Skincare can be confusing for many, and is often a minefield of jargon and empty promises. Moreover, we’re often caught out by products labelled as “natural” when in fact, they may not be the “truly” natural formulation we were expecting. But, what if we could achieve healthy skin with a less is more approach, simply by removing the element of water? Vemel Waterless Organic Skincare does just that.
Vemel has a wonderful backstory and was founded by Agi, who says of her brand – “Vemel was born as an antidote to the chemical overload that we find in our every-day lives in our quest to help our children who suffered for years with eczema related skin conditions and allergies” – Agi.
You may be surprised to learn that by eliminating water, harsh chemicals can be left out too, and here’s why…
Basic chemistry tells us that certain ingredients don’t mix – the perfect example being oil and water. However, throw in an emulsifier, and two ingredients which would ordinarily repel can mix and remain stable. With that said, we must be mindful that our natural lipids are also subject to the action of “emulsification” which can cause irritation, contributing to dryness and accelerated ageing of the skin.
No water = no parabens
Other potentially harmful ingredients include parabens – a word we’re all familiar with. This collection of chemical preservatives isn’t a new concept; having first hit the labs in the 1950s and is usually found lurking in anything from shampoo and skincare to toothpaste. Its purpose is to inhibit and prevent the growth of mould within self-care products and prolong shelf-life. Alarmingly, it’s claimed parabens are believed to penetrate the skin and remain in the tissue, possibly disrupting hormone function and even mimicking oestrogen which can lead to reproductive issues, amongst others. (Trials are ongoing in this arena to establish a definitive long-term connection).
Glance over the ingredients list on your skincare and look out for parabens hiding behind these names:
Propylparaben
Methylparaben
Butylparaben
As consumers, we’re becoming savvier and when it comes to our skincare and beauty purchases, more likely to choose eco-conscious brands and less likely to have the wool pulled over our eyes. Armed with a much better understanding of the beauty industry, coupled with readily available and accessible information allows us to make informed choices for that of ourselves and family members.
Why not try a “less is more” approach and go waterless?
Vemel says; “Every single one of our products is abundant with vitamins, omega fatty acids and antioxidants derived from organically grown fruits, vegetables and plants to protect, hydrate and nurture our skin” – Vemel.
Furthermore, Vemel also says NO to perfumes and essential oils. You may be surprised to learn that these natural oils are widely regarded as skin irritants, therefore, have no place in Vemel’s range of products.
Unlike some skincare brands who have a huge range available, Vemel has a smaller collection of products which are suitable for everyone due to the truly natural promise, and most have multi-uses…
Active Radiance Serum 30g £38
Serums are a skincare must-have (in my book) and Vemel’s Active Radiance Serum serves as a little bottle of multiuse joy. Layer it under moisturiser on clean, damp skin, or, forget the moisturiser and simply use in its place. Power up other skincare products and in particular Vemel’s Fruit Clay Mask by adding a few drops before application. Other uses include soothing sore or chapped lips whilst adding a subtle sheen.
There’s goodness aplenty, with skin-loving vitamins and antioxidants packed into every drop of this silky-textured organic serum. Ingredients include powerful Oat Active to renew and protect the skin’s lipid barrier, locking in moisture to reduce and slow the signs of ageing. With a natural scent, I find the serum soothing and leaves my skin feeling nourished which is just as I was expecting. Whilst it’s perfect for the face and lips, I also like to massage my cuticles with a couple of drops to keep them hydrated – it really is a fabulous all-rounder.
Vitamin Rich Face Butter 50g £34
Firstly, all of Vemel’s solid skincare formulations come with their very own ethically sourced, bamboo spatula. This prevents you from inadvertently introducing bacteria to the pot via your fingertips with each use – remember, there aren’t any parabens to keep bacterial growth at bay in waterless products, so always use the spatula provided.
When It comes to skincare, the word “butter” generally means you’re in for a skin-nourishing treat. Loaded with natural collagen-boosting ingredients; including organic mango butter, sea buckthorn (seaberry), and carrot extracts to target the ageing signs we’re all familiar with, revealing a radiant complexion.
As you might imagine, when a product looks so deliciously buttery, it behaves like butter too and literally melts into the skin as it warms. Waterless skincare can take longer to absorb into the skin with Just a pea-sized amount scooped out with the spatula being enough for the entire face and neck. Again, clean damp skin is a prerequisite and circular motions are the recommendation to boost circulation. Can be used morning and night.
Other than a very mild and organic, almost “woody” aroma, borne from a blend of natural ingredients the scent is one which I find neutral and non-offensive. I also take great pleasure in knowing that there is absolutely nothing that will harm my body which actually encourages a feel-good factor. My skin is cared for and deeply moisturised leaving it healthy-looking and supple.
