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Elysambre Lipstick Review By The Organic Make-up Artist

2012-01-31T11:33:00.000Z

Lovely lips

One of the most important products in any Make-up Artist's kit is good quality lipcolour. Just one lipstick will enable you to produce a range of different looks, by simply adjusting the method of application and can be used to add colour elsewhere on the face, such as to the cheeks.

Giving great coverage, the Elysambre lipsticks are the perfect addition to an organic kit. They are long-lasting and have a lovely velvety and creamy texture, making the range a fantastic ethical and ecological alternative to traditional non-organic lipsticks.

The colours are beautiful and, available in three finishes; matt, gloss and pearly, there are over thirty shades in the range from soft pearly pinks to siren reds, sublime peaches to glossy plums. This fantastic array of colours (achieved by a pigment micronisation process) are enriched with a range of organic active plant ingredients; apricot and grapeseed oils to nourish and protect and shea butter and castor oil to moisturise and smooth. The matt colours are delicately apricot-scented, whilst the glossy and pearlised ones have a vanilla/violet scent.

Elysambre Lipstick

I adore this lipstick range and use it at every given opportunity. Unlike many natural and organic lipsticks they do not contain glitter particles (this is a huge bug-bear of mine in lipsticks!), so they are suitable for broadcast and photographic use.

As with all Elysambre products, the beautiful lipstick bullet cases are easily refillable (something I'll be writing about in the next few weeks) and the refills, priced at around £12.00, are available in all shades and finishes. Although you can easily use the lipstick without the case, it is worth the initial extra spend (approximately £4.00) to get the copper case as it will last a lifetime and put up with a typical kit bag battering without splitting or cracking.

Eco-conscious French brand Elysambre was created in 2006 by Nature.Cos. Free from Parabens, mineral oils and oil derived products, the mineral based, all-natural range is EcoCert and Fairtrade certified and cruelty free.

Detox Your Beauty Cabinet In 3 Easy Steps by Laura Rudoe

2012-01-30T13:57:00.000Z

The skin is the largest organ in the body and absorbs up to 60% of what is put on it. Here are some tips from Laura Rudoe, the founder of the certified organic range evolve beauty about how to reduce chemical exposure from beauty products:

1. Simplify your beauty routine and try to use as few products as possible. The average adult uses 10 products a day and is exposed to 126 chemicals, some of which have been found to accumulate inside the human body.

2. Learn about a few key nasties and try to avoid products containing them. Key nasties to watch out for are parabens, SLS/SLES, DEA/MEA/TEA, silicones, mineral oil, phthalates and synthetic fragrances. All of our products are formulated without nasties.

evolve Perfect Partners: Heavenly Body Duo

3. Switch to certified organic products*, as these have been independently verified not to contain any questionable chemicals and instead contain high levels of pure, natural plant extracts. This is particularly important for products you use frequently such as shampoo, all over the body such as body lotion, or are likely to ingest, such as lipstick.

* All evolve products are certified organic and natural with ECOCERT, the international organic standard

Kristin Cavallari's Sweet Winter Lip Treat | Eos Lip Balms Features in Chicago Now

2012-01-30T10:55:00.000Z

Amidst news of her pregnancy with Chicago Bears' Jay Cutler, Kristin Cavallari's baby is not the only little bundle of joy she loves to carry around. Kristin looked glowing while using her eos Strawberry Sorbet Lip Balm days after the couple's big announcement.

With a Windy City winter in full swing, CHI-lebrities can definitely incorporate this celeb trend into their cold weather beauty routine. This 95% USDA Certified organic formula is 100% natural and enriched with nourishing shea butter and soothing jojoba oil to provide long lasting moisture for sensationally soft lips.

Plus, its revolutionary smooth sphere applies directly to your pout, so it’s more hygienic than pot lip balms. And, did we mention it's just $3?

Now, that's the power of pink!

- Words by Jessica McCafferty, Photo by Faye Sadou.

The BBC Says We're Not Getting Enough Vitamin D

2012-01-27T17:37:00.000Z

This week, the BBC reported concerns over vitamin D deficiency amongst Britons:

"The chief medical officer for England, Dame Sally Davies, is to contact medical staff about concerns young children and some adults are not getting enough vitamin D.

Government guidelines recommend some groups, including the under-fives, should take a daily supplement.

However, recent research found that many parents and health professionals were unaware of the advice. There has been an increase in childhood rickets over the past 15 years.

According to Dr Benjamin Jacobs, from the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, links to heart disease and some cancers are also being investigated.

The consultant paediatrician told BBC Breakfast that the hospital saw about one severe case a month of rickets - softening of bones through lack of vitamin D in childhood.

He said: "There are many other children who have less severe problems - muscle weakness, delay in walking, bone pains - and research indicates that in many parts of the country the majority of children have a low level of vitamin D."

The Feeding for Life Foundation report, published in October last year, suggested one in four toddlers in the UK is vitamin D deficient.

However, this may be an underestimate as only vitamin D from food was included, and not any vitamin D obtained through sun exposure.

Vitamin D supplements are recommended for all people at risk of a deficiency, including all pregnant and breastfeeding women, children under five years old, people aged over 65, and people at risk of not getting enough exposure to sunlight.

Vitamin D is mainly obtained from sunlight. However, too much sun exposure increases the risk of skin cancer.

According to one recent study, nearly three-quarters of parents and more than half of health professionals are unaware of the recommendations.

The Department of Health has asked the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition to review the issue of current dietary recommendations on vitamin D.

Dame Sally Davies: "We know a significant proportion of people in the UK probably have inadequate levels of vitamin D in their blood. People at risk of vitamin D deficiency, including pregnant women and children under five, are already advised to take daily supplements.

Free supplements "Our experts are clear - low levels of vitamin D can increase the risk of poor bone health, including rickets in young children.

"Many health professionals such as midwives, GPs and nurses give advice on supplements, and it is crucial they continue to offer this advice as part of routine consultations and ensure disadvantaged families have access to free vitamin supplements through our Healthy Start scheme.

"It is important to raise awareness of this issue, and I will be contacting health professionals on the need to prescribe and recommend vitamin D supplements to at-risk groups."

It has long been known that vitamin D prevents rickets and children were once given food supplements like cod liver oil.

However, this practice was stopped in the 1950s because it was thought unnecessary.

In the last 10 years, doctors have been seeing more cases of vitamin D deficiency, leading to a debate over the use of food supplements and concern that many medical staff are unaware of the problem."

LoveLula's New Year's Resolutions | Keep On Looking Fabulous

2012-01-27T14:53:00.000Z

A huge part of how you look on the outside is based on what's happening on the inside. It's a great idea to supportyour skincare regime and keep your skin looking rejuvenated from the inside out with the help of supplements. Especially in winter, skin look tired, older anddull. Give it a helping hand with these:

Viridian Alpha Lipoic Acid with DMAE Complex (30 caps) £11.60

“DMAEis your magic bullet for great skin tone, keeping your face firm and contoured”Dr Nicholas Perricone, Anti-Aging Expert

AlphaLipoic Acid is a powerful antioxidant which helps protect skin against freeradicals. These free radicals can damage the health of the body’s cells and ageyour skin. DMAE stimulates nerve function and the muscles contract and tightenunder the skin. DMAE is also recognised as improving brain function, improvingmemory and helping you to think more clearly.

Viridian Hyaluronic Acid Supplement (30 caps) £14.40

HyaluronicAcid is used in skincare products as it helps attract moisture which makes skinsmooth and plump. Wrinkles are evened out and skin tone improved. Take thesesupplements to help boost your skin’s moisture levels, especially in winterwhen skin is dehydrated.

* Please note that the material on this siteis intended for information purposes only. None of the suggestions are meant tobe prescriptive. Any attempt to treat a medical condition should always comeunder the direction of a competent qualified professional.

Skincare Gets Slick | The Daily Mail Explores The Benefits of Oil-Based Products

2012-01-26T16:45:00.000Z

Using oils in our beauty regime is commonly thought to do more harm than good. If spots or greasy hair are a concern, slathering on a rich, pore-clogging oil is the last thing you’d think of doing.

But oils are naturally brimming with vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids that can provide us with a multitude of cosmetic benefits. Even celebrities are oiling up — Hollywood actress Emma Stone recently credited her flawless skin to regular use of grape seed oil.

From smoothing wrinkles and preventing stretch marks to repairing damaged locks — the beauty industry is in the midst of a full-on oil rush.

On trend: Victoria Beckham used oils to get through their pregnancies with minimal stretch marks

‘A lot of people fear using oil will cause breakouts and make their skin greasy,’ says Loraine Murry, natural beauty consultant at Weleda.

‘But oils can be incredibly beneficial for all skin types — even those prone to spots. They can rebalance, moisturise, protect and brighten complexions, and improve texture and tone. Oils can do wonders for hair, especially to repair and condition dry locks or boost thinning tresses.’

Unlike creams, oils penetrate deep. Dr Lionel De Benetti, head of research and development at Clarins, says: ‘Because the body has its own oil-producing sebaceous glands, the skin recognises and responds, making it highly effective at rebalancing the skin and treating dehydration, dryness, lines and even excess oiliness.’

Different oils possess unique cosmetic properties. For hydration, try a nurturing nut or seed-based oil like Weleda Almond Soothing Facial Oil. Almond and plum kernel oils boost the skin’s barrier, and help it keep the moisture in.

Some cleansers leave skin feeling dry and tight. But as oil attracts oil, oil-based cleansers effectively dissolve grime without stealing essential moisture.

This makes oils good for greasy or breakout-prone skin. Products for oily complexions often contain harsh ingredients that can strip the skin of its natural oils. It might temporarily reduce oiliness but, in the long-term more sebum is produced as skin overcompensates.

The Shu Uemura Fresh Cleansing Oil is ideal for acne-prone complexions, as it gently purges pores of unwanted sebum while maintaining natural moisture.

Most skin types will benefit from the new Sanctuary Ultimate Facial Cleansing Oil. It’s packed with argan, avocado, jojoba and soya oils and hydrates skin while wiping away impurities.

If you’re concerned about ageing, oils extracted from roses are rich in vitamins A and E. The new By Terry Huile de Rose Firming Lift Oil is made with pure extracts of musk as well as black and white roses known for their anti- ageing and ultra-nourishing powers.

Face oils were also popular backstage at the spring/summer catwalks. At the Moschino show, make-up artist Tom Pecheaux massaged tired models’ faces with Mac Care Blends Essential Oil. The calming chamomile and stimulating grapefruit oil helped relieve puffiness and boost hydration.

Clarins has re-launched and re-packaged the Body Treatment Oil-Anti Eau this month. Filled with essential oils of geranium, broom, majoram and lemon, it eliminates toxins from the body and reduces unwanted water retention.

Jessica Alba and Victoria Beckham used oils to get through their pregnancies with minimal stretch marks. The Sil Derm Prevention Oil contains lavender and grape seed oil, plus collagen stimulating plant extract gotu kola, and tissue damage-preventing vitamin E — both proven to reduce formation of stretch marks in pregnancy.

And don’t be put off applying oil to hair, either. ‘Today’s hair oils penetrate deep to mend split ends, counteract dryness and tame frizz — without weighing it down,’ says hairdresser Richard Ward.

Dull, damaged tresses can be transformed with Moroccan Oil Treatment containing argan oil, which is rich in fatty acids. And even fine hair can benefit from the L’Oreal Professional Mythic Oil, which has become a staple for top stylists. The lightweight spritz is infused with avocado and grape seed oil, and protects hair from heat styling, boosts shine and controls frizz.

Coconut oil is one of the best natural nutrients for hair and can help prevent dandruff and lice

A slick new trend? Maybe. But the beauty benefits of these oils have been widely used for thousands of years.

Cheryl Thallon, founder of Viridian, Guest Blogs for LoveLula | Vitamins - Now More Than Ever

2012-01-20T16:46:00.001Z

At the start of a new year, we often feel a little flat after all the excitement of the holidays, cash may be tight and Spring seems a long way off. Health-wise, your body may well have been stressed by the late nights, less healthy foods and drinking over the festive season. Emotionally too, family-time can be stressful for many.

Perk yourself up with a few supplements to ease those winter blues, boost your defences and get you in tip-top shape.

The 3 supplements you should never go without...

If you want to look and feel your best, start with a good diet, plenty of fresh air and exercise, then add these crucial supplements...

1/ MULTIVITAMIN

A good quality multivitamin & mineral can help boost energy levels, help protect against infection and, with the correct levels of the b-complex and antioxidant vitamins, help protect against heart disease and cataracts. Vitamin D has been shown to lift mood.

2/ PROBIOTIC

Everyone has heard of probiotics these days, ‘good’ bacteria in the gut has been shown to help boost immunity. A daily capsule can be effective and convenient.

3/ EFAS

Shown to be crucial in a number of health issues including heart, skin, brain, mood and hormonal systems, essential fatty acids (EFAs) best found in seed oils are a potent defence again the ailments of ageing. Seed oils offer all the benefits without the taste or potential pollution issues of fish oil sources.

Recommended product: Viridian Ultimate Beauty Oil.

LoveLula's New Years Resolutions | Immune System, Health and Energy

2012-01-19T16:52:00.001Z

Boostyour immunity during the colder months. The weather throughout January andFebruary can make the best of us grumpy! Christmas is over but the weather isnot. Keep warm and healthy this winter with the help of these;

Terra Nova CoQ10 30mg Complex (100 caps) NEW

Coenzyme Q-10 is a naturally occurring fat-soluble antioxidantthat appears in almost every cell in the body. It is important because itcarries electrons involved in energy metabolism. The levels of CoQ10 have beenreported to decrease as we get older. Increase your energy levels with thisnatural complex that helps convert sugars and fats into energy. It is alsogreat to maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.

