finish 6 by xmas tag

Hi guys!

I have decided to participate in the Finish 6 by Xmas Tag that has been going around YouTube. If you have not come across this tag, then basically it is a challenge to use up and finish 6 items from your collection before Christmas. The items can be anything... makeup, haircare, skincare, bodycare.

Are you participating in this challenge? Then let me know in the comments below so that we can support and motivate each other!

Sita xoxo

the buddha beauty company apple, avocado & aloe clay mask

In today's post I shall be reviewing the Buddha Beauty Company Apple, Avocado & Aloe Clay Mask.

The Claims 
' Our organic face mask has a wonderful smooth consistency! We have taken two of the best clays out there and blended them to create this unique mask; Bentonite and kaolin clay have been chosen for their abilities to absorb toxins from the skin and these with the antioxidant properties of the Apple, Aloe and Avocado make this a great treat for the skin'

The Reality 
What immediately attracted me to this apple avocado and aloe clay mask was the scent. I think it's the apples that make this mask smell absolutely delicious!

Being a clay mask the mask dries and tightens on your skin, I do like masks that tighten as then I feel like it's doing something to my skin...hopefully sucking out impurities!

After washing off the mask my skin feels tighter and softer. I want to say more brighter also but this tends to be straight after I wash the mask off, the feeling doesn't seem to last. The mask doesn't perform miracles and makes spots vanish however I do find that it helps to dry up spots.

I do like the principles of the Buddha Beauty Company, the company is cruelty-free and carries the leaping bunny logo, it is suitable for vegans and the products are free from parabens and SLS.

However looking through the ingredients list, and building my own product report on the EWG Skindeep website, which scored 5 (moderately hazardous), personally I would prefer something that is rated less hazardous so I won't be repurchasing.

The Ingredients 

Aqua, Kaolin, Bentonit, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Cetearyl Alcohol ,Glycerin ,Persea Gratissima Oil, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Punica Granatum Fruit Extract, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Propylene Glycol, Alcohol denat, Diazolidinyl Urea, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Magnesium Nitrate, Magnesium Chloride, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Parfum, CI 77288

The Packaging 

I like that the mask comes in the a tub making it easy for you to get the amount of product you require. 

The Price 

The Buddha Beauty Company: £12 for 100ml 

The Ultimate Question: Would I repurchase? 

No 

The Overall Score: 3/5 

Have you tried this face mask? What were your thoughts? 

Sita xoxo

Disclaimer: This product was purchased by myself, all views expressed are my own. Product claims are taken from the company website. 

december empties

Happy New Year!!!

I am back with an empties post for December.

1. Organic Surge Daily Care Face Wash 
This face wash dried out my skin so much that after only using it twice I had to stop putting it on my skin and ended up using it up as a shower gel. I don't think the claim for all skin types is accurate! I have normal - dry skin so it may work better for oily skin types.
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Repurchase: No 

2. Cowshed Baby Cow Organics Frothy Hair and Body Wash 
This body was worked okay but it was nothing special. I hated the scent of this body wash and so won't be repurchasing.
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Repurchase: No 

3. Soap & Glory Pulp Fiction Foamy Fruity Body Scrub 
I am so glad to be done with this body scrub. I don't like it at all, I don't like the scent. the frothiness, the texture. I prefer exfoliants that leave an oily residue on the skin, if however you don't like that then this could be for you!
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Repurchase: No 

4. Dr Bronner's Magic Organic Lavender Coconut Lotion 
I liked the light scent of this body lotion. I found it to be moisturizing but it did leave a bit of oilness on the skin that eventually went away. I like that the product is low toxin. I'm keen to try some of the other scents from this range.
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Repurchase: Yes 

5. Hugo Boss Deep Red Perfume
This is a fragrance I have been using since my teenage years so I am sad to see it go. I won't be repurchasing because I'm switching over to low toxin products.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

6. No 7 Beautiful Skin Radiance Exfoliator 
I did like this face scrub. I have used the St Ives scrub in the past and found that too harsh and drying for my skin type, this scrub I find is more gentle and works better for me. However it is still grainy enough to remove dead skin cells and leaves my skin leaving soft and smooth. The only reason I won't be repurchasing is because I'm moving towards low toxin products. 
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

7. Elf Candy Shop Lip Gloss in Mocha Maniac
This lip gloss was okay. I did like the design on the packaging and thought it was cute, however I really don't like products in tubs because I think it's not as hygienic. I still have a few other flavours to finish.
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Repurchase: No 

8. Nails Inc 3 Phase Nail Oil
I like the packaging of this nail oil and the fact that it came in a roller ball tube, making it easy to apply the product. I'm not sure it actually did much because I didn't see much of a difference.
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Repurchase: No 

Now for the count...

