Category: Summer

Trapiche Pure Malbec

alcoholic drinks, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Drinks and Mixers, Father's Day, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, 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.

If your dad enjoys a glass of red wine, a good bottle is guaranteed to go down well on Father’s Day. Better still, for those last minute shoppers, Trapiche Pure Malbec is readily available from the Co-op so you can pick a bottle up on your way to see him!!

Produced by Argentina’s most awarded winery, this Fairtrade-certified Malbec is packed with juicy fruit flavours and is wonderfully smooth and easy to drink. At just £10 a bottle, it’s also excellent value for money, proving that you don’t have to spend a fortune to give a special gift.

The Trapiche vineyards are in Mendoza, one of Argentina’s most famous wine regions which are  nestled at the foothills of the Andes Mountains. The winery was founded by Argentine politician and businessman Tiburcio Benega back in 1883 and over the years the business has grown to be one of Argentina’s leading wine producers. The vineyards are planted higher up in the mountains, where the cooler air helps keep the grapes fresh and balanced, despite the intense Argentinian sunshine.

The “Pure” in the name refers to the fact that this is an unoaked Malbec. Rather than being aged in oak barrels, the wine is made in stainless steel and concrete tanks. While I’m no wine expert, I find this style lets the fruit do the talking, bringing out the cassis, blueberry and plum flavours without the vanilla or smoky notes that oak can sometimes add.

The rich purple wine is smooth and easy to drink and it goes really well with both steak and cheese.

By choosing Fairtrade wine, you are supporting farmers and ensuring that they have access to fairer working conditions. Fairtrade also makes sure that producers receive a fairer price for their grapes and provides extra funding that can be invested back into workers and local communities. It also supports growers in adopting more sustainable farming methods and promotes fair treatment and opportunities for everyone working in the vineyards.

Available from the Co op

Narcissus Lip Scrub and Lip Mask Duo

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

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.

Prep. Polish. Perfect.

That’s what the Narcissus website says when it comes to creating the perfect lips for summer.  The Narcissus Duo is a lip scrub and lip mask which work in combination to leave lips soft and ready for make-up, or just bare lips for the summer.  We were sent both (they live in these cute little clam boxes!) to try, just in time for the good weather. How did we get on?

The Narcissus Lip Scrub, which is this vibrant pink, has grains which are similar in size and texture to sugar but it’s not! I found that I had to mix a bit of water with the scrub to make it pliable, and then I used too much on my lips so I had bright pink, grainy lips for a while! To use it, you just massage on the mask for 30 seconds to both top and bottom lips and then wash or wipe away. The mask exfoliates and rejuvenates the lips, taking away dead skin and also massages the lips to give them a glow.

Following the Narcissus Lip Scrub, the Lip Mask, which is also pink but not so vibrant in colour, adds depth and acts as a barrier to the lips. The rich mask seals in the moisture and conditions the skin so that they feel plumper. You can either go with the mask as a slight tint of pink colour or as it conditions over time and wears away, add a lipstick or lip gloss on top as you usually would. 

The combination of the Narcissus Lip Scrub and Lip Mask create hydration and healing. The Lip Mask also leaves a shine to the lips and if you get dry lips over summer, or are stuck in air conditioning when it’s really hot, then the lip mask really helps with preventing dry lips, and with recovery. They’re a great combination and a lovely self treat!

Narcissus Lip Scrub £24:

https://www.narcissuslondon.com/product-page/self-devotion-lip-scrub

Narcissus Lip Mask £20:

https://www.narcissuslondon.com/product-page/love-reflected-lip-mask

MINISO Clear Nail Polish

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Mother's Day, secret santa, Summer, Women

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.

Looking for some summer pick-me-ups?  MINISO have a raft of different beauty options on their website which act as brilliant one-time gifts for yourself, or others, to make you smile this summer. The best part is that they don’t cost the Earth either!  MINISO sent us their Golden Cap Clear Nail Varnish to try out for summer and I’ve been testing it nearly every day this week…

The Golden Cap Clear Nail Varnish can be used as either a top coat, or a clear varnish on bare nails.  I opted to use it as a top coat, to seal in the colour I was applying plus giving my nails a shiny finish.  You can see in the photo the difference the Golden Cap Clear Nail Varnish gives when applied over an existing varnished nail.  As the varnish is oil-based, it’s hard wearing and dries fairly quickly.  It leaves an even coat over each nail and isn’t too thick that it is slow to dry, or creates and uncomfortable layer on the top that seeps into the surrounding nail bed and eventually peels off. 

The Golden Cap Clear Nail Varnish is a steal at just £1.49, and as you look through the other items online you’ll see even more bargains. It’s a great stocking filler gift, or if you start collecting items now for the Christmas Calendar, no one is not going to want a clear nail varnish at Christmas!

Available online from £1.49 at: https://minisoshop.co.uk/health-and-beauty

Luna by Khush Eyeshadow & Smudger Duo Stick

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

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.

We love trying new make-up at The Review Studio and as I happened to need a new eyeshadow colour, Khush at Luna was happy to send one of their new Eyeshadow & Smudger Duo Sticks in the colour Taupe.  What is a Duo Stick? Well, instead of the flat palette of eyeshadow colours which require a brush for application, a Duo Stick is more like a make-up crayon which is applied directly to the skin and the opposite end (the Duo) is a smudge stick for blending in the colour. 

There are more colours available on the website (18 colours in all) which range from daywear to nightwear colours and suit all types of skin colourings. The taupe colour Duo Stick colour has a slight shimmer to it, making it glow slightly when applied.  The other sponge end, for smudging, can be used to create a more even coat of colour or to blend up into the eye socket.

I was really impressed by both the colour and the coverage of the Luna Eyeshadow Duo stick.  The colour goes onto your eyelids really easily and you can opt to smudge it or not. I found that I didn’t actually need to smudge it, the pencil-like application means you can be quite detailed in how you apply it. I don’t normally apply eyeshadow under my eyes but the stick allowed me to do that with precision, and the smudger helps blend it in. The overall coverage on my eyes was great too as I find it difficult to get a brush to give an even finish. The stick allows you to layer up and applies an even amount all over because you’re not having to load up a brush each time and blend it in.

