I have previously tried some products out from KORRES and have reviewed them here on the blog, if you are interested in revisiting them, please click here. For those of you who are not aware, KORRES products are created from the cleanest, most natural ingredients. They are made in Greece from pure botanicals and they strive to protect your skin and the planet simultaneously. To learn more about the history of the company and their products, please click here, it is definitely a fascinating read.

I was graciously sent the above 5 products to try out, if you're interested in learning more about each item, and to see what my thoughts are then keep on reading below:

1. Greek Yoghurt Foaming Cleanser

This is a gentle cleanser that helps me remove any traces of makeup left on my skin while leaving it feel hydrated which is very important to me. This would be perfection for the colder months, especially winter in my opinion! It cleans my skin efficiently without the need of a second follow-up cleanser. I have used this before and will definitely stay on my regular rotation.

2. Pomegranate Triple-Dose Resurfacing Mask

This mask has been a saviour in my battle with mask-acne that took over my face in the past few months. This is a natural resurfacing mask with AHA, BHA and Pomegranate enzymes, all exfoliators that help to cleanse the skin while promoting cell renewal. It also contains Salicylic acid, Kaolin clay and White Willow Bark extract to control oil production on the face, and treat those nasty pimples and flare-ups. To use, you massage this onto the face and leave on for 10-15 minutes and is to be used 1-3x a week. 

3. Black Pine 3D Eye-Lift Super Serum

This sleek black packaged product houses this magical serum to help combat my dark panda eye circles. One pump is all it takes for both eyes, and you should use it to massage around the entire eye area. It contains Black Pine Extract which works to combat fine wrinkles, eliminate wrinkles and lift sagging upper eyelids. It works to brighten and lift the eye area to make you look more youthful and less tired.

4. Apothecary Wild Rose 15% Vitamin C Spotless Serum

This serum contains two products - a 10% wild rose oil and 15% vitamin super C to brighten and even out skin tone, the second product is a 5% dark spot correction complex to target skin discolouration and dark spots. This product is perfect for those want to brighten their skin, and as previously mentioned, even out any skin discolouration on their skin.

5. Greek Yoghurt Nourishing Probiotic Gel-Cream

Lastly, this is a repeat product for me, their gel-cream has a whipped like texture that is rich yet light weight and melts instantly into the skin. It is said to keep the skin hydrated for 48 hours and will not clog the pores. The yoghurt properties help to deliver a healthy glow to the skin.

Until next time, XO - M.

*products were sent to me for consideration, all opinions are my own

In addition to the above stated views on the ingredients and products, they have a fantastic view on their packaging of products as well. They are committed to repurposing, reusing and recycling which includes using recyclable boxes and paper in your shipment. The cardboard is made with 100% biodegradable cardboard derived from sustainable forests and all printing is done with 100% eco ink from vegetables. 

With a company that has such strong values on maintaining their integrity in their ingredients as well as reducing their ecological footprints, what isn't there to love and admire about this company? 

One of their popular items, this is a rich in texture but yet light-weight upon application cream. It is very soothing when applied and contains Kiwifruit, rich in Vitamin C which helps to brighten and reduce the appearance of fine-lines while moisturizing at the same time. This item is fragrance free and is suitable for all skintypes. Fun fact: One jar of this eye cream is sold every 60 seconds on average - wow! 

If you're interested in trying out some Antipodes products , they are available for purchase at The Bay, Well.ca and Amazon.

Items I'm excited to try out in the future include:

Until next tine, XO - M.

I have been a huge fan of Live Clean products as you may probably know if you are a follower of my blog and one of the launches that I most look forward to yearly is the Holiday series. Last year, I was obsessed with their Vanilla Peppermint liquid hand soap and stocked up so I could use it throughout the year. I made it up to the summer time - haha! This year I'll know better and prepare myself better! In addition to their Holiday liquid hand soap line up (which includes Holly Berry, Vanilla Peppermint and Gingerbread Latte), they have launched two new scents in a foaming hand wash formula. 

The two new scents are Frosted Apple and Fresh Snow. 

Frosted Apple - I love apple scented products and this is more of a fall apple scent vs. a crisp apple scent - he has the warmer notes vs. the light and airiness. I still love this and will use it first before the Fresh Snow which is more Holiday to me. 

Fresh Snow is what you expect it to be, the moment you open your front door and the air is cold and crisp and a fresh layer of snow has fallen. LOVE! It's giving me all sorts of Winter vibes and I am living for it! 

