Category: beauty

SMUG

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, eco friendly, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Mother's Day, REUSABLE, secret santa, Valentine's Day Gifts, Women

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review, but as always, all thoughts and opinions are our own!

Let’s talk about SMUG –  the brand that’s making self-care simple and luxurious at the same time. Founded by Kelli, SMUG is all about helping us get a better night’s sleep and feel pampered every day. They recently sent us some goodies to try and we’re all now well and truly obsessed with their products!

Luxury Aromatherapy Shower Steamers (RRP £12)

If you love a spa experience but don’t have time for a soak in the bath, these shower steamers are the answer. Simply pop one in the shower, let the warm water work its magic, and breathe in the gorgeous scents. The Energising Set is ideal for kickstarting your day with vibrant scents of tropical coconut, eucalyptus, peppermint, tea tree, rose, lavender, mango, and jasmine to choose from. The cool freshness of peppermint and eucalyptus clears the senses, while the tropical sweetness of mango and coconut instantly transport you to a sun-kissed paradise. The Relaxing Set is my go-to for winding down in the evening, with calming chamomile, lavender, and rosemary to help melt away stress whilst the the citrusy brightness of grapefruit is nice and refreshing. Whether you need an energizing morning boost or a peaceful evening retreat, with eight scents in every box there is a steamer for every mood!

Satin & Contoured Sleep Masks (RRP from £10)

A good sleep mask is an absolute beauty essential and SMUG have plenty to choose from. I tried both the Satin Sleep Mask and the Contoured 3D Blackout Sleep Mask, and while both are dreamy, the contoured one is my favourite because it sits so comfortably and stays put. Plus, there are loads of cute designs so there’s bound to be one that matches your pyjamas! They also come in resealable pouches, making them ideal for travel.

The masks are beautifully soft and smooth and have an elasticated strap which was very comfortable to wear. They cover my eyes really well and don’t let any light in around the edges. I found them both very comfortable to wear in bed and slept really well with them on.

Quick Dry Satin Hair Turban (RRP £16)

If you’ve got curly hair, this will be your new best friend! It’s double-sided, with a microfibre layer for drying hair and a satin side to protect your curls overnight. My usual ‘pineapple’ bedtime hairstyle has been replaced by this turban, and the difference is incredible, no more waking up to a frizz explosion and it’s much easier to refresh my hair in the morning as the curls are less crushed. Being double sided is a real bonus and is great for travelling, keeping hair sleek and smooth on the go.

Makeup & Beauty Accessories Bag (RRP £10) & Wash Bag (£16)

We love a good makeup bag at the Review Studio and the team absolutely adore the SMUG bags. Not only are they stylish, but they’re also incredibly practical, making them a must-have for beauty lovers and frequent travellers alike. The zipped beauty bag is the perfect size for keeping all your essentials in one place, from toiletries and makeup to those easy-to-lose items like lip balm and hair bobbles. It’s also a great addition to any handbag, keeping charging cables, headphones, and other small gadgets neatly stored, instead of tangled at the bottom of your bag. The waterproof wash bag is even roomier and perfect for travel, the gym, or just keeping your bathroom tidy. It comes in a range of fun and eye-catching prints, we’re obsessed with the avocado design, but there’s also a super cute duck print and a stylish green camo option that we love too. The material is durable and easy to wipe clean, making it a practical choice for everyday use. Whether you need a compact beauty pouch for daily touch-ups or a spacious bag for travel, these SMUG bags have got you covered.

Reusable Cotton Cleanse Pads with Mesh Wash Bag (RRP £12)

Switching to reusable cleansing pads is a no-brainer, they’re eco-friendly, cost-effective, and feel lovely on the skin. This set includes seven ultra-soft bamboo pads that remove makeup effortlessly and wash beautifully at 30C. They come with a handy mesh bag for easy laundering and a waterproof pouch for storing used pads when you’re away from home.

Each pad is palm-size and lovely and soft and fluffy. They are made from cotton and bamboo fibres and remove makeup from your skin effortlessly. Each pad is double-sided, so there’s plenty of room to remove a full face of make-up or freshen your skin.

Lava Bead Aromatherapy Bracelet with Essential Oil (RRP £10)

Who doesn’t love a little aromatherapy on the go? The ‘Balance’ bracelet is designed to ease stress and anxiety, with a gorgeous blend of lavender, citrus, menthol, and ylang-ylang. The beads slowly diffuse the scent throughout the day – just apply a few drops of the essential oil provided to the black lava stones, and you’re good to go! Plus, it looks just like a stylish beaded bracelet, so it’s a win-win.

Overall, SMUG has well and truly won us over. Whether you’re looking for better sleep, gorgeous hair, or a little spa moment at home, their range has something for everyone. We’ll definitely be keeping these self-care essentials in our routine!

Organic Shop Dreamy Nights Collection

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Vegan

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, have you found the perfect gift yet? If not, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Instead of the usual chocolates and flowers, why not treat your loved one, or even yourself, to something nice and relaxing? These Lavender & Blueberry Melatonin products from Organic Shop make a lovely gift, they’re all about self-care and relaxation, which, let’s be honest, we could all use a bit more of. Life can be so hectic at times, and if you’re anything like me, with never-ending to-do lists and constantly on the go, getting a proper night’s sleep can sometimes feel like an impossible dream.

And that’s where this gorgeous range comes in! There are six products to help you unwind: pillow mist, bath foam, body wash, body scrub, whipped body butter, and shower oil, all packed with Lavender, Blueberry & Melatonin, the ultimate ingredients for relaxation. Melatonin is a natural antioxidant that helps your skin repair itself overnight while also helping you drift off into a deep and restful sleep.

We ‘ve been trying out a couple of the products, the bath foam and pillow spray, which have really helped me drop off to sleep more easily.

For Dreamy Nights Deep Sleep Pillow and Body Mist – £5.99

A proper game-changer if you struggle to nod off. Just a couple of spritzes on your pillow and the calming mix of lavender, blueberry, and chamomile gets to work, telling your brain it’s time to chill out. It’s self-care that takes literally seconds but makes a big difference.

Unwind Your Mind Miraculous Bath Foam – £5.99

Fancy swapping a night out for a night in? Run yourself a bath, pour some of the bath in and sink into a tub full of soothing lavender bubbles. It’s designed to help your body and mind slow down, so you’ll be ready for a proper kip after. Oh, and it’s Vegan Society certified, so it’s good for the planet too.

At just £5.99 a bottle, these make brilliant gifts and they won’t break the bank either. So, if you want to give the gift of relaxation this Valentine’s, this range is a winner!

Scented Aromas

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Fragrance, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Home, Mother's Day, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Women

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

When mother and daughter duo Amanda and Lizzie struggled with psoriasis and other skin concerns, they took matters into their own hands and Scented Aromas was born. The Manchester based brand has gone from strength to strength creating luxurious, handmade bath and home products that are gentle on the skin – without the luxury price tag.

I’ve suffered from eczema for many years so I have to be very careful with what I use on my skin, so when a lovely package of Scented Aromas goodies arrived, I was really  excited and after trying them I’m now hooked!!

Flowerbomb Bath Bomb (£3.95)

There’s something wonderfully indulgent about a long soak in the bath, and the Flowerbomb bath bomb makes bath time feel even more special. A pristine white bath bomb with silver detailing and a hint of shimmer, it looked almost too lovely to use – but I’m so glad I did! As soon as it hit the water, it fizzed away, releasing the most gorgeous scent – a warm, comforting blend of jasmine sambac, cashmere, and white amber. The fragrance quickly filled the bathroom, while the water turned soft and silky. It made for such a relaxing bath, and unlike other bath bombs I’ve used, there was no residue or staining left behind – just a lingering sense of calm.

If you love a bit of self-care, the Flowerbomb bath bomb is an absolute treat and the perfect way to bring a little spa-like luxury to your routine.

