To say that I have been happy with Cocokind Skincare is quite an understatement.  This is a brand that I have had on my list to try for more than a year, but I just never got around to it until this Spring.  Once I finally tried it, I kept asking myself ‘WHY!?’ – Why did you take so long to decide to try these products?!

I have several items under my belt that I have tested, and more in the works, but what I will say of them is that they are made with simple, high quality, mostly organic ingredients (many are USDA Certified Organic) and are at a very affordable price point.

In the world of natural and organic skincare, I think we are somewhat trained to believe that typically, the higher the price, the better quality the ingredients. (which is certainly sometimes the case!)  Cocokind is smashing this logic, because they have created thoughtful formulas with natural and organic ingredients, making green skincare more accessible to many.

The product I am focused on today is their Turmeric Spot Treatment.  I purchased this after hearing about and reading that it is said to help in fading hyper-pigmentation and acne scars.  I have skin that is very prone to scarring, and once I have a blemish, the mark remains on my skin for months after it has healed.  I also have skin that is prone to redness, so I wanted to see how this product would help my acne scarring and inflammation.  Below I will cover how I applied the product, what results I saw from it and my final thoughts!  Please read on to hear more about the Turmeric Spot Treatment Stick.  If you prefer to see the product in action, head over to my YouTube video HERE as well.

The Details

Product Name: Turmeric Spot Treatment

Ingredients: organic sunflower oil, organic beeswax, organic turmeric, organic ginger root, organic tea tree oil *This product is USDA Certified Organic

Product Description: The turmeric spot treatment helps tackle signs of inflammation and the appearance of dark spots.  Packed with turmeric, ginger, and tea tree oil, this organic treatment wards off clogged pores and helps to visibly brighten complexion. [description taken from the Cocokind Skincare website]

Cost: $9

Application

Before I started testing this product, I reached out to the brand and asked them how long before I would see results from using this product, so that I could make sure I gave it an adequate amount of time to work.  I was told ‘around a month with regular use‘.

The first thing I wanted to mention, was that I should have, but didn’t, clarify what was meant by regular use.  While I did use this product for just over one month, I used it on my own ‘regular’ schedule which was 2-3 times per week.  I want to point this out because this mask can be used as often as you like, meaning every day if you choose.  So, if that is what is meant by regular use, I probably didn’t receive the full benefits of the product.  BUT, let’s talk about how I did use it and the results I did see.

For my first week of use, I did use the product every single night for anywhere between 20-60 minutes.  I decided I would give my skin a little boot camp and really tried to boost the results.  After that week, as I mentioned above, I used the treatment 2-3 times per week for the same 20-60 minutes.

I applied the product direct from the stick onto my clean, dry skin.  I used it over the majority of my cheek area where I have a good amount of acne scarring as well as on my neck, where some really rough postpartum neck breakouts are still trying to heal.

The product is very simple. only containing sunflower oil, beeswax and some essential oils, so it doesn’t dry down on the skin, and I actually found it to leave my face feeling very hydrated post treatment.  After leaving the product on for the amount of time I had chosen, I used a cotton pad sprayed with their Rosewater Facial Toner to remove it.  I found it to remove fairly easily, but the longer I left it on, the more I had to work at removing it.  I would typically follow up with a cleanser to ensure all of the product was removed.

Results

I wish I could say that this treatment faded all of my post acne scarring, but that just wasn’t the case – it’s definitely not a miracle worker.  However, I did notice a slight reduction in the appearance of some of my more recent hyper-pigmentation, as well as just a general overall brightening of the skin.  As you can see from my before and after photos, (which were taken in natural light with NO filters) in the first set of photos on the left, the scar on my neck, just under my ear is reduced pretty significantly.  In the set of photos on the right, you can see the spot near my temple is nearly gone and the spots on my cheek have brightened slightly.  Like I said, not a huge difference, especially in photos, BUT, I noticed a difference in the overall brightness of my skin and some of the recent acne marks.

Final Thoughts

My biggest takeaway with this product is that you shouldn’t expect overnight results.  The product takes time to make a difference and with regular use, you should see an improvement in the brightness of your skin as well as any hyper-pigmentation.  I will say that with active acne, this treatment did help to reduce inflammation quickly and heal the blemish easier than if I did no treatments at all.  In using this for active acne, I also saw a reduction in the formation of a post acne scar in most cases, which I thought was a success!  Overall, it’s a nice acne treatment and can be used to slowly fade acne marks over time with extended use.  I recommend giving this a try if you are looking for an affordable organic spot treatment option.

Thank you so much for reading!  I hope you found this review helpful if you have been considering trying the Cocokind Turmeric Spot Treatment.  If you have used this, I’d love to know what kind of results you had – please let me know in the comments below!

This article was originally posted on naturallykeri.com

The post Cocokind Turmeric Spot Treatment Review appeared first on The Greenly Guide.

When I mentioned on social media that I was using only essential oil free products during my most recent pregnancy, I received a TON of questions as to why.  Why was I avoiding essential oils in the first place? What products was I using? What skincare was safe to use during pregnancy?

While I am definitely not an expert on essential oils, I had done my own research and based on my findings, I felt most comfortable eliminating essential oils from all of my beauty and personal care products.  For me, this was what I felt was the safest option.  There are certainly many women who use essential oils during pregnancy, and there are some oils that are considered safe to use while pregnant, and that is totally fine, especially if used under the direction of a certified aromatherapist.

But, talking about whether or not to use essential oils during pregnancy isn’t the purpose of this post.  It is, however, what brought me to discover a lot of wonderful natural and organic products that are completely essential oil free!

The reasons someone may decide to use products that are essential oil free may vary.  As I mentioned above, for me, it was that I was pregnant, but for others, the issue with essential oils in skincare may be a sensitivity to the ingredients themselves or even to the scents.  It can prove difficult to find unscented products in the green beauty space, but they are out there, and I’ve found some pretty great ones that I’m excited to share!

Read on to find my collection of skincare and personal care products that are all essential oil free. Many of these I have tried and used myself, while others are ones I have researched and not yet tried, but feel have clean ingredients or are from brands I have used and trust.  I hope you find the below product suggestions helpful if you are in search of essential oil free products.  Make sure to leave me a comment with your favorite essential oil free products if you don’t see it listed here!

Essential Oil Free and Fragrance Free Skincare Lines

Before we talk about the different products in each category specifically, I wanted to bring attention to a few skincare lines that are completely essential oil free and what products are carried within each line. Please note that these brands may carry other products that DO contain essential oils, so make sure you are only looking at these products that I mention below, and always check ingredients before trying, as product offerings and formulations can change periodically.

Wabi-Sabi® Botanicals

I was recently looking through the Wabi-Sabi Botanicals website for products for myself, as I have been interested in their brand since receiving one of their products in a subscription box a couple of years ago, and when reading their product descriptions, I started noticing that they were all listing that they contained no added essential oils.  I was so surprised and didn’t know that this brand was formulated without essential oils, and even reached out to the brand to confirm.  What a pleasant surprise!

I have sensitive, acne-prone skin myself and created the line to be really gentle and nourishing for all skin types without sacrificing efficacy.  The oils and ingredients we use are so beautiful on their own without essential oils. – Creator Elysse on why she decided not to include essential oils in her products

They are a luxury clean beauty brand that is doing some pretty incredible things outside of crafting beautiful products.  They have a focus on sustainability and most of their ingredients are sourced from small artisan producers and women-run cooperatives around the world.  They are PETA Certified, cruelty-free and vegan, while also strictly avoiding palm oil, palm oil derivatives or other ingredients that can negatively impact the environment.  I also have to mention that they invest 10% of their profits in micro-loans for female entrepreneurs across the globe – truly incredible! Here is what is included in the line:

Age Gracefully | Intensif Serum No. 3 ($59), Balancing Act | Intensif Serum No. 2($36), Blemish Correct | Intensif Serum No. 5 ($34), Heart Rising | Quintessential Hydrating Facial Mist ($55), Light Reveal | Intensif Serum No. 1 ($36), Moisture Boost | Intensif Serum No. 4 ($36), Still Waters | Soothing Ritual Facial Mist ($48), The Giver | Illuminative Ritual Cleanser and Makeup Dissolver ($60), The Offering | Ageless Ritual Facial Mist ($48), and Valley of Light | Illuminative Mask ($44)

Previse DermApothecary: ZeroFragrance Clinical Skincare Series

The ZeroFragrance Series is 100% vegan and is perfect for anyone with sensitivities to strongly scented products or for anyone with allergies, as the line contains zero artificial fragrance and zero essential oils.  They have chosen instead to use natural marine and botanical ingredients which will have no perceivable smell.  Included in this skincare series:

Purify Hydrating Skin Cleanser ($34), Marine Granules Skin Brightening Botanical Scrub ($45), Nutrify Ozone Defense Serum ($65), HydroFoam Rejuvenating Hyaluronic Moisturizer ($48), MommyBalm Stretch Mark Cream ($75), SOS Skin Rescue Healing Salve ($37), and BodyMist Skin Nourishing Body Oil ($22).

Solavedi: Hypoallergenic Line

I have used a number of products from this line myself while pregnant, and can tell you that these products are absolutely lovely.  I was lucky enough to be gifted a trial set from The Choosy Chick, and I was beyond impressed and went on to purchase some of the products myself.  As someone who has quite reactive skin and deals with a lot of redness and inflammation, using this line exclusively for several weeks resulted in skin that was hydrated, smooth and showed much less noticeable redness.  My skin overall was much calmer and happier.

This line was especially created for pregnant or nursing moms, individuals who are or have recently undergone chemotherapy or for someone who has developed reactions to their skincare products.

