Discover the ultimate self-care escape at the Saxon Spa with their new Subtle Energies range. In this blog post, I share my rejuvenating experience with the Advanced Holistic Biotech Facial, a luxurious treatment using all-natural, healing products for radiant, youthful skin. Explore the exclusive range of facials and body treatments inspired by Ayurvedic principles, designed to nourish both body and soul. Perfect for anyone looking to indulge in holistic wellness and cutting-edge skincare.
Category: Beauty
Eucerin’s Ato-Control Range; The Perfect Solution For Soft, Healthy Skin
All of my children have suffered with eczema concerns as babies, some more severe than others but it’s always a conversation I end up having at our 6 week check-up. The one brand my clinic sister has always recommended is Eucerin, yes, even for babies!
The Ato Control range is designed to care and protect dry, irritated skin. We were sent some to review and I’ve been quite surprised by the results.
Our personal favourite is the Eucerin Ato Control Bath & Shower Oil, it’s formulated with Omega-3 and Omega-6 Oils and replenishes the skins barrier to prevent drying. If I’m using it myself, I apply it directly onto damp skin. If I’m using it for the kids, I add a little into their bath water. Its fragrance and preservative free and my daughter loves adding her “special oil” into the bath. If you suffer from Atopic Dermatitis or eczema flare ups this will work wonders. They are tremendously hydrating and provide instant relief for dry, itchy skin.
The Eucerin Ato Control Lotion is suitable for newborns and babies, it provides instant moisture and strengthens the skins barrier, its quite a thick formula but surprisingly absorbs really quickly. It’s made up of more than 60% natural oils and it’s fragrance and paraben free (as are all the Ato Control range.)
Last but not least is the Acute care cream (and this has been a winner for my husband) – Ask any psoriasis or eczema sufferer what keeps them up at night. Itching! The acute care cream soothes and calms redness and irritation and provides welcome relief to get a good, restful nights sleep.
I love the fact that there is one brand we can use across the whole family (especially when it comes to packing for road trips). Eucerin Ato Control is suitable for newborns right the way through to mum and dad (and Granny and Grandpa too)! Available through Clicks and Dischem pharmacies nationwide.
**Body Wash is suitable from newborn and the Acute Care Cream and lotion is suitable from 4 weeks.**
**This article was written in collaboration with Eucerin, all thoughts and opinions are my own.**
Best Beauty Buys 2020
This post has been sitting in my drafts since December 2020 and I have finally have some time to click “publish”
Throughout the year I am blessed to be able to trial a few beauty and make up products as well as always use my own, these are a few of the products that I have used in the year that I have selected as my top choices.
Hair Care
I’m a typical Leo and I LOVE my hair, but I also have quiet wavy/curly hair that demands a little extra care. In 2020 I was introduced to the latest in John Frieda’s innovations. The “Hydrate and Recharge” Range coupled with the “Detox and Repair” Range. I combine and alternate the two depending on the week. If I have had a week where I have blow-dried or used a lot of product in afterwards I always go in the detox and repair range and if my hair needs a little extra TLC and hydrating masque is a treat.
The John Frieda Hydrate & Recharge shampoo and conditioner collection quenches thirsty, lifeless hair with a powerful punch of moisture. It’s a more natural blend of ingredients with less harsh chemicals and the hydration boost it gives, is an absolute treat. The hair masque is the perfect addition and my hair soaks up every last drop. On the other end the Detox & Repair range has been formulated with nourishing avocado oil and green tea. This line comes with a shampoo, conditioner, and a heat protection product. I have tried a few other avocado based hair care products where I find the smell a little over-bearing and I can comfortably say this one is spot on! You will not walk out the shower smelling like an Avo 🙂 I really feel this strips my hair of any build up (especially if I have used a dry shampoo) and the heat protection spray works fantastically before the use of straighteners.
Everyday Make up
During lockdown I fell in love hard with my products from Luma Beauty. This makeup range is brilliant for everyday, no fuss makeup that leaves you with a natural glow. My two hero products are the LUMA On The Glow Highlighter Stick and the LUMA “Beyond the Brow” Grooming Gel The highlighter is soft enough for everyday use and it contains crushed pearl for instant illumination. The brow gel is a powerful combination as it not only provides colour but fluffs, fills and enhances the gorgeous brows you were born with.
