Quarnero - Scent of the Mediterranean Face & Body Oils: Refresh, Relax, Sensual & Spirit

Remember those relaxing and soothing Quarnero’s Fleur de Sel Relax Bath Salts? Well, today, at The Amazing Blog we’re back with more of Quarnero’s nature-inspired skincare; but this time, it’s with their set of four Mediterranean Face & Body Oils. These are ideal for uplifting mind and body; so we thought, what could be a more appropriate time to use these now we’re still in #lockdown.

As previously mentioned, Quarnero is a family based business with mother and son team, Zorica and Rešid Seferović, in the Kvarner region of Croatia. This is where they produce natural and organic face and body care. Ingredients are mainly derived from the local region where wild plants flourish in the clean air, unpolluted Adriatic shoreline and the historical landscape. Other key organic ingredients are sourced from carefully selected organic locations – such as organic cold pressed sesame oil and some of the essentials oils. They use organic and natural biodynamic plant actives combined with their time-honoured knowledge of ancient medicinal remedies to bring these unique products to life – for them it’s taking ingredients back to basics with a ‘less is more’ philosophy. All products have the prized certification from NATRUE, International Natural and Organic Cosmetics Association , an organisation committed to promoting and protecting global natural and organic cosmetics. All Quarnero products are handmade, vegan and delivered in solid, simple apothecary-style jars with Miron violet glass. Interestingly, this violet glass is scientifically proven to maintain fresh ingredients longer than clear glass. It also acts as a barrier preventing the loss of bioenergy, enzymes, smell or colour from the product stored within, making preservatives less necessary. The brand is now available in 39 countries, with six products in total, which are within the two ranges of Face & Body Oils and Bath Salts.

Quarnero’s luxury vegan and organic unisex oils featured here today are suitable for both the face and body, making them incredible multitasking oils. We were sent the full set of Scent of Mediterranean Face & Body Oils, which are: Sensual, Relax, Spirit and Refresh. They offer all-year-round skin nourishment as each one contains a combination of pure bio-organic plant actives in the oils with a base of organic cold-pressed sesame oil. These ingredients are non-greasy, quick to absorb and designed to primarily help regenerate, soothe and protect the skin, emitting their unique Quarnero ‘Scent of the Mediterranean’ fragrance. The carrier oil in each is the cold-pressed sesame oil which is an excellent choice, as it doesn’t interfere with the essential oil’s therapeutic properties and is also full of antioxidants, vitamin E and omega fatty acids. It has a natural SPF 4 for protection and best of all, it keeps the skin gently nourished. The other ingredient common in three of the oils is lavender augustifolia (lavender oil) – see our photo above. This is one of the most versatile and popular distilled essential oils and best known to promote relaxation, treat anxiety, depression and insomnia. 

Each oil in this Scent of Mediterranean Face & Body Oil range offers specific mood enhancing property. The  Sensual emits softness and warmth with the cananga odorata (ylang-ylang) blended with delicate camellia oil, citrus essential oil; this will relax tense muscles, eliminate stress and anxiety, uplift and stimulate awakening sensuality. The Relax has an impressive combination of rosemary, lavender, geranium leaf and bergamot to relieve tired and irritated skin from negative environmental factors.It is also recommended for massaging into the body as an anti-cellulite treatment to aid with lymphatic drainage and make skin smoother. Spirit has a blend of excellent regenerative properties; these include rosemary, lavender, lemon and bergamot, which refresh the skin with a slightly zesty fragrance. This also has a stimulating effect on mood and we found it inspired in us a more optimistic outlook. Finally, the Refresh is a fusion of tangerine, lavender and mentha piperita leaf (peppermint). This mix has cooling and soothing characteristics, and when inhaled gave a feeling of elevated calm.

So, where to begin? We started by opening each of the four bottles in turn. Whichever one we instinctively felt most drawn to, we then applied. This was directly onto damp skin after an evening shower or bath. We recommend decanting the oils into a 20ml glass bottle; they work best warmed up bain-marie style, and then massaged to the skin. Left overnight the ingredients can fully absorb and work their magic. Quarnero also recommends using these oils to heal the skin after exposure to extreme cold or heat and as an added bonus, these oils are gentle enough to even be massaged into beards or the scalp. Once again, we’ve been won over by Quarnero’s skincare, where they offer their unique gifts from the earth, sun and sea and we cannot wait for to try more. To purchase Quarnero Scent of Mediterranean Face and Body oils, 100ml at €33 each, please email info@quarnero.hr for enquiries due to the online shop currently being unavailable.