There are times in our lives when our system just needs a rest, even from aromatherapy or herbal ingredients, as delightful and good as those can be. – Solavedi website

As mentioned above, The Choosy Chick does not currently carry all of the hypoallergenic products, but they can be purchased direct from the brand’s website.  I will say that the website itself is a tad difficult to navigate, so I will link directly to each product so you won’t have to search for them. Through the website directly, they do offer samples for purchase of most of these products which is great as well!  The hypoallergenic line includes:

Hypoallergenic Face Wash (sample $2.95/full size $24), Hypoallergenic Cleansing Oil (sample $3.75/full size $24), Pure Hyaluronic Serum (sample $10/full size $59) – This serum is awesome!  I enjoyed adding it to their face cream for a great moisture boost! Hypoallergenic Face Cream (sample $4.95/$29 for 1 oz./$49 for 2.3 oz.) – This cream is a standout product for me!  Green Tea Hyaluronic Eye Cream (sample $10/full size $39), Hypoallergenic Organic Body Cream ($39 for 8 oz./$59 for 16 oz.), and Olive + Zinc UV Protecting Hand Cream ($18)

Marie Veronique: Kristina Holey + Marie Veronique Skincare Collection

This beautiful collaboration is one that has been on my wishlist.  It is created with some of the most potent and effective ingredients. It is designed for someone looking to repair their skin and make an investment into their skincare routine.  Here is a little more detail about this unique line from the Marie Veronique website:

All the products are biomimetic, that is, they are specifically designed to help nature achieve optimum health by supplying the building blocks required for proper maintenance at all levels of the skin, from the stratum corneum down to the dermis. Skin microbiome balance, another important factor in the skin health equation, is also very much front and center in the design process.

The latest findings in skin physiology and microbiology drive MV+ KH design; for example the cutting-edge products make use of microceutical co-enzymes that kick-start biosynthetic processes, and take care to follow nature’s lipid management systems as closely as possible while at the same time avoiding ingredients like essential oils and microcidal preservatives that can interfere with healthy skin function. The result is products that have no scent, yet leave the skin feeling soothed, nourished, and ultimately, healthy.

Now, lets talk about what is included in this collection:

Pure + E.O. Free Oil Cleanser ($40), Balancing HypoTonic ($45), Intensive Repair Serum ($90), Soothing B3 Serum ($90), Barrier Restore Serum ($110), Barrier Lipid Complex ($95), Micronutrient + Hydro Mask ($135)

Peet Rivko

Peet Rivko is a natural skincare line that is completely essential oil free and formulated just for those with sensitive skin.  The ingredients are plant based and chosen for their calming and restorative properties.  They take it a step further though, and eliminate all harsh actives and irritants such as nut oils, limonene and floral extracts.  Here are the products offerings you can find from this brand:

Gentle Cleanser ($30), Daily Moisturizer ($48), Balancing Face Oil ($56), Exfoliator ($34) and Body Oil ($48)

Continue reading below for essential oil free products listed by category…

Facial Cleansers

• One of the easiest and typically fairly inexpensive ways to cleanse your face is by oil cleansing.  You can choose any single organic oil (such as sweet almond, jojoba, castor, etc.) that suits your skin type.  A little bit of research will help you to find an oil that will work best for your skin type.
• Aleavia: Purifying Facial Cleanse ($19.99)
• Worker b: Raw Honey Face Wash (I use the one for Normal to Dry skin, but there is one for oily skin as well!)  ($36.00)
• Indie Lee: Brightening Cleanser ($34)
• OSEA: Ocean Cleansing Milk ($54)
• Blissoma: Free – Rejuvenating Herbal Gel Cleanser and Makeup Remover ($39)
• Root: Refreshing Coconut Micellar Water ($24/full size, $6/trial size)

Facial Toners

• Using aloe water (such as George’s Aloe) or an organic coconut water are great and inexpensive toners.  Both are gentle and provide wonderful hydration as well!
• Aleavia: Restore Soothing Mist (they have one for acne as well)  ($29.99)
• OSEA: Sea Vitamin Boost ($38)
• Cocokind Skincare: Raspberry Vinegar Toner ($16)
• Blissoma: Serene – Sacred Waters Tonique ($32)

Facial Oils and Serums

• Leven Rose: This is a GREAT place to find single, mostly organic carrier oils that can be used for oil cleansing or moisturizing.  They have a wonderful selection of products and what’s better is that you can get them on Amazon Prime! – ranging in price from around $13 to $22
• Acure: The Essentials Moroccan Argan Oil ($17.99)
• MUN Skincare: ARGAN Pure Argan Oil this product is worth the price in my opinion.  It comes in a huge bottle, it is a super multi-purpose oil, and it feels like a much higher quality argan oil than other brands I have used ($70)
• Worker b: Dawn Serum ($39) and Dusk Serum ($39)
• Badger: Unscented Face Oil ($14.99)
• Live Botanicals: Aer Hyaluronic Acid Serum (I like to add this to my dry powder face masks for an extra boost of hydration!)  ($30)
• OSEA: Hyaluronic Sea Serum ($88), Brightening Serum ($68), and Vitamin Sea Serum ($68)
• Cocokind Skincare: Chia Facial Oil ($16) and Facial Repair Oil ($14)
• Kypris: Antioxidant Dew ($90)
• Earthwise Beauty: Ruby Face Oil ($54)
• Ere Perez: Quandong Green Boost Serum ($34)

Facial Creams and Balms

• Kahina Giving Beauty: Facial Lotion ($68)
• Worker b: Unscented Lotion ($22)
• One Love Organics: Skin Dew Coconut Water Cream ($58)
• Meow Meow Tweet: Skin Cream ($25)
• Earthwise Beauty: Yasuni Face Balm ($110)
• Fitglow Beauty: Cloud Ceramide Cream ($89), Redness Rescue Cream ($69) and Cloud Comfort Cream ($84)
• Blissoma: Pure – Sensitive Care Complex ($50)
• CV Skin Labs: Calming Moisture ($49)

Exfoliate

• Salis Skincare: Unscented Salt Scrub – works great on the face or on the body ($31.99)
• Meow Meow Tweet: Face Exfoliant ($20)
• OSEA: Vitamin C Probiotic Polish ($108)

Facial Masks

• Blissoma: Lavish – Loving Recovery Beta-Glucan Mask ($50)
• Odacite: Synergie[4] Immediate Skin Perfecting Masque ($64)
• OSEA: White Algae Mask ($48)
• Naturallogic: Soul Milk Mask ($54)

Eye Treatments

• Cocokind Skincare: Mymatcha All-over Moisture Stick ($9)
• Earthwise Beauty: Passion Eye Serum ($36)
• Blissoma: Bright-Eye Vitalizing Nutrient Serum ($56)
• Fitglow Beauty: Eye C Firm Cream ($79)
• 100% Pure: Bright Eyes Mask ($7)
• Kahina Giving Beauty: Prickly Pear Seed Oil Rollerball ($40)

Facial SPFs

• White & Elm: Everyday Moisturizer with SPF 15 ($28.95)
• Kari Gran: Three Sixty Five SPF 28 ($48)
• Ursa Major: Force Field Daily Defense Lotion with SPF 18 ($54)
• Raw Elements: Tinted Facial Moisturizer SPF 30 ($17.99)

Body SPFs

• All Good: SPF 50+ Sport Sunscreen Butter Stick – these sticks work great for kids! ($15.99) and SPF 50+ Water Resistant Zinc Sunscreen Butter ($9.99)
• Badger: Clear Zinc Sunscreen SPF 30 ($16.99), Clear Zinc Unscented Sunscreen Lotion ($18.99), Clear Zinc Oxide Sport Sunscreen SPF 35 ($16.99), Tinted Sunscreen Unscented – SPF 30 ($15.99), Unscented Sunscreen – SPF15 (15.99)
• Raw Elements: Face + Body SPF 30 ($17.99), Face + Body SPF 30 Tin ($17.99), Baby & Kids SPF 30 Tin ($19.99), Baby & Kids SPF 30 Stick ($18.99)
• Earth Mama Organics: Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 40 ($14.99) and Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 25 ($13.99)
• Babo Botanicals: Baby Skin Mineral Sunscreen – SPF 50 ($19.95), Sheer Zinc Continuous Spray Sunscreen SPF 30 ($22), Clear Zinc Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 – Fragrance Free ($19.95),

Body Moisturizers

• Organic coconut oil (if your skin does well with it) is a wonderful moisturizer for the body and is truly a multitasking product.
• MUN Skincare: ARGAN Pure Argan Oil – ($70)
• Acure: Everyday Eczema Lotion ($11.99)
• Bubble & Bee: Unscented Organic Body Butter ($16.95)
• Osmia Organic: Naked Body Oil ($20/1 oz. or $64/4 oz.)
• Booda Organics: Booda Butter Daily Moisturizer ($14)
• Kosmatology: Free & Clear (unscented) Lotion Bar ($10.99)
• Babo Botanicals: Sensitive Skin Fragrance Free Daily Hydra Therapy Lotion ($12.95)
• The Honest Co.: Organic Body Oil ($9.95) and Face + Body Lotion, Purely Simple Fragrance Free ($9.95)

Body Soaps & Washes

• Graham Gardens: Avocado and Oatmeal Soap ($5)
• Osmia Organics: Oh So Soap ($18)
• Babo Botanicals: Sensitive Skin Fragrance Free Hydra Therapy Wash ($19.95)
• Bubble & Bee: Organic Unscented Soap ($6) and Unscented Shower Gel ($11.99/8 oz.)
• Dr. Bronner’s: Pure Castile Bar Soap All-One Hemp Baby Unscented ($4.29)
• Schmidt’s: Bar Soap, fragrance free ($5.49)
• Booda Organics: Suds of Love All-in-One Soap ($6.95)
• Aleavia: Enzymatic Body Cleanse, unscented ($19.99)

Deodorants

• Green Tidings: All Natural Deodorant, unscented ($7.49)
• Schmidt’s: Natural Deodorant, fragrance free ($8.99), Sensitive Skin Formula, fragrance free ($10.99) and Deodorant Jar, fragrance free ($8.99)
• Earth Mama Organics: Simply Non-Scents Deodorant ($9.99)
• Rustic Maka: Natural Deodorant, Naughty Butter, unscented ($9.95)
• Lone: Bold Creme Unscented Deodorant – this is a baking soda AND wax free formula ($11.50) and Unscented Deodorant ($10.50)
• Acure: Fragrance Free Deodorant ($8.99)
• All Good: Deodorant – Unscented ($8.99)
• Booda Organics: Cream Deodorant ($7.95)
• Primal Pit Paste: Baking Soda Unscented Natural Deodorant Stick ($10.95), Zinc Unscented Natural Deodorant Stick ($10.95), Charcoal Unscented Deodorant Stick ($10.95), Magnesium Unscented Natural Deodorant Stick – Sensitive ($10.95), Baking Soda Unscented Natural Deodorant Jar ($8.95), Zinc Unscented Natural Deodorant Jar – Sensitive ($8.95), Magnesium Unscented Natural Deodorant Jar – Sensitive ($8.95), Charcoal Unscented Deodorant Jar ($8.95)

Baby & Kids

Bath Time 

• Earth Mama Organics: Simply Non-Scents Baby Wash ($9.99)
• The Honest Co.: Shampoo + Body Wash, Purely Sensitive ($9.95) and Bubble Bath, Purely Sensitive ($11.95)
• Babo Botanicals: Sensitive Newborn Foam Baby Wash – Fragrance Free ($12.95) and Sensitive Baby Shampoo & Wash – Fragrance Free ($19.95)
• Osmia Organics: Oh So Soap ($18)

Moisturizing Lotions and Balms

• Zoe Organics: Cream ($17.95)
• Earth Mama Organics: Simply Non-Scents Baby Lotion ($17.99)
• Pleni Naturals: Berry + Olive Baby Balm ($15.99) and Cucumber + Grape Baby Oil ($15.99)
• CV Skin Labs: Calming Moisture for Face, Neck and Scalp ($49)
• Babo Botanicals: Sensitive Baby Daily Hydra Baby Lotion – Fragrance Free ($12.95)
• The Honest Co.: Organic All-Purpose Balm ($12.95)
• Buttercup & Jake: Cocoa Calendula Balm ($12.50)

Thank you so much for reading! I hope you found this collection of essential oil free products helpful.  Make sure to leave a comment with your favorite EO free products if you don’t see them listed here!

