L'Oreal Extraordinary Clay Review - Shampoo & Conditioner

I do love to try before I buy so I was happy that last month's Red Magazine had sample sachets of L'Oreal's newest hair care range - Extraordinary Clay - both shampoo and conditioner to try.

I managed to get two uses out of the sachets and have to say I was pleasantly surprised, I had envisaged a clay like texture to the products but actually they were just like a regular shampoo and conditioner.

L'Oreal say 

Introducing our breakthrough innovation from Elvive, Extraordinary Clay. For the first time we have combined 3 refined clays into a hair care range to break the vicious cycle of oily roots & dry ends.

Clays have been celebrated in beauty rituals for thousands of years due to their unrivalled ability to cleanse, purify and energise. In terms of hair care, Clays combat the excessive oil production at the roots but also any dehydration throughout the lengths and ends.

THE SECRET OF CLAY FOR 72 HOURS OF PURE ROOTS AND HYDRATED ENDS

• Scalp feels deeply purified for 72 hours with freshness and light, lifted roots.
• Dry hair feels hydrated right to the ends for fluid, free-flowing lengths.
• Revitalises the hair with softness, shine and bounce.

L'Oreal Elvive Extraordinary Clay Re-balancing Shampoo - 

L'Oreal Elvive Extraordinary Clay Re-balancing Conditioner - 

Deeply purified roots, hydrated feeling ends. For perfectly balanced hair.

My thoughts 

The products smell fresh and gorgeous, the shampoo lathers well and the conditioner leaves hair soft and silky. Hair smells lovely once dried and feels super clean. I was actually really surprised that this did what it promises. My ends have really looked dead and dry and I wasn't expecting much but the result once dried and styled was that my ends looked healthy and smooth. Hair looked glossy and bright, so bright in fact that my mother in law asked if I had just had my hair highlighted!

I have thick, coarse highlighted hair and Extraordinary Clay rejuvenated my hair and worked a treat. My only reservation which would stop me buying the shampoo is the fact that it contains SLS. As I have scalp psoriasis, continued use of this shampoo would start irritating it. I would definitely consider buying the conditioner however. 

Have you tried this new range? 

OGX Lemon Highlights Shampoo & Conditioner Review

Last year I reviewed OGX Coconut Oil Weightless Hydrating Oil Mist with positive results and so I was eager to try some Shampoo & Conditioners from the brand.

At the end of last year I was given the opportunity to try some new products from OGX - Sunkissed Blonde - Lemon Highlights Shampoo and Conditioner. However, I have to say that OGX have a huge amount of choice when it comes to haircare products and is well worth a look, plus they smell gorgeous!

In big, bright packaging this is a cheery way to start the morning and certainly livens up the bathroom and pleasingly the product inside does exactly what it promises too.

OGX say 

A tropical blend of brightening lemon citrus oil to enhance shimmery, sunlit highlights all year long, with rich coconut oil to smooth and add shine while exotic key lime extract takes you away to a sensual paradise.

My thoughts 

I have highlights in my hair and they were beginning to look a bit lacklustre and dull, using the OGX Lemon Highlights Shampoo and Conditioner has really helped transform my hair. From the first use I could see that my highlights appeared brighter, blonder (although this is not a lightening treatment) and my hair shinier. I liked it so much I have continued to use these products and will undoubtedly finish the bottles, although it will take some time as they are so big!

A big thumbs up from me.

* SLS free and paraben free.

OGX Lemon Highlights Collection - Shampoo & Conditioner are on sale exclusively at Waitrose stores nationwide for £6.99 each. 

*PR Samples

Childs Farm Caked In Mud! Hair & Body Wash & Hand Wash For Mucky Mitts - Review

I don't know about your child(ren) but my six year old boy is an absolute nightmare to get in the bath or to get him to wash his hands. It wasn't always this way, when he was younger he loved it but now I guess he would be much rather doing other things. However this aversion is ironic considering he now gets muckier than ever...

I have always used paraben free and SLS free bath products for my boy ever since he was born, however I must admit I relaxed with the hand wash once he was old enough to use it.  Inside however I wished that I knew of a product that was SLS free because I prefer not to use it where possible.

Enter two fabulous products from Childs Farm which has made my life so much easier and made washing his hands and bath time generally more fun..no more resistance. Which from my point of view is ace.

First up is Childs Farm Hand Wash For Mucky Mitts

Childs Farm say 

Childs Farm hand wash contains grapefruit and organic tea tree essential oil to cut through grime and gently moisturise.

