Beauty brand creates hand sanitizer amidst pandemic

In these few chaotic months, COVID-19 has wreaked havoc throughout the world, damaging lives, economies, and resources.

One important resource that we've been short on is hand sanitizers. People are using them more than ever, and some people seem to be hoarding them. Hand sanitizers are running out everywhere, especially online where they sell out as soon as they hit the market.

Luckily, hand sanitizers are not difficult to produce and many businesses have stepped up and taken the matter into their own hands. There are countless distilleries switching gear to producing hand sanitizers instead of liquor. As manufacturers continue on this route, our supply may finally meet demand.

Today, we received news that the makers of CHI and BioSilk have created hand sanitizers with 77% by volume natural denatured alcohol and organically grown aloe vera from the CHI Organic Gardens. For the official launch, CHI is donating $1 million worth of their hand sanitizer to the cities of Houston & Tomball, TX.

The new CHI Organic Gardens Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer and the BioSilk Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer with Soothing Aloe Vera are both available for purchase at chi.com. Order some hand sanitizers if you need them, but don't order an excessive amount. Washing hands is more effective so there is no reason to stock up on an unusable amount of hand sanitizer. We want everyone to be able to order some and have some when they need it.

CHI Organic Gardens Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer and BioSilk Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer with Soothing Aloe Vera contain 77% by volume natural denatured alcohol along with Aloe Leaf Extract that is soothing and maintains moisture. The formula also has glycerin and a lemon-citrus fragrance. It will come in four sizes: 25oz, 12oz, 6oz and 2oz.

The creators of CHI & BioSilk are working on production of two more hand sanitizers made with hydrogen peroxide, alcohol and glycerin and is working on antibacterial hand soap.

Camel milk for skincare?

Camel milk is one of 2020's trending ingredients for skincare.

Camel milk contains a balanced blend of skin-repairing nutrients like proteins, natural alpha-hydroxy acids, and beauty vitamins like C & D. Topically, it is said to help to moisturize, nourish, and restore sensitive skin. There are claims that it even reduces unpleasant sunspots and acne marks. Camel milk, not unlike other types of milk, is loaded with lactic acid, an AHA that can slough away dead skin cells. It can also help increase the skin’s production of ceramides, assisting with moisture retention and a brighter, more even skin tone. There are also unverified claims of camel milk assisting with collagen production and protecting the skin from free radicals and other forms of oxidative stress.

We recently came across Elina Organic's Sahara Soufflé, an organic, cruelty-free & handmade hydrating face mask that features real camel milk. It is massaged over wet skin and left on for about 10 minutes. ⁠It feels nice and moisturizing, but we'll have to wait to report on the long-term effects, if any.

Sahara Soufflé ingredients: Camel Milk, Cera Alba, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Daucus Carota (Carrot seed) Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape seed) Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Oil, Helianthus annuus (Sunflower), Extracts of Tremuella (Snow Mushroom), Phosphilipids Leuconostoc (Radish) Root Ferment, Lactobacillus, Cocos Nucifera (coconut), ocopherol (Vit E), Epigallocatechin Gallate, Boswellia Serrata Gum Extract, BHT.

Honestly Margo - Mother's Day Gift Ideas

As Mother's Day approaches, we want to highlight a wonderful mother-daughter brand: Honestly Margo. The brand was founded by a teenager and her mom in 2013. Honestly Margo's first product was the Aromatherapy balms that help to relieve stress, headaches or minor sinus aches. Now, in 2018, the business has seven different products to offer beauty consumers.

Their newest product is the Roller Girls Roll-On Lipgloss that leaves a beautiful crystal clear finish, and shows off the natural tint of the lips with a bit of pop!

Created with a purpose to inspire young girls and women, and make them feel beautiful at the same time, Margo and Irene wanted to make products with good-for-you ingredients that are paraben-free. Many of the products are comprised of four ingredients or less, which emphasizes the "good for you" aspect of the beauty line.

Instagram to follow: Pharm2Philly

If you are a foodie, Philadelphia is a must visit destination. Philadelphia, the country’s first and only World Heritage City, was ranked number one on Lonely Planet’s list of 10 best places to visit in the United States. Philadelphia is a city with history, culture, new developments and find dining. Follow @pharm2philly on Instagram to get a details for the best eats.

Le Tote clothing subscription

Yes, another monthly subscription service. There's makeup, clothes, groceries, coffee, shaving kits, etc. What's next? The trend of the decade is subscription services, so of course I have to hop on.

