REVIEW: Oskia

A client of mine was raving about an eye cream she bought at Selfridges in London, which was my first introduction to cult favorite, Oskia Skincare. It's not sold here in the US (yet!) but it is available at some of the best beauty stores and spas across the UK, as well on the Oskia website where they will ship worldwide. The line is based around the skincare benefits of MSM (methyl sulfonyl methane) a natural form of organic sulphur, which you've probably seen in supplements at your health food store. This ingredient (along with many other superstar ingredients) are found in most of Oskia's products, along with an MSM oral supplement. 

You can read all about the benefits of MSM here. And take a look at some researched studies here,  here and here. I didn't try every product in the line, but instead got a selection of the best sellers. These are really impressive, active products that I hope make their way into the states soon- but in the meantime they are absolutely worth the international shipping costs due to the unique formulas.

RENAISSANCE CLEANSING GEL                                                                                       SIZE 100ML, PRICE £29.50 or $39.33 USD

Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Aqua, Cetearyl Olivate, Sucrose Laurate, Benzyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate, Sucrose Palmitate, Parfum (Natural), Geraniol*, Dimethyl Sulfone (MSM), Citronellol**, Dehydroacetic Acid, Lactobacillus/Cucurbita Pepo Fruit Ferment Extract, Borago Officinalis Seed Oil, Sucrose Stearate, Linalool**, Retinyl Palmitate, CI77491 (natural iron oxide), Jojoba Esters, Tocopherol, Ascorbyl Palmitate. **Component of natural essential oils

This is a unique product, its a pink, rich gel that turns into an oil, then turns milky once you get water mixed with it. It does have a soothing subtle chamomile & rose scent. However, if you don't like oil cleansers, you probably won't like this- it leaves the skin clean but doesn't give that 'tight' feeling after using foamy or water soluble gel cleansers. I'm not going to dive into the ingredients because cleansers aren't left on the skin very long to have a huge impact except for cleansing the skin, but its suitable for all skin types, and this will absolutely dissolve makeup. 

RENAISSANCE 360 (brightening lotion)
SIZE40ML, PRICE £65.00 (or $86 USD)

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Caprylyl Caprylate/Caprate, Glycerin, Zinc Oxide, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, Cetearyl Olivate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate, Inulin Lauryl Carbamate, Dimethyl Sulfone (MSM), Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil Unsaponifiables, Myristyl Myristate, Opuntia Ficus Indica Stem Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Lepidium Sativum Sprout Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Lupinus Albus Seed Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Bisabolol, Galactoarabinan, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Retinyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, Arbutin, Glyceryl Linoleate, Glyceryl Linolenate, Linoleic Acid, Linolenic Acid, Glutathione, Phytic Acid, Cetyl Palmitate, Sorbitan Palmitate, Phenethyl Alcohol, Silica, Benzyl Alcohol, Caprylyl Glycol, Lactic Acid, Sclerotium Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Titanium Dioxide, Alcohol, Parfum (Natural Fragrance), Lecithin, Sorbitol, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Glyceryl Caprylate, Phenoxyethanol, Geraniol, Citronellol, Linalool PAO = 9M

This is packaged in an airless pump (awesome!) and the texture is light, but nourishing, and has a very subtle earthy floral scent that goes away within a minute. This does have an spf 8 from the zinc oxide, so I would apply separate spf if you are going to be out and about. Great for all skin types that are looking for a brightening lightweight lotion. Among the first few ingredients are some great plant based antioxidant oils followed by: 

• MSM reduces inflammation, and increases the production of pheomelanin, to reduce pigmentation, also acts as an anti-inflammatory and calms breakouts.
• HYALURONIC ACID hydrates, plumps and softens
• GALACTORABINAN acts as a gentle exfoliant and inhibits moisture loss
• LUPIN SEED (Collangeneer) boosts Collagen I synthesis and the formation and quality of the collagen matrix
• NANO BRIGHT Oskia's own encapsulated liposome includes Glutathione (key antioxidant and tripeptide), natural Arbutin (from Bearberry leaf) both of which inhibit the enzyme Tyrosinase (which stimulates melanin production within the melanocytes); and antioxidants Vitamins C & E. 0.4% of Nanobright inhibits melanin formation by 74%. (Oskia uses 5%)
• ENCAPSULATED SWISS GARDEN CRESS LIPOSOMES, rich in Sulforaphane, inhibit the hormone a-MSH to reduce melanin production by 44% using 0.4% for an even skin tone and reduced hyper-pigmentation. (OSKIA uses 2%)
• ENCAPSULATED MULTI-VITAMINS: A, C, E, and F
• ENCAPSULATED 6% VITAMIN C powerful anti-oxidant properties and boosts collagen
• OPUNTIA CACTUS EXTRACT calms irritated skin

