I love trying new makeup looks, experimenting with bright lipstick colours or trying different hairstyles! Time, however, is not usually on my side, especially being a full-time mom! Running a busy household, as well as managing my website often means minimal makeup and tied back hair. When I do get the opportunity to spend time on myself, I love it! Whether it is a long soak in a bubble bath or getting dolled-up for a night out, I am in my element. [Read more…]
My Favourite Soil Organics Baobab Bodycare Products
I am very particular about having the right ambience in my home. One of the ways of achieving this is through scent. Scented candles are a must and I always ensure that I am never without, beautiful smelling handwash and hand lotion. I have my favourites products, which I repurchase all the time but I also love trying something new. Enter the Soil Organics Baobab Bodycare Products, which I recently ordered from the Soil Organics Website.
Soil Organics Baobab Bodycare Products
I ordered the Balancing Baobab Organic Handwash, Hand Lotion, as well as the Soy Wax Candle. It is always a bit risky ordering products, which you have not tried before but the Baobab products did not disappointed!
I decided to put the products in our downstairs guest bathroom, so that everyone could enjoy them. Before a recent dinner party I lit the candle and to my surprise my hubby commented on the scent. He said that it smelt exaclty like a spa – a real win in my books! Who doesn’t love the tranquil scent of a spa???
Soil Organics
Soil Organics is a South African based company, producing certified organic products locally. They created SA’s first range of certified organic aromatherapy products. What makes them unique, is that they farm, process and market their own products.
Read on to find out how you can treat yourself to a few of these amazing Soil Organics Products.
Balancing Baobab Organic Handwash (300ml)
I am vaguely obsessed about hand-washing! You will find handwash strategically placed all over our home{near a tap naturally!}. The only problem is washing your hands often, can be very drying for your skin. With this in mind I always try and buy a handwash which is also moistursing.
The luxurious Balancing Baobab Organic Handwash is cleansing, as well as nourishing. It contains Baobab oil to help improve skin’s elasticity and radiance. As well as Baobab, it also contains essential oils of Rose Geranium and Sandalwood. These oils help balance and restore the senses, and add a delicate scent. RRP R130.00
Balancing Baobab Organic Hand Lotion (300ml)
If I buy a hand wash and there is a matching hand lotion, I naturally have to buy it! The luxurious Balancing Baobab Organic Hand Lotion, is rich in antioxidants. It contains Baobab oil and Shea Butter to nourish and protect the skin. Leaving it wonderfully soft. As with the handwash the essential oils of Rose Geranium and Sandalwood are added, to help balance and restore the senses, as well as adding the delicate scent. RRP R150.00
Balancing Baobab Organic Soy Wax Candle (200g)
Last but not least I decided to treat myself to the Balancing Baobab Organic Soy Wax Candle. My home is never without scented candles – one aspect of load shedding I don’t mind! This purchase was definitely an added treat just for me and I am so glad I bought. As I mentioned before, the heavenly fragrance transports you to a tranquil spa, which definitely where I would love to be. This luxurious candle with its exquisite earthy floral scents of Rose Geranium and Sandalwood, create the perfect environment to balance and restore the senses. The candle has a lead free wick and is long and clean burning. This makes it a better alternative for both you and the environment. Soy wax is also a renewable resource and is biodegradable. RRP R250.00
To win a R300 Soil Organics Voucher {which is valid until 30th September 2015} please follow the simple steps below to complete your entry:
- Answer this question in the comment section below: Which Soil Organics Products would you purchase with your voucher? {Hint: click on the link above to take you to the website} This step is mandatory – please choose 1 of the other steps below to complete your entry.
- Visit: Soil Organics and/or Inspired Living on Facebook and let us know you have entered. Remember to tag us! or
- Tweet: “Win a R300 @Soil_Organics Voucher from @inspired_lifeSA
- Please be aware the voucher must be redeemed on the Soil Online Store by the 30th September 2015, otherwise the prize will be forfeited.
- Ensure you read the *Terms & Conditions below carefully, to ensure you comply with all the entry criteria.
*Terms & Conditions: By entering this competition you automatically accept all the Terms and Conditions laid out below.
- Entries are open from 9th September 2015 until the 16th September 2015.
- You must complete all the steps as stipulated above on the Rafflecopter Form: Leave a Comment, Like and/or Share on Facebook or Instagram and/0r Tweet about the competition.
- To ensure that your entry is processed correctly (please use a valid email address). Your details will only be used to validate your entry and inform you, if you are selected as a winner.
- This competition is only open to South African residents and to readers who have not won a competition on Inspired Living SA in the past 6 months.
- Entries will be considered incomplete and thus disqualified if the entrant does not provide all requested information. Entry information will not be shared with any third party without the entrant’s prior knowledge and consent.
- The prize will go to the first name selected at random after the closing date. Please be aware the voucher must be redeemed on the Soil Online Store by the 30th September 2015, otherwise the prize will be forfeited.
- The prize is not transferable and may not be exchanged for cash.
