Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Organic Apoteke Cleanse Gel Reviews

Review of Organic Apoteke Active Face Cleanse Gel
By Nadine D.

Packaging My sample of Organic Apoteke Active Face Cleanse Gel came in a small plastic pot with a white lid. The full sized version comes in a pump-action bottle.

Application The Organic Apoteke Active Face Cleanse Gel is massaged in to damp skin to produce a gentle lather and rinsed off with water. I found the sample pot hard to dispense from, especially when my hands were damp from wetting my face. The texture was very soft and felt as gentle as water on my skin. I could feel it removing the daily build up of oil on my skin straight away and my skin felt tighter after use. The instructions state to avoid the eye area, but I found this difficult when rinsing the Cleansing Gel from my face as it seemed to run into my eyes from my forehead. If you do get the Cleansing Gel in your eyes, it really does sting!

Ingredients I was pleased to find that all of the ingredients are certified organic, paraben free and are vegan. The ingredients were listed on the base of the packaging and contain many natural oils. The fragrance was really fresh and lemony and left your skin with a gentle fragrance after washing. It also contains neem oil, which has a gentle antibacterial quality.

Results After I started using the Organic Apoteke Active Face Cleanse Gel, I felt it was a little too harsh for my skin. My skin did feel very cleansed and soft, but I seemed to be more prone to breakouts. I thought that the spots would just last for a few days whilst my skin adjusted to the product, but my skin is still unsettled after three weeks. I think that this would be better for someone with slightly oiler skin than mine.

Pros: Your skin feels very clean
It has a very pleasant fragrance.
Your skin feels tighter and more toned after use

Cons: Was not suited to my skin, it caused more blemishes than usual.
· Hard to keep from eye area when rinsing, can cause irritation to eyes.
· Difficult to dispense product from pot, but this would not be a problem with the pump-action dispenser.

Organic Apoteke Active Face Cleanse Gel (£16.94) and other Organic Apoteke products are available at Naturisimo.com

Tuesday, February 09, 2010

Barefoot Botanicals SOS Cream Reviews

Review of Barefoot Botanicals SOS Face & Body Cream
By Kelly B.

Packaging The Packaging for the Barefoot botanicals SOS Rescue Me face and body cream is a simple white plastic tube. The lid is level enabling the tube to stand upright on a flat surface which is very convenient. The lid is a flip top which enables efficient and hygienic dispensing of the cream. The tube is a matt finish which is easy to grip and non slip. The packaging although simple in design like all Barefoot botanicals products has an upmarket feel. The shiny silver logo gives an added expensive look. It looks rather text heavy but it is extremely informative and instils confidence in the product.

Application The texture of the Barefoot botanicals SOS Rescue Me face and body cream although rich and creamy has a perfect light fluffiness to it. This consistency makes for a totally nourishing but non greasy application. I used it mainly on my face and neck although you can use it on your body too. A little goes a long way and despite the rich ingredients it sinks into the skin effortlessly and leaves a hydrated but matt appearance.
My skin was quite dry due to cold weather and it felt soothed and calmed immediately on application. It smells lovely, it is a delicate mandarin scent which fades nicely after a few minutes. I had a patch of dry skin on my face which cleared up within about 3 to 4 days of using this cream.
After using Barefoot botanicals SOS Rescue Me face and body cream day and night on my face for a week my skin looked very dewy and radiant and was silky soft. Although I feel it seemed to cause a few blocked pores on my T zone.

Ingredients The Barefoot botanicals SOS Rescue Me face and body cream like all Barefoot botanicals products contains no artificial preservatives or ‘chemical nasties’ which is particularly reassuring when dealing with ‘seriously parched skin’ and eczema and psoriasis which this product is specifically tailored to. Since many creams for such conditions contain harmful ingredients and skin thinning steroids. Barefoot botanicals SOS Rescue Me face and body cream states clearly on the tube that it contains no such harmful steroids. This means that this natural cream could be used long term without any worry of side effects.
The natural nourishing ingredients the SOS cream contains include; borage oil, shea butter and evening primrose oil which are also known to be anti-aging. Soothing ingredients contained within the product include calendula, burdock, and mahonia. Whilst French lavender, chamomile, and orange calm and heal any skin irritation. This cream contains no animal products and is therefore suitable for vegans.

Results The Barefoot botanicals SOS Rescue Me face and body cream left my skin hydrated and after a few days of use my skin was silky soft. I feel the benefits will increase with continued use. The tube states the product to be suitable for eczema and psoriasis and I did find it very soothing on my dry sensitive skin and it did lessen a dry patch on my cheek. Therefore I feel it would be worth trying particularly if you usually use damaging creams from your doctor. The SOS cream is also good as a makeup base which means that it is even more practical as a long term treatment for dry skin conditions. I would recommend Barefoot botanicals SOS Rescue Me face and body cream.