The price point is spot on too, as I suspect that the Duo Sticks last longer than eyeshadow palettes and they’re easier to travel with. They’re less likely to shatter if you drop them and their direct application to the skin means you can use them without having to take a set of brushes with you too.  The colours and glimmer of the eyeshadow are really classy too, so you can buy several colours and layer them up or add some depths with darker colours.

Eyeshadow & Smudger Duo Stick available from £15.99 at: https://lunabykhush.com/products/eyeshadow-smudger-duo-stick?variant=57081971278208

Jolene Nipple Covers

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, REUSABLE, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Women

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.

I don’t know about you, but one of the few things that I don’t like about summer is having to wear a completely different wardrobe. That wardrobe invariably includes sheer fabrics, tight fitting tops and dresses and fewer layers.  If you’re adverse to wearing a bra in the summer or want something less visible, then Jolene Nipple Covers might be your go-to.

I’ve never tried nipple covers before. I’m definitely in the “bra” camp when it comes to playing safe, but it also holds me back on the type of clothes I can wear.  The Jolene Nipple Covers are suitable for all sizes, so you don’t need to worry about getting the sizing right to replace whatever your usual bra size is.  Jolene’s were kind enough to send us both Nipple Covers in their range; with adhesive, and without adhesive.

Both sets come in presentation boxes as you can reuse them.  The boxes themselves are really sturdy so they can go into luggage if you are taking them on holiday. Both products come in a choice of colours; ivory, almond, caramel and mocha. The Adhesive Nipple Covers come in the smaller box and are the smaller of the pair. They are already glued so all you have to do is take the backing off, but keep the backing in the presentation box as the covers can be reused! 

The Non-Adhesive Nipple Covers are larger and don’t need to be stuck to your skin. This might be a better option whilst on holiday and it’s hot! They are backed in a plastic covering too to keep them clean. Both the sets of covers have an almost Latex, skin-like texture which is matte in finish and slightly cool to the touch. As there is no adhesive, the inside of the covers has a slightly grippy texture to keep it in place.  

The covers actually work! I think the Adhesive Nipple Covers are great for dresses and thinner materials, so work great for summer evenings when you might be wearing more revealing clothes. The Non-Adhesive Nipple Covers are larger, so fit well under T-shirts and even swimwear. There’s no seams, and they are both sweat proof and swim proof, which is a relief when you can’t wear a bra under a bikini anyway!

I’m really happy with the Jolene Nipple Covers. I wish I could show you photos that do it justice but for me, it’s more about the comfort of being able to wear covers and have peace of mind rather than the aesthetics. If a bra isn’t possible, you can bring these with you in your handbag and use them over and over, and they don’t need extra adhesive, if any at all, so there’s nothing fiddly to use when you go out. If you’re wondering too, they don’t hurt and aren’t difficult to remove at the end of the evening too!

Adhesive Silicone Nipple Covers £16.95: https://www.jolenebody.com/products/premium-silicone-nipple-covers

Jolene Silicone Nipple Covers Adhesive Free £24.95: https://www.jolenebody.com/products/premium-silicone-nipple-covers-adhesive-free

Opies BBQ Collection of Gherkins and Pickled Onions for Summer

Food & Drink, Home, Summer

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.

Although this is BBQ season (finally!) this collection of gherkins and pickles from Opies also reminded me of that British tradition – fish and chips. Opies sent us some Mini Gherkins, Mini Silverskin Onions, Cornichons & Onions and a rather lovely jar or Stem Ginger too!  If you’re wondering what cornichons are, they’re French gherkins, the same as the usual just smaller!

Each of the medium-sized jars are packed with gherkins and onions and can be decantated into BBQ dishes, or if like in our house, you fish them out with a fork or spoon! With my fish and chips, I like to sprinkle some of the vinegar onto my fish and chips to use up some of the flavour from the pickling.  Some people save the vinegar entirely and use it to pickle other foods once the jar is empty but I never have enough vinegar left to do that!

Each of the onions, gherkins and cornichons are crisp, sharp and easy to eat in small mouthfuls between bites of fish and chips. They’re not so bitter though that children wouldn’t enjoy them, and the smaller size makes them easy to eat along with any BBQ item.  You can also use the gherkins and cornichons in dressings and sauces too.  

The Opies Stem Ginger is a sweet ginger in a syrup which is also great for adding to recipes. I diced up the stem ginger pieces and added them to biscuits, along with some of the syrup to give a sweeter flavour to them – and they turned out delicious!

The Opies BBQ Collection are great for the summer and like all vinegar pickled fruits, will last so much longer than you think if you refrigerate them too!

Available in most leading stores and online at:

Products

Shepherd Neame and Kent Crisps

camping, Family Life, Food & Drink, snacks, Summer

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.

Brewers Shepherd Neame have come together with Kent Crisps to create a tasty flavour for summer; the Shepherd Neame Beef Brisket & Stout flavour crisps. Shepherd Neame’s Iron Wharf Stout was launched last year, taking its name from Faverham’s famous wharf. You can see the historical significance of the stout from Kent with HMS Cavalier on the packet, docked at Chatham Dockyard. 

The new Beef Brisket & Stout flavour is the eighth flavour in the hand-cooked range of Kent Crisps. Other flavours include Sea Salt, Ham & Mustard, Smoked Chipotle Chili, Oyster & Vinegar and Ashmore Cheese & Onion. The range of flavours is testament to the quality that Kent Crisps aspires to and the extra flavour this year is no exception. We were sent samples of each of the flavours, and yes I’m sitting here eating the Smoked Chipotle Chilli flavour as I write!

Kent Crisps’ Beef Brisket & Stout flavour really tastes like beef. Not just beef, but beef brisket and the after taste of the crisps is that of the stout. I’ve not enjoyed a glass of Shepherd Neame’s Iron Wharf Stout yet, but this crisp flavour definitely has the stout flavouring as a chaser.  My other favourite flavours were Ham & Mustard and the Smoked Chipotle Chilli. If you’re not familiar with chipotle, it’s a Mexican sauce which has become very popular in the last decade, and the chilli flavour is again an after taste on these crisps which leave a slightly ‘hot’ flavour as if you were eating a Mexican burrito.

