PRODUCT REVIEW: KOSMEA MUM AND BABY COLLECTION

Kosmea is one of those brands that is relatively new to me, and while the brand continues to receive rave reviews for their products, I still have only tried a few products from their large range, so today I'm excited to share with you the Kosmea Mum and Baby Collection.

But first, in case you're not familiar with Kosmea, let me quickly fill you in. The products is Australian owned and made and I love the fact that they are made using only the best certified organic rosehip oil and the finest herbal, plant and flower extracts, and they do not contain any mineral oils, artificial colours, petrochemicals, artificial fragrances or SLS or SLES. I also love that the products are so gentle that they are suitable for use on babies' sensitive skin too.

Now onto the Kosmea Mum and Baby Collection, which is a great starter pack containing some key products for mum and baby, including;

• Hydrating Rosewater Mist (25mL)
• Rose Hip Oil (10mL)
• Five Minute Facial Muslin Cloth
• Rescue Balm (50mL)
• Rescue Body Cream (20mL)

The Kosmea Hydrating Rosewater Mist is a cooling facial spray intended to be used as a toner to rehydrate the skin the skin throughout the day, or on top of makeup to help it set and look nice for longer. It has the most gorgeous rose scent, coming from the thousand delicately distilled rose petals that have been used, and I just cannot get enough of this gorgeous natural scent. As the spray is very hydrating (and non-aerosol too), it is also perfect for bringing with you on long-haul flights to help freshen up the skin and bring back some much needed moisturise.

Then there's the Kosmea Certified Organic Rose Hip Oil, which I have actually used previously and still do, and I've also posted about it a long time ago, which you can read about here.

My views on this Rose Hip Oil has not changed, it is an incredible oil, and I love using it on both my face and décolleté, at night before bed, and feel that it is helping make my skin look not only more plumb and moisturised with fine lines less noticeable, but also more even toned, with pigmentation reducing in size and appearance. So if you've not tried it, you really should!

Then there's the Kosmea Five Minute Facial™ Muslin Cloth, which is made from 100 per cent cotton and designed to purify and gently exfoliate the skin during cleansing.

I admit to using a facial cleansing brush daily, but I've been enjoying using this Muslin Cloth before and after using a face mask - first used with warm water to open up the pores, and after removing the mask, with cold water to remove any remaining product, and to close and tighten the pores again. So simple, yet so effective. I love it.

Next is the Kosmea Rescue Balm, which is a healing balm intended for a multitude of skin issues including sunburn, chapped lips, reduction in appearance of scars, cuts and grazes and nappy rash. It is made using among others certified organic everlasting oil, lavender and calendula oils to help soothe the skin and promote skin recovery with its anti-inflammatory properties, while the Certified organic rose hip butter helps the skin retain moisture. I love a good multi-tasker, and especially when it is as gentle as this one, again suitable for use even on a baby's delicate skin. I love having it at hand, and successfully used it on my big boy's grazed knees and on our little boy's bum to prevent nappy rash during teething.

Finally, the Kosmea Rescue Body Cream is yet another product suitable for even babies. The cream is intensely moisturisng and leaves my, and my little boys' skin soft and smooth all day long, without the need for reapplying - all thanks to containing everlasting oil, rose hip butter and shea butter will deeply moisturise skin and relieve itchy symptoms. Carrot oil and grape seed oil protect with antioxidants and restore skin elasticity, and chamomile soothes irritated and sensitive skin.

Overall, this is a great gift set, and a great introduction to the brand, as it gives you an opportunity to try several products from the brand.


Kosmea Mum and Baby Collection - RRP: $39.95 (valued at $78.75)
Available from David Jones, and selected pharmacies and health food stores

* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

 

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BRAND FOCUS: ROSEHIP BY ESSANO

Today I’d like put focus on a brand that was launched earlier this year, Rosehip by essano*.

The brand is New Zealand owned and made, and the products are certified organic. The foundation of all the products in the range is rosehip oil, which is said to be clinically proven to help minimise the appearance of fine lines, scars, stretch marks and sun damage.

And what is so great about the Rosehip by essano products is that they are made using only “the essence of nature” and hence the products do not contain parabens, sulphates, silicones, phthalates, PEGs, PPGs, petrochemicals, mineral oils or artificial colours. And of course, they are not tested on animals. Of course not!


