Natural makeup mineral foundation

I’ve tested out a new foundation powder.  I normally use NYR but they have discontinued most of their organic cosmetic range for now (apparently they are redeveloping a new line).  I dislike wearing too much makeup and prefer a natural look so I was really pleased to try out another natural range that uses mineral powder and also has a 30 SPF in it.  In the summer months I am often out in strong sun and although I tend to wear hats and love to get my natural Vitamin D too, I am still aware of the potential damage UV can do if not mindful.

This particular range is called PHB and this month it’s on offer here at LoveLula. It has great coverage, no awful scent and feels light on as well.  It’s not easy to purchase cosmetics online as it’s not always easy to work out the colour match but they do a mini size so I was able to guess and fortunately got it right as can you.  They also ship internationally and it’s free over a certain amount.

If in doubt chuck it out!

This is the time of year that I utilise to throw out cosmetics and skincare items that are out of date.

Often we have received gifts at Christmas of cosmetics and skincare so this month of January is a good time to go through and do several tasks to help keep your skin in good shape:

1.  Drink plenty of water for your skin health.
2. Clean your makeup applicators and brushes
3. Go through your cosmetics and skincare.
4. Throw out anything that is out-of-date on the label or smells wrong or rancid. It’s really important to throw it out rather than continue using it as you could set up a skin reaction.  If like me you can make some of your own skincare then keep and wash out any glass containers or otherwise recycle them and any plastic ones you may have.
5. Any products with carrier oils such as nut oils or essential oils will eventually go out of date.  Usually citrus based products are 3 months and anything with nut oils you can normally tell is rancid from the smell.  Don’t use these as oxidisation of products can mean they are more likely to cause a skin reaction.
6. Give anything that is still unopened and in date away that you know you will never use.  Sometimes we know that we won’t use a particular brand, product or scent – not because they are bad but because we know what works for our own body.  Many charities, including women’s refuges, will take these or pass on to a friend.
7. Anything left that is in date make it a priority to use.  Don’t save it for a special occasion – make more special occasions through your year.  There is no point having an expensive hand soap that you intend to save for guests in the back of cupboard.  Treat yourself and your family and use it.

Also, I recommend that you schedule into your diary for the next 12 months some selfcare time.  That way you will use up any products you do have; a lot of people think “Oh I will keep this for another day”.  It is better though to give yourself a regular time and use all the luscious skincare products you have rather than waste them as they go beyond their use by date.  Schedule in a fortnightly skin scrub in the shower (it only takes an extra 5 minutes to do this).  Give yourself a regular bath soak and treat yourself well.

About Me

Elizabeth Plant is a holistic health & wellness coach, a massage therapist (using clinical techniques) and reflexologist.  She recently studied and completed one year of the MOst degree at the College of Osteopaths. She’s mother to one teen and attachment parented and home educated using Steiner Waldorf  amongst her own eclectic, holistic philosophy.

She has a Neal’s Yard shop here for all your organic skincare needs.

Tinted moisturiser

I used to wear Neutrogena tinted moisturiser until I learned that the ingredients were not as healthy as I would have liked.  I really believe that skin health starts in the gut so what we eat and how are the most important aspects to having skin.  Skin reflects our inner state of gut health (although there are external aggravators too).

Anyway, I was recently sent a tinted moisturiser by Madara.  I really like it. It seems to be very light, doesn’t have a strong scent and although not strong coverage (which is my preference as I dislike products that make you glow orange and look like they are caked on) is perfect as a tinted moisturiser (not foundation).

Learn Reflexology

I learned reflexology via a year long, in person course at a college, back in 2009.  I disliked feet and I remember the first week I was there a student was on the course who was my worse nightmare.  He had verrucas, athlete’s foot and of course it was my luck to be paired up with him.  However, it worked really well.  I got thrown into the gross deep end on the first day, had to wear latex-free gloves and the tutor ensured his feet didn’t rest on a towel but on disposable couch roll and he was booted off the course by her too (she basically told him that due to the level of fungus and plantar warts – it was pretty much over this feet and they stank – that he could only return based on health and safety when he had successfully treated himself).  It humbled me and my worst fears on the first session made everything thereafter feel easy.  All my fears about feet went and I still have my passion for all things reflexology.

I did my first year and then did a second year in reflexology where I learned hand, ears and spinal reflexes and since then have done quite a bit of CPD.  I  know that a lot of people find it very fascinating but they don’t have the time to attend college. I would say if this is you then yes, if you want to be a professional reflexologist please do not believe that an online course will train you. It’s really not an adequate way to learn and most insurance providers will not provide coverage; it’s also doing your clients a disservice. However, if you want to learn reflexology for your own personal needs and to know whether you would want to commit to a full qualification then this online course may  be the perfect taster (it’s also great for CPD/CEU for existing therapists).

 

 

 

Lyons Leaf Skincare

I received a sample from a company called Lyons Leaf who make some lovely skincare products that are vegetarian and vegan (no animal testing either and made in the UK).  I’ve been really pleased with how it has worked.  At this time of year and because I have been busy on clinics, studying and attending lectures it is easy for me to forget to drink enough and with central heating it doesn’t help my skin.  Anyway the beauty balm and calendula balm are both amazing.  The beauty balm is particularly rich and a little goes a long way.  The products soak in well and don’t leave your skin feeling cold and wet and instead have helped it to feel soft, plumped up and calm.

I am an affiliate for the products (for honesty’s sake) and you can also join up as an affiliate under my affiliation here.