As for the crisps, Kent Crisps are known for their quality and being hand cooked in Kent, they have a very short distance to go until they get to your favourite pub! All of the crisps are fresh, covered in flavour and easy to eat with the potatoes grown in Kent.

Kent Crisps and the Beef Brisket and Stout flavour from Shepherd Neame are available now in crisps or online at Kent Crisps.

Available from £19.50 for a box of 20 at: https://kentcrisps.com/shop/

Cups Full Coffee Bags

camping, coffee, Food & Drink, hiking, National Walking Month, Sport, Summer, travel, Winter

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

It’s National Hiking Month and the perfect opportunity to share some great hiking gear with you. Now this one might surprise you, because it’s not the first thing people shout about when they’re planning a hike… but it’s something lots of us take anyway, usually sloshing around in a flask……….Coffee.

If you’re someone who actually enjoys a decent cup rather than just a caffeine fix, then carrying a pre-made flask can be a bit of a gamble. A few hours in and it starts to become a little tired and can taste bitter and isn’t really what you want when you stop for a well earned drink. Lately I’ve switched to taking a small stove so that I can make a fresh brew when I’m out on the fells, it only takes a few minutes and tastes a lot better and while I’m waiting for it to brew I can sit and enjoy the view. I’d usually pack tea bags, mainly because I’ve never been a fan of instant coffee, but discovering Cups Full coffee bags has definitly changed that. They’re very similar to a tea bag, but filled with ground coffee instead. 

Once my water has boiled I can pop the coffee bag into my cup and just like tea, leave it to brew for three to four minutes, or a little longer if I want it stronger. I then give it a quick squeeze before taking it out and I’ve got a freshly brewed cup of coffee which can be enjoyed with very little effort. At home I’d always add milk, but when I’m out walking I just drink it black and once I’m finished, the used bag goes into a small plastic bag to take home, ready for the compost heap later.

I hadn’t heard of Cups Full before but they are a small startup company based in Hackney who offer three different types of coffee in individual 9 gram bags. They are proud that they know the journey from bean to cup and support communities all along their supply chain meaning each time you enjoy a cup of coffee from Cups Full you are supporting early education and local economies.

Their coffee bags are sold in bags of 10 and I found a zip seal pouch with three bags fits  perfectly into my stove bag and means I can have a couple of drinks whilst walking and save one for when I get back to the car. 

Obviously the taste is what really matters and these coffees are quite smooth, not bitter and very easy to drink. At home I tend to use a filter machine or stove-top espresso maker but at work we’re limited to instant(!) so these are a much better option and I’ve been enjoying having a decent cup of coffee at work as well as when I’ve been out walking.

Cups Full make three different blends Pace is a  blend of 100% arabica coffee and packs a generous 113mg+ of caffeine per bag, enough to get you moving without fuss or delay. This  South American blend with origins in Peru and Honduras is ideal first thing in the morning when you need a caffeine boost to start the day. 

Peace has a much lower caffeine level with under 44mgs per 9g bag. Sourced from Brazil and  Vietnam it is a coffee for people who enjoy coffee and don’t need the caffeine boost.

Power is the coffee you need when you’re on a long walk to give you a boost. The clue is in the name and with 144mg+ of caffeine per bag this is the one to reach for on night hikes or at work if you’ve not had much sleep the night before.   

I have to say that I enjoyed these three coffee blends more than any coffee I have had for a long time and they now have a permanent place in my rucksack (and desk)!

Cups Full coffee bags come in a resealable pouch with 10 bags for £11.95 or you can buy all three as a bundle saving 20%.  

Moderato Alcohol-Free French Wine

Christmas, Days Out, Drinks and Mixers, Family Life, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, health, Summer

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 French (wine) Revolution is here!  Moderato wines are all alcohol-free but are still French beauties with Cuvee, Colombard white wine and the Gros Manseng Merlot. We were sent a bottle of each to try this summer and to sample how good alcohol free wine can be.

We started with the La Cuvée, a light sparkling wine with a slightly acidic taste from the Merlot grapes. It has less than 0.5% of alcohol (they have to give it a slight alcohol rating due to the way it’s fermented) but it doesn’t have the alcohol taste to it. Instead, it’s an effervescent glass which is excellent for summer. I would drink this with a main meal or on its own. It also has fewer calories than wine, so if you’re not drinking it for the low alcohol, it’s perfect for a low calorie diet!

The Colombard is a traditional-tasting white, with citrus flavours and the sharpness that can only be found with white wines. This is also <0.5% alcohol and 7x fewer calories than other white wines and has the white wine fragrance to it too. I would drink this on its own, after work or in the garden in the summer.

The Gros Manseng Merlot is rosé with a softer fruity flavour compared to its Merlot cousin.  It’s definitely a summer drink with lots of energy and a beautiful red fruit uplift.  This is great with food or on its own but lives in summer thanks to the fruity nature of the wine. It doesn’t taste alcohol free either which is a brilliant achievement, even if it is made by the French experts!

All three of the wines are part of a larger range by Moderato to have alcohol free (or sans alcool in French, as the bottles proclaim) that add to your summer without needing alcohol. Delicious!

Gros Manseng £14: https://le-moderato.com/en/products/alcohol-free-rose-revolutionary-cuvee-merlot-gros-manseng-1

Colombard £14: https://le-moderato.com/en/products/alcohol-free-white-wine-colombard-revolutionary-cuvee

La Cuvée £14.50: https://le-moderato.com/en/products/the-sparkling-revolutionary-cuvee-blanc-de-noir-without-alcohol

Cuvée Révolutionnaire

Lee Stafford Hyaluronic Hydration Hair Mask

beauty, haircare, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Women

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 Hyaluronic Hydration Hair Mask from Lee Stafford is part of a larger range of Lee Stafford products for moisturizing hair.  The hair mask uses hyaluronic acid to enrich your hair and prevent it from breaking, plus giving a sleeker look, and in turn, making it more manageable. 

