant extract because it influences the skin in a similar way as retinol when applied, but chemically has nothing to do with any of the retinoids you may use or have seen in a products formula. It does regulate and influence skin cell behaviour which means producing more collagen such as collagen I, III and IV production while also decreasing the enzyme in the skin MMP which attacks collagen resulting in loss of firmness and the signs of aging. It also helps influence hydration factors within the skin while also being suitable for acne or spot prone sufferers by decreasing a sebum controlling enzyme 5α-reductase while also having anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and hinders the oxidative process that begins early in the process of spots/acne. The other interesting benefits are that it has melanin-inhibiting properties while also improving photo damage, but more importantly can help stabilise retinol when used together. Disclaimer: Links used are not affiliated and are used for you to discover the product. 

The Made by Sunday got it like that features 2% bakuchiol which is great because research has shown that amounts between 0.5-2% are ideal to get visible benefits. Only containing four ingredients, all Made by Sunday cruelty-free products are hand-made in small batches while they only use recycled, recyclable, or compostable material and all their containers are glass. The whole range is suitable for vegetarians and vegans but lets take a look at what is inside the Got It Like That booster. 

phytosqualane (olive squalane) - Skin identical ingredient with high emollience benefits to keep the skin nourished without feeling heavy or greasy.  

bakuchiol - Also named Sytenol A or Phyto Retinol, it has cell-communicating, antioxidant, antibacterial and antimicrobial benefits.   

daucus carota Helianthus annuus seed oil (carrot infusion) - Rich content of vitamins A, C, and E which helps rejuvenate and provide moisture to the skin without clogging pores while also having anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.   

tanacetum annuum (tansy blue) - Anti-inflammatory with antioxidant and skin-calming/soothing benefits. 

The ideal way to use and apply the Got It Like That is entirely up to you by either applying to the skin as a stand alone product, mix with serums or moisturises, and yes you can even use it with a retinol because research suggests they both work together effectively! Applied in the morning by using 2-3 drops (bakuchiol doesn't cause sun sensitivity) it sinks into the skin really well before following with a moisturiser and broad spectrum SPF, leaving my skin feeling nourished and cared for all day. I have used it on its own in the evening by applying to freshly cleansed skin and have also applied it over a retinol to not only stabilise it but also give my skin a boost with the skin benefiting properties it contains and delivers. Priced at £20.00 and available here: Made by Sunday Got It Like That - 2% Bakuchiol Booster (Retinol Alternative) x Neil.    

Monday, 28 February 2022

Highkind CBD Vape Pen Kit

verbal

Explore the natural wonders of CBD by Highkind Cannabis Co who present an organic, premium-quality product range that consists of being 100% natural but does NOT include artificial additives, artificial flavours or artificial terpenes in their CBD formula. All of their CBD products are made from the finest quality, organic flowers in which they specifically use AAA grade female cannabis flowers and then are flushed three weeks before harvest, to ensure they’re completely free of contaminants to ensure natural flavours and the benefits of CBD, not a modified version. Extracting using CO2 to break down the material within the hemp plant which helps to separate the oil ensures a high-concentration of CBD with no toxic or residue leftover. A few CBD companies remove terpenes from their extracts but at Highkind they utilise natural, full-spectrum techniques to extract all of the goodness of terpenes from the plant, which results in twenty different terpene profiles in their product range which enhances the taste and flavour. 

The product ranges available are CBD concentrates, CBD oils, and CBD vaping to suit your specific needs but i have been enjoying using the Highkind CBD vape pen kit that is ideal to use for those who are already vaping and taking CBD separately, but now can do it combined. The vape pen kits consist of a premium-quality vape pen and a pre-filled CBD cartridge while there are some great flavours available to choose from such as Pink Lemonade or Tangerine Dream, but i chose Blueberry Muffins. The CBD vape oil never contains any MCT, PG, or VG as each of their full-spectrum extracts are delicately infused with elite botanical terpenes that deliver the calming effects with exceptionally good flavours but also good vaping clouds are made from a swift 3-4 second draw. 

