Facial Oil : 5 Questions Answered

There is so much out there about skincare these days, and we get advertisements from every direction for products that claim to both be essential and revolutionary for our skin. It’s a lot of noise and information to wade through, and may have you asking yourself what do I really need for my skin? Amidst all of this information is the rising popularity of facial oils. Now, we know that when it comes to our faces, the word oil doesn’t necessarily conjure the best image. But we are here to answer all your facial oil questions, and to show you how a face oil can become an important and necessary part of your skincare routine. Plus, read on to discover the Bopo face oil, if you are after an eco-friendly facial oil option.

#1: What is a Facial Oil?

Simply put, a facial oil is an oil-based product designed for use on the face. They are typically made from fragrant or non-fragrant plant oils, essential oils, or else synthetic oils. Many facial oils typically have non-comedogenic properties. This means that whether they contain a single oil (like argan oil for instance), or are an oil blend, they won’t clog your pores.

#2: What are the Benefits of a Facial Oil?

There are many benefits to facial oils, though these benefits are dependent upon the specific oil and what it is made of. In general though, facial oils are designed to richly moisturise and nourish the skin, and they are able to tackle skin concerns like dullness and dryness. A facial oil is particularly helpful during the winter months, when our skin is often drier due to the colder temperatures. Aside from deep hydration, many face oils can enrich the skin with vital nutrients such as vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant that can help to soothe irritated and sensitive skin.

Further, because of the moisturising and plumping benefits of most facial oils, they can actually provide anti-ageing benefits too. This is because of the lasting moisture that they provide, and their ability to restore natural elasticity to the skin.  

#3: How Do I Implement a Face Oil Into My Skincare Routine?

This is actually a hotly debated question in the skincare world. When it comes to how to implement a facial oil into your routine, the general consensus seems to be that a face oil is the second to last step in a skincare regime, applied before your sunscreen.

In terms of actually applying a face oil, you should take care to be gentle and use an upward, or patting technique. Of course, as the eye area is extremely delicate you must take even more care here.

You can mix your chosen facial oil with your moisturiser if you like, or else you may apply the oil by itself. However, it is important to note that you should never mix your SPF with a facial oil, because doing so can dilute the sunscreen and stop it from working properly.

Remember that facial oils are a potent product, so it is important to use them sparingly. 2-3 small drops of the product should be plenty for you to reap all the benefits of your facial oil. Additionally to get the maximum benefits, as with any step in a skincare routine, you must allow your other skincare products to dry properly before applying it.  

#4: What About if I Have Oily Skin?

This is a great question. Facial oils are a terrific skincare step for many skin-types; however, dermatologists generally agree that those with oily skin should probably steer clear. This is because – as an oil product – this type of skincare can exacerbate the oiliness of one’s complexion.

#5: What if I Want an Eco-Friendly Option?

If you value cruelty-free and eco-friendly products in all areas of your life, then you will be happy to know that if you want an all-natural facial oil, we have the perfect option for you. The Bopo face oil ticks all the right boxes. Like all Bopo Women products, the face oil is vegan, cruelty-free, Australian made, all-natural, and is suitable for sensitive skin.

Ready to Incorporate the Bopo Face Oil Into Your Routine?

Look no further than LoveLuvo! We are proud to stock the Bopo face oil, alongside their other nourishing body products. Not only that, but we offer a lot more cruelty free and sustainable skincare brands suitable for the whole family.

When you need a beautiful facial oil to add to your skincare routine, come and visit us at our Seddon store, or contact us at 03 9396 1822. Alternatively, fill out our online contact form, or you can browse our online store at any time!

Peter Collins
What are Purpose Driven Brands and Why do They Matter?

The definition of a ‘purpose-driven brand’ is somewhat contested within the business world, with some suggesting that purpose-driven brands are just rehashing and repackaging their mission statement. Others argue that calling one’s brand ‘purpose driven’ is nothing more than a marketing tactic that bolsters their bottom line. Today we will explore some important questions about purpose-driven brands, including where to buy products from some fantastic brands with authentic purposes. Keep reading to find out about products from some of our favourite Australian purpose-driven brands, like the LoveLuvo cruelty free hand wash.

What is a Purpose Driven Brand?

While there is contention about definitions, for the purposes of this article we believe a purpose-driven brand to be one with a clear and authentic purpose to somehow make a difference in the world. This could be an environmental purpose or one that involves striving to empower or uplift people in some way. Such brands do exist, and they are gaining traction and growing in popularity.

Why do Purpose Driven Brands Matter?

Purpose-driven brands are important. Well, most are. The term ‘importance’ means something different to each individual and whether a brand’s purpose is valuable or not is also something personal and variable. It’s true that not all purpose-driven brands are created equal – not every brand’s purpose will be noble or altruistic. That, however, doesn’t mean that purpose-driven brands don’t matter, or that nobility or altruism is a prerequisite for them to matter.

