Women – Page 6 – The Review Studio

Afternoon Tea Week at Brown’s Covent Garden

alcoholic drinks, Birthday Gifts, Days Out, Family Life, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gluten Free, Restaurant, Summer, Vegetarian, Women

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

As if we need an excuse for an Afternoon Tea, 12-18 August is Afternoon Tea Week across the UK and Browns Brasserie & Bar invited us to their Champagne Afternoon Tea at their luxurious Covent Garden restaurant to sample their new Moet & Chandon menu. Available now in all Browns Brasserie & Bars, the classic meal is enhanced by a glass of classic or pink Champagne courtesy of Moet & Chandon and set in the fabulous ex-courthouse building in Leicester Square.

Upon arriving, the Judge’s Court room is upstairs (staircase or lift, in case you’re wondering) which is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of downstairs and one of the busiest parts of London. There’s no noise and no passing trade to disturb you or your photos, but the decadent décor, the parquet flooring and almost complete inside of the court from when it was a working court is still there. There’s even the judge’s chair left at the front of the room and ‘TO THE CELLS’ sign on the door! It’s beautifully decorated with plenty of room and no rush to contend with.

The Afternoon Tea Menu is both traditional and delicious. Starting with the Moet & Chandon Champagne, we had a classic glass each, which was slightly dry but totally appropriate with an Afternoon Tea. The sandwiches include an open sandwich of rye bread and salmon pate, lobster brioche, salt beef and horse radish and a lovely mix of cheese, pickle and crunchy apple – a combination which I will be trying at home! Each of the sandwiches was so fresh and so delicious we wanted to have more, but Browns had other ideas, judging by the amount of cake that was also on the stand.

Each of us had a plain and a fruit scone for the second course, with cream and both strawberry and blackcurrant jam to accompany. The crumbly scones were obviously baked that morning and fresh on the plate, as were the four different cakes which we enjoyed. Starting with the Blackcurrant Victoria Sandwich which was light and fluffy and featured the fruity blackcurrant jam which featured with the scones, it was definitely the first one to try before the stronger flavours kicked in. The Carrot Cake was also fresh and baked with cinnamon to give the tangy yet rich flavour which is so often found in Afternoon Teas. The Brown’s Black Forest Chocolate Pot also requires a Highly Commended mention because this was the richest of all the rich desserts with a Black Forest centre, chocolate moat and a cream filling on top. This one was definitely one to be eaten slowly! The final cake was a delicate lemon meringue tart with edible violet flower on top, to remind you that it’s still summer.

All of this was accompanied by a tea of your choice including loose leaf English Breakfast or Earl Grey and teabags of Green Tea, Elderflower & Pear or Ginger, Turmeric & Lemon. The tea is endless with more pots being brought out whenever you ask for them and the jams and cream are bottomless too.

Browns Brasserie & Bar have put on a super Afternoon Tea this year and not only is it available throughout the summer but there are vegetarian and Gluten Free versions too. Classic Afternoon tea starts at £30 with Moet & Chandon Champagne costing £40 and Pink champagne at £45. We certainly enjoyed our 2 hours stress free and were more than full from their Afternoon Tea! https://www.browns-restaurants.co.uk/afternoonteamenu#/

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

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

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

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

RRP £15

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

RRP £32

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

RRP £14.50 50ml

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

RRP £11.95

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

Be @ One Cosmetics Review

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

Like most middle aged women I have fallen into a rut with my make up, always using the same brands and colours so I was delighted when I was given the opportunity to try some new cosmetics from Be @ One

If you haven’t heard of Be @ One before, they are a brand new make up brand who offer an impressive array of cosmetics including BB cream, Mascara, Lip Gloss, Concealer, Lipstick, Eyeliner, Powder, Eye Pencils and Eye Shadow. The company are on a mission to change the way people think about make-up and beauty and their vegan and ethical cosmetics are the perfect choice for those who want to move away from the big brands and make a conscious choice to use cruelty free and environmentally friendly beauty products.

The Be Bold Eyeshadow Palette (RRP £19) contains five highly pigmented shades in shades of brown – Frosting, Sweet Biscuit, Butterscotch, Coffee Bean and Liquorice. Whether you are looking for a neutral every day look or full-on glamour you can easily create it with the colours in this palette. Normally with eye shadow palettes there is a colour that I never use however I know I will wear all these shades as they all look great with my dark brown eyes. The eyeshadows are easy to apply and it was easy to build up colour to get the desired effect. The eyeshadow was also easy to remove at the end of the day, one swipe of a bamboo pad with eye make up remover on and the eyeshadow simply melted away. Despite their affordable price these eye shadows certainly rival the high end brands I usually use, providing long lasting wear without creasing.

The Be Cheeky Compact Powder (RRP £19) is available in four different shades, catering to a variety of skin tones. The powder offers a smooth matte finish that helps control shine through the day. The powder feels lightweight and the vegan formula is gentle, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Additionally it includes a SPF15 rating giving your skin extra protection from the sun’s harmful rays.

The Be Radiant BB Cream (RRP £19.50) is the product I love the most, available in four shades it offers a natural, radiant finish with just the right amount of coverage. I have fair skin so opted for the Light Touch shade and it evened out my skin tone and hydrated my skin without feeling heavy, even on really hot days. The BB cream is enriched with the natural goodness of argan oil and has a SPF30 rating providing essential sun protection. As a vegan product it contains skin loving ingredients that nourish and protect making it an excellent choice for everyday wear.

The Be Bright Concealer (RRP £16) is available in four shades and the creamy formula which contains argan oil, aloe vera and avocado oil is easy to blend, effectively covering blemishes and dark circles. The formula is kind to my sensitive skin and offers buildable coverage for a natural finish.

Be Fabulous Lip Gloss (RRP £13) is moisturising and isn’t sticky and gives a beautiful shine to lips. The applicator scoops up just the right amount of gloss meaning you only need one application for gorgeous shiny lips and it glides onto my lips effortlessly. There are four different shades currently available – Punk Pink, Bold Red, Pink Crush and Morello so there is a shade to suit all occasions. Naturally enriched with argan oil, aloe vera and avocado oil, it is effortless to apply and leaves lips lovely and soft.

I’m really impressed with these products, Be @ One offer the perfect blend of affordability, quality and ethics and the high quality formulations are gentle on the skin and as good for your complexion as they are for the environment. As a new small brand Be @ One are making a significant impact and I’m looking forward to seeing what they bring out next.

Cetraben Day and Night Facial Cream

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

The misery of eczema prone skin is known to many, and is often a lifelong battle. Cetraben have launched a new Day Cream and Night Cream which are dermatologically tested to replenish moisture in the skin, and help prevent skin from drying out. We were sent some of both to try, which is not just for eczema prone skin but for anyone who has dry, itchy skin and looking for that extra relief.

