Talk About Skin Care - Kari Gran

Kari Gran is a self admitted beauty junkie who started looking at exactly what ingredients she was putting on her skin when she was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder in her late twenties. She began searching for natural alternatives and was left wanting more. It wasn't until her forties when she started thinking about developing healthy, simple, and elegant products to meet basic skin needs and nourish a healthy complexion.

Kari, who creates the products, teamed up with her friend Lisa Strain, who runs the business side, to create Kari Gran. Kari Gran is a line of all-natural, cruelty free skin care and cosmetics that are made from natural, wild harvested and non-GMO ingredients that are good for the body and the world. You'll never find any toxic ingredients inside any Kari Gran products. You won't find water either, only natural plant ingredients and essential oils. The line is designed to be gentle and safe for all ages and skin types.

I've heard a lot about Kari Gran in the past and was so excited to be able to try some of their products. I was sent their Starter Kit and two of their popular Lip Whips.

I know that not everyone is a fan of oil based products, but I am and I am so in love with the Kari Gran Cleansing Oil. It's my favorite product of theirs that I have tried and I know a lot of you would like it as well. This cleansing oil is made from Organic Sunflower Oil, Organic Avocado Oil, Organic Castor Seed Oil, Organic Lavender Oil, and Non-GMO Vitamin E from Sunflower. This cleansing oil is simple but so luxurious. The formula is deliciously rich and leaves my skin feeling superbly hydrated and supple. My skin absolutely loves it!

The Hydrating Tonic in Rose (which also comes in Lavender) is also really lovely. It adds the perfect touch of extra moisture to my skin and smells divine. I use it as toner but also as a hydration spray over my makeup to get red of any dry patches and make my skin looks fresh and dewy. The texture is perfect and beautifully fine. It does not leave any stickiness or tackiness behind. The bottle is also perfect!

The Essential Serum feels really great on my skin but I really don't like the smell. The scent is so strong but the actual serum leaves my skin looking and feeling so smooth and luminous. I use it at night and love the results when I can get past the smell.

Their Lip Whips, which comes in 4 colored versions and 1 clear, are extremely popular. I've heard so much about these products from other green beauty bloggers so I was excited to get to try them. I received Naked, their original clean lip balm, and Tinted, a perfectly wearable and adorable sheer pink. Their Lip Whips come in two scents, Peppermint and Cinnamon-Pimenta Berry. I really like both scents and both the tinted and untinted balms. I don't really love potted lip balm because I don't like taking them out into the world with me (I'm a germaphobe) but I don't mind using them at home. They work great alone of layered under other lip products.

Have you tried Kari Gran or do you have any of their products on your beauty wish list? I think their line is definitely worth a look because simple and luxurious products are always worth a try in my book. To learn more about the company or their products you can visit their website by clicking here. You can also find Kari Gran on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

(FTC: These products were sent to me for free for review consideration. I am not being compensated for this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.) 

Talk About Skin Care - Niora Naturals

I, like many of you, am no longer a teenager or even a young adult (I think 27 just counts as a regular old adult, right?) but I still struggle with acne and breakouts while having to be more conscious about hydrating and protecting my skin to help keep signs of aging at bay. I don't have wrinkles yet, but I do have some fine lines and thinning skin. Most acne products, even natural ones, can be a little harsh for skin belonging to an adult. I tend to stay away from anything with the word "acne" in the title for that very reason but I have been using the Niora Naturals Acne Solutions line since the beginning of April and it has become an absolute staple in my beauty routine.

Niora is a cruety free and vegan Portland, OR (you all know how much I love to support companies from my home state!) based company that started in 1992 when chemist George Tindall began creating a line of natural anti-aging products. Two years later he met his future wife who suffered with adult acne that left her feeling embarrassed and uncomfortable with her skin and appearance. When he saw her frustration with the harsh and irritating acne products she used he set out to create an anti-acne product for her. After extensive research he developed a natural and organic product that exfoliated and cleansed pores with balancing the skin. His wife, Cindy, no longer has acne and now the rest of us can experience the joys of Alpha Clear.

The Alpha Clear Adult Acne Treatment is a pair of products designed to be used twice daily to clear adult acne, reduce the skin conditions that cause acne, and fight wrinkles. The duo is comprised of the Alpha Clear Cleanser and Alpha Clear Exfoliant. They are both made with natural alpha hydroxy fruit acids and other natural ingredients that help hydrate and exfoliate.