Previous Skincare Total: 68

New Skincare Total:  63

Previous Makeup Total: 157

New Makeup Total: 155

I shall be starting a new Project Pan for 2014 and will be posting my rules tomorrow, so keep an eye out for if your interested!

Sita xoxo

november empties

In today's post I am sharing the products I have used up during the month of November. I do like these posts as I can finally throw away my trash!

1. Boots Botanics Rebalance Body Butter and Shower Gel
Both these products came in a gift set along with a body scrub, so I shall not be counting them until I finish the scrub seeing as I counted the whole gift set as one! I thought the products were okay...nothing life changing.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

2. Organic Surge Super-intensive Daily Moisturiser
Although initially I was unsure about this face cream, I did come to like it. It is very reasonably priced and the works well. You can read my full review here.
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Repurchase: Maybe 

3. Renu Pre-Shampoo and Shampoo
I didn't think much of the shampoo and thought it was okay. However I did like using the pre-shampoo treatment, it was a bit like a conditioner.
Cruelty-Free: Unsure
Repurchase: No 

4. Cetaphil Cleanser
I do like this cleanser and this is the second bottle I have used up, however it will be the last as I want to switch to a natural alternative.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

5. Soap & Glory Calm One Calm All
It has to be said that I am a little tired of the soap and glory scent, after a whole bottle of shower gel and now the bubble bath I am glad to have finished up this bubble bath.
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Repurchase: No 

6. Organic Surge Kiss and Makeup Wipes
Finally I am rid of these makeup wipes. I want to try and avoid using makeup wipes, even thought they can be convenient, especially on lazy days.
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Repurchase: No 

7. No7 Liquid Eyeliner in Black
This eyeliner worked adequately. It did take me a long time to finish and seemed a bit neverending and then it suddenly seem to dry up. I thought the brush could have been finer.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

8. John Frieda Frizz-Ease Hair Serum
This hair serum worked pretty well. It takes me an age to get through hair products as you only need a pee sized amount so I have this bottle for a few years and I think it must have passed it's use by date as towards the end it wasn't working so well.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

9. Crabtree & Evelyn Hand Therapy

I did like these handcreams, they are a lovely consistency, not to thick and not to runny. They absorb into the skin well without leaving your hands greasy. They feel rich and luxurious to use. The hand cream keep my hands moisturised and feeling soft. However the creams contain some ingredients that I would prefer to avoid so I won't be repurchasing. 

Cruelty-Free: Yes ( I think) 
Repurchase: No 

10. Clinique Take the Day Off Makeup Remover
I did like this makeup remover, it is very gentle. It is not oil based, so if you odn't like the makeup removers that leave a oily residue than you may want to look into this one.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

11. The Body Shop Simply Purify Rejuvenating Bath Soak
This bath soak is very herbal smelling and I found the fragrance very overpowering but if this is a scent that you like then you might enjoy this bath soak.
Cruelty-Free: Yes (Owned by Loreal who do test on animals) 
Repurchase: No 

Now for the count...

Previous Skincare Total: 77

New Skincare Total:  68

Previous Makeup Total: 158

New Makeup Total: 157

Have a good weekend guys!

Sita xoxo

october empties part 2 video

Hello everyone,

This is my video sharing the products I used up during the last half of October and what I thought of them.

Hope you enjoy!

Sita xoxo 

makeup clean out

Hi guys!

It was time again to have a little clean out of my makeup. I'm the kind of person that tends to throw out a few things every so often rather than have a huge clear out all at once.

These are the products I've decided to get rid off.

Sally Hansen Suddenly Nails 
I got this gel acrylic nail kit years ago as a gift and I've never used it, It's sitting in my drawer taking up space I've decided to pass it on.

Maybelline Fit Me Foundation Tester 
This foundation I used for about a week but it was clogging my pores and breaking me out so I have decided to let it go.

Cargo Black Eyeliner 
This eyeliner just does not apply onto my waterline. I wear contacts and find it tremendously difficult to find an eyeliner that goes on to my waterline so there was no point keeping this.

Jemma Kidd Lipgloss in Candy 
I've been trying for the past few month to use up this lipgloss but it seems never ending! I just can't seem to get rid of it so I've given up and it's going in the trash. Plus the colour doesn't suit my darker skin tone.

