L'Occitane Aqua Réotier Ultra Thirst-quenching Cream

At the beginning of Spring I was lucky enough to be sent two pots of this gorgeous hydrating facial moisturiser from L'Occitane and I have only just opened the second pot!

If a scent sums up Spring/Summer it is this one. Aqua Réotier Ultra Thirst-quenching Cream smells fabulously fresh, the cream is light and almost water like in texture, sinking into the skin without leaving a trace of sticky residue. Wonderfully hydrating it, I think it is the perfect choice for post holiday parched skin.

The claims -

Enriched with hydrating hyaluronic acid and calcium rich Réotier water known for its properties to help skin maintain its hydration barrier and retain moisture, this melting fresh cream hydrates the skin while comforting it.
Its velvety, light texture combines the refreshing thirst-quenching benefits of a gel with the softening and smoothing properties of a cream. Its formula act like a magnet to hold-in moisture and drench the skin all day long. Skin’s natural hydration is improved; it is immediately recharged with water. Replenished and radiant, skin is visibly plumped. 


My thoughts - 

Does exactly what it promises. My skin feels and looks great, a perfect base for foundation. Thumbs up from me. 

Have you tried it? 

L'Occitane Aqua Réotier Ultra Thirst-quenching Cream 50ml £28 

*PR Sample

Nivea Shower Silk Mousse Review

Who doesn't love a good old pamper in the bath? ... well as a busy mum of two, the bathroom is my sanctuary and I am always on the look out for gorgeous treats to make that chill out time a relaxing and indulgent experience.

Indulgence and feeling luxurious doesn't have to cost the earth as these lovely silk shower mousses from Nivea prove.

In delectable but light scents, Lemon Meringue is slightly sweet but wonderfully zesty, zingy and fresh. Rhubarb Raspberry is a fabulous concoction of sweet berry fruit but with the added tartness of rhubarb that stops it being overpowering and too sweet. I have to say both scents are just gorgeous. Shaking the can ensures the foam comes out rich, thick and firm. Lathering it over the body it covers and envelopes the skin completely with its luxuriousness. Skin is left feeling super silky and soft to touch until your next shower.

At just £2.99 for Nivea Shower Silk Mousse it's a huge thumbs up from me

*PR Samples

The Body Shop Sumptuous Cleansing Butter Review

The Body Shop says -

Cleanse and nourish your skin with our rich cleansing butter. A luxurious way to remove every last trace of make-up, while purifying, cleansing and refreshing your skin, leaving it soft to the touch.

Suitable for sensitive skin and contact lens wearers
Camomile extract from Norfolk, England
Clean and silky-soft feel
Removes all types of make-up

Added to Wish List!RemovedMy thoughts 

My thoughts 

Well for a very reasonable £10 (even cheaper if you use a discount code/offer that is usual knocking around) this is a very effective cleansing butter. A small amount is really all that is needed. You apply to the skin and it melts in your fingers as you massage it into your face.
I bought it originally in the deep mid winter and wanted something really gentle and suitable for sensitive skin because I suffer from skin psoriasis. This was a brilliant purchase. True to its claims, it effectively removes makeup and is gentle enough to use on the eyes. After rinsing skin feels clean, fresh, hydrated and super soft. As an added bonus it has a gorgeous and very pleasant light floral scent. I can't fault it.

10/10

The Body Shop Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter costs £10 

Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream SPF30 - New Release

The original Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream is one of my favourite facial moisturisers so I am delighted that Elemis have introduced the same cream now with added SPF30. It has the same delicious scent of the original which I adore. The cream is still light in texture, almost fluid like and is silky to the touch. I couldn't tell any difference which I think is great.

Protected silky soft, hydrated, glowy skin. I don't think you can ask for anymore.

Elemis say  

This clinically proven formulation blends a powerful combination of ingredients, including Padina Pavonica and Ginkgo Biloba, shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in 14 days*. With hydration increased, elasticity and suppleness appear improved and the skin looks firm and toned.

A next generation micronized sunscreen offers a unique encapsulated blend that leaves no white streaks on the face and offers evenly distributed broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection without compromise to the texture of the cream.

This is the ultimate anti-ageing cream from ELEMIS.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream SPF30 50ml costs £82

Crabtree & Evelyn La Source Collection Review

Getting Beachy feels everytime I use Crabtree & Evelyn La Source Collection.  The newly reformulated range features new products and four restorative marine blends and a new hero ingredient of anti-oxidant rich Green Seaweed Extract. Marine Goddess here I come!

Crabtree & Evelyn say 

The La Source collection draws inspiration from the restorative powers of the sea around us, and is carefully designed to restore, condition and rejuvenate the skin from head to toe. Formulated with a blend of ingredients such as underwater algae, mineral salts and seaweeds the products in this collection allow you to escape everyday life and immerse yourself in spa-like rituals.

