kelley farlow

Bonjour mes amours!

For every one who has been following my blog and hair/makeup/photography work, I just wanted to first of all, say thank you for all your continued support!  I have been working hard since the end of the summer on redesigning and rebuilding a new website for kelleyfarlow.com!  I'm happy to finally announce that it's almost finished, and I'm anticipating on launching it next week!  I have DOZENS of new posts including, new product reviews, interview features, and DIY recipes that I've held off on posting since the transition to my new site is so soon.  Thank you again for everything, and be sure to check out my new site when it's live! xxo.

merci beaucoup,

{ Product Review }  True Nature Botanicals Solid Perfume in Scent Noble Citrus

True Nature Botanicals recently launched an incredible line of natural solid perfumes.  These scents were created by some of the most respected and experienced perfumers (yes, that’s totally a thing!), who work in one of the oldest and most prestigious fragrance houses in France.  Only 100% natural “noble materials” are used to craft these luxurious solid perfumes.  Noble materials are considered to be the purest and most concentrated forms of precious sources such as orris, tuberose, and liquid amber.  Since no two roses smell the same, no two solid perfumes will smell identically… creating a truly unique, complex and authentic scent.

Currently, the line features three different scents: Noble Citrus, Noble Floral, and Noble Woods.  When you mix California innovation, with the art and tradition of French perfumery, you get a must-have beauty product that captures the true scents as they exist in nature, without any synthetics or toxins.

You can even sample all three before purchasing one, by requesting sample scents via their website.  After I received the hand-dipped, scented sample strips, I had a hard time deciding between the three since they all smell amazing.  They all had their own unique, subtle, yet complex characteristics.  I ended up choosing the Noble Citrus, because I tend to lean more towards fresh and bright scents that have a sweet yet earthy balance.

The Noble Citrus solid perfume features primary notes of Bergamot, Orris, and Cypress.  The scent’s description on the website is refreshingly accurate… "stroll through a perfect Pacific orange grove surrounded by fragrant cypress trees, twisted and tangled by the cool western winds.” 

So what are the benefits to solids versus sprays or liquids?

Longer lasting – solid perfumes are known to hold their natural scents far longer than spray perfumes.  When the solid perfumes come in contact with the warmth of your skin, the perfume’s complexity is and authentic notes are revealed. 

Easy & Convenient Application – one of my absolute favorite features of solid perfumes versus liquids, is the ability to carry them with you for quick and easy on-the-go application. The adorable reusable compact is small enough to fit almost anywhere...  and even though the compact appears teeny-tiny, a small amount of product goes a long way.  When you are ready for more though, True Nature Botanicals makes it easy to refill your compact.  Simply replace the empty tin with one of the refills available on their website.  Each refill tin comes with a wand, for easy removal of the used tin.  I love being able to subtly refresh or intensify my perfume in the matter of seconds.

Customizable Intensity – another great thing about these solid perfumes is their versatility and buildable intensity.  Liquid and spray perfumes are often difficult to control the intensity of their scent, whereas solid perfumes allow you to create any level of intensity to fit your preference or mood, by simply applying more or less.  My favorite application spots are on my neck, right below/behind my ears and on the nape.

I definitely would recommend this to any of my clients.  The high quality ingredients, easy application and overall chicness have made it one of my favorite, must-carry beauty products!  You can purchase the True Nature Botanicals Solid Perfume compact and any refill tins directly from their website.  And like I mentioned earlier, you can request a free scent sampler if you want to smell them all before deciding on one.  Be sure to also check them out on Facebook and Twitter! 

merci beaucoup,

{ Product Review }  True Nature Botanicals Pacific Everyday Sheer Coverage, SPF 20

If you couldn't tell by my last few posts, I've been on a True Nature Botanicals product binge!  As a professional makeup artist and natural skincare blogger, the most common question I get from clients is how they can achieve a more flawless complexion.  Whether they're inquiring about product recommendations, or makeup application, I always start by telling them my number one rule first... insert drum roll... take care of your body from the inside and out.  That may seem intuitive, but there are a lot of factors that go into creating a healthy, beautiful complexion, sans makeup.  The top ones on my list are (1) clean eating, (2) exercising, (3) staying hydrated, (4) daily cleansing and moisturizing, and (5) using gentle, nontoxic products that also nourish and protect. 