RENAISSANCE BRIGHTLIGHT (brightening serum)
SIZE30ML, PRICE £85.00 or $113 USD  

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C Phosphate), Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Dimethyl Sulfone (MSM), Zinc Glycinate, Arbutin, Glutathione, Lepidium Sativum (Cress) Sprout Extract, Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Fruit Ferment Filtrate, Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C Palmitate), Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E Acetate), Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Glycerin, Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract, Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Rhodinols (Natural Rhodinol), Inulin, Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide, Cymbopogon Martini (Organic Palmarosa) Oil, Anthemis Nobilis (Organic Roman Chamomile) Flower Oil, Rosa Damascena (Organic Rose) Flower Oil, Linolenic/Linoleic Acid, Cinnamomum Camphora Linalooliferum (Ho) Wood Oil, Saccharomyces/Magnesium Ferment, Pelargonium Graveolens (Organic Bourbon Geranium) Oil, Saccharomyces/Copper Ferment, Saccharomyces/Silicon Ferment, Saccharomyces/Zinc Ferment, Saccharomyces/Iron Ferment, Jojoba Esters, Juniperus Mexicana (Cedar) Wood Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Organic Clove) Bud Oil, Phenethyl Alcohol, Potassium Sorbate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Bisulfite, Disodium EDTA, Alcohol, Alcohol denat., Phenoxyethanol*, Citronellol**, Geraniol**, Linalool**, Eugenol**, CI 77491 (Iron Oxides)

This orange colored serum comes in a glass bottle with a dropper applicator, with a scent that is lighter but similar to the Renaissance 360 product mentioned above. It dries quickly with no stickiness. This is a serum targeted for brightening, and it does contain a small amount of some essential oils, so SPF layered on top is mandatory! The second ingredient is a 6% phosphate form of vitamin c, followed by: 

• NANOBRIGHT:Oskia's own encapsulated liposome includes Glutathione (key antioxidant and tripeptide), natural Arbutin (from Bearberry leaf) both of which inhibit the enzyme Tyrosinase (which stimulates melanin production within the melanocytes); and antioxidants Vitamins C & E. 0.4% of Nanobright inhibits melanin formation by 74%. (Oskia uses 5%)
• ENCAPSULATED SWISS GARDEN CRESS LIPOSOMES rich in Sulforaphane, inhibit the hormone a-MSH to reduce melanin production by 44% using 0.4%. (Oskia uses 2%)
• MSM boosts the power of Glutathione and increases the production of pheomelanin, the type of melanin that is found in fair-skinned people, relative to eumelanin, the darker type of melanin.
• 5% NIACINAMIDE (Vitamin B3) reduces post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation, and increasing over-all skin lightening
• ZINC GLYCINATE stimulates the formation of an antioxidant protein to bind Copper and inhibit the production of melanin and reduces Tyrosinase.
• PASSIONFRUIT & GRAPE AHAS with PUMPKIN & PAPAYA ENZYMES gently exfoliate
• FERMENTED MINERAL POLYPEPTIDE MIX Oskia's own fermented mineral complex delivers Magnesium, Iron, Zinc and Silicon in bio-available form for a full skin cell health boost.
• PREBIOTICS help to protect the skin’s natural flora for optimum skin health by preventing the colonization of harmful bacteria.

EYE WONDER 
SIZE10ML, PRICE £48.00 or $64 USD

Ingredients: Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Dimethyl Sulfone (MSM), Glycerin, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Benzyl Alcohol, Whey Protein, Zinc Glycine, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Laminaria Digitata Extract, Malus Domestica Fruit Cell Culture, Limonium Narbonense Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate Lysate, Galactoarabinan, Panthenol, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Lecithin, Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol, Dehydroacetic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Lactic Acid. 

This active eye serum is lightweight and soaks in fast. It uses a base of Rosa Damascena Flower Water but i didnt notice any scent, and there is no added fragrance. Dry skin types may need a lotion or cream on top of this for more moisture when applying makeup , but I found my concealer worked fine on top of it. 