How is the service advertised to work? Le Tote styles your tote based on your input. Then, you can change items and decide what ships. Le Tote will send your tote to your door with free 2-3 day priority shipping. Wear your clothing and accessories out and about, for as long as you’d like. Keep the pieces you love for up to 50% off retail and return the rest.

The number of items in each tote depends on what membership plan you have—Le Tote offers both clothing and accessories options. You can change your plan at any time, and if you ever want to add extra clothing or accessory items, you can pay a one-time fee to get another item in your tote.

They offer women’s clothing and accessories (jewelry, bags and scarves) for rent. Le Tote has thousands of on-trend and classic styles—for the workday, the weekend and everything in between. There are also maternity styles if you’re expecting. They carry hundreds of brands like Calvin Klein, Vince Camuto and French Connection, and our sizes range from 0-16 (XS-XXL).

By rating your items, they learn your style and size, and make better suggestions. If something doesn’t fit or isn’t quite right, be sure to share your feedback so they can make each tote better than the last.

I've just signed up to the service. Expect an update and review soon!

Nuest Cosmetics launches Layered Cushion Compacts with Emoji Stickers

Nuest Cosmetics just recently launched their Chic2Cheek 2-in-1 Cushion Compacts. Each cushion foundation compact opens up to expose other layers of products with options like a primer, lip & check tint and color correctors. You can customize each compact with a set of adorable emoji stickers.



At $38 a piece, they’re pricey but are the perfect little compacts that can go anywhere you go for an anytime touchup!

Is SigMagic Scrub worth it?

The SigMagic is Sigma's latest invention. This Sigma Spa® gadget plus brush cleanser features firm-hold suction cups for hands-free washing, and the vented lid allows product to dry and stay germ-free. This brush cleanser is made using 100% natural virgin coconut and ethically sourced palm oil. This antimicrobial formula prevents growth of bacteria for up to 2 weeks after use.

Personally, I find this tool easy enough to use and leaves my brushes cleaner and softer than usual. At $19, the SigMagic is affordable. I would definitely recommend it for makeup artists or anyone who has a large collection of brushes.

Sigma Beauty has 15% off Sigma coupon and other deals for 2018.



Any artists out there? I've been experimenting with makeup brush tools for my paint brushes. I'll post an update soon!

Sigma Black Friday Deals & Discounts

On Thanksgiving Day and Black Friday in previous years, Sigma Beauty offered us FREE WORLDWIDE SHIPPING with no limits. Sigma also offered Cyber Monday coupons and holiday galore shopping just in time for Christmas!

Sigma has improved their website a lot since that year in 2014/2015 that chaos ensued and sigmabeauty.com became too slow for the mass to get their order or discount in on time. Free shipping is not a huge deal for most Americans who only have to buy $30 for the offer, but international buyers pay a lot for shipping - so the discount is necessary! I've gotten the feedback that this deal is most welcomed in countries like UK, Australia, France, Brazil, where shipping can really stack up.



The weekend between Black Friday and Cyber Monday was also celebrated with a special free gift with purchases of $50 or more. Will there be such a free gift this year? There is some mysterious air around it, but stay updated by checking the Sigma coupon page.

As for Cyber Monday 2017, are you looking to save 20% off your sigma order? That's the sale we've all been hoping for, but we can't be really sure this year. The last time there was a 20% off sale, I stocked up for all of my friends. $300 worth of brushes are worth waiting for... right? Check out the rest of the Sigma Beauty deals on our coupon page.

Disclaimer: Handmade Reviews is affiliated with Sigma. All opinions are the honest opinion of the author. Please read our policies for more information.

Sigma 3DHD Max Kabuki Brush Review

The Sigma 3DHD Max Kabuki is a kabuki brush that provides a precise foundation application. It is the larger and fuller version of Sigma Beauty's 3DHD Kabuki brush. This dimensional foundation brush offers the same precision of the original, with edges that fit into every curve, crease and angle of the face. In this maximized version, you’ll get a more sheer foundation finish – buildable to your desired coverage.

Use this cruelty free brush to apply liquid, cream, or powder products to your face.



For more information on Sigma products, see our Sigma posts and reviews. Sigma coupon codes can be found on our Sigma coupon page.

Sigma Beauty Wildflower Eye & Cheek Palette

The Sigma Wildflower Eye & Cheek Palette contains 4 easy-to-wear eye shadow shades with a deep blush and sheer highlight that can be layered and mixed to create ever-changing effects – from natural to moody and dramatic. Buildable, velvety texture in mattes and shimmers give seemingly-simple shades complexity.