Here at LoveLuvo, we are passionate about those purpose-driven brands that strive to make the world a better place or empower others with their services or products. That’s why we believe that purpose-driven brands matter, and are important to the business world, and to society.

In a market that is so saturated by different choices, with different options at every turn for every product in our lives, purpose-driven brands can be an important point of difference. They can actually help us to make these decisions more easily. If the purpose of a brand aligns with one of our values, opinions, interests, or preferences, it can make choosing such a brand over another option really easy.

These brands matter because they help to give us a way to make our consumer choices mean something, and in some cases, even contribute positively in some way to society.

What are Some of the Purpose Driven Brands we Love?

Bopo Women: Bopo Women seeks to empower women by championing body positivity and providing them with a diverse range of products that will help to nourish their skin, and foster self-love and confidence. Bopo Women believes that by treating your body kindly with their carefully crafted products, you may be able to be kind to yourself and your body too. From body mists and body oils to the Bopo face oil, there is an array of bath, body, and facial products made from natural recipes to choose from.

LoveLuvo: The LoveLuvo range of products was created with the purpose of providing an environmentally conscious and cruelty free alternative to traditional bath and body products. They seek to create a range made from natural ingredients that are paraben and sulphate free, and which are good for those using them. With a full range of products like the LoveLuvo cruelty free hand wash, LoveLuvo provides an opportunity to use sustainable bath products that you can feel good about.

Salus Body: Salus Body strives to bring the transformational, luxurious, and sumptuous experience of the spa into the home. Seeking to make luxe, nourishing, and healing bath and body products accessible for all, Salus is also deeply committed to supporting the community and the environment. Boasting a vast array of products from moisturisers and haircare to soaps and scrubs, the Salus range reflects a commitment to helping you recreate the spa experience in the comfort of your own home.

Sapon Soap: Sapon Soap is committed to producing soap products that are not only made from natural ingredients, sustainably handcrafted, cruelty free, Australian made, but are also microplastic free. Their purpose is to create a beautiful range of products that is sustainable, highly useful, and effective, and does no harm to the environment. In addition, Sapon seeks to support and champion Australian made products and Australian owned businesses. Buying a Sapon bath bomb not only gets you a beautiful, sustainable bath product, but also supports handmade, Aussie products.

Do You Want to Support a Purpose Driven Brand?

That’s where LoveLuvo steps in. We are thrilled to support brands that have a true purpose, and we are stocked to the brim with products from these brands that you will love! If you’ve been inspired and want to support some purpose-driven brands, we have the products for you. From our LoveLuvo cruelty free hand wash to the fantastic Bopo face oil, there are so many options to choose from.

Contact us at 03 9396 1822, come and visit us at our Seddon store, or fill out our online contact form, and we will be happy to get back to you. Alternatively, you can browse our online store from the comfort of your home at any time! 

Peter Collins
How Can I Repair My Dry and Damaged Hair?

Dry and damaged hair can be more than a nuisance to deal with – it can be frustrating and disheartening too. With all the hair styling, colouring, and cut options available and all the different channels through which to find hair-inspiration, the last thing you need is hair that is dry and damaged. If you need tips for damaged hair then keep on reading for our hair tips, and to discover LoveLuvo cruelty free shampoo, which might just be the solution to your hair woes.

How Can I Tell if My Hair is Dry and Damaged?

There are several signs that your hair will give you if it is damaged or dry and in need of some extra care. Depending on your hair type, hair could appear frizzy and dull, or present with lots of breakage or split ends. Alternatively, your hair might be feeling rough, brittle, unmanageable, or tangling more than usual. These are all indications that your hair needs some attention in the form of added nourishment, a new shampoo, or a different care routine altogether.

How Can I Fix My Dry and Damaged Hair?

There are several ways things that can help to bring your dry and damaged hair back to life, and you can find some of the most effective methods below:

Keep on Top of Your Split Ends

Split ends are not only unsightly, but they are also an indication that your hair is damaged and dry. They are unfortunately not reversible, so the only way to take care of split ends is to get a haircut. To prevent split ends in the long-term, it is important to get into a regular haircut routine and book a trim every 2 to 3 months. This will make your hair appear thicker, and help to prevent further split ends.

Get into a Great Washing Routine

In order to help your damaged hair, you might need to rethink your hair-washing routine and even the way in which you wash your hair. While that just-washed feeling might be tempting enough to have you washing your hair every day, doing this is actually counterintuitive.  It is ideal to wash your hair between 1 and 3 times a week. Overwashing, or washing more frequently than this can actually strip your hair of moisture which can be detrimental to hair. When you strip back the number of washes per week to the minimum, this prevents your scalp from drying out and being stripped of its essential natural oils.  