My everyday choice for mascara still has to be good old Volum’express Colossal Big Shot Mascara from Maybelline – I have been using this for quite a few years now and it still impresses me for the best “drug store” buy. Loreal’s infallible foundation continues to be my “ride or die” for everyday coverage- it’s long lasting, doesn’t transfer and provides excellent colour and coverage.
Everyday Skincare
If you follow me on social media, you’ll know that I am a huge fan of the Cetaphil for everyday basic skincare.
I find the scrub the perfect combination; grains are effective enough for me to “feel” a good scrub, without being too harsh It’s sulphate free and perfect for sensitive skins, gentle enough for everyday application. I wash my face at night with the oily skin cleanser. For my babies, I use the Pro-Eczema Range the moisturiser and the wash, it truly is the most effective thing to solve tricky newborn skin conditions.
I normally finish my daily beauty routing with a toner of some sort (before moisturising) and lately I have been loving both Johnson’s Micellar Water Fresh Hydration Rose-Infused Cleansing Water as well as a surprising find from Woolworths; Fragrance Free Micellar Cleansing Water . Formulated with acai berry, chamomile and cucumber extracts, it contains tiny micelles that attract and draw out impurities without drying out the skin. Gently removes make-up and cleanses for soft, healthy looking skin with no rinsing required. Both of these micellar waters are soft and gentle on my skin and are of a similar price range..
Speaking about Woolworths, they have really picked up their game in terms of beauty products and all of their products are animal friendly and the vast majority are Vegan too! Some more amazing finds I have come across from them are the full range of clay face masks. They focus on a different range of issues, from the the detoxifying clay to rejuvenating and brightening. At R89.99 it’s a fantastic self-care treat to pop into your trolley.
My next favourite find is the Eucalyptus and Mint Foot Mask. It comes with two plastic “booties” to slip onto your feet and I’ve slept with it overnight as well. For tired preggie feet this has honestly been one of my favourite finds!
A little more Luxe – Serums
Two of my cult favourites have made the list for another year running
Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair, will always be my go to for a smart sleeping serum . It helps to restore my skin overnight and I always wake up with a smoother appearance. For daytime I swear by Dermalogica’s Biolumin-C to brighten up my skin and to boost hydration.
These are just a few products that I use everyday, what tops your list?
Nature Box Review – Environmentally Conscious Beauty
I love the fact that more and more top hair care and beauty brands are turning to more sustainable ingredients and packaging. The latest beauty range to hit the shelves in South Africa is Nature Box, a hair and body range that promotes more holistic living. With natural ingredients and bright colours, this exciting new brand from Schwarzkopf and Henkel is completely vegan and is made with cold-pressed oils extracted from fruit seeds and nuts.
What are cold-pressed oils?
Cold pressing is the most efficient extraction process, allowing the oil’s essential nutrients to be entirely preserved to deliver the best to the hair and skin. Nature Box products are neither refined nor processed, meaning all their valuable vitamins in the oils, antioxidants and healthy fatty acids, are not lost.
Testing the range
The Nature Box range features four different options, and over 18 different products, each addressing a different concern, from oily hair to sensitive skin, you can choose from Avocado, Coconut, Apricot and Almond. They are also free from silicones, artificial colours, sulphates.
I tried out the Avocado range of haircare and body products and here are my thoughts:
Nature Box Avocado Shampoo and Conditioner 385ml {RSP 119.99}
The Shampoo, is formulated from 84% natural ingredients, including antioxidant-rich cold pressed avocado oil, which is meant to repair split ends and restore your hair’s overall condition. I adore the smell and the shampoo lathers up to a nice consistency, which is surprising due to its lack of sulphates. The bottle is a really great size as well and is a convenient shape to travel with.
The conditioner was a win as well, although I did find the smell a little stronger and more “avocadoish” then the shampoo. It does a great job though and conditioned my hair well, without weighing it down. After years of highlights, and curly hair, I need a conditioner with a little more “oomph”, and this delivered.
Nature Box Avocado Shower Gel 385ml {RSP 69.99}
This shower gel is divine! It is pH skin neutral and dermatologically tested. It has a gentle, uplifting scent, and it foams really well. I didn’t find it to be drying or too harsh at all. I loved loved this, and it is priced at an affordable level as well. A definite re purchase from my end.
Nature Box Avocado Body Scrub {RSP 89.99}
This may just be my favourite. I adore this body scrub. Everyone has their own preference, but I prefer a combination of gel with a little bit of scrub and this is just that. Not too harsh, but gentle enough to provide a daily exfoliation.