Viridian Vitamin D £5.70 (30 caps)

We need Vitamin D to help us stayhappy and healthy, the problem is there is very little sun about now to ensurewe get enough. Take these supplements to give your mood levels and body alittle boost. Vitamin D can help boost the immune system as well as helpingalleviate the symptons of SAD – Seasonal Affective Disorder which now affectsmore and more people.

Pukka Natural Vitamin C Capsules £13.95 (60 caps)

We all know how important Vitamin C isto help keep our immune system in tip top condition. These capsules from Pukkaare 100% naturally derived from a blend of organic fruits. There are nosynthetic ingredients so you can be sure you are getting the best. Here is a bit of science to explain how muchVitamin C we should be getting…

Each serving of Pukka Natural VitaminC Capsules gives you: 433% RDA VitaminC and a good range of co-factor bioflavonoids and anthocyanins. ORAC ìM TE =554 per serving. ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity) is the antioxidantcapacity. We need about 3000 ìM TE per day which is approximately the amountthat you will get in five decent sized servings of fruit and vegetables.

* Please note that the material onthis site is intended for information purposes only. None of the suggestionsare meant to be prescriptive. Any attempt to treat a medical condition shouldalways come under the direction of a competent qualified professional.

Georgie Cleeve Guest Blogs for LoveLula | The Importance Of Supplements

2012-01-13T14:18:00.008Z

As part of our Detox and Supplements Month at LoveLula, OSKIA founder Georgie Cleeve tells us how supplements have an important role to play in our daily lives.

"Beauty supplements became a big story in 2011, yet some consumers remain sceptical of their benefits – and understandably so. Brands have not communicated their benefits clearly, and in these difficult times, everyone’s reluctant to add to the cost of their skincare regime. But supplements can provide dramatic benefits by delivering invaluable nutrients to the skin, and in a very different way to creams and serums.

Proper intake of nutrients is vital to good skin health. Nutrient deficiency can cause skin conditions and contribute to the appearance of ageing, while a sustained and proper intake can lead to healthier and more radiant skin.

Supplements (and of course food) are the only methods of delivering nutrients directly to the lower levels of the dermis. Ingested nutrients are broken down in the gut and carried to the dermis via the blood capillaries, directly improving the health and efficiency of dermal skin cells. These days most people don’t get sufficient nutrients through diet alone, which is why supplementing has become so important for general wellbeing as well as more specifically for skin benefits. When taken in combination with creams and serums that deliver benefits to the upper layers of the dermis, targeted and nutrient-rich supplements can dramatically benefit skin condition and appearance.

Look for targeted supplements that do not try to be all things to all people. Give supplements time to work, usually about 6 weeks for a full skin turnover cycle. And avoid collagen supplements, as collagen itself is broken down in the gut and won’t benefit the skin. OSKIA’s Pure MSM supplement works differently by providing the body with the raw materials needed to increase collagen production. MSM is the most bio-available form of the mineral sulphur, a key mineral used in over 150 bodily functions including collagen and keratin production, which is why it’s great for skin, hair and nails. It’s also a wonderful anti-inflammatory and de-toxifier, hence its benefits to people suffering from skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea and acne.

Beauty supplements aren’t a passing fad – in fact they’ve become a vital part of so many people’s beauty regimes. Perhaps it’s time to see for yourself what a difference they can make."

LoveLula's New Years Resolutions | Stronger Hair, Skin and Nails

2012-01-12T11:52:00.012Z

Our hair, skin and nails can take a battering in winter. Cold winds, air conditioning and heating can wreak havoc, causing hair to become brittle, skin to feel dry and dull and our nailsto chip easily and flake. Not good for a ‘Brand New You’ is it?! Luckily we have help from Viridian in the form of their newly released bag of goodies from the Ultimate Beauty range:

Viridian Ultimate Beauty Collection £34

Contains their top three beauty must-haves;

Ultimate Beauty Complex (30 caps) - a skin, hair and nail supplement multi rich in MSM. The complex includes vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients & antioxidants to protect against the damaging effects of excess free radicals and guarantee adequate levels of the building blocks of healthy skin, hair & nails for softer, smoother and clearer skin.
Ultimate Beauty Oil - A balanced, rich source of 3:6:9 fatty acids including GLA. Essential for beautiful skin. Contains a broad range of potent anti-oxidants including vitamin E and carotenoids including alpha-carotene, beta-carotene & lutein. Essential fatty acids are required for the health & maintenance of cellular integrity and membrane fluidity. Take this oil internally, pop it in your smoothies, juice, over salads of just straight up for beautiful hair, skin and nails.
Ultimate Beauty Topical Skin Repair Oil - beautifully softens and plumps skin. Rosehip seed oil contains a natural tretinoin also known as retinoic acid, a derivative of Vitamin A. Wheatgerm oil is a natural source of Vitamin E. Viridian Ultimate Beauty Skin Repair Oil can also help with scars, uneven skin tone and stretch marks. Apply this topically to dry skin or all over for a real beauty boost

This is great value for money and really will get results!

OSKIA Pure MSM Supplements (45 caps) £29.50

These super capsules from OSKIA are just incredible, they:

Provide the natural ingredients for collagen production to help improve skin condition
Strengthen the skin's support matrix.
Stengthen hair and nail condition.
Are a natural anti-inflammatory.
Help limit hyper-pigmentation.

A targeted food supplement to nutritionally support skin, hair and nail condition. Feeds the skin from the inside with the most bio-available form of sulphur to strengthen the skin’s support structure to help prevent premature ageing, skin damage and keep skin strong, supple and healthy. Helps detoxify the skin by keeping it soft, porous and supple. Visibly improves skin, hair and nail condition.

MSM has traditionally been taken to support healthy cartilage and collagen production. Healthy collagen production can reduce the signs of premature aging and keep skin looking younger and healthier.

Please note that the material on this site is intended for information purposes only. None of the suggestions are meant to be prescriptive. Any attempt to treat a medical condition should always come under the direction of a competent qualified professional.

Kate Middleton Uses Organic Hair Dye

2012-01-09T12:13:00.005Z

It's always nice to know that other women suffer the same problems as we do. As the future Queen turns the big 3-0, it is announced that Kate Middleton also has to battle the dreaded appearance of grey hairs.

Kate's answer is to use organic hair dye. Unlike chemicals that strip your hair's natural pigments and replace them with synthetic dyes, organic hair dyes won't leave your hair feeling fragile and looking dull. Organic hair dyes like Logona only penetrate the outer layer of the hair shaft to provide a coating, whilst botanical ingredients strengthen the hair to keep your locks looking glossy and healthy, a la Kate.

Here's to fighting the greys, naturally.

LoveLula's New Year's Resolutions | Weight Loss

2012-01-05T12:36:00.021Z

January is the time when everyone is detoxing; it is a New Year and a new start. Make 2012 your best year yet!

Here at LoveLula, we stock some of the best supplements around that can help support you and your body in your New Year health kick.

Weight Loss

We all overindulge during the Christmas period, too much mulled wine, far too many mince pies and chocolate for breakfast! Is it time to trim down?

For the inside…

Terra Nova Chronium 200ug Complex (100 caps) £14 NEW

New supplement brand Terra Nova bring us these capsules which help regulate metabolism, decrease body fat and support weight loss. Chronium can help enhance the effectiveness of insulin, the hormone needed for metabolism and storage of fat. By taking these supplements you can help regulate your metabolism which will help burn fat more effectively and support your January weight loss regime.

Viridian Weight Management Plan £65

The boxed set includes four organic weight management supplements, three of which are completely new to the industry, together with a 24-page booklet full of tips, recipes and how to get the most from your supplements;

Organic Nopal - for fibre and feeling of fullness.Organic Mineral Complex – to aid blood-sugar balance and improve nutritional status.Organic Soul Food Greens – to alkalise the body, aid detoxification and provide amino acids.Organic Green Tea – for thermogenesis (fat-burning).

Pukka Organic Weight Balance (90 caps) £14.95

These capsules will help support the body’s ability to maintain metabolism, digestion and healthy weight. They contain fruit, grass juices, seeds, seaweed, spice and plants all known to help maintain a healthy weight. When we have a healthy metabolism we burn fat more effectively throughout the day. Give your system and kick start this January.

For the outside….

Weleda Birch Juice £9.50, and Weleda Birch Cellulite Scrub , £8.95 and Weleda Birch Cellulite Oil £18.95

Use these three products together for a cellulite busting powerhouse! The juice will cleanse your system of toxins, help shift cellulite and leave your skin healthy and you mind refreshed. Use the Birch Scrub in the shower or after soaking in the bath to remove dead skin cells and reveal glowing new smooth skin. It is super gentle and wont irritate. Exfoliate once a week with circular motions to keep skin silky smooth. Finally our hero cellulite buster is the Birch Cellulite Oil, it tones, firms, flushes toxins from the skin and restores your natural radiance

* Please note that the material on this site is intended for information purposes only. None of the suggestions are meant to be prescriptive. Any attempt to treat a medical condition should always come under the direction of a competent qualified professional.

My Sew Called Life Explores What Natural Beauty Means

2012-01-05T10:40:00.007Z

I can't really remember when's the first time I fell completely in love by going 'Au Naturale' as something really basic and important part in my daily beauty regime. I think it all started out with a conversation with my eldest sister at one Sunday, despite having allergies on some beauty product that uses the word "Fragrance" in the ingredient list & also due to my concern about all things that have been going on with our Mama Earth.

Rare diseases, freakishly climate change, and their domino effects to the world..

All of those things put me in a different state of mind, for GOOD!

It started to tickle my fancy. The hunger of knowing about the advantages of having toxic-free beauty regime in the daily beauty products that I've been using. Then, I start learning bit-by-bit. And many hidden facts that has been written on the composition label on the back (or under) every products that I've been using, came as a shock to me.

On this opportunity I would love to share with you the importance of using toxin-free beauty products. I might be a newbie in the 'Au Naturale' world, but I try my best to have that balance in terms of beauty for body and it's longevity and disease-prevention benefit. Really, these cancer-causing villains will do no good for your own health.

No need to spend all that money on expensive things. You can start small, by first getting to know the ingredients in every products you're using. Soap, Shampoos, Conditioner, Body Lotions, Face Moisturizer, Toner, Makeup Cleanser, Hair Gels and Waxes, Shaving Creme, Toothpaste, and the list goes on...

Few months ago, I started to read every ingredients/compositions to every products that I'm gonna buy on my monthly groceries list, and I ended up by spending a full 2.5hours at the supermarket with not-so-many things to buy. Turns out most of them are NOT TOXIN-FREE. Doohhhh.....

And the hard part by living in Indonesia, where the awareness of going natural and organic have not yet sufficient. I had to look at some other supermarkets like Ranch Market (which is thankfully is located just around the corner of my house), and pharmacy like Apotik Melawai for my natural body scrub. How I wish Whole Foods is also just around the corner of my house.... *le sigh*.

Surprisingly enough, Bali has quite a few good natural products as well! So I get some of my beauty products from there A LOT too. Such as, Kou Soap Bars, Bali Hair Mask Cremebath, Utama Spice Body Lotions and Green Tea Leafs from Dharma Teas.

Other than that you can also make some home-remedies for your beauty basic needs. Try to google it, or check out those home-demos from youtube. It's fast, easy to make and best of all..it's cheap! I know you'd like that. Hee hee.

Some other places for you to get some toxin-free beauty products are: LoveLula, the natural apothecary. I was jumping up and down, almost burst into joyful tears (excessively drama!) when I found out about LoveLula and their ability in shipping to Indonesia. Apart from my favourites natural brands like John Masters Organic and Burt's Bees, they recently add some new brands to the webstore such as BUTTER nail polishes! Yes, I almost cried and jump for joy because the official Butter website can't make deliveries outside the US & UK. They might want to consider of adding AVEDA on the list too.. (a customer's wish.. :P).

So, here are the list of ingredients that you might want to avoid from here on out to prevent those nasty diseases such as Cancer. I quoted this from my ultimate natural beauty goddes source, the Goddes Huntress.

1. PARABENS. Look for any ingredient that ends in "paraben". Parabens are estrogen mimickers, meaning when absorbed it takes on the qualities of estrogen. It's key not to increase our estrogen levels in prevention of breast cancer. Here is the kicker: parabens have been found in breast cancer tumors and it makes healthy breast cells act as cancer cells.

2. PHTHALATES. Phthaltes are linked to early puberty in girls, which significantly increases the chance of breast cancer later in life. Phthalates disrupt our glands. Look for any ingredient that ends in "phthalate". A common carrier of phthalates is nail polish and synthetic fragrances. Make sure your nail polishes are free of the nasties by buying Dibutyl Phthalate (or DBP) Free nail polishes. Luckily the nail polish brands free of this chemical nasty happily advertise their clean formulations. Other diseases that Phthalates caused are infertility, uterine cancer, testicular cancer, fetal defects.

Phthalates are also used in many plastics to make them soft and/or flexible. They are commonly used to prolong the longevity of fragrance in personal care products, fragrances, and cosmetics. There are many types of phthalates and a good amount are banned from cosmetics and children’s toys in Europe. As of 2009, the U.S. established some phthalates not exceed 0.1 percent in children’s toys. You can also find phtalates in vinyl, medical devices, packaging, food products, baby bottles, and sex toys. Some hospitals are phasing out plastics in infant intensive care units.

