Wednesday, 31 March 2010

Juice Beauty Green Apple Moisturiser Reviews

Review of Juice Beauty Green Apple Antioxidant Moisturiser
by Gill M.
Packaging: The sample of Juice Beauty Green Apple Antioxidant Moisturiser is packaged in a small transparent jar with a white lid in a recycled box. (The full size cream comes in a transparent glass jar in a recyclable box.) The box is mostly white with grey and black text and a green apple logo on the front. The back panel of the box is the same green colour with grey and black text. The text on the jar (the name of the moisturiser and the size – 7ml) is clear easy to read. However I found the text on the box – including the ingredients list and instructions for use was so small it was exceptionally difficult to read. I presume this was because it was a sample size and the text is in larger type on the full size product box.
Application: This Juice Beauty cream is a daily moisturiser for normal, dry and aging skin. It can also be used nightly for optimum results. Warm it in the palms of your hands before smoothing over face, neck and décolleté. It is a light moisturiser, with a fantastic scent. A little goes a long way as well!
Ingredients: This Juice Beauty moisturiser features organic hydroxy-acid (a brightening complex of organic apple, lemon and grape juices) to exfoliate, improve skin tone and texture. It is vitamin-rich and includes powerful antioxidants to rejuvenate the skin. It also includes organic essential fatty acids which are perfect for dry, sensitive and aging skin. A “Best Before” date is stamped on the bottom of the jar.
It does not contain parabens, pesticides, harsh surfactants or sulfates, synthetic fragrances, synthetic dyes, petro-chemicals or phthalates. Juice Beauty adheres to a strict no animal testing policy and a 100% vegetarian ingredients policy. All Juice Beauty's organic ingredients are certified by a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) approved agency. Although the box states it is “made with certified organic ingredients”, not all of the ingredients are organic. The organic ingredients are marked with an asterisk on the box, however the print is so small on the trial size box that I struggled to read them, and had to resort to looking up the ingredients on the internet.
Results: Juice Beauty Green Apple Antioxidant Moisturiser has a fantastic, fresh, clean, natural fragrance – you can smell the apple, lemon and grape juice in it! I have both dry and sensitive skin. Unfortunately I often find moisturisers don’t hydrate my skin enough or if they do, they tend to aggravate it. I was really surprised with this cream – it was very light when I applied it, yet provided enough moisture for my skin. (Usually it takes a really thick, rich moisturiser to nourish my skin). The Juice Beauty Green Apple Antioxidant Moisturiser absorbed very quickly without leaving any sticky residue on my skin. My skin feels soft, looks healthy and is hydrated. I would definitely recommend it.
Pros:
Suitable for various skin types.
Very hydrating for such a light cream.
It does not aggravate my sensitive skin.
Fresh natural fragrance.
Cons:
Made in the USA – therefore I’m concerned about the carbon footprint and air miles. Could use a British made organic moisturiser e.g. PAI skincare.
Quite expensive, but you do get 60ml in a normal jar. A lot of other moisturisers are cheaper, but you get less for your money.
Personally I prefer pump dispensers to jars – I feel they are more hygienic than putting my fingers in a jar everyday!


The Juice Beauty Green Apple Antioxidant Moisturiser (£42.50) and the Juice Beauty Organics range are available from Naturisimo.com


Tuesday, 23 March 2010

John Masters Bearberry Skincare for Oily Skin

Today Naturisimo is proud to be the first to offer the new John Masters solution for oily skin in the UK. The John Masters Bearberry range offers the perfect solution for oily skin. Cleanse and tone with nature's best astringent and skin balancing ingredients, including bearberry, willowbark and rice extracts. You'll see and feel a difference after just one use.
The John Masters line for oily and combination skin includes:

