Category: Women

Green People Volumising Mascara

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

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.

Let’s talk about volumising lashes. Great for parties, useful for quick every day make up and fabulous fun for when you want to glam it up when going out.  Green People have created this volumising mascara for the party season which contains sunflower oil, Carnauba wax and beeswax which are kinder to skin. We were sent the black mascara from Green People, but you can also buy the same product in brown.

The Green People Volumising is a buildable lash mascara which means you can put on a coat, let it dry, and build up to bigger, longer lasting lashes with extra coats on top. Perfect for when you’re out all day or at work and need to reapply. The beeswax and Carnauba wax mean that you can remove it easily with an oil based make-up remover too. The mascara formula includes vitamin E and to moisturise and protect lashes too.

At £23.50 it’s not cheap, but it is comparable to the department store brands which last just as long and work just as well. You’re also buying in the knowledge that The Green People make more environmentally friendly products which are cruelty free, vegetarian and 98% of the products are natural. How did it look? Plump! The mascara builds up nicely and creates glossy lashes that don’t clump together. Stunning for the Christmas season!

Available for £23.50 at: https://www.greenpeople.co.uk/products/volumising-mascara-black-7ml?_su_rec=CxUTIywNIFTwjVyFLsaeXmESgp9urNimAEZShwhCx-oTQ4TvqtSWmPmoAVrDpfwKEbJeyCYHIH-K2HzsqJgPxYi4BhnTz9Z1xipoxiqZeBdQL4TN_vBHq8EKE5Al84w7HizZuka05IF8-csExJUsY7ES2CocHykjR_3oL6_wMIqYBG3YWZKnUTuDqh7xwSlSukNIRwmAGD8kYFffgdE6fgiJRXH1jwEB1ZC5mgfl-4Fq_LzaRaDPZ93XgtolPAb4hBq-zOlh6LPfdUCY8bxB&_su_rec_id=03b481f7-d1e6-4a06-b614-a1f8b48d4cb8-1792931073

CHROMA Skin Tech Collagen Mask

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, Stocking Fillers, 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.

Dewy, supple skin is not only fashionable nowadays, but using collagen masks like the CHROMA Skin Tech Collagen Mask is a great way of self-care and some relaxation.  CHROMA sent us a box of collagen masks to use and I gratefully used one whilst rushing around on a Friday afternoon and took some time out to let it work some magic (magic not included in the box!)

There are 4 masks in the box, each individually sealed. If you’ve never used a collagen mask before, it’s a face mask which is infused with collagen solution and you place it on your face and let it dry over a number of hours. It penetrates the skin giving a soft, dewy glow that lasts for about 12-24 hours.  The CHROMA masks come in two parts – upper and lower face. There’s a lot of solution in the packet as well, and many influencers say to use the solution on your face as well, to give an extra boost. I struggled with getting this out of the packet though because it’s so slippery, and has a translucent plastic backing to it which doesn’t make it easy to handle. I dropped it in the sink twice!

It places over your face in two parts, and at first it can slide, so it’s easier to sit still until it starts to dry slightly. We’re talking 2 minutes whilst it fixes on you skin then you can go about your day. The mask looks white when you place it on your skin but then as it dries it goes clear. It can take up to 3 hours to dry, but with the heating on at home it took about 2 hours. It’s difficult to eat properly with the mask on though because movement makes it less adhesive, so try not to eat for first hour or drink for the first 30 minutes.

Taking the mask off is easy. It doesn’t ‘stick’ as if it’s glued to your face and instead it peels away gently, even when dry. If you take it off before it’s fully dry, it’s obviously still a bit wet so you can remove it easily too.  You can’t reuse it though, which is why there’s 4 in the pack, and I would say you could use them weekly for 4 weeks and get a good overall affect. CHROMA have a lovely LED mask as well, which helps rejuvenate skin cells and also gives you a glow, so the combination of both would help your overall winter schedule.

Was my face more dewy and softer when the mask came off? Well yes it was, and what was noticeable was that my skin moved better because it was more supple. The collagen did what it’s supposed to do and ‘fed’ into the layers of skin and nourished it.  It felt like I’d used a really rich moisturiser or had a really long facial with high-end products.  It’s amazing how one mask can make you feel so refreshed and the compliments you get on your skin are an added bonus!

Available online for £16.99 at: https://chromaskintech.com/products/chroma-collagen-mask?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Altruist Sunscreen Christmas Gift Set

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Stocking Fillers, 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.

