Love Lula Beauty Box: February 2019 Review *

Time for another review of one of my longest going boxes, the cruelty free and clean subscription offered by Love Lula, the Love Lula Beauty Box!

I was so sad when I had to end my subscription due to me not currently having a steady income (longgg story, but hopefully one that will be sorted out soon!), so when I discovered that I would continue to receive this box as part of the LLABP I was over the moon.  

I have always enjoyed this box because even if not every single item is for me, there is always enough included in the edit to be worth the money paid.  I mean, each collection has a value triple what you spend!  Not many subscriptions can boast that.

Love Lula Beauty Box February 2019 products

February's selection contains five full size items worth a total of £60, and each item is perfectly suited for keeping your skin soft and smooth and your mind calm and soothed.  I have to say this is by far my favourite box in a long while -- the box feels like a fully coordinated collection rather than individual parts put together into a gift set, the variety is excellent, the brands featured are a mix of old favourites and newer members of the Love Lula fam, and I actually was really excited by some of the goodies I found inside!

So let's dig into it...


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 Gifted product

No matter how I have received a product, whether it has been purchased with my own money, gifted by a brand, been subsidized by a brand, won, gifted by friends/family, or purchased with a gift voucher, my approach is always the same -- honesty, integrity, and highlighting both the good and the bad.  You can find more information on Disclosures and Privacy here.


Walden "A Gentle Rain" Perfume Oil (10ml / RRP £17)
Okay, so I saw this had launched on Love Lula a few days before the box was scheduled to ship, and I crossed my fingers and toes it would make an appearance in the box -- and to my excitement it did!  I adore the perfume oils from Walden, especially See the Moonlight and Castles in the Air, and think they are so convenient for when you are on the go.  I hate spritzing in public, so these are the perfect subtle way to reapply throughout the day without making a big scene.

Walden Perfume flatlay

A Gentle Rain is definitely a unique scent, and not your average fragrance.  The description says it "grows with a blend of oak moss, labdanum and patchouli," and I think this captures the moist woodsy aroma pretty well actually.  It smells incredibly similar to a men's perfume I was familiar with when I was doing my BA, the Michael Jordan cologne, so definitely a strong and memorable blend.  I find it too bold for my personal use, as I tend to be drawn to lighter or delicately full scents for myself -- florals, citrus fruits, sweet spice...  However, Tim was excited to get a little treat from the box, and so far he really seems to like the oil!

In my experience, these oils last a few hours before you need to reapply, but if you don't mind having it on your clothes you can dab it on the collar of your shirt and it seems to stay far longer like that.  Just be careful not to stain anything!

Ingredients: Caprylic/capric triglyceride, Citrus aurantium bergamia fruit oil, Santalum album oil, Pogostemon cablin leaf oil, Myrocarpus frondosus wood oil, Salvia sclarea oil, Vetiveria zizanoides root oil, Lavandula angustifolia oil, Evernia prunastri extract, Cistus ladaniferus oil, Iris pallida root oil, Viola odorata oil, Rosa centifolia flower extract, Hibiscus abelmoschus seed oil, *d-Limonene, *Linalol, *Oakmoss extract, *Farnesol, *Citral, *Benzyl Alcohol, *Geraniol, *Citronellol, *Benzyl Benzoate, *Eugenol. *Naturally occurring in essential oils.


PHB Ethical Beauty Gentle Moisturiser (30ml / RRP £20.00)
I adore the new PHB range so much already -- I tried out the Superfood Facial Oil and the Superfood Brightening Skin Tonic last month (you can find the full review here), and am also currently testing the Skin Perfector Bio Gel (review coming soon!), and have been really impressed by the new and improved formulas.  I love the more environmentally friendly packaging as well as the higher proportion of organic ingredients.  The facelift to this SFV brand that I was worried about ended up being absolutely brilliant!

PHB Gentle Moisturizer, 100% natural scent free

So, when I saw the February box included a full size bottle of the Gentle Moisturiser I was thrilled - not just because I think PHB is fab, but because I have actually used the previous formula and thought this would be a great chance to compare two similar products.  And guess what -- those who were sad or upset that their favourite moisturizer was disappearing, fear no more!  This is pretty spot on with the original, just updated to better represent the ethos of PHB.

The moisturizer is surprisingly rich for a gentle formula, but less so than the original formula.  The cream doesn't feel overly heavy once applied, and it absorbs really well.  No white sheen or anything -- just super soft skin.  It is definitely nourishing, but so far I have not had any congestion or breakouts.  I appreciate that PHB has avoided including coconut oil in the blend, as that tends to give me issues.  Instead, they've opted for aloe, shea, apricot, and sunflower to soothe and soften the face.  It doesn't have a strong smell at all since it is fragrance free (perfect for those with sensitive and reactive skin types!), but has a natural scent that is vaguely sweet and nutty if you breathe in deeply enough.

I haven't been able to use this for very long yet, as I was testing out Alteya's Timeless Glow Renewal Moisturizer for a review until recently, but I have high hopes since the formula no longer contains phenoxyethonal -- can't wait to see how I get on longer term!

