AMAZINC! Skincare - Mineral Sunscreen, Lip Balm and Mineral Shield

As regular readers will know we’re always preaching about sun awareness.  Particularly with the erosion of the ozone layer and the planet heating up… Today we’d like to talk about a mineral-based sunscreen and block. AMAZINC! Skincare is a sun care range that provides high protection and is made for those who have an active lifestyle and who want to indulge in a bit of surfing or other water-based fun.

This Czech brand AMAZINC! Skincare, launched in 2015 by Jan Kostelnik and Stepan Martinek, whose vision was to create a natural sunscreen and block that was not only functional but also kind to the environment.  What sets this apart from other suncare brands is that it has been created by a team of nature lovers who regularly hike in the mountains and surf the oceans – so they knew that there was a gap in the market and what was needed. We like that they have no nasties in their formulas, as we’ve found that many of the high street sun protection products have chemical formulations that are dangerous for marine life and corals (check out your regular sunscreen's ingredients here). These chemicals pollute playgrounds, mountains and oceans with compounds that destroy the environment. A quick run-through on the main chemical to look, oxybenzone is the one that harms marine life and is known as one of the most toxic ingredients in the cosmetic industry. This has proved to be deadly when in contact with marine life and wildlife in general, where It creates reef bleaching that causes the death of the coral. Something we didn’t know, is that non coated nanoparticles of zinc oxide or titanium oxide aren’t any better either! AMAZINC! ensures that these chemical compounds are not found in any of its products and helps to raise awareness around this. Their products are mainly vegan and also have plastic and chemical-free packaging (reusable aluminium bottles, tins and cardboard tubes). Also, as an environmentally aware company, they’re on a mission to help educate their customers too.

We tried the Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50, which offers a high level of protection with only mineral filters and natural ingredients, making it a nature-friendly form of sun protection. The key ingredients include almond oil that protects the skin from the UV as well as reversing any damage. It also has jojoba oil a popular ingredient in natural sunscreen products with vitamin E which when combined with other antioxidants such as those found in olive oil, protects the skin from sun damage; these will stop skin dehydration or flaking. This product is also rich in zinc oxide, a topical skin product that is used as a protective coating also used for mild skin irritations or abrasions as it speeds up healing. Finally, the triticum vulgare germ oil here is to relieve dryness.  This natural mineral sunscreen has a subtle sweet almond fragrance. We used this as a one-off application, out sailing all day with hot sun and the reflections from the sea, and when we returned to land there wasn’t even the slightest bit of redness in sight! I would advise that this Is not suitable for those who are wishing to pose on the beach topping up their tan, as this Mineral Sunscreen does leave a white residue (from the zinc/titanium oxide). However, it’s perfect for the action-packed adventurer who just wants one application and to go.  This Mineral Sunscreen you can find in 150ml here for €24.95.

Next is their natural Lip Balm this is rich in natural emulsifiers which help to retain moisture, making it ideal dry or chapped lips. We found it very smooth to apply and unusually long-lasting. There’s jojoba oil, rich in vitamin B and E and essential minerals like zinc that will make your lips soft. The almond oil here will does wonders for the lips keeping them hydrated and rejuvenate. The antioxidant properties in the olive oil condition and protect lips from drying out. The texture is balm-like and waxy and the vanilla planifolia fruit extract not only adds to the fragrance and taste but has antioxidant benefits and skin-soothing agents. This Lip Balm does not contain sun protection – so please bear this in mind. It’s perfect for carrying in your pocket all year round to provide a lip pick-me-up. You can find it here in a generous 30g for €12.25.

Last but not least, is the Mineral Shield which has 17.5g of essential zinc cream that comes in four colours. This sunblock offers full UV protection and is easy to apply/remove and yet is highly water-resistant. They have perfected this formula with their Mineral Shield compound with a mix of zinc oxide, magnesium oxide and kaolin. The combination of these natural ingredients will provide nature-friendly and sustainable sun protection. They say it’s for applying to on the face and lips, we think it’s also ideal for covering up and protecting any suspicious moles or skin damage. We like that this Mineral Shield does not get washed away, it stays put until you wipe it off. The blend contains bee wax which works as a natural binder, stabiliser and skin-conditioner, and is often used as a topical, non-allergenic sunscreen ingredient to condition and repair. It also contains olive oil and lanolin (wool fat) so this product is not vegan! It’s a great little full sunblock, ideal to keep on hand in case you need some serious cover-up. You can find it here for €11.95. 