What I love the most – The brand is committed to sustainable practice and supporting small farmers. 25% of the packaging is made from recycled packaging (this could be a bit more though). Next on my list to try is the almond range, because I am absolutely in love with the pink of the packaging.
Nature Box is now available from Clicks, Checkers, Dis-Chem and Takealot.
**I received the Nature Box Products to review but all opinions are my own.
Vichy LiftActiv Range Review – Honest Thoughts
I’m a bit of a sceptic when it comes to testing facial products. I have used the same products for years, with the same routine of wash, tone, moisturise and every now and again I use a mask and serum. I have a bit more of a sensitive skin tone and can be prone to breakouts so it takes a while before I really find something that works.
For the past 3 months I have been reviewing the Vichy LiftActiv range, specifically, the Collagen Specialist Cream and the Hyalu Mask.
I have to admit as excited as I was about reviewing Vichy products (I brand I adore), initially, I was a little apprehensive about the Collagen Specialist Cream.
The packing is glass and heavy, which gives it a deluxe, expensive feel. It has the most luxurious smell, which is synonymous with the Vichy Brand. It almost felt like I was putting perfume on my face. Which is exactly the reason I was unsure of it initially. With my more sensitive skin, the idea of putting a product on my face with such a strong scent left me uncertain. Never the less I carried on, and I am so glad I did!
The Vichy Liftactiv Collagen Specialist Day Cream claims to boost the skin’s collagen production and fights ageing signs by lifting wrinkles and fine lines, redefining contours and bringing a more even skin tone.
The key point being that the cream doesn’t necessarily contain collagen, but rather, the ingredients aim to boost the skins production of it, which for me is even better! It contains Vitamin CG and Collagen protecting biopeptides to smooth out and brighten your skin.
The consistency is rich, soft and velvety. Rich you say? For a cream so rich in consistency, I was concerned that it would leave my skin feeling oily. Strangely enough though, it actually does the opposite, it almost has a mattifying effect. Probably down to the silicone in it, so if your skin reacts to silicone’s (it can cause break outs), then give this one a miss.
It actually surprised me how much I adore this cream. It nourishes my skin really well, keeping it plump, healthy and smooth and after almost a month of daily application, I noticed an increase in brightness and decrease in overall dryness. There is also an obvious difference in the fine lines on my forehead. I was so bothered by the “African Rift Valley”, in between my eyebrows (caused by squinting to see when I don’t have my glasses), that I actually considered going for botox. Since I have started using the cream it doesn’t bother me as much at all. It certainly hasn’t disappeared completely, but there is a huge improvement.
Would I repurchase this? Yes, absolutely without question. It nourishes my skin exceptionally well, I haven’t had one day of dry or tight feeling skin in the past 3 months and I feel my skin is looking healthier. I’ve also heard that if you combine it with mineral 89, it has a double whammy effect, so in time I am going to try doing that. It also makes the perfect make up base, because it smooths the skin it almost acts as a primer.
Vichy’s LiftActiv Hyalu Face Mask
Lets move onto the mask – now this, I was bowled over from day 1!
Vichy’s LiftActiv Hyalu Face Mask, is formulated with 1% Natural Origin Hyaluronic Acid, Agave Yeast Extract, and 15 Mineral-Rich Water for all skin types. It almost feels like you are applying a pure water gel to your face, but packs a powerful punch. When used consistently it helps to reduce fine lines, and replenish hydration. My skin felt softer, fresher and noticeably “brighter”. The mask is Paraben, fragrance and oil free.
As it’s a gel mask, it doesn’t dry. You apply a thin,layer of the face mask on clean, dry skin, wait for 5 minutes and wipe the excess with a damp cotton pad. Do not rinse with water. Leave the residue on while you sleep .
I have been in love with this product since the first time I used it and without a doubt it now has a place in my weekly routine.
I’m excited to try out the Mineral 89 as well as the Liftactiv serum as I have heard such great things about these as well. If you need a little “lift” (excuse the pun), to your skincare routine, I would certainly recommend Vichy.