The cleanser is a thin milky lotion type of cleanser that needs to be applied onto skin that is only slightly damp, massaged in, and rinsed off (which it does beautifully). It has a scent, but it is light and really pleasant! I love the entire line but I'm especially obsessed with the cleanser! It's gentle and does a really great job cleansing my face and cleaning out my pores. The Exfoliant is a spray that you spritz onto your skin once your face is cleansed. It has no scent and is very easy to use and apply. I tend to only use the Exfoliant at night even though it can be used twice daily. I just find that my skin prefers it only once a day. I let it dry completely and then move on to the Alpha C Serum.



The Alpha C Serum is a serum that provides intense hydration without leaving skin feeling greasy, sticky, heavy, or overloaded with moisturizer. It feels super silky and lightweight on the skin. I can see results almost immediately after application - It brightens my complexion and gives me a radiant look. It makes my skin look and feel balanced and healthy!



The difference in my skin while using these products is very obvious and is even noticeable to those around me. I stopped using the Alpha Clear Cleanser, Exfoliant, and Alpha C Serum for about 2 weeks and my skin got really congested and awful. I am now back to using them religiously and will be ordering a new set very soon. These products are also affordable, which is a fact that I really, really appreciate!

You can learn more about Niora Naturals and their other product offerings by visiting their website here. If you're not interested in a line of products for acne you might be more attracted to their anti-aging line. You can also find Niora on Facebook and Twitter.

Simple Sea Salt Solution for Troubled Skin

Have you ever been fortunate enough to spend some quality time at a beach, enjoying the sunshine and salt water? If you have you may have noticed that the salty ocean water helps to clear up skin and makes it look radiant and fresh. Nothing does the body, or the soul, better than a relaxing beach getaway but if you're like me you're stuck in a cold, gray part of the world with no coastline in sight. I do have one of the largest lakes in North America nearby, but it's currently frozen and full of algae.

Anyway, the point is, you can make your own salt water treatment at home if you're not lucky enough to be able to take a dip in the sea! Please be warned, this is not for those of you with dry skin!

All you need is some finely ground pure sea salt and some warm purified water! Combine the two and let sit until the salt is completely dissolved. I'm not going to give you exact measurements for this recipe because it all comes down to your personal tastes. You can use more or less salt depending on how oily/blemished your skin is. You can put it in a spray bottle if you would like to spritz your face and body or you can just apply it with a cotton pad.

I use this as a toner on my face, neck, chest, and back as needed. I also like soaking a washcloth in hot salt water and applying the cloth directly to my problem area(s). Remember to rinse the solution off though, because leaving it on too long will cause dryness. It's a nice little relaxing treat that helps purify the skin!

Try it out! It's incredibly cheap and easy and is an excellent spot zapper. You can also use it as a spot treatment if you're worried about drying your skin out too much. Enjoy!

This is what the closest ocean to me looks like. Not quite tropical and warm enough to dive in, but still pretty! We go there often just to enjoy nature. What about you? Do you live near the ocean or frequent the beach?

Talk About Skin Care - Acure Organics

When I asked you Beauties what you wanted to see on the blog a large number of you asked me for my thoughts on Acure Organics and their line of products. I contacted the company and I received a box of goodies that I have been testing out for about a month now. Acure Organics is an amazing family owned and operated company who believes in providing high quality fair trade, natural and certified organic personal care products. They never test on animals or include parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances or colors, or any other harmful ingredients. Their products are also really affordable!

Without further ado, here is part one of my Acure review and my thoughts on the skin care products they sent me.



As you may know, I have normal to dry skin that is fairly sensitive. I also have a very sensitive nose when it comes to fragrance so I have really been enjoying the fragrance free Sensitive Facial Cleanser Argan Oil + Probiotic. It is a fairly thick and creamy cleanser that hydrates and plumps up the skin to leave it looking healthy. This cleanser is perfect for my skin! It is extremely gentle so I can use it daily, or even twice a day. I really love how it leaves my face feeling soft and clean without irritating or stripping my skin. This has officially earned a spot on my top 5 facial cleansers list. I really like it because it's so simple, yet effective! If you're curious about the ingredients you can click here, where you can also learn more about the product.



