Topical Steroid Withdrawal | First Month Update

(image: Pinterest)

Hi ladies! Wow, what a bumpy ride I have been on since starting TSW! Despite knowing what to expect in general thanks to the very few resources for TSW sufferers such as ITSAN and that amazing support group on Facebook, nobody lives the cycles and flares the same way so it is hard to predict how my body will act from one day to another.

Topical Steroid Withdrawal | Beginning My TSW Journey

Various steroids I have been addicted to over the years

Hi ladies! I figured out it was time to post about my topical steroid withdrawal journey, since this is not a widely known subject - even most doctors are not even aware of this condition.

Project Pan Them All | February Empties

Hi ladies! I know, my last post was two weeks ago, but here is my excuse - I recently started TSW (topical steroid withdrawal), which prevents my body from functioning normally - I can barely eat and sleep, I can't work, and some days, I can't even walk properly. I am planning to write a whole post about this, but in the meantime, please bear with the lack of posts.

Before realizing I was suffering from TSW, I tried all kinds of body lotions, creams and butters to moisturize my red, itchy, irritated skin, but nothing would do, not even Basil Lemon Extra Moisturizing Body Butter for dry skin, that I used to love thanks to its great creamy texture and it's fresh and sweet smell.

Containing 1/3 nourishing milk, Uriage Crème Lavante Soap-Free Liquid Cleanser is one of the most gentle product I have used on my poor TSW skin. I really enjoy the pleasant light, fresh and "clean" fragrance of this cleanser, but its texture is not really consistent, which makes it hard to dispense the proper amount of product, despite the convenient pump packaging. I have to use a fair amount of product to produce a fine, creamy, easy-to-rinse foam, but I guess that for a soap-free cleanser, it's fairly good. I loved how this prodct never left my skin parched after showering.

When I realized that nothing worked to soothe my TSW skin, I dug out Dr Hess Udder Ointment to use it as a protective layer on my skin, since its texture actually reminds me a little of Vaseline. It is not especially moisturizing but it did make my skin a bit more comfortable for a few hours.

I kept hearing about the wonders of coconut oil but I have always loathed oily products on my skin - it just drives me crazy! When I received Adara Organic Virgin Coconut Oil to try, I had no choice but to use it to properly test it... yes, it does soothe and moisturize my skin greatly, but still, that oily texture... yuck! To be honest, I quickly forgot about it and put it away. But recently, since starting the TSW process, my skin could not tolerate any moisturizer so I looked for natural alternatives, and I realized it was the time to give another chance to coconut oil. Which I did, but it did not work wonders - my skin is so raw and sensitive that it just won't tolerate anything - which bring me to MW (moisturizer withdrawal), which I will talk about more in another post.

I still can't believe how Marc Anthony Oil of Morocco Argan Oil Deep Hydrating Treatment worked wonders on saving my hair! It has a great creamy texture so it does not make a mess in the shower, and you really don't need a lot of product at once. My hair was left incredibly smooth, soft, shiny and easily manageable!

Uriage Crème Lavante Soap-Free Liquid Cleanser

Hi ladies! Containing 1/3 nourishing milk, Uriage Crème Lavante is a 2-in-1 skincare product: cleanses and nourishes all at once. It preserves the hydrolipidic film, perfectly respects cutaneous balance and compensates for the drying-out effects of hard water. I have been using this soap-free liquid cleanser - formulated with thermal water and suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive and reactive - daily for a few months now and it's about time I share with you my opinion on it!

I have always been struggling with dry and eczema-prone skin, but this condition seems to have worsen since this summer, when I went swimming in a radioactive lake - yes, I know! - so I have to be extra careful regarding what I put on my sensitive skin to prevent any flare-up. The opportunity to try this soap-free cleanser came just at the right time!

I really enjoy the pleasant light, fresh and "clean" fragrance of this cleanser even though it doesn't seem to stay on the skin after showering, but its texture is not really consistent, which makes it hard to dispense the proper amount of product, despite the convenient pump packaging. I have to use a fair amount of product to produce a fine, creamy, easy-to-rinse foam, but I guess that for a soap-free cleanser, it's fairly good.

Crème Lavante leaves my skin soft without feeling tight or dry, but despite its nourishing claims, it did not really improve my skin condition and I still have to apply moisturizer after use. This cleanser can also be used on face and hair, although I did not try it, and it is suitable for all the family.

Uriage Crème Lavante Soap-Free Liquid Cleanser is available for $19.95 for 500mL at Jean-Coutu.

Disclaimer: One or more products were sent to me for consideration to review. I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.

SeabuckWonders - ‘Berry of Steel’ Flexes Its Super Health Muscles!

Hi ladies! Move Over "Man of Steel", there is a new super hero in town – the sea buckthorn berry! This amazing "Berry of Steel" has come all the way from the Himalayas to fight off free radicals, sun damage, aging and potential illness. This berry packs a real healing punch and beats out every other "Super Berry" - Dr. Oz does not call it the "miracle berry" for nothing!

Having not heard of sea buckthorn berry before, I was very excited to be kindly given the opportunity to sample a few SeabuckWonders products!

Infused with a potent blend of Omega 3, 6, 9, and the rare Omega-7, SeabuckWonders’ Deep Hydrating Serum ($34.97) will not only moisturize skin, but also improve texture and tone. This serum nourishes and supports cell regeneration to minimize fine lines and help maintain a youthful, healthy glow. It is ideal for all skin types and is highly effective, yet it will not leave your skin oily or irritated.

I am always pleased when a serum is absorbed fast into the skin, since I like to apply a heavier moisturizer right after, especially since the colder weather is approaching. The Deep Hydrating Serum feels like a refreshing gel and it locks moisture, leaving my skin feeling fresh, smooth and pampered.