• VITAMIN B3 (Niacinamide) reduces water loss, boosts fatty acid and ceramides, stimulates new fibroblasts, inhibits pigmentation
• VITAMIN E anti-oxidant 
• VITAMIN P strengthens the capillary walls to help reduce the appearance of dark circles. 
• MSM the most bio available form of sulphur, aids collagen production.
• ARNICA AND LAMINARIA COMPLEX rich in decongestive Vitamin P strengthens capillary walls to reduce puffiness and dark circles
• MILK PEPTIDES stimulating collagen synthesis, increasing Hyaluronic Acid production, increasing cell-to-cell communication
• GALACTOARABINAN acts as a gentle exfoliant and inhibits moisture loss
• O3 STRESSED YEAST LYSATE helpS reduce UV induced damage
• ZINC GLYCINE COMPLEX helps reduce UV induced pigmentation.
• SWISS APPLE STEM CELLS are touted to prolong the life of healthy skin cells and protect DNA. there hasn't been a ton of research in this area, so even though this is in here, I'm counting on the other proven ingredients to work
• HYALURONIC ACID & BIOSACCHARIDES for hydration

REVIEW: Rohr Remedy

When I come across a few unfamiliar ingredients in a skincare product, my interest is peaked, and that was the start of my excitement in exploring Rohr Remedy - a brand from Australia based on combining unique, wild harvested native ingredients from traditional Australian Bush medicine. The complete line, currently 8 products, is free from parabens, phthalates, petrochemicals, propylene glycol, sulphates, synthetic fragrances, bisphenol A (BPA), artificial colours, aluminium and silicones. The gorgeous packaging of all the products come in boxes of modern pastel shades, and the actual products are in super luxe, glossy black bottles and tubes. All of this, and nothing over $36 USD!

This photo is taken from Rohr Remedy website.

The following excerpt is from Australian Geographic: Australian bush medicine, much like the bush itself is still very much a mystery.  "A lot of information is lost," says Dr Evelin Tiralongo a pharmacist and expert in complementary medicine from Griffith University in Queensland. "[In Aboriginal culture], nothing is written down; instead, it's passed on through singing and dancing ceremonies, which are becoming increasingly rare."  According to Evelin most Aboriginal medical treatments were derived from food. "A big part of maintaining their health was just eating right," she says. When Aboriginal people did fall sick, they used plants in a variety of ways to quell their ills. Some plants, like were crushed, heated and applied to the skin. Others were boiled and inhaled, and occasionally drunk. There were also saps which were directly smeared on the skin, and barks that were smoked or burned. Professor Joanne Jamie, a medicinal chemist from Macquarie University, in Sydney has compiled a database on Aboriginal plants. Many of those plants, she found, contained anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory compound that are known to western medicine. "When plants are used in a customary way, there is a far greater success rate in them having biological activity," she says. "The plants that were used by the Aborigines are very likely to be useful to us."
 

Rosalina Face Cleanser, $18, 1.69fl oz
Ingredients: Aqua (Purified Water), Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis), Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropul Betaine, Lauryl Glucoside, Disodiumsulfosuccinate, Stearic Acid, Glycerin, White Willow (Salix Alba) bark extract, Quandong (Santalum acuminatum) extract, Rosalina (Melaleuca ericifolia) oil, Jasmine (Jasminum sambac) essential oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Benzyl Alcohol (and) Dehydroacetic Acid (preservatives)

Packaged in a black squeeze tube with a flip up top (perfect for travel!) this cleanser might seem small in size at first glance, but a tiny pea size amount creates more then enough slightly foamy lather for the whole face...a little goes a long way. This aloe and water based cleanser's highlight is Rosalina (Melaleuca ericifolia) oil which is a natural astringent. The product has a faint, subtle natural floral scent, and rinses beautifully with minimal effort, skin is left clean but not tight. This will remove makeup very well, and is suitable for all skin types.
 

Kakadu Plum Vitamin C Face Serum, $36, 1.69fl oz
Aqua (Purified Water), Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis), Kakadu plum (Terminalia ferdinandiana), Tamarind (Tamarindus indica) seed extract, Silk Amino Acid, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Hectorite, Allantoin, Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) essential oil, Xanthum gum; Benzyl Alcohol (and) Dehydroacetic Acid (preservatives)

This product comes in an airtight glass bottle with a pump, perfect for keeping the ingredients active and stable. The serum feels like a light gel, it soaks into the skin quickly, doesn't feel sticky, and smells faintly of geranium, which dissipates in a few minutes. The extract from the Kakadu plum, (the third ingredient) is rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant which increases collagen production (wrinkle reduction), reduces skin discolorations, strengthens the skins barrier, reduces inflammation, and help skin better withstand exposure to sunlight, so this is a great serum for the daytime. Listed next is Tamarind Seed extract (natural source of hyaluronic acid for hydration), silk amino acid (water binding antioxidant), vitamin e (skin healing antioxidant), allantoin (soothing anti-irritant), and geranium oil (antimicrobial). Geranium oil is a fragrant oil that can be an irritant, but when used in small amounts like it is here, there is no cause for concern. This is an excellent vitamin c serum for all skin types!