Organic Island : Shell Lips Balms

How at The Amazing Blog, we wish it was summer - oh to be walking barefoot along the beach, without a care in the world…  Well, what if we told you that there’s a product that could bring back some of those distant memories?  See the above pretty Shell Lip Balms, housed inside recycled shells which have been washed up on the Australian shores. These contain yet another of Organic Island’s organic raw plant-based balms. Recently, you may remember we featured their PAWPAW Multi Balm here.

Organic Island is an organic Australian skincare launched in 2006 by Mark Powers. The company ethos is to produce honest organic cosmetics and skincare all with advanced technology. With their patented formulas of Si02 Matrix, OliveM 1000 and Lexfeel Natural, Organic Island is an established and multi-award winning brand. They also have the much acclaimed ACO (Australian Certified Organic) and BDIH Germany certification, which are two of the most highly-regarded global commissions. Receiving these accreditation, means that their products only contain organic, raw plant and mineral-based formulas, and ensures a purity of ingredients. Organic Island also states that the only preservative they use in their Shell Lip Balms is vitamin E.

These Shell Lip Balms are made using only 100% recycled beach shells; they collect the washed-up shells, cleaning with sandblasting and water pressure - Organic Island does it all. Every shell is unique, and there are six different types of shells to choose from. Our favourites are the select four, that have a handy mirror tucked inside. We received the full set of six shells to try, which consist of the White Pearl and Turquoise which are a small and compact size. The medium ones are Mocha and Oriental Fan; and largest are Tiger Crown and White Frangipani. Inside all six shells is the organic, silky and moisturising balm which contains only eight organic ingredients. The rosehip oil is packed with essential fatty acid vitamins and antioxidants, which help improve skin hydration and repair dry, damaged skin. Coconut oil contains anti-fungal and antibacterial properties help prevent irritation, making it an excellent skin emollient; and the macadamia oil protects the lips from environmental damage. There is also jojoba oil, lanolin wax, beeswax, vitamin E, and mango seed butter; these all work together to deliver a nourishing and soothing salve. The formula is made up of only natural emollients and has no artificial ingredients i.e. parabens, sulphates, artificial colours, fragrances or petrochemicals. Although, for now, we can’t have our sunshine getaway, we can at least reminisce using one of these seaside inspired beauties. Why not choose your favourite shell for £12.99 here. Each one comes with it’s own a protective cotton pouch, and if you buy two, you get another one free!

Amai Hana: Silky Skin Serum G1 Bio and Mousse Lift H2 Bio Day Cream

Today at The Amazing Blog,  we’re featuring another award-winning natural skincare brand that has caught our eye. However, this time its with biocosmetic phytotherapy formulas. We’d like to introduce Amai Hana with their Silky Skin Serum G1 Bio and Mousse Lift H2 Bio day cream.

Amai Hana is based in Barcelona and produces 100% natural formulas using aromatherapy and phytotherapy principles. They practice biocosmetic phytotherapy which is a science-based medical practice, with traditional medical herbalism; these use vegetal origin products to help prevent, heal and cure. The brand was launched in 2019 by Susanna Asensio, who has a master's degree in phytotherapy and a degree in chemical sciences, specialising in the formulation and synthesis of organic and pharmaceutical compounds. Amai Hana's philosophy is to promote vegetarianism values, responsibility, sustainability, conscious consumption, respect for oneself, the animal world and the environment - quite a list! Each product is handmade with 100% natural plant actives, cruelty-free and offered at affordable prices. Their products range from serums, balms, massage oils, creams and soaps. They are packaged in pharmaceutical-grade containers and are presented in natural eco-cotton bags.