Unfortunately, phthalates do not have to be listed as an ingredient on consumer products. Some products do state “phthalates free”. To avoid phthalates, choose fragrance-free products, stay away from plastics with the recycle codes 3 and 7, cut off plastic water/soda bottle use (especially if pregnant), purchase BPA/pthalate free baby bottles, remove plastic/vinyl shower curtains, replace plastic food storage containers with glass, stay away from canned foods (cans inner coating contains phthalates), dispose of old plastic toys (U.S. phthalate toy regulation started in 2009), and go green with your sex toys!

3. SULFATES. Usually written as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS), Cocamide DEA, Lauramide DEA. In your shampoo, conditioner, facial cleanser, body wash, liquid hand soap, shaving cream, bubble bath/bath oil/bath salts, toothpaste, hair color & hair bleach, and worse, your baby products.

Sulfates are a foaming agent that strip all oils, leaving surfaces barren and dehydrated, which explains why there is a huge need for conditioners and moisturizers marketing tool. We have been trained to think that a soap only works when it lathers up due to an added ingredient known as sulfate. This fluffy lather has been created to evoke "cleanliness".

So here it is.

SULFATES. FOAM. LATHER. NOT CLEAN.

So wrong!

Besides creating a foam party, here are sulfates and their 'gentler' clones do.

Unnatural hair loss, damage follicles, irritate skin (dermatitis), potentially create carcinogens through contact with other ingredients, fade color treated hair, strip essential oils, damage the immune system, may impair brain, heart and eye function.

Lather does not mean Cleansing.

Again, check on those ingredients. There are lots of great performing sulfate-free products (that may lather naturally) in the marketplace to replace those sulface-ridden products.

4. FLUORIDE. Shocker! Despite it's claim to prevent cavities, it's a dangerous toxic chemical. Most of the fluoride used in dental products and in water supply fluoridation is a by-product of making fertilizer. What's even a shocker is, the FDA lists fluoride as an "unapproved new drug" and the EPA lists fluoride as a "contaminant". Fluoride has NEVER received 'FDA Approval'. It has been linked to florosis in children, Acne, Alzheimer's, kidney damage, cancer, genetic damage, neurological impairment, bone and tooth decay.

5. TRICLOSAN. Can also be listed as:

5-CHLORO-2- (2,4-DICHLOROPHENOXY) PHENOL; PHENOL, 5-CHLORO-2- (2,4-DICHLOROPHENOXY) -; 2,4,4′-TRICHLORO-2′-HYDROXY DIPHENYL ETHER; 5-CHLORO-2- (2,4-DICHLOROPHENOXY) – PHENOL; PHENOL, 5CHLORO2 (2,4DICHLOROPHENOXY) ; 2,4,4′-TRICHLORO-2′-HYDROXYDIPHENYL ETHER; 5-CHLORO-2- (2,4-DICHLOROPHENOXY) PHENOL; CH 3565; IRGASAN; IRGASAN DP300; PHENOL, 5-CHLORO-2- (2,4-DICHLOROPHENOXY) -

Triclosan is found in antibacterial products such as soap, hand sanitizer, clothing, shoes, deodorants, toothpaste, cutting boards, sponges, toys, and cosmetics. Studies have shown that triclosan is an endocrine disruptor and enables bacteria to become antibiotic-resistant.

Triclosan is so prominent, the CDC states that it is found in 75% of the population’s urine. The American Medical Association advises against the use of antibacterial soap at home to prevent the creation of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Antibacterial soap has been found no more effective than regular soap.

Triclosan is in drinking water and a large percentage of rivers. The EPA does not regulate levels of triclosan in drinking water.

The European Union has a ban on triclosan for products that come in contact with food.

Triclosan is a listed ingredient in products. Depending on the type of product, you can find it listed in the Drug Facts box or in the ingredient list.

Get to know what your products contain. You can limit your triclosan intake.

6. Retinyl Palmitate. Can also be listed as:

RETINYL PALMITATE, AXEROPHTHOL PALMITATE; RETINOL, HEXADECANOATE; RETINOL PALMITATE; VITAMIN A PALMITATE; HEXADECANOATE RETINOL; AQUASOL A; AROVIT; OPTOVIT-A; RETINOL PALMITATE; VITAMIN A PALMITATE

Retinyl palmitate comes from the retin-A family, a derivative of vitamin A. While this vitamin A family is successful in reducing fine lines and wrinkles (while making skin ultra sensitive and sometimes raw), it causes chemical reactions when exposed to sunlight.

Retinyl palmitate is coming to the forefront as a new, yet controversial, ingredient in sunscreen.According to EWG, 41% of sunscreens being sold to us, this year alone, contain retinyl palmitate.This is definitely a questionable ingredient to include in skincare, especially suncare, due to its phototoxicity and thermal instability.

Seventeen studies have been published by the FDA on the effects of retinyl palmitate. According to these studies, they found that retinyl palmitate forms free radicals in sunlight and alters chromosomes. It has also been found to increase tumor growth in rats by 21%. An ingredient that potentially mutates into a carcinogen with sunlight should not be in our skin products.

Retinyl palmitate can be found in some sunscreen, sunscreen makeup, facial moisturizers, anti-aging treatments, skin peels, foundation, lip treatments, lip gloss, lipstick, blush, and eye cream.

Get to know what your products contain. You can ELIMINATE your retinyl palmitate intake.

---

Those are some of the toxins you need to know. There are new cosmetics being developed every day, so this should by no means be considered a complete list but a starting place.

It is especially important that pregnant women, and those nursing children be aware that the various toxins in normal products can have an effect on the normal growth of both the fetus and the nursling, as well as upon their future health.

Now's prime time to green up your beauty product stash. Start by taking a look at the ingredient lists on your current faves, see unrecognizable scientific names? Parabens? Sulfates?

Switching to cleaner, purer options means a cleaner, purer you (60 percent of what you apply gets absorbed).

Big thank you to my readers, and please don't hesitate to promote this to help bring awareness to others. Let me know if there's anything I can do to make your reading time a value.

Thank you to My Sew Called Life for sharing this fantastic blog piece with us!

Today's Advent Calendar Gift Is....

2011-12-24T09:30:00.000Z

Worth £160, Spiezia is one our our favourite brands and is all made right here in the UK. 100% natural and full of goodness this skincare regimen will get you and your skin ready for the New Year.

Enter via our Facebook page for the chance to win this gorgeous set and for an exclusive 10% discount to use on LoveLula when the competition closes!

Today's Advent Calendar Gift Is....

2011-12-23T16:58:00.002Z

This sensual Body Scrub worth £50 is ideal for occasions when your body needs special treatment. The essential oils of Jasmine and Rose restore and relax the nervous system, leaving skin glowing and resulting in a sensation of enhanced well-being for both body and mind.

Enter here for the chance to win this gorgeous set and for an exclusive 10% discount to use on LoveLula when the competition closes!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Nail Girls!

2011-12-22T10:17:00.002Z

In this Christmas collection worth £42 from Nail Girls you'll have every shade you need to be fabulously on-trend. A modern Silver ticks the metallics trend box, whilst Emerald Green and Sapphire Blue are a must for the 'under the sea' inspired look started by Chanel in their SS12 catwalk show. And then of course, who could forget that perfect, classic Pillar Box Red?

Enter via our Facebook page for the chance to win this gorgeous set and for an exclusive 10% discount to use on LoveLula when the competition closes!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...herbfarmacy!

2011-12-21T09:56:00.002Z

We have £40 worth of fabulous, award-winning products from herbfarmacy. A Try-Me Gift Pack is joined by a Just Eyes cream so that you have everything you need to keep your skin looking wonderfully healthy this winter!

Visit our Facebook page for the chance to win this gorgeous set and for an exclusive 10% discount to use on LoveLula when the competition closes:

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Brown Earth!

2011-12-20T14:18:00.003Z

This divine set of products is exactly what the cold winter days call for. A Mango Exfoliating Scrub is complimented with a Mango Body Butter from Brown Earth, making your skin enviably radiant and soft. Worth £23, the exotic scent alone will cheer up the cold weather!

Enter via our Facebook page for the chance to win this gorgeous set and for an exclusive 10% discount to use on LoveLula when the competition closes!

Press | EOS Smooth Sphere Lip Balms make the perfect Secret Santa gift | Grazia Magazine, December 2011

2011-12-19T14:16:00.003Z

Find out more about EOS Smooth Sphere Lip Balms here!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...NEOM Luxury Organics!

2011-12-19T11:19:00.002Z

Monday's exclusive prize requires not just one but 12 winners! We have 12 gorgeously-scented pillow mists from NEOM Luxury Organics. Spritz your sheets with this and a good nights sleep is yours!

To enter, visit our Facebook page. And remember, everyone who enters will get an exclusive 10% discount to use on LoveLula when the competition closes on 25th December!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Trilogy!

2011-12-17T15:32:00.000Z

Following our hugely successful Trilogy competition that showed how much you love Trilogy, we wanted to bring their Sensitive Skin Set back for more people to enjoy. This £75 set features a Very Gentle Cleansing Cream, Moisturiser and a Calming Fluid that will really take care of your skin.

To enter, visit our Facebook page. For everyone who enters: look out for your exclusive 10% discount code when the competition closes!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Sans Ceuticals!

2011-12-17T09:30:00.001Z

Hairdressing royalty in New Zealand, Lucy and Stephen Marr have combined decades of haircare and beauty experience with a passion for the environment to create Sans Ceuticals. Hair products like this Normal Hair Wash and Hydratant will revolutionise your hair care routine! Their Goji Cleansing Oil started the trend in oil cleansers. Worth over £65.

To enter, visit our Facebook page. Everyone who enters will also get a 10% discount to spend on LoveLula when the competition closes!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Dr.Alkaitis!

2011-12-15T10:35:00.002Z

With all the parties and late nights, no one wants their skin to give away just how much fun they're having! This eye cream from Dr. Alkaitis, worth £45, is a LoveLula favourite and will be your best friend too - reducing puffiness, fine lines and dark circles.

If you haven't already entered our Advent Calendar give away, just click here! And remember, we have an exclusive 10% discount for everyone who enters to use on LoveLula when the competition closes!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Bamford!

2011-12-14T10:54:00.003Z

Oh Bamford, how we love you! Bamford is one of our favourite new brands from this year. It takes natural bath products to a new level of luxury. We have a beautiful set of a Rose Body Wash and Lotion worth £38 so that you can bathe in style.

If you haven't entered before, you can do so by checking out our Facebook page. If you've entered for one of our other daily draws, you're already entered! Plus you all get a 10% discount to spend with LoveLula after Christmas!

Press | NEOM Sensuous Organic Candle in You Magazine, Dec 2011

2011-12-13T14:10:00.011Z

The Mail On Sunday's You Magazine picks NEOM's Sensuous Organic Candle as a gorgeous Christmas present.

We agree!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Pai Skincare!

2011-12-13T11:32:00.003Z

This Serenity Gift Set from Pai Skincare will give you a true spa experience at home. With Himalayan and Dead Sea Salt Blend and cult product Comfrey and Calendula Calming Body Cream, worth £15, the stresses of the Christmas season don't stand a chance when these are on your bathroom shelf.

To enter, visit our Facebook page. And remember, everyone who enters will get an exclusive 10% discount to spend on LoveLula when the competition closes!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Skin Blossom!

2011-12-12T10:53:00.004Z

Skin Blossom is possibly the most eco-friendly skincare range around. This gorgeous set includes an Organic Body Lotion, Nourishing Face Moisturiser, and the Beauty Bible award-winners Gentle Cleansing Milk and Care and Protect Organic Hand & Nail Cream which are all bio-degradable and suitable for vegans. Worth £23.

To enter to win this fabulous set of products, visit our Facebook page. Everyone who enters will get a 10% discount to spend on LoveLula when the competition closes!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...An OSKIA Facial For 2!

2011-12-10T17:56:00.000Z

You deserve a break, so we're are giving away a fabulous spa treatment at OSKIA's London spa for you to enjoy with a friend! A facial using all of OSKIA's award-winning products will get your skin looking more radiant than ever before. Worth £190, now the question is, who deserves to go with you and enjoy this amazing experience?

To enter to win this fab prize, visit our Facebook page. The winner will be announced at 3pm and all entries will get a 10% discount to spend on LoveLula when the competition closes!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Kimberly Sayer!

2011-12-10T09:30:00.000Z

We've got 2 of the most popular products from our most popular brand. Kimberly Sayer's award-winning Ultra Light Moisturiser and their Tangerine & Calendula Healing Light Organic Night Cream make a miraculous team worth £52 that is very much in demand.

To enter to win this fab prize, visit our Facebook page. The winner will be announced at 3pm and all entries will get a 10% discount to spend on LoveLula when the competition closes!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Nude Skincare!

2011-12-09T12:19:00.003Z

The latest jewel in Nude Skincare's crown took the beauty world by storm when it was released earlier this year. Their Advanced Cellular Renewl Moisturiser combines luxury, natural skincare and science to create a moisturiser worth £78 that gives priceless results.

To enter to win this fab prize, visit our Facebook page. The winner will be announced at 3pm and all entries will get a 10% discount to spend on LoveLula when the competition closes!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Viridian!

2011-12-08T12:12:00.004Z

Today's prize is from our favourite brand of supplements Viridian. Support and nourish your skin from the inside with their Ultimate Beauty Oil and Beauty Supplements for strong hair, skin and nails. Plus use the Beauty Repair Oil topically on any dry skin that needs a bit of a boost in this cold weather!

