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Beauty, Beauty Favourites, Beauty Products, Slider

My Favourite Soil Organics Baobab Bodycare Products

I am very particular about having the right ambience in my home. One of the ways of achieving this is through scent. Scented candles are a must and I always ensure that I am never without, beautiful smelling handwash and hand lotion. I have my favourites products, which I repurchase all the time but I also love trying something new. Enter the Soil Organics Baobab Bodycare Products, which I recently ordered from the Soil Organics Website.

Soil Organics Baobab Bodycare Products

I ordered the Balancing Baobab Organic Handwash, Hand Lotion, as well as the Soy Wax Candle. It is always a bit risky ordering products, which you have not tried before but the Baobab products did not disappointed!

I decided to put the products in our downstairs guest bathroom, so that everyone could enjoy them. Before a recent dinner party I lit the candle and to my surprise my hubby commented on the scent. He said that it smelt exaclty like a spa – a real win in my books! Who doesn’t love the tranquil scent of a spa???

Soil Organics

Soil Organics is a South African based company, producing certified organic products locally. They created SA’s first range of certified organic aromatherapy products. What makes them unique, is that they farm, process and market their own products.

Read on to find out how you can treat yourself to a few of these amazing Soil Organics Products.

Balancing Baobab Organic Handwash (300ml)

I am vaguely obsessed about hand-washing! You will find handwash strategically placed all over our home{near a tap naturally!}. The only problem is washing your hands often, can be very drying for your skin. With this in mind I always try and buy a handwash which is also moistursing.

The luxurious Balancing Baobab Organic Handwash is cleansing, as well as nourishing. It contains Baobab oil to help improve skin’s elasticity and radiance. As well as Baobab, it also contains essential oils of Rose Geranium and Sandalwood. These oils help balance and restore the senses, and add a delicate scent. RRP R130.00

Balancing Baobab Organic Hand Lotion (300ml)

If I buy a hand wash and there is a matching hand lotion, I naturally have to buy it! The luxurious Balancing Baobab Organic Hand Lotion, is rich in antioxidants. It contains Baobab oil and Shea Butter to nourish and protect the skin. Leaving it wonderfully soft. As with the handwash the essential oils of Rose Geranium and Sandalwood are added, to help balance and restore the senses, as well as adding the delicate scent. RRP R150.00

Balancing Baobab Organic Soy Wax Candle (200g)

Last but not least I decided to treat myself to the Balancing Baobab Organic Soy Wax Candle. My home is never without scented candles – one aspect of load shedding I don’t mind! This purchase was definitely an added treat just for me and I am so glad I bought. As I mentioned before, the heavenly fragrance transports you to a tranquil spa, which definitely where I would love to be. This luxurious candle with its exquisite earthy floral scents of Rose Geranium and Sandalwood, create the perfect environment to balance and restore the senses. The candle has a lead free wick and is long and clean burning. This makes it a better alternative for both you and the environment. Soy wax is also a renewable resource and is biodegradable. RRP R250.00

To win a R300 Soil Organics Voucher {which is valid until 30th September 2015} please follow the simple steps below to complete your entry:

Answer this question in the comment section below: Which Soil Organics Products would you purchase with your voucher? {Hint: click on the link above to take you to the website} This step is mandatory – please choose 1 of the other steps below to complete your entry.
Visit: Soil Organics and/or Inspired Living on Facebook and let us know you have entered. Remember to tag us! or
Tweet: “Win a R300 @Soil_Organics Voucher from @inspired_lifeSA
Please be aware the voucher must be redeemed on the Soil Online Store by the 30th September 2015, otherwise the prize will be forfeited.
Ensure you read the *Terms & Conditions below carefully, to ensure you comply with all the entry criteria.

*Terms & Conditions: By entering this competition you automatically accept all the Terms and Conditions laid out below.

Entries are open from 9th September 2015 until the 16th September 2015.
You must complete all the steps as stipulated above on the Rafflecopter Form: Leave a Comment, Like and/or Share on Facebook or Instagram and/0r Tweet about the competition.
To ensure that your entry is processed correctly (please use a valid email address). Your details will only be used to validate your entry and inform you, if you are selected as a winner.
This competition is only open to South African residents and to readers who have not won a competition on Inspired Living SA in the past 6 months.
Entries will be considered incomplete and thus disqualified if the entrant does not provide all requested information. Entry information will not be shared with any third party without the entrant’s prior knowledge and consent.
The prize will go to the first name selected at random after the closing date. Please be aware the voucher must be redeemed on the Soil Online Store by the 30th September 2015, otherwise the prize will be forfeited.
The prize is not transferable and may not be exchanged for cash.
By “Liking” you enter and agree that this promotion is in no way associated with, administered by, or endorsed by Facebook; and acknowledge a complete release of Facebook by your participation.