We were given two product to try from Amai Hana: The Silky Skin Serum G1 Bio  and the Mousse Lift H2 Bio Day Cream. Let’s start with the Silky Skin Serum GI Bio, Amai Hana's best-selling hero product, and a recent Bronze winner at the 2020 Scandinavian Global Makeup Awards. Its recommended for the face, neck and décolletage as an anti-wrinkle, regenerating and firming treatment. The main ingredient here is centella asiatica extract (see photo above) which stimulates collagen production and has madecassoside an active compound potent with antioxidant and a rich source of amino acids. The lavender, rosewood and geranium essential oils work as anti-inflammatory agents to moisturise and regenerate dry, damaged, and inflamed skin. These oils inspire feelings of relaxation, calm and well-being - effectively reducing stress and anxiety. We found it to be an excellent serum for daily use and when applied, we found that a little goes a long way. They recommend using on clean dry skin both morning and night. Amai Hana tells us that with use, softer and more hydrated skin will be evident in 7-19 days. This Silky Skin Serum left our skin feeling smooth, firm, and rejuvenated; and when we inhaled its soothing botanical scent, it had the added benefit of making us feel less stressed! 

Next, we used the Mousse Lift H2 Bio Day Cream, this provides rich nutrition and was recently a Gold winner (in the awards as mentioned above). This Day Cream works as a gentle astringent and antioxidant acting to close large pores and tightens the skin, making it firmer and brighter. The other big plus here, is that it also claims to reduce dark circles around the eye area. The key ingredient is  witch hazel hydrolate for its tightening and lifting effect. Whereas the macadamia oil here regenerates and softens the skin. It also has the essential oils geranium, frankincense, and rosewood; the combination of which, promote cell regeneration, regulates sebum and stimulate the skin’s collagen natural production. The formula is so gentle, that they recommend using this Day Cream to treat acne, rosacea or couperose. Simply use alone or combine it with the Silky Skin Serum to complete your beauty ritual. As we have dry skin, we used these together as they offered extra nourishment, plus firmed and lifted the skin (we notice this around the neck area). To purchase Silky Skin Serum G1 Bio in 30ml for €23.99, see here, or to buy the Mousse Lift H2 Bio Day Cream in 60ml for €27.99, see here.

Cannabina – CBD Bath Bomb Trio

Here at The Amazing Blog, we highly recommend soaking away 2020 and welcoming in the New Year with a nice relaxing bath, and a CBD infused Bath Bomb. Today we are featuring the deliciously scented CBD Bath Bomb Trio collection from Cannabina.

From growing up in sunny Jamaica, Cannabina’s founder Gemma McKay already had a knowledge and understanding of cannabis with all its properties and benefits. Which is why she recently launched this British brand with its hemp-based THC-free broad-spectrum CBD ingredients. These products have been created for everyone to enjoy the healing and soothing benefits of CBD. Which is where Cannabina offers a variety of CBD infused items from bath bombs and skincare to tinctures and edibles. McKay’s passion and interest in cannabis are the motivating factors behind the brand’s mission to improve the quality of life for their consumer, through this incredible plant's relieving and healing properties. Cannabina is an all-natural CBD brand where the products are free from harmful chemicals, pesticides, solvent residues, chlorophyll, fats and lipids. There are no preservatives, sulphates, mineral oils, parabens, artificial colouring, flavours or perfumes. The brand’s products are also cruelty-free and are tested and certified by both US and UK laboratories. Cannabina also has a strong sustainability ethos with its recycling and asks customers to return their product empties, for which they are rewarded with a 5% discount on further purchases.

The CBD Bath Bomb Trio is a collection of all three bath bombs. Each contains 100mg of broad-spectrum CBD and Epsom salts and are formulated with a specific combination of essential oils for a specific purpose. Let’s start with our favourite; this was the Purple CBD Bath Bomb we used this bath bomb when we were feeling particularly restless and wanted to soak-out a stressful day. With key ingredients of lavender flowers and oil, we knew we’d get a good night’s sleep. It dispersed slowly into the bath and filled the room with a glorious scent that left us feeling relaxed and aided towards a good solid seven hours sleep. Next, the Red CBD Bath Bomb which they described as ‘sensual’. It’s made of ylang-ylang, patchouli, rose geranium and orange essential oils. Ylang-ylang is known to calm the nervous system and offers a feeling of euphoria. Patchouli helps boost circulation and has a soothing effect on both the body and mind. Orange helps ease muscle pain and is also considered an aphrodisiac. Whereas rose geranium is often used to treat anxiety, depression and insomnia. There were rose petals that floated in the water when this bath bomb dissolved and the four oils when combined offered a sweet slightly fruit/rose floral scent - we’d say that this is mood-enhancing and relaxing. The third Bath Bomb is the Yellow CBD Bath Bomb which comprises of cypress, lavender, chamomile and lemongrass essential oils. Cypress has strong antiseptic qualities, lavender is relaxing, chamomile an anti-inflammatory and lemongrass relieves aches and pains. It has a robust, zesty lemongrass/cypress scent, where we found it more invigorating than relaxing. We think it’s best used after a run or a hard session at the gym with its great anti-inflammatory qualities. 

