Naturopathica CBD+ Turmeric Capsules

We’re back again on the CBD trail, this time at The Amazing Blog it’s with a range of capsules that have just launched. However, these are not just any capsules they are CBD+ Turmeric combined from Naturopathica.

In a partnership between CBD brand Elixinol and supplement brand Pharmacare, they created  Naturopathica with a range of CBD+ capsules. These are a selection of six different CBD + products, each one has a different health benefit and also addresses a specific issue, i.e. they’re appropriately named Digestion, Mind, Night, Wellbeing, Turmeric and Unwind. With 5mg of CBD per capsule, they say that these are ‘super-concentrated’ with full-spectrum CBD that’s sourced here in the UK. It’s worth remembering that the optimal dose of CBD to take will always depend on a range of factors: Bodyweight, the condition being treated and the individual’s body chemistry.

We chose the Naturopathica CBD+ Turmeric which focuses on healthy joint and cartilage function. Both turmeric and CBD come from plants with a long list of impressive qualities.  Taking this supplement is a must for anyone who has an active lifestyle or suffers from arthritis. Other than the CBD, the two main ingredients are curcumin and vitamin C. Curcumin is found in turmeric which contains over 100 different chemical compounds. However, one that stands out is the curcumin, it’s proven to alleviate both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and has both antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory properties. The vitamin C here is one of the most important vitamins for helping maintain a healthy body function. It has numerous benefits including boosting the immune system, lowering blood pressure, collagen formation and reducing fatigue. Naturopathic even have a lab report that you can read on these ingredients here. Probably the best-known beneficial effect of the combination of this 5mg CBD and 265mg of turmeric is their mutual ability to quell inflammation. We have only taken this supplement for 30 days and can’t honestly say that we’ve noticed any difference, we think that it needs at least 60-90 days to be able to monitor properly any changes in the body. The capsules are easy to take, and as a regular curcumin capsule-popper, I might be persuaded to swap my daily 500mg with this; however, I might have to double the dose!  If you’d like to try these, then see here to buy the CBD+ Turmeric Capsules at £39.99 for 30 capsules.

Mitomo: Aloe + Cherry Blossoms & Camellia Flower Oil + Matcha Essence Sheet Masks

Today at The Amazing Blog we’re talking about sheet masks. Did you know that they originated in Japan (not Korea)? Sheet Masks are thought to have been invented by the Japanese Geishas who would soak small silk squares in flower water, and then rest them on their faces as part of a skincare routine. We don’t have silk sheets but we do have Mitomo’s Essence Sheet Masks which are made from sustainable bamboo fibres and impregnated with botanical extracts.

Mitomo is a Japanese company that launched in 2006, which specialises in producing high-end sheet masks. Their products and branding reflect the culture, where you can’t miss the famous cherry blossom on their packaging and extracts in most of the ingredients. The symbolism cherry blossom in Japan means ‘a time of renewal’, as the blossom is only evident for two weeks before it starts for fall. In a bygone era, it signalled the rice-planting season, where its blooms were used to bless the forthcoming harvest. We’ve already tried many of their different sheet masks, see here; so, we’re looking forward to trying two new sheets masks that they have added to their Ukiyoe Essence Masks collection with the Aloe + Cherry Blossoms Essence Sheet Mask and the Camellia Flower Oil + Matcha Essence Sheet Mask. These are made from bamboo bio cellulose material and what we like about bamboo is that it’s biodegradable and the fibres have no chemicals. It also has good breathability and water absorption; together with being antibacterial. They also manufacture and designs sheet masks for other international beauty brands, and are known in more than 60 countries all over the world. 

Let’s start with our favourite, Aloe + Cherry Blossoms Essence Sheet Masks which are ideal for those who wish to enhance moisture and elasticity in the skin. It contains a rich source of caffeic acid and other phenolic antioxidants for antioxidants that prevent cellular damage; as well as arbutin known for reducing dark pigmentation spots. The cherry blossom extract is used as a soothing agent because it has an anti-inflammatory effect. It helps to repair skin damages and gives the skin a natural barrier. It is rich in collagen, therefore, not only can it improve skin elasticity, but also prevents the effect of glycation, a process in which the excess of sugar in the body destroys the elasticity and create wrinkles and sagging. This face mask is also rich in multivitamins and enzymes including vitamins A and C and stops skin breakouts thanks to the aloe vera extract here. Finally, the mask is rich in a boswellia serrata gum extract (also known as Indian frankincense)  known for its ability to keep the skin look firm and youthful. We used these once or twice a week, on cleansed skin, leaving for 20 minutes, removing and squeezing out any excess extracts which we gently massaging into the face. You can find it here for £2.70 each or a pack of 10 for £23.90.

