Happy Friday Beautiful! Thanks for stopping by for Part 2 of my Acure Organics review. If you missed the first part, you can click here. Today is all about hair and body products so let’s get started!

Up first on the agenda, a duo of hair care products designed to plump up fine and limp strands of hair to give intense volume. I was sent the Pure Mint + Echinacea Stem Cell Volumizing Shampoo and Conditioner. Overall, I like this pair but it’s not what I would have picked for myself. While I do have fine hair my strands are typically very dry, as is my scalp. This shampoo seems to be very drying if used too often and the conditioner doesn’t help impart enough moisture into my hair for daily use. I definitely recommend alternating use of this line with something more hydrating. I’m curious about their Moroccan Argan Oil + Argan Stem Cell line, which sounds like it would do the job.

I do, however, like using this shampoo and conditioner duo once or twice a week to clarify and revitalize my hair. I also like using it if I have an important event or big day ahead of me. It cleanses well and really does make my hair look much more full and voluminous. I’m not the biggest fan of the scent as it is a bit medicinal but it’s not terrible or unbearable. These hair products also seem to help my style last longer and keep my roots from getting greasy very quickly.

The final two products in my review are both body care related. The Sensitive Unscented Body Wash, which is formulated with CoQ10 and Argan Stem Cells, is a rich and creamy moisturizing body wash. It is very soothing and intensely hydrating. I’m more of a soap kind of girl but I do like this, especially for shaving. It rinses cleanly and leaves skin feeling soft.

Their Unscented Cocoa Butter + CoQ10 Ultra Hydrating Body Lotion is my new absolute favorite daily lotion. I’m obsessed! It’s so light yet deeply hydrating. My skin drinks this lotion up and feels completely healthy and moisturized after application. It has no scent at all, which is a must for my daily body lotion. I’m so picky when it comes to lotions because I hate that heavy, tacky feeling some moisturizers leave on the skin but this one is not heavy or greasy at all! I can’t say enough good things about this lotion but I will say that I will always have a bottle handy because it’s that awesome!

This wraps up my thoughts on the Acure Organics products I have been fortunate enough to test out. Have a great weekend!

When I asked you Beauties what you wanted to see on the blog a large number of you asked me for my thoughts on Acure Organics and their line of products. I contacted the company and I received a box of goodies that I have been testing out for about a month now. Acure Organics is an amazing family owned and operated company who believes in providing high quality fair trade, natural and certified organic personal care products. They never test on animals or include parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances or colors, or any other harmful ingredients. Their products are also really affordable!

Without further ado, here is part one of my Acure review and my thoughts on the skin care products they sent me.

As you may know, I have normal to dry skin that is fairly sensitive. I also have a very sensitive nose when it comes to fragrance so I have really been enjoying the fragrance free Sensitive Facial Cleanser Argan Oil + Probiotic. It is a fairly thick and creamy cleanser that hydrates and plumps up the skin to leave it looking healthy. This cleanser is perfect for my skin! It is extremely gentle so I can use it daily, or even twice a day. I really love how it leaves my face feeling soft and clean without irritating or stripping my skin. This has officially earned a spot on my top 5 facial cleansers list. I really like it because it’s so simple, yet effective! If you’re curious about the ingredients you can click here, where you can also learn more about the product.

I have also been testing out the Balancing Rose + Red Tea Facial Toner. Although this particular toner is marketed towards those with combo to oily skin I really like it and would say that it would be suitable for all skin types. It does a fantastic job of keeping my skin balanced and smooth, as well as helping my moisturizer absorb better. I use this in the morning and it seems to soothe any redness I may have and help perfect and balance my skin. I also really love the glass bottle and the fact that it comes with a spray top. This is a very refreshing toner with a gorgeous slightly rosy scent to it.

Next up is the Argan Stem Cell + CFG Cell Stimulating Facial Mask, which both my Mom and I have tried several times. As a beauty blogger I have tried dozens upon dozens of facial masks but have yet to come across a mask like this one. It seems fairly average upon first application, but once the mask is dry and the time has come to rinse off it becomes foamy. I’ve never used a foamy mask and I like it a lot! It’s extremely gentle so even my Mom (who has highly reactive skin) can use it! There is no tight, uncomfortable sensation that goes along with this mask and is instead very refreshing and even a bit cooling. We have both noticed cleaner, brighter, softer, more hydrated skin after using this mask. Like the toner, it also seems to help with any redness.

The final facial product I’ve been playing around with from Acure Organics is their Marula Oil, which can also be included in the hair and body categories as well. I’m a big fan of oils so I was really excited to try this one out. Acure’s Marula Oil is 100% pure, wildcrafted without pesticides, cold pressed and unrefined. It has a slight scent but it is not offensive at all. I’ve been using it a lot since it arrived and I really like it overall. I do have to say that it is not moisturizing enough on its own as facial oil, but I have found that it works extremely well over a moisturizing lotion or cream. I love the results that layering this oil with other products gives me. I love the dropper applicator as well!

That sums up my Acure Organics facial care review. You can check out my thoughts on the body and hair products I’ve been experimenting with by clicking here.

Adina Grigore originally created several products for herself and her sensitive skin but now her line of healthy and eco-friendly products are sold online and at retailers across the country. Each and every one of Adina’s products are 100% pure, natural, and sustainable. S.W. Basics of Brooklyn is a “no-frills” line of skin care products made with 5 or less ingredients each that are either certified organic, Fair Trade, or sourced from small, family farms.

I’ve been testing out a few of their products, including all 4 of their lip balms, lately and have really been enjoying the simplicity of them. The first one being the Makeup Remover, which is made up of Organic Sweet Almond Oil, Organic Olive Oil, and Organic Jojoba Oil. I typically make my own eye makeup remover but it’s really nice having a bottle of it all ready to go. The combination of oils is great! It doesn’t leave behind a film or irritate my eyes. It works really well and gets every last bit of makeup.

