Tag: stocking filler

Original Squishmallows Micromallows Plush 10 Pack

Birthday Gifts, Children, Christmas, Gifts for children, Stocking Fillers, Toys

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 young children you are bound to have heard of Squishmallows. These super cute stuffed egg-shaped cuddly toys are available in a wide selection of characters and have a habit of quietly taking over bedrooms and sofas. Fortunately, they’re nice and soft so when you accidently sit on them it doesn’t matter!

Micromallows are a smaller version of  Squishmallows and have all the softness and charm of the originals, but are much smaller and a lot more portable, meaning they can be stuffed into pockets, bags, and glove boxes and taken on lots more adventures. Designed for collecting, displaying, and imaginative play, Micromallows allow children to construct entire plush-based worlds without needing an extension on the house!

The Micromallows plush 10-pack contains a selection of favourite characters including Hans the Hedgehog with his cute green bobble hat, Natnat the Alien who brings a touch of intergalactic fun to playtime while Puff the Penguin looks prepared for either a polar expedition or a well deserved nap. Malcolm the Mushroom, a Squishmallows celebrity is there too.

Compatible with all Micromallows Accessory and Storage Display sets, these tiny plush characters are easy to display, carry, or include in elaborate imaginary scenarios. They fit neatly into display cases, backpacks, or play scenes dreamed up by collectors of all ages.

The set makes a lovely gift, but you can also split it into stocking fillers or why not use them as a cute name place holders at the Christmas table?

Whilst officially aimed at children aged three to ten, they are also adored by older children and teenagers.

RRP £19.99 and available from Smyths Toys where they are currently available for £12.99

Neve’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balms

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Winter, Women

Tucked away in North Oxfordshire, Neve’s Bees is a charming family run business, named after founder Julie’s daughter, Neve. Following a spot of experimentation with “lotions and potions,” – blending beeswax with pure, natural plant oils and butters, they soon realised they could create an entire range of skincare products using only genuinely natural ingredients – ones that felt far better on the skin than anything they’d bought before. And so, Neve’s Bees was born. Today, they offer a wonderful selection of natural products, including ten different lip balms, available individually for £6.50 or as a trio for £18. Whether you prefer something floral, zingy, minty or simply plain and gentle, there’s a balm to suit every taste. Each one is blended with 100% natural ingredients -organic wherever possible – bringing together nature and a touch of science to create a beautifully rich, premium product. All of the balms are made with natural beeswax from Neve’s Bees own bees along with organic apricot kernel, organic jojoba and coconut oils, plus natural vitamin E for extra nourishment. The lip balms are in little slide tins which are small enough to slip into a coat pocket or handbag to keep lips moisturised when out and about.

I always seem to get chapped lips in winter and much prefer natural lip balms as they seem to soothe my lips much better. Using them both morning and night has become second nature, so I was quite excited when the parcel of Neve’s Bees lip balms arrived  and I could tell from the minute I opened the first tin that these lip balms are much better quality than an off the shelf lip balm. They smell lovely 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.

I’ve been spending a lot of time outdoors this week, so I’ve been able to really put these lip balms to the test.  My ideal lip balm is one that pampers and nourishes lips, keeping them soft and hydrated no matter what the conditions are and these lip balms definitely ticked all these boxes. Whether I’ve been out walking, cycling or when I was battling Storm Claudia, a quick application of this lip balm has helped to keep my lips protected and prevent them from drying out and I’m confident they’ll continue to keep my lips hydrated as the cold weather settles in.

The three balms I have been trying out are  –

Honey Vanilla – this is Neve’s Bees least fragranced lip balm and has just a hint of vanilla to soothe lips and allows the natural honey take centre stage.

Rosey is my favourite of the three balms, it is made from thousands of crushed rose petals and  scented with Rose Otto and Rose Geranium. It is rich in vitamins A and E and it’s really helped soothe my dry lips.

Buttermint is inspired by the classic sweets and contains a blend of vanilla and peppermint. This lip balm is great for the men in your life who need to protect their lips but don’t want a flowery or feminine fragrance. This nourishing lip balm is full of goodness and is ideal for restoring softness and moisture.

These Neve’s Bees lip balms make brilliant little gifts and are just the thing for popping into a Christmas stocking, adding to a Secret Santa bundle, or slipping into a card along with a money gift.

Neve’s Bees also donate 10% of their profits to wildlife causes, helping to restore precious wildflower meadows and providing vital habitat for bees and other pollinators so when you buy their products you’re also making a difference to the natural world.

The lip balms are available from the Neve’s Bees website here

Instant Confidence – book by Ant Austen

Birthday Gifts, Books, Father's Day, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, Learning, secret santa, 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.

Ultimate confidence is something which is learned, not given.  You aren’t born with confidence in the way that you’re not born to be able to project your voice when public speaking or to be able to handle stress, but it is something you can actively teach yourself. 

Confidence comes from knowing yourself though, not from being brave and standing in front of a room of people and giving a PowerPoint presentation. That’s the first lesson that Ant Austen is teaching you in his book, “Instant Confidence.”

Starting with a heart-wrenching back story, the book sets the scene for what confidence is.  Going through some simple exercises, Ant helps you to identify your limiting beliefs and where they come from using a series of questions. There’s a long section on being truthful with yourself, which is ultimately how those questions are answered and then worked on to be able to eliminate your limiting beliefs and grow.  

Following these truths, the book goes on to deal with any guilt you hold, the fear of changing these limited beliefs, and the freedom that comes when you break through. Only after reading through the book and the exercises can you find out what that freedom means to you or how you want to achieve it to get instant confidence.

The book is a self-help, short read that you can pick up and put down easily and has just 61 pages. Great for commuting, you can come back to it and do the exercises all over again and pick up a different limiting belief before you work on yourself and move on to even greater levels of confidence.

Available for £6.99 at: 

Solecup Reusable Glass Travel Cup

Birthday Gifts, camping, Christmas, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, REUSABLE, 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.

