REVIEW: Origins

Howdoo All

The past 2 months I have been trialling a range of products I had never heard of before, Origins, and today I shall be reviewing these products. But first I will introduce you to Origins.

Origins are a brand who pride themselves in creating high quality natural products, by simply using nature and science. Not only is this seen as their first priority when producing the products, but also protecting the planet, its resources and all those who populate it is reaffirmed by their earth and animal friendly practices (Origins, 2011). 

The products are all formulated using natural and certified organic ingredients, and 100% natural essential oils. All products are formulated without parabens, phthalates propylene glycol, mineral oil, petrolatum, paraffin, DEA and animal ingredients

I live in a very small town where the selection in beauty products is very limited. So when I was contacted to sample and review some Origins products, I decided to give the range ago. 

The products I was sent are:

• Checks and Balances 'Frothy Face Wash'
• Dr Andrew Weil for Origins 'Mega Mushroom Skin Relief Soothing Treatment Lotion'
• Dr Andrew Weil for Origins 'Mega Mushroom  Skin Relief Soothing Face Cream'
• Clear Improvement 'Active Charcoal Mask' (I shall be reviewing this separately at a later date)

Checks and Balances 'Frothy Face Wash'

When I first started taking care of my skin, I began by using face washes. But after a while, I stopped using them, as I just saw it as not really cleaning the skin properly, but just spreading dirt around my face, as my skin wasn't getting any better. When I received this product I was a tad unsure, but I thought I would give this face wash ago.

Checks and Balances aims to cleanse both dry and oily places without cancelling each other out. Broad Leaf Kelp Extract discourages excess oil production. Wheat Protein balances and protects dry prone zones. Skin feels comfortably refreshed after cleansing, never tight, pulled or parched.

(Origins Press Release, 2011) 

2 months on . . I like it! The face wash leaves my face feeling very clean and fresh, and not dried like previous washes have done in the past. The face wash has a hint of mentha viridis leaf oil (spearmint), which isn't overpowering (like toothpaste), but very subtle and pleasant. I also found that only a small amount is needed, due to the water being used to lather the wash, a little bit goes along way.

Cost: £17.00 for 150ml: Some may see this product as a tad on the pricey side, but I have been using the product since August (day and night usage), and I still have a good amount of product left. 

Will I be purchasing? : Yes most definitely. It has improved my skin (not much breakout, blemishes), and my skin feels and looks a lot better. 

Dr Andrew Weil for Origins 'Mega Mushroom Skin Relief Soothing Treatment Lotion'

As part of my skincare routine, I have always used a toner. However a lot that I have used are far too strong for my skin (sensitive). Due to previous experiences, when I received this product, I was skeptical fearing my face would burn. But reading the ingredients before use satisfied my thoughts that it was ok to use. 

Working to quickly, gently soothe, comfort and penetrate skin for deep hydration and a calmer complexion, this lightweight hydration lotion is the “prep step” that supplements the care that follows.

(Origins Press Release, 2011)

At first I wasn't too keen on the lotion purely because the scent smelt very manly, but after a while the smell was no longer a bother. To my surprise my skin didn't react, which is great, and I did find it very soothing. After 8/9weeks of use, I have begun to notice my complexion improving (even my mum has commented on it). Although I have noticed a change, it is not a significant difference, which highlights the product needs to be used for a longer period of time?

Cost: £23.00 for 200 ml: Not too badly priced, although a little on the steep side. However this product finished last week, so maybe it is good value, considering when I started using it (August?)

Will I be purchasing? : Yes, as I want to continue seeing the change and improvement of my skin. 

Dr Andrew Weil for Origins 'Mega Mushroom Skin Relief Soothing Face Cream'

For quite sometime I have had a staple moisturising cream, so to see a new face cream, that looked very promising, was something I was interested in trying. I have combination/oily skin, so have to be careful with what products I use, otherwise I will suffer the dreaded breakout. 

This fast absorbing face cream immediately moisturises skin, while helping to calm and soothe it. Its formula helps visibly reduce redness while renewing radiance and clarity. Appropriate for sensitive, reactive skin and skin with Rosacea. 

(Origins Press Release, 2011)

 

I can proudly say this product did not break me out (YAY). I didn't find it greasy, too runny, but just a nice reasonably thick consistency, which moisturised and sunk well into the skin. One thing I have to say is it also smells divine; oranges to be exact I would say. I also found that during the day, my skin wasn't shiny/oily, which again is a double bonus. 

Cost: £46.00 for 50ml: I have to say it is slightly expensive for 50ml cream, but as previously mentioned with the face wash, I still have a lot of product left after day and night usage after 2months. 

Will I be purchasing? Probably yes, as it does last a long time, and my skin agrees with it!

Origins products can be found at the following places:

• Origins
• Boots
• House of Fraser
• John Lewis 

Do you use Origins? Are you interested in trying their products? Or is it not for you? Really would like to hear what you have to say.

PS: Although the products sent are PR samples, my review is always 110% honest, genuine and true. I have not been paid, sponsored to write this reivew, nor am I affiliated with Origins.