Lilly Pilly and Omega 3 Face Moisturizer $24, 1.69fl oz
Aqua (purified water), Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Rice Bran (Oryza sativa) oil, Macadamia (Macadamia ternifolia) nut oil, Sweet Almond (Prunus amygdalus dulcis) oil, Glycerin, Lilly Pilly (Syzygium leuhmanii) extract, Cetyl Alcohol, Hydrolysed Oats (Avena sativa), Sodium Lactate, Silk Amino Acid, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Stearyl Glutamate, Allantoin, Rose Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) essential oil, Rose (Rosa centifolia) essential oil, Australian Sandalwood (Santalum spicatum) wood oil; Benzyl Alcohol (and) Dehydroacetic Acid (preservatives)

Packaged in a squeeze tube, this is a lightweight lotion with a subtle sweet earthy scent. It soaks in quickly but leaves skin feeling hydrated with no surface residue or stickiness, perfect for normal to dry skin not prone to breakouts. On the list, following water, comes two esters derived from olive oil (rich in antioxidants), then three hydrating oils- rice bran, macadamia and sweet almond. Next up is glycerin (my favorite humectant), and the rare Lilly Pilly. Typing that is almost as fun as saying it out loud! Lilly Pilly, a bush medicine of Indigenous Australians for internal and external healing, is a rich source of vitamin c- it also assists the repair of weathered skin and the astringent property provides gentle exfoliation. Hydrolyses Oats is the anti-irritant and we also see another appearance of silk amino acid, vitamin e and allantoin. There is a small amount of fragrant essential oils, but the tiny amounts are not cause for concern however for very sensitive skin, always do a test patch first.
 

Boab and Rosehip with Vitamin E Oil, $30, 1.69fl oz
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (fractionated Coconut oil), organic Boab (Adansonia gregorii) oil, organic Rosehip (Rosa canina and Rosa rubiginosa) seed oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Frankincense (Boswellia cateri) essential oil

This rich, nourishing oil comes in a glass bottle with a dropper style applicator. Excellent formal for super dry skin, or even on the body as a little goes a long way. The superstars in this are the Boab oil, which contains high levels of Vitamin C and Calcium, along with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to encourage smoother skin, and during pregnancy help prevent and manage stretch marks. Vitamin A rich rosehip oil provides excellent healing and slows early aging. The last ingredient, frankincense oil, is a fragrant component, but when used in tiny amounts, there isn't cause for concern. As always, patch test for sensitivity if you are on the sensitive side.

Gumbi Gumbi Lip Balm, $12, 0.5fl oz
Lanolin, Castor (Ricinus communis) oil, Beeswax, Gumbi Gumbi (Pittosporum phylliraeoides) infused Sweet Almond (Prunus amygdalus dulcis) oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Peppermint (Mentha piperita) essential oil, Orange (Citrus sinensis) essential oil

Packaged in a chic glossy black squeeze tube, this balm combines the classic apothecary formula of castor oil, lanolin and Vitamin E with Saponin-rich Gumbi Gumbi, which has antibacterial and antiviral properties and can also help prevent colds and flu, aids repair of cracked lips. The peppermint and orange oils will give this a slight hint of flavor and smell.
 

Australian Wildflower Deodorant, $12, 1.0 fl oz
Aqua (Purified Water), Glycerin, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Bi-carbonate of Soda, Zinc Ricinoleate, Cetyl Alcohol, Rosalina (Melaleuca ericifolia) oil, Kunzea ambigua, Fragonia (Agonis fragrans) essential oil, Carrageenan/Seaweed (Chondrus crispus) extract, Xanthum Gum, Phenoxyethanol (and) Ethylhexylglycerin (preservatives)

Normally I shy away from deodorants that are in a rollerball applicator, because that tells me the deodorant is a liquid and liquid deodorants are usually sticky and seem to stay sticky on me. This surprisingly kept me dry, and it dries within a few minutes of applying, no stickiness! The essential oils I had never heard of before, they are from Australian wildflowers Rosalina, Kunzea and Fragonia, used by Indigenous Australians for healing, and have deodorising and antibacterial properties. The scent for me is like fresh cut herbs, but doesn't linger more then a few minutes.

photo taken from www.rohrremedy.com

Honey Myrtle Body Wash, $21, 16.9 fl oz
Aqua (Purified Water), Aloe Vera(Aloe barbadensis), Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Lauryl Glucoside, Glycerin, Quandong (Santalum acuminatum) fruit extract, Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) fruit extract, White Willow (Salix alba) bark extract, Honey Myrtle (Melaleuca teretifolia) branch/leaf oil, Pink Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) peel oil, Xanthum Gum; Benzyl Alcohol (and) Dehydroacetic Acid (preservatives)

This is a gel body wash, housed in bottle with with a pump. It smells HEAVENLY- a citrusy, clean green scent that I didn't want to rinse off! Left skin clean and refreshed, but not tight. As for the ingredients, they are all super gentle cleansing agents, and combines the anti bacterial power of Honey Myrtle with healing properties of the Quandong plant. With body washes, the antioxidant content doesn't matter so much since its rinsed down the drain quickly, but hey, every little bit helps. 