- Suitable for eczema prone skin
- For newborns & upwards
- Dermatologically tested and approved.
- Paediatrician approved.
- Over 98% natural ingredients
- NO parabens
- NO SLS’s
- NO mineral oils
- NO artificial colours
- Contains organic essential oils
- Tested on children

My thoughts 

I read out the description 'for mucky mitts' and this put a smile on his face. I told him that this hand wash was just for him and he asked to smell it. Mmmm he said. Since then he has taken himself happily off to the bathroom and washes his hands all by himself. It has a delicious and refreshing grapefruit scent which I adore too and secretly I want to use it too!

No more nagging needed. He loves that the hand wash is especially for him. I love the fact that it contains no nasties.

Win.Win.

*Childs Farm Hand Wash For Mucky Mitts 250ml £4.69

Childs Farm Caked In Mud! Hair and Body Wash For Dirty Rascals 

Childs Farm say 

Childs Farm hair & body wash contains organic sweet orange essential oil & Argan oil to cut through grime and gently moisturise. Suitable for eczema prone skin.

For newborns & upwards

- Dermatologically tested and approved.
- Paediatrician approved.
- Over 98% natural ingredients
- NO parabens
- NO SLS’s
- NO mineral oils
- NO artificial colours
- Contains Argan (Moroccan) oil
- Contains organic essential oils
- Tested on children

My thoughts 

Aaron loved looking at the drawing on the bottle and laughed when I read out the product's name. He really, really loved the scent and wanted to jump in the bath immediately to try it!

The scent is a really lovely orange smell and the body wash left his skin nice and soft. As it was quite warm that day I left his hair to dry naturally and it looked smooth, silky and shiny. It does say that if it gets into eyes their won't be tears.. and there wasn't. Love at first use.

A firm favourite in this house, he now asks to have baths!

*Childs Farm Caked In Mud! Hair and Body Wash For Dirty Rascals 250ml £4.69

Childs Farm products are available from John Lewis and Ocado 

*PR Samples

Ojon Rare Blend Infusion Shampoo and Rare Blend Deep Conditioner - Review

My mum is a big fan of Ojon products, swearing by the products that are best suited for her hair type she has already repurchased.. Her hair always looks healthy and luscious so she must be on to something there. I recently spent an evening with a few of the Ojon team and was really looking forward to trying out a few products from the Ojon range suitable for my hair type. Today I am focusing on the Shampoo and Conditioner designed for my hair... (dry and coloured)

Ojon Rare Blend Infusion Shampoo

Ojon say 

Deeply nourishing shampoo to restore as it cleanses.
Fortified with a rare blend of legendary "healing" oils including pure Ojon™ Oil, this moisturizing shampoo nourishes to restore every time you wash your hair. Beads of antioxidant-rich Rouge Oleifera release on contact to revive and bring vibrant life to parched, damaged hair. Hair is visibly rejuvenated. And coconut cleansers formulated without sulfates help protect hair's vital natural oils.

My thoughts

The infusion shampoo has a really pleasant subtle vanilla scent and I like the fact that the bottle is clear so I can see the amount of product inside. I wish all products were like this to be honest as I hate not knowing how much I have left! The shampoo is clear with these hard micro beads inside suspended within it which burst open when you massage the product into the hair. The shampoo foams in abundance.

I found it to be gentle on my scalp and appreciate the lack of sulfates (being a scalp psoriasis sufferer)

Ojon Rare Blend Deep Conditioner 

Ojon say 

A dual-phase, multitasking, conditioning treatment that deeply nourishes to repair, detangles, hydrates, smoothes and restores high-gloss shine.

This deep conditioner contains two potent phases:
The amber is a restorative blend of 7 rare oils including pure hair-repairing Ojon™ Oil plus African Shea, Brazilian Muru Muru, and Indian Kokum butters.
Tthe ivory is a moisture-rich cream infused with deeply nourishing plant-derived conditioners.
Just a dollop softens, hydrates and helps restore high-gloss shine and healthy look to even the most dry, damaged hair.

My thoughts 

Just like the Shampoo, the Conditioner bottle is see through so I can see how much product is left. It has a really nice creamy lemon scent and I love the novelty of the dual phase that means that two colours come out of the tube. I think it looks just like the inside of a Cadbury's creme egg.. tempted to lick it!

After shampooing and rinsing, you apply this blended together onto your scalp, leave for 2 minutes and rinse out.

Rinsing it out, hair feels so silky smooth.

The results 

I am really pleased with the results I have to say. Immediately, I noticed my hair was tangle free, brushing it after washing with ease. The condition of my hair was much improved, healthier looking, smoother, sleeker after styling and the all important shine was there! Oh the shine, how I love thee...

