Did you make a New Year's Resolution to reduce your plastic use?  Are you looking to minimize the waste you generate on a daily basis?  Or have you recently started to transition to vegan friendly or nontoxic goodies??  Finding a go to range of effective and affordable products is a must, and being able to pick them all up in one place makes it all the easier to shop.  That's part of the beauty of Awake Organics!

As you know, I am a big fan of Awake Organics, and I have tried and enjoyed all of their creations over the last few years.  I love how innovative this brand is, and I find the dedication to reducing packaging and promoting a returns scheme so positive, I can't help but be a proud supporter and customer!

This UK-based company has it all - certified cruelty free, unique formulas that are super effective and suitable for all skin types, a clean range spanning everything from perfume to facial serums, transparency in all aspects of the business, and a kindheartedness that shines brightly in everything they do.  Awake Organics certainly raises the bar when it comes to eco-friendly beauty.

And today I'll be sharing my thoughts on their plastic free essentials, including the powder shampoo and natural deodorants.  These are green goodies that can really help reduce your impact on the planet, and they are some of the best you can get!  Curious??




Transparency Key:
* This post contains affiliate links and gifted products

No matter how I have received a product, whether it has been purchased with my own money, gifted by a brand, been subsidized by a brand, won, gifted by friends/family, or purchased with a gift voucher, my approach is always the same -- honesty, integrity, and highlighting both the good and the bad.  You can find more information on Disclosures and Privacy here.



Caffeine + Rosemary Vegan Shampoo (VF):
While shampoo bars seem to be the go to for most people when transitioning to plastic free products, these actually do not work for all hair types or all locations.  Hard water can make these difficult to use, and those with specific hair needs (like me with my stressed out thin locks) don't always get on with solid formulas like this.  But don't fret -- there are other options!!

The Caffeine + Rosemary Vegan Shampoo is the latest product to land in the Awake Organics lineup, and I have to say I was thrilled about the announcement.  I'm not the biggest fan of shampoo bars (though I have finally found a few that work for my thin hair and the hard water in our area), so alternatives are always intriguing.  When I heard that this would come inside a bottle, would be a powder formula, and had hair strengthening properties, I knew I had to test this out for myself.  So when Melissa asked if I would want to try out the new vegan shampoo, I jumped at the chance.

Our natural, plastic free shampoo is for you if:
Your hair is lacking volume or feels weak.
Your scalp is itchy or flakey (often caused by Sulphates, which over-dry and irritate your scalp).
You’ve tried shampoo bars and don’t love rubbing a bar of soap on your head, or find they dry out your hair beyond repair.
You don’t want to poison aquatic life every time you wash your hair (our formula is 100% biodegradable).
You don’t enjoy harsh, synthetic chemicals running down your face and body in the shower.
You want less plastic in your life.
You’d like something convenient for the gym, travel, etc.
You enjoy a nice, rich lather experience.

The bottle is compact, making it easy to store, plus I love how easily it fits in my hand as this makes it so much simpler to tap out the perfect amount of powder.  You just untwist the aluminium cap, and pour out the product into your hand.  Then mix with a few drops of water and voila! - a paste that is silky smooth and ready to lather up in your hair!





And let me say this foams up an extraordinary amount for a formula that contains no sulfates.  When you rub the product between your hands and then start to massage into your scalp and hair, there is so much suds so you get a thorough cleanse.  But don't fret - even though this has tons of lather, it is also super gentle on your locks.  With softening coconut milk powder as well as growth boosting caffiene, anti-fallout rosemary, and circulation supporting guarana seed, this blend is packed full of beneficial plant based goodness.

All of these ingredients also create a bright, zesty, uplifting aroma that is just so stimulating to breathe in whether it be morning or night.  The sharp notes of lemongrass come through strongly, but are softened by creamy coconut, herbal rosemary, and refreshing mint.  What you are left with is sunny and full of clarity - it reminds me of midsummer days and those rare perfect moments you get where everything is going your way.  I love it!

Overall, the powder shampoo from Awake Organics is much gentler on my hair than a shampoo bar, and it does not leave my strands feeling dried out or weighed down at all.  Plus, the Caffeine + Rosemary plastic free shampoo adds such a lovely shine to my hair, and it leaves it feeling softer which is a huge plus since my fine, dry hair seem to struggle finding that balance between moisture and protein.  I'm really looking forward to seeing long term results with this - I'm wondering if it will really help strengthen my strands and will update when this bottle is all finished.

For now though, I have to say this formula leaves my locks looking and feeling fresh, light, and totally reset.  And I find it pretty amazing that this little bottle will last over thirty washes - that's magic!