My thoughts

I absolutely adore the scent - fresh and Summery. It lends itself so well to the products in the range and there is a whole host of products for top to toe. I was sent a few bits from the range to review and have definitely fallen in love with this uplifting, feel good collection. Oh, and of course, all the products have that all important bathroom shelf appeal. A huge thumbs up from me.

La Source Refreshing Body Wash 500ml £27

Described as 'A crisp, clean scent of refreshing aquatic notes, musk, and gentle shoreline breezes' this body wash swathes the bathroom in its glorious scent and leaves skin feeling cleansed, soft and refreshed.

La Source Exfoliating Body Scrub 175g £20

One of my favourite products in the range, the body scrub is smooth and creamy with enough grittiness to do its job of exfoliating, leaving skin smooth. Contains a refreshing marine blend of green seaweed extract and purifying brown algae extract.

La Source Ultra-Moisturising Hand Therapy 25g £8

Moisturising, softening and leaves hands smelling great, what's not to love about the classic hand therapy hand cream? Features the restorative marine blend of anti-oxidant-rich green seaweed extract and protecting red sea algae. The hydrating power of hyaluronic acid and ceramides contribute to improve the skin’s natural moisture barrier. I notice an instant plumpness and improvement in my hands condition as soon as I apply. 

La Source Triple Milled Soap 100g £7

For those of you who  like traditional soap there is one in this range, with all the goodness of shea butter and mineral skin loving properties from the collection, this is a bather's dream. 

La Source Eau De Toilette 100ml £37

And finally, we get to my absolute favourite item in the range - the EDT. I have worn this every day since receiving my package. In Spring/Summer I suffer terribly with hayfever and scents irritating my delicate nose. La Source EDT however is a revelation in scent terms - it is light, refreshing, Summery and oceanic. Does anyone remember Oceanus? It's similar-ish to this beautiful scent. 

Eau La Source is described in the following way - 

Take your senses on a journey with the new Eau de La Source®  Eau de Toilette, featuring a delicate marine accord and our antioxidant-rich Green Seaweed Extract. Experience the tranquillity of deserted shores as the spa-like scent of crisp ocean breezes, marine aromas and clean citrus notes soothes your soul and revitalises your spirit. Golden notes of amber evoke the warmth of rich sunsets, while Petitgrain and Basil bring to mind far-flung beach destinations.

• Marine aromas and clean citrus notes
• Golden notes of amber complemented with petitgrain and basil 
• Eau de toilette strength
• Perfect daytime fragrance

Literally transports me to the sea. I adore it! The husband also likes it so it's a win win.

Have you tried this range?

*PR Samples 

The White Company New Skincare Range Reviewed

Just over three weeks ago I was sent a few items from the new Skincare Range from The White Company. Since then I have been using the items every day, trialling them out and putting them through their paces.

I have to say that I cannot pass by The White Company without popping in and especially since having children The Little White Company. I love the fresh and simple look of the products, the great home accessories and well everything really, I am a fan! So it didn't come as too much of a shock to me that they would expand into skincare, particularly as the founder is an ex beauty journalist. She has partnered with Global Skincare Experts DECIEM, who make products under the Abnormal Beauty Company.

True to The White Company branding, the packaging is white or clear, smart looking and beautifully simple. I think it has great bathroom appeal and I couldn't wait to add it to my shelf.

So what of the products

I was sent the following

Super Balm - Gentle Daily Deep Cleanser £25 for 150ml 

The White Company say 

Cleansing is an essential starting point to achieving a flawless complexion. This luxury cleansing balm is designed to deeply, yet gently, cleanse and dissolve all traces of make-up, including mascara, while instantly boosting hydration and radiance, too. Its special balm-based formula melts upon massage, giving all skin types a healthy glow and super-soft touch. Subtly scented with lemon and petitgrain essential oils and suitable for all skin types.


My thoughts 

I am going to come out and say it straight off - this was my favourite product that I tested and I would repurchase. I loved the citrus lemon scent that wasn't overpowering but hugely pleasant to use. The balm like cream comes out of the tube runny. To use you massage it into the face, it then melts into an oil and loosens up. To wash off you use a hand hot wet facial cloth, follow by rinsing with cool water.

I felt this was a really effective cleanser, I loved the way it changed from cream to oil. It removed makeup well and cleansed skin. Skin felt soft and smooth and radiant. I have noticed an improvement to my skin, absolutely. I would say this is ideal for most skin types.

Advanced Hydration Skin Perfecting Moisturiser £30 for 50ml 

The White Company say 

This clever daily moisturiser immediately nourishes and hydrates all skin types, creating a more flawless-looking complexion by helping balance your skin’s natural moisture levels. Blended with an advanced form of hyaluronic acid, nourishing Amazonian oils and soothing aloe-vera butter, radiance and hydration are visibly improved with every use. What’s more, this non-greasy formula behaves like a primer, too, creating a matte velvet-touch base that enables your make-up to stay perfectly in place for hours. Delicately scented with our exclusive blend of lavender, rose and orange essential oils, this is a gentle yet effective moisturiser with noticeable long-term results.

