Pretty Good Thinking: Going '˜make-up-free' and organic

An honest piece on going a month '˜make-up-free' by Ayesha Muttucumaru on Get the Gloss reminded me of the no-make-up selfie wave a while back.

The article is a considered reflection on how it feels longer term. Ayesha's motivation to drop the mask was to gain inner confidence '“ to wear self-esteem rather than Maybelline.

More gratifying, she was considered younger looking without the slap!

Many older women shudder to forgo their '˜look' at work or in public, let alone on a night out. I personally find it hugely empowering to go out barefaced on better days '“ allowing my relative health and vitality to glow through. I also love to create strong looks and both sides happily co-exist.

My other inspired read returned to switching from high-end and mainstream lines to clean, green, natural or organic to eliminate toxic ingredients.

This can be daunting at first, but read up and refer to sites such as LoveLula or Big Green Smile where there are regular deals and starter or travel kits to be had. Lots of brands have indexes and detailed explanations to decipher the Latin, and of course half the battle is knowing what to avoid.

Make the change over time and to read up on what best fits your lifestyle. Start with affordable lines and bundle offers, have a sniff and test in-store, too.

The collection at Infinity Foods on North Road grows more tempting and bountiful with every visit. MandS has great natural brands in-store if you know what you are looking for, and I always mention TK Maxx, if you take your glasses to check the labels as not all naturals are equal.

The festive lights are up and shopping fever is building. I will be flagging the best suggestions for pressies before the New Year, but right now I'm planning Neal's Yard product demos. Do get in touch with me for a presentation with friends.

Neal's Yard gift boxes include aromatherapy, face, body, hands, men's and affordable tree hangings for friends. These ethically sourced, certified organic British collections are loved and trusted in equal measure and Frankincense Intense has a challenger with new Deliciously Ella lines '“ come and find out!