John Frieda Frizz-Ease Heat Defence Spray 
I've literally been using this heat protection spray for years and years, there isn't too much left but I used it recently and the smell has gone off and it doesn't smell like what it used to so it's time to throw it away.

The count....

Previous Skincare Total: 77

New Skincare Total:  76

Previous Makeup Total: 158

New Makeup Total: 154

Sita xoxo

october empties

Hi guys,

This month seems to have whizzed by and my favourite time of the month has arrived. The time when I get to share my empties with you and finally throw them out!

1. Soap and Glory Heel Genius Foot Cream
I have to say this I do like this foot cream and it has been helping to keep my feet free of cracked skin. It's blue in colour and has a herbal scent probably because it contains menthol. However the ingredients list is so long it almost fill sup the whole back side of the tube so I'm looking forward to finding a chemical free alternative!
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Repurchase: No 

2. Lancome Bi-Facil Eye Makeup Remover
This is my holy grail makeup remover, so I am rather sad to see it finished. It is an oil based makeup remover so does leave a bit of an oily residue.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No

3. The Body Shop Sweet Lemon Body Scrub
The body shop body scrubs are some of my favourites. My skin verges towards the dry side so I like that they are super moisturising. They leave an oily residue on the skin so if you don't like that then I would probably pick something else. I have written a full review if you want more information.
Cruelty-Free: Yes (Parent Company is Loreal who do test on animals) 
Repurchase: No

4. The Body Shop Sweet Lemon Shower Gel
I really hate the scent of this shower gel, it's too washing up liquid and artificial smelling for my liking. I'm so glad to have finished it! You can read my full review here.
Cruelty-Free: Yes (Parent Company is Loreal who do test on animals) 
Repurchase: No

5. Sukin Natural Deodorant
This is the first chemical-free deodorant I've tried and I do like it, My favourite thing has to be the scent it smells absolutely amazing. Furthermore it is free of a whole host of nasties and is suitable for vegans. You can see full product information and read my full review here. I would repurchase this deodorant however I want to see what else is out there in the chemical-free market.
Cruelty-Free: Yes 
Repurchase: Yes

6. Elf Candy Shop Lipgloss in Candy Fix
The packaging of this lipgloss is adorable. To me I would say this is more of a lipbalm with a tint as apose to a lipgloss. I thought the lipgloss was okay, I do have four other flavours I need to finish up, because apparently at the time only buying one of something wasn't sufficient.
Cruelty-Free: Yes 
Repurchase: No

7.-10. Perfume Samples
Last but not least I have used up four perfume samples this month, with the added bonus that I do not have any further perfume samples left so I am happy about that. The four scents I used up were D&G 10, Prada Milano, The Body Shop Love Etc and Gucci Guilty, I do remember liking all of them.

Let's get into the count!

Previous Skincare Total: 86

New Skincare Total:  77

Previous Makeup Total: 159

New Makeup Total: 158

I'm looking for a chemical-free shampoo and would love to hear your recommendations, so let me know in the comments below. 

Sita xoxo

october empties video

Hi guys!

This is my YouTube video showing the products I used up during the first half of October with little mini reviews on the products.

Hope you enjoy!

Sita xoxo

mid -october empties

Hi Guys! 

In today's post I have some empties to share with you, these are the products I've used up during the end of September and Beginning of October. 

1. Organic Surge Fresh Ocean Light Body Lotion 

I did like this body lotion, the cream absorbs into the skin well, leaving is moisturised without feeling greasy, you only need to use a small amount as a little goes a long way, the only thing I wasn't too keen on was the scent of this body lotion however they have few other body lotions so I will give them a try. If you would like to read my full review you can click here.

Cruelty-Free: Yes
Repurchase: Yes 

2. The Body Shop Honey Moisturising Conditioner 

This conditioner is rather old so I'm not sure body shop even sell it any more. I did like it, my hair felt soft after use and less tangled, but I didn't love it, I prefer the rainforest forest hair butter from The Body Shop compared to this conditioner. 

Cruelty-Free: Yes (Parent Company Tests on Animals) 
Repurchase: No 

3. Trevor Sorbie Moisture Shampoo 

I'm so glad to have this shampoo finished and gones, I don't think there was anything I liked about it. 

Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

4. Superdrug Heart On Your Sleeve Dry Shampoo 

This dry shampoo works well, however I am moving towards more chemical free products so I won't repurchase. 