Intensely moisturizing despite its surprisingly light texture, the Sea Buckthorn Body Lotion ($14.97) rejuvenates and replenishes the skin’s natural balance, softening and nourishing for silky, touchable skin. Its high concentration of sea buckthorn oil allows for superior moisture retention while protecting the skin from signs of aging and the effects of exposure to the sun.

I still can't believe how quickly this lotion is absorbed into the skin - it almost disappear on contact, I have never experienced something like that! It does calm the itchiness due to eczema, and I don't feel the need to re-apply this lotion until my next shower. I don't know how well it would work in the colder weather, but I have almost already used it up since it is so addictive!

Both products are naturally scented with essential orange oil for a subtle yet pleasant scent, but they are also made with certified organic Sea Buckthorn, they do not contain paraben, and they are vegan and cruelty-free.

SeabuckWonders has a whole line of the highest quality sea-buckthorn-berry-based supplements and skin care products in the marketplace. Feel free to have a look at their website to experience the powers of these super-berry products yourself! 

Disclaimer: One or more products were sent to me for consideration to review. I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.

Project Pan Them All | March Empties

Hi ladies! I am so proud to be doing so well on my Project Pan Them All! It just feels so liberating to use up so many products in such a short time. I even used up a makeup product this month, which never happens, but I am not happy about it at all! I don't even understand how this happened but when I went to use my favorite bronzer, 100% Pure Cocoa Pigmented Bronzer in Brown Sugar, it was totally broken in pieces! I absolutely don't remember taking it somewhere with me or dropping it on the floor, so this will remain a mystery... the worst part is that I thought I could fix it with alcohol, but I only had a solution of 50% on hand, and I guess this was not enough because when I went to use it the day after, I thought it was fixed but no, it crumbled into a powdery mess, so I figured out I would just throw it away. I have been wanting to try Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Matte Bronzer for a while anyway, which seems similar...

I received KQC Thermal Shine from Flat Iron Experts when I was sent very kindly sent a Babyliss Pro Tourmaline Ceramic Curling Iron for consideration to review. This protective spray smells a bit like men's cologne to me - which is very pleasant - and it really leaves my hair shiny, non greasy and lightweight, and it ensures that my flat iron glides on very smoothly.

I am usually disappointed to receive drugstore products in a subscription box, but I must say I was happy when I saw Curel Foot Therapy Soothing Cream in my May 2012 GLOSSYBOX because I really needed a new foot cream. This one has a nice thick consistency, it's absorbed quickly in the skin and it smells amazing - a bit sweet but not overpowering. It leaves my feet extremely soft and smooth after only a few use!

It seems I have had L'Oréal Professionnel Intense Repair Cuti Liss System Intense Nutrition Masque for dry hair* since forever, even though I used it every time I washed my hair instead of normal conditioner, and I finally managed to use it up! This masque has a really nice thick texture and my hair really feels nourished and properly mositurized after use, but I won't repurchase since L'Oréal tests on animals, so I will have to try and find a proper cruelty-free alternative... please let me know if you have any suggestions!

I can't say I was amazed by Eucerin Professional Repair Extremely Dry Skin Lotion since it just did not seem to really moisturize my skin - I constantly felt the urge to re-apply after a few hours! I am glad I used it so fast though!

I am not really sure what is the difference between the Body Butter and the Butter Lite from SPAresource, but I know I really enjoyed SPAresource Butter-Lite Sunrise Energy! This smells like nothing I have smelled before - floral with a hint of cucumber, I guess? Despite being lightly whipped, it has a nice thicker texture that is quickly absorbed into the skin, leaving it super soft, smooth and properly moisturized all day. No wonder this is such a nice and inexpensive alternative to The Body Shop body butters with ingredients such as aloe vera, shea butter and cocoa butter!

Earthen InstantPeel is a product that will probably never cease to amaze me - it's really super easy to use and I still think it's truly awesome to be able to actually see the peels of dead skin, it's like a proof that the product is working. I have never used something like this before! This product is great for dry and sensitive skin as it didn't leave my face irritated or even drier - I could feel my skin being softer and smoother. The only things I dislike about this product is the price - at $10 an application, it can be getting quite pricey - and the messy packaging.

The eczema on my hands was going really well until I experienced a huge flare-up for unknown reasons, just when I ran out of my thrusty Ratio-Clobetasol Propionate Ointment 0.05% w/w! This is basically topical corticosteroid, the strongest steroid I have been prescribed to use on my eczema, and the only thing that really works. 

Despite it's scrumptious coconut scent, I was a bit disapppointed by Bomb La Bon Bon Coco Choco Brown Sugar Scrub since it is the type of scrubs that makes a terrible slippery mess in the shower - because it is so oily, it falls everywhere before I have the time to properly rube it on my body, and I have to wash the shower after each use to ensure no one will fall and get hurt!

However, I was really impressed by Bomb La Bon Bon Cookies N Cream Bath Bomb - it really smells like Oreo cookies, and I can really feel the sweet almond oil in the bath and on my body - it leaves my skin sooooo amazingly soft, like nothing I have ever used! I swear I could even skip moisturizer after a bath with this product. It does leave the bath very slippery though, but this is minor since it works so well!

Just like every LUSH product I have, I took way too long to use Abombinaball Bath Bomb before it looses its smells, but oh well, it was still amazing! I used only one half and it was really long lasting once dropped in the water - it would not stop fizzing and foaming! The bomb started by releasing frothy white foam, then it released blue and green colorings, which finally left the water a gorgeous sea color - heavenly! After use, my skin was left smooth and moisturized - such a shame I can't talk about the scent though! Maybe next year?

Göt2b Rockin' It Dry Shampoo is probably my all-time favorite dry shampoo, for many reasons - its extra strong spray - seriously, I was blown away! - makes it easier to target your roots without spraying product all over your hair, it perfectly cleans my hair within minutes and it lasts a while - after 4 days, my hair is still clean!, it really infuses tons of volume and bounce, and I love its fresh and citrusy smell. What more can I ask for?

