REN Glow And Go Kit

Everyone wants gorgeous, glowing skin. Water intake, exercise and a balanced diet are all main contributors to achieving a radiant complexion, but every once in awhile we all need a helping hand so today I thought I'd share two wonderful products from REN that not only promote radiance but have also improved my skin texture and tone.

Lovely Cosmetics Intensive Body Butter & Chocolate Face Mask

A couple of weeks ago I received an invitation to attend an event with Lovely Cosmetics, I thought it would be a great opportunity to learn more about this local brand and the products they have on offer. On the day of the event we got to talk to Caz (one of the beauties behind the brand) who was super welcoming and enthusiastic. It's clear to see how passionate Caz is about Lovely Cosmetics she puts a lot of work into researching ingredients for products and sourcing unique packaging. I personally think it's great when a brand owner is as passionate about the brand/products as its customers, it makes you want to support the brand. From speaking to Caz it sounds like there are a lot of exciting thing's to come for Lovely Cosmetics, certainly a brand to keep on your radar. 

If you haven't heard of Lovely Cosmetics before they're a 100% natural cosmetics line, all the products are hand made in Sheffield. One of the brands sayings is 'why should natural be boring' and I have to say the products are certainly anything but that! The stand out for me has to be packaging, distinguishably different from other natural brands on the market who tend to opt for greens/browns Lovely Cosmetics have added something a bit different to the mix with pink...pink everything which I personally love. All the products are housed in glass jars and there's just something really homely/comforting about the brand, they're products that will instantly add a touch of character to your bathroom cabinet.  

On the day of the event we were offered a generous 25% discount, so I used this as an opportunity to try two products from the brand here are my thoughts- 

Lovely Cosmetics Intensive Body Butter 

Something that often puts me off natural products is shelf life but after speaking to Caz and discovering most Lovely Cosmetics products last between 6-9 months (in a cool place) I left reassured. In all honesty I've never tried anything quite like this body butter the texture feels super whipped, almost mousse like (light and airy) but, when applied to the body this melts into the skin it feels like a dry body oil. I absolutely love this, for those who want the benefits of a body oil but without the grease this is a perfect alternative. This hydrates my skin, leaves a lovely sheen and my skin just feels incredibly soft after using this (a real treat for the body.) This will be perfect through the cooler months when my skins super dry.

Lovely Cosmetics Chocolate Face Mask 

Perhaps the product I was most intrigued by. The Lovely Cosmetics powder face mask is a completely new concept to me and something I was actually pretty excited to try. After posting a picture over on Instagram Rachel (from AllNaturalAspirations) mentioned how powder masks actually use less preservatives and more active ingredients which is great to know as it sounds like your skin will get a lot more benefits with powder masks. Now, this smells incredible I felt like I'd got my chocolate fix without any added calories which is always a bonus. Application was a little trial and error, admittedly I did end up wasting a lot of powder when I first used this. I found the best way to apply this is to take a teaspoon and a half of powder place in a bowl, mix with a little water then apply. This way you can really control the consistency and every thing's a lot less messy! After 10 minutes or so when the clay had set I was surprised at how easy this removed, I'm so used to scrubbing when it comes to removing clay masks so I was pleasantly surprised when the product was fully removed with a few swipes- great for someone like me with sensitive skin. This mask seemed to soak up excess oil  but didn't leave my skin feeling dry/tight or uncomfortable which is important for me as I don't enjoy masks that strip the skin. My skin felt mega soft and also a lot brighter after using this…if you haven't guessed already I'm impressed. 

What are your favourite natural brands? Have you tried powder masks? Have you tried any Lovely Cosmetics products?

P.S You can purchase Lovely Cosmetics products on their website here, or if you are local to Yorkshire -Wickwire (Nether Edge) , Birds Yard (Chapel Walk) , MoonKo (Division Street) , All Good Stuff (Butcher Works) or Makers Emporium (Rotherham)

Aloe Vera Gel - My New Must Have Product!