Conditioners and Treatments

If your hair is damaged and dry, it might have been stripped of its natural moisture layer by certain hair products, or heated tools like straighteners and hair dryers. The way to remedy this is a really high-quality conditioner or another type of nourishing hair treatment. There are a plethora of options out there, from wash-out hair masks to leave-in conditioners. If you are looking for an amazing cruelty-free, natural conditioner then look no further than this LoveLuvo conditioner. Your hair needs moisture and nourishment just as your skin does, and that’s why it is so important that you use conditioning products regularly. This in turn will help to prevent hair breakage due to brittleness and dryness, because your hair will be sufficiently hydrated and healthy.

Choose the Right Shampoo!

Finally, the elephant in the room – we have talked about hair treatments, hair protection, and hair washing routines, but what are we washing our hair with? Shampoo. Your choice of shampoo is one of the most important decisions you can make when it comes to caring for damaged hair. The first thing to consider is selecting a sulphate-free shampoo, because sulphates can strip your hair of too much moisture, leaving it dry and damaging it further. Secondly, be on the lookout for shampoos that are also paraben-free, as parabens can irritate the scalp. Lastly, try to stick with a shampoo that is made from natural ingredients, because these more natural hair products are better for damaged hair. When you are looking for a product that ticks all those boxes, that’s where the LoveLuvo cruelty free shampoo steps in. Formulated with natural ingredients and no parabens or sulphates, this shampoo is a stellar choice for nourishing and repairing damaged hair.

Are You Interested in LoveLuvo Cruelty Free Shampoo?

If you have been inspired to take control of your dry or damaged hair, then look no further than LoveLuvo for all your cruelty, paraben, and sulphate-free hair products. We proudly specialise in natural, sustainable, and cruelty-free products that are better for you and for the environment. Stocked to the brim with sustainable and eco-friendly skincare, hair, body, and home products, we are your one-stop shop for all your personal and gifting needs.

Whether you need an exceptional LoveLuvo shampoo, or a special eco-friendly gift for a loved one, please come and see us at our Seddon store, or give us a call at 03 9396 1822. Alternatively, you can fill out our online contact form, or visit our online store at any time!

Peter Collins
5 Reasons to Choose Sulphate Free Skincare and Shampoo

If you are a skincare enthusiast, or are passionate about taking care of your skin and hair with the best products, then you might already know to steer clear of sulphates. Skincare and haircare products containing sulphates abound on the shelves of supermarkets and pharmacies, and unless you know about the alternative, then these products might be very tempting. Luckily, that’s where sulphate free skincare comes in – as the eco-friendly alternative with a myriad of benefits. We have rounded up the very best of the benefits of sulphate free shampoo or skincare, plus you can discover where to find these products when you are ready to make the swap.

First Up: What are Sulphates?

In order to understand why sulphate free products are preferable, it’s first important to know what sulphates are and why they are somewhat controversial. Sulphate is a type of salt that is formed by a reaction between sulphuric acid and another chemical. The word sulphate or sulphates is often used as an umbrella term for synthetic based chemicals like sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), and sodium laureth sulphate (SLES).

Mostly used in personal care products like shampoo and skincare in order to create a lather, it is the origin of sulphates that is contentious. These synthetic compounds are produced from plant sources like palm oil, as well as from petroleum, which is why there is concern about the long-term effects of the production of sulphate.

The main risk that has been identified with the use of products containing sulphates is irritation to the eyes, mouth, skin, and lungs. In addition, the effects on skin for those with a sensitive skin type can be worse, sometimes causing acne and clogged pores.

Benefit 1: Sensitive or Dry Skin

If you have dry skin, or skin that is particularly sensitive, then using cleansers or other skin products that contain sulphates may exacerbate these issues. If you are having problems with your current skin cleanser, it may well be sulphates causing the issue. The alternative is sulphate free cleansers, which are formulated with milder ingredients, and also often natural ingredients. These products can cleanse your skin without compromising its integrity in any way. If your skin needs a bit of extra care, gentleness, or hydration, consider getting these benefits from a sulphate free cleanser.

Benefit 2: Acne and Pores

If your skin struggles with acne or perhaps clogged pores, then using sulphate free skincare may be able to help. One of the drawbacks of sulphates is that they can clog or block pores, and so one of the benefits of using a sulphate free product is potentially fewer problems with blackheads or whiteheads. Another benefit is that using sulphate free skin products can re-balance the pH levels of your skin, which, when thrown off, can cause blemishes and breakouts.

Benefit 3: Gentle on the Skin 

Our skin is not only our largest organ but is also extremely delicate, which is why it is so important to be using the right products on it. Unfortunately, common products that contain sulphates such as skin cleansers, can cause dryness and irritation because they strip the natural oils from the skin. On the other hand, sulphate free products can help to balance the skin, maintain its moisture barrier, and prevent dryness.  

Benefits 4: Hair Health

Sulphate free products are not only limited to skincare products like cleansers and body wash; your hair can reap the sulphate free benefits too. Shampoos made without sulphates are better for your hair, particularly if your hair is salon-treated. Traditional shampoos containing sulphates can actually strip the colour from dyed hair, which means that your regular old shampoo could be compromising the time, effort and money put into colouring and styling your hair. Swapping to sulphate free shampoo is better for your hair, especially if it is professionally coloured.