Beauty, Beauty Products

Announcing The Amazing Kiehl’s BB Cream

BB Cream has always been a struggle for me, particularly finding the right one. Most of them do not provide enough coverage or they make me breakout! Needless to say, I was very excited when the Amazing new Kiehls BB Cream arrived for me to review.

The Amazing Kiehl’s BB Cream

The Kiehl’s Actively Correcting & Beautifying BB Cream, was under development for two years. This included numerous formula revisions and more than 4,000 applications of the product.This remains true to Kiehl’s philosophy – to take the time to develop the right formula, with skincare in mind above all else.

Kiehl’s Actively Correcting & Beautifying BB Cream is a beauty industry advancement. At Kiehl’s, being first in a category is not our focus. We choose to deliver real benefits in formulas that take innovation to the next level. Our customers appreciate that we don’t launch and discontinue products as trends change. This BB is proof of our continued commitment to high formulation, safety and performance standards. We take the time and make the right product for our customers. ~ Cammie Cannella, Vice President of Global Education.

The Product

The first BB (the abbreviation for “blemish balm”) was developed by renowned German dermatologist Christine Schrammek in the 1950s. It was prescribed to patients to help conceal post-surgery imperfections, while nurturing and healing the skin. With today’s advanced skincare science, Kiehl’s chemists focused on this same essential functionality, concealing imperfections but not only for instant coverage but also long-term correction.

With 71% of customers expressing concern with uneven skin tone and lack of clarity, as well as nearly 29% citing dark spots as a concern, Kiehl’s chemists saw this as an opportunity. They have created a product, which effectively treats the skin, by offering skin tone correction using high potency Vitamin C.

The Kiehl’s BB Cream, has been developed with amino acid-coated natural mineral pigments, which conceals imperfections, while working to correct skin discolorations. Additional benefits include reducing the appearance of pores and fine lines, while providing all-day hydration and broad-spectrum SPF 50/ PA+++ protection.

The product is available in 5 shades – light, natural, medium, medium/deep and deep.

The Application

The formula is lightweight, yet still moisturising and gives you build-able coverage. I usually apply my serum first, one which I have been enjoying is the Kiehl’s Hydro Plumping Re-Texturizing Serum Concentrate and then my Kiehl’s BB Cream. I find a little product goes a long way, so use it sparingly. Unless I am off to an event or meeting this will be enough of a base before I apply my makeup. If I am going out I will apply a bit of foundation or concealer to cover my pigmentation or any blemishes.

The Verdict

I think if it were a perfect world and I was still in my twenties, I would only wear a BB cream but there are definitely those days, when my skin needs a bit more coverage! That said I do really love the silky smooth application, as well as the fact that it has a SPF factor 50+++! So if it is BB Cream I am wearing, it will definitely be the Kiehl’s BB Cream.

I have tried two of the five shades, being Natural and Medium. I think Natural is more suited to my skin for winter but I think Medium will be better for the summer months.

This is definitely not a drugstore product in terms of price – at R525 it is certainly not cheap but spending a bit of money on good skincare is worth it!

Kiehl’s products are available from Edgars stores, as well as the standalone Kiehl’s stores.

Disclosure Ranking:2

Fashion, Interviews, Style Inspiration

My Style Spotlight on Blogger Rayne Alexander

Hello all my fashion forward friends! We took a bit of a break from publishing our Style Spotlight but it is high time to get back into the swing of things. Today our Style Spotlight is on Blogger Rayne Alexander…

Hi there! My name is Rayne, I am 21 and I stay in Fish Hoek (Cape Town) right next to the beach. I still live at home with my dad, two crazy sisters and two insane dogs.

Style Spotlight

Please tell me a bit about yourself – what you do, where you are from & any interesting facts.

I currently work as the Beauty & Fashion and Event Liaison for the biggest Event and Nightlife blog in SA. I also au-pair part-time and I work on my blog ‘Make It Rayne’ constantly.

How important is Style & Looking Good, to you?

This question has my opinion jumping all over the place! Everyone is entitled to their own style, and who is to say which style “looks good”? I do feel it is important to look neat and presentable at all times but to try and stay true to your personality’s style. That being said, I myself tend to jump all over the place when it comes to style.

Please describe your own Personal Fashion Style?

