Solero Viva in Carrickbeg, Carrick-On-Suir, Co. Tipperary
This issue owner/director Sarah Ponsonby Ryan, marketing manager Irene Malone and Retail Manager Helen Hahessy review eco cleaning refills, a magnesium supplement, shampoo bar and natural hair dye
1. CLEANING GEL
Sarah says: "I have sensitive skin so I'm really careful what I use. I absolutely love the Dublin Herbalists range, especially the Cleansing Gel which is so luxurious. It is also made locally to the shop."
2. MOISTURISER
Irene says: "I have tried lots of skincare ranges in the past, but now I stick to the Trilogy Skincare range. I love the Age Proof Multi Defence Moisturiser with SPF15 as it protects my skin from harmful UV rays all year round."
3. ECO CLEANING REFILLS
Helen says: "We offer refills of Ecover washing up liquid, laundry liquid and fabric softener in the shop, so I just bring in my empty bottles from home and refill them. It's a great way to reduce plastic and it's cheaper too."
4. MAGNESIUM
Sarah says: "I have an active lifestyle and take Viridian High Potency Magnesium with B6 which I find great for stress and also for muscle aches and pains. It helps me sleep too."
5. SHAMPOO BAR
Irene says: "I use the Palm Oil Free Handmade Shampoo bar which is an Irish company. The bar works like liquid shampoo, but drastically reduces my plastic bottles in my shower. Cut it in two and use one piece in your travel wash bag!"
6. HAIR COLOUR
Helen says: "I have used Naturtint hair colours for years. They are free from ammonia, parabens and SLS and are gentle on the scalp, while being as long lasting and effective as mainstream hair colours."
Healthy Beings in Strokestown, Co Roscommon
This issue proprietor Teresa Callaghan, sales assistant Susan Tighe and reflexologist/holistic therapist Michelle O'Connor test natural beauty products, an omega-3 product, vitamin C gel and olive leaf extract
1. OLIVE LEAF EXTRACT
Teresa says: "Comvita Olive Leaf Extract has powerful immune-boosting properties. It has numerous benefits, some of which are antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral, and is traditionally used to ease fever."
2. MAGNESIUM POWDER
Susan says: "Mag 365 BF is an excellent product for muscle function and eases stiffness. It is formulated with vitamins D3, K2 and ionic magnesium, boron, potassium and zinc."
3. L-THEANINE COMPLEX
Michelle says: "I think Macanta L-Theanine L-Ornithine Complex is a super product that aids relaxation and prolongs a restful night. It gives you a powerful combination of l-theanine, lemon balm and chamomile, combined with B vitamins, hops and ornithine."
4. VITAMIN C GEL
Teresa says: "Altrient C is a high potency vitamin C in the most bio-available form. It supports good cell health and boosts immunity during this flu season."
5. ASHWAGANDHA CAPSULES
Susan says: "Together Whole Root Ashwagandha is a wonderful product for the everyday stress and strains of our busy lifestyles. Sourced from 100% organic ashwagandha."
6. OMEGA-3
Teresa says: "Eskimo 3 Advanced EPA with vitamin D3 contains 800mg omega-3 EPA and DHA as well as 800iu of vitamin D3. So you just need one a day. It is excellent for heart, brain, vision as well as bones and muscles."
7. CLEANSING OIL AND FACE SERUM
Teresa says: "I love Irish beauty range Kinvara. My alltime favourite is Kinvara Absolute Cleansing Face Oil and 24hr Rosehip Face Serum. They smell gorgeous and are packed with natural ingredients."
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