A slide switch at the bottom of the vape pen gives you the choice between high or low intensity which influences the taste and the volume of vapour while it is suggested to breath in the vapour for a few seconds before keeping it in your lungs for a couple of moments. When you have exhaled, repeat the cycle until you feel satisfied. If, after fifteen minutes, you don’t feel like any different, go through the same process again. The LED indicator will let you know when your vape pen needs a charge and all you do is use a micro-usb charger that typically takes 30 minutes for a fully charged battery for you to enjoy the benefits the Highkind CBD Vape Pen Kit has to offer while also experiencing the beneficial effects with that realistic flavour! Available here: CBD Vape Pen Kit x Neil.

Wednesday, 23 February 2022

Garnier SkinActive Vitamin C 2in1 Brightening Serum Cream

skincare

The lightweight creamy texture of the Garnier SkinActive Vitamin C 2in1 Brightening Serum Cream provides perfect application by dispensing a few pumps onto clean skin in the morning while being quite effective for those days when your in a rush because the product acts as a serum and moisturiser with SPF25. Humectant hydrants are welcomed by the glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate added while the Adenosine is also included because it is a cell-communicating ingredient that helps wound healing, barrier repair, and also is an anti-inflammatory agent. The other key ingredients such as emollients, antioxidants, and the sunscreens are featured below, enjoy the read. 

Brightening With Improved Texture.

Ascorbyl glucoside is one of the best and most promising vitamin C derivatives that provides three anti-aging benefits (antioxidant protection + collagen boosting + fading hyperpigmentation while Hydroxyacetophenone is an antioxidant and has soothing benefits for the skin.

Brightening and improved texture are helped by Capryloyl Salicylic Acid that is a derivative ester of salicylic acid which works as an exfoliant, anti-inflammatory, and has antiseptic properties while being a great ingredient for acne or spot-prone skin. 

The Citrus Limon Fruit Extract/ lemon fruit extract / Citrus Paradisi Fruit Extract / grapefruit fruit extract are chemically complex mixtures with a bunch of other active components such as Vitamin C, flavonoids, phenolics, carbohydrates and essential oil properties. 

Mica, tin oxide, and titanium oxide balance out undesirable tones in the skin, making it a popular choice for brightening products to give the skin a refreshed look.

The Sunscreens

Ethylhexyl Salicylate works as a UVB sunscreen filter and works well in combination with others sunscreen agents to enhance the SPF in a product.

Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid - water soluble chemical sunscreen that provides Protection in the UVB range. 

Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine - broad-spectrum covers the whole UVB and UVA range chemical sunscreen agent

Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane - avobenzone chemical sunscreen agent that provides proper UVA protection.

The Emollients

Dimethicone- emollient to help skin feel silky smooth while also providing a protective barrier on the skin for better hydration.

Octyldodecanol - emollient to help make the skin feel nice and smooth

Isopropyl Isostearate - emollient that feels non-oily on the skin. 

Cetyl Alcohol and Behenyl Alcohol - non drying alcohol

Stearic Acid - fatty acid that acts as an emollient while also helping water and oil ingredients to mix. 

Cetearyl Alcohol - non-drying and non-irritating alcohol

Palmitic Acid - skin-identical fatty acid that acts as an emollient. 

Keeps The Skin Matte

Silica - keep your skin matte as it has great oil-absorbing abilities. It’s also used as a helper ingredient to thicken up products or suspend insoluble particles.

Sodium Polyacrylate Starch -  absorbent, binding, emulsion stabilising, film forming, viscosity controlling.

I didn't experience any flaking off from the product during and after application and the scent which features linalool, geraniol, limonene, and citronellol soon disappears after about 2 minutes. I was worried of seeing the SPF added into the product because these can sometimes make my eyes sting or sore even when avoiding the eye area but to my amazement i had no sensitive or watery eyes! The serum cream is the perfect balance between hydration and nourishment but without any stickiness or greasiness and is lightweight in texture before it absorbs and dries down quickly, you can even add your own SPF50 over the top if you are seeking a more higher protection. A quick and easy product to use that not only performs excellently but saves you time from having to use different products to achieve hydrated and brighter skin, highly recommended! Available here: Garnier SkinActive Vitamin C 2in1 Brightening Serum Cream x Neil. 