Why I love this product...

TNB's Everyday Sheer Coverage, SPF 20 is the perfect example of tip number 5.  This creamy textured product is easy to apply and feels weightless on your skin.  With its broad-spectrum UV protection, powerful antioxidants and non-nano zinc oxide, your complexion is left with a natural looking, sheer finish, while also getting protection and TLC!  I love this because it is perfect for a vast range of complexion types.  Whether you have sensitive or dry skin like I do, or a complexion that is prone to rosacea or blemishes, this is an incredibly effective yet mild product, gentle enough for every day wear.  Not only does it protect and nourish your skin, but it creates a smooth, sheer matte finish that looks radiant and fresh. 

Non-Nano Zinc Oxide — protects against the full UV spectrum (UVA + UVB), by reflecting UV rays rather than absorbing them. 

Pearl Powder — a combination of calcium carbonate and conchiolin, which are the alternating layers behind a pearl’s luster.  When used in cosmetics and foundations, it creates a lustrous finish that brightens skin, while softening the appearance of dark circles and wrinkles.

Oat Beta Glucans — a polysaccaride well known for its anti-aging benefits.  Its molecular structure enables it to penetrate deeply, in order to moisturize more layers of skin. 

You can purchase the Pacific Everyday Sheer Coverage, SPF 20 directly from their website.  A 2oz. bottle goes for $58.00, and will last you months.  You only need a pump or two for your entire face and/or neck area. 

You can also purchase the Pacific Everyday Sheer Coverage, SPF 20, (available in tint shades, Light and Medium) in TNB’s Pacific Desert Island Duet, which includes a 1oz. bottle of the Pacific Face Oil, along with a 2oz. bottle of the Pacific Everyday Sheer Coverage, SPF 20.  

To learn more about True Nature Botanicals and browse their incredible line of Pacific Skincare products, visit their website.  You can also find them on Facebook and Twitter! 

merci beaucoup,

{ Product Review }  True Nature Botanicals Pacific Face Oil

I began incorporating several products from TNB's Pacific Skincare line into my morning and evening routines a few weeks ago, and it's been a great reminded of just how important the quality and purity of a product’s ingredients are.  Yes, using products with all natural and non-toxic ingredients is a good baseline for your skincare standards; however, the quality and potency of those ingredients are equally important.  Why?  Because those factors are what truly deliver incredible results.  As I mentioned in my Pacific Lip Treatment Product Review, TNB spends at least 5 times more on their ingredients than the leading luxury skincare brands...  

In a recent Independent Scientific Clinical Study (a randomized, comparative, double blind trial), TNB’s Pacific Face Oil out performed the iconic Crème de La Mer across the board on every test measurement — from wrinkle reduction to increased hydration.  Check out the summary of the results after 45 days of consistently using the Pacific Face Oil…

(1)  Reduces fine lines and wrinkles by:  22.6% (compared to 17.6% with La Mer)

(2)  Reduces facial pore size by:  10.1% (compared to 6.2% with La Mer)

(3)  Increases facial hydration by:  40.6% (compared to 36.4% with La Mer)

(4)  Increases facial smoothness by:  20.5% (compared to 18.0% with La Mer)

(5)  Increases facial elasticity by:  12.8%  (compared to 12.6% with La Mer)

"When measuring reduction of congestion and redness, La Mer participants showed a 5.8% increase in Erythema (facial inflammation & redness) vs. a decrease of .9% using Pacific Face Oil.  La Mer participants also showed a 29% increase in pore congestion whereas the Pacific Face Oil showed no statistically significant increase in congestion."

Why I love this product...

After several weeks of using the Pacific Face Oil, I can absolutely agree that it delivers an array of noticeable complexion improvements.  As someone with sensitive and seasonally dry skin, I'm very particular about what products I put on my face; especially on a daily basis.  From cleansing, to toning, to moisturizing, to makeup — I refuse to compromise when it comes to the effectiveness and safety of a skincare product.  