Eye Shades (.12oz/3.5g):

1. 10: Cool, taupe shimmer


2. Austere: Opaque, milky matte peach


3. Apricot Flower: Pastel, matte tangerine


4. Elderberry: Deep, smokey matte purple

Cheek Shades (.28oz/8g):

1. Peony: Deep, matte rose


2. Peaceful: Sheer, pearl-pink highlight


3. Formulated without: Parabens, Sulfate, and Phtalates

For more information on Sigma products, see our Sigma posts and reviews. Sigma coupon codes can be found on our Sigma coupon page.

Linen Tales washed linen tablecloth

Linen is a bast fiber made from the flax plant. Crisper than cotton, linen is silky with high luster and becomes supple through handling. Quality linen can be passed on for generations... or so legend goes.

I've introduced more linen to my home since moving to my new apartment. From West Elm linen bedsheets (more on that later) to Pottery Barn linen shower curtains and hand towels, I slowly became more obsessed with linen. Most recently, I ordered a natural summer flowers washed linen tablecloth from Linen Tales, a Lithuanian linen shop. The superior softness and quality of the fabric is instantly obvious. I'm determined never to go back to West Elm and Pottery Barn for linen.



I originally only wanted to test Linen Tales  to gauge the quality of their craftsmanship. As the linen is handmade from Lithuania, I was not expecting it for weeks. I was surprised that in less than a week from the day I ordered it (about 5-6 days), the tablecloth appeared on my front door. It was soft, supple, beautiful, and nothing less of perfect.

I have nothing but good things to says about Linen Tales. My only regret was ordering only a tablecloth and not matching towels. Quality linen is pricey, but their prices are competitive and the quality is superb. Linen Tales has my full recommendation.

P.S. I will update with reviews on linen products from West Elm and Pottery Barn. The review won't be as glowing, but they're decent.

Benefits of brushing with boxwood: Chidoriya Tsuge Brush

Tsuge, a boxwood tree native to the Ibusuki area of Japan, is traditionally used to craft imperial seals, musical instruments, and combs. The wood is naturally dried for more than 3 years and then hand-carved individually to craft a single comb. Boxwood is naturally oily, so combs made from it are resistant to splitting and create almost no static against hair.

Unlike plastic and metal, boxwood comb brushes and combs won’t produce static or break your hair, and its bristles are treated with strengthening camellia oil to leave your hair nourished and shiny. Brushing with the Tsuge Brush stimulates the scalp and distributes your hair’s natural oils evenly throughout the strands, making a true difference in women with dry or unhealthy hair.





Boxwood also has precious cultural significance. In the Ibusuki region, when a girl was born, her relatives planted a boxwood tree to grow alongside her. When the girl got married, combs and furniture for her new household were made from the same tree. Every twenty years boxwood combs are sent to the Ise Shrine in Japan, where they are ritually burned in sacrifice to the sun goddess Amaterasu.

Three minimalist jewelry for professionals

Minimalistic jewelry is key when it comes to accessorizing for work. Simple and timeless jewelry can be worn to the office, for a night out, or even to a wedding.

We've been obsessed with this Raw Rose Quartz Gold Dipped Mermaid Studs by Borcik.
.


Add a bit of customization with this Dainty Personalized Wrap Ring by LayeredAndLong.



There are endless possibilities to layer your necklaces when you pair them with a delicate piece like this Gemstone Bar Necklace by Urban Carats Jewelry.



What are some of your basic or versatile accessory pieces?

Alternatives to Preservatives in Cosmetics

Preservatives in cosmetics are often feared or criticized, but preservatives help cosmetics stay safe and extend their shelf lives. Even though they are safe and legally used, preservatives are often targeted because sensitive skin can be more reactive to them. The cosmetic industry is constantly trying to innovate by developing new products without preservatives. There are some alternative routes:

Limit the development of microorganisms

Choosing airless packaging or tube instead of a jar may help to reduce the risk of microorganism development. The contamination of the product is higher when the consumer can touch the formula directly. If you want to avoid water in your cosmetic product, you can always formulate waterless products as powders or lipsticks.

Innovative product

The microbial contamination of the cosmetic product is mainly due to the presence of water in the formula. A French brand has innovated by using ‘gelled’ water in the formula. The product is developed in a sterile environment, which ensures zero germs in the formula or packaging. This alternative technique to the use of preservatives in cosmetics is highly innovative, and ensures a clean formula for the consumer even without the use of preservatives.

Sterile cosmetics

1. Two types of sterilizations are used to avoid the use of preservatives in the formula:
   Ultra-High-Temperature process (UHT) consists of heating the formula up to 155°C to sterilize it and then quickly cooling it down. Sterilizing the packaging and anti-microbiological cap as well as a suitable packaging (tube, airless pump) will contribute to maintaining a clean formula.