For years now I've read about the benefits of aloe vera and it's many uses both medicinal and cosmetic. Aloe vera is said to have rejuvenating, healing and soothing properties. In all honesty I was a little sceptical, as I always am with new products however over recent weeks aloe vera has become a daily essential for me and I can't imagine myself without it. It's such a versatile product to have to hand. 

If you read my travel post here, you may have noticed I didn't pack aftersun on my recent holiday to the South of France. Every year I pack a bottle and never end up using it, however on the year I genuinely needed some I didn't. After a quick visit to a french pharmacy a lady recommended aloe vera gel. At the time I had a bad heat rash across my chest area (wear SPF folks) before the rash worsened throughout my holiday I began to religiously apply aloe vera and I must say I was more than impressed with the results. With aloe vera gel a little goes a long way, applied onto my skin the initial reaction was cool, literally cooling. The aloe vera took the itch away almost instantly throughout the week I applied aloe vera daily as an aftersun and my chest area healed a lot quicker than with any aftersun I was actually impressed with how quickly this got to work. 

After having such a good first experience with aloe I decided to google other uses and was surprised at how versatile this can be. I began to use the gel after shaving which in return left my skin feeling silky smooth and less irritated. This has really helped with ingrown hairs too which seem to be non existent since introducing this. On my google I also discovered that aloe can be used in your skincare routine and is especially recommended for those with sensitive skin types. I often have bad eczema flare ups on my forehead so I began to mix a little aloe with my regular night cream, on application this left my skin feeling tight and shiny (like a doll!) In the morning I woke up to peely skin but after washing away everything just looked a whole lot brighter. Over 1-2 weeks my eczema flare had calmed down at a rapid rate, I even received a compliment from my mum who said how amazing my skin looked. Obviously this may not be the case for everyone with eczema but for me this works so well to the point of I haven't had a flare up in a good few weeks and when I do I know I'll be able to use aloe.

It's an odd one for me as I've tried so any products (high end, drugstore and even prescribed) targeted at sensitive skin types yet none of them have worked for me quite like aloe vera does. I can't imagine myself without a tube of this now, and given that you can pick aloe vera gel up for anything between £2-£10 it really is a bargain. It's so handy to have something as versatile as aloe in my collection.

Here are some other ways in which you can use aloe vera gel, I feel like I've only just touched the surface but here we go -

You can use aloe to treat minor kitchen burns
Aloe vera can make blue/black bruises less visible
It can be used to take the sting/itch out of insect bites
Aloe vera alleviates rashes
You can apply aloe onto blisters for quick relief
After waxing you can use aloe to cool the skin
Can be used for allergy related skin reactions
You can use aloe as a general moisturiser for dry skin
Aloe prevents pesky pimples and can also be used to treat acne and soothe Psoriasis
Aloe can prevent scarring and stretch marks.
Helps rid of Rosacea and eliminate eczema 
It can brighten skin. Aloe can decrease pigmentation and dark spots
It can be used to remove eye makeup.

Have you tried aloe vera? Has anyone cultivated their own aloe vera plant?

#BloggersDoItBetter- 7 D.I.Y One Step Face Masks

Hope everyone had a fabulous Easter, if you're anything like me and over indulged (just a tad) then this post couldn't have come at a better time. Yesterday and today I stepped up the cleansing and got a little busy in the kitchen whipping up some D.I.Y face masks to help clear my skin, and fight the chocolate induced spots I'm currently sporting. Today I thought I'd share my tried and tested face masks, some of these have been favourites of mine for years others are fairly new discoveries, I also thought I'd include a little 'Why does it work' bit as it's all said and done telling someone to rub milk on their face but if your mind's anything like mine you'll most likely want to know the how's and whys! 


1. Plain/Natural/Greek Yogurt 
I've used yogurt as a face mask for years, it works so well on my combination skin, I find that yogurt not only balances any oily patches but also hydrates dry skin. When my eczema flared up this calmed the irritation and cooled the itching. I just love this mask, unlike other masks I'll mention this one is easy creates minimum mess and stays put on your face. 