Even after the first few days of using TNB's Pacific Face Oil, I noticed an immediate glow in my complexion.  It keeps my skin feeling hydrated, nourished and balanced all day.  It also makes a fantastic base for flawless makeup application.  Whether you prefer liquid, creme or powder foundations and concealers, the Pacific Face Oil gives your skin a fresh, dewy, bright appearance.  

What makes it different from other oils... 

The Pacific Face Oil combines therapeutic seed oils with marine antioxidants to bring hydration, balance and protection to the skin's top layers.  This powerhouse product softens dry skin, restores balance in oily skin, calms and repairs blemish or acne prone skin, and even minimized pore size.  It's truly a multi-tasking product that a variety of complexion types can use and achieve amazing results. 

Key ingredients...

Chia Seed Oil + Kiwi Seed Oil — Both rich sources of Omega-3 fatty acids which are imperative for the strengthening of cell membrane barriers.  Why are strong membrane barriers important?  Good membrane protective function enables your cells to better absorb water and nutrients, while simultaneously keeping toxins out.  End result, a healthy, soft, radiant complexion! 

Passion Fruit Oil + Papaya Seed Oil — These tropical seed oils are cold-pressed to maintain maximum nutrient value.  Both seed oils are rich in Omega 6, Omega 9, Potassium and Vitamins A and C.  Their molecular structure enable them to penetrate skin quickly, while their enzymes work to reduce impurities and excess sebum (oil produced from your pores). 

Marine EFAs™ — True Nature Botanicals' unique proprietary blend of essential fatty acids (EFAs), which includes the Omega-3 essential fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).  It also contains one of the very few non-fish sources of these EFAs.  

Together, these super ingredients deliver unsurpassable skin nourishing, renewing and protecting results.  TNB never uses harmful chemicals, toxins, or fillers.  They leave out pore-clogging waxes, as well as water because it can evaporate and cause your skin to dry out.  They also exclude all nut oils that can go bad when exposed to UV rays.  

You can purchase the Pacific Face Oil directly from their website.  A 1oz. bottle goes for $110.00, and will last you months.  Just as a comparison, a 1oz. jar of the Crème de La Mer goes for $160... this is the same product that the Pacific Face Oil surpassed in the Independent Scientific Clinical Study I mentioned earlier.  

You can also purchase the Pacific Face Oil in TNB's Pacific Desert Island Duet, which includes a 1oz. bottle of the Face Oil, along with a 2oz. bottle of the Pacific Everyday Sheer Coverage, SPF 20, (available in tint shades, Light and Medium).  I'll be reviewing the Pacific Everyday Sheer Coverage, SPF 20 next, but just as a quick intro, the Everyday Sheer Coverage nourishes and protects while providing naturally radiant, matte, sheer coverage.

To learn more about True Nature Botanicals and browse their incredible line of Pacific Skincare products, visit their website.  You can also find them on Facebook and Twitter! 

merci beaucoup,

{ Product Review }  Pacific Lip Treatment by True Nature Botanicals 

The Pacific Lip Treatment  by True Nature Botanicals is without a doubt a miracle product.  Its powerhouse combination of emollients, antioxidants and proprietary LipPlump™ work together to moisturize, protect, and enhance the fullness of your lips.

My favorite go-to look is a fresh, dewy complexion paired with plush, full lips.  I love refined simplicity, and that is exactly what this product delivers.  I began using it daily several months ago, and I truly cannot find any other balm that comes close to comparing.  Whether you wear it by itself, or as a primer under your favorite lipstick or tint, your lips are guaranteed to look plump, soft and healthy. 

Key Ingredients

True Nature Botanicals’ LipPlump™ — a proprietary blend of peptides (various amino acids), and super-humectants that work together to nourish and replenish lips, while providing enhanced fullness and contouring.

Jojoba Oil — keeps lips soft and supple by helping to retain moisture. 

True Nature Botanicals uses only the highest quality natural and organic ingredients in all of their products.  Their Pacific Lip Treatment contains no water, no fillers, no harmful pigments or petroleum products, and absolutely no toxins.  In fact, their ingredients are so pure that industry insiders agree that TNB spends at least 5 times more on their ingredients than the leading luxury skincare and perfume brands. 

