OSEA Malibu Blemish Balm

A while back, I received some little samples of OSEA Malibu Blemish Balm. Luckily, this has been perfect for battling those random breakouts! 

*PR Sample

At first, I thought this was an spot treatment packed with natural ingredients. Sure, it can be that, but it is intended to be used all over!

From OSEA Malibu:

SKIN TYPES: Oily, Acneic, Combo. 
This light, absorbent, non-greasy moisturizer will heal blemishes and gently hydrate without clogging pores. A natural alternative to harsh retinols and synthetic chemicals, this healing balm reduces inflammation and prevents breakouts. Our proprietary base of three seaweeds combined with a healing blend of Cypress, Juniper, and Rosemary essential oils known for their anti-bacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, will leave your skin with a soft matte finish. Can be used under makeup.

Now given my dry, dry skin, I'm usually pretty hesitant to use anything marketed for oily skin all over my face. But, I finally tried it, and I was happily surprised to find that it is not drying! Only a pea size dot is needed to cover my whole face! I've used it both with a face oil underneath and by itself, and miraculously my skin didn't feel dry at all during the day. 

I would say the finish is satin to matte, and it wears just fine under makeup. I'm not certain if it can act as a primer, as I don't really have any bases that don't last on me.

Of course, you want to know how well this treated blemishes. I've had a few of those pimples that hurt as they're growing underneath the skin, and this stuff has really shortened the life of those pimples. On those pimples that have already emerged, this stuff really brought the gunk to the surface overnight. By the end of the day, that white junk came out on its own, no popping needed! Impressively fast healing, that's for sure. I also applied it as a spot treatment to a blemish I felt growing near my nose, and I must have gotten it early enough for it never to emerge! 

All in all, I think OSEA Blemish Balm is a really great treatment for days my skin isn't doing so great. I imagine it could balance out oily skin types, though I can't be certain. Oh, and the full size bottle is a whole 2oz for $42. 

Do you plan to try OSEA Malibu's Blemish Balm? What are your favorite blemish treatments from more natural brands? :)

African Botanics Marula Mineral Cleansing Mask

You might have noticed that I'm a huge fan of African Botanics, so this spring when they released a mask, I was pretty excited. 

*PR Sample

This clay mask has a nice, creamy texture. I would say it is quite airy and almost whipped in texture. It has a similar scent to the African Botanics Pure Marula Cleansing Oil, which I find to be a bit herbal, minty and warm all at the same time. The scent is described as a mixture of "Damask Rose, Rose Geranium and Clementine essential oils and herbs." 

The description of the mask from Space NK makes it sound quite lovely, so I thought I would share: 
Clay-based treatment mask that deeply cleanses and refreshes fatigued skin while providing hydration, vitamins, and energy to your skin.

Replenishes skin with minerals rich in iron, zinc, magnesium and amino acids to boost circulation and stimulate cell renewal. The antioxidant and omega-rich fusion of Marula, Baobab and Africa’s legendary botanicals purify, clear congested pores, brighten, firm and smooth the skin. Enhanced with the latest plant stem cell technology, this mask deeply rejuvenates while addressing facial blemishes, breakouts, discoloration and oxidative stress. Restores a healthy glow without drying or leaving your skin feeling taut.

I love how this mask does not feel drying in the least, and it leaves my skin feeling (and looking!) clear and even toned. I definitely see a healthy glow, and I would say that this mask is appropriate year round and for all skin types. 

African Botanics retails for $75 and is available at Space NK. (Affiliate Link)

Have you tried this mask or anything from the brand? I'd love to know what you think! 

African Botanics Pure Marula Cleansing Oil ♡

I've been a huge fan of African Botanics ever since I was introduced to the brand at Space NK last summer, so when I heard that they were launching a cleansing oil, I was pretty excited! 

*PR Sample

I've only been using cleansing oils for the last year or so, and while I haven't tried too many yet I do believe this new release from African Botanics is one of the best. 