Rosehip by essano Rosehip Oil

This rosehip oil is no ordinary rosehip oil – it has been enriched with acai berry antioxidant oil to give the skin more nourishment and better skin renewal. The rosehip oil comes in a huge 45ml bottle and can be used anywhere on the body where you’d like to minimise the appearance of fine lines, scars, stretch marks and sun damage. I have been mainly using it on my face and décolleté before my moisturiser. You can use it twice a day, but with combination skin prone to breakouts, I do find it a little too rich to use during the day, especially now that the weather is heating up and my skin tends to become even greasier.

The rosehip oil comes with an easy to use dropper that makes it easy to dispense the two to three drops you need. It feels a little greasy on the skin for a second, but it is quickly absorbed, without leaving behind any greasiness or stickiness. And when you wake in the morning, your skin is so soft, and with a healthy glow. I have tried a few different types of rosehip oils by now, but I do like how the rosehip by essano feels so light, and that it has such a lovely gentle scent. RRP: $34.99 (45ml)



Rosehip by essano Pure Defence SPF15 Moisturiser

Often moisturisers containing SPF are thick and not great on combination skin prone to breakouts, but not this SPF15 moisturiser from essano, which has given me no trouble what so ever. It is incredibly light and again absorbs instantly into the skin making it feel very soft and smooth thanks to the rosehip oil and vitamin E, so it is also perfect to use under makeup. I would have liked it to contain a higher SPF for a better protection on my skin, or on the other hand no SPF at all so I could us it at night as well (and instead use a separate SPF on top during the day!) The cute pump bottle is easy and convenient to use and the moisturiser has the most beautiful fresh floral scent that you can only love. RRP: $19.99 (75ml)



Rosehip by essano Gentle Facial Exfoliator

This facial exfoliator is as the name suggests very gentle, so gentle that you can in fact use it every single day. It contains super fine granules from rosehip that helps refine the skin , removing dead skin cells and impurities to reveal a soft and more glowing skin. On one hand I would have liked it to be a little grittier but on the other hand I do really like that it is so gentle that I also know that it won’t damage my skin. Like the other essano products it contains rosehip oil, but also aloe vera to keep the skin moisturised. RRP: $14.99 (100ml)



Rosehip by essano Gentle Foaming Facial Cleanser

With a combination skin prone to breakouts I rely on a good cleanser, and over the years I have learnt that a gentle cleaner, despite what you may think, is so much better at keeping your skin blemish. This cleaner is soap free, and along with organic rosehip oil and aloe vera, it helps gently clean the skin without drying it out. It also works perfectly to remove makeup (although I do use a specific eye makeup remover for my eyes!). And as a second cleanse, I love using it with my Clairsonic for a gentle, yet deep clean of all my pores! RRP: $14.99 (140ml)



Rosehip by essano Gentle Intensive Hydration Body Lotion

Often intensive body lotions leave the skin feeling greasy or tacky for hours, but not so with this Body Lotion from essano. It absorbs incredibly fast, leaving the skin feeling velvety soft, and deeply moisturised throughout day, with no need to reapply, even on those dry areas such as your legs after shaving, thanks to a mix of organic rosehip oil, jojoba seed oil, aloe vera and essential vitamins. It comes in a huge 400ml pump bottle that is not only extremely easy to use. RRP: $16.99 (400ml)


Rosehip by essano Nourishing Hand Creme

While many of the ingredients in the all the essano products are the same, the hand cream for some reason seems to smell a little different, more floral with a stronger scent of roses. It is really lovely, and I like how it continues to linger on the skin for quite some time. The hand cream is a little runny, but yet it is very hydrating, so I don’t feel I have to continue reapplying during the day. It comes in a huge tube, which in my opinion is a little too large to pop into the handbag, but it is perfect on my bedside table for using every night before going to bed. Even my husband has taken a liking to it, and the fact that it is free of all the chemical nasties, so it seems I will have to purchase another tube sooner rather than later! RRP: $14.99 (120ml)



General for the full Rosehip by essano product range is that the products are New Zealand owned and made, and they all come in apothecary style pump bottles and bottles, and with the dusty rose labels they look good in the bathroom too! The products are very well priced, considering their large sizes and especially seeing the products are made from certified organic ingredients. There is also, among others a body oil available in the range, which I am pretty keen on putting to the test as well!

The products are readily available from Priceline, Coles and Woolworths.

*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

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BRAND FOCUS: CROP NATURAL SKINCARE

Today I’d like to run you though a new skincare range that has recently launched – Meet Crop Natural Skincare.

Crop is made using 95% naturally derived ingredients, which are sourced from sustainable natural resources. The products are also cruelty free, as well as paraben, sulphate and phthalate free and Australian owned and made! How good is that!