Postpartum Beauty Tips
Ok, so I’ve climbed down off my “pregnancy pedestal” or rather, I came crashing down. The pregnancy “glow” has most definitely faded and now I’m dealing with dry brittle nails and hair, lackluster spotty skin, hormone levels that are out of sync and belly fat (I wont talk about my thighs) that isn’t disappearing as quickly as I would like. It’s like natures way of ensuring there’s no way in hell I’ll fall pregnant again soon 🙂 🙂
With the lack of sleep and constant dehydration due to breastfeeding, I have had to up my game and there have been a few products that I have focused on to help me regain a little “glow”.
Supplements – Pregnancy supplements – Yes, pregnancy. I would highly encourage everyone to keep taking these crucial multivitamins for the “fourth trimester” as well. Your body desperately needs to replenish the vitamins and minerals. I’ve noticed a massive difference since I started taking collagen supplements again as well. Most noticeably in my nails but also in the fine lines around my forehead. Make sure you keep hydrated, something I am so very bad at. If I could swap the cups of tea I drink in a day for glasses of water I am so sure I wouldn’t have half the problems!
Show your hair extra love – Oh that postpartum hair loss; I’ve been soaking up every treatment possible, but without a doubt, the one that’s made the biggest difference is my Moroccan Hair Oil. I have been using the shampoo and conditioner and its been soaking up each inch of moisture. I finish off with a dab of the oil and my hair is much softer. Get your hair done if it makes you feel good again, I’m definitely due to get my highlights re done again. Recently I’ve started to experiment with a mixture made up with my Young Living essential oils from Hello Essentials. Watch this space, if it helps with the hair loss you can bet i’ll be posting about it!
Spoil your Skin – both your body and your face. I’ve been using a Matsimela sugar scrub once a week and on a Sunday night I have a “me bath”, soaking in magnesium salts and a lush bath bomb to lift my mood. I’ve also been trying out Optiphi’s body curve range. I used the scar therapy on my tummy after birth (in addition to bio-oil) to combat any stretch marks.
Be firm with your face – I have been trying to be strict with my routine. I’ve gone back to basics and twice a week I use my Dermalogica daily microfoliant and every day, morning and night I have been using biolumin-c serum coupled with skin smoothing cream. To give my skin a little treat I have been using the Coco Mask from Skin & Tonic London. Naked Organiks has brought this cult favourite brand to South Africa. They believe in pure, simple ingredients and I am loving that you mix your own mask. Its in powder form to preserve the contents and you mix it up as you use it.
Release those exercise endorphins – I’m writing to myself here (note to self Rebecca), when you feel ready again, try to get as much exercise as you can to get the blood flowing again. There is nothing better then a bit of circulation to bring a glow to your face. This is one area I need to focus on and I honestly feel the only thing that will pick me up again.
The main thing, no matter what products you use, is to take a little bit of extra time to give yourself some TLC. You are not getting enough sleep, your body has been through a massive change and drop in hormones, be kind to yourself and take the time to give your body thanks.
Disclaimer: I received some of these products as gifts but all opinions are my own.
Happy Birthday Dermalogica – Win a Biolumin-C Serum worth R1599.
A quarter of a century, that’s quite a milestone. Its a turning point and when one of your favourite skin care brands has been changing lives in South Africa for 25 years, it’s most definitely time to celebrate!
It’s no secret that I am a fan of Dermalogica and they have been treating my skin for well over a decade. Pioneers in the facial industry with their
Face Mapping® skin analysis, and always in the forefront of innovative, distinctive facial products. Their mission is to “define and bring success to the professional skin care therapist through excellent education, innovative products and outstanding customer service”.
To celebrate this iconic brand I’ve partnered with Dermalogica on their 25 days of giving during the month of July, to gift one of my all time favourite products, Biolumin-C Serum, worth R1599,00.
A high-performance Vitamin C serum that works with skin’s own defenses to brighten and firm. Advanced bio-technology fuses ultra-stable Vitamin C and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, helping to dramatically reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Its formulated to deliver more Vitamin C into skin, outperforming other Vitamin C products (including those formulated at higher concentrations). Other key ingredients include Vitamin C Complex for brighter, firmer, more radiant skin, Lactic Acid to accelerate cell turnover, Sophora Japonica Flower Extract to help return skin to a calm state after experiencing oxidative stress, and Salvia Hispanica (Chia Seed) Oil to hydrate and help quench free radicals.
Benefits include:
· Exfoliates and reduces unbalanced pigmentation.
· Reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
· Prevents and corrects free radical damage.