photo taken from www.rohrremedy.com

Desert Lime Body Moisturizer, $24, 8.45fl oz
Aqua (Purified Water), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (fractionated Coconut oil), Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Olive (Olea europaea) oil, Coconut (Cocos nucifera) oil, Glycerin, Desert Lime (Citrus glauca) extract, Giant Kelp (Macrocystis pyriferae) extract, Wattle (Acacia dealbata) flower oil, Mandarin (Citrus reticulata) oil, Cetyl Alcohol, Black Pepper (Piper nigrum) seed oil, Hydrolysed Oats (Avena sativa), Sodium Lactate, Silk Amino Acid, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate; Benzyl Alcohol (and) Dehydroacetic Acid (preservatives)

Similar packaging to the body wash, this body lotion is a lotion texture but stays slightly moist for about ten minutes after application, which i love. but also could just be because i use a huge amount when moisturizing. With a smell so fresh and citrusy, its easy to just keep slathering more on! Hydrating coconut and olive oils nourish, and the Desert Lime extract assists skin repair due to a high level of antioxidants, including Vitamin C, and was in traditional use by Indigenous Australians for its revitalizing qualities. The rich nutrients from Australia’s Giant Kelp help retain skin moisture and softness. I need a uplifting scent when applying body lotion, and this lingered for some time after but its subtle, not strong enough to compete with any perfume you may put on. Another gorgeous product! 

REVIEW: Juara

Juara was on my radar after getting a sample of the Candlenut Body Cream through a monthly beauty subscription box, and it was love at first smell. Subtle tropical scents are my weakness, and add to that a luxe, nourishing texture, this easily became my go-to body cream all last summer. Recently, I found out they had a face skin care line in addition to the amazing body products, and after looking at the ingredients, was eager to take a look and try some.

The brand was started by four women and is based on the Indonesian Jamu tradition - which is an ancient herbal medicinal tradition that has been around for hundreds of years where they use specific natural ingredients to treat specific skin and health issues orally and topically. In Indonesia today, even with the prevalence of western medicine, the government still recognizes Jamu as a medicinal practice, with its own set of local FDA rules. Very cool! The line is also 100% vegetarian & PETA approved, dermatologist tested, paraben-free, sulfate-free, phthalate-free, and no irritants, harsh chemicals, and is sustainably sourced. For more info, http://www.juaraskincare.com. Onto the reviews! 

Rice Facial Cleanser, 4.5 fl oz, $29           

This pumps out as a gel/lotion hybrid, and foams slightly. The smell is a heavenly tropical luxe (but subtle) that is almost too good to rinse. I massaged this in my face longer then any other cleanser I've used, and as silly as this sounds, makes me really happy. It rinses off completely, no residue left behind, and doesn't strip skin. It removed all my makeup, didn't sting my eyes, and just left my skin super soft. The cleansing agents are coconut derived, and sulfate free. This is absolutely a great cleanser for all skin types.

Ingredients: Water, Decyl Glucoside*, Glycerin, Polyglyceryl-10 Caprylate/Caprate*, Coco-Glucoside*, Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) Oleosomes, Glyceryl Oleate*, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Candlenut (Aleurites moluccana) Oil, Rice Bran (Oryza sativa) Extract, Carrageenan*, Xanthan Gum*, Sodium Levulinate, Potassion Sorbate, Citric Acid, Natural Fragrance. * NPA, ECOCERT or COSMOS Approved

Tamarind Tea Hydrating Toner                4.5 fl oz, $32 

Great toners are hard to come by, they are usually loaded with alcohol and irritants. For oily skin, this may be your antioxidant layer that is lighter then a lotion or serum. For dryer skin, think of this as a boost before applying your other products. Too many antioxidants? No such thing! There is no fragrance to this, and its a pump so you can use a cotton pad or just splash on with fingertips. I wish this came in a mist form, but that is just a personal preference. The ingredient list is short but mighty. Tamarind seed extract works to increase the skin’s hydration level and .2%  hyaluronic acid makes skin feel instantly soft and supple. The white, green, and black tea extracts provides antioxidant benefits and vitamin-rich rice bran provides calming benefits, minimizing the appearance of redness. No sticky residue and soaks in within seconds. 

Tamarind Tea Hydrating Toner Ingredients: Water, Pentylene Glycol, Tamarind Seed (Tamarindus indica) Extract, White Tea, Green Tea, Black Tea (Camellia sinensis) Extract, Rice (Oryza sativa) Bran Extract, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Potassium Sorbate.