Monday, 21 February 2022

Eclat Skin London Retinol Serum

Eclat Skin London Retinol Serum.

skincare
Applying a retinoid at night can achieve many benefits for the skin by helping to increase cell turnover, stimulate collagen and also help with blemish-prone complexions. Incorporating into your skincare routine at night, you can choose to use every other night by allowing your skin to build tolerance to this multi-beneficial ingredient before progressing to applying it every night, just don't forget to wear your broad-spectrum SPF in the morning to protect your renewing complexion. Read on to discover the Eclat Skin London Retinol Serum. Disclaimer - The links used are not affiliated and are placed for you to discover the product. 

What Is Inside The Eclat Skin London Retinol Serum?

skincare
The Eclat Skin London Retinol Serum combines soothing and hydrating ingredients with the beneficial ingredient retinol. The full ingredients are as follows: 

Aqua - Solvent for ingredients to mix.
 
Alcohol Denat - Penetration enhancer to help ingredients deliver into the skin while giving formulas a light texture. It can be drying to the skin but followed with hydrating ingredients can counter balance this effect.
 
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice - Moisturises and soothes the skin with anti-inflammatory benefits while also supporting healing and regeneration of the skin. 
 
Glycerin - Natural moisturiser found in the skin, it supports the lipids and barrier function of the skin while also being a humectant that is ideal for dry skin types. 
 
Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl taurate - Controls the texture of a formula while also stabilising and improving the efficacy of the product. 

Hydrogenated Polydecene - Pure and hypoallergenic emollient that forms a breathable film on top of the skin without feeling greasy or sticky. 

Retinol - Proven anti-aging benefits once converted in the skin to retinoic acid while also improving texture and tone of the skin. 

Arctium Majus Root Extract - Skin-conditioning benefits with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
 
Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract - Soothing Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. 

Ethylhexylglycerin - Emollient and preservative that helps boost the effectiveness of phenoxyethanol. 
 
Trideceth-10 - Acts as an emollient, helps water and oil ingredients mix, while also helping to deliver specific ingredients deeper into the skin and helps the product spread on application.
 
Phenoxyethanol - Preservative to prolong the shelf life of a product to use safely.

Imidazolidinyl urea - Preservative to stop the product from spoiling.
 
Potassium Sorbate - Preservative to stop the production of mould and yeast. 

Sodium Benzoate - Preservative to stop the production of fungi.

Sodium Hydroxide - Adjust the pH of a products formula.
 
Parfum - Makes the product smell nice.
 
Hexyl cinnamal - Fragrance ingredient that usually smells of Jasmine.
 
Limonene - Penetration enhancer and fragrance ingredient. 

How To Use The Eclat Skin London Retinol Serum?

skincare
Presented in a sealed bottle, the lightweight and silky gel-serum can easily be dispensed onto cleansed skin at night. Applying a pea sized amount (One Pump Delivers The Perfect Amount) the hydrating gel glides over the skin easily and absorbs quite quickly to leave a softer and smoother feeling to the skin. Ideally you should wait at least 20 minutes to allow any retinoid to fully work with no interaction that could hinder its performance if products are immediately applied over the top. You can then follow with your hyaluronic acid serum and a night time moisturiser that is typically richer in texture to comfort and support the skin overnight. 
I really like how easy it is to use to slot the retinol serum into your skincare routine at night and even though there are scents included in the ingredients, i couldn't detect a strong scent at all.
Purchase the Eclat Skin London Retinol Serum available from here: Eclat Skin London to feel and see the results for yourself with continued use x Neil.

Saturday, 19 February 2022

LoveLula Beauty Box February 2022.

skincare

The element of surprise each month is welcomed by natural beauty lovers in the UK and international, when receiving the LoveLula beauty box February 2022 full with organic goodies. The monthly beauty box features exciting brands and their products that are available from the easy-to navigate LoveLula website, whilst also introducing products to you that you may not be aware of to purchase. The selection of products you receive each month are varied whilst there are many subscription plans available for you to choose from (details at the end of blog post) to enjoy your delivered beauty box. Disclaimer: I received the beauty box free as part of the LoveLula accredited blogger program, this does not influence or change my honest opinions expressed in my blog posts. The links used are not affiliated and are only used for you to discover the products.

