TruSkin Review, Sponsored Content

 *This post was created in collaboration with TruSkin and MomsMeet. All Opinions are 100% my own and as always, I thank you for supporting Prim and Propah!

I have tried MANY face oils, serums and moisturizers in my day. I have been on the "clean beauty" scene for about 6 years now so I have had the opportunity to sample and review a lot of different brands and their product offerings. I wouldn't consider myself an expert but I wouldn't consider myself a novice either. I can tell when something is a good product for a good price. I can tell when something is overrated and overpriced and anywhere inbetween the two. So when TruSkin sent me their face serum and moisturizer, I have been able to review with a discerning eye.

When I first recieved the products, I have to admit, my first impression was to not be impressed. I mentioned that I have used many, many products so I have seen the prettiest and most impressive packaging that there is... but here's where I shouldn't be so snooty, right? Beauty and quality skincare should be accessible and available to all and we shouldn't judge a book by its cover. Based on my initial first few uses, I would say that this is a pretty good product and is on par with some of the brands that I've gotten at Whole Foods. There is no scent (which I know is huge for a lot of sensitive folks) and it's very lightweight, both the serum and the moisturizer. My skin has been drier than usual due to the New England cold and this duo has stood up to it, which I do find impressive.

I think what I like the best about TruSkin is their price point for this product. I use a toner, serum and moisturizer every day. I believe it's a good solid skincare routine for anyone and if you don't have major skin issues, I think this duo is actually pretty perfect. A Serum at $19.99 and moisturizer at $15.99. I've recently come to realize that just because a company puts forth affordability, doesn't mean they don't care about ingredients and sourcing. TruSkin is Leaping Bunny Certified so you know that they take consideration in that area.

I really liked this duo and even though I have other oils and moisturizers, will work this into my routine, I like it that much. Their products do the job and while they might not be the fanciest out there, they are affordable, quality and generous in size. Save 10% on any TruSkin products by using the promo code MOM10 on their website. Visit momsmeet.link/truskinshop

You can find TruSkin on their site, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

Strange Bird Beauty, Creating a Beauty Ritual

*I received product from Strange Bird Beauty in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are 100% my own and as always, thank you for supporting Prim and Propah.

I was introduced to Strange Bird Beauty this Fall and immediately fell in love with the packaging and the name. We've always used the term "strange bird" in my family, sort of as a term of endearment and embracing the ways that we don't exactly conform to the norm. So when the team at SBB offered to send me their product line, a girl doesn't say no, especially when the line is made using naturally sourced, vegan, and Leaping Bunny certified ingredients. Moreover, the brand itself dedicates itself to the idea of your beauty routine being a ritual and from the product to the storytelling, Strange Bird is an absolute hit in my book... and this says a lot, I've tried a lot of products at this point so my eye has become a lot more discerning in recent history and reviews.

The Strange Bird product line currently features the Inner Clarity Cleanser, the Inner Balance Serum and the Inner Light Moisturizer. The sweet smelling combination of these luxury products has made for an incredible skincare routine. I don't want to compare something that naturally smells so sweet, to candy, but if you like a soft but sweet and delightful scented product, then Strange Bird's Skittle-esque line is amazing. I seriously covet this set, for fear it will run out too quickly.

The cleanser is gentle and something I found so interesting is that you can use it on wet or dry skin. Have I never tried something on my dry skin before? I haven't... which leads me to believe that I am not as wordly as I would think I am lol? Sigh. I do find that this product is on the pricier side, for a cleanser. Do I love that it's supercharged with quartz and I know that a lot of good energy was put into each tube? Heck yes I do. Do I also have two small children that have been known to squeeze a tube of Mama's skincare products out into a bath? Yes. When I am out of this phase of life, I would most certainly consider this cleanser as a purchase, because it really is a beautiful formulation, cleans my skin and leaves it looking glowing.

The serum is probably my favorite product of the trio. I felt like my skin bounced back from a rough day with a couple of uses of this delightful daily serum. Like was it possible for my skin to be tighter? I'm not sure but it sure seems that way. I used this after the cleanser and before the moisturizer, in a daily routine after my shower. It takes almost no time to absorb so you can move right on in your routine. It's infused with amethyst and oak, which speaks to me and serum like this, I would definitely plunk more money down for. This too is on the pricier side, but supporting small, indie beauty brands means spending money on the ingredients, the people and the effort it takes to create the products.

The Strange Bird Moisturizer has really been great, especially with the change in weather here in New England. You know when your skin just feels thirsty? That's been me lately. When I put on the Inner Light Moisurizer, it was almost as if my skin breathed a sigh of relief. It's light and absorbs fairly quickly, which I love especially on days where I want to apply makeup after. Soft and with that sweet smell consisten through the product line, this completes the trio perfectly. Again, this line is higher in price than some other products that I have tried and reviewed, but I do think that if you have the budget, the Strange Bird line is worth every penny.

So it's probably pretty clear that the Strange Bird line is a new favorite. Everything thing from the packaging, the thought exercises included in my shipment, the stickers! to the product themselves is so well thought out and mindful, which I love and appreciate. I really do appreciate indie beauty makers for their passion, the love of what they're doing and the variety that they are bringing to the market. Shopping small, in this way, makes me feel good. You know that every order that comes through, makes someone do a happy dance on the other end of it.

You can find Strange Bird Beauty online, on Instagram and Facebook!