Cruelty-Free: Yes (Parent Company Tests on Animals) 
Repurchase: No 

5. Lollia Mint Julep Giftset 

This little gift set came with a shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and handcream, The handcream I had at work and forgot to bring it's hence not in the picture and currently in the bin. All the products in this set came beautifully packaged, and smelt absolutely gorgeous and fresh. However the products themselves were only okayish. 

Cruelty-Free: Yes 
Repurchase: No 

6. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser 

I love this skin cleanser, I have been using it everyday for the past 10 months, it works very well for me, and I do have another one the same size to get through, however after that I won't be repurchasing because it does contain parabens and cetaphil is not a cruelty-free company. 

Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

7./8. The White Company Shampoo and Conditioner 

I took these products with me when I went away but I took a picture a picture of them before throwing them away, they are in handy size to take away, they are mediocre products that do the job, but nothing I would run out to purchase. 

Cruelty-Free: No 
Repurchase: No 

I also gave away my Bobbi Brown Mauve Face Palette, which I had never used, I didn't have a chance to take a picture of it but it's in my makeup sort out post. 

Now for the all important count...

Previous Skincare Total: 94

New Skincare Total:  86

Previous Makeup Total: 160

New Makeup Total: 159

I hope you enjoyed this post. What products have used up this month? Let me know in the comments below. 

Sita xoxo

september empties

These are the products I've used up during the beginning of September and what I thought of them.

Soap & Glory Clean On Me
I have somewhat of a love hate relationship with this shower gel. I initially loved it but then the tub was so big I got sick of the scent and using the same shower gel everyday so I had to switch it up, after a while I Came back to it and really liked it again but then once again I started getting sick of it! I have a full review on this product which you can find here.
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Repurchase: No 

Loreal Everstrong Reconstruct Shampoo & Conditioner 
I wasn't a fan of this Shampoo and Conditioner set. They did the job but they didn't work brilliantly for me. I didn't like the scent either.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

Soap & Glory Face Soap & Clarity 
I found this face cleanser to be a bit drying for my skin type, so instead of using it every day I used it once a week. The cleanser contained pink beads and as a result it worked quite well as an exfoliator for me. I think this product would suit more of an oily skin tone.
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Repurchase: No 

Chanel No 5 Perfume Sample 
This is classic scent and one which I love. There's not really anything more I can say about it. I'm glad to be getting through a lot of these little perfume samples.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

Trevor Sorbie Conditioner
I did not like this conditioner at all. I prefer rich moisturising conditioners. This was rather thin and runny in consistency and didn't do anything for my hair.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

New Counts! (Combined count for myself and Radha) 

Previous Skincare Total: 100

New Skincare Total:  94

Previous Makeup Total: 160

New Makeup Total: 160

Although there's no change in the makeup products this month, its good its good to have dropped down below one hundred on the skincare count!

What products did you get through this month? If you did an empties post this month share it in the comments below :) 

Sita xoxo

organic surge fresh ocean light body lotion review

I am back with a review post of the Organic Surge Fresh Ocean Light Body Lotion.

The Claims
Fresh Ocean Light Body Lotion glides onto the skin and absorbs quickly for an instant burst of soothing rehydration. Aloe Vera combines with naturally nourishing shea and cocoa butters to condition the skin, while the refreshing blend of rosemary and citrus essential oils work to rebalance oils and dry skin areas. With its invigorating, natural fragrance and lightweight, non-greasy texture it makes skin feel soft, supple and rejuvenated.

The Reality
The Organic Surge Fresh Ocean Light Body Lotion absorbs into the skin well. It is light to medium in consistency but don't let that fool you because it leaves the skin feeling hydrated and moisturised. A little goes a long way and it leaves no greasiness.

I like that the lotion is free from SLS, parabens, synthetic fragrances and colourants. It is certified organic by ECOCERT, The product is also suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

The main thing I don't like about this body is lotion is that scent. When it comes to a body lotion I do prefer to use something that I love the scent off because its something I'm using all all over and the scent tends to linger. Although this particular scent isn't too my taste there are a few other body lotion options that I would like to try out.

The Ingredients
Aqua/Water, Aloe Barbadensis Extract*, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Isopropyl Myristate, Polyglyceryl-Dicitrate/Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Butter*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter*, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil*, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil*, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil*, Cymbopogon Martinii (Palmarosa) Oil*, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil*, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Peel Oil*, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil*, Benzyl Alcohol, Dehydroacetic Acid, Sodium Phytate, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Limonene, Geraniol, Linalool. *ingredient from organic farming. Naturally occurring within essential oils.