Dispense a full dropper and smooth over cleansed face and neck morning and night, after toning and before moisturizing. You’ll notice results within 3 days of using this powerhouse and it was without a doubt my favourite product of 2018. It really is one of their products that I will stand behind 100% and the results are dramatic.
To Enter:
Head on over to my Instagram page and comment on the post celebrating Dermalogica’s 25 years in South Africa. The competition will be run only through Instagram but is in no way affiliated to Instagram. It is valid for one day only, Monday July 15 and entries will close at 5pm.
Stand a second chance of winning with Dermalogica:
Dermalogica is also giving away 25 x R3,000 product and treatment hampers, via other platforms.
– Visit your nearest Dermalogica Stockist, Sorbet, Concept Store or Shop Online
– Purchase any Dermalogica product until 31st of July 2019
– WhatsApp a picture of your receipt to +27 72 116 6400
– If you’ve purchased anything online, your purchase is an automatic entry.
Increase your chances of WINNING:
– Post a picture of yourself or your products to Instagram or Facebook
– Tag @DermalogicaSA | #DermalogicaSA25
– Add the location of your skincare centre, Sorbet or Concept Store
There you have it! Now head on over to my Instagram page to enter enter enter!
Giveaway + Review : Natralogic, South Africa’s Leading, All Natural Maternity Skincare Range
Something about becoming a mother changed my whole outlook on life. My overall awareness of dangers around us and what we put into and onto our bodies. I became more aware of all the harsh chemicals in the products we use (particularly on my children), so why should the products I use be any different? Lauren, founder and creator of Natralogic, felt the same way when she became a mother. Most products for pregnant mothers contained harmful ingredients that are actually not recommended for use during pregnancy and are associated with a number of health issues. She saw a gap in the market and jumped on it, and I’m so very glad she did!
A few weeks ago I featured Natralogic on my “Love Local” series, and I have been using the products close to 2 months now. I wanted to do my review as always, after a using the products consistently over a few months. I have to be honest, at the time Lauren contacted me I had never even heard of “Natralogic”, but now that I’ve started using it, its something I want to continue to purchase, even after baby is here. You can read more about Lauren and her story here.
Let’s dive into my review of these proudly South African, all natural, maternity skin care range.
First up and most important, in case you weren’t aware: Natralogic products are cruelty free (certified by Beauty Without Cruelty), COSMOS NATURAL certified by ECOCERT Greenlife according to COSMOS standard, Certified Vegan by the Vegan Society, Clinically and Dermatologically certified and are formulated with Certified Organic Ingredients – Did you get all of that??
The full product range currently consists of (available online):
- Cooling Leg Gel(R299,95 for 120ml)
- Exfoliating Crème(R299,95 for 120ml)
- Toning Massage Oil(R299,95 for 120ml)
- Tummy Crème(R299,95 for 120ml)
- Nipple Crème(R139,95 for 20ml)
Cooling Leg Gel – To be honest, I would not even call this a gel, as that conjures up images of a thick sticky solution. It’s almost like a liquid lotion, does that make sense? All active ingredients are focused on healing and anti-inflammatory and it has a fabulous peppermint smell that is an instant pick me up. In fact, across all of the products, the natural scents are deeply relaxing. This cooling leg gel improves circulation and reduces water retention and is a welcome relief after a long day at work or running after the boys.
Exfoliating Crème – This instantly transports me to a spa. It’s an absolute treat to rub this into my tummy and thighs before jumping into the shower. The only two improvements I could think of are that I would like to buy it in a slightly bigger bottle, and I feel the product could be a little bit thicker. That’s me really trying to think of a reason it could improve. The idea behind the Exfoliating Crème is to remove dead skin cells, to speed up cell renewal, and to boost the skin’s natural repair process. It prepares the skin for better product absorption of the toning massage oil. It’s recommended to use the two together to maximise benefits and minimize stretch marks! It leaves my skin fantastically smooth and it has literally become a pre shower “treat” to use.
Toning Massage Oil – An absolute winner! It has a subtle citrus undertone that instantly uplifts your mood. The unique blend of natural oils and ingredients are meant to help shape your contours and reduce the appearance of cellulite. To be perfectly honest, the appearance of cellulite is not high up on my priority list whilst pregnant so I haven’t actively looked or noticed a difference in that regard, but I do know that its kept my skin wonderfully hydrated it, and I literally feel like I’ve had a full body treatment at the spa. Its fast absorbing and doesn’t leave an oily residue at all.