Exfoliating Soap Sponge (£6.50)

If you haven’t tried an exfoliating soap sponge yet, you’re in for a treat. This clever product combines a body scrub and soap making exfoliating effortless. Whether you’re tackling dry patches, prepping for fake tan, or just want ultra-smooth skin, this does the job effortlessly. The texture is just right, not too rough and not too soft, so you get a satisfying scrub without any irritation, leaving your skin beautifully smooth.

Scented Aromas offers an impressive range of scents, from fresh citrus to floral, and even a fun “Monkey Fart” scent ( a fruity mix of pear, plum, peach, and apple)  With its dual-sided design, it cleanses and exfoliates beautifully, and used daily will last up to four weeks.

After just one use, my skin felt noticeably softer and it’s the perfect addition to any shower routine, giving that extra boost of radiance without any extra effort. Trust me – once you’ve tried one, you won’t go back.

Soy Wax Melts (£3.29)

For those who love a beautifully scented home, wax melts are the way to go. These little melts pack a real punch, melting into long-lasting fragrances that fill every corner of your space.

The Cherry Blossom & Nordic Cotton blend is fresh yet soothing, bringing an instant cosy feel to your home. Whether you’re in the mood for a fruity, floral or even something a bit different like Scented Aroma’s Alien Encounter, there’s a scent for every occasion.Plus, with each segment lasting up to 18 hours, they’re great value for money too.

Whipped Soap 200g (£7.99)

This whipped soap is pure luxury in a jar. Light, fluffy, and silky smooth, it lathers easily and leaves skin feeling soft and nourished. It’s also multi-purpose and can be used as a body wash or shaving cream.

A little goes a long way, and it’s gentle enough for all skin types. Whether you prefer fruity, floral, or sweet, there’s something for everyone. We received a sample pot to try but the full sized version is 200g

These Scented Aromas products bring spa-like indulgence into your everyday routine, proving that luxury and affordability can go hand in hand. Whether it’s a relaxing bath, smooth skin, or a beautifully fragranced home, they’ve got you covered.

Plastic Free FreshWipes

beauty, camping, Children, eco friendly, Family Life, health, Home, Plastic free

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

The company FreshWipes have a range of products available all of which are made of plastic free, biodegradable materials. We were sent a selection of them to try, and were surprised at their versatility. We received Body Wipes (one scented, one unscented), Mini Pet Wipes and Intimate Wipes, all part of the FreshWipes range.

FreshWipes Body Wipes are where the company started in 2020 with their creation of a wipe which was the adult version of baby wipes.  Their antibacterial properties make them easy to use for most personal uses, and these are especially good for people who are bed bound or can’t shower easily.  Although this is a massive part of their market, these wipes are great for travelling, camping and even having at work if you need to. Mostly though, they’re a good all-round wipe which anyone can use and the fact that they are biodegradable as well means you can dispose of them anywhere and without guilt! There are 12 wipes in each of these packs, and each measure 20 centimetres by 30 centimetres. I think I prefer the Ocean Fresh scented packs, but both are just as pleasant.

The FreshWipes Intimate Wipes are pH balanced and unscented. They’re antibacterial too, and smaller at 20 centimetres by 15 centimetres.  These are in a much smaller pack that would fit in a handbag or hospital bag.  They’re designed to not only clean with antibacterial agent but to eliminate odour too.

Lastly, the very ingenious FreshWipes Mini Pet Wipes are for all animals.  Antibacterial, biodegradable and approved pet safe, these are also mini wipes because they measure 18 centimetres by 20 centimetres in size.  These wipes are for all over use, not just for muddy paws! They’re approved for human use too so you can take these out with you on walks or if you’re visiting someone, but I should imagine these are great in a pet emergency.  They’re made from plant-based viscose fibres but can’t be flushed, just put them in the bin or a compost.

All of the wipes in the FreshWipes range are available online and in boxes as well as packs at: https://www.freshwipes.co.uk/collections/body-wipes They’re such a handy idea, and work really well that I can’t believe someone hasn’t come up with this idea before!

Naturtint Hair Food Hair Masks

beauty, cruelty-free, Family Life, Home, Vegan, Vegetarian

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

After the chaos of Christmas, and into the new year with best intentions but enough central heating to heat Battersea Power Station, Naturtint have some lovely Hair Food hair masks to replenish your locks.  We were sent the Quinoa and Chia Hair Food hair masks to try (there are also Goja and Purple Rice in the range) so we set about trying the repair the winter damage.

Starting with the Quinoa Colour Shine Mask, it not only helps protect and shine coloured hair, but it can be used on hair that hasn’t been coloured and boosts shine. With 99% naturally derived ingredients, the added milk thistle gives a smooth, glossy shine to hair and shea butter helps prevent damages by making it more flexible. Naturtint Quinoa Colour & Shine Mask is free from parabens, artificial fragrances and is cruelty free plus vegan friendly.

The Naturtint Chia Protective Hair Mask is also for both coloured and untreated hair. The chia’s proteins and amino acids promote healthy hair growth and baobab proteins give strength and vitality. The Chia Protective Hair Mask not only leaves hair silky smooth but it leaves a lasting protection on the hair, which is great if you wash your hair daily, or need to protect from the environment.

Both hair masks leave an impression, especially as they are on the hair for a minimum of 4 minutes so they give a deeper nutrient bath to your hair.  Both protected my coloured hair, and both left it softer and with subtle, fruity fragrances.  Over time, I think they will repair more of my curly hair but I found the Quinoa Colour Shine Mask kept my colour shinier and the Chia gave a more overall, defined look to my curls because it was more moisturising.  

These are only 2 masks in the whole set, there’s more to explore! They’re a lovely addition to your haircare routine to give a deeper, more moisturised shine.

Priced at £7.49: https://naturtint.co.uk/product/naturtint-hair-food-quinoa-colour-shine-mask-150ml/

Naturtint Hair Food – Chia Protective Mask (150ml)

Galen Leather Lunar Make up Bag

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, Valentine's Day Gifts, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

If you’re stuck on what to buy for Valentine’s Day, then look no further – a leather makeup bag is the answer! It’s a gift that’s stylish, practical, and luxurious and is guaranteed to make the recipient feel extra special.

Galen Leather Co are a Turkish family business based in Istanbul with a real passion for handcrafted leather, wood, and stationery. All their products are handcrafted making every piece unique.

They recently sent me one of their make up bags and believe me this is isn’t your average makeup bag. Made from premium leather, it has a lovely texture and a timeless, classy finish that oozes sophistication. And the magic of leather? It only gets better with age! Over time, it will develop a stunning patina, becoming more gorgeous the more it’s used. Unlike synthetic alternatives that crack and fade, this is a bag built to last, a true keepsake that will be cherished for years to come.

But it’s not just about looks; this makeup bag is as practical as it is pretty. Inside, you’ll find a zipped pocket, two slim fabric pouches, and a larger compartment – ideal for keeping everything neat and organised. The slim pockets are perfect for smaller items like mascara, eyeliner, or lipstick, while the larger section is spacious enough for eyeshadows or blushers. The main compartment is also roomy enough to stand bottles of foundation or perfume upright so no more spills or leaks!

One thing I love about this make up bag is how wide it opens. It’s wide enough to see everything at a glance, so there’s no need to tip all your products out onto the bed or dressing table to find your favourite lipstick. Everything’s right there, ready to grab, making it a dream to use.

And as for gifting? Pair this beautiful bag with a couple of makeup treats – maybe a new lipstick or their favourite skincare item and you’ve got a personalised, thoughtful Valentine’s present. With a range of gorgeous colours to choose from, including classic black and eye catching purple, it’s easy to find the perfect match for their style.

Trust me, this is a gift that will leave them smiling long after Valentine’s Day has passed!