The Packaging

I always prefer packaging that you don't have to dip your fingers into as I think it is more hygienic. However the bottle packaging isn't ideal as you can't get all the product out, I think a squeezy tube would have been a better option.

The Price 

Organic Surge: £5.99

The Ultimate Question: Would I Repurchase?

Yes

The Overall Score: 4/5

Have you tried any of the Organic Surge Fresh Ocean Light Body Lotion? What are your thoughts? 

Sita xoxo

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august empties

With the month coming to an end, it can only mean two things...payday and empties time!

1. Nivea Daily Essentials Light Moisturising Cream 
This is one product I'm going to miss because its great. Absorbs into the skin well it's not greasy, moisturised my skin and did not break me. If that's not enough it's really cheap! I usually bought it for £2 when it was on promotion.  I have done a full review if you are interested.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

2. Philosophy Holly Berry Bubble Bath 
This bubble bath was okay. It's a rather large bottle so takes an absolute age to finish. It bubbled up well but the formula is not at all moisturising. It's a limited edition Christmas scent so don't think I could get it any more even if I wanted to...which I don't.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

3. Elizabeth Arden Matte Moisture Lotion
This cream wasn't particularly moisturising. It would probably work better on someone with oily skin. It is also rather expensive for what it is so wouldn't get it again.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

4. No7 So Strong Nail Polish 
Hoorah I have been working on this product since I started the project so I'm glad to finally have it out of my life. There's still a little bit left at the bottom but its rather difficult to get out with the brush so I'm calling it a day. The actual product was just like a clear nail polish. I felt it din't make my nails and stronger.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

5. Clarins Wonder Perfect Mascara
I enjoyed using this mascara. The mascara made a noticeable difference in the length and the volume of my lashes. However I won't be purchasing a full size as I am moving towards cruelty-free and natural products.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No

6/7. D&G Perfume samples in 1 and 18
I have numerous perfume samples to get through and I am glad to have one less. These I believe smelt quite pleasant, although I can't quite recall what either of them smelt like...guess I won't be running out to repurchase.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

8. Organic Surge Kiss and Makeup Cleansing Wipes
I'm sure you are getting tired of hearing about these cleansing wipes but they are past the expiry date so I'm using them as cleaning wipes! I bought them in June online as they had been reduced to 88p but when they arrived I noticed that the expiry date was July 2013! Making it clear why they were only 88p!
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Repurchase: No 

New Counts! (Combined count for myself and Radha) 

Previous Skincare Total: 106

New Skincare Total:  100

Previous Makeup Total: 162

New Makeup Total: 160

What products did you get through this month? If you did an empties post this month share it in the comments below :) 

Sita xoxo

july empties

In this post I'm sharing with you the products I've used up during the second half of July. I can't quite believe that we're in August already! This year seems to be whizzing by! Anyway let's get into the empties...

1. No7 Total Renewal Microdermabrasion Body Exfoliator 
This is an okay exfoliator, however I'm not a fan of the texture. I prefer exfoliators that are more moisturising and leave that thin oily residue behind. If however you don't like that then this exfoliator may be for you!
Cruelty-Free: No 
Repurchase: No 

2. The Body Shop Cucumber Freshening Water 
This toner worked okay. It did not break me out or irritate my skin, however it did not perform any miracles. Sometimes I feel like toners don't really do much and if I left it out of my skincare routine there would be no difference.
Cruelty-Free: Yes (Owned by Loreal who do test on animals) 
Repurchase: No 

3. The Body Shop Pomegranate Hydrating Body Spray 
I really enjoyed using this pomegranate spray, I loved the scent and I liked using this as an alternative to body lotion on hot sticky days! This product is also cooling and refreshing perfect to spray over yourself after a day out in the sun. I have reused the bottle and made my own natural version of the body spray.
Cruelty-Free: Yes (Owned by Loreal who do test on animals) 
Repurchase: No 

4. Crabtree & Evelyn Hand Therapy 
I enjoyed using this hand cream. The cream is a lovely consistently and absorbs into the skin well without leaving it greasy. It feels rich and luxurious to use. Although I have to say I'm not a big fan of the packaging as it gets rather disfigured as you use the product up.
Cruelty-Free: Yes 
Repurchase: No 

5. D&G 6 Perfume Sample 
I have numerous perfume samples to get through and I am glad to have one less. This one smelt quite pleasant and did it's job although I'm in no hurry to rush out and purchase it.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

6. Aveeno Positively Luminous Eye Cream 
This eye cream kept my under eye area hydrated, however I did not notice it make any different on my dark circles. I won't be repurchasing.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