Tummy Crème – I want to call this “Yummy”, I know that’s a weird word to associate with a beauty product, but that’s exactly what this cream is. Its luxurious and well, “creamy”. It was specifically designed to prevent and improve the appearance of stretch marks and I’ll be using it well after pregnancy too. The ingredients focus on promoting collagen and elastin which improves overall skin tone and elasticity. Again, my only complaint about this product is it’s not big enough!!! I also wouldn’t mind seeing in available in a tub as an option, but that’s just so I can scrape out every last inch of it 🙂
Nipple Crème – I’ll be honest in saying I haven’t really “tested” this yet, because I’m still patiently waiting madam’s arrival. I can speak however from the perspective of a mum who has breastfeed two kids so far in saying a good nipple crème is a huge in your breastfeeding journey, and I have tried and used a lot of brands. Natralogic use 100% ultrapure medical grade lanolin and it’s consistency did not come across as sticky at all. I’ll report back on this one after a few weeks, but so far I like what I have seen.
So there is my honest review on the range and I mentioned it in my previous post, but I want to emphasis it again, I am completely and utterly impressed by the luxury and feel of these products. To have something of such a high standard, created by an incredible woman, just blows me away. If you have any questions on the products feel free to comment below, I would would love to hear from you!
Natralogic is available to purchase through their online store – shop here.
Follow them on Instagram and Facebook.
This review is sponsored by Natralogic, but all views and opinions are my own.
GIVEAWAY – Here comes the exciting part!
Together with Natralogic I’ll be giving one lucky mama to be a hamper worth over R1000. This range is truly luxurious and is the ultimate treat! I honestly want to spread the word far and wide over the quality of this range.
You can enter either via Facebook or Instagram, by clicking on the relevant links.
Competition closes at Midnight on April 17th and winner will be announced the following morning.
Love Local – Meet Lauren From Natralogic
A while ago I featured on my instagram stories the most amazing, vegan friendly, organic, pregnancy safe cosmetic products from Natralogic. All proudly made in South Africa. I can honestly say I have been using Natralogic for a little over a month now and I’m slightly obsessed. In fact, as bad as it sounds, I can’t get over the fact that something of such high quality and “prestige” is literally manufactured in our own back yard! That’s a whole different story however, and in a few weeks when I post my review of the range I’ll be launching a giveaway to go with it. Whether you are pregnant or not, trust me, this is not a giveaway you’ll want to miss out on, so keep your eyes locked on my page 🙂
For now I want to tell you more about Lauren’s journey in creating Natralogic. I’ve said it before but motherhood opened my eyes to a hugely creative, influential community of strong powerhouse mama’s. They continue to inspire me and push me further everyday and Lauren’s story is no different. So read on to see how she went about starting this incredible range, and what her plans are for the future. I hope her story inspires you to go out there and achieve your dreams, it is possible!
Tell me more about yourself and what you currently do?
I was born in Cape Town but was raised and schooled in Durban. I attended the University of KwaZulu-Natal and after qualifying, I began a career in the cosmetic industry as a formulation chemist. I currently work as a Consulting Cosmetic Research and Development Chemist with a cosmetic manufacturer in Durban. I have been with my husband Donald for 15 years and we have been married for 8 years. We have a 4-year old son, Connor, and live in Hillcrest, Durban.
How did “Natralogic” come about?
When I became pregnant with Connor, I became very discouraged in trying to find safe and effective skincare products to use during my pregnancy. The majority of products available in South Africa for pregnant mothers contained harmful ingredients that are not recommended for use during pregnancy as they have been associated with miscarriage, bleeding complications, congenital disabilities, disruption in foetal growth and some are known carcinogens. The limited natural products that I could find were mostly just thick oils and balms that made me feel so sticky and hot, which as you know isn’t ideal during pregnancy, and did not have sufficient concentration levels of active ingredients to be effective. Being involved in the skincare industry, I was fortunate to be able to develop products to use during my pregnancy, which I made sure contained only the safest, most effective natural ingredients. This then inspired me to launch Natralogic, South Africa’s first all-natural skincare range developed specifically for the needs of pregnant women, with the intention of helping other moms feel empowered and at ease over their pregnancy skincare choices.
What did you study – was it in this field or something different?