I am definitely a style chameleon. I love to play with all sorts of styles when it comes to fashion and make-up. You would find me in ripped jeans, a grunge top and vampy make-up but then next day I could be wearing a lace dress with heels and a clutch handbag. I love to play but if I had to whittle my style down to a sentence it would be ‘classic but comfy’. Most days I work from home or with small children so you would generally find me in very comfy jeans or leggings and a sweater. But I LOVE getting dressed up.

Where do you draw your most of your Fashion & Style Inspiration from?

I definitely prefer to draw inspiration from overseas because most of our stores in SA are very behind in fashion trends. It can be very difficult to find those items which are in fashion though.

Who is your ultimate Fashion or Style Icon and why?

Audrey Hepburn personifies style. She was all class no matter what she wore.

Do you have a current Fashion or Style Crush and what do they have sets them apart from the rest?

I really admire Blake Lively. She is so classy and sophisticated yet she is still fun. She is one of those women who looks amazing on the red carpet, when she’s walking in the street and when she is nine months pregnant.

Where do you shop for most of your Fashion items and do you have a favourite local Fashion Brand or Designer?

I love shopping at Cotton On. They are all about affordability and comfort. When it comes to designers I would have to go for Amanda Laird Cherry. She is just so inventive! Every single piece is a work of art.

What do you consider to be the 5 Must Have Fashion Staples, all woman should have in their wardrobe?

Brown winter boots or booties
A classic winter coat to see you through the entire season (or two)
A LBD of course. But one that can be worked many different ways.
I may get slaughtered for saying this; but I have a weakness for some comfy leggings.
That perfect handbag which can go with any outfit.

If you could own an item or items from any Designer Fashion Label what would it be?An Hermes Birkin handbag. Handsdown.

What is the most expensive Fashion related purchase you have ever made?

I was gifted with a Gucci hand bag and a Gucci wallet for my 16^th birthday by family members but that cannot count, can it? I do not really go overboard as I try to find bargains wherever possible but I do have a fabulous Lou Harvey ostrich skin oversized handbag which cost R1800.

Do you have a Signature Fragrance you cannot live without?

Call me clichéd, but I love the original Donna Karan New York Be Delicous.

How important do you think Hair & Makeup is to your overall look?

I would rate them as highly as fashion. You could wear a paper bag but, if you look fabulous from the neck up, no one will ever know.

What is your most important, never leave home without it Makeup Item/s?

Concealer. Always. Thanks for the bags, Dad. And also mascara, lipbalm and highlighter.

Do you follow international Fashion Trends? What is your favourite trend this season?

Fashion wise I would say the longer length trenchcoat is seriously growing on me. Make-up wise I am really into natural looking skin but dark and vampy lips. And of course, strobing.

Thank you Rayne for being featured on Style Spotlight! If you would like to connect with Rayne you can find her here:

That concludes our Style Spotlight for the month! I hope you have enjoyed it! If you would like to be featured or have a fashion forward person in mind {male or female}, who you would like to see featured here, please leave a comment below or email Fiona.

Be Inspired, Charity, Lifestyle

MySchool Tutudesk Campaign – Swipe and Help Children in Need!

As someone who spends many hours behind a computer screen, writing and editing photographs, I understand and value the importance of a comfortable, functional work-space! In my opinion, one of the most fundamental aspects of a functional workspace is a desk! [Read more…]

Be Inspired, Blogging, Interviews

Hayleigh from Hayls World {Confessions of a Blogger}

~ Hayleigh from Hayls World ~

On today’s Confessions of a Blogger we meet the lovely Hayleigh from Hayls World. Let’s take a look inside Hayls World…

Hey guys my name is Hayleigh, but my nickname is Hayls. I live in sunny South Africa & I run my own business with my best friend. I love blogging about all sorts of wonderful things that happen around me and I absolutely love and enjoy topics like beauty, business and places or events. I’m a trained musician, like I actually have a certificate and all, but by trade I am a designer slash Jill of all trades!!

When did you start your journey as a blogger and why? It was at the beginning of last year (2014). I had gone into a checkers and was not very happy with the state and service of the store. By the time I had finished in the store I was fuming and was going to contact the head office. I arrived home, furiously punched out a letter of dissatisfaction and was ready to send! Then when I started reading through it I realized how unpleasant I sounded, how many mails they must get like this and how I was probably just having a really bad day and was taking it out on them. I deleted the whole thing, never sent it and decided instead to write a really awesome letter to a brand I love, and just leave the whole thing on a better note! A couple of days later the brand responded to my mail and in turn surprised me with a huge box of goodies. Once I got stuck in and started playing with my goodies, I just had to show people, I had to write about my fun and I guess the rest is history 🙂
Do you blog fulltime or do you have a regular 9-5 as well? Oh my goodness I wish I could blog full time hehe, but nope. I currently run a small Design & Marketing business with my best friend and business partner Mike. I must admit though, I am terribly lucky as a lot of my work is done on my PC and the Internet so I am constantly behind my Mac. This then gives me time to stay up to date socially and post very regularly.