Advanced active ingredients:
Hyaluronic acid: instantly offers intense and long-lasting hydration to skin’s surface and epidermis
Amazonian oils: to deeply hydrate and improve the appearance of skin’s texture
Aloe-vera butter: helps to soothe sensitive skin, reduce inflammation and gently hydrate


My thoughts 

This moisturiser doesn't have much of a scent but that suits me just fine. The only thing I would like to see would be perhaps an SPF included in it. This is a great every day moisturiser (I have combination skin) and I feel I get the best results when used twice a day as recommended. Skin feels soft, hydrated and it is a nice base for makeup (funnily enough, I wrote my thoughts before seeing what The White Company say.. and they mention the fact that it behaves like a primer, good base for makeup... Good to see I agree!)

At the moment, due to hayfever, my skin feels sensitive around the nostril area and this is delicate enough to continue to use.

Night Oil Overnight Renewal Treatment £30 for 30ml

The White Company say 

Give your skin a full night of beauty sleep with this incredible facial oil. Massage a few drops of the fast-absorbing formula across the face and neck after cleansing, taking care to avoid the delicate eye area. Our enriching blend of Amazonian oils, anti-oxidants and poppy-flower extract ensure that you will wake up to deeply nourished, firmer-looking skin that feels as soft as silk and glows with health. Suitable for all skin types.

Advanced active ingredients:
Amazonian oils: to deeply hydrate and improve the appearance of skin’s texture
Anti-oxidant carotenoids: to help support firmer-looking, age-proof skin
Poppy-flower extract: to help visibly smooth skin’s surface and boost radiance

My thoughts 

This oil has a nice, pleasant scent. Calming and relaxing. Just perfect for before bed. I use one squeeze of the dropper which gives enough product to massage into my face. Strangely I don't feel it absorbing into the skin. It seems to sit atop, it must me doing something however as by morning it has disappeared and skin feels nice and soft and looks pretty good too. Personally I feel using the products together I have seen an overall improvement in my skin so I am happy. I will be using these products until they are finished.

Have you tried any products from the range?

Visit their website for more details The White Company

*PR Samples 

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream Review

Whilst the picture above is not the prettiest, what it does show is just how well used this tub of Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream has been.

I have used this moisturiser every day throughout the winter months and have been delighted with the results.

Billed as a 24-hour daily facial cream.

Kiehl's say 

Continuously replenishing moisture throughout the day, Ultra Facial Cream leaves skin feeling smooth, soft and hydrated. With a lightweight texture and easily absorbed formula, this facial cream is perfect for daily use. Our formula is made with Antarcticine - a Glycoprotein extracted from microorganisms sourced from sea glaciers and notable for an ability to protect skin from cold temperatures. Ultra Facial Cream is specially formulated with moisturising Squalane and water retaining Imperata Cylindrica to protect the skin throughout harsh weather conditions. These ingredients help your skin to stay hydrated for longer.

Our unique combination of ingredients helps reduce moisture loss while drawing and absorbing moisture from the air.  With continuous water replenishment throughout the day, skin is smooth and healthy looking. 

My thoughts 

Well my skin has gone through a lot of hormonal changes in the last year after giving birth. I have suffered the worst psoriasis I have experienced. Although it sometimes lurks at the hairline, it appeared properly on my face in dry, flaky patches. I was nervous using anything on the affected skin but I am happy to report that this light cream was ideal to use, moisturising the skin but not irritating it in any way. Scent wise, it smells just like a very delicate cream if that makes any kind of sense! Pleasant.

Overall with daily use I felt that my skin felt balanced and I didn't suffer from any dry or oily patches.It just feels lovely - soft and well hydrated. A great start for the rest of my skincare and makeup. A fabulous every day moisturiser, non greasy and fast absorbing.

Big thumbs up from me.

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream 125ml costs £45 

*PR Sample

Elemis British Botanicals Shower Cream Review

Pamper time is such a rarity at the moment so I adore products that at least make me feel pampered in the short time that I have. I couldn't wait to share this review of Elemis British Botanical Shower Cream as it fulfills every criteria I look for in a skincare product.

Elemis say

Harnessing the powerhouse of ingredients grown in the idyllic British countryside, this aromatic shower cream is expertly blended with soothing Lavender, Chamomile and uplifting Geranium and Palmarosa. Omega-rich Echium oil works to hydrate and nourish the skin, whilst vitamin and mineral rich organic Oats and Rosemary gently cleanse the skin, for a truly restorative in-shower experience.

My thoughts 

To be honest I was quite surprised how much I liked this shower cream. Regular readers know that I am not a fan of Lavender scents particularly. However, although it lends itself heavily on the ingredient the end result is a far more appealing English Garden/Countryside floral scent. The cream is a runny non lathering cream that feels so gentle, non irritating and soothing on the body. The scent is calming, and actually,  I totally agree with the description from Elemis, it really does feel like it is restoring body, skin and mind. Skin is left feeling soft, silky and cleansed to perfection.

