Lotion vs. Oil: Why You Should Make The Change

I try very hard to not put lotion on my skin due to have acne prone skin, then my friend handed me a bottle of jojoba oil in my hand and sent me on my way.

Now I’ve been putting this stuff on my face for almost two months, and I absolutely love it. It’s lightweight, gives my complexion an even matte finish, and at the same time, feels ultra-nourishing as I lightly massage it around my eyes, cheekbones, across my forehead, and finally my chin. You would think that the oil would cause my sensitive skin to break out and clog my pores, but no — it doesn’t.

The experience caused my awareness to perk up, and I started to notice other girls talking about face oil over dinner, online – I couldn’t escape the topic. It seemed everywhere I looked, moisturising your face with oil had suddenly become all the rage.

The Benefits of Oil:

1. Oils lock in moisture and help protect the skin against environmental effects.
2. Oils deliver a potent dose of nutrients
3. Because your face is well moisturised, it will stop the overproduction of its own oil, and you’ll avoid that shiny t-zone look.
4. Oils can be all natural, need no preservatives, and have a shelf life of about two years.
5. Most natural oils are easily absorbed and won’t clog pores.
6. Oils are typically ultra-healing, and great for repairing skin.

Tip: Don’t purchase oils extracted with heat or harsh chemicals as these will cause the oils to break down, and diminish their quality. Look for labels that say cold-pressed or CO2 extracted. Also, stay away from anything with words like “parfum” or “fragrance.” These are generally chemical additives, and not what you want to put on your face. At the same time, many of today’s oils are mixed with herbs and flowers for added benefits and scents. So long as they are natural, you’re good. Look for “certified organic.”

The Downfall of Lotion: There has been a recent migration in mankind’s way of thinking towards a desire for holistic products. We all of a sudden care what we put on our skin, and what enters our bodies. Lotion is usually made from a combination of oil and water, and the presence of water causes bacteria to form and makes the oil go rancid. To prevent this, all lotions must contain a preservative of some kind to keep them from going bad. That preservative is almost never natural, and – if avoidable – something you rather not put on your face.

Now, if you’re new to moisturizing with oil, here is a little break down of what oils you’re likely to come across. Please note, many lines will combine oils.

Jojoba Oil: The makeup of Jojoba oil almost mirrors that of our skin’s natural sebum (protective barrier). It thus helps to control the over production of sebum, won’t clog pores, and helps protect the skin. Vitamin-wise, it’s rich in vitamin E, and is a great source of antioxidants. Try: Caru Skincare Organic Jojoba Oil Facial Moisturizer

Almond Oil: Almond oil is great for deep moisturizing and to soothe dry or irritated skin. It’s rich in vitamins A, B, and E. Try: Aurelia Probiotic Skincare

Argan Oil: This one is popular in the anti-aging world. Argan oil helps with wrinkles, soothes conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, acne, and dry skin. It is rich in vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants. Try: Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil Light

Seaberry: Seaberry makes a great protective layer. It’s packed with omega fatty acids that create a barrier while moisturizing and nourishing. Try: Seaberry Moisturizing Facial Oil

Rose Hip Oil: Unlike the others already mentioned, rose hip is rich in vitamin C which makes it great for skin repair. It helps with red marks or scarring, but is best when mixed with one of the oils already mentioned. Try: Melvita Rose Hip Oil

Happy moisturising everyone!

End Of Summer Face Mask!

As much as we don’t want to admit it, we’ve all done it. Sunburns… they’re an almost inevitable part of summer. Whether your sunscreen failed or you forgot it all together, we’ve all had a burn or two in our day. Sunburns — and sun exposure in general — put our skin through the ringer during these hot and months, and by the end of the season our skin can be left feeling parched and flaky. Definitely not a great way to welcome autumn. (Yes, even in the UK we don't realise how powerful that ball of heat is, even when it doesn't feel it!)