This article was originally published on naturallykeri.com

*Disclosure: Affiliate links are included in the above post.  By using these links, you will not pay more, but I may receive a small percentage of a sale from you purchasing a product through my links or by using my discount codes.  If you do choose to use these links, I truly appreciate your support!  Please view my full disclosure page HERE for more information. 

The post Essential Oil Free Products for Sensitive Skin appeared first on The Greenly Guide.

Say it with me, ‘pamplemousse’.  Are you smiling?  I am.  Such a fun word!  It’s not just a nonsense word that easily rolls off the tongue though, it actually mean grapefruit in French.  It is perfectly named as pink grapefruit oil is the third ingredient in this gorgeous oil cleanser, added for its ability to purify and brighten the skin.  This highly anticipated cleanser is a wonderful addition to the Leahlani line, and when it was released, I was quick to place my pre-order, knowing that this product would be magic, like every other one of her skincare treats.  I was right, and it did not disappoint.

If there has ever been a skincare line that has completely stolen my heart, it is this one.  I have been a long time user of the Leahlani products, (back when they were only being sold on Etsy) and after trying her Mermaid Mask, I was hooked. She has since repackaged, launched her own website and added new products to the line.  I have explored several items and have been impressed with each and every one.

There is something about her line that speaks to me like no others ever have.  I used to think it was silly when someone would say a product ‘spoke to them’, or how they just felt ‘connected’ to a product or brand, but this is absolutely true for me in an indescribable way when it comes to this line.  The scents, the way Leah, the creator of these beauties, speaks about her products and her story, the packaging, the branding…need I go on?  It all makes me giddy with delight and has me feeling like I want to hop on a plane and head straight to Hawaii.  Each time I open one of her jars or bottles, I can’t help but take a moment to breathe in the intoxicating scents and let them take me away to a place of calm and relaxation.

Lets talk about this cleanser.  When I first opened the bottle, the scent immediately reminded me of her Kalima Cleansing Powder.  The beautiful notes of citrus and vanilla were the most prominent, but as with all of her products, it is never overpowering or too strong (in my opinion).  This golden colored formula is filled to the brim with nourishing oils such as macadamia and sunflower, while also including pineapple and papaya enzymes to gently exfoliate and soften.  Best part?  It rinses clean with water.  No steaming off.  No residue left behind.  Simply add a little water and it turns into a more creamy consistency and rinses off easily taking makeup and dirt with it.

I’ve been experimenting with different ways of using this cleanser that I want to share along with some more details about Pamplemousse.  Keep on reading below for ingredient info, how I like to incorporate Leah’s Aloha Alchemy and my final thoughts!

The Details

Product Name: Pamplemousse Tropical Enzyme Cleansing Oil

Ingredients: *Macadamia Ternifolia (Macadamia) Seed Oil, *Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, *Citrus Paradisi (Pink Grapefruit) Peel Oil, di-ppg-2 myreth-10 adipate, Euterpe Oleracea (Acai) Fruit Oil, Lactobacillus/- Papaya Fruit Ferment Extract, *Plumeria Acutifolia Flower Extract, *Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Oil, Tocopherol, Psidium Guajava (Guava) Fruit Extract, Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit, Carica (Papaya) Seed Oil, Musa Paradisisiaca (Banana) Fruit, Hibiscus Rosa-sinensis (Hibiscus) Flower Extract

*organic

Product Description: Fun, fresh and effective, meet your new favorite first-step in your cleansing ritual! Bursting with vibrant notes of juicy pink and white grapefruit, sweet vanilla bean, and exotic plumeria flowers -our Pamplemousse oil cleanser will flirt with your senses while dissolving oils, impurities, and makeup like a boss.

Her ambitious and silken formula of organic tropical oils infused with pineapple and papaya enzymes will glide effortlessly across your face, deeply cleansing while gently exfoliating your sweet skin. She rinses clean with water, and will leave your skin feeling fresh, soft, clean, and supple. This girl does it all! [description from the Leahlani Skincare website]

Cost: $54

Application

Method #1 – The Standard

The most simple and easiest way for makeup removal and cleansing is to use this on its own as directed.  I usually use 2-3 pumps of the oil, and apply to my dry face.  I then like to take time to massage it into my skin and breathe in the lovely scents.  If I have worn makeup that day, I make sure to pay extra attention to my eye area for mascara removal.  Then I wet my hands slightly and massage over my face again, gently emulsifying the oils and creating a nice creamy consistency.  Splash warm water on the face, and done!  I think this is a great first cleanse, if you are in to double cleansing, and like to follow up with perhaps a cream cleanser after your makeup has been removed.  For me, this is all I need.  Pamplemousse removes makeup wonderfully and rinses clean leaving no film or makeup residue behind.  Because of the enzymes that are included, your skin is not only getting clean, but lightly exfoliated as well, leaving the skin so so soft, smooth, supple and hydrated.  If used in the AM, I like to follow up with a light cream moisturizer (like this one), but when I use it in the evening, I love to apply a nice layer of Bless, which leaves me with baby soft skin the next day.

Method #2 – Cleansing Alchemy: Kalima Cleansing Powder + Pamplemousse

I felt inspired one evening to mix Pamplemousse with Kalima cleansing powder and I am SO glad I did!  After mixing up the usual amount of Kalima in my hand with a little water, I added in a couple of pumps of Pamplemousse and used it as a bit of a mask while I brushed my teeth.  After rinsing, my skin was seriously soft and hydrated. All it took was about 5 minutes for this mixture to work its magic, but what a beautiful cleansing experience!  I have also used it as a morning cleanser where I just rinsed it off right away, and the results were still wonderful.

Method #3 – Exfoliation/Mask Alchemy: Honey Love 3-in-1 + Pamplemousse

I can’t take credit for this alchemy, because I first saw it on the Leahlani Skincare Instagram stories.  All you need for this one is a small dollop of the beautiful Honey Love and 2 pumps of Pamplemousse.  To get the full benefits, I would definitely recommend using this as a mask and letting it sit on the face for around 5 minutes.  When you apply Honey Love you get the beautiful exfoliation along with the hydration of Pamplemousse.  Such a decadent treat for the skin.  Honestly, a must try if you have these two in your stash!

Final Thoughts

This oil cleanser is absolutely beautiful and a welcome addition to my collection.  As with all of the Leahlani products, I am immediately smitten and have found myself never wanting to be without it.  The ingredients are perfection, the packaging is gorgeous.  You won’t regret trying this tropical creation!  Your skin will definitely thank you!

Have you tried it yet?  Make sure to let me know in the comments!

Make sure to follow along with Leahlani on social media!  Her Instagram is filled with stunning photos, uses for her products, and my favorite #alohaalchemy (search this hashtag to find lots of inspiring mixtures!) Also, you can find them on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest

This post was originally posted on naturallykeri.com

*Disclosure: Affiliate links are included in the above post.  By using these links, you will not pay more, but I may receive a small percentage of a sale from you purchasing a product through my links or by using my discount codes.  If you do choose to use these links, I truly appreciate your support!  Please view my full disclosure page HERE for more information. 

The post Pamplemousse Tropical Enzyme Cleansing Oil Review appeared first on The Greenly Guide.

ABOUT AMANDA

Amanda Saurin is the founder and a plant grower and gatherer, distiller and maker at A.S APOTHECARY. She is a traditional Apothecary. Amanda has worked with herbs and homeopathy for many years, developing effective, gentle, bespoke products.

Through A.S APOTHECARY she brings together her love of plants, growing, making, healing and collaboration to produce a small range of beautiful products.

An appreciation of the transformative nature of scent, of the rhythm of the plants, of their terroir, of landscape and the inter-connectedness of us all, are pivotal to the philosophy that underpins and informs her work.

Guest Post by Amanda Saurin of A.S Apothecary for The Greenly Guide

Last week I walked through our land and examined our Roses – there are around 200 of them, their leaves were glossy and buds were forming on strong prickly stems, I’m hopeful to see flowers in the next couple of weeks. I moved on to the rows of Lavender and Clary Sage then paused to admire the Immortelle before looking at the hundreds of seedlings popping up in the polytunnel soon to be planted out. Trays of Calendula, Chamomile and Achillea to name but a few.

Our work as makers is unique in this fickle world of beauty where people are persuaded to strive for the latest ‘must have’, where the relationship between whole plant and product stretches ever further apart. Even within the world of green beauty the words ‘derived from…insert plant name…’ seem to be dominating development. That there is a tenuous relationship to a plant now seems adequate to trumpet naturalness. But actually it’s disingenuous to claim naturalness and green credentials where a plant has gone through so many processes of industrial extraction to become an ingredient.

Equally adding an ingredient on the basis that we produce it in our own bodies, such as hyaluronic acid, does not shout natural if the production uses the combs of dead cockerels or genetically engineered micro-organisms.

What we do, in contrast, is labour intensive and very time consuming drawing on my life’s work as a Plantswoman, Homeopath and Herbalist. We use the whole plant and our methods of extracting the therapeutics are as old as they are effective. We distil in a big copper Alembic slowly and gently making separate distillations for our Aromatic Waters and Essential Oils because each demands a different type of distillation. We macerate our plants by chopping them up and adding them to oils to draw out their goodness over the course of a lunar month. We do the same with alcohol to produce medicinal tinctures. We enfleurage by resting the flowers on a bed of Shea butter to slowly absorb their wonderful perfume, changing them up to a dozen times.