2. A unique patented packaging and formula coming from France has allowed the first sterile cream in a large format (reusable). The airless and sterile packaging is made to avoid any exterior contamination. The formula remains sterile during the use of the product. The entire process is done in a sterile environment with strict norms to avoid germs and contamination.

Sigma Beauty 3DHD Blender Review

Sigma's latest 3DHD™ Blender has been constantly sold out in stores and on sigmabeauty.com - and for good reasons. The 3DHD™ Blender, patent pending and inspired by Sigma's 3DHD® brushes, features uniquely angled edges that reach every contour of the face with ease. This blending sponge can be used to prime, conceal, sculpt and highlight liquids, creams and powders for high-definition skin.



I remember the day when the Beauty Blender seemed like such an innovative and unique tool. Then came all the different shapes from different brands. Now, we have the Sigma 3DHD Blender, which has all the edges worked out. I can't believe this was not discovered sooner. You can really get into all the grooves and angles of the face. I really enjoy working with the 3DHD Blender and can see it being especially useful to work on clients or those with angled faces or sharp features.

Brands of circle lenses & and the best ones for you

The popularity of circle lenses has not diminished since we published the guide on how to buy and wear circle lenses a few years back. We still get a lot of emails from readers asking for the best brands and recommendations. Though a comprehensive guide to circle lenses will likely be on the way soon, this post will give a quick summary of some of the most popular brands on the market. The brand that is best for you will depend on your preferences.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="580"] Vassen Rainbow Eyes Brownish Hazel Circle Lens[/caption]

ColourVue

Most likely a play on the household contact brand Acuvue, ColourVue circle lenses are made from hydrogel material which prevents damage to cornea. The color contact lenses are manufactured using Lathe Cut and 3 layer color sandwiching method.

EOS

EOS boasts that it utilizes a new dyeing method and sandwich pigment-printed lens that makes it cutting edge. From what we know of it, EOS lenses are largely popular and deemed comfortable by many users.

Geo Medical

One of the most well-known brand worldwide, Geo Medical is known for its endorsement by the Japanese model, Tsubasa Masuwaka. The lenses range from multi colored hurricane effect lenses to futuristic Animation styles.

Vassen

Vassen circle lenses specializes in fantasy, glitter, crystal pastel colors, wave design of the Hanabi style, and super unique lacy patterned lenses. Vassen lenses are rated as some of the most comfortable circle lenses by circle lens wearers.


Note: The use of contact lenses, circle lenses included, requires responsible use by the wearer. It is recommended that wearers obtain the approval and instructions of an optometrist. In the United States, a valid prescription is required for purchase, as contact lenses of any sort are considered medical devices.

Instagram to follow: hellomeetphilly

Major cities are the destination point of his years travelers. Last year, Philadelphia, the country’s first and only World Heritage City, ranked number one on Lonely Planet’s list of 10 best places to visit in the United States. Previously, the New York Times ranked Philadelphia number 3 on its list of best places to visit in the world. Philadelphia is a city with history, culture, new developments and find dining. Follow @hellomeetphilly on Instagram to get a details for the best spots and eats from a Philadelphia native.

[caption id="attachment_3949" align="aligncenter" width="680"] Follow @hellomeetphilly on Instagram to get in touched with the city life[/caption]

Looking for inspirational Instagram publishers to follow? Keep checking up our "Instagram to follow" series for recommendations.

Epsom salt bath and DIY epsom salt therapy

Did you know that adding Epsom Salt to your bath can help you retain moisture, eliminate toxins, and relieve stress?

Epsom salt is often praised for its stress-relieving and healing properties. Cosmetologist Linda Ashbrook recommends soaking in Epsom salt for 20 minutes to relax tired muscles and soften dry skin after a stressful day in the sun. You can add drops of aromatherapy oil, such as lavender, to make the bath more relaxing. Personally, we like to add a Lush bath bomb and aromatherapy candles.

[gallery link="none" columns="2" size="large" ids="3923,3922"]

Outside of taking an Epsom salt bath, there are other do-it-yourself recipes to utilize the healing properties of Epsom salt. Doctors say there are two ways to use Epsom salt to reduce itching and dryness caused by mild sunburn. This can be especially helpful for hard-to-reach places or spots you accidentally skipped over when applying sunscreen.

Relief from Mild Sunburn

1. Make a compress by soaking a cotton washcloth in cold water mixed with two tablespoons of Epsom salt per cup; then press to affected area.


2. Create a paste by mixing one teaspoon of Epsom salt into one cup of hot water and then chilling the solution in the fridge for 20 minutes.