NEW Ingredients: Aqua, Aloe barbadensis** (Organic Aloe) leaf extract, Helianthus annuus** (Organic sunflower), Butyrospermum parkii** (Organic Shea Butter), Cetearyl alcohol, Stearic acid, Cetyl alcohol, Veg Glycerin**, Prunus Armeniaca** (Oranic Apricot) Kernel Oil, Phenethyl alcohol, Caprylyl glycol, Glyceryl stearate, Coco glucoside, Tocopherol, Phytic acid, Benzyl alcohol, Sodium Bicarbonate. **Certified Organic Ingredients

PREVIOUS Ingredients: 
Aqua, Aloe barbadensis** (Organic Aloe) leaf extract, Helianthus annuus** (Organic sunflower), Butyrospermum parkii** (Organic Shea Butter), Cetearyl alcohol, Stearic acid, Cetyl alcohol, Veg Glycerin**, Prunus Armeniaca** (Oranic Apricot) Kernel Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexyglycerin, Glyceryl stearate, Coco glucoside, Tocopherol, Phytic acid, Benzyl alcohol, Sodium hydroxide.


Seascape Island Apothecary Soothe Sleep Oil (8ml / RRP £10.00)
I think my Instagram post from last night sums up my thoughts on this pretty well:Oy with the poodles already.
It's been a long week and it's only Wednesday 🙈

I'm trying to get as much PhD work done as possible every day, not only because my submission deadline is creeping up, but because I don't want my entire visit to the US this summer to be spent writing 😶 I want to be able to enjoy my time, soak up the sunshine, and be able to have some quality family time 🇬🇧🇨🇦🇺🇸 So today (and yesterday, and the day before, etc...) I wrote. All day. Until it was time to make dinner. Then I made dinner. And now it's nearly bedtime. My brain is pretty frazzled and I'm so in need of a rest.

Which is why I'm thankful this month's @lovelulabeauty box included an aromatherapy roller ball from @seascapeuk 😴

Seascape Island Apothecary sleep oil with lavender

This easy to use oil contains essentials oils designed to soothe the mind and ease you into a deep, peaceful night's sleep -- just what I need after a long day!
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"A true “lullaby in a bottle”, the multiple award - winning Soothe Sleep Oil contains 100% natural essential oil of Lavender to relax and calm, as well as the oils from Grape Seed, Sweet Almond, Bitter Orange Flower and Mandarin Orange Peel to balance the mind and deliver a gentle fragrance."
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I love products like this, so finding one I had not tried before was such a treat - and perfectly timed for me. I'm popping this on, bundling up in my blanket, and settling in for the night 👍 Time to turn of this noggin so I can wake up refreshed and ready for another full day!

So yes, I am loving the lovely lavender aroma of Seascape's roller ball, and I was thrilled to find this in February's Love Lula Beauty Box!  Anyone else relate??

Ingredients: itis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Citrus Arantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Limonene (a fragrance component naturally occurring in fruits and plants), Linalool (a fragrance component naturally occurring in fruits and plants), Canaga Odorata (Ylang Ylang) Flower Oil, Geraniol (a fragrance component naturally occurring in fruits and plants), Citronellol (a fragrance component naturally occurring in fruits and plants), Hydroxycitronellal (a fragrance component naturally occurring in fruits and plants), Tocopherol (a skin conditioner sourced from Vitamin E), Benzyl Benzoate (a fragrance component naturally occurring in fruits and plants), Citral (a fragrance component naturally occurring in fruits and plants), Benzyl Salicylate (a fragrance component naturally occurring in fruits and plants), Farnesol (a fragrance component naturally occurring in fruits and plants).


Crazy Rumors Hot Cocoa Lip Balm (4g / RRP £3.99)
This is such a scrummy smelling lip balm!  I have been trying to avoid plastic tubes as much as possible, but it is hard to be mad about it when it reminds you so much of cozy winter nights and warm cocoa!  


Crazy Rumors Lip Balm, natural lip balm next to chocolate

"Crazy Rumors are wonderfully colourful and flavourful vegan lip balms from the USA with BIG personality. Established over 15 years ago, the exceptional 100% natural lip care is still handmade in small batches for the purest and freshest balms. Clean, tasty and ethical, the balms include super moisturising delights like Certified Organic Shea Butter + soothing Jojoba oil. The mouth-watering flavours are sourced from fruits, vegetables and spices – no synthetic lab created flavours in here, ever. Nature creates it all, and what’s better than that? The range includes 12 flavoured balms and 3 Hibiskiss tinted balms for a pop of colour. There’s something for everyone: Mild to Wild, we’ve got you covered!"

Crazy Rumors has so many varieties of vegan lip balm to choose from, but Hot Cocoa has to be one of my favourites so far.  It truly does bring to mind a steaming mug of hot chocolate, and even tastes a bit like it if you happen to lick your lips.  The formula is very silky an goes on easily, and the feeling of soft lips lasts for a solid couple of hours.  The label is super cute too which is a fun touch.

Again, I just haven't had much time with this balm yet, but so far it seems nourishing and great for this up and down weather we have been having.  I will be sure to update soon!  Maybe I will do a post all about the brand, as I have the Black Cherry 'flavour' to try now as well.  Anyone up for a full length review??  If so, maybe suggest one other scent you would like to hear about and I will try to pick it up to include!