So here is the perfect gift to give your skin after three months of UV rays. Composed of natural oils to de-puff and replenish, hydrating raw honey, and naturally ex-foliating organic yogurt, this concoction is perfect for this transitional time of year.

Ingredients:

2  Tbs raw honey
2 Tbs almond oil
2 Tbs olive or jojoba oil
1/2 cup organic yogurt
Small bowl or container
Fork

Place the honey in the container and warm it in the microwave for about 20 seconds.  Next, add the almond oil and stir.  After you’ve combined the honey and almond oil, add the olive oil. Next add the yogurt and gently whisk with a fork until smooth.  Apply to a clean face — being sure to avoid the eye area — and leave on for 30 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry with a fresh towel.

Would you try this mask?

Strawberry Beauty Tips!

The strawberry: red, juicy, delicious…it’s like nature’s little heart.  I wanted to explore some unique ways that you can incorporate this tasty fruit into your daily beauty routine. Packed with nutrients and benefits, check out these three simple recipes that will help you look your best!

Strawberry Face Mask

 Strawberries are great for getting your skin to look its best, and this mask will help to ex-foliate, renew and brighten your face. All you need is a couple strawberries, some plain yoghurt, and honey. Slice up and mash together the strawberries before adding in a spoonful of honey and yoghurt. Mix all of the ingredients together and spread evenly across your face. After 15 minutes, wash the mask off to reveal soft, glowing skin!

Strawberry Hair Mask

Strawberries are packed with vitamin C which is helpful in nourishing the hair, and they also have the ability to get rid of any excess oil build-up that your scalp may be holding in. This hair mask will help you get those shiny locks that you have always dreamed of — and not to mention it smells amazing! Blend together 5 to 7 strawberries (depending on the amount of hair you have), and a tablespoon each of coconut oil and honey until a smooth purée is formed. Work the mixture into damp hair while massaging your roots, then rinse away with warm water. This recipe is a cheap and natural alternative to store bought hair masks which can be expensive and packed with chemicals. 

Strawberry Detox Water

Drinking water is a natural way to clear out our bodies, but adding in a few more ingredients can turn it into a powerful detox drink that can flush away all unwanted toxins. I tried a refreshing combination of strawberries, lemon and mint. Lemon juice cleanses, alkalises, and boosts the immune system, while mint leaves a cool flavour and helps to settle the stomach. Strawberries will add in flavour, antioxidants and skin enhancing nutrients. All you need is a handful of sliced up strawberries, a few lemon wedges, and a couple sprigs of mint. Add all the ingredients to a pitcher of water and set aside in the fridge while the flavours build up.

Six Foods That Keep You Looking Young!

There are so many products out there designed to keep us looking young, from our skin to our hair. But youth, like many other things, comes from within.  One of the easiest and most effective ways to stay healthy and youthful is to pay close attention to what you put inside your body, and take advantage of the natural benefits that come from certain foods.  We’ve explored many natural beauty remedies here on the blog and it is amazing how many things come down to what you eat.  Today I wanted to share 6 foods that can keep you looking young if made a regular part of your diet – read on to find out how!

1. Leafy Greens

Leafy greens like kale and spinach are packed with lutein, which protects your skin from sun damage and wrinkles. These greens are also very rich in vitamin C, an essential building block of collagen. Collagen is a vital element of youthful looking skin that begins to break down as we age. Getting a healthy dose of leafy greens in your diet will help keep your skin looking smooth and youthful.

2. Tomatoes

Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that protects your skin from sun damage.  The lycopene works from within, reducing skin redness and UV damage to keep your skin healthy. To take it a step further, you can blend tomatoes and almonds to create a face mask.

3. Carrots

Carrots contain beta-carotene, which when ingested is converted to Vitamin A, which stimulates skin cell growth and builds collagen.  Beta-carotene is also a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from damaging free radicals.  Eating carrots can also whiten your teeth, adding to your youthful appearance – they act almost like a natural toothbrush that cleans the surface of the teeth.

4. Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits are known for their high levels of Vitamin C, which is essential to building collagen.  Citrus is also rich in bioflavonoids that protect the skin from sun damage. In addition to consuming citrus there are a number of ways you can use it topically as well – lemon body scrubs are great for ex-foliating and brightening your skin!

5. Blueberries

Blueberries are the highest in antioxidants among all the berries, which help protect your body from damaging free radicals. Their powerful anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce skin redness and wrinkles, and they can even reduce the mental effects of ageing.  Blueberries are full of anthocyanin – giving them their dark colour – which can slow down the loss of mental function that comes with ageing.

6. Sweet Potato

Last but certainly not least, sweet potatoes are another food rich in beta-carotene, which works to balance your skin’s pH and combat dryness, resulting in healthier, smoother skin. Purple sweet potatoes also have tons of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Secret Scrubber From The Sea!

I recently discovered something pretty amazing, and today I want to share the little secret with you. It’s a beauty secret; one that’s all natural, unique, and straight from the sea.

 Mermaid Scrubbers. Have you heard of these things? One of my beauty blogging girlfriends encouraged me to try them out. At first I had no idea what she meant when she said “mermaid scrubber”, but I mean, if the word ‘mermaid’ pops up in the company of natural beauty products, I’m immediately interested.

The scrubbers are actually natural seaweed that’s been dried and packaged up to lend it’s magic to the skin. Gigartina Red Marine Algae is a type of seaweed harvested in the waters of Mendocino County, CA. It’s dark green in colour, and almost feels like coral to the touch. When met with water, the algae softens up and releases an all-natural gel that cleanses and nourishes the skin. The scrubbers can be used on multiple parts of the body, and in addition to exfoliating and toning the face, the gel released by the scrubbers is perfect for shaving. Each package of Mermaid Scrubbers comes with 6 dried pieces of the algae, and one of the best parts is how affordable it is… less than $10 for a package, and they’re reusable! and they ship to the UK! 

I strongly urge you to try them out!

Do's and Don't Of A Small Business!

When you run your own small business there are oodles of people who’ll want to offer you well meaning advice. There are also books and websites a-plenty packed full of information. So needless to say it can all be very overwhelming! In my opinion though, these are some definitive dos and don’ts to follow if you’re aspiring business! 

1. DO be yourself and a passion in your brand. Share who you are as a person first and the right customers will automatically connect with you.


2. DON’T be scared to try new things.

3. DON’T worry about what other people think.

4. DO make genuine friendships within your industry. You’re much more likely to go further with a posse of friends who have your back and support you.

5. DON’T be afraid to ask for help.

 

6. DO practice, practice and practice some more.

7. DO document your journey on your blog for your business.

8. DO make a commitment to learning. Sign up for workshops and courses to keep your skills fresh. Make sure you apply what you’ve learnt afterwards!

9. DON’T underestimate the power of amazing branding. Invest in it when you can.

10. DO be personable on social media and your blog but don’t air your dirty laundry in public.

 

 11. DO take regular non-working holidays and breaks. They’re good for the soul.

12. DO make friends with bloggers and journalists.

13. DO save your taxes!

14. DON’T stretch yourself too thin.

15. DO something that you’re passionate about.

16. DON’T be afraid to make changes if things aren’t working or you aren’t enjoying it any more.

17. DO set goals but…

18. … DON’T put too much pressure on yourself

19. DO give back.

20. DON’T get obsessed with your traffic or social media stats. A smaller, engaged audience is much more beneficial.

 21. DON’T say yes to every opportunity that comes along.

22. DO have attention to detail.

23. DON’T follow the crowd.

24. DO have a scheduled logging off time… and stick to it!

25. DON’T beat yourself up for the things you get wrong. Learn from them
and move on.

26. DO work on personal projects.

27. DON’T always think of the money.

28. DO outsource the things you can’t – or don’t want to – do yourself.

29. DO look after your health. Eat good food and limit your alcohol intake.

30. DON’T worry about catching up with everyone else. Remember, people only show the best of the best online.

31. DON’T be afraid to share your personal story and experiences.

32. DO use social media but don’t feel like you have to use every platform.

33. DON’T be spammy.

34. DON’T sell out.

35. DO spend time with the people you care about.

36. DON’T listen to negative people… and never feed trolls. Always rise above it.

37. DO it for the love.

38. DO have some budget set aside for marketing. Having a great business is one thing, but if no-one knows it exists then you’re not going to get very far!