So it gets a huge thumbs up from me and a definite purchase in future.

Elemis British Botanicals Shower Cream 200ml costs £25

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gelée Milk Cleanser Review

Lazy cleansing for me equates to no water needed. Yes wipes have a place (usually used on holidays in my case), but actually I don't really want to compromise on good skincare routines if I can help it. But I get it, we all have lazy days where we want to flop into bed with little effort, that is where new Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gelée Milk Cleanser comes in...

Neutrogena say 

Neutrogena Hydro Boost® Gelée Milk Cleanser is an innovative cleanser combining the lightness of a gel with the efficacy of a make-up remover milk. The combination of Neutrogena® cleansing technology, hydrating agent and Hyaluronic acid which is naturally found in skin, help the formula to protect the skin barrier, boost hydration and help lock it in.

Boosts hydration

No rinse formula

Removes makeup

Leaves skin touchably supple

My thoughts 

This pump action cleanser has a lovely, fresh and fruity scent. The product comes in gelee form and feels really gentle on the skin as it effectively and easily wipes away and removes makeup including mascara. It does a great job of cleansing, I was surprised that it left skin feeling tacky to the touch but actually this only lasted a minute or two and then just like magic..skin just felt beautifully soft.

A great, no rinse formula cleanser.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gelée Milk Cleanser 200ml RRP £7.99

*PR Sample

Breakfast Face Masks 3 x 10ml - Review

This pack of face masks were sent to me along with my Alpro Dairy Alternative Goodies and I have to say I have been pleasantly surprised at how nice and effective they are!

There are 3 face masks in the pack and I have got two applications in each so six face masks if you think of it that way...

Yoghurt - This is a smooth(ie) mask and smells so delicious and a little bit like a vanilla yoghurt. It's nice and creamy to apply. The result is gorgeously soft and silky skin, skin feels hydrated and looks bright and clear. I was surprised actually as this is such a gentle mask.

Coffee - Another great smelling mask that has a wonderful, light coffee aroma - oh my! Once again this is a smooth, creamy mask and works in exactly the same way as the yoghurt version. Good results. It cleans out pores without you even realising.

Oatty - This mask contains bits so it is gritty but not overly so, just a great scrub feel when you rinse it off. A nice smell like the other two. It leaves skin super soft and clear.

All in all, these are so gentle, effective and such a pleasure to use.

Breakfast Face Masks are available from Asos, Prezzybox and various online sites at around £6

L'Occitane - My Top Three Christmas Gifts

No Christmas is complete without a gift or two from fabulous skincare company L'Occitane, as always if you pop in store or head online it will not be difficult to pick up the perfect gift at any budget!

Here are my top three gift ideas but hurry as L'Occitane always sell out very fast!

For men 

AROMATIC L'OCCITAN COLLECTION £52

Coming in a signature L'Occitane gift box there is no need to wrap this gorgeous gift - Sophisticated for the discerning gentleman in your life - this spicy fragrance takes distilled lavender and blends with nutmeg, black pepper and smoked woods. Provence through and through.

• 100ml L’Occitan Eau de Toilette
• 250ml L’Occitan Shower Gel
• 100g L’Occitan Soap 
• 30ml L’Occitan After Shave Balm

IRRESISTIBLE ARLÉSIENNE TRIO £31.50

If ever there was a brand that knows how to do floral it is L'Occitane - Containing
Rose, Violet and saffron, these three flowers from the heart of Provence encapsulate the sensual Arlésienne fragrance

• 250ml Arlésienne Delightful Bath & Shower Gel
• 30ml Arlésienne Velvet Hand Cream
• 14ml Arlésienne Delicious Gloss.

And finally my personal favourite from the collections 

IRRESISTIBLE ALMOND COLLECTION £45

A box full of Almond delicious delights that will leave skin delicately scented and incredibly smooth, once again presented in a special signature gift box. 

• 250ml Almond Shower Oil
• 100ml Almond Milk Concentrate
• 50g Almond Delicious Soap
• 30ml Almond Delicious Hands

Crabtree & Evelyn Christmas Collection - My Top Three

What I love whenever I pop into a Crabtree & Evelyn store is that there is a bit of everything - fragrance, skincare and food, it's all inside. The biscuits are delicious, there are scents for every taste and the skincare is just gorgeous and really works.

Peruse their website and there is simply loads of brilliant gifts to choose from this Christmas but here are my top three festive gifts...

Ultimate Feast of the Senses Hand Therapy Crackers £40

Love these crackers featuring the Iconic Hand Therapy collection of hand creams - this will delight guests at the dinner table, much nicer and more useful than usual crackers!