Click here to enter. We'll announce the winner at 3pm! And don't forget that everyone who enters will get a 10% discount to spend with LoveLula when the competition closes on 24th December.

Congratulations to Herbfarmacy!

2011-12-07T17:39:00.007Z

Co-directors of Herbfarmacy Organic Skincare, Paul Richards – doctor in botany and plant physiology - and his wife Carol have been voted in the Top 3 of natural beauty leaders in the country. The results were announced this month by The Natural Beauty Yearbook.

Paul Richards has spent the past 28 years growing herbs organically and harnessing their medicinal benefits in his innovative range of skincare products, tinctures, ointments and oils.

Earlier this year Herbfarmacy’s Just Eyes Cream was voted the ‘Best Facial Skincare Product’ in the Natural and Organic Awards 2011. It’s Rose and Echinacea Toner was a finalist and the Rose Face Oil was selected as the ‘Best Facial Oil’ in the Green Parent Natural Beauty Awards 2011.

The company fulfills the farm to skin experience and it is the only UK organic skincare company to grow and make its products on site. Infusions of plant oils and unique combinations of essential oils are transformed into luxurious skincare products, all made by hand.

“It is so rewarding for the team to be recognised for their dedication,” says Paul. “We run a labour intensive business – growing and harvesting the herbs and handcrafting our skincare products. We couldn’t do it without a loyal team.”

One of the first herbs Paul grew commercially was Comfrey. The leaves were dried for Comfrey Tea and the roots were used to make a powder for animals suffering from arthritis. He went on to make a range of healing ointments using combinations of herbal oils.

The continuing success of the ointments inspired the creation of the Herbfarmacy range of everyday skincare. The products capture moisturising, anti-inflammatory and replenishing properties of key herbs to nurture and protect the skin.

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Evolve!

2011-12-07T10:52:00.003Z

This evolve duo features a Skin Cocoon Body Wash and Body Cream with Peruvian Inchi oil, the richest known source of omega 3 to leave your skin unbelievably nourished. The duo comes cocooned in a fair-trade canvas gift bag. Worth £22.99

To enter this lovely gift set, visit our Facebook page. Everyone who enters will get a 10% discount to spend on Love Lula when the competition closes on 24th December!

Press | Jurlique in The Guardian

2011-12-06T17:36:00.009Z

What's the story?

Jurlique started life in 1985 out of a farm in southern Australia. The brainchild of bio-chemist Dr Jurgen Klein and his wife Ulrike, it was originally created as a niche natural skincare range. Dr Klein had worked in his native Germany in herbalism, aromatherapy, nutrition and skincare, spending four years as a researcher and developer for popular natural cosmetics brand Dr Hauschka. In 1984, he and his family move to south Australia, chosen for its climate, and a year later Jurlique was launched. It is is now Australia's leading skincare brand.

So the air miles aren't great for us Brits then?

Well, no, not exactly, but Jurlique does try its best to be environmentally friendly. It grows a bunch of the herbs and flowers used in its products on its own 153-acre farm (which, for those of you who like to think of areas in relation to the size of Wales, that's 1/33,556ths) and sources others from around Australia. The target is for all products to be made up of 95% natural ingredients

Any other news?

Jurlique has just launched a treatment menu at the fancy agua Spa at Sanderson in London. I bimbled down there recently for a herbal revitalise facial (£75 for 60 minutes) sandersonlondon.com and can report back that it was delightful. The scents were gorgeous – lavender, rose – and the whole treatment was delivered while I was lying on a hyrdothermal mat (like a giant hot water bottle). And at the risk of sounding as if I've made this up, the day after the treatment a friend actually commented on the "glowing" appearance of my skin. I kid you not. It's certainly a one-off treat but there's nothing quite like the confidence you get from someone telling you your face looks nice.

- Words by Anna Chesters

At Love Lula we really pay attention to the ingredients in all our products, and only take the products that meet our criteria. Because of that, Love Lula doesn't stock the entire Jurlique So you have the choice of some lovely products and rest assured that they are best the your skin can get. range. It does mean, however, that the products we do have are the very best in natural and organic skincare!

Pai Skincare Recognised by The Natural Beauty Yearbook 2012

2011-12-06T14:10:00.004Z

Congratulations to Sarah Brown, founder of Pai Skincare, who has been name as one of the most influential people in natural skincare by The Natural Beauty Yearbook 2012. The NBYB commended Sarah for creating "a brand that stands up to people’s perception of what organic beauty products should look and feel like.”

We totally agree - congratulations Sarah!

Press | Top selling New Zealand natural skincare range enhanced by scientific investigations | The Natural Beauty Yearbook, December 2011

2011-12-06T12:49:00.005Z

A scientifically validated organic beauty brand from New Zealand is proving to be a cult brand amongst its followers, with its unique combination of bioactive native plant extracts and uplifting fragrances.

The Antipodes beauty range, which features ingredients as diverse as New Zealand manuka honey and Totora, Himalayan goji berries and Teatree from Australia, specialises in organic, natural skincare products, which minimise exposure to harmful chemicals. Now, scientific investigations have shown that the Antipodes beauty collection not only richly hydrates and enhances skin vitality, many products also address the signs of early ageing by boosting collagen production in human skin cells. Antipodes creator and director Elizabeth Barbalich says this scientific validation has strengthened her commitment to using only natural and organic ingredients. “It is always a wonder to me that the very best products for skincare are the ones created by nature, rather than using synthetic ingredients,” she says. “For example, our Avocado Pear Nourishing Night Cream, which is created from manuka flower, avocado, macadamia and potent antioxidant vinanza grape has been scientifically shown to actually stimulate synthesis of Type 1 collagen in human skin cells by 92 per cent. And we now know that skin with high levels of collagen is tangibly softer, smoother and much less prone to blemishes in women of all ages.”

Nature’s best ingredients Key to Elizabeth’s list of essential ingredients is 100 per cent extra virgin organic avocado oil, created from a single-press process and grown in the sun-drenched orchards of northern New Zealand. This deeply-penetrating oil is comprised of essential fatty acids, and is high in vitamins A, B1, B2, D and E, as well as the antioxidant chlorophyll. To this is added a selection of unique plant extracts, many found only in New Zealand. The kawakawa, pohutakawa or manuka flower have important anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, as well as being rich in antioxidants. “We have scoured the globe for other highly effective ingredients, like the Reishi mushroom of immortality, which has been used by Chinese herbalists for thousands of years,” Elizabeth says. “Our fragrances, such as our combinations of jasmine, ylang ylang and orange blossom, are designed to stimulate the wearer’s senses as well as leaving a long-lingering scent. All are free from synthetic compounds.”

Certified organic, sustainable and green The Antipodes commitment to sustainable production can be seen in all aspects of the company’s operations. Half of Antipodes’ 20 products are certified organic – a rigorous process of testing that ensures every raw ingredient can be sourced back to the orchard or forest in which it was grown. All packaging is 100 per cent recyclable and paper products are sourced only from sustainable forests. Each product is tested for sensitive skin. “Customers can be assured no Antipodes product has been tested on animals and is suitable for use by vegetarians. In fact, our range has accreditation from both the Vegetarian Society of the United Kingdom and AsureQuality Ltd, the leading provider of food safety and biosecurity standards in the Southern Hemisphere,” Elizabeth says. “Antipodes is a carbon-zero certified business, as accredited by carboNZero. Any environmental impact production processes cause is offset by our commitment to carbon neutrality. We choose to work with partners who have a proven track record in sustainability and energy efficiency.”

SenSpa – a rare treat

2011-12-06T11:42:00.012Z

Earlier this year, Barbara took part in our Facebook competition and won the opportunity to visit the SenSpa and enjoy a relaxing spa break with a friend. Here she tells us all about her experience:

I don’t win things generally so when I heard from LoveLula that I’d won the spa break at SenSpa I was delighted. I visited the spa the day after a 26 mile charity walk; an excellent and well deserved cure for weary limbs.

From being collected at the local station to the pretty room overlooking a rose garden to the lovely swimming pool to the great service at dinner it was all a memorable experience.

However, the spa itself is awesome; it’s coolly oriental with a chilled out Thai look and feel which extends to both the restaurant and the relaxation suite.

I spent most of my time in the awesome hydrotherapy suite. It was hard to decide whether to stay in the hydrotherapy pool or go and spend some time in the herbal sauna; in between these treats I stopped off in the tropical experience shower.

The Lapidarium (a cross between a steam room and a sauna) was an entirely new relaxation sensation for me and I also happily dozed off on a heated couch in the Tepidarium; indeed it would be difficult to resist.

I think I’m probably forgiven for not attempting the thunderstorm experience shower complete with (very realistic) sound effects; or indeed the ice water shower!

All in all it was a wonderful break and my thanks go to LoveLula for giving me the opportunity to experience the fabulous SenSpa.

Barbara x

Huge thanks to Barbara for telling us all about her day at Senspa. We have plenty more opportunities to win fab prizes with Love Lula with our Christmas Advent Calendar! Just visit our Facebook page to find out what gift we're giving away each day. Everyone who enters the giveaway will get a 10% discount to spend on the site when the competition finishes!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Weleda!

2011-12-06T10:25:00.005Z

Weleda's anti-aging Pomegranate Gift Set features a Pomegranate Creamy Body Wash, a Regenerating Body Oil and their award-winning Regenerating Hand Cream. Worth £25.

To enter, just visit our Facebook page. And remember, all entries will get a 10% discount to use across the site when the competition closes on 24th December.

Monday's Advent Calendar Gift Is...Balm Balm's Mini Organic Skincare Set

2011-12-05T09:30:00.000Z

There's nothing we encourage more than taking some time out to pamper yourself with an at-home spa experience.

With a cleanser, toner, serum, mask and a muslin cloth, you will feel totally rejuvenated, this Balm Balm set is a great little treat. Worth £13.

To enter, visit our Facebook page.

And remember, everyone who enters the competition will get a 10% discount to use on Love Lula when the competition closes.

Sunday's Advent Calendar Gift Is...NEOM

2011-12-04T09:30:00.000Z

It's time to join the ranks of celebrities like Kate Moss, Sienna Miller and Kylie, who all fragrance their homes with NEOM Organic Candles.

Today we have 20 travel candles worth £15 each to give away, which means 20 lucky winners!

It's simple to enter, just visit our Facebook page.

And remember, everyone who enters will get a 10% discount to use on Love Lula at the close of the competition

Saturday's Advent Calendar Gift Is...Kimia

2011-12-03T09:30:00.000Z

We've been debating whether to keep this prize for ourselves...!

The full Kimia range features their Exquisite Facial Rejuvenating System, Kimia's hero product and must-have for celebrities like Victoria Beckham, alongside their Neck & Decollete Serum, Eye Serum and Lip Contour System.

One lucky winner will win the ENTIRE Kimia range, worth £211. That's a real Christmas treat.

To enter, visit our Facebook page.

Friday's Advent Calendar Gift Is...Wallis from butter LONDON

2011-12-02T09:50:00.005Z

butter LONDON's 3-free Nail Lacquer has been used for more fashion week shows than you can shake a nail file at.

Wallis is part of their latest collection and pays tribute to one of the most fashionable women in history. Apt then that it is such an on-trend metallic shade. Worth £12.

To win, you can enter via our Facebook page.

Nadia from Eczema Remedies Writes A Guest Blog for Love Lula

2011-12-01T16:05:00.012Z

Following our competition to find a Love Lula guest blogger, our lovely winner Nadia from Eczema Remedies gives us her review of 2 John Masters products:

Lovelula kindly sent me two products full of loveliness, the John Masters Organics Jojoba & Ginseng Exfoliating Face Cleanser and the Vitamin C Anti-Aging Face Serum. I was asked to try them out for a couple of weeks then to give my honest opinion on them and that’s exactly what I’m going to do in this review!

As someone who’s suffered with eczema all my life, I’m very conscious of what I use on my skin, especially on my face where the eczema is most problematic and stubborn. I started developing eczema on my face 3 years ago after a very stressful period and haven’t been able to fully control it yet. Since then I’ve been looking for ways to not cure my eczema (because it’s a genetic disease that cannot be cured), but to find ways to control it and keep it happy. I made a conscious decision to use natural/organic products whenever I can as I found them less likely to irritate my ever so sensitive eczema skin.

I have been wanting to try John Masters products for a while but never got the chance to do so before now so you can imagine the excitement that overtook me when I received the products in the post!

Before I use any product, the first thing I do is look at the ingredients, and I wasn’t surprised to see all the lovely natural and organic properties these two products had!

The easiest way to do this is to review each product separately, so let’s starts with the John Masters Organics Jojoba & Ginseng Exfoliating Face Cleanser:

The first ingredient in the cleanser is aloe vera and for an eczema sufferer particularly, this ingredient is amazing. It has a cooling effect which calms itchy/irritated skin. It also has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties which help reduce the risk of damaged skin becoming infected.

The other main ingredient is jojoba oil which is great for any type of skin but especially dry/dehydrated types. The beauty of jojoba oil is that it’s very similar to the oils that our skin produces naturally and for those who have dry skin; our bodies don’t produce enough so in a way jojoba oil mimics the natural body oil which makes it easier for the skin to absorb it rather than it just sitting there on the surface. This means that even if you have oily skin, jojoba won’t clog your pores so it’s perfectly fine to use.

There are a number of other ingredients that are highly beneficial for eczema/dry skin such as ylang ylang and calendula which have anti-inflammatory properties. Which basically means it calms down irritates skin.

It’s also great for mature skin due to the content of rosemary which has a toning effect on skin but also increases blood flow to the areas of the skin when applied.