Pros All natural, no chemicals
- Soothing and calming on sensitive skin
- Fast absorbency
- Non greasy
- Gentle enough to use on eye area
- Lovely delicate scent
- Gives hydrated buy matt yet dewy appearance
- After continued use gives glow to skin
- Good as makeup base
- White in colour, no staining of neck lines

Cons Appears to cause a little congestion on T zone
- Quite expensive

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

A'kin Radiance Rosehip Oil Reviews

Review of A’kin Pure Radiance Rosehip Oil
By Irene W.

Packaging The A’kin Pure Radiance Rosehip Oil comes in dark glass bottle with anattached dropper for ease of application and this is packed in a creambox with Red writing.

Application The A’kin Pure Radiance Rosehip Oil should be massaged into your faceand neck morning and night. Only 3-4 drops are required. The oil isan orangey colour and quite thick therefore you have to be quick tomassage it over the whole face. The smell is truly awful and I dreadedusing the product because of the smell. However the smell dissipatessoon after application.

Ingredients The only ingredient in the A’kin Pure Radiance Rosehip Oil is Rosacanina Seed extract-certified organic. Rich in bio-availabletrans-retinoic acid (vitamin A), vitamin E & omega 9 (oleic acid,3(alpha linolenic acid) & 6 (linolenic acid) essential fatty acids.

Results After using A’kin Pure Radiance Rosehip Oil my skin immediately feelssoft and nourished. Unfortunately for me there are no long termpositive effects. I do not feel that it has improved my skin in anyway. There is no difference to any sun damage on my face or linesetcetera so I do not feel that Akin Pure Radiance Rosehip Oil adds anybenefits to my usual moisturiser.

Pros: It complements the rest of the rangeIt is from a company that produces ethical natural productsIt is good for sensitive skinIt is sulphate free, paraben free & phthalate free.

Cons: It has an awful smellFor me it has no real benefitsQuite expensive as you would still need to use a moisturiser

A’kin Pure Radiance Rosehip Oil (£15.31) and other A’kin products are available at Naturisimo.com

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Weleda Almond Facial Oil Reviews

Review of Weleda Almond Facial Oil
By Susan P.

Packaging
The Weleda Almond Facial Oil comes in a transparent glass bottle with a pale pink label around the outside and a twist-opening plastic cap on the top. The bottle is contained in a pink and white recyclable box with dark pink and green writing on it. It is a modern and attractive design, with the pale pastel colour giving the impression that it is a kind and gentle product. The whole Weleda facial range is colour coded for ease of use, the almond range being pale pink.

Application This facial oil had no scent, making it ideal for sensitive skin, and was easy to apply from the bottle, only a little is needed to be tipped into the palms of the hands and massaged into the facial skin. The oil felt soothing and relaxing, and the act of massaging the facial skin made it feel rejuvenated afterwards. It felt as though I was using a luxury product and was a treat for my dried out winter skin. The application time was slightly longer than when using normal moisturiser, because it didn’t sink into the skin straight away, and is probably best used as a weekly treat for tired and stressed out winter skin. The extra time and effort taken to massage the oil into the skin was worth it.

Ingredients This product, along with the whole almond facial range, does not contain any fragrances, colours or preservatives, which is great for dry or sensitive skin. It contains natural ingredients such as sweet almond oil, and almond flower extract. In fact there are only 3 ingredients listed, making this a very pure and natural product, with no unnecessary additives.

Results This almond facial oil is very effective as a lovely moisturising treat for the face. I used it at night before bed, it was very relaxing and rejuvenating experience to massage it in after cleansing and toning. Immediately afterwards it did leave a slight oily residue on the skin, but after patting this off with a tissue it left my skin feeling very soft and renewed in the morning.

Pros: Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and dry
Soothes and rejuvenates the skin when massaged in
Leaves the skin feeling soft and renewed after use

Cons: There is a slight oily residue that remains on the skin immediately after use
· Takes longer to use than normal moisturiser, best saved as a once a week treat

Weleda Almond Facial Oil (£9.14) and other Weleda products are available at Naturisimo.com

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Weleda Skin Food Reviews

Review of Weleda Skin Food
By Joanne S

Packaging The Weleda Skin Food comes in a bright green tube with screw-on lid, which is then packaged in a cardboard box. It is a very fresh and vibrant design.

Application The texture of the Weleda Skin Food is rather sticky and thick but feels very nourishing when applied to the skin. When massaged into the skin it is soaked up quickly, especially if skin is dry. Paying very little attention to my feet I thought this would be a nice treat for them and I was right, Weleda Skin Food was the perfect remedy for my tired feet at the end of a long day. Weleda Skin Food has hints of chamomile so is also very relaxing and soothing to the senses.

Ingredients All Weleda products and ingredients are not tested on animals which is a very important shopping criteria for me. Products and ingredients are also natural and mostly organic and so I feel comfortable with their application on my skin. Weleda Skin Food contains extracts of pansy, organic chamomile and biodynamic candendula.