Nourished Collagen Gummies for Hair, Skin & Nails

beauty, cruelty-free, Family Life, Fitness, health, Plastic free, Subscription Boxes, Vegan, Vegetarian, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

As we go into 2025 with New Years’ Resolutions (that we’ll never keep!) there are some changes we can make which give long term benefits. Collagen is a relatively new idea which has become more popular in the last few years, making it more accessible too.  Nourished have a range of collagen gummies which contain collagen and benefit different areas of health. We were. Sent the Nourished Collagen + Hair, Skin and Nails to try out for a few weeks.

Nourished’s Gummie Stacks are individually wrapped gummies (much like jelly sweets) which contain both collagen and nutrients to support different areas of health. Collagen is needed in our bodies to support muscle building and which is more well known, that collagen is needed for hair, skin and nails. As someone whose hair is getting frailer as I get older, I was interested to find out how the collagen would affect my hair mostly.  The apple flavoured gummy stacks also contain Glucosamine (for joints), Elastin (for tissue and organ elasticity), Hyaluronic Acid (to retain moisture in hair, eyes and skin) and vitamins such as Vitamin C and Zinc.  The layers of different supplements are evident in the individual gummies.

The overall taste is that of sweet apple and it’s not offensive at all. Think of a Haribo, but without the sharpness of sugar and less chewy, as these gummies are sugar free.  You only take one gummy a day then continue, which may take a few weeks or months to show a difference. I’ve been taking them for 3+ weeks now, mainly to improve my hair over time but I can see that my skin is less dry already and has more suppleness to it, and is less affected by the harsh cold weather and central heating.  Over time, I hope that the effects are more prominent and ongoing!

I really like how easy it is to take these Nourished Gummies because they are in their own little packaging which means you can take them to work with you, in your handbag or even on holiday and not have to worry about finding a drink or if you find taking tablets and capsules a problem. They taste great too, which is always a bonus!

28 servings are £39.99 at: https://get-nourished.com/products/collagen-hair-skin-nails

Tolpa Dermo Face Skincare

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, health, Stocking Fillers, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Rosacal Strengthening Regenerating Cream

Rosacal Strengthening Soothing Cream

Lipidrio Nourishing Regenerating Cream

Boots are now stocking a new skincare range called Topla, aimed at improving the condition of skin with conditions such as acne, rosacea and dehydration.  Hailed from Poland, the new range combines minimalist skin treatments in a new collection termed ‘Skinimalism’ which has been recognised by dermatologists as a new approach to tackle skin conditions by reducing the number of products used.

In order to treat acne, rosacea and dehydration, all of which can affect anyone and are conditions that are very noticeable, Tolpa have created just 10 products. There’s no need for lengthy skin routines, just these 10 are all you need for cleansing, day cream, night cream and eye cream.  We were sent two products from the Rosacal range (for rosacea) and the Lipidrio Nourishing Regenerating Cream.

The Rosacal Strengthening Soothing Cream works best on sensitive skin, and helps strengthen the capillaries over time, where the red capillaries at the surface is the noticeable sign of rosacea.  It also helps to moisturise the skin and calm down any allergies or redness. This is a very light cream, worn in the day and also has a SFP 10.

Rosacal Strengthening Regenerating Cream is a night cream, which also reduces redness of rosacea and strengthens the skin, helping to even out the colour which might be affected by the rosacea capillaries.  This cream is heavier, which is what you’d expect at night and also has a freshness to it that makes it soothing to put on.

The Lipidrio Nourishing Regenerating Cream massively increases the hydration of skin and can moisturise for up to 24 hours. It’s a day cream but it’s incredibly rich, and takes a while to rub in but does leave skin feeling soft and hydrated. It works particularly well when you apply it straight out of the shower and skin is still damp. I like this as a day cream because it’s so nourishing and rich, and it improves the texture of my skin before I put on make-up, which always helps!

I have been using these Skinimalism creams now for a few days so the long term effects won’t be seen and I’m not a sufferer of rosacea although I do have acne.  I’m loving how rich the creams are and how easily they are absorbed and the fact that they are not complicated or over engineered but instead are a pleasure to wear!

Rosacal Strengthening Regenerating Cream available at Boots for £12.99: https://www.boots.com/tolpa-dermo-face-rosacal-strengthening-regenerating-cream-night-40ml-10342619

Rosacal Strengthening Soothing Cream available at Boots for £12.99: https://www.boots.com/tolpa-dermo-face-rosacal-strengthening-soothing-spf-10-cream-day-40ml-10342618

Lipidrio Nourishing Regenerating Cream available at Boots for £12.99: https://www.boots.com/tolpa-dermo-face-lipidrio-nourishing-regenerating-cream-day-40ml-10342620

Carmen 2-In-1 Vanity Case with LED Mirror

beauty, Birthday Gifts, camping, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Home, secret santa, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

The Carmen 2-In-1 Vanity Case is an easy gift for anyone who loves their make-up, skincare or perhaps a traveller who needs a robust make-up bag!  

The Carmen Vanity Case is unique as the lid can be detached and turned into an illuminated mirror. That’s right, the lid becomes a stand up mirror for doing hair or make-up, and at the touch of a button it illuminates to make it easier to apply products anywhere. The rigid case is tough enough to withstand hold luggage and protect your make-up from being ruined, and I’d bet that it prevents make-up melting in extreme heat as well, especially as the case is a cool colour and would not absorb sunlight if left on a window ledge. There’s a classy leather strap for a handle too, making it easy to transport around.

The lid has a stand which is 360 degree swivel so you can position the mirror exactly where you want it. It even sits in the case with an attachment inside and actually works really well to illuminate the room even if you’re not using it. Perfect for camping and having no other light at night!  To recharge, use the included C-USB lead. The light is designed to be a white light, so as not to distort your colour when trying to apply make-up. The light runs for 3 hours before it needs charging again.

I really like this design for anyone who wants to transport any precious make-up or skin products as I find it easier to have everything in one case, but most cases are too soft to put into hold luggage and as we know, there’s a limit on hand luggage.  The mirror and light are the icing on the cake and will make it much easier for travelling especially if you are on long journeys and know that your bag will get thrown all over the place. Although not waterproof, the Carmen Vanity Case is great for when the bathroom gets too humid or things are thrown around on a cruise ship and water goes everywhere!

I think this might be my favourite gift to send to friends for Christmas too. Who wouldn’t find a use for it?

https://carmen-products.co.uk/mirrors/vanity-case-with-illuminating-led-mirror-blue-c81167bcst

Twilight Hair Dryer Straightener Set

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Family Life, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Home, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

There are some products that we all use all year round, and yet we never think of buying them for ourselves. A hairdryer and a set of straighteners are among them! I don’t think I’ve ever bought myself a hairdryer but instead wait for Christmas to either ask for it on my Christmas list (thanks Mum!) or be surprised by it!

The Carmen Twilight Hair Dryer and Straightener Set includes a hair dryer with three heat and two speed settings to give a professional look and making it ideal for all hair types and all types of finish. There’s also a handy mirror in the back of the hair dryer so that you can see what you’re doing.  Anyone who has curly or frizzy hair knows that you have to blow dry your hair first, with a straight nozzle, before you can straighten it.  Which makes it very handy having both the hair dryer and straighteners in a set!  

The Twilight hair straighteners are keratin infused to give a smoother finish and prevent burning, even if your hair is still slightly damp. It heats up to 215 degrees which is comparable to other straighteners on the market.  Both the hair dryer and straighteners are part of a set of other Twilight products including tongs, a cosmetic bag and a high grade hair dryer all in the Twilight blue colour.