The one thing that made me feel a bit hesitant when it came to using John Masters exfoliator for the first time is the fact that it has exfoliation beads, which I knew from past experiences would irritate my skin, however; when I did use it I was very careful not to apply too much pressure with my fingers and when I was done, my face felt so soft, which I was surprised to see. I’m still reluctant to use it too often so I only use it once a week which is the advised number of times to use any exfoliator. Exfoliating too often can leave your skin feeling even drier so as long as you don’t over use it, John masters exfoliator works wonderfully!

Overall it was a lovely product to use and has a really nice citricy scent to it which I love so for me, John Masters Organics Jojoba & Ginseng Exfoliating Face Cleanser gets a big thumbs up!

And now onto the John Masters Vitamin C Anti-Aging Face Serum ... I’m just going to be upfront and say it now....it was absolutely AMAZING! I’ve been using it twice everyday for 2 weeks now especially on my eczema patches. These patches become extremely dry and flaky so as soon as I cleanse my face I have to apply something highly hydrating otherwise they become red, itchy and inflamed.

At the moment my most problematic areas are above my eyebrows, on my cheeks and around my chin. I found the serum very hydrating and soothing and did not irritate my skin, which for me is a very good sign. I’ve spent a lot of money on some products in the past just to find that as soon as I use them my skin starts burning and itching. I’m not lucky like many people who can use anything and get good results, unfortunately I’m very picky, or should I say my skin is very picky!

The serum, again all natural and organic, also contains aloe vera which gives the skin a soothing and calming sensation, great for any type of sensitive skin. Another ingredient that stood out for me was glycerin. Glycerin absorbs the water from air preventing it from drying out and at the same time prevents the moisture from your skin from evaporating which is a great bonus for people with dry skin.

Vitamin C contains anti-aging properties as it protects the skin form UV sun damage. This is one of the main factors for premature aging and unfortunately for us (people with dry/dehydrated skin) we have a higher likelihood of developing premature aging due to the lack of sufficient oils in our skin making it more prone to environmental damage. So I think it’s safe to say that anything that will protect us from any further unnecessary wrinkles should not be taken for granted!

The serum has a hint of citrus and rose, which to me wouldn’t normally go well together but this actually smells nice, it’s very subtle and not overpowering, just a perfect balance of scents in my opinion.

The one criticism I would like to mention, which really has nothing to do with the product itself, but the pump on the packaging. I do love products that come in the form of a pump as I feel it’s so much more hygienic, but with this product I feel I have no control over the amount of the actual product that comes out. One pump is not enough for my whole face but 2 pumps is way too much. Anyway it’s not a major downside just something I thought I would mention.

If anyone is thinking of trying a serum, especially if you have dry skin, I would highly recommend John Masters Vitamin C Anti-Aging Face Serum, even if you don’t feel the need to use anti-aging products, I do believe that prevention is key and it’s something I wish I started years ago (even though I’m only 25!) But due to the nature of my skin, sadly I do have wrinkles and it’s something that I have been conscious of for a while now.

Hope you found this review useful, sorry if it was too dry skin and eczema focused, that’s my skin type and I can only advice you on what’s worked best for me and my skin but I have gathered from speaking to different people with different types of skin that natural and organic products work well on all skin types.

The First Prize of Our Advent Calendar Is...

2011-12-01T11:53:00.004Z

Happy Birthday Neal's Yard! Today marks the brand's 30th anniversary, so we had to start our Advent Calendar with an appropriate tribute. With it's warming scent that conjures images of the Italian countryside, this gift set will brighten winter days. Geranium & Orange Shower Gel, Body Scrub and Lotion, worth £23.

To enter to win, just visit our Facebook page!

Plus, we are offering 20% the entire Neal's Yard range for today only! So get your orders in to avoid missing out on your favourite products.

Love Lula's Biggest Offer Is Back!

2011-11-29T11:24:00.006Z

Spend £75 with Love Lula and we'll give you a free £15 voucher to spend across the site on anything your heart desires. So you can do your Christmas shopping now and then reward yourself in the new year!

If you've got a busy party season ahead of you, then enjoy yourself! January is the perfect time to invest in some products to aide the recovery process. We find some supplements, long baths and a good face mask do the trick magnificently.

To get your voucher, enter the code XMAS at the checkout when you spend £75 or more on Love Lula. The voucher can be redeemed anytime between 1st January 2012 and 28th Febuary 2012.

Press | Bamford in The Wall Street Journal

2011-11-28T10:39:00.005Z

I hold Bamford responsible for returning me to the art of luxuriant bathing—an experience that had been erased from my memory after three years of living in Manhattan. (New Yorkers regard baths as indulgences for wastrels and imperative only for babies). I love Bamford's body products, created from pure and organic ingredients. The line includes body washes, creams and oils.

- Tina Gaudoin

All purchases from the Bamford range will get a free Geranium Bath Oil, 30ml (while stocks last!), with the code BAMFORD at checkout. As Bamford's hero product, it's a real treat and the perfect accompaniment to long baths on winter evenings.

Press | Kimia

2011-11-24T14:19:00.005Z

To her credit, Olivia Palermo, former reality tv star, current socialite and permanent fashionista, has the most flawless skin.

Palermo puts it all down to her religious use of French-brand Kimia, which particularly addresses skin issues like ageing.

The magic behind the Kimia range is that it's packed with active ingredients.

Kimia's Rejuvenating Facial System, pictured, is the brand's hero product. The face oil, which contains the purest and most potent essential oils, goes onto your face and neck first, and is followed immediately with the hydro-activator which creates a synergistic effect, increasing the absorption of the oil into the skin and accelerating the removal of dead cells.

We think it's time we gave Ms. Palermo a run for her money in the perfect skin stakes.

The Organic Beauty Talk Awards 2011

2011-11-22T10:16:00.004Z

The Organic Beauty Talk Awards celebrate all the brands and products that were Best In Green in 2011 and we're thrilled to see so many of our favourite brands on the winners list!

SKINCARE:
OSKIA - Best Natural Facial Line For All Skin Types, Best Facial Scrub for All Skin Types (Micro-Exfoliating Balm)
Pai Skincare - Best Natural Facial Line for Sensitive Skin (can also be used on all sky types)
Dr.Alkaitis - Best Natural Line for Acne/Blemish-Prone Skin (can also be used on all sky types including sensitive)
Trilogy - Best Natural Facial Line for Aging Skin
Spiezia - Best Natural Spa at Home Line for All Skin Types (including sensitive and blemish-prone skin)

MAKEUP:
Lavera - Best Natural Eyeliner
Butter LONDON - Best Eco-Friendly Nail Polish

BODY:
Dr.Bronner's - Best Natural Body Soap
Weleda - Best Natural Body Oil, Best Natural Hand Cream
Erbaviva - Best Natural Lines for Children/Baby, Best Natural Sunscreen for Children/Baby
Neom Luxury Organics - Best Natural Air Freshener, Best Natural Reed Diffuser

Huge congratulations to all the lovely winners!

Christmas Shop Pick of the Day

2011-11-21T12:10:00.004Z

We have some lovely present ideas for Christmas in our Love Lula Christmas Shop - if you're seeking inspiration for gifts for mothers/daughters/sisters/wives/friends/husbands/brothers, we've got it covered.

Our favourite pick of the day is Neom's limited edition Christmas Wish Organic Candle. Neom is a favourite with the likes of Kylie Minogue and Sienna Miller and we know exactly why. Created using essential oils and eco-frienly products like pure vegetable wax means that their candles will fill your whole home with the most incredible scents. Their Christmas Wish Organic Candle mixes Cinnamon, Ginger and Mandarin for the perfect festive fragrance.

2011-11-18T14:42:00.004Z

This week we're giving 2 people the chance to win a Trilogy Sensitive Skin set! You can visit our Facebook page for details on how to enter.

The winner will be announced on Monday, but in the meantime here's a little more about the products from Trilogy co-founder Catherine de Groot.

Designed specifically for extra sensitive complexions, including skin that reacts to other skincare and is intolerant due to hormonal and environmental changes, Trilogy SENSITIVE SKIN
consists of three high performance skincare essentials:
o Very Gentle Cleansing Cream for gentle cleansing and eye make-up removal
o Very Gentle Moisturising Cream for daily moisture recovery.
o Very Gentle Calming Fluid to deliver extra comfort and soothing hydration
Trilogy SENSITIVE SKIN is fragrance free, alcohol free and has been dermatologically tested on
sensitive skin.
Formulated with natural spring water and plant ingredients chosen for their purity as well as their non-sensitising and soothing properties, Trilogy SENSITIVE SKIN brings you high performance natural skincare designed to soothe and protect the weakened skin barrier of sensitive skin so you get your glow back!

Trilogy SENSITIVE SKIN combines natural ingredients offering comfort to sensitive skin with
ingredients well known to address the concerns of ageing skin:
o Pure plant oils of Almond, Avocado and Olive soften, hydrate and protect the weakened skin barrier of sensitive skin
o Chamomile flower, Calendula flower, Marshmallow root and Evening Primrose oil help soothe, calm and comfort
o A plant derived Hyaluronic Acid, nature’s ‘moisture magnet’ firms plumps and hydrates so fine lines and wrinkles are smoothed
o Antioxidant Green Tea helps reduce the visible appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and fight free radical damage.

Intelligent Nutrients Volumising Hair Spray | Goddess Huntress Review

2011-11-17T17:33:00.003Z

So, if I told you to drink your hairspray, you’d think I’m A) crazy and B) need to be put away. Would you ever conceive or want to drink your hairspray? Probably not and not recommended.

Well, what if I tell you that there is a hairspray out there that is food grade and it tastes good? Yeah, you still think I’m crazy…

Ok, let me try again from a different angle…Did you know that there is a hairspray out there that is loaded with healthy goodness, can be also used as a dry shampoo, and tastes good too?

From the genius that created Aveda, Horscht Rechelbacher, is Intelligent Nutrients. Intelligent Nutrients is an extensive line of beauty and health products that are certified organic, 100% nontoxic plant chemistry. And by extensive, I mean hair care, cosmetics, skin care, essential oils, fragrance, and supplements.

I tasted Intelligent Nutrients Volumizing Hair Spray while standing in the wonderful beauty section of ABC Carpet & Home in NYC. Let’s say this spray tastes a bit like grappa, because the alcohol is made with grapes. Yes, it was like having an after dinner drink. I was really intrigued by this, but then became sold when Michelle who represents Intelligent Nutrients tells me it can double as a dry shampoo. Sold to the girl who loves to extend the shelf life of her blow dry and is downright lazy about constant shampooing! (How’s that for honesty?) Just spray at the roots to absorb excess oil. Oh, and it smells absolutely divine too. You can use this spray at any step during the styling process.

It is definitely worth checking out along with the rest of Intelligent Nutrients. I’m madly in love with this line and have a few other indulgent goodies I will be posting about in the future!

Thanks to Goddess Huntress for sharing her review!

OSKIA | Organic Beauty Talk Review

2011-11-17T13:31:00.002Z

OSKIA’s Perfect Cleanser, Nutri-Active Day Cream and Micro Exfoliating Balm can be used on all skin types and really hold their own! I’m amazed at how well my skin looks and feels when I use this natural skincare line. OSKIA’s Perfect Cleanser really is the perfect cleanser. A nourishing, cleansing balm, rich in youth-boosting vitamins, minerals, prebiotics, essential fatty acids and natural emollients to deeply cleanse, decongest, brighten and restore moisture levels. Once combined with water, this nutrient-rich balm becomes a light milk that penetrates deeply and lifts away pore-blocking impurities to leave your skin feeling thoroughly clean and comfortable. It’s formulated with OSKIA’s unique dual approach and signature MSM repair and regenerating complex. This natural face cleanser keeps my skin clear and gives me a bright, dewy complexion. OSKIA’s Nutri-Active Day Cream is an advanced light-weight anti-ageing multi-active day cream that not only provides long lasting hydration and essential nutrients to improve cell health and efficiency, but is formulated to smooth out and help prevent the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, revitalize and repair, encourage healthy collagen production and protect DNA. It restores softness and elasticity for optimum comfort and a glowing appearance. This natural face moisturizer absorbs easily into the skin and doesn’t cause blemishes or breakouts. OSKIA’s Micro Exfoliating Balm is gentle but very effective. It’s formulated to not only buff away tired skin cells and impurities, but to also replenish the lipid barrier to leave your skin comfortable with increased radiance and softness. It is further enriched with a clever blend of health-boosting essential cell nutrients, prebiotics and peptides for long lasting skin health, and becomes a light milk in contact with water. This natural face scrub leaves my skin feeling thoroughly clean, comfortable and looking visibly smoother. It’s also formulated with OSKIA’s patent-pending unique dual approach and signature MSM repair & regenerating complex.

To know more, visit Organic Beauty Talk

Pai Skincare | Gaby's Beauty Blog Review

2011-11-17T10:54:00.002Z

Pai Skincare - Organic Skin Care for Sensitive Skin

At Pai, we believe that the natural world provides us with all the goodness our skin needs.

That's why we use only the highest grade, plant-based ingredients in our products.

These are never grown using pesticides or extracted using chemical solvents which leave residues in the end product.

Many skin care manufacturers make false claims to be natural, yet still contain any number of irritating substances.

At Pai, we carefully formulate all of our products using the latest research and manufacturing processes to ensure they are the cleanest on the market today.