3. Clean and pat dry the affected area, and then apply the paste.

Epsom Salt Shower Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 4 ounce Epsom Salt


• 4 ounce Coffee grounds


• 1 teaspoon Eucalyptus oil


• Sesame oil (enough to form smooth paste)

Instructions:

1. Mix Epsom Salt and coffee grounds in a medium-sized bowl, then add the oils and stir thoroughly until you have a smooth, not runny, paste.


2. Get in the shower, wet your skin and turn off the water. Use the palm of each hand to vigorously scrub your body, from neck to feet, for several minutes.


3. Rinse your body and enjoy your glow. Your skin should feel smooth and lifted.

Epsom Salt Soothing Facial Mask

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon Epsom Salt


• 1 tablespoon honey


• 1 tablespoon olive oil


• 3 drops lemon juice (if oily skin)

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients and apply to face.


2. Leave on for 5-10 minutes.


3. Rinse in a warm shower to wash away any impurities that have been drawn out from the Epsom salt.


4. Moisturize with lotion and enjoy soothed, smooth skin.

 

Here's our bath bomb playing clip:

Preview: Bath bomb and bath treatment blog post #lushcosmetics #epsom pic.twitter.com/BGswB4leLr

— Handmade Reviews (@handmadereviews) January 25, 2017

 

Madewell: personal and casual fashion

It still surprises me when I tell people about Madewell, my favorite brand, and am met with blank stares. Better known as JCrew's sister store, Madewell is less known, but in my opinion, far superior in style.

Less polished... more personal

What makes Madewell so special? “Even though it’s a mass brand, the pieces feel unique,” said Jodi Sweetbaum, president and managing director of the agency Lloyd & Co. “While less polished and finished [than it's J.Crew sister], it’s more personal. And in a time when off-duty [style] is a bit more universal than it’s ever been, this works well.”



The denim is casual, but literally made well. “It’s really important for us — not only with the product, but the way our stores look, the way our Instagram looks — just to keep a common thread of this lifestyle image that I have in my head, and that I think is in our team’s head,” said Somsack Sikhounmuong, Madewell's creative director of nearly two years. “The pieces themselves are not overly designed. It’s about finding that little bit of fashion so that it doesn’t run too basic.”

Madewell is personal and casual fashion without ever being just basic. If you haven't checked out their stuff, consider this a public service announcement. Check out Madewell, look into their  promotions, and remember that students and teachers always get 15% off in store.

Trending oversized cardigans and 2017 New Years Giveaway

Soft, oversized cardigans make for an easy, relaxed fit for both the home and office. Cozy and surprisingly feminine, oversized sweaters are a popular for casual wear fans. Oversized cardigans are perfect for draping over outfits on rainy days, cozy weekdays and lazy weekends.

An undying trend, street style has always favored loose cuts, boyfriend knits, and loose sweaters. Oversized can look sloppy, so it is important to find the correct type of oversized clothing to look well put-together. It's not as simple as borrowing your grandpa's sweater.

Below are some of our favorite oversize cardigans from this season. Interested? Keep reading to learn how you can win a $50 Uniqlo gift card to buy your own oversized cardigan!

[caption id="attachment_3880" align="aligncenter" width="680"] This oversized MOHAIR BLEND LONG CARDIGAN (retails $39.90) from Uniqlo is a super-seasonal long cardigan made from soft mohair. The soft mohair material features long naps for a cute style. A long design lets you create stylish looks by simply slipping it on. The loose cut matches the laid-back feel of the material. Ibbing on the cuffs and pockets adds a style accent.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_3881" align="aligncenter" width="680"] This oversized MOHAIR BLEND LONG CARDIGAN (retails $39.90) from Uniqlo also comes in beige.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_3882" align="aligncenter" width="680"] This Silence + Noise Kendall Maxi Sweater (retails $79) from Urban Outfitters is a super slouchy longline cardigan for throwing over everything + anything by modern staple label Silence + Noise. In a soft medium-weight knit with a rolled collar, open front and oversized fit, finished with pouch pockets and mini side slits.[/caption]

$50 Uniqlo Giveaway

One random US reader will win a $50 gift card to Uniqlo. Simply retweet this blog post, with hashtag #handmadereviews or @handmadereviews... This giveaway ends 1/31/17 and the winner will be contacted via twitter shortly thereafter. Only one entry per person, per twitter account. No twitter? Reblog this post on your blog or instagram instead and leave a comment below with the link.

Trending oversized cardigans and 2017 New Years Giveaway https://t.co/FBfFzOVoVl

— Katherine (@handmadereviews) December 27, 2016