I have also been testing out the Balancing Rose + Red Tea Facial Toner. Although this particular toner is marketed towards those with combo to oily skin I really like it and would say that it would be suitable for all skin types. It does a fantastic job of keeping my skin balanced and smooth, as well as helping my moisturizer absorb better. I use this in the morning and it seems to soothe any redness I may have and help perfect and balance my skin. I also really love the glass bottle and the fact that it comes with a spray top. This is a very refreshing toner with a gorgeous slightly rosy scent to it.



Next up is the Argan Stem Cell + CFG Cell Stimulating Facial Mask, which both my Mom and I have tried several times. As a beauty blogger I have tried dozens upon dozens of facial masks but have yet to come across a mask like this one. It seems fairly average upon first application, but once the mask is dry and the time has come to rinse off it becomes foamy. I've never used a foamy mask and I like it a lot! It's extremely gentle so even my Mom (who has highly reactive skin) can use it! There is no tight, uncomfortable sensation that goes along with this mask and is instead very refreshing and even a bit cooling. We have both noticed cleaner, brighter, softer, more hydrated skin after using this mask. Like the toner, it also seems to help with any redness.



The final facial product I've been playing around with from Acure Organics is their Marula Oil, which can also be included in the hair and body categories as well. I'm a big fan of oils so I was really excited to try this one out. Acure's Marula Oil is 100% pure, wildcrafted without pesticides, cold pressed and unrefined. It has a slight scent but it is not offensive at all. I've been using it a lot since it arrived and I really like it overall. I do have to say that it is not moisturizing enough on its own as facial oil, but I have found that it works extremely well over a moisturizing lotion or cream. I love the results that layering this oil with other products gives me. I love the dropper applicator as well!

That sums up my Acure Organics facial care review. You can check out my thoughts on the body and hair products I've been experimenting with by clicking here.

Talk About Skin Care - S.W. Basics of Brooklyn (+ closed GIVEAWAY!)

Adina Grigore originally created several products for herself and her sensitive skin but now her line of healthy and eco-friendly products are sold online and at retailers across the country. Each and every one of Adina's products are 100% pure, natural, and sustainable. S.W. Basics of Brooklyn is a "no-frills" line of skin care products made with 5 or less ingredients each that are either certified organic, Fair Trade, or sourced from small, family farms.

I've been testing out a few of their products, including all 4 of their lip balms, lately and have really been enjoying the simplicity of them. The first one being the Makeup Remover, which is made up of Organic Sweet Almond Oil, Organic Olive Oil, and Organic Jojoba Oil. I typically make my own eye makeup remover but it's really nice having a bottle of it all ready to go. The combination of oils is great! It doesn't leave behind a film or irritate my eyes. It works really well and gets every last bit of makeup.


I have also been trying out the Toner for the past month and a half. I tend to use this toner during the day because it really helps banish any case of oily skin and prevent pesky pimples. The ingredient list is comprised of Water, Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar, Witch Hazel, and Organic Essential Oils of Clary Sage and Sandalwood. I don't really like the scent of this toner, at all, but it goes away really quickly. It helps to cleanse my skin and help speed up the process of blemishes so it's totally worth it!


Now let's talk about their Organic Lip Balms, because they are fantastic! All four balms (Cocoa, Peppermint, Cinnamon, and Citrus) have the same base ingredients of Organic Beeswax, Organic Extra-Virgin Coconut Oil, and Organic Cocoa Butter. The Peppermint, Cinnamon, and Citrus all have added Organic Essential Oils. I've been totally obsessed with all 4 of these balms and reach for them more than any other lip product lately. The Cocoa Lip Balm is my favorite, but the others are lovely as well.

You can learn more about the company or purchase some products of your own by clicking here to be taken to their website. You can also visit them on Facebook or Twitter.



Adina was kind enough to offer a Complete Mini Kit as a giveaway prize for you, my lovely readers. All you have to do to enter is use the Rafflecopter form below. It may take a moment or two to load. Good luck! a Rafflecopter giveaway

(FTC: These products were so generously provided to me free of charge for review consideration by the company. I am not being compensated to write this review. All thoughts and opinions, as always, are my own and honest.)

Talk About It - Scientific Organics Spirulina Toner

I have been fortunate enough to try out a few products from EmerginC's organic line, Scientific Organics, and have loved each and every one of them with a passion. I have been so impressed with this product line and would go as far to say that this is definitely one of my absolute favorite brands. Their products are superb, no joke! I actually have their Phytocell Cream and In Lips We Trust Super Antioxidant Lip Balm on my ultimate beauty wish list!