Everything came securely packed in a box

I was so excited to be able to try some Pai Skincare products to help with my eczema as you know how I'm constantly complaining about this skin condition. Eczema products are usually filled with chemicals and other nasty things and steroids thin the skin, so I'm always on the lookout for natural alternatives. I've been testing these two products for a little more than one month and I'm excited to share my results with you!

I've been very kindly sent the Comfrey & Calendula Calming Body Cream and the Rosehip & BioRegenerate fruit & seed oil blend to try. As I'm suffering from eczema, Nicola from Pai Skincare recommended applying them both at the same time, so adding a couple of drops of Rosehip oil into a pump of cream for an extra regenerative boost.

The first thing I noticed about both products is the strong herbal smell - of course, what was I expecting? Pai Skincare products don't contain perfume because briefly, it's a term that legally allows manufacturers to include up to 200 synthetic chemicals, including phthalates, in their products without declaring them on the label - crazy, right?

I wouldn't say the smell put me off but if you're sensitive to strong scents, I'm not sure you will apreciate these ones. I have found the Rosehip & BioRegenerate fruit & seed oil blend has a much heavier scent than the Comfrey & Calendula Calming Body Cream, but it doesn't linger very long on the skin.

As for the texture, well obviously the oil will be oily but it's not greasy or runny and to my surprise, it is very quickly absorbed into the skin without leaving an oily residue behind. The body cream is thick without being too heavy - I would say it's just perfect especially if you use it on your hands like I did because it is absorbed quickly too.

The Comfrey & Calendula Calming Body Cream, it comes in a pump dispenser bottle while the Rosehip & BioRegenerate fruit & seed oil blend comes in a cute little bottle with a dropper dispenser, which I always appreciate with an oil product because it's way less messy than say, in a pump dispenser bottle.

I have been using these two products twice a day every day since I received them always on the same area of my body - on my right hand, I developed a stubborn patch of eczema on my knuckles and even though my eczema on my fingers seems to have gotten better, I still get flare-ups sometimes so I also used these products
on my fingers. I didn't notice improvments until the second week of use and OMG, I must say this stuff is seriously awesome!

I haven't relied on my steroid creams since two whole weeks and that is a huge improvement for me. I didn't get flare-ups in those two weeks and that does say a lot! My right hand is almost back to normal although my knuckles are still a little dry but they are less red and irritated and they don't itch anymore - same with my fingers! Honestly, I can't believe it. This is the first time some products work really well on my eczema!

I will definitely continue using these two products together and I have high hopes to see my eczema being completely cured in the long term - and this, without nasty chemicals!

If you suffer from sensitive skin or are interested in using natural and organic products that really work (I'm the proof!), be sure to have a look at Pai Skincare.

Disclaimer: These products were sent to me for consideration to review. I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.

Thank you to Gaby's Beauty Blog for sharing her review with us! If you want to take a look at the Pai Skincare range, click here.

Tis The Season!

2011-11-16T11:14:00.009Z

Love Lula's Christmas Shop is now open!

We've got a great selection of gift ideas as well as our very own Gift Sets, which come beautifully gift wrapped with love and attention by the Love Lula elves, and feature some of our favourite products.

We have Gift Sets to cater to different tastes for both boys and girls. If you need a present for a huge makeup fan, then definitely go for Beauty Secrets, which has a Nail Girls polish in their new shade R uby Red, a Tinted Moisturiser from Madara and UNE's Sheer Lip Gloss.

For lots of other gift ideas, visit our Christmas Shop!

Press | Jurlique

2011-11-08T16:34:00.003Z

Angelina Jolie's makeup artist picks Jurlique's Love Balm as a must-have product to recreate her renowned pout.

2011-11-08T12:53:00.006Z

NONIE CREME – nail artist and co-founder of nail polish company Butter London – has painted nails backstage at the likes of Victoria Beckham, Alexander Wang and Clements Ribeiro, as well as giving manicures to stars such as Rihanna and Lady Gaga backstage at the MTV Europe Music Awards. We talked to her about working with Victoria Beckham, being adopted by Rankin and the nail trends for spring/summer 2012.

Tell us about the shows you worked on for spring/summer 2012?

I was asked to do a lot of neutral looks for the shows this season – everywhere from Victoria Beckham to Calvin Klein. We’ve worked with Victoria since her first show and she loves the brand as it’s pregnancy-friendly (all products are free from known toxins) so she wore a lot of it herself when she was expecting. I custom-made a matt beige for the Matthew Williamson show from two different shades, which is something I do a lot. I think for him this season he was trying to make a big statement with the clothes so he wanted to keep the nails really subtle, so as not to detract any attention. But the nails I most enjoyed creating were for Yigal Azrouel’s Cut25 presentation, where I did a kind of crazy ombre effect of pink, turquoise and pistachio shades.

What made you start working with nails?

Well, I left America to follow a boy to England when I was 18, and after hanging around doing not much for a while I thought I’d go into nails just because at that point – 15 years or so ago – there was literally nowhere to get your nails done in England! So I got an agent and started doing session work on magazine shoots. At the time there were virtually no exciting colours around – just reds, pinks, the usual suspects – so I started mixing my own. Before long I was custom-mixing colours for fashion editors, and then I was lucky enough to be pretty much adopted by Rankin, who more or less paid my bills for years. Miles Aldridge then took me under his wing as well, so I was really lucky in that I got introduced to all the right people, and have never stopped working since.

What’s the process for creating a nail look backstage?

Well it differs from designer to designer. A lot of designers will send fabric swatches, mood boards – a lot of pretty confidential information, really. Some of them will have specific colours from our range in mind, like Victoria Beckham did this season. Some really give you free rein though – like Yigal Azrouel who basically said “what do you want to do?” The thing is, nails are there to accentuate and complement a collection, not to steal the limelight. Your job backstage is basically to stay out of the way! What’s really unbelievable is that I used to do a whole show’s-worth of nails on my own, before nails became the big thing they are now. Twenty or more models, all on my own. Luckily I’m really fast, but I work with a team of technicians now which definitely helps.

What trends do you think will be biggest for spring/summer 2012?

For me it’s demi-neons – a kind of sophisticated, intense colour that is almost neon but not quite – we don’t want to look like we’re stuck in the Eighties. So like Butter London’s new Trout Pout shade which is a kind of cantaloupe-y salmon shade, or a bright, very intense turquoise or fuchsia. Another big trend for spring/summer 2012 was matching manicures and pedicures. I haven’t been asked to do that for seasons and seasons, but I did so many shows – Calvin Klein, Matthew Williamson, Victoria Beckham – and the only one that didn’t actually do a matching manicure and pedicure was Clements Ribeiro, where we did a different pedicure for every different shoe colour. It has to be an edgy colour though – doing it in red looks dated.

-Words by Lisa Niven, courtesy of vogue.co.uk

Natural Beauty Yearbook 2012

2011-11-07T16:55:00.007Z

We were at the Melvita store in Covent Garden last week to celebrate the latest Natural Beaty Yearbook and all it's winners, including Bulldog Natural Skincare who took top prize!

The Natural Beauty Yearbook celebrates the best of the best in natural and organic beauty and skincare (we may have been known to feature in there ourselves...).

Congratulations to all the winners!

Love Lula x

Nude Skincare Advanced Cellular Renewal Moisturiser | Red Magazine

2011-11-07T13:53:00.003Z

Red Magazine picks Nude Skincare's new ACRM to tackle "aging from the outside".

Jurlique - Love Balm | Hungeree Review

2011-11-07T12:14:00.004Z

Love Balm

I have a bad habit of biting and chewing on my lips sometimes and I absolutely need a lip gloss or balm on to keep myself from doing it. Recently, I purchased the Jurlique Love Balm which is made with vitamin E and olive, soybean, and safflower oils. It has an absolutely delicious tangerine scent but the downside is it doesn't taste like tangerines and more like the oils that it's made of.

The balm moisturizes my lips well but it doesn't stay on for very long. I found myself reapplying it multiple times during the day, but the tube offers a generous amount of 0.5 ounces. That may not seem like a lot but when it's something you're swabbing on your lips, you won't need a lot of product. The other great thing about this balm is you can use it anywhere on your body. It's not meant to be a body moisturizer, but if you don't have any hand cream in your bag, feel free to rub a little Love Balm on them. It doesn't feel greasy and the balm is absorbed quickly. I would recommend this to anyone who likes a balm that doesn't feel sticky or greasy and for the minimalists who prefer products with multiple uses.

2011-11-01T16:51:00.006Z

Did you see Neom's Complete Bliss - Happiness' Bath & Shower Oil in Emerald St yesterday? Perfect for looking after skin in winter.

Professional Skincare Tips Tell Us About Their Love of Jurlique

2011-11-01T14:23:00.005Z

Ten Reasons to Use Jurlique Skin Care
Article by Jillian Cook

Nearly everybody uses some kind of skin care these days. With new awareness of how our skin ages, several individuals have discovered that they do would like to use some kind of skin care. Unfortunately, there are a lot of low quality skin care merchandise out there that claim to try to to wonderful things, but never deliver. Jurlique skin care product are simply the opposite.This line of skin care product features a lot to supply and the reviews are positive . . . Jurlique really does produce results. Here are just 10 reasons why you might need to consider using this specific skin care line.

1. Jurlique product are created with organic herbs and ingredients that are all natural. There aren’t any harsh chemicals to further injury your skin, simply wholesome goodness.

2. The road of skin care products has varied options formulated for every skin type. You just want to see how much skin you’ve got and then opt for the acceptable product to meet your needs. It`s vital to use lotions, etc. that are made for your skin type or you may finish up with dryer skin and more blemishes.

3. If you are uninterested in overly competitive beauty firms that solely care regarding cash . . . Jurlique could be a breath of contemporary air. That specialize in sustainable practices and biodynamic beauty, they really stand out from the crowd.

4. Got wrinkles? Whereas wrinkles might be a natural half of aging, that does not mean you have to let them take over your face too early . . . Jurlique provides natural wrinkle removers that swish out your skin and keep you looking younger.

5. Combination skin will be very difficult to treat, with patches of dry skin in amongst the oily areas. However, Jurlique offers specially formulated skin care merchandise to help with that downside and to urge your skin back to balance.

6. Many cosmetic corporations buy any previous ingredients and turn it into something for your face, however Jurlique truly grows their own herbs and flowers to use in their products. The entire method takes place on their farms, thus each natural, organic ingredient is carefully monitored from seed. This ensures top quality ingredients.

7. If you suffer from sensitive skin and find that regular skin care products tend to form your face break out and irritate the skin, then you may would like one thing gentle. Since these products don?t use harsh chemicals, existing issues have the possibility to clear up, instead of be aggravated.

8. Cut back blemishes the natural way. Instead of applying acids and chemicals to your problem areas, use herbs to assuage the skin naturally and moisturize whereas minimizing the blemishes. Most skin care lines do one or the opposite, however Jurlique combines tasks in their creams, meaning you get a lot of for your money.

9. For anyone who needs their facial products to be sensible enough to eat . . . Julique offers yummy natural ingredients like honey, mint and chamomile, among different healthy types. These are all nice for your skin and every one natural.

10. Beyond skin care merchandise, this line extends to hair treatments and different areas of beauty, as well. Therefore, if you wish their creams and lotions, you can start using everything from the identical company, all made with the identical quality ingredients.It`s important to put products you trust on your skin. When it comes to treating problems like wrinkles and blemishes, it`s undoubtedly not a sensible plan to be using lotions full of damaging chemicals that will only worsen the issue. Choose natural and organic and you`ll notice that your skin does far better.

The Philosophy of Organic Skincare

2011-10-31T11:15:00.006Z

BIODYNAMIC farming is the secret to making plant-based cosmetics more powerful, says Suzanne Wangmann.

When it comes to natural cosmetic products, is organic really as good as it gets? In south-east Germany the farmers and cosmetic producers think their offerings are even better - they’re biodynamic. Biodynamic farming takes organic farming one step further. Developed in the mid 1920s, and based on the ideas of German philosopher Rudolph Steiner, biodynamic farming is a system of agriculture that works in harmony with light and temperature. Only natural fertilisers are used and fertilising, planting and harvesting are all done according to a lunar cycle. While this type of farming is practised worldwide, southern Germany is something of a mecca for biodynamic skin and body care products, with leading brands Dr Hauschka and Weleda growing many of their ingredients there.

Natural bonuses Professor Florian Stintzing, head of research and development at Dr Hauschka, says biodynamic plants contain higher-quality polyphenols than commercially grown crops. Polyphenols are chemical compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant powers that help the plant to resist sun damage and to heal itself. Polyphenols found in foods such as red wine, berries, dark chocolate, olive oil and other fruit and veg are believed to help protect against heart disease, while in cosmetics, the plant compound is regularly used to fight the free radicals blamed for much of the skin damage we see as we age. In spring the farmland of south-east Germany is a landscape of grassy hills dotted with oak trees and fruit orchards. Many families in this region run biodynamic farms and they are proud of their achievements. As Professor Stintzing explains, “It take 10 years of biodynamic farming to establish any credibility - and just one day to lose it.This is because although the style of farming is based on old ideas, the monitoring products are high-tech, with machines that will show even the slightest traces of contaminants, and medical-grade processing.

Pure ingredientsAs well as being the source of Dr Hauschka and Weleda botanicals, this region is also where the seeds of Australian brand Jurlique were planted. Jurlique’s co-founder, Dr Jurgen Klein, was a product formulator for Dr Hauschka before he left for Australia and his co-founder and former partner Ulrique Klein was a horticulturist.Most Dr Hauschka ingredients are from Germany but some are sourced worldwide due to climate. The company helps communities grow biodynamic crops such as roses in Turkey and neem in India. “Our approach is not just about human health but the health of the environment,” Professor Stintzing says.