For me I can really see the difference swapping to these products from what I was currently using. Hair is super soft, shiny and healthy looking, easier and more manageable to style and my ends rather than looking frazzled and tired have perked right up.

Ojon Rare Blend Infusion Shampoo 240ml £25
Ojon Rare Blend Deep Conditioner 150ml £29

*PR Samples

Noble Isle Lightning Oak Hertford Heath Hair & Body Wash - One For The Men

The lucky husband has been trying out some men's hair & body wash for me and I say lucky because he has been using luxury British brand Noble Isle's Lightning Oak Hertford Heath Hair & Body Wash albeit a travel sized version. Now it has to be said he is a rather fussy fellow and often when I ask him to try something and then ask his opinion the best that he can muster is a non committal 'Yes it was ok' so imagine my surprise when his reply this time was .. Yes I really liked, it was good.. Hallelujah!

Noble Isle say

An enduring, handsome fragrance, balancing smoky wood aromas with modern notes of crushed pepper and bergamot, enriched with toning extract of English oak.

Fragrance Notes

Top notes: Bergamot, Grapefruit
Heart notes: Cardamom, Clove Bud
Base notes: Vetiver, Sandalwood

My husband's thoughts

A fabulous masculine scent that is akin to an aftershave, woody with a hint of zest. It foamed up nicely to feel like it was giving a good clean and worked nicely on my hair too. Skin was refreshed and hair smelt good. I liked the clean cut packaging design and the product being green felt like it was really natural and earthy. I like the fact that one product does two things, I don't have to faff about with two items in the shower. I would use this again.

Final words... My husband said.. buy it for me. High praise indeed.

Noble Isle Lightning Oak Hertford Heath Hair & Body Wash 250ml costs £20 

Visit www.nobleisle.com for more details 

Capasal Therapeutic Shampoo - Alternative to Polytar

I have been suffering from scalp psoriasis for as long as I can remember. I have tried a few shampoos and what really worked for me in keeping my symptoms under control was tar based Polytar Shampoo. Unfortunately this product became impossible to purchase (in fact pretty nonexistent) as a key ingredient became hard to get hold off, so manufacturing seized.

On the back of promises of its return I held off looking for alternatives and as I knew that products with SLS made the condition worse I switched to a SLS free shampoo and sat and waited for it to come back onto the shelves.

As the months went on my condition was worsening. My scalp was incredibly itchy to the point of being painful, I was scratching it till it bled. It was flaky too which is embarrassing when wearing dark clothing. It also coincided with a particularly stressful time for me and this just aggravated the condition even more.

I knew I had to take action when psoriasis appeared on my body and was starting to spread. The sun undoubtedly helped during this time but I hit twitter and asked for suggestions.

A pharmacist replied and suggested Capasal Therapeutic Shampoo. This is available on prescription but I bought it in Boots with no problem having asked at the Pharmacy section.

Capasal contains Salicylic acid, Coconut Oil and Distilled Coal Tar. It is gloopy in texture like T-Gel and yes it will leave your hair smelling like a freshly laid road. I actually like this smell so it doesn't bother me at all.

Instructions for use  - wet hair, massage in/lather up a small amount, leave on for a few minutes and then remove lather. Follow by rinsing with clean water.

I noticed a relief in my symptoms from the very first use. This product has been my saviour and is keeping my psoriasis under control.

It won't be for everyone and I would always urge you to check the ingredients if you have allergies in case this isn't suitable for you and/or seek advice from the pharmacist if you are concerned in any way.

I paid around £7 for Capasal but it was completely and utterly worth it.

Sachet Sample Sunday - John Frieda Sheer Blonde Everlasting Blonde Shampoo & Conditioner

I don't know about you but I do get a teensy bit excited when I find sachet samples in magazines. I love the idea of trying before I buy. This generous sachet duo of Shampoo and Conditioner from the John Frieda Sheer Blonde range (Everlasting Blonde) was enough for two hair washes at 8ml each.

John Frieda says 

Keep your blonde colour fresh for the look and feel of newly coloured hair. With safflower oil and bergamot extract, this colour preserving helps keep your blonder from fading while leaving hair soft.

Safe for colour treated and chemically treated hair.

My thoughts 

I have highlighted hair so although I wouldn't be able to see whether it stopped my colour from fading with just 2 washes I was still keen to try it.