The Twilight Hair Dryer works brilliantly and is not as noisy as some of the older model hair dyers I’m used to. It’s light weight too and the mirror is really handy! Other models would have some diffuser and interchangeable nozzles to go with this product but if you’re drying straight hair or hair that’s a bit frizzy and needs straightening, this is the nozzle you’d use anyway.  The straighteners work really well too and it’s nice to have brand new straighteners with keratin coating that glides through your hair.  It left my curly hair nicely straightened and with blunt edges in just a few attempts, leaving my long hair straight all over in a matter of about 15 minutes.

Available for £29.99 at: https://carmen-products.co.uk/gift-sets/twilight-hair-dryer-straightener-set

Annabelle Minerals

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, cruelty-free, eco friendly, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Vegan, Women

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review but all thoughts and opinions are our own.

The festive season is the perfect excuse to indulge in some new beauty goodies, with endless fantastic products and irresistible offers to choose from. We’ve been trying out some fabulous makeup and skincare products from Annabelle Minerals and these vegan-friendly products, made with natural ingredients have been a big hit with the Review Studio team.

Let’s start with the Sheer Shine Lipstick – available in five stunning shades, Apricot, Brown Fig, Coconut, Dragon Fruit, and Strawberry, these lipsticks are creamy, moisturizing, and packed with natural oils, butters, and vitamin E. They’re like a lipstick and lip balm rolled into one giving you a gorgeous pop of colour and soft, hydrated lips. Plus, they come in a super chic golden magnetic case, so they look as posh as they feel. Oh, and if you’re into sustainable beauty, you’ll love the refill option – what’s not to like? RRP £12.90, with refills at £9.90.

If you prefer a lip pencil then check out the Jumbo Lip Pencils, available in five fab shades – Cranberry, Clover, Marigold, Dahlia, and Maroon, they glide on like a dream. Whether you’re going for a subtle daytime vibe or full-on glam, these pencils can do it all. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a multitasking product?

Now, if you fancy adding a bit of glow (and who doesn’t this time of year?), the Pressed Powder Bronzer is a must-have. Available in five coffee-inspired shades – Café Au Lait, Cold Brew, Ginger Coffee, Latte, and Mocha, it blends beautifully for a natural, satin-matte finish.

Whether you want a soft sun-kissed look or a sharper contour, the bronzer is buildable and will last all day. Plus, with a refill option it’s as sustainable as it is gorgeous.

RRP £19.90, refills at £15.90

Skincare fans, this one’s for you! The Soft Cream Moisturiser is a game changer, especially if you’re a fan of mineral make up. This ultra light cream is the perfect base for your foundation, keeping your skin hydrated and fresh.

Made with 95% natural and 100% vegan ingredients, it’s packed with skin-loving goodies like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E. It absorbs instantly, leaving your skin soft, smooth, and perfectly prepped for makeup.

From their sustainable ethos to their high-quality, skin-friendly formulas, Annabelle Minerals is giving us serious Christmas gifting inspiration. Lipsticks, bronzers, skincare—you name it, they’ve got something for everyone.

So, whether you’re pampering yourself or spoiling someone special, these beauties are sure to put a smile on anyone’s face this Christmas.

Christmas Beauty Round Up

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, cruelty-free, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Vegan, Winter, Women

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

The winter months can be harsh on your skin so it’s worth investing in some good skincare products to ensure you’re glowing and party-ready for the festive season. Begin with a high-quality cleanser to remove impurities and prep your skin for the rest of your skincare routine. The COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser is an excellent choice thanks to it’s gentle, yet effective formula that improves skin texture, clarifies and removes impurities whilst maintaining a balanced pH. Applied to wet skin and massaged in before rinsing it’s tea tree oil infused formula provides a refreshing, medicinal scent that helps wake you up in the morning! It lathers nicely and cleanses e without leaving skin feeling dry.

RRP £15.99 150ml

Next, apply a rich, hydrating moisturizer to combat the drying effects of colder weather, keeping your skin plump and radiant. The Embroyolisse Lait Crème Concentrate moisturiser is a lovely rich moisturiser which is suitable for all skin types. This multipurpose product doubles as a body moisturiser, face mask, primer makeup remover and even a post shave soother. Enriched with essential fatty acids and vitamins it nourishes, hydrates and protects your skin. It’s creamy non-runny consistency is easy to apply and is an excellent base for make up while keeping skin hydrated all day.

RRP £24.99 100ml

For your night time routine add a retinol cream to boost cell renewal and smooth fine lines for a youthful, refreshed complexion. COSRX The Retinol 0.3 is designed to target visible signs of ageing so will help those wrinkles and fine lines, loss elasticity, uneven skin tone and visible pores, making it a must have addition to your winter skincare line up.

RRP £32 20ml

Having looked after your skin throughout November, you’ll be ready to dazzle at every festive party. To take your look to the next level, a pair of false eyelashes are just what you need to add an extra touch of glamour. The Ardell Wispies Lashes (RRP £5) are a fantastic choice, they’re lightweight, easy to apply, and beautifully enhance your eyes with their fluttery, natural design. If you prefer a glue-free option, the Ardell Naked Press-On Lashes (RRP £14.50) are ideal. They’re quick and hassle-free, providing the same eye-enhancing effect with minimal effort. Whether you go for a dramatic or subtle look, these lashes will perfectly complement your radiant, party-ready skin.

Elemental Herbology

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Mother's Day, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Vegan, Women

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own

Skincare gifts that combine effectiveness with a touch of indulgence are a great idea for Christmas gifts and Elemental Herbology have a fantastic selection to choose from. Inspired by the five elements of traditional Chinese medicine they blend top quality, natural ingredients with cutting end technology to give your skin exactly what it needs. These are exactly the kind of gifts I’d love to find under the tree on Christmas morning so I can indulge in a spot of pampering after the festive madness is over!!

As you know winter can be incredibly harsh on our skin, the cold air outside combined with the drying effects of central heating often leaves it feeling dry and dull. That’s why it’s so important to give your skin extra TLC in the winter months. Elemental Herbology’s face creams are beautifully rich and luxurious yet absorb quickly, so you don’t get that heavy or greasy feeling on your face. The creams are formulated with even the most sensitive skin in mind, using an ultra-hydrating complex that deeply nourishes dry, dehydrated skin to leave it looking plump and healthy.

The Cell Plumping Moisturiser has a smooth silky texture that absorbs effortlessly into the skin, providing excellent hydration without the greasiness. It feels lightweight and I’m loving the softness and slight mattifying effect that it gives. After a couple of weeks my skin feels softer, smoother and has a radiance about it that I certainly didn’t have before.

RRP £55 (50ml)

Now for the Facial Souffle Ultra Rich Cream, this is an intensely hydrating multi purpose cream that works perfectly as a day or night moisturiser and doubles as an overnight face mask. The rich, creamy texture absorbs beautifully, enveloping my skin in a cocoon of hydration. By morning, my skin feels incredibly nourished, soft and refreshed – as if I’ve had a good eight hours sleep – even when I haven’t!  

RRP £55 (50ml)

The Detox Neroli & Rose Damask hand and body wash is another favourite, made with a blend of natural oils and botanicals it lathers nicely and has an incredible fragrance that lingers softly on the skin, transforming a shower into a truly sensual experience.  I love how it leaves my skin feeling refreshed yet pampered, adding a touch of luxury to my daily routine. Slip this into a stocking, and it’s bound to add a touch of elegance to anyone’s bathroom!

RRP £14

And finally, the Detox Bath and Body Oil. Now, this is the one you’ll want to treat yourself to as well as gifting to others. Add a few drops to a hot bath once the Christmas festivities are over and the stress will simply melt away. It’s rich, nourishing, and leaves your skin feeling silky smooth. Plus, it’s got that spa-like aroma, so even if you’re only in the bath for a quick 10 minutes, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported somewhere fabulous. Not only is it a fantastic bath oil it also doubles as a body oil so you can enjoy the beautiful fragrance all day long. The blend is designed to detoxify and rejuvenate both body and mind and the ingredients are carefully selected for their unique benefits.