The Camellia Flower Oil + Matcha Essence Sheet Mask is a very different mask, it’s a purifier. One of its main ingredients is the camellia flower oil, which is non-greasy and an excellent moisturiser for oily or combination skin. It absorbs quickly and reaches the dermal layers of the skin, therefore providing even deeper hydration. It’s also a great balancer rich in vitamins A, B, D, and, E as well as omega 3,6, and 9. The matcha (ground green tea) here is very popular in East Asia and is used for detoxing in both cosmetics and food. Good for the body and digestive system; it provides DNA restoration for the skin. The tea polyphenols in matcha powder offer protection against UV ray damage. It can reduce the redness of the skin and bring an overall feeling of smoothness. It also has properties that help with the reduction of sebum secretion. The boswellia serrata gum extract used in both masks is included for anti-ageing reasons and as an acne reliever. Alongside these great ingredients, it also contains refreshing and soothing aloe vera. You can find this purifier mask for £2.70 each or a set of 10 for £23.90 here 

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.

PUCA Pure & Care -EGF Peptide Serum & Face Mist

As we now embark on a post-furlough and (hopefully) a post-COVID 19 time, ‘economy’ is the new watchword. And to this end, we’ve been being asked by our readers where can they find luxury skincare at affordable prices… Today, we’ve listened and here at The Amazing Blog we’d like to introduce you to a luxurious, innovative and affordable skincare that is also recognised as a personalised skincare and go-to brand in salons and spas, meet PUCA Pure & Care.

PUCA Pure & Care is a Danish brand founded in 2014 by Vivian Dynesen, with her goal, of paying particular attention to hydration and care for the face and body with the PUCO range (which is a portmanteau of Pure & Care).  They are members of the CTPA (Cosmetics and Hygiene industry Trade Association) and have developed and designed the brand to conform with strict regulatory and industry standards. Their products have been tested clinically, and are used by both the salon professional and consumer. They set out to provide their customers with effective and solution-based skincare, all at an affordable price. Their core brand values are beauty, freedom, innovation and surprise; and in some of the products, they also have of some more unusual ingredients such as silk extract and snail secretion filtrate. This is where nature meets science, with the natural oils, plant extracts and actives. Each of the skincare formulas are tried and tested to ensure their effectiveness on all skin types, including hypersensitive skin. This means that everyone can benefit from using PUCA – Pure & Care. 

First, we tried the EGF Peptide Serum This is one of twelve PUCA serums offered, where each one is targeted for a specific skincare solution. This peptide-based serum helps restore the natural structure of your skin; it is alcohol-free and doesn’t contain water or silicone. With regular use, we found that the skin's health was optimised, giving a smoother and more even appearance. It includes one of our favourite ingredients hyaluronic acid, which is known to have the ability to boost moisture levels, counter inflammation and retain moisture. This serum blend also includes beta-glucan, which is used here for anti-ageing to firm up and plump fine lines and wrinkles. It is similar to our immune-enhancing capabilities; the beta-glucans use these macrophages to speed up wound healing. The key ingredient of the serum is EGF, this has many benefits including hydration and hyperpigmentation prevention. The process by which EGF works is by encouraging cell growth, stimulating keratinocytes and fibroblasts, which then synthesise fibrous proteins to improve skin elasticity with collagen and elastin. The mixture is also rich in morus alba root extract (aka white mulberry root) which has antioxidant properties, and the potential to rid the skin of hyperpigmentation and unevenness with the flavonoids. This plant extract helps calm stressed skin, which in turn reduces signs of environmental damage and fosters a brighter, more radiant skin tone. The chamomilla recutita flower extract also has numerous benefits; it is commonly used as an anti-inflammatory agent and provides antioxidant protection to soothe, moisturise and inhibit the growth of bacteria. Finally, the oligopeptide-1 and 2,  can promote cell growth to improve cell activity and repair, making it ideal to use as after-sun skincare or on couperose skin. The oligopeptide 5 stimulates the metabolism of epithelial cells, improves the stratum corneum (outer skin layer), increasing the thickness. This serum is a transparent liquid that is almost fragrance-free, quick to absorb; we found it non-greasy and easy to mix n match under our regular moisturiser, SPF or night cream. Having used this night and day for the past month, I noticed some of my hyperpigmentation has faded and my skin tone is looking more even - which is a big plus! PUCA suggests using this before a Derma Roller treatment which will then help the serum to penetrate deeper. We think that long term use of this serum will boost the skin and keeping it hydrated without breaking your bank balance. You can purchase the 30ml EGF Peptide Serum here for only €10.00. 