- By “Liking” you enter and agree that this promotion is in no way associated with, administered by, or endorsed by Facebook; and acknowledge a complete release of Facebook by your participation.
Announcing The Amazing Kiehl’s BB Cream
BB Cream has always been a struggle for me, particularly finding the right one. Most of them do not provide enough coverage or they make me breakout! Needless to say, I was very excited when the Amazing new Kiehls BB Cream arrived for me to review.
The Amazing Kiehl’s BB Cream
The Kiehl’s Actively Correcting & Beautifying BB Cream, was under development for two years. This included numerous formula revisions and more than 4,000 applications of the product.This remains true to Kiehl’s philosophy – to take the time to develop the right formula, with skincare in mind above all else.
Kiehl’s Actively Correcting & Beautifying BB Cream is a beauty industry advancement. At Kiehl’s, being first in a category is not our focus. We choose to deliver real benefits in formulas that take innovation to the next level. Our customers appreciate that we don’t launch and discontinue products as trends change. This BB is proof of our continued commitment to high formulation, safety and performance standards. We take the time and make the right product for our customers. ~ Cammie Cannella, Vice President of Global Education.
The Product
The first BB (the abbreviation for “blemish balm”) was developed by renowned German dermatologist Christine Schrammek in the 1950s. It was prescribed to patients to help conceal post-surgery imperfections, while nurturing and healing the skin. With today’s advanced skincare science, Kiehl’s chemists focused on this same essential functionality, concealing imperfections but not only for instant coverage but also long-term correction.
With 71% of customers expressing concern with uneven skin tone and lack of clarity, as well as nearly 29% citing dark spots as a concern, Kiehl’s chemists saw this as an opportunity. They have created a product, which effectively treats the skin, by offering skin tone correction using high potency Vitamin C.
The Kiehl’s BB Cream, has been developed with amino acid-coated natural mineral pigments, which conceals imperfections, while working to correct skin discolorations. Additional benefits include reducing the appearance of pores and fine lines, while providing all-day hydration and broad-spectrum SPF 50/ PA+++ protection.
The product is available in 5 shades – light, natural, medium, medium/deep and deep.
The Application
The formula is lightweight, yet still moisturising and gives you build-able coverage. I usually apply my serum first, one which I have been enjoying is the Kiehl’s Hydro Plumping Re-Texturizing Serum Concentrate and then my Kiehl’s BB Cream. I find a little product goes a long way, so use it sparingly. Unless I am off to an event or meeting this will be enough of a base before I apply my makeup. If I am going out I will apply a bit of foundation or concealer to cover my pigmentation or any blemishes.
The Verdict
I think if it were a perfect world and I was still in my twenties, I would only wear a BB cream but there are definitely those days, when my skin needs a bit more coverage! That said I do really love the silky smooth application, as well as the fact that it has a SPF factor 50+++! So if it is BB Cream I am wearing, it will definitely be the Kiehl’s BB Cream.
I have tried two of the five shades, being Natural and Medium. I think Natural is more suited to my skin for winter but I think Medium will be better for the summer months.
This is definitely not a drugstore product in terms of price – at R525 it is certainly not cheap but spending a bit of money on good skincare is worth it!
Kiehl’s products are available from Edgars stores, as well as the standalone Kiehl’s stores.
Disclosure Ranking:2
Essence I Love Nude Collection|Beauty Review
A nude makeup look is my favourite for during the day. It is a soft and feminine but can very easily be vamped up for evening, with a few subtle changes! I have been particularly enjoying the Essence I Love Nude Collection of makeup, which I was sent to review. You may remember a post I did recently featuring the Essence I Love Nude Nail Polish Collection.
Essence I Love Nude Collection
The Collection, also consists of a range of eyeshadows, lipsticks and lipglosses.
Essence I Love Nude Eyeshadow ~
The I Love Nude Eyeshadows are available in six different shades, from a soft beige to a dark brown. I love the baked texture of the eyeshadow, which gives you a wonderful silky, satin finish. Colour pigmentation is great and a little eyeshadow goes a long way. RRP 47.95
Essence Longlasting Nude Lipstick and XXXL Nude Lipgloss ~
The Longlasting Nude Lipsticks are available in five gorgeous shades, which include a light nude, beige, light rose, mocha, as well as brown. The lipsticks have a wonderful creamy texture, which feels great on your lips! RRP 44.50
I am a bit of a lipgloss junkie and always have at least one in my handbag, which is usually a shade of nude! A nude lipgloss is a definite makeup must-have. You can wear it over any lipstick shade, to give your lips a little extra shine. The Essence XXXL Nude Lipgloss comes in six soft shades, which are perfect to compliment any nude makeup look. RRP 38.95
I had a bit of fun creating two, subtly, different nude looks with a few of the Essence products I was sent.
In the look above I used a combination of 03 Crème Brûlée and 06 Coffee Bean, on the eyes, as well as a smoky dark grey liner and mascara. On the lips I used 01 Wearing Only a Smile Lipstick and 01 Shy Beauty XXXL Lipgloss. For a bit of colour on the cheeks I used the Essence Sun Club 2 in 1 Bronzing Powder in 10 Sunshine.