I still can't belive I found Nivea Visage Natural Beauty Beautifying Eye Care at Dollarama for only $2! I don't think I have really tried something from Nivea before and I don't really know why, maybe because none of their products really appealled to me and because they tend to be a bit on the pricey side for drugstore products. I liked to use this eye cream in the morning since it is a bit pearlescent so it does wake up my eyes a bit.

*Please note that L'Oréal Professionnel Intense Repair Cuti Liss System Intense Nutrition Masque for dry hair is NOT cruelty-free

Vitamine & Sea Cleansing Milk

Hi ladies! I was very lucky to be kindly treated to a few Vitamine & Sea products and after trying their Mineral Clay Mask, I was eager to try this luxurious cleansing milk, which seemed perfect for my dry and eczema-prone skin with its unique formula rich in vitamin E, A and B5 to soften, strengthen, clarify and preserve the skin. It also contains organic lavender, rosemary, sage and aloe to give you the softest and most nourished skin possible while adding moisture and being gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin, and believe me, it really does!

I don't remember ever using a cleansing milk before - when I was younger and less knowledgeable about the vast world of skincare products, I tended to rely on harsh foaming face cleansers, which left my poor skin even drier and irritated, often causing eczema flare-ups. Now, I have learned to care for my eczema and to stay away from such chemical products and I favour gentle, creamy and non-foaming face cleansers.

Vitamine & Sea Cleansing Milk is absolutely dreamy to use, and I think that is due in part to its milky texture, which is completely new to me in a cleanser. I like to wet my face and rub the product on it, insisting gentlyon the eyes area, if I am wearing eye makeup. It is actually gentle enough to be used on the eyes but it is not able to remove my makeup completely - I often step out of the shower with racoon eyes!

After use, my skin feels surprisingly moisturized without that squeaky-clean feeling, but it is weird how it just does not feel 100% clean - maybe I just need to get used to it since it is so gentle? I would recommend using a toner or a micellar water after this, especially if you were wearing foundation just to be sure everything has been properly removed.

I also appreciate the convenient pump bottle instead of the usual slippery tube, and one pump is enough to cover my whole face and neck, so be careful not to overdo it. I think it's nice that the bottle, despite being made of plastic, does not look cheap at all - in fact, at first glance, I really thought it was a glass bottle!

Made from certified organic ingredients, vegan, fair trade and cruelty-free, Cleansing Milk is available on the Vitamine & Sea website for $28.00

Disclaimer: One or more products were sent to me for consideration to review. I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.

HT26 Extra Moisturising & Nourishing Body Milk

HT26 is a line of ethnic cosmetics born of a relationship of trust between a pharmacist and her loyal clients. This personalized relationship, strong for over 30 years, has allowed the HT26 Laboratory to develop four other ethnic cosmetic lines tailored to the needs of every skin type. All of HT26 products are made with  ingredients carefully selected for their efficiency, and the formulas, original in their composition and dosage, are especillau adapted to the needs of black and mixed skin.

I have been curious about this brand and I was very kindly sent their Extra Moisturising & Nourishing Body Milk, which I have been told should be great for my very dry and eczema-prone skin, since it is intended for dehydrated, dull, dry skin that doesn't tolerate chalk. It is also enriched with sweet almond oil, glycerine and shea butter to softens the skin and makes it satin-smooth. 

I must say I was not especially excited about this product since I usually shy away from body milks in favor of body butters or thick creams, but this seriously works like nothing I have used before. The consistency is, of course, milky, but it is not a runny mess and it is absorbed into the skin within seconds, without leaving greasy residues behind - in fact, you can barely tell you just applied a lotion, if it was not for how smooth your skin feels!

I swear that after the first use, my skin felt incredibly comfortable and it did not itch until my next shower the night after - this is a big win for someone who is struggling with eczema! Also, you only need a small quantity of product since this milk is easily spreadable and you can be sure that this ginormous bottle (500mL) will last you a long time! Oh, and let's not forget about the smell, which is a bit powdery and reminds me of baby products - very pleasant!

HT26 Extra Moisturising & Nourishing Body Milk is available for $40.78 at Zoka Importations.

Disclaimer: One or more products were sent to me for consideration to review. I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.

Burt's Bees Soap Bark & Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream

I have been meaning to post this review yesterday before work but can you believe that, even though I did check my alarm clock about five times before going to bed - as always - it is actually my boss who woke me up at 6:10 when I was supposed to be at work at 6:00? No, the alarm did not ring, because the sound was turned off, and I simply can't understand why, despite all of my precautions! Strange things have been hapenning in my room, not to mention those weird fingerprints in my mirror... Let's just say that I was really angry and publishing this review was the last thing I had on my mind. I am glad it only takes me 15 minutes to get to work, so I ended up being half an hour late, but luckily, my boss understood and was kind enough to allow me to end my shift at 3:00 instead of 2:00. Enough ramblings for now and onto the review!

I was looking for a creamy and non-drying cleanser to pamper my already parched and eczema-prone skin, and I figured out this one would do the trick as it is made of plant-based ingredients. I was not disappointed - I'm always looking forward to using it again! This cleanser is thick and creamy and it does not foam like most cheap gel cleansers.

I love that my skin feels fresh after use (without that squeeky-clean feeling), but it sometimes still feel a little oily, as if it wasn't completely clean, especially when I wear foundation or BB Cream - nothing that can't be fixed with a little toner though. However, I have noticed that if I use this cleanser every day, it tends to  dry me out a bit - this is probably due to the menthol in it, so I would recomment to be careful if you have sensitive skin.

I also appreciate the convenient squeezable tube instead of the usual slippery bottle. I have had this cleanser for a long time and I feel it will last me a while as you really only need a little quantity of product each time thanks of its thick texture.