The instructions recommend that you cover your hair from root to tip and work in the formular using a comb to ensure overall coverage, leaving it for 5-10 minutes. I prefer to leave in for a bit longer and massage the mask into the ends, especially if it’s been a while since your last haircut (like mine is now!) and in need of TLC.  You add the mask after shampoo (Lee Stafford also have Hydrating shampoo and conditioners at Boots) and then rinse off, using the Lee Stafford conditioner too.

It smells wonderful – like a summer fruit fragrance that reminds me of the 1990s Body Shop products! It left my hair softer and with the fruity scent too. Over time, the repair should build up so that hair is stronger and longer.  I found that on hair with dry ends, it made all of the length of hair softer after just one treatment, then when I got my hair cut, it was great at hydrating my hair enough to get the soft curls back in.  It’s perfect for summer too, with the light fragrance giving your hair an additional impact!

Available from £7.49 at: https://www.boots.com/lee-stafford-hyaluronic-hydration-treatment-mask-250ml-10377507

Devonia Plant Fertilizer Sticks

Birthday Gifts, Children, Father's Day, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, Home, Home & Garden, Spring, Summer

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.

This is a gardening hack for all gardeners, whether you’ve been gardening for years or if you’re a beginner! Devonia’s fertilizer spikes and sticks are nutrient dense sticks which feed plants at the roots over time, releasing food and providing magnesium and iron too.  Easy to use, the sticks are just popped into the ground or pot next to the plant.

The nutrients are pre-measured so using the directions on the back of the packs, work out how many sticks are needed for the size of pot. There are a variety of sticks to choose from too, including the tomatoes & vegetables, Boarders & bedding plants and even for individual plants like olive trees, lavender and orchids. You have to push them below soil level and on the opposite side of the pot to the plant but after that, just water them and see the plant thrive. They last all season long from spring to autumn but I would recommend changing them out for the next spring to get the full benefit of them.

These are great gifts for gardeners too, or anyone who is growing plants indoors. I’ve used them for my indoor plants and a few seedlings which are just starting to grow now. 

Available online from £6.49: https://devonialondon.co.uk/product/flower-bed-border-bedding-plant-food-sticks/

Plant With Willow Starter Pack

Birthday Gifts, Children, Family Life, Home & Garden, Spring, Summer, Tech

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.

Put some technology into your plant care with the Plant With Willow Starter Pack.  Using the Plant With Willow probe, hub and an app on your phone, you can be alerted whenever your plant is in need of care.  We tested out the technology, which was totally new to me and I’m a gardener, to see if it worked!

The instructions are relatively easy and once the app is set up it looks after itself.  There is a QR code on the front of the box which you scan with your phone and the app downloads. The app walks you through all the steps for setup, including identifying the plant which the probe is going to monitor. If you don’t know what the plant is, there’s provision to take photos of the leaves and flowers and the app will look it up for you. I have a peach tree that needs a lot of water so I was keen to use Plant With Willow to help look after it.

The app can also help with sick plants, teach you how to look after each identified plant, set up schedules including watering and fertilizing and monitor milestones.  The setup screen go on to help you pair the probe with the hub and to use the wifi in your house, then sends you notifications on your phone to tell you when the plant needs watering, more light or moisture.

For when you are on holiday or not at home like being back in the office every day, this is really useful. It has a huge depth of information to draw on as well to tell you how to care for your plants. I think this is especially good for new plant owners or if you have a new plant which you don’t know how to identify or don’t know how to care for and could do with the prompts. I think it would be especially good for children so that they learn how to care for something that rewards them, such as a fruit tree or plants such as strawberries, and has a very low risk factor too. It’s also great fun watching your plants thrive!

Available from £34.99 at: https://plantwithwillow.co.uk

Faith In Nature

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

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

If you’re looking for affordable, natural and eco-friendly skin and haircare products , then Faith In Nature is a brand that deserves a place in your bathroom. Founded in 1974 by Rivka Rose, long before natural, cruelty free and vegan products were a thing! Today, Faith In Nature products are stocked in over 40 countries and all their  product are still made with as few ingredients as possible and free from silicones, parabens and SLS.

I’ve been recycling long before the council started the colour coded bins, and I’ve always tried to use eco-conscious beauty products where I can. Faith In Nature makes this commitment even easier with their refillable 5-litre and 20-litre bottles which mean less waste, fewer trips to the shop, and the feeling that you’re doing your bit for the environment.  

I’ve used Faith In Nature shower gels for many years, but until recently, hadn’t ventured into their haircare range. With my curly hair feeling particularly dry and resembling a ball of frizz most days the arrival of their Shea & Argan Shampoo, Conditioner, and Nourishing Hair Mask was most welcome.Blended with organic shea butter and nourishing argan oil, the range is designed to hydrate, boost shine, and reduce breakage. And does it works – absolutely! The shampoo lathers nicely and cleans my hair without stripping moisture from it, while the conditioner glides through my hair leaving every strand silky and tangle free. The hair mask, meanwhile, is a weekly treat for my hair, restoring softness and definition to unruly curls with impressive efficiency.

Each formula also contains a blend of organic rosemary, nettle, and chamomile which soothe the scalp, enhance shine, and nourish the hair. Since using them, my curls have become softer, bouncier, and significantly less frizzy. Whether I leave them to air dry or dry with a diffuser, they hold their shape much better than before.

Not a morning person? You will be if you start using the Grapefruit & Orange Body Wash, it is not just a shower gel- it’s a citrus-fuelled wake-up call! Powered by 99.5% natural-origin ingredients and a 100% natural aroma, it leaves my skin feeling soft, refreshed, and delicately scented long after the steam has cleared. This shower gel is proof that you don’t have to spend loads of money to get a quality body wash.

if you’re looking to upgrade your hair and skincare routine and indulge in some expertly crafted natural products, Faith In Nature is the brand to try. With shower gels from £6.49 and haircare from just £7.99, these brilliantly formulated essentials are as kind to your bank balance as they are to the planet.