The Cetraben Moisturising Facial Day Cream is a lightweight cream which can be used on the skin to cool the face daily. It can be applied as a preventative measure to keep skin hydrated during the day, or onto flaky, itchy skin which needs a hydrating boost. Containing coconut oil and oat oil, Cetraben Moisturising Facial Day Cream also contains squalane and glycerine. Working together, these ingredients soften skin and sooth dry skin.

Working in conjunction with Cetraben’s Facial Day Cream, their Nourishing Facial Night Cream also boosts hydration but includes jojoba seed oil, castor oil and shea butter as well as squalene and glycerine. This power pack of ingredients boosts hydration whilst you sleep and your skin regenerates, and locks in the moisture to help alleviate dry skin and allowing your skin to heal overnight. Continued use will help eczema skin with its rich but lightweight formula.

Each of the Cetraben Face and Night Creams absorb easily into the skin, but you can tell that the Night Cream is heavier with the inclusion of jojoba seed oil, castor oil and shea butter to give a richer, deeper effect at night. Both are lovely to the touch though and provide a great deal of hydration to the skin. I didn’t find I had to reapply the Cetraban Facial Day Cream a second time during the day either, I only needed one application during the morning and the Cetraben Facial Night Cream at night.

These Cetraben Day and Night Creams make great gifts or lovely treats for yourself, especially if your skin is dry and needs that extra moisture replenish.

Pampeano Leather Belt

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

Add glamour to your summer with this timeless leather belt from Pampeano. Not heard of them before? Let me explain…

Pampeano means ‘from La Pampa’ – a region in Argentina famed for their stunning views and handmade leather goods. Argentina is famous for both horsemanship and their polo fields, which has inspired Pampeano to create an extensive range of leather good for sale all over the world, including these stylish belts. We were sent the Alba belt to review this week, which was quite a treat!

The Alba belt, like all the Pampeano belts comes in sizes from 80 centimetres to 15 centimetres (28-42 inches). The leather belts are adorned with different patterns and the Alba is embroidered with 6 colours of a typical Argentinian design, with a slight feminine twist. The variety of colours means it can be matched with a range of outfits or just with a plain white shirt and jeans. Don’t just stop at jeans for these hand-made Pampeano belts though, because they can just as easily be paired with a dress or a long shirt to create a waist that isn’t already there and the quality of the leather and the metal buckle means it can be used in a casual outfit or for very dressy. Think maxi dress, boots and a low-slung belt.

The belts are made to a high quality, with a beautiful design and durable stitching to ensure the buckle stays in place. It also arrives in a gorgeous presentation box to not only protect it but to keep it in great shape if you want to give it as a gift. The range of sizes online also make it a great present so that you can tailor each piece to different friends, not having to worry about whether it will fit or not. High quality leather belts like Pampeano will always be in fashion and last a long time and are well worth the investment.

I tried out the Alba Pampeano belt with a pair of jeans. It fit snugly in the belt loops of most pairs of jeans but the unique, understated design of the pattern stands out compared to other leather belts. Whilst using it, you can feel the quality and the weight of the buckle. The leather is of high quality and is treated so that it doesn’t crack or split easily and you can see the workmanship in the way the belt is constructed especially around the buckle which is where most of the wear is on a belt, and the part which is seen most often.

We often forget how important a belt is to an outfit and for some trousers (and skirts for that matter) a belt is essential. Pampeano have a beautiful range of not just belts but bags, purses and wallets which are also made to the same high quality and have distinctive, Argentinian designs you’ll love.

Priced at £79.00 the Alba belt: https://www.pampeano.com/collections/shop-all-pampeano-belts/products/pampeano-belt-alba

Darn Tough Women’s Running Socks

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

Yes, it helps to be Darn Tough when running, and these merino wool ¼ socks from Darn Tough stood up to my Park Run test today.

Socks are a nightmare to get right when you’re running. You can’t change them half way through a run and stopping to adjust them is a no-no when you’re on the clock and surrounded by people who would need to edge around you. So Darn Tough have brought out their running socks (and new versions come out every year) which are comfortable as well as functional.

From Vermont, Darn Tough manufacture walking, hiking, sports and running socks for men, women and children based on quality. Their socks are made from merino wool and a high quality Lycra for the best fit, no blisters and best of all, they have a lifetime warranty. Their socks may be expensive (these ¼ socks for running are priced at £20) but if you ever get a hole, or any kind of defect, they will replace them for you with a whole new pair.

If you look at their whole range online, you’ll see the socks aren’t boring either. There’s a whole range of colours, and each design comes in multiple colours too. Great for distinguishing in a household who the socks belong to if you have multiple runners or walkers! They’re pretty enough to not feel stagnant either with the range of colours that fit the running and workout outfits that are available today. I liked these blue socks which have a quirky yet not overstated design. It makes them easier to distinguish when you peer into the drawer and decide which pair to put on.

These socks are called Women’s Run No Show Tab Ultra-Lightweight Running Socks. It means that they are designed for running because of the extra Lycra across the bridge of the foot (where the laces would be) and are lightweight for running. The Lycra is also a high quality to allow for more give and cushion and to compensate for the fact that these socks have less merino wool as they were making the socks and therefore the running shoes too bulky and uncomfortable.

Park Run this morning was hot and uncomfortable by the Darn Tough socks were no problem. There’s plenty of stretch in them, they’re durable and don’t pinch with the extra Lycra and there’s absolutely no slippage when running and no blisters. The lifetime warranty means I can wear these every week without having to worry about them every wearing out. I can’t guarantee that won’t happen to me though…

Available online at £20:

Women's Run No Show Tab Ultra-Lightweight Running Sock

Helly Hansen Walking Gear

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

Walking is one of the easiest ways to improve your health and fitness, it’s an excellent form of exercise that anyone can do and walking regularly offers a lot of health benefits – both physical and mental. Walking briskly is a great cardio workout, helping to lower blood pressure and regular brisk walking can also burn around 300-400 calories an hour which is a great way to help you lose those unwanted pounds. Walking also helps strengthen bones and muscles and being outdoors will top up your vitamin D levels – a vitamin a lot of people in the UK are deficient in. On top of all this walking also releases endorphins in your body, creating a general feeling of wellbeing which also helps boost your mood. If I’m feeling stressed I go for a brisk walk on the fells and it never fails to make me feel better!

You don’t have to walk for hours either – a brisk 10 minute walk contributes to the recommended 150 minutes of weekly exercise. Try going for a walk at lunchtime, either alone or with colleagues, it’s a great way to clear your head and get some fresh air and you’ll soon feel the benefits.

Obviously going for a walk is free but once you start walking regularly it is worth investing in some walking gear to keep you warm and dry. We’ve been trying out some Helly Hansen gear over the last couple of weeks and with the mix of weather we have been having recently we’ve been able to really put them to the test!