The second product we tried was the Face Mist which is a Danish Beauty Award-Winner.  This light facial mist delivers a cooling boost of hydration. Its ingredients include green tea which provides powerful antioxidant protection, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and revitalised. The cucumber extract is an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and skin-conditioning agent often used in cosmetics and personal care products. The antioxidants found in cucumber extract are ascorbic acid, beta carotene and caffeic acid. These extracts are often used as an anti-ageing ingredient where the antioxidants limit oxidative damage caused by free radicals. It contains a mint extract that delivers freshness and will soothe the skin. The aloe vera in the serum has been clinically proven to heal burns, wounds and scars. When applied, the compound aloin in aloe vera also blocks up to 30% of the UV rays and protects the skin from sun damage. The aloe vera plant contains numerous vitamins, as well as choline and folic acid. These nutrients promote skin health and protect the skin from free radicals and premature ageing. It also includes beta-glucan (see the EGF Serum above). Then there is chamomile and rose flower extracts both of which are very beneficial helping to calm irritated skin, reduce wrinkles and help heal bruising. The sodium hyaluronate is a combination of macromolecular hyaluronic acid and small molecule hyaluronic acid. Small-weight hyaluronan molecules penetrate deeper into the skin's structure, providing maximum below-the-surface hydration and in turn rehydrating skin cells over time. This Face Mist, again, is almost fragrance-free, so it won’t conflict with other skincare or cosmetics and gives makeup a wonderful dewy finish. You can spritz this on a makeup brush or sponge before blending in foundation or concealer. This product is ideal to use on the face, neck or hair as needed. Use for extra hydration before or after applying moisturiser, as a pick-me-up on the go, or after makeup. PUCA advises for an extra refreshing and cooling boost, to store the bottle in the fridge (which we did during the heatwave in August). This marvellous multi-use Facial Mist can be found here for €7.50. Why not explore more from this brand with their face creams, body oils, scalp serums and masks. We can’t wait to try more!

Concrete & Wax - The Modular Collection: Tealight Trio in All Sage

It’s nearing to the end of August and we can feel that slight autumnal bite in the air. Shorter days and longer nights are not far away and the candle season is almost upon us. This is why at The Amazing Blog we thought we’d introduce you to one of our first #amazingfinds for the autumn. Meet the contemporary styled and hand-poured candle company Concrete & Wax with their versatile Tealight Trio in All Sage from The Modular Collection which are stackable tea lights where you can build them vertically or burn each one independently. 

They were founded in 2018 by Alex Sommer and Laura Keller (AKA Mr. Concrete and Mrs. Wax) who among many other things, are also expert trend forecasters in the fashion industry. They came up with this conceptual brand, which offers the consumer a variety of design choices with mix and match concrete modular and interchangeable candleholders, together with uniquely fragranced soy wax candles. The holders are available in six plain colours and three unique camouflage designs. They’re cleverly adaptable and fit into almost any interior style whether it’s a minimalist contemporary penthouse or rambling country cottage. At each stage of brand development Concrete & Wax, wanted to make sure that they kept their sourcing of materials and suppliers as sustainable as possible. And as a true testament to artisan craftsmanship, they produce all products in their Suffolk workshop where everything is hand-poured, finished and packaged. They say: “When it comes to the finishing touches, we scour the local market to source as much as we possibly can - our aim is to support local business and to keep our footprint as small as possible.” The general perception of concrete is a rough, heavy industrial material; however, here we see it being used as a smooth material taking on streamline and stylishly statuesque shapes. They produce a selection of reed diffusers, in black bottles with concrete tops that double up as a tealight holder. Also not forgetting the recent addition of coasters in all the different colourways including a new splatter design.

Concrete & Wax very kindly sent us the Tealight Trio in Sage these are three hand-poured sage green concrete tealight holders in varying heights. As mentioned, they can burn independently or be stacked to make one tall tower. Each of these concrete holders has natural cork feet making them appear as if they’re slightly floating, plus the cork offers protection for heat-sensitive or polished surfaces.  We preferred to arrange these all nestling together for an extra twinkly effect. All candles (including tealights) are made of 100% vegan blended soy wax with a choice of fragrance. We’re fans of soy wax as it’s clean-burning and tends to hold scent longer than other varieties of wax due to the slow burn which releases the scented oils gradually.

There are four candle fragrances. The Lime, Basil & Mandarin is a citrusy fragrance that is relaxing and energising all at once. Lime is known to help clear the mind, the basil is thought to boost mood, and the mandarin soothes tensions. Secondly, we have Tobacco & Oak, this is considered as a very earthy aroma with smoky tobacco and dark oak mixed with leather, spice and musk. It’s very masculine, but not overpowering. This autumnal scent makes you want to hunker down and snuggle up in the warmth. The musk here will also help elevate your mood and give a general feeling of wellbeing. Thirdly, Sandalwood & Black Pepper, which according to Concrete & Wax, this scented candle is the most luxurious in the collection. Sandalwood is believed to be beneficial in treating anxiety, fatigue, and insomnia and the warming scent of black pepper will help relieve stress. Last but not least, Amber Noir, is the latest addition to the collection and is warming, intoxicating and mysterious. Tropical and exotic, burning this candle will spirit you off to far and distant climes … Top tip: These tealight candles will also fit into the Slim Holders. We love the pick ‘n ‘mix and the interchangeable aspect, which allows us to swap fragrance, colour or style of container all on a whim to fit our mood!  To see the full range from Concrete & Wax see here starting from £22.