bdTrial: Natural, organic or cruelty-free

The BD team trial a range of beauty products that are natural, organic or cruelty-free.

Al'chemy Ylang Ylang Colour Care Shampoo
After heat styling and colouring my hair for years, I now opt for more natural products to help restore the damage inflicted on my locks. My go-to brand is the Australian made Al'chemy, and one of my favourite products from the range is the Ylang Ylang Shampoo. It helps to strengthen and enhance colour-treated hair, and is free from all the nasty stuff, including sulphates, parabens and silicones. And it works - leaving my hair feeling clean, hydrated and silky-soft! - Aja

Jasmin Organics Moisturising BB Cream
I like everything about this product! The rich, creamy formula suits my dry skin perfectly, gliding on smoothly and keeping my skin hydrated all day. The shade range is great - all tones are yellow-based to even out any redness, leaving me with a smooth, healthy-looking complexion.  Although I don’t usually wear foundation because I find most formulations drying, I have found myself applying this every morning for the past month and it instantly makes me feel more groomed! - Janet

nu’trir Collagen Boosting Peptide Serum
I’m all for anti-ageing but I’m afraid of smearing anything on my face that sounds like it belongs in a sci-fi film. nu’trir Collagen Boosting Peptide Serum contains natural ingredients that aren’t scary at all: olive and jojoba oils, vitamins A, B3 and C, and a natural active peptide called tryalgen. I’m using it to add a glow to my skin and and ward off those pesky fine lines and wrinkles - and loving the results so far. - Sarah

Rohr Remedy Honey Myrtle Body Wash
Winter is always nice in theory… Those of us with romantic imaginations think of log fires, snow and cosy knits. In reality, log fires are messy, Sydney doesn’t get snow, and cosy knits can itch. Beauty-wise, my biggest winter woe is definitely dry skin: it’s horrible and incredibly uncomfortable. I try to stick to natural body washes that are free from soap, as that only dries my skin even more This beautiful Rohr Remedy Honey Myrtle Body Wash is so gentle on my skin. I just love it. And as for that BOSS packaging? #instaworthy - Kelly

Physicians Formula Nude Wear Nude Glow Touch of Glow
Who doesn't like a product that adds a touch of radiance to your skin while making dark circles, fine lines and shadows disappear?! No one, that’s who! The Nude Wear Nude Glow Touch of Glow is an all-in-one concealer, highlighter and touch-up that contains 100 per cent nude pigments to give skin a glowing finish. I tend to pop it on the top of my cheekbones to accentuate them, as well as down the middle of my nose. With its cute packaging and cruelty-free status, everything about this Physicians Formula product gets my tick of approval! - Yelena

Nourish Naturals Crystal Deodorant
I’m always keen to go au naturale when I can, and natural deodorant is my latest – and bravest? – venture. I’ve been pleasantly surprised with the Nourish Naturals Crystal Deodorant. It’s hypoallergenic and free from alcohol and aluminium, which is excellent for sensitive skin and for those who, you know, like to shave their underarms every now and then. It’s a little different from a normal roll-on in that you have to wet the top before applying. While I don’t feel like it lasts as long as conventional deodorants, I do like knowing I’m taking a bit of a toxic load off my skin. Oh, and it’s suitable for both men and women – though I wouldn’t recommend sharing. But that’s just me ;). - Katia