We’re impressed with this sun care range and certainly put it to full use. What would we order more of? Both the AMAZINC! Mineral Shield to dab on moles and the Lip Balm as we loved the taste and texture.

Elo Cosmetics - Hydra Derm Clay Mask, Soothing Lavender Mist & Hand & Body Moisturizer

At The Amazing Blog, we find that simplicity is best, and that’s why today we’ve chosen to talk about an indie vegan skincare that contains only a few simple key ingredients. Meet the Canadian-French brand Elo Cosmetics who pride themselves on being ‘the new face of vegan skincare’. 

Elo Cosmetics was born from a challenge when the two founders Elodie and Luis took up a ‘pas cap’ contest.  As devout vegans, they would try to outdo each other, by finding beauty products with the purest vegan ingredients that mirrored their values, but also didn’t have a long list of ingredients, that they had to decipher! Having drawn a blank in finding their perfect products, this prompted them to create their own natural and 100% vegan skincare and cosmetics, partnering with a Canadian formulator to help develop their range. They are all about keeping it simple, from the branding to the ingredients.

We were sent three of their skincare products. The first is one of their three clay masks, the Hydra-derm Clay Mask which has its key ingredient of kaolin clay, rich in vitamins, minerals, silica and offers a neutral pH balance. This ultra-hydrating face mask will both nourish and remove impurities from the skin balancing the hydration and leaving it smoother, softer and more supple. The clay helps to remove sebum from the skin's surface and has a calming effect on any inflamed breakouts. It also contains vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant protecting skin from damage caused by free radicals. This pale green mask has the addition of avocado oil, rich in protein and fatty acids as well as vitamins A, D, and E which protect and also increase collagen production. The grapeseed oil is high in omega-6 fatty acid, fortifying the skin's barrier aiding the reduction of water loss. While other ingredients such as almond oil reduces puffiness and under-eye circles and the chamomile, has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Finally, the aloe vera will moisturise the skin, boost healing and fighting skin ageing. This clay mask is a powerhouse of antioxidants and ideal for revitalising and hydrating the complexion. We used it in the evening, applying it to the face for 10-15 minutes then rinsing off in warm water, it gave us silky soft skin. You can find it here for $21.99.

Following the face mask, we used the Soothing Lavender Mist, again, this is one of three face mists from their range. This nourishing mist will soothe irritated skin and detoxify; it will moisturise helping to regenerate and repair cells, offering a healthier-looking complexion. The lavender, besides having anti-inflammatory properties it will calm dry skin. The blend has the deep hydrator aloe vera and chamomile (properties discussed in the above paragraph). The cucumber here will detoxify the skin and boost elasticity and decrease water loss. Say goodbye to inflammations and skin breakouts with this mist! This subtly fragranced lavender mist has hyaluronic acid, providing excellent hydration which in turn improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Finally, there is vitamin C that will even out skin tone and resveratrol to brighten tired-looking complexions and minimising any redness. This Soothing Lavender Mist we used to freshen up the skin not only after using the face mask but throughout the day. What we love is that this will combat free radical damage and enhance collagen production. The Soothing Lavender Mist can be found here for $23.99.

We’re saving our favourite until last, the Hand & Body Moisturizer. This is a non-greasy and rich lotion that quickly absorbs into the skin.  Its fragrance is a delicate, a combination of green tea and chamomile. It has a high concentrate of aloe vera that will instantly heal dry skin and help to reverse any sun damage. We used it on the face, hands and body, which left us with a velvety soft skin, we think this is a great multitasker and one to take for a weekend away when luggage has to be kept to bare a minimum. it’s designed to keep skin radiant, smooth and deeply nourished as well as counteracting the effect of pollution. The benefits of the green tea here are as an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. The matricaria flower extract, (aka chamomile) is a natural healer and contains tannic acid for skin calming. Finally, the lanolin oil (which we presume is sourced from plant butter not wool?) is known to be an emollient or balm which restores water loss and soothes dehydrated skin. This product, in particular, was a hit with us all and you can find this Hand & Body Moisturizer lotion here for $19.99. 

We’d also love to try their cosmetics range of vegan eyeshadows and glitters – which we think would be perfect for the forthcoming winter months and party season ahead.

Puritx - Superior Hand Sanitisers

In this new strange world of COVID-19, none of us at TheAmazingBlog leave home without some sort of hand sanitiser tucked away in a pocket. However, knowing how we all like to use natural products, finding a hand sanitiser that has 99% natural ingredients has proved tricky to find – until now. Meet Puritx and their deliciously fragranced superior hand sanitiser.

