Bobbi Brown | BEAUTY EMERGENCY KIT

Every so often brands come up with ingenious little products, gift with purchases and even intriguing beauty box collaborations and one-off specials.  This Beauty Emergency Kit from Bobbi Brown is one of those things to catch my eye and it is only £25 (here).

Described as being 'Perfect for all your beauty emergencies' the contents of this kit are really quite impressive and the item which caught my eye as I was browsing is the inclusion of a full-size Pot Rouge which would normally retail for £22 on its own. Add to that there is a further five mini products plus the makeup bag, I think this is a bit of a bargain. 

This strictly limited edition Beauty Emergency Kit you will find inside:

• •Pretty Powerful Pot Rouge (Full-Size) RRP £22
• •Instant Long Wear Makeup Remover (30ml)
• •Skin Nourish Mask (7ml Sample)
• •Vitamin Enriched Face Base (7ml Sample)
• •Taupe Long Wear Cream Shadow Stick (Sample)
• •Smokey Eye Mascara (3ml Sample)
• Plus, a gorgeous Beauty Emergency Kit Makeup Bag!

So, even if you are not familiar with Bobbi Brown as a brand but have had your eye on one or two products, this is a great way to sample a few of the brands' best-selling products before you decide whether or not a full-size purchase is in order!  So grab it whilst stocks last (here).

Are you a fab of Bobbi Brown and do you have a product you cannot live without?

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

Emma Hardie’s Moringa Renewal Treatment Mask

Emma Hardie is a name within the world of Beauty that most people will have come across, if not just for the incredible Moringa Cleansing Balm which if you haven't tried, then you most definitely should. The latest release from Emma Hardie is the Moringa Renewal Treatment Mask which is described as being a rich, indulgent, high-performance cream based moisturising and exceptionally hydrating mask that instantly helps to give the appearance of a tighter and refreshed skin.

I absolutely love anything 'Mask' be it an overnight mask, a sheet mask, a clay mask, a bubble mask, a hair mask, hand mask and dare I say it, even a foot mask. Whether it is a product that is left on for a few minutes, hours or even longer, then I want to try it and I want to see what and how my skin does and reacts.  There are two ways in which this Mask can be used.

• Apply generously over freshly cleansed skin to the face and neck whilst being careful to avoid the eye area. Once applied, leave for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.
• This mask can be used once a week or as needed for an intense overnight treatment.

I was also told that as an extra treat, you can put this mask into the fridge 15-30 minutes because you intend to use it and then as it is applied, the cooling sensation is really quite something and on a hot summers day, this would be just divine.

If like me, you already love the Cleansing Balm, you'll be familiar with the ingredient Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, a staple ingredient within Emma Hardie products and it is known to leave skin more vibrant, plum and gives the look of glowing radiance. Alongside this you will find:

• Red Algae. Reduces the appearance of pigmentation and has a calming effect on the skin.
• Trademarked Plant Stem Cell product Resisteem™ said to visibly improve the evenness of the complexion.
• Hyaluronic Acid which we know firms and moisturises.
• Hyaluronic Filling Spheres to plump the skin and reduce signs of lines and wrinkles.
• Amino Acid derivative to brighten the skin and even out even the most stressed skin.
• Edelweiss Extract to promote a soothing effect including collagen protection and antioxidants.

The mask itself is luxuriously creamy without being too thick applies like an absolute dream to my skin. The first thing you notice is the all too familiar citrus scent from the Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, a scent which is just divine.   After using, well as you might expect, this treatment mask definitely lives up to its expectations. My skin is soft and smooth to the touch, the dehydrated feel kicked into touch and I am left with incredibly hydrated skin.

An absolute must for any Emma Hardie fan, you can find this mask currently on sale at Marks and Spencer for £49 right here.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

Perk - Cleanse with Benefits

A few months ago, I was lucky enough to be the recipient of a Perk Facial, a treatment which manages to exfoliate, nourish and cleanse the face, eyes and lips in just half an hour.  Perk is described as being the world’s first hybrid facial to merge an in-office exfoliating treatment that includes take-home products to enhance your skin benefits.

I was given in-depth talks as to what each treatment would do for my skin, I filled out a questionnaire on my skin and then opted for the treatment on my face, lips and eyes using three different products. Perk uses what is referred to as a unique hybrid system which uses patented roller flex technology to gently remove surface layer dead skin cells and impurities due to liquid exfoliation while delivering vital antioxidants. 

The treatment started with my face and as my skin was being, what I can best describe as 'sucked' by this roller flex, it is totally painless, whilst feeling slightly odd, I could see all kinds of gunk being sucked off and out of my skin. As the pen-shaped machine moved around my face, lips and even around my eyes, my pores were ever so gently flexed as the roller ball embeds nutrients, ensuring absorption and afterwards, my skin felt just incredible.

A nourishing solution deeply cleansed skin while an Antioxidant Renewal Serum re-nourishes with key antioxidants including Vitamins A & E, White Tea Extract, and Horse Chestnut Seed Extract.  Smooth to the touch, slightly plump and very radiant looking, for once I didn't mind too much about wandering around central London without makeup on!

After my face had been treated, which took around 15 minutes, it was then the turn of my lips.  Like many people, dry lips can be an absolute nightmare and they also look unsightly too.  

This treatment managed to remove every single trace of dry skin and what I really liked was the Lip Revitalising Serum which uses key ingredients such as peppermint oil and peony extract to gently exfoliate, hydrate and lightly plump lips. Afterwards, my lips were left feeling plump and smooth and whilst I didn't feel the need to apply any balm, I am a tad obsessed with doing so and did.