The super-sized SoleCup is a travel mug with no compromise. The cup is built from a toughened glass so it not only resists breaking but it keeps the taste of hot drinks fresh without the plastic sensation. If you know anything about saving the planet, then glass cups are much better all-round. The glass doesn’t leach plastic into any hot drinks either, which can be a problem with cheaper plastics and can cause health issues long term.

The lid of the SoleCup seal (which is in black in this sample) is a non-splash design which makes it easier to keep in the car. It’s a screw lid with a seal over the drinking lid so that you can keep it safe. There’s a cuff to protect your hands from the heat of the drink too, and all of it can go in the dishwasher. On the website, you can buy tea infusers and smoothy filters as additions, which is a nice alteration to the original purpose. 

This is a solid travel mug and a chunky 18oz or 510ml size to be able to carry it around and make a meal of it. In fact, the size makes it perfect for a smoothie as a replacement meal, or if you’re on a long car journey and need a hot drink to keep you going. I love the glass design that’s sleek as well as practical and you can tell whose drink is whose – no more having to taste them to find out if you’ve picked up your partner’s one by mistake!  

I love this as a gift idea too. Everyone needs another travel mug and most people love a hot drink most days. This is great for anyone going to work on public transport, and I would even say it’s great for long walks, running or exercise thanks to the non-spill design.

Available from £20 for this size at: https://solecup.com/product/reusable-coffee-cup/

Sanctuary Spa Gift Sets

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Women

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

There has been talk in this office this week of our annual Secret Santa and with a budget  of £15, these Sanctuary Spa gift sets fit the bill perfectly. Sanctuary Spa is such a well-loved high-street favourite, with plenty of gorgeous sets available at a range of retailers this Christmas. With Black Friday and Christmas offers popping up everywhere, it’s well worth keeping your eyes peeled – you might just snap up a bargain!

Now, even if you don’t know your Secret Santa recipient terribly well, you simply can’t go wrong with a beauty gift set and we would love to discover these Sanctuary Spa sets under our Christmas Tree this year.

The Sanctuary Spa Discovery Body Cleansing Collection (£15) is available from Boots (and is in the 3 for 2 deal) and includes four 75ml body washes – Aqua Serenity, Lily & Rose, Golden Sandalwood and Signature – all neatly presented in a clear, reusable wash bag. The body washes are the perfect size for travelling and they are also a great way to try some of the other fragrances in the range.

The Sanctuary Spa Signature Restoring Spa Collection (currently £10 at Tesco with a Clubcard) includes a 150ml Signature Body Wash, a 150ml Signature Body Lotion and a 100ml Body Scrub. With a fragrance blend of jasmine, grapefruit and vanilla, this trio really does bring that “spa-at-home” feeling to life. Cleanse, buff and moisturise and step out with soft, beautifully scented skin.

So whether you’re hunting for a Secret Santa surprise, a stocking filler, a gift for teachers, or simply fancy treating yourself (and why not?) a Sanctuary Spa gift set is the perfect choice.

Weleda Christmas Gift Sets

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, cruelty-free, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Winter, Women

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

Christmas is coming (yes, already!), and it’s the perfect excuse to treat your friends, your family…. or yourself! Beauty gift sets always feel special, especially at this time of year and at Christmas many include reusable wash bags or cosmetic pouches. I also find they are usually much better value than buying everything separately. If you’ve never dipped your toe into Weleda before, a gift set is a wonderful way to be introduced to their gorgeous natural products without committing to full sizes straightaway.

This year they have some lovely sets and here are two of my absolute favourites:

The Skin Food Essentials Gift Set (RRP £10) is a brilliant stocking filler. It contains a 10ml tube of Skin Food Original along with a Skin Food Lip Balm (8ml) which are the perfect size to keep in your handbag so you are always ready for winter emergencies. Skin Food is one of those iconic products that is loved by everyone, it’s been around since 1926 for a reason, and its fan club spans generations. I use it for soothing dry patches of skin, doubling as a rich night cream, even calming my eczema. It’s quite thick but it doesn’t  feel heavy or greasy on my skin. The nourishing plant oils, protective natural waxes and Skin Food’s signature herbal blend make it nice and hydrating and perfect for my sensitive, eczema prone skin. It also contains rosemary to boost circulation, sunflower and sweet almond oils to feed the skin, and beeswax and lanolin to lock all that goodness in. Paired with the Lip Balm, you’ve got the ultimate winter rescue duo for dry or chapped lips.

If you want something a bit more indulgent, the limited edition Very Cherry Gift Set (RRP £19.95) is a very festive treat. Tucked inside the gorgeous velvety cherry-red make-up bag are three fantastic products – Cherry Shower Cream (200ml), Hand Cream (50ml) and a Lip Balm (4.8ml).

The limited edition Weleda Very Cherry is new this year, and I do hope that they decide to keep it on a permanent basis. The fragrance is fruity and uplifting and leaves my skin delicately scented. The Shower Cream is rich and creamy, lathering beautifully and leaving my skin feeling fresh, clean, and hydrated. The Hand Cream simply melts into my hands and doesn’t leave them feeling greasy. As someone with very dry hands, I use hand cream regularly and the 50ml tube is the perfect size to pop in my bag so I can keep my hands nourished throughout the day.

The Lip Balm has that subtle cherry scent and glides on effortlessly, giving a lovely hit of moisture. It feels protective and soothing, exactly what you want when the winter wind picks up.

Every product in the Very Cherry collection is made from 100% natural origin ingredients and certified by NATRUE, which only adds to the feeling that you’re treating your skin to something honest, gentle, and genuinely good.

This is one of those Christmas sets that not only looks great but is even better to use. Perfect for anyone who loves a bit of fruity freshness, or for the friend who needs a bit of everyday pampering

If you’re hunting for great-value Christmas gifts (or just fancy treating yourself ), these Weleda sets tick every box – natural, beautiful, practical, and perfect for newcomers and long-time fans alike.