I hold a Master’s Degree in Pure and Applied Chemistry from the University of KwaZulu-Natal where I graduated with several Certificates of Merit and Deans Commendations. I also hold a 2-year Diploma in Cosmetic Chemistry from the Society of Cosmetic Science South Africa where I graduated top in the country and received the Norman Sanan Award for most innovative product design. During my studies, I also published several articles in peer review Journals including the Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, the Journal of Peptide Research and Therapeutics and the Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Review. My Master’s thesis at the time of publication was also considered to be a viable cure for cancer.
Whilst my Diploma in Cosmetic Chemistry is very specific to my field, my Master’s Degree in Pure and Applied Chemistry is probably more suited to pharmaceutical research and development. This Master’s Degree has however given me a greater understanding of how various cosmetic ingredients interact with each other, resulting in high quality formulations, and at what levels these ingredients become effective or harmful to the human body.
What was your first job and how did you progress to this?
When I finished University, my first job was as a laboratory technician which wasn’t very challenging and at times extremely tedious. It was always my dream to work in the cosmetics industry and in 2011 I was lucky to find a job with a cosmetic manufacturer in Durban. I have since left that company and currently work as a Consulting Cosmetic Research and Development Chemist with another cosmetic manufacturer in Durban. Over the years I have been involved with the formulation and manufacturing of some of South Africa’s leading brands including, Woolworths, Lil-Lets, Clicks, Sorbet, Oh So Heavenly, Island Tribe and The Tan Lab to name a few.
What’s the best part of your job?
I know this may sound really cheesy, but the best part of my job really is being able to do what I love. I love cosmetic products and more importantly, I love developing and creating new and innovative products. Also, having been fortunate enough to work with so many leading brands, it is uncommon for me to meet a woman who hasn’t used at least one of the products I developed and I find it very rewarding to have been able to develop products that can improve and add value to people’s lives.
What have been the highlights of starting your own business?
Seeing my passion actually materialising into something real. When I started this journey 4 years ago it was my dream to develop a product which was truly the best at what it was formulated to do. At times I was ready to throw in the towel and give up, but somehow everything seemed to come together in the end, and for me, that sense of achievement has made everything worthwhile.
What is the most challenging part?
They say that the three most stressful things in life are getting married, building a house, and getting a divorce. I’ve already done the first two and hopefully never do the third, but I would have to say starting a business is probably the next item on that list. Getting things up and running required a lot of time which is something I had very little of while working full-time and being a mother to a newborn baby. But like everything else on that list (except divorce) it has been all worth it in the end.
Describe a typical day in your life.
I get up in the morning, get Connor ready for school, head off to work, pick Connor up 5:00 pm from his Nana’s house, make him dinner, feed him, bath him and get him ready for bed. After he is asleep my husband and I try to watch a little TV together and I try to get into bed by 9:30 pm (I need my 8 plus hours). Somewhere, somehow, I managed to fit Natralogic in between all of that. Luckily, I have some repose on the weekends which is then dedicated to family.
What are the “secrets” to your success?
I am not really sure if I would call Natralogic a “success” at this point. We’ve done well so far but there is still a long way to go. However, in every other aspect of my life, I have always strived to never accept anything but the best. I’ve applied this same principle to formulating Natralogic and this principle hasn’t let me down yet, but check back in a year or two and hopefully by then, I will have all the tips you need.
How do you balance being a mummy and starting your own business?
I know it may sound like I have everything worked out, but to be brutally honest, I don’t. My life is a chaotic whirlwind of commitments. However, I have found that it all really comes down to priorities. If you make something in your life a priority then you will always find the time. Fortunately for me I work on a contract basis so my days are somewhat flexible and I am always able to attend all the important events in Connor’s life. But when I am not with my family, I am formulating products for other leading brands, and when I am not doing that, I am squeezing in as much Natralogic time as possible. Donald has also been a huge help with the “business” side of Natralogic, a couple of times working until the early hours in the morning. I really could not have gotten this far without his support. My mom and dad are also a huge help with Connor and I am greatly indebted to them for all they do for me.
What is your dream for Natralogic?
To one day become a household name in SA for pregnant women. Right now, I honestly believe Natralogic to be the best quality, safest and most effective product available on the market for pregnant mothers. This range has more quality and safety certifications than the vast majority of any other brands available, both locally and internationally. We use only the safest natural and organic ingredients which have been chosen by a unique 7-step pharmaceutical grade ingredient selection process. I hope that one day all women realise the importance of using safe products on their skin, especially during pregnancy.
Any tips for people wanting to take the leap and start their own business?