I have seen these in the shelf of Walmart and have seen them online at Well.ca at right under or around the $5 price point. I will definitely be buying the Vanilla Peppermint and 1-2 more of the Fresh Snow and Frosted Apple this year to last me a few more months! 

Until next time, XO - M.

*products were sent to me for consideration, all opinions are my own.

When thinking of gifting during the Holiday Season, I was graciously sent some products from Scentuals to consider. I have previously reviewed their products before, if you're interested in reading about it - I have linked it over here. This time I was sent the Sleep Well set as well as a few items from their Vanilla Mint Holiday line. 

The Sleep Well Set retails for $45.50 canadian and contains items to help you relax, unwind and drift to sleep. It contains a pillow & room mist, hand & body lotion and aromatherapy roll-on. It is 100% natural, paraben, and phthalate free with organic aloe, organic argan oil and pure essential oils. I know that this would be perfect for my son's daycare teacher! After looking after 5 children each per day, I'm sure this would help them with the R&R! 

You can definitely use all these simultaneously, use the mist right before bed while you apply the hand and body lotion and then roll your pressure points and then lie down and relax. 

My favorite of the Holiday launches is their Vanilla Mint series. I was kindly sent the Vanilla Mint Handsoap ($11.95 cad) and Vanilla Mint Hydrating Hand and Body Lotion ($15.95 cad)

The soap is made from 100% natural, gentle, plant derived cleansers that cleanse your hands without drying them out. I keep this in my son's washroom so that he can use a natural product to cleanse his hands as opposed to alot of scented soaps out there that may contain alcohol. It contains Aloe and organic Argan oil.

The hand and body lotion is made with 100% natural ingredients as well, with organic Argan oil and Avocado oil which is great for hydration and promoting healthy smooth skin. 

I really love the subtle vanilla, peppermint, spearmint like scent - it's mildly sweet without being too overwhelming from either the sweet or peppermint side.

Of the two, which are you interested in trying?

Until next time, XO - M.

*products were sent for consideration, all opinions are my own.

New to Mary Kay is their Naturally skincare line, which is made from naturally derived ingredients. Click the link to learn more about the collection and continue reading below for my thoughts on the products

Mary Kay Naturally Purifying Cleanser ($29cad/4.5oz)

We all love a good cleanser that helps to rid your face of impurities, grease and dirt without making it feel squeaky clean and almost stripping. This is a creamy cleanser that leaves your skin feeling hydrated and refreshed. 

Mary Kay Naturally Moisturizing Stick ($32cad/0.38oz)

While I am not used to using a moisturizer in stick form, I use this more as a targeted moisturizing component. I apply it to my eczema flare-ups on my hand, or on dry patches of my skin and it helps to create a non-greasy barrier. 

Mary Kay Naturally Nourishing Oil ($55cad/1 fl.oz)

This light-weight and fast absorbing oil is best used with the facial massager in my opinion! IT does not contain any silicone, mineral oil or alcohol so this is just the ultimate moisturizer for your face that leaves you feeling hydrated. 

Mary Kay Naturally Exfoliating Powder ($39cad/2.64oz)

I am slowly starting to see my exfoliating powders come to the market vs the traditional style that is almost like a paste. You can use this however you wish, make your own exfoliating cocktail by mixing it with water, cleanser or even the facial oil. If you mix it with the cleanser you're doing two steps in one to save you some time. It gently exfoliates your skin as the granules aren't too big and helps to buff away any dullness.

A brand new line of skincare that has been introduced to me recently is called Veriphy. The company was created in 2018 and is 98% natural, 100% cruelty free with no animal testing done at all! They are Canadian and proud of it - their products are developed and manufactured in Canada using sustainable packaging and practices. Bonus, it is a women-founded and led company and supports Women in STEM (fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). 

Currently, they have three products to their range: 

Veriphy Power Trip Facial Serum ($105 cad/30mL)

Described as "An AHA serum with a powerful blend of Lactic Acid and PhytoSpherix^® (phytoglycogen) that exfoliates the skin, revealing a fresh and revitalized complexion. Arnica and Calendula Extracts help to calm and soothe the skin, making this product suitable for all skin types." 

Veriphy 20/20 Eye Cream ($82 cad/15mL)

The site describes this product as "This firming and smoothing eye cream uses the power of PhytoSpherix^® and Peptides to firm and hydrate the eye area. Niacinamide and Cucumber Extract work to visibly reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness". 