The full John Masters Skincare range is available from Naturisimo.com

Wednesday, 10 March 2010

Huni Every Night Moisturiser Reviews

Review of Huni Every Night Moisturiser
by Kelly B
Packaging: The packaging for the Huni Every Night Moisturiser is really gorgeous. It is a really attractive rich honey yellow coloured plastic pump action bottle. The bottle is cleverly styled in a hexagonal shape to resemble honey comb. The box is very attractive too, the same rich honey colour with intricate honey comb pattern embossing. The packaging is very special and would make a great gift. The pump action makes the product economical as only a little comes out with each pump so you never dispense too much cream.
Application: The Huni Every Night Moisturiser feels rich yet light in texture, is easy to apply and absorbs well. It is best to only use a small amount and pat it into the skin. It is so effective that you really only need a little. It soothes any redness and inflammation instantly and removes any tightness making skin feel supple and smooth.
Your skin feels quickly nourished and hydrated and fantastically your skin is matt and not at all greasy unlike lots of creams for dry skin which can make your skin feel over loaded with product. This natural chemical free face cream makes your skin dewy and glowing especially on the tops of your cheeks which is really flattering. It is so light and comfortable.
Huni Every Night Moisturiser does feel a little sticky to the touch, however it does contain top quality manuka honey as its fourth ingredient. I do not mind the slight stickiness as the overall finish is matt and I find it preferable to greasy night creams. The scent is very pleasant it is a very delicate scent almost no scent but very slight honey undertones can be detected.
Ingredients: Comvita only use natural ingredients from sustainable sources which is comforting to know. You know you are getting ethically sourced quality ingredients. Importantly you know the honey used in the Huni skincare range is the best as Comvita are the global leader in Manuka honey. Manuka honey is known to heal and nourish the skin and provide anti-aging benefits.
Huni Every Night Moisturiser also contains keratin extracted from the wool fibres of New Zealand sheep. This is added to improve hydration and suppleness of the skin. I was initially concerned about this ingredient as I have very sensitive skin and have had allergies to lanolin (also from sheep’s wool) in the past. However I have had no allergy whatsoever to this product.
This natural night cream also contains myrrh resin extract well known for its healing, soothing, and anti-aging properties. Shea butter and macadamia oil further add to this fantastic mix of skin nourishing ingredients.
Results: I can’t speak highly enough about the Huni Every Night Moisturiser, it is really excellent, the best night cream I have tried. It soothes, hydrates, reduces fine lines, and creates a dewy radiant complexion in a very short time. You can see results after just one night. What more could a girl want? I highly recommend Huni Every Night Moisturiser (the Huni cleanser is lovely too!) and consider it a hero product in my dressing table.
Pros

- Fantastically soothing and hydrating
- Gives radiant dewy complexion
- Reduces fine lines
- Non greasy
- Fast results
- Reduces redness
- Delicate smell
- Paraben free
- Gentle enough to use on delicate eye area
- Great on T zone (non comedonic)
- White in colour so no staining of clothing necklines
Cons
- The pump dispenser is not long enough so you need to unscrew the top and use a cotton bud to reach the last third.
- The finish is a little sticky

The Huni Every Night Moisturiser (£30) and the Huni products range are available at Naturisimo.com

Tuesday, 9 March 2010

John Masters Organics Antioxidant Day Creme Reviews

Review of John Masters Organics Rose & Apricot Antioxidant Day Creme
by Irene M.
Packaging: John Masters Organics Rose and Apricot Antioxidant Day Crème is presented in a smart brown glass bottle topped with a pump dispenser, which is housed inside a 100% compostable cardboard box. All product information is written on the box.
Application: Applied after cleansing and toning, the thick and creamy texture of John Masters Organics Rose and Apricot Antioxidant Day Crème was quickly absorbed by my very dry skin, making it feel instantly nourished, hydrated and softer.
Ingredients: John Masters Organics Rose and Apricot Antioxidant Day Crème carries a very impressive list of certified organic and wild-crafted ingredients, including steam-distilled essential oils. Naturally moisturizing botanicals include borage oil and aloe vera, and spirulina extract is added to nourish the skin with essential fatty acids and vitamins. Amongst other ingredients included (all sounding good enough to eat!) are shea butter, extracts of oats, rice and white tea, and wheatgerm oil.
Results: My mature and very dry skin loved (and quickly absorbed) the deliciously thick and creamy texture of this John Masters product. My skin feels more hydrated and softer than it has for a long time. John Masters Organics aim to create luxury organic products, and with the gorgeous scent of roses and apricots, combined with oils and extracts from peaches, blue tansy flower, roman chamomile and rosemary included in their Rose and Apricot Antioxidant Day Crème, I would say they have succeeded! This is my first experience of John Masters Organics, but I’m sure it won’t be my last!
Pros: The thick and creamy texture is quickly absorbed.
Skin feels generously moisturized, hydrated and softer.
The fragrance is delightful (and addictive)!
This product has not been tested on animals.
No chemical ‘nasties’ or GMO’s are included in the formulation.
Cons: Someone with an extreme sensitivity to fragrance may find the scent unsuitable.