Ingredients: **Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (Mild Coconut-derived Cleanser), *^Tapioca Starch, *^Cocos Nucifera (Coconut Milk) Powder, **Coco-glucoside (Derived from Coconut and Fruit Sugars), ^Paullinia Cupana (Guarana Seed) Extract, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat Germ) Oil, Acacia Senegal (Acacia Tree) Gum, ^Citric Acid, *^Maltodextrin, *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary Leaf) Oil, *Cymbopogon Flexuosus (Lemongrass) Oil, +Citral, +Limonene, +Geraniol. (*Certified Organic Ingredient, **Biodegradable, ^Food Grade, +Occurs Naturally)

Awake Organics Deodorant:

When it comes to personal care products and toiletries we use every single day we need to make sure they are not posing any health concerns or poisoning the Earth. Simple switches can make a huge difference over time, so why not start with something as easy as what you swipe on your underarms!

Awake Organics has several natural deodorants in their line, including Aura Fit & Fresh, Space Cat, Moon Goo, and Star Cloud.  Each has been formulated with different needs in mind, so everyone can find their perfect fit!  With no staining and no aluminium, parabens, or mineral oils, plus totally free from any controversial or potentially harmful ingredients - these deodorants are seriously something else!  And the best news of all?  Each of these green goodies is now 100% plastic free!  Just take a look:




Star Cloud (VF) -
Crafted for the most sensitive skin, Star Cloud is a bicarb free and fragrance free option that is ideal for those who need the gentlest touch.  With coconut and hemp oil, plus shea butter and candelilla wax, this product offers all day protection and nourishment!

This natural deodorant contains the prebiotic Ogliosaccharides which feeds good bacteria that can help combat body odor, and vegan friendly Lactobacillus ferment, a probiotic that works to create the perfect environment for the good bacteria by balancing the pH of the skin.  The idea is that "with extra food and the right conditions, your good bacteria knock-out the smelly ones, leaving you smelling fresh all day."

Despite being free from essential oils and fragrance extracts, Star Cloud leaves your underarms feeling fresh throughout the day.  With this deodorant, there is no need for an added aroma, as you can trust the expertly blended ingredients to pack a punch and protect against unwanted smells.

This cream formula is smooth and soft, making it easy to apply.  It massages into your armpits, blending in quickly and not leaving your skin oily or wet.  There is not harsh or gritty consistency, making the whole experience all the more gentle!

Ingredients: *^Maranta Arundinacea (Prebiotic Arrowroot) Powder, Magnesium Oxide, *^Cocos Nucifera (Virgin Coconut) Oil, ^Cannabis Sativa (UK Hemp) Seed Oil, *+Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, #Cetearyl Olivate, Lactobacillus Ferment (Probiotic from vegan source), Tocopherol (Natural, Non-GM Vitamin E), #Sorbitan Olivate, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax. (*Certified Organic, ^Food Grade, +Fair Trade, #Ecocert Olive-derived Wax)


Space Cat (VF) -
Another bicarb free formula, but this one has the added beauty of a vanilla mint oil blend!

Space Cat is very similar to Star Cloud in terms of ingredients and performance, with the same base ingredients and lightweight feel on the skin.  This is one of my favourite deodorants from Awake Organics, and I find everything about it so lovely.  From the bright and cheerful design on the label (not to mention the cute little kitty cat!) to the almost fluffy texture when you dig into this cream.  This is more than just your average deo - it feels much more luxe.

If your skin is able to handle essential oils, this is definitely one to try out.  It has the pre and probiotics, plus the antibacterial power of rosemary, the lovely sweet zest of orange, the refreshing crispness of peppermint, and the warm comforting notes of vanilla.  It also has an added layer of moisture provided by the jojoba oil!  This is such a unique and yummy scent, and I love how soothing the smell is.  It's both calming and uplifting, and it is such a treat to start off the day with.

I find Space Cat lasts all day long without the need for any touch ups or reapplications, and it is gentle enough for me to use daily.  Like the other formula, this natural and plastic free deodorant uses probiotics to combat unwanted odors.  By creating a thin barrier and balancing the bacteria, the arrowroot and Lactobacillus Ferment are "designed to work with your skin’s own microbiome, and enable your good smelling bacteria to temporarily out-compete the stinky ones."  By regularly incorporating Space Cat into your routine, you can build up the bacteria that will keep you fresh!

