One of my favorite things to do is take pictures for this blog. I don’t have much time for this these days, with a toddler running around non-stop like crazy. But the lack of time actually makes this whole process even more special. Being a visual person, I admire pretty bottles, interesting logos and anything that makes the product unique and aesthetically pleasing. Herbivore is one of the brands that have it all figured out. I think everyone will agree that their packaging is one of the most beautiful out there. You can feel that every detail is carefully picked and applied with love.
If you’ve ever heard about this brand, you know that Herbivore products are expensive as heck. That’s why their sample kits are so popular – it’s a really great way to try some of the best-sellers and see for yourself if you want to commit to full-size versions. The Hydrate + Glow Natural Skincare Mini Collection was my choice because, you know, who do not wish some deep hydration and glow? I certainly do.
The Mini Collection comes in a fancy box, which contains 4 sample-size products.
I honestly thought that the Brighten Instant Glow Mask (0.5 oz / 14 g) will be like some other heavy moisturizing face masks that promise glow but load your face with shea butter and call it a day. This one is actually made with skin exfoliants, like rice powder and pineapple enzymes, that gently get rid of dry, flaky skin. Also, a micronized Brazilian Tourmaline gemstone that is responsible for the glow this mask adds to the skin. The small jar was enough for 4-5 uses. I’m pretty sure you can stretch it to a couple of more times if you use it sparingly. Overall, this mask is a hit in my eyes because it is a gentle, yet effective treatment for anyone who wants a smooth and radiant skin appearance.
Rose Hibiscus Coconut Water Hydrating Face Mist (2 oz / 60 ml) contains natural plant coconut water toner infused with hibiscus extract and rosewater. I’d say the scent resembles roses, but only very distinctly. I like that it feels non-sticky and even a little hydrating. What I didn’t like though is my face turning red and hot right after spraying it. The redness subsided after 5-10 minutes, but it’s not what I want for my skin to feel like after a toner. I’ve tried many skincare products, and these things happen, so I’m not too discouraged to try other herbivore products, but I won’t be using this face mist for sure.
A teeny tiny jar of Pink Cloud Rosewater Moisture Cream (0.25 oz / 7.5 g) has so many positive reviews online it is mind-blowing. Many skincare Instagramers rave about it, so, naturally, it was very intriguing. The full-size jar of 50ml costs $48, and I won’t lie, I was thinking about getting it several times (even after all these years of blogging, marketing gets to me like that sometimes). Now I’m glad I waited and decided to go for this kit instead. Apparently, the Pink Cloud cream is formulated for all skin types, except mine. It’s a very lightweight lovely cream with a satin finish, but it’s just too light for my dehydrated skin. I’m pretty sure people with normal skin would enjoy this, but if you need more hydration than glow, Herbivore facial oils will serve you better.
Which brings me to the next, and the last, product in this kit – Phoenix Face Oil (0.3 oz / 8 ml). Now, this is indeed a gem. The Phoenix oil nourishes, revitalizes and leaves the skin plump and refreshed. It’s no wonder because its ingredient list is filled with the best ingredients a product can have. Rosehip oil, chia seed co2, seabuckthorn oil, neroli oil – just to name a few. Impressed beyond words.
The Hydrate + Glow Mini Collection is available at Herbivore, Sephora (this is where I got mine from) and some other herbivore stockists for $39 (value $51).
Have you tried Herbivore skincare? Any favorites?
I’m Inga, the creator of this online place called Organic Beauty Blogger. Since 2013, I’ve been on a mission to redefine beauty by sharing my insights into the world of green beauty.