Ingredients: Macadamia Ternifolia (Macadamia) Seed Oil, Olea Europaea (Organic Olive) Fruit Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Organic Shea) Butter, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Glycine Soja (Non GMM Soybean) Wax, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Copernicia Cerifera (Organic Carnauba) Wax, Aroma (Natural Flavours), Tocopherol (Vit E), Eupatorium Rebaudianum Bertoni (Stevia)


Balm Balm Fragrance Free Face Balm (30ml / RRP £9.50)

Balm Balm natural organic face balm tube

I have actually used this before (I think I got it in one of my first Love Lula Beauty Boxes actually!), and while it proved too heavy for my face, I did find it was great for DIY beauty projects.  I like to use it for a simple highlight (just add a bit of light shimmer eyeshadow and voila!), hair mask, body balm, or for sore lips.  I add a little into an empty pot and mix with a drop or two of essential oil if I want to have a light aroma to the balm, or just leave it clean and simple as intended for a gentler treatment.  

The 100% organic balm is incredibly hydrating, and has a lovely smooth texture once warmed.  The formula is gentle enough for the more sensitive areas of my skin which is a big plus.  And, as the balm is fragrance free (no added essential oils), the balm is safe for me to use on my eyelashes overnight which is brilliant.  I like to use this to remove my eye makeup, then after a gentle rinse I reapply a tiny amount and leave it until morning.

Also, it is important to note this is the old packaging for this product. Balm Balm has actually moved to glass pots which are more environmentally friendly -- yay!  And if you're curious about other Balm Balm treats, you can find a roundup of the line here!

I would love to hear how you are using your Fragrance Free Face Balm -- are you a traditionalist and use it as a facial moisturizer?  Or have you been getting creative?  Let me know!

Ingredients: Butyrospermum parkii (shea butter), helianthus annuus (sunflower oil), cera alba (beeswax), calendula officinalis (calendula oil), simmondsia chinensis (jojoba oil)



And that was February's subscription from Love Lula Beauty Box!  What did you think?  Were you as impressed by the full sizes and the brand representation as I was??  I truly think this is the best edit in a long while, and I was super happy for the pause in exfoliating treatments -- my shelf was bursting and I was running out of ideas of how to use them all!  I was so happy to see the new Walden perfume, as I was crossing my fingers for it to make an appearance.  While it wasn't exactly my cup of tea, I am super excited that Tim finally has a natural 'manfume' for himself -- and he loves it!

What sort of products would you like to see in upcoming boxes?  Or are there any brands in particular you are hoping to see featured??  I personally would love to have a face mask or a bath product, and perhaps Beatitude or Mono Naturoils -- I would definitely 'squeee' if I opened my Love Lula box and saw any of those inside!

But for now, I will be enjoying all the fab green goodies I got in February's edit :) 


February 2019 Love Lula Beauty Box subscription products


Ooh, and before I go, I just wanted to let all you eco-beauties know about some changes that will be happening when it comes to my future Love Lula Beauty Box reviews!  I recently asked the Facebook group what they would like to see from these posts, and the following suggestions were given:

  • results and textures
  • I would like to read reviews when the blogger have had time to really test products. Sort of second review
  • I check reviews to see if a product will affect my skin (spot prone!) So a follow up unboxing with what you actually kept using and how it worked would be great
  • what you would recommend getting with the discount code
  • review before discount code expires would be good 
  • Texture, smells. Also a review later on saying if it really works/does what it claims. What sort of skin, age you feel it's most suited too

So as you can see, many requests were for reviews talking about how the product works longer term and what skin type it is suited for.  Many hoped for some more texture shots and descriptions of the scents, and also were wanting recommendations on other products from the brands included as each Love Lula box comes with a discount code that is valid for the month the edit is delivered.

Some of these are not very compatible, BUT I have come to a decision on how to meet everyone's wishes...

*drumroll*

My reviews for the Love Lula Beauty Box will be structured as follows:

- box arrives
- I unbox over on Instagram the day it is delivered
- I write up a post that week giving my suggestions for products to check out from the brands --> any recommendations for a spoiler free weekly title I can use???
- I review the full contents of the month's box during the last days of the month after having used each product for a substantial amount of time

Sound good??  I hope so!  If you have any other suggestions or hopes for these reviews, do let me know in the comments -- I want this to be a collaborative place, and I want us to be a community :) xx

2 comments

  1. Hello
    The precious PHB gentle moisturiser, didn't have phenoxyethanol in the formula, I have at home the previous 50ml jar and the new 30ml. I have one box at home. Its exactly the same formula but the previous one was 50ml and now is 30ml, so now is much more expensive. Its not a good idea.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Hello
    The previous PHB gentle moisturiser, didn't have phenoxyethanol in the formula, I have at home the previous 50ml jar and the new 30ml. I have one box at home. Its exactly the same formula but the previous one was 50ml and now is 30ml, so now is much more expensive. Its not a good idea.
    Thanks

    ReplyDelete

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