Results After using the Weleda Skin Food my feet feel revitalized and my skin is noticeably softer and smoother. I would recommend this product to those with dry skin or those looking for a special treat for tired feet/legs.

Pros: It is perfect for dry or tired skin, especially areas such as feet and legs
It has a lovely smell, relaxing but uplifting
A little goes a long day

Cons: It dispenses quite thickly and is rather sticky, although massages in quickly

Weleda Skin Food (£7.10) and other Weleda products are available at naturisimo.com

Whish Pomegranate Body Wash Reviews

Review of Whish Pomegranate Body Wash
By Catherine G

Packaging The Whish Pomegranate Body Wash comes in a nice plastic, pink and white pump bottle that looks pretty in the bathroom!

Application It lathers up very well in the shower and has a silky texture that glides onto your skin beautifully. It works equally well for that long soak in the bath at the end of the day!
A little goes a long way with Whish Pomegranate Body Wash so this will last forever!

Ingredients The Whish product range is paraben free and full of lovely organic/natural ingredients with no propane or alcohol in sight! Also their products are not tested on animals. The product is also gluten free which may be of interest to some users. The organic pomegranate oil and raspberry butter provide the yummy aroma and it is crammed with rejuvenating antioxidants but it’s also available in Lemongrass (soothing and toning) and Almond (especially good for dry skin) if you prefer a different scent.

Results What with the dark, dreary and wet winter days we are having I felt in need of something to cheer me up and brighten my day! Well Whish Pomegranate Body Wash did just that – it has an amazingly sweet, fruity aroma which gets you ready for the day ahead and is lovely and refreshing! You almost want to eat it – it smells so good! It also leaves your skin feeling clean and well moisturised unlike some other body washes which can actually make the skin dry. To summarise – this is a great product with gentle ingredients but very effective.

Pros: Lovely aroma + sumptuous lather
Whish Pomegranate Body Wash only contains safe, natural ingredients so it is excellent for even the most sensitive skin
Very moisturizing so leaves the skin feeling nice and soft

Cons: Couldn’t find any!


Whish Pomegranate Body Wash (£12.31) and other Whish products are available at Naturisimo.com

Wednesday, January 06, 2010

Weleda Rose Day Cream Reviews

Review of Weleda Wild Rose Day Cream
By Deana D

Packaging The
Weleda Wild Rose Day Cream was presented in a lovely pink screw top tube.

Application Once opening the
Weleda Rose day cream it glided out the tube easily and had a light fragrance of rose. This was pleasant and not too overbearing. The mix of essential oils had a soothing effect on my skin. The Weleda rose day cream was light to touch and absorbed into my skin immediately. The scent was uplifting. My make up was applied on top very easily.

Results After using
Weleda Wild Rose Cream my skin has improved in moisture although I did find that I needed to re apply the Weleda Rose Day Cream half was through the day. I felt that I would like to also use a Weleda night cream to give me extra moisture at night as I have very dry skin. Other people noticed the improved condition of my skin and commented on it. The overall smoothness of my skin and neck is improved. There were no allergic reactions to this product

Pros: This
Weleda product glides on easily and absorbs into skin well.
Weleda rose day cream is not expensive. People noticed a difference in my skin texture after about 14 days.

Cons: Its moisturizing effects did not last the whole day

Weleda Wild Rose Day Cream (£10.16) and other Weleda products are available at naturisimo.com

A'kin Lavender Hand Cream Reviews

Review of A’kin Lavender Hand Nail & Cuticle Cream
By Dorothy R.

Packaging
A’kin Lavender hand nail and cuticle cream is made in Australia and comes in a recyclable plastic tube, with a very detailed listing of all the ingredients and their origins.

Application
A’kin lavender hand cream has a very pleasant mild floral fragrance, mainly of geranium. It has a smooth texture, not too light and not too heavy, applies easily and is well absorbed, leaving the skin feeling soothed and softened.

Ingredients The
A'kin Lavender hand cream contains a wide-ranging selection of plant essential oils known for calming and moisturising the skin, including jojoba seed, avocado, squalane from olives, shea butter, macadamia, lavender, geranium, rosemary and vitamin B5 and vitamin E from botanical sources. There are no artificial perfumes, preservatives or colours, and no animal-derived or animal-tested ingredients. All ingredients in A’kin Lavender Geranium and Jojoba Hand Cream are plant-sourced and many are organic.

Results A’kin lavender hand cream leaves hands and cuticles feeling soft and smooth.

Pros:
A’kin Lavender hand and nail cream is an excellent hand cream, with a smooth texture.
Easy to dispense from the tube with no wastage.
No artificial additives.
A natural floral scent.
Suitable for vegans.

Cons: None, really, but difficult to tell if it had any strengthening effect on nails.