Original Source Crisp Apple Shower Gel

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for children, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Vegan, Women

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

Every family has its Christmas traditions, and in our house the stockings always have certain gifts stuffed in them. Yes, there’s the expected chocolate, socks, and underwear  but every year, without fail, Father Christmas tucks in a bottle of shower gel. And more often than not, it’s Original Source. They slip neatly into a stocking, for one thing, and their bright, uplifting scents mean there’s a bottle to suit absolutely everyone.

I’m not what you’d call a natural morning person so I need something brisk and cheering to get me going which means my shower gel has to work hard to wake me gently but firmly. I’m a big fan of Original Source’s Zesty Lemon & Tea Tree, but this year I’ve tried their Crisp Apple Shower Gel which is fresh and crisp and is exactly the thing to nudge me into the land of the living. From the very first use my skin felt refreshed, hydrated, and – dare I say it – almost enthusiastic about the day ahead.

It’s vegan, made in the UK, and fragranced with 100% natural ingredients. The bottle itself is made entirely from recycled plastic and can go straight back into the recycling when you’re done.

A 250ml bottle is currently just £1 at Superdrug and Morrisons so at that price, it’s worth stocking up to guarantee a zingy start to Christmas morning and beyond.

Baker Ross Christmas Crafts and Gifts

Children, Christmas, Gifts for children, Learning, Stocking Fillers, Toys, Winter

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

December can be such a busy month so it’s nice to slow down every now and again, enjoy some quiet crafting time and make a few special decorations or gifts for family members. Having used Baker Ross kits before with my Cub pack, I know how good they are so I was really pleased to try out a selection of their Christmas craft kits with our mini reviewers. Their ready-made kits take all the stress out of crafting with everything you need included in the sets. This week we tried three of the sets – the Reindeer “Christmas Lights” Bead Threading Kits, the Christmas Tree Kits and the Santa Chocolate Holder Decorations.

Our little ones love rolling up their sleeves and creating something magical, and these kits kept them entertained for a good couple of hours. The Santa Chocolate Holder Decorations (£5.95) were definitely the favourite  – although the excitement may have had something to do with the chocolate “nose”! Each kit includes a Santa template, foam decorations, ribbon and simple instructions and as there’s no glue required, it’s completely mess-free. Available in packs of 8 or 32, these Santas are brilliant as gift tags, party treats or table gifts. Just assemble, decorate with the self-adhesive pieces and pop in a chocolate (Lindt truffles fit perfectly).

The Reindeer “Christmas Lights” Bead Threading Kits (£5.95) took a little longer to do, but they all enjoyed making them. With five assorted designs, the children enjoyed choosing their beads, threading them onto the black cord and wrapping them around the reindeer antlers to create the look of twinkling lights. Each one has a ribbon hanger so they can be used as a gift tag or Christmas tree decoration.

Finally, the 3D Christmas Tree Kit (£6.95) which contains foam pieces which slot together to form an 18cm tree, ready to be decorated with self-adhesive baubles, candy canes, snowflakes and stars. There’s four trees in the set and it kept our little ones busy for a good while.

As well as their brilliant craft kits, Baker Ross also offer a wonderful range of stocking fillers and party bag treats. Once our little ones had finished their decorations, they were more than ready to dive into a few extra festive goodies.

The Penguin Touchable Bubbles (currently £4.95 for a pack of 10 were an instant hit. These colourful little tubes create magical bubbles that you can actually touch without them popping. The children loved blowing the bubbles and trying to catch them as they floated down. They’re ideal for stockings, party bags or simply adding a bit of fun to a cold, winter afternoon.

The Snowman Pull-Back Racers (currently £4.50 for a pack of 6) were great fun to play with. Each snowman wears a brightly coloured scarf making it easy to spot the winner if you race them. They are ideal for Christmas Day races and are just as entertaining for the adults as they are for children.

It isn’t Christmas in our house without some building blocks and it’s nice to include some festive ones like the Penguin & Snowman Building Bricks in the Christmas stockings (£3.95). Each kit is individually bagged and includes easy-to-follow instructions and once assembled, the figures stand around 6.5cm tall and are perfect for festive play.

We’ll definitely be heading back to the Baker Ross website to stock up on more crafting treats for the Christmas holidays, and I’d happily recommend them to any family looking for easy, creative festive fun.

Green People Christmas Gift Sets

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Stocking Fillers, Vegan, Winter, Women

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

Avoid that last-minute Christmas shopping panic this year! You know the feeling – searching high and low for something special for those “difficult to buy for” friends and relatives. Well, relax, because organic skincare experts Green People have Christmas all beautifully wrapped up for you.

With over 25 years of experience in creating luxurious, gentle, and eco-friendly skincare, this pioneering British brand knows exactly how to spoil the people you love — and maybe even treat yourself too!

Green People was founded by Charlotte Vøhtz, who began her journey after struggling to find natural products kind enough for her daughter’s sensitive skin. What started as a mother’s mission has become a global success story — the world’s very first certified organic skincare brand, no less!

Now, with 300+ awards under their belt, Green People continue to shine in the world of ethical beauty. Every product is cruelty-free, vegan, and brimming with natural, fairly traded ingredients — usually between 80% and 99% organic. They’re proudly recommended by the Vegan Society, PETA, and the Soil Association, and are completely free from parabens, SLS, and gluten — perfect for anyone with sensitive or allergy-prone skin.

The Age Defy+ Pure Luxe Duo is a lovely choice for anyone over 30 who want to give their skin a real treat. Inside the sturdy gift box you’ll find two products – Pure Luxe Hand & Body Wash and Pure Luxe Hand & Body Lotion. The box has a bright orange interior and the elegant black-and-white illustrations of sliced citrus on the box and bottle gives a big hint to the zesty fragrance of the products.

The hand and body wash and lotion are both infused with an uplifting blend of Citrus, Cardamom, and May Chang and they feel really luxurious but are gentle on your skin. The  white minimalist bottles are definitely the ones style to keep on display rather than being tucked away in the bathroom cupboard!