6 of the best plants used by Dr Hauschka

Witch hazel: Bark and leaves have anti-inflammatory and firming properties.
Rose: A powerful moisturiser used in products for the face and body.

Calendula (marigold): Helps to heal skin, making it ideal in cosmetic creams.

St John’s wort: Used for its anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits.

Borage: Used to cool inflammation and boost skin health.

Quince: Components used in moisturisers and anti-ageing products.

Suzanne Wangmann
From: National Features, adelaidenow.com.au
October 29, 2011 11:30PM

INTRODUCING BAMFORD BODY

2011-10-27T17:28:00.002+01:00

Today marks the launch of LoveLula's latest love! Bamford is a British born and bred range that firmly believes that what goes on the skin is as important as what's inside. So the only thing you'll find in their beautifully packaged products are natural and essentials oils combined with organic ingredients. We can't wait for you to try them!

Click here to see the full Bamford Body range.

Love Lula x

Intelligent Nutrients | The Beauty Tonic Review

2011-10-20T15:31:00.003+01:00

In another life I was born with thick straight shiny hair. In this one it is curly and most days while trying to style it, I feel like I am dealing with the hair of at least three people. Finally salvation came in the form of Intelligent Nutrients Harmonic shampoo and conditioner. The shampoo is a lightweight formulation that still manages to nourish hair without weighing it down. It also has a gorgeous minty smell that really wakes you up and makes your scalp tingle; a surefire sign that the capillaries are being stimulated which in turn means healthy hair and hair growth. This followed by the silky conditioner that my hair literally eats, leaves it super soft and manageable with minimum effort. Then I just pack all of my hair into an absorbent hair towel, gently comb it when it is damp, tie it back and wait for it to dry. If my hair is having one of those ‘days’ then I just use a few drops of one of my many body oils to tame flyaways and voila I am a few steps nearer having the hair of my dreams.

Nothing Frames the Face Like Perfect Brows

2011-10-13T17:08:00.004+01:00

Love this tip from No More Dirty Looks for the perfect brows:

"I pump a little bit of the [Intelligent Nutrients Volumising] hairspray in the palm of my hand, dabbing my finger in it, and then lightly touching it to the brow without disrupting the shape..."

http://nomoredirtylooks.com/tag/intelligent-nutrients-volumizing-hair-spray/

http://www.lovelula.com/pd-intelligent-nutrients-volumising-hair-spray-200ml.cfm

Intelligent Nutrients by The Beauty Tonic

2011-10-12T12:02:00.004+01:00

Intelligent Nutrients is the brainchild of Horst Rechelbacher, the founder of Aveda. After he sold Aveda to the Estee Lauder Companies in the late 1990s he set about creating a new brand staying true to the original Aveda principles of all products being based around nature and nature’s ingredients. The range is outstanding and has been a huge hit in America for several years now. Whenever I went accross the pond I would always find myself stocking up on Intelligent Nutrients products for friends and family and this stash would always inevitably take up another suitcase.

IN has morphed over the last few years into a mega brand in the US with a 570 acre Intelligent Nutrient headquarters based outside of Minneapolis. It is here that all of the research is done into the products and there is even a learning centre one can visit. The basic principle of the brand is that “Much of what goes on your skin can be absorbed into it. If it’s good enough to go on your body, it should be good enough to go into your mouth. And conversely, if you wouldn’t put it in your mouth, don’t put it on your skin”. Taking this mantra to heart, Horst has been known to get on stage in front of thousands of people and drink his hairspray straight from the bottle- yes, this range is REALLY that pure.

I cannot tell you how excited I am that this brand is finally reaching Europe. A smaller selection of products will be available initially with plans to stock everything here eventually. I popped along to the launch where Dr.Charles Forsyth, a well known Naturopath gave a speech on toxicology. Although fascinating it also made for uncomfortable listening with all of the facts and figures about chemicals used in everyday life and how they are seeping their way into the food system and our bodies.

Dr.Forsyth was particularly concerned with how he now finds many patients come to him with what he classifies as preventable diseases, ones that you can’t vaccinate against, such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, allergies and autoimmune diseases. He rightly pointed out that these things did not even exist 2oo years ago and went on to outline many of the reasons for this modern malaise. These include: bad nutrition, lack of exercise, radiation levels and stress. What we should be most concerned about is how pollutants are binding to our DNA and changing the structure of it; he regularly sees babies born with lead and other toxins already in their system. With over 100,000 synthetic chemicals now in existence, 30,000 are in daily use! Many of these chemicals mimic oestrogen causing all sorts of problems to the endocrine system. Several naturopaths agree that many diseases such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome are a direct result from over exposure to these toxins.

With such scary statistics lingering in our heads we were then introduced to the products in the range and their ingredients. You can try as hard as you like to find a nasty ingredient in IN products, but it is impossible, the range is just so clean. As far as singling out products that I love, like my other favourite brands, I find it really difficult as practically everything is just wonderful. Over the coming weeks I will write about a few products I have been using for years that are already part of my skin and haircare regime. Stay tuned!

Huge thanks to The Beauty Tonic (http://thebeautytonic.com/2011/10/intelligent-nutrients-launch/) for this fab blog about Intelligent Nutrients!

Love Lula x

ila in Glamour Magazine, November 2011

2011-10-11T10:40:00.007+01:00

Get your skin winter ready with ila's Body Scrub for Energising & Detoxifying!

Nothing like a big glass of hairspray

2011-10-10T10:33:00.003+01:00

Here's a brilliant review of Intelligent Nutrients' USDA approved (i.e. edible) Perfect Hold Hairspray. Watch on to see Horst, the founder of Intelligent Nutrients himself, enjoy a champagne glass full of the stuff:

Free shipping for ALL UK orders!

2011-10-06T13:32:00.002+01:00

No, we're not celebrating a promotion, a launch, or the change in season.

We're now offering free shipping to every single fabulous UK order forever more!

All orders will be sent Super Saver Delivery. You'll even be able to get free Next Day Delivery if you spend over £100!

All the details about our changes to shipping charges can be found on our Delivery & Returns page.

If you have any questions about our new shipping, well, you know where to find us!

Love Lula x

UNE makeup has landed

2011-05-31T09:00:00.004+01:00

This week we are very excited to see the gorgeous UNE makeup come on board at LoveLula.com. Most of the products in the range are ecocert certified and the products are designed to bring out the skin's natural tones and enhance natural beauty. Free from parabens and any animal derived ingredients it's perfect for vegetarians and vegans too.

I've become addicted to the UNE Sfumato Eyes Shadow (£9.29); sfumato means smoky in Italian and the collection of subtle powder shades is designed to help you create seductive smoky eye look makeup. With a soft smooth powder texture you can use the little applicator brush that comes with eye shadow or a professional eye brush. I've been using shade S11, a beautiful rich brown with the UNE Sfumato Eyes Pencil (£5.29) in S29 and topped of with UNE Smart Length Mascara (£10.49).

Bold Lips - Mwah x

2011-05-12T16:34:00.000+01:00

Bold lips are a key trend this summer, keep your eye makeup simple, your cheeks fresh and your eyebrows tidy...then go wild with hot pink, sexy orange and exotic coral...

Lavera have recently re-launched their makeup with some fantastic new lipstick shades we are loving here at LoveLula HQ. Our favourites for this season are

Lavera Beautiful Lips Natural Lipstick - Sunset Orange 06 £10.90

Pair with sun kissed bronzed skin for an striking glow

Lavera Beautiful Lips Natural Lipstick - Peach Amber 02 £10.90

Peachy shades look great in the sunshine, a more subtle trend for those less daring but just as glamorous

Lavera Beautiful Lips Natural Lipstick - Rose Kiss 01

Pinks are gorgeous and girly but will create a dramatic look for those wanting to make a statement

There are plenty more colours to choose from here >

A new lippy always makes you smile!

Love Lula x

The Vitality Show 2011

2011-03-23T10:17:00.003Z

Only one more day until the UKs largest health, beauty, fitness & wellbeing event for women!

The Vitality Show is back at Earl's Court 2 from 24th March until 27th March. We are especially loving The Organic Beauty Pavilion, due to huge success it is back for the 3rd year and LoveLula.com are sponsoring it. Lots of natural and organic companies will be there to showcase their best beauty products...it really is a great place to find a beauty gem.

Hopefully we'll see you all there!

You can get more information here;

http://www.vitalitylive.co.uk/the-show/attractions/organic_pavilion

Lots of love xxx

going nude

2011-02-22T01:24:00.002Z

The days are getting longer, the Siberian freeze has lifted, is it? could it really be?....spring and summer are coming?!

This summer’s beauty looks are all about nude, barely there makeup and fresh glowing healthy skin so now’s the time to start prepping your skin for those glorious days of summer.....

Deep cleanse

The cornerstone of flawless skin is a good cleansing routine. I adore Nude Cleansing Facial Oil (£24 for 100ml) which is a whiz at removing makeup but is also uber gentle so won’t aggravate your skin and instead leaves it feeling soft and nourished.

For extra pampering treat yourself to an at home facial once a week with a clay based mask; the clay draws out any impurities that are deep in your skin and will help ward of spots and tone pores.

Rejuvenate

Dull and lack lustre skin needs a boost to help rejuvenate it and bring it back to life. Introduce an exfoliator into your skincare routine; look for one with natural aha’s from fruit which help to refine and smooth the surface of the skin making it look younger and more youthful.

Glow givers

Glow giving products will give your skin the edge in the summer months leaving you looking radiant and naturally gorgeous. New natural beauty brand OSKIA has created the perfect skin indulgence in the form of OSKIA Get up and Glow (£64.50 for 30ml), a deliciously lightweight revitalising and energising serum that increases cell respiration and ATP energy. It is also enriched with clinically-proven youth-boosting nutrients and polypeptides and contains therapeutic levels of skin transforming MSM and hyaluronic acid. Wear it on its own or over foundation for a flawless ‘no-makeup’ look.

Fake it

And if all else fails you can always fake the look! Use a natural tinted moisturiser to even your skin tone, introduce a healthy glow and subtlely cover any imperfections. I’m addicted to Latvian natural beauty brand Madara’s Moonflower Tinted Moisturiser (£23 for 100ml) which magically transforms you into a sun goddess on even the worst bad skin days.

Getting loved up for Valentine's Day...

2011-01-26T17:16:00.002Z

For centuries the rose has been recognised as a symbol of love. Natural beauty products use both the super oil extracted from its hips and the delicate and expensive fragranced essential oil extracted from the petals.

Rosehip oil has no fragrance but is packed with cell regenerating tretinoin, a derivative of anti aging vitamin A. This makes rosehip oil excellent for fading scars and stretch marks as well helping skin stay young looking while its high essential fatty acid content means it’s a wiz at moisturising dry skin. The rose essential oil meanwhile carries the delicate rose scent we all know and love. Witches used the oil in love spells but beauty buffs love it because of its anti aging as well as mood enhancing qualities.

Here are some of our favourite rose inspired natural beauty products; perfect for a Valentine’s love fest....

Heyland and Whittle Rose Heart Soap

No synthetic soap here; handmade in the UK with only the finest oils of coconut, castor and olive combined with cocoa butter and laced with essences of lavender, rose and palmarosa, mean this beautiful little heart shaped soap is kind to your skin and the cutest way to say ‘I love you’.

Figs & Rouge Rambling Rose 100% Organic Balm

A cute art deco inspired tin coupled with a richly moisturising balm for lips, body and face; the sweetest little natural balm to keep in your makeup bag.

Mother Earth Raindrops & Rose Body Butter

Handmade with love in the Lake District, this award winning body butter is rich and nourishing on parched winter skin.

Ila Facial Oil for Glowing Radiance

This much loved ‘little miracle worker’ has fans coming back again and again for more. It features the most exquisite of ingredients: wild argan oil from Morocco, rose damascene oil from the foothills of the Himalayas and organic rosehip oil. Guaranteed to give your skin a just been to the spa glow.

Trilogy Rose Hand Cream

Danni Minogue’s a fan. We’re certainly fans. This is everything you want in a hand cream; super nourishing, non greasy plus it leaves your hand scented with the most delicate rose fragrance from pure Moroccan rose essential oil.

we're on twitter!

2011-01-14T11:11:00.002Z

Calling all twitterers - we've finally made it on to twitter! Follow us @Love_Lula to keep up to date with what's going down at LoveLula HQ.

new year, new you! our skin detox tips...

2011-01-04T16:31:00.002Z

New Year, new you! Lula Braithwaite, naturopath and founder of the natural beauty specialist LoveLula.com reveals her top tips for detoxing your skin this new year.....

Has letting your hair down this Christmas left your skin looking less than glowing? Follow these natural beauty tips and watch your skin come back to life...

1. Ditch the coffee – start the day with hot water and a slice of lemon
Tempting as a steaming cup of Starbucks is in the morning, if your system’s already feeling a bit sluggish you’ll feel (and see) the benefit of replacing your morning cuppa with a cup of hot water and lemon. This simple little concoction helps to kick start your liver and kidneys each morning; you’ll notice clearer skin and dark circles start to magically disappear.

2. Treat your skin to some at home spa treatments
If the budget doesn’t stretch to a weekly trip to the spa cheat and treat yourself to some at home treatments instead. Clay based masks draw imperfections out of the skin, help remove blackheads and refine pores while products containing fruit derived natural aha’s gently exfoliate dead skin cells improving skin tone and improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

3. Swap junk for super foods
Flush your system with a super food like Pukka’s Clean Greens; with chlorophyll-rich green foods like grass juices, leaf vegetables, seed sprouts, sea greens, freshwater plants and digestive herbs, it naturally supports the body's ability to cleanse itself...perfect for a new year spring clean.