Burt's Bees Soap Bark & Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream is 98.8% natural and is not tested on animals. It is available for $12.99 for which is relatively cheap for such a great product.

Simmi Essentials Aqua Pura Sweet Almond Hydra Crème

Simi Essentials is a spa quality skin care line, based in natural ingredients (their main ingredient is aloe vera, not water like the majority of the others skin care lines). Formulated by the world's finest experts in the US, there are four simple categories of specialized skin care to chose from: Pampered Temple for the body (all the products in this category help to hydrate the skin of the body), Perfect Balance for acne prone and oily skin, Fountain of Youth for people looking for an anti aging solution, and Aqua Pura to improve the moisture of the dehydrated skin. Simi Essentials products are - of course - cruelty free (they are PETA business friends!) and their bottles and jars and environmental friendly (made in USA). 

Simi kindly informed me that in my case, the most suitable category is Aqua Pura since I am suffering from dry, irritated and eczema-prone skin, so I was sent the Sweet Almond Hydra Crème that promises to help to hydrate my face.

Upon the first applications, I was worried my skin was intolerant to almond oil or another ingredient in this product because my dry patches of eczema and irritated skin did sting a bit, but with consistent use, my skin fortunately calmed down.

While having a nice and somewhat thick consistency, the Sweet Almond Hydra Crème is really lightweight and I like how it seems to envelop my skin in a soothing cocooning, instead of disappearing right away - does this make sense? It is not greasy and it does quickly sink into the skin but I like how I can feel my skin being moisturized throughout the day, and this is what makes the difference to me between an hydrating and a moisturizing product.

I have been using this product every morning since I received it somewhere in the middle of October, and you can barely tell because the little pot still appears almost untouched - you only need the smallest quantity of product since this Sweet Almond Hydra Crème is really rich. Talking about packaging - this product comes in a cute little plastic post, and until very recently, I would have been tempted to say that such packaging tend to look and feel a bit cheap, but since I dropped and broke my glass jar of $40 NUXE Rêve de Miel Ultra-Comfortable Face Cream, let's just say that I now favour practicality instead of beauty.

Simmi Essentials Aqua Pura Sweet Almond Hydra Crème is available for $37.00 at www.simiessentials.com. and don't forget to apply the code Peta3 to get 3$ off and Peta15 for 15% off if you buy more then 50$.

Disclaimer: One or more products were sent to me for consideration to review. I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.

The Body Shop Mango Body Butter

Yes, until last year, I was a The Body Shop virgin because as much as I wanted to try their body butters, I always thought they were too pricey for me - come on, why would I want to pay $18 for a 200ml body butter that I can find at the drugstore for half the price? But that was until I came accross an irresistible 3 for $30 offer on the whole The Body Shop website, which led me to order a few of those mystical body butters.

The first butter I decided to try was the Shea Body Butter as it is designed for very dry skin and from what I have heard, it is claimed to be the thickest and most moisturizing of all The Body Shop body butters, which turned out ot be absolutely true - it is truly a little worker on my eczema! After that great experience, I was eager to try another of their butter, but I can't say I was exactly pleased...

As I used up the last bit of my Burt's Bees Aloe & Linden Flower After Sun Soother, the weather was getting colder and I always favour heavier body creams in the winter, so I figured out it was the perfect time to try another The Body Shop body butter that I have bought last year, and I chose Mango because it is also designed for very dry skin.

I ordered this body butter in the jumbo format (400ml) because it was included in the 3 for $30 offer, but I think the jumbo sizes have been discontinued since then - or am I wrong? When I used the Shea Body Butter for the first time, I was worried I would not be able to go through this humongous tub before the end of the winter (I don't use body butters in the summer, they are just too heavy) and I only hoped it would not go bad too soon, but the Mango butter is less thick than the Shea version - it's actually more like a thick cream.

I can't say I fell in love with the Mango body butter's texture like I did with the Shea version. The consistency is like a rich cream, but it's not solid like the Shea body butter. It melts on my skin but it does take some times to be properly absorbed, and yes, it is greasy, even on my dehydrated skin!

The Mango Body Butter does not smell synthetic to me - but then again it is not something that usually bothers me, as long as it's done right - it actually smells like fresh ripped mangoes, yum! I can smell it on my skin a few hours after applying it, but it does not linger all day or overnight. 

I was not blown away by this butter. Even with continuous use, The Body Shop Mango Body Butter could not completely soothe my irritated skin and too often, my skin started being itchy again after around 15 minutes of applying this product, which is asbolutely unacceptable for the price, and especially because it is claimed to be great for very dry skin! If you have problem skin that requires heavy-duty moisture, I would recommend to skip the Mango Body Butter and go for the Shea version instead, which is much better and actually works amazingly well.

The body butters are available in store for $19.00 for 250ml and on The Body Shop website and you get free shipping with any purchase of $75 (be sure to check out RetailMeNot for coupons before ordering!)

Eucerin Smoothing Repair Dry Skin Lotion - Feel The Difference 100 Years Of Science Makes

Because I am more of a body butter girl, I am always sceptical of lotions that claim to be able to really heal dry skin, especially since I am suffering from eczema, but I am really glad I finally gave a try to Eucerin Smoothing Repair Dry Skin Lotion, a unique, fast absorbing lotion that combines Ceramide-3, skin’s own moisturizers, and Gluco-Glycerol to improve the condition of skin and fight dryness at the source. I heard so much rave about this brand, especially since it is said to work amazing on eczema-prone skin.

I don't think I have heard of a product claiming to strengthen the skin’s barrier to lock in moisture and improve moisture reserves to help prevent dryness from recurring for healthy looking skin, but I think it is fair to say that I am sold on Eucerin Smoothing Repair Dry Skin Lotion!