Finally, a gift set at Christmas that doesn’t include tiny samples! The Altruist Christmas Gift Set (29.95) includes a range of their year-round products, wrapped up in a stylish grey washbag. Included in the set is:

  • Altruist Sunscreen SPF50, 100ml
  • Altruist Face Fluid SPF50, 50ml
  • Altruist Body Lotion with 6% Urea, 200ml
  • Altruist Hand Repair Cream, 75ml
  • Altruist Moisturising Fluid 0.5% Hyaluronic Acid MF0.5, 50ml

As a skincare brand founded by dermatologist Dr Andrew Birnie, you might think that you don’t need sunscreen at this time of year. However, the whole set of products shows the range which is available to Altruist, which is not only sunscreen but skincare too.  Altruist’s non-nonsense approach to skincare includes Hand Repair Cream (great for on your desk at work) and Body Lotion with Urea, to keep skin smooth and hydrated.  The smaller tubes such as the Face Fluid and Moisturising Fluid with Hyaluronic Acid are small enough to be able to put them in your handbag or travel bag.

I’ve used Altruist sunscreens before, and thanks to the formula being SPF 50 and designed by a real life skin doctor, it’s very reliable and does what it says it does. I can wear Altruist sunscreen and not feel like it’s too greasy or heavy. There is the element of sunscreen film there, and it’s very rich, but it really works and it leaves your skin softer and more pliable. 

The set is really lovely and can be used as a gift as well as split up and used as a stocking filler or Secret Santa gifts too!

Available online for £29.95 at: https://altruistsun.com/collections/all?_su_rec=h-y8uwyPRupIdHyttaR0VnKT-jDxiddAtXx40IsIq50k3SPhVQAZ_GBR7SCfKBlgpgOpYXLZogORQnE4_vuGatA0q8DQdFk9savn_yR4XSeebgzy9_jTwttGlBdiTvDk1DqUOxdUmdI1L06rTZNx-kPqHo15VxAdQT5DZBeo3v427F1KAN-NAKHLispRPdB7_8SBqnnMENQq6O6rYF5yTOko3hxFUT21bj7KUMR-XVQFiLKnS7AMo6sWhrc&_su_rec_id=3c8df5a5-05ac-4489-ae03-9d659b0e6c48-1791715206

Stackers Jewellery Roll

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Jewellery, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, travel, 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

I love wearing jewellery and when it comes to going on holiday, I like to take a few favourite pieces with me to accessorise my outfits. The big problem though is keeping everything organised. There’s nothing worse than opening your suitcase to discover your necklaces have tied themselves into an impossible knot, or finding a favourite pair of earrings rattling around at the bottom of your bag. I’ve tried individual pouches, but I still find myself spending ages untangling jewellery instead of enjoying myself! When I saw the Stackers Jewellery Roll on the Very website, I knew straight away that this would be a real gamechanger when I’m travelling. Designed with travel in mind, it’s a neat, oblong case that slips easily into hand luggage or a travel holdall without taking up too much room. The jewellery roll is available in a variety of gorgeous colours, including forest green, red, burgundy and lavender, so you can choose a shade to suit the style of either your luggage or recipient.

Open it up and you’ll find a gorgeous mushroom-coloured interior with a soft, velvety finish. It’s all about clever organisation, with dedicated spaces for different types of jewellery. There are four necklace or bracelet holders, each with a press stud to keep pieces in place, plus an elasticated band and a pocket at the bottom to keep longer necklaces secure. There’s also a zipped pocket for extra bits and pieces, an earring holder and a ring holder, so everything has its own little home. One of my favourite features is the removable velvet drawstring pouch, which I found particularly useful for storing solid bracelets.

Measuring 24.5cm deep, 10.5cm wide and just 3cm high, the jewellery roll has plenty of room without being bulky. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I could fit inside, including my watch, which means I no longer have to leave favourite accessories behind because I can’t work out how to transport them safely. Now, everything stays together, protected and ready to wear when I arrive. Best of all, I can say goodbye to wrestling with tangled necklaces before I’ve even unpacked!

The Stackers Jewellery Roll (RRP £30) would make a lovely Christmas gift for anyone who loves travelling and wants to take their favourite accessories along for the ride. It’s also a great Secret Santa idea if you’re working to a £30 budget and want something useful and stylish that feels a little more special than the usual festive offerings.

Whether you’re shopping for a frequent flyer, a weekend-break enthusiast or someone who simply loves their jewellery, this handy little organiser could be just the ticket.

For other great gift idas take a look at the Gifts for Her section at Very where you’ll find many more fantastic gift ideas for the women in your life.