A’kin Lavender Hand Nail & Cuticle Cream (£7.65) and other A’kin products are available at naturisimo.com

Jurlique Lavender Hand Cream Reviews

Review of Jurlique Lavender Hand Cream
By Elizabeth B.

Packaging: Jurlique Lavender Hand Cream is contained in a recyclable aluminium recyclable tube. I like this form of packaging because it is reducible in size as you use up the product. I would also point out that I the tube has not broken on the creases (as happens with some metal packaging) meaning it is safe to keep in your bag.

Application: The Jurlique hand cream is very moisturising. I have experimented with how much to apply and have found that less is best – this way the product sinks in faster with less stickiness. The consistency is almost like a light balm rather than fluid lotion. A minute or so after application there is little residue remaining and hands feel satiny smooth. However, it may not sink in quite fast enough if you are on the move, for this reason I have tended to keep the Jurlique Lavender hand cream on my bedside table for use as a restorative overnight treatment. Unfortunately I am not keen on the lavender smell, which is relatively strong. However, Jurlique also offer Rose and Citrus versions that I imagine would be more suited to my taste.

Ingredients: Jurlique use bio-dynamically farmed ingredients and base their company on values of authenticity and sustainability. The hand cream notes particular use of lavender, calendula and viola.

Results: Hands feel smooth and supple after using the Jurlique Lavender soothing hand cream. Cuticles are also softened however I have still felt the need to apply a separate nail and cuticle product. The Jurlique Lavender hand cream is very calming and in addition to improving the texture of skin it also improves the tone - dryness and redness are both improved.

Pros: Soothing, gentle and calming.
Moisturises skin on the hands and also softens cuticles.
Very little of Jurlique Lavender hand cream is needed for an effective result.

Cons: Jurlique Lavender hand cream soothing takes a little longer than some hand creams to sink in.
The fragrance - however this is such a personal preference and some may love it.

Jurlique Lavender Hand Cream (£16.99) and other Jurlique products are available at naturisimo.com

Barefoot Botanicals Restorative Shampoo Reviews

Review of Barefoot Botanicals Rosa Fina Restorative Shampoo
By Kelly B

Product Name:
Barefoot Botanicals Rosa Fina Restorative Shampoo

Packaging The packaging for the
Barefoot Botanicals Rosa Fina Brilliance Restorative Shampoo is a simple cylindrical white plastic bottle. The diameter of the bottle is perfect, it fits comfortably into my small hands, making it very easy to use. The 200ml size of Barefoot Botanicals Restorative Shampoo is a perfect handy size and not too heavy.The texture of the bottle is a matt finish and feels a little rubber like which gives a good grip, excellent when coupled with wet hands in the shower.

The opening is a twist style which reveals a hole in the top. Such a brilliant completely smooth design that creates no sharp edges that might possibly injure (particularly important with soft wet skin).

The shape of the bottle being cylindrical means that standing the bottle upside down when the product is below half full is simple. (No need to stand it against anything so it won't topple.)

The packaging of
Barefoot Botanicals Rosa Fina Shampoo looks very simple yet stylish and elegant. Maybe a little too text heavy on the front, but very informative.

Application The texture of the
Barefoot Restorative Shampoo is creamy and feels rich and nourishing when applied. It has a lovely delicate scent of orange blossom which must be the neuroli essential oil it contains. This fragrance which is known to be relaxing creates a warm and pampering atmosphere. Barefoot Botanicals Restorative Shampoo feels a real treat to use. When the rich creamy lather is rinsed away surprisingly the hair feels squeaky clean. I mean that literally, the hair really squeaks as you squeeze the water out of it.

Ingredients The bottle is very informative and full ingredients are listed which is very helpful. It contains Rosa Mosqueta oil and olive extract for glossy sheen. Nettle extract which is said to balance sebum levels in the scalp. Dead sea salts for texture and bounce. Aloe Vera known for its nourishing properties. Impressively the
Barefoot Botanicals Rosa Fina Brilliance Restorative Shampoo also contains calming and soothing herbal extracts such as calendula and comfrey which will be very good for sensitive scalps.

Many of the ingredients in Barefoot Botanicals Restorative Shampoo are organic and reassuringly as stated on the bottle 'no chemical nasties', such as parabens or SLS's are used.

Results The
Barefoot Rosa Fina Shampoo is nourishing and very pleasant to use. It gives shine to the hair as promised but in a light and bouncy way. After use my hair had plenty of body which could be due to the dead sea salts. My hair is very thick and naturally wavy so for my hair I would prefer a more deeply nourishing shampoo that leaves my hair silky. However if you have hair that lacks body or volume this Barefoot Botanicals Restorative Shampoo would be perfect if you want shine as well as fullness.