In the second look I used a combination of 01 Vanilla Sugar and 05 My Favorite Tauping, on the eyes. I lined the top lash-line with black liquid liner and finished off the eyes with black mascara. On the lips I used 03 Come Naturally Lipstick and 03 Taste the Sweets XXXL Lipgloss. For the cheeks I used the same bronzing powder I used in the first look -Sun Club 2 in 1 Bronzing Powder in 10 Sunshine.
To vamp up these looks for evening, simply add a bit of smokey drama to the eye or go for a bolder or brighter lip colour.
Disclosure Raking:2
Clarins Bright Plus Review
I think most women have that one thing that they wish they could change about their appearance, mine is my pigmentation! I only developed pigmentation a while after having children. Although it is completely harmless and I am very good at concealing it, it does bother me!
First off let us look at what pigmentation or hyperpigmentation is:
Pigmentation or hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition, which plagues mostly women. It is usually a harmless condition, where some areas or patches of skin become darker in colour; this is caused by too much pigment i.e. melanin on the surface of the skin.
What causes pigmentation or dark spots?
- Exposure to the sun is one of the main causes of the appearance of dark spots or pigmentation.
- Hormonal imbalances, which occur during pregnancy and menopause, can also be to blame.
- Inflammatory reactions caused by allergies, eczema, acne or post skin burns, can be a factor, particularly in darker skins.
Another factor which can become an issue for women, is a dull or uneven complexion. External factors such as UV exposure, pollution or smoking, can cause the skin to undergo various changes, which reduce its capacity to reflect light and give it a dull look.
I think I can speak for the majority of women when I say, all we want is beautiful radiant skin, which is why good skincare is so important!
Personally I have tried quite a few different treatments for pigmentation but in my opinion prevention is still better than cure! This is vital, especially when it comes to sun exposure. The first step to preventing pigmentation, is to always wear an effective sun screen and where possible avoid sun exposure, particularly at peak times.
Clarins Bright Plus
A product which I am currently testing to help treat my pigmentation is the Clarins Bright Plus Range. The Clarins Bright Plus Range is formulated with the brightening power of, Clarin’s exclusive, Sea Lily Botanical Extract, to help prevent, as well as correct dark spots and uneven skin tone.
I have been using the Clarins Bright Plus Intensive Serum, Brightening Hydrating Day Lotion SPF20 and the Repairing Night Cream.
The Products:
Clarins Bright Plus Intensive Serum
This lightweight serum contains Clarins’ exclusive Sea Lily extract, which helps fade discolourations and dark spots. A high-performing plant-based complex based on Sea Lily, targets all of the factors of hyperpigmentation to brighten the complexion. Apply in the morning and evening after your normal cleansing routine and before you apply your regular day or night cream. I started using a serum regularly a few years ago and I think it is such an important part of skincare, especially for aging skin. RRP R605
Clarins Bright Plus Brightening Hydrating Day Lotion SPF20
The Brightening Hydrating Day Lotion, like the serum, is also a lightweight formula, which helps overcomes dullness by correcting dark spots and uneven skin tone. As well as moisturising, the day lotion contains an SPF20, which helps protect the skin from ageing UV rays and harsh environmental influences. Again Sea Lily extract, targets all of the factors of hyperpigmentation to brighten the complexion. Apply in the morning after the Bright Plus Serum. I find that lightweight formulas are not moisturizing enough for my skin, especially during winter. Therefore I think it is vital to use a hydrating face mask, at least once a week, for extra hydration. RRP R595
Clarins Bright Plus Repairing Night Cream
The nourishing night-time treatment turns around dull, uneven skin while you sleep. Clarins have combined extracts of Raspberry, Alchemilla and Vitamin C, to help counter the effects of daytime stress, and minimize dark spots and discolouration. Apply in the evening after using a cleanser, toner and the Bright Plus Serum. I have been particularly generous when applying the night cream, as I feel my skin really does need extra moisturizing, especially during winter. RRP R600
The Verdict
I have been using the Clarins Bright Plus Range for less than a month, so I cannot really report back on any major changes in my pigmentation yet. I have however noticed the dark borders around the dark patches on my cheeks and forehead, since using the Clarins Bright Plus range, appear to be less defined, which makes the pigmentation less noticeable. I am really hoping that the products will continue to break down and fade my pigmentation, as I continue to use them. I love the fragrance products, as well as the feel on my skin and have had no adverse reactions, of any kind. I have also found the overall tone and feel of my skin has been more refined and less dull – which in my book is a win!
Skincare Tips
Exfoliating and masking regularly, is an important part of any skincare routine and including these steps, makes the other products you use more effective. Also never leave home without sun protection on your face, regardless of the weather!
To locate your nearest stockist you can visit the Clarins Website or Shop online via the website.
Disclosure Ranking:3
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