Tell us a little about your space on the interweb and what you blog about? I am on all the main social networks you could say, and I have my blog. I was fortunate enough when deciding on my blog name, to find it was available on all those platforms so I am basically Hayls World everywhere. I originally started out by blogging about my nail art, but as I ventured deeper into the online world, I discovered so much more about the beauty community I had never expected and so from there I went onto makeup looks, product reviews and also YouTube videos. So I guess you could say my blog is about Beauty and some snippets of my life. I have also been on a “lifestyle change” if you will for the past two years and I plan on brining that into my blog once I’ve figured out how. I’ve also got a travel video planned for the near future.
Being a blogger is not always easy – what motivates you and keeps you going? I think my passion. I have always been quite self-conscious about my looks and body, but since changing my lifestyle habits and venturing into the beauty world I’ve discovered a whole new part of me that is far more confident. Every time I do a nail art design now or new makeup look, the responses I get and communication from other bloggers is so inspiring and uplifting it makes me want to keep going and do more! I truly enjoy it and naturally want to be blogging all day.
How important do you think it is to have a niche blog and would you consider your blog to be a niche blog? That is a great questions and I think its super important to have a niche blog! With so many bloggers and people in the world now days, you have got to stand out! I would not say my blog is a niche blog at the moment, but oddly enough it’s something I’ve been working on. I’ve had some amazing advice from an incredible man in the beauty industry on how to stand out and hopefully with time and practice I develop and create my own Niche.

What have your biggest blogging challenges been? Another great question and I’d have to say its been about my space and lighting.Trying to find the space to take pictures, arrange my background for video’s and product shots have really been a challenge! All my shots have to be coordinated around the sun. I often have the most time to do blogging and pictures in the evening, but the sun is obviously nowhere to be seen, so it leaves me frustrated because I either have to scramble in the morning when its full-on sun rays coming through my window or over the weekend when I’m just keen to chill out or visit with friends and family hehe. But all in all it’s not that bad and I have found a routine. As soon as I’ve saved up for proper lights I will feel a huge stress fall away!
What do you love most about being a blogger? I love the outlet of creativity I get to experience. I have never been a numbers, “desk full of papers” kind of person. I am “artsy fartsy” to the max, so being able to blog, create nail art and experiment with makeup allows me the release my personality naturally craves. It takes my mind of the important matters haha, and allows me to de-stress, calm down and get back to balance. I also love how many friends I’ve made, the different people and brands I’ve connected with and how accepting everyone is in the community I find myself.
If you had to choose a favorite social media platform, what would it be and why?This is a hard one J but I think it would have to be Instagram. I love how instant it is to post and interact with people, its also far less cluttered compared to other social platforms like twitter and Facebook with adds everywhere. My close second would have to be YouTube though as I love to see what other videos people come up with, their creative genius and ideas. Also posting my own videos is always thrilling for me.
What has your journey as a blogger taught you {about yourself or in general}? Has it changed your life in any way? I have learnt many things, but mainly that I am capable of achieving my blog goals if I set my mind to them and focus. It is my hobby at the moment, but also my passion and would one day love to blog full time! I’ve also learnt people are so much more open to your content, you make real friends online and its not all bullying or hate out there. In fact there is a lot of positive people out there engaging with you, sharing your content and just being very supportive, so I’ve learnt its not as scary as some make it seem or as you build it up to be in your mind.
If you could give someone wanting to start a blog any advice, what words of wisdom would you impart? Hmmm what would my advice be… 🙂 I think to make your blog name simple, memorable and relative to what you’re going to blog about. Sometimes I’ve seen a person I like on Instagram and want to connect to their Facebook page, but forget their blog name, or the spelling is a play on words I cant remember, or it is so long I forget the other half of their blog name. It sounds very critical or I have a head like a sieve, but its just one thing I would recommend. The rest will follow over time, you’ll amend your blog look, your theme, content etc, you’ll discover all of that as you go, but your “brand name” if you will, will stay the same for as long as you blog, so you want it to be positive from the get go.

Thanks to Hayleigh from Hayls World, for sharing a bit more about her life and blogging journey with us!

If you would like to find out more about Hayleigh and connect with her – pop over here:

Blog link: www.haylsworld.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/haylsblog

Twitter: @HaylsWorld

Instagram: HaylsWorld

If you would like to be featured on Confessions of a Blogger or would like to see a blogger featured here, then please email Fiona or leave a comment below.