Crop’s product range consists of Double Sided Facial Wipes, Gentle Cleansing Gel, Daily Facial Moisturiser, Rosehip Oil, Macadamia Oil and Argan Oil.

Crop Double Sided Facial Wipes


 

As I have previously stated, I am not the biggest user of facial wipes, except for when I am travelling or when I am swatching makeup for the blog. So with that in mind, I have to admit that these didn’t excite me that much. However, I have to say that I was very pleasantly surprised, and that these wipes are by far some of the best ones that I have ever used. They are made from a soft viscose material and are double sided with a textured side, which contains microbeads to gently exfoliate and brighten the skin, while the soft side that soothes the skin. RRP: $6.00 (25 wipes)



Crop Gentle Cleansing Gel

This Gentle Cleansing Gel lives up to its promise and is extremely gentle. It contains among others essential oils of Eucalyptus Radiata, Rosemary, Lemongrass, Cajeput and Peppermint, as well as jojoba, vitamin E, cocoa butter, rosehip oil, aloe vera, rice protein, wheat protein and lavender oil. It lathers into a soft foam that removes makeup easily while giving the skin a deep clean removing impurities and purifying the skin, and it does so without leaving the skin feeling stripped for moisture, and thanks to the peppermint it leaves the skin with a nice refreshing feeling. RRP: $12.00 (125ml)



Daily Facial Moisturiser


 

The Daily Facial Moisturiser is a very lightweight moisturiser which is infused with an essential oil blend of Mandarin, Lemongrass, Bergamot, Nutmeg and Basil Oil, as well as jojoba, vitamin E, cocoa buter, rosehip oil, aloe vera, rice protein, wheat protein and lavender oil, and it has the most gorgeous refreshing citrus scent. It absorbs quickly into my skin, and doesn’t leave my skin feeling tacky or greasy, and it works perfectly under makeup too. And while it is so light, it gives my combination skin sufficient moisture, so I am not sure it would be moisturising enough for more dry skin types. It will be a perfect moisturiser come the warmer months, although my only negative is doesn’t contain any SPF, while on the on the other hand, I have a feeling that SPF sometimes does make my skin break out, so on the other hand it is probably not a bad thing to use a separate on top that I know agrees with my skin. RRP: $12.00 (125ml)




Crop Rosehip Oil

I have used quite a few different Rosehip Oils in the past, and I love using it, in particularly during the cooler months where my otherwise combination skin tends to get a little drier and need a little extra moisture. And this new Rosehip Oil from Crop definitely compares to others I have used in terms of quality. It contains natural occurring vitamin A to assist in fighting signs of ageing while helping to restore vitality. Unfortunately I find the Rosehip Oil a little too rich to use during the day, but I have been using it at night, - although some nights alternating with the Argan Oil – though I admit to preferring the Rosehip Oil as a face oil, and I love how soft and smooth my face is when I wake in the morning. RRP: $18.00 (20ml)



Crop Argan Oil

The Argan Oil offers all round care suitable for face, body, hair and nails. It is made from the natural oils derived from the kernels of the argan tree in Morocco, and it is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, helping to restore elasticity in the skin and helping to fight signs of ageing. For the nails it helps promote nail growth and strength and repair damaged nails, while in the hair it adds shine while smoothing down frizz. Again, I have been using it as a face oil some nights alternating with the Rosehip Oil, but again, I prefer to use It on my nails, in my hair, or even on my décolleté, and all are clearly benefiting from the intense hydration. A true multi-tasking product! RRP: $18.00 (20ml)



Crop Macadamia Oil

 

Finally, the Macadamia Oil is another brilliant multi-tasker, suitable for use on both face, body, hair and nails – and it is perfect to use as a cleansing oil too, easily and gently removing all makeup. The macadamia oil is rich in nutrients including Linoleic acid that helps prevent moisture loss while Palmitoleic acid helps delay the deterioration of skin cells. I have been enjoying using this as particularly a makeup remover, while it is also brilliant as a both a nail oil and used in the hair. RRP: $15.00 (50ml)



Common for all the Crop products are that they are they are beautifully presented in a simply yet stylish bottles with black labels, that makes them look a lot more than they budget price they cost. And thanks to the natural ingredients they all have a beautiful natural scent that you can only love. And what’s more is that they are made locally here in Australia and conveniently available in Coles supermarkets nationally. So overall I am quite impressed with this new skincare range from Crop, and love that the products are so affordable, yet without compromising on the quality, and without being free from all the chemical nasties. I have my fingers crossed that they will add more products to the range in the near future..