A good pair of boots are a must if you are going to do a lot of walking and if you intend to walk regularly on rocky and uneven ground then a full height boot offers more ankle protection than a shoe. Another advantage is the higher fronts keep your feet drier when walking through wet grass or boggy ground! I walk hundreds of miles a year so need a pair that not only support my feet but keep them warm and dry no matter what the terrain. The Helly Hansen Roamfree HELLY TECH® Hiking Boots have the HH Max-Comfort insole, an outsole built with maximum grip and traction and are waterproof and breathable too so tick all the boxes on my ideal boot list!

On my first walk I quickly decided that they are a great pair of boots – the sole feels very strong and has the right balance of flex and rigidity, helping me feel equally confident on both rough ground and wet grass. The boots have plenty of padding around the ankle and comfortable on long walks. The HELLY TECH® Waterproof technology, combined with HH Quick Dry and HH Max-Vent makes them waterproof while ensuring maximum breathability, keeping my feet happy no matter what the weather and ground conditions are.

These are boots that are made to last and I’m looking forward to covering thousands of miles in them over the coming years.

RRP £150 available in sizes 6.5 to 12.5

If you’re planning on going for longer walks, then a rucksack is a must to carry essentials which in my case is usually food and a waterproof coat! The Generator Backpack is a 20 litre rucksack which is available in a choice of two colours – deep canyon (a dark orange colour) and black and it is the perfect size for a day hike. The rucksack has one main compartment, handily split into 2 sections, the thinner pocket is intended for a water bladder but it’s also the perfect size for a couple of sit mats. The bladder hanger loop is a great place to fasten my keys to so I don’t need to hunt for them in the bottom of the bag when I get back to the car! I especially like the small front pocket which has a soft fabric lining which is ideal for protecting cameras and phones. The main section is plenty large enough for waterproofs, maps and a lunchbox and if you need more space there is an expandable stuff pocket on the front which is great for stuffing a jumper in when you get too warm. All the zips have large zip pulls making them easy to open, even when wearing gloves.

The back panel, shoulder straps and waist belt are covered with 3D air mesh for comfort and ventilation when walking. The belt helps to stop any sideways movement and transfers some of the weight from my shoulders which makes a big difference on longer walks. The belt also has two small zipped pockets which are perfect for keeping money for an ice cream as well as some sweets and tissues.

The addition of some clever features like the reflective webbing attachment for a bike light and a sternum whistle means this rucksack is ideal for both walking and cycling.

RRP £100

I always carry a lightweight down jacket when I’m hiking as whilst it might be lovely and sunny when you set off it’s surprising just how cold it gets when you reach the top of a mountain. The Verglas Hooded Down Hybrid is an ideal coat for hiking as it can be worn as an outer layer but it’s also thin enough to wear under a waterproof jacket. It’s great when you’re hiking as it squashes up nice and small inside it’s own pocket meaning it doesn’t take up much space in your rucksack.

The coat is made of down, PrimaLoft® insulation and a 20D Nano ripstop fabric and has large panels of breathable softshell throughout. The combination of these materials gives a super cosy and breathable insulated jacket that keeps you nice and warm when you’re walking. The jacket is water-resistant and made with certified bluesign® materials.

The cut and fit are good, it is a nice length and the adjustable elastic cords in the hem help give a perfect fit. It has a decent sized hood and once it is fully zipped up stays in place, even in windy weather. The jacket isn’t too bulky and you’ll be nice and snug whether you’re walking the dog, climbing a mountain or sitting by a campfire on a chilly night.

Available in a choice of four colours this jacket will keep you warm and cosy on all your adventures.

RRP £200 but currently on sale at £140

Now the sun has finally made an appearance I like to walk in shorts, in addition to being more breathable and quicker to dry than trousers, shorts don’t restrict movement quite the same as trousers do so you can confidently scramble up boulders, climb over stiles and walk for miles in them.

The Women’s Tech Trail Shorts are available in four different colours in sizes XS to XL and are made with a 4 way stretch fabric which makes them really comfortable to wear. The wide elastic waistband is easy to pull over my hips and they have an interior drawcord so you can tighten the waistband. There is a zipped back pocket which, whilst not large enough for a phone is useful for keeping your keys or a tissue in. The shorts are very light and loose fitting and the fabric is breathable, moisture wicking and has UPF30+ sun protection meaning they are great for walking in hot weather. If you’re going abroad this summer then you need to make sure you pack a couple of pairs in your suitcase as they’re really lightweight and dry really quickly.

RRP £50

Whilst we’ve not seen a lot of sun yet this summer it is important to wear a hat when walking as it will help shade you from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. The Roam hat is a broad brim hat that can be worn in two different ways, with a wide brim, or you can fasten the sides up using the two poppers on either side of the hat. The hat has a handy removeable cord which is useful for keeping the hat on your head in windy weather or it can be used to attach it to your rucksack so it doesn’t get lost when you’re not wearing it.

The hat is made of a quick dry polyester fabric and it’s as it’s been wet quite a few times over the last few weeks I can confirm it does dry quickly! The hat provides great protection from the sun, keeps the rain off your glasses when it’s raining and is lightweight, comfortable to wear and holds up extremely well to being folded and crushed inside a rucksack.

Available in Navy and Aluminium the hat has a RRP of £40

A decent pair of socks are essential to keep your feet comfortable and free from blisters when you’re out walking. It’s definitely worth investing in some proper hiking socks rather than just wearing any old pair of socks as hiking socks are designed to increase ventilation, wick moisture and offer support to your feet in all the right places. The Unisex Hiking Quarter Socks are made of 44% polyamide 37% polypropylene 17% merino Wool and 2% elastane and are incredibly comfortable to wear, providing a snug fit and feeling very supportive on my feet. The cushioning underfoot gives excellent shock absorption, especially on rocky ground and even when walking in warm weather my feet didn’t feel hot or sweaty.

I’ve worn these quite a few times now and on longer walks these are my “go to” socks as they are so comfortable to wear and I haven’t had a single blister when wearing them – even on 15 mile walks!

RRP £20

With these basics you’ll have everything you need for a summer of adventuring so lace up those boots, grab your rucksack and make the most of the light evenings – happy hiking!!

Home Fragrance

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

Candles are a great way to create a cosy atmosphere in your home and having them dotted around your home means you can quickly mask unwanted odours or create a cosy ambience. A strategically placed candle in the kitchen will quickly remove the lingering scent of a homemade curry whilst one in the hall creates a welcoming feel when you walk into the house.

Lavender is well known for helping you relax so the Woodwick Lavender Spa candle is perfect in a bedroom or bathroom and lighting it before bed can really help you sleep better. The Ellipse candle not only looks very stylish but the large surface area of the candle allows for a fully melted wax pool, which helps produce a more consistent fragrance for you to enjoy. The exclusive, patented handcrafted wooden wick, Pluswick®Innovation, is easy to light and once lit creates the sound of a crackling fire, which helps create a cosy feel wherever you place it. I found it only took a few minutes for the fragrance to fill the room, creating a relaxing feel in my bedroom which really helps me switch off before bed. The lavender scent is delightful and not too overpowering and after a couple of days I found I was sleeping much better.