Rabanne Ladies EDP 5ml Mini Gift Set

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Fragrance, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, Stocking Fillers, 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 anything like me, perfume is always near the top of the Christmas wish list. You can never have too many fragrances, can you? And if your other half needs a hint about what to put under the tree, I’d be more than happy to point him in the direction of the Rabanne Ladies Mini Gift Set! With four gorgeous fragrances it’s a little box of luxury that offers plenty of bang for your Christmas buck.

This gift set brings together four of Rabanne’s fragrances, each with its own personality. Lady Million arrived in 2010, bringing plenty of golden glamour, while Olympea followed in 2015, inspired by the idea of a modern-day goddess. Fame joined the party in 2022 with its contemporary, playful feel, and Million Gold for Her arrived in 2024 to add yet more golden sparkle. With four different scents to explore, there’s a good chance you’ll find one that makes you feel like the queen of the Christmas party.

The miniature bottles are little versions of their full-sized counterparts, making them lovely to display on a dressing table as well as practical for everyday life. They’re ideal for popping into your handbag for a quick refresh, tucking into your wash bag for a weekend away or taking on holiday without sacrificing precious luggage space. After all, there’s only so much room in a suitcase once you’ve packed the shoes!

They’re also a brilliant way to experiment with different fragrances without committing to a full-sized bottle. You can choose something glamorous for an evening out or a scent to suit your everyday mood. And if you discover a new favourite, you’ll know exactly what to ask for next Christmas!

Available from Very, the Rabanne Ladies Mini Gift Set would make a lovely present for a mum, sister, daughter or friend who enjoys a little pampering. Very has plenty of other Christmas gift ideas to browse in the “Gifts for her” section of their website , so you might even manage to tick a few more names off that ever-growing list. Just don’t forget to drop a few hints about what you’d like yourself!

Mavala Christmas Nail Polish and Your Nail Growth Routine

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Mother's Day, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, 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.

Marvellous Mavala Christmas gifts sent us two kits available this Christmas which make excellent Secret Santa or stocking filler gifts. If you’ve never heard of Mavala before, it’s a Swiss beauty company that specialises in precision beauty, meaning they like to produce the best quality products that ‘honour individuality and authenticity.’ They are an independent, family owned business with its roots going back 65 years. Their products are never tested on animals, are 100% Swiss engineered and have zero compromise on quality or safety. We were sent two of their Christmas range products; Your Nail Growth Routine and Ruby Christmas Duo.

Ruby Christmas Due contains two miniature colour nail polishes in shades called Las Vegas and Paris.  These vibrant colours are more for the adventurous nail polish wearer or for going out at night, so perfect for the Christmas season, or as a gift for someone who likes to make a statement with their nail art. Even though they’re miniature varnishes, they’re perfectly good to use weekly, not just for Christmas or special occasions. They are great for going on holiday with though, as they’re small enough but bright enough to wear with confidence!

The Mavala nail care kit; Your Nail Growth Routine is a two-stage treatment kit to help your nails grow. The first Mavaderma treatment is an oil based formula that helps nails grow healthily at the root, and contains wheat germ and sweet almond. The second treatment is pistachio to fortify nail growth in the long term. For best results, apply Mavaderma daily at night time, on clean, varnish free nails. Massage into the nail bed and leave on overnight to allow to work. Before a manicure the next day, apply Mava-Strong as a base before colour.

I haven’t been using Mavala for long, but I do feel that the Mava-Strong gives my nails the extra strength I need to keep the nails strong, and prevent splitting which is a problem I’ve had for a few months. The Mavaderma should help in the long run with promoting nail growth at the base, but it will take a few months for that to become evident.  These are both great gift sets for Christmas and can be used all year round, so by the time next Christmas comes around, your nails will be perfect!

Available online at: https://mavala.co.uk/

Women’s Verglas Down Vest from Helly Hansen 

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, camping, Christmas, Family Life, Fashion, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, Sport, Winter, 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.

Sleeveless jacket, gilet, padded vest; whatever you call them from wherever you are, the sleeveless jacket is back in fashion. Versatile for both casual and sportswear, the Verglas Down Vest from Helly Hansen is made with a waterproof, toughened fabric that doesn’t tear easily. It also squashes down to almost anything so can be in the side shelf of the car, in a backpack or even condensed down into a pocket. 

Speaking of pockets, there’s two zippable pockets on the chest which is great for dog walking or as an addition to sportswear because they’re incredibly deep. There’s enough room for a phone and keys in each pocket and still ample left for anything else.  I wear a size 16 and this is a size XL which does up easily on the zip from top to bottom. It keeps you nice and snug too with the down filling evenly quilted throughout. The high neck is also useful in winter but you can of course wear it without being done up to the top so you have more freedom.  The waist is toggled so you can draw in if it’s too big for you and need to reshape it or if it’s really cold and need the protection. 