From Space NK:
An antioxidant and omega-rich cleansing oil for dry, combination and sensitive skin. Gently purifies and removes make-up, pollution, dead skin cells and surface impurities without causing irritation or skin dehydration. Minimizes redness, reduces irritation and stimulates micro-circulation. Transforms into a light emulsion when water is added, rinsing perfectly clean with no oily skin residue. Restores skin’s natural balance and gently exfoliates with an advanced blend of AHA Fruit Acids derived from Bilberry, Pink Grapefruit, Sugar Maple, Sugar Cane and Lemon. Maintains optimal skin oxygenation while overcoming environmental stress.

Doesn't that sound lovely? Like with many other cleansing oils, you apply a few pumps of this to dry skin. Then massage with water and rinse. I have to say that I was immediately impressed with how clean my skin felt - often, cream and oil based cleansers leave residue or require a bit of effort to get that clean feeling. 

For those who are familiar with the African Botanics line, this product has a different sort of scent compared to the more citrusy oils. I find it so impossible to describe the scent, but it is a bit warm, more herbal and while not my favorite, it is by no means unpleasant. I love how this cleansing oil keeps my skin balanced and not at all dry. 

I was surprised to discover that this cleansing oil is 100% vegan and gluten-free too! While I'm not terribly sensitive to that, I still think it is pretty cool. :) Additionally, this cleansing oil is certified organic and formulated without mineral oil, toxic preservatives, colorants, silicone, synthetic fragrances, sulfates, triclosan, parabens, PEGs, PPGs, DEA, TEA, urea or phthalates. 

All in all, this is neck in neck with my Tatcha favorite (review) as the best cleansing oil ever. :) For those of you interested in getting a bottle of your own, click here to take advantage of the Space NK promotion ending tonight, 4/22 at 11:59pm EST. (Affiliate Link)

Have you tried this new cleansing oil or anything else from African Botanics? I'd love to know your thoughts! 

Skincare Mini Loves

I seem to be overflowing with deluxe samples (#storyofmylife) and I've been trying to use as many as possible these last few months. Skincare, haircare, makeup, you name it. I'm going to use up all those darn minis! 

In any event, I really wanted to share a few that I've been loving lately. I suspect a few of them will even make it to the repurchases pile! 

*PR Sample, Affiliate Links

Boscia Tsubaki Beauty Oil, $46 for 1.7 oz
I've never paid much attention to Boscia, but I'm really appreciating the quality of their products and affordable price point. I love how this oil keeps my skin feeling hydrated despite the cold weather we've had this winter. It is lightly scented and absorbs super quickly so I can layer it with moisturizer or makeup. I've been eyeing their Cleansing Oil-Gel from the same line - have you tried it? 

African Botanics Neroli Infused Marula Oil*, $85 for 2 oz
I love neroli, and I've been dying to get my hands on this ever since I slathered some of this on at Space NK last May. I find this to be even more hydrating on my skin than the regular version, which I've seriously been obsessed with all winter. It is meant to hydrate, combat redness, and protect against the elements, and I really feel like it has done just that! 

Dr. Jart Ceramidin Liquid, $39 for 5oz
I have mixed feelings about this product - while I love the light, liquidy texture and over feel of the product, I'm not so sure it works for me. I have been experiencing very minor rash-like reactions to something, and I suspect it is this but can't say for certain. Who knows, it could just be the weather or something else all together. In any event, this "liquid" is quite an affordable serum that definitely helps with hydration. 

I am definitely considering purchasing both the Bosica Tsubaki Oil and African Botanics Neroli Oil - but, I will be restrained and wait till I've emptied more products. I won't be purchasing Dr. Jart Ceramidin Liquid (or the accompanying Ceramidin Cream that I don't have much to say about), but that is really because I am testing out a similar product from Asian brand Hada Labo that I like better! 

All in all, I'm pretty happy with how these products turned out. Have you tried any great samples or minis lately? I'd love to know! :)