Product Review: LUSH Fresh Handmade Cosmetics

I'm telling you, the day I walk past a LUSH store without going inside, you will truly be witnessing a miracle. You know that signature LUSH scent, and when it fills my nostrils, I just can't resist. Not that I necessarily purchase something every time, but I do take a whiff of almost everything in the store, until I can't smell a thing anymore.

Recently, I found myself floating, nose first, into a LUSH store again. I don't know what it is about autumn and winter, but that's LUSH season for me. I purchased quite a few products; some old faves and some brand spankin' new ones I haven't tried before. The sales assistant was super helpful, even though his English wasn't great, he was very friendly and suggested some products which I'm in love with now. He also gave me some samples to try, and a free LUSH umbrella. (They had some kind of promotion.)

Oh, I just adore this brand, as they are against animal testing, it's natural, and the products are made by hand (on each product there will be a sticker with the person's name that made that specific product). Hmm... not so sure about that... Anyway, although originally from the UK, you can now buy LUSH almost everywhere in the world. You can also return your empties to the store for them to recycle.

Since I've had my LUSH haul about two weeks ago, I've been able to try each of these products at least a couple of times. I find myself really looking forward to shower time, and enjoy my little LUSH pampering sessions. It's also a huge plus that my bathroom now smells like a LUSH store a.k.a heaven!

Believe me, I know how overwhelming a LUSH store can be; there's just so many smells, so many colors, and you have the sales assistant following you around. And sometimes it's really hard to choose which products to actually buy. As they are a little on the pricey side, I know it's not possible to just load up on all the delicious products and try them all out, so I decided to share my thoughts on each of the products I got. Maybe you'd like to try some of them.

The Olive Branch Shower Gel

"A gentle Mediterranean inspired gel with skin softening olive oil for dry skin. Shower with the citrus scents of mandarin and lemon with just a hint of fresh orange groves." - LUSH

The Fiancé and I both fell in love with this shower gel last year around winter time, and it's the first time I've repurchased it since. This is my favorite LUSH shower gel and it smells fantastic (well, just like most things in the store...). 

Shake it!

Before each use, remember to give it a good shake, as the olive oil in this product will be on the top. I definitely definitely recommend this product!

Sweetie Pie Shower Jelly

"Mineral-rich carrageenan extract is the seaweed that gives our jellies their jiggle. If you're a fan of sweet, fruity fragrances you'll fall in love with Sweetie Pie." - LUSH

This product smells super sweet, hence the name, and should not be used by a person that does not appreciate a little shimmer. I adore the smell, but the texture is a little weird. 

It's a jello-like blob which I had to cut into smaller pieces to use. (Way too much effort for a relaxing shower time, I'd say.) I think this will be a hit or miss for some people.

Rub Rub Rub Shower Scrub

"Made with refreshing, mineral-rich sea salt for subtle scrubbing and smoother skin." - LUSH

I love me a good shower scrub, but find that many are too harsh for my sensitive skin. This one, however, is perfect! It leaves my skin so soft and smooth. 

But, a word of warning; Don't let the product get to "sensitive areas", if you catch my drift, as it will burn like nothing else. Unfortunately, I had to learn this the hard way... LOVE this product though!

Mask of Magnaminty Face and Back Pack

"We blend bentonite gel into our recipe to clean the pores deeply and tighten at the same time." - LUSH

Because of my sensitive skin (even a gentle mask will leave my skin red and irritated) I was a little hesitant to get this face and back mask, but in the end decided to give it a whirl. I couldn't be happier with this purchase! Firstly, it smells so fresh and minty, and it gives the skin a gentle tingle when wearing it. 

The mask will dry out after wearing it for about 10 minutes, and after rinsing, it left my skin smooth and moisturized. Absolutely worth it, and I'll definitely repurchase it again.

Dream Cream Body Lotion

"When oats infuse with water, they create soothing milk, used for centuries to calm the skin." - LUSH

I rarely buy body lotions, as I've been using my old faithful, Nivea Q10 Plus for many years. I just couldn't resist the smell, bought it, and I haven't looked back. The lotion is very hydrating and definitely gives my all time favorite a run for its money. 

I'm not sure how this one will go down in the hot, humid summer months, but it's definitely great for the dry colder months. I highly recommend this lotion.

Mint Julips Lip Scrub

"As the base of our lip scrubs, Fair Trade sugar makes for an effective exfoliant." - LUSH

I've always used the Bubblegum Lip Scrub, but recently threw it out when I realized it's past its expiration date. I decided to try a new one, and I've been loving this scrub. 

The texture is the same as the Bubblegum one, but smells different. A very nice pampering product which removes all the dry/dead skin from your lips. And, it's edible, so give it a lick if you want.

Free Samples:

Dirty Springwash Shower Gel

I'm not a huge fan of the smell, it's a little too toothpaste-y for my taste. But different strokes for different folks, so you just might like it. Give it a whiff next time you're in the store and decide for yourself.

Cynthia Sylvia Stout Shampoo

I'm not one to stray from my beloved Kérastase Bain Satin shampoo, but I was on a LUSH high and gave this shampoo a fair shot. I felt that it really cleaned and clarified my hair, and it definitely gave it a lot of shine. I'm still not giving up my Kérastase just yet.

Breath of Fresh Air Toner Water

To me, toner is toner. As long as it doesn't contain alcohol, I'll use most brands. I wouldn't necessarily purchase this toner, it smells like medicine and it didn't blow my hair back. I'm sticking to my Avène Cleanance Toner for now.

What is your all-time favorite LUSH product?

*Disclaimer

I'm not being paid by LUSH Cosmetics or any other company to write this article. These are my personal and honest opinions and all products were purchased by myself. Some of the products were free samples that I received with my purchase.