Why does it work? Well ladies and gents here's the science bit for you, yogurt contains a high level of Zinc, Zinc contains anti-inflammatory properties (hence calming my eczema) that can help reduce red swellings caused by acne or rashes. Zinc also helps regulate oil production in the sebaceous glands. Yogurt also contains lactic acid, this can help smoothen rough skin, exfoliate and even moisturise dry skin types. So go buy some yogurt it's a good un.  


2. Egg Yolk 
Not my favourite D.I.Y mask as I'm just not an egg person, but egg yolks always leave my skin looking smooth, hydrated and clear. Whisk the egg yolk in a bowl, reach for an old flat foundation brush and spread the yolk evenly across the face, leave for a few minutes then wash away. Although as I say I'm not an eggy person (unless it's chocolate) but this mask isn't a pain, minimum mess and the eggs (to me) are pretty much scentless (it doesn't smell like you've rubbed your face in scrambled egg.) 

Why does it work? So it's Zinc again folks, egg yolks contain Zinc (read above.) Other nutrients include vitamin B3 which not only hydrates the skin but also calms any inflammation. Yolks also contain Vitamin A, this can help to heal dry flaky or itchy skin. 


3. Egg Whites
Separate your egg whites, whisk (but not to much folks you might make meringue mmm meringue) apply to a cleansed face, unlike egg yolks the whites should turn stiff on your face meaning things are a little less gloopy. As soon as the egg whites are stiff rinse away to reveal radiant hydrated skin. Fun Fact: Did you know that egg white is actually the healthiest part of an egg?

Why does it work? Well unlike egg yolks the whites actually contain magnesium, magnesium helps to promote radiant skin (by adding lots of hydration.) Whites also contain potassium again another nutrient that does a fantastic job of hydrating/moisturising the skin. This mask really is fantastic for dry dehydrated skin types. 


4. Honey 
Prior to applying honey I use a warm flannel and coat my face, I feel like this allows to honey to soak deeper (some say this opens pores but I'm unsure about all of this pore opening and closing!) Using a flat foundation brush smear the honey across face (try not to lick it all off) leave for 15 minutes and wash away using cold water. 

Why does it work? Well Honey is naturally antibacterial, so it's great for acne treatment and prevention. Honey is also extremely moisturising and soothing, so it helps create 'that' glow. Fun fact: Try honey as a cleanser it's very effective, and less sticky then you think. 


5. Banana 
I hate Banana the smell, the texture (yak) so yes this D.I.Y mask isn't one of my favourites although I do have to admit that glowy radiant skin that follows certainly makes this mask a little addictive. I feel it's only right that this mask comes with a prior warning though, things get messy…real messy. Apply over a large bowl to avoid clogged drains/a bathroom that smells like ripe bananas. 

Why does it work? Banana is a great natural moisturiser for the skin. They contain Vitamin A which helps to restore lost moisture this also helps too repair damaged, dull and dry skin. If you suffer from dry skin, Banana will really help to get some of the moisture back. Even if your skin isn't dry I highly recommend this mask, as it's just leaves the skin looking super radiant and soft. For an added boost  try adding some honey for double benefits. Banana's also contain lots of vitamin C- a dull skin hero.


6. Avocado 
Hair, skin, gut, immune system- avocado is super good for us apparently. It's a shame I detest the stuff, the taste and texture really does not do anything for me (sorry avocado lovers!) 

Why does it work? These little green slimy goodness are filled to the brim with healthy fats. They also contain Omega-9 which helps to reduce skin redness and irritation and is involved in repairing damaged skin cells. Avocado's also contain a high level of vitamin E which helps protect the skin against sun exposure. Oh and yes they also contain a high level of vitamin C! 


7. Milk
Maybe Cleopatra was onto something here folks. As well as making a great face mask, milk also works really well as toner, this post here is really good as it tells you all the different uses for milk. I however have only used this as a mask/toner with a little honey mixed in. My skin always looks a lot brighter/smoother after using milk 
Why does it work? See number one. 