Benefit 5: Better for the Environment

One of the major benefits of using sulphate free shampoo or skincare is that they are better for the environment. As the origins of sulphates lie in products like petroleum and palm oil, their long-term production can have devastating effects on the environment. In addition to this, sulphates have been linked to water pollution, so using a sulphate free alternative is better for the environment all round because they are made of more natural ingredients.

Are You Interested in Sulphate Free Skincare?

If you have been inspired by this list and are interested in swapping to sulphate free shampoo or skincare, then look no further than LoveLuvo. We are proud to offer you a range of sulphate free products, such as hand wash and body wash, along with a wide range of cruelty free skincare and personal care

For all your sulphate free, eco-friendly and cruelty free needs, come and visit us at our Seddon store, or contact us at 03 9396 1822. Alternatively, you can fill out our online contact form, or browse our online store at any time!

Peter Collins
Meet Tahlia: LoveLuvo's Superstar Store Supervisor!

Meet Tahlia, one of our fabulous team members here at LoveLuvo! Hailing from the stunning landscapes of the Northern Rivers in New South Wales, Tahlia's journey brought her to the vibrant city of Melbourne. It was quite the leap for her, as she had never set foot in Melbourne before her family decided to make the move for work. However, Tahlia has embraced city life like a true champ and has found her groove in the lively neighbourhood of Seddon.

With four years of experience working in retail, specifically at a cosy bookstore, Tahlia brings a wealth of knowledge and a keen eye for detail to our LoveLuvo team. In fact, she'll be taking on the role of supervisor, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and our customers receive the utmost care and attention.

We've asked her some insightful questions, and she's graciously shared her story along with the experiences that have shaped her journey with LoveLuvo. Read on to hear from Tahlia herself!

What made you want to work at LoveLuvo?

When I first walked into LoveLuvo I just fell in love, the atmosphere is indescribable. One of my goals in life was to always work for a charity and/or social enterprise - I pinch myself daily that I got this lucky. 

What’s your favourite part about working at LoveLuvo?

There are so many to choose from. My favourite part about working at LoveLuvo so far is connecting with the locals. Being new in such a big city can be overwhelming. Everyone is so lovely, chatty and supportive. I’ve learnt so much in such a short period of time. 

What is something that you have learned since starting at LoveLuvo?

How many businesses are actively trying to make a difference in the world. It’s really inspiring and hopeful so many people care about our planet and are actively trying to make a positive change.

What is your favourite product at LoveLuvo that everyone must come and buy? 

My favourite product is Dindi Naturals Hand cream. It has a beautiful lemon myrtle scent and just melts away into the skin.

What do you encourage customers to do when they visit LoveLuvo for the very first time?

Check out our refill bar! We have an amazing selection of naturally and locally formulated house and body care products that we can fill your empty bottles you have at home with, and at an affordable price.

What’s something we should know about you? 

Reading is something I’m very passionate about! If you ever need a book recommendation, I’m your lady!

What are you reading at the moment?

I’m currently reading Pageboy by Elliot Page and Conversation with friends by Sally Rooney (For the fourth time)!

Peter Collins
The Environmental Impact of Traditional Shampoo Bottles: Why You Should Choose Refillable Shampoo in Australia

Your shampoo bottle: You probably haven’t thought much about it beyond the type of shampoo that’s in it or when you need to buy a new one from the supermarket. But those traditional shampoo bottles are most often made of plastic, and shampoo bottles are usually single-use by nature. Our environment is in a precarious situation right now, and many people are doing what they can to reduce their impact on our natural world. Little steps and small changes to our habits and lifestyles can not only help to make a big problem less overwhelming, but it can also actually make a big difference. Did you know that ditching your single-use plastic shampoo bottle is one small change you can make to benefit the environment? Many people have turned to shampoo refills to help save unnecessary plastic ending up in landfill. Keep reading to learn more about plastic, how it gets wasted, and where to find refillable shampoo in Australia.

Taking a Look at Australia’s Plastic Waste

Australia has a waste problem. From food waste to organic waste, to hazardous waste, we’re struggling to manage it properly and safely, especially because our waste is increasing every year. In the 2018-2019 financial year, Australia produced 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste. 47%, equivalent to 1.2 million tonnes of this waste was produced by Australian households. This is a massive amount of wastage, which is an issue in itself; however, the real problem is the fact that only 9% of this plastic waste could be recycled. So, where did the other 2.1 tonnes of single-use and disposable plastic end up? That’s right: landfill.

What is the Impact of Plastic Shampoo Bottles?

When 84% of plastic waste ends up in landfill, it stands to reason that a good percentage of that waste would be made up of plastic shampoo bottles. In fact, some 179 million empty bottles of shampoo and other personal care products are thrown away each year in Australia. This means millions of plastic shampoo bottles every year are sent to landfill, where they will take hundreds of years to break down.

