One of the great things about organic, handmade brands is that you’re able to get a feel for how much the maker put into the products. From the formulation to the scent, and even the packaging, most handmade brands have a very unique feel. I knew there was something special about Live Botanicals the first time I tried their beautifully made products, and my fondness has only grown with each new product I’ve gotten to experience from their line. They have a wide-ranging line, with products for every skin type and each item is thoughtfully formulated from the wisdom of the founder, Carolyn McRory, who has studied herbalism in-depth and has a true appreciation of the power of nature.

All photography by emmaloo.co

I’ve talked about their products many times over the last year and frequently get questions about them, so I thought I’d share my thoughts on what I’ve tried so far! This line truly has something for everybody and very high-quality products at reasonable prices. You can check out their complete line on their site! Since they just went through a product update and rebranding, you may see some of the product names & groupings have changed, but the quality and effectiveness remains the same, if not better with some slight formulation tweaks.

Live Botanical Review

Let’s start with the products best for oily skin (though many of these work well on all skin types). Most of these were formerly in the AER line.

Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum $38

This is one of my must-have products because of how versatile and effective it is. It’s a very light serum and can be used under any moisturizer or heavier serum to pull even more moisture into your skin without any extra oiliness. They use a mix of hyaluronic acid molecular weights, which has been shown to be the most successful way for skin to use hyaluronic acid. This is a great first step after cleansing and before any other products are applied.

First Light Brightening Oil $68 (this is a larger size than before)

This light serum comes in an easy roll-on bottle and is meant to be more of a spot treatment for wrinkles, dark spots or scars. A little goes a long way. Just a light layer to the area will absorb in quickly and antioxidant-rich ingredients will get to work.

Balancing Whipped Oil $38

This has quickly become one of my favorite products from their line. It starts as a balm, but instantly becomes a light oily serum on your skin. It perfect for dry or combination skin that needs a little help balancing and a little support with breakouts. Also, it works well with aging skin. I am all of the above so this has performed well on my skin. I also love the soothing scent. I love Blue Tansy and can’t get enough of it!

Awaken Clearing Face Oil $26

This tiny bottle at a tiny price packs a punch. You can use it either as a spot treatment on blemishes or all-over, as a moisturizer on blemish-prone skin. Pumpkin Seed Oil and Calendula are the stars here. They work to calm skin and reduce breakouts. I whip this out when my skin is acting up. It’s a richer, thicker oil, but it absorbs in nicely.

The following are well suited for dry or aging skin. Many of these were formerly in the Luna line.

Nourishing Oil Cleanser $36

This cleansing oil gently dissolves makeup, oil, or any dirt from the day and removes it. One of the key oils in the blend is hemp seed oil, which I personally love. My skin responds really well to it. It has a nice, subtle lemony scent.

Illuminating Exfoliating Serum $38

They’ve packed a lot of beneficial ingredients into this bottle! Moth Bean Extract works as a natural alternative to retinol and plant-based lactic acids exfoliate. It also imparts moisture so it leaves your skin smooth and glowing! It’s also oil free.

Greenhouse Glow Antioxidant Mask $48

This mask is a balm that mixes with a little water to activate it. It has a long list of active, nutrient dense ingredients that work together to moisturize, increase collagen, promote circulation, and protect from daily stressors. It does it all!

Mask Bowl Set $20

This set is not only gorgeous, but it truly elevates your masking experience to brush it on just like they do at the spa. I love using this to mix up the Greenhouse Glow mask above.

Lastly, the products that work well for normal or combo skin. Many of these were formerly in the Fleur De Terre line.

Seasonal Radiance Elixir $48

Rotating seasonally distilled hydrosols that have a base of custom blended Mushroom Complex, which makes these next level. These pull in hydration, calm skin, and increase elasticity.

Skin Repair Balm $36

This is a great balm to have on-hand for any blemishes, irritation or even cuts. I use it on everything from bug bites to rashes on the kids. It has anti-inflammatory, astringent and antiseptic properties.

Hormonal Harmony Calming Oil $42

A deeply herbal and soothing scent stands out in this serum. A blend of ingredients to subdue inflammation, while adding lasting moisture, do their job well. This is a very welcome friend to any face that needs a little TLC.