What Is Inside The LoveLula Beauty Box February 2022?

The LoveLula beauty box February 2022 edition arrives in secure recyclable packaging and each product inside is protected by the recyclable filling to keep your products valued at £70.00 in tip-top condition. The printed card inside details all the products included whilst also including a voucher code that can be redeemed if you would like to purchase any products from the brands included. The products featured are as follows:

skincare

Featured in the beauty box is the Ooh! - Oils of Heaven organic milk thistle face oil that i have previously blogged about and enjoyed using. The oil is beneficial because of its anti-aging, soothing, and dark spot fading abilities. The 100% Sylibum Marianum content that comes from the milk thistle plant contains antioxidant polyphenols and flavonolignans which contribute to the oils reparative and soothing abilities when applied to the skin, but that is not all. The plant ingredient also has the ability to neutralise damaging radicals such as UV light that influences depleting collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid which all lead to visibly aged skin. Inhibiting enzymes in the upper most layers of the skin to counteract damage, studies have also shown that when applying milk thistle topically it can help fade discolouration without any adverse side effects. The oil also contains alpha tocopherol (vitamin E), phospholipids, squalene, and polyphenols such as vanillic acid and p-coumaric while the anti-inflammatory benefits are also ideal for chronic inflammatory disorders such as psoriasis, constitutional dermatitis, and acne. Finally an oil for oiler skin types and spot-prone skin because it wont block your pores while also having antioxidant benefits to protect (though always wear a broad spectrum SPF) and improving skin tone!

skincare

Supplement and condition each eye lash and eyebrows with one application, when applying the PHB Ethical Beauty lash & brow growth serum. The pH balanced formula combines hydrators and nourishing oils with biotin, caffeine, and castor seed oil that all work to stimulate and improve strength. The wand features the perfect brush to coat each lash or the eyebrow hairs and can be applied either on its own or before applying your favourite mascara. I like to apply overnight to let the formula get to work and was impressed on how quickly this nourishes without leaving a sticky or crunchy texture while also being clear in colour. A must-have product to be included in your self-care routine that nourishes and strengthens eyelashes and the eyebrows while also respecting the delicate eye area!

skincare

Protect skin from the colder weather when applying the comforting and warming Balm Balm Hygge Hand & Body Balm to the hands and body. Sealing essential moisture in the skin is helped by the beeswax, shea butter, calendula and jojoba ingredients while the clove, sweet orange, and the mandarin provide the comforting scent included. I like to apply this balm after a shower or bath to damp skin to seal in the surface moisture present, while applying to damp hands after you have washed them will also help to improve moisture levels and help combat dryness. A little amount of this balm on application does go along way and u can determine how much you need because your skin will absorb it without you feeling sticky or greasy while the warmth from the clove oil is comforting especially on those cold days! It does contain the essential oils Citrus aurantium dulcis peel oil, Citrus reticulata peel oil and Citrus paradisi peel oil that all help the product smell nice but can also sensitise the skin and contain the problematic compounds furanocoumarins that make them (mildly) phototoxic, great for their scent profile not so great for the skin.

skincare

Nourish and support the skin that is regenerating and repairing overnight when applying the Organic Works Renewal Night Cream. Featuring emollients Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter and Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, the rich cream also includes Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil with Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil that both support and repair the barrier function of the skin. Soothing and antioxidant properties are included from the Chamomilla Recutita Flower Oil and the Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (Green Tea) also in the formula but you will notice on application the smell of lavender from the Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil. The thick cream does apply brilliantly on application while absorbing quite quickly to leave the skin feeling perfectly nourished and balanced, great for those who don't like heavy, greasy, or sticky moisturisers! If you don't like to use essential oils then this cream wont be for you as mentioned previously it does contain Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil that does have calming, relaxing, antimicrobial and antibacterial properties but also has potentially irritating fragrant components that auto oxidise on exposure to the air forming strong contact allergens and sensitivity, great for its scent not so great for the skin.