The shampoo and conditioner smell really lovely and fresh, the shampoo foamed up nicely (SLS in the shampoo), the conditioner was creamy and rinsed out well leaving my hair feeling really clean. My hair was manageable to style and felt soft and silky to touch. I felt that the shampoo and conditioner brightened and brought out my highlights.

If it didn't contain SLS ( it aggravates my psoriasis) I would consider purchasing the duo.

Tip - These sachet samples are great to save up and take away with you if you are on a short break.

John Frieda Sheer Blonde Everlasting Blonde Colour Preserving Shampoo is available in 50ml and 250ml (£5.89)
John Frieda Sheer Blonde Everlasting Blonde Colour Preserving Conditioner is available in 50ml and 250ml (£5.89

My Hair Loves - KMS California Tame Frizz

It is fair to say my hair suffers from the curse of frizz (especially in humidity, think Monica in Friends on vacation) so when I was invited to the launch of KMS California's newest range TAMEFRIZZ I was there like a shot.

TAMEFRIZZ claims 

Ultimate frizz fighter - Up to 100% Frizz Reduction plus Humidity Resistance for up to 3 days*

* With use of the TAMEFRIZZ system.

The difference with this range is that it claims to work both internally and externally to calm frizz instantly while delivering lost-lasting control and manageability.

Internally the De-Frizz System strengthens the hair structure and increases pliability helping to calm frizz. Externally the De-Frizz System smoothes the cuticle and reduces the visible effects of frizz.

The key ingredient is Pequi Oil which is an antioxidant-rich Brazilian fruit found in the Amazon, high in Vitamin A and E, which is known for taming frizz (a quick google informs me that this oil is known for taming and smoothing brittle hair). Also contains Acacia which is rich in sugar derivatives with moisturising properties, known for smoothing and increasing pliability.

Does it work? My thoughts

I was given one of the TAMEFRIZZ Frizz Fighter Kits to take away with me and try.  The kits are great value - basically for the normal cost of the shampoo and conditioner you get the oil and 2 sachets as well.

First of all I have to say the products smell absolutely wonderful. The shampoo and conditioner feel quite heavy on the hair, even when rinsed off, but the hair does feel clean. The heaviness to me makes this feel far more of a treatment system as opposed to a regular shampoo and conditioner. Before I had even dried by hair I could tell it was going to be smooth. I added the taming creme and possible used a little too much (probably over excited about the promises of this system!) so I would only use a little of this product.

Having dried my hair and straightened it I added the minutest amount of the delicious de-frizz oil which is gorgeous and incredibly light as a finisher.

The results - Not a hint of frizz, I was very impressed as to how smooth my hair was. However, what really  sets this apart is the fact that after a day or so my hair can start to grow outwards with the humidity..with the recent hot weather I was perfectly poised to put the 3 day claim to the test... and I can confirm that for 3 days (before I washed it again) my hair remained looking exactly as I had styled it.

Bottom line - This works

TAMEFRIZZ Frizz Fighter Kits are limited edition and cost £29.50 - available from salons and selected online stockists.

Kits contain

TAMEFRIZZ Shampoo (full size)
TAMEFRIZZ Conditioner (full size)
TAMEFRIZZ De-Frizz Oil (full size)
TAMEFRIZZ Smoothing Lotion (sachet)
TAMEFRIZZ Taming Creme (sachet)
Wide-toothed comb.

*PR Sample

My Hair Loves - APIVITA Propoline Citrus & Honey Shampoo

I was recently sent a few bits from APIVITA to try and top of my list (so far!) is this rather fabulous shampoo.

APIVITA say 

For shiny, revitalised hair, this shampoo strengthens, tones and protects from split ends.

Lemon, orange and grapefruit - revitalise and give shine
Ginseng, trace elements and vitamins - strengthen and tone hair

Panthenol, honey and bio cotton protection system - protect from split ends

Rosemary infusion instead of water offers antioxidant protection
88% natural ingredients free of: Parabens, silicones, mineral oil, propylene glycol, ethanolamines, colorants, phthalates, polycyclic musks and nitro musks.

My thoughts 

A long time ago I used to use a shampoo and conditioner called Citri-Shine and to be honest I had all but forgotten about it, until I flipped open the lid of Propoline Citrus & Honey Shampoo - the scent took me right back! I absolutely love the fresh, citrus scent. The product foams nicely (that will be the SLS) and rinses out well leaving no residue.

Result - 

Styling my hair I am left with shiny, bright hair. My (long faded) highlights seem to have been given a new lease of life. 

Really nice product.

