Origins Ginzing energy-boosting moisturizer - Best oil-free summer moisturizer

The weather is getting warmer now and I start adjusting my skincare routine. Basically, my skin is combination oily and it needs a lightweight moisturizer in the summer. Today I'm gonna share with you my favorite summer gel-based moisturizer:

 Origins Ginzing Energy-boosting moisturizer

It comes in a small plastic orange jar, which is very simple but fresh. Its texture is gel-based, so it absorbs easily into my skin, leaving it moisturized without leaving any greasy feeling. It is not enough for extremely dry winter but it is perfect for someone looking for an oil-free moisturizer in the hot and humid weather. It smells amazing with citrus scent, waking you up in the morning. It seems like it is the best in the morning when the name says "energy-boosting"; however, believe me, it can be use at any time of the day. My skin has become smoother and radiant, though I still suffer from the effects of aggressive winter such as some dry patches or redness on my cheeks.

It is claimed to contain Panax Ginseng and caffeine extracted from Coffee bean which was known to refresh and revitalize your skin. It does make your skin glow and feel renewed. The best part is that it is very light and spreads on your skin like water, so that you can apply more than one layer if necessary, and reapply during the day without worrying it will clog your pores.

Moreover, if you know Origins brand and have tried some of their products, you will like the price of this moisturizer. It is cheaper compared to other moisturizers and it works really well. A 50ml jar is around $32 in Canada, and $26 in US. However, be aware that you may finish it really fast when you love it :)

Have you ever tried Origins Ginzing energy-boosting moisturizer? Feel free to share with me your experiences. For those who never tried it, give it a try this summer, and I hope it will become your favorite too :)

Honey - natural treatment for your beautiful and healthy skin

Let honey pamper your skin

1. Moisturizing honey masks

Make sure your hair is pulled back from your face before starting one of these recipes. Your face will feel clean and soft afterwards.
1) Scoop a generous spoonful of honey into your hand and spread all over your face. Rub it into your skin and let sit for 5-30 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
2) Combine 1 tbsp buttermilk, 1 tsp honey, and 1 egg yolk. Apply to clean skin and let sit 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

2. Honey facial cleanser

Honey is good at dissolving makeup residue, especially when mixed with a gentle oil. Combine honey and jojoba OR coconut oil to create an easily spreadable texture. Rub it into your skin, avoiding eye area, to loosen makeup and unclog pores. Rinse with warm water.

3. Honey almond body scrub

This scrub is finger-licking good. The texture from the ground almonds exfoliates the skin, while both the almonds and honey moisturize. Combine 2 tsp. ground almonds and 2 tsp. honey to form a paste. Rub into your face with a circular motion. Rinse with warm water. You could easily increase the quantities to treat your whole body.

4. Honey skin lotion

If you’re feeling that dry winter skin coming on, mix a spoonful of honey with a teaspoon of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice (a natural skin brightener). Apply this lotion to dry areas and let sit for 20 minutes. Wipe off with a warm washcloth.

5. Lemon-honey facial treatment

This is a fun one that’s a bit different. I found it on a DIY natural beauty blog. Lemons are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. They also contain alpha hydroxy acids that exfoliate. Cut a lemon in half and remove the seeds. Add 1 tsp honey to one of the lemon halves. Rub the cut side all over your face. Let it sit 5 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

6. Honey hair shine-boosting rinse

There are two options. 1) Combine a spoonful of honey with a quart of warm water. Rinse through hair after shampooing. Let it condition for an hour, then rinse. 2) Mix 1-1/2 tsp honey with 5 cups warm water. Rinse through hair and leave on. Dry and style as usual.

7. Cleopatra’s milk-and-honey bath soak

Combine ¼ cup honey with 2 cups milk and a few drops of essential oil. Add to a hot bath, sit back, and relax.

8. Honey exfoliant

Use this scrub once a week to soften and clarify your skin. Mix 2 parts honey with 1 part baking soda and rub into your face. This is also good for a full body scrub.