I have also been trying out the Toner for the past month and a half. I tend to use this toner during the day because it really helps banish any case of oily skin and prevent pesky pimples. The ingredient list is comprised of Water, Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar, Witch Hazel, and Organic Essential Oils of Clary Sage and Sandalwood. I don’t really like the scent of this toner, at all, but it goes away really quickly. It helps to cleanse my skin and help speed up the process of blemishes so it’s totally worth it!

Now let’s talk about their Organic Lip Balms, because they are fantastic! All four balms (Cocoa, Peppermint, Cinnamon, and Citrus) have the same base ingredients of Organic Beeswax, Organic Extra-Virgin Coconut Oil, and Organic Cocoa Butter. The Peppermint, Cinnamon, and Citrus all have added Organic Essential Oils. I’ve been totally obsessed with all 4 of these balms and reach for them more than any other lip product lately. The Cocoa Lip Balm is my favorite, but the others are lovely as well.

You can learn more about the company or purchase some products of your own by clicking here to be taken to their website. You can also visit them on Facebook or Twitter.

Adina was kind enough to offer a Complete Mini Kit as a giveaway prize for you, my lovely readers. All you have to do to enter is use the Rafflecopter form below. It may take a moment or two to load. Good luck! a Rafflecopter giveaway

(FTC: These products were so generously provided to me free of charge for review consideration by the company. I am not being compensated to write this review. All thoughts and opinions, as always, are my own and honest.)

I have been fortunate enough to try out a few products from EmerginC’s organic line, Scientific Organics, and have loved each and every one of them with a passion. I have been so impressed with this product line and would go as far to say that this is definitely one of my absolute favorite brands. Their products are superb, no joke! I actually have their Phytocell Cream and In Lips We Trust Super Antioxidant Lip Balm on my ultimate beauty wish list! 

Today let’s talk about their Spirulina Toner. This toner is extremely gentle and seems to really help balance and nourish my skin. I use it immediately after cleansing in the evening by applying to a cotton pad and gently wiping all over my face. It instantly makes my skin feel a lot softer and more even in texture. It appears to leave my skin looking brighter as well. 

It also does a good job of leaving my skin feeling clean and hydrated, unlike some toners that leave behind a film while stripping the skin. While my skin is still damp from the toner I apply my night cream and it seems to really help my skin absorb the moisturizer. My skin is left feeling very balanced! 

This toner has a very light scent, that is similar to the other Scientific Organics’ products I’ve used, and I really enjoy it. It is a very clean, fresh, slightly citrus-y scent which is in no way offensive or overpowering. Some of the ingredients that make up this power tonic are Kombucha, Grape Stem Cells, Algae Extract, Spirulina, Green and White Tea, Aloe Vera, and Red Algae but you can find a complete list of ingredients by clicking here. 

You can learn more about the Spirulina Toner by clicking here. You can click here to learn more about the company and/or purchase their products. They also have a Facebook page you can check out.

(FTC: This product was provided to me for review consideration for free. I am not being compensated to write this review. All thoughts and opinions, as always, are my own and honest.)

Since March 1st I’ve been experimenting and playing around with a new type of facial peel from O.R.G. Skincare called Organic Mineral Peel. An international team of dermatologists, aestheticians, and skincare experts created this Organic Mineral Peel to instantly remove dry skin and renew the complexion. It was formulated to be incredibly gentle and nonabrasive so anyone can use it to brighten and smooth his or her skin.

The ingredient list is so simple and features only healthy and natural ingredients like Vitamins A and B1, Omega 3, Grapefruit Seed, Jojoba Seed, Aloe Vera, Licorice Root Extract, and Milk Thistle. These combine to create a unique skin perfecting solution unlike anything else I have tried before.

This Mineral Peel comes in the form of a spray that you spritz directly onto a dry face (or body), let sit for 5 to 7 seconds, and then massage your skin using small circular motions with your fingertips or washcloth. You will start to notice small pills (like a sweater would have) forming on your skin from the dead skin cells being removed. Once you are finished rinse with warm water and follow up with your favorite moisturizer.

I’ve been doing this twice a week, however I especially love doing it before an event or something that I want to look my best for. I’ve found that if I go through this process before I get ready my skin looks great and my makeup applies flawlessly. It also makes my skin appear brighter and more even in tone and texture. If I have any dull skin or dry patches they simply vanish after using the Organic Mineral Peel, and my skin is left feeling so soft! It also seems to help blemishes heal more quickly!

Although I have been testing out the Face version of the Organic Mineral Peel I have found that I can use this on my back to help prevent breakouts. It has made a huge difference in the clarity and texture of the skin on my back and I’m so happy with it!

You can learn more about O.R.G. Skincare by clicking here to be taken to their website. You can also learn more about their Organic Mineral Peel or purchase your own bottle by clicking here. You can also check out the video tutorial on YouTube.

(FTC: This product was provided to me free of charge to possibly review. I am not being compensated for this review. All thoughts, as always, are my own and honest.)

My skin has been struggling to stay clear in the past few months but in March I added a new product by Adventuress to my skin care routine that my skin has absolutely been loving. The Vividly Restorative Skin Purifier has made a huge difference in the clarity of my skin and I’m hooked, even though I didn’t like it very much at first.

The reason I didn’t like it very much in the beginning was due to the fact that it didn’t seem to work well with the moisturizer I was using at the time. This serum isn’t moisturizing enough on it’s own for my normal to dry skin so I’ve found that applying it onto a clean face, letting it dry completely, and following up with a facial oil is perfect for me. 

When used daily this serum is extremely effective at keeping my pores unclogged and my skin unblemished. If I do get a pimple it seems to go away a lot more quickly with the use of this product. It also seems to help with the tone and brightness of my skin as well. This product also claims to firm the skin, although I can’t say that I’ve noticed my skin becoming any tighter with use.

There is no added fragrance although it does have a very faint, and nonirritating, natural citrus smell that goes away as soon as the serum dries. It retails for $35 and you get 1.0 FL OZ in each bottle. It doesn’t have fancy packaging, by any means, but it gets the job done and the bottle has an airless dispenser, which helps keep contaminants out.