Soothing Deodorant Balm 30g £10
Standard deodorants are always subject to bad press, aren’t they? but for good reason. The main problem ingredient in almost all drug-store deodorants is aluminium. When my daughter was going through puberty a couple of years ago and began requiring deodorant, I searched around for a gentle, less “synthetic” alternative for her. I knew of the harm daily use of harsh chemicals could have on her growing body and I wanted to do the best I could as her mother. With that in mind, I was keen to try Vemel Soothing Deodorant.
Generally, without aluminium, deodorant products seem to lose their effectiveness, (in my experience). So, how did this one fare? First and foremost, it’s a balm which is a new concept for me, other similar products I came across for my daughter are creams or a solid form of salt/ crystal, but this balm is different.
For me, deodorant needs to be convenient and whilst I certainly wouldn’t consider using an aerosol, I wasn’t sure I’d be on board with one requiring a fingertip application either. However, I was pleasantly surprised. This soothing balm is not only effective, it cares for the skin and nourishes the underarm area with each application blending effortlessly into the skin, but, does it actually work?
Applied straight after showering, there’s no sticky residue, feels comforting on the skin and literally goes unnoticed once it’s settled. Importantly, there’s no discomfort to be felt when used on a newly-shaved armpit area which is a big plus for this little pot. I remained fresh throughout the day and around the clock until my next shower, by which point If I wasn’t showering, I’d definitely need to reapply.
A careful concoction of 100% natural ingredients including coconut oil, primrose extract, arrowroot and oat colloidal means gentle all-day protection from perspiration and odour. With a family-friendly formula, it’s perfect for teenagers just starting out. It comes with its own little branded, draw-string bag.
Using the organic bamboo spatula provided, apply a fingertip amount onto your skin and gently rub into the entire underarm area.
Vemel’s planet-friendly commitment…
Vemel goes the extra mile to ensure that every aspect of its products, packaging and accessories are plastic-free, produced ethically and are 100% planet-friendly. All outer boxes are fully recyclable and the use of non-recyclable pipettes is outcast. Vemel’s 100% natural and eco-friendly bamboo spatulas are sourced from sustainable FSC certified forests.
Final thoughts; we might expect our skincare to have a certain shelf-life, (especially if we’ve paid good money). Choosing waterless shouldn’t mean we’re compromising on efficacy. This certainly isn’t the case with Vemel – my three products have a twelve-month expiry.
It’s worth remembering that our skin is the largest living organ of our body and most of what we apply to it is absorbed directly into our bloodstream which is definitely food for thought – what price would you put on your skin’s health? Visit vemel.co.uk to discover more. Ps. There’s a summer sale on! Enter code summer15 at checkout and save 15% on your order.
Vemel product range is cruelty-free, suitable for all skin types, and is both gender and age-neutral. Shelf-life 12 months.
Are you intrigued by Vemel Waterless Skincare? I’d love to know what you think?
*This post is a paid partnership with:
This looks so lovely Samantha! Thanks for introducing this brand to me as I never heard it before.
Gemma x
http://www.jacquardflower.uk
Author
I’m so pleased to hear that. I love discovering new brands and products too! This is my first time with waterless skincare but I’ve been really impressed by it. I’m glad you found it interesting. x
I’ve not heard of Vemel products before now but they look and sound wonderful. I’m all about keeping skincare simple and just good for the skin, but I’ve never thought about the implications of water in skincare before! So interesting and I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out to try these- the face butter looks so indulgent.
Soph – https://sophhearts.com x
Author
Hi Soph, I’m so pleased you found it interesting. Waterless skincare was really a new thing for me too and I hadn’t really considered it previously. Yes, the Face Butter is wonderful and very indulgent! Literally good enough to eat x
Love the idea of organic and or natural as possible products. This is right up my alley and I love the review 🙂 http://www.bauchlefashion.com/2020/06/accessories-forecast-diamond-necklaces.html
Author
Thanks so much. I totally agree, 100% natural is definitely a new way forward. x
Never heard of this brand before, thanks for the review!
Author
I’m pleased to have introduced you to a new brand! Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed the post. x
I saw this brand on your Instagram, and it looks so interesting Samantha! I really love the concept of waterless skincare <3
Serene XOXO
http://www.surrealserene.com
Author
So pleased you like it, thanks lovely. Water in skincare Is something we don’t tend to consider but it’s great to know what’s going onto our skin won’t harm us. x
Ah sounds great, thanks for review!
Allie of
http://www.allienyc.com
I’ve never heard of this brand before, looks really beautiful! Thanks for the review x
http://new-lune.com