The Pure Luxe Hand & Body Wash lathers nicely producing a rich, creamy lather whilst releasing a refreshing citrus aroma of orange and pink grapefruit which is just the thing to brighten up my morning routine. It leaves my skin feeling soft, clean, and hydrated and gently fragranced.

The Pure Luxe Hand & Body Lotion sinks in beautifully leaving my dry skin feeling silky smooth and hydrated. Layering both products helps that gorgeous fragrance linger longer – a little everyday luxury you’ll never tire of.

RRP £40

If you’re after something smaller for a Secret Santa surprise or a stocking filler, look no further than the delightful All Is Bright gift set (RRP £15)

Packaged in a festive cracker-style box, this set includes:

  • Gentle Cleanser & Make-Up Remover (30ml)
  • Vita Min Fix 24-Hour Cream (10ml)

These travel-sized treats are perfect for popping in your bag when you’re off visiting friends or family over the festive period. The Gentle Cleanser melts away makeup and impurities, leaving your skin fresh and comfortable, while the Vita Min Fix Cream delivers rich, lasting hydration and is perfect for winter skin that needs a little TLC.

Together, they make a radiant duo that keeps your complexion glowing, no matter how busy the Christmas season gets!

So whether you’re gifting to a friend, your Secret Santa recipient or simply treating yourself, Green People’s Christmas collection offers something luxurious for everyone.

St Tropez Self Tan 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MCoBeauty Super Pen 4-In-1 Liner

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, 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.

This is a brilliant stocking filler – a ‘pen’ which can be taken anywhere thanks to the click-down selection. Yes ,you do remember these from school!  With the same format as a Biro, you can click to have an eyeliner (black), lip liner (pink), brow liner (light brown) or highlighter (white). The are all inter-useable in this lightweight pen style which can be put in a handbag or on holiday in a make-up bag where space is tight. Also brilliant for a night out when you don’t want to take many items!

The liners have different textures so I wouldn’t recommend mixing them together, but the eye liner could be used as a brow liner if the light brown colour isn’t a match for you.  I personally wouldn’t use the highlighter that much but the light pink lip liner would be very well used by me daily.  They’re all really good quality though, and there is a good supply there in the pen.  

This is the type of product that would change how you do your make-up just because it’s so convenient to carry around, and it’s really easy to use. Teenagers would particularly enjoy this as a way of carrying make-up around but I know I’ll be taking this on holiday with me!

Available from £9 at: https://www.superdrug.com/make-up/eye-makeup/eyeliner/mcobeauty-super-pen-4-in-1-liner/p/855096

Rosalique 3-In-1 Miracle Gift Set

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, 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.

The Rosalique beautiful gift set of Miracle Brush and the 3 In 1 Anti-Redness Miracle Formula SPF 50 combines a skincare concealer with a beautiful (and oh so soft!) brush to hide away those rosy cheeks. The 3 in 1 Anti-Redness Miracle Formula works by covering, treating the skin for long term redness and protects from outside irritants like pollution and the sun. The SPF 50 help protect on a UVA and UVB basis too.

Combined in this gift set, the 3 In 1 Miracle Formula has a brush for applying it daily.  The two of them work together to create a long term anti-redness. The coverage works, and also feels very soft and light against your skin. It’s great for using instead of a standard foundation but also works if you’re not wearing make up at all for the day but still want some protection from the sun and elements, and something that gives you the even colour daily.

This is a great gift for Mum or Gran who might want to have some colour coverage as well as something more medicated for redness. I’d also recommend taking this on holiday with you in case you end up burnt or a bit red from alcohol too!

Available for £54.58 at: https://rosalique.co.uk/collections/gift-sets/products/rosalique-gift-set-2

By Terry Lip & Cheek Bliss Duo

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, 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.

By Terry have an excellent range of gifts this Christmas, including this Lip & Cheek Bliss Duo available at Sephora, Next and John Lewis for £39.  The gift set contains a CC Liquid Blush and Lip Care, which is a lip repair gloss to condition lips.

The By Terry gift pack contains the 7 gram click brush liquid blush and 2.3 gram bottle of Lip Care (called Baume De Rose).  The Liquid Blush clicks to reveal the colour which you can blend into your cheeks with ease, or if you’re creating a look, it can obviously blend into your contouring application too. It gives a bright, dewy look to your skin and lasts all day, although you might want to apply a second coat at night if you’re going out, just to finish off the look!

The Lip Care is a regenerating salve which cools, comforts and sooths lips. Perfect for cold weather, it hydrates rather than colours lips but works great in tandem with the liquid blush to create a look, especially if you’re on the go or on holiday, and there’s the added bonus that the Lip Care is hydrating and regenerating too.

These make great stocking fillers or gifts for teens who don’t want to be wearing too much make-up or all the time.

Available for £39 at: https://www.sephora.co.uk/p/by-terry-lip-cheek-bliss-duo?curr=GBP&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23232543001&gbraid=0AAAAADm1HxHnQlSMYbMSmazIE8QUhklD3&gclid=CjwKCAiAt8bIBhBpEiwAzH1w6euWvuI-O02VUZAbw0Zz_ZdoykqVQmc6fhNtc-xPzcLvvqhfrbmpzBoCOx0QAvD_BwE

McoBeauty Flawless Glow Foundation

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, 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.

Treat yourself at Christmas to a perfect foundation glow from McoBeauty.

Available in 10 different shades, the McoBeauty Flawless Glow is an all-coverage foundation which works like a photo filter. You don’t need a brush with this foundation either, there’s what’s called a ‘Doe Foot’ applicator which allows you to dab an exact amount of base to your skin. Once applied, I used my fingers to blend it in but you can use a brush at this point.  It was a full coverage of foundation on my face which wasn’t waxy or powdery at all and didn’t take long to blend. I particularly liked how it has that ‘glow’ to it too. There’s a slight shimmer to the finish (which actually dried really quickly) that bounces the light and gives you that Christmas glow.