*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.



Ever heard of Crop Skincare? Keen on trying? Ever tried Rosehip, Argan or Macadamia Oils?


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PRODUCT REVIEW: ROSEHIP PLUS DAY AND NIGHT CREAM

Many months ago I tried the Rosehip Oil (review here) and Rosehip Oil Roll-On from Rosehip Plus (review here), and have really enjoyed using the products, so when I was asked if I wanted to trial the newly launched *Rosehip Plus Day and Night Creams as well, I happily accepted. Here are my thoughts; 

What They Say:

RosehipPLUS Hydrating Day Cream and RosehipPLUS Nourishing Night Cream is a 100% pure and natural Australian Certified Organic skincare product. Containing extract of the seeds of the Rosehip fruit (Rosa Canina), it supports and encourages a healthier looking skin.

RRP: Day Cream (75ml): $19.95, Night Cream (50ml): $29.95 – Available from select pharmacies 


What I Say:

What I really like about the RosehipPLUS range of products is that the products are Australian Certified Organic and they are cruelty free. And of course, very importantly, they are made without nasty chemicals including no parabens, no sulphates and no artificial colours, no preservatives and no petro chemicals.

The Day and Night Cream both contain RosehipPLUS Rosehip Oil, while the day cream also contains Chamomile, Avocado Oil and Rose Geranium, and the night cream contains Cocoa Seed Butter, Jojoba Seed Oil and Shea Butter, making it extra moisturising. They are both made from 95% organic ingredients.


Thanks to being rich in naturally occurring Vitamins A, C, E plus Omega 3, 6 & 9, the products claim to help keep the skin hydrated and soft, and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while improving the appearance of dry skin and promoting skin elasticity and texture. And of course, the mere inclusion of the Rosehip Oil also means that the products help repair sun damage, reduce skin pigmentation, and reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks.

Now I have combination skin prone to breakout, and especially when I use skincare products that are too heavy and rich, so I was a little concerned using the RosehipPLUS products. But as with the pure RosehipPLUS oil, I didn’t need to worry, as my skin has been grateful for the extra moisture, and without making it break out of feel congested.

The Day Cream comes in a large 75ml tube and has a typical consistency for a day cream. It absorbs fairly quickly so you can get on with applying your makeup.

The Night Cream on the other hand comes in a pump bottle containing 50ml –and I so love pump bottles and which the Day Cream also came in one. It is simply so much easier and more convenient!


Most Night Creams are usually quite thick and heavy, but that is not the case with the RosehipPLUS Night Cream, as it more or less has the same light consistency as the Day Cream, which also means that it absorbs quickly into the skin.

Also often with Night Creams I wake the next morning and my skin is feeling greasy, but that is also not the case with this cream.


So how have they performed after using the products for about a month? Well again, the products have not made my skin feel congested or make it break out, which is a major plus for me.

I am not sure if my very old acne scars or the large clusters of pigmentation have changed significantly in appearance, but I can tell that my skin feels deeply quenched and moisturised, and consequently fine lines do appear to have been plumbed out. And my skin not only feels soft and smooth to touch, it also has a nice healthy glow.

And best of all is that the products are very concentrated so I haven’t even used half of them, so they are exceptional value too!

So if you too are keen on using ‘cleaner’ products free from all the chemical nasties, then this Day and Night Cream from RosehipPLUS are good contenders. I can easily see myself repurchasing again, and I hope that they soon will extend their product range to also include other products such as lip balms, hand and body creams!
 

*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy. 

Ever heard of RosehipPlus? Do you use Rosehip Oil?

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Pink Ribbon Products for Breast Cancer Awareness 2013

October marks the start of National Breast Cancer Awareness month, and as always, there are an increasing number of companies that bring out pink products, and donate a large percentage of the proceeds of their sales to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF). This is such a great cause, so I always make sure to stock up on certain products during October – I remember one year when pink M&Ms were released, but I am unfortunately yet to see those in the shops, which is such a shame as it did give me a guilt free reason to stock up on M&Ms! Anyway, here are some of the special and limited edition products that are available;

Sukin Limited Edition Certified Organic Rose Hip Oil – RRP: $19.95 (25ml), $32.95 (50ml)
 

Check out this cute pink bottle of rose hip oil from Sukin. I think everyone by now as discovered the benefits of rosehip oil, and I absolutely love this cheap but efficient version from Sukin – if you have missed my review, you can see it here. The rosehip oil can be used to soothe skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis and rosacea and assists in skin renewal to help maintain healthy skin. The rose hip oil features rosa eglanteria seed oil to soothe, soften and hydrate skin, feeding the skin essential vitamins and nutrients to promote radiance. The pink packaging with the ribbon design supports the McGrath foundation.