The candle weighs 453g and whilst there isn’t a burn time given it’s such a big candle, I know it will last me a good while.

RRP £34.99

The Yankee Candle Pink Cherry & Vanilla Signature Large Jar Candle strikes the perfect balance between floral and fruity notes, creating an inviting ambiance that’s never overpowering. Housed in a large glass jar with a glass lid, as the candle flickers it quickly fills my living room with the fresh fruity scent. I was very impressed with the level of fragrance produced by this candle and I found it lingered long after the candle was blown out With two wicks this candle has a burn time of 60-90 hours which should easily last me through to autumn.

Once you’ve melted all of the wax, you can easily peel off the label (which doesn’t leave an annoying sticky residue) and reuse the large glass jar.

RRP £29.99

So whether you’re looking to reduce stress, improve sleep or simply unwind candles can play a role in enhancing your overall wellbeing – so go ahead and light those scented candles – you’ll be benefitting both your space and your wellbeing!

To view more of their range or to find out more about Woodwick and Yankee candles head over to their websites.

LipQ Liquorice Balm

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

July is Plastic Free month and the beauty industry is notorious for creating products with plastic packaging, and sometimes products which contain plastic too. LipQ have created this beautiful Liquorice Balm which comes in its own tin and doesn’t have a scrap of plastic in sight. Never heard of Liquorice Balm? Well, that’s because this novel idea is borne from a need to prevent cold sores. Liquorice in highly concentrated quantities, as included in the LipQ Liquorice Balm, has been proven to protect lips from cold sore outbreaks by weakening the virus that causes them.

LipQ Liquorice Balm contains glycyrrhizic acid to fight cold sores. Even if you’ve not been prone to them though, the balm works for everyone, combining a sweet almond and beeswax oil with avocado and sunflower seed oils and the liquorice root extract gives the balm it’s distinct scent. It’s not too overpowering though so you can detect it but even if you don’t like liquorice to eat, it’s not too strong. The balm is lovely and cooling though, and it keeps the moisture in on your lips whilst giving a shine and it really isn’t that greasy either. There’s not the sticky marks left on drinking glasses like with other balms but it does work to give you hydrated lips. The handy tine of 30 grams lasts ages too, and is much easier to carry around than other brands.

It doesn’t matter if you suffer from cold sores or not, the LipQ Lquorice Balm is a plastic-free beauty alternative for all summer long.

Available online from £9.95 at: https://www.skinshop.co.uk/lipq/liquorice-balm

Silver & Birch Exfoliating Wash from Clarol

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

Some smart person somewhere in Russia discovered that birch is a great detoxifier and exfoliator for skin and can help prevent acne. Clarol have used this information to bring out a new exfoliating wash that works in 4 different ways to clean, exfoliate and rejuvenate your skin. We were sent some to try this week, and I must say, the scent alone is enough to brighten your skin!

Birch bark is known to detoxify the skin but uses natural ingredients instead of salicylic acid and methyl salicylate so your skin won’t dry out. We don’t use birch bark anywhere near enough but the botulin in it reduces inflammation and Lupeol and Erythrodiol help produce the proteins needed to speed up the healing process. If you’ve had long term acne like me, then you’ll know that healing is part of a long process.

Silver & Birch Exfoliating Wash also contains MicroSilver, which has long been known for its antibacterial features. Brilliant for acne, it doesn’t irritate the skin either so you won’t ‘make it worse before it gets better’ like some over the counter products. The exfoliating aspect of the wash takes away dead skin and helps clear pores allowing extracts of Bladderwrack and White Nettle to calm skin and Coffee Seed opens pores, which should help the extraction of oils and bacteria too. There’s tiny amounts of pumice stone and rice bran in there too, to add to the exfoliation.

This gentle exfoliator lathers up on wet skin and when massaged in, takes away a lot of the surface grease and dead skin. You don’t need much of it to create the lather, and after 2-3 minutes, rinse with water (I like to use warm water) and your skin is cleared plus not as dry as with other brands of exfoliant washes. It’s also paraben free, vegan and perfume free too.

Silver & Birch Exfoliating Wash from Clarol is a lovely gentle wash, perfect for summer and especially for skin that suffers from acne and especially lots of make-up and not enough time to clear it!

Available from £12.95 at: https://www.skinshop.co.uk/clarol/clarol-silver-birch-exfoliating-face-wash

Maxine Laceby Absolute Collagen

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Fitness, Gifts for Her, health, Subscription Boxes, Summer, Women

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

Collagen is an absolute must for our body’s wellbeing and is used in so many ways. Most read about nowadays is how collagen is needed for hair and skin as a building block to repair and maintain.

Maxine Laceby created the Absolute Collagen to make collagen easy to integrate into your everyday life and improve the quality of your skin and hair and has been the number 1 selling collagen supplement since 2017. Absolute Collagen is made from marine collagen (basically fish!) and blended into a supplement which also contains Vitamin C as an antioxidant. The collagen is absorbed into the body and the dermal layers of skin to promote your own cells to create more collagen and enrich hair and nails.

The Absolute Collagen pack we were sent includes 14 sachets of collagen in a lovely presentation box which also has a day record included so that you can check off once you’ve had your sachet for the day! This proves invaluable if you have a busy life and I found it easy to keep it near the kettle and use it as a diary. Each sachet can be torn open and consumed straight away but I found that although the texture is easy (it looks and feels like honey) it’s actually a bit too fish-like to eat straight from the pack. Instead, I read the instructions and realised you can add it to boiling water and create a hot drink from it, which also dilutes the taste. If you are used to hot water and honey, this is no different just a slightly different taste! I used it as a substitute to a cup of tea (or coffee) in the afternoon and obviously it helps with hydration if you have a water-based drink too.

Having never taken a collagen supplement before, it was interesting to see the difference. This was only 14 days’ worth of collagen but on the website it explains that some people see or feel a difference in just a few weeks whilst others see improvement over a longer period. I guess it depends on what your diet and lifestyle is like already. The website also details the changes expected after 12 weeks so 2 weeks isn’t long to test it but here goes…

I can’t say that I noticed anything different in my hair after just 2 weeks but my skin was different. The fine lines around my eyes (you know, only the ones you know about!) were reduced and plumper. It was like taking me back 3-4 years and slowing the aging process that had been catching up with me. I could feel that my skin was more hydrated and softer without too much of an effort on skincare or any change to my routine. I think over time this would be a greater change and perhaps hold back the drying out of my skin once winter arrives and the heating does its thing! I did notice that my nails had changed… I always paint my nails so I couldn’t see the condition underneath but I did realise that my nail varnish stayed on a lot longer than usual and didn’t chip. I’m presuming the nails underneath were in a better condition and more hydrated therefore kept a better hold on the varnish for longer?

Although 2 weeks isn’t long to test a beauty product, the start looks promising and my skin and nails especially are definitely not worse. The challenge will come when the 14^th sachet runs out and I see if my skin goes back to its old ways!