The McoBeauty Flawless Glow Foundation makes a great stocking filler too, it’s really versatile and suits all ages thanks to both its skin coverage and the shine to give a healthy glow instead of the winter pasty look that so many chalky foundations leave.  I liked the generous size too, and it would fit perfectly in a Christmas cracker!

Available from £15 at: https://www.superdrug.com/make-up/face/face-paint-body-glitter/mcobeauty-flawless-glow-luminous-skin-filter-25-fair/p/854701?gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22603639332&gbraid=0AAAAADp4mz_K2yIBRrjDxLInGtcFtY0aW&gclid=CjwKCAiAt8bIBhBpEiwAzH1w6SPqmsu__75y82rm7cd2J5_7i0qMPxGaFnn39yR-iGm8ADMpTplmABoCY2sQAvD_BwE

Olverum Pure Radiance Facial Oil

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, 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.

I have become a big fan of facial oils in the last year. Facial oils are no longer greasy and pore-clogging, but contain added vitamins and minerals to repair and replenish your skin and make it feel smooth. Essentially, the oil works to keep moisture trapped and in your skins’ layers instead of evaporating away.  Olverum Pure Radiance Facial Oil does just that, with a specially formulated combination which leave skin feeling soft. I tried it out this week as part of the Christmas gifts at Space NK and loved every minute of it!

Olverum Pure Radiance may be called an ‘oil’ but it’s very light in texture when you add it to your skin, and completely translucent. It smells absolutely divine as well so it’s a real treat to be able to apply it. It’s very light and absorbs easily but gives a light dewy glow. With the fragrance as well, it’s like a very delicate essential oils mixture when you wear it, so it’s perfect for days when you’re not wearing make up or if you put it on first thing in the morning before you apply make up later on. Within about a minute, there was no oiliness, just a light glow to my skin.

Olverum Pure Radiance Facial Oil contains high potency vitamins C and E to work together as an alternative to retinol. There’s also Bakuchiol, Cacay Oil and Rosehip Oil (which give it the fragrance) and Patchouli Extract which mimics the CBD properties. Finally, Cardamom Oil calms your skin, including fine lines so that your appearance is luminous. Suitable for all skin types, it’s light enough to not cause any acne (which I am usually prone to.)

I love facial oils now as a way of nourishing my skin without having to think about it. Used daily, it keeps fine lines at bay but doesn’t make your skin oily, and has the same nurturing effect as a facial but with less time. I did use Olverum Pure Radiance Facial Oil after a face mask to keep the moisture in and the germs out but you can happily use it daily as a base, or to cleanse your skin as it is an oil after all. My preference is to use it instead of a moisturiser when I’m working from home during the winter months and don’t need SPF, but I do get exposed to air conditioning or central heating which leaves my skin dry. It also works on lips and hands so there’s nothing that goes to waste when you apply it.

Available from £80 at: https://www.spacenk.com/uk/skincare/treatment/face-oils/pure-radiance-facial-oil-MUK200054562.html

Stabilo Pens

Birthday Gifts, Children, Christmas, eco friendly, Gifts for children, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Toys

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

Have you started shopping for Christmas yet? If not don’t panic as we’ve some great ideas for creative minds of all ages. Stabilo pens make great stocking fillers for both children and adults and whether for school, work, or creative projects there’s such a wide variety of pens that it’s easy to find a set for everyone. Also you can add a colouring book or sketch pad to make a lovely gift for an artistic friend or relative.

With STABILO’S instantly recognisable striped pattern on the pens the pointMax Arty range is perfect for creating masterpieces.  The robust nylon 0.8mm tip was designed for high volume use and makes crisp, smooth lines that glide effortlessly over paper. The bright colours are striking, and the pens are perfect for writing, doodling or colouring. The lid clicks nicely on the end when you are using it so it’s far less likely to end up on the floor. Available in over 40 brilliant colours and in multipacks of 15, 18, 24, 32 or 42 pens which will keep everyone busy over the Christmas period and beyond.

RRP from £15.90

The STABILO Cappi Arty felt tip range have clever caps with a small ring at the top which means they can be threaded onto to a ring to keep them together. You can clip them onto a bag with a carabiner which is ideal for keeping them all in one place, especially when you’re out and about. It also means no lost lids too! The triangular shape is comfy to hold and it stops them rolling about on the table too. The slighter larger 1mm fibre tip gives bold, vibrant colour and the ink holds well on different thicknesses of paper and card. These pens are great for children as they can be left uncapped for up to 24 hours without drying out. Available in packs of 12 or 18 colours.

RRP from £7.23

The moss green/oak STABILO GROWSingle pen is STABILO’s most sustainable ball pen with a shaft made from 100% FSC®-certified wood and an ergonomic grip zone made from almost 100 % renewable raw materials. It’s fully climate neutral, with all unavoidable CO₂ emissions offset through certified climate protection projects.

It’s refillable too, making it better from the environment and there are 6 different colours to choose from. The pen cap fits snugly and snapped into place with a satisfying click and it’s easy to swap the ink with the refill being easy to remove and replace. The medium weight pen is very comfortable to hold and is lovely to write with, It’s a great choice for friends and relatives that still write letters or who enjoy doing crosswords or puzzles.

RRP from £20.49

So, whether you’re shopping for a budding artist or a lifelong doodler, STABILO pens make a wonderful Christmas gift. They’re colourful, high-quality, and designed to last and will also fit nicely in a Christmas stocking.   

Available from Amazon

Edifier ES60 Portable Speaker

Birthday Gifts, camping, Children, Christmas, Family Life, Gifts for children, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, Home, Stocking Fillers, Tech, travel

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

You would think that a portable speaker would just be for teens going to a summer festival, or your 20 something who is obsessed with having music on the beach but it turns out that portable speakers are everywhere and suitable for everyone. Edifier’s ES60 is the portable and affordable speaker that anyone can use, teenager, 20 something or even retired!