Contains duos of:

LaSource 10g/Old World Jasmine 10g
Gardeners 10g/Pomegranate 10g
Pink Pineapple 10g/Rosewater 10g
Gardeners 10g/Citron 10g
Rosewater 10g /Venetian Violet 10g
Pear & Pink Magnolia 10g/Citron 10g
Rosewater 10g/Festive Fig 10g
Pear & Pink Magnolia 10g/LaSource 10g
Pink Pineapple 10g/Festive Fig 10g
Spiced Earl Grey 10g/Pomegranate 10g
Gardeners 10g/Pear & Pink Magnolia 10g
Florentine Freesia 10g/ Festive Fig 10g

Noel Porcelain Diffuser 180ml £45 (currently £36)

Aromas of mulling spices, Fraser fir spruce, and zesty citrus fruits slowly infuse the air right through the festive season bringing the essence of Christmas into the home

Large Bauble with Handmade Cranberry & Clementine Fudge 150g £8

Temptingly tasty and festive fudge in a pretty bauble, a great 2 in 1 gift.

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Night Cream & Magic Eye Rescue Reviewed

I have had these sachet samples in my washbag for a while now and finally got around to trying them out this week...

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Night Cream 50ml £100 

CT says

Intense Firming, Plumping Balm-Elixir

Feed your skin overnight with a live stem cell elixir made up of a powerhouse of 8 youth-boosting ingredients…doesn’t everyone want to wake up to the best skin of their life?

Let your skin drink from this radical “live” stem cell elixir, inspired by the conductive powers of live plasma. This powerful cream-elixir plumps, smooths and re-texturize your skin and, thanks to special time-release ingredients, works overnight to rebuild and renew it. Enriched with 8 de-ageing ingredients including winter Daphne stem cell extract & time-released retinol.

The Magic Recipe:
A Stem-Cell Elixir inspired by Plasma:

A magical water-in-oil cream-elixir that smoothes over and feeds the skin with an even distribution of ingredients. The active molecules are suspended within the texture so that the ingredients are slowly released into the skin. Inspired by the conductive physics of plasma, ensuring all molecules can pass evenly through the gel-like formula. Second Skin Red Algae Marigel binds to the surface like a second skin, minimising water loss and re-texturing the skin surface.

The Power of 8:

Charlotte has always been inspired by numerology and the special meaning of certain numbers. In Chinese prophecy, 8 is one of the most auspicious and positive numbers. Not only is it the sign for eternity, it also denotes prosperity. At the heart of this radical cream-elixir are 8 powerhouse ingredients, which aim to slow down the ticking time bomb of ageing.

1. Winter Daphne stem cells extract for more youthful-looking texture and firmer-feeling skin:

A radical, new natural stem cell extract. Winter Daphne improves the binding of skin cells to mimic the skin’s natural structure for a more youthful-looking, firmer-feeling complexion. Boosts micro-circulation to optimise cell-detoxification so skin is magically awakened and renewed. And it improves the supply of energy and nutrients to the new, young cells.

2. Time-released retinol molecules, a well known anti-age hero:

Our time-released Retinol has been enclosed in a structure of cyclodextrins which control the release and boost the efficacy of it within the skin. Hour by hour, Retinol is known to boost the rejuvenation process of skin cells, whilst also increasing the collagen content throughout the skin. The skin appears younger and more radiant.

3. Second-skin red algae Marigel, a strengthening and protecting barrier:

A live second skin that re-forms and re-creates baby-soft skin. The Marigel is rich in Red algae which is full of Calcium and Magnesium, which builds the strength and protective barrier of your skin.

4. Bionymph peptide:

The magical ingredient also found in Charlotte’s Magic Cream for the day. This genius anti-ageing ingredient is a unique, patented anti-ageing hero that multi-tasks in the skin, fighting the ageing process on all fronts. It increases collagen and fibre levels, prevents fibre break-down, fights free radicals and stimulates cell energy to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, improve skin elasticity and smooth things over.

5. Olus Oil:

A botanical emollient rich oil with transglycerides to reduce water-loss. It also gives the cream-elixir its soft, velvety touch.

6. Frangipani:

As found in Charlotte’s famous day Magic Cream. Frangipani is a soothing and purifying ingredient.

7. Vitamin E:

Also found in Charlotte’s iconic day Magic Cream, is known to be a powerful anti-oxidant that instantly heals and reduces inflammation and scarring.

8. Caster Seed Oil:

Rich in fatty acids and highly emollient with super moisturising powers.


My thoughts 

Apparently this product was four years in the making.

I hadn't read any of the reviews or even about the product before I popped it on at night. I was surprised at how thick, gloopy and sticky it was. As a result I am sure I over applied on the first night. It sat on my face, it was heavily scented floral. Completely not what I had expected. I woke up expecting some kind of miracle but I didn't really notice much except my skin felt soft.

Repeated the next night, used a bit less this time round. Same again  BUT I did notice that my skin felt nice and soft, my day skincare and makeup went on wonderfully smooth and the result was I DID look better and brighter than I had in a while, just not with ... Reading on the website the results that Charlotte Tilbury is claiming are after 8 weeks of use. Sadly I won't be able to test that out as I only have this small sample and I am not sure I am ready to shell out £100 to see!

Have you tried it?