ModelCo & Ecoya Limited Edition Metro Jar – RRP: $29.95

 

I love it when my house smells nice, and with two large dogs living inside, nothing is better at freshening up the smell, thank a gorgeous scented candle. The ModelCo & Ecoya Limited Edition Metro Jar is a soy wax candle that is scented with fragrant notes of sweet pea and jasmine. Both brands have combined in a bid to raise awareness and funds for The National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Goldwell Super Hold Hair Lacquer – RRP: $7.95
 

With my long hair, one of the styling products I always use is hairspray to control those flyaway hairs around the face, and one of my go-to brands is Goldwell. The Goldwell Super Hold Hair Lacquer provides mega hold to give lasting control and manageability to any hairstyle. The hair lacquer features a micro-fine spray system that delivers hold effects evenly over the hair. It has a hold factor eight and brushes out easily. The packaging is pink to support the McGrath foundation.

Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum II – RRP: $95 (30ml), $140 (50ml)

This serum from Estee Lauder has long been a favourite of mine, and now an improved version recently been launched – the Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex II is a facial serum that supports the natural night-time anti-ageing purification process. The silky serum slows down the look of premature ageing, dramatically reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles, and significantly improves the appearance of skin radiance and evenness of skin tone. The Night Repair Serum features a Pink Ribbon Bracelet charm in support of the McGrath Foundation.

 

Clinique Pink with a Purpose – RRP: $36
 

I have long had a love affair with the Clinique Almost Lipsticks –especially in the colour Black Honey, which was discontinued at some stage, but luckily it was relaunched due to popular demand. The Clinique Pink with a Purpose is a limited edition lipstick and cosmetic case. The comes with an Almost Lipstick in the limited edition shade in Pink Ribbon Honey, and which is housed in a pin cosmetic carrying pouch. $5 from every sale of this Almost Lipstick goes towards The National Breast Cancer Foundation while supplies last.

 

Bobbi Brown Pink Blush Set – RRP: $85

 

How gorgeous is this pink blush set from Bobbi Brown – it will be sure to add some glow to those pale winter cheeks! The Bobbi Brown’s Pink Blush set has been designed to introduce Breast Cancer Awareness. The limited edition blush set contains a Pink Blush and Brush. 20 per cent of sales go to the Breast Cancer Foundation.

 

Jane Iredale Compact – RRP: $36

I have recently fallen for the amazing makeup from Jane Iredale, and now the limited edition Bright Future compact has been launched.  The mirrored compact features five timeless favourite eye shadow shades from the PurePressed range (Peach Sherbet, Pink Glaze, Red Carpet, Pink Cloud, and Dusk) along with a travel-sized eye shadow brush, for on-the-go application and touch ups. It comes with a cute small chain attached to the compact set which attaches the brush. Jane Iredale Australia will donate $1 to the National Breast Cancer Foundation

So there you have it, my top picks for amazing products that at the same time support a fantastic cause. Do you plan to support this great cause by buying any of these products?

 

Product Review: Rose-Hip Plus Rosehip Oil Skin Boost Roll-On

As many of you know, I have been swearing by Rosehip Oil while I’ve been pregnant, as many of the other serums that I used previously simply contained ingredients no suitable for use while pregnant. And so I fell in love with Rosehip Oil, and it has done wonders to my skin and has now become a stable in my bathroom cabinet. Here are my thoughts on the *Rosehip Oil Skin Boost Roll On from Rose-Hip Plus;

What They Say:

"Rosehip Vital Rosehip Oil is a 100% pure and natural Certified Organic skincare product, cold pressed from the seeds of the Rosehip (Rosa Canina) that helps to support healthy-looking skin for use on the face and body."

RRP: $14.95 (15ml) - Available from select pharmacies

What I Say:
I have previously reviewed the standard Rosehip Oil from Rosehip Vital, which you can see here. Since then, the brand has changed is name to Rosehip Plus.

Usually Rosehip Oils come in dark glass dropper bottles, but as this one is different as it comes in a white plastic squeezy tube with a roller-ball.