Sweet Black Tea & Rice Moisturizer         1.7 fl oz, $55 

This lightweight lotion has a faint, subtle tea smell that fades in a minute, and absorbs quickly into the skin leaving it glowy, not greasy. Normal to dry skin types will love this. The first few ingredients are candlenut oil, and three different ingredients derived from olive oil, so this starts out with some effective, potent antioxidants. The rest of the ingredient list reads the same, its antioxidant after antioxidant, most which also have nourishing and anti-inflammatory properties. Another highlight is fermented sweet black tea, also known in Indonesia as “miracle tea” or “kombucha,” which is rich in energizing Vitamin B. Hyaluronic acid, and other active botanicals round out the ingredients, which make this a product I loved, and would also highly recommend.

Sweet Black Tea & Rice Moisturizer Ingredients: Water, Ethylhexyl Olivate, Candlenut (Aleurites moluccana) Oil, Dicaprylyl Ether*, Cetearyl Olivate*, Stearyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate*, Cetearyl Alcohol*, Glycerin, Rice Bran (Oryza sativa) Oil, Avocado (Persea gratissima) Oil, Phytosterols, Olive (Olea europaea) Fruit Oil, Aamla (Phyllanthus emblica) Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tetrahydrocurcuminoids, Ferulic acid, Di-Potassium Glycyrrhizinate, Green Tea (Camellia sinensis) Leaf Extract,  Illipe (Shorea stenoptera) Seed Butter, Rice Bran (Oryza sativa) Extract, Five Flavor Berry (Schizandra chinensis) Fruit Extract*, Saccharomyces/Xylinum Black Tea Ferment, Tocopherol , Xanthan Gum*, Cetyl Palmitate*, Sorbitan Palmitate*, Sorbitan Oleate*, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Maltodextrin, Citric Acid, Sodium Levulinate, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Phytate, Natural Fragrance.

Miracle Tea Complete Eye Creme             .5 fl oz, $48 

The texture of this eye cream was perfect for me, silky but not rich, and let my concealer go on smooth. There is a subtle, natural earthy smell that is barely noticeable. The ingredient list is very similar to the moisturizer mentioned above, with some welcome additions suited for the eye area. Marigold is known to decrease inflammation, promote lymphatic drainage, and lessen the appearance of dark circles and broken capillaries. Score! Next are some algaes, ferulic acid, and herbs, all which will lighten and brighten the delicate under eye skin. This is another superstar product from Juara!

Ingredients: Water, Candlenut (Aleurites moluccana) Oil, Ethylhexyl Olivate, Dicaprylyl Ether*, Cetearyl Olivate*, Shea (Butyrospermum parkii) Butter, Stearyl Alcohol, Rice Bran (Oryza sativa) Oil, Sorbitan Olivate*, Cetearyl Alcohol*, Avocado (Persea gratissima) Oil, Phytosterols, Olive (Olea europaea) Fruit Oil,  Illipe (Shorea stenoptera) Seed Butter, Aamla (Phyllanthus emblica) Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate,  Tetrahydrocurcuminoids, Ferulic acid, Di-Potassium Glycyrrhizinate, Green Tea (Camellia sinensis) Leaf Extract, Plankton Extract, Brown Algae (Ascophyllum nodosum) Extract, Red Algae (Asparagopsis armata) Extract, Golden Chamomile (Chrysanthellum indicum) Extract, Saccharomyces/Xylinum Black Tea Ferment, Five Flavor Berry (Schizandra chinensis) Fruit Extract*, Cetyl Palmitate*, Sorbitan Palmitate*, Sorbitan Oleate*, Tocopherol, Butylene Glycol, Bismuth Oxychloride, Maltodextrin, Glycerin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Citric Acid, Sodium Levulinate, Potassium Sorbate, Xanthan Gum*, Sodium Phytate. * NPA, ECOCERT or COSMOS Approved

Turmeric Antioxidant Radiance Mask        3 oz, $37 

This mask comes out creamy, and has a faint earthy, natural smell. The base is water, glycerin (a skin repairing ingredient), kaolin (an oil absorbing clay) and candlenut oil (non-fragrant plant oil that is an anti-inflammatory and wound healing). Next up is tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane, a extract  from turmeric that is known for brightening and its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Then we have Tetrahydrodemethoxydiferuloylmethane (lol longest name ever) which is a synthetic antioxidant that provides the protective effects of potent antioxidant curcumin but without the deep yellow coloration. This also has an anti-inflammatory benefit as well as reducing the formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) which destroy collagen. The antioxidants continue with carrot seed oil and vitamin E. While masks aren't totally necessary (think of them as boosters) this is a nice indulgence for any skin type that will leave your skin soft and glowy.