So, What’s the Alternative?

The alternative to traditional plastic shampoo bottles is refillable shampoo. This is an easy sustainable swap to make that can significantly impact the environment. When you use refillable products like shampoo, you are reducing your personal consumption of plastic and your contribution to landfill. No more buying a new plastic bottle of shampoo from the supermarket every week – once you make the swap, all you need is one empty bottle to start your refill journey.

How Does Refillable Shampoo Work at LoveLuvo?

At LoveLuvo, we proudly provide a refill service for shampoo and other eco-friendly, cruelty-free, or vegan products. Whether you need sustainable haircare products, body wash, hand wash, conditioner, or even laundry liquid or powder, you can refill it at LoveLuvo. We want to help facilitate your sustainable lifestyle- that’s why our refill service is convenient and easy to use.

Come and visit us in-store with your clean, empty bottle in tow – this can be a LoveLuvo bottle, or it could be any you own. One of our friendly staff members will weigh your bottle and fill it with your chosen refillable product. Finally, your bottle will be weighed again to determine the cost. You can also choose to drop off your bottles in-store and pick them up later when they are filled up with your sustainable products. 

In addition, if you are ordering for your office or workplace and looking for ways to be more sustainable, we can also work with you to provide local delivery for commercial orders. For instance, we also offer our refill service for products like hand sanitiser, all-purpose cleaner, dishwashing liquid and powder, and disinfectant.

Do You Need Refillable Shampoo in Australia?

Look no further than LoveLuvo for your refillable shampoo needs. We specialise in sustainable haircare products, as well as refillable products, including hand wash, body wash, conditioner, and of course, shampoo. We are proud to be innovators in the refillable product area, as one of the first businesses in Melbourne to offer a refill service. There are lots of benefits to living a more sustainable life – one way is by using refillable products.  We are here to help you maintain a sustainable lifestyle easier.  

When you decide to start using refillable shampoo service, come see us at our Seddon store. If you would like to find out more about our refill service, give us a call at 03 9396 1822, or you can fill out our online contact form. If you want to discover our other eco-friendly, sustainable products, you please visit our online store, anytime!

 

Peter Collins
6 Cruelty Free Gift Sets and Sustainable Gifts for Mother’s Day

May is the beautiful month when we celebrate Mother’s Day. Whether you’re honouring your mum, or the special person in your life who embodies the essence of a parent, you might be finding yourself wondering how to show your true appreciation and love for them. Finding that perfect way of saying ‘thank you’ on Mother’s Day can be difficult. That’s why we’ve taken the stress out of gift giving with a list of easy-to-give cruelty free gift sets and sustainable gifts, including our sustainable skincare brands – perfect for any mum on Mother’s Day. And, while you are spoiling her with a sustainable gift choice, you’ll be making a positive contribution to our environment.

LoveLuvo Deluxe Pamper Pack

The LoveLuvo Deluxe Pamper Pack is the ultimate way to pamper your mum with some of our favourite LoveLuvo products, along with a couple of other special pampering treats. The deluxe pamper pack is perfect for any special person in your life. The beautiful products within the pamper packs will help anyone relax and enjoy some much-needed time for self-care. What’s more, everything in the gift pack is cruelty free, so you can feel good about giving it, and the recipient can feel great about using it!

What’s included?

·      LoveLuvo Bath Salts 500g

·      LoveLuvo Cruelty Free Hand & Body Wash – Lavender, Chamomile & Rosemary 250ml

·      LoveLuvo Cruelty Free Body Lotion – Lavender, Chamomile & Rosemary 250ml

·      Light & Glo Travel Tin Candle

·      Bennetto Natural Foods Co Chocolate 100g

No matter who you’re spoiling this Mother’s Day, they are sure to love it. The gift set is the perfect reminder to take time for yourself and gift giving doesn’t have to harm our environment.

Bopo Women Self Love Body Oil

If your Mum needs some pampering, this Bopo Women body oil could be the perfect gift! This luxurious body oil has been carefully crafted with a blend of nourishing, natural ingredients including geranium, bergamot, mandarin and neroli essential oils. What’s even better is that all ingredients in Bopo Women products are vegan, cruelty free and Australian made. What more could you ask for, for the environmentally conscious, local buying advocate?

Wild Emery Shower Steamer Collection Box Set

For the person who needs a little reminder to slow down and take some time for themselves, this Wild Emery set might just do the trick! These little shower steamers pack a big punch, making any shower more indulgent. Packed full of essential oils and absolutely no nasty ingredients (no parabens, SLS, SLES, or petrochemicals), the only difficult thing is to choose which beautiful, scented steamer should you use first! All Australian made, they are easy to use in any shower: simply pop your steamer on the floor of your shower and let the hot water do the rest.

What’s included?