Lhamour + a Giveaway

*This post was created in partnership with Lhamour. All opinions are 100% my own.

Me and my beauty products, right?  Over the past few years, well, really since I had Wesley, I have been very much into trying all the products, and yes, the products that are handcrafted with natural ingredients, move right up to the top of my list! I was recently introduced to Lhamour, a brand with purpose, social impact and a classy cool look. Like a lot of the indie beauty brands that I love, Lhamour was created out of need for products that were natural and wouldn't cause allergic reactions. Created with 100% natural ingredients sourced in Mongolia, the brand not only supports a team of ladies, they are also focused on giving back to their community.

I was able to try the Cool Breeze Body Oil, the Beeswax Lip Balm, the Healing Salve and the Yak's Milk Soap... what a treat!

So I'll start with the Cool Breeze Body Oil. This is now my go to, post work out shower body oil. Let me just tell you that when I played rugby in college, we might as well have taken out stock in icy hot because boy did those muscles get sore. I swear to you that I feel like this oil does that trick for me these days. After my Monday night bootcamp class, I use this after my shower and my muscles just relax and my body says aaaaah. I wouldn't use this as an everyday body oil as the scent is definitely strong, I suspect that it's the peppermint oil, but this is definitely helpful as I have been working out more!  Main Ingredients: Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, DL-alpha-Tocopherol (Vitamin E).

The Beeswax Lip Balm is generously sized and has provided a great all purpose lip moisturizer for our house, meaning that it's great for chapped lips but also just to protect them from the elements. It's just the right amount of functional and a bit fancy. Main Ingredients: Cera Alba (Beeswax), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Oil, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, DL-alpha-Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Tallow (Sheep’s tail fat oil), Lanolin.

The Healing Salve is a special little tin of goodness. I was a little put off by the color at first (it's a kind of grey color) but it's so smooth, light and the scent is killer. I'm hiding this from my kids because I will be heartbroken if they did into this and waste even a smidge of this little power house. I have been using on a skin tag and swear that it's softened and just not nearly as noticeable... and since it's mosquito season here, I am keeping on hand as it touts being great for bug bites, and I believe it! Main Ingredients: Rosa Moschata (Rosehip) Oil, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Oil, Tallow (Beef tallow), Tallow (Sheep’s tail fat oil), Palustris (Pine) Wood Tar, Cera Alba (Beeswax), Cymbopogon Citratus (Lemongrass) Oil, Activated charcoal.

The Yak's Milk Soap is soft scented and gentle, a perfect little bar of soap that's great for dry, sensitive skin. Main Ingredients: Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Yak milk, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Tallow (Beef Tallow), Sodium Hydroxide.


Head over to my Instagram today to enter to win everything that I tried PLUS the Sensitive Skin Body Butter! You'll be in for a treat because this is the ultimate in self care so head over to get in on the action this week! Good luck!

Find Lhamour in the US at Lilly's Bathcarry, on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and on Youtube!

Cupid and Psyche Beauty + a Giveaway!

*This post was created in partnership with Cupid and Psyche Beauty. All opinions are 100% my own.

Finding a beauty brand that is equally effective and socially conscious is not always an easy task. Being a smart consumer is important and supporting brands that take pride in their product and their place on the planet it something that I both encourage and try to live by. When I was recently introduced to Cupid&Psyche just recently, I was most attracted to their gorgeous hues, of course. I like to take risks with lip color because what's the worst that can happen, you tried and it just didn't look that great. In addition to looking great, Cupid&Psyche cares about giving back to the world that we all love.

All of their products are bee friendly, cruelty free, vegan, plant based and hand poured. A percentage of all the profits from Cupid&Psyche are donated to saving bees and animal non-profits including the Pollinator Partnership, Elephant Nature Park, Humane Society International and David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (a charity some of my blogger pals supported in the past)... the brand sounds like the kind of brand we can get behind right? But what about the product itself?

The lipsticks themselves are bee friendly (made with a beeswax free formula), are handmade in small batches, are vegan, cruelty free, all natural created with plant based oils and waxes with shea butter. They are super smooth when you apply and I would have to describe the texture as a silky lip balm. These lipsticks are definitely a buildable color, meaning that you can wear them somewhat sheer (depending on the shade) and then add more and more to get the desired boldness. The color pigment themselves are made from pure minerals, which is amazing to me, because the colors are genuinely amazing in person.

I was able to try four of the shades and I am so excited to let you know that Cupid&Psyche wants to share the same shades with you guys. The lipsticks are beautiful and as someone who likes to toss a lipstick in her purse now and then, these are great on the go shades, because they are buildable like I mentioned before. I am so pleased with these as an overall product that the winner of this giveaway is one lucky person who will get four shades sent to them: Brigid, Ione, Devi, and Artemis!

Head over to my instagram to enter the giveaway and be sure to check out Cupid&Psyche online, instagram and twitter!

WOODS Wild Botanicals + Giveaway

*I was provided product for review. All opinions are 100% my own.

You know me and you know that I love a good indie clean beauty brand. It's one of my small joys in life to be able to try and experience the beautiful products that small batch makers are creating... and I am fortunate every time a brand like Woods Wild Botanicals wants me to feature their products on Prim and Propah and talk about what I think!