Thursday, 4 March 2010

Barefoot Botanicals Rosa Fina Face Lotion Reviews

Review of Barefoot Botanicals Rosa Fina Face Lotion
by Caroline S.
Packaging: The Rosa Fina face lotion comes in a lovely glass bottle with a pump dispenser. I personally think that this packaging is absolutely perfect for such a beautiful, natural product. The branding is printed on a transparent wrap so the entire contents of the bottle are visible. The Rosa fina lotion itself is a delicious fresh white colour and the opaque white pump dispenser means that there is no risk of contamination of the product - unlike dipping your finger in a pot of cream. The overall effect of the packaging is of a lotion that is fresh and pure and thoroughly inviting.
Application: The pump dispenser on the Rosa Fina face lotion deserves a special mention because it is just so downright fabulous. It actually dispenses, in one single pump, the precise amount needed to cover your entire face. That probably doesn't sound too thrilling - but if you consider the amount of wasteage you get with some dispensers, this is a real marvel. It is small things like that that really show the company puts thought and effort into their products - and I want to applaud Barefoot Botanicals for a small thing that makes a big difference. So, after being delighted with my first squirt, I was thoroughly pleased to discover that the Rosa Fina lotion has a good density to it. I have been disappointed in the past by lotions that are incredibly watery but the Rosa Fina is more of a lightweight cream. The smell is mouthwatering and, pleasantly, a little stronger than I expected. I don't always find rose-scented products to be particularly impressive, however this lotion packs a surprising punch. The scent is rather like spicy turkish delight and, whilst not being overwhelming, it does linger enough to make you feel sensuous and exotic - remember the old Turkish Delight adverts?
The Rosa Fina face lotion is absorbed almost instantly into the skin leaving it velvety soft and not remotely greasy. Now for the best part - the description on the bottle hints at a firming action - and wow, does it deliver! Skin does feel immediately tightened and firm. The only way I can describe it is to say that it is similar to the feeling you get after using a toner and letting it evaporate off your skin. It is taut but in no way dry or unpleasant feeling. Absolutely wonderful under make-up because it dries matte, it gives you a really youthful, bright complexion.
Ingredients: rosa mosqueta, plus coltsfoot, horsetail and lady’s mantle strengthen collagen and elastin, plump fine lines and firm skin. Argan, borage and jojoba oils provide essential fatty acids to soothe and strengthen the skin’s barrier and protect against moisture loss and environmental damage.

Results: Well, the name of this product is Rosa Fina joie de vivre - which translates as "the joy of living" and I certainly feel that it lives up to its name. It is so quick and simple to apply and yet the results are immediate - firmer, plumper skin and moisturisation in one. Ah, you ask, instant firming but does it last? Well, in my case, yes. I can honestly say that my skin looks more refined and plumped. I am noticing that after 3 weeks of using Rosa Fina daily, my foundation is gliding on a lot more smoothly and my cheeks seem more defined and youthful in appearance.
Now, although it claims to reduce scarring, rosacea and pigmentation, I personally haven't noticed any signs yet of my ruddy cheeks being calmed by this lotion. Although, to be fair, I think it probably takes longer than 20 days to see results such as that. What I can tell you, is that I was so genuinely impressed with the firming action of the face lotion, that I have treated myself to a bottle of the Rosa Fina "lifting and firming" body lotion too!

Pros: Fabulous pump dispenser means less waste and no contamination of product
A little goes a long way - so it works out as very cost effective
Fantastic matte finish means it is wonderful either under make-up or worn alone on a bare face
Wonderful, enchanting smell
Instant feeling of tightened skin and a genuine plumping action with repeated use
Cons: If you have very dry/sore skin you may not like the taut feeling it gives
Very dry skin may benefit more from a heavier cream rather than this lotion


The Barefoot Botanicals Rosa Fina Face Lotion (£22.95) and Barefoot Botanicals products are available at Naturisimo.com