This box set contains 10 scented shower steamers:

·      REFRESH is a cool menthol infused burst of peppermint and tea tree

·      SLEEP is a calming lavender and chamomile to promote rest

·      BREATHE deep with clearing menthol, rosemary, and eucalyptus

·      CHILL with cool and refreshing menthol and spearmint

·      ME TIME for a guilt free me time shower with a mojito inspired scent

·      FOCUS with zesty sweet lemongrass

·      DREAM with floral, sweet, and warm frangipani, ylang ylang and clary sage

·      EMBRACE with fruity and earthy mandarin and clove bud

·      REST is a grounding warm blend to wind down in a peaceful shower

·      RELAX is the ultimate floral shower experience

Brush It On Silicone Teabag – 3 pack  

This one is for the tea-lover, or anyone who knows the soothing and relaxing power of a well-steeped cup of tea. If your Mum is one of them, why not gift her a set of these sustainable and eco-friendly silicone tea bags? Thanks to this Brush It On teabag set, you can enjoy a lovely cuppa together, without worrying about the excess and unnecessary waste created by conventional teabags. Made with high-quality and food-grade silicone, they are dishwasher and freezer safe, durable, and best of all, reusable. These little teabags can be filled with any loose-leaf tea, and then it’s as simple as brewing the tea as usual!

What’s included:

·      3 eco-friendly silicone tea bags (blue, orange, green)

Salus Me-Time Trio 

The Salus gift set is perfect for the coming winter months, and for any mum that needs to be reminded to take a little me time. Comprised of a trio of luxury spa products, this set is designed to help bring the experience of the spa into the home. Give the gift of a little luxury with these nourishing and cruelty free hand and body products.

What’s included:

·      Calendula & Shea Butter Hydrating Body Cream 150ml

·      Lavender & Mandarin Hand & Cuticle Cream 100ml

·      Chamomile & Rose Geranium Clay Soap 180g

Sapon Soap Gift Box – 2 Soaps & 1 Bath bomb

If your loved one needs some time for themselves, this Sapon bath bomb and soap set will make a great gift. Featuring three beautiful Sapon bath products, this set is gentle on sensitive skin, as well as cruelty free!

What’s included?

·      Sapon Goat’s Milk Bath Bomb

·      Sapon Soap Bar x2

Looking for Cruelty Free Gift Sets this Mother’s Day?  

Look no further than LoveLuvo for a stunning range of sustainable skincare brands and cruelty free gift sets. Whether you’re buying for your mum, your grandmother, or another special person in your life, we are here to help spoil them with our eco-friendly gifts that you will feel good about gifting.

 

For all your gifting needs on Mother’s Day or all year-round, come and see us at our Seddon store, or give us a call on 03 9396 1822. Alternatively, you can fill out our online contact form, or browse our online store any time!

Peter Collins
4 Skincare Tips for the Change of Seasons

It’s that time of year – the liminal time between Summer and Autumn. The weather is often still warm and muggy, punctuated by the occasional cooler day that reminds us that the seasons are changing. Soon, autumn will be here, the days will be colder, windier, and rainier, and the jackets and scarves will need to be pulled from our cupboards. But did you know that the change of seasons has a significant effect on your skin? That’s right, there are many ways that the seasons impact your skin, and there are changes that you can make to your routine to account for these impacts. Keep reading about what you can change in your skincare regimen with each season transition, and how our cruelty free skincare can help.

Summer to Autumn

The transition from summer to autumn means that the air actually becomes dryer as it becomes colder with the change of seasons. This means that your skin can lose the moisture that it may have built up throughout the summer. The start of autumn means that it’s time to focus on moisture and hydration once more, and to potentially to repair any damage that has been caused by the elements of summer. The harsh summer sun and the chlorine and saltwater from swimming may have impacted your skin more than you know, so now is the time for lots of hydration, in the form of a good moisturiser. A great option is the Bopo Women Super Soother Facial Oil as it is designed to hydrate, moisturise, and restore tired and dehydrated skin. Remember not to neglect your hands during this time of year, as the change in temperature can result in dry skin on your hands too. Use a nourishing and hydrating product such as the Salus Hand Rejuvenation Duo, which is made up of a hand wash and hand cream, and is a great addition to your autumn skincare routine.

Bopo Women Super Soother Facial Oil

 

Autumn to Winter

As the seasons move into winter, the temperature gets even chillier, so it is, of course, important to continue hydrating your skin every day with top-quality moisturising products. But in winter, it’s also important to remember to take care of the skin on the rest of your body too. Our LoveLuvo cruelty free body lotion is perfect for this. Scented with lavender, chamomile, and rosemary, this lotion is moisturising, cruelty free and sulphate free, and is a great product to nourish and moisturise your whole body. Use after a shower or a bath to lock in the natural oils and moisture of your skin. Another important point is to remember to look after the skin on your lips in winter. Why not try the We Are Feel Good Lip Balm? Enriched with Vitamin E, nourishing Shea Butter and even SPF 50+, this balm is perfect for protecting and moisturising your lips on cold winter days, sunny or otherwise.