Pros Very ergonomic bottle, very user friendly
- Delicate warm relaxing fragrance
- Rich and creamy application
- Gives bounce and body (as well as shine)
- Creates texture
- Calming and soothing on scalp
- Gentle on eyes (no stinging)

Cons Not nourishing enough for dry hair (with already plenty of body)
- Cleans to the squeak which can make combing hair out a little difficult and harder to detangle.

Barefoot Botanicals Restorative Shampoo (£14.94) and other Barefoot Botanicals products are available at naturisimo.com

Monday, December 21, 2009

Trevarno Organic Day Cream Reviews


Review of Trevarno Organic Day Cream
By Marion P.

The first impression of the labelling of this Trevarno product is that it is unusually dark and exotic in appearance with the maker’s name in purple on a black background. The information on the Trevarno Organic Day Cream is written in white. I was concerned that the contents of Trevarno Organic Day Cream may be heavily perfumed; however, the senses are immediately delighted on removing the lid. The aroma of lavender and geranium together with warmer base notes is a very feminine combination in this Trevarno Day Cream.

The ivory coloured Trevarno face cream is soft to the touch, and when applied to the skin melts with only the lightest of fingertip application. It may be tempting to be somewhat generous in usage as the Trevarno Organic Day Cream smells gorgeous, and feels so comfortable, but this indulgence is not necessary. A small amount, quickly absorbed, leaves the skin feeling fresh, moisturised and comfortable. The fact that Trevarno Skincare range is organically produced adds to the feeling of well-being and harmony with nature. Nourishment for skin and soul!

I used this Trevarno cream as a day cream, and a different specific cream for night application as I have a dry, mature skin. A younger person could, I think, use this Trevarno Organic Day Cream day and night, the lavender having a relaxing effect on the entire person.

Trevarno Organic Day Cream (£10.34) and other Trevarno products are available at naturisimo.com

Friday, December 04, 2009

Weleda Skin Food Reviews

Review of Weleda Skin Food
By Geri A.

Packaging Weleda Skin Food for dry skin comes in a green tube, which in turn, is packed into a green box. The tube has a white plastic top and I had to pierce the top of the tube with the top part of the white cap in order to extract the cream. This is a good thing because it ensures that it has not been tampered with. The green tube of Weleda Skin Food has white writing on it so it is easy to read. An instruction leaflet comes with the tube and gives more information.

Application The Weleda skin food has a light pleasant smell and the fragrance is created from aromatherapy oils. The cream came out of the tube easily and when I put it onto my skin it was absorbed quickly. It is not oily so it is ideal for wearing at night. It is also good under make-up. The Weleda Skin Food is nourishing and it left my skin feeling smooth and supple. It is especially recommended for dry skin, particularly on the hands, feet and elbows and it is suitable for adults and children.

Ingredients The Weleda skin food cream contains organic ingredients and this gives me confidence. I always find that Weleda products are good for my skin. The skin food contains sunflower seed oil, lanolin, sweet almond oil, beeswax, alcohol, organic pansy, chamomile and calendula. In addition to these ingredients, it contains limonene.

Results I enjoyed using this deeply nourishing Weleda Skin cream and found that it was absorbed into my skin easily, leaving no greasy residue on my skin. I found Weleda Skin Food especially effective on the hands, leaving them smooth and moisturised. It had a light, pleasant fragrance.

Pros: Weleda Skin Food Cream is an intensive, deeply nourishing cream.
· It can be used by both adults and children.
· It leaves the skin feeling smooth and moisturised.
The cream is especially recommended for dry or rough skin.

Cons: Weleda skin food contains a natural substance called limonene which is present in the peel of
citrus fruits but this can cause eye, skin and mucous membrane irritation in some people.
· It also contains alcohol.

Weleda Skin Food (£6.95) and Weleda are available at naturisimo.com

Wednesday, December 02, 2009

Pai Avocado Face Cream Reviews

Review of Pai Avocado & Jojoba Face Cream
By Barbara F.

Packaging The Pai avocado face cream comes in a transparent glass bottle with a gloss white screw top cap.

Application I applied my Pai avocado & jojoba skin cream in the morning and evening after cleansing my face. Pai Avocado Face Cream has a rich creamy texture which was easily to apply and absorbed quickly and evenly. My skin felt nourished, soft and silky. I found the Pai cream to be great as a base, ready for my make-up application in the morning and equally suitable as a cream to use in the evening before bed. It is not a sticky cream, it just feels natural on your skin.

Ingredients The ingredients in Pai Avocado Face Cream are all natural and excellent for the skin. The avocado oil feeds the skin as it is rich in vitamins A D and E, whilst the jojoba oil is a deeply penetrating oil which hydrates and nourishes the skin leaving it soft and supply. The ingredients in this Pai Avocado and Jojoba Face Cream are similar in composition to our skins natural sebum. Additional natural, organic ingredients of geranium water, shea butter, rosemary antioxidant, manuka oil, rose geranium and jasmine give this cream a rich luxuries quality.