39. DON’T beg people for social media follows or likes.

40. DO attract and repel people by sharing your opinions. You don’t want to be forgettable or bland.

 

41. DO be inspired by people outside your industry and niche.

42. DO keep things simple.

43. DON’T underestimate the power of an incredible testimonial.

44. DO make customer service a priority.

45. DO ask for honest feedback from people you trust.

 45. DO ask for honest feedback from people you trust.

46. DON’T worry too much about the future. Focus on what you’re doing now.

47. DO strive to be the very best at what you do.

48. DO send thank you cards.

49. DO under-promise and over-deliver.

50. DON’T give up. You can do this!

Have I missed anything? I’d love to hear about your small business dos and don’ts in the comments!

Wonderland Muse: Helen From The Love Cats Inc

Helen is one of our favourite bloggers, whether it be her effortless style, gorgeous photography, stunning cooking, or general beauty tips her blog is defiantly one to follow! Check out our favourite snip bits from here blog here!

With a totally eclectic and stylish style!

Gorgeous photos and beauty tips and reviews.

I once said 'Your blog makes me fat' and trust me, it will do! Helens recipes are yummy!

Need Blogging tips? Helen is a pro!

 

Her giveaways are actually AMAZING 

You should defiantly follow Helen and can find here at the following places!

Blog / Twitter /  Facebook / Google / Instagram / Pinterest

Beauty Rituals: 4 Ways To Detox Your Body

Our bodies themselves are perhaps the most incredible detoxification systems that exist. I once saw a holistic doctor, and he told me that, as long as our bodies are functioning properly, we could “eat a bowl full of parasites and be totally fine.” And it’s true.

The thing is, though, when we overload our own bodies with toxins – through things like unclean, processed foods; chemical-laden beauty products; alcohol; and especially negative thoughts – our systems don’t function as efficiently as they truly should. To help get ourselves back on track, it’s about eating clean, avoiding chemicals, getting enough sleep, moving our bodies, and avoiding negativity. But, since I know you already know all of that, here are four more things you can do to help move those toxins through your body so that they can be removed for good.

 

Yoga

In addition to helping detoxify the mind, yoga is a beautiful practice for cleansing the body. The pushing, pulling, stretching movements of every part of your body – in combination with deep, rhythmic yogic breathing – cleanses the body by helping along the removal process of waste products throughout. One of the very best yoga poses for detoxification? Downward dog.

Abhyanga

This is an ayurvedic massage performed by vigorously stroking the skin in upward motions toward the heart, using a special oil blend that corresponds to your primary dosha. According to my ayurvedic practitioner, Abhyanga “moves obstruction in the lymphatic and circulatory systems, which enhances the health of the skin, organs, and endocrine system.” Daily Abhyanga, usually performed on one’s own self, is one of the main practices in Ayurveda. If you aren’t familiar with it, though, I would suggest your first experience to be a treatment performed by a well-versed ayurvedic practitioner. It’s incredible, and you will not regret it.

 

Oil pulling

 

If you’re not yet aware, oil pulling is an ancient Indian practice performed by swishing a high quality oil (such as organic unrefined coconut oil) in the mouth for about 20 minutes, aiming to pull toxins from the body. Studies show that oil pulling has incredible benefits for oral health – like whitening teeth and preventing disease – but many believe that this practice can help remove toxins from the entire body, bringing overall health to a maximum. Just make sure you’re up to date with your dental visits before beginning. When asked a dentist who explained to me that the presence of plaque will prevent the oil from penetrating the gums, greatly taking away from the effectiveness of the practice.