This gilet isn’t just for casual though, it can be a base layer with skiing or under winter sports gear.  It only comes in black at the moment which is probably the mos versatile colour and doesn’t show up any marks. There’s also a zipped inner pocket on the chest and some deeper inner pockets too so if you’re skiing, they’re super useful.

As winter comes in, and autumn becomes cooler this is a great vest to use with layers, out running or even for commuting and around the house. I think I’m going to enjoy the freedom it gives with not having to wear a coat all the time, especially with all those pockets!

Women’s Verglas Down Vest, £180  https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/w-verglas-down-vest-20-63384?color=290002

Hotel Chocolat Everything 9-Piece Boxed Selection

Birthday Gifts, chocolate, Christmas, Father's Day, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, 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.

We all have those friends and family members who seem to have everything, making Christmas shopping a little more challenging than we would like. When I’m stuck for ideas, I usually buy a nice box of chocolates, as you really can’t go wrong with a box of luxury chocolates.

Hotel Chocolat was originally a mail order business specialising in chocolate that was a little more exciting than the usual supermarket offering. Founded back in 1993 they have grown into one of Britain’s best-known luxury chocolate companies, with shops across the UK.  

The Hotel Chocolat Everything 9-Piece Boxed Selection costs £14 and contains a great selection of chocolates. With a mix of milk and dark chocolate and nutty, fruity and boozy chocolates there should be something to suit all tastes.  

The chocolates are beautifully presented in a stylish brown and gold box. Lift the lid and you’ll find pictures and descriptions of each chocolate, so you know exactly what you’re about to enjoy. There’s also a handy guide for anyone with specific dietary requirements.

The nine delicious flavours are Peanut Butter, Raspberry Smoothie, Passionfruit Heart, Classic Champagne, Pistachio, Billionaire’s Shortbread, Dizzy Praline 70%, Dizzy Praline 40% and Caramel Cheesecake. Ordinarily when we have a box of chocolates there are a couple that are left because nobody likes them but there wasn’t a single chocolate in this box that I didn’t like! My favourite was the Raspberry Smoothie which was very tangy whereas my husband who is a white chocolate fan preferred the Passionfruit heart.

Whether you’re looking for a special Christmas present, a Secret Santa gift or simply a ‘just in case’ box for someone who deserves a little treat, the Hotel Chocolat Everything 9-Piece Boxed Selection is a deliciously easy choice. And if you buy one for someone else, nobody says you can’t buy yourself one too – it is Christmas after all!

Very have these chocolates and many more gift ideas in the “Gifts For Her” section of their website.  

Women’s Sorrento 2.0 Winter Boots from Helly Hansen

Birthday Gifts, camping, Christmas, Fashion, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, Winter, 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.

You can never be sure what the weather in Britain will do, so a pair of winter ankle boots is usually a good bet. In the cold, they work brilliantly for the school run, or commuting to work, but work equally well with jeans and a jacket .  Helly Hansen have the Sorrento 2.0 Boots in their winter range this year, and as soon as I put them on I didn’t want to take them off!

These Sorrento boots come in a tan colour which is 100% leather. There are lots of other colours too including black and various shades of grey, plus different colours of fur lining and soles.  There are different colours of laces for each colour of boot too, but the rest of the design is the same throughout the range. The outer material is highly protected so you don’t need to add any extra sprays to it in order for the boots to be waterproof or windproof. The boots are treated with various Helly Hansen technologies such as Spray Tech, Pro Guard, Max Grip and Surround-Grip. Inside, the fake-fur lining is made of polyester and even the collar is padded. The sole is made of vulcanised rubber, so with all of these creature comforts and premium components, what’s not to like?

As soon as I tried these on, my little feet were in heaven! They’re so comfy, especially with the fur lining and you can feel how warm they are instantly.  They come pre-laced which is useful, and the soles are super sharp when it comes to walking. It’s not icy yet, but I can imagine them being very sturdy. When walking, they feel like a triangle – wide base but lighter on top, making them very easy to walk in no matter the weather.

I don’t normally have winter boots which are actually meant for winter, but if this winter is going to be as brutal as the summer was, I am sticking to my Helly Hansen boots.