Results A most enjoyable cream to experience. The texture of this Pai Avocado Skin Cream is luxuries and my skin felt soft, supple and beautiful. The fragrances all came together to produce a calm, relaxed feeling of well-being.

Pros This Pai Avocado Face Cream is an ethical product.
Suitable for vegans.
Cruelty free.
Made in the UK.

Cons No cons, except, is is a tad too expensive to use as an all over body cream.

Pai Avocado & Jojoba Skin Cream (£22.00) and other Pai Skincare are available at naturisimo.com

Friday, November 27, 2009

Inika Vegan Lipgloss Reviews

Review of Inika Vegan Lipgloss
By Nadine D.

Packaging The Inika Vegan Lipgloss comes in a transparent tube, allowing you to easily see the colour of the lip-gloss, with a black screw top lid and the Inika logo in gold lettering. I was pleased to learn on further research into the brand that as part of Inika’s commitment to the environment, all of their box packaging and paper products are recycled or from sustainable forestry.

Application The texture of the Inika Vegan Lip Gloss is initially quite oily, so glides onto your lips easily. I was impressed by the fact that it did not feel too sticky meaning that my hair did not get stuck to my lips as soon as the wind blew! My lips had a nice texture after using the Inika vegan lipgloss and felt immediately conditioned. The colour lasted from morning until lunchtime so I did not need to reapply too frequently and it maintained a good shine.

Ingredients I was very impressed that Inika managed to formulate a vegan lip-gloss. There are no parabens, petrochemicals, polybutene and artificial colours and they are free from animal-derived ingredients like bees wax and carmine. Inika Vegan lipgloss is made from pure mineral and contains naturally occurring vitamin E to condition your lips.

Results After using the Inika Lip Gloss, my lips definitely feel in better condition and I loved the colour.

Pros: Inika vegan lipgloss moisturises your lips throughout the day.
The colour is long lasting.
Easy to apply.
Great handbag / purse size.

Cons: The initial oily feel upon application took a little while to get used to.
· The taste was very different to other glosses I have tried, but after using for a few days, I did not notice it.


Inika Vegan Lipgloss (£19.95) and other Inika products are available at naturisimo.com

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Weleda Wild Rose Facial Toner Reviews

Review of Weleda Wild Rose Facial Toner
By Susan P.

Packaging The
Weleda Wild Rose Facial Toner comes in a transparent glass bottle with a pink label around the outside. The bottle is contained in a pink and while box with gold writing on it. It is a bright, modern and attractive design, and the gold writing makes it look like a luxury product. The whole Weleda facial range is colour coded for ease of use.

Application The
Weleda Rose Toner had a lovely floral scent and was easy to apply with cotton wool. The Weleda Wild Rose facial toner felt soothing and refreshing, not too drying for my combination skin and not too moisturising either. My only criticism is that a spray bottle would have been more convenient and meant that less product is used each time, but it could always be transferred into your own spray bottle.

Ingredients This
Weleda toner does not contain any synthetic fragrances, colours or preservatives, which is great. It contains natural ingredients such as witch hazel, rose extract, and various essential oils used for the fragrance. The Weleda Wild Rose Facial Toner does also contain a small amount of alcohol which may be too drying for very dry skin.

Results This Weleda wild rose facial toner is very effective, has a lovely floral fragrance and does what it is supposed to do. It wasn’t too drying but was refreshing and gently astringent, removing any traces of oil and make up left on the skin after cleansing. This
Weleda Wild Rose Toner removes the last traces of cleanser, and soothes and refreshes the skin leaving it ready for moisturiser to be applied.

Pros: It has a lovely floral rose fragrance
It is soothing and refreshing on the skin
It removes the last traces of cleanser effectively

Cons: It would have been more convenient in a spray bottle
· It may be too drying for very dry skin, due to the alcohol content

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Juice Beauty Hydrating Mist Reviews

Review of Juice Beauty Hydrating Mist
By Eva van L.

Packaging The Juice Beauty Hydrating Mist comes in a transparent, plastic bottle with a spray top. The design is minimal but looks nice.

Application The Juice Beauty mist has an orange colour, it smells fresh and absorbs quickly into the skin. The bottle with spray top is very easy in use. I’ve found that the Juice Beauty Hydrating mist can be used for all sorts of purposes, as a toner before your moisturizer (although it does not exfoliate), before or after using a face oil (to make the oil absorb better into the skin), a refreshing treatment during the day (it should be used sparingly, though, when wearing any make-up such as foundation) or as a lotion to remove the last traces of a facial cleanser. The Juice Beauty mist did not irritate or dehydrate my skin; although using a moisturizing cream next to this product is advisable (it is a hydrating mist but obviously does not substitute a day or night face cream).