Wednesday, 3 March 2010

Rosa Fina Rejuvenating Masque Reviews

Review of Rosa Fina Rejuvenating Masque Reviews
by Beverley S.
Packaging: Rosa Fina Rejuvenating Masque comes beautifully presented in a white box with Barefoot’s silver logo. I loved the botanical drawing of the Rose Hip & petal on the side of the box. Colours of the rose are replicated in the details of the product’s highlights which made the box pretty & feminine. Distinctive pink logos indicate the product is free from chemicals, suitable for vegetarians & cruelty free. 100% natural & therapeutic.
Application & Texture: Rosa Fina Rejuvenating Masque includes concise application instructions although I found the lack of advice for removing the product on the box & leaflet included was something which would have been beneficial especially when I had never used this type of mask before. Barefoots website didn’t have the information although a quick query to Barefoot answered this for me. Rosa Fina Rejuvenating Masque is very simple to apply removing with water with a muslin cloth or flannel. The Rosa Fina masque has a creamy texture which stayed creamy & didn’t harden on my face which was most acceptable to me. This Rosa Fina masque has a beautiful light scent but isn’t highly perfumed which I loved.
Comments: I was apprehensive at first as clay based masks are normally too strong for my skin type but Barefoot's Rosa Fina masque uses pink clay which doesn’t harden, although I felt a little activity the first few times I used the masque it wasn’t uncomfortable. I was amazed at how fresh and toned my skin looked after removing the masque. I looked forward to using it again & was very pleased to read the main ingredient Rosa Mosqueta was blended with intensive moistursing & purifying ingredients to make the masque multi purpose! With regular use it would help to fight wrinkles & maintain firmness resulting in a smooth, radiant complexion. Rosa mosqueta oil is from a wild Chilean rose which is effective to rejuvenate my skin & leave me feeling & looking refreshed. Pink clay is used to purify which seemed to be gentle on my sensitive skin. I have used other clay based masks which caused my skin to flare up red & sore.
Results: Barefoot botanicals Rosa Fina masque was a delight to use & had an instant effect (great for a quick fix especially if my skin was sallow & stressed) I loved using the masque & feel it will improve the effects using the masque twice a week. I would be keen to try Rosa Fina youth serum after the masque & Rosa Fina eye serum if they added to the benefits of using products with Rosa Mosqueta.
Pros:
• A quick ‘fix’ for tired, sallow skin or a total luxury time ‘fix’
• Beautiful relaxing experience producing a radiant complexion
• Full list of ingredients on the box with explanations about each one on the website
• Can be slotted into an existing routine (although I am keen to look at other products in the range now) I have used & always keep a tube of Barefoots SOS cream
Cons:

• More details on removal could be included the literature is mainly about other products
• Barefoot Botanicals refreshing facial spritz is recommended to use with the mask although the fact it includes Alcohol (as do other products) caused me concern especially in a toning product.

The Rosa Fina Rejuvenating Masque (£21.95) and the full range of Barefoot Botanicals products are available at Naturisimo.com

Friday, 26 February 2010

Organic Apoteke Cleanse Gel Reviews

Review of Organic Apoteke Cleanse Gel
by Gillian L.
PACKAGING - The Organic Apoteke Cleanse Gel trial sized gel comes in a neat glass pot which is very compact to slip into a toilet bag. The standard size comes in a 50ml bottle with pump dispenser enclosed in a box. All packaging is recyclable.
APPLICATION - The Organic Apoteke Cleanse Gel is applied twice daily, to a damp face, using the fingertips. Massage in gently and rinse well. Only a tiny amount is needed as this is a very concentrated and rich gel. It forms a lovely rich, lemon scented lather which was most refreshing in the morning. The tub was handy but I found it difficult to get small enough quantities so I ended up with too much and lots of lather for the hands also!
INGREDIENTS - As the name implies all ingredients of the Organic Apoteke Cleanse Gel are organic, vegetarian and cruelty free and use only the purest ingredients - vegetable glycerine gently cleans and soothes the skin; neem provides anti bacterial action and essential oils of lemon and bergamot. This lovely herbal blend is targeted at normal tending to oily and blemished skins.
RESULTS - The Organic Apoteke Cleanse Gel smelled divine and was eagerly tried by my teenage son and daughter whose skins are oilier, with very pleasing results. They particularly liked the fresh lemony scent which they said made them feel fresh and clean. I think it would be a very popular product with teenagers or anyone prone to spots as it does not have a medicated smell. My skin is combination type but very sensitive,even to essential oils so, unfortunately, I had to stop using it after a day as it left my skin feeling tight, itchy and with dry blotches which I think may be due to the essential oils. I also found the scent a bit overpowering.
PROS - Very good value as such tiny quantities needed. The trial sized 10g pot would easily last for 3 weeks, so handy for holidays.
- Ideal for oily, problem skins as it really does work to calm and clear blemishes.
- Scent is suitable for male or female.
CONS - Too concentrated for very sensitive skins especially if you are sensitive to essential oils. I found the scent also triggered my asthma. However I should have checked the ingredients more carefully and the gel is marketed at normal to oily skins rather than for sensitive ones.