Their products have also received rave reviews from major publications and blogs such as VOGUE,  Elle,  Harper’s Bazaar,  InStyle,  Marie Claire,  Prevention,  No More Dirty Looks,  Refinery 29,  well+GOOD, and many more…

You can purchase the Pacific Lip Treatment in a .85oz size for $68.00 directly from TNB’s website.  If you’re apprehensive about investing that much in a lip treatment, let me assure you this is truly a phenomenal product.  Not only are the ingredients and results unsurpassable, but a teeny tiny bit goes a long way.  You can expect the .85oz container to last several months; even when used on a daily basis. 

To learn more about True Nature Botanicals and shop their amazing line of Pacific Skincare products, visit their website.  You can also find them on Facebook and Twitter! 

merci beaucoup,

{ Product Review }  CARU Skincare Co. || Lavender + Chamomile Organic Facial Toner

This toner takes all sorts of good care of your skin... it is ideal for dry, sensitive or weather-damaged skin, but makes a great daily toner for all complexion types.  

Only 100% natural and organic hydrosols, (soothing floral waters), make up this powerhouse healing toner.  

While the Lavender Hydrosol calms and soothes, the Chamomile Hydrosol repairs skin cells, leaving your complexion feeling refreshed, and looking radiant. 

CARU's entire line of organic toners are formulated to restore your skin's pH after cleansing.  I have incredibly sensitive skin, and found their soap and toner to be gentle and nourishing.

This Lavender + Chamomile toner makes for a fabulous "after sun" or "wind-burn" remedy spray because of its ultra soothing and healing properties. 

One of my favorite things about CARU's products, aside from how well they work, is their subtle and pleasant scents.  This particular toner has an herbal yet sweet and slightly floral scent.  It's 100% free of alcohol and preservatives, so again, perfect for super sensitive and/or dry skin.

Do keep in mind that since CARU's toners do not contain any preservatives, they have a 6-8 week shelf life once opened.  This is a personal preference, but I like to keep my toners refrigerated so it feels extra refreshing when I apply it.

Speaking of, if you're not familiar with using toners, you simply apply them to a freshly cleansed face, in a circular motion, with either a cotton ball or cotton round/square.  Since this toner comes in a spray bottle, you can also mist it directly onto your skin and let it sit for a little extra hydration.

Another thing I love about this company is their packaging.  All our their toners come packaged in a frosted glass bottle with a natural fine mist spray top. The adhesive label is made from a tree-free and water-free process paper, that is both recyclable and photodegradable... fabulous! 

You can purchase this or any of their other toners in a 2 fluid oz. bottle for $18/each.  A little bit goes a long way, so if you're looking for a remedy for your dry or sensitive skin, this is a fabulous find. 

{ Product Review }  CARU Skincare Co. || French Green Clay Organic Soap

One of the best face and body bars I’ve ever used; hands down!  This super luxe, nourishing bar combines 100% natural green clay mined in France, with pure lavender and cedar essential oils.  

French green clay has a long list of benefits, but is best known in skincare for its detoxifying and absorbent properties.  Together, the clay and essential oils provide skin softening and purifying effects. It not only left my skin feeling soft and supple, but radiantly clean and fresh. It has a subtle yet refreshing scent, very earthy and clean.

All of CARU Skincare Co.'s soaps are handmade from 100% all natural ingredients that are, when possible, organic or wildcrafted from sustainable sources. They contain zero preservatives, artificial ingredients, or fragrances. 

Are you ready for the second best part...? This all natural and vegan beauty bar is wrapped in a biodegradable, handmade, 100% PCW paper label embedded with.... cue drumroll... seeds!  

So once you're ready to unwrap and use your bar, just plant the packaging and watch it grow...  Click here for planting instructions!  

These particular bars sell for $9/each; which is absolutely worth it considering it's pretty large, and will last you much longer than a standard bar of soap.  Not to mention, it's incredible for your skin, and you get to plant the wrapper and grow something pretty... soo it's hard to argue the few extra dollars. 