Using the speaker requires a Bluetooth compatible gadget, which usually means your smart phone, or it can be a laptop or Bluetooth enabled tablet as well. If you’re on the go though, it makes sense to connect it to your phone but it can be set up on multiple devices. To pair the devices, you just need to press the ‘on’ button and it immediately tries to find a Bluetooth enabled device. Using my iPhone, I went to Settings – Bluetooth and at the base of the window the ES60 was ‘discoverable’ and able to be linked to. Easy!

The speaker has all of the buttons you’d imagine on the top; play/pause, – and + for the volume and the on off switch. There’s also a 5-light display to show how much battery charge there is (and it can be charged using the cable provided for which is a USB-C cable. I also really like the additional button which is a light underneath! It makes it much easier to find the speaker if you’re camping, outside or just in a room at night and need to find it.  The light has two settings; warm and bright light. You can download the Edifier app too and connect to the ES60 speaker remotely to control it too.

The sound quality is excellent, with a 360 degree sound experience thanks to the multiple speakers and design of the device.  There are 9 hours of continuous play on a single charge but you can plug it in to play too. There’s an integrated microphone on the top of the speaker so you can connect it to your phone and be able to be heard, or use it to carry out Teams calls if you need the extra boost of a portable speaker to be able to talk to your colleagues! 

A proper all-in-one portable speaker with some nice added benefits such as the microphone and ambient light make this not only a great gift but an all-round must have item at home.

Available from £119.99: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Edifier-Bluetooth-Waterproof-Dustproof-360-degree/dp/B0F8J2SWGL/ref=sr_1_4?crid=10WT591Q4COF0&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.F1207H9GgtkzrZT4zxgg469n2VQE_7bZCrLhE5iWVPImydl0K4JJkTZ0aDavWPCwRBigEIl4aVh2u8QV8qKY2RiFMowF7CPH_9QzQ2FkGmRcrqIet-aBHUjqBoLqHQ52mVMdB91r8rpeCT2uet4cPia_BFuoTDnyoT9LJBvUZwk-m5lT-EFUjeWM5Ka-7_IpMPu54WBN9q79_93Vm0sjGyFD5Q3Xrwf6N9-hAZRRU_w.1UeREBHv6fZuHfm_gAsN9vyWHSaE4TeztxwgRxA8laI&dib_tag=se&keywords=Edifier%2BES60&qid=1762366952&sprefix=edifier%2Bes60%2Caps%2C147&sr=8-4&th=1

Sanctuary Spa Lily & Rose Perfect Pamper Parcel

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, 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.

For the woman in your life, at Christmas, there’s nothing easier than getting her a paper set, especially one from Sanctuary Spa. This year the Perfect Pamper Parcel contains all she needs for pampering in 2026 and we were sent this selection to be able to test out its contents before the holidays. Lucky us!

The Sanctuary Spa Lily & Rose Perfect Pamper Parcel contains Bath Float, Body Wash, Body Scrub and a body sponge for the pampering, plus Body Lotion and Hand Cream for the finishing touches.  With the floral Lily & Rose scent in each of the bath and body products, the light fragrance carries through from bath to bed and all day long.  I like how you can mix and match too by having just the bath set, or the body wash or hand cream available and it makes for a multi-use hamper of treats that can be used any time of day.

At just £20 it’s a steal too, saving money but in a lovely gift set that can be given to teenagers right up to Gran!

Available from £20 at: https://www.next.co.uk/style/su872044/v12927?gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17309306546&gbraid=0AAAAADm_5UW07HjWIjczR8vWt23t5AiGD&gclid=CjwKCAiAzrbIBhA3EiwAUBaUdSqTUJ1WzyY3LWZcqrY4n5LBcFAOORjiQuBCyBcZu5s2G7pG3Ko74hoCJGEQAvD_BwE

Tolpa Dermo Face Rosacal Products

beauty, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Women

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

Tolpa is a Polish skincare brand and it’s now available at Boots. I’ve already used the Lipidrio range and now I’ve trying a couple of products from the Rosacal range, designed for those with sensitive skin.

The Strengthening Regenerating Cream (RRP £12.99) is a real multitasking night cream, it promises to do more than just moisturise, also helping to strengthen and seals blood vessels, making them less sensitive to external factors. It also claims to soothe erythema, calm irritation and even conceal redness thanks to its natural green colouring. On top of that it helps tackle fine lines and wrinkles. That’s quite a list of promises but with my skin in need of some extra TLC, I was hoping that it would make a difference.

The texture is lovely, it sinks in easily without that heavy, greasy feeling some night creams can leave behind. When I wake up, my skin feels soft, calm and properly hydrated. According to Tolpa’s own tests, the cream can reduce persistent redness by 10% after four weeks, even out skin tone and lessen the appearance of spider veins. Hydration levels also jump by 29% after the very first use and last a full 24 hours. After a month I’m pleased to say that my skin is looking much better, it feels plump and hydrated and I’m starting to see a small improvement in my fine lines too.

One thing I really like is the packaging. The cream comes in an aluminium tube, which not only helps keep the product fresher but is also better for the environment. Plus, it’s more hygienic than a jar – no dipping fingers in and spreading bacteria!

I’ve also been using the Rosacal Strengthening Face and Eye Area Micellar Wash Gel (RRP £8.99), which has slotted perfectly into my morning and evening routine. I massage it in gently and rinse with water, finishing with a damp flannel. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin but still effective – it removes light makeup easily, though I do reach for a stronger cleanser if I’ve gone heavier on the foundation. My skin feels clean, refreshed and never tight or dry afterwards.

Tolpa’s skincare range is exclusive to Boots, both in store or online. The Rosacal range consists of four different products so as well as the two I’ve been using there’s also a Strengthening Micellar Liquid for cleansing and a Strengthening Soothing Cream

Right now, Boots have a great offer on – buy two Tolpa products and get the second half price – so I think that’s the perfect excuse to pick up the other two products in the range and give them a go!