The Organic Apoteke Cleanse Gel (£16.95) and the full range of Organic Apoteke products are available at Naturisimo.com

Tuesday, 9 February 2010

Jurlique Eye Makeup Remover Reviews

Review of Jurlique Eye Makeup Remover
by Elle A.
This Jurlique Eye Makeup Remover is effective, smells nice and soft on your skin. It doesn’t irritate the sensitive skin around your eyes, or sting if it gets under your eyelashes, unlike some makeup removers. This Jurlique eye makeup remover doesn’t foam either, which is nice – it’s more like a cream, and it has the same moisturising effect. It can remove even the most stubborn mascara and eyeliner, as well as eyeshadow, foundation and concealer (I’ve only used it on pencil eyeliner though, so I don’t know what it would be like on liquid eyeliner – it worked on mascara though so I guess it would work on that too). Jurlique makeup remover smells faintly of calendula (just a hint – not too overpowering) and doesn’t leave any oily residue. You can use it straight from the tube onto your fingertips and sort of massage it over your eyes that way, but I find it best to put a small amount on a cotton wool ball – that way you can use the other side of the cotton wool to wipe it away afterwards.
Another nice thing about this Jurlique product is the packaging. It comes in an aluminium tube which “squeezes” consistently – no splurges of makeup remover all over the place. The tube is white with black writing – simple, pretty and sophisticated. And, of course, it contains no petro-chemicals, synthetic fragrances, synthetic colours, parabens, sulphates or phthalates – all good!
The Jurlique Eye Makeup Remover (£16.99) and other Jurlique products are available from Naturisimo.com.

Friday, 5 February 2010

A'kin Radiance Rosehip Oil Reviews

Review of A'kin Pure Radiance Rosehip Oil
by Anisa B.
The A'kin Radiance Rosehip Oil comes in a medicinal type glass bottle with a dropper. Since you only need 3-4 drops each time, I find it is easy to dispense the right amount each time.

The A'kin Rosehip Oil is a dark golden amber colour and has a herbal/woody smell that is unusual but does not last on the skin. It has a lighter texture than olive oil for e.g. and spreads easily and absorbs quickly onto the skin without it feeling greasy like most oils. 3-4 drops is sufficient for the face and neck and therefore a bottle will generally last 3-4 months. A’kin says that the rosehip oil contains 100% Rosa Canina Seed Extract which is certified organic and it is also rich in Pro Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Omega 3, 9 and 6.

I was thrilled to receive the A'kin Rosehip Oil to review as it is a product I’ve been using religiously for approximately 6 months so I feel very confident in its effectiveness. I started using this because I had scars that I wanted to get rid of and I was looking for hydration for my skin as every moisturiser I had been using was still leaving my skin with dry areas around parts of my face. Within a couple of days of using this product, I noticed that all those dry areas were gone, my skin felt softer and was glowing naturally. I have since carried on using it and I have found that my scars and discolouration have faded dramatically, and my skin rejuvenates itself a lot quicker. It is one of those products that I will never be without! It is for anyone that is looking to have brighter skin, a more even skin tone, and to restore skin to a more balanced form. It is also an excellent product to use for wrinkles and for the prevention of wrinkles too. I cannot recommend it enough and have only praise for it!

The pros of A'kin Rosehip Oil are:
- It is good at fading marks/uneven skin tone
- It provides extra hydration for the skin
- It is not as oily and heavy as most oils
- It can be used anywhere
- It provides visible results
- It is suitable for all skin types
The cons are: None

The A'kin Pure Radiance Rosehip Oil (£15.99) and A'kin Products are available at Naturisimo.com