Puritx is a brand born mid-quarantine, as their parent Canova a home fragrance company, went temporarily on hold in order to speed up the production hand sanitiser to meet the nation’s demand. Puritx’s mission is to create the most superior hand sanitiser with the finest ingredients available. Based in Herefordshire, they have produced six fragrant products that have 99% natural (29% organic) ingredients in a skin-soothing aloe vera base. All the ingredients are sourced responsibly and ethically and contain 70% ethanol alcohol from British grain. Apart from this brand being a shining light in these dark times, we love the fact that they support the local key workers by donating 20% of their production of hand sanitisers to help keep them safe.

We received two x 60ml samples to try. First the Manuka, Cedar & Grapefruit. This has a great combination of healing ingredients with the manuka honey here as the miracle worker, with its antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, studies show how it has wound-healing capabilities and tissue regeneration. Thus, it’s an effective skin barrier and helps to prevent any infection. Besides being an excellent mood lifter in aromatherapy, grapefruit essential oil also has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties too. Finally, the cedarwood in this blend is an all-natural antiseptic and known to be used topically to help combat bacterial and fungal infection. The fragrance is mellow and warm with keynotes of citrus and wood. 

Then we tried the Geranium, Lime & Peppermint. This is a refreshing blend of geranium oil which works as an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic agent and is used in natural medicine for infection and pain management. The lime oil provides both uplifting and invigorating properties together with its limonene which contributes to its cleansing ability. Then, the peppermint oil will cool, clear and refresh the surface of your skin and with its antiseptic powers help to purify your skin. The geranium is the dominant fragrance note here making it floral and revitalising. All Puritx Superior Hand Sanitisers contain aloe vera known for being a natural moisturiser helping to rehydrate dry and rough skin, as well as being a cleansing agent that will shield the skin from bacteria. Squeeze a generous amount onto dry hands, spread from fingertips over palms and back of hands. Allow it to dry for 30 seconds giving time for the aloe vera and essential oils to absorb fully.  Why not invest in these fantastically fragranced, 100% vegan and natural hand sanitisers here starting from £4.50 for 60ml.

SELF - Boost of Protection Sunscreen SPF 30

The sun is now getting lower in the autumn sky, but this doesn’t mean that the UV rays are getting any weaker! We thought we’d review a few natural SPF products in the next few weeks, as some of you may be jetting away for a quick boost of Mediterranean sunshine. As regular readers will know, we’re big on our sun protection and always try to find some of the best and most natural products to suggest. We’ve been itching to try the natural skincare SELF who has its renowned SPF 30 Boost of Protection Sunscreen.

This natural skincare brand SELF hails from Belgium and launched in 2016 by Isabelle Ulenaers. Previously a psychologist, she now juggles her life between being a mother, wife and entrepreneur. The brand story started with her daughter, who has eczema and problematic skin. None of the prescriptive creams or so-called natural skincare worked. So, Ulenaers decided to take matters in her own hands, and SELF was born. The products are suitable for all skin types and are made from a list of natural and hypoallergenic ingredients. She personally oversees every formulation from the origin of the plant to the final product, and pushes her ideas to the limit, only using certified recyclable and sustainable packaging. We think that SELF is a safe, natural, ethical and transparent skincare. A multi-award winner; with Beauty Shortlist Awards in 2016, 2017 and 2019 and Natural Health International Beauty Awards in 2019. It is a vegan, cruelty-free and every product is gentle enough for even pregnant women and babies. All SELF products are free from parabens, artificial colours and odours and other synthetic components. They chose to work with recycled materials for and currently use plastic components such as polyethylene (PE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