Helly Hansen Solen Women’s Sports Tops

Birthday Gifts, Fashion, Fitness, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, Sport, Spring, Summer, Women

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.

As we ride into spring and take more time for outdoor pursuits (and it can’t come quick enough around here) a whole new wardrobe of outdoor clothes is needed. Helly Hansen’s Solen collection are base layers which can be worn on their own or as layers.  We were sent 3 tops to try out from the new range.

The Women’s Solen collection all have UPF (Ultra violet factor) 50 protection for the sun’s rays, plus it has moisture wicking. The fabric is stretchy too, so you can run, twist and bend without being constrained. The range is designed for trail running, hiking and outdoor pursuits in particular. I run at the weekends in all weathers, so some new, and very colourful tops were very welcome! The short-sleeved crew neck top (here in white) is great for summer as the fabric is really light. It isn’t particularly see through though, so you can still wear your sports bar underneath!

The long-sleeved crew necks are also light but because of the light fabric, these are better in spring or early mornings in summer. The long sleeves help protect against the sun. They’re just as durable as the short-sleeved shirt though, and there’s a great range of colours including the Barely Blue and Sunset Pink.  All of the tops in this range have the Helly Hansen HH design on the front and the raglan style sleeves that come right down to the wrists.

When out running in them, I hardly noticed them which is a good sign! There was no tightness across my chest or arms and the sizing was try – these are a size XL which roughly translates to a UK size 16.  When it came to washing, I was surprised at how well the white top was fresh still afterwards, and there was no staining. The pink and blue shirts were both washed on a 60 degree wash and neither of the colours ran with them either, which helps when you know you’ll be throwing these into the washing machine regularly.

There are lots of other accessories in the Solen collection at Helly Hansen as well as the usual staple outdoor kit they do all year round: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/women/base-layer/solen

Long sleeved women’s top £60: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/w-shine-solen-ls-crew-48189?color=634529

Short sleeve women’s top £50: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/w-shine-solen-tshirt-49577?color=291445

Sentia Spirits Alcohol Free – GABA Red

Birthday Gifts, Drinks and Mixers, Father's Day, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, Gluten Free, Summer, 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.

There are more and more non-alcoholic ‘spirits’ on the market these days and a new one that I’ve come across is the Sentia Spirits GABA Red. GABA Red works on the body’s gaba receptors, mimicking how alcohol affects us but without the side effects. It has zero alcohol content, so it can be used in mocktails or as a mixer without the trigger of having even a trace of alcohol. It’s also vegan friendly, thanks to the organically sourced products.

You can use it just as you would a botanical spirit – straight, in a glass of ice, or as a mixer. It works well with lemonade or a sparkling drink or to make a new cocktail.  Neat, it has an herbal taste to it. I personally found it a bit strong on its own, not because it had the ‘alcohol’ taste to it but because the essences of herbal flavours such as magnolia bark and hawthorn berry are not every day tastes to us.  

As an alternative to alcohol, it’s just as versatile and you can mix it and drink as much of it as you like. I wouldn’t suggest children try it though, it’s more of an acquired, grown-up taste, but it still gives you that ‘hit’ as if it’s a refreshing alcoholic drink.  It’s more expensive than other drinks though and probably more like an alcoholic spirit in price, which is the only downside.

Available from £32 at: https://sentiaspirits.com/products/sentia-red

Helly Hansen Wanderer Shoulder Bag

Birthday Gifts, Family Life, Gifts for Her, National Walking Month, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Summer, travel, Women

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

Whilst Helly Hansen are perhaps better known for their outdoor clothing, they do also have a great range of accessories like the Helly Hansen Wanderer Shoulder bag. This compact bag is a brilliant for travelling and has a good selection of pockets, both zipped and open which are ideal for keeping everything organised when navigating airport or train station queues.

The main compartment is zipped and inside are two mesh pockets. The larger pocket is the perfect size for a phone, while the smaller one will hold smaller essentials, I’ve currently got a lipbalm and a tube of sweets in it but it would also be perfect for a pen or a folded up shopping bag. Inside the bag is a handy key clip, a simple feature but incredibly useful and I no longer find myself rummaging around at the bottom of the bag searching for my keys. The bag is plenty large enough for my purse, phone and everyday essentials and the design means I can keep everything nice and organised. There’s also a couple of pockets on the front of the bag, one zipped and one open, which are perfect for items that I need quick access to.

The bag also has an incredibly useful feature – there’s a zip that runs around the bottom of the bag and this can be unzipped, expanding the capacity to 2.6L. It’s like having my very own Mary Poppins bag and kowing what my family are like when travelling, this is going to come in very handy on our next trip!!

The strap is made from rope and it’s easy to adjust the length by retying the end knots. I also like that the rope can also be removed, turning the bag into a handy travel wallet that’s ideal for storing tickets, passports, electronics and charging cables and can be popped inside a rucksack or larger bag while travelling to keep all your essentials together and easy to grab when needed.

If you don’t pack the bag too full, it’s slim enough to tuck discreetly under a coat or jumper which makes it very handy for travelling, giving an extra layer of security in busy places.

Made from lightweight 70D nylon with a TPU backing, it feels durable enough to cope with travelling, whether that’s by plane, train or car and whilst it isn’t fully waterproof, the taped seams help keep water out, so it can handle an occasional rain shower without any problem.

Overall, it’s a well designed and practical bag that will be perfect for summer adventures.

RRP £35

Franci Toscano IGP Extra Virgin Olive Oil 

Birthday Gifts, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Mother's Day, Summer

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.

Give the chef in your life a treat to cook with in the Franci Toscano Extra Virgin olive oil from the Artisan Olive Oil Company.  We were lucky enough to be sent a sample to try this spring just in time for Easter Sunday!

Franci Toscano Extra Virgin Olive Oil is produced from the 2024/2025 harvest of Tuscan olives, with the slightly spicy olive oil leaving a bitterness reminiscent of Italy’s ancient olive varieties.  The fresh taste of Franci Toscano can be used in cooking or the unique flavours are especially useful in dishes such as salads, pasta or seafood.  I used it neat over a salad and it works particularly well in a salad dressing where the full flavour can be enjoyed.  You could also use this to dip bread into, combined with the Artisan Olive Oil Company’s selection of balsamic vinegars.