Boux Avenue Bow Check Cotton Pyjamas in a bag – Red mix

Christmas, Family Life, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Stocking Fillers, Winter, Women

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

Boux Avenue recently sent me a pair of their Christmas pyjamas, the Boux Avenue Bow Check Cotton Pyjamas in a bag – Red mix which have quickly become a bedtime favourite.

Let’s start with the fabric, made from brushed cotton (99% cotton and 1% metallised fibre) they feel wonderfully soft and cosy when you put them on. The fabric is also very durable, making them perfect for both lounging about and sleeping in.  

Now, onto the design – the red bow check pattern is the perfect blend of classic and chic with a distinctly Christmassy twist. The little white bows scattered across the red check background add just the right amount of festive charm but not so much that you couldn’t wear them all year round. This limited edition print for 2025 feels nice and Christmassy without being over the top and the style will suit everyone – from teenagers to Grandma – you could even get matching pairs for fun Christmas photographs!

Fit-wise, I’m a size 16, and I’d say they’re true to size. Available in sizes 6 to 18, they strike the perfect balance, not too loose, not too snug, just right for curling up in comfort. The relaxed long-sleeved top has a neat pocket and is trimmed with white piping around the collar, cuffs, and front while the matching bottoms feature an adjustable paper bag waistband that stays comfortably in place without digging in, letting you drift off in comfort.

They arrive packaged in a matching bag, making them a lovely treat for yourself or a nice gift for someone special. Boux Avenue also offer free gift wrapping – so that’s one less thing for me to think about on Christmas Eve!

Speaking of Christmas Eve, we have a family tradition of new pyjamas, a festive film, and plenty of Christmas treats before bed – and these pyjamas fit the bill perfectly. Cosy, festive, and practical, they’re everything I want for that special night of the year.

Boux Avenue has a fantastic range of nightwear, lingerie, loungewear, and swimwear, with something to suit every taste. You can shop in one of their 30 UK stores or online, with delivery from £3.99, free delivery on orders over £50, and free returns. Plus if you join their community by signing up with your email, you’ll get 15% off your next purchase – a lovely little bonus.

RRP £40 available here

If you prefer shortie pyjamas do take a look at our review of the Candy Pink Stripe Christmas Shortie in a bag pair.

Christmas Beauty Gifts -Curlsmith Hair Products, Rubis Tweezers and Wonderbalm Lips

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

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

I know it’s only October, but it’s the perfect time to get started on your Christmas shopping. The shops are beginning to fill with festive gifts, and by picking up a few now, you won’t be rushing around at the last minute. We’ve been trying out some brilliant beauty treats this week that are perfect as stocking fillers or Secret Santa gifts – little luxuries that are bound to be well received on Christmas morning.

First up, the Rubis Tweezers – in my opinion these are the holy grail of tweezers and perfect for anyone who likes to keep their brows neat and tidy in between salon visits. Lightweight but surprisingly sturdy, they’re well made with an ergonomic design that makes them very comfortable to hold. Each pair is hand-finished in Switzerland from surgical stainless steel and they pluck even the finest hairs easily, with no pinching or snapping. They come in a neat zip-lock pouch (no more rummaging through your make-up bag) and even have a protective cap to keep the tips in perfect condition. At £27.98, they’re an investment, yes – but one that will last for years. Available from Amazon.

If you’re shopping for someone with curls then you really need to look at Curlsmith products.  The Shake & Shine Curls Refreshing Mist (£24) is my go to product for refreshing my curls – a few spritzes of the lightweight mist and a quick scrunch and tired curls spring back to life looking bouncy and defined again. It locks in moisture (up to 41% more, according to Curlsmith’s tests) without weighing hair down.

The In-Shower Style Fixer (£24) is an anti-frizz styling gel designed to be used on soaking wet hair. Like the name suggests the best place to apply it is in the shower and I just smooth it down my hair using the “praying hands” method before scrunching it and drying with my diffuser.

Curlsmith products are vegan, cruelty-free, and packed with natural ingredients. I’m really impressed with these products – my curls are shinier, smoother, and, on most days, even cooperative. Every so often they do their own thing, but that’s curls for you!  

Both products are available from Boots along with other products in the range and there’s currently 20% off – so another reason to start shopping early!!

And finally, for those who can’t be without a lip balm (and let’s face it that’s probably most of us in winter?), Wonderbalm Lip Balm is a handbag essential. Made with shea butter and infused with a blend of botanical oils, butters, and waxes, it glides on smoothly and doesn’t leave your lips feeling sticky or greasy. Whether you’re out walking, sat in an office or battling a cold December wind your lips will be lovely and soft and hydrated all day long. At £8 it’s a lovely treat for lips and the perfect size to fit in a Christmas stocking.

So, while the Christmas countdown may feel far away, now’s the time to start gathering those small and special gifts. Pop a few of these in your basket now, and by December, you’ll be feeling calm, smug, and ever so slightly festive.

Elemay Starry Nights Luxury Refillable Ceramic Candle

Autumn, Christmas, Fragrance, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Home, REUSABLE, Stocking Fillers, Vegan, Winter, Women

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

When it comes to candles, I’ve found it’s worth paying a little more for a better quality candle. While cheaper ones will flicker away quite happily, many are made with paraffin wax, which can release soot and toxins into the air. Spend a bit more, however, and you get something altogether different. Natural wax candles burn more cleanly, with a steadier flame and the scent actually smells like what it says on the box.

Which brings me to Elemay candles – they’re made from 100% natural soy wax with lead-free cotton wicks, making them just as as kind to the air as they are beautiful to look at. The brand was dreamed up by Ellie while she was on maternity leave. And you can tell – this isn’t some faceless corporation churning out identical jars of wax. Every scent has been chosen with care to bring a sense of calm, joy and a little bit of luxury into your day. And I think we can all agree, we need more of that.