The Boost of Protection Sunscreen SPF30 a powerful and moisturising sunscreen, made with 100% vegan ingredients. We like that it offers optimal protection from the sun while also maintaining the moisture in the skin. Developed primarily for sensitive skin, this water-resistant sun lotion protects against UVA and UVB rays. It is very reef and environmentally friendly and contains euphorbia cerifera (candelilla) wax which helps reduce the appearance the stretch marks and signs of ageing. The avocado oil has a high percentage of vitamin E, as well as potassium, lecithin, and many other nutrients boosting in collagen levels. Which in turn, accelerates the healing process of issues like sunburn. The sesame seed oil blocks up to 75% of UV radiation and will shield and protect. The freshness of cucumber extract soothes and alleviates any pain from sunburn. It is rich in minerals, potassium and sulphur, and these ingredients cool the skin and keeping it refreshed. Finally, theobroma grandiflorum seed butter will absorb damaging UVA / UVB rays offering natural sun protection. The other ingredients such are coconut,  macadamia (palmitoleic acid), Argan oils are all full of antioxidants, vitamin E and essential fatty acids all of which are incredibly hydrating. The shea butter, has vitamins A, D and E and allantoin, an excellent moisturiser and protector against dehydration. These ingredients work as skin firming agents and is a UV protector. Then there’s aloe vera known for soothing burns, healing and boosting and protecting. Finally, there are essential oils with mandarin and geranium. Mandarin helps with both dry and oily skin, the geranium has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and cleansing properties and is remarkably effective against fungal skin infections. We love that this Boost of Protection Sunscreen is water-resistant, pH neutral and leaves no white residue. And that they claim that it is 100% safe for all sensitive skins, even for those having chemotherapy. I’ve been using this throughout the summer and it’s light, absorbs quickly, and has a very subtle natural fragrance. It’s easy to use, plus if I feel the need for applying foundation, it works brilliantly as a primer under makeup. Would I buy more? Absolutely! See here to purchase your 100ml bottle for €38.00.

IGNITE CBD - Skincare

As regular readers will know, we’re always on the lookout for new CBD brands particularly those with sublingual’s or skincare. Today, at The Amazing Blog, we’re bringing you an international CBD brand with their newly launched range of skincare. They very kindly sent us a wide selection of products from face creams, muscle rubs to body oil and bath bombs.   

Launched in the USA in September 2018, IGNITE is a global and premium CBD brand. The inspiration for the IGNITE came from its CEO, Dan Bilzerian, where IGNITE has positioned itself as the gold standard and industry expert in cannabis and CBD, supported with a premium apparel line, beverages, and now a skincare range - all for inspiring an active lifestyle. Their CEO is also best known for his extravagant parties and very public social media lifestyle.  Saying that, IGNITE is keen to be seen as a socially responsible company. It is committed to using its marketing and brand power as a positive catalyst for a healthy lifestyle. Their branding, as you would expect is slick and sexy with stylish unisex black and silver packaging. All their skincare products have no THC, as the CBD here is sourced from CBD isolate only. This means that they have a refined crystalline form CBD which is thought to be the purest and most potent form of CBD and is both tasteless and odourless. Mainly extracted from hemp, the isolate is produced by removing all other compounds found in the plant including other cannabinoids isolating the CBD.  Therefore, making these products ideal for athletes to use, without the fear of THC, if they’re randomly drug tested. The CBD isolate helps treat pain and reduces inflammation and has no psychoactive effects. All IGNITE products are vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free, with no pesticides, THC free and thoroughly tested.

As big CBD fans, we were thrilled to receive this bumper gift box with ten skincare products to review. Let’s start with the 100mg CBD Bath Bombs (Energise and Relax). The CBD level in both bath bombs is less to 0.2% (100mg). Here is shea butter, known for soothing your skin and giving a velvety texture but also treat your inflammations. The oils found here are coconut known for having antibacterial and moisturising properties, golden Argan which calms the skin, peach kernel that will give your skin a great glow. And lastly avocado rich in vitamins and fatty acids such as vitamin A, D and E and proteins, that provide the skin with protection from UV rays damage. Then the essential oils, of rosehip act as an anti-ageing ingredient whereas the pomegranate oil is a has potent anti-inflammatory.  Of course, we mustn’t forget the crucial key ingredient for Energise, is the citrus and orange oil which leaves a sense of freshness and lifts the mood. Whereas Relax, has lavender oil to help ease muscles and joint pain after a hard day’s training in the gym. IGNITE advises using one of their bath bomb every day, leaving it to fully dissolve in the bathtub before getting in, then soaking in this great mix of aromas and CBD for 30 minutes to get the best results. Both retail here at £8 each.

The IGNITE 500 mg CBD Body Oil, certainly piqued our interest. This CBD Body Oil is blended with five oils designed to fight dry skin and nourish the body. The CBD here is the healer and rejuvenator of skin cells. Mixed with grapeseed oil a powerful antioxidant, sweet almond oil for treating dry skin like eczema and psoriasis; the lavender oil known for killing bacteria and preventing acne breakouts, it also unclogs pores and reduces inflammation. This vanilla and floral-scented body oil also has the nut oil tamanu oil promotes collagen and helps to slow ageing. The fifth oil in this blend is the evening primrose oil which provides hydration and elasticity. This Madagascan Vanilla & Lavender 100ml Body Oil smells divine and applies easily. To get the best results, gently massage it into dry skin to stimulate circulation and blood flow. Apply at least once a day for £25.00 here. 