The ingredients are: Water, Willow Bark Extract, Pyrus Cydonia Seed Extract, Witch Hazel, Bilberry Extract, Sugar Cane Extract, Sugar Maple Extract, Orange Fruit Extract, Lemon Extract, Caprylyl Glycol and Phenoxyethanol , Xantham gum, and Olive Leaf Extract.

To learn more about the company you can click here to visit their website. You can also learn more about, or purchase, this product by clicking here.

I feel like I haven’t posted a DIY beauty recipe in such a long time so I figured it was the perfect time! Besides, spring is on it’s way and I tend to experiment with beauty recipes more in the warmer months so I have a feeling I’ll be posting a lot soon.

Anyway, let’s talk about what’s on the agenda for today. I think I’ve probably mentioned to you in the past that I have a problem with breakouts on my back. My spots are so embarrassing and even a little painful. They also always seem to scar, which is super irritating. I’ve been testing different things out and nothing seems to keep them completely at bay but I use dead sea salt in the shower, which helps quite a bit, and then I get out of the shower and use a DIY acne pad.

If you want to make your own DIY cleansing wipes (think Stridex pads, but healthy and natural) keep reading to find out how. 

In a separate bowl, combine the essential oils and witch hazel and make sure the ingredients are incorporated together. Put your cotton rounds in your container and then pour the mixture over the cotton rounds, let it sit and absorb for several minutes. 

You can use your freshly made wipes on your back like I do or on your face! Be sure to test your skin for an allergy to either essential oil before applying though.

I’ve been testing out the Bright Skin Cleanser by Eminence Organic Skin Care and I have to say that I’m fairly impressed. The company has been making organic skin care since 1958 and I can see why they have earned so many awards and accolades in the past 55 years. My skin was going through a dry spell and was patchy and flaky when I started using this cleanser and noticed an immediate different in the texture of my skin. I was totally surprised by how soft my skin felt after using it for the first time. 

It’s light green in color and has a very smooth and creamy consistency. It also comes in a huge (8.4 fl oz) bottle that will last a very long time. It sells for $38 but you get a lot of product for the money.

It’s extremely gentle and refreshing. This cleanser is moisturizing, but not heavy and rinses clean without stripping the skin or leaving a residue behind. I have normal to dry skin and my Mom has combination skin and we both really like this cleanser. I can’t say that I have noticed a change in any dark spots or age spots, which is a technicality because I don’t actually have any, so I can’t comment on how well it fades discoloration. I can, however, comment on the fact that my skin appears to glow after using it.

The only negative thing I can say is that is has a very strong scent. It’s not an awful scent, but it is very potent and lingers for hours after cleansing. It reminds me of Irish Spring soap for whatever reason.

I was also sent the Bamboo Firming Fluid, although the smell was too much for me, so I had to pass it on to my Mom who has been using it since it arrived. Here are her thoughts: “Although the smell is strong at first, it does dissipate in a short time. It hydrates well and is an excellent natural Retinol alternative. It firms and I believe I have seen a difference in my skin after using this product. My skin is becoming much more “mature” than I would like it to be but at 45 I guess that is to be expected.”

To learn more about the company you can visit their website by clicking here. You can find Eminence in a spa near you by using this locator. You can also purchase the products online at Dermstore.com. 

Sia Botanics is a line of skin care products based on the power of the botanicals found in the Sonoran Desert like Prickly Pear, Aloe, Jojoba, and White Sage. They have formulated 4 different collections with oils and extracts from these plants to benefit all skin types whether you have dry, aging, or oily and blemished skin. All of their products are vegan and cruelty free as well as free from gluten, parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals, and synthetic colors or fragrance.

Thanks to Sia Botanics I now have a new favorite facial moisturizer. I seriously love the Desert Aloe and Jojoba Cream. This cream is formulated to nourish and renew dry and dehydrated skin and I feel that it has helped my skin so much this past month. My skin has been incredibly dehydrated and flaky this winter and when I started using this cream in January my skin immediately started to improve.

I feel like this facial cream is very simple yet effective. I use it both day and night and it works well under makeup or on its own. It absorbs quickly into the skin and doesn’t leave my face looking greasy or shiny. It doesn’t feel tacky or sticky like some moisturizers for dry skin do. It also doesn’t irritate my skin or leave a buildup behind.

This cream is made up of: Organic Aloe Vera Juice, Jojoba oil, Grapeseed Oil, Emulsifying Wax NF, Palm Stearic Acid, Evening Primrose Oil, Vitamin E, Witch Hazel, Xanthan Gum, Organic Black Willowbark Extract, Mannan, Neem Oil, Rosemary Oil, and Citric Acid. It comes in a 2 oz jar is costs less than $20 so it is very affordable.

To learn more about Sia Botanics and their products you can visit their website by clicking here.

If your skin is feeling the harsh effects of the cold winter months, like mine has been, then todays DIY beauty recipe will be perfect for you. The ingredients in the following mask are nourishing, soothing, and super rich so your skin will drink it all in and be left feeling hydrated and healthy.

Chop up the cucumber and avocado, then place all four ingredients into the blender or food processor to create a paste. Once your mixture is thouroughly blended you can massage the mask onto your freshly cleansed face, neck, and chest. Let the mask sit for 20 to 30 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water. Follow up with your favorite facial oil or moisturizer.

It’s no secret that I love beauty subscription boxes and today I’m here to talk to you about my new absolute favorite, the True Beauty Box. Unlike other monthly boxes this one comes with 3 to 4 all natural, cruelty free, and full sized products! You also get a couple of samples thrown in.

To get started all you have to do is take a short quiz to determine your beauty profile which helps ensure you get products tailored to your style. There are 4 possible beauty profiles including Eco Chic, Organically On Trend, Naturally Beauty and Purely Pretty (which is what I received).