Are you a fan of D.I.Y masks which ones are your favourites? 

Au Naturel #1 -Greener Alternatives + Coconut Oil

For 2014 I set myself a difficult challenge, which so far I've failed…well okay perhaps not failed just ignored. Three months into the year I decided to revisit my challenge and get on board. 

The challenge in question is all surrounding awareness, and I'm already relatively surprised by some of the research (more on that later.). Generally I want to be more aware about the ingredients I am putting into my body, I want to be more clued up on ingredients and just generally more aware of the brands I am using. Now this challenge isn't about me 'going green' I simply want to be try to introduce some greener alternatives into my lifestyle. I'll always have products in my collection that will always be favourites that probably have toxic written all over them, but my journey is about learning. I want to know why these ingredients are toxic and what potential risks there are from continued use followed by an educated decision as to whether to ditch or keep. 

I'm a huge fan of the lovely Rachel who runs the blog 'All natural aspirations' she's done some fantastic posts/videos on going green, and where to start. Rachel manages to be extremely informative and has some fantastic D.I.Y posts (that I can't wait to try.) After a recent twitter chat Rachel suggested I have a read of a book called 'No more dirty looks' which I'm currently working my way through. 

Hopefully this series will be enjoyable or informative for anyone like myself who wants to become more aware about brands, ingredients and clean cosmetics. I aim to do product reviews, and a few D.I.Y posts chucked in for good measure.

Today I wanted to talk about coconut oil, 100% raw organic coconut oil (see link here) I purchased my huge tub from Ebay for a rather affordable £4.49. I've previously read about the fantastic benefits of coconut oil, but I've always stayed well clear in fear that it would be super greasy however I was wrong and over the past month I've been using this little tub of goodness for just about everything and anything. So here are my top uses for coconut oil-

1. Cooking 

You can use coconut oil in replacement of vegetable oil to fry foods. Before buying coconut oil I'd heard about the health benefits but I'd always worried it would overpower other flavours in a dish with a coconut taste, in all honesty I don't notice the biggest taste difference. Using coconut oil is only like using vegetable oil, no funny after taste, no weird smell just fried food that's a little bit healthier. I'm converted. 

2. Hair treatment 

You can use coconut oil as a pre wash treatment, simply warm the oil between hands (it's magical how this balm transforms into oil in contact with heat) apply through ends of your hair avoiding roots. Comb through tie hair up and leave for half an hour or so before washing. You can also use this post washing, mix your regular conditioner with a small amount of coconut oil and apply through ends. I've noticed the biggest difference in my hair condition since using coconut oil. Warranted I don't have the worst condition hair but after using coconut oil my hair is noticeably softer, shiner and more manageable

3. Body 

The lovely Molly from (Lyon Notes) also suggested using coconut oil as a body moisturiser. I've never been a huge fan of body oils, in all honest slippery greasy skin is just a no...so I did initially shun this idea. But one wild day I went for it and now I'm addicted. This doesn't leave my skin looking greasy or slippery, skin just has a lovely sheen to it, after using this I actually had the urge to get my pins out (sadly weather not permitting) I can imagine long term use would improve skin tone and texture as I've already noticed my skin looks and feels way softer.

4. Removing make up

Cleansing balm, massage into skin and remove with muslin cloth  this removed every last trace of make up, I found the oil to work really well at removing eye make up too. This worked on my sensitive skin too didn't feel aggravated or unhappy. 

5. Shaving cream

Yes you heard right apply and get shaving. Beware your razor will be super gunked up (nice) but if your like me and only use razors once this is super effective. Soft smooth legs. 

So there we have it, whats amazing is I've probably only just touched the surface on uses for coconut oil it truly is a tub of wonder there's so many different uses I can see my tub lasting for ages too as a tiny bit truly goes a long way.

Are you a fan of coconut oil? What are your favourite 'green' products? Any D.I.Y posts I'd love to check them out...