I think the initial reaction to the products and packaging can be described as "Heart Eyes". When I opened my package, I started privately swooning to myself. I am a sucker for pretty packaging... but what's most important is the quality and effectiveness of a product line themselves. The team at Woods sent me a few of their products to try so I took the Purifying Face Oil, the Purifying Face Oil Uplifting, and the Nourishing Body Mousse out for a spin. First off, I just love this scent driven messaging. I am a lover of scents and am often inspired by smells throughout my day.

So let's start with the Body Mousse. It is absolutely the perfect time of year to discover the benefits of a hydrating cream, body butter or mousse. I've used a lot of different products but what I think makes this mousse stand apart is it's weight. It's not too light but it doesn't leave your skin feeling caked in product. In the Winter and colder months, I want my skin to feel protected but still want to have my moisturizers absorbed fairly quickly because I detest a greasy feeling. After a shower or bath, this is a great product. A little goes a long way and my skin felt sooooooooooooooo soft, which is saying something because my skin is generally some level of dry this time of year. The scent is light lavender and I can tell that they've used coconut oil... that said, I don't think it's overpowering if that's something that you look for in bath and body products. Overall, I really like this body mousse but I would consider it on the higher range price wise ($58) for what I would normally spend on this type of product.

Ingredients: 
Mangifera Indica (Mango) Seed Butter*,  Cocos Nucifera (Virgin Coconut) Oil*, Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Seed Oil*, Calophyllum Inophyllum (Tamanu) Oil*, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil*,   Tocopherol (Non-GMO Vitamin E), Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Oil*, Citrus Aurantium (Neroli) Flower Oil*, Boswellia carteri (Frankincense) Resin Oil*.

The Face Oils (purifying grounding and uplifting) are gorgeous. It's not often that I find a face oil that wows me right out of the gate. I have tried so many at this point that it's gotta be something special for me to take notice and consider making a permanent swap in my face routine. The scents come into play here, the uplifting having a citrus-y scent that totally makes me happy and the grounding having a lighter, almost geranium-y scent. Both are light but present enough to really get the benefits of aromatherapy. They apply so light, not greasy at all. They're just lovely, lovely. Priced at $66, these are reasonably priced for such a special oil. I can't wait to use these alternating, morning and night, to see what the long term results look like with these in my routine.

Ingredients: 
Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil*, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil*, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil*, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Calophyllum Inophyllum (Tamanu) Oil*, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil and Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract*, Squalane Oil (Olive Derived), Tocopherol (Non-GMO Vitamin E), Pelargonium Roseum (Rose Geranium) Flower and Leaf Oil*,  Helichrysum italicum (Immortelle) Flower Oil*, Salvia Sclarea (Clary Sage) Flower and Leaf Oil*, Matricaria Recutita (German Blue Chamomile) Flower Oil*.

So now that I've piqued your interest do you want to try Woods Wild Botanicals for yourself? They've so graciously and generously offered one of my readers the opportunity to win a collection of products-- head over to my Instagram to enter to win!

Follow Woods Wild Botanicals on Instagram and Facebook

What's Wowing Me in Wellness: Spray My Face

I didn't realize it until just recently, but Mama is a face spray hoarder. I have various itterations of face sprays from rose water to toners, to hydration sprays and beyond... and I kinda love them all. I have been very fortunate to be able to try a lot of different sprays without having to buy them (grateful for this!) so have built quite the collection, all with their own purpose and place. I thought I would break down some of the reasons you'd want to invest in a toner or hydrating spray (or both!) so that you can begin to make an educated purchase with my opinion in there to boot ha!

Not all facial sprays are created equal nor do they have the same purposes. The difference between Toner & Astringents-- Toners help to remove any traces of oil, perspiration or makeup from your skin. An astringent, however, may be alcohol- or chemically-based and is used to clean the skin and close pores. I don't personally use an astringent unless it's that time of the month and my skin is acting wacky. It helps to clear my skin up in those dark times but in other scenarios will dry me right out so I use astrigents sparingly. Toner however, I use that on the daily. The most important purpose for a toner, and I've been told this by estheticians as well as clean beauty experts, is to restore your skin's pH balance. Using a toner can also prevent in grown hairs and act as an additional layer of protection from the elements. Hydrating mists? I have those around to feel fancy and have something on hand to freshen up on the go and quickly!

Hydrating Mists: Some of my favorite hydrating mists are very simple in their ingredients but are perfect sprays for a quick pick me up and also for setting your makeup. I have a small travel sized bottle that I'll pop in my purse or the diaper bag to keep on hand for those moments when life has me dried out (which is most of the time) My Top Picks: Kaliks Collective Revive Lavender Hydrosol, Josh Rosebrook's Hydrating Accelerator, Beautycounter Rosewater Mist, OY-L Hydrating Mist,

Toners: Toners are part of the building blocks to a fantastic skincare regimine. I always use a toner right after I've washed my face or left the shower and to be honest, have use a toner once or two by accident when I just wanted a spritz of hydration. I have dabbled in different toners but my favorites come in all shapes, sizes and price points. My Top Picks:  Face/Food Flower Power Healing Toner, Shamanuti Seaweed Toner, Wildcraft Geranium Orange Blossom Toner , 

Astringents: I personally don't dabble in different astringents, I just know what works for me and since I use it so infrequently, it doesn't make sense to buy something that I don't need. The Thayer's Witc Hazel Astringent is simple and easy to find, like I'm talking even at Target, CVS and sometimes even Marshall's. It works to cleanse, get rid of grime, and tightens up the skin after I've had a big breakout. My Top Pick: Thayer's Witch Hazel Astringent

No matter what you're spraying on your face, be sure to do ingredient checks. There are some stores and sites where you can be sure that they've done the work for you (Detox Market, Follain, Credo Beauty, Pretty Pure Beauty) but when shopping at Target, CVS, Marshalls etc, you'll have to do your due dilligence. You don't want harmful chemicals being spritzed refreshingly about.