Veriphy Self Absorbed Facial Moisturizer ($85 cad/50mL)

On their site, the product is described as "A luxurious moisturizer that harnesses the power of PhytoSpherix^® and Hyaluronic Acid to plump the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Deeply hydrating without feeling heavy or greasy, leaving a soft and velvety finish." Other ingredients include Algae, Green Tea & Licorice Root Extract, to brighten and make your skin more radiant and Avocado Oil to soothe and moisturize the skin as it is high in omega-6 fatty acids. 

** It is important to note that all of the products above do not contain sulfates, parabens, mineral oil, phthalates, silicones or fragrance. **

Live Clean has added two new products to their haircare collection ~ Super Fruit Waters Quenching Curls Shampoo and Conditioner. It is formulated with a certified organic blend of watermelon, papaya and aloe leaving your hair super soft and tamed. The one great thing I love about Live Clean products is that it is made with quality ingredients and on top of it all they are free of: phosphate, paraben, silicone, phthalate, DEA, SLS, and petrolatum free.

The scent is impeccable. it is refreshing and juicy. It has a very light-weight formula, I only have to use about a nickel size on the palm of my hand for my medium shoulder length hair. I use a bit more of the conditioner, about a quarter-sized and work it from the middle to the end. 

My hair did feel very hydrated after, I do not have curls so the curl-friendly portion of this product wouldn't be applicable to me. Regardless, like I said, the shampoo and conditioner left my hair feeling cleansed, hydrated and not dry nor was there any residue leftover. 

Until next time, XO - M.

*products were sent to me for consideration, all opinions are my own. 

Soul Story is a skincare brand that uses high quality ingredients sourced from Korea and Europe. Their products are said to give you healthier, smoother and more radiant skin. Is natural and suitable for all skin types and delivers a brighter and more youthful complexion. The products are formulated and manufactured in Korea and are free from toxic ingredients, parabens, ethanol, mineral oil, talc, synthetic pigments, sulfates, lanolin (and more) . Being free of these harmful products truly means that you are getting quality ingredients with no compromises and which is why it will also work for those with sensitive skin. 

I was generously gifted with the Sun Warrior as well as the Purifying Cleansing Foam.

Of the two products, if I had to pick the Sun Warrior is my favorite. I can admit that I usually avoid sunscreen products on my face because I hate the heavy or greasy feeling, and if I found a product that didn't have those two traits, I didn't like that it gave me flashback or that it was just one more thing I had to put on in addition to my primer, etc. I just find that sunscreen makes my oily combo skin even oilier? If that makes sense. Well, this product has changed all of the above for me. It is so lightweight, it blends out to a weightless finish on the skin and best of all it has a silky matte and smooth finish that acts like a primer as well. It can be used on both the face and neck and protects against harmful UVA and UVB rays.  This product is truly amazing and I can proudly say that I use sunscreen now! OH! bonus fact, it has SPF 50+!

Next we have the Purifying Cleansing Foam, it has a rich whipped texture that is pH balanced to gently yet effectively rid your skin of dirt and bacteria. It is suitable for all skin types, is fragrance free and has properties in it to help calm and gently brighten the skin and add some natural radiance to it. This product did effectively help rid my skin of all traces of dirt and makeup as when I use a cotton pad to it with toner afterwards, there was no evidence of any makeup. I did use micellar water to remove eye makeup first (but that is something I do no matter what cleanser I use). 

Overall, these two products are fantastic, their price point is also very reasonable - the cleanser is $12 and the sunscreen is $30. You can also purchase it together $37.50 and save some $. The cleanser is compact and great for travelling to take on the go, and the sunscreen comes in a durable yet sleek harder case that feels sturdy and luxurious. It's solid so when I shake it up to use it, it won't go flying out of my hand or get damaged if I take it in my makeup bag with me on the go.

Until next time, XO - M.

*products were sent to me for consideration, all opinions are my own.

I was graciously sent a few items from a brand new skincare line to me, called KOSMEA.  The name comes from Ancient Greece meaning to harmonize and bring to balance. It was created with its key ingredient in mind, certified organic rosehip oil. The brand in itself strives on the quality of their product and stand by their commitment to its integrity, which is something I respect. They chose to use key ingredients in their skincare, vs relying on chemicals. 