Turmeric Antioxidant Radiance Mask Ingredients: Water/Eau, Glycerin, Kaolin Clay, Candlenut (Aleurites moluccana) Oil, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Myristyl Myristate, Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane, Tetrahydrodemethoxydiferuloylmethane, Tetrahyrobisdemethoxydiferuloylmethane, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Carrot (Daucus Carota sativa) Seed Oil, Vitamin E (Tocopheryl) Acetate, Hydroxyethylacrlyate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer, Squalane, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Phenypropanol, Polysorbate 60.

REVIEW: Goop Skincare

I personally feel organic skincare really comes down to personal preference. There is a huge misconception that all synthetic/non-organic ingredients are bad and that all organic/natural ingredients are better. There is no published research to date showing organic ingredients are better or safer for your skin when it comes to skincare. Just because something IS natural/organic, doesn't mean its safe for your skin.  An organic irritant is still an irritant. There is numerous published research that shows when skin is irritated, it not only causes collagen to break down, but impairs the skin's ability to heal. For the record, I really LOVE a lot of organic and green beauty brands and products, and use a lot of them myself. For a more insight, you can check out my previous post about the FDA and natural ingredients. Back to Goop..I was hoping from a lot more from this line, considering I think the Goop team puts in a lot of effort to research the products they support and brands they partner with. I spoke with Yahoo Beauty about this the other day, you can read more about it here: https://www.yahoo.com/beauty/what-it-costs-to-do-skincare-like-gwyneth-paltrow-185826262.html

Onto the ingredients!  (all images and ingredient lists are taken from goop.com)

LUMINOUS MELTING CLEANSER  This smells heavenly, and undoubtedly it is hard to not want to rub it all over your face. But don't, here's why..The first four oils mentioned are found in your typical oil based cleansers, but right after those comes the 'essential oil blend' which are all commonly known irritants. This isn't going to stay on your skin long enough for those irritants to cause trouble, since it is a cleanser and is only in contact with the skin a short time, but why not use an oil cleanser that is 100% safe from irritants! Oil cleansers will remove makeup, but unless you have super dry skin with no visible pores in sight, you still should use a water soluble face wash after an oil cleanser. Or just avoid them completely. Also this is $90! What?? NO! Just, no.  

• Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil*, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil*, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter*, Essential Oil Blend: Monarda Didyma (Bergamot) Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil and Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Oil, Iris Pallida (Sweet Iris) Leaf Cell Extract, Narcissus Poeticus (Poet’s Daffodil) Flower Extract, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Jojoba Esters, Tocopherol, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter.

EXFOLIATING INSTANT FACIAL  Most of this line's products starts with grape juice, apple juice, and lemon juice. Grape and apple I can get behind, but lemon is a common irritant along with the 'essential oil blend' that follows. Similar to a cleanser, this isn't staying on your skin very long, but exfoliation should be done gently, and combining exfoliation with irritating ingredients is never a good idea.

• Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe) Leaf Juice*, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Juice*, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Juice*, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Juice*, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Lactic Acid, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Cetyl Esters, Stearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Glycolic Acid, Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Diheptyl Succinate, Coco-Glucoside, Essential Oil Blend: Monarda Didyma (Bergamot) Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, and Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Oil, Iris Pallida (Sweet Iris) Leaf Cell Extract, Narcissus Poeticus (Poet’s Daffodil) Flower Extract, Sodium Hydroxide, Vaccinium Myrtillus (Bilberry) Fruit Extract, Malic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Gluconolactone, Tartaric Acid, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract, Titanium Dioxide, Hydroxypropylcellulose, Sodium Benzoate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Panthenyl Triacetate.

REVITALIZING DAY MOISTURIZER  The second ingredient is lemon juice, which is a BAD idea for a leave on product. Lemons, limes, and some other citrus fruits can cause something called phytophotodermatitis (PPD) upon exposure to sunlight. Results from this can be a rash or brown discolorations. A quick google search on this will scare you straight! This is not something you want to have on your skin during the day. If that weren't bad enough, this also has the 'essential oil blend' that is a mix of known irritants, and should absolutely not be in a face product.  For more info on lemon juice and limonene, check out http://www.inchem.org/documents/cicads/cicads/cicad05.htm and http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19125719. There are some other great ingredients in this, its unfortunate that the bad really outweighs the good.

• Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe) Leaf Juice*, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Juice*, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Juice*, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Juice*, Glycerin*, Vegetable Oil, Diheptyl Succinate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Coconut Alkanes, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Fusanus Spitacus (Sandalwood) Kernel Oil, Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate, Stearic Acid, Squalane, Essential Oil Blend: Monarda Didyma (Bergamot) Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, and Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Oil, Cetearyl Olivate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Sorbitan Olivate, Iris Pallida (Sweet Iris) Leaf Cell Extract, Narcissus Poeticus (Poet's Daffodil) Flower Extract, Gluconolactone, Hydrogenated Olive Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil*, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil*, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Benzoate, Behenyl Behenate, Tribehenin, Lysolecithin, Sclerotium Gum, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Extract, Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Sodium Hydroxide, Pullulan, Tocopherol, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Helianthus Annus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Ascorbic Acid.
   