Because tattoos can hold significant meaning to those that have them, it’s essential to take care of your skin before, during and after having the procedure. Here IGNITE has launched a pot of  500g CBD Tattoo Balm. For preparation, procedure and aftercare this is the balm to have. The chamomile oil with its anti-inflammatory properties, the lavender oil reduces inflammation and redness, and the miraculous tea tree oil will ease swelling and speed up healing. The CBD isolates here also act as a healer and protector. You can find a 50ml pot here for £25.00. That brings us on to the 500mg CBD Footcare Cream, rich and silky this footcare will help soften the hard skin on your feet. The sea buckthorn oil promotes hydration, elasticity and cell regeneration. The shea butter here will hold the moisture and heal dry skin; the jojoba oil is used as a deep cleanser and moisturiser for the skin. This cream has a thick whipped consistency guaranteeing an intense foot treatment, see here for £25.00. Moving on, IGNITE also has  500 mg CBD Joint Cream and a Muscle Rub Gel both have been created to ease joint and muscle pain, particularly after exercise. The CBD here, as previously mentioned, holds anti-inflammatory properties and helps increase mobility. Theses blends are mixed with natural oils such as olive and avocado oil both of which help to speed up healing. They also contain coconut oil which is antimicrobial and reduces inflammation while keeping the skin moisturised and shea butter is an excellent skin conditioner. Plus, the camphor and menthol relieve skin irritation and gives a cooling sensation. The Muscle Rub Gel is as it says a gel, and has the addition of aloe vera which provides pain relief, it also penetrates the dermis to help lubricates the joints thanks to the hyaluronic acid. The lavender oil extract will help ease muscles boosting blood circulation and helping to reduce any stiffness or muscle discomfort at night.  The 50ml Joint Cream is here for £25.00. The 50ml Muscle Rub Gel can be found here for £25.00

Finally, we have the three skincare products for the face. The first step is the orange and grapefruit 500mg CBD Hydrating Face Serum. This formula is infused with natural oils and contains CBD isolates (which we have discussed). The grapefruit oil will detox and brighten your skin, the orange peel oil gives a healthy complexion thanks to the vitamin C. It is blended with avocado oil, great for shielding your skin against UV rays. There is retinol, a pure source of vitamin A, making this serum a rejuvenator as it will stimulate the collagen in the skin. The aloe vera leaf powder here is for hydration and skin healing;  argan, jojoba and rosehip oils will balance the skin and sebum production; and the green tea extract is full of antioxidant properties. And finally, the passion fruit extract will help with fine lines. IGNITE suggests gently dabbing this product onto cleansed skin, then after applying tap the face with fingertips to encourage the serum to penetrate to the deepest layers of the skin. You can find this refreshing anti-ageing serum here for £25.00. The second step is the 500 mg CBD Moisture Day Cream.  The key ingredients are the blackberry and ylang-ylang which will renew the skin cells and balance the pH of the skin helping to prevent any extreme dryness. The sunflower oil is rich in vitamin A, C, D and E and acts as an antioxidant. It contains shea butter which softens the skin helping to rid it of dark spots. Also rich in olive oil, hydraulic acid and green tea all known for reducing sebum oil in the skin, rejuvenating and repairing it make the skin look younger and glowing. CBD Moisture Day cream will also tighten the pores, use it every day on your face and neck for good daily hydration. Find it here for £25.00. Last but not least, in the face care range, we have the 500mg CBD Hydro Night Cream.  On top of the significant CBD effect on the skin, it contains avocado oil, shea butter, olive oil, sunflower oil, rosehip oil, and, lavender oil. This night cream complements the day cream where the skin feels hydrated in the morning, with the new skin cells being regenerated overnight. It also contains coconut oil which will heal the redness of your skin; oat silk which mattifies and brightens the skin, it removes greasiness and excess oil, all without drying. This night cream Is also ideal for sensitive complexions. This mildly lavender-scented, the night cream won’t clog the pores and penetrates the deeper layers of the dermis, providing long-lasting hydration and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. You can find it here for £25.00.  

NB: For those new to CBD skincare, these products contain 500mg of CBD isolates which translates into 0.5% except for the bath bombs which are 0.2%. This percentage is enough to act effectively and add an extra boost to a skincare routine. Due to the antioxidants present, it will help acne-prone skin and is also suitable for those with sensitive skin as it has deeply soothing properties. If you’re unsure of the percentages, you can check here with A Beginner Guide to CBD Dosing.