Available from £27.99 at: https://www.absolutecollagen.com/products/marine-liquid-collagen-drink-for-women

Softly Softly Alpaca Socks

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, camping, Christmas, eco friendly, Family Life, Fashion, Father's Day, Fitness, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, National Walking Month, Stocking Fillers, Winter, Women

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

May is National Walking month and the perfect opportunity to try out some great new walking gear like these alpaca socks from Softly Softly.

Softly Softly Alpaca socks are made from luxurious and sustainable alpaca fibre which not only feels lovely and soft on your feet but keeps them toasty warm in winter and cool in summer. Alpaca wool is stronger, softer, more eco-friendly, and offers 85% greater wicking capability than merino wool and being hypoallergenic means alpaca socks are a great choice for outdoor activities, especially hiking.

We walk hundreds of miles each year and socks are a lot more important than you might think when you’re out hiking as they are crucial for keeping your feet comfortable and blister free. I have been trying out the Ultimate Alpaca socks and the Luxury Alpaca Boot Socks over the last couple of weeks and I have to say I am really impressed, they are lovely and soft and incredibly comfortable to wear. The socks are quite thick so perfect for wearing in boots and the cushioned sole helps protect your feet on longer walks, trail runs and tougher terrains.

The socks are an excellent fit, sitting nicely on my foot and they don’t slip down when walking, the ribbed cuff is comfortable and not too tight around my leg and they are plenty long enough to tuck leggings or trousers into.

When I wear them on long walks my feet don’t seem to get as hot and sweaty as they do in cheaper socks and they have kept my feet cool on the one hot day we’ve had so far this month and lovely and warm on the cooler days! They can be machine washed on a wool cycle and after washing several times they have kept their shape and feel just as comfortable and luxurious as the first time I wore them.

Available in extra small, small, medium and large they will fit feet between sizes 1 to 12.

Whilst they are not the cheapest socks around they really are worth splurging on as you can’t put a price on comfortable feet. Whether you’re exploring the local countryside, conquering mountains or simply walking the dog make sure you have a pair of Softly Softly alpaca socks on your feet this summer!

RRP £25

Omnilux Mini Skin Corrector

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Fashion, Gifts for Her, health, REUSABLE, Summer, Tech, Women

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

What I’m about to show you is a new gadget that is revolutionary in skincare. You might have heard of infrared LED light being used to correct flaws on facial skin, but the Omnilux Mini Skin Corrector takes it to a new level with the ease and versatility of this new product.

At first, I wondered where the actual Skin Corrector was. In this tiny box, a round, malleable disk with a tiny 2-pin charge point was in a box all on its own, with a USB 2-pin charger and a box of hydrocolloid Skin Corrector patches. I struggled to see where the actual appliance was but if you watch the video online (link below), you not only see how the device works but what it can do.

The Omnilux Mini Skin Corrector is a portable, very lightweight device which emits near infrared LED light onto your skin. It doesn’t need a lead, it charges from a USB port using the lead provided then once the charge light goes green, it’s ready to use. By placing one of the Skin Corrector patches over the 6 LED lights on the back, it attaches to your skin to emit healing light to work on the layers of your skin. You don’t plug it in, you don’t need to sit still with it. The light does its thing and all you have to do is sit with it on!

You only need between 3 and 5 treatments a week, with each treatment lasting 10 minutes. The lights work on the layers of your skin to boost collagen and reduce fine lines, inflammation, redness and pigmentation. The red wavelength (633nm) reduces inflammation, pigmentation, and redness and helps prompt cellular repair and circulation for a more vibrant complexion. The near-infrared wavelength works on the deeper layers of your skin to help produce new collagen and elastin products to help lump and firm the skin.

It’s completely painless and has no side-effects and gets to work straight away. I sat with it on in a targeted area under my eyes whilst I was typing or watching TV. It’s very slightly warm from the LED lights but that’s it, you don’t even notice it. The Omnilux Hydrocolloid Patches keep the device adhered to the skin so that you can move around easily (no one wants to sit there holding it!) but they also feed the skin with the infused Vitamin C and azelaic acid. Once the 10 minute session is up, it turns itself off so you don’t even have to worry about how long you’re using it for.

The Omnilux Mini Skin Corrector is 100% natural, using the power of light waves to generate collagen in the skin. Safe to use, it’s been cleared for use by the FDA (in the USA) and is brilliantly portable and able to be used by all skin types. I particularly like how small and lightweight it is so that it can even go on holiday with you or you can wear it without having to worry about the weight on your skin, which no doubt would damage the elasticity over time.

How did it work? Well, I’ve been trying it for a few weeks now and I can see plumper skin! There’s a luminosity to my skin that I wasn’t expecting and I really enjoyed being able to sit and have this painless, intervention free method to help me feel like I’m doing something productive with my skin care. Once I took the device off, there was a little redness from the adhesive, but I’m aware that it was also penetrating products into my skin. The area felt slightly warm, like I had been sleeping on that side of my face and turned over but underneath you could see the skin was plumper. Using it several times a week, you can see a slight difference after just 4 or 5 sessions and you feel a difference when you touch your face. It can be used under eyes, for pigmentation and for fine lines, so I have been moving it around and getting my mini-facials in whenever I’m sitting indoors. It’s genius!

More Hydrocolloid Patches can be bought on the Omnilux website as they’re one time use only, but the Omnilux Mini Skin Corrector works a treat, and feels like a real treat on the skin too. I can’t wait until the winter months when I can brighten my skin even without a holiday!

Available from £96.80: https://omniluxled.com/products/skin-corrector

REN Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic

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

Sun exposure, sand, and salty water tends to leave my skin very dehydrated, so toner is an essential stage in my skincare routine, especially when I am on holiday. I love REN skincare products so was really pleased to receive a bottle of their Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic which not only gives my skin a healthy glow but also gives it the hydration boost it craves.

Delivering multiple benefits in just one step, this refreshing toner not only helps to eliminate dead skin cells, but it exfoliates it too, leaving skin looking brighter. The toner is gentle enough to use every day and the energising formula helps to smooth skin, even out skin tone and visibly tighten pores as well as minimising the appearance of fine lines and pigmentation.

I have been sweeping it across my face with a bamboo pad after cleansing and as well as removing the last traces of make up from my skin it adds a layer of weightless moisture, giving my skin the hydration boost it craves. The toner not only smells divine but is gentle on my skin leaving it feeling refreshed and revitalised. It has really improved the condition of my skin; it now feels more hydrated and the pores on my forehead are definitely a lot less noticeable. The toner also helps prime my skin meaning my serum and moisturiser absorb better and I am finding I need less moisturiser as my skin is a lot more hydrated. After a couple of weeks used my skin not only looks more radiant but healthier too.

As well as using it as part of my skincare routine I think it will be perfect for freshening up my skin after a day at the beach and I will be packing it in my suitcase when I go on holiday this summer.

Highly recommended!