 

 

Dry brushing

This practice is similar to Abhyanga in that it stimulates the lymphatic and circulatory systems, helping to speed up the removal of metabolic waste from the body. It also offers a ton of other benefits, from unclogging the pores and exfoliating the skin, reducing the appearance of cellulite and possibly even improving digestion. All you need is a good body brush with natural bristles. Before you bathe, brush your dry skin in large, upward stroking motions, always going towards the heart – this encourages lymph flow in the proper direction. Once you’ve finished, take your shower, and emerge with smooth skin and a soothed mind.

What other ways to you help your body to detoxify itself? Please share!

Pixie's Skincare Tips!

Hello all! So a lot of you have been asking for my skincare regime for a while now so I figured maybe it's time to get it out there for you! 

I change it slightly to try out new products when the ones I use eventually run out, so I'll let you know what I've been using the past month or two and if you like this one I can do another post of new products that I've experimented with.

SO! You've all asked so many different questions Lets just try cover everything:

Daily routine

When I awaken from the ever so important beauty sleep I give my face a really good clean using Porridge by Lush Cosmetics. (Yep you probably already guessed there was going to be Lush cosmetics in this)! 

Then before applying any make-up if I choose to wear any that day I put on a moisturiser called Vanishing Cream also by Lush. This moisturiser is my most favourite product in this post. It was recommended by a friend months ago and I haven't been able to live without it since. It's around £18 but you only need to use a tiny bit and it lasts for ages. I don't like to wear make-up everyday because my skin is so sensitive and it needs a break so most the time I just put this silky moisturiser on for the day!

Removing makeup

Right. In terms of make-up remover, cleanser, toner and moisturiser it can vary with skin types. I'm only letting you all know what I personally like to use for my skin but if you have any questions on products you're more than welcome to send a tweet/DM/comment.

ANYWAY. I've recently come across a vegan brand (I know a lot of you followers are vegans so if you haven't already heard of this brand you're welcome!).

To remove make-up I use the Organic Eye and Makeup Remover by Inika. As you know my skin is sensitive and the dry or oily state it's in can change a lot, but this particular product, although new in my routine, seems to work for me no matter what state my skin is in, leaving it feeling fresh. So I will definitely buy again when it has run out!

Now for the cleanser. Current favourite is Let The Good Times Roll by Lush. This particular cleanser is best if you have sensitive skin that is prone to being quite dry and sore. Its got enough scrub to help even out the skin and clean it properly, but not too much to leave it feeling raw. Oh and it smells good enough to eat!

I invested in the Tea Tree Facial toner from The Body Shop about two months ago and definitely would buy it again. This really helps clear up any spots and keep them away, leaves the skin feeling hydrated, smells amazing and seems to last for ages!

Moisturiser as I've already mentioned is the lovely Vanishing Cream also by Lush. When you find a moisturiser that works with your skin perfectly (I'm hoping its this one because it's an all rounder) then try to remember to use it twice a day everyday if you can. Once in the morning and once before bed if you want the best results.

Extra weekly care - Treat yourself! 

If you're either having a quiet weekend in or night out we all deserve a pampering evening. So whether you're staying in with Netflix or need some you time the day after dancing like Beyoncé, these products are great for relaxing/recovering.

Mask of Magnaminty. It smells incredible, doesn't sting the skin, leaves it feeling really refreshed and rejuvenated AND its green. Those of you that have been following me for a while know how much of a bonus that is! This comes in a decent sized pot and can be used on the body too.

Whilst this face mask is doing its magic I recommend a hot bath with a new bath bomb to try out each week. The latest one that I love (and I've noticed a lot of you love it too already) is Intergalactic by Lush. I don't feel like I can describe as well as the Lush Cosmetics website does so if you haven't already read it, enjoy:

"Ever wondered what bathing in deep space would be like? Invite the cosmos into your bathroom with this sexy, interstellar bomb and become the guardian of your own galaxy. An awesome mix of refreshing peppermint and neon colour sends your mood rocketing, while popping candy takes you on a trip around the Milky Way. Constellations swirl and pop, creating vibrant lustre vortexes in the night sky. Before you leap too far, rogue layers of vetivert and cedarwood take hold, evoking the warmth of human contact far from home and a hint of 80s aftershave. Return from your intergalactic brief encounter as the grounding scent brings you gently back from orbit."