Do you have any recommendations for hydrating sprays, toners or astringents?

I Tried It: Prim Botanicals

I have been on a bit of a hiatus in trying new beauty products. It's not that I haven't wanted to but the right brands just haven't come along. I am very picky when it comes to new items that I want to try because there are standards, people! I need to know that what I'm putting on my body (or my kids' bodies) is safe, natural and actually works. When my (new) friends at Prim Botanicals offered me the opportunity to bring some of their gorgeous products into my routine, I immediately said yes, because they embody what I appreciate in a brand.

"We are lovers of all things lovely, fresh, restorative and fun. We believe in seriously effective products that never take themselves too seriously. We believe in real beauty and the importance of feeling happy in one's skin."

The Prim Body Oil, $54: Ingredients, Corylus Avellana (Hazelnut Oil), Camellia Oleifera (Camellia Oil*), Prunus Dulcis (Sweet Almond Oil*), Carapa Guianensis (Andiroba Oil), Pentaclethra Macroloba (Pracaxi Oil**), Proprietary Blend of: Jasminum (Jasmine Oil), Rosa Centifolia (Rose Oil), Piper Nigrum (Black Pepper Essential Oil*), Citrus Bergamia (Bergaptene-free Bergamot Essential Oil), Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary Essential Oil*)

Seriously, you guys, the smell (essential oils like jasmine, wild rose, bergamot and black pepper), oh the sweet, fragrant body oil. I haven't ever had a body oil quite like this before. It's silky smooth when applied and absorbs rather quickly but I like to add to my bath (upon Prim's recommendation) or immediately post-shower to really optimize on the moisturizing. It works great as a spot treatment for my dry Winter skin but this oil almost feels too special to use every day. It's lush and luxurious, I absolutely love it, end of story.

Potion No 1, $26: Target Blemishes. Detoxify. Balance. Ingredients: Nigella Sativa (Black Cumin Seed Oil*), Calophyllum Inophyllum (Tamanu Oil), Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn Oil) *Organic

These little bottles are meant for targeted effects not every day use. Fortunately for this review but unfortunately for my life lol, I used this for a recent hormonal imbalance that was manifesting on my face. Since having the baby, my skin has been all out of wack but it's hard to find a natural option for a clear up that doesn't burn when you apply it. It applies orange but can easily be rubbed in to blend and has a light scent that fades shortly after application. I guess the only real question here is did it work? Yes, yes it did and so super gentle on the skin unlike other topical treatments I've used in the past.

Potion No 2, $26: Hydrate. Preserve Youth. Soothe. Ingredients: Carapa Guianensis (Andiroba Oil), Pentaclethra Macroloba (Pracaxi Oil**), Sclerocarya Birrea (Unrefined, Virgin Marula Oil**) **Wildcrafted

This particular potion offers a lot in a little bottle. After the afformentioned breakout or any breakout for that matter, my face goes a little dry. At my last facial, my esthetician also told me that I was "wicked" dry (my words not hers). Sometimes, I feel like my skin is moisturized when it actually isn't. I bet there are other people who feel the same way and so it's important that we keep an eye on things. There's a pleasant, light scent and I got a touch in my mouth, and it doesn't taste good so don't do that lol... but it's great, really. Not only did this help to restore some moisture back, I could see a noticeable difference in some areas of discoloration around my mouth. Yes, I know, so glamorous but seriously, it's like a little jar of magic. I guess there's a reason that it's been called a "mystical" beauty product.

I think the next on my list of things to try from Prim Botanicals would have to be the Hair Oil and the Face Oil but to be honest, I can't imagine that they aren't amazing. Prim Botanicals sent me these products to try and as you know, my opinions are mine, but seriously, I mean it, these are gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous products in every sense of the word.

Have you tried Prim Botanicals before? I'd love to hear about your experience!

I Tried it: Sahajan Skincare + a Giveaway!

I've actually had this Sahajan Skincare duo since this Summer but have been waiting to post about it because I truly, truly feel like it is my Fall favorite (and could be yours too). Derived from the Hindi word for "intuitive", Sahajan brings you the evidence to follow your intuition and choose clean beauty. Lisa Mattam started her clean skincare journey much like I began mine, with my/our children. While I don't create my own products, I did become more concerned with what I was putting on my children's skin then wondered why I was so discerning with theirs but not with mine. Thus brought my on my natural skincare journey which is now a sort of passion. Finding the best and then telling those I care for about the brands that mean something to me.

Sahajan uses only natural and organic ingredients but also ayurvedic. If you're not familiar with the term ayurvedic it means a system of medicine with historical roots in the Indian continent. It's based on a belief that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between the mind, body and spirit. I am completely on board with that. I know that personally, I am always trying to find balance in all areas in my life, in order to be at peace, be happy, and be somewhat sane for everyone in my family.