Since my eczema-prone skin becomes dry, tight and uncomfortable extremely easily - especially in the harsh fall/winter weather - I really need a product that is able to calm the itchiness due to eczema imediately, and it is exactly what this Eucerin lotion does. Despite its light and non-greasy texture that is absorbed super fast, Eucerin Smoothing Repair Dry Skin Lotion provides intense moisture for skin that looks and feels immediately hydrated. I don't even need to re-apply lotion in the morning, that's just how well this product works!

While using Eucerin Smoothing Repair Dry Skin Lotion, I did not even experience eczema flare-up or any itchiness due to eczema at all - how amazing is that? But as soon as I switched to another product - The Body Shop Mango Body Butter - my whole body became itchy and irritated again. I am glad the bottle is so big - and I love the pump! - because I am sure it will last me a long time.

Eucerin Smoothing Repair Dry Skin Lotion is dermatologist tested and fragrance-free and it is available at around $10.00 for 16.9 fl. oz.

Disclaimer: One or more products were sent to me for consideration to review. I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.

MJ's Soap Shop Tangerine Body Butter

Body butter is an essential for my dry and eczema-prone skin, especially in the harsh winter weather - which is quickly approaching! When it comes to body butter, I know exactly what I want - thick, easy to spread, quickly absorbed and long-lasting moisture.

At first sight, MJ's Soap Shop Tangerine Body Butter looks solid in the tub, but as soon as it comes in contact with your skin, it melts a little to allow you to properly spread it on your body. It's not super hard but it's still very thick so you don't need a big quantity of product at once..

Because this butter is designed for dry to very dry skin, I would not recommend it for normal or oily skin because it is very likely to create a greasy mess - if I applied it too heavily on  the areas of my body where my skin was not parched or prone to eczema, I was left with super oily skin and that oil just transfered to everything I touched - clothes, furnitures, even the dog!

Sadly, I have to disagree with the fast-absorbing claim in MJ's Soap Shop Tangerine Body Butter's description as, even when I was careful to use only a very small quantity of product on my super dehydrated skin, it took some time to sink in, but that is not a real problem for me because I shower at night before going to bed so the body has plenty of time to properly sink in.

As for MJ's Soap Shop Tangerine Scented Hand Cream, because this body butter is scented with essential oils and not fragrance, the smell is not overpowering but very soft and pleasant. You can really smell a juicy tangerine, not that chemical and overly sweet scent! I have found that the smell lasts a fair amount of time on my skin but sadly not until the morning.

MJ's Soap Shop Tangerine Body Butter has the same ingredients as the Cherry Lip Balm, minus the vitamin E, but after being so amazed by the lipbalm, I can't help but be a little disappointed that the butter doesn't provide long lasting moisture just like the Cherry lipbalm, because I stil feel the need to apply moisturizer in the morning to prevent my skin from getting itchy and dry through the day.

At $8.00 for approximately 2 OZ, I think MJ's Soap Shop Tangerine Scented Body Butter is a great value for the price as it will really last you a long time, but if you have normal or oily skin, I would recommend to concentrate this butter only on dry area of your body, such as elbows or knees to avoid a greasy mess all over your body.

Disclaimer: One or more products were sent to me for consideration to review. I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.

Made From Earth Holistic Honey Body Lotion - Heals, Soothes And Protects With Organic Honey

I have been very lucky to be able to try some organic, natural, vegan and cruelty-free Made From Earth Aloe Vera products in the past, and I have been recently given another opportunity to test this amazing Holistic Honey Body Lotion, which works amazingly well on my eczema!

Honey is a natural humectants, which means it attracts and retains moisture. The natural hydrating and antioxidant properties of honey trap and seal the moisture, rejuvenate the skin, cleanse the complexion leaving it soft. Honey in its purest organic form is suitable for all skin types, and has amazing holistic healing properties.

The Holistic Honey Body Lotion comes in the same minimal packaging as the Organic Aloe & Jojoba Creme Therapy, a simple bottle which makes it a little hard to get the product out - I would have preferred a pump dispenser because my bottle quickly became greasy and slippery after a few uses. For $14.99, I can't help but think that this product deserves a better packaging - and I wish it was bigger as I have used up my previous bottle of Organic Aloe & Jojoba Creme Therapy in an little less than a month!

When I first used it, I thought the lotion would be way too thin and liquidy to properly moisturize my dry and irritated skin, but I have been proven wrong - I was actually amazed at how quickly the lotion was absorbed in my skin, without leaving greasy residue behind, and I could feel my skin being soothed and moisturized right away. My usually dry and eczema-prone skin did not itch the following day - I didn't even have to re-apply lotion in the morning, which I have to do with a lot of moisturizers I have previously used.

I must say I was a bit taken aback by the strange smell - you would expect an honey lotion to smell on the sweet side, well, like honey, right? But no, this ones actually smells a strange blend of herbs, which is not unpleasant, just not what I expected. It does linger a bit on the skin, but not overnight.

Be sure to have a look at the wide variety of products available at Made From Earth, where you will be sure to find something for your skin's needs!

Disclaimer: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

The Body Shop Shea Body Butter

The Body Shop® difference: Our Body Butter is the original and in our humble opinion, the world’s best. But we aren’t the only ones who think so. Our Shea Body Butter is a hit with celebrity fans like Jennifer Lopez, Victoria and David Beckham, and Reese Witherspoon. So you are in good company when you indulge in the luxurious, 24-hour, non-stop moisturizing formula, packed with Community Trade ingredients. And you can feel good when you use it, knowing that you are helping to provide a community of women in Ghana with regular work and income. 

Best if you want to: Treat your skin to non-stop moisturization with a rich, intensive cream featuring the clean scent of shea. 

Best for: very dry skin 

How it works: Community Trade shea butter has antioxidant vitamins A and E to help protect and nourish skin. Community Trade cocoa butter is an excellent moisturizer that melts at body temperature, leaving skin soft and silky smooth.