7. BareVitamins Skin Rev-er Upper 
I have had this product sitting around for ages, it came in my Bare Minerals foundation started kit. So I am glad to have used it up. It did not break me out but I don't think it made much difference to my skin either.
Cruelty-Free: Yes (Owned by Shiseido who do test on animals) 
Repurchase: No 

8. Cowshed Baby Organics Milky Body Lotion 
This baby lotion kept my skin moisturised my skin although I was not a fan of the scent. I am however interested to try other cowshed products. I like that the products are free from parabens, petrochemicals, sulphates and artificial colours. I also like that the product is suitable for vegetarians.
Cruelty-Free: Yes 
Repurchase: No 

New Counts! (Combined count for myself and Radha) 

Previous Skincare Total: 114

New Skincare Total:  106

Previous Makeup Total: 162

New Makeup Total: 162

What products did you get through this month? If you did an empties post this month share it in the comments below :) 

Sita xoxo

mid-july empties video

This is a video featuring all the products I've used up during the first half of July! If you prefer reading blog posts to watching a video then you can find the accompanying blog post here.

Sita xoxo

summer essentials tag

Hi guys!

I was tagged to share my top ten summer essentials, so that's exactly what I've done in this video!

Because I'm transitioning to cruelty-free, veggie and natural products rather than share specific products, I've shared product types rather than specific products.

I would love to know what your top summer essentials are and get some recommendations on some new products to try out, so be sure to leave them in the comments below.

Sita xoxo 

makeup purge youtube video

Hope your having a lovely weekend. The sun is out and the weather is absolutely gorgeous where I am which always puts me in a good mood!

Just wanted to share with you guys my accompanying video to the Makeup Purge Post I did yesterday!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Sita xoxo 

makeup purge!

It seems as though summer has finally arrived, and with the change of season comes a clear out. I'm definitely the type of person that likes to sort through things in drifts and drabs. I'm a bit of a hoarder and never one to throw away a huge amount of stuff.

I am trying to go through all my stuff (and am not just talking about cosmetics) and try to get rid of a few bits and pieces every time. I have way too much stuff, and it's just creating stress! 

Anyway getting back to today's post, here are a few items I'm getting rid off! 

1. Bourjois  3D Max Effect Lipgloss in Rose Gold 
I did try using this lipgloss up, but it's a bit too glittery for my liking. I have plenty of other lip products to get through and so instead of making myself use this up, I'm going to let it go.

2. Too Faced Like a Virgin Palette 
This palette was a gift from a friend for my 19th Birthday, it's rather sentimental to me as it was my first eye-shadow palette and I've been holding on to it for that reason. However it's around 7-8 years old and no doubt full of bacteria so I have to let it go. The palette was well loved and the eye-shadows were beautiful colours. Too faced are a cruelty-free brand and I would recommend their eye-shadows.

3. The Body Shop Eyes and Cheek Palette in No 1 
This palette contains quite cool toned shadows, which don't suit my warm toned skin tone so I have decided to pass it on to a friend that will give this palette some more love!

4. Umberto Giannini Instant Makeover Beauty Spray 
This hair product does absolutley nothing for my hair, aside from making it greasy sooner! I don't want to continue spraying to just for the sake of using it up so i'm going to let it go.

5. Unlabelled Sunscreen 
This sunscreen has separated so i'm throwing it away!

6. Bionsen Illuminating Tonic Lotion 
I  bought this product thinking it was a body lotion, once home I realised it was a toner and it's been sitting on my shelf unused for the past few years. I'm a bit scared to put it on my skin as the product is rather old and I don't want it to break me out.

7. Nivea Visage Pure & Natural Cleansing Toner 
My skin has been breaking out more recently. The products I have changed up in my skincare routine is adding this toner, as well as the cleanser from this skincare range. I'm using the cleanser up as shower gel, but I don't have any ways to use up toner. If you have any ideas do leave them in the comments below!

Last but not least I have an item I didn't want to get rid off, but it got away from me. I managed to lose my Crabtree and Evelyn Hand therapy in Nuntucket! I'm pretty sure it fell out of my bag when I went to Bristol, because I haven't been able to find it ever since I got back, so I'm going to cross it off my list. It;s a shame because I really liked this hand cream.

New Counts! 

