Honestly. I’m sitting here typing out a post as an ice storm continues to plow down across Ontario. In April. The weather report? Not much better to be honest-rain, rain, rain. Don’t get me wrong, I know the phrase “April Showers bring May flowers” but this has just gone on and on. I’m over it. I want to wear shoes instead of boots, and a lighter coat. I say all this knowing that in May I’ll be saying that it’s too warm.
So you’ve been asking about my morning skincare routine. And asking. It’s time for me to deliver. So here’s what I use on my skin in the MORNING. Now. I can’t lie. The evening is when the real magic happens in terms of products. Or maybe not. I think there are equal parts of pixie dust in both the morning and the evening.
*Please note, this business isn’t necessarily local to me, but it’s a small business that I love and will always support-in addition, it’s a female run business, even BETTER.*
Sometimes, the best kind of relationships are the random ones…..like when people find each-other on twitter and follow. Such is the case for myself and Honey and Petals Skintanicals. I have been using this brand’s oils and body butters for several years. The latest collection, The ‘Cuffed’ collection does NOT disappoint in fragrance or performance. I normally lean towards gourmand fragrance in body oils and decided to try something a bit different this season. I went with unbroken gold which is described as a unisex fragrance with notes of leather, grapefruit, and amber that is fresh and sensual. Couldn’t have said it better myself actually. The fragrance is luxurious, decadent, and grown up. It wraps itself around you like your favorite fabric throw blanket.
Plush Oil is a new & improved formula based off the original Luxe Oil blend. The coconut has been removed and two new amazing oils added-argan oil which is known for its healing properties and camelina oil known for being packed with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E.
My love for this oil is exemplified because it is SO versatile-and yes, I do oil my scalp in the winter.
How to use
Massage into clean slightly damp skin allowing the oils to nourish and penetrate. If using in combination with our whipped shea butter, apply the oil first followed by the butter. If being applied to the face, start with clean slightly damp skin, warm on hands and press into the skin and use ring finger to dab around eye area.
For hair and scalp
Apply to clean slightly damp hair and scalp by warming into hands then massaging into scalp or hair paying attention to the roots and ends pre leave-in conditioner or styling cream.
Ingredients
Avocado oil, tsubaki oil, sea buckthorn, argan oil, safflower oil, olive oil and optional fragrance
Whipped Shea Butter
This whipped shea butter blend is a unique proprietary formula created with organic shea butter and natural oils, whipped to perfection giving it a light fluffy easy to apply texture. Use it when your skin needs special TLC for dryness. Our blend can be used on the most delicate skin, including small children.
Again, another versatile product-can be used everywhere! I’ll leave the link to the website below as there are many fragrance options and also a fragrance free option.
Directions
Massage into clean slightly damp skin allowing the butters and oils to penetrate. If using in combination with our Plush Oil, apply the oil first followed by the whipped shea butter.
For hair and scalp
Apply to clean slightly damp hair and scalp by warming into hands then massaging into scalp or hair paying attention to the roots and ends.
Ingredients
Organic shea butter, avocado oil, tsubaki oil, sea buckthorn, argan oil, safflower oil, olive oil, and optional fragrance
About Honey & Petals:
Honey & Petals Skintanicals (formerly Luxe Oil) is a Black-owned handcrafted luxury body & skin care brand created in Los Angeles by Krissy (@Krissy90220) who grew up with eczema and psoriasis. At a time where many products just didn’t help with dry sensitive skin because of synthetic and harsh ingredients she decided to create her own line of naturally rich butters and oils to cater to those needs without breaking the bank. Luxury products should make you feel and look amazing no matter what and we’re here to deliver that promise.
Find Honey & Petals:
on the web
on twitter
on instagram
on facebook
*About Us, How to Use, and Ingredients from www.honeyandpetals.com*
*Disclosure: I am a #BeautyUnited blogger. As part of my affiliation with this group I receive products and special access to P&G events. The opinions on this blog are my own.
I’ve been enjoying summer sans several hurdles (illness being a major hurdle over the past month). One thing that I have been doing is spending weekends at the family cottage several hours north in ‘cottage country’ -a term that I learned (by living in Canada) could be anywhere there are cottages. It’s a beautiful serene place, right on a lake. It’s rustic. I gave up being rustic (for the most part) in 2001 after my honorable discharge from the U.S. Army. However, I’ll compromise for the cottage….there’s a toilet, running water, and electricity. Still haven’t ventured into the shower there yet (probably never will). For that reason, when I get back-first order of business, take a thorough shower and CLEAN MY FACE & BODY. I’d like to walk you through some of the products I use to do this. Let me know in the comments below if you’ve tried any of these products and if you like them or not!