Source: http://www.treehugger.com/organic-beauty/8-ways-use-honey-pamper-your-skin-and-hair.html

Green tea - One of the best natural solutions for a healthy skin

I'm drinking my green tea right now and it is great with ice. I'm also wearing my Matcha mask, which is one kind of green tea, very famous in Japan and it is so relaxing. Summer is coming, girls. It is time for beach and a lot of outdoor activities, and do you know that you can use green tea as one way to protect your skin from the sun.
I love green tea not only in the form of a drink, but I also love it even more when it comes to skincare. It gives me the feeling of natural and refresh. I know a lot of people drinking green tea every day to keep their weight in check. I know it also contain some antioxidant properties which slow down our aging process and improve our health. You can find out more by reading this article:http://authoritynutrition.com/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-green-tea/

For my blog today, I want to talk about what role it can play in our skincare routine.

The simplest one that my friend suggests is that you make a cup of green tea (using tea leaves or tea bag), put it in the fridge and then use it to wash your face before and after being in the sun. You can also use it when your skin feel hot and irritated. Think about its effect on your skin just as you drink a cup of iced tea when you are thirsty.

The second way is to use a tea bag, break it to get the small tea leaves inside, mix with a little honey, a drop of lemon juice, make it become a paste and use it as a mask. Take a rest and rinse your face with cold water later on to feel a smooth and soft skin.

The third one, if you prefer maximum convenience level, go buy this mask from Pangea Organic skincare. I'm so in love with it.

Japanese Matcha Tea with Acai & Goji Berry

It smells very natural, it works wonderful. It calms your skin a lot, and after it dries on your face, you can turn it into an exfoliator with your damp hands. Your skin will be so clean, smooth and soft. You can't even feel harsh chemicals in this product. 

Share with me what you love about green tea and how you use it for your skin and body :). See you soon in the next post

Sukin Purifying Facial Masque Review

Sukin is one of natural Australian skincare brands which I believed I heard about it long time ago while searching for best natural and organic products. However, until when I happened to see this mask in Winners 1 month ago did I have chance to bring it home, try it and give a review today. I got it for around $12 and that price for a good mask, it is actually not bad.

For whoever concerned about ingredients, I would say that it contains no SLS, no mineral oils, no SLES, no parabens, no synthetic fragrances, no animal derivatives, no harsh detergents, no triethanolamine, no artificial colours, no progylene glycol and no EDTA. And as claimed, it contains aloe vera, kaolin clay and rose hip which refresh and nourish the skin.

It is said to suit all skin types, and I think it does, except one minus point which I will discuss later. 
It is a clay based mask, so you can expect that it will be dry after you put it on your skin for a while. You can apply it on your damp face or dry face without any difficulty. It is spread out on my skin smoothly, leaving a slight tingle feeling if my skin is in extremely dry condition. However, after I rinse off the mask, I can see that it soothes my skin and makes it glow and radiant instead of causing any irritations.

I usually apply a bit thicker layer because I want to leave it on my skin longer than 10-15 minutes. It is just my habit, and I also don't want a big jar of mask to get old :). I have to say that it doesn't make your skin feel tight and uncomfortable as much as most clay based masks do. Maybe it contains a lot of nourishing ingredients like essential oils so that it will not dry out your skin.

However, the problem is that it does leave an oily film after you rinse it off. It is a good sign that it is hydrating enough, but it is also the minus point I mentioned above. And when I clean my face more deeply with the toner and a cotton pad, I can see the mask residue no matter how long and how much water I use to rinse the mask off. I believe it is not a big problem because I can still fix it by cleaning my face with toner as I usually do, but it is another thing that should be paid attention to if you, by any chance, use this mask.

Generally, my experience with this mask is good and I love it. It absorbs oil, removes dirt, leaves your skin soft, smooth, radiant and your pores can be improved gradually. It also seems to help with little pimples and redness. It is worth a try, just remember to clean your face carefully after using the mask to make sure your skin gets the best out of this little treat.
 

Origins Ginger Essence Sensuous skin scent review

Hi girls,

This week's post is not about skincare as usual, but it will definitely give you a secret for a natural body scent. I got a lot of compliments when I'm wearing this fragrance, or you can call it body essence. It gives you a natural scent which other people don't realize that you are wearing perfume. Honestly, I prefer the scent which is very light, fresh and never irritates the noses of people around me, just as I like the " makeup no makeup" style. If you have the same preference, this fragrance is for you. It is the Ginger Essence from Origins. 