4. Hydro-therapy
I still remember my first trip to a Turkish bath; I walked out feeling about 10lbs lighter and my skin radiated with the sort of healthful glow that’s hard to fake. If you go to a gym with a sauna or steam room use them each time you visit. If not create your own hydro-therapy treatments at home; use a natural body scrub in the shower, especially on areas of cellulite, then turn the shower water cold for 60 seconds then back to hot again. The changes of water temperature contract and dilate your blood vessels, ‘flushing’ and cleansing your blood.

5. Drink plenty of water
If you have just one new year’s resolution make it this. Increasing your fluid intake helps your body flush out toxins as well as improve moisture levels in your skin making your skin appear smoother and firmer.

Nude Cleansing Facial Oil

2010-12-08T11:29:00.008Z

This really is my favourite thing at the moment, with the weather just getting worse and worse my skin is feeling a lot drier and more sensitive every day. Luckily I started using the Nude Cleansing Facial Oil and it has made a massive difference to my skin. It contains Omega 3 and Vitamin E which nourish and hydrate skin.

I apply it to dry skin and massage it in, it smells gorgeous and feels really nourishing on my face and neck. Massaging your face is great too, we tend to forget but we have muscles in our faces. Massaging gently helps to ease and relax these muscles we use so much everyday. I then apply a small amount of warm water, which creates a milk like texture. This is massaged into the skin further. Finally I either use my trusty muslin cloth soaked in warm water to remove the oil and gently exfoliate or I just use water. Using the muslin cloth everyday would be a bit too much for my skin so I tend to use it every other day.

My skin doesn't feel tight or dried out afterwards, it just feels clean and fresh.

The most effective way to remove makeup is using an oil so this is perfect for getting rid of foundation and eye makeup, even the most stubborn waterproof mascara!

Try not to be put off by the fact it is an oil if you have oily or combination skin. My skin is oily/combination and I found that this works beautifully even in the better weather when my skin isn't so dry. This cleansing oil will actually stop excess oil production...sounds crazy but trust me!

We all need oil and water in our skin, by using harsh foaming cleansers in the colder weather we are stripping our skin of the oils it needs to stay hydrated and moisturised. This cleanser only removes excess oil. It collects any of this excess oil and dirt on your skin and then binds it to the cleansing oil. By adding the water to create the milky consistency you are lifting the excess oil away along with dirt and makeup.

At only £22 it is a really great buy as you only need to use a small amount, give it a try I am sure you will love using it!

xxx

Pai Camellia & Rose Organic Cleanser NEW LOOK!

2010-11-22T12:43:00.004Z

Take a peek at the newly re-packaged Pai Camellia & Rose Organic Cleanser....

They have now packaged this gorgeously gentle cleanser in a new air tight easy pump bottle making your life easier and you skin more wonderful than ever!

Not only is the bottle easier to use, they have also kindly popped a Muslin Cloth in the box with it. Yey!

I use my muslin cloth every other day for gentle exfoliation, it is great to use with a cream cleanser such as this, once you have gently rubbed the creamy lotion into your skin you can either just use water to wash it off or use the cloth to wipe away dirt and makeup. Tailor your regime to suit your skin!

With the weather getting colder and harsher on skin, switching to a cream cleanser is a great idea. Your skin won't feel dried out or tight, just clean, fresh and nourished.

At only £25, this cleanser is great for even the most sensitive of skin, try it now and your won't be disappointed...>

Lots of love x

The Natural Wedding Book by Louise Moon

2010-10-23T10:12:00.003+01:00

When my husband and I got married back in 2008 we wanted our day to reflect our love of nature and the outdoors...how I wish this book had been published back then! It's packed with beautiful photographs all with inspiring ideas for your big day with everything from using wild and native flowers, to sourcing organic food and creating your own decorations.

I especially liked the chapter on ideas for venues which suggested some really unusual and different venues from traditional cruck marquees to wildlife centres or eco hotels and centres which would make your day extra special and unique. If you're planning a wedding and want something more personal than the mainstream wedding packages this is the book for you.

Chemicals in Cosmetics

2010-08-23T12:54:00.002+01:00

LoveLula.com was founded to make it easier for you to buy green and chemical free beauty and skin care products. I just found this cool little video on You Tube which explains a little bit about the background of ingredients used in conventional beauty products.

New Spring Summer Catalogue Out Now!

2010-04-26T13:47:00.006+01:00

The brand new LoveLula Spring Summer catalogue is out now! Click here to order you very own FREE copy >

Full of fantastic advice, tips and organic skincare, the latest LoveLula catalogue is available now.

"LoveLula.com produce a unique annual catalogue packed with natural skincare tips, interviews, favourite products and gorgeous in-house photography"
Natural Health Magazine

Get a copy now >

LoveLula Awarded Best Retail Website!

2010-04-21T10:21:00.004+01:00

For the second year running LoveLula has been awarded BEST RETAIL WEBSITE in the 2010 Natural Health Beauty Awards! The team here at LoveLula are thrilled yet again and we want to thank you...all of our wonderful customers and fans of the website.

Love Lula xx

New to LoveLula - Vonny Bee

2010-03-17T11:25:00.005Z

I have great pleasure introducing the fabulous new VonnyBee range to LoveLula.com!

Yvonne Matthews is the inspiration behind Vonnybee. She has worked in Complimentary Medicine for several years assisting people back to health using remedies made from Mother Nature. During this time she chose to abstain from using chemicals in her home, garden and on herself.

Whilst living in France she met an apitherapist/apiculturist who taught her the way of the Bee and how the products produced by the bees in the hive can benefit our health. Then several years ago she too became a Beekeeper and in keeping with the principles of living a chemical free existence she abstains from ever using chemicals in the hive, on the bees or in their environment and she treats the hive with homeopathic remedies.

Vonny follows the Rudolf Steiner Bio-dynamic method of Beekeeping, utilising the harmonious energies of the sun and the moon. All the Vonnybee products are free from any harmful chemicals and are made completely naturally and bursting with the intention of love. Vonny is passionate about life and how the bees are here to assist in sustaining our very existence.

Her range includes the VonnyBee Bee Butter Balm available as a mini pot for your hangbag, a medium pot for your bathroom shelf or a large pot for those of you who just can't get enough!

She also has Bee Pollen for sale which acts as a great multi vitamin to give you energy and vitality...I sprinkle it on my cereal or porridge every morning! Her propolis is ideal for keeping in the cupboard as a stand by for that moment when you feel like you are coming down with something, you can also take it before the onset of winter to build up your defences.

Check out Vonny Bee bee products now >>

LoveLula at The Vitality Show

2010-02-03T10:52:00.005Z

The Vitality Show, sponsored by Simplyhealth, is the UK's largest health, beauty, fitness and wellbeing event and has everything you could possibly want and more to make you look good and feel great - pampering from top to toe, FREE fitness and yoga classes, top health and beauty experts, healthy eating tips and hundreds of companies for you to shop ‘til you drop – it's the ultimate girls' day out!

Plus you can visit the Organic Pavilion in association with us, LoveLula.com. You will find some of the most gorgeous organic skin care available.

The Vitality Show is on the 18th to 21st March 2010 at Earls Court 2 in London.

Buy two tickets for £20 in advance and save £15! Book your tickets now at http://www.thevitalityshow.co.uk/ or call 0871 230 5569 and quote VLL.

Do come along and say hello, we would love to see you all there!

Love Lula x

Happy New Year!

2010-01-07T13:06:00.005Z

Wishing you all a Happy New Year from all of us here at LoveLula.com. We are all so excited about 2010 and are pleased to let you know there will be some great things happening at LoveLula this year, including amazing new brands we know you will love, a Spring Summer Catalogue which will contain everything you need for those much needed summer months. Plus we will be at The Vitality Show in March, if you are popping by come and say hello, it would be great to see some friendly faces! If you are interested in coming along to the show, we will be sending updates on how to get tickets and special offers in the next couple of months...we'll keep you posted.

And of course we will be ensuring we keep up the top notch service we pride ourselves on. As always we love hearing your thoughts on the products and the site, everyone's skin is different so the more reviews the better!

As a New Year treat we are offering £5 OFF when you spend £25 or more until 22nd January 2010 so get shopping, all you need to do is enter the coupon code NEWYEAR onto the bottom of the shopping basket page now!

Stay tuned for loads more great offers, new products, tips, advice and treats this year, lots of love from all the team here at LoveLula xxx

Thank you and Merry Christmas

2009-12-17T11:30:00.004Z

We wanted to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and say thank you for all your support throughout 2009, with your help we were able to support the following charities…

SKCV Children’s Trust

The Christie NHS Foundation Trust

Surfers Against Sewage

Sea Shepherd Conservation Society

Refugee Action

Youth Music

Children of the Andes

Asthma UK, THT

Just for Kids Law

Serenity Foundation

Food Chain

Mencap

Centre for Solar Energy Research

The Children’s Trust

Lynn's Bowel Cancer Campaign

Miles of Smiles

We hope your festive period is a relaxing and enjoyable time, love from the LoveLula Team xxx

LoveLula.com

Elysambre Lipstick Review By The Organic Make-up Artist

Lovely lips

Detox Your Beauty Cabinet In 3 Easy Steps by Laura Rudoe

Kristin Cavallari's Sweet Winter Lip Treat | Eos Lip Balms Features in Chicago Now

The BBC Says We're Not Getting Enough Vitamin D

LoveLula's New Year's Resolutions | Keep On Looking Fabulous

Skincare Gets Slick | The Daily Mail Explores The Benefits of Oil-Based Products

Cheryl Thallon, founder of Viridian, Guest Blogs for LoveLula | Vitamins - Now More Than Ever

LoveLula's New Years Resolutions | Immune System, Health and Energy

Georgie Cleeve Guest Blogs for LoveLula | The Importance Of Supplements

LoveLula's New Years Resolutions | Stronger Hair, Skin and Nails

Kate Middleton Uses Organic Hair Dye

LoveLula's New Year's Resolutions | Weight Loss

My Sew Called Life Explores What Natural Beauty Means

Today's Advent Calendar Gift Is....

Today's Advent Calendar Gift Is....

Enter here for the chance to win this gorgeous set and for an exclusive 10% discount to use on LoveLula when the competition closes!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Nail Girls!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...herbfarmacy!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Brown Earth!

Press | EOS Smooth Sphere Lip Balms make the perfect Secret Santa gift | Grazia Magazine, December 2011

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...NEOM Luxury Organics!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Trilogy!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Sans Ceuticals!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Dr.Alkaitis!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Bamford!

Press | NEOM Sensuous Organic Candle in You Magazine, Dec 2011

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Pai Skincare!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Skin Blossom!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...An OSKIA Facial For 2!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Kimberly Sayer!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Nude Skincare!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Viridian!

Congratulations to Herbfarmacy!

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Evolve!

Press | Jurlique in The Guardian

What's the story?

So the air miles aren't great for us Brits then?

Any other news?

Pai Skincare Recognised by The Natural Beauty Yearbook 2012

Press | Top selling New Zealand natural skincare range enhanced by scientific investigations | The Natural Beauty Yearbook, December 2011

SenSpa – a rare treat

Today's Advent Calendar Giveaway Is...Weleda!

Monday's Advent Calendar Gift Is...Balm Balm's Mini Organic Skincare Set

Sunday's Advent Calendar Gift Is...NEOM

Saturday's Advent Calendar Gift Is...Kimia

Friday's Advent Calendar Gift Is...Wallis from butter LONDON

Nadia from Eczema Remedies Writes A Guest Blog for Love Lula

The First Prize of Our Advent Calendar Is...

Love Lula's Biggest Offer Is Back!

Press | Bamford in The Wall Street Journal

Press | Kimia

The Organic Beauty Talk Awards 2011

Christmas Shop Pick of the Day

Intelligent Nutrients Volumising Hair Spray | Goddess Huntress Review

OSKIA | Organic Beauty Talk Review

Pai Skincare | Gaby's Beauty Blog Review

Pai Skincare - Organic Skin Care for Sensitive Skin

Tis The Season!

Press | Jurlique

Natural Beauty Yearbook 2012

Nude Skincare Advanced Cellular Renewal Moisturiser | Red Magazine

Jurlique - Love Balm | Hungeree Review

Professional Skincare Tips Tell Us About Their Love of Jurlique

The Philosophy of Organic Skincare

INTRODUCING BAMFORD BODY

Intelligent Nutrients | The Beauty Tonic Review

Nothing Frames the Face Like Perfect Brows

"I pump a little bit of the [Intelligent Nutrients Volumising] hairspray in the palm of my hand, dabbing my finger in it, and then lightly touching it to the brow without disrupting the shape..."http://nomoredirtylooks.com/tag/intelligent-nutrients-volumizing-hair-spray/

Intelligent Nutrients by The Beauty Tonic

ila in Glamour Magazine, November 2011

Nothing like a big glass of hairspray

Free shipping for ALL UK orders!

UNE makeup has landed

Bold Lips - Mwah x

The Vitality Show 2011

going nude

Getting loved up for Valentine's Day...

we're on twitter!

"I pump a little bit of the [Intelligent Nutrients Volumising] hairspray in the palm of my hand, dabbing my finger in it, and then lightly touching it to the brow without disrupting the shape..."

http://nomoredirtylooks.com/tag/intelligent-nutrients-volumizing-hair-spray/