All our processes are simple because that is all that is needed to make a product that strengthens, heals and nourishes the skin. It is not about multiple processes but rather about a few, done very well, on plants grown organically or foraged by us and picked at the perfect moment.

It’s also about making by hand. As everything is made with our hands it means that the only ingredients that go into our products are the ones that benefit humans. Where products are made in factories by machines, ingredients must be added to control viscosity and texture, they must be homogenous and without seasonal variation. There is also something about intention – where making is on a human scale, every stir of a spoon, picking of a plant or filling of a Still is imbued with positive intention, the little pot carries within it something more than the sum of its ingredients.

We also believe in going to the plants. We know that Geraniums and Pink Pepper, Orange Blossom and Thyme grow best in a dry, hot climate. In the UK we definitely don’t have that so each April we travel to Cyprus where we keep a big Still and we pick and distil there. The plants are fresh, they are in perfect condition and they have grown in a landscape that suits their needs.

We also travel to the Outer Hebrides in Scotland to a little island in the Atlantic Ocean where the very best Heather, Meadowsweet and Honeysuckle grow. We pick and dry the plants before bringing them home to macerate and tincture them.

Our work is not driven by profit, it is driven by a desire to help people have the very best skin they can and our products deliver, perhaps not overnight but with regular use. Healthy, beautiful skin takes time to recover from the ravages of mass produced, industrial skincare but it’s so worth the wait.

A customized skin ritual

In terms of products, we like to encourage slow ritual. As a population we are stressed, overworked and juggling increasingly busy lives so we love the idea of taking 15 minutes to reconnect and relax and the essential oil combinations we use and textures we create offer a salve for the spirit as well as the skin.

We start with Cleansing oil 5, just 3 or 4 drops is sufficient. Drop it onto the fingertips and then massage into the face slowly and gently, leave for a minute and then rinse off with our crocheted Cleansing Cloth.

Follow this with one of our Aromatic Waters, Rose for dry, sensitive or mature skin, Lavender for inflamed, irritated skin, Orange Blossom for a mild astringent or Geranium where hormones play a part in breakouts.

Then we suggest a Face Cream – our creams are rich in antioxidants and fabulously creamy without being greasy at all, no3 for mature skin, no5 for balanced skin or no6 for skin tending towards oily.

Once a week we suggest an exfoliation with Mineral Powder – it contains all our best flowers, Seaweed which we have dived for us in Harris, Clay from Argyll and medicinal grade Sandalwood. Make it into a loose paste using Cleansing oil and gently massage it into the face and backs of hands, then rinse it off with warm water. Don’t scrub, it doesn’t need that, just be gentle. Exfoliating with this powder very gently removes dry skin cells and allows the other products to penetrate the skin better leaving it glowing and healthy.

It’s our hope that we can encourage people to feel good about their skin and make the change to an effective skincare regime that enhances the skin, protects the planet, isn’t subject to fashion and is made with love…

*All photos in this post are courtesy of and belong to A.S Apothecary.

Connect with A.S Apothecary on their website, Instagram, Twitter & Facebook.

The post Guest Post: How A.S Apothecary is crafting slow skincare rituals appeared first on The Greenly Guide.

The Back to Basics Skincare line is fully customizable to your needs.  It was formulated to work within your current routine, and can be added to your face cream or you can mix and match with other Back to Basics Skincare oils to get a unique routine that works for you.  Their oils are cold-pressed, made in small batches and contain several organic ingredients.

I had the pleasure of speaking with founder and formulator of Back to Basics Skincare, Manon von Csiky-Sessoms about each of the oils in the line, and we also spoke more in depth about her background and products.  I hope you will enjoy learning more about this affordable high quality line in the full post below!

Back to Basics Skincare Lineup

High performance, natural skincare, 100% plant based, cruelty free, unisex, customizable

Rose Hip Radiance Oil

About this oil: This powerful brightening oil is formulated with natural ingredients ranging from rose hip seed oil to kiwi seed oil to improve skins texture, fade dark marks and reveals brighter, glowing more youthful skin.

Skin Benefits: Brightening, hydrating, plumping, soothing, softening, pore minimizing, acne fighting, fades dark marks, anti-aging

Formulated with 8 of the worlds most active natural ingredients: Organic Rose hip oil, Organic Grape seed oil, Seabuckthorn berry oil, Organic Camellia oil, Organic, Chia seed oil & Jojoba oil.

Macadamia Nut Hydrating Oil

About this oil: Lightweight, non-greasy, all natural oil formulated with macadamia nut oil, argan oil and antioxidants to hydrate, preserve, and heal your skin.

Skin Benefits: Hydrating, plumping, soothing, softening, acne fighting

Formulated with 7 of the worlds most active natural ingredients: Organic Argan oil, Organic Watermelon seed oil, Vitamin e oil, Organic Macadamia nut oil, Organic Camellia oil, Cranberry seed oil & Jojoba oil.

Avocado Repairing Oil

About this oil: A game changing blend of natural oils, that helps hydrate, heal, and soothe problem skin. This Back to Basics all natural oil is perfect for skin that needs a serious pick me up. It helps with issues ranging from severely dry skin, dry patches, sunburn, eczema and everything in between!

Skin Benefits: Extremely hydrating, plumping, soothing, repairing, softening, pore minimizing, balancing, healing, anti-aging

Formulated with 10 of the worlds most active natural ingredients: Avocado oil, Apricot kernel oil, Cranberry seed oil, Kukui nut oil, Tomato seed oil, Organic, Calendula extract, Organic Carrot seed oil, Jojoba oil, Pomegranate seed oil & Organic Camellia oil

The Greenly Guide: Can you start by sharing a little about your background and any formal education related to skincare you hold and why you chose to start Back to Basics Skincare?

Manon: I went to the University of Rhode Island and studied textiles. 

I started Back to Basics because I was having a really rough time with my skin and my dad recommended that I try using vitamine E oil to heal some scarring I was getting. It worked wonders and really helped clear up some of my acne. I decided that I wanted to create a line of natural products that started with facial oils for people to use that targeted specific skincare issues.

From there I set out to formulate something I felt was missing in the market place. Natural skincare that is more affordable but still felt luxurious and that was easily incorporated in anyone’s routine!

The Greenly Guide: Why natural and organic oils? How did you first become interested in this area of skincare?

Manon: I chose natural and organic oils because it was what worked so well to help clear up and help my own skin. I have noticed such a difference in my skin, even during more hormonal times of the month!

The post Brand Profile and Interview with Manon von Csiky-Sessoms of Back to Basics Skincare appeared first on The Greenly Guide.

While tending her backyard hives, Debra began to see the amazing skincare benefits of honey. She began experimenting with other simple ingredients that are meant to sooth and calm the skin, and the results that she and her family saw from her recipes were outstanding.  With plentiful honey at her disposal, Debra began formulating the skincare that is now a part of Marin Bee Company.

Utilizing the immense benefits of California wildflower honey, she has created a unique line of products unlike most others on the market today.  While you can be sure that Marin Bee Company products contain a number of skin loving ingredients, you can be just as sure that they are free from harmful ingredients such as PEGs, parabens, synthetic dyes, phthalates, mineral oil, talc and synthetic fragrances, to name a few.

In the post below, we are so excited to bring you a wealth of knowledge straight from the experts over at Marin Bee.  They have answered our questions below on topics such as beekeeping, the role of bees, and the best sellers in their product line.  Marin Bee Company has also generously provided a discount code to SHOP their products with a 20% discount using the code BEEGREENLY, valid through July 7, 2017!  

We may have an exciting giveaway with Marin Bee Company happening over on our Instagram account as well, so be sure to head over to check out our feed to enter!

Why bees, and what is their role in our ecosystem?

If it weren’t for bees, many fruits and vegetables would never make it to market. 1/3 of all the bites you take wouldn’t be possible without honey bees. Beekeeping, honey production, and honeybee pollination contributes over $14 billion annually to the US economy.

Honey bees are a keystone species and play a vital part of our ecosystem, acting as highly efficient pollinators of our food crops, as well as for wild flora which other species depend upon. We need bees to keep our crops and earth healthy, but in recent years their numbers have been decreasing by the billions. As their numbers dwindle, the ecosystem and all parts of the food chain are impacted.

Crops such as almonds, avocados, and apples would not exist without pollination. Pollination is the process by which honey bees help plants to produce fruit (technically anything with seeds on the inside, so that includes things we normally think of as vegetables, like cucumbers and tomatoes) by transporting pollen from one flower to another. As the bees gather nectar and pollen, their tiny hairs are coated in pollen, which falls into the next flower they stop and visit.

Considering that the average honey bee can visit more than 2,000 flowers in one day, honey bees greatly increase the chances of a plant producing a fruit or vegetable. While they pollinate, honey bees are also collecting pollen for themselves which they transport back to the hive, where it serves as the main source of protein in their diet and sometimes makes its way into their honey.

Beekeeping 101 and the benefits of pure raw honey

Backyard beekeeping is a very rewarding hobby. Not only are you helping the planet by supporting important pollinators but the honey is itself a very sweet reward! Marin Bee Company founder and backyard beekeeper, Debra Tomaszewski, discovered the profound effect honey had on her skin while tending her hives; her delicious honey improved her skin and complexion. As her children grew into adolescence, skin became a particular issue at her home. Concerned for her teenagers’ skin, Debra brought them to doctors, but all the standard prescriptions were too harsh and irritating for their delicate skin. Debra looked to her trusted bees and crafted effective and powerful homemade remedies to help her children.