  • Rosemary: Boosts mental clarity and encourages digestive flow.
  • Grapefruit: Detoxifies the skin and supports healthy digestion.
  • Juniper Berry: Cleansing and purifying, it enhances circulation and refreshes the skin.

It’s the perfect addition to any self-care routine, giving your body a revitalizing boost during the winter months!

RRP £33

So if you’re looking for gifts that bring a bit of that “aaah” feeling, these are a great choice, perfect for mums, sisters, friends or anyone who loves a bit of pampering.

StylPro Make Up Brush Cleaner and Dryer

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Home, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Here’s a lovely present for anyone who loves their make-up! The StylPro Make-Up Cleaner and Dryer from Boots is an extra element we don’t think about in our daily life when thinking about make-up. How often do you clean your make up brushes, and how do you do it? It’s something I never really think about, only giving my brushes a quick rinse every so often but experts say that we should clean our make-up brushes every week.

The StylPro Make-Up Brush Cleaner and Dryer makes it easy to clean brushes. The set comes with a bowl and 8 attachments for different size brushes. There’s cleaning fluid (for foundation brushes) and the StylPro device itself, which even comes with 2x AAA batteries.  The attachments are all kept safe in an aerated bag to help prevent bacteria multiplying.

It’s simple enough to clean your brushes; add a small amount of cleaning fluid (or use soap for non-foundation brushes) and some water in the base of the bowl. Choose which attachment fits the handle of the first brush you’re going to clean and attach it to the device. Dip the brush into the soapy solution for about 5 seconds so that it absorbs some of the cleaning fluid then hit the button on the device to spin the brush. Leave it in the shallow water for about 10 seconds then raise above the water level and spin for another 10 seconds. This spins off the excess water and you’ll see how much make up is left in the water afterwards!

The brushes are still a bit damp so you need to take them out of the device and let them dry somewhere that’s well ventilated and won’t let any water pool. The brushes look a bit bedraggled at this point because they’re still damp but they do dry off quite quickly if near a radiator.  I would try the StylPro with an old brush first as it takes a while to get used to the depth of water needed and then where in the height of the bowl to hold the brush so that it gets clean but also doesn’t hit the bottom and damage the fibres. You have to be mindful of spinning as well as too much spin makes some of the fibres on bigger brushes splay out and tangle a bit. There’s a knack of being able to spin off enough water but also not damage the brush. The colour of the water after the spin session was all I needed to see to know that the StylPro works!

Available for £29.99 at: https://www.boots.com/stylpro-makeup-brush-cleaner-and-dryer-10224940?CAWELAID=620000410000293710&cm_mmc=bmm-buk-bing-ppc-_-PLAs-_-Beauty_Cosmetic-_-UK_Smart_Shopping_Beauty_Cosmetic&gclid=a7e0340bff7b1d41071052b4f08129d1&gclsrc=3p.ds&msclkid=a7e0340bff7b1d41071052b4f08129d1&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=UK_Smart_Shopping_Beauty_Cosmetic&utm_term=4575686381129242&utm_content=Beauty_Cosmetic

BeautyPro T-Bar Device

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, health, Stocking Fillers, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

I love a new gadget and this T-Bar Device from BeautyPro is right up my street. It’s a simple concept – a wand in the shape of a ‘T’ which vibrates at sonic speed and helps your skin absorb products, tones and aids lymphatic drainage.

The AA battery powered device vibrates at 6000 pulsations per minute. This speed helps stimulate the skin for a better, repairing blood flow but also stimulates toxins to move from the surface of the skin as a lymphatic drain. Puffiness reduces when the fluid under the skin drains away and is dealt with at the lymph nodes on you face (there are several places you can find lymph nodes) and flushes out toxins to leave skin clearer. The increased blood flow also helps new cells form and breaths new oxygen into the skin and muscles.

The vibrations also help with absorbing the nutrients from facials and topical face creams. The pulsations help work the products into the skin, giving a better overall effect.  Skin and muscle are also said to be firmer and more contoured too.

It’s really easy to use; just add an AA battery (not provided) and twist the base of the handle. You can both hear and see the T-bar vibrating. Hold the device against your face and you can feel the vibrations working the top layers of your skin. It’s recommended your skin is wet, or even better has some kind of serum or product on so that the vibrations can work their magic. It tickles at first but you get used to it especially around the nose and ears!  The cold metal of the T-bar helps sooth the skin too. Use upward strokes to move the fluid from your skin around and down to the lymphatic areas for drainage. 

It took me a day or so (morning and night) to get used to the sensation but whilst you’re adding the serum or product to your skin daily anyway, the added T-Bar Device gives you that little lift to either work the product in more or to start contouring the skin.  I have been using it for a few days now and I like the drainage effect with my skin being less puffy, but over time I should start to see more of an effect on the smoothness of my skin and shape the T-bar creates.

Available from £39 at:

https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/beautypro-t-bar-device/14848110/?affil=awin&utm_medium=affiliate&sv_campaign_id=531573&awc=2082_1723734984_a27637985a5df416098f7b48b5a56a5e&utm_term=CSS&utm_campaign=AffiliateWin&switchcurrency=GBP&sv1=affiliate&shippingcountry=GB&utm_source=AWin_531573&utm_content=https%3A%2F%2Fshopforward.nl%2F

Embryolisse Purpose Moisturiser, Calm and Sooth Facial Oil and Rubis Tweezers

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Vegan, Vegetarian, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

We’ve been sent this lovely ensemble of beauty products for Christmas and I couldn’t wait to try them for you and let you know what they’re all about! The size of these products and in combination together make them ideal for going on holiday, or for a Christmas stocking.

We start with the Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré Multi-Purpose Moisturiser. It’s a multipurpose moisturiser but is very rich so can be used for lots of purposes. I love a rich moisturiser anyway but this can be used as make-up remover, a face mask, hand cream or as a body lotion. It doesn’t have an SPF so I would use this during the winter when my skin is dry and the heating and air conditioning are on full blast, and additionally as a hand cream. It would be brilliant in the spring and summer on holiday because it’s so versatile. I love the cool texture and it’s not greasy, plus at the sale price of £11.19 (it’s usually £13.99) it’s a steal.

Facial oils are all the rage now and I personally love them. The Calm and Sooth Facial Oil from Elemental Herbology is blended with plant extracts and essential oils to nourish your face. Just one drop is enough to cover your whole visage and you can really smell the calming flower essences which helps with the calming effect. I use the facial oils to give myself lymphatic massages, which is a huge boost to tone your skin and gives you an even colour. It’s very relaxing too and with the Calm and Sooth Facial Oil, you will be in bliss within a few hours of massage!

Finally, the staple of the beauty cabinet is a very good pair of tweezers. Rubis are famous for producing high quality tweezers and these are no exception. Sharp and slanted, they are designed for eye brows but can be used for many tasks as they’re so precise. They come in different colours but these gold ones look especially good if you’re going on holiday too! These ones are coated in yellow gold so are also antibacterial. I love using them because of how precise they are and you can get a good grip. Fabulous tweezers are the staple of any beauty regime so these are a great investment for your make up bag.

Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré Multi-Purpose Moisturiser £11.19: https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/embryolisse-lait-creme-concentre-multi-purpose-moisturiser-30ml/11118732/?switchcurrency=GBP&utm_medium=cpc&shippingcountry=GB&gclid=93cbe3f17d671c4d0db0854f59c88a68&msclkid=93cbe3f17d671c4d0db0854f59c88a68&utm_source=bing&utm_campaign=LF%20%7C%7C%20UK%20%7C%7C%20EN%20%7C%7C%20PMAX%20%7C%7C%20ePMAX%20%7C%7C%20Skincare&utm_term=2331995443444706&utm_content=Skincare&affil=thgppc&gclsrc=3p.ds

Calm and Sooth Facial Oil £44: https://www.elementalherbology.com/collections/best-selling-skincare/products/calm-soothe-facial-oil

Rubis Tweezers available for £27.88 at: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rubis-tweezers-classic-slanted-satin/dp/B0133ME3MC/ref=sr_1_7?crid=WPXC0BMQADRH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.39ZvDIUrai-G8HPYwmq69kikaMs1bZU2czq4ySto4AlkQplv5t83cK92fOkIC5p7bCs-oildpwdpBV_jvVlwg-OyfDb4jeK6gARhY6Y8rMOGTXS4sDVhWtuI93Dm67wW-yAQOXiQS6TUfGbWb0rTfVF7nkKprnBR2we1-Lqq-jhGPqM0TxKtZ14tpeifh8PhAOjGVRvjuys5VhHnpaYNTdUXCtFWTAIVuBAw0Iay6RvtpbJjiGkHwlU_IxJDW7kGcd5NMoP3EY5riatxasUYvbYwjitTZSvKVCWaXIeGhyA.t_V9Ty7mOGoEmWhX64FrZBS_cyxzxKMnb3C5mmYb9J8&dib_tag=se&keywords=rubis%2Btweezers&qid=1721639198&sprefix=rubis%2Btweezers%2Caps%2C76&sr=8-7&th=1

Rumi Cosmetiques Ultimate Lash Care and BrowCare+

beauty, Christmas, cruelty-free, Gifts for Her, Stocking Fillers, Vegan, Vegetarian, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Since 2020, Rumi Cosmetiques has been on a mission to produce the highest quality make-up with the intention of helping all women, but especially older women, be their very best. This meant creating a make-up range which is made for sensitive skin, vegan and cruelty free. Starting with their eye make-up, Rumi have products for all ages and all of them are confidence building to make you feel more beautiful. We were sent the Ultimate Lash Care Kit and the BrowCare+ Kit for to see how they stand up to being Christmas gifts!

The Ultimate Lash Care Kit comprises of 3 products; mascara (VolumeCare+), eye liner (LushLine+) and serum (LashCare+).  If you look on the website (below) you can choose which colours suit you best and the serum size so you can mix and match as you wish. There’s also a cool option to be able to have the products on a 3-month subscription so that you don’t ever run out! We had the black eye liner and black mascara to try, which I would say are the safest and most standard colours but as time goes on and if you order more, you could get a mix of colours for different looks.

VolumeCare+ Mascara is designed to thicken eye lashes which naturally thin with age. The mascara dramatically volumizes eye lashes with deep colour and also separates each lash, leaving it waterproof too (great if you’re going on holiday!) but you will need to have proper eye make-up remover to remove it at the end of the day. The easy-to-apply LashLine+ is a pencil like eye liner which makes it easier to apply than a liner brush and easily glides onto the eye lid. In combination with the VolumeCare+ Mascara, it accentuates the eye, probably because it draws out the corner of your eye and works in tandem with the mascara to elevate the lashes. So far so good!

The LashCare+ serum is a new one on me. I don’t normally use serum on my eye lashes but seeing as I uses extra serum on my skin and a similar serum on my hair nowadays it makes sense to use one on my eye lashes.  It’s applied once a day, so I’ve been putting it on before bed. It’s only been a few weeks so I can’t see the full effect but I’m hoping it works even better over time as it does with helping the mascara bond to my eye lashes.  Make-up for older women has really come along!

Lastly, we were also sent the lovely BrowCare+ Serum. Again, a brow serum is not something that I have used before but with my eye brows becoming more erratic (yes, I used that word!) it makes sense to try and tame them with something that makes them fuller but also more controllable.  The BrowCare+ Serum needs just one application a day (makes sense for it to be at night at the same time as the eyelashes) and nourishes the brow hairs so that they grow thicker and stronger, and tamer too!  This typically takes a month or so to start showing so it’s another one of the long road ahead and perhaps a very good reason to buy more than one BrowCare+ Serum at a time.

Over time, my eye lashes and brows should start to thicken, back to (nearly) what they were in my youth!

Ultimate Lash Care Kit £67.00: https://uk.rumicosmetiques.com/products/mascara-eyeliner-lash-serum

BrowCare+ £64:

BrowCare+ Serum

Malibu Sun Lotion and High Protection Sun Care

beauty, Children, Christmas, Days Out, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, health, Stocking Fillers, Summer

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

It may be that the cooler months of the year are upon us, but many are still going to sunnier places and everyone, regardless of the season, needs to look after their skin with SPF. Malibu Sun has a range of products, not just sun lotion, which can protect your skin from harmful rays. We were sent the Malibu Kids 50 SPF Lotion, Malibu 50 SPF lotion, Malibu SPF 30 Clear Hair and Scalp Protector, Malibu 50 SPF Roll-On Lotion and Malibu 30 SPF Lipcare Vanilla flavour.

The Malibu Kids 50 SPF Lotion comes in a handy spray with 300ml net and is UVA and UVB protective. The spray makes it super easy to ‘zap’ kids who don’t want to be covered in lotion and it’s a lighter spray than what you find in the bigger bottles. It’s water resistant too so great for the beach or pool and contains Vitamin E and Aloe Vera to be kinder to skin. The Malibu Kids 50 SPF Roll-On Lotion is just as light and has as high a protection factor as the spray but for when it’s windy or you have a smaller child or baby and you want to ensure coverage, the roll-on lotion might help. It’s also UVA and UVB protective, and water resistant.  I love the spray for the whole family for when we go out but the roll-on is great for keeping in your beach bag and topping up the lotion or for days when you think you don’t need it, but it turns out you do!

There’s the classic family Malibu 50 SPF Lotion too, which is what I would take on an adult only holiday. I don’t need a fancy spray as an adult, and I find it quite reassuring having the old-fashioned 100ml bottle with me when I go on holiday! That size doesn’t last long by the way, so it’s enough for a week for two people if you’re out by the pool daily. It has a light fragrance to it too, which again is reassuring and like the others is UVA/UVB protective.  I love having the SPF 50 factor on so that I know I’m getting a proper coverage and won’t burn easily too.

Lastly, there are some ‘treats’ from Malibu too. For the times when you sit by the pool or on the beach and, “I wish I had thought of that…” here are two products you won’t want to forget next holiday. The Malibu SPF 30 Hair and Scalp Protector and the Malibu SPF 30 Lipcare.  When your scalp starts to burn and you don’t want to make your hair greasy from the sun lotion, Malibu have the solution. Same goes with your highlights that you don’t want to get bleached; the Hair and Scalp Protector maintains a barrier with the sun so that you don’t have to worry about your hair drying out, scalp burning and peeling or your colour dissipating.  I was really grateful for the Malibu Lipcare as well because on the days when we were out but not by the beach, my lips were getting dry from the sun but with eating and drinking, lotion wasn’t doing it. The vanilla flavour helped remind me when I needed to reapply the Lipcare too! Malibu Lipcare and the Hair and Scalp Protector are both UVA and UVB protective and water resistant.

Did they work as sun protection products though? Well no one got burned! We had nice tans but more importantly there was no long term damage, the lotions stayed on and everyone was happy in the sun. The Malibu Sun Protection range would be a fabulous gift for a family at Christmas, or a stocking filler for that trip of a lifetime next year. Who’s coming with me?