APIVITA Propoline Citrus & Honey Shampoo 250ml costs £13 and is available from the new Beauty Halls at Marks and Spencer and online

*PR Sample

L'Oreal Hair Expertise EverRiche Nourishing & Taming Shampoo and Conditioner Review

I usually add the words My Hair Loves in the title of hair care posts but the title was far too long so they were omitted but hair does indeed love these products!

I don't often write hair care posts as I am rarely wowed by a product. I have to see a real difference for me to put finger to laptop and recommend a hair care product, in this case I am very excited to share my thoughts on this Shampoo and Conditioner.

L'Oreal Hair Expertise EverRiche Nourishing & Taming Shampoo 

L'Oreal Say

This shampoo is specifically designed for very dry and rebellious hair. Enriched with botanical oils Cameling and Apricot Seed and non-sulphate cleansing surfactants, the formula leaves hair feeling intensely nourished whilst helping to protect from dryness.

My thoughts

The shampoo is opaque colour and texture wise is thick and creamy much like a conditioner. Despite being SLS free it foams up nicely to give that all important feeling of really cleaning your hair. As an aside I personally don't feel the need for loads of foam but I know a lot of people need the reassurance.

It smells divine with a very subtle coconut scent which just adds to the experience.


L'Oreal Hair Expertise EverRiche Nourishing & Taming Conditioner

My thoughts

The conditioner has the same divine scent as the shampoo, it is opaque and slightly thicker than the shampoo (as you would expect). After rinsing out I can see and feel the difference in my hair, it really feels conditioned and smooth. It is incredibly manageable and the comb just glides through it. It doesn't weigh the hair down.

Results 

Background -
My hair is thick and porous. I have been highlighting it in some way every year for nearly 20 years now. I have frizzy, wavy hair that has a mind of its own. If I leave it to dry without touching it, it goes wavy and frizzy, basically resembles someone who has been dragged through a bush.

Using this shampoo and conditioner combination I can achieve salon textured hair at home, something I have only dreamed of in the past. My hair after styling is super soft, sleek and silky to the touch and it stays this way until the next wash. My hair looks healthy and shines. In fact the first time I used the products a woman at the school complimented me on my hair and said that it looked like I really looked after it!

My usual routine is to air dry for a bit and then blow dry it and then straighten but using these products I could just blow dry it straight and leave it like that, it is that smooth. For the sake of extra sleekness I run the straighteners over it but it just needs going over once.

I love these products and as they are such a great price I would certainly purchase over and over again.

Holy Grail material.

L'Oreal Hair Expertise EverRiche Nourishing & Taming Shampoo and Conditioner 250ml cost £5.99 each.

*PR Sample

My Hair Loves-Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Daily Shampoo and Daily Treatment

Styling my hair is the bane of my life, I love the end result but getting there seems like a mammoth task. The reason for this is that I have med/long thick, porous hair that stays wet for what feels like an eternity. By the time it has dried I have long given up wanting to do anything with it. Even when using a hairdryer it can take anything up to 30 minutes to get completely dry.

So, imagine my delight in finding products that claims to reduce drying and styling time that really work!

Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Daily Shampoo and Daily Treatment - Smoothing Collection

Claims 

Daily Shampoo

Cleanses and smoothes hair. Makes rebellious locks softer and more manageable. Helps reduce drying time and speed up styling.Our exclusive Super Skinny® Complex displaces water and helps to constrict the hair for a smoother surface. Mild surfactants cleanse without stripping or plumping hair. Colour-safe formula.

Daily Treatment 

Helps to smooth and soften strands. Helps repair and prevent damage. Speeds up drying and styling to get you out the door faster. Our exclusive Super Skinny® Complex smoothes and softens hair and provides easy slip and wet combing. Heat-activated conditioners and thermal protectants help repair and prevent surface damage.

My thoughts

I love the fresh smell of both the shampoo and treatment, like apples. This combination has done wonders for my hair, smooths and softens it. I find it so easy to brush my hair through, I rarely have knots now. Where before drying my hair could take up to 30 mins, now it takes just 10 mins. Perfect products for soft, smooth, manageable hair. I am hugely impressed and my hair looks healthier.

As the gift pack also included the Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum I have been using this alongside the shampoo and treatment, applying it before styling. It has a great smell and leaves hair feeling lovely and soft, shiny and not at all greasy looking.

I am a fan of the Super Skinny Range.

This smoothing set cost £25 for 2 x 300ml bottles and the 25ml serum which was all part of a Christmas Gift Set.

Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Daily Shampoo - £10.75 (300ml)
Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Daily Treatment - £13.25 (300ml)
Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum - £17.25 (150ml)

Purchase a limited edition Bonus Bag (selected salons only) and get the Shampoo and Treatment for just £19.95 plus 5% of the RRP will be donated to charity - for more details click here 

*PR Sample

Liz Earle Special Offer - Everyday Favourites Kit!