Once you have figured out which beauty profile represents you the best you get to pick which type of box you would like. You can choose from Flirt, Veganista, and Indulge. The Flirt box is described as “a flirty and fun cosmetic package” while the Veganista is made up of completely vegan products. Both of these cost $30, which is more than your average beauty box costs but keep in mind that you’re getting full size products without having to commit, meaning you can chose to buy only one box if you’d like. The final box is the Indulge box, which costs $40, and is comprised of skin, bath, and body products as well as cosmetics.

In each box you can expect to find completely 100% natural products from brands like Lavera, True Natural, Benecos, as well as others.

I was so excited to receive this box and just as thrilled when it finally arrived and I got to open it. I got 5 full sized products from Benecos, Lavera, and Sante Naturkosmetik as well as 3 sample packets from Lavera.

I’ve opened everything with the exception of the mascara (because I’m peculiar when it comes to mascara, I only like to have one open at a time) and I love each and every product I received. The coolest thing is that they’re shades I wouldn’t necessarily have picked for myself, but they all look really nice when I wear them. Also, my sensitive lips aren’t bothered by any of the formulations.

I highly recommend checking out True Beauty Box by visiting their website. In my opinion it’s totally worth the $30 price tag. Let me know what you think of the True Beauty Box in the comments.

I feel like I haven’t done a skin or hair care review in quite a while so I decided that today was the perfect day to share my thoughts and opinions on the products of Beecology. They sent me quite a few products as well as some extra lip balms, which means that if you read through to the bottom of this post there just might be a little giveaway!

If you know me personally or have been following my blog for a while then you already know of my passion for honey. I think honey is a precious beauty resource so I love anything and everything honey based, which is why I was so intrigued by Beecology and their line of products. Beccology not only produces and sells a line of natural products made with honey, beeswax, and other healthy ingredients; they also give back through their charity, Sweetyear.org.

I first became interested in the company after reading about their Natural Honey and Botanical Sulfate-Free Shampoo and All-Natural Hair Conditioner. While I really like the shampoo, I wasn’t as big a fan of the conditioner. 

First of all, the shampoo smells so yummy! It’s slightly sweet, slightly citrus-y, and slightly herbal, which combine to make a delicious smelling shampoo. It’s formula is gentle and effective while providing the hair with brilliant shine and extra softness. The conditioner isn’t necessarily bad, it just has a weird after scent that I don’t like. I think it reacted strangely with my pH (which happens to me a lot). The conditioner seemed to moisturize my hair well enough but I couldn’t get past the smell. My mother loves both products though.

My favorite Beecology product is their Hand and Body Cream, which I got to try in both the Original Honey formula as well as the Cucumber and Green Tea version. Both versions work exactly the same and the formula is so luxurious and rich. It’s a very thick cream that is easily absorbed into the skin leaving it feeling hydrated and healthy, never greasy. This formula is perfect for this time of year! My skin has been a little dry due to the cold weather and this hand and body cream soothes my itchy skin. The original scent is a light, clean scent while the Cucumber and Green Tea version smells very fresh and like real cucumbers.

If your skin is feeling a little dull and needs refreshing then look no further than the Natural Honey and Peppermint Body Wash. This body wash leaves my skin tingling in a good way. It smells great, cleans well, and invigorates the skin with each use. It’s great for morning use and has become one of my favorites!

I was also sent 4 bars of their soap to try out and review, although I have only used 3 of them. The one I haven’t tried is the My Big Fat Greek Yogurt and Honey Soap, which has a juniper scent to it and I’m not a big fan so I’ll be talking about the other 3, which are the Honey Oatmeal Morning Peppermint Soap (perfect for perking up skin), Honey Lavender Soap (which makes the perfect bedtime bar of soap), and the Dead Sea Mud Soap (deep cleansing while moisturizing). All 3 bars of soap have proven to be really effective, are lovely to use, and smell great!

The final Beecology product I got to take for a test drive is their Buzz Balm Peppermint Lip Balm. This balm is made with Coconut Oil, Beeswax, Shea Butter, Aloe Butter, Cupuaçu Butter, Olive Oil, Peppermint Oil, Acai Butter, Eucalyptus Oil, Clove Oil, and Tea Tree Oil. It’s hydrating, soothing, and protective. It does smell a bit strong due to the oils but it’s not offensive, only medicinal. I was experiencing very chapped and dehydrated lips before testing this balm and it really helped heal and protect my lips.

I was sent several extra lip balms so 5 of you will get the chance to win a Buzz Balm of your own! Check out the Rafflecopter below to enter to win.

To learn more about Beecology and their products, or to order some of your own you can click here to be taken to their website.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Fall is the perfect time to play around with makeup. Bolder lips and darker eyes are fun ways to experiment with new looks and I recently got to try a couple of products from Red Apple Lipsticks. I got to pick two products to try so I chose one lipstick (the companies name is Red Apple Lipsticks so I didn’t want to skip trying one of their lip products) and an eye shadow. I know you Beauties have been asking me to do more makeup reviews so here it is!

Red Apple Lipstick was created by Texan Jay Adam Harper in 2007 and has only grown since then. All of Harper’s products are completely safe and healthy, meaning they are free from parabens, gluten, lead, soy and animal byproducts. Are they also cruelty free and made in the US? You betcha!

The lipstick I selected is Strawberry Lips, which is a gorgeous muted red with a touch of brown in it. It is glitter and shimmer free, which is my preferred type of lipstick finish, although it does have a very subtle shine to it. This shade is wonderfully buildable. It can be worn as a pretty dark pink or a deeper red, with each layer making the look darker. I’m not sure if what I’m about to say is going to make any sense at all but I consider this shade to be a nude red. It’s almost the color of my lips, but richer. I can see why this is one of their best sellers! Also, Strawberry Lips is the perfect name for this one since it is reminiscent of the color of ripe strawberries.