She combined her freshly harvested honey with soothing, time-tested ingredients like oatmeal, aloe, olive oil and added nature’s own “cure-alls” such as salt, clay and essential oils created from powerful botanicals. Her children and even their friends experienced stunning results. Using her homemade formulas, Debra’s own skin began to show less signs of stress, appearing healthier with a natural glow. Her honey was providing a second sweet reward. Honey is such a powerful natural ingredient in skincare long known for its restorative, healthful properties and as a powerful rejuvenator for the skin and body. The highly concentrated and unique combination of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and prebiotics in honey helps regenerate skin. Honey straight from the hive, unprocessed, with no additives, chemicals or preservatives contains a distinctive blend of beeswax, propolis, royal jelly, and powerful enzymes, deeply nourishing and protecting skin from environmental damage. Its antimicrobial properties break down dead skin so that it can easily be sloughed away and exfoliated. Because it naturally contains water, pure honey is a humectant, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air and hydrates skin, leaving it silky smooth. At Marin Bee is important to be as sustainable as possible so it is important to us to use locally sourced honey. Wildflowers have fed honey bees for millions of years and California’s lush “nectar corridors” are alive with the vibrant colors and sweet fragrances that attract and feed honeybees. “I first developed Marin Bee formulas with my own honey. It only made sense to support local growers and the nature surrounding me,” explains Debra. “I’m a big believer in, ‘Change starts in your own backyard.’ It is the founding principle for our work with Planet Bee Foundation, our bee and pollination education nonprofit, and I am extremely proud that California Wildflower Honey is at the heart of all our products.” All our Wildflower Honey is cultivated on the hillsides of Northern California and supports local habitats, native species and assists in repopulating honey bee populations.

Interested in learning the basics about beekeeping? We’ve broken down for you how to get started and what to expect and prepare for all year long as a beekeeper! We have a great page on the Planet Bee website, but we’ve shared the info below as well.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED
The beekeeper has a few vital items in his or her arsenal – here’s the basic list.

• Hive tool – A metal object, shaped similarly to a crowbar, used to pry apart propolis-sealed boxes and box lids.
• Smoker – Normally used to subdue the bees when opening a hive — this kind of smoking is bee-friendly and does not hurt bees in any way.
• Bee Suit and Gloves – The beginning beekeeper should wear a full suit, to be safe. Suits are made of heavy-duty material to prevent stings.
• Veil – Protect your face! The veil is vital, and its specially designed mesh allows you to see what you’re doing. This helps protect you and your new winged companions.
• A Hive – Your honey bees will need a home, and there are many types to chose from. We recommend a Langstroth Hive. Made of wood, this timeless design is a favorite in North America.
• Honey Bees – Pre-order them around January for spring delivery. We recommend Carniolan Honey Bees. They’re known for their great gathering zeal. Carniolan Bees overwinter well so they take advantage of early nectar flow, producing honey early in the season. Carniolans are exceptionally gentle and easier to work with than other, more aggressive breeds. This is important because you may wish to raise your honey bees in close vicinity to neighbors.

WHAT TO EXPECT YEAR-LONG
The beekeeper’s year is very seasonal. We’ve listed some of the basic duties required of the beekeeper by season.

SPRING
• Populate your hive now! You can catch a swarm, purchase a 3 lb. package of honey bees, or split an existing hive.
• Inspect your honey bees for health — Is the queen present and laying eggs? Are there parasites or disease present?
• Keep an eye on your honey bees over the season to ensure they have an adequate pollen collection and are thriving.
• We recommend using natural treatments to control mites and diseases. You can use products like Hopguard II — a natural mite repellent derived from hop oil — if you are noticing any signs of mites.
• Split your hive if it gets overpopulated! It will swarm if you don’t catch it in time. (Splitting a hive means taking half of the bees and putting them in a new hive. They will also need a new queen).

SUMMER
• Depending on the productivity of your hive, you may need to add extra honey frames (supers) to the top of your hive.
• You may be able to harvest honey, dependent on your hive’s productivity*.
• If the temperature of your hive grows too warm, you will need to add an extra brood box to prevent overheating.
• Remember to split your hive if it gets too crowded!

FALL
• Check your queen to ensure that she is healthy and laying eggs.
• Check your honey bees to ensure there are no diseases or parasites within the hive.
• Check your hive’s honey stores: if they have a surplus, you can harvest!* If not, or if the
honey stores look low, you will need to supplement their food supply with sugar water and pollen patties.

WINTER
• If you are in an area that experiences harsh winters, consider covering your hive with something to keep the chill off – honey bees do not leave the hive if the temperature outside is less than 50 degrees Fahrenheit, so you don’t need to worry about trapping them inside the cover. Just ensure it’s breathable, and that they have an adequate food supply all winter long.
• Wait it out! Honey bees will only forage when the weather is nice, so winter is the beekeeper’s vacation time.
*Be patient, a new hive might not produce enough honey to harvest the first year.

Ingredients harvested from nature

Our luxurious and effective face and body products reinvent time-tested ingredients to create innovative green beauty that nourishes and detoxifies skin from head to toe. Here are four of our favorite Marin Bee ingredients:

You’ll find Oatmeal in almost all Marin Bee products because it is known for its extraordinary ability to soothe and pamper skin. All our Avena Sativa (Oats) is guaranteed gluten-free. Oatmeal has been used throughout times as a natural, effective treatment to cure skin problems. It is a key ingredient in our Detox Masque because it not only calms irritated skin but also works as an effective barrier to help protect skin from environmental factors.

We love Pumpkin Fruit Enzymes! They are a natural exfoliant rich in magnesium, phosphorus, iron and folate, as well as Vitamin A and phytonutrients. Pumpkin has been used on the skin for centuries for its healing properties. Pumpkin Fruit Enzymes are powerful, yet gentle enough for sensitive skin. We feature Pumpkin Fruit Enzymes in our Detox Masque to naturally and gently exfoliate dead skin cells to help renew and brighten skin.

We can’t say enough about Calendula. Calendula is very calming and is well known for its ability to reduce inflammation and soothe damaged skin. Featured in our Lip Repair, Calendula is a stand out ingredient because of its high concentration of flavonoids and plant-based antioxidants that help shield skin from free radical cell damage.

We really are all about the bees at Marin Bee and both our Lip Repair and Honey Butter contain beeswax because it locks in hydration and provides skin and lips with a long-lasting protective barrier from environmental factors. Beeswax is rich the in Vitamin A, which is necessary for normal cell development and has been used for centuries in the treatment of wounds and other skin conditions.

Which Marin Bee products should you start with? Here is an overview of their bestsellers

Currently our face products are selling beyond expectation! We believe this is because they are unlike any products currently on the market. Our Detox Masque is 1/3 California Wildflower Honey and crafted with soothing ingredients to calm irritated skin and reduce redness. Simultaneously, the Detox Mask also purifies, minimizes the appearance of pores, and evens out skin tone. Our founder developed the product to seek an effective and nontoxic alternative for her teenagers’ problem skin to the harsh chemicals being prescribed to them. The Detox Masque can be used as a full face mask as well as a spot treatment.

Our Lip Repair is a favorite among makeup professionals as it is a nourishing and moisturizing base for any lipstick color, yet its glossy sheen and slight pink hue stands on its own to compliment a clean, natural look. We highly recommend it as an overnight treatment to soothe lips of any dryness or chapping and wake up with them smooth and prepped for the day.

*Photos in this post are courtesy of and belong to Marin Bee Company (unless noted otherwise).

Connect with Marin Bee Company on their website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Tumblr and Pinterest.

The post The buzz on bees with Marin Bee Company appeared first on The Greenly Guide.

I am so happy to have had the opportunity to speak with and interview founder, Stephanie Greenwood, to discuss the reasons why it was so important to her and the brand to have her products certified organic.  She is also sharing her story and how Bubble & Bee began.  Please read on for Stephanie’s thoughts on organic certification as well as the full interview below.

Why an organic certification? 

Stephanie explains her views on why she has had her products certified and the importance of Organic Certification for her brand:

It’s not easy to do and it’s costly, but we feel organic certification is important for our customers. First is ingredient transparency. There are so many companies out there who don’t fully disclose their ingredients, leaving off preservatives, detergents, emulsifiers, and artificial fragrances. With organic certification, you have a third party verifying that what’s *on* the label matches what’s *in* the product. Second, we wanted to stand out in the crowd and show our dedication to organic standards. Companies can use organic ingredients and have most of their product organic, but without certification they’re free to use some conventional ingredients when they’re cheaper or more available and not necessarily change their labels to reflect that particular batch. We want every batch that comes out of our facility to be traceable back to the field as truly organic. Finally, we believe it’s the right thing to do for our environment. With toxic herbicides and pesticides ending up in our rivers and streams from conventional farms, we believe USDA organic agriculture is a healthier option for wildlife, our planet, and our bodies.

The Greenly Guide: Can you share a little about your background in chemistry and how that knowledge helped you in product formulation and launching Bubble & Bee Organic?

Stephanie: When I was 14 I started working at the University of Utah in the Biology Department and by the time I was 16 I was taking advanced chemistry classes at the university on weekends and in the summer. By the time I fully matriculated at the U, I realized that I had a creative side and didn’t want to work in a lab for the rest of my life, so I earned my degree in English. Now I spend a lot of my time researching and writing about chemicals so it’s my ultimate dream job! The fact that I get to help people is also a huge plus! My chemistry background comes in more when I’m doing research for my blogs. Formulating our products does take a little bit of chemistry (especially when it comes to soap) but because our products are so pure, it’s more like cooking with melting, mixing, whipping, blending. Thinking about the biology of skin and the body and how you want the product to work.

The Greenly Guide: What was the first product you attempted to create?  Is it one that you still sell today?

The Greenly Guide: Which of your products do you feel like you are best known for?

Stephanie: I think people know us best for our Pit Putty Deodorant! There are a lot of “pit” this or that products around now, but we were one of the first to put a fun twist on a deodorant name like that. Plus we were one of the first USDA certified organic deodorants on the market. Now we have a huge line of deodorants with so many options! In fact, it’s the largest selection of USDA certified organic deodorants from any one brand on the market.

The Greenly Guide: What has been the most difficult product to formulate?  

Stephanie: I still have dreams of making a shampoo with full USDA certification and that works in any kind of water, hard or soft. I’ve come close and continue to make test batches. A lot of the time the challenge of bringing a new product to market isn’t the formulation. Formulation is the fun part! Sometimes there are other factors that keep you from coming out with a product, whether it’s special equipment needed to scale up production on something, not finding the right packaging, not being able to get graphics designed, or the cost of the product is too high to really be marketable or profitable.

The Greenly Guide: What is your favorite ingredient?

Stephanie: Oooh that’s a great question. I have so many! Shea butter is extremely versatile and we use it in our face cream, body butters, soaps, and deodorants. It’s a great go-to for many formulas and is just so nice on skin.

The Greenly Guide: If you had to describe your brand to someone in 5 words, what would they be?

Stephanie: Fun, organic, approachable, pure, straightforward

The Greenly Guide: In a growing industry of natural and organic products, how does Bubble & Bee Organic stand out from the rest?