 

Winter to Spring

As Winter turns to Spring, it is important to reassess your skincare routine. How is your skin feeling after the cold weather of winter? Are there any skin concerns that you may want to take care of with products like exfoliants or other skin treatments? Remember in Spring, as at all times of the year, it is critical to wear sunscreen every day, regardless of the season or the temperature and weather of the day. A fantastic option for an everyday sunscreen is the We Are Feel Good Signature Sunscreen. It is broad spectrum, non-greasy, and water resistant for up to four hours. Most importantly, the We Are Feel Good sunscreen is SPF 50+, making it perfect for our harsh Australian climate. It’s also important to note as spring is a common time for allergies and hay-fever, your skin can easily become dry from allergy medication. That’s why moisture is a critical consideration at all times of the year.

 

Spring to Summer

From spring into summer, and our skin is nearly back at the start of its seasonal cycle. Of course, sunscreen is critical in summer, as it is year-round in Australia. We tend to spend more time outdoors, thanks to the better weather and more hours of sunlight, so sunscreen is an absolute must. It’s also important to take care of your skins’ moisture levels during summertime, too. It could even be the time to use a lighter type of moisturiser so that your skin feels clean and clear during all those outdoor activities. Plus, summer is also a great time for exfoliating your skin, which you can do using the Salus Body Exfoliation Mitt. Use this in combination with soap or shower gel to see the rejuvenating and invigorating benefits of exfoliating.

 

Do You Need Cruelty Free Skincare?

Look no further than LoveLuvo! We proudly offer you a wide range of cruelty free skincare, alongside other sustainable products for all your face, body, home, or gifting needs.



So, whether you need a great moisturiser, an exceptional sunscreen, or a nourishing hand lotion for this change of seasons, come and visit us at our Seddon store, or give us a call at 03 9396 1822. Alternatively, you can fill out our online contact form, or visit our online store at any time!

Peter Collins
Cruelty Free vs. Vegan: 7 Questions Answered

Cruelty free vs. Vegan. You’ve seen and heard this scenario in the media and in the news, and even in the messaging of the skincare industry. However, when it comes to skincare, we don’t need to put these two terms against each other, as they actually have something important in common. This commonality is a desire and a mission to produce a product without impacting animals. Keep reading to find out more about the differences between the terms cruelty free and vegan when it comes to skincare. Plus, find out where to find cruelty free skincare and vegan skincare, so that you can feel good about what you use on your skin, and its impact on animals.

cruelty free skincare

Does Cruelty Free mean the same thing as Vegan?

No, and this is where the beauty and skincare industry can sometimes get it wrong. The terms cruelty free and vegan are often used interchangeably today, when in fact, they do not mean the same thing.

 

So, what does Cruelty Free mean?

In essence, cruelty free means that a product has been developed without being tested on animals. Wikipedia expands this definition, and states that cruelty free is a term used to describe “products or activities that do not harm or kill animals”. Therefore, as animal testing is generally inherently harmful to animals, any product or service that employs animal testing at any point in its development, cannot be considered cruelty free. It is also important to note that not only the final product is taken into account when it comes to animal testing. For instance, if any individual ingredient that is in the product has been tested on animals, the final product cannot be considered cruelty free. Therefore, when a product is labelled as cruelty free, you can rest assured that neither the finished skincare product nor any of its ingredients have been tested on animals.

 

And what does Vegan mean?

In contrast, vegan products can be described as those which do not contain any animal products. This means that no animal-derived products or animal by-products are used at any stage of the product development and production. When considering skincare, animal-derived products include ingredients such as gelatine and collagen. Similarly, when it comes to animal by-products, this means ingredients such as milk, honey, or beeswax.

 

Can a product be Cruelty Free and Vegan?

It is possible for a beauty, cosmetic or skincare product to be both cruelty free and vegan. If this is the case, then the product will state this in clear terms, meaning that somewhere on the product or in the product description, the terms, cruelty free and vegan will both be present.

 

What is Animal Testing in the Skincare Industry?

Animal testing is a term that refers to the cruel practice of performing procedures on animals which are designed to test the safety of skincare products. Animals are used to determine if products are both environmentally safe, and safe in terms of human health. These procedures inherently have the potential to harm animals physically and psychologically and cause them a huge amount of unnecessary suffering. At the end of the testing experiment, it is routine practice for the animals to be killed.

 

What is the Alternative to Animal Testing?

The answer is skincare that is cruelty free, or that is both vegan and cruelty free. These products are developed and tested for human and environmental safety, without inflicting harm upon defenceless animals. The sophisticated alternative to animal testing is actually the use of human cells or cell lines to carry out testing on, as well as advanced computer programs which are able to simulate the biology of humans. These measures can replace animals in the testing process.

 

How can I find Cruelty Free skincare?