The actual Rosehip Oil is the same as what I have previously reviewed; the oil is cold pressed, which basically that means that the oil is extracted without heat (or solvents or chemicals, for that matter!). This helps keep all the beneficial ingredients in the end product so they aren’t lost in the manufacturing process, making the oil a lot more beneficial! The super fine filtering processes means the final product is said to be one of the finest quality Rose-Hip oils you can find!
It is made from 100% Australian Certified Organic, and is free from pesticides, artificial fertilisers or synthetic chemicals, as well as it is free from preservatives, colours and added fragrances. It is simply 100% pure and natural.

Rosehip oil is suitable to use both morning and night. However, on my combination skin it is more than sufficient to just at night time, as during the day it feels a little too greasy. Still, I can use the Rosehip Oil without my skin getting too oily and congested and it breaking out.

Rosehip Oil contains naturally occurring Bioflavonoids which are vitamin-like substances which act as potent anti-oxidants, helping to reduce free radical damage in the skin. The Rose-Hip Vital Rosehip Oil is rich in naturally-occurring vitamins (Anti-Ageing Vitamins A and C; Anti-inflammatory Vitamin E), antioxidants (Lycopene & Beta-Carotene) and essential fatty acids (Omega 3, 6 & 9), to keep the skin hydrated and moisturised.

Rosehip Oil can help with:

Reduce appearance of stretchmarks and scars

Maintain skin hydration

Improve the appearance of dry skin

Diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Promote skin elasticity and texture

Repair sun damage and skin tissue

Reduce pigmentation

Using the Rosehip Oil, keeps my skin feeling extremely soft and hydrated, as well as it looks clearer, and skin tone is more even. My skin has never been clearer. I've had no breakouts major since using the Rose-Hip Vital Rosehip Oil, and actually, it is almost like the oil production in my skin has normalised and it is no longer as greasy

I have also tried using the rosehip oil on my scars, but as these are very old surgery scars, I am yet to notice any major improvements, which I am not sure I will either seeing they are several years old.

The Rosehip Oil has a very natural scent, which I however do not mind, and which fades quickly after the oil has been absorbed into the skin.

 

 

So where in all, where this Rosehip Oil differs is with the new packaging. And compared to the glass dropper bottles it is so much easier to control the amount of oil it dispenses. And due to the roller ball, it is also so easy to apply to the face, easily gliding over the face without the need to push or pull, giving your face a nice gentle and cooling massage at the same time.

And if you are going away on holidays, this is so much easier to bring along, no longer any need to worry about the glass bottle breaking in your toilet bag. I so wish I had had this at hand when I was just at the hospital a few weeks ago giving birth (my skin got so dry while I was there that it would have been a great help too!)

The Rosehip Oil is very concentrated, and you only need a few drops for the full face, so even this 15ml tube will last you a long time. At $14.95 for 15ml, this is a more expensive than buying the rosehip oil in the regular bottle, but considering how easy it is to use, and that you are likely to use less (and not waste any either), it is still an absolute bargain product.  

*This product was kindly provided for consideration, and it has been reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

 

What do you think of the Rose-Hip Vital Oil? Have you tried Rose-Hip oil before? And if so, what did you think? And what do you think of this new Roll-on tube?

 

Product Review: Sukin Certified Organic Rose Hip Oil

Years ago, my skincare routine was simple. The same cream day and night. Then as age crept in came the need for a thicker night cream. And suddenly more targeted serums popped up, and well more recently facial oils! While I quickly added the night cream and serums to my routine, the skincare oils was a different matter, as I was simply worried that they would make my combination skin feel even greasier and more congested than it already was. But when I was asked to trial the *Sukin Certified Organic Rose Hip Oil by the lovely and talented makeup artist, Tammerly from Spoilt by Pink Diva, I naturally happily accepted. Here are my thoughts;

What They Say:

"Sukin Certified Organic Rose Hip Oil is a 100 percent natural oil that contains vital nutrients to promote healthy skin, assist skin renewal and repair skin conditions. It contains 80 percent essential fatty acids to protect cell membranes, vitamin E to protect the skin, beta carotene and the powerful anti-ageing antioxidant, lycopene. It is suitable for all skin types, especially dry and sensitive."

RRP: $19.95 (25ml) / $32.95 (50ml) – Available from Priceline, select pharmacies and health food stores.

 

What I Say:

What makes Sukin different from other Rosehip Oils is that it is an Australian brand, and the products are free from nasty and harsh chemicals including Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulphate (SLES), synthetic fragrances, animal derivatives, detergents, propylene glycol, artificial colours, triethanolamine, mineral oils, EDTA, or parabens. It is simply made from 100% pure and natural certified organic cold-pressed Rosehip Oil!