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue 15ml £40

CT says 

Eye Cream To Turn Back the Clock
Darlings, forget everything you think you know about eye cream! Working with the world's leading laboratories, I’ve created a revolutionary formula featuring a powerhouse of youth-boosting ingredients, including Winter Daphne Stem Cell Extract, Botanical Eye Contour Complex and Second Skin Red Algae Marigel to feed your complexion, from the inside out. Magic Eye Rescue is a revitalising and reinvigorating, anti-ageing rescue remedy that works to slow down the ticking time bomb of ageing* – I like to call it an eye lift in a tube!

• Re-energises the delicate under eye area where the first signs of ageing often occur
• Soft Focus Nano-Particles blur away lines and imperfections, and sit like a soft micro-fine cashmere veil on top of your skin
• Rose wax and almond oil hydrate the skin through-out the day and smoothes flawlessly onto the skin
• Nourishing actives work to soothe and restore skin, while light-reflecting ingredients diffuse light as it hits your face for a luminous complexion and even finish all day
• Ideal for long-lasting full coverage and the perfect finishing touch .

The rich texture of my eye rescue remedy contains a live second skin Red Algae Marigel, which is rich in Calcium and Magnesium, for smooth, soft skin with a protective barrier against environmental and ageing damage.


My thoughts 

Now this I can totally get on board with. An eye cream that really does work. Instantly I noticed the results and I am very tempted to pop this on my Christmas List. It is a gorgeous light fluid that smooths away the crepey skin directly under my eyes, and makes the eye area appear far more youthful than it normally suggests. My eyes are one of my biggest bugbears and this product gives me total confidence. The area is hydrated and wonderfully, wonderfully smooth.

Top marks from me. Blown away!

Prismologie Skincare Reviewed

What a real treat it has been trying out and experiencing luxury skincare brand Prismologie. Created to inspire people to embrace the mood enhancing powers of colours, through six distinctive colours chosen for their unique qualities. I know it enhanced my mood when this splash of colour arrived through my letterbox!

The six colours are - White for Clarity, Yellow for Confidence, Pink for Comfort, Green for Serenity, Red for Vigour and Indigo for Stillness. Diamonds, Citrines, Rose Quartz, Jades, Rubies and Sapphires are crushed into the formulations for their wellbeing properties. Working with leading Perfumers they created fragrances that unfold to complement the colours - Neroli for Clarity, Bergamot for Confidence, Rose for Comfort, Vetiver for Serenity, Cedarwood for Vigour and Oud for Stillness. The result is some really quite stunning scents for the products.

But do they work?

I was sent the above products to try out and below are my thoughts

Prismologie Jade & Vetiver Hand Exfoliant 75ml £35

Prismologie say - A creamy gel, enriched with moisturising oils, fine exfoliants, jade micro-crystals and the serene scent of vetiver to cleanse, restore and refine working hands.

My thoughts 

This is a really gentle exfoliator that leaves hands feeling nourished (from the moisturising oils) super smooth and soft and beautifully cleansed. The scent is lovely and warming. Just gorgeous and a perfect base to apply your hand cream.

Prismologie Citrine and Bergamot Shower Gel 200ml £30 & Body Lotion £30

Prismologie say 

Shower Gel - A foaming gel with brightening mineral and botanical extracts, citrine micro-crystals and the refreshing scent of Bergamot to leave you feeling thoroughly cleansed and good to glow.

Body Lotion - A silky lotion infused with botanical oils, citrine extract and Bergamot fragrance to hydrate and awaken skin for a thoroughly radiant you.

My thoughts 

If you are looking for a bright and uplifting start to your morning then you will adore this sunny combination of Shower Gel and matching Body Lotion. The shower gel is just how you expect a shower gel to be and the Body Lotion is wonderfully light so it absorbs instantly leaving wonderfully soft skin. As ever the scent is fantastic, zesty but not overpowering.

Prismologie Hand and Cuticle Cream with Rose and Rose Quartz 75ml £30 

Prismologie say  - A sensuous cream enriched with botanical extracts, Rose Quartz micro-crystals and Rose fragrance to soothe and moisturise stressed hands

My thoughts 

I really like rose scented products but I am fussy, they cannot be that old lady rose scent that I think most people deplore, it has to be like a delicate flower. Happily for me this hand cream has a beautifully light and fresh rose scent that is just the perfect pick me up, it's more a like a hint of rose which I think will appeal to most people. The lotion is once again light but does the job of softening hands with just a small amount of product. 75ml will last you ages.

Prismologie Foot Cream with Oud and Sapphire 75ml £28

Prismologie say - A deeply moisturising cream with antioxidants, mood enhancing actives, Sapphire micro-crystals and Oud fragrance to help soothe your tired feet and leave skin soft and supple

My thoughts 

This is my favourite product in the whole range. Quite frankly the best smelling footcare product I have ever used. Usually foot creams are fragranced with lavender which is not a scent that personally appeals to me much, this product pleasingly does not contain it, hurrah!