Stephanie: One thing that does set us apart is the fact that we do have organic certification. So many brands claim to be “organic” or have “organic” in their name, but we’re one of the few that has actual certification to back us up. We also try to keep things fun and approachable and offer great customer service. I’m not in the business to turn-and-burn—I want to create long-lasting relationships with people where they know if they have a question—even something from another brand—they can come and ask me for my opinion on the ingredients.

The Greenly Guide: What has brought you the greatest joy in owning Bubble & Bee Organic?

Stephanie: Knowing that we’re making a difference in peoples’ lives by offering products they can trust is the best gift of all!

The Greenly Guide: What can we expect from you in the coming year?  Any exciting plans you can share?

Stephanie: Oooo we have some exciting things but I can’t share anything right now!

The post Brand Profile and Interview with Stephanie Greenwood of Bubble & Bee Organic appeared first on The Greenly Guide.

After trying many conventional products to soothe and heal her dry, sensitive skin, and finding that nothing worked, she discovered the reason for this was that she had developed an extreme chemical sensitivity.  All of the ingredients used in mainstream personal care products were making her feel miserable and causing her watery eyes and headaches.  Upon making the switch to all natural products, these symptoms disappeared.

After this discovery, she began her journey into the world of herbal remedies, plant-based treatments and ancient practices.  Formulating products in her kitchen and sharing them with family and friends led to the business she has created today.  Lydia not only focuses on sourcing wonderful ingredients, she is also passionate about giving back to her community and is striving for a zero-waste manufacturing process.

Lydia is so kindly sharing her story on The Greenly Guide today.  In addition to sharing more about herself and her brand, she has also very generously provided a discount code that can be used on their website!  Now through April 5, 2017, enter the code ‘thegreenlyguide15‘ to receive 15% off your order!  Please read on below for the full interview with Lydia, founder of WEBA Naturals.

The Greenly Guide: After experiencing chemical sensitivities to the products you were using, you eventually turned to creating your own products. As a therapist by training, coming from a very different profession, can you share a little about your background with natural products, how you began formulating and any training you have?

Lydia: After realizing that I could no longer use certain products, I began researching this phenomenon. I learned that I was not alone. I found terms like “Extreme chemical sensitivity” and “Toxicant-induced loss of tolerance (TILT), which has been misunderstood among many professionals. I also realized that I did not experience the same reactions to naturally-produced, plant-based ingredients. I began spending years researching formularies, consulting with cosmetic chemists, attending webinars, and reading anything that I could get my hands on. Everything from aromatherapy and herbal medicine to ayurveda and wild edibles were fair game. I am always learning, and continue to do so to this day. The rest is history.

The Greenly Guide: WEBA stands for ‘whole earth body actives’ which you have stated guides your decision to provide the highest quality ingredients that are good for us and our planet. Can you talk a little about your ingredients and how you source them?

Lydia: The first rule of thumb is to make certain that wild-harvested essential oils are not endangered or “rare.” I try to ask the right questions when expanding our supply chain so that I can feel good about adding that ingredient to our products. I try hard to source products that are made locally or in the U.S.A., but it isn’t always possible. Most of the oils and butters that we use are sourced in Europe, Africa, and Asia, for example. These products provide real wages to many poor communities in these countries and are a major source of income. Many of our botanicals, however, are grown in the U.S. organically and sustainably, so we buy from them.

The Greenly Guide: On the topic of ingredients, do you have a favorite ingredient that you work with and include in your products? What about any difficult to work with ingredients you have used?

Lydia: It can be difficult to choose one favorite; I have so many. My favorite essential oil is lavender for its healing properties and its relaxing scent. A favorite emollient is shea butter. The only ingredients that I find challenging is the sodium hydroxide that I use to create the bar soaps. Care must be taken with it, as it is a very strong base.

The Greenly Guide: You have mentioned the importance of simplicity and minimalism within your line, and using multi-purpose products to reduce the number of items a person needs in their collection. Can you share some of the different ways your products can be utilized?

Lydia: All of the bar soaps are “3-in-1” soaps – that is, they are suitable for cleansing, shaving, and shampooing. The secret is in the rich, creamy lather they produce. In fact, ounce for ounce, bar soaps cost less than shower gels. My husband, Marvin, uses nothing else. We like to use the tea tree/oatmeal soap on our dog, Millie. Our balms have as many as ten uses –beard balm, cuticle oil, lip balm, anti-itch salve and everything in between. The lavender balm is also effective against mosquitoes. The Dry Oil is not only effective against frizzy hair and flyaways, but it’s a great massage oil and after-shower oil.

The Greenly Guide: I loved reading about your avoidance of the controversial ingredient palm oil. For those who may not be aware, can you briefly explain why you omit this ingredient and why that was important to you?

Lydia: I first read about the problems with palm oil on the Rainforest Action Network website. “Conflict” palm oil is grown primarily in Indonesia and Malasia, where rainforests are being clear-cut to accommodate this product. It is found in everything from food to feed to cosmetics and skincare. As a result, many native species like the Orangutan, which is now near extinction, are displaced. This is also responsible for many human rights abuses, including child labor practices. I decided early on that my business would not be a contributor to this problem. The butters that I use to substitute it are more expensive, but I feel that it is worth it.  While many big players in the palm oil industry have committed to buying certified sustainable palm oil, we have a long way to go before a total commitment to rainforest-free palm oil can be achieved. I hope that it happens.

The Greenly Guide: For someone who may be viewing your brand for the first time, what are your more popular items that you would suggest someone try to get a taste of what WEBA Naturals has to offer?

Lydia: The first bar soap that I made – “Relax” – is still my most popular item. If you pair that with the Lavender/Tea Tree Body Balm, you have a complete skincare system. Pairing the sugar scrub with the dry oil is also a good combination for normal to dry skin.

The Greenly Guide: In your manufacturing, you strive for a zero-waste process to reduce your impact on the environment. Can you explain a little about the practices you use to achieve this in your production?

Lydia: “Zero-waste” embodies two principles; using what you have and using less than you need to. I engage in both. For example, instead of buying packaging for my shipments I utilize re-used and recycled cardboard boxes and used/recycled paper. I never use bubble wrap or peanuts that don’t degrade. I re-batch our soap ends and mold them into bars that we donate to a local food bank. I re-use and recycle all glass and plastic bottles. My paper towels are recycled unbleached paper or I use cotton towels. Every ingredient is biodegradable. As a result, there is very little that ends up in the trash. While I can’t always control what suppliers send me, I can certainly control what goes out.

The Greenly Guide: In addition to your efforts to reduce your footprint on our planet, you are also passionate about giving back. Can you talk about how you are using WEBA Naturals to support your community?

Lydia: Since I began the business 3 years ago, I’ve given back by donating soap to a local food pantry. I also donate 3-4 gift baskets/year to local charities for their fundraisers. I try to stick to local small businesses when I need professional business services like graphic design and photography. I hire local crafters to make our accessories (sachets and washcloths). I also buy from local businesses. I feel that it’s important for small businesses to support each other given the current retail climate.

The Greenly Guide: What are your goals for WEBA Naturals in 2017, and what new things can we expect from you in the future?

Lydia: I’m always looking for opportunities to partner with businesses that are doing good. I’m hoping to collaborate with a local animal shelter to create a balm that can be used to soothe paw and skin problems. I’m hoping to roll out an ayurvedic deodorant, an oil cleanser, and a few serums. It’s an ambitious undertaking, but I like to aim high.  I will also be doing tabling events later this year, including one at a NYC college for Earth Day. I’d also like to hold a few workshops. I’m excited to see what the future brings for WEBA in 2017 and beyond.

Connect with WEBA Naturals on their website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest

The post Brand Profile and Interview with Lydia Diaz of WEBA Naturals appeared first on The Greenly Guide.

As a mother myself, this is where my journey began.  I became concerned with every single thing I put into my body and onto it as well, knowing that for the first time, my actions were impacting a life other than my own.  My concern for product and ingredient safety became a part of my lifestyle, and it has led me to find incredible brands with these same motivations and goals in mind.

Today, I am so thrilled to introduce you to one such brand, Pleni Naturals.  I had the great pleasure of speaking with founder, and fellow Mom, Allyson Owens, and am excited to share with you the full interview below.  If you are not yet familiar with her products, they are filled with fruit and vegetable ingredients, pure organic essential oils and skin loving ingredients that will help to nourish and soothe your children’s sensitive skin. On top of amazing ingredient quality, Pleni Naturals has taken their commitment one step further to become certified by MADE SAFE. (Read more HERE).  Read on below for our interview with Allyson.

Allyson has very generously offered a wonderful giveaway for readers of The Greenly Guide, so make sure you don’t miss the information on how to enter at the bottom of this post.

The Greenly Guide: Can you talk a little about how you first become interested in natural and non-toxic products and how this lead to the start of Pleni Naturals?

Allyson: Like a lot of women, my journey into the natural and nontoxic world began while I was pregnant with my first child in 2009. It was a journey for me; I didn’t completely go “nontoxic” while pregnant because I was still somewhat unaware of toxic chemicals in the home, but my first detox was definitely my skincare routine! It was also important to me that my babies used safe, nontoxic skincare as well. Before I started Pleni Naturals I was an aesthetician and then I became a consultant and helped skin care brands develop their skin care products. I knew that eventually I would create my own skin care line and I wanted to do something different than what was currently being offered in the natural baby category. Don’t get me wrong; I love flowers but every baby skin care product at the time had flowers in it! I chose to focus on fruit and vegetable ingredients because they are wholesome, just like our babies. Plus, fruit and vegetable oils offer amazing nutritional benefits for the skin. For example; red raspberry seed oil and cranberry seed oil contain omega 3 and 6 essential fatty acids, which our bodies don’t produce and it is necessary to obtain through diet or topically on the skin. These two ingredients help to keep sensitive skin happy and is great for babies and kids suffering from eczema. You can find these two ingredients in our Cucumber + Grape Baby Oil and Berry + Olive Baby Balm. Two other stand out ingredients from the Pleni Naturals skincare line are broccoli seed oil and cucumber seed oil. Broccoli seed oil has a silky finish and works like a natural silicone alternative that leaves the skin smooth and the hair soft and shiny and cucumber seed oil is fantastic for soothing and replenishing the skin’s moisture balance. Both broccoli seed oil and cucumber seed oil can be found in our Apple + Broccoli Hair and Body Wash and the cucumber seed oil can be found in our Cucumber + Grape Baby Oil.