Quickly added, all three of these Bath Bombs are designed to ease tension in the body.  The Epsom salts found in each Bath Bomb are not ‘salts’ they are comprised of magnesium sulphate and oxygen. Magnesium plays a number of roles in the body, including regulating over 325 enzymes, reducing inflammation, helping muscle and nerve function, and prevents hardening of the arteries. Sulphates improve the absorption of nutrients, flush out toxins and soothes headaches. As a rule, we don’t consume enough magnesium in our diet, and these Bath Bombs release a good ratio of magnesium ion as well as CBD and essentials oils. Which when combined in these Bath Bombs and melted into the bath, are then absorbed into the body helping stimulate its healing process. We highly recommend giving these a try, not only will your bathroom smell amazing, but your body will unwind into a state of blissful tranquillity. The CBD Bath Bomb Trio are each 200mg, and you can buy them here for £20.00.

Jones & Modha: no. 1 Eau de Parfum

It’s December already – time really does fly by at The Amazing Blog, and we’ll all be happy to see the back of this terrible year... As we come in and out and in again with the lockdown.  To our horror, we’ve suddenly realised that there’s very little time left to find our Christmas presents. So for December, we’ll be giving you some great gifting ideas starting with today’s natural plant alchemy fragrance from Jones & Modha, which we think is just perfect for helping make life a little more fragrant!

The brand Jones & Modha are all about returning to natural plant alchemy, the ancient ways of perfume making. This is done very simply by blending only the purest essential oils from plants, without any synthetic or animal substances. Co-founders and friends Catrin MacDonnell and Hemali Modha who recently launched the brand said: “For too long there has been so little choice for anyone who loves our planet. Things are changing and more of us are searching for eco-harmony and integrity within the health and beauty industry. We wanted a natural scent that is not tested on animals, does not use any animal-derived ingredients.” With very little of this available, they decided to create their own with Jones & Modha. Their aim with this range is to offer the world unique scents that are mindful of people, animals and the planet all without compromise. Their fragrances are designed and crafted using exclusively natural essential oils, leaving out all chemical and animal-derivatives that are usually found in commercially manufactured perfumes. As sustainability is important to the brand they also paid much attention to the packaging, ensuring that no extra plastic or cellophane is ever used. Each component is recyclable or has a low carbon footprint by minimising travel and the use of fossil resources. We love that they also donate 2.5% of their profits to environmental charities. Something else that convinced us to try their fragrance, is that this perfume is gender-neutral, and so we agree with Catrin and Hemali who say: “Why should anyone be allowed to tell us which perfume we should buy based on gender?”

For its first perfume launch, the Jones & Modha No.1, brings us a fresh, uplifting and comforting sunny fragrance; we think it’s perfect for any city dwellers dreaming of an escape to the country. At first, it has citrusy top notes like lemon myrtle and bergamot giving a very fresh and elevating feel, but shortly afterwards these become less citrus and more spicy/floral with the middle notes of rose geranium, linden, ginger, and coriander in the blend; finishing with the woody base notes of cedarwood and rock rose, balancing the fragrance. This scent is quite long-lasting, and even though Jones & Modha only offer this one fragrance, for now, this certainly has a bigger enough scent personality to be a staring standalone. Each of us who tried the scent found it unique and different, meaning that it didn’t smell identical on any one of us. This complex blend combined with an individual’s skin scent created a unique and personal fresh fragrance that we all loved! This 50ml planet-friendly fragrance comes in an elegant but minimalist and completely recyclable packaging designed by artist Judith Archer, and is available for £69.00 here. What could be a more perfect and individual present, than to give this to your loved one?