How To Purchase The LoveLula Beauty Box February 2022.

The total value of the LoveLula February beauty box is £70.00 while the many subscription plans available for the UK and International customers are varied but are excellent value for your money!

The UK Prices:                                                                   

Just Try One Box £19.95                              

Monthly Recurring £14.95                          

3 Months £42.60 (save 5%)                         

6 Months £80.70 (save 10%)

12 Months £152.50 (save 15%)

The INTERNATIONAL Prices:

Just Try One Box £24.95

3 Months £52.50

6 Months £100.00

12 Months £200.00

*Prices Correct At Time Of Writing - February 2022

Enjoy the selection of products for yourself, or buy as a gift for someone else to enjoy, when purchasing or subscribing to receive a beauty box to your door. I wonder what the March beauty box will contain and what will be featured for you to discover products you may not be aware of to purchase? Purchase any LoveLula beauty box February 2022 available here: lovelula beauty box  x Neil.

Sunday, 6 February 2022

BYBI Glowcurrant Booster

skincare
Discover the BYBI Glowcurrant Booster that not only promises to brighten and restore the skin but also it is the worlds first carbon-negative skincare product! The natural, vegan, and cruelty facial oil contains just three ingredients but its contents is rich in skin-loving vitamins and fatty acids that are known for their beneficial benefits. Containing low-carbon ingredients and the bottle being made from sugarcane rather than glass (the outer packaging is also produced by using tree free paper sugarcane) the cap and nozzle uses bacteria found in marine and soil environments to make it compostable, this product is an industry first! Disclaimer: The links used are not affiliated and are placed for you to discover the product.

Presented in recyclable and compostable packaging, the glowcurrant booster features blackcurrant seed oil which is upcycled from the UK juicing industry using the seeds that would of otherwise been thrown away while the other interesting ingredient is white willow bark which is sourced from a UK farm and harvested by hand. The final skin-loving ingredient camelina oil is obtained from the seeds of the plant that is grown in the UK, but lets take a look at what each of these contain to be beneficial for your skin. It is noted to always do a patch test when introducing a new product into your skincare routine:

Ribes Nigrum (Blackcurrant) Seed Oil - Non-volatile plant oil that has emollient and antioxidant benefits while also containing a rich source of gamma linolenic acid which is anti-inflammatory. The vitamin rich content also contains omega's 3 and 6 which can help elasticity of the skin while also slowing down aging and prevent/help skin conditions such as dermatitis and eczema by providing the skin with essential fatty acids. 

Camelina Sativa Seed Oil - Produced from the flowering plant Camelina or Gold-of-Pleasure, it contains a high source of omega-3 Alpha-linolenic acid with linoleic and oleic acids that contribute to help with dry and sensitive skin because of its anti-inflammatory benefits. It also contains antioxidant Vitamin E that helps to reduce UV damage and protect against free radicals while phytosterol brassicasterol helps to replenish and restore aging skin. 

Salix Alba Bark Extract - Plant extract with anti-inflammatory, soothing, and antioxidant benefits that contains compounds of salicin, polyphenols, and flavonoids. 

Applied daily either in the morning or evening you can dispense a few drops into your serum, moisturiser, or masks and mix them together but you can also apply as the first product to a cleansed face and neck. I personally either mix this with a hydrating water serum or apply over the top of one so the skin is supplied with water soluble (hydric) and oil soluble (lipidic) ingredients, similar to the skin’s hydrolipidic film. It applies beautifully over the skin and absorbs quite quickly to leave skin feeling perfectly nourished, plus there is no waiting around to proceed to apply your moisturiser and broad-spectrum SPF in the mornings over the top. The nozzle on the bottle dispenses the perfect drop of this lightweight but nourishing oil for you to include in your skincare routine, priced at £12.00 and available here: BYBI Glowcurrant Booster x Neil. 