The Franci Toscano IGP Extra Virgin Olive Oil has already won several awards;

  • Flos Olei 2025: Maximum score of 100 points
  • Flos Olei 2019: 99 points, named World’s Best Olive Oil Mill
  • New York International Olive Oil Competition 2020: Gold Medal winner
  • Selezione Regionale Oli extravergini DOP e IGP 2020: Awarded
  • Ercole Olivario 2019 National Competition: Finalist

The blend of olive oil comes from a variety of olives including Frantoio, Moraiolo, Leccino, and Olivastra which are grown and blended on the Frantoio Franci estate near Montalcino by Giorgio Franci, who continues growing and producing olive oil after his father Fernando Franci who started the business.

Taking into account the price of £21.95 for a litre, this is an exceptional oil, grown authentically in Italy and produced to a very high, award winning standard. Serious chefs and lovers of all things Italian will love this olive oil and add it to their collection like a fine wine.  I have already added it to my daily salad and seafood cooking and loved using it so far.

Available from £21.95: https://www.artisanoliveoilcompany.co.uk/products/franci-toscano-igp-extra-virgin-olive-oil-500ml?variant=55597487456634

Libi & Daughters No 27 Sun Shield SPF 50

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Women

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.

Step up your summer beauty regime this year with the Libi & Daughters Sunshield cream with SPF50.  The family run company believes that products should, “Have everything you need and nothing you don’t,” which runs true through all the products they produce.  The list of products on their website is impressive with everything from lip balm to charcoal soaps and you can see that the products are tailored for women and actual needs, not commercial revenue.  We were sent Libi & Daughter’s new No 27 Sun Shield SPF 50 to test, and thankfully there have been a few sunny days this week to try it!

No 27 Sun Shield SPF 50 is made fresh to order, like all the Libi & Daughters products, using olive squalane, jojoba esters and beeswax among other natural ingredients.  Most sun screens leave a white, insoluble film on the skin when applied, but No 27 is made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide with natural ingredients to help protect the skin from environmental factors and tint the skin to give a warm glow and a dewy look.

No 27 Sun Shield SPF 50 is ideal for all skin tones, but especially for darker or olive skin and can be warn daily.  I would wear this on holiday as it has the slight tinting quality but also because of the high SPF which protects on days with more sunshine than we typically get in the UK!  You can tell that this is a more natural cream because it’s very organic to the touch, and not typical of High Street cosmetics.  Although heavy at first, once you blend in the No 27 Sun Shield, it absorbs and leaves a slight tint, but not as much as you would get with fake tan.  I found that the more I worked it into my skin, the more it gave an even coverage and did indeed leave my skin dewy. There was a definite difference in the reflection of the light after a few minutes, which is how long it takes for the cream to dry properly.

I can’t test how effective the SPF is yet, but with No 27 Sun Shield you do get a hydrating, natural base face cream which peps up your complexion beautifully. There’s hardly any scent to it, except a slight earthy fragrance from the natural ingredients but this is perfect for a holiday or to get yourself ready for work easily in the morning and not having to wear layers of foundation and base creams.

Available from £100 at: https://libi.com/products/nº27-sun-shield-spf-50

Sea-Band Nausea Relief Bands

Children, Days Out, Family Life, health, Summer, travel

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.

Going on holiday this year? Chances are you’ll be using some kind of big transport – aeroplane, ferry, train and even the car.  Most children get motion sickness on new transport and especially on long journeys in the car so some kind of remedy is needed. I know when I’m on a ferry, or a cruise, the sea sickness is atrocious and even with medication it takes a long time to fade.

Sea-Band Nausea Relief Bands are not medication but a great alternative to preventing any kind of sickness. Based on acupressure points, similar to acupuncture, the bands wrap around your inner wrist and exert pressure on a particular point to relieve sickness.  It sounds wacky, but the acupressure point seems to lessen the effect of sickness regardless of whether it is sea sickness, morning sickness, as a result of drug treatment, post-op recovery or even VR/gaming sickness. The bands don’t only prevent sickness from starting but they can eliminate it within 5 minutes of being put on.

There are no side effects either. You can still take anti-sickness medication whilst wearing the bands if you wish, but they are very discreet and can fit under a sleeve if you want to hide them and prevent questions! 

There’s no reason not to give them a try, no matter what reason for the sickness. There’s no down side, and they might prevent that horrible feeling of moving around constantly, which is what I had on a recent cruise. The bands ramp-up your defence against any kind of nausea and anything that can help me have a good time on a cruise, or even just let me tolerate a long journey, is a friend for life!

Available online from £6.99 at: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sea-Band-Wristband-Anti-Nausea-Acupressure-Sickness/dp/B001F731N0/ref=sr_1_6?crid=23OC1LI97Z8IT&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.xG1fWVDLibx5j3zegpMmrad7IAwAH1e8ecShnu02ahISGpw02YikpHTCQIBSgtaIr1a2JGwYTRIGMapd5SJYw3ntwO_vHwr0nxE-j4CznzyVllb6Ru2W3lWy9pVGyIvaAaaJLqaVJ0BS7GyJSD–r6dhQ2Bfd8txbI_ix7LjYdjPPT6FYbAnJyiMZ1E1AMNoOJR5fBL0KwS9JvnKCIVUVSn7263OKgRbUSm6u_Ep-zqu7gvRCr20Iv_qj6WQQj5jbn2yzl7emot8xoNs7KMzwHATnsDKFKf1zyCVPZtuTPU.Rv2ZpwuN–Sivtng2C1yg5__3C6oBRElzGMbJR_r6ig&dib_tag=se&keywords=sea+band+nausea+relief&qid=1769621474&sprefix=Sea+band%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-6

NecessaryGood Bright & Hydrated Moisturizer and Protected & Hydrated SPF 50

beauty, Gifts for Her, health, Summer, Women

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.