To provide you with some information on what certified organic rosehip oil is, I have included some information from their website below from the creator: 

"Certified organic rosehip oil and its unique ability to nourish and balance all skin types is the foundation of Kosmea Australia...Crammed with essential fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants, I learnt that rosehip oil was ideal for dry, scarred, sensitive and sun-damaged skin. I was intrigued.

Being a skincare junkie, I was really excited to be introduced to the brand Jowaé - which in Korean means harmony. The main philosophy behind the brand is to use products to help re-establish the balance of your skin from daily stresses that affect your skin, known aggressions. They utilize four simple steps to help the skin regain harmony, balance, luminosity and protection. 

They utilize natural-origin ingredients and all of their products contains zero parabens, phenoxyethanol, mineral oil, silicon and ingredients of animal origin or synthetic colorant. It is ideal for sensitive skin and has a very subtle and pleasing scent.

As mentioned above, the four fundamental steps of Korean skincare - 1. Cleanse 2. Prepare 3. Activate and 4. Correct. I go into more detail of each product below - please note that there are several products for each stage of the skincare process/steps, what I have mentioned in this post and below is what was sent to me for my skin type.

STEP 1 - Purifying Cleansing Gel - $20.50 (200ml)

This is the one I'm using for my combo to oily skin, it helps to rinse my face of any last traces of makeup, I do use some micellar water to remove the majority of my makeup off first. It effectively cleanses the face without stripping it or leaving behind that squeaky feel. This product is comprised of 89% natural products and it is a gel formulation that works into a gentle foam. I use this both night and day.

STEP 2 - Hydrating Water Mist - $19 (200ml)

This is suitable for all skin types and can be applied anytime of the day, as part of your skincare routine or even as a refresher throughout the day. It helps to wake the skin up to receive the skincare treatments you are about to apply and is composed of 97% natural ingredients. It contains Sakura Blossom Water, Pure Water and Botanical Glycerin. It has a very light mist and is said to be inspired by the Korean lotions used after makeup removal to prepare the skin for daily care. If you find yourself having applied too much, then just gently pat into the skin with your hands as opposed to wiping away with a cloth or tissue.

STEP 3 - Youth Concentrate Complexion Corrector - $52 (30ml)

This is  for all skin types and works to reduce dark spots, brightens and evens out the complexion. It contains 89% natural ingredients and contains Youth and Complexion Correcting White Tea and Antioxidant and Brightening VitaminsE and B3. This is a light emulsion that is unlike anything I've ever felt before - it comes out almost thick-like but then melts into your skin leaving behind a soft and powdery finish. I use this in the morning on my face and neck.

STEP 4 - Moisturizing Light Cream - $30 (40ml)

This cream is suitable for those with normal to combination skin. It is very light-weight, almost like a gel and absorbs quickly into the skin leaving it feeling hydrated and refreshing. It contains Sakura Blossom Water and Moisturizing Pine Extract with Vitamin E - It is comprised of 88% of natural products.

Products for the body: 

Left: Revitalizing Moisturizing Lotion - $28 (400ml)

This is suitable for those with normal to dry skin and has a very light weight texture that helps the skin e softer, more supple and luminous. It almost has a gel-like texture and sinks into the skin very quickly. It contains 97& natural ingredients and contains Bamboo Water, Shea Butter, Sunflower and Emollient Soy Oil. 

Right: Hand and Nail Nourishing Cream - $10 (650 ml)

This is for dry or damaged hands and works amazingly on my cuticles as well. It is a thicker texture but is not greasy at all. It contains 96% natural ingredients and has Camellia Oil, Shea Butter and Coconut Oil to name a few of the ingredients. 

I have been really enjoying this new line of skincare that I have been introduced to and would like to try even more from their line, including the Balancing Mattifying Fluid, expecially for the warmer summer season when my skin goes a bit oilier in the t-zone. The fragrance of these products are very subtle, there is a slight variance to each of the products but all are relatively mild and nothing that is too overwhelming or obnoxious. This is great for those who have sensitive skin, or even are sensitive to fragrances. 

Of all the products I have tried, my favorite would probably be the hand lotion and the corrector. 

Until next time, XO - M.

*products were sent to me for review/consideration, all opinions are my own.

For those of you who know me personally, will know that I am a nail polish lover - I switch my polish weekly, if not maybe twice a week and I am always on the hunt for new colors, or products. When I was set the above kit from Suncoat for review, I was really intrigued by a plant-based natural product that was created by a female chemist that is also Canadian! 