The Greenly Guide: You mention that you created your line of wholesome and organic skincare products for babies and kids to help them develop a lifelong love for veggies, and you also partner with the organization, Life Lab, to help change the way kids think about fruits and veggies. Can you share a little about your partnership and why it is important to your company’s mission?

Allyson: In addition to the answer in question #1 the idea for Pleni Naturals to focus on fruits and veggies was because of my own struggles as a parent inspiring my own kids to love their fruits and veggies! It can be a lot of work! I know other parents struggle with this as well. The fruit and veggie characters on the packaging are fun and silly and it is our mission to deepen that connection with kids and the healthy foods they eat. Plus, the skin is our largest organ and at Pleni Naturals, it makes sense to us to “feed” the skin with the same nutritious fruits and vegetables we put in our bodies. We decided to partner with Life Lab because their values are in alignment with ours — to deepen the connection with kids and the healthy foods they eat. Life Lab is a nonprofit that provides garden education curriculum for schools and I 100% believe that every school should have access to a school garden so they can experience an “edible education”.

The Greenly Guide: How do you keep your own children interested in healthy foods?

Allyson: In many ways! By being an example and making healthy foods choices every day for myself; always stocking plenty of fruits and veggies they have easy access to as a snack; I juice with my son and make smoothies for my daughter regularly (which is how they prefer to get those extra nutrients in, respectively); we go to farmer’s markets; we visit Life Lab on the weekends and enjoy running around the farm (it’s in Santa Cruz, CA which is fairly close to us); we provide a lot of color on the plate especially at dinner time so the food is visually appealing; I tell the kids why the healthy foods they are eating are good for them (i.e. good for your eyesight, makes your bones strong). I also get a lot of healthy recipe inspiration from food bloggers.

The Greenly Guide: As a mother and business owner, how do you find balance between your work and home life?

Allyson: It’s a juggle! But I am so grateful I am able to do this kind of work. I work very efficiently between school drop-off and pickup and I don’t look at my computer again until after the kids are in bed (unless it’s urgent–sometimes things come up!). I often stay up late to get any unfinished work completed and I’m a little more tired than I like, but I honestly wouldn’t change a thing about my current work/home life situation. I love it!

The Greenly Guide: Pleni Naturals has been certified as a brand with MADE SAFE – can you share why it was important to you to pursue this certification and what it means for your brand?

Allyson: I knew while developing the Pleni Naturals line I wanted it to be nontoxic and I spent a lot of time in R&D making sure every product was clean. People may not realize how much work this is; especially when your ingredient “NO” list is as long as ours! Plus, there is a lot of greenwashing in the skincare industry and no regulatory body that prevents companies from calling their products “nontoxic”. How is the consumer supposed to trust skincare brands with all of this greenwashing going on? What products are truly safe to purchase/use? I like MADE SAFE because they screen products for us – the consumer – and only certify products that do not contain harmful toxins that affect our bodies and our environment. And when I learned about MADE SAFE and their mission to eliminate toxins from all products we use in our home, I knew this was the certification I had to have for our brand. Currently, all three Pleni Naturals products are MADE SAFE certified and I plan on all future products we develop to be MADE SAFE certified as well.

The Greenly Guide: What has been your greatest challenge in developing your line of products?

Allyson: By far, the biggest challenge in developing the Pleni Naturals products is preservation! If a product has water in it, it needs to be preserved. Period. The challenge is that it is truly difficult to find preservatives that work and are also natural. There needs to be more options in this area and I am sure every single green skin care company feels the same way! We were lucky to find a 100% natural lactobacillus preservative that works great for our Apple + Broccoli Hair and Body Wash but it doesn’t work for our yet to be released lotion, which we won’t launch until we find a safe preservative blend that works and is in alignment with our values. Also, the problem with the few natural preservatives that are available is that some contain salicylates (think salicylic acid) and these are not appropriate for babies and kids or pregnant women, who also use our products.

The Greenly Guide: Can you share what brings you the most joy about Pleni Naturals?

Allyson: The product development process is a huge joy for me. I absolutely love it! It’s exciting every time. Also, the biggest thrill is when I hear from customers on how the baby oil treated their baby’s cradle cap or how the hair and body wash left their kiddo’s skin so soft and hydrated. This is what it is all about!

The Greenly Guide: What can we expect from your brand in 2017? Any exciting plans you can share?

Allyson: YES! I’m so excited! We are in development with some new products that will launch later this year. Hint: it will be a treat for moms and all ladies alike that care about effective, clean beauty!

Win a Pleni Naturals product bundle!

I am very excited to give you an opportunity to try some of these wonderful organic and non-toxic kids products! The Greenly Guide has partnered with Allyson and Pleni Naturals to offer one of you the opportunity to win all three of their current products: the Cucumber + Grape Baby Oil, the Apple + Broccoli Hair and Body Wash and the Berry + Olive Baby Balm!  Not only are these great for your kiddos, but for the adults in your family too!

Make sure to head over to our Instagram page HERE for all of the giveaway details!

[Giveaway is only open to residents of the United States who are 18 years or older]

*All photos in this post are courtesy of and belong to Pleni Naturals.

Connect with Pleni Naturals on their website, Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

The post Brand Profile and Interview with Allyson Owens of Pleni Naturals appeared first on The Greenly Guide.

A feeling of wonder and mystery always come over me upon entering a library.  There is something magical about all of the knowledge to be gained and all of the stories to uncover.  I love the feeling of excitement when you find that piece of information you were searching for, or when you find a novel that you have to dive into reading right then and there. It is a feeling that always keeps me coming back to explore again and again. I had these same feelings upon discovering The Library Apothecary.

Hand crafted in Alberta, Canada by founder Mara, The Library is as unique as they come.  From the exotic ingredients used in her formulas, to the shadowed and mysterious photos, you are left feeling intrigued and curious about these beautiful creations and their clever product names.  The intense passion she has for researching oils and herbs leads to products that are made with intention and the utmost care and thought.

I have had the pleasure of getting to know Mara and learning more about The Library and I am thrilled to share more about both with you here on the blog today in the interview below.  Mara kindly shared some amazing sneak peaks into a few upcoming launches within her line, and I have no doubt that you will feel a strong desire to explore this beautiful line.  Like a good book, these products will delight and leave you wanting to know more.

The Greenly Guide: I first came to learn about The Library Apothecary via social media and hearing you speak about all of the amazing ingredients in the products you create – what was your inspiration for starting The Library and how long has your shop been open?

Mara: I opened shop January of 2015, not to sell makeup and skincare, but handmade jewelry made out of raw crystals and colorful, dried bugs. Over a very short period, I gathered quite the collection of bugs and rocks, but then came to the realization that I never really even liked jewelry, I just liked collecting bugs and minerals – HA!

Around the same time I first opened shop, I was dealing with some hardcore skin issues caused by food intolerances and prescription medicine. Oh, the joys of life! So, along with totally overhauling my diet, I chucked out all of the skincare products I had been using at the time. They weren’t doing much good anyways, so I figured I would be better off just make my own.

At first, I was only using whole ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, and jojoba as moisturizers, oil-cleansing with hemp seed oil, and adding essential oils to my sub-par concoctions for a bit more oomph. Being totally naïve, I had no idea that my new routine was one of the major causes to the severe flaking and excessive oiliness my skin was suffering through. Slowly, I began researching the issue I was facing, and lo and behold, I had discovered that trans-epidermal water loss was partially to blame! I was only adding oils to my skin when I should have been adding hydration.

In trying to understand which kinds of products would work best for my skin, I flung myself into the never-ending abyss of mystical, plant-based knowledge. I wanted to find the best ingredients to help with sensitivity while also strengthening the moisture barrier over time, so that my skin could better adapt to environmental stressors, but also be able to regain balance when thrown off by internal stress.

The more I learned about different plants, resins, mushrooms, and lab-synthesized ingredients, the more I understood in regards to my own skin, and skin in general. As I formulated products that worked on my own sensitive, acneic skin, I thought that, hey, maybe other people will benefit from this too. And that’s how things really got rolling.

The Greenly Guide: Can you share the meaning behind the name The Library Apothecary or how you came to settle on that name for your brand?

Mara: Honestly, I just needed a new brand name because some candle maker had the one I was using originally. Ah, yes, so inspiring. I do happen to be a big fan of books and writing, though. Also, I do quite like the image of an apothecary hiding in the corner of a giant, private library, spiral-staircase and all.

The full name combines my two favorite things, which sounds really cheesy, but I swear it wasn’t on purpose. I’m only just now finding the hidden meaning of the name. Look at us, learning as we go!

I guess the name sort of plays off the many different ingredients I enjoy using within a single formula, too. Or perhaps that the products themselves are supposed to be much like a library of plant-knowledge?

When formulating and creating names for my products, I do envision my customers having questions that require them to do their own research. I want them to teach themselves about certain ingredients rather than having only the packaging tell them. Same goes for the names of the individual products. I want people to be able to type the product name into Google to find articles and stories about it. Take “Blackwood”, for instance. Look that up and you’ll be introduced to an array of horror stories written by Algernon Blackwood. Look up “Eldar”, and it will bring you to Tolkien’s lore on the first elves to grace Middle Earth. If the stories interest the customer, they may even pick up the full books!

The Greenly Guide: What have been your biggest challenges in working with natural ingredients to formulate your products?

Mara: The biggest issue I’ve encountered when working with natural ingredients is that the results can be quite finicky when mixing together different herbs. If too much of one herb is used, and too little of another, you can easily end up with skin the color of a tomato. There must be synergy. Without creating a balance within the formula, the results are just left up to chance.

Initially, it was hard to maneuver the field of synergy because I couldn’t instantly remember which ingredients were more astringent than another, or which had stronger exfoliating properties than another. Adding pineapple enzymes, strawberry extract, papaya, honey, and white willow could very well lead to some blotchy, itchy skin if too much of each is added, and they all have nothing soothing and calming to sit upon. Synergy is absolutely key to a well-rounded formula; something I caught onto early, thank the gods. All of the herbs used need to be best buds, hold hands, and help each other out. This is more difficult to do as the ingredient list grows, but if you learn enough about the beneficial properties and compounds of an ingredient, linking them with those that share similarities becomes second-nature.

