Keeping our skin looking healthy and feeling hydrated is often a struggle. Here at The Amazing Blog, we know that environmental influences and a busy lifestyle quickly leave their marks. So naturally, the greatest thing that could be invented, is a reset button for our skin. Can you imagine that? Something to bring back your natural balance. Luckily for us, this is what Ao Skincare aims to create. For Dr Mark Gray (a Harvard trained pathologist and dermatologist), skincare is evolutionary, and should work to find a balance between health and efficiency. We first discovered this brand via 2018 The Beauty Shortlist Awards where they won 3 awards for Editors Choice and we just couldn’t wait to try it!

With expertise that questions standard skincare practices, Ao Skincare’s fresh scientific methods filter nature’s potent energy into products designed to overcome uncertain elements, while defending your skin’s dynamic boundary. The adaptive ingredients protect your skin from the harshest conditions, while the cold processed formulas retain the raw power of every active. Hoping for that “reset-button”, we tried Ao Skincare’s Reverse Longitude PM Serum-Shot. This is an antioxidant-infused retinal, with the use of powerful vitamin-A, a gentle (and more effective) alternative to pure retinol. The ingredient are plant-based like Bakuchio which has the benefits of vitamin A without the typical associated sensitivities. Also containing New Zealand Red Algae one the most powerful natural antioxidant known and 6000x stronger than vitamin C. these all help to protect cells from oxidation and reduces sun damage, wrinkles, age spots and freckles - what more could one ask for?! Our skin was left feeling hydrated, boosted and calm, with noticeable results after just four weeks. The formulation is blended raw, in order not to deactivate any ingredients (a common problem as a result of excessive heating in the production process of skincare). Delivered in a metallic blue bottle, the burnt orange lettering matches the slightly transparent orange of this creamy and hydrating lotion - this is not just a product that does good, but it looks pretty good displayed on our dressing table too. It is also free from all parabens, sulphates, mineral oils, petrochemicals and fragrance.

No need to just take our word for it, in a Dermatest GbmH clinical trial it showed remarkable results as 92% of users reported that their skin felt softer and more supple, with 77% experiencing an improved appearance. Suitable for any skin type and any age, Ao skincare’s products include 95 to 98% natural ingredients and are completely cruelty-free. We really rate this serum with it’s potent cold pressed botanical based ingredients. It is a great investment for anyone looking to improve the texture their complexion, as well as plumping up and hydrating their skin. You can purchase a 30ml bottle for $129.95 here, or check out more of Ao skincare’s evolutionary products here.

If you've been a loyal follower of The Amazing Blog, or even if you've just found us, it's pretty safe to say that we love anything natural and organic. Whether it's skincare or food or pretty much anything, the more natural it is the better. So when we came across Raw Gaia we simply had to try out a few of their wonderfully organic skincare range! All the Raw Gaia products are made with your benefit and the environment in mind. The products are all cold-pressed, organic, vegan, cruelty and chemical free. By using the process they use, the range maintains all the amazing benefits of the raw ingredients. And as we can attest, the products are so lovely on your skin as well. We've tried the Cold-Pressed Carrier Face Oils in Rosehip and Argan as well as their Moroccan Lava Clay and loved them.When you're using the oils I'd recommend having a slightly damp face - you want enough moisture that the oil spreads but not so much that it doesn't sink in. I'd also say that you should start with a bit less than you think you need and then use more as you need it, you'd be surprised how far a small amount takes you. Your skin will feel softer than when you use a normal moisturiser. As for the mask, if you've ever mixed a face mask at home you'll know how easy it is and the Moroccan Lava Clay mask is no different. Simply mix the powder with water until you have a nice thick mask. Apply it to your face, grab a magazine, and leave your skin to reap the benefits! Once you take it off your skin will feel so smooth, and there's enough clay to make a lot of masks. Their whole range of skincare are at very reasonable price points, especially considering the quality of ingredients and process.

Have a browse through Raw Gaia's range on their website and you're sure to find a few of these natural products to fit into your skincare routine.