Friday, 28 January 2022

Toniiq Supplements.

health

Toniiq supplements contain naturally derived ingredients from around the world to offer a range of effective formulations that work. Combining plant-based nutrients with modern science and advance technology ensures the highest potency in every botanical product they have to offer. All of their manufacturing facilities are located in the US and are compliant with the cGMP regulations as stipulated by the FDA, to meet the highest regulatory standards there is. Currently there are three ranges to choose from which are energy, beauty, and sleep that all contain different ingredients to suit these specific needs. Disclaimer: The links used are not affiliated and are placed for you to discover the products. 

The Toniiq beet root capsules i have been taking belong to the energy category and are the next generation of beet root powder supplements because they contain an unprecedented 4% nitrates, while other beet root supplements contain less than 1%. In fact one Toniiq beet root extract capsule contains the equivalent nitrates of one cooked beet that the body changes into nitric oxide. Each serving of their 1400 mg beet root powder provides you with over 56mg of nitrates, making this one of the highest strength beet root supplements available anywhere. 

Presented in practical but stylish packaging, i take two capsules once a day with a meal as a food supplement while i was impressed on how really easy these are to swallow. It is suggested DO NOT take if you are pregnant or breastfeeding and if you are taking any medication than speak to a health care professional. The surprising benefits when taking these are that they can help improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, and increase exercise performance while also being packed with essential nutrients such as fiber, folate (vitamin B9), manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamin C. 

The highly concentrated Toniiq Beet Root Capsules are the perfect product to use daily to reap the benefits this root vegetable has to offer with its unique and beneficial profile. Discover elevated nutrients here: Toniiq x Neil.  

Wednesday, 26 January 2022

LoveLula Beauty Box January 2022.

skincare

The element of surprise each month is welcomed by natural beauty lovers in the UK and international, when receiving the LoveLula beauty box January 2022 full with organic goodies. The monthly beauty box features exciting brands and their products that are available from the easy-to navigate LoveLula website, whilst also introducing products to you that you may not be aware of to purchase. The selection of products you receive each month are varied whilst there are many subscription plans available for you to choose from (details at the end of blog post) to enjoy your delivered beauty box. Disclaimer: I received the beauty box free as part of the LoveLula accredited blogger program, this does not influence or change my honest opinions expressed in my blog posts. The links used are not affiliated and are only used for you to discover the products.

What Is Inside The LoveLula Beauty Box January 2022?

The LoveLula beauty box January 2022 arrives in secure recyclable packaging and each product inside is protected by the recyclable filling to keep your products valued at £60.00 in tip-top condition. The printed card inside details all the products included whilst also including a voucher code that can be redeemed if you would like to purchase any products from the brands included. The products featured are as follows:

skincare

Effectively cleansing the skin is one of the most important skincare rules to follow to not only remove pollution, dirt, and impurities but also help your skincare products work more efficiently when there is a clean base. The PHB Ethical Beauty pink clay cleanser deeply cleanses whilst hydrating to remove stubborn makeup and sunscreens that are designed to stick to the skin. The gentle and creamy formulation features a host of ingredients to brighten (vitamin c), nourish (rosehip oil), with exfoliants pink clay and kojic acid for improved skin texture. Applying to a face cloth and wiping over the skin the creamy texture instantly melts away products whilst the skin is left hydrated and renewed when rinsing the skin with warm water. You can apply directly to the skin and use a flannel or a muslin cloth for extra gentle exfoliation and the pink clay cleanser can be used as a deep treatment mask left on the skin for 15 minutes. It does contain essential oils but the pure bliss blend featured does influence your mood to add to the experience each morning and evening this makeup remover, cleanser, and mask easily achieves with its creamy and nourishing formula. Available here to purchase: PHB Ethical Beauty pink clay cleanser

