I have used organic face creams and cleansers on principle ever since I worked at a pioneering Wholefood shop and health clinic, The Haelan Centre in Crouch End, London, in the 90's. Mineral oils such as Johnson's baby oil, I learned in my massage training, are pore clogging by-products of the petro-chemical industry and not good for anyone's skin let alone babies!
I am not a fashion follower or a beauty therapist. I could care less about which face creams the latest film star advertises or on spending £60 on a wrinkle cream. What's important to me are simple, pure and affordable products which use essential oils, no petrochemicals, not animal tested, and where I can understand the names of the half a dozen or less ingredients listed.
My personal favourite is Amphora Aromatics. UK produced in Bristol. For my skin type I prefer their Frankincense and Rose face cream. This is also the variety of Shea Butter I use in clinic for massage, in addition to the Lemon and Lavender oils I add to the Grapeseed oil. I've been in their shop off Cotham Hill, and know that when I'm ordering online that the products are travelling just a few miles.
I use their candles as well as their oils as they are soy based, so no petrochemicals or fake scents there either. My favourite in clinic is Juniper and Pine, and I use Rosemary and Thyme in the kitchen at home. Did you know that artificial scents, such as those used in candles and air fresheners have been linked to increased asthma and depression?
If you want quality, inexpensive and unharmful candles, face creams, candles or even bath oils take a look at Amphora's website here.