With notes of jasmine, zesty citrus, sweet musk and vanilla, the Starry Nights fragrance is inspired by Steephill Cove on the Isle of Wight with Ellie wanting the candle to capture the magic of a clear summer night under a starry sky.

In my opinion candles should look as good as they smell and Elemay certainly delivers on that front. The luxury refillable ceramic candles are in handcrafted ceramic pots, made exclusively for the brand by Sussex-based artist Beth. Each pot is uniquely glazed and the Starry Nights pot has midnight blues and dusky purples to reflect the starry sky above the coast. Mine even arrived with a photograph of the cove taken by Ellie’s dad, and it’s incredible how Beth has echoed the image in her design.

I was surprised to discover that in most areas of the UK, candle jars can’t be recycled, so Elemay’s refill option is such a great idea. It’s not only a more sustainable choice but also a more cost-effective way to enjoy their candles. Refills are priced at £15, while the Starry Nights candle itself is £35.

The 220g candle has a burn time of around 40 hours comes with a care card and refill guide, and is packaged in a reusable linen gift bag, making it a perfect treat for yourself or a lovely Christmas gift.

Teoxane Discovery Set

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Stocking Fillers, travel, 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 Teoxane Discovery Set is a travel sized version of Teoxane’s signature products. It. contains 5 items; Micellar Solution, RHA Serum, R(II) Eyes, Advances Filler (normal to combination skin) and UVA Shield SPF 50+. The Discovery Set is also a travel bag, which in clear plastic means it could go on a plane as well but works nicely as a make-up case for holidays.  

TEOXANE RHA is a patented hyaluronic acid, for skin hydration and anti-aging. Teoxane RHA forms a mesh on the surface of the skin to maintain moisture in the epidermis and strengthens the skin by preventing moisture loss. This leaves the skin looking not just hydrated, but plump and smooth too.  

The Discovery Set includes 5 products that are used in combination to create optimal skin conditions. The Micellar Solution cleanses the skin in preparation for the treatments. R (II) Eyes is for the delicate areas around the eyes whilst RHA Serum is for the rest of the face and neck. Advanced Filler Normal to Combination create the deep hydration for skin whilst the UVA Shield protects morning and night, and whenever skin is exposed to sun.

The Teoxane Discovery Set is pricy at £45 but it’s for older skin and with an emphasis on repairing and anti-aging.  It makes a great kit for someone who is going away on holiday during the summer so that they have everything they need to protect from the sun and repair, all in a small travel size.  It’s very luxurious too, with a slight fragrance but it screams luxury!

Available for £45.00 at: https://www.teoxane.co.uk/product/700177-00?srsltid=AfmBOoq4Y9OACGzshLCCdrV9iR0x_w-YotJoVwJQ0XGpxalNVYofsTIK

Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, 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.

If you’ve never used oil to remove dirt, make-up and clean pores before, then let me enlighten you… most make-up removers used to be 100% oil. This was a long time ago, when they weren’t fragranced though, and if you held onto them for too long, they would go rancid and smell. Think Petroleum Jelly but a bit softer! Oil does indeed remove dirt, but nowadays we have a more sophisticated approach and a much nicer selection to use.

Anua Heartleaf Pore Control is a cleansing oil which removed make-up, but also dirt, build up and generally anything that gets into the pores on your face. It’s lighter than most oils, and has a slight, fresh fragrance about it but nothing heavy. To use Anua Cleansing Oil, it takes just a small amount distributed over the dry skin of your face and massaged in for a minute or two. You can feel the softness of the oil as it works over your skin.  To remove the cleanser, use warm water and I like to use the reusable make-up remover pads that you can put in the wash. They seem more robust than most cleansing pads, and yes, they help remove both the oil and the dirt that the oil removes!

After a light brush of warm water, my skin is cleaner and Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil manages to remove traces of make-up and dirt, including stubborn mascara.  The cleansing oil also kept my skin hydrated, which is what you’d expect from an oil but in these autumn and winter months, air conditioning and heating really don’t help your skin.  If you are in need of some de-puffing during the Christmas season, then I can highly recommend Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil for some facial massage too. Oil is essential for facial massages and this lighter, more nutritious oil worked a treat!

Available online for £16.00 at:

https://www.boots.com/anua-heartleaf-pore-control-cleansing-oil-200ml-10352040?srsltid=AfmBOoozgX1_p6erbijBceUMPN0NbkopBIBKGxryD1Mqn_BwY1l8yxZU

Bedsure Wearable Blanket Hoodie

Birthday Gifts, Children, Christmas, eco friendly, Family Life, Fashion, Gifts for children, Gifts for Her, Home, secret santa, 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.

Cosy up this Christmas in Bedsure’s wearable blanket hoodie – a perfectly snug cross between a hoodie and an oversized dressing gown, it makes a brilliant Christmas present for anyone.  

We were sent this lovely light blue blanket hoodie to test out, which turned out just in time for the weather to turn! The oversized jumper fits over your head easily and has two giant pockets and a fluffy hood.  If you’re looking to save a bit on the heating this winter, this is a great alternative. The shorter hoodie-style means you can wear it around the house without it getting in the way, and especially good for driving in. The sleeves have elasticated cuffs for typing or cooking and I like how the hood comes up round your ears even when it’s not up, so it acts as a scarf. 

The Bedsure Wearable Blanket Hoodie is easily transportable because it’s vacuum packed and boxed for arrival. I not only loved this garment for the fluffiness of the material and how warm it keeps you, but for anyone who struggles with being cold all the time, or for the elderly who need to keep a constant temperature, it’s really wearable and an adorable colour. It’s available in other colours including pink, grey, red and black, but because it’s shorter, it’s easier to move around in and doesn’t weigh too much for every day wear.

It’s a great gift at Christmas, even as a stocking filler or Secret Santa!

Available from 26.99 at: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0C1NQ7GT4?th=1&linkCode=sl1&tag=masca0d-21&linkId=677774e6d39e553b3cc200292e969239&language=en_GB&ref_=as_li_ss_t