skincare

The Ooh! - Oils of Heaven Natural Cacay Anti-Aging Face Oil is cold pressed from wild Cacay nuts harvested in the Colombian jungle. Scientific studies show that it contains 50% more vitamin E and twice the amount of Linoleic Acid than Argan Oil as well as 3 times more Retinol than Rose Hip Oil, giving it powerful anti-aging benefits. Applying the Ooh! - Oils of Heaven Natural Cacay Anti-Aging Face Oil is easy by applying 2-3 drops in your palm and massaging gently into your skin after cleansing. The oil is odourless which is great for sensitive skin that cannot tolerate fragrance whilst also being fast absorbing and non greasy. It can be used underneath your moisturiser and your make-up helping this face oil easily fit into your routine if you are into layering your skincare products. You can use the face oil as a stand alone skin night treatment for helping your skin when its regenerating and repairing itself at night or as a stand alone treatment oil for that extra-care boost your skin may need when feeling dry and sensitive. I am a big fan of all the Ooh! - Oils of Heaven oils and im sure your find an oil that will suit your skins ever changing needs. Available to purchase here: Ooh! - Oils of Heaven Natural Cacay Anti-Aging Face Oil.

skincare

The BALM BALM Rose Floral Water Hydrosol is from the flowers of the Damask Rose that presents itself as a diluted version of the essential oil but with much less concentration. Containing antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits, it also has a relaxing scent that can influence your wellbeing. You can spray over the skin to soothe and refresh but i wouldn't consider it if you have sensitive skin because it is a fragrant floral water. Dispensing the perfect amount out of the spray dispenser, i spritz in the air to influence my wellbeing or over my hair for a quick refresh, the natural scent smells amazing! A natural relaxing scent that is featured in a bag friendly bottle to spritz whenever needed throughout the day or at night, Available to purchase here: BALM BALM Rose Floral Water Hydrosol.

skincare

The MADARA SOS Hydra Moisture+Radiance Mask is an intense treatment for dry and dehydrated skin that gets to work in 15 minutes. The hydrating and creamy formula features humectants, emollients, antioxidants, with soothing Nettle Leaf Extract also included. Applying onto cleansed skin the mask glides over the skin easily and instantly feels hydrating, i always set a timer to know when to remove with a soft cloth to wipe off. You can leave the mask on overnight because it doesnt feel sticky or greasy and eventually absorbs leaving little trace of itself. A great product to reach for when your skin is feeling dry or stressed out and your wanting to reset it while bringing back balance. Available to purchase here: MADARA SOS Hydra Moisture+Radiance Mask.

skincare

Samples are always a great way to test out a product before buying the full sized version, the samples in the beauty box is AYUMI Turmeric Face Care Duo. The turmeric & bergamot face mask features kaolin to draw out impurities with antioxidants argan, turmeric, and sodium ascorbyl phosphate that also have skin brightening benefits. The mask does leave the skin feeling purified and looking revived when waiting 20 minutes before washing off and rinsing the skin with warm water. The turmeric face cream features a host of emollients that veil the skin with comfort along with turmeric extract and Tetrapeptide-30 for skin brightening benefits. The creamy texture glides over the skin easily before absorbing quickly for all day comfort without feeling sticky or looking greasy. Both products do feature essential oils so if you have sensitive skin then u may want to avoid but both products work exceptionally well for luminous skin if you wish to use. Available to purchase here: AYUMI Turmeric Face Cream and the AYUMI Turmeric Face Mask

How To Purchase The LoveLula Beauty Box January 2022.

skincare

The total value of the LoveLula January beauty box is £60.00 while the many subscription plans available for the UK and International customers are varied but are excellent value for your money!

The UK Prices:                                                                   

Just Try One Box £19.95                              

Monthly Recurring £14.95                          

3 Months £42.60 (save 5%)                         

6 Months £80.70 (save 10%)

12 Months £152.50 (save 15%)

The INTERNATIONAL Prices:

Just Try One Box £24.95

3 Months £52.50

6 Months £100.00

12 Months £200.00

*Prices Correct At Time Of Writing - January 2022

Enjoy the selection of products for yourself, or buy as a gift for someone else to enjoy, when purchasing or subscribing to receive a beauty box to your door. I wonder what the February beauty box will contain and what will be featured for you to discover products you may not be aware of to purchase? Purchase any LoveLula beauty box January 2022 available here: LoveLula Beauty Box January 2022 x Neil.