Liz Earle fans will not want to miss this fab online only offer!

The Everyday Favourites kit features some of my favourite products - the Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser 200ml and two pure muslin cloths, Botanical Shine Shampoo 200ml and your choice of Botanical Shine Conditioner 200ml (choose between Normal, Dry or Damaged, or Fine or Oily), as well as your choice of either the Orange Flower Botanical Body Wash 200ml or Men's Face and Body Wash 200ml.

In addition, when purchasing this offer, you'll be entered into a prize draw for a chance to win a luxury family trip to the Isle of Wight.

This offer will be available for just seven days at a special price of £39.50 - that's a total saving of £14.50!

Offer available until 9am 20th August 2012

www.uk.lizearle.com

Pantene Pro V In Charity Partnership With Cancer Hair Care

 

Leading UK hair brand, Pantene Pro-V, is partnering up with Cancer Hair Care, a UK charity dedicated to helping women living with hair loss through cancer treatment.  In addition to an initial charity donation, Pantene Pro-V is creating a limited edition pack across its Classic Care range to raise much needed funds.

Cancer Hair Care is dedicated to promoting and protecting the physical and mental health of women experiencing hair loss through cancer treatments. It provides support, education and practical advice for women, while also working to educating the public in all areas related to hair loss associated with cancer treatment. In addition, the charity works to provide education and training programs for hair professionals and healthcare workers.

I was staggered to learn that over 100,000+  women in the UK deal with hair loss issues following cancer treatment each year and with most people having been touched with cancer in some way, being directly or indirectly through having family or friends with it, I believe that this is a worthwhile service to support or bring awareness about to those who need it.

The Pantene Pro-V Classic Care range will feature the Cancer Hair Care logo - Classic Care Shampoo, RRP £2.69, Classic Care Conditioner, RRP £2.69 available nationwide from August 2012. 5p from every sale will be donated to Cancer Hair Care.

For more information visit www.cancerhaircare.com. 

Reviews - Naked Shine Hydrating Shampoo & Conditioner. Naked Style Extra Shiny Finishing Serum

I have been on a real mission to restore shine to my recent lacklustre, straw like hair. During the past few months I have been trying out lots of hair care products and am looking forward to sharing with you the products that have made a real difference.

Being an impatient kind of person I love products that provide instant results and the Naked Let It Shine Trio certainly do this.

The Let It Shine Trio are made up of the following products

Naked Shine Honey & Mallow Hydrating Shampoo (for normal to dry hair) 
Naked Shine Buttermilk & Green Tea Hydrating Conditioner (for normal to dry hair)
Naked Style Extra Shiny Finishing Serum 

Bought as the trio direct from the Naked website they cost just £9 which is incredible value for the results that they give. That said, the products bought on their own are still remarkable value for natural products.

Naked Shine Honey & Mallow Hydrating Shampoo (for normal to dry hair)  - £3.99 for 250ml

Naked say -

To shine and dazzle, the hair cuticles needs to be moisturised. We use honey & mallow extracts to target ares of dryness, quenching hair and helping to keep it hydrated.

My thoughts -

The Shampoo comes in the traditional Naked packaging, a push down lid dispenser. The product is a clear runny fluid and has a light, fresh scent. It doesn't lather up much on first application but will second time round if you do wash your hair twice.

I have been making a real effort to use SLS free shampoos and conditioners and have found that my psoriasis is under control, my head is a lot less itchy than it was previously, so I will continue to seek out and use these products.

Naked Shine Buttermilk & Green Tea Hydrating Conditioner (for normal to dry hair) - £3.99 for 250ml

Naked say - 


To shine and dazzle, hair needs to be smooth enough to reflect light. We use buttermilk and green tea extracts which help to improve elasticity of the cuticle and improve glossiness, giving your hair a diamond-like shine.


My thoughts - 

Out of the trio of products the conditioner was my favourite to use. I absolutely love the slight zingyness scent of green tea and this is fantastically refreshing (Think Elizabeth Arden Green Tea, mmm). It has a good, thick and creamy consistency and applies to the hair like a dream. I know that a conditioner is working for my hair when I rinse it off and it leaves my hair smooth and silky to the touch when still wet, I hope you know what I mean by this!

After the very first time of using this combination of products and drying it with a hairdryer and styling it with a styling tool, my hair looked healthier, felt beautifully soft to touch and was sleek and shiny. I was very impressed with the instant results and have been using the shampoo and conditioner ever since.