Thursday, 4 February 2010

Trevarno Day Cream Reviews

Review of Trevarno Organic Day Cream
by Elizabeth O.
Packaging: The trial sized Trevarno Organic Day Cream comes contained in a small transparent jar with screw top lid. The full sized versions – available in quantities of either 30ml or 60ml – are contained in a brightly coloured jar which also has a screw top lid and means that you have to dip your fingers into the jar in order to get to the product.
Application: The product is a very light and subtle cream that glides along the skin effortlessly before melting into it. It is absorbed quickly and easily and is not at all greasy and only a relatively small amount is required to moisturize the face and décolletage sufficiently. The cream imparts a healthy glow rather than a gloss or oily looking sheen to the face and though the glow appeared to fade gradually throughout the day I was left with skin that felt adequately moisturized and supple.
Ingredients: As the first beauty company to meet the Organic Farmers and Growers strict standards in order to gain formal organic certification, Trevarno’s Organic Day Cream is bursting with organic goodies, cruelty free and ethical ingredients and harbors no off-putting nasties such as chemical preservatives or stabilizers. Consisting of Organic Lavender Flower Water, Sunflower Oil, Vitamin E, Grapefruit Seed extract and Jojoba Oil to name a few, the cream is made up of an appealing list of simple ingredients which combined give off a fresh and pleasant natural scent which lingers subtly on the skin.
Results: The Trevarno Organic Day Cream performed well on my oily, combination skin. The drier areas of my face were well moisturized whilst the oilier patches were regulated and my complexion overall appeared improved, slightly brighter and took on a dewy look after only a few days of using the product. My skin which is at times sensitive and can be quite reactive was not at all aggravated by the cream which also acts as a lovely base beneath makeup, contributing to a smooth and even natural looking finish. The Trevarno Organic Day Cream performed well and is very reasonably priced and therefore would definitely make it onto my Christmas wish list.
Pros:
My sensitive skin was noticeably relived and soothed by the product.
It is absorbed easily and quickly and has a pleasant yet subtle scent.
It available with or without added SPF sun protection.
The cream makes for a great base beneath makeup.
Cons:
The product comes contained in a screw top jar which means there is a risk of contaminating the cream as a result of dipping your fingers into it.

The Trevarno Organic Day Cream ( £10.34) and Trevarno Skincare Products are available from Naturisimo.com

Tuesday, 2 February 2010

A’kin Creamy Cleanser & Toner Reviews

Review of A’kin Rose and Geranium Creamy Cleanser & Toner
by Louise M.
Packaging: This A’kin cleanser and toner is packaged in a very practical flip-top squeezy bottle which stands upside down so you can get to every last drop inside. The plastic also means that you don’t need to worry about it smashing which makes it practical for travel. Although it has a smart and classic aesthetic it is also made from recyclable plastic, which environmentally-conscious as well as beauty-conscious consumers will be pleased to hear.

Application: The texture of the A’kin cleanser & toner is wonderful; it has a rich, creamy texture when it comes out of the tube, but it turns to more of a cleansing milk as soon as it gets wet so does not feel too heavy on the skin. The sumptuous texture also means that it is not at all drying or tacky, which is often a problem for my very dry skin.

Ingredients: As you might expect from A’kin which calls itself ‘the purist company’ the ingredients are free from any parabens, mineral oils, artificial colours or scents and many other nasties. Similarly they do not use any animal-derived products or test on animals and use certified organic ingredients where possible. Once opened the bottle should last twelve months. I have extremely sensitive skin, especially on my face and I had no problem at all with this A’kin cleanser and toner which is very mild indeed. This product moisturises your skin with shea butter and tones it with witch hazel both tried and trusted natural ingredients. Above all others however my favourite ingredients have to be the rose flower water and geranium oil which give it a really luxurious feminine scent and makes it feel like a real treat to use.

Results: This A’kin product claims to be both a cleanser and a toner, and while I was certainly impressed by this first claim, I am less sure of its toning properties. I wear waterproof eye pencil every day and to my surprise the A’kin cleanser removed it all without any effort at all, my skin felt clean and moisturised with every use. However, I cannot say that I felt as though my skin had been obviously toned. Perhaps this is because I am used to a separate liquid toner, and would certainly be an excellent option for someone whose dry skin prevents them from using more astringent alternatives. In spite of this, A’kin Cleanser and Toner won me over and I would be happy to purchase it again.

Pros of the A'kin cleanser & toner:
It thoroughly removed even waterproof eye makeup without any need to scrub the skin.
It suits all skin types, even very sensitive and dry skins.
It smells divine, very feminine and luxurious.
It lasts for 12 months once open, giving you plenty of time to use all 225ml.

Cons:
The toning properties may not feel astringent enough for some.
As an Australian company some UK consumers may prefer a brand which has a smaller travel footprint.

The A’kin Rose and Geranium Creamy Cleanser & Toner (£13.99) and the full range of A'kin skin care are available at Naturisimo.com

Wednesday, 27 January 2010

Barefoot SOS Face and Body Cream Reviews

Review of Barefoot Botanicals SOS Rescue Me Face and Body Cream
by Debra S.