Monday, 24 January 2022

Madara Cosmetics Hyaluronic Collagen Booster

skincare

Previously presented in ampoules, the new and updated Madara Cosmetics hyaluronic collagen booster is now presented in a tube for easy dispensing and applications. The treatment booster is ideal for those who are seeking to reduce dryness, irritation, and the signs of ageing with its hydrating high molecular size hyaluronic acid, Collagen-enhancing low molecular size hyaluronic acid, and moisturising xylitol that is also featured in the formula. Disclaimer: The links used are not affiliated and are placed for you to discover the product.

The Madara hyaluronic collagen booster works instantly to improve hydration and prevent moisture loss by forming a moisturising hydro film over the skin for immediate effects and results. It also promotes firmness and smoothness while the ingredients in the formula reinforces the skins barrier function for better improvement in moisture retaining and protection from elements that can damage the skin such as UV rays, pollutants, microbes, and chemicals. The full ingredients are as follows:

Aqua - Solvent for ingredients to dissolve in. 

Glycerin - Moisturiser and humectant but also keeps the skins lipids healthy, protects against irritation, and supports the skins barrier function. 

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride - Emollient that makes the skin feel smooth and soft.

Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil - Similar to human sebum of the skin it acts as an emollient that absorbs into the skin while also forming a protective barrier. 

Pentylene Glycol - Moisturiser and humectant to improve dryness, it also acts as an emulsion stabilizer, solvent and a broad spectrum antimicrobial.

Cetearyl Alcohol - Non-drying fatty alcohol that acts as an emollient to keep skin smooth and soft while also acting as an emulsion stabiliser for oil and water ingredients to mix. 

Glyceryl Stearate Citrate - Emollient to keep skin smooth and soft while also acting as an emulsifier to combine water and oil ingredients together.

Cellulose - Natural polymer from green plants, it helps improve absorption while also mattifying the skin but also aids in the thickening of a products formula. 

Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid - Moisturiser and humectant that helps the skin retain water, skin protectant, and also help water-soluble actives to penetrate deeper into the skin.

Xylitylglucoside - Moisturiser and humectant that is the main part of a moisturizing complex called Aquaxyl. Comes from two water-binding plant sugars glucose and xylitol and increases natural moisturising factors within the skin while also improving the skins barrier function by reducing water loss.  

Anhydroxylitol - Sugar derived moisturiser and humectant that is part of skin-beneficial Aquaxyl.

Aroma - Helps the product smell nice.

Xanthan Gum -  Improves the flow and feel of the product while also stopping water and oil ingredients seperating.

Glyceryl Caprylate - Preservative with strong antimicrobial activity while also having emollient and moisturising benefits.

Xylitol - Moisturiser and humectant that is part of skin-beneficial Aquaxyl.

Sodium Hyaluronate - Moisturiser and humectant that serves as a reservoir for the skin to regulate moisture content. 

Ascorbyl Palmitate - A vitamin C derivative that is an oil soluble antioxidant that may help to improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation, minimise the signs of aging and support collagen production.

Raspberry Ketone - Used as perfuming to fragrance a product. 

Sodium phytate - Helps the product stay the same over a long period of time by neutralising metal ions from the water ingredient used.

CI 77491 Iron Oxides - Colourant that gives this product its red colour but also used to give foundations their pink tones.

Potassium Hydroxide - Sets the correct pH of the formula. 

Applying to a cleansed skin at night, you want to apply this product first and for best results use as a course of treatment for 10 days and then follow-on to use 2-3 times a week to support the effects. The hydrating formula glides over the skin easily and absorbs quite quickly to leave the skin feeling hydrated and nourished without feeling sticky or greasy, you will notice that raspberry scent but it soon disappears after 5 minutes. It isn't runny like a serum and it is not thick enough to be a moisturiser but what it does do well is supply the skin with hydration (water) and nourishment (oil) both things the skin needs for optimal health.  It works perfectly under any moisturiser at night and with continued applications a hydrated and healthier looking complexion will greet you in the mornings. The Madara Cosmetics product is priced at £29.90 and available here: Madara Hyaluronic Collagen Booster x Neil. 

© Blonde Male
Maira Gall