So I tell you all this because sometimes it's not just the ingredients or the scent of a product, or even how well it works (and yes, these are all important things)... it can be the reason why a product line was started or why ingredients were sourced from a sacred lineage. It's almost or should be a ritual to take care of your skin, and I am beginning to think of it more that way, since I do value my time in the bathroom, in front of my beauty cabinet.

The protective face serum (now the radiance face serum) and the ritual body oil are the really real deal. The scents invoke a sense of meditation, of self care. The oils are fast absorbing and leave the skin so soft and feeling loved. The body oil especially, is something that I use when I want to treat myself to something that feels so special. I don't use these Sahajan oils every day though I want to. It's almost hard to describe but they are precious to me. I want you to experience these for yourself and the brand does too! They've so kindly and generously offered one Prim and Propah reader the opportunity to win a bottle of each for themselves. Isn't that awesome? Enter on the instagram photo below!

You can follow Sahajan Skincare on twitter, Instagram and Facebook!

✨GIVEAWAY✨ Learn all about this sweet @sahajanskincare duo on the blog today (link in profile). They are my Fall favorites to be sure. The scents invoke a feeling of meditation, one of self care + love. The oils are fast absorbing and leave the skin so soft and feeling cared for. The body oil especially is something that I use when I want to treat myself to something that feels so special. I don't use these Sahajan oils every day though I want to. I want to keep them special, precious to me. I want you to experience these for yourself and the brand does too! Sahajan is offering you the chance to win this duo for yourself. Isn't that so generous? ✨ To enter: 1. Follow @sahajanskincare 2. Follow @primandpropah 3. Tag a friend who needs to feel the love today and add an emoji! #greenbeauty #sahajan #cleanbeauty #makewavesmonday #womeninwellness This giveaway ends Sunday 11/12 and is not affiliated with Instagram, Good Luck!✨

A post shared by Amanda (@primandpropah) on Nov 6, 2017 at 4:04am PST

Skin Owl + Empowering Young Women

I was introduced to Skin Owl by another great beauty brand, Vapour and to say that I am smitten, well, that would be an understatement. One thing that I love about social media is that I have the opportunity to get to know brands, like really get to know them. I am all about supporting the people who are the makers, the ones who are doing great things. Annie from Skin Owl is one of those people. Her team is right there with her as well. Sure, Skin Owl is offering some stellar clean beauty products but they are also a business with a HUGE heart doing some pretty amazing things. Good people are my favorite.

At first, I was like Oh hey, Skin Owl, cool, this is another green beauty brand that I should check out. They have gorgeous beauty drops (their new Maqui Berry Beauty drops are on my must try list), a renewing beauty steam, beauty bars, and oh so much more. Based on their products alone there'd be reason enough to love them. Plus. you know that I'm always a fan of brands that have the opportunity to get samples before buying the full size. Their blog is awesome (check out the DIY nourishing sugar scrub cubes see below) and their imagery is dreamy to boot. But honestly. the reason that I really, really love Skin Owl? They are rad dudettes who are trying to make the world a better place by starting right in their own communities.

So one day I am sitting on my phone perusing all of the instagram stories and happen upon the Skin Owl team throwing an event for teenage girls. From what I could gather from that particular event, they were looking to educate these girls on skin health, the products they're using and help them influence their peers to make the same good decisions. I messaged Annie and was like #OMGILOVETHIS. I wish there had been this type of learning experience and community when I was a teenager but while I was listening to Backstreet Boys and wearing cargo pants, I was also putting crap on my skin. (I obviously still listen to the Backstreet Boys but am much more aware of quality skincare).  I wanted to learn more so I asked Annie to give me some details on what the Skin Owl team had in the works and what they were hoping to achieve.

What I learned was that this was more than just teaching the young women about skincare but they were also being taught about entrepreneurship. Not only are they learning but they are putting their lessons to good use in a friendly competition being hosted by Skin Owl. Essentially, their assignment is to develop a brand new SkinOwl starter kit for teens or the 14-17 age group. Cool, right? According to Annie, "We have always wanted to offer a limited edition skincare range with a teen-twist. Created by girls, FOR girls. We believe that, now more than ever, this demographic needs a clear cut place to start nourishing their skin the healthy way. No more dyes, animal by-products, or formaldehydes. Young skin needs to be treated with care and with powerful plant-based ingredients that the body recognizes as good for it! Members of this younger demographic (think 15-18) are increasingly becoming influencers as well, so why not have them influence the healthy way! The Dean of the Marlborough School heard about SkinOwl and reached out to us directly. Every year the Marlborough School's Entrepreneur program partners with a business and helps them in some way. That way, they get actual entrepreneurial help. We decided we wanted them to help us MAKE the actual kit, since no one knows what teens want more than teens."  Skin Owl set guidelines based on aesthetics, research, originality, and obviously a strong business viability since they are bringing this Starter Kit to market in 2018. Watching these teens pitch their ideas based on this specific criteria is nothing short of awesome. I can't remember being that driven but I am so proud of Skin Owl for helping to harness some of that magic to really make an impact on these girls' lives! *positive vibes radiating*

I always like to help spread the good word about good work and that's certainly what Annie and the team at Skin Owl are doing. Empowering young women to focus on goals, create new ideas and encouraging them along the way is something that is so admirable. I'd really just say that you should following Skin Owl on Instagram and check their stories periodically. A picture, or a video, paints a thousand words and I don't feel like I'm doing them justice. I can't wait to see what they have in store in the future because you know that I'll be stalking following them on social to see what's up and what starter kit launches next year!

