When I first connected with pAra botanica founder Christy Whitney-Matz, it was because I found her IG compelling and found myself in agreement with many of her posts. When I suggested, in passing, that she reach out if interested in collaboration--I wasn't sure if she would, but was honored that she did!
"pAra was born out of a strong desire to shine as much light into the world as possible while doing what I love most, extending a healing hand. The Apothecary offers rejuvenation, healing, and abundant health in it's truest earthly form."
I totally stalked her website to learn all I could. I was impressed by her presentation and formulation of her brand. It truly seems to be an extension of herself, and I can get behind something like that!
I sometimes get asked why it takes me so long to review a brand. First, it takes the skin up to 6 weeks to adjust to a new product(s). Second, I love to research the brand: check out their website, social presence and customer reviews to really get a feel for them and their story. Third, I try the products for at least 1-2 weeks straight.
My interaction with pAra was no different. I used the products for 1 week straight, then kept coming back for more!
The Chaya Beauty Balm was the only product that I didn't choose for myself. I know, so generous, right?!
My middle son actually has some pretty intense psoriasis on his scalp, and based on the ingredients of this balm, I knew I wanted to try it on him. I love that it was so effective--even when only using a tiny amount.
This balm boasts the superpowers of:
Sacha Inchi Oil, packed with antioxidants and Omega-3, is highly regenerative and restorative to problematic skin. It reduced irritation and inflammation within the skin, allowing it to heal faster.
Chia Seed Oil, which Chia is one of the richest sources of Omega-3 fatty acids in nature, pulls moisture from the lower layers of skin. This helps the skin look more youthful and supple. Its high levels of antioxidants, phytonutrients and zinc allow for the skin to be protected and heal damaged skin.
Hemp Seed Oil is rich in Vitamin A and C which help renew dull and irritated skin, while maintaining hydration and reducing inflammation.
Supercritical Turmeric is special "on a myriad of levels. It has been shown to help reduce acne inflammations and eczema, regulate sebum production, prevent the formation of wrinkles, retain skin elasticity, and one study shows that it even has some ability to protect our skin from UV rays." Supercritical Turmeric contains curcumin is known for its anti-inflammation and anti-carcinogenic properties, only found in this form.
Other active ingredients include: Supercritical German Blue Chamomile, Supercritical Black Cumin Seed. Supercritical Frankincense, Murumuru Butter, Rosehips, and Argan Oil.
His psoriasis flares based on his mood and diet, and has been instrumental in helping us manage his flare ups. This allowed this scales to fall off, while hydrating and healing the skin underneath.
The KOMALA Facial Cleanser contains two active ingredients worth mentioning: Raw Honey and Amla.
Raw Honey is naturally antibacterial and packed with antioxidants that help delay the aging process. Raw Honey also contains tons of enzymes, vitamins and minerals that help to clarify and tone the pores. Raw Honey is also anti inflammatory and helps the skin retain moisture better. I love mixing honey into my facial oils and masks
(if it doesn't already contain it) to elevate the benefits.
Amla is an Indian Gooseberry commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine. It has a unique balance of sour, sweet, pungent, bitter and astringent tastes all in one fruit and is said to help alleviate the underlying causes of a variety of health problems and psychological imbalances. Amla is extremely high in Vitamin C and contains a wide, rich range of antioxidant polyphenols--a combination which make each other more effective at nourishing and brightening the skin.
I loved that this cleanser felt like a creamier version of the skin cleansing oils I typically lean toward. It removed my makeup gently and thoroughly, and left my skin feeling plump and hydrated, even before using any moisturizer or serum.
The Jasmine Sandalwood Tonic Mist is like happiness in a bottle. Jasmine is possibly my favorite scent from nature, in fact, its an ingredient you will find in most of my natural perfume choices. Jasmine is warm, romantic and feminine, and has great natural skin benefits like boosting hydration, calming the skin and is a well known aphrodisiac.
I love a good toning mist, and this one is definitely top of my list. I not only loved the scent, but I loved the hydration it provided, and the sense of calm and joy when using. I used this during my skincare ritual, to set my makeup, and even to freshen up on my way out the door! I love, love, love this stuff! Seriously, you have to try some for yourself.
The Immortal Facial Serum was the star of everything I've tried so far. This creamy combination of power players like hyaluronic acid, resveratrol, helichrysum, hibiscus, sandalwood, frankincense, chia seed, green tea and amla, will even your skin tone, increase collagen production and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
My skin was so happy while using this gem. There's SO much I could tell you about this silky serum...seriously, I could could write an entirely separate post about this product alone. If I were to tell you about it here, this post would be so long--and it would ruin the discovery...you know, like one of those movie trailers that gives the whole movie away? I don't want to do that to you! So, just go get you some and you can thank me later. You won't be sorry, I promise!
The Hibiscus Amla Facial Exfoliator was a fast favorite as I absolutely love hibiscus. I use it in homemade healthy treats, a nice cup of tea, and skin treatments like facial steam. Plus, who doesn't love its rich pink hue?!
This exfoliator contains Amla as well, so your skin is reaping all the Vitamin C and antioxidant benefits of this gem. Hibiscus is also high in Vitamin C and is great at fighting free radicals that can attack your complexion.
And with shea butter is the base, it will purify your pores, and not clog them.
I loved how fresh my face felt after using this mask. I don't really like when masks leave my skin uncomfortably tight, so I was pleased when my skin felt hydrated, fresh and bright after each use.
I loved this line from start to finish: from its clean, minimal packaging, to its clever selection of ingredients and effective formulations. Christy is gifted, and I look forward to seeing what's on the horizon for her and her pAra brand. I am determined to try her SOMA Raw Honey Mask, BASPA Facial Steam and HAIMA Skin Dew next!
Let me know if you check them out--you won't be disappointed!