To be honest, I had never heard of this brand before so I read more about it on their website and included some information about the brand for you below, if you're new to them as well!

I was recently graciously sent the above products from Scentuals to try out, they are a brand that produces Natural and Organic Skincare products, and it is my first time trying out their products. If you're interested in knowing my thoughts, and which products I would recommend then keep on reading below! I have included descriptions of the products directly from their site for your convenience!

Live Clean is honestly on a roll the past few months, launching their foaming hand washes, then foaming body washes and now deodorants! This is so exciting as I feel like this was much needed in their range of body products. I have very sensitive armpits, I've written about this on my blog before, and using generic brands irritate and causes rashes (so attractive, I know). I am currently using LaVanilla Sport Luxe Deodorant which works amazingly, but hey it has quite a hefty price tag. I was very interested in trying these out the minute I got it, so if you're interested in seeing what I think, then keep on reading below!

They have launched four different scents - from left to right in the photo above, you have Fragrance Free, Sparkling Citrus, Cool and Fresh and Powder Clean. These are made with 99% naturally derived ingredients and is said to provide you with freshness, comfort, leaving behind no white residue and providing odour control. 

The formula contains baking soda, corn starch, soothing aloe and vitamin E. Certified organic parsley, rosemary and sage will also leave your underarms conditioned and fresh all day. 

Lastly, the most important part, which I believe is essential into making sure that irritation does not occur (especially in circumstances like mine), is that this deodorant does not contain aluminum, propylene glycol and triclosan. It does not contain parabens, petrolatum, phthalates, phosphate or silicone. It also does not contain artificial dyes or colors. 

These are available for purchase at Walmart, Shoppers Drug Mart and Loblaws and retails for approximately $6.99 - $7.99 each.

My personal favorite is the Sparkling Citrus - Fragrance Free wouldn't work for me as I do need some scent as back-up to feel fresh and clean. So far, I have not experienced any irritation, I don't sweat alot so it is doing the job for me and I am quite pleased that I now have a more affordable option for purchase at the drugstore. 

Until next time, XO - M.

*products were sent to me for review/consideration. All opinions are my own.

In the past 5 months, I am quite proud of the amount of products used up. As usual, I have separated my review in different categories for convenience - facial wipes/puffs, cleansers and moisturizers, body products, haircare, makeup and miscellaneous. 

I have been a big fan of Live Clean products as mentioned on the blog several times in the last year or so, I used them during my pregnancy and now use it with my baby boy. My husband also enjoys their products as well and we use them as much as possible in our household - from handwashes to haircare and body products. I have partnered up with Live Clean for another giveaway - this time with body products - three body washes and three body lotions. If you're interested in learning more about the giveaway, and about the brand and prize, then keep on reading below.

While we are well into September, I couldn't go without sharing with you my August favorites! Once again, I have limited it to 10 items and spread it across a good range of beauty related items. If you're interested in finding out what they are and my thoughts on the items, then keep on reading below.

With the cooler weather we've been slowly transitioning into the past few weeks, I thought I would share with you some products that I have been gravitating to for my body - some of these products are tried and true meaning I have used them for months - while others have recently been introduced to me which I am loving and have included in my routine. 

Moisturizers, as you may know come in many different formulations ~ you have your regular lotions, body butters, oils and now in-shower body lotions.  I have included my favorites in each category for you so that it narrows things down and makes it a bit more simple for you!

JĀSÖN is a company that produces natural product since 1959 in California. Recently, they launched two new Dry Spray Deodorants that have been receiving some press like Allure for being the Best Natural Deodorant amongst its competitors. The two new scents are Fresh Cucumber and Soft Rose and the Deodorant is air-propelled delivering up to 24 hours of protection. What I truly appreciate is that the products do not contain aluminum, butane, parabens, pthalates, artificial colors or fragrances. I know from personal experience that aluminum irritates my armpits and causes red itchy and painful bumps, so having another deodorant in the market that doesn't irritate me is great. 

The deodorant also surprisingly applies clear, we were sent the black tank top in the photo to see whether or not the product would transfer, and it didn't! 

I have been given the opportunity to giveaway one of each of these deodorants to one lucky winner! To enter, please visit my instagram page and find this post to see the details of entry!

Until next time, XO - M.

*products were sent to me for review, all opinions are my own.