Ingredients: *^Maranta Arundinacea (Prebiotic Arrowroot) Powder, Magnesium Oxide, ^Cannabis Sativa (UK Hemp) Seed Oil, *^Cocos Nucifera (Virgin Coconut) Oil, *+Butyrospermum Parkii (Raw Shea) Butter, "Cetearyl Olivate, Lactobacillus Ferment (Probiotic), Tocopherol (Natural, Non-GM Vitamin E), ‘"Sorbitan Olivate, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, *Citrus Sinensis (Sweet Orange) Oil, *Rosamarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Oil, *Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, #Limonene, #Linalol. (*Certified Organic, ^Food Grade, #Occurs Naturally in Essential Oils, +Fair Trade, "Ecocert Olive-derived Wax)




Moon Goo -
The third formula in the Awake Organics range is Moon Goo, a "super natural" deodorant that promises a solution for those needing even more protection.

Moon Goo has a thicker consistency due in part to the beeswax, and I find the richness of this version means that it lasts even longer than the other two deodorants, so if you need the ultimate protection Moon Goo is a great bet!  It warms up quickly though and applies just as evenly and easily as the other products, and still leaves no white marks or stains.  And despite the more intensive barrier against odors, this still feels light under your arms and does not cause any blocked pores.

Awake Organics states that "this product allows your body to sweat odour-free, which is a healthy and effective way to detox and keep cool. The addition of British Kaolin clay and organic Arrowroot powder help to reduce wetness too!"  This extra strength natural deodorant works to destroy bacteria that cause odor thanks to organic essential oils and it is gentle on the skin with the cream melting down into a smooth and easy to apply texture that isn't abrasive.  Plus, the lovely ingredients all work to keep your underarms moisturized as well as free from unpleasant odours.

And with the delicate scent of lavender, this deodorant offers tension easing properties.  The calming effect on the mind is a delight, and it proves a fab way to start the day off with a positive attitude.  I can breathe in the aroma and let the sense of peace wash over me, and the addition of peppermint, rosemary, and lemongrass work to clear the mind.  It's such an nice all-in-one approach, treating both body and mind!

Ingredients: *^Cocos Nucifera (Virgin Coconut) Oil, *^Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, ^Sodium Bicarbonate, ^Maranta Arundinacea (Arrowroot) Root, Cera Alba (Beeswax), British Kaolin, *^Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Leaf Oil, *^Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, *^Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Oil, *^Cymbopogon Citratus (Lemongrass) Leaf Oil, +Geraniol, +Linalool, +Limonene, +Citral (*Certified Organic, ^Food Grade, +Naturally Occurring in Essential Oils).


Aura -
Aura is the original zesty formula, and the largest size available from the Awake Organics deodorant line.  Aura Fit & Fresh is a cream deodorant that promises a nontoxic solution for odour protection.  With up to 24 hour protection, this all natural formula is long lasting and super effective.  I find once I apply in the morning I am totally set for the day.  I'm a light sweater generally (especially under my arms), but I can get a bit stinky, especially if I am on the go on a warmer day.  Luckily, Awake Organics' Aura is an all day defense against any unwanted smells while still allowing your body to sweat out toxins and keep cool!

"Our multi award-winning, herbal formula kills odour-causing bacteria for up to 24-hours with food grade organic Coconut oil, lavender, Rosemary, Peppermint and Lemongrass. Our 100% natural deodorant goes on super smooth in two seconds flat and has a cream-to-powder finish thanks to the addition of British Kaolin clay and organic Arrowroot powder."

As you can see, Aura shares the same base as Moon Goo, and is similar in many ways, including the rich consistency that is nourishing and smooth.  The main difference is the strength (though it does still last all day!) and the aroma.  While the tin version has a calming scent, this one is much more uplifting.  I find Aura so easy to use, and the sample I tried of this natural deodorant never stained my clothes even when I was in a rush and wasn't as tidy with the application.  If you like a zesty fragrance and an aluminium free formula, Awake Organics' Aura Fit & Fresh Natural Deodorant is a fantastic option!

Ingredients: *^Cocos Nucifera (Virgin Coconut) Oil, *^Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, ^Sodium Bicarbonate, ^Maranta Arundinacea (Arrowroot) Root, Cera Alba (Beeswax), British Kaolin, *^Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Leaf Oil, *^Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, *^Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Oil, *^Cymbopogon Citratus (Lemongrass) Leaf Oil, +Geraniol, +Linalool, +Limonene, +Citral (*Certified Organic, ^Food Grade, +Naturally Occurring in Essential Oils).




Starting your zero waste routine doesn't have to be difficult, and Awake Organics makes it as stress free as possible by offering vegan friendly alternatives, plastic free essentials, and effective solutions for all your daily needs.  From skincare treatments to shampoos and deodorants, this fab beauty brand has it all!

Find all of Awake Organics plastic free essentials over on their website (and get 15% off your first purchase!) or complete a one stop shop at Love Lula - either way, you are bound to have a wonderful routine that will help you minimize your waste as well as exposure to potentially toxic ingredients!

Have you tried this fab British beauty brand yet??  Let me know what you think xx