Olay Regenerist Advanced Anti-aging micro sculpting cream with sunscreen: This anti-aging moisturizer hydrates to regnerate volume and shape across the skin’s surface. It’s supposed to improve skin’s texture in 4 weeks and visibly reduces the appearance of wrinkles quickly with an Amino-Peptide Complex. This product also contains Broad Spectrum SPF 30.
My thoughts:
While I can’t say I have noticed a significant decrease in wrinkles (and I’d love to think I don’t have any significant ones), I do notice an improved skin texture. It’s also notable that I don’t see any increase in the amount of sun damage I have on my face either!
Olay Total Effects 7 in one Anti-Aging Moisturizer with sunscreen: This is a daily moisturizer that revives skin and helps protects against harmful UVA/UVB rays. Formulated with Its VitaNiacin Complex and skin conditioners, it fights 7 signs of aging for younger, healthier-looking skin. Its vitamin-rich formula helps reduce the look of age spots, instantly minimize the appearance of pores, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
My thoughts:
I don’t use this product in combination with the sculpting cream but do alternate using the two. I like this product more for reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and minimizing pores. The sunscreen is an added bonus. I also like the consistency of this-it’s not runny and it’s not thick.
Olay Deeply Clean Mineral Face Cleanser: This daily facial cleanser lathers and cleanses without over-drying skin. Specially designed for oily/combination skin types, its natural kaolin clay formula controls shine and reduces the appearance of pores in just one use. Infused with a mineral complex, it draws out impurities like a magnet for a deep, down-to-the-pores clean. Dermatologically tested, oil-free, and noncomedogenic, this cleanser has the purifying power of a mask to leave skin looking healthy and brighter.
My thoughts:
I cannot get enough of this product. I love it as it reminds me of my charcoal cleanser from the Face Shop. I actually prefer this product as the Face Shop’s version dried my skin out! I have to agree with everything that is said-especially with the combination skin part (I don’t recommend for dry skin). I have combination skin and this is probably the best part of my nighttime skin care routine. This gets EVERYTHING off and leaves me nice and clean. I can skip astringent because I use this – which is not something I can say often. This is my ‘rockstar’ product out of these for sure.
Olay Fresh Outlast CoolingWhite Strawberry & Mint bodywash: This is designed to work with your skin’s natural pH. This lower sulfate formula has 3x more mild cleansers than before. It’s a fresh twist on cleansing. Aromas of white strawberry & mint leave you feeling refreshed and beautiful.
My thoughts:
This needs to be a cocktail….I’m thinking an on-the-rocks type of gin or vodka? Or maybe an upscale daiquiri? Either way, this is a great bodywash to use to feel clean and smell great! Apparently over time, it’s supposed to provide vibrant, fresh, skin. I’ll keep you posted.
*This is a Beauty United Post*
I’ve been serious about skincare for several years now….and as I age, it’s even more important to me. Check out these great products from Olay, Pantene, Venus, and Secret to help keep your skin protected this summer while you have fun in the sun. Stay tuned for my reviews on some of these products!! Let me know if you’ve tried any of these in the comments below!
*I paid for this treatment myself*
I knew I was overdue for my facial when I could actually feel the texture on my face changing. I knew I needed to get my face in better shape so short of going to home depot, I turned to one of the best skincare gurus in the business, Vee Mistry. I had the pleasure of seeing her (on my own dime) at Victoria Radford, on Avenue Road. Spoiler alert: and one thing’s for sure…..ever since I arrived back at home, I have been contemplating changing my skin care routine, and I’m putting their number into my contacts.
Because I’m all about the pre-cleanse. Dermalogica introduced me to this and I’ve been hooked ever since. My quandry with cleansing oils is that I want to find one that works well for a decent price (um shu umera you are OUT of the running).
So I’m happy to say I have found a GREAT oil for a decent price. My wallet is loving me these days.
Vichy cleansing beauty oil contains the benefits of an oil and a cleansing milk in one step. It contains micellar technology to gently remove makeup and impurities and cameilia oil to improve softness, radiance and smoothness.
-contains soothing and fortifying Vichy Thermal Spa Water
-Paraben free
-Tested on sensitive skin
And it does a GREAT job on removing my waterproof mascara and eye makeup-this is one pass, holding the cotton round on each eye for 10 seconds.
Overall, I recommend this cleansing oil as a first step to your night time skin care routine. It will dissolve the dirt and impurities and allow your products to work better-what’s not to love?