That’s easy! You don’t have to look any further than LoveLuvo. We are proud to offer you a wide range of cruelty free skincare that you can feel good about purchasing and using. Take our LoveLuvo range, for instance. From body lotion, to hand and body wash, and even cruelty free shampoo, this range of face, hair, and body products is naturally formulated, made with premium Australian ingredients, and is of course, cruelty free! If it’s vegan skincare that you’re after, then Bopo Women has you covered. This range is vegan and cruelty free and includes a facial cleanser, a facial oil, and a brightening clay mask. You can find more Bopo Women products, and our full range of LoveLuvo products online, or at our Seddon store.

 

If you’re interested in skincare that is cruelty free, vegan, or natural and sustainable then you can give us a call at 03 9396 1822. You can come and see us at our Seddon store, visit our online store anytime, or alternatively, you can fill out our online contact form. We will be happy to get back to you!

Peter Collins
Social Enterprises: 4 Questions Answered

Have you ever wondered what exactly a social enterprise is? Maybe you’ve heard the term and want to know more about what makes a business one. It might surprise you to know that social enterprises are all around, not only in Melbourne, but across Australia. Keep reading to find out about social enterprises and how you can support them, including LoveLuvo, a Melbourne based retail social enterprise. Here at LoveLuvo we are purveyors of cruelty free skincare and other sustainable products, with asocial purpose at our core.

What is a Social Enterprise?

A social enterprise is a specific type of organisation that operates for one or more of the following reasons:

·      To tackle social problems

·      To improve communities

·      To provide people with access to employment and training

·      To help the environment

This purpose guides all decisions that the business makes and is at the very forefront of everything that the organisation does. The social purpose is the core and the heart of the social enterprise organisation.

What Qualifies as a Social Enterprise?

Official social enterprises can be certified by Social Traders, an official organisation that operates with the goal of promoting and backing the thriving social enterprise sector in Australia.

When a social enterprise is certified by Social Traders, this certification gives all stakeholders (such as customers and employees), confidence that the enterprise has a primary objective of making the world a better place for everyone.

A Social Trader certification lets stakeholders know that a significant percentage of its revenue comes from its commercial trade. In addition, this gives confidence to all involved that there is a continual reinvestment of efforts and resources back into that primary social purpose. According to Social Traders, social enterprises are “businesses like any other, but they exist specifically to make the world a better place.”

How Does LoveLuvo Fit In?

LoveLuvo is a retail social enterprise that was created by WCIG (Westgate Community Initiatives Group Ltd), a registered Australian charity, in 2011. The primary social focus of LoveLuvo is that we aim to provide sustainable and paid employment opportunities for people who experience barriers to employment. LoveLuvo strives to cultivate a supportive workplace, in which our employees can gain new skills, and grow in confidence.

Operating with a deep commitment to community and environment LoveLuvo also aims to make a positive impact to the world around us. This can be seen in our central ethos: The good you do comes back to you.

100% of profits from LoveLuvo come go to funding disability employment, education and training programs to improve lives.

In 2011, LoveLuvo opened as a retail space in order to provide another social enterprise opportunity in Melbourne that would create pathways to employment. One of the first services LoveLuvo focused on refillable products. LoveLuvo was one of the first places in Melbourne to offer this service at the time. As our business has grown, LoveLuvo has evolved to focus on sourcing vegan and cruelty free products from small and local businesses. This is another factor that aligns with our primary social purpose of supporting the local community and the environment. 

 

Today, LoveLuvo is a thriving store that is jam-packed with sustainable, locally sourced, and fair-trade products that meet three criteria:

·      They benefit the community

·      They benefit the environment

·      They increase the awareness of social enterprise

The products that are sold in the LoveLuvo store share our aim and purpose of creating a positive impact on the environment, the community, and the world in general.

 

How Can You Support LoveLuvo’s Social Enterprise?

 

The LoveLuvo store is full of cruelty free, vegan products, and sustainable skincare brands that are perfect for personal and everyday use. Our store is also stocked with beautiful products that make stunning cruelty free gifts.

There are many ways you can support our store and assist in achieving our social goals and purpose, including visiting our Seddon shopfront or shopping at our online store. From cruelty free skincare or sustainable hair products to vegan bath products, there are so many different options in store to suit every taste and preference, whether it is for yourself or as a gift.

One option that our local customers have is to make use of our refill service – of which LoveLuvo has been an innovator in this area and one of the first businesses in Melbourne to offer the service. Using refillable products is an easy swap that you can make to reduce your individual plastic waste and make a hugely positive impact on the environment.

 

Looking for Cruelty Free Skincare and More?

LoveLuvo is here for all your cruelty free, vegan, and sustainable needs. We are proud to be a Social Traders certified social enterprise and are passionate about making a positive impact on the community, the environment, and our wider world. Whether you need cruelty free skincare, sustainable bath and body products, or eco-friendly gifts, look no further than LoveLuvo!

 

Come and visit us at our Seddon store, give us a call at 03 9396 1822, or visit us online store any time! Alternatively, you can also fill out us online contact form, and we will be happy to get back to you.

Peter Collins