REPLENISHING NIGHT CREAM  This is very similar to the day cream, and the same review applies. This is also packaged in a jar, which even if it was full of amazing ingredients, they wouldn't stay active very long. Ironic note: the description of this product says  "...while linseed extract and hyaluronic acid hydrate, lift and firm" and you will notice hyaluronic listed as the second to LAST ingredient. 

• Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Juice*, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Juice*, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Juice*, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Coconut Alkanes, Fusanus Spicatus (Sandalwood) Kernel Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Gluconolactone, Essential Oil Blend: Monarda Didyma (Bergamot) Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, And Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Oil, Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Diheptyl Succinate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter*, Iris Pallida (Sweet Iris) Leaf Cell Extract, Narcissus Poeticus (Poet’S Daffodil) Flower Extract, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil*, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil*, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil*, Squalane, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Macadamia Integrifolia (Macadamia) Seed Oil, Jojoba Esters, Cetearyl Glucoside, Xanthan Gum, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Extract, Behenyl Behenate, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Tocopherol, Tribehenin, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Hyaluronic Acid, Retinyl Palmitate.

PERFECTING EYE CREAM  Again we see lemon juice as the second ingredient. This eye cream leaves out the 'essential oil blend' found in the other products, and follows with a great line up. However the jar packaging (oxygen exposure makes actives less active) and the high lemon juice content make this easy to pass over.

• Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe) Leaf Juice*, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Juice*, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Juice*, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Juice*, Vegetable Oil, Glycerin*, Glyceryl Stearate, Polyglyceryl-6 Tetraoleate, Jojoba Esters, Coconut Alkanes, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Fusanus Spicatus (Sandalwood) Kernel Oil, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate, Squalane, Hydrogenated Olive Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil*, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil*, Iris Pallida (Sweet Iris) Leaf Cell Extract, Narcissus Poeticus (Poet’s Daffodil) Flower Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil.

ENRICHING FACE OIL  This starts out with some great oils, but then the 6th and 7th ingredients, the known irritants: bitter orange and rose germanium turn this into a product I would also skip applying on my face due to possible risks of irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin. 

• Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil*, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil*, Capric/Caprylic Triglyceride, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Leaf/Twig Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens (Rose Geranium) Flower Oil, Tocopherol, Anthemis Nobilis (Roman Chamomile) Flower Oil, Iris Pallida (Sweet Iris) Leaf Cell Extract, Narcissus Poeticus (Poet’S Daffodil) Flower Extract, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Seed Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil*, Borago Officinalis (Starflower) Seed Oil*, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil.*

REVIEW: Baxter Of California

It's time to throw out your guys' Irish Spring and Axe deodorant. Don't even ask, just toss it. But replace it with some luxe new goodies, that you might even be tempted to borrow. Most of guys I see for skincare at the office usually have come my way from their significant other; but they still want their own face products. I had picked up some really (realllyyyy) nice candles from Baxter at Saturday's Surf and had the chance to try some of their body and skincare recently. This line is old school having started in the late 60s, and now has an array of hair, body and skin products. The first thing you'll notice is the packaging in the happiest hues of blues and greens, which ooze cali vibes, and i can proudly display in my shower. Secondly, all the products I tried don't have that awful polo sport smell most lines geared towards men have. Most importantly, the following products I played around with had a nice array of ingredients; more details below! 

Daily Face Wash this is a gel, its fragrance free, has coconut derived cleansing agents so its not harsh, and a shot of aloe for soothing.

Under Eye Complex fragrance free with a light but hydrating texture, and in a tube (no messy jars). vitamins, ginkgo for reducing puffiness, and fatty acids for free radical protection. 

Oil Free Moisturizer lightweight texture, fragrance free, and won't leave you with a shiny face. vitamin a (the best!), vitamin e, and antioxidants like green tea. 

Body Wash a gel formula, but the jojoba and plant based cleansing agents make it hydrating. comes in three unisex scents, but i especially love the 'italian lime and pomegranite'

Deodorant it's probably wishful thinking but i truly feel mens deodorant (and shavers!) just work better. and i can get behind this fresh citrus smell, and that it's alcohol and aluminum free. 

The Candles oh the candles! these soy wax candles come in collections of three different scents per series. plus some special editions for saturdays surf and union made. i'm partial to any of the scents in the 'white wood' series with notes like bergamot and vetiver - so fresh so clean.