Previous Skincare Total: 126

New Skincare Total:  121

Previous Makeup Total: 168

New Makeup Total: 165

Sita xoxo

june empties: products i've used up

1. No7 Total Renewal Microdermabrasion Body Exfoliator 
This is an okay exfoliator, however I'm not a fan of the texture. I prefer exfoliators that are more moisturising and leave that thin oily residue behind. If however you don't like that then this exfoliator may be for you!
Cruelty-Free: No 
Repurchase: No 

2. The Body Shop Strawberry Shower Gel and Body Lotion

The strawberry scent is fresh and fruity making it perfect for summer. I like to move away from body butters in the summer, as they are rather thick and greasy, so the body lotion is nice and light but still keeps your skin hydrated.
Cruelty-Free: Yes (Owned by Loreal who do test on animals) 
Repurchase: No 

3. + 4. Project D Foot Cream and Body Wash 
I have had a few of these mini's in my previous empties, and I don't like these products. I feel that they are low quality. All the different creams foot/hand/body seem the same except labelled different!
Cruelty-Free: Unsure  
Repurchase: No 

5. The White Company Shower Gel 

I actually picked up this shower gel from a hotel stay, however you can buy white company products from Boots. It does the job but it didn't blow me away!  

Cruelty-Free: Unsure  
Repurchase: No 

6. The Body Shop Coconut Shimmer Body Butter 

I love the body shop body butters however this particular shimmer one I don't like whatsoever. The body butter contains way too much glitter for my liking and makes me feel like a glitter ball. Even if I din't apply it for a few days I still managed to find glitter on myself! Furthermore the glitter gets transferred to your clothes which is rather annoying. I have had this product for years and am so glad to have finally finished it up. 

Cruelty-Free: Yes (Owned by Loreal who do test on animals) 
Repurchase: No 

7. Organic Surge Kiss and Makeup Cleansing Wipes
These wipes were okay. They had a strong chemically scent which I didn't like. The plus point about these were they stayed wet till the bottom one. I have another couple of packets to get through  because I stocked up whilst they were on sale for 88p last month. However I will have to use them as cleaning wipes as when they arrived I noticed the expiry date was July 2013..no wonder they were on sale!
Cruelty-Free: Yes 
Repurchase: No 

8. Soap & Glory Handfood 
A lot of people rave about this handcream but I don't see why. I loved the soap and glory scent originally but then it got to sickeningly sweet for me. I feel that the handcream is not particularly moisturising as I have to reapply during the day. This product is suitable for vegans.
Cruelty-Free: Yes 
Repurchase: No 

9. St Ives Apricot Scrub 

I have normal to dry skin, however it has been a little more oily lately. I found this scrub a bit too harsh for my skin type but I know a lot of people really love this product so its one you have to really try out yourself.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

10. Korres Milk Protein Cleansing Wipes 
I enjoyed using these wipes as they were a textured wipe and nice quality. They worked well but I did find that they started to dry up towards the end.
Cruelty-Free: No
Repurchase: No 

11. Cargo Lash Activator Mascara 

I really liked this mascara, It did a good job at lengthening my lashes and wasn't to difficult to take off! However I want to move towards more natural products so I won't be repurchasing. 

Cruelty-Free: Yes 
Repurchase: No 

Time for the Count! 

Previous Skincare Total: 136

New Skincare Total: 126 

Previous Makeup Total: 169

New Makeup Total: 168 

Slowly but surely we are making progress! 

Let me know in the comments what products you finished up this month or feel free to leave a link to your empties post. 

Sita xoxo 

sukin natural deodorant review

In this post I shall be reviewing the Sukin Natural Deodorant. I bought this product at the Bristol VegFest and have been using it for just under a month now. 

The Claims

This aluminium free and paraben free deodorant eliminates the bacteria that causes odour without using harsh ingredients. A delicate blend of tangerine, mandarin and lavender oils, combined with vanilla extract will leave you smelling and feeling fresh and clean.

The Ingredients
Aqua, Aloe Barbadenis Leaf Juice, Alcohol, Sinc Phenosulphate, Ceteareth-20, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract, Articum Lappa (Burdock) Extract, Euisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Extract, Citrue Tangerina (Tangerin) Peel Oil, Ctrus Nobolis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavendar) Oil, Vanillin, Vanilla Planifolia Extract, Linalool*, Limonene*
*Natural component of essential oils. 

The Reality

Deodorant was the one thing that I was rather apprehensive about when making the transition to cruelty-free, vegan and natural cosmetics.The Sukin Natural Deodorant has quickly dismissed my concerns.