Women’s Sorrento 2.0 Boots £145 – https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/w-sorrento-2-12044?color=602621

Women’s LIFA Merino Midweight Crew Base Layer from Helly Hansen

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, camping, Christmas, Family Life, Fashion, Fitness, Gifts for Her, hiking, Mother's Day, National Walking Month, Sport, Winter, 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 am loving these base layers from Helly Hansen now that it’s colder in the mornings! I work from home most of the time, so a run or going to the gym in the early hours is imperative and it’s much colder at 7am than it is by lunchtime, even in September. The Helly Hansen base layers are designed for extreme temperatures, but thanks to the merino wool in these tops, they’re super soft to wear at home too, especially in the cold.

The 40 year history of LIFA Merino Base layers at Helly Hansen have a unique construction of 2 layers which include a 100% merino wool exterior layer, to wick away the moisture as well as keep you warm.  The LIFA Stay Warm Technology layer which is closest to the skin was designed by Helly Hansen and keeps you more comfortable. 

These are a size XL and they fit me at a size 16. I like how they’re long sleeved as well as high neck to wear under ski suits or jackets but you can just as easily wear them to pilates or yoga, although they’re likely to keep you a bit too warm unless your yoga studio is particularly frosty!  They’re so unbelievably soft though that you can wear them round the house and doing the school run. Despite being made of merino wool, they’re super thin though, so a jacket on top or even a jumper if you’re especially cold will help keep you warmer still.

Available in a range of colours, the are in Opal Green and Hot Pink.

Women’s LIFA Merino Midweight Crew Base Layer, £90 – https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/w-lifa-merino-midweight-crew-49378?color=634565 

Women’s LIFA Merino Knitevo 3/4 Trousers from Helly Hansen 

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Family Life, Fashion, Fitness, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, Sport, Winter, 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.

For winter sports, Helly Hansen has it all, including bright blue, 3/4 length activity trousers for winter sports such as skiing, hiking and outdoor pursuits. 

These are in size XL, which is suitable for size 16, or 35” waist. A length of 3/4 means that there’s enough stretch that they come down to just above the ankle, so you can wear them with winter socks, or they fit under a ski suit easily.  The colour design means you can team it with almost any other blue or black and wear these trousers around the house or for running errands. 

The LIFA Merino Knitevo 3/4 Trousers are made of merino wool outer shell to help wick away moisture but to also give a softness of fabric, and keep you warm. There’s an elasticated waist and no buttons or fastenings.  There are panels on the back of the legs for managing sweat (great when you’re in the car too) and there are ribbed ankles which help keep the shape long term, especially as the material is really elasticated all over. These are lightweight trousers, but not the lightest on the market so you can wear them on their own or with a ski suit on top. They’re mega comfy though and I love this blue colour for the winter!

Women’s LIFA Merino Knitevo, £110   https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/w-lifa-merino-knitevo-3-4-pant-49511?color=290002

Eyeam Daily SPF NoTox Daily Face Cream

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, 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’d never heard of the company Eyeam before, so when they offered to send us some SPF NoTox face cream, I had a look at their website to see what it’s all about. Turns out, this is a British company with an holistic approach to beauty through using pure products, small batches and using the body’s connections. Their Four Pillar approach bridges the mind, body, spirit and skin to bring out the best in women. Even more interesting, is that Eyeam is run almost completely by women FOR women. Their website is fascinating to find out more about the science and spirit behind their approach to wellness and skin care.

We were sent the Eyeam Daily SPF face cream. Boasting a SPF of 20+, it’s called NoTox because it has pure ingredients and is non-comedogenic, meaning it doesn’t clog your pores.  As a daily cream, it can be worn under make-up, is free from fragrances and protects against UVA and UVB rays. It also gives Polyphenol-rich antioxidant peptide protection and actives. As we’ve had a lot of very sunny weather recently, it was easy to try this daily moisturiser in very direct sunlight!

The Eyeam Daily SPF 20 cream is very thin when you dispense it. It’s only slightly less thin in consistency than single cream, but it’s very rich so you don’t need too much. I found that it takes a while for it to blend into the skin. It leaves a slight white gloss over your skin until you rub it in and settle. I believe this is to do with the SFP and creating that barrier between your skin and the sun’s rays. Once it’s blended into your skin, it has a tiny bit of sheen to it, which give a nice glow in the sunshine, with the knowledge that your skin is protected. It can be used as a primer though, where you can apply make-up on top and it acts as a base.

It lasted all day during the summer heat. It left my skin plumper all day, with a slightly waxy texture but not anything that meant my make-up slid off. It felt like a barrier cream that moisturised at the same time, but not like a film, more like a base.  It certainly worked as a SFP as well, with no colour getting to my face the whole time I’ve worn it, and I’ve been wearing it daily for a few weeks now.

There are lots of other items available on the Eyeam website, all of which are made in the UK in small batches to ensure quality.