(Some products aren’t available online)

Malibu SPF 50 Lotion £4.99:

https://www.malibusun.com/spf50-lotion-protection-49-p.asp

Malibu SPF 30 Lipcare £1.99:

https://www.malibusun.com/spf30-vanilla-lip-care-241-p.asp

Freshwater Pearl Necklace by Created By Carol

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Jewellery, Stocking Fillers, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

This one is for the jewellery lovers who love the water, especially freshwater pearls. Created by Carol is a one-woman business in designing and making silver jewellery, based in Yorkshire UK.  Carol is a self-proclaiming pearl enthusiast and has won various TV competitions for her design and production of jewellery. Using real silver in the form of antique cutlery, buttons and anything else she can find, Carol is an advocate for those with disabilities and teaches metalworking, pearl knotting and stone setting. When she’s not working (which sounds like a lot of the time!) she’s repairing sentimental jewellery at her local repair shop.

Her website, Created by Carol, is a treasure trove of what you can buy an all of it unique. From spoons and buttons made into jewellery items or refashioned using their unique patterns, Carol has created a library of silver jewellery which you won’t find anywhere else.  Her love of pearls is also evident in the great body of work she has which includes rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces. We were sent this absolutely gorgeous handmade solitaire pearl necklace to review, but you can see from her website that there is a whole host of jewellery for you to discover.

Pearls have been harvested long back in history, even in Roman times but especially for monarchs throughout time, and mentioned in the Bible. For anyone who works with chakras, the pearl is especially meaningful with the third eye due to its association with balance and wisdom and wearing it at your throat chakra (or heart chakra depending on the length of the necklace chain) can bring purity and diving feminine wisdom too. In fact, there are a lot of lovely properties of pearls that make them great gifts.

This timeless freshwater pearl necklace comes on a chain, ready to wear. You can see it’s a natural, freshwater pearl because of the slightly irregular shape and texture of it, but the iridescent reflective surface reminds you that it’s real and totally wearable with anything.  It’s exceptionally well made by Carol, as you’d imagine, with absolute precision and sympathetic to the beauty of the pearl. You don’t need more than just one pearl to make the statement as I found out as soon as I put it on! The silver fine chain and bar will never date and once you wear it, it’s so addictive to add more to your collection and have matching sets. The slight difference in pearl colour, sizes and textures make it almost a hobby in itself to hunt down the next piece for your collection.

In fact, you can’t go wrong with a pearl for a gift, and I am loving my first ever freshwater pearl necklace!

Available at £35.00 online: https://www.createdbycaroluk.com/product-page/pearl-solitaire-necklace

Vegamour GRO+ Advanced System Haircare

beauty, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, health, Subscription Boxes, Summer, Vegan, Vegetarian, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

The Vegamour GRO+ Advance System is a haircare group of products by Vegamour which promote hair growth in the long term, and give you thicker, more manageable hair.  We were sent a set of the GRO+ Balancing Shampoo and Conditioner and the GRO+ Advanced Hair Serum to try out.

When haircare companies send us products to test, it normally takes a few weeks or even months for us to see a difference, but with the GRO+ Advanced System Shampoo and Conditioner, I saw results immediately. I mean, as soon as my hair was dry I noticed that it was fuller and thicker, so there must be some magic here or else it really does work!

The shampoo and conditioner work exactly the same way as any other product, and on their own especially over time they build up the hair to create fuller locks.  I’ve used the products in combination 3 times now and not only on the first use but on the subsequent uses I’ve seen how it builds up my hair. Over time it should help with regrowth too. My hair wasn’t heavy though, as if there was a lot of product in it and I had to think back the first time I used GRO+ to make sure I hadn’t used any kind of mousse or finishing creams to give it the fuller look. I hadn’t, but the shampoo and conditioner on their own has give the fuller body that post-drying leave in conditioners or treatments usually do. I noticed that when my hair just had the GRO+ shampoo and conditioner used on it and no other styling products, my hair wasn’t greasy and didn’t get dirty as quickly either so there was no build-up of products to deal with. 

hair loss serum

With this instant affect in mind, I used the GRO+ Serum to see if that would work.  The serum is a really light, almost watery consistency which is easy to apply.  You just add drops to your scalp, anywhere your hair might be thinning, and then massage in. It is best applied daily (although I didn’t apply daily to start with) and can be used on wet or dry hair.  Over time, the serum encourages hair follicles to grow and created thicker hair. I haven’t been trying it for the recommended 120 days yet but based on the success of the GRO+ Shampoo & Conditioner I’m very hopeful! The serum isn’t sticky at all and it actually conditions the root of the hair too so it gives a bit of nourishment. It’s vegan and has no silicones either so washes out easily.

I’m really impressed with the GRO+ Advanced range that I’ve seen so far, and although it’s pricy, it’s still cheaper than the medicated alternatives and the worry of losing or thinning hair which we know exasperates the problem! Even if your hair isn’t thinning, this is a great preventative measure and everyone loves a fuller look to their hair. I’m going to keep using this for as long as possible to see the results and hopefully completely transform my hair.  Even better, it’s made with a vegan formula so anyone can use it.

GRO+ Advanced Balancing Shampoo & Conditioner at £93: https://uk.vegamour.com/products/gro-advanced-balancing-shampoo-conditioner-kit

GRO+ Advanced Hair Serum pack of 3 £198: https://uk.vegamour.com/products/gro-advanced-hair-serum-3-pack

Saabuni Illuminating Saffron Serum

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, cruelty-free, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Valentine's Day Gifts, Vegan, Women

Disclaimer: we received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

I’m always on the hunt for skincare products that enhance my complexion, so I was thrilled to try the Illuminating Saffron Serum from Saabuni. This natural, cruelty-free facial oil features a potent blend of Saffron, Liquorice, Indian Madder, and Banyan Tree extracts, designed to visibly firm the skin and leave it glowing with youthful radiance.

Saabuni’s story is as captivating as their products. The brand was founded by Naseema, who was inspired by her grandmother’s tradition of making soaps, creams, and hair oils from flowers and spices. Drawing on the rich tradition of Ayurveda, Naseema now crafts her own skincare products using these cherished recipes, with a deep passion for natural beauty. Each product is carefully handcrafted using only the finest ingredients which truly benefit the skin.

The star of this serum, Saffron, is well-known for its brightening properties, helping you achieve a stunning summer glow without the need for excessive sun exposure. Liquorice and Indian Madder work together to firm and tighten the skin, while Banyan Tree extracts add a youthful vibrance.

The facial oil is lightweight and absorbs nicely into my skin without leaving it feeling greasy. I’ve been using it at night time as it’s an excellent alternative to heavier night creams, providing a lighter, more natural feel on the skin.  

I’ve been using this serum for a month and I can genuinely say that my skin feels incredible – hydrated, softer, firmer, and noticeably more radiant. The transformation is undeniable, with a significant improvement in texture and overall glow. Gone are the days of dealing with dry skin on my face, this product has effectively addressed that concern and my menopausal skin is looking a lot better than it was a few weeks ago.

Suitable for all skin types, this oil fits seamlessly into any skincare routine, simply apply 1-2 drops on damp skin after cleansing. A little goes a long way, so the 30ml bottle should last 2-3 months.

A bottle costs £34.99, and with a current offer of buy 2 get 1 free, now is the perfect time to stock up. Whether you want to lighten up your skincare routine or achieve a radiant glow, the Ayurvedic Glow Facial Oil is a must-have that leaves your skin feeling lighter, brighter, and more youthful.

ZZ Wipes

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Disclaimer: We received the wipes for the purpose of this review but all words and opinions are our own.

If you’re seeking a practical and refreshing solution for staying clean while on the move, ZZWipes individually wrapped mint-scented wipes are a true game-changer. Perfect for camping, travelling, or a quick refresh after a kick around with friends, these wipes are an essential companion to keep you feeling fresh and confident all day long.

The individually wrapped packs are small, discreet, and can be easily slipped into a pocket or wallet, making them incredibly convenient to carry around with you. They are especially handy when space is limited, I can already see them being indispensable on my next backpacking and cycling trips.