As for the formula, you know how sensitive my lips are and this lipstick irritates them a bit but it isn’t my typical full-blown reaction so I’m not sure what’s going on. My lips are so weird! Anyway, this lipstick is easy to apply and wear. It’s not superbly moisturizing but it’s not drying either and it’s comfortable on the lips. I like wearing it with a balm underneath (which is something I do with most lipsticks).

If you’re curious about the ingredients, the following are what make up the lipstick: Ricinus Communis, Candelilla Wax, Shea Butter, Oleic/Linoleic/Linolenic Polyglycerides, Carnauba Wax, Cera Alba, Sesame Seed Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate from an all natural non gluten source, Almond Oil , Tangerine Peel Oil, Essence of Vanilla, May Contain: Titanium Dioxide ,Manganese Violet, Mica, Iron Oxide.

The star of the show for me is the Red Apple Lipstick Eye Shadow I tried. I chose Twinkle Taupe and I couldn’t be happier with my choice. It’s an absolutely stunning shade that is a must have in any makeup lovers collection. It is described by the company as a “plum based bronze”. It is the perfect shade for amping up any neutral look. It’s extremely wearable and flattering. It has a satin finish so it’s suitable for all ages. The formula of this shadow is lovely. It’s smooth, pigmented, longwearing, and easy to blend. The slogan on the back of the packaging says “Gluten Free Mineral Eye Shadow That Totally Rocks” and I couldn’t agree more. This eye shadow really does rock!

The eye shadow is made with: Mica, Zinc Oxide, Silica, Ascorbyl Palmitate. May contain iron oxides, titanium dioxide, chromium, green, and ultra marines.

(Strawberry Lips - 1 coat, Strawberry Lips - 3 Coats, Twinkle Taupe)

 You can learn more about the company or the produts by clicking here. You can also check out the many different shades they have available and purchase your favorites on their website.

It’s that time of year again - time for long, warm, relaxing baths! There is nothing more comforting that hopping into the tub for some me time during the fall, however our skin can get a bit tight, dry, and itchy from the warmth of the water as well as the cold, dry air outside and the high temperatures from indoor heaters.

The next time your skin needs hydrated and soothed try this quick and simple recipe.

What you need:
1/2 cup of rose water
(You can buy rose water or make your own by following my recipe which you can find here) 
1/2 cup of coconut milk

Just pour both ingredients into your tub full of warm water, sit back, and relax for the next half an hour. You skin will thank you!

The coconut milk can leave your tub a bit slippery so be extra careful and wipe down your tub afterwards.

Sometimes being a beauty blogger means sharing personal details that might be a bit embarrassing to announce on the internet; which brings me to my next point – I’ve always had problems with my underarms. What does that mean exactly? Well, I’ve always had to use clinical strength deodorant because I sweat like a man, especially when it’s warm outside. However; deodorant is one of the scariest and most unhealthy personal care products out there. Switching to natural deodorant was a challenge for me though because of my underarm troubles but I finally found one that I like!

The husband and wife team of 30someweeks.com contacted me and offered me their DeodoMom Jar and Roll-on deodorants (same formula, different applicators). I’ve tried a lot of natural deodorants with minimal success so I was a bit skeptical but I decided to try it anyway and I’m so glad I did!

The company specializes in toxin-free and hypoallergenic deodorant for pregnant women. Wait, stop! Before we go any further, no I am not pregnant. Their deodorant is also suitable for men, women, and children of any age who are health-conscious. Their deodorant is vegan as well as paraben, fragrance, alcohol, dye, and aluminum free. The deodorant is simply made with magnesium hydroxide and water.

For whatever reason, this stuff really works! I almost gave up on it though because the first few days left me smelling a little less than fresh. To be quite frank, I smelled but then the formula started working for me (I blame this one the purging process). I have been using for over a month now and I’m planning to stick with it. I typically apply once in the morning and once in the evening and I stay clean smelling all day.

I started off by trying the cream in the jar which is applied with your fingers to your armpit much like you would apply moisturizer to your face. It’s odd. It doesn’t gross me out but it just seems odd to me. I then switched to the roll-on version, which I like a lot better, although they both work. If you apply too much it can leave you with some white marks so just keep that in mind and it takes it a few minutes to dry so you are left with a temporary wet feeling.  If you like fancy packaging you might not like these products since they are very plain and simple, but that honestly doesn't matter to me. The jar costs $10 while the roll-on costs $12.

I also have to add that I cannot vouch for how well it works during a vigorous workout session or strenuous activity, so keep that in mind.

You can find DeodoMom deodorant online by clicking here. You can also be one of 5 lucky Beautiful Basics readers to win your choice of a cream or roll on DeodoMom deodorant by clicking here.

Instead of forking over a ton of cash for pricey lash growth serums just head to your natural health store to pick up some 100% natural and pure Castor oil. Next time you use up a mascara keep the wand and rinse it off using natural soap or shampoo (you can also purchase disposable mascara wands). Dip your mascara wand into some Castor oil every night (and day if you want) and your lashes, or even your brows, will become longer in time and thicker.

When I was contacted by Alyson of Sage Stone Botanicals to test her products and possibly review them I became very excited for a number of different reasons. Sage Stone Botanicals is a small company based out of Eugene, Oregon (one of my favorite cities that I visit often!) that began as a hobby and is now a full-fledged business. Using only natural ingredients, Alyson has created a line of products that includes hand crèmes, liquid hand soap, bath and shower gel, lotion, lip balm and even bug spray and citronella lotion.

Alyson was so generous and sent me several different products to try, all of which I really like! She sent me a few different 2 oz lotions in Unscented, Jasmine, and Milk and Honey. Sage Stone’s lotion is formulated with Certified Organic ingredients such as Jojoba Oil, Avocado Oil, Almond Oil, Shea Butter, and Cocoa Butter, to name a few. The formula is smooth, non-greasy, quick to absorb, and hydrating. The scents are lovely, clean, and fresh. You know how much I love my unscented lotions but I also really love the scent of the Milk and Honey. The Jasmine is also really nice. My Mom stole it since she loves florals and this one smells exactly like its namesake!