Yes, until very recently, I was a Body Shop virgin because as much as I've wanted to try their body butters, I always thought they were too pricey for me - come on, why would I want to pay $18 for a 200ml body butter that I can find at Wal-Mart for only $6 (I'm talking about SPAresource body butters)? I've always been happy with those drugstore body butters but I ran out of them and my eczema always seems to worsen in the winter and there's no way I will use a body lotion instead, it's just not enough moisturizing.

So at the beginning of December, I stumbled accross The Body Shop's 3 for $30 offer on their whole website, and I figured out it was the perfect time to give those mystical butters a try as they would cost only $10 each with free shipping. To see what I have ordered and to read what I thought of their customer service, you can click here to be brought to my shopping post.

The first butter I decided to try was the Shea Body Butter as it's designed for very dry skin and from what I have heard, it is claimed to be the thickest and most moisturizing of all The Body Shop body butters, which is exactly what my parched and eczema-prone skin needed!

L - R: 200mL and 400mL body butters

I ordered this body butter in the jumbo format (400ml) because it was included in the 3 for $30 offer, but otherwise, it retails at $25 (!!!) Even though I was warned, let me confirm that yes, the jumbo size is really jumbo! At first I was worried I wouldn't be able to go through this humongous tub before the end of the winter (I don't use body butters in the summer, they are just too heavy) and I only hoped it wouldn't go bad too soon, but I have been using this butter since the beginning of December and I'm already half way through it (I use it every night after showering all over my body).

As soon as I started using the Shea body butter, I fell in love with its amazing texture. The consistency is dreamy - rich, creamy and perfectly thick - exactly what I'm expecting in a body butter! Some say it's greasy, but hey, this stuff has been designed for very dry skin for a reason! If you have extremely dry, dehydrated skin, like me, it soaks it all up in a matter of seconds without leaving greasy residue behind.

In the tub, the butter looks hard and solid but it really melts as soon as it comes in contact with the skin.

It's a little hard to describe what Shea smells like but I would say it's a sort of neutral clean and fresh smell that is slightly earthy and nutty, with a hint of floral. I think it's a very creamy, cozy and comforting smell that is not overpowering but I would not say it's very light either. I also doesn't linger on the skin very long, which is disappointing in my opinion.

At first, I must say I wasn't blown away by this butter. I mean, I have tried quite a few body butters in the past and I always went back to the ones from SPAresources because they were inexpensive, did the job quite well and had that perfectly buttery texture. However, I have realized that with continuous use, The Body Shop Shea Body Butter soothed my irritated skin and I haven't experienced any eczema flare-ups since I started using it. Sure, my skin still ocasionally itches and sometimes I have to apply moisturizer in the morning to get me through the day, but I haven't feel the need to reach for my steroid cream and this is a big step forward in my book.

Of course, the main issue for me with these butters is the price: mini (50 ml / 1.7 oz) for $6.00, regular (200 ml / 7.0 oz) for $18.00 and jumbo (400 ml / 13.5 oz) for $25.00.  I won't need to buy these full-price anytime soon because I guess it will take me a long time to get through the six butters I ordered in December, but The Body Shop always has some kind of deals going on such as buy 1 get 1 50% off, buy 3 get 2 free, etc. But still, I'm not convinced these body butters are a must have if you don't have problem skin that requires heavy-duty moisture.

The body butters are available on The Body Shop website and you get free shipping with any purchase of $75 (be sure to check out RetailMeNot for coupons before ordering!)

Dr Hess Udder Ointment & Udder Sticks Lip Balms

Dr Hess Udder Ointment is by far the best healing skin care ointment on the market today! 

For over 100 years, Dr. Hess Products have been providing relief for all skin needs. Originally developed for cow's udders in the early 1900's, farmers were soon remarking on the incredible healing effects it was having on their own skin. Soon it was a staple in every medicine cabinet. Dr. Hess Udder Ointment is less greasy, absorbs quicker and smells better than other comparable products on the market. We use NO PARABENS (unlike our major competitor) which can be very harmful to your health.

Dr Hess Udder Ointment is said to be by far the best healing skin care ointment on the market today so I was very glad to be kindly sent these products to help with my eczema. Dr Hess products are recommended if you are dealing with problem skin, eczema, chafing, severe dryness, diabetic skin damage, cracked heels etc.

Udder Ointment $9.99 for 4oz

Depend on Dr Hess Udder Ointment to provide quick relief from dry skin, eczema, cracked heels and cuticles, chapped lips, athletic chafing, burns, abrasions, diabetic damages skin and more! Now available in a NEW 4oz tube!

I must start by saying that I didn't use this ointment all over my body because the tube is so small, I was afraid to run out of product too soon, so I decided to apply it only on my eczema spots (arms, legs and back). 

The texture is not like a lotion or a butter - it actually reminds me a little of Vaseline, but it doesn't leave a greasy residue behind - and I couldn't imagine applying it all over my body. It's thick and I can feel that it acts as a protective layer on my skin, ensuring it stays moisturized for hours. I was happily surprised to see that immediately calmed any itching and redness.

I like to apply this ointment only on trouble areas at night and sometimes, when I feel the need, I will re-apply a thin layer in the morning. I haven't tried it on my heels, cuticles or heels so I can't tell you if it works or not, but I'm pretty sure it will be just as great as on the rest of your body.

Udder Sticks Lip Balms with SPF 15 $10.00 for 4

The newest addition to the Dr. Hess Udder Ointment line includes a soothing Lip Balm for dry and chapped lips. Based on the original healing formula and with added SPF 15 Sunscreen, the Udder Stick will keep your lips protected and “udderly” smooth! FOUR FLAVORS NOW AVAILABLE including the Original Vanilla, Mango, Pomegranate and Vanilla Mint! Choose one of each, four of a kind or design your own pack!