The Sukin Rosehip Oil contains 80% essential fatty acids, which are to protect cell membranes as well as vitamin E, beta carotene and lycopene claimed to assist in skin renewal and repair.

Sukin is also a 100% certified carbon neutral business aiming to reduce the impact their business on the environment, so all products are also packaged in environmentally friendly, recyclable packaging bio-degradable. All in all, very impressive, isn’t it!

Sukin recommends using 2-3 drops of the Rosehip Oil onto clean damp skin twice daily or when required. However, in spite of moving towards autumn, and my combination skin consequently getting a little drier, I find that the Rosehip Oil is still a little too greasy to during the day, also as I find that it reduces the wear of my foundation.

Consequently I have only been using it at night, on the warm summer nights, I have been using it on its own as a night serum, but now that the weather has gotten a little cooler, and my skin is craving even more moisture, I have been using it under my usual night cream.

And the next morning my skin feels so thoroughly hydrated and is so soft, and it and looks so healthy and glowing. After having used the Sukin Rosehip Oil for over 4 weeks, I feel that my skin is very soft and well hydrated, and my skin tone is more even.

Having combination skin prone to breakouts, I am always worried when I start using concentrated serums, let alone an oil, that it will make my skin break out. But I have not experienced any increase in the amount of breakouts I’ve had while using the Rosehip Oil, and in fact I believe that it has actually helped normalise the oil production in my skin.

Sukin also claims that it can help prevent scars, so I have also been using the rosehip oil on my scars, both some old acne scars and an older surgery scars, however I am yet to notice any improvement, but in saying that, these scars are also quite old.

Sukin also claims that the Rosehip Oil can be used for among others as a manicure to keep cuticles soft and nails stronger, as a lip salve for dry lips, for rough dry areas, including preventing dry Eczema and psoriasis skin from flaking, to prevent pregnancy stretch marks and to tame flyaway hairs.

I have tried to use the a few drops as a nail treatment before bed time, and really does make a difference to the health of the nails.

Used as a lip salve, the tiniest amount did soften my lips, but I found it a little too greasy and not as effective as my normal lip balm.

I also tried to use a few drops on my dry elbows, and after just a few days, these were softer than they had ever been.

And being pregnant, I have used the Rosehip Oil on my tummy, and while it has helped with the itchy feeling, and while I am yet to spot any stretch marks, only time will tell how efficient it is for that. But in saying that, I do have other products specifically aimed at pregnancy stretchmarks and an itchy tummy, and as they come in larger pack sizes and work out cheaper per ml of product, I have been using those on my tummy considering the large amount of product that I use.

And finally, I also tried to use it to tame any flyaway hairs, and I have to say that I was very impressed at how quickly and easily just a few drops smoothed down my hair without making it look greasy.

The Sukin Rosehip Oil comes in a small glass bottle, which has a handy dropper at the end, making it easy to get just the amount you need, as well as it is very hygienic. The oil has a very natural yet subtle fruity scent, which fades quickly as soon as the oil has absorbed into the skin.

The Rosehip Oil is very concentrated, and you only need a few drops for the full face, so the large 50ml bottle will last you a long time, even if you also use if for a few other things as well – although of course, as mentioned above, if you do use it as body oil to prevent stretchmarks, it will be used up more quickly, and consequently more specific body oils may be a better alternative. However, at $32.95 for a large 50ml bottle of such a fantastic multi-purpose oil, I find this an absolute bargain product, that should be a staple in all bathroom cabinets. If haven’t yet tried it, I highly recommend that you do!  

*This product was kindly provided for trial by Spoilt by Pink Diva, and it has been reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


Have you tried any of the products from Sukin? Do you use Rosehip Oil? Which one is your favourite? Or maybe you use a serum?

Product Review: Kosmea Eighth Natural Wonder Revitalising Facial Serum

As I believe I have mentioned quite a few times lately, since being pregnant, I have taken an increasing interest in more natural beauty products, so when I was asked to trial the *Kosmea Eighth Natural Wonder Revitalising Facial Serum by the lovely and talented makeup artist, Tammerly from Spoilt by Pink Diva, I naturally happily accepted. Here are my thoughts;

What They Say:

"This revitalising facial serum that instantly ‘lifts’ dull and tired skin. Containing the unique hibiscus extract, this everyday facial serum has the effect of ‘freezing’ fine lines and wrinkles giving skin instant youthfulness and vitality. Combined with organic rose hip oil, this duo form nature’s answer to cosmetic surgery!"