Overall, it's obvious that I love CARU's products, and I would definitely recommend them to any of my clients.  I have also used their Lavender + Chamomile Organic Facial Toner, which I'll be posting a review on next... and I am very interested to try their Activated Charcoal + Dead Sea Salt Organic Face Soap, so once I do, I'll keep you updated on that as well!

6 Spa Treatments You Get From A Day On The Beach via Free People

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Let's be real, is there anything more relaxing and refreshing than a long summer day at the beach?  As much as I love to be pampered, I'd take the beach over the spa any day!  So naturally, I had to share this fabulous blog post from Free People.  Click the photo to read the full article! { images and content by Free People }

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merci beaucoup,

Natural Summer Skincare Tips for Soft, Glowing Skin

As the seasons change, your skin care routine also needs a little adjustment.  Your skin endures a lot during the summertime; which means it needs you to take extra good care of it!  Practice these 5 simple tips in order to keep your skin radiant, soft and healthy all summer long! 

{ Hydrate } This is super important for not just your skin, but your entire body's physiological health.  Keeping your body hydrated will flush out toxins and keep your skin clear, supple and beautiful. If you find it challenging to consistently drink water throughout the day, add some fresh fruit. This is a great way to get some extra vitamin C in your diet, and make the routine of hydrating a little more refreshing. Some of my favorite things to add to my water during the summer are sliced strawberries, freshly squeezed lemon juice, mint leaves, raspberries or slices of cucumbers! 

{ Nourish }  Your diet has an enormous impact on your skin's appearance and health.  It's important to make sure you're eating enough foods that will help to protect and nourish your skin, especially during the summer months.  Sun exposure is one of the biggest contributors to skin damage and pre-mature aging. Focus on taking in plenty of antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats and oils in your everyday diet.  Some of my favorite 'beauty foods' are kale, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, cherries, spinach, avocados, salmon, nuts, grapeseed oil, coconut oil, olive oil, greek yogurt and tomatoes.  These power foods are packed with nutritional value and can repair damaged skin cells, protect against free radicals and UV damage, and give your skin a natural glow from the inside out.  Not to mention, they make you feel awesome.

{ Protect }  Everyone loves to have a bronze, sun-kissed glow, but the long-term health of your skin is so much more important. So no matter how long you're planning on playing in the sun, always protect your skin! Find a good non-toxic sunscreen that you love, and get in the habit of applying it. One of my favorite natural sunscreens to use is by True Natural. Their products are made with certified organic ingredients, and contain zero chemicals. 

{ Exfoliate } This is something that is super easy and super affordable.  Try making your own all natural body scrub to keep your skin soft, even, and glowing all summer long. You can make your own using things like sugar or sea salt, then adding skin-nourishing ingredients such as natural oils, honey or lemon juice!  My favorite brand of natural and essential oils is Aura Cacia.  They're a great company with incredible, high quality products.  I've been using their oils for years, and I'd recommend them to anyone.  Here's a great sugar scrub recipe I found on their site!

Grapefruit Lavender Sugar Scrub

24 drops lavender oil

24 drops grapefruit oil 

¾ cup avocado oil 

1 cup fine grain natural sugar

"Mix essential oils with avocado oil, pour over sugar and stir. Apply to damp skin after using a gentle cleanser. Buff gently. Rinse with warm water and pat dry."

{ Moisturize } Keeping your skin moisturized is important, but what's more important, is what you're moisturizing with. If you're using a chemically-based lotion or even a super processed oil (baby oil), you're not doing much good.  Use pure, minimally-refined natural oils to keep your skin supple, radiant, soft and healthy from the inside out.  My favorite natural oils to use in the summertime are grapeseed oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, sesame oil, sweet almond oil and jojoba oil!  Like I mentioned before, Aura Cacia offers some of the best natural and essential oils out there. 

{ Product Review } Marie-Veronique Organics MVO Mist

The MVO Mist is really unlike any other mist or toner I've tried.  It's unique combination of ingredients work to increase elasticity and firmness, while providing anti-aging, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits. 

{ How to Use }

After cleansing, mist over face, neck and chest.  Store this product in a cool place. I usually use this one to twice a day (morning and night). 