Origins have developed not only facial skincare but also body care products in which Ginger is the most famous collection. It is costly if you compare to The Body Shop, Bath n Body Works, but it is worth your money. I usually buy a set including shower gel, body lotion and this essence during Christmas time or whenever it is on promotion because I save a lot this way. I like every product in this Ginger collection, but I'm in love with the Ginger essence the most, so I want to talk about it today. And obviously, when you use everything in the line, your body will smell even nicer.

The first compliment I got was when my friend asked me "Hey, why does your body smell so nice?". When I replied her that I used perfume, she didn't believe me and she said " Oh, I thought it was your body smell. You smell like very clean, pure, and fresh". I laughed because it is impossible and I told her what I used. And I usually get compliments from my boyfriend. Whenever we go to try any other perfume, he always say it is not as good as Ginger. It doesn't mean other perfumes are not good, he just meant that Ginger gives me a unique and delicate scent which he loves.

It is not too strong, it is like you just treat yourself with a relaxing bath with some essential oils and herbs like orange, lime, lemongrass. And I know my words are limited, but it is true when Origins said

 "Ancient Chinese tradition holds that where there's yin, there must be yang. And so the fragrant fire of spicy ginger is balanced by the refreshing zeal of bergamot, lemon and lime to create a sensuous synergy between warm and cool, energy and calm, tempest and tranquility. Skin is surrounded in an enticing aroma that's impossible to resist."

It is a fragrance that you can even wear when you go to bed because it doesn't overwhelm. It is unique that you can't find in other fragrance bottles. It makes other people curious about what perfume you are wearing. It makes your boyfriend and husband always unable to resist coming close to you. It is something I always come back no matter how many perfumes I try. It is not strong enough if you go to a party and want everyone to notice that you are wearing perfume, but it is a daily must-have. 

Origins Ginger essence has roll-on version that you can carry everywhere, but even the bottle version is not heavy. This is one of the best fragrances. Try it and you will fall in love with it just as I did

Best sunscreen - Origins Dr. Andrew Weil Mega-Bright Skin illuminating UV Protector SPF 40 PA+++

Hello girls,

I know it is still winter in Canada and some of you don't really care about sun protection (or not yet), but for me, sunscreen is for every season if we want to have a healthy skin. And by this, I don't mean fair or bright skin, but a natural and healthy look for all skin tones.

I have mentioned about Origins in many of my blog posts, and today I'm gonna review one of its product which made me no more lazy applying sunscreen every day.

This sunscreen actually belongs to the newest skincare line which was specifically designed to brighten skin, improve clarity and radiance. It is the Mega-Bright collection developed by Dr. Andrew Weil including everything from cleanser, toner, moisturizer to sunscreen. I used a few products in the line but have been impressed by the sunscreen the most. Unfortunately, this sunscreen is unavailable in Canada, but you can still get the moisturizer with SPF 30 ( it is oil-free product, so whoever has oily skin can become its fan)

Here is what Origins claims 
( And you can find more information through this link:
Origins Mega-Bright collection )
Formulated with Rosa Roxburghii Complex, rich in vitamins A, C & E & essential fatty acids.
Helps shield skin against environmental damage.
Blended with Licorice & White Peony to brighten & hydrate skin.
Visibly minimizes the appearance of dark spots & discolorations.
Provides broad spectrum UVA & UVB protection.
Unveils a clearer, sleeker, more radiant, even-toned & healthier looking complexion.

If I have to write about its effectiveness, I would say what Origins claimed is true. However, I just want to share a few personal reasons why I love it:

It is not greasy or sticky at all, which suits my combination oily skin, especially in the summer. It is a bit dry in the winter, but it will be fine as long as you have a good moisturizer for your dry skin.

It is kind of a tinted moisturizer, a very light yellow, more like a natural skin-tone shade which is sheer and blends easily into skin. It makes my skin look a bit lighter, which I love (I'm an Asian girl and I like fair skin) so that I don't need to wear makeup foundation every day. It can't hide all your acne scars or dark spots but it evens your skin tone, and if you want to look natural, you only need a little help from spot concealer to be confident about your look.