Available online for £59 at: https://eyeamworld.com/products/daily-spf-notox?_pos=1&_psq=Notox&_psid=a47aaa7c1&_ss=e&_v=1.0

Benecos Natural Tinted Lip Balm and Lavera Travel Size All-Round Cream

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Gifts for Her, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Vegan, Vegetarian, 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 summer approaches, let’s look at some of the products out there to make your life easier. We’ve been sent the Benecos natural tinted lip balm and the Lavera Travel Size All-Round Cream for sensitive skin. Each of them are in small packaging which is easily kept in a handbag or flight luggage and both are vegan, and under 100 mL in volume.

The Benecos natural tinted lip balm has UVA and UVB protection. This sample in the ‘Coral Breeze’ colour is SPF 15 and glides on just like a lipstick. The texture of this lip balm is also very much like a lipstick and leaves a subtle tinted colour which can either be applied and blotted like a lipstick, or blended in like a lip balm. It has a lovely natural colour to it, making it easy to wear weather without make-up. When the weather is particularly good in the summer, you can wear it instead of lipstick.

The Lavera Basis Sensitive Cream is 100% vegan and contains bio aloe vera oil. It comes in this handy 25 ml tin which is small enough to fit into a handbag or an overnight toiletries bag. The cream is foil wrapped for freshness and when you open it, you can see how rich the Lavera cream is. You can see that it’s oil based because of the texture of the cream which is quite thick. It is suitable for anything from a face cream to body cream and the richness of this cream means that it can be used before applying make-up or in the evening as a night mask. It’s incredibly silky and very very moisturising when it is applied. It also has a really lovely sent to it.

I was quite surprised by both of these products in how handy they are as well as how luxurious they feel when being worn. These are great for summer because everybody needs a bit of extra help with either SPF or highly moisturised products at this time of year. These will be staying in my handbag for months to come!

Benecos Natural Tinted Lip Balm £5.95:

https://benecos.uk/shop-1/p/natural-concealer-j8ma7

Lavera Travel Size Basis Sensitive All-Round Cream £2.00: https://www.lavera.co.uk/shop/p/travel-size-basis-sensitive-all-round-cream

Aldi Lacura Make Up

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Gifts for Her, Summer, Women

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

Aldi’s Summer Beauty Collection arrived in the middle aisle this week and is packed with glow-boosting skincare, sun-kissed essentials and trend-led treats. Aldi’s popular purse-friendly line proves you don’t need a supermodel’s budget to look the part this summer.

We had a sneak peak of some of the products and it’s fair to say the Review Studio team were really impressed with the new collection which includes the iconic La cura Cashmere Glow Luminous Foundation (£5.99, 30ml) and Concealer (£3.99, 10ml) which offer price savings of over 80% compared to luxury brand Giorgio Armani. There’s also a fantastic selection of blushers, highlighters and serums so you can have a go at the  viral ‘pilates glow’ trend that has been taking social media by storm.

The Lacura Watermelon Serum (RRP £4.99) is going to be one of the hardest working products in your summer make up bag. Available in two versions – Brightening and Bronzing, the serums are designed to give your skin a natural glow. The Brightening Serum leaves skin looking fresh and radiant while the Bronzing Serum adds a touch of sun-kissed warmth that’s perfect for holiday skin.

The Lacura Cashmere Glow Luminous concealer (RRP £3.99) proves that good make up doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag. The concealer is available in six different shades and the lightweight, formula blends nicely and gives long-lasting coverage. It is great at hiding the dark circles under my eye whilst leaving the under eye area looking fresher and brighter.  

The Lacura Sweet Blusher (£3.49 ) is available in two different shades – Pink Lace and Peachy Pink and it looks great layered with the Radiant Rose or Champagne Lacura Stay Illuminated Highlighter (£3.49). The blushers and highlighters have a silky, lightweight texture which makes them easy to apply and blend on your skin, giving a fresh, healthy glow, just like you’ve spent a weekend in the sun.  

Mascara is the one item in my make up bag that I can’t live without and the  Lacura Dramatic Lash Mascara (£4.99) is proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get great lashes. After applying a couple of coats, I could see an instant boost in both length and volume while the brush did a fantastic job of separating my lashes without clumping.

I was very impressed with the staying power of this mascara – it stayed on all day without smudging and even survived a sweaty aerobics class! It was easy to remove too with my usual eye make-up remover.