Packaging: Barefoot SOS Face and Body Cream packaging is basically a white tube and clear lid with lots of information on the front and back, including a logo, but no other images. This is a very simple and unimpressive packaging design with font print in turquoise, black and silver.
Application: It takes a few seconds to sink into the skin, but is very light and non-greasy. I would have preferred a more creamy concoction. It smelt like paradise, however, although it was definitely not overpowering. I would rate this as a fantastic fragrance in which I could smell both the lavender and orange blossom.
Ingredients: Well, the ingredients are listed on the packaging as containing: borage oil, shea butter, evening primrose oil, calendula, burdock, mahonia, French lavender, chamomile and orange blossom. The website also states that the Barefoot Botanicals SOS Cream ingredients include: neroli, comfrey and chickweed. There is a full list of every ingredient on the very simple to read website. I am happy with these, as they include some of my favourites and most trusted natural remedies for dry skin.
Results: I was incredibly impressed with the results of Barefoot Botanicals SOS Cream. I have some eczema on my elbows and noted that this cream was suitable for the condition. I must say it certainly was, as upon my very first application, it calmed this complaint down and it seemed to disappear with the second application. There were no allergic reactions at all, despite having very sensitive skin. Barefoot Botaniclas SOS Cream felt wonderful on both my face and neck and afterwards my skin felt really soft and silky to touch. I also used it on my hands, which are very dry at the moment, and, it made them instantly soft too. The results lasted for hours and hours. It is quite economical too, as I did not apply much. Barefoot Botaniclas SOS Cream is a fabulous cream which I would be very happy to buy…
Pros: No allergies at all
It smelt fantastic
Natural ingredients which I know and trustListed ingredients on the packaging
Cured my eczema, at least temporarily
Quenched my dry skin
Made my skin feel soft and silky to touch
Cured my eczema, at least temporarily
Quenched my dry skinMade my skin feel soft and silky to touch
Cons:
The packaging is a little cheap looking
It was not as rich as I prefer creams to be

Rosa Fina Nourishing Cleansing Milk Reviews

Review of Barefoot Botanicals Rosa Fina Nourishing Cleansing Milk
by Sally S.

Packaging: The Rosa Fina Cleansing Milk comes in a plastic pump dispensing bottle inside a beautiful box outer. I love the simplicity of the pump dispensing bottle, it gives out just the right amount. I was disappointed to see that the bottle is plastic though, I prefer glass as it’s easier to get recycled.

Application: The Rosa Fina cleanser is a light textured milk. It is refreshing to use and a little goes along way as you massage it into the face and neck. The best method of removing it is with a hot cloth or flannel. It can be used to remove eye make up too and did not sting my sensitive eyes at all. However I think it would struggle to remove waterproof mascara effectively.

Ingredients: The aroma of the Rosa Fina Cleansing Milk was gorgeous, a very sophisticated smell which made it very pleasant to use each day. The fragrance comes from the rosa damascena, juniper, frankincense and mandarin essential oils. The ingredients are 100 % natural and careful attention seems to have been placed on using refreshing, cleansing and detoxifying herbs to support the rosa mosqueta oil that is used through out the range for its firming properties.

Results: Having used the Rosa Fina cleanser for a while I have found my skin has remained problem free, the cleanser removes all traces of make up. My skin has felt a little drier since using the cleanser which is not a problem as it can be a tad oily if not treated properly.

Pros:
Fantastic dispensing pump delivers just the right amount.
Only requires a small amount of product so the 125ml will last ages.
Skin feels fresh and clean after using the cleanser.

Cons:
· Plastic bottle, I prefer glass.
· It did not remove my eye make up fully.
Barefoot Botanicals Rosa Fina Nourishing Cleansing Milk (£19.95) and Barefoot Botanicals products are available at Naturisimo.com

