It has been such a long time since I wrote my last blog post. I’m back with an edit of my favourite skincare and wellness products that I’ve been using and loving over the past few months. With spending more time at home than ever recently I’ve really appreciated using effective and natural products.
TANAKA
TANAKA handmade soap was founded in 2019 by Leonara Manyangadze. The word Tanaka translated from Zimbabwean to English means 'we are good'. This is the premise of the soaps; they are packed full of ingredients that benefit the skin, boost wellbeing and reduce plastic waste. I bought my first TANAKA soap in September last year. There are eight soaps in the range that cater to all skin types. The soaps are gentle enough to use on your face and don’t leave it feeling stripped and tight like some traditional soaps. I’m currently using the breakfast bar soap to cleanse my face in the evening and I love it. It’s creamy and moisturising. The soaps are free from nasties like parabens, synthetics and SLS. They are handmade in London in small batches so can sell out pretty quickly. They sell for £10.50. If you’re looking for effective, long-lasting soap then definitely check out TANAKA.
LEGRA
LEGRA is a family-run business based in Leigh on Sea. LEGRA make natural soaps and deodrants. I’ve been using the deodorant since last month. I love the simple packaging of their products and the beautiful aesthetic of the website. I bought two of their deodorants. They're free from aluminium, parabens and synthetic colours. All the packaging is plastic free. The product itself is creamy and feels super moisturising. The lavender geranium smells incredible and I can smell it throughout the day. Upon application it does leave colour under your arms, the one I have is white so it applies as white. The colour disappears shortly after but just something to be aware of is you wear sleeveless tops and are conscious of that sort of thing. The LEGRA deodorant costs £11 and is well worth the money.
SUZANNA K
I’m a sucker for good candles. Burning a good scented candle helps create a calming environment which helps me relax. I read that studies have shown that scented candles can improve psychological wellbeing. Citrus scents can boost your mood and lavender scents can help you sleep better. In January I was kindly gifted a candle by SUZANNA K. SUZANNA K is a luxury candle brand launched in October 2020. The brand was created from a need to cultivate self-care, wellbeing and calm at a time of personal hardships. I was gifted the Island candle. It is made from natural coconut soy wax and is a mix of citrus and floral scents. I’ve tried a lot more expensive candles before like Diptyque and Jo Malone. If fact, I have a huge collection of the empty jars that I still haven’t figured out what to do with! The SUZANNA K candle is far better than the more expensive candles I’ve bought. It burns evenly (a bugbear of mine is a wonky burning candle) and the scent is incredible. It smells concentrated and natural at the same time. It’s pretty hard to describe but trust me when I say it’s amazing. The candles have a natural wooden wick, are non-toxic, cruelty-free and hand-poured in small batches in Bristol. The candles cost £22. I'll be buying some of these candles soon. SUZANNA K candles would also make an amazing gift.
All three of these brands make incredible products and are some great small, Black-owned businesses to support.