You can follow Skin Owl on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest! 

Belly Buttons and Babies + a Giveaway!

I receive a bunch of beauty products and not that I'm not super grateful but it's sometimes lovely to switch things up. When Belly Buttons and Babies offered to send the #PropahKids some bath time goodies, I wasn't going to pass it up. Natural, pure and organic, Belly Buttons and Babies is a line of  fantastic products gentle enough for baby with the highest standards of ingredients for parents. We are lucky to have these on hand and I'll tell ya, the kids never smelled so delicious!

We tried their baby and kids line and I was sure to check all the ingredients as well as take into consideration how well I felt the products actually cleaned. Believe it or not, there are some soaps that I feel leave a residue that I don't much appreciate on my babies. This is not the case with the Belly Buttons and Babies- Squeaky Clean, Sweet Smelling and Safe for the Bod!

Cotton Candy Body Wash and Shampoo: Ingredients: Purified Water, Saponified Organic Coconut Oil (cocos nucifera), Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil (olea europaea), Organic Jojoba Oil (w/retained glycerin) (Simmondsia Chinensis) Seed Oil, Vegetable Gum (guar), Organic Aloe Vera (aloe barbadensis leaf juice), Vegetable Glycerin (glycerin), proprietary blend of essential oils, Rosemary Leaf Extract (Rosmarinus Officinalis).

Lavender Chamomile Bubble Bath: Ingredients: Purified Water, Saponified Organic Coconut Oil (cocos nucifera), Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil (olea europaea), Organic Jojoba Oil (w/retained glycerin) (Simmondsia chinensis), proprietary blend of essential oils, Rosemary Leaf Extract (Rosmarinus Officinalis).

Unscented Conditioning Hair Detangler: Ingredients: Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia) Flower Water, Glycerin, Organic Coconut Oil (Cocos Nucifera), Organic Sunflower Oil (Helianthus Annuus), Organic Calendula Oil (Calendula Officinalis), Organic Jojoba (Simmondsia Chinensis) Seed Oil, Rosemary (Rosmarinus Officinalis) Leaf Extract.

The preschoolah loves the silly piggy packaging so is always excited to help me squirt some bubblebath into the tub. Bath time is literally one of the kids' favorite times of the day so I love to get involved and always need to have the best products on hand. My kiddos don't have much hair so I've been using the detangler on myself and it's legit. My hair smells great and I can glide a brush right through this thick head of hair and that's saying something. Belly Buttons and Babies is great and I think they've really got a good thing going. I can't wait to see what they come up with next- you can bet I'll be excited to try!

Want to win the very same products that we tried? The super kind folks at Belly Buttons and Babies want to gift them to one lucky Prim and Propah reader! Go ahead and visit the Instagram post below to enter- Open to US and Canada residents and not affiliated with Instagram. Good Luck!

✨GIVEAWAY✨There's a lot of messy things that happens to kids so as a mother, it is one of my requirements to attempt to keep them clean. When it comes to what I choose to use in the bath, it's not just any old baby wash or bubble bath. I want what's safe for their skin but I also want quality and sweet smells. @bellybuttonsandbabies_ is up on the blog (link in profile) so take a peek at the details then come back here to win a bath set for you and your littles (body wash and shampoo, bubble bath and detangler). To Enter: 1️⃣ Like this Post and Follow @bellybuttonsandbabies_ 2️⃣ Follow @Primandpropah 3️⃣ Tag someone who likes to keep kids clean This giveaway ends on Sunday October 22nd and is not affiliated with Instagram 🌿💛✨✌🏼 #cleanbeauty #ecobeauty #momlife #giveaway #bellybuttonsandbabies

A post shared by Amanda (@primandpropah) on Oct 16, 2017 at 4:34am PDT

Follow Belly Buttons and Babies on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest!

I Tried It: Kelia Skincare + a Giveaway!

I've been so fortunate to be able to try all sorts of different skincare products this Summer and as we wind down our warmer days and Fall starts creeping in, I am happy to start tinkering with my skincare routine to ensure that I am taking care as the weather changes. I had the opportunity to work with Kelia Skincare, using The Repair Serum. It's different than the face serums that I've been using all Summer and I'm so excited to work this product into my Fall routine for a few different reasons.

1. The Repair Serum is a lightweight but super effective serum, jam packed with lots of fantastic ingredients. Licorice root, Daisy Flower extract, Wild Yam, Goji Berry, Bamboo stem extracts, Geranium Essential Oil, all encourage your skin to brighten and firm up. As a woman creeping up into her 30's, it's important to me to find products that help me reduce fine lines, combat discoloration and sun damage. I've been using it for a few weeks in the evening and do feel as though my skin has started to look a little more radiant. It also has a light scent that is appealing without being overwhelming- the geranium really does come through.

2. The Repair Serum, along with the other two products from Kelia Skincare (The Night Cream and The Moisturizer) are cruelty-free, never tested on animals, which is a given if it's going to be in my home. There are so many cruelty free options out there that there is no excuse to use something else.