250ml RRP £30

Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask 2-In-1

beauty, Birthday Gifts, cruelty-free, Gifts for Her, health, Home, Mother's Day, Summer, Women

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

As summer is here, there’s always a need for a more enhanced beauty regime and what better way to brighten up your skin than with a face mask. Face mask that also exfoliate, like the Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask have the added benefit of allowing your skin products to absorb into the skin better, which also helps with summer make-up. I tested the Kora Organics Face Mask this week, knowing that I haven’t used a face mask in the winter and my skin needed some serious brightening!

Kora Organics was started by Miranda Kerr in 2009 under the belief that healthy skin is beautiful skin. Miranda and her team wanted to make a brand which was organic, cruelty-free and natural to detoxify and nourish your skin. The Turmeric in Kora’s Brightening Mask has anti-inflammatory properties and also reduces pigmentation of the skin, which is often found in older women. There are other natural ingredients too, including aspen-barn and peppermint for their antibacterial properties, and papaya enzymes which clear pores. There’s finely crushed amethyst creates the glow and the positivity of this popular crystal.

To use, it’s a gentle cream which is spread over the face, avoiding the eye areas. It’s best to massage into damp skin, so I used this in the bath and let myself soak for 15 minutes, but you can let it work in just 5 minutes. To remove, you can wash away but I liked the idea of the extra exfoliation of massaging away with finger tips or a damp cloth.

The smell of the turmeric is very powerful so if you’re not a fan of spices, you are in for a shock! The turmeric left a slight tingling on my skin but it was nothing like the sensation of a hot curry or burning so it soon went away. I assumed it was the ingredients which were working to clear away the dullness of my skin. It’s very refreshing and doesn’t feel heavy on the skin while you let it sit and work. I rather enjoyed the feeling of the exfoliating taking away the winter and allowing the summer to hit my skin, and it wasn’t drying at all so my usual face products glided on and absorbed beautifully. I could feel that my skin was cleaner, clearer and it looked brighter and after just one application of 15 minutes, there were tiny improvements to some of the discolouration of my face through age. Added bonus!

I’m very happy to continue using the Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask throughout the summer and seeing the long lasting effects of the Kora organic products.

Available from £47.00 for 100ml at:

https://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/kora-organics-turmeric-brightening-and-exfoliating-mask-30ml/12701160.html?affil=thggpsad&switchcurrency=GBP&shippingcountry=GB&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw48-vBhBbEiwAzqrZVKTWjR4EKEAZUWw19OVmUJXpiAEJ-MU7pEZr39D21ibWX0WRyGIQAhoCukcQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

Kalme Day Defence Cream SPF25

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

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

No matter what the weather this summer, a good SPF face cream is needed and it’s true that even dull, overcast weather can damage the skin.

Kalme Day Defence Cream SPF25 is the down to earth daily face cream for all seasons, but best of all, the richness and smoothness of Kalme keeps your skin hydrated and feeling soft too. The added bonus of SPF25 means you don’t have to put on daily sunscreen too when you’re walking around, which is a bonus in saving time and money.

During the summer months when you’re on the beach, by the pool or out playing sports and walking, the sun isn’t your only enemy. All the elements work together to evaporate moisture away from your face. Walkers and sports men and women find it especially hard to wear a SPF cream to protect their skin without it sliding off. Kalme Day Defence Cream SPF25 is exceptionally rich and takes a while to rub in so you know it’s not going anywhere in any weather! I really liked how thick it was so that I only had to use a small amount most days, but when I needed a denser layer, it was easy to apply and blend in. It’s great for night time too to give a deeper moisturising level and as it’s a daily face cream, you can use it anywhere including your hands.

There are more expensive day creams out there especially with SPF25 but for a deep, moisturising cream, Kalme Day Defence Cream SPF25 gives all the Department Store protection without the need for the price tag!

Available from £23.95 at:

https://www.skinshop.co.uk/kalme/kalme-day-defence-cream-spf-25

Peptide Dry Shampoo, Scalp Foam and Hair Mask from Hair Gain

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Family Life, Gifts for Her, health, Mother's Day, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Vegan, Vegetarian, Women

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

We all need a bit of help with our hair sometimes. I love the ritual of hair masks, conditioners and then using products to fix my hair once it’s washed and styled. Hair Gain sent us the Peptide Puff Dry Shampoo, Hair Gain Hair Mask, Hair Gain Scalp Foam and a lovely Hair Gain Comb to try out!

Starting with the Peptide Puff Dry Shampoo, it’s not an aerosol and isn’t like a mousse so it’s easier to use and will last longer too. The dry shampoo is more of a powder, administered by a soft pad which prevents the powder from going everywhere and also helps direct it to the roots. I was particularly happy to find that it doesn’t leave a white residue on your hair, nor does it leave a residue on your clothes. Instead, it’s clear and just takes the edge off of the oil in your hair. You can use as much or as little of it as you like so that it takes off more of the greasy shine but you get used to how much you need to use with time.

The Hair Gain Scalp Foam is a fairly new concept for women but men have been using enhancers for years. The foam is absorbed into the scalp and helps grow fuller, thicker hair. It reduces hair breakages from the roots and strengthens hair over time to prevent long term breakages. This is a product you need to keep using and it’s probably best to use after you’ve washed your hair but before you completely style it. The formula makes your hair fuller anyway so it makes hair styling easier if you like big curls or lots of volume. Over time, this should have more of an effect so I would go with using it every wash until it’s used up and then you’ll see how good it is!

The Hair Gain Hair Mask is probably my favourite. It’s a luscious treatment to nourish your hair and is intently hydrating. You only need to use it in your hair for 10 minutes whilst hair is towel dry and then wash out, and once or twice a week is enough. Again, over time this works even better but with just one application you will find that it starts to work on making hair softer and fuller. In combination with the Hair Gain Scalp Foam, it creates thicker locks and less breakages. It’s also a vegan formula but it does contain alcohol, sulphates and parabens.

The Hair Gain Comb was a nice treat to send to us along with the hair care products! I love a chunky comb so this is great for any hair type whilst you’re in the shower and trying to get the product through your hair as well as smoothing down the cuticles, especially if your hair is long and thick. It looks like plastic but it’s actually made from materials which are 100% biodegradable.

The Hair Gain product package creates an all-round treatment for your hair, from dry shampoo through to hair mask as well as the handy comb! I’m looking forward over time to seeing the long term results on my hair and how it’s changed in thickness and strength too.

Peptide Puff Dry Shampoo for £15.00: https://www.hairgainnow.com/products/dry-shampoo

Hair Gain Scalp Foam for £25.00 (on sale): https://www.hairgainnow.com/products/hair-gain-scalp-foam?pr_prod_strat=jac&pr_rec_id=4203a01fe&pr_rec_pid=7706678526122&pr_ref_pid=7903145492650&pr_seq=uniform

Hair Gain Hair Mask £25.60 (on sale): https://www.hairgainnow.com/products/hair-gain-hair-mask?pr_prod_strat=e5_desc&pr_rec_id=4203a01fe&pr_rec_pid=6598552125610&pr_ref_pid=7903145492650&pr_seq=uniform

Hair Gain Hair Comb £11.95: https://www.hairgainnow.com/products/hair-gain-wide-tooth-comb?pr_prod_strat=jac&pr_rec_id=4203a01fe&pr_rec_pid=6851814752426&pr_ref_pid=7903145492650&pr_seq=uniform

Clean G Rhubarb Non Alcoholic Gin

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Drinks and Mixers, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, Mother's Day, 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 an opinions are our own.