And yes, it 100% lives up to its expectations! After using it once I went back to my local Lush store the next day and got 3 more! Not only is it beautiful before you use it but it leaves your bath water a deep blue colour with specks of glitter in it and smells AMAZING!

I'm no skin expert I just try out different products and see what suits my skin. It varies for a lot of us but I hope this has helped most of you and maybe you've discovered some new products you didn't even know existed! 

As well as all of this information the main most important things that will help your skin is a healthy diet and plenty of WATER! I can't stress it enough how much of a difference is makes to your skin keeping yourself hydrated and healthy.

Love, Pixie 

Twitter / Instagram

Homemade Herb and Grapefruit Face Toner!

As soon as high Summer hits, I become taken over by this incredible urge to incorporate fruits into everything I do. I want to eat them, I want to drink them, and I want to incorporate them into my beauty routine.

The grapefruit is an excellent fruit to use on the skin due to its vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant content. Its vitamin C protects the skin from free radicals and stimulates the production of collagen in your skin, leaving you with soft, rejuvenated-looking skin. Its potassium helps smooth wrinkles and even offers some protection against UV rays. Its amino acids to help firm the skin. Grapefruit can also help cleanse skin, even out skin tone, and act as a toner… which brings us to these two wonderful recipes for herb-infused grapefruit toner: one for dry skin and one for oily/combination skin.

First, get yourself a fresh, organic grapefruit or two, and squeeze it into a jar. If you’re following the dry skin recipe, add a tablespoon or two of mineral water to dilute the grapefruit juice — this way it won’t be as harsh on your skin. Next, add the herbs/oils. For dry skin, add a mixture of lavender, chamomile, and sage to the jar. These can be done in herb or essential oil form. For oily/combination skin, use lavender (ideal for all skin types), mint, rosemary, and thyme. Again, these can be herbs or essential oils.

Seal your jar with an airtight lid and allow the herbs to infuse for 2-4 hours. Then, strain the liquid into another sealable jar, discarding the herbs. If you choose to use essential oils instead of herbs, you can skip this step entirely — your toner is already ready to be used! To use, pour a little of the toner onto a cotton ball and apply to clean skin. You’ll be left feeling totally refreshed and ready for the day!

Store your toner in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 1-2 weeks. :)

 

Mermaid Spray For Beachy Waves

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Salt on the skin, sun kissing the nose, piecey waves in the hair. A day spent in the spa has absolutely nothing on a day spent on the beach.

For those of us in the chillier portions of the world, days under the salty, bright skies are juuust out of reach, but that doesn’t mean we can’t achieve the beach’s beauty-enhancing effects on our own — namely: those gorgeously natural piecey, beachy waves formed when the sea meets your locks and the sun sets them to dry.

So we have got the perfect natural spray that is super easy to make - Mermaid Spray!

Ingredients:
1 cup warm water
1 tablespoon natural sea salt
2 teaspoons organic coconut oil
2 teaspoons aloe vera gel (straight from the plant if possible!)
5-10 drops essential oil of your choice (we used lavender)

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To make, combine all ingredients into an empty spray bottle. Screw on the cap, shake well, and you’re ready to go! Experiment with different types of essential oils to find which scent you love most. I stuck with lavender this time, which smells beautiful in combination with the coconut oil, but I think this would be great with some lemongrass or other citrus scents, as well.

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To use, just spray the mixture onto damp hair, scrunch to form piecey waves, and then let air dry. Voila! You’re a beach babe. I also like to spray this in my hair near the roots when it’s already dry, and then blast with a hair-dryer for added texture and volume.