If you are a regular reader of Gaby's Beauty Blog, I bet you know by now that I'm a total lipbalm junkie. Despite having finally found my HG lip balm, I can't help but continue to look around because hey, I like to have options, and these lipbalms are actually really great - I mean, how often do you find a SPF 15 in a chap stick?

I love the texture of these balms, they are far from your typical waxy lip balm (I'm looking at you, Burt's Bees Original Beeswax Lipbalm) and they just glide so nicely on the lips, leaving them nicely shiny and keeping them moisturized for hours. I didn't feel the need to constantly re-apply this lipbalm as I feel it stays on the lips for a good amount of time.

The only thing I didn't like with this lipbalm is that when I used it on my chapped or irritated lips, it burned a little for one minute or so and I don't exactly know why. It's nothing unbearable but it's just not fun! I don't think I have ever used a lip balm with sunscreen in it before so I think that maybe I have allergies to that.

Use their store locator to find a store near you that carries Dr Hess products or order online at Udder Ointment.com!

Disclaimer: One or more products were sent to me for consideration to review. I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.

George's Cream - Dry Skin Relief

 Relief for all kinds of skin problems . . . 

George's Cream and Moisturizing Lotion were created for lasting dry skin relief. Although there is no cure for many skin problems, George's provides relief from different types of skin symptoms and conditions. It works! That is why it is recommended by dermatologists, pharmacists and physicians. The therapeutic benefits of George's will provide immense relief for those suffering from many different conditions.

I'm really thankful to be offered the chance to try all of those products that are meant to help with eczema, and I'm especially excited to share my thoughts with you on these products because trust me, they really work! George, the owner of George's Cream, sent me the Light Special Moisturizing Lotion and the Special Dry Skin Cream to try. George's Cream and Moisturizing Lotion were created for lasting dry skin relief and although there is no cure for many skin problems, George's provides relief from different types of skin symptoms and conditions, such as eczema.

George's Cream and comes in two varieties:

• George's Light Special Moisturizing Lotion is a lighter version that is gentle enough for sensitive skin but still soothes and protects problem skin.
• George's Special Dry Skin Cream is a thick cream intended to provide lasting relief of many skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis. It is recommended by dermatologists, pharmacists and doctors.

George’s Cream and George’s Daily Moisturizing Lotion are two fragrance free moisturizers that do not contain lanolin, parabens or urea. The cream comes in 3 package sizes: 30g tube for the purse ($2.99), convenient 90g tube ($6.99) and an economical 450g jar ($15.99). The lotion comes in 2 package sizes: 30ml tube for the purse ($2.99) and an attractive 360ml pump ($10.99).

I know some of you think the packaging looks weird and even creepy, but I actually like it! It's simple but original and cute at the same time.

The first few days I started using George's products, I almost immediately noticed a huge difference on my skin! It relieved dryness and itchiness, meaning significantly less eczema flare-ups. Also, I could feel my skin being moisturized all day, which I don't think I have experienced before! The tricky part with eczema is that you have to make sure your skin is constantly moisturized, because thirsty skin means dryness, which leads to ichiness, which leads to red and irritated skin, which is called eczema.

L - R: Light Special Moisturizing Lotion and Special Dry Skin Cream

Despite it's light - but not runny - texture, I used George's Light Special Moisturizing Lotion at night as soon as I stepped out of the shower and I never felt the need to re-apply in the morning - my skin still felt supple and comfortable. The lotion is absorbed almost instantly into the skin, leaving it smooth and moisturized all day.

As for the Special Dry Skin Cream, I like to keep it in my purse because of its small and convenient size. Because of its name, I thought it would be thicker than the lotion, but the textures are actually similar and I even think the cream is lighter than the lotion.

I almost didn't need to rely on my steroid creams since I started using George's Cream, and that means a lot to me.

George’s Cream is sold through national and independent pharmacies, drug chains, grocery retailers and convenience stores across Canada. Click here to see the list of stores that carries George’s in your area.

Disclaimer: One or more products were sent to me for consideration to review. I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.

Pai Skincare - Organic Skin Care for Sensitive Skin

At Pai, we believe that the natural world provides us with all the goodness our skin needs. 

That's why we use only the highest grade, plant-based ingredients in our products. 

These are never grown using pesticides or extracted using chemical solvents which leave residues in the end product. 

Many skin care manufacturers make false claims to be natural, yet still contain any number of irritating substances. 

At Pai, we carefully formulate all of our products using the latest research and manufacturing processes to ensure they are the cleanest on the market today.

Everything came securely packed in a box

I was so excited to be able to try some Pai Skincare products to help with my eczema as you know how I'm constantly complaining about this skin condition. Eczema products are usually filled with chemicals and other nasty things and steroids thin the skin, so I'm always on the lookout for natural alternatives. I've been testing these two products for a little more than one month and I'm excited to share my results with you!

I've been very kindly sent the Comfrey & Calendula Calming Body Cream and the Rosehip & BioRegenerate fruit & seed oil blend to try. As I'm suffering from eczema, Nicola from Pai Skincare recommended applying them both at the same time, so adding a couple of drops of Rosehip oil into a pump of cream for an extra regenerative boost.

The first thing I noticed about both products is the strong herbal smell - of course, what was I expecting? Pai Skincare products don't contain perfume because briefly, it's a term that legally allows manufacturers to include up to 200 synthetic chemicals, including phthalates, in their products without declaring them on the label - crazy, right?

I wouldn't say the smell put me off but if you're sensitive to strong scents, I'm not sure you will apreciate these ones. I have found the Rosehip & BioRegenerate fruit & seed oil blend has a much heavier scent than the Comfrey & Calendula Calming Body Cream, but it doesn't linger very long on the skin.

As for the texture, well obviously the oil will be oily but it's not greasy or runny and to my surprise, it is very quickly absorbed into the skin without leaving an oily residue behind. The body cream is thick without being too heavy - I would say it's just perfect especially if you use it on your hands like I did because it is absorbed quickly too.