We often think about protecting our skin during the summer months, but our lips need just as much attention. The Lacura Collagen Lip Oil (£2.99) is a real beach bag essential, enriched with Vitamin E, Shea Butter and Collagen to help keep lips feeling soft, smooth and hydrated throughout the day. The rollerball applicator makes it easy to apply and the handy sized 8ml tube is perfect for keeping in your handbag so you can reapply during the day. The colourless formula leaves my lips with a subtle shine and can be worn alone or layered over lipstick.

To finish, a quick mist of Lacura Illuminate Setting Spray (£4.49) helps keep your makeup exactly where you put it. The lightweight formula feels refreshing on the skin and helps everything stay looking fresh, polished and put together, even when the summer weather decides to turn up the heat.

Aldi’s Summer Beauty Collection proves that achieving a fresh, glowing summer look doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With affordable products you can easily pick up as part of your weekly shop, it’s well worth taking a detour down the middle aisle before they’re gone.


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

Charles Worthington Scalp Restore Range

beauty, Gifts for Her, haircare, Stocking Fillers, Vegan, Women

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

When it comes to holiday beauty prep, most of us have our skincare routine down to a fine art. Vitamin C? Packed. SPF? Non-negotiable. Hydrating sheet masks? Already in the suitcase. But while we’re diligent about looking after our skin it’s surprising at just how often our hair gets overlooked.

From chlorine-filled pools and salty sea swims to long days in the sun, holidays can put a surprising amount of stress on  our hair and scalp. The result? Hair that feels greasy more quickly, product build-up, visible flakes and an overall lack of freshness, just when you’re trying to look your best

A healthy scalp is the secret behind great-looking hair, think of it as the haircare equivalent of a good primer or facial serum, so if you want to have glossy, healthy-looking hair this summer, then it’s time to start looking after your scalp. In preparation for my holidays I’ve started using  the new Scalp Restore range from Charles Worthington. The three-step routine is now available in Boots and includes Shampoo (£9.99), Conditioner (£9.99) and a Reviving Scalp Scrub (£14.99). All three products contain niacinamide and a sustainable biotech microalgae active and are  designed to gently cleanse, refresh and rebalance the scalp while helping hair stay fresher for longer between washes.

The Reviving Scalp Scrub is particularly satisfying after a day spent in the sun, it gently removes excess oil, flakes and product build-up, leaving your scalp feeling refreshed and cared for. The shampoo lathers very easily, lifting away all the dirt, oil and product build up and the conditioner is rich and hydrating and my curls loved it.  

Whether you’re jetting off on a city break, lounging on the beach or embarking on a far flung adventure these are the haircare essentials you need to have in your suitcase.

Glowing skin may get all the attention, but great holiday hair starts at the root.

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

Yankee Candle Serenity Stone and Spa Inspired Gift Set

Birthday Gifts, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Home, Home & Garden, Mother's Day, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, 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.

Yankee Candles have long been the standard for candles at home, or as gifts especially with their beautifully presented Signature range.  If you’ve ever been into a Yankee Candle shop, then you’ll know that there are not only a huge range of scents available, but different sizes as well.  Yankee Candle sent us this Signature edition of their scent Serenity Stone and a gift box of three tealight candles.  Who wouldn’t want to give, or receive candles like these?

The Serenity Stone Yankee Candle is seen here in the large jar version, but other sizes are available. Large Jar means it’s a glass jar with lid, which is not only better for transporting but the glass lid allows you to extinguish the flame easily by just placing the lid on top and removing the source or oxygen. There are two wicks to light too; meaning it burns more evenly with a 65-80 hour, soy wax burn life. It’s quite heavy too at over half a kilo (567 grams to be precise) so I wouldn’t recommend sending this in the post!

The second set sent to us was the spa-inspired tealight set of candles with the scents Slow Bloom, Lavender Bliss and Serenity Stone. Each of the candles have their own distinct fragrance and undertone; the Lavender Bliss for instance is a Floral fragrance whereas Slow Bloom is a Woody fragrance.  You don’t burn all three of these fragranced candles at once, more like one after the other to create a long term ambience.  The Gift set is called Spa-Inspired for a reason, and these candles would be perfect for a relaxing bath or in a room where you want some more peace. With the burn time on each of these candles being around 7-10 hours, that’s a lot of baths, or a full day of candle time!

If you’re looking for a gift too, these are all perfect to send. The Serenity Stone Large Jar may be heavy, but it’s no lightweight in the gifting arena. The gift set is much smaller but great for posting or giving as an individual present or to add to a hamper of bigger treats.