The next product I really need to share with you is the Citronella Lotion. I was a bit skeptical about it but this stuff is seriously amazing! My family and I went to a mosquito-infested area for a picnic (sounds nice, right?) and ended up with no bites after slathering our skin with this lotion. My Dad is almost always outdoors and he usually gets eaten alive by mosquitoes but his insect problem is no longer an issue thanks to this lotion. He absolutely loves it and he’s pretty picky about what he’ll use on his skin. I also want to mention that this doesn’t smell bad. It smells like citronella, but it’s not gross or heavy. This product is now a must have in my home.

The final product I got to try is the Lavender Bath and Shower Gel, which is made of Distilled Water, Certified Organic Sunflower Oil, Coconut Oil, and Jojoba Oil as well as Lavender Essential Oil and Potassium Hydroxide. The scent is lovely since it’s a real lavender fragrance and the formula is moisturizing. It gets quite a bit of lather, which I love, and it does a wonderful job of cleansing skin without stripping it.

Check out Sage Stone Botanicals online to learn more about their products, find where you can purchase products if you’re also in Oregon, or purchase online.

As a beauty blogger, I get to try a lot of products that I never would have otherwise. I don’t necessarily believe that a product has to cost a lot of money to work but I do get really excited when I get to test out a luxury product that I would never splurge on for myself. Being ill like I am means I have limited funds so dropping $150 on a brightening serum is out of the question, but I truly believe in investing in the health of you skin so if you have some extra money lying around, I highly recommend checking out Tatcha and their line of fabulous products.

Tatcha is a Japanese skin care company with products created after discovering a 200-year-old manuscript detailing the daily routines of geishas. “Having heard that many of the world’s greatest beauty secrets originated with geisha, we explored scientific journals, unearthed historical archives and studied the ageless beauty rituals of the iconic geisha to shed light on a highly evolved approach to beauty.”

Using ingredients like green tea, Okinawa red algae, and rice bran, Tatcha has formulated several products that the geishas of old would be proud to use. In addition to being made with time tested and healthy ingredients all Tatcha products are free of mineral oils, synthetic fragrances, sulfate detergents, parabens, PEGs, PPGs, urea, DEA, TEA or phthalates.

I have been using several of Tatcha’s products for a little over a month now and I cannot even begin to express how much I love this line. I even got my Mom hooked – she purchased a jar of the Classic Rice Enzyme Powder the day after trying out one of my samples. My skin has looked and felt so amazing, I can’t even explain! My skin looks radiant, even, clear, and healthier than ever before. My pores are somehow almost non-existent now!

The company so kindly sent me The Tatcha Sampler Set and a full sized bottle of their Deep Brightening Serum. The Tatcha Sampler Set comes with 6 trial-sized essentials (including 3 packets of each POLISHED Rice Enzyme Powder for a total of 9, 0.5oz PURE Camellia One Step Cleansing Oil, 0.5oz RADIANT Deep Brightening Serum, and a 0.3oz SUPPLE Moisture Rich Silk Cream) and a full sized pack of Original Japanese Beauty Papers.

 

The Camellia One Step Cleansing Oil is the first step in the Ritual. It’s a very light cleansing oil that I only use when I have makeup on since it removes makeup so easily. It’s extremely hydrating and nourishing and cleanses without making skin feel tight, dry, or uncomfortable.

Next up is the exfoliating step. The Rice Enzyme Powders can be also be used as a daily cleanser if you’re not wearing any makeup. This comes in 3 different formulations, Gentle, Classic, and Deep. It is a powder that turns into a cream once water is added. I love the Classic variety but I would have to say that the Gentle is my favorite. My skin cannot tolerate the Deep version. This product leaves skin feeling clean and super soft.

My favorite product from Tatcha is their Deep Brightening Serum. I use this every night, and most days. One pump is enough to cover my entire face. I look forward to applying this serum and have noticed a change in my skin already! Like I mentioned above, this serum retails for $150 but I’m not kidding when I say it is completely worth it. It feels incredibly light on the skin but also hydrates. It’s ingredients list is comprised of Squalane, Rice Germ Oil, Rice Extract, Silk Protein, Algae Extract, Licorice Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Zizyphus Jujuba Fruit Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin (Soy Derivative), and Green Tea Leaf Extract. This is one of my new Holy Grail products!

I always follow the serum with Tatcha’s Moisture Rich Silk Cream, which is a great moisturizing cream for all skin types. It provides heavy moisture while sinking into the skin quickly. It continues to hydrate the skin all day or night and makes skin feel silky while doing it. It works alone or under makeup. A little of this cream goes a very long way.

The final Tatcha product I got to take for a test drive is their Original Aburatorigami beauty papers. These are all-natural, powder and fragrance free leaflets that absorb excess oil without ruining your makeup. I have been using blotting papers since I was 13 but I have never experienced any like these. Tatcha’s Original Aburatorigami papers have two ingredients - 100% abaca leaf and gold flake. Gold flake! How cool is that? These absorb more oil than any other blotting sheet I have ever tried and leave my skin looking fresh!

I’m so in love with all of these products and have nothing negative to say other than the fact that my skin can’t handle the Deep Rice Enzyme Powder. Other than that, this line is a real winner and I can’t recommend it more whole-heartedly. The company also has outstanding customer service and simply elegant packaging. To learn about the company, products, or to shop visit Tatcha online or on Facebook.

It’s another homerun for EmerginC’s Scientific Organics. The company knocked it out of the park (again!) with their Eyelight Cream. I have been using this cream for a little over a month now and have seen such a remarkable change in my under eye area. My Mom actually looked at me the other day and said, “Your eyes look so bright and nice. What eye cream are you using?”