Starting a new business is actually a bit like having a baby. Just like a baby it will keep you up at night, you’ll spend all your extra cash on it and just when you think you have solved one problem, another problem will start. But it is important to persevere and just like having a baby I can guarantee you it is all worth it in the end.
Review: Childs Farm – Can it really help with Eczema?
Last week I was fortunate enough to meet an incredible women. Joanna Jensen is the founder and creator of the renowned baby skin care range, Childs Farm, that’s taking the world by storm. We first were introduced to Childs farm when it entered the South African market last year, so when I found out she was in South Africa, I jumped at the chance to meet her! Childs Farm products are not only reasonable in terms of price, dermatologist and pediatrician approved, they are also packed with natural ingredients.
My first thought was that Joanna must have some kind of pharmacist degree or background, in order to create cosmetic products from scratch, but I was surprised to find out that she actually has a background in the legal field! Joanna grew up in a household that used a lot of natural medicines, and they had horses, so would often make up their own tinctures to treat the horses. After her kids were born, and they too suffered with sensitive skin, trolling the baby aisles she was shocked to find so many products were packed filled with harsh chemicals. She started to play around with various different plants and mixtures and voila, Childs Farm was born! Aptly named after their own Farm, and all the labels feature Joanna’s girls, their cousins, friends, and their animals, bringing authenticity to the brand, and helping to engage with little ones to enjoy using the products more.
All Childs Farm products are made using naturally derived ingredients to produce mild products that care for the skin, hair and nails of newborns, babies and children, but the products are suitable for adults too. Made from 98% naturally derived ingredients, organic essential oils and free from parabens, SLSs, mineral oils and artificial colourings. The packaging is funky and bright, and for some reason my boys are obsessed with the bottles. Statistics show in the UK that one bottle of Childs Farm Sensitive Baby moisturizer has been selling at one bottle per minute since 2017 ! What an incredible achievement, from something that started out in her own home bathroom.
It hit retailers in the UK for the first time in 2014 and South African shores in 2018. In such a short amount of time they now have product available globally, including Australia, Ireland, Hong Kong, Thailand, the Middle East and Iceland. Last year a few of my readers commented that they couldn’t find it in clicks. Fear not, in the next few months you will see the product available not only in select clicks, but Dischem, Takealot and will soon be expanding to other retailers as well.
A quick google search on the products will show you that the world is raving about Childs Farm’s ability to keep eczema and psoriasis under control, so I asked Joanna if she has any intentions to expand into an adult range. Simply put, she doesn’t need too! Adults around the world are buying their products as well, a UK study shows that 27% of adults are using the products on themselves!
So what do I think?
I’ve documented it a few times but my eldest suffered with terrible eczema as a baby, he was put onto steroid creams from as young as 7 weeks old! He still has extremely sensitive skin so we are always very careful with any type of scented product or bath products. Aadam has had absolutely no reactions to any of the range we have tried. I’m currently loving the 3 in 1 swim, being Summer in the Southern Hemisphere we have been doing a large amount of swimming. The 3 in 1 swim wash is especially designed to remove all traces of harsh chlorine. I LOVE IT! The bubble bath is another one of our favourites, as it really does create bubbles! Theres nothing more annoying than a bubble bath that doesn’t produce a good bubble 🙂 The boy’s hair is softer and definitely more shiny since using the shampoos on them.
There are a huge variety of scents to choose from, depending on your preference. The strawberry and mint in the bath is delicious, as is the orange but I do find the grapefruit a little overwhelming. Our first trial with the baby moisturizer last year was with the grapefruit, and I have to admit it wasnt my favourite, recently, we have been using the plain unscented version and I am sold! It doesn’t just“sit on top” of the skin like the majority of aqueous creams, it actually sinks in and absorbs. The range also comes in a super handy travel pack, which is something I often struggle to find with kids products.
I would absolutely recommend Childs Farm products to any mum out there. We have fallen in love with them, I love most of the scents and the kids love them too. The newborn range (which clearly we haven tested on a newborn yet), is scent free, perfect for baby’s softer skin.
Whats in store for the brand in the future? There are some delicious new fragrances joining the farm family, including fig as well as watermelon and pineapple. For the drier climates (like South Africa and Australia ) there is a range in the works packed with all the coconut goodness specifically for dry hair.
Note: I have in no way been asked to review these products. I received products to trial and all opinions are my own and are based on personal experience.