Naked Style Extra Shiny Finishing Serum - £4.99 for 50ml

Naked say -


Beautiful things come in small packages and this little gem brings instant shine and radiance, putting the sparkle back in your hair. Silicone free formulation.

My thoughts - 

To be used after styling on dry hair, this serum is perfect for taming flyaway hair. My son has a habit of playing with my long hair, but not at the ends which wouldn't be so bad but he twiddles and breaks the top of my hair! Consequently the hair on the top of my head has a mind of its own and this sorts it out marvelously. One pump is enough to work through all my hair giving it a nice gleaming finish.

From the pic above you can see the serum has a fine shimmer to it, but don't worry you will not look like you have applied glitter to your hair! It has a pleasant, faint scent of peaches.

To sum up - products that do the job they have been designed for at an affordable price.

All Naked products are free from sulphates, parabens or petrochemicals.

*PR Samples 

Green People Vitamin Shampoo - Review

One of my New Year resolutions was to focus more on the condition and upkeep of my hair. The aim being to always have healthy soft, manageable and shiny hair.

My hair has recently been looking quite dull and frizzy and sorry for itself and I want to return it to its former glory. I remember when I went to the Daniel Galvin Salon at the Corinthia Hotel and had their detox treatment, how bright my hair looked afterwards so when I was sent the Green People Vitamin Shampoo for review I was looking forward to seeing what it could do for my hair.

The Vitamin Shampoo is a detox/shine product that is designed for use on dull, lifeless, dry hair or one that has been affected by the sun, salt or chlorine. The blurb on the back states 'Detox your hair, add shine and nourish your scalp'

It is an organic shampoo that contains no parabens, is SLS free and ingredients include organic avocado and mandarin.

The shampoo smells slightly citrusy, if you have tried Green People products before you will be familiar with this pleasant scent. It comes out clear and foams quite nicely which as we know a lot of people associate with a product that is doing its job, in this case cleaning the hair.

I found this shampoo to be soothing (it contains Aloe Vera) and non -irritating on my scalp, this is important to me as I suffer from scalp psoriasis.

The results -

I have been using this shampoo for a few weeks now and noticed from the first use how it seemed to cleanse my hair, removing build up of product use, making my hair and in particular my highlights brighter. I would like to see more shine but I suspect this might be achieved by using it in conjunction with the Vitamin Conditioner.

Previously I may have been a bit sceptical of 'detox' products for the hair but I am convinced now that they have a place in my hair care routine.

Green People Vitamin Shampoo costs £9.95 for 200ml


*PR Sample

Fab Range Of Bath Products for Babies and Children

Naked Bodycare are a rather fabulous brand of affordable natural products that don't contain nasties like SLS, parabens and petrochemicals, you will remember the toner review I wrote recently. I do try as far as possible to seek out products without those ingredients and especially so when it comes to products that I am going to use on my 3 year old son.

I was delighted to learn that Naked Bodycare were launching a range for babies and children with the same philosophy and was recently sent a couple of the new products to try.

Naked For Kids 2 in 1 Shampoo - Toffee Apple £2.99 for 250ml

Mini Naked Go-Ga-Ga Gentle Body Wash £2.99 for 250ml

Shampoo

From the moment this came in the post my son was excited and impatient to use the shampoo, the packaging really appealed to him. It was bright and fun with a big smiley face on it. 

To dispense you push the lid down and another bit pops up and releases the product. This smelt absolutely gorgeous, a fresh apple scent. It lathered well and rinsed off easily. This isn't a no tear formula, it does mention on the back to avoid getting in eyes, my son did get it in his eyes as he is such a wriggler but there were no tears from him. His (longish) hair was manageable afterwards and was incredibly silky soft and shiny - A great thumbs up from this household. 

Body Wash

Go-ga-ga is aimed at children up to the age of four years old. A gentle body wash that contains Aloe Vera, this has a very delicate scent, perfect for a baby. This is a no tears formula. The wash seemed really gentle and my son did not have any reaction to it afterwards. He was soft and cuddly afterwards. Crucially it passed my son's all important bubble test, daddy blew bubbles with it and it created huge bubbles that floated around the bathroom. Enchanting!

I love the fact that you can get affordable products that contain no nasties for babies and children, I would definitely purchase both products. 

You can find both products on the website as well as other products in the range. I hope that they are soon stocked in the shops!

Scandalous Insatiable Shine Shampoo and Conditioner - Review

I was recently sent Scandalous Insatiable Shine Glossing Shampoo and Conditioner to try after I had complained that my hair had lost its usual shine.