I have experimented with a lot of different eye creams but I feel confident saying that this one is my absolute favorite. This cream is made with ingredients like Aloe Leaf Juice, Shea Butter, Olive Derived Squalene, Glycerin, Olive Oil, Grape Extract, Vitamins E and A, Apple Extract, Cupauca Butter, Rosehip Seed Oil, Brazil Nut Seed Oil, and Evening Primrose Oil, just to name a few. It also has several active ingredients like Asthaxanthin (a natural antioxidant that is even more powerful than Vitamins C and E), Aquacell (which is a blend of watermelon rind and lentil) and Derm SRC (a bamboo and pea extract).

It is a very thick cream that glides easily across the skin. It absorbs quickly so it doesn’t look or feel greasy or oily. It is extremely hydrating, nourishing, and illuminating. I’m 25 and I have started to see some fine lines but this cream plumps up my skin so it looks smooth and line free. It has decreased the severity of my dark circles and puffiness. I am seriously amazed at how bright my eyes look when I use this. I have noticed that it has even improved my tone and texture when not wearing it.

I apply it twice daily, both morning and night, and can’t wait to apply it every day as part of my routine. It feels so luxurious and lovely! Not only is the product wonderful the packaging is also chic. The Eyelight Cream comes in a 15 ml green, glass jar with a white lid. The cream itself is a thick, white cream with a very slight, clean scent to it.

Scientific Organic’s Eyelight Cream is fantastic and highly recommend by me. It retails for $65. I have now tried 3 of their products and have absolutely loved each and every one of them. I even love the fact that for every Scientific Organics retail-sized product sold EmerginC will plant a tree. How cool is that? 100% natural products created by a company who gives back to the environment by planting trees!

Please visit this website to learn more about the company or product. You can also purchase this product online on their website or SkinStore.com.

Today, we are talking chocolate. Whether you are a fan of milk, white or dark you’ll really love this simple, DIY lip balm recipe.

What you need:
1 teaspoon of cocoa butter
½ teaspoon of coconut oil
1-3 Chocolate chips or 1 square of a chocolate bar (you can use any type of chocolate you want)
A few drops of Vitamin E Oil
Optional: A couple drops of vanilla or peppermint oil

Melt the coconut oil and cocoa butter together slowly over a double boiler and then add the chocolate and Vitamin E. Add the essential oil at this point if you would like. Mix everything together and pour into an old lip balm tin or container. Pop into the freezer until it sets. Feel free to apply as often as you like. Keep in mind that the chocolate will add a slight tint to your lips.

To say that Argan Oil is anything less than amazing would be utterly wrong since I have a total and complete obsession with this skin miracle. Argan Oil comes from a tree that can only be found in Morocco and is often referred to as “liquid gold”. It is rich in vital antioxidants and has twice as much Vitamin E as olive oil so it is a wonderful skin care solution. It helps heal skin conditions, moisturize and balance dry and oily complexions, slow down the aging process, and can be used from head to toe.

Argan Oil has been used by Moroccan men and women for centuries but is now accessible worldwide. Zinn Beauty has created an affordable line of Argan infused products. I got to try out the entire Zinn Beauty Collection and have really enjoyed using the line which includes a facial cleanser and cream, body milk, and 100% Moroccan Argan Oil. All Zinn products are formulated without preservatives, artificial colors, sulfates, animal extracts, and parabens. In addition to leaving toxic ingredients out of their products they are cruelty free. Zinn Argan Oil is hand made in Morocco and is certified pure and organic.

The Velvet Cleansing Milk is a great moisturizing cleanser with ingredients like Sunflower Seed oil, Argan Oil, Shea Butter, Jojoba Seed Oil, Beeswax and Tea Tree Oil, just to name a few. All Zinn products have been formulated to work for all skin types but I’m not sure I would like it if I had oily skin. It is very rich and hydrating so I like using this at night. It actually feels a bit heavy on the skin but not in a greasy sense and it does not clog my pores. It makes my skin really clean without stripping it. It leaves my skin looking glowing and dewy. I like this cleanser a lot now but I think I’ll love it once winter hits and my skin needs some TLC. It smells a bit earthy because of the tea tree and also a bit like oranges. Overall it’s a really nice cleanser that anyone with normal to dry skin will enjoy!

Zinn’s Revitalizing Ant-Aging Cream is not my favorite. It feels really great on the skin but the scent is a little bit too strong for me and it lingers so I can’t use it (you know how sensitive I am to smells). It is rich but not heavy so you can use it day and night. It works under makeup or on it’s own. My Mom likes this cream so she has been using it. I think I would have liked using this if not for the strong scent.

The Smooth Body Milk is absolutely fantastic! To start with, this lotion smells really great (sort of like Flinstones Vitamins – which is a good thing in my opinion.)! It is a milky cream that absorbs quickly and easily leaving skin feeling soft and hydrated. It is not greasy in the slightest bit and has a matte finish. It doesn’t feel heavy so it is perfect for all over use. The moisture this lotion imparts is long lasting and incredibly soothing. It is packed full of essential oils, antioxidants, fatty acids and Vitamin E so its healthy and nourishing. You won’t believe how soft your skin feels after using this Body Milk! My whole family loves this and since it comes in a large, 6.8 FL OZ, tube it will last for quite some time.

The Zinn Collection is definitely worth checking out. If you’re interested in learning more about the company or the products mentioned you can visit them online by clicking here. In addition to being able to purchase online, you can find these products at ULTA, Duane Reade and Ricky's. Tomorrow I’ll be discussing the benefits and uses of Argan Oil as well as reviewing the Zinn 100% Moroccan Argan Oil so I will see you then!

(FTC: These products were so generously provided to me for review consideration by the company. I am not being compensated to write this review. All thoughts and opinions, as always, are my own and honest.)

You, my beautiful readers, know how much I love skin care. I am always switching up my skin care routine so I can try new products to share my thoughts with you. For a little over a month now I have been using a set of products that were created by a team of chemists, biologists and dermatologists with a passion for health and wellness from all over the world. These scientists have developed 3 products, which have been created using only natural and wholesome ingredients that are safe for all skin types and haven’t been tested on animals.

