2014: Stand Out Skincare Brands

2014 was the year where I tried new things. I started blogging after years of putting it off and loved it. Through this I was introduced to new brands I hadn't tried before, three of which have become my standout brands of this year and I can't wait to see what they bring out in 2015.

Apivita
My love affair with Apivita started in January 2014 with one lip balm. Since then I have tried tested many items from hair-care to face masks. The standout products for me are their Lip Balms, serums shampoos and face masks. These face masks are sold in sachets so you can try many different masks without committing to a giant tube, very practical for travelling too. Apivita have since become a trusted brand for me as they avoid artificial and toxic ingredients which can have harmful effects on your health and environment. Each product combines three basic elements: nature, effectiveness and holistic wellbeing. If you haven't tried Apivita yet, I highly recommend them!

Bravura London
Bravura London was introduced to me through the Caroline Hirons effect. She mentioned one toner and since then I've been hooked. A truly unique brand who I think have the best customer service around. You can speak to specialists through the website who are extremely well educated when it comes to skin care and get free advice. They are helpful and efficient. Other brands should take note asap. I particularly love their toners especially the Purifying Calendula Toner and the Revitalising Ginseng Toner. I'm also a big fan of the Hot Volcanic Mud cleanser which can double as a face mask. Bravura provide affordable and effective skincare, they also have an on going buy 3 cleansers or toners get the cheapest at 60% off offer. I most definitely will be stocking up for 2015. I must also add that as someone who really hates paying over the top delivery charges I was so happy to see a skincare brand charge ACTUAL shipping costs only! Bravura I quite simply 'heart' you.

Merumaya
Merumaya created one of my favourite cleansers this year. The Melting Cleansing Balm is lovely to use, it melts off every trace of makeup and washes off without any film residue. The formula is luxurious and gentle. I think this will be well suited to every skin type. I really admire the founder of this brand Maleka Dattu, she is such an inspiration and really promotes going after your dreams. Maleka, like me has family origins in India, I love what she has achieved and can't wait to watch this company grow. This is one brand close to my heart and it has inspired me to go after my dreams.

Roll on 2015...