I've never said this about a deodorant before but this deodorant smells just gorgeous. The blend blend of tangerine, mandarin, vanilla and lavender is so fresh, without being overpowering. Furthermore it keeps me odour free. On a cold day I can get away with just one application in the morning, on a warmer day I do need to reapply at least once if not twice dependent on my activities.

At first I wasn't sure how much to apply, so going with the logical more is better approach sprayed about ten sprays only to find that the liquid was rolling down my underarms. So just a heads up a few sprays is enough!

After application you do need to wait for a few minutes for the product to dry and absorb into your skin, as initially it can feel a bit sticky.

I had no issues with the Sukin natural deodorant transferring onto my clothes..No white marks!

The deodorant does not irritate my skin at all, even after shaving. As a side note this product does contain essential oils which can irritate or cause a reaction on some people, so I would avoid this product if this happens to you. Another precaution is if you are pregnant then some essential oils are best avoided so seek advice on this before using this product.

It has to be said, the price is rather on the high side. For someone that usually pay's £1.50 for a deodorant you can see how £8.12 can be considered a bit steep!

I did input all the info for this deodorant into the EWG skin deep report builder, and the product scores a 4. This is a moderate hazard rating. I'm personally okay with this as compared to my previous toxin filled deodorant this is much better.

Although just out of curiosity I would like to try out other products and see what's out there...who knows I may find something better! If not then I will definitely repurchase the Sukin Natural Deodorant.

The Packaging
I like that this deodorant comes in a spray bottle because I do prefer spray deodorants to roll ons.

The Price
Cress UK: £8.12

The Ultimate Question: Would I Repurchase?
Yes

The Overall Score: 4/5 

Have you tried the Sukin Natural Deodorant? What are your thoughts? 

Sita xoxo

products i've used up: mid-june empties

1. Origins Ginger Burst Shower Gel
I initially really liked this shower gel. The scent is nice especially for winter and it is thick, creamy and moisturising. However at £18 for 200ml it is rather on the expensive, and there are plenty of cheaper alternatives that do the same job.

Cruelty Free : No

Repurchase: No

2. The Body Shop Sweet Lemon Body Butter
I do love The Body Shop Body Butters however I'm not a fan of this particular one as I find the scent to overpowering. I have a full review over here.

Cruelty Free : Yes (Parent company Loreal conducts animal testing) 

Repurchase: No

3. The White Company Hand & Body Lotion
This was a lotion I picked up from a hotel stay, it was an okay lotion, nothing special.

Cruelty Free : Unsure

Repurchase: No

4. Sure Crystal Clear Diamond 48hr Anti-Perspirant
This deodorant works really well for me and I have purchased it time and time again. However this will be the last bottle as it is not cruelty-free and full of aluminium and other chemicals. I'm actually using the Sukin Natural Deodorant instead and a review on that will be coming up shortly.

Cruelty Free : No

Repurchase: No

5. Nivea Calm & Care Deodorant
This deodorant on the other hand I do not like at all. I've been working to use it up for ages now and I'm so glad to have finally finished it! You can read my full review here.

Cruelty Free : No

Repurchase: No

6. The Body Shop Brazil Nut Body Scrub
This is a lovely body scrub, it is exfoliates well and is also very moisturising. After I use it my skin is left  feeling so soft and smooth. I could ramble on about hoe good it is for ages but you can read my full review here if your interested. I need to find a natural alternative which is just as good.

Cruelty Free : Yes (Parent company Loreal conducts animal testing) 

Repurchase: No

7. Nivea Lip Care
This lap balm was nice, it was moisturising and I like the packaging. I really don't like lip balms in tubs, and having to dip my finger into it.

Cruelty Free : No

Repurchase: No

8. Unbranded Lip Balm
I didn't particularly like this lip balm, it was okay but it was a bit hard and I'm glad it is finished up.

Cruelty Free : Unsure 

Repurchase: No

So with the empties done it's time to update the numbers...

Previous Skincare Total: 133 

New Skincare Total: 136 

Previous Makeup Total: 169

New Makeup Total: 169 

On this occasion the skincare total has actually increased because we have made a few purchases. (eleven items added to the total from our organic surge haul) However all the new products that we have bought are all cruelty-free, veggie and natural. 

This time we didn't use up any makeup items. On a positive note it has been a month since we started this transition and we have bought no new make-up products in that time. We shall not be buying any new makeup until we have gone through our existing products. Although it seems like it's going to take a lifetime to finish all the products we have! Sometimes we just feel like chucking everything out and starting again.

Have you made the transition to go cruelty-free, veggie, natural or all three like we are doing? Any words of wisdom? 

Sita & Radha xoxo