My favorite product from Exhale is their Natural Gentle Cleanser. I absolutely love this cleanser! As the name suggests it is very gentle. It has 6 simple ingredients (Purified Water, Sodium Olivate, Glycerin, Rose Hip Seed Oil, Eiobotrya Japonica Extract and Seaweed Extract) and is extremely gentle, as the name suggests. It smells lovely and makes the skin feel really clean without being squeaky clean (which is not a good thing!) or tight. After rinsing off, the skin feels soft, hydrated, and balanced. It’s also brightening and helps promote cell regeneration.

My next most used Exhale product is the Apple Stem Cell Cloud Cream. It’s a nice daily moisturizer with ingredients like Jojoba Seed Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil, Malus Domestica Fruit Cell Culture, and Hyaluronic Acid just to name a few. I really like using this moisturizer during the day and under makeup although I prefer a heavier cream for nighttime use. It is an off-white gel-cream consistency that doesn’t really have a smell. It leaves my skin feeling really soft and smooth. It plumps up my skin and lends it a really nice glow. The Apple Stem Cell Cloud Cream feels very light on the skin and absorbs quickly.

The final product is their Organic Sun Protection SPF 30 (which features ingredients like Aloe Leaf Extract, Green Tea Extract, Sunflower Oil, Castor Oil, and White Birch Oil in addition to others). Titanium Dioxide is what gives the creams its SPF 30. I would have preferred Zinc Oxide but this cream gets the job done. While it’s not my favorite product of the bunch, it does have good qualities - It’s hydrating and it also works really well as a primer under makeup so it acts as a 3 in 1. It is a very thick pinkish cream that takes a little work to spread across the skin. It also takes a few minutes for the skin to absorb but once it does it protects the skin by creating a barrier. I took this to Phoenix with me and I didn’t get a burn whatsoever (on my face or neck anyway).

Overall I really enjoy this line of products and recommend that you check them out, especially the cleanser! If you are interested in purchasing any of the products mentioned or learning more about the company their products you can visit their website or Facebook page.

(FTC: These products were so generously provided to me for review consideration by the company. I am not being compensated to write this review. All thoughts and opinions, as always, are my own and honest.)

It is finally getting warm here, which means it is time for shorts, swimsuits, and tank tops. After a winter of being covered up it is time to get my skin ready to see the sun! This moisturizing mask is perfect for hydrating and rejuvenating dry skin all over the body. It also feels great after getting sunburned.

What you need:
1 ripe avocado
2 tablespoons of plain yogurt (Greek or full fat works even better!)
1 tablespoon of cocoa butter
1 teaspoon of baking soda

Mix all of the ingredients together by either mashing them with a fork or pureeing them in a blender or food processor. Apply this mask to your legs, arms, back, chest, and/or anywhere else you need a little TLC. You can apply this on your face as well but it may be too heavy for many skin types because of the cocoa butter. I always recommend doing treatments like this in the bathtub since they can be messy. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes before rinsing.

Once you are finished, your skin should feel like new! Enjoy your silky smooth skin!

I love having a sun kissed glow in the warmer months but with all we know about harmful UV rays and skin cancer there is no way that I will lay out to get a tan. I have never found a good commercial (natural or otherwise) self tanner. They all smell awful or leave me looking more like Snooki than Giselle. If you have an event or something you want to look golden and glowy for all you need is a little coffee.

What you need:
1 cup of coffee grounds (your leftovers from this mornings coffee work well!)
2 tablespoons of your favorite skin friendly oil (I like olive oil for body recipes)

Mix the oil and coffee grounds together and massage into your skin. You can use this anywhere but I typically just use it on my arms and legs. I’m a little scared to apply coffee grounds to my face but if you want to you certainly can. I recommend doing this in the bathtub since it is super messy. It also acts as a scrub and can help temporarily tighten the skin and make it appear firmer. Leave the coffee grounds on your skin for 20 minutes and rinse off.

 Now you have an excuse to drink more coffee!

I have dreamed of being a writer since I was a very young girl so I have a natural affinity for the written word. I love books and I love to read. I always have an eye out for natural beauty books and had yet to find one that I absolutely loved until I stumbled upon Nature's Beauty Secrets written by Dawn Gallagher. This book sounded right up my alley so I emailed Dawn who kindly offered to send me a copy and also gave me the opportunity for one of you to win your own copy, (we'll talk more about the giveaway toward the end of this post).

When I received the book, I was pleasantly surprised. Never had I seen such a visually stunning book that is also full of helpful information and natural beauty recipes. It is a fantastic resource for creating your own products or at home spa experience. It also acts as a travel guide to wonderful spas around the world.

Dawn Gallagher is not only an author, (of this book as well as another called Naturally Beautiful: Earth's Secrets and Recipes for Skin, Body, and Spirit), and a natural beauty lover; she also happens to be a fashion model who has been on the cover of more than 300 magazines as well as a television host. Her work in the industry has allowed her to travel the world and learn about the culture, beauty secrets and treatments of many different regions. Visiting local spas during her travels led her to think about beauty in a more holistic way and while not everyone can travel to exotic places, they can prepare the simple natural beauty recipes in this book.

In Nature's Beauty Secrets, you will find dozens of easy to follow, all-natural beauty recipes based on treatments found in spas across the globe in places like Bali, Thailand, Tanzania, India, Spain, and Sri Lanka just to name a few. There are countless wonderful recipes featured in this book that are simple and easily made using many common ingredients found in your kitchen or pantry. There are recipes for the skin, hair, nails, and body. In addition to recipes, she included information on how to care for your skin from the inside out, nutrition tips, proper skin care techniques, and tons of other helpful information.

I have tried a handful of the recipes (including the Fresh-As-A-Peach Moisturizer, Banana-Cucumber Delight Mask, Chocolate Honey Body Mask, and several others), and enjoyed them all. Dawn is absolutely gorgeous so I have no qualms following her beauty advice. I can't wait to work my way through each and every recipe in this book and I know my Mom and I are going to have a ton of fun trying them all.