Ingredients The ingredient list is very impressive; the main ingredients in this Juice Beauty toner are grape and aloe vera juice, known for their hydrating, soothing and beautifying qualities. Further more, the Juice Beauty Hydrating mist contains the three main skin-perfecting vitamins, A (speeds-up cell-turnover), C (protects the skin against free-radicals) and E (moisturizing and healing). Together with the rosehip fruit extract which calms and nourishes sensitive skin, these are the perfect ingredients for a face mist or toner - no matter what skin type you may have. Of course the mist also does not contain any parabens or petrochemicals and the amount of (natural) alcohol in the product is very small.

Results The Juice Beauty hydrator is refreshing and works well as a toner (especially if you add a bit of witch hazel water, which is a great astringent). On a hot summer’s day, after a long flight or drive in a car, the mist is also a perfect revitalizing pick-me up.

Pros: It’s a multiple-purpose product.
It does not cause any irritation or dehydration.
The ingredients are very effective.
It’s suitable for sensitive and dry skin.


Cons: If the mist had come in a brown glass or plastic bottle, the ingredients would be better preserved and protected against UVA/UVB rays. This bottle offers no protection against sunlight, which can damage the ingredients.


Juice Beauty Hydrating Mist (£19.95) and other Juice Beauty products are available at naturisimo.com

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

John Masters Body Milk Reviews

Review of John Masters Organics Blood Orange & Vanilla Body Milk
By Andrea L.

Packaging John Masters Body Milk came in a trial size 2fl oz / 59 ml burnt orange coloured plastic bottle – presumably to reflect the blood orange theme – with a black plastic screw lid. The bottle did not display a full list of ingredients and as it did not come in box or with a leaflet, I had limited knowledge of its ingredients, other than its ‘12 organic plant extracts & essential oils’ of grapefruit, bourbon vanilla and blood orange which were mentioned on the bottle. It was claimed on the bottle of this John Masters Organics product that the product ‘has a new, improved formula that is absorbed more quickly and provides outstanding moisture and softness’. Somewhat audaciously, the product claimed to ‘create a euphoric scent’.
Performance I was immediately intrigued by the claim that the essential oils in this John Masters Organics Blood Orange & Vanilla Body Milk ‘create a euphoric scent’. To me, this meant a scent which would impart a sense of heightened elation. Could a scent really do this? Well, this one did not. Certainly, it has a pleasant, unusual scent which reminded me of confectionery; similar to the smell one gets on opening a box of chocolates. It was also a Christmassy smell which would make this product particularly suitable as a Christmas gift. It is the scent of this John Masters Body Milk which distinguishes this product from the many other similar products on the market, although, perhaps disappointingly, the scent did not linger on the skin. The John Masters Orange and Vanilla Body Milk is described as a ‘body milk’. I was expecting a thin, milky fluid, but in fact, it was quite a thick lotion which stayed on my hand when I held it upside down. I wondered why the product is not described as a body lotion. Even when applied to the skin, it retains its lotion consistency. The John Masters Organics Body Milk absorbed quickly (although whether this was more quickly than its predecessor, I am unable to say) and it left my skin feeling soft. I would not, however, say that the moisture level was outstanding, nor did it last any longer than other products which I have used. The bottle claimed that the product was ‘perfect for use all over your body’. I would add ‘from the neck downwards’; I did not try it on my face.
General Comments I did like this John Masters Body Milk and I have liked other John Masters Organics products which I have tried. I do feel that there is a slight exaggeration in the product description. I was, perhaps, at a slight disadvantage in having a small, trial size bottle, as presumably, the full-size bottle would come with more information displayed on the packaging. I believe that the full-size bottle is a different colour, with a pump applicator. There are many natural body lotions on the market and in performance, this John Masters Body Milk is really not much different from the rest; what gives this product the edge is its unique fragrance – even if it doesn’t leave one feeling euphoric!

John Masters Citrus Detangler Reviews

Review of John Masters Organics Citrus & Neroli Detangler
By Christine C.

This John Masters Citrus Detangler is presented in a distinctive brown bottle the same as other John Masters products. I must admit that when I first saw these products on Naturisimo I actually thought they were for men. The packaging is very masculine in appearance.
The directions for this John Masters Organics Citrus & Neroli Detangler are clear and straightforward. It is the same as any other hair conditioner.
The product feels more like a lotion than a cream. This means it’s quite runny and comes out of the bottle easily but you have to be careful not to lose it in the shower! It also means that this John masters Organics product easy to apply and I found it worked through my hair quickly and evenly. You can leave this product on as a leave-in conditioner for very dry hair which I didn’t need to do but I did leave it on for 2-3 minutes.

John Masters Citrus and Neroli Detangler feels creamy but light during application and even when fully applied doesn’t disappear. John Masters Citrus Detangler rinses away easily and quickly, leaving not residue. The fragrance is very subtle only faintly lemony. I must admit there was little scent left on my hair once dried, however, that’s not really important if the product works.