RRP: $69.95 (50ml) – Available from Select Pharmacies

What I Say:

I have previously tried the Rosehip Oil from Kosmea, and as I absolutely loved it, I naturally also had very high hopes for the Eighth Natural Wonder Revitalising Facial Serum.

Kosmea is an Australian brand, and in fact the first company to bring Rosehip oil to Australia. How many other brands have since followed troop! All the Kosmea products are all free from mineral oils, artificial colours, petrochemicals, artificial fragrances, sodium lauryl sulphate, and animal ingredients. The products have not been tested on animals, and all products come in recyclable packaging. I love the sound of that!

Currently over 37 weeks pregnant and struggling getting a good night’s sleep, I cannot deny that I am often tired, and well that shows up on my skin too, making it look more dull than normal, and existing lines and wrinkles seem more pronounced.

Kosmea claims that the Eighth Natural Wonder Revitalising Facial Serum has “the effect of ‘freezing’ fine lines and wrinkles giving skin instant youthfulness and vitality. Combined with organic rose hip oil, this duo form nature’s answer to cosmetic surgery!” Sounds just what my skin needs!!

Being pregnant, I am naturally more conscious of the ingredients of the skincare products that I use, but I need not worry as the Eighth Natural Wonder Revitalising Facial Serum contains mainly natural ingredients. As well as organic rosehip oil, the serum also contains among others hibiscus extract, Pea Extract, Rose Geranium Oil, which combined are to be give the skin the anti-ageing benefits through the essential antioxidants and vitamins.

The Eighth Natural Wonder Revitalising Facial Serum does not contain artificial fragrance, but rather it has a very natural lovely scent, which is no doubt coming from the natural ingredients in the serum. The scent is quite subtle, although it does hang around a little, even after the serum has absorbed into the skin – but as I like the scent, it doesn’t bother me at all. And it is such a nice change from products with strong artificial scents.

Kosmea recommends using the serum morning and night, and to add extra daytime hydration during the day, while at night-time no extra moisturiser should be needed. To me, that sounds a little in reverse, as I find that my skin needs more moisture at night than during the day, when too much moisture can interfere and mean that my makeup won’t stay put for as long.

Unlike rosehip oil, the Eighth Natural Wonder Revitalising Facial Serum has a consistency and texture like a cream, and it is not as greasy either. In fact, it absorbs instantly into the skin leaving it soft and without feeling or looking greasy. Probably because it absorbs into the skin so quickly without leaving any residue at all, I feel I need to add my usual day cream on top, which I also decide to do as the serum unfortunately does not contain any SPF.

During the day, it my makeup stays nice throughout the day – in fact, nicer than normal, it as if the serum as a normalising effect on my skin, making it feel and look less greasy, and it seems to stop the makeup from settling into fine lines too.

At night time, I also decide to use my usual night cream on top, as again, I simply feel that my skin needs the extra moisture, and the next morning I wake with soft, and thoroughly moisturised skin, which again doesn’t feel or look greasy, which it often does if I use a too concentrated or heavy anti-ageing product.

After now having used the Eighth Natural Wonder Revitalising Facial Serum for several weeks, my skin looks and feels softer and is well hydrated, yet without making my skin congested or making it break outs, but rather it seems my skin’s oil production has normalized. And it is as if some of my age spots/pigmentation is slowly starting to fade so my skin tone seems a little brighter and more even and consequently also more radiant. Fine lines, in particularly around the eye area and on my forehead, seems to have minimised as well.

The actual Eighth Natural Wonder Revitalising Facial Serum is quite concentrated and it spreads easily, so just one pump is more than sufficient to cover my whole face, so although the serum is not the cheap at $69.95 for 50ml, the bottle will last you quite a while.

It comes in a simple slim bottle with a pump, which I really like, as it is not only easy to use and dispense exactly the amount needed, it is more hygienic than having to constantly dip your fingers into a jar. Although, at times it can be a little tricky to completely use up products that come in pump bottles, but only time will tell how the Eighth Natural Wonder Revitalising Facial Serum will fare.

My only negative about this serum, is a minor one - the fact that you cannot see how much product is left in the bottle, as I do prefer to be prepared and have a backup at hand before running out.

All in all, this really has made an improvement on the condition and look of my skin, and in such a short period of time, so you can truly call it a wonder product. I will enjoy using the rest of the serum, and consider purchasing again in the future.

*This product was kindly provided for trial by Spoilt by Pink Diva, and it has been reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

Have you tried any of the products from Kosmea? Do you use a serum? Which one is your favourite?