Wednesday, July 27, 2016

Bamford Botanic Lip Balm


I have to say that I am quite picky with lip balms, as such I am always on the hunt for a perfect one. In the past I have really enjoyed Nuxe's Reve de Miel Lip Balm, but Nuxe is not cruelty free. When I came across the Bamford's Botanic Lip Balm it visually reminded me of the Reve de Miel Lip Balm but also ticked the boxes in terms of ingredients and being cruelty-free. I decided to pick it up and give it a go. 


In term of packaging it comes in a recyclable glass pot with a clean design. I know that many people will say that pot containers aren't the most hygienic nor user-friendly but I personally don't mind it.  You get 15ml of product. The list of ingredients is very lean including coconut oil, beeswax, cocoa seed butter, grapefruit peel oil, bergamot fruit oil, sunflower seed oil, peppermint herb oil, rose flower oil and arnica herb extract. It's 100% organic and free from parabens, petrolatum and mineral oil. It has a shelf life of 12 months.  


The lip balm has a minty scent, since it contains peppermint. Usually I am not a fan of minty lip balms as I don't prefer the tingly sensation they provide. This one however has a very mild barely there tingly sensation which I don't mind at all. The texture of the lip balm is not too thick nor gloopy. It feels very comfortable on the lips. It doesn't sit on top of my lips like a lot of lip balms containing petrolatum do. I can feel that it's actually doing something for my lips by keeping them hydrated and soothed. I usually use it before going to sleep or if needed throughout the day. It also works really well under a liquid lipstick. 


Overall, I am very satisfied with this product. It has an affordable price point, it's cruelty free, doesn't contain any nasties and does a good job at protecting my lips. If you have been looking for an effective organic lip balm, I think this one is worth checking out. 

Let me know what's your go to lip balm! 

Until next time, 


Muffy

Saturday, July 2, 2016

The Natural Deodorant Co. - Gentle Deodorant Cream


I have been on a hunt for a new natural deodorant, since Net-a-Porter has ceased to offer the occasional free shipping option. I have been previously using the La Vanilla one, which is too expensive now with shipping costs being more than the actual product itself. However, not so long ago I came across a completely new brand, at least to me, called The Natural Deodorant Co. As the name implies this independent British company specialises in organic natural deodorants. I decided to give it a go and see if it's as good as it claims to be.

The Natural Deodorant Co. Gentle Deodorant Cream in Tangerine
Let's start with the packaging which I personally really like. It's a simple yet sturdy glass jar which might not be ideal for some people but I highly appreciate that I can later re-use it, without just throwing it away as I would a regular deodorant stick. I think the whole product presentation has a retro vibe to it which I do enjoy. 

The Natural Deodorant Co. currently has three types of deodorants in their offering: Clean, Active and Gentle. I picked up the Gentle one as it's aimed at sensitive skin and does not contain baking soda. In each category they have a few scent options, I personally went for tangerine. 

Consistency of the deodorant
In terms of consistency and ease of application I was pleasantly surprised. The texture is not too runny. In a way it reminds me of a non-gritty cookie dough. I just scoop a pea-size amount of deodorant and apply it directly to the armpits. It's non-sticky and dries instantly to a powdery finish. You don't have to wait around for it to soak in, instead you can just proceed with your normal routine. It doesn't leave white marks on clothes which is a big plus. The tangerine scent is very pleasant without being too overpowering. 

When it comes to the ingredients list it's short and clean. It contains: Arrowroot, Magnesium Oxide, Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, Clay and Tangerine Oil. The deodorant is vegan and cruelty-free. It's free from gluten, parabens, petrochemicals, artificial fragrance, fillers and aluminium. You can also find the best before date handwritten on the jar.  


Now, does it get the job done? Absolutely yes. It has kept me feeling fresh and comfortable all day. I do have an office job, therefore I can't say how well it will hold if you have a more active lifestyle. I think in that case I'd recommend checking their Active deodorant line. 

Overall, I think it's a great option if you have been looking for an everyday natural deodorant that actually works and doesn't cost a fortune. I have picked mine from Naturisimo but you can also get it from The Natural Deodorant Co:s own website. If you don't want to commit to a full size product you can order samples from Naturisimo and The Natural Deodorant Co. as well. This is super handy and I think more online retailers should do that!

Let me know if you have tried The Natural Deodorant Co. deodorants and, if yes, what your favourite scents are!

Until next time,
Muffy