Today let's talk about their Spirulina Toner. This toner is extremely gentle and seems to really help balance and nourish my skin. I use it immediately after cleansing in the evening by applying to a cotton pad and gently wiping all over my face. It instantly makes my skin feel a lot softer and more even in texture. It appears to leave my skin looking brighter as well.



It also does a good job of leaving my skin feeling clean and hydrated, unlike some toners that leave behind a film while stripping the skin. While my skin is still damp from the toner I apply my night cream and it seems to really help my skin absorb the moisturizer. My skin is left feeling very balanced!

This toner has a very light scent, that is similar to the other Scientific Organics' products I've used, and I really enjoy it. It is a very clean, fresh, slightly citrus-y scent which is in no way offensive or overpowering. Some of the ingredients that make up this power tonic are Kombucha, Grape Stem Cells, Algae Extract, Spirulina, Green and White Tea, Aloe Vera, and Red Algae but you can find a complete list of ingredients by clicking here.

You can learn more about the Spirulina Toner by clicking here. You can click here to learn more about the company and/or purchase their products. They also have a Facebook page you can check out.

(FTC: This product was provided to me for review consideration for free. I am not being compensated to write this review. All thoughts and opinions, as always, are my own and honest.)

Roses Are Red...

Roses are beautiful, timeless, fragrant and also therapeutic. Rose water has been used and revered for centuries all over the world for so many different purposes. It is said that Cleopatra even used rosewater as part of her daily beauty routine and loved it! It has antibacterial, soothing, antiseptic and healing benefits. It is often used in cosmetics, skincare, hair products, medicine and even for cooking and baking.

Rose water is very effective when it comes to skin infections and problems. It can hydrate dry skin, reduce swelling and redness, purify and tone the skin, and help with blemishes. It can also tame irritated, sensitive skin. You can find rose water available for purchase at any store with a good natural or organic section, but you can make your own at home. It's so easy, and when you make your own you know for a fact that it is high quality and 100% natural.

You need 1 cup of rose petals (make sure to rinse them well before beginning), packed down in the measuring cup like you would do with flour or brown sugar while baking. Put the petals into a heat resistant bowl and pour two cups of boiling distilled water over them; use just enough to cover them. Steep for half and hour before pouring the rosewater through a strainer into a bottle or jar of your choosing. Your rosewater will be good for about 7 to 10 days in your refrigerator.


You can use your rosewater for:

Toning your face after cleansing
As an aftershave to calm the skin
Spraying on your face to cool and refresh
Adding to your bath to smooth skin
Creating your own natural beauty products

Cucumber Cooler

Cucumbers are not only incredibly delicious and healthy - They are also good for you, and your skin. Many companies have been infusing their cosmetics and skincare products with cucumbers but you can use this at home recipe I'm going to share with you and get the same benefits. Cucumbers have so many health benefits because they are packed full of vitamins and minerals. They're also made up of 90% water, which makes them hydrating and cooling. Another cool thing they do is work to prevent water retention due to a couple of acids found in their flesh. They're known to soothe and soften.


Today's recipe is for a cucumber toner, and it's so easy!

All you need is one medium sized cucumber and 2 tablespoons of distilled water (it's really important to use distilled water when your skin is involved because it doesn't have the heavy minerals, salts, and iron that tap water can have). Take the cucumber and peel the skin off and cut into cubes. Put the cucumber cubes and water into your blender and blend until you get a thick, liquid substance. Now you need to strain the mixture to get rid of the pulp and the seeds and pour it into a bottle.

It is REALLY important to keep this toner in the refrigerator and use it up within 3-5 days. You can always use a smaller cucumber and less water if you don't think you'll use the mixture before it needs to be tossed but I find that in the warmer months it's such a nice, cool treat you'll want to use it all up.
Using a cucumber toner on your face is great all year round, but it's especially helpful in the spring and summer because of the cooling effect it has. When you are hot and uncomfortable, cucumber can calm and cool your skin. It's great for every day use on your face or for helping to put out the fire that sunburns cause. Try putting your mixture into a spray bottle, keeping it in the fridge, and spritzing it on after a long day in the sun. You'll love the feel of it on your skin.

You can also use this mixture to reduce puffy eyes and combat dark under eye circles. Oh, and I forgot to mention that this is perfect for all skin types and tones.

Try it out and let me know what you think!