One more point is that it has a citrus scent which make you feel relaxed and safe when using, unlike the other sunscreen which give you a synthetic fragrance scent. I also like the fact that it offers a high SPF protection of SPF40++++ against the harmful UV rays.

Some other facts about my favorite skincare brand Origins

Origins mission is to create high-performance natural skincare that is powered by nature and proven by science. It means they sources the highest quality therapeutic plants, 100% natural essential oils and certified organic ingredients from around the world, test them in the lab by experts and produce the effective products for all skin types.

Origins also claimed that its products are formulated without: Parabens ● Phthalates ● Propylene Glycol ● Mineral Oil ● PABA ● Petrolatum ● Paraffin ● DEA ● Animal Ingredients (except cruelty-free honey and beeswax).

Burt's Bee Radiance Day Cream Review

Today I will review Burt's bee Radiance Day Cream that I just bought this winter, or to be more specific, last month :)

This creme moisturizes effectively without being heavy or greasy. Absorbs quickly, but feels a bit sticky when you first put it on. Works well under makeup.
Read more at http://www.burtsbees.com/Radiance-Day-Cream/18599-00,default,pd.html#CczlgEVTJCV1waew.99

This creme moisturizes effectively without being heavy or greasy. Absorbs quickly, but feels a bit sticky when you first put it on. Works well under makeup.
Read more at http://www.burtsbees.com/Radiance-Day-Cream/18599-00,default,pd.html#CczlgEVTJCV1waew.99

I usually use Origins moisturizers, but this time I gave Burt's bee a try. Another reason is that Burt's bee is cheaper ( around $22 plus tax compared to Origins of $30-40), and I thought to myself that if I find it good enough maybe I can save a lot in the long run. 

I have to say that it is not bad but it doesn't improve my skin at all. My skin has been damaged by this winter, one the worst winters in Canada. It is flaky, it is extremely dehydrated, sensitive, and you can see the redness all over my cheeks. 

Generally, this moisturizer is all natural and very lightweight. It is not greasy after you put it on but the first feeling is a bit weird because it doesn't sink into your skin right away. You have to massage a little bit in order for your skin to absorb it. However, I think it is because my skin is too dry right now then I don't feel any sticky feeling, but in the humid summer, it will annoy me. And I still prefer gel-base moisturizer in the hot weather. Moreover, it doesn't give you a smooth feeling when you touch your skin. My skin is red now, so I can't really tell whether it makes your skin glow or not. But my skin is still flaky, and I not only feel but also see the dryness of my skin. It is totally not moisturizing enough for extremely dry skin. I think it works in other seasons or in other places where the winter is less aggressive.

Honestly, I'm not gonna buy it again. I may go back to my Origins moisturizers or may try Avene skincare for sensitive or dry skin. I will update as soon as I can

Please let me know your experience with Burt's bee

Today

• Customer Reviews
• How to Use it
• Ingredients

Product Reviews

Write a Review

4 out of 5

By SaraMN

Age: 25 - 34

Skin Type: Combination

Featured

A little goes a long way

August 28, 2009

This creme moisturizes effectively without being heavy or greasy. Absorbs quickly, but feels a bit sticky when you first put it on. Works well under makeup.

Share this review:

5 out of 5

By Lynette

From Washington state

Age: 55 - 64

Skin Type: Sensitive

Radiance Day Cream

February 18, 2014

I love this product! I have that late 50s dry skin. I use the hydrating face wash and the Radiance Day Cream and my skin just feels like it's glowing when I'm done. I'm allergic to most facial products and was thrilled to find Burt's Bees which is easy to find in the stores and which I can use.

My bathroom looks like a Burt's Bees Outlet Store.

Share this review:

5 out of 5

By Anonymous

From FL

Age: 25 - 34

Skin Type: Combination

Great for Oily/Combo Skin!!!

June 25, 2013

I absolutely love this product. I have oily/combo skin and this is the only lightweight all natural cream I have found that is truly amazing for my skin - does not add oil/shine to my face. I understand that when I clean my face, I need moisture to keep those crazy oil factors from going into overdrive and defeating the purpose of my cleaner. So this product does the job and does it well. My skin looks great - nice and even skin tone. Smooth to the touch as well - not slick and oily!! Probably not a good product for someone with very dry skin. I live in a warm climate so for me this is perfect.