While it is important to understand the scientific side of things, I find that how an herb looks, and its history are just as important. When I’m creating a recipe, even the names of the ingredients must sound like they belong together. For me, the best way to determine synergy is to just go with my gut. If it doesn’t feel right, I won’t force plants together.

The Greenly Guide: Many of the ingredients you use are incredibly unique, and not ones I have heard of often – can you share how you learn about these more exotic ingredients and how you source them?

Mara: I mostly just stumble upon them. I’ll peruse the internet, searching for a sustainable and organic source for one ingredient, and then end up finding three new ingredients. Travelling and trying new foods, like mastic ice cream, also leads me to wonder whether or not I can slather it all over my face. Sometimes I’ll even read a mention of some plant in a book, then look that up. Like Hamlet’s “gall and wormwood”, or how Roman soldiers used to put yarrow in their shoes to prevent sore feet, for example. I find that we can learn a whole lot more about a plant through literature like folklore, poetry, and the like, compared to the more academic literature like scientific papers and whatnot. Of course, studies are incredibly important to determine toxicity, recommended dosage, which chemical compounds the plant contains, etc., but they don’t detail how the plants have been used. History, be it true or not, shows us sides of a plant that science can’t reach.

The Greenly Guide: Can you talk about a few of your favorite ingredients and why they stand out to you as beneficial for the skin?

Mara: Prickly pear, licorice root, and indigo naturalis are some of my all-time favorites! Whenever I see prickly pear extract or prickly pear seed oil on a label I get really excited because it’s such a cute little fruit with really powerful benefits for the skin. It’s very high in vitamin E and linoleic acid, so it’s something I reach for when I want to ease itchy, red skin. It feels thick and emollient, but prickly pear oil sinks in so well and produces such a skin-brightening result that it has become one of my go-to’s. It is terribly expensive, as each seed only contains a small amount of oil, but it’s one of those ingredients that is truly worth the cost. Plus the prickly pear cactus is an excellent drought-survivor, making it an important plant for a more sustainable future.

I add licorice root to nearly everything I make because it is such a great ingredient to help with possible irritation, and is used in nearly all formulas of Traditional Chinese Medicine! Licorice is what’s known as a “harmonizer,” meaning that it can help neutralize potential toxins within many different plants. It brings a whole formula together while also calming and brightening the skin. You can also use it as a replacement for sugar in your tea as it’s incredibly sweet tasting. Almost a little too sweet at times, but it’s great when you have a very bitter, high-mountain green tea.

Indigo naturalis happens to be an umbrella-term for a group of indigo plants that have been used medicinally for thousands of years. There’s Indigofera tinctoria, Isatis indigoteca, Baphicacavthus cusia, and Polygonum tinctorium. These plants have accumulated an incredible amount of research associated with the treatment of dermatitis, over the past 20 years. It’s normally used to help with skin conditions caused by inflammation and irritation, so of course it’s one of my favorites. While all the science backing the effectiveness of this plant is very interesting, and I do suggest you all do some more digging, the story that I always immediately think about when I’m faced with indigo is that of the samurai. Way back when, the robes the samurai would wear beneath their armour were dyed with indigo naturalis! If a warrior was stabbed or cut by the enemy’s blade, the tightly-bound indigo-dyed robes would act similarly to a Band-Aid, while also aiding to hasten the healing process of non-lethal wounds.

All three of these ingredients reside within the Eldar Herbal Unguent, which is designed to calm and protect the skin. A favorite skin-treat I always reach for after using actives like AHAs, vitamin A serums, or before leaving the warmth of my home to face the deadly Alberta winters.

The Greenly Guide: It is easy for people to get caught up in skincare trends, new products or be influenced by social media, possibly resulting in them purchasing a product that does not best suit their skin type – What do you feel are the most important things someone should look for when choosing their skincare products?

Mara: The most important thing about a new product is, and forever will be, the ingredient list. I rarely pay any mind to all the claims made by the packaging, or the person trying to sell it to me. I just flip the product around and scan the ingredient list.

Personally, I try to keep away from any product containing fragrance, so that’s the first thing I look for. If the product contains plant-derived oils, I make sure that they are low in oleic acid. The whole fatty acid composition of oils is something I pay a lot of attention to because too much or too little can really throw your skin off balance. I am prone to clogged pores, oily skin, the works, so too much oleic acid can lead to some painful breakouts for me. Olive, avocado, marula, moringa, camellia and hazelnut are all extremely high in oleic acid, which makes them great for dry skin, but potentially terrible for oily, dehydrated skin. I’m fine with any of the mentioned oils if they’re used at 10% or lower, but my skin needs the linoleic, alpha-linolenic, and gamma-linolenic acids! So, if a product is being marketed towards skin prone to breakouts, yet contains olive oil high up in the ingredient list without an oil like grape seed to balance it out, back on the shelf it goes.

Another thing I pay attention to are the emulsifiers used to hold serums or creams together, and the cleansing agents used to produce a lather in face washes and shampoos. My skin and scalp always do best with the least irritating of cleansers, so “sulfate-free” is what I’ll look for on the front box or label, and ingredients like cocomidopropyl betaine, sm cocoyl taurate, sodium cocoyl isethionate, coco glucoside, etc., in the ingredient list because I know my skin can tolerate these best. In the winter, I stay away from foaming facial cleansers completely.

Now, some positives! When I see green tea, licorice, gotu kola, tamarind seed, watermelon, cucumber, seabuckthorn, sodium hyaluronate, panthenol, xylitol, allantoin, niacinamide, or MSM in a product’s ingredient list, I get excited. When a product contains two or more of these, I get really excited. Because I understand how these ingredients work with my own skin, I can then assume how well the product in my hand will function overall. Naturally, different ingredients may work differently for different people, so it’s very important to be aware of your own skin and its picky preferences. If the base of the formula looks promising, and the actives and extracts look promising, then there’s a high chance the brand will be getting my money.

The Greenly Guide: If you were having a night of self care, pampering and just unwinding after a stressful day – what products would you be using?

Mara: When I get in the pampering mood, I don’t normally think of topical skincare. I might do a more intense routine since I have the extra time, but I mainly focus on de-stressing. This is where herbal extracts and teas come into play!

Inflammation is a big cause of skin flare-ups, and stress is a big cause of inflammation! So, focusing on calming the mind can be just as beneficial as coating the skin in hundreds of dollars of product. In order to de-stress effectively, I like to grab a big fuzzy blanket, (or three), brew some caffeine-free tea, make lots of snacks, and marathon some Netflix.

Passionflower-based teas have been a current obsession of late, as they truly relax the heck out of body and mind, but are better prepared and drunk later in the day when all you want to do I be a couch-potato. During the day, I rely on extracts like reishi mushroom, Rhodiola rosea, and ginkgo leaf, which are adaptogenic in nature, and also somewhat nootropic. These two terms mean that something, plants in this case, may help the body and mind adapt to environmental and internal stress, even enhance memory, and the processing of information. I find that when I have better control over my mind, stress becomes a non-issue.

What new treasures await you at The Library Apothecary? Mara shares more about her newest releases below:

The Eldar Herbal Unguent

Named after the elves of Tolkien lore, this balm was formulated to calm skin subjected to a dry environment, and to provide antioxidants to the skin so that it may fiercely combat city pollution.

Brazilian cupuaçu butter and Indian kokum butter make up the base of this product. They are rich and moisturizing, while also being quickly absorbed and loved by all skin types. Cupuaçu butter is a personal favorite because it provides a silicone-like feel without the pore-clogging effect, so it can help prevent a dry climate from turning you into a flaky prune.

Canadian hemp seed oil, Turkish pomegranate seed oil, hazelnut oil, meadowfoam seed oil, grape seed oil, and rice bran oil then make up another portion of the formula. This blend of oils is used to extract all the oil-soluble goodies from the various herbs added to this balm. There’s a healthy amount of dragon’s blood resin, purple gromwell root, indigo, and rooibos to deal with sensitivity and blemishes, chaga and reishi mushroom for a big dose of antioxidants, and schisandra berry, ginkgo and rhodiola rosea; all-powerful adaptogens which enrich the skin with the nutrients it needs, so that it may better adapt to environmental stressors.

To top it all off, barbary fig seed oil and sacha inchi nut oil are added during the last stages of formulation, accompanied by Bisabolol, vitamin E, Phytosterols, and freshwater pearl powder. These luxurious additions really kick the balm up a few notches in terms of effectiveness. Sacha inchi oil is known for being one of the richest omega-3 sources, light in texture, and great for sensitive and blemish-prone skins. Prickly pear seed oil, on the other hand, is heavier in texture, yet is still absorbed well by the skin. Its high vitamin E content makes it beneficial for all skin types looking for moisturization and a little glow, which the sustainably-sourced pearl powder isn’t too bad at providing either.

Jasmine Pearl and Green Clay Mask

This clay-based mask clears pores of excess sebum while soothing and softening the skin thanks to silk amino acids, ground ginkgo leaf, imperial matcha, and the extracts of licorice, cucumber and gotu kola. Hand-ground jasmine pearl green tea syngergises with ginkgo to provide the skin with free-radical-annihilating antioxidants, and irritation-qwelling quercetin. The delicate scent of night-blooming jasmine is released upon mixing with water or milk.

Voltaire Oil Serum

This facial oil only contains 5 ingredients of which organic amaranth seed oil plays a big part. Why? Because this oil is crazy good. It contains 8% squalene which is the stuff our skin needs to stay healthy and moisturized, especially as we grow older. Amaranth seed oil is also quite high in linoleic acid, making it a good choice for oily, blemish-prone skin. Extra-virgin olive oil contains about 3% squalene, but it has such a high amount of oleic acid that it can be quite troublesome for those with oily skin. To help amaranth seed oil be all it can be, I’ve added apple seed oil and kiwi seed oil to the mix. These two fruit oils provide a boost of antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, something blemish-prone skin needs a whole lot of. And since no product is complete without at least one herbal infusion, I’ve added the soothing wonders of red reishi mushroom.

Interested in trying out The Library Apothecary creations for yourself?

After hearing about all of these amazing products, my guess is you may be interested in doing some shopping!  Mara has so generously offered a free shipping code on all purchases of $80CAD or more with the code FREEGREEN. So, head over to her shop HERE and try out her new Eldar Balm or one of her facial oils or masks!  Let us know in the comments below which product intrigues you the most!

Connect with Mara and The Library Apothecary through her Etsy shop and Instagram.

The post Exploring Etsy: The Library Apothecary appeared first on The Greenly Guide.