Tuesday, 24 November 2009

Weleda Skin Food Reviews

Review of Weleda Skin Food
by Linda B.
Packaging: The Weleda Skin Food comes in a metal tube in a recyclable box. The tube and box have different shades of green on them and both have a clean and neat design.
Application: The texture of the Weleda Skin Food is a very rich cream which glides over the skin easily. It absorbed very well and did not leave a greasy residue. This organic cream is gentle enough to use on the face yet effective enough to use on very dry areas such as elbows, hand, knees etc. I used it on the dry patches on my face every night for 4 nights and it corrected the dryness so I then only had to apply it once every 3 or 4 nights If you pat the Weleda Skin Food onto the face it avoids dragging the skin. Other areas can can have the cream rubbed in until it is absorbed. I also used it as a lip balm and my lips became soft and smooth after 3 days. As my hands can get very dry I applied a liberal amount at night and put on cotton gloves. I have never used such an effective hand cream before and my hands were soft and supple after 4 nights. I used it on my elbows, knees and ankles and it was very effective after a few days. These areas are now ‘flake‘ free and I cannot recommend this Weleda product highly enough. I will certainly make sure I always have some in my home. You only have to use a very small amount as a little goes a long way so use sparingly. Weleda Skin Food has been around since 1926 and is a nourishing, deep penetrating and hydrating treatment for the whole body. It is perfect as a skin remedy and helps protect the skin against the winter weather. After soothing the rough, dry irritated areas you do not have to use it every day as it is so effective.
Ingredients: Weleda Skin Food is completely natural and the full list of ingredients are printed very clearly on the box in Latin and English. The essential fatty acids and vitamin E from the organic sunflower seed oil moisturises and conditions the stubborn dryness. The organic Pansy and Rosemary leaf extract have mild antiseptic properties that calms dry irritations. The biodynamic and organic Calendula flower exctract has anti-inflammatory properties. The delicate fragrance is formed from refreshing essential oils including Sweet Orange and Lavendulae. It also contains lanolin and beeswax and is suitable for vegetarians.
Results: After using Weleda Skin Food for over 2 weeks my skin is soft, smooth and repaired. The results are amazing. I have not found anything so gentle and yet so effective to use on all areas of my face and body. This one product does the job of several other creams which are sold for one purpose.
I would recommend Weleda Skin Food to everyone especially if they have sensitive skin.
Pros:
1. It is gentle enough to be used by the whole family even on the most sensitive skin.
2. It is very effective at moisturising and conditioning all dry and rough areas no matter how bad they are.
3. It can be used as a protection against the winter weather - ideal for people who work outdoors.
4. It leaves skin feeling soft and smooth.
5. You only have to use a very small amount so it lasts a long time.
6. It is one product to replace several others.
7. It is very reasonably priced and has a long shelf life. (Up to 2 years)
Cons:
1. The scent takes a few minutes to disappear.

Weleda Skin Food (£6.95) and the full Weleda skincare range is available at Naturisimo.com.

Thursday, 19 November 2009

Pai Macadamia Rose Cream Reviews

Review of Pai Macadamia and Rose Dry Skin Cream
by Kelly B.
Packaging: I tried the sample jar of the Pai Macadamia and Rose Dry Skin Cream which is a clear glass screw top jar with white plastic lid. However the 30ml full size is a clear glass pump action bottle which would be more hygienic for more lengthy use. The Pai lettering is black and simple yet classy. The ‘P’ of the word Pai extends into a leaf like shape which appears to appropriately depict the natural ingredients always used by the brand.

Application: The texture of the Pai Macadamia and Rose Cream for dry skin is quite buttery and greasy. A little goes a long way as it seems to melt into your skin as butter would. I found the formulation uncomfortable on my skin as it was just too greasy for my taste. This texture must be due to the high content of macadamia nut oil. I found it too rich as a day cream so I used it as a night cream only. The sample pot gave me 7 uses for my face and neck, more than ample for you to decide if you like it enough to purchase the full size.The Pai Macadamia and Rose Dry Skin Cream's fatty texture seemed to create a film over my skin rather than ever being properly absorbed. My skin appeared to find it hard to breathe through the cream and after the third or fourth application it caused me to break out in a few spots. On the plus side, this organic face cream is gentle enough to use on the delicate eye area. It does not create any puffiness which rich creams used on the eye area often can. The scent of the Pai Macadamia and Rose Dry Skin Cream is extremely gentle, almost no scent, but very faint undertones of rose can be detected. I like the fact that the Pai organic cream is white so it will not stain the neckline of clothing.
Ingredients: The mainly organic ingredients of the Pai Macadamia and Rose Dry Skin Cream seem to be an impressive list of known skin hydrators and nourishers, such as; macadamia nut oil, apricot kernal oil, borage oil, shea butter, vitamin e, vitamin a, and manuka oil. Many of these ingredients are also tremendously anti-aging as is the added rose water, rose geranium and frankinscense. Plus importantly, no toxic preservatives.

Results: The Pai Macadamia and Rose Dry Skin Cream is certainly nourishing and my skin was noticeably softer and silkier whilst I was using it. It seemed to reduce some fine dehydration lines and took away a little redness. However I found it far too oily and it appeared to create a water tight barrier that my skin couldn't easily breathe through. I feel there are so many superior natural creams for dry skin such as Logona face creams, and particularly the Comvita Huni range which is fantastically hydrating and gives the skin a real glow.

Pros- A little goes a long way
- Suitable for delicate eye area
- Reduces dehydration lines
- Reduces redness
- Softening and nourishing
- Gentle scent
- White cream (no clothes staining).
Cons- Too greasy
- Difficult for skin to breathe through
- Too oily for daytime use
- Can cause break outs