NecessaryGood is a portmanteau of the ideal skin cream.  What does your skin need? And what is good for your skin?  With thousands of skincare products on the market, NecessaryGood realised that there was no way of knowing what your skin needed, and what was available, so they decided to create a range which was just about good ingredients, mixed right, high quality and therefore the most effective.  They pride themselves on not being in the top price range either. We were sent their Bright & Hydrated Moisturiser and their Protected & Hydrated SPF 50 day creams to try out.

The Necessary Good Bright & Hydrated Moisturiser prides itself on being able to hydrate, brighten and support your skin barrier all at the same time.  It’s a really rich cream, much like a serum, which blends in with some work to create a deep barrier. It softened my skin first, which probably suggests that I needed more hydration by the end of the day! You can use this skincare more than once a day too, which is ideal as we go into summer.  There’s no fragrance to this day cream, it can be used day and night and is ideal as an all-over base before make-up or for when you’re working from home and need some daily skin hydration.

The NecessaryGood Protected & Hydrated SPF 50 day cream is less rich than the Bright & Hydrate and takes a little more working into the skin, which is probably due to its SPF ingredients.  It’s lighter too and has a tad more fragrance to it, which I put down to the cotton seed extract. There’s added vitamins E and B5 and contains both UVA and UVB advanced filters.  I can’t test this one in the sun until the weather warms up, but SPF 50 is pretty high for this country, so you could use this on your summer holidays. It still hydrates your skin, even though it has the sun protection with it. With all the benefits of both day creams being the “Necessary Good”, they’re both great for taking on holiday this summer!

NecessaryGood Bright & Hydrated Moisturiser £27: https://necessarygood.com/collections/shop-all/products/bright-hydrated-moisturiser

NecessaryGood Protected & Hydrated SPF 50 £29:

Protected & Hydrated SPF 50

St Tropez Self Tan 

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Spring, Summer, Women

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.

This whopping 200ml bottle of St Tropez is the latest formula from St Tropez to get you glowing in time for summer 2026!

The St Tropez self-tanning serum is made with 100% natural tanning active and scient backed skincare ingredients.  That sounds very scientific, but if you’ve been a self tan fan in the past and been put off because of the smell, then rest assured that the St Tropez Self Tan of today does not have that odour.  In fact, I don’t think it has any odour at all which is why I could put it on in the morning and then forget about it!

The St Tropez Self Tan is a clear serum that goes on with out streaks and then develops over 8 hours. You need to exfoliate and moisturise first, and you’re supposed to use a St Tropez mitt but I was able to put mine on in the morning and let it dry. There’s a slight shimmer to the serum that allows you to see where you’re applying it which is really helpful when you haven’t got the deep brown colour to guide you. It takes a while to blend in but once it’s dry you can neither see it nor feel it whilst it works its magic.

You can apply just once to get a week’s worth of glow or apply it over a few days to get a deeper tan. It never goes really dark though, it’s more of a gradual tan but that looks more natural. I’ve tried it for a one-off party and it gives a sin-kissed glow, much the same as you get over summer if you’re just in the garden, but building up over a few days you get a lot more depth. Could be a life saver for the Christmas period! 

If you’ve fallen out of love with self tan, now is the time to get back to St Tropez and start the glow again…

Available from £17.50: https://www.boots.com/st-tropez-self-tan-luxe-body-serum-200ml-10322771

Helly Hansen Running Accessories

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, camping, Christmas, Fitness, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, secret santa, Spring, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Winter

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.

Great for stocking fillers, Secret Santa or anyone who is serious about running and outdoor sports, Helly Hansen have a huge range of items for both men and women which you’ll love this year. We were sent a selection of running items to review, and none of them disappointed!

Winter skiers will appreciate the Alphelia Gloves, seen here in white.  With waterproof material to prevent hands getting wet (and therefore cold) on the slopes, they have elasticated cuffs and Velcro cuff clasps to keep water out. The fastening clips keep the gloves together when not in use or to fasten to a ski outfit when après ski. These fit snugly to give particularly good grip when manoeuvring the slopes, but there’s no reason why you can’t wear these in a British winter, outside, driving or even in snow (if we ever get it!) the waterproof membrane makes them particularly versatile and if you’ve ever worn ski gloves you’ll know they’re ten times as warm as High Street gloves. A definite winner in the gift ideas department too.

Carrying on the theme of winter wear, the Helly Hansen Pile headband can be worn on the slopes or even just every day in exceptionally cold weather. Designed for women, it has a fleecy texture and can be used for keeping your hair out of your eyes or for keeping ears warm at the same time. It’s made of HH pile material, which is also recycled, so you’re helping the environment too. This is a great gift for a stocking, or to take skiing in winter when you’re limited on luggage.

The Helly Hanson Rib Beanie, seen here in lavender is great for home or away. This beanie has the classic HH branding and is designed for women and comes in 7 different colours. It’s designed to be for women but the standard size and range of colours would suit anyone. It’s made of polyester and acrylic to make it both stretchy and adorable and again makes a great Christmas gift.

Finally, for when the summer comes around again, there’s the HH Trail Cap. So called because it’s for trail running when you don’t know whether you’re going to be blinded by the sun at the brow of a hill or rained on at the other end of the course, this Purple Clay colour is for camping, running or hiking and can be easily packed thanks to the light material which is polyester and elastane.  There’s vents at the side of the hat, which for anyone who has ever run in the hot weather, you’ll know that this design is essential.  Not much chance of using it in this country any time soon, but I’m looking forward to a spring day run with this gem.