{ Why I Love it }

 I have very sensitive skin, even when it comes to natural products.  After the first few times I used this, I immediately noticed its calming, firming and toning properties.  It provides your skin with nutrient-rich moisture, so your complexion feels wonderful and looks fresh, brightened and dewy.  I also really love the subtle, earthy scent! 

{ What Makes it Awesome }

What really sets this mist apart from others, is what's in it... and, what's not in it.  75% of the ingredients are organic.  The MVO Mist is also 100% free of parabens and other toxic fragrances.  Its alcohol-free formula also prevents skin from drying out.  Here's why the key ingredients are so amazing... 

{ DMAE }

"This antioxidant membrane stabilizer helps to increase elasticity and firmness by stimulating muscle movement via the neurotransmitter acetyl- choline."

{ Helichrysum Essential Oil  }

"This anti-aging powerhouse delivers antioxidant, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory benefits to your skin."

{ Licorice Extract  } "The glycyrrhizin and flavonoids found in licorice extract produce anti-inflammatory action in the skin. In addition, liquiritin helps treat the skin- pigmentation disorder melasma."

{ Product Review } Marie Veronique Organics MVO Face Oil I've been using Marie Veronique Organics MVO Face Oil for the past few weeks, and I had to share how powerful and amazing this 100% natural, lightweight oil felt.  One of my favorite things is how rich and long-lasting it is, while also being fast-absorbing and light.  It immediately brightened my complexion, leaving it soft, supple and glowing. This miracle oil's key ingredients are a unique blend of Krill Oil, Argan Oil and Blackberry Seed Oil.  Here's what make these ingredients are so awesome... 

{ Krill Oil } "In addition to its excellent Omega-3, 6 and 9 balance, this oil is an excellent source of astaxanthin, an extraordinary antioxidant, and phosphatidyl serine, which Korean scientists have dubbed the “anti-aging fat molecule.” Krill oil is, in fact, one of the very few oils known to contain phosphatidyl serine in significant quantities."  { Argan Oil } "Rich in Omega-6 and 9, Vitamin E, carotenes, squalene, and phenols, argan oil possesses a remarkable ability to nourish, moisturize and improve skin elasticity."  { Blackberry Seed Oil } "While difficult to extract, this oil is high in natural Vitamin C as well as several types of Vitamin E and lutein making it an excellent ingredient for repairing damaged skin. It is a superb choice for people looking for a natural Vitamin C source to prevent aging." 

I love this product and would definitely recommend this to all my clients; especially those with dry, damaged, or sensitive skin.  Marie Veronique Organics products have been featured in publications such as Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire, Whole Living, Coco Eco, Marin and many more. To learn more about Marie Veronique Organics visit their website, 'like' their page on Facebook and follow their Twitter! 

merci beaucoup, 

{ DIY } lavender & milk bath

I recently discovered The Chic Site, which is completely awesome by the way! ...and I stumbled across this super lovely DIY bath recipe by author Brandee Lee!

I love all things Lavender, so when I saw this Lavender & Milk bath recipe I had to try it.  Lavender is the perfect remedy to melt away stress  and regain balance.  I also love how this recipe incorporates coconut oil and milk!  Both provide skin calming, nourishing and moisturizing benefits.  When you combine everything together, you basically get the perfect recipe for the ultimate R&R experience!  Enjoy! 

"You don’t need to steal away for hours to reap the relaxing benefits of a bath. Just 20 minutes with this healthy and hydrating bath recipe and your winter scales skin will be clean and soft. Try it once a week if you can sneak it in to help keep dry skin at bay during these winter months. —Brandee

{ The Ingredients Sound Delicious But What Do They Do? }

Epsom Salt — Relaxes sore muscles.

Lavender Essential Oil — Promotes relaxation.

Coconut Oil — Hydrates and softens skin.

Baking Soda —  Acts as a cleanser and has anti-fungal properties.

Milk —  Lactic acid helps remove dead skin cells and soothes irritated skin.

Lavender Buds — Simply because it makes you feel fancy & the spa-like atmosphere reduces stress.

For more lovely recipes from Brandlee James at The Chic Site, click here!  Also check out TheChicSite.com! 

merci beaucoup,