On a sunny afternoon there’s nothing better than sitting in the garden with a good book and a refreshing G&T but the downside is the hangover that one too many glasses bring! Fortunately, there are some excellent non alcoholic gins available and we have been enjoying this Clean G Rhubarb from Clean Co which has all the deliciousness of a rhubarb gin but doesn’t leave you with a groggy head the next day.

If you’re not familiar with the brand Clean Co they were founded back in 2019 by Spencer Matthews and they create premium non-alcoholic spirits which taste just like the alcoholic versions. Their drinks are in lovely art-deco style bottles that would look stylish on any drinks trolley and unless you read the label you would be forgiven for thinking they are regular spirits.

Distilled in copper pot gin stills the Clean G Rhubarb non-alcoholic fruity gin is infused with an array of fruit and botanical flavours, creating a well-balanced, complex spirit that has the beautiful taste and fresh dryness that you expect from a premium gin. I mixed it with an unflavoured light tonic to get the full flavour, adding the recommended wedge of lemon and found it to be a really refreshing drink. I was really impressed with the taste and it was so like a traditional rhubarb gin that my friends were amazed when I told them it was actually non-alcoholic!

With less than 0.5% ABV, no sugar or additional sweeteners and only 14 calories per 50ml serving it’s the perfect choice when you want something special that isn’t alcoholic. A party taste without the hangover – what’s not to like!

A 70cl bottle costs £16 and is available from Clean Co and supermarkets.

Phil Smith Curl Control Shampoo & Conditioner

beauty, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, secret santa, 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.

If you have just started to embrace your curly hair, it is very easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer volume of products available, all promising to create amazing curls. Finding the right products to define your curls is not only time consuming but can be expensive too, as what works for one person doesn’t always work for another. Not everyone can afford to spend a small fortune on hair products so I was really pleased to discover the Everyday Expert range from celebrity hairdresser Phil Smith which costs a very purse friendly £4.

The range, which includes Curl Control, Radiant Blonde, Coconut Shine and Weightless Volume products has been designed to provide great quality, high performance haircare at an affordable price – the question is would the Curl Control shampoo and conditioner be able to tame my unruly curls??

The Curl Control products contain Grapeseed Oil which helps redefine and hydrate curls and both products have a lovely gentle fragrance. The shampoo lathers easily, creating a creamy foam which removes dirt and grime from my hair, leaving it feeling lovely and clean.

The conditioner is rich and creamy and easy to apply to my hair, I leave it on for a couple of minutes before scrunching it into my hair to help to add extra moisture to the curls. It rinses out easily, leaving my hair tangle free.

I am really impressed with these products, after leaving to dry naturally my curls were beautifully defined and looked amazing – shiny and bouncy and no longer flat, frizzy and fluffy. I really can’t believe these products only cost £4, they are so much better than some of the expensive shampoos and conditioners I have tried and are a fraction of the cost. Those that follow the Curly Girl method will be pleased to hear that they are Curly Girl Approved too.

After using these products for a couple of weeks I can see a huge improvement in my hair, it not only feels more nourished and hydrated, but the curls are more defined and it looks much shinier than it was before.

RRP £4 available online and from Sainsburys

Überlube

beauty, cruelty-free, Gifts for Her, Gluten Free, health, Sport, Vegan, Vegetarian, Women

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

We don’t normally review things like lubricants but when I saw that Überlube can be used for many other uses, I was intrigued! The award winning silicone personal lubricant can be used in sport and for beauty thanks to the added Vitamin E and smooth texture.

Firstly, it can be used as an alternative to moisturiser, but not to moisturise skin, more to keep the moisture in. In the literature we were sent with Überlube it describes how some users find it a great alternative to prescribed medications for dry skin, although it doesn’t work the same way as moisturiser. This could be a bonus if you’re allergic to some prescribed skin medication but might not be as effective, so it’s worth trying it on dry skin first.

I didn’t know that hair salons and photographers use silicone preps such as Überlube for getting shiny, glossy hair. Überlube works as a relaxant to frizzy hair and smooths down stray strands. Think of the classic low bun with pulled back, wet-look hair and you will find it is achieved with silicone lubricant. It also protects hair from chlorine in the pool but it can be difficult to wash out of your hair because it’s not water based. Try a small amount first to see how easy it is to remove, or if you’re going on holiday, dare I say, try it whilst you’re staying at a hotel!

Überlube is also great for sports. As a runner, I often get chafing when running especially in the summer, so applying Überlube first can make a huge difference. As it’s not water based, it doesn’t absorb or evaporate as easily so keeps the skin free from friction. Again, as there’s no water involved it can be used for swimming or under a wetsuit and the water won’t wash it away.

Überlube is made with cruelty free products and contains no alcohols, no gluten, no glycerine, no scent and no flavourings. It’s paraben free and all vegan so everyone can use it, no matter what use!

Available from £29.99 at: https://www.superdrug.com/health/sexual-health/lube-gel-jelly-oils/uberlube-silicone-lubricant-112ml/p/mp-00057217

Woodwick Linen Large Hourglass Candle

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Family Life, Father's Day, Fragrance, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, Home, Home & Garden, Mother's Day, secret santa, Spring, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Valentine's Day Gifts, Winter, Women

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

Scented candles are an easy way to create a cosy and relaxing ambiance in your home and I find lighting one in the evening really helps me unwind after a busy day at work. I have lots of candles around my house and I love to change the scent to match the seasons. Fresh scents like linen are perfect for Spring so I was really pleased to receive a Woodwick Linen Large Hourglass Candle which not only looks stylish but smells fantastic too – just like freshly washed linen blowing in the breeze.

The candle has Woodwick’s exclusive, patented wooden wick, Pluswick®Innovation which creates the sound of a crackling fire which helps create a cosy ambience when the candle is lit. The wicks are handcrafted and produce a generous wax pool which helps release the beautiful fragrance into the room. Our lounge is very high and sometimes it takes a while for the fragrance to permeate around the room but I found that once lit it didn’t take long for the sublime fragrance to diffuse around the room. The linen fragrance is nice and fresh and is perfect anywhere in the house, creating a welcoming feel in your hall or a tranquil oasis of calm in a bedroom or bathroom. The fragrance is lovely and not too overpowering and it fragranced my room beautifully, lasting long after the flame had been blown out.