3. Kigelia Africana, a super versatile fruit extract, is used in the line and has a ton of proven benefits like being anti-inflammatory, firming, anti-oxident, and clarifying. Doing a little research on this tree, it's actually pretty neat. Besides the benefits of the extract, the 3 foot long fruits (yep, 3 feet!) can be dried to make beer as well as feed some of my favorite animals (Hi Elephants and Giraffes!)e

4. The Repair Serum makes my face feel good. It goes on smooth, absorbs quickly, and is super luxurious. I have found that if a serum is going to break into my routine these days, it needs to feel luxurious. Applying my face routine is now a ritual and one that I take seriously.

If you don't want to take my word for it, try it yourself! My friends at Kelia are so stoked about what they're doing and want to share. One Prim and Propah reader will get the opportunity to try The Repair Serum (an $85 value) for themselves! Enter on the instagram snap below and Good Luck, my beauties!

✨GIVEAWAY✨The Repair Serum from @keliaskincare makes my face feel good. It goes on smooth, absorbs quickly, and is super luxurious. I have found that if a serum is going to break into my routine these days, it needs to feel luxurious. Applying my face routine is now a ritual and one that I take seriously. Check out my full review on PrimandPropah.com (link in profile) and make sure you enter to win The Repair Serum (an $85 value) for yourself below: 1️⃣Follow me @primandpropah 2️⃣Follow @keliaskincare 3️⃣Tag a friend who loves natural skincare! Giveaway is open until Sunday 09/17 and is not affiliated with instagram #keliaskincare #ecoskincare #greenbeauty #greenbeautyblogger

A post shared by Amanda (@primandpropah) on Sep 11, 2017 at 4:09am PDT

You can follow Kelia Skincare on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram

I Tried It: Kaliks Collective + a Giveaway!

Branding is important to a degree and if I were to judge a book by its cover, Kaliks Collective calls to me with it's packaging. My initial thought when receiving some of their products this month was to totally swoon over how pretty their frosted glass bottles and labels are. You could totally say that I was vibing with them! But obviously you can't judge a book by its cover and you have to give products a try before you can recommend them to your friends and family and you guys too! I gave some of their products a whirl: The Balance Glow Facial Oil, Revive Lavender Hydrosol Mist and the Renew Facial Cleanser.

Balance Glow Facial Oil: the sheer amount of amazing oils that make up this facial oil was enough to get me excited. Marula, Neroli Essential Oil, Baobab, Rose Geranium Essential Oil, Carrot seed and more, I couldn't wait to try this even thoough I certainly don't have a need for a new facial oil. This oil goes on velvety smooth and doesn't leave a greasy film which is one of my biggest pet peeves, facial oil turn offs. Kaliks actually recommends combining this with the Revive mist and I gotta tell you that I love this at night time, after my wash and before my dreamtime oils. I guess it goes to show that if you like something enough, you can make room in your beauty routine.

Revive Lavender Hydrosol Mist: Most definitely my favorite out of the bunch because I LOVE A GOOD FACE MIST! This is the perfect mist for Summer if you ask me my opinion- hydrating and softening. Just place it in the fridge and it becomes the most wonderful after sun mist, seriously. I happen to love Lavender so if you vibe with that relaxing scent, this is definitely for you. The bottle is very generously sized as well, which you gotta love. Plus, it's certified organic!

Renew Facial Cleanser: This is one of those versatile products that you can use as a cleanser, face scrub or mask. With all sorts of yummy ingredients like marshmallow root, rosehip seed, lavender, nettle leaf and more, this cleanser really feels like more than your average face wash. I'll be completely honest that what I had been using to exfoliate for years had been actually very bad for my skin. The small granuals in the Renew cleanser get the job done but are very gentle; I don't feel like they were scratching me up rather then gently removing the dead skin.

I think if the Kaliks line were to expand then I would be there with bells on. This indie brand is one to watch because what they are producing is quality, organic skincare that you can feel good about using both literally and figuritively.  I'll be keeping my eye on them and what they're doing in the future!

You can find Kaliks Collective in their shop, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!

Bonus time! Want to win some Kaliks Collective products for yourself? Visit my Instagram post for an easy entry giveaway!

🌸GIVEAWAY🌸If you haven't heard of @kalikscollective and their swoonworthy beauty line, now is the time to listen up! 🌿catch my full review on primandpropah.com today but while I have you, it's GIVEAWAY time! Want to win the Revive Lavender Hydrosol Spray and the Renew Facial Cleanser? To enter 1️⃣ Like this post 2️⃣ Follow @kalikscollective 3️⃣ Follow @primandpropah 4️⃣ Tag a friend! (each additional tag counts as an entry) -Link in profile 💕🌸☀️Giveaway ends Sunday July 23rd 9pm ✌🏼 #greenbeauty #propahbeauty #goodvibes #propahpage

A post shared by Amanda (@primandpropah) on Jul 17, 2017 at 3:30am PDT

I Tried It! Aimee Raupp + a Giveaway

Aimee Raupp is a wellness and health expert who has helped women be inspired to take their wellness into their own hands, improve their vitality, celebrate their beauty and even works with those looking to encourage their fertility. If you check out her Youtube videos, it's kind of hard not to like her and her positive energy. She's got the good vibes of someone who's helping people and is good at it. In addition to being an author, acupuncturist, and wellness coach, Aimee has created a line of skincare products that are organic and free of the type of chemicals known to disrupt hormones (gross) so of course when Aimee's team reached out, I was totally interested in getting a peek at what they're working on. They were kind enough to share some of their gorgeously created products to try and I'm thrilled to be reporting back to you all.