Claims 

Shampoo - Milk proteins and murumuru butter deliver extraordinary glossing results, leaving hair as smooth as glass. This rich, fragrant shampoo will revive even the most lacklustre hair.

Conditioner - The special blend of red seaweed extract and kukui nut oil infuses hair with shine and creates a silky, sleek texture.

The texture of the products are the same as standard shampoo (runny) and conditioner (thicker). The scent of both products is strong and masculine, it reminds me of a male aftershave, I found it to be pleasant. The shampoo scent is a little lighter and has a slighter, greener and fresher aspect to it that is like stepping into a garden. My husband found the scent appealing so this is great if you both want to use the product.

The shampoo lathers up nicely (that will be the SLS). The conditioner you leave on for a couple of minutes before rinsing off.

I am impressed as after just one use I noticed an immediate difference in my hair. It felt smooth after rinsing off the conditioner and was easy to comb through. Using the two products together left my hair soft, manageable and gloriously shiny. This was exactly what I was after and at a superb price.

Scandalous Insatiable Shine Glossing Shampoo and Conditioner are priced at £4.99 each for 250ml and available to buy in Superdrug.

What I use on my 'baby'

I know I have quite a few 'mummy' and mummy to be readers so today I thought I would share with you what I have used pretty much since Aaron (now almost 3) was born for his bathtimes. For the first few weeks I used nothing but water..as time went on and bath time became more of a routine I was looking for something that smelt nice but cared for my little boy,  I spotted this in my local Waitrose store....

Yes it is quite expensive (around £7.99) compared to other products on the market, but I have always been happy to spend a little extra on my little one. He was such a sicky baby because he had Reflux that I didn't spend the pennies on his outfits!

This is my favourite wash as it smells wonderful with a light scent of sweet orange, lemon and and coconut oil and leaves his hair smelling just gorgeous and his skin super soft. It is a 2 in 1 product so cleans the hair as well as the body. Many times I have got the product in his eyes as he is such a wriggler and not once has he  cried because of it. This wash is not hugely lathering but if you rub it between your hands you can blow bubbles to entertain the little one and make them laugh.

Burt's Bees Baby Bee Shampoo and Wash doesn't have any SLS or Parabens in it and is 98.03% natural - one of the main reasons I picked it up.

I can highly recommended this product.

Have you tried this ? What do you use on your little one(s)?

Lush Rehab Shampoo and Retread Conditioner

Lush Rehab Shampoo - £9.45 for 250g 


This Shampoo is for dry/damaged hair so my hair fits the bill perfectly.. It is runny, green - in fact it resembles murky dirty pond water which if I am honest puts me off a little. The scent is quite minty and pleasant.

Claims - Oils for extra strength, enzymes for cleansing, seaweed for softness, essential oils for detoxing and toning your scalp. Suitable for daily use and won't strip the hair of colour.

I have relatively mild scalp psoriasis which flares up with stress and my head has felt quite itchy, stressed and uncomfortable lately. I have been using this shampoo and I have found it to be quite calming on my scalp. It lathers well (in my hard water area) and leaves my hair feeling clean and fresh. I

Ingredients include fruit juices, jojoba oil, extra virgin olive oil, almond oil, lavender oil and peppermint oil.

Directions for use - Shake the bottle , wet hair and shampoo once, rinse thoroughly. Use in conjunction with...


Lush Retread Conditioner - £8.99 for 245g


This comes in a yoghurt pot style container which I think is quite quirky. It looks just like set yoghurt which is novel for me,  I like it and find it appealing. It smells absolutely amazing and fresh, good enough to eat.

Claims - Deluxe, specially enhanced, triple strength conditioner.

It is so tempting to use lots of this and I must admit I put a nice handful of it on my hair. This conditioner contains soya milk, yoghurt and fresh melon! Like Rehab it contains jojoba oil, extra virgin olive oil and also contains avocado oil. The scent comes from neroli oil and violet absolute.

Directions for use - Shampoo as normal, apply to damp hair then rinse out thoroughly.


Result - Using both these products leaves my hair smelling wonderful,  feeling soft, manageable, shiny and sleek when styled and less frizzy than normal if I leave it to dry naturally.  

Available to purchase from Lush stores and their website.

My Hair Of The Day HOTD

Something a little bit different  - My hair of the day!

I used Aussie products - Take the Heat Shampoo and Conditioner (which were the ones that I received at the Aussie Blogger's Market), and curling tongs.  I set it with Silvrikin Hair Spray.

What do you think ?