The candle weighs 610g and whilst there isn’t a burn time given it’s such a big candle I know it will last a good while. The scent is nice and consistent and so far the candle has burned nice and evenly. It is advised to burn the candle for 3-4 hours at a time and trim the wick to 1/8” before each use.

The candle is in a tall, solid glass jar and looks very elegant, the simple design will suit any style of décor and not look out of place whether it’s in the hallway, lounge, bedroom or bathroom.

Woodwick candles are beautiful to look at, smell absolutely gorgeous and as they have such a great selection of fragrances they make perfect gifts for any occasion whether that’s a wedding, housewarming, birthday, Christmas or why not just treat yourself ??

To view more of their range, or find out more about Woodwick candles head over to the Woodwick website.

RRP £32.99

Chantic Home Lip Balms

Autumn, beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, cruelty-free, eco friendly, Gifts for Her, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Valentine's Day Gifts, Vegan, Winter, Women

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

Founded in 2020 the mission of Chantic Home is “to create impactful and premium handcrafted gifts whist upholding the highest sustainable and ethical values.” Based in Harrow they offer luxury fragrance and skincare products that are both eco friendly and reasonably priced too.

I’ve been trying out their 100% natural lip balms this week, which are handmade and available in in four fruity fragrances – Wild Cherry, Watermelon, Sweet Orange and Passionfruit. Packaged in handy screw top tins they are the perfect size to pop a handbag or pocket, to keep lips moisturised when out and about.

I could tell from the minute I opened the tin that these lip balms are much better quality than an off the shelf lip balm. They smell lovely and fruity and have a silky smooth texture which glides easily onto lips, The balm is quite solid in the tin but quickly warms up with the warmth of a finger and once on your lips it doesn’t feel greasy or sticky and it leaves my dry lips feeling soft and hydrated.

My ideal lip balm is one that pampers and nourishes my lips, keeping them soft and hydrated no matter what the conditions are and these lip balms tick all these boxes. Whether I’m out walking, on the beach or on the top of a windy mountain a quick application of this lip balm is all I need to keep my lips in tip top condition.

Chantic Home have a lovely selection of gifts on their website and they are all very reasonably priced. If you need a gift for a loved one or just want to treat yourself then it’s definitely worth taking a look – there’s even free shipping to the UK so even more of a reason to shop with them!

RRP £4

Steamcream – Japanese Citrus

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

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

I love citrus scented products so was really pleased to receive a tin of Japanese Citrus moisturiser from Steamcream. Founded in Japan over 15 years ago Steamcream offer a “straightforward yet effective approach to skincare.”

Handmade in small batches the cream is made using their unique Pure STEAM process, a unique steam emulsification technique which not only makes the cream lovely and light but means it absorbed into your skin easily too.

When you open the tin, you can’t fail to notice the beautiful citrus fragrance and it feels quite indulgent massaging it into my skin. It feels a lot thinner than my normal moisturiser, so I was quite surprised at just how much moisture it gave to my dry skin, leaving it soft and hydrated all day long. I am really impressed with this cream and started to see an improvement in my skin after about a week, it looks fresher and there is a radiance that I didn’t have before.

With key ingredients Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour, Sugar Squalane, Citrus Sudachi Peel Extract and essential oils Yuzu, Iyokan, Citrus Nobilis & Kabosu this is a lovely fresh, light cream and perfect for the summer months. It’s great for travelling as it can also be used as a hand cream and body moisturiser too, not only saving space in your suitcase but leaving your skin hydrated and delicately fragranced too.

All the Steamcream moisturisers come in beautiful little tins that are perfect to keep in your bag and are great for storing small bits and pieces in once empty.

RRP: £22.00

Available from Steamcream here

Love Vicci 3 in 1 Multi-Functional Make Up Brush

beauty, Birthday Gifts, camping, Christmas, 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

Whilst I have a large collection of cosmetics and make up brushes at home, when I’m travelling, I try to only take the essentials, with the aim of fitting everything into one small make up bag! It’s relatively easy to choose a small selection of cosmetics but I find it’s not quite as easy to reduce the amount of brushes I take so I was really pleased to discover the Love Vicci Multi-Functional Make Up Brush, a cleverly designed 3 in one professional brush which is not only great for travelling but it’s perfect for keeping in my handbag for a quick touch up during the day.

At first glance the Love Vicci brush looks just like any powder brush but on closer inspection you can see that it cleverly incorporates a foundation/concealer sponge and an eye make up brush in the handle of the main brush. To get the brushes out you simply unscrew the handle – it’s such a simple idea and a great way of saving space and keeping all your brushes together.

The brush has been designed by beauty industry experts and the chunky power brush feels nice and sturdy in my hand. The dense bristles in the fluffy soft brush pick up the powder easily making application a dream.

I always use a sponge to apply my foundation as I find they help blend the colour and give a more natural-looking finish, so I was really pleased to discover that this brush set contains a foundation sponge. The sponge is smaller than the one I currently use but it worked really well with my foundation, transferring most of it onto the skin rather than absorbing it. The domed shape was good for blending in the foundation around my nose and eyes and the side was ideal for the larger area of my face like my cheeks and forehead. As the sponge is stored in the handle it also keeps my make up bag nice and clean which is an added bonus.

The bristles on the eye brush are quite firm which is perfect for applying eyeliner or for cream brow products. The brush is angled which helps give a precise line and if you’re really trying to travel light it can also double up as an eyeshadow brush.

If you’re looking for an affordable makeup brush set that is not only compact but performs well then this is the one to get. Love Vicci also have a 3 in 1 eye make up brush which looks just as impressive so I’ll be buying one of those before my next trip!!

£19.95

Valuxxo Skin Revive (AHA) Face Scrub Bio

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

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

The key to radiant, glowing skin is regular exfoliation and I find using a face scrub twice a week is the best way to remove all the dead skin cells, leaving my face not only smoother and clearer but more radiant too. I’m currently using the Skin Revive (AHA) Face Scrub Bio from Valuxxo which blends Alpha Hydroxy Acids with nourishing botanical oils to refine, brighten, and renew your complexion.

Enriched with Lactic and Salicylic acids, the face scrub encourages natural skin renewal, unclogs pores and helps keep skin clear and free from blemishes. The face scrub also contains mango butter which helps to keep skin hydrated too.

The scrub is applied to wet skin, you only need a small amount and massage it onto your face for between 30 to 60 seconds before rinsing off with warm water. The face scrub is in a handy 70ml tube and it is really easy to squeeze it out of the tube. The fine grains feel a little gritty when you’re massaging them into your skin, but they don’t feel too harsh or leave my skin feeling irritated afterwards.

After the first use I was quite surprised to see the difference in my skin, there was a definite glow and my face felt incredibly smooth – just like it feels after you have been for a facial – but at a fraction of the cost! After using it twice a week for a month my skin is not only more radiant but it’s softer too and my pores are a lot less noticeable.

This is the first time I’ve tried a Valuxxo product and I’m really impressed, I can’t wait to try some of their other products now.

RRP £24 available from Valuxxo here