I apply this as I go to bed and it gets to work. Moisturising for truly soft feet and calming, relaxing my mind, aiding sleep with its warm and musky Oud scent. Sublime.

Skin Care for mind & body, I love it!

For more details visit www.prismologie.com

Dermalogica Phyto Replenish Oil Review

Skin radiance, it is what we all aspire to with our skincare routine but imagine if you could instantly cheat it with a product, but with regular use you can also achieve it everyday?

I absolutely love facial oils as part of my skincare routine and I was looking forward to trying out the new oil from Dermalogica - Phyto Replenish Oil.

Dermalogica say 

This feather-light treatment oil rapidly absorbs to reinforce the skin’s protective barrier. Wear it alone or layered under foundation for all-day dewy skin.

Next generation formula takes a three-phase approach to replenishing protective lipids that are depleted by ageing and environmental stress. First, phytoactives from Camellia and Tamanu oils help restore the skin's natural barrier. Then, an essential lipid blend that includes Orchid Flower and Chia Seed Oil smoothes visible lines and locks in critical moisture. Finally, Sunflower, Rice Bran and Rosemary Extracts create a luminous antioxidant shield against free radical damage. 

Ideal for daily use on normal to dry skin.

My thoughts 

This sample arrived just at a time when my skin was really suffering post pregnancy. Inside my body was in turmoil and as a result this was reflected in my dull, lifeless skin on the outside. Although I would say my skin is normal/combination I was experiencing drier than usual skin due to post pregnancy hormones.

That said my skin has settled down now and I still use this as part of my daily regime and haven't noticed it looking any greasy so for me this oil has been and continues to be great.

The first thing to mention is the lovely, subtle scent that the oil has - this is important as you don't want a scent you dislike lingering on your face. Dewy, radiant, bright skin is something that I really covet (I always think that glowing skin makes you appear younger).

How to use - press 4-6 drops onto skin (there is a handy guide on how to apply) follow with moisturiser.

The result is instant radiance and healthy looking skin, even though it is an oil there is no oily/greasy residue and the product absorbs instantly into the skin. Skin feels soft and you are left with the perfect base for your makeup.

Final thought - does exactly as it promises. Impressive.

Dermalogica Phyto Replenish Oil 30ml costs £56.20. Visit www.dermalogica.co.uk for more details 

*PR Sample

Origins GinZing Energy Boosting Moisturizer Review

Origins say

This lightweight, oil-free, energising moisturiser instantly hydrates and revs up radiance. It's fortified with legendary skin-boosters like Panax Ginseng and Coffee Bean. Lackluster-looking skin is rapidly refreshed and revitalised to create a healthy, vibrant glow.

 

My thoughts

Now if you, like me, love the scent of freshly peeled, juicy oranges then you will absolutely adore the fragrance of the GinZing moisturiser. Zingy, bursting with zesty orange and completely uplighting, this is a real mood booster.

The actual moisturiser is an incredibly light, almost gel like liquid. It instantly absorbs, sinking in to reveal bright, glowing skin. I honestly cannot fault it. I only have a sample size but I am very tempted to make this my next moisturiser purchase.

Origins GinZing Energy Boosting Moisturizer 50ml costs £24 

The Body Shop Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask Review

The Body Shop says 

Refine and revive your skin with our Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask. Inspired by Ayurvedic traditions, this 100% vegan tingling clay mask is infused with bamboo charcoal, green tea leaves and organic tea tree oil. And it’s been formulated without parabens, paraffin, silicone or mineral oil. This invigorating charcoal face mask draws out impurities and refines the appearance of pores for healthy-looking skin with a glow that shows.

• 100% vegan
• Tingling charcoal clay mask
• Absorbs excess oil
• For skin that needs extra purification to reveal a healthy, youthful glow
• Formulated without parabens, paraffin, silicone or mineral oil
• Ideal to create a facial at home
• Packed with bamboo charcoal from the Himalayan Foothills, green tea leaves from Japan and organic Community Trade tea tree oil from Kenya

My thoughts 

The mask sample was in a copy of Stylist Magazine. I don't remember whether the information accompanying the mask mentioned that it was tingling and to be honest I might have been a reluctant to try it. It's a good job I did though, as happily I didn't experience any tingling from my mask.

This mask is exquisite. It really works a treat and does what it claims. Its scent is gorgeously zesty and fresh. If you have smelt any green tea fragrances that is what it resembles. The mask is smooth with some bitty strips. It dries quickly, drawing out impurities and softening the skin. As you wash it off the bitty strips become an exfoliator, really cleansing and smoothing the skin. The result is glowing, bright skin and super cleaned out pores. Skin feels wonderful and beautifully soft to touch. A winning mask that I would head out and purchase.

Love it.

The Body Shop Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask costs £15 for 75ml 

Vichy Mineral Masks Review

After a rough few months dealing with really sensitive and psoriasis inflicted skin I was relieved to find that my skin was starting to improve. I was in real need to use a fabulous face mask to clear the pores and inject some much needed moisture... So I was delighted when I received the brand new mineral masks from Vichy to try.  I have huge trust in this brand to be suitable for sensitive skin, indeed I have been using their marvellous range of face washes until recently due to having the above mentioned skin.