The Comfrey & Calendula Calming Body Cream, it comes in a pump dispenser bottle while the Rosehip & BioRegenerate fruit & seed oil blend comes in a cute little bottle with a dropper dispenser, which I always appreciate with an oil product because it's way less messy than say, in a pump dispenser bottle. 

I have been using these two products twice a day every day since I received them always on the same area of my body - on my right hand, I developed a stubborn patch of eczema on my knuckles and even though my eczema on my fingers seems to have gotten better, I still get flare-ups sometimes so I also used these products
 on my fingers. I didn't notice improvments until the second week of use and OMG, I must say this stuff is seriously awesome!

I haven't relied on my steroid creams since two whole weeks and that is a huge improvement for me. I didn't get flare-ups in those two weeks and that does say a lot! My right hand is almost back to normal although my knuckles are still a little dry but they are less red and irritated and they don't itch anymore - same with my fingers! Honestly, I can't believe it. This is the first time some products work really well on my eczema!

I will definitely continue using these two products together and I have high hopes to see my eczema being completely cured in the long term - and this, without nasty chemicals!

If you suffer from sensitive skin or are interested in using natural and organic products that really work (I'm the proof!), be sure to have a look at Pai Skincare website.

Disclaimer: These products were sent to me for consideration to review. I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.

Made From Earth Aloe Vera Products

Our line of organic skincare essentials contain the highest possible levels of certified organic ingredients and fruits. We have searched the entire USA for ingredients that meet our earth-friendly requirements and are hand-selected to provide you with exceptional skincare. You will find our ingredients listed prominently on our products and throughout this website. No catchy phrases or deceptive marketing – our ingredients speak for themselves.

I was incredibly lucky to have been given the opportunity to try some Aloe products from Made From Earth to help my eczema - I can't wait to see the results as the very kind Stergios told me these products have helped many people with eczema prone skin. Made From Earth products are organic, natural, vegan and cruelty-free!

Lemongrass Tea Soap $4.99

Contains essential fatty acids and antioxidants to prevent skin damage and cleanse your skin. This lemongrass soap is a citrus blast with an herbal tea undertone. The aroma is designed to sedating the nervous system for soothing headaches and aiding relaxation.

I love a great smelling bar of soap! This one is so cute and smells so good, I didn't even want to use it! I must say I had absolutely no idea of what scent to expect - I wasn't even sure what was Lemongrass exactly before googling it! 

The scent is very pleasant yet subtle. The main aroma is citrusy - sweet and fresh - but the hint of tea prevents it from being too overpowering. In fact, I would have love for the perfume to linger on my body after a shower, but it didn't.

It lathers amazingly well!

My only complaint is that the soap is very small for the price (I can't find the quantity on the website and it's not written on the label), even though solid soaps tend to get used up less quickly than shower gels - not to mention this one produces a lot of foam, so I'm sure it will last quite a while!

Made from Earth soaps are handmade fresh with USDA Certified Organic ingredients. These blends produce a healthy lather and leave your skin soft and supple (I didn't really notice my skin being softer but it sure didn't feel dry!)

Organic Aloe & Jojoba Creme Therapy $22.99 for 8 oz.

Our best seller! This signature series organic Aloe and Jojoba Nut Creme Therapy contains highly concentrated amounts of Aloe Vera and Rooibos Tea leaves. Rooibos is a powerful antioxidant while the Jojoba nut provides anti-bacteria and preservative properties. Our custom formula of Aloe juice and Jojoba Nut oil create a powerful creme that attacks free radicals and limits their damaging effect on your skin.

Pure Aloe Vera Skin Treatment $14.99 for 2 oz.

This Aloe Vera Skin Treatment should be used for healing the skin from the effects of daily sun exposure. It is the most potent and natural form of aloe vera you can buy in a jar. Deeply moisturizes skin, while the aloe releases enzymes and natural vitamins into your skin. Treatment is recommended for use two to three times per week.

When I received these products, I didn't notice that the Pure Aloe Vera Skin Treatment was in the "Face Treatment" section of the website, and because both products are pH balanced for face & body applications, I used them both on my body and on my face alternatively.

The Organic Aloe & Jojoba Creme Therapy comes in a simple bottle which makes it a little hard to get the product out - I would have preferred a pump dispenser (especially for the price). The Pure Aloe Vera Skin Treatment comes in a little jar, which is less hygienical - who cares, as your hands are supposed to be clean when you come out of the shower, aren't they? - but easier to use.

I have found them to be pretty similar, also there's a slight difference in the texture. The Organic Aloe & Jojoba Creme Therapy is less watery than the Pure Aloe Vera Skin Treatment, but it's a little runnier... strange, isn't it?

Here's a look at them, side by side (Organic Aloe & Jojoba Creme Therapy on the left and the Pure Aloe Vera Skin Treatment on the right):

L - R : Organic Aloe & Jojoba Creme Therapy and Pure Aloe Vera Skin Treatment

Both have light textures that are quickly absorbed into the skin, leaving a gorgeous sweet smell behind. I would have preferred them to be thicker as I feel they could be even more moisturizing, but they do the job well anyway.

I love how my skin is left pleasantly perfumed and smooth after applying those lotions. I have noticed a slight improvement on the red patches of itchy and sensitive eczema-prone skin on my body, although it's maybe a little too soon to tell how it will work in the long term.

Made from Earth recommends keeping both aloe products in the refrigerator for a "cooling" effect on the skin, as well as increasing the shelf life of the product.

Be sure to have a look at the wide variety of products available at Made From Earth and also "like" them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.

Disclaimer: These products were sent to me for consideration to review. I was not paid for this review,  I am not affiliated with this company and the fact that the products were free absolutely does not influence my opinion.