Serenity Stone available in Large Jar size for £29.99 at:

https://www.yankeecandle.co.uk/yankee-candle/candles/shop-by-type/signature-large-jar-candles/serenity-stone-candle/SAP_2672619E.html

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

Lee Stafford Hyaluronic Hydration Shampoo & Conditioner

beauty, Gifts for Her, haircare, Women

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


I have curly hair which is currently very dry and frizzy and in desperate need of some TLC, so I was really pleased when a parcel containing the new Lee Stafford Hyaluronic Hydration shampoo and conditioner arrived on my doorstep.

In celebration of 25 years in the hair game, Lee Stafford London has recently launched this new ultra-hydrating range and they are just what my curls have been crying out for. There are four products in the range – shampoo, conditioner, hair mask and scalp water and they are all designed to be used on dry, hydrated hair, promising to boost hydration by a whopping 92%.

Like a lot of curly haired people, I use a lot of styling products on my hair so need a good, deep cleansing shampoo to bring my curls back to life. This shampoo is enriched with Hyaluronic Acid, Pro-Vitamin B5 & Aloe Vera and lathers very easily, lifting away all the dirt, oil and product build up and and after only one use I could see an improvement in my curls. It also has a lovely fragrance which lingers nicely on my hair.   

Conditioner is where things get serious for curly hair, and this one is fantastic. Like the shampoo it is enriched with is enriched with Hyaluronic Acid, Pro-Vitamin B5 & Aloe Vera and the rich, creamy conditioner is very easy to smooth through my hair and I found detangling was much less of a battle than normal.

After using these products for a couple of weeks I am hooked, my curls are shinier, feel nourished and look more defined. I’ve also found that when I blow-dry my hair my curls last longer and look far better on day 2 and 3 than usual.

I’m really impressed with these products which have taken my curls from dry and unruly to glossy and defined in only a couple of washes. If your hair is crying out for hydration but you still want something affordable and beautifully scented, this range is definitely worth trying.

RRP £12.99 but the range is currently on offer at half price at Boots

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

Berkeley Health Self-Testing Kits

health, 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.

Given how difficult it is to see a doctor or even book a blood test nowadays, many people are turning to internet searches and other way to get a head-start on their medical appointments. Berkeley Health Self-Testing kits are available in Waitrose and can test for Vitamin D, FSH levels (menopause), Thyroid TSH and other common deficiencies.  We were sent some self-testing packs to try out.

Starting with the Berkeley Health Menopause FSH test, there are 2 tests in the packet. The urine test detects FSH through gold-conjugated monoclonal antibodies. It looks similar to a pregnancy test and is used in the same way. It takes 5 minutes for the results to show on the test device and gives a positive/negative/non valid result.  A positive test shows that FSH in the urine is equal to or higher than 25mIU/mL, indicating that menopause, or perimenopause, has already started. At this point, the instructions suggest you see your doctor. In a negative result, the results are below 25 mIU/mL but it is strongly suggested to carry out another test a few days later using the second test device in the kit, as FSH can alter during the course of a few weeks.

The Berkeley Health Thyroid TSH Rapid Test Cassette is a blood test which provides 2 lancets as well as a testing cartridge.  With washed hands, follow the instruction to draw a drop of blood and using the capillary dropper, migrate blood into the dropper. Put the blood from the dropper onto the cassette and it will give a positive/negative result within 10 minutes.  A positive result means the TSH level is higher than normal (5 µIU mL) and you need to see a doctor. Why is the level of TSH important? A high level might indicate that that your body isn’t metabolising properly and you could be putting on or losing weight or have a problem with your thyroid. The TSH test is one that is not done in isolation by a doctor, but they can look at a range of test results and make a diagnosis.

Finally, the Berkeley Health Vitamin D test ins one single test in the packet and has the most amount of apparatus out of all of the kits we were sent!  Vitamin D is important in the body for the absorption in the gut of calcium, iron, magnesium phosphate and zinc. All of these elements are needed in the body for a huge range of functions and growth so it’s important to make sure Vitamin D levels are as good as possible.  This test includes the lancet again for self-drawing blood, a pipette for collecting the blood, a vial with a dropper tip containing the vitamin D test and the Vitamin D test cassette.  As with the TSH test, use the lancet to draw blood, use the pipette to migrate a sufficient amount of blood and then deposit a drop on the cassette. The results after 10 minutes are deficient/insufficient/sufficient/excess or invalid.

All of the tests are easy to use and the results being positive/negative make it easy to read the outcomes without confusing data and having to find someone to interpret them for you. They’re also a really good way of cheaply eliminating a health problem or finding a pathway. Trying lots of different Berkeley Health tests when you don’t know what’s going on could give you a direction to start exploring with your doctor too.

Available from Waitrose from £8-£10.

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.