Vichy say 

CLEANSING
MINERAL MASK+

FROM EARTH, WATER AND ROCK, VICHY HAS RIGOROUSLY SELECTED MINERALS TO CREATE ITS FIRST RANGE OF FACE MASKS CHARGED WITH VICHY MINERALIZING THERMAL WATER, TAILORED TO SUIT DIFFERENT SKIN TYPES.

All 3 masks are formulated with effective, yet respectful ingredients, making them suitable for even sensitive skin.

My thoughts 

I was sent two out of the three of the range of new mineral masks.

The first one is the Pore Purifying Mineral Mask

Vichy say

This mineral rich mask is infused with two fine white clays [Kaolin + Bentonite] to immediately unclog pores & purify skin. Enriched with Vichy's Mineralising Thermal Water & plant extracts, skin is left feeling soothed and soft to touch. Designed specifically for those with combination to oily skin with congested and clogged pores. Suitable for sensitive skin.

My thoughts 

I absolutely love this face mask. It is super smooth to the touch and it is so easy to apply a perfectly even layer over the skin. It has a really pleasant scent. It feels so gentle, like applying silk to your face. It does a great job of clearing the skin, pores are less visible and leaves skin wonderfully soft and bright.The perfect mask.

After using the purifying mask I then follow with the Quenching Mineral Mask 

Vichy say

This fresh watery gel mask, enriched with Vitamin B3 and Vichy's Mineralising Thermal Water provides an intense relief to thirsty, uncomfortable skin, leaving it feeling immediately hydrated, soothed and refreshed.
The Quenching Mineral Mask has been formulated for those who suffering from dry & thirsty, sensitive skin.

My thoughts 

This gel mask has a wonderful, fresh cucumber like scent which is just gorgeous. It is what you have come to expect from Vichy, their products smell so good! It leaves skin feeling really comfortable and refreshed. Just five minutes is all it takes for bright, super soft skin.

Final thoughts 

The jars have that all important shelf appeal and the combination of these two masks are an excellent weekly pampering treat for great skin.

Each mask costs £14 for 75ml.

*PR Samples

Weleda Almond Sensitive Skin Body Lotion Review

I love almond scented products so I was really pleased when Weleda launched their Almond range, now I haven't tried all the products in this range (next on my list is the hand cream) but this Sensitive Skin Body Lotion does not disappoint in the slightest.

Weleda say 

A particularly mild formula, created using just a few, carefully selected ingredients, to calm irritation-prone skin and gently care for the skin
Soothing Almond Sensitive Skin Body Lotion enfolds your skin like a gentle embrace.

Just as the almond wraps its kernel in a protective shell, the Almond Sensitive Skin Body Lotion gently protects sensitive skin. The lotion with organic almond oil strengthens the skin’s own protective function and therefore defends against exposure to the elements. At the same time it provides long lasting moisture, thereby reducing feelings of skin tightness. Almond Sensitive Skin Body Lotion absorbs quickly, calms skin prone to irritation and helps to reduce redness. It restores the skin’s natural balance, for skin that feels silky soft.

My thoughts 

The product has been created with sensitive skin in mind but there is no reason why those with other skin types cannot use it. Texture wise it is a fantastically light lotion that absorbs fast and leaves skin feeling incredibly soft and smooth. I adore the fact that skin is left beautifully scented with freshly peeled almonds. And being Weleda there are no nasties. What is there not to love?

A perfect end to my bath/shower routine.

Weleda Almond Sensitive Skin Body Lotion 200ml costs £13.95

Chapped Lips - Soothing & Repairing

For the last two weeks my immune system seems to have taken a hit and one of the results has been severely chapped lips. I have never known or had anything like it. I have been barely able to open my mouth, it has felt so tight and dry. My lips have had thick skin peeling off of them and anything that goes near them seems to have stuck like glue. The pain was horrid.

I was desperate for a solution, I tried lanolin based products, my usual balms and nothing worked to improve them. I drunk copious amounts of water in an attempt to rehydrate myself and it all seemed to no avail. Finally, I picked up a little pot of Vaseline Lip Therapy with Aloe Vera and this has been my chapped lips saviour. Instantly soothing it soon got to work softening and repairing my lips back to their usual smooth and luscious self. I also gently buffed my lips to remove the dry skin with a wet flannel (don't pick the skin as you run the risk of infection!)

Vaseline say 

Protects and relieves dry and chapped lips, while locking in moisture to help keep them healthy
Instantly softens and soothes dry lips
Locks in moisture to help lips recover from discomfort
Contains aloe, known to calms and soothe dry irritated skin
Made with triple-purified Vaseline® Petroleum Jelly


It took about 3 days but I finally got there. My lips are pretty much back to normal now thank goodness.

Vaseline Lip Therapy Aloe Vera costs £1.95