I loved how this John Masters Organics Citrus Detangler left my hair, especially for such a lightweight formulation. I’ve never had problems with tangled hair so that isn’t where I saw the greatest improvement although my hair was detangled. My hair dried much smoother and shinier before using any other products or straighteners. Any frizz and all the little hairs that can sometimes stick up along my parting were gone. Amazing! I usually still have to apply a finishing product to calm bits down, even if I’ve used a serum or straightening cream.

As far as I can see there is no downside to using John Masters Citrus Detangler. My annoyingly wavy hair was much improved in terms of its manageability and I’ve always assumed I needed a ‘richer’ product to do that. Some people might not like the lack of fragrance if they like to smell a product on their hair after using it, but with these results, that didn’t bother me.

Friday, November 06, 2009

Whish Pomegranate Body Wash Reviews

Review of Whish Pomegranate Body Wash
By Zainab C.

Packaging
This Whish Pomegranate Body Wash comes in a plastic tube with a snap shut lid which ensures control of how much gel is dispensed. The tube has a design which is quite simple but tasteful and fun. The plastic tube was made of 30% recycled material but in my opinion this could have and should have been higher.

Application
The Whish product was a nice pink coloured gel and felt like most other shower gels. It also lathered up quite well, going on smoothly. It was a pleasure to use as the smell was very fruity – not overpowering but pleasant. Whilst using the Whish Pomegranate Body Wash, I could tell straight away that it was less drying than conventional shower gels. At the same time, the body wash felt cleansing and refreshing. I was able to use this body wash and not have to moisturise afterwards, which was a bonus.

Ingredients
The Whish Pomegranate Wash is sulfate, paraben, DEA, TEA and petrochemical free. This is surprising as the results were impressive as the body wash lathered, cleansed and moisturised the skin exceptionally well. It was quite difficult to understand what some of the ingredients were – it could be useful to have a simplified version of ingredients in brackets like some other brands do. My only other concern was that perfume was an item on the ingredients list and this may not be suitable for others with very sensitive skin.

Results
The overall result was that my skin was left, cleansed, refreshed and moisturised. The Whish Pomegranate Body Wash was a pleasure to use as it smelled gorgeous and functioned well.

Pros: The gorgeous smell of this Whish Body Wash
It was cleansing and refreshing with enough ‘foam’
It was moisturising enough to not have to use body moisturiser afterwards
Cons: The ingredients listed perfume which may not be suitable for sensitive skin
It was difficult to know what some of the ingredients listed were
The packaging could have been more eco-friendly

Whish Pomegranate Body Wash (£12.05) and other Whish products are available at naturisimo.com

Wednesday, November 04, 2009

John Masters Organics Citrus & Neroli Detangler

Review of John Masters Organics Citrus & Neroli Detangler
By Lara R.

Packaging
This multipurpose John Masters Organics Citrus & Neroli Detangler
comes in a sleek plastic bottle that would look good on any bathroom shelf.

Application
I have fine long curly hair that sometimes feels dry and tends to get frizzy on wet or humid days. I like to wash my hair everyday so I been using the same shampoo and conditioner for years (Aveda Shampure in case you wonder) because of its gentle formulation.

I was so pleasantly surprise when I open the John Masters Detangler. It smells truly wonderful, a mix of uplifting neroli and citrus aromas. Also it has a rich but lightweight formulation so you just need a small amount and runs easily through the hair. You can either leave in or rinse off after the recommended 1- 3 minutes. This John Masters conditioner is also recommended for coloured hair.

I also decided to tried it on my three year old daughter who has very fine hair that tangles very easily. She loved the smell and it was very easy to distribute on her hair.

Ingredients
This John Masters Organics Citrus Detangler is certified organic by EcoCert / QAI and is not tested on animals. It does not contain Sodium Laureth sulfate or parabens which are very common on most high street shampoos and conditioners. The ingredients are a mix of natural vegetable oils, proteins and vitamins to restore strength and shine. Pantenol, wheat amino acids and lot of oils (jojoba, coconut, sunflower) nourish and protect the hair whilst essential oils of lemon, neroli, grapefruit give this conditioner its lovely uplifting aroma.

Results
The smell of this John Masters Organics detangler is the first thing that makes you fall in love with. But the results are just as great. This conditioner leaves my hair feeling soft, silky and bouncy. Not much frizziness on wet days either. It definitely moisturizes the hair.

It worked really well on my daughter’s hair which I usually struggle to detangle. And I loved the fact that her curls were not weighed down. Neither she or me experienced any itchiness to the scalp or skin, so I think its suitable for the small ones in the family as well.

I would recommend this product to anyone and I’ll have no problems swapping my regular conditioner for this one.

Pros:
Beautiful smell
Detangles without weighing down hair
You just need a small amount
Despite its lightweight feel is very rich and concentrated
Hair feels silky and bouncy
Suitable for the whole family

Cons:
It may be too expensive for every day use.