Have you tried any cleansing oils? What’s your favorite and why?
I have my favorites from pur minerals (and my not-so-favorites) and recently received a ‘look book’ describing the products in the line. I’m fairly curious about these products and would like to share the information I’ve received. Keep in mind I do NOT have samples at this time of these products….this is more of a “Look at this-what do you think” type of post.
Pur minerals new cleansing line
Claims:
Pur minerals skincare is clinically proven to correct, prevent and interrupt your biggest skin concerns for radiant results you can see.
Products:
Simplicity Gentle Cleanser-Normal, sensitive, oily and dry skin
Sulfate-free formula gently but effectively washes away oil, impurities and makeup without irritating the skin or drying it out. Featuring honey extract, shea butter, and Sepicalm, a combination of water lily and a key amino acide, this extremely mild daily cleanser helps hydrate and calm the skin as it cleanses.
My initial impression after reading description: One cleanser for all skin types? Is this possible?
In the Clear clarifying cleanser-Oily skin
Multi-action cleanser that gently exfoliates, clarifies and soothes irritable and problematic skin. As lactic acide melts away pore-clogging surface debris, tea tree oil reduces the appearance of excess oil for a shine-free, matte finish. Sulfate-free formula is never harsh or over-drying; this clarifying cleanser calms and cools with a refreshing mix of lavender, peppermint and aloe.
My initial impression after reading description: This is a cleanser I’d like to have in my arsenal for breakouts!
Miracle Mist hydrating makeup spray-Normal, sensitive, oily and dry skin
Containing over 79 essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and amino acids, this moisturizing mist infuses your skin with vital moisture to help soothe and refresh your face, hair and body and even set makeup. Anti-bacterial sulfur keeps blemishes at bay for clear skin the face and body.
My initial impression after reading description: Is this like my Urban Decay b6 spray? Or is it more like MAC fix+? Do I need 79 essential vitamins and minerals on my face?
Melt away makeup emulsifier-Normal, sensitive and oily skin
All natural makeup remover that’s tough on even waterproof makeup, while remaining gentle on delicate skin. 12 essential oils, including Argan oil, Avocado, Macademia, and Jasmine Oils unite, eliminate makeup, condition skin and nourish lashes. Oil-busting formula provides a thorough pre-cleanse as oil attracts oil to cut through excess oil and stubborn cosmetics.
My initial impression after reading description: So is this an oil? Sounds like it. If so, I WANT IT. I’m a huge fan of pre-cleansing with oils or balms. My only hangup may be the smell-as I’m not sure what a combination of Argan, Avocado, Macademia AND Jasmine oil smells like. Any clues?
Dirty Girl detoxifying mudd masque-Normal, sensitive, oil and dry skin
Deep cleans and detoxifies your skin using a unique form of calcium bentonite clay. This mineral mud facial mask unclogs pores and draws impurities out of your skin, leaving your complexion looking brighter, smoother and radiantly clean.
My initial impression after reading description: A mud masque? Meh, why not….wonder if it’s like GlamGlow. That’s one of my favorites. How messy is it?
And there you have it. Anything you’re interested in? Tell me in the comments section below!
*This post contains products sent for review. I like to state that first out of respect for my readers. This doesn’t change my opinion of the products.*
Shameless plug: I actually had a giveaway for an entire set of these lip balms that I first mentioned on my YouTube channel. It’s closed now but just in case, you may want to check over there-I tend to give my subscribers a “heads-up” when the giveaways come around!
I have extremely dry lips. ALL. THE. TIME. I’ll cut right to the chase when I tell you that this product is heaven-sent.
Epic Blend uses natural ingredients without synthetics….which is a huge + for me. I hate hate HATE using petroleum based lip balm (and before you all slam me for using lipsticks, glosses with chemicals, hear me out). I like to use the most moisturizing natural products the closest to my skin….this product is amazing to wear on its own when you’re out in the ‘weather’, or even as your base before you apply your other lip products. It GLIDES on and the flavors are fun!
Epic has 3 different ‘categories’ of balms:
Hemp: Organic Hemp Seed Oil is a great anti-oxidant, super nourishing and quickly absorbs deep into the skin cells.
More Moisture: Seven moisturizers, including Organic Shea Butter come together to provide an extra kick of moisture plus a boost of staying power.
Vegan: 100% plant-based and beeswax-free. Candelilla wax is used in these balms, giving them a smooth texture.