The wipes have a minty, refreshing fragrance that leaves you feeling revitalised and clean. The scent is subtle yet effective, providing that extra boost of freshness exactly when you need it. The alcohol free wipes are also designed to be gentle on the skin, which is great news for those with sensitive skin. While they obviously don’t replace a shower or bath, they’re an excellent alternative when you don’t have access to one and I was pleasantly surprised by just how effective they are, leaving me feeling fresh and clean after using a single wipe.

The wipes are reasonably thick, strong, and durable enough to wipe away sweat and grime without tearing. I was impressed by how long they stayed damp, and found a single wipe was sufficient for a quick refresh after exercise or a few hours on a train. My skin dried quickly afterward with no sticky residue, and the minty fragrance was quite invigorating.

These wipes are a must-have for any man who values convenience, cleanliness, and a touch of minty freshness on the go. Whether you’re roughing it in the wilderness or navigating the urban jungle, make sure you have some ZZWipes in your pocket!

A pack of 30 wipes costs £10 and is available from ZZ Wipes

RuRu Cosmetics False Eye Lashes and Brow Gel

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Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

We’re holding onto summer here and enjoying this late heatwave that has everyone out at festivals, BBQs and the beautiful outdoor bars and restaurants that have become a part of British culture since the sun has been shining. Ruru Cosmetics sent us some reusable false eye lashes (and a bonus brow gel!) to keep us looking gorgeous all summer long and with a bit of practice, we have been trying them!

We were sent; Ruru Cosmetics False Lashes (Sunny, Ocean and Cindy) at £3.25 each, Ruru Cosmetics Olive and Alice (£7.99 each) and Luna (£3.25). We also received the Ruru Cosmetics Lash Adhesive (£6.49) and Ruru Cosmetics Brow Gel (£9.99).  Obviously the Lash Adhesive is needed to fix the lashes but the Brow Gel is great for fixing your brows just how you want them and complimenting any of the lashes you use at the same time.

I have never used false eye lashes before, neither removeable ones you fix yourself nor the kind of lashes you go to a salon and have done. It’s intrigued me though and looks like a fun way to dress up when you go out!  I started with Olive from the Ruru Cosmetics Faux Collection. The Faux Collection range can be used up to 30 times and come in their own box which can be used to keep each pair between the times you use it.  After looking online at the free download from Ruru Cosmetics on how to use the eye lashes and using the Lash Adhesive that Ruru Cosmetics sent me, I found some tweezers and got to work!

To remove the eye lashes, I teased them out of the case, being careful not to stretch them out of shape. Then using the Lash Adhesive, you only need to dab a little along the lash band, but right up to the ends so that they stick firmly. Using the tweezers, attach the false lashes as close to your own lashes as possible, and dab them down. Once they are dry, you can add mascara if you wish.  To remove, use the tweezers at the far corners of the eye and pull away, tracing the line of your natural eye lashes so as not to stretch them again, and replace them back on the casing to use next time.

It does take a bit of practice but eventually you get the hang of it!

They look very dramatic at first, but I did like the shape of them and how natural they look. These are brilliant for going out or for replacing your own lashes if they aren’t as full as you’d like, and with the range available on the Ruru Cosmetics website, you’ll find something that suits you.  The only point I would recommend is that you practice putting them on before you are in a hurry to go out, but as the pairs can be worn up to 30 times, you’ll have plenty of chances to wear them again!

Some pairs available from £3.25 at: https://www.rurucosmetics.com/collections/false-lashes-clear-band-lashes

Method Body Wash

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Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Method, which is usually known as a cleaning brand, have entered the body care arena this summer with some very cool body wash in flavours, Pure Peace, Energy Boost and Simply Nourish.  Not only are these new to the market and available in Sainsbury’s, but they’re loved by the Kardashians too!

We were sent these three different scents, all at a generous size of 18 fl oz (532ml) to try out during the summer.  Never ones to shy away from a good beauty product, we got to work trying them and weren’t disappointed.  

Starting with Pure Peace, this body wash contains peony, rose water and pink sea salt all of which give it this blush colour; cheerful in itself.  The Method bottles are particularly useful as the ingredients are part of the wording on the packaging. All of the Method body products are plant based too, so there’s more natural ingredients than most other beauty washes. The fragrance is delicate, rose-like and very fresh so you can use it as a body wash or even in the bath to make bubbles!

The second scent is called Energy Boost which contains citrus, ginger and sea buckthorn.  This fragrance is great when you’ve had a big night out and need to get awake in the morning, like a shot of pure energy to wake you up. The citrus really comes through in this wash, and livens up a shower to get you ready to go.  The final variety is Simply Nourish. Containing coconut, rice milk and shea butter you can guess that this body wash is for feeding your skin and making you feel silky soft. Again, it can be used in the bath or to lathe up in the shower with the coconut aroma giving relaxing vibes as well as nurturing. This fragrance reminds me of tropical holidays with the rich rice milk scent and coconut and the shea butter leaves your skin soft like a hotel spa.

In combination, all three look fabulous on the bath side and you can pick and choose which one you prefer depending on your mood, or how hard your day’s been.

Available from Sainsbury’s for £6.50 at: https://www.sainsburys.co.uk/gol-ui/SearchResults/method%20body%20wash

Hair Gain Peptide Puff Dry Shampoo, Scalp Foam and Hair Mask Review

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Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

AD I’d been on the lookout for some travel sized hair products to take on holiday with me so was really pleased when Hair Gain offered to send me a selection of their hair care products. The handy sized products fit easily in my wash bag, making them the ideal companions on my recent walking and cycling holiday.

The Hair Gain Peptide Puff Dry Shampoo is a festival goer’s dream come true, with it’s ability to refresh your hair instantly it’s the perfect choice when showering isn’t an option. With its unique powder puff applicator rather than the typical aerosol, it offers a refreshing and eco-friendly way to freshen up greasy locks when you’re away from home. This method is not only better for the environment but offers a more precise application, absorbing excess oil and adding volume, leaving my hair feeling fresh and clean without the need for water. The other advantage to the powder is it doesn’t leave a chalky finish on my hair and feels less chemical-like than other dry shampoos I have used before. There’s no excuse for dull locks now, one application and my hair feels clean and full of life again.

RRP £15

The Scalp Foam is lightweight and easy to apply, providing a soothing and revitilising treatment for the scalp. It’s especially beneficial for maintaining scalp health whilst on the go, ensuring your scalp feels comfortable and balanced. The leave-in hair foam contains naturally derived ingredients which work together to nourish your scalp. It is applied to dry or towel dried hair and you simply massage it into your scalp. It doesn’t need rinsing out and by using it daily I have noticed that I am shedding less hair and my hair is starting to feels stronger. It also smells lovely too.

RRP £32

Finally the Hair Mask is a nourishing treat that deeply conditions and revitilizes hair. You apply it to towel dried hair, massage it in, leave for 5-10 minutes and then rinse out. There was enough in the 50ml tube for 5 applications on my shoulder length hair so is the perfect size for a summer holiday. I used it on a week long walking and cycling holiday where my hair was assaulted by sun and sweat every day and it really made a big difference to my dry curly hair. Using the mask a couple of times over the week meant my hair was more hydrated and manageable than it is normally. Since returning home I’ve been using it on a weekly basis and am very pleased with the condition of my hair – the mask gives a powerful dose of hydration, leaving my dry curls soft, shiny and bouncy again.

RRP £14.50 50ml

The wide toothed Hair Gain comb is the perfect tool to help distribute the Scalp Foam and Hair Mask. It can be used on wet or dry hair and it’s great for detangling my curly hair without excessive pulling or tugging. The sturdy teeth with rounded tips effortlessly glide through wet hair with less pulling which speeds up the detangling process whilst reducing breakage

RRP £11.95 

I’m really impressed with these products, they are fantastic for both travel and everyday use and the handy sized products combined with their effective formulas makes them a must have for anyone looking to maintain their haircare routines whilst away from home this summer.