Helly Hansen Alphelia Gloves £120: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/alphelia-glove-67637?color=623494&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=22662295361&utm_content=186507109571&utm_term=&cq_src=google_ads&cq_cmp=22662295361&cq_con=186507109571&cq_term=&cq_med=pla&cq_plac=&cq_net=g&cq_plt=gp&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22662295361&gbraid=0AAAAADpHlLyIcNHa82VL2ooPjLEoH9ovi&gclid=Cj0KCQjw35bIBhDqARIsAGjd-cYkSdyx302OPoo6bAlUwIoK_8aGfhHmIUu9l6eYVmgBQk16QM5VoPQaAoF1EALw_wcB

Helly Hansen Pile Headband £20: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/hh-pile-headband-67563?color=623494&utm_source=kelkoouk&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=kelkooclick&utm_source_platform=KelkooGroup&utm_term=Helly+Hansen+Pile+Headband+Beige+STD+-+S&utm_campaign=kelkooclick&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=kelkoouk&utm_source_platform=KelkooGroup&kgclid=Cj0KCQjw35bIBhDqARIsAGjd-cZcTUCMYz2WIIM-1zxeMDiLYsR7DPPsHSAErnqW92Xhv2Yt_FzHu1saAm2SEALw_wcB&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22911025392&gbraid=0AAAAADGtTT9ufx0OfcAbLtMOW-DTlscwD&gclid=Cj0KCQjw35bIBhDqARIsAGjd-cZcTUCMYz2WIIM-1zxeMDiLYsR7DPPsHSAErnqW92Xhv2Yt_FzHu1saAm2SEALw_wcB

Helly Hansen Rib Beanie £25: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/hh-rib-beanie-54020?color=634122

HH Trail Cap: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/hh-trail-cap-67546?color=634011

Sure Whole Body Deodorant

beauty, Sport, Summer, Women

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

Sure recently sent me a few products from their Whole Body Deodorant range to try. Now, as a woman of a certain age, I’m no stranger to the dreaded hot flushes – and when you add in a daily cycle commute, it’s fair to say I get through a lot of deodorant, especially in the summer. So, I was interested to see how these products would cope on a hot day full of pedalling, meetings and general running around.

I tried the fresh citrus stick deodorant first and, just in case, popped it into my bag for a lunchtime top-up. But to my pleasant surprise, lunchtime came and went – and I was still as fresh as when I left the house.

Now, I’ve never used a cream deodorant before and wasn’t sure what to expect but was it was a surprise hit! It has a creamy texture and feels more like a body lotion than deodorant and even on a hot day I didn’t need to reapply it. The scent is fresh without being overpowering, and it didn’t irritate my skin at all, even straight after shaving. It’s also really versatile, you can use it on your feet, chest, or anywhere you tend to sweat more.  

Then there’s the Wild Rose aerosol, with its light, floral fragrance that felt delightfully summery. It’s brilliant for a quick all-over refresh after cycling to the office and it doesn’t just mask odour, it helps prevent it from forming in the first place.

Dermatologically tested and approved by the British Skin Foundation, the range contains 0% aluminium and are designed to neutralise odour before it even begins. I’ve found that all three styles keep me feeling fresh all day long and easily fit in my handbag so I can freshen up whenever I feel the need.

The Sure Whole Body Deodorant products are available in four different scents – Ocean Rush, Active Fresh, Fresh Citrus and Wild Rose.

If you’re looking for something reliable to get you through the summer, whether it’s cycling to work, running errands, or just trying to stay fresh this range is definitely worth a try. Practical, portable and, most importantly, it works.

All the products have a RRP of £5.25 and are available from Boots

Levitex Anywhere Travel Pillow

Birthday Gifts, camping, Children, Christmas, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, health, Home, Summer, travel

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.

For the traveller, taking some home comforts with you on your journey is the perfect remedy to long distance flights or uncomfortable car rides. Levitex, the sleep posture experts, have a travel sized pillow in their customary design which can be taken on a plane as hand luggage or packed away.

Measuring approximately 30cms by 35cms when inflated, the pillow comes in 4 sizes (S-XL) and the website details how you work out what size is needed depending on your height and your sleeping position. The Levitex Anywhere Travel Pillow also differs from other pillows because it is completely compressible and can deflate into a roll, secured with the enclosed strap so that you can take it with you in a rucksack or hand luggage.

To inflate the pillow to the correct pressure, you use the valve to allow air in to maximum size. Then, by literally punching the pillow with your fist to a depth of about 1cm, allow some of the air to escape then close up the valve. The firmness of the foam in the pillow give your head and neck the support needed to compose a good sleep posture to be able to sleep anywhere, and as it’s individualised to you in both pillow size and the firmness of the inflation, you can adapt it subtly to give you an even better sleep. 

No more carrying bulky neck pillows at the airport and having nowhere to store them!  Levitex Anywhere Travel Pillow is also great for keeping in the car on long journeys or for children needing a pillow to travel. It also comes in a drawstring bag to protect it but allows you to keep it packed in between journeys.

Available online from £65 at: https://levitex.co.uk/products/anywhere-travel-pillow

Got2b GLUED Blasting Freeze Hairspray and got2b GLUSED Brows & Edges

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Women

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.

I’ve never seen the got2b GLUED range before so I was pleasantly surprised to see how well their products work. I was sent the got2b GLUED Blasting Freeze Hairspray and got2b GLUSED Brows & Edges, both of which are available at Boots and Superdrugs.

Got2b GLUED Blasting Freeze Hairspray is a silicones-free, vegan hairspray for maximum hold that lasts up to 72 hours. It can be used on all hair types, and has a hold that sets in seconds. A quick spray shows that it sets promptly and manages to hold even the heaviest of curls.  I tried this when styling after straightening my hair and adding a ‘flick’ to the ends. Even with tying it back, my hair stayed firm until I brushed it out. It does wash out easily though and isn’t sticky. This will be a great lifesaver when I have to have my hair styled the day before a wedding and I need to travel without flattening my barnet!

The got2b GLUSED Brows & Edges is a 2 in 1 gel for brows and the edges of brows, especially if they have just been dyed.  The generous brush fixes brow hairs in place whist the gel, which is also vegan and silicones-free, keeps brows where you want them.  It’s easily washed away with make-up remover at the end of the day but I particularly like this for something like a wedding or an all-day even where you want everything to stay in place. It’s called GLUED for a reason! You can feel it drying too, which is also reassuring when you’ve spent ages doing your make-up. Just be sure not to use it on your eyelashes or close to your eyes. 

Available from Boots and Superdrug: https://www.boots.com/schwarzkopf andhttps://www.superdrug.com/hair/got2b/b/418015