Share this review:

3 out of 5

By BurgandyButterfly

From Shreveport, LA

Age: 25 - 34

Skin Type: Dry

Disappointed with the new formula

March 28, 2013

I've used this product for a while loved it. But the new formula is very disappointing. This was the first of MANY moisturizers that I've tried that didn't break my face out. But the new formula doesn't do anything. It's basically like putting water on my face. It's really thin and I have to use a lot to cover my face. It doesn't smooth on like it use to, it's like it drys up before i get half my cheek covered, and it definitely doesn't moisturize like it use to. 20 minutes after I apply it my face is flaky dry like I never applied a moisturizer. I won't be buying this one again. I still love BB's though so I will try the intense moisture and hopefully it will feel more like the old radiance cream.

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You May Also Like:

Read more at http://www.burtsbees.com/Radiance-Day-Cream/18599-00,default,pd.html#CczlgEVTJCV1waew.99

• Customer Reviews
• How to Use it
• Ingredients

Product Reviews

Write a Review

4 out of 5

By SaraMN

Age: 25 - 34

Skin Type: Combination

Featured

A little goes a long way

August 28, 2009

This creme moisturizes effectively without being heavy or greasy. Absorbs quickly, but feels a bit sticky when you first put it on. Works well under makeup.

Share this review:

5 out of 5

By Lynette

From Washington state

Age: 55 - 64

Skin Type: Sensitive

Radiance Day Cream

February 18, 2014

I love this product! I have that late 50s dry skin. I use the hydrating face wash and the Radiance Day Cream and my skin just feels like it's glowing when I'm done. I'm allergic to most facial products and was thrilled to find Burt's Bees which is easy to find in the stores and which I can use.

My bathroom looks like a Burt's Bees Outlet Store.

Share this review:

5 out of 5

By Anonymous

From FL

Age: 25 - 34

Skin Type: Combination

Great for Oily/Combo Skin!!!

June 25, 2013

I absolutely love this product. I have oily/combo skin and this is the only lightweight all natural cream I have found that is truly amazing for my skin - does not add oil/shine to my face. I understand that when I clean my face, I need moisture to keep those crazy oil factors from going into overdrive and defeating the purpose of my cleaner. So this product does the job and does it well. My skin looks great - nice and even skin tone. Smooth to the touch as well - not slick and oily!! Probably not a good product for someone with very dry skin. I live in a warm climate so for me this is perfect.

Share this review:

3 out of 5

By BurgandyButterfly

From Shreveport, LA

Age: 25 - 34

Skin Type: Dry

Disappointed with the new formula

March 28, 2013

I've used this product for a while loved it. But the new formula is very disappointing. This was the first of MANY moisturizers that I've tried that didn't break my face out. But the new formula doesn't do anything. It's basically like putting water on my face. It's really thin and I have to use a lot to cover my face. It doesn't smooth on like it use to, it's like it drys up before i get half my cheek covered, and it definitely doesn't moisturize like it use to. 20 minutes after I apply it my face is flaky dry like I never applied a moisturizer. I won't be buying this one again. I still love BB's though so I will try the intense moisture and hopefully it will feel more like the old radiance cream.

Share this review:

1 2 3 4 5 ... 39 next>>

You May Also Like:

Read more at http://www.burtsbees.com/Radiance-Day-Cream/18599-00,default,pd.html#CczlgEVTJCV1waew.99

Discover our best natural face cream to wake-up dull skin. Infused with Royal Jelly, one of nature’s most powerful nutrients, this day time facial moisturizer helps enhance skin's radiance and helps minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. With our Radiance Day Cream your skin will look and feel more moisturized and smoother for naturally radiant skin.
• Dermatologist Tested
• Formulated with nourishing Shea Butter to help moisturize for skin that feels smoother and looks younger
• Helps minimize appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Infused with Royal Jelly, one of nature’s most powerful nutrients
Read more at http://www.burtsbees.com/Radiance-Day-Cream/18599-00,default,pd.html#CczlgEVTJCV1waew.99