Organic Cocoa Butter Eye Cream: I just turned 35 and I'm the mother of two young children so as you can imagine, the wrinkles are coming and the delicate skin around my eyes is showing a little bit of age. I embrace aging for the most part but when there's a great product that nourishes while promoting collagen, all while keeping it organic and natural, well I'm here for it. Also, if you know me, a killer scent will get me every time... and this eye cream smells like a cocoa dream.

Organic Balancing Facial Oil: I am not sure this will be my every day facial oil and not because I don't love it but I think that I'll be saving this for when I'm blotchy and my skin is irritated (kind of like it is right now, because of my Summer sweat issues!). When I break out or have redness, I don't necessarily want to use the my everyday oil. What I love about Aimee's Balancing Facial oil is that it provides anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects through its oils (sweet almond oil, argan oil and blue chamomile essential oils). It's not greasy at all, absorbs quite nicely and isn't an overwhelming scent.

Organic Coconut Sugar Facial Scrub: A sweet treat for exfoliating your face and feeling radiant. You know how after a cleanse and a good scrub your face has that shiny, effervescent glow? Yep, this is that kind of stuff.

Chill Aromatherapy Roller: I love a good "relax" roller and this one is no exception. It's not a super strong scent like some "chill-esque" or "sleep" rollerballs so you could keep this in your purse and apply without scaring people off who are sensitive to smells.

You can follow Aimee Raupp on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube!

And if that wasn't enough, hop on over to Instagram to win a great package of Aimee's products because they want to share the love!

GIVEAWAY TIME! If you haven't heard of @aimeeraupp and her beauty line, now is the time to listen up! 🌿catch my full review on primandpropah.com today and while you're here, it's GIVEAWAY time! You can win everything pictured, her Organic Coconut Sugar Facial Scrub ($24), Organic Cocoa Butter Eye Cream($26), Chill Organic Aromatherapy Roller ($9), and Organic Balancing Face Oil ($48). To enter 1️⃣ Like this post ✔️2️⃣ Follow @aimeeraupp ✔️ 3️⃣ Follow @primandpropah ✔️ 4️⃣ Tag a friend! ✔️(each additional tag counts as an entry) 5️⃣ BONUS: Sign up for Aimee's Newsletter and comment that you did! (Link in profile) ☀️Giveaway ends Sunday July 16th 9pm ✌🏼 #greenbeauty #propahbeauty #goodvibes

A post shared by Amanda (@primandpropah) on Jul 10, 2017 at 2:59am PDT

Masking with my Girls

Putting a face mask on is one of my favorite self care rituals. I love to take a hot shower, maybe after I hit the gym (I said maybe) and then do a little masking before hitting the hay. I have tried many a mask in my day but wondered what my girls were using on the regular or if they had any favorites right now. So, I asked them plus requested all the selfies they could send because, if you didn't take a selfie did it even happen?

From top Left:

Jessica of Oh I Design is loving the the Tata Harper's Resurfacing Mask. "It leaves my skin with a nice glow when it's feeling extra dull. I typically use this at night right before bed and follow with an oil and eye cream."

Rachel of Healthy Chicks is using Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay- "I love that it's super simple and made from just bentonite clay. It really helps clear out your pores and gives you a nice glow. You can mix it with water or Apple Cider Vinegar. Best Part? You can get it for like $5 at Whole Foods, and a huge tub lasts forever! "

Sarah of Salty Girl Boutique has a bunch of favorites! "So I am into a few masks right now. I love Josh Rosebrooks Hydration mask around my eye area, my skin can be a bit oily in the T zone so I don't use it on my the full face. I also love his enzyme exfoliator and use that often. BUT currently started using Violets are Blue Soothing Clay Mask. The name got me. And I needed more Soothing and relaxation in my life....and it really does offer that. The smell is so relaxing, goes on easily and adds a nice feeling of exfoliation. And my skin feels so soft and clean after. After I Add some serum and Josh's new vital balm around the eyes and I feel good as new."

Cameron of Just Us Gals and Boston Green Blog is all about The Problem Solver by May Lindstrom - "It's great at pulling all of the toxins out of my skin in a healthy, nontoxic way. Plus, I love the tingling sensation when I wear it - makes me feel as though it is really getting work done."

Tricia of Ni Hao New York adores the way that the 5Yina Divine All Seasons Mask is treating her during her pregnancy! She highly recommends to her friends and her readers!

I have just started using the Black Molasses Mask from Earthwise Beauty. You keep it in the fridge so when you apply it, literally there is a cooling effect. I also really love the Violets are Blue Soothing clay mask and alternate between them currently!

Elizabeth from On Tap for Today is a huge fan of Andalou Naturals' Turmeric + Gold Clay instant luminous face mask. "It comes in a super convenient one time use pod, which is perfect for travel, and leaves my skin feeling toned and looking brighter. I imagine this is what one might look like after a good night's sleep... for now, a weekly mask will have to do! ;)"

Alex of Literally-Everything uses the May Lindstrom Honey Mud to keep her skin hydrated, nourished and freed of the day's pollutants!

Kerry of Nothing Without Yoga uses Jacq's Organics Green Smoothie Scrub & Masque. "It was something I found at my first Well Summit Ever. It feels fantastic! I love how it is slightly cooling and when it hardens it isn't too much. Not to mention my skin feels fantastic after putting it on."

So tell me girl, what you masking with these days?