The formulas:
-Nutrient dense natural and organic ingredients that improve skin’s health
-Petroleum free, Gluten free and non GMO
-Not tested on animals
-Natural flavors
Sounds good to me, right? I’ve been using these and loving them. And so has my other half, who was a devout Carmex user…..and fyi, there is an unflavored version if you aren’t into all that.
Try these out-you won’t be disappointed in this *Epic* Canadian company (see what I did there?)
Find Epic Blend:
on the web
on facebook
on twitter
*I received this kit for review-opinions are my own, thanks*
Raise your hand if you’ve heard of B. Kamins……if you’re like me, I didn’t know anything. Granted, I’ve seen the brand ‘around’ but never tried it or knew much about it-VERY unlike me!
Just to fill you in (and if you know this part, skip it, I won’t be upset, offended). This information is from B. Kamins’ website:
Our Mission: The Fusion of Science and Spa.
To offer the most advanced technology and formulations in skincare with the latest, cutting-edge ingredients.
To provide the most indulgent, stress relieving spa experience with “can’t live without them” products and treatments.
To continue as the forerunner in introducing intelligent and effective solutions to problematic skin conditions not yet available in the marketplace.
B. Kamins ‘best’ kit helps to brighten and even skin tone while reducing fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in hydrated, supple skin.
Let’s dive right in, shall we?
Vegetable Cleanser:
-Fragrance free, oil free, made for all skin
A vegetable based cleanser and makeup remover that dissolves and removes impurities from the face and delicate eye area. Clarifying, soothing, and moisturizing ingredients help improve skin smootheness, elasticity and radiance. Oil, fragrance and color free, this gentle formula is ideal for cleansing sensitive skin types, especially post-microdermabrasion and laser-treated skin.
Used! My thoughts:
-This cleanser does not foam much so if you like bubbles, skip it
-I still use a makeup remover for my eye makeup
-This cleanser really does NOT have a fragrance, making it ideal for those who are sensitive!
-This cleanser is decent, and leaves your skin clean but not itchy and tight.
AHA+BHA Daily Peel Pads Step 1 & 2
AHA+BHA Daily Peel Pads:
-With alpha and beta hydroxy acids
A sophisticated 2-step daily peel formulated with alpha and beta hydroxy acids to exfoliate skin cells and help increase cellular turnover.
Step 1: cleanses skin and better prepares it for…
Step 2: the peel! This advanced formula helps to minimize the apprearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots, create a more even skin tone and increase skin brightness and clarity. Skin feels revitalized and fresh, and stays moisturized thanks to hydrating ingredients that help prevent skin from over drying.
Brightening Mask
Brightening Mask
-With BMC Oligopeptide Anti-Aging Complex, made for all skin types, paraben-free
A unique, hydrating, brightening mask which revitalizes, nourishes and conditions skin, while helping to fight the look of wrinkles, and mottled yellowish skin. The formula contains vitamin C and Bio-Maple which helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve skin tone and elasticity. It also helps to brighten skin tone, refine its texture and promote its natural appearance, revealing a fresher complexion.
Used! My thoughts:
-This mask has what I’d call a ‘clinical’ smell so if you are sensitive to fragrance or don’t like clinics (har har har), then I’d really think twice.
-This is one of my favorite products so far. It truly does brighten my skin after I use it and I LOVE that.
Diatomamaus Earth Mask
Diatomamaus Earth Mask
-Dry to normal skin
Formulated with diatomamus earth rich in natural minerals including magnesium, iron, calcium and sodium that help retain moisture while absorbing excess sebum. A blend of unique moisturizers, botanical extracts and vitamins enrich the skin, retain moisture while absorbing excess sebum.
Used! My thoughts:
-I used this when my skin was acting out, around “that time” of the month. It absorbs excess oil for sure and you will see that on your skin when you apply the mask.
-I thought for sure this one was going to dry my skin or leave patches but it sure didn’t and I like that.
-If I had to pick between the 2 masks, I would still reach for the brightening more BUT this mask is good for those ‘disgruntled skin’ phases.
BB Cream
BB Cream
-beauty balm
This 8 in 1 multi-tasking beauty balm will provide all day hydration, provide sheer, natural looking coverage, while helping to firm the look of skin and wrinkles with hyaluronic acid. Can be used alone or as a primer before foundation.
Used! My thoughts:
-Reminds me of Asian BB creams, thicker texture (but no grey cast)
-finish is sheer but coverage is light/medium, to be expected
-plays well with others-meaning I can use the product with a powder and blush with no reaction or irritation
Find B. Kamins:
-on the web
-on facebook
-on twitter
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