The part of the treatment I was most nervous about was around my eyes.  Anything to do with eyes makes me nervous and slightly on edge, but it couldn't have been more straightforward, painless. 

The Eye Replenishing Serum which awakens the delicate eye area using ingredients such as green tea extract which brightens dark circles naturally with citric acid.  What I loved about this treatment was how soothing it was as it took place. I could have quite happily just laid down as the treatment was done.  Afterwards, where my skin feels dehydrated, actually felt hydrated.

Naturally depending upon your skins' level of sensitivity you might be a little rosy faced after the treatments, but I wasn't at all, in fact, my skin felt just incredible and later that evening I had an event to attend and the application of makeup was a dream.  No need to hope my foundation didn't cling to dry skin because there was nothing for it to cling too.  If that doesn't sound fabulous enough, the service and treatments I had gave me some take-home applicators which meant I could continue the routine at home.  With enough for a 30-day use at home with instructions on how best to each item.  I finished my 30 use some time ago now and admittedly I was skeptical as to whether or not it would be just as good using the home treatments as it was with the first use of the machine and I was wrong because it was just as good.  For me, the biggest difference was how my skin feels, not something you can really show in picture form, but to explain.  To the touch, my skin is usually soft, but that doesn't mean it is hydrated or even having a good day.  My undereye is usually dehydrated, partly because I spend a lot of my time in front of a computer typing away and whilst I do use mists and face sprays, I sometimes need a little more, a boost if you like and this is where Perk has come in so handy and it was such an eye-opener (no pun intended) treatment. 

I love the idea that I can have a facial treatment which treats my face, around my eyes and lips to exfoliate, nourish, plump, brighten whilst at the same time deliver vital antioxidants, flex my pores and just ensure soo that gunk, grime and dirt from everyday life stops doesn't build it, doesn't leave my skin looking dull and lacklustre but instead allows it to absorb all the good things I am putting onto my skin and letting them do their jobs.  Without question I would have this treatment again, you can mix and match which you have, you don't have to have all three, it depends on your needs at the time.  If it is something that does intrigue you, then you can find a salon/clinic near you which offers this treatment.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

TOUCH IN SOL Beauty Aid Cream

If you have dry, sensitive skin, then Touch In Sol have a product that you need to have in your stash and it is called All in 1 Beauty Aid Cream.  I make no secret of my obsession with this brand, every single product I have tried, I have been wowed by and it is one of the few brands I have made purchases from when I am close to running out of a product.

Hailing from South Korea, Touch In Sol has been designed to embrace the spirit of Korean innovation. Touch In Sol is fun, innovative and uses some of the most advanced technologies. If you know anything about Korean Beauty, you will be aware that they are very much ahead of us with their beauty innovations, so the chance to try them as soon as they hit the UK is quite special.

All in 1 Beauty Aid Cream is described as being an ultra-moisturising formula enriched with heavenly hydrators, it boosts skin’s moisture barrier to make it more supple, firm and healthy. It is these ingredients which include sugar cane, shea butter, birch sap, hazel, walnut and olive combine to nourish and hydrate the skin, while ceramides boost elasticity. Putting all of these together you have a product which is:

• Highly concentrated and nongreasy.
• Instantly calms and hydrates skin.
• Skin feels revitalised and smooth.
• Formulated for dry and sensitive skin.

I like to use this cream on the driest parts of the skin and that doesn't just mean on my face. I have used this on my hands, the heels of my feet and even on my shins. I have also used it on my face as an overnight treatment on my cheeks, which thanks to having combination skin, means they often feel dry to the touch.  It isn't too thick a texture that it leaves your skin feeling greasy, instead, it absorbs pretty quickly and leaves no trace behind.

I love that when I use this on my cheeks it also creates a perfect base for foundation. I find it helps prime my skin to prevent anything sticking to dry skin. It is a cream you don't have to apply absolutely everywhere, just to the places you feel your skin needs it the most and it is absolutely perfect for having in your bag, luggage and even on your bedside table.

You can find Beauty Aid on sale at Cult Beauty (here), FeelUnique (here) and ASOS (here) ranging in price from £22-£26.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

M&S Beauty: FORMULA Absolute Ultimate Sleep Cream

Did you know Marks and Spencer had its own skincare range? Called Formula it describes itself as being "From bespoke sensitive skin care and advanced anti-aging solutions to cutting-edge ingredients taken straight from the lab, find your skincare soulmate from our newly reformulated Formula collections".  Whether you want a day cream, night cream, a serum, cleanser, toner, eye cream, neck cream and so on, there is an incredible range to try.

I love an overnight product, something I can put on to my skin and let it works its magic as I sleep.  I would love to be able to say that I get 8 hours sleep every single night, that my skin doesn't need any extra help, but in truth, I get around 5-6 hours sleep unless insomnia has kicked in and then I am awake every hour if I can eventually nod off.  So in an effort to ensure my skin looks good, feels good and I have little in the way of suitcases under my eyes, I have a night time skin care routine. We all know that the lack of sleep can cause so many issues for the skin, it is something most skin care experts will talk about and it is well worthy of listening to them as they explain just how important sleep is. Just like any other cell in your body, your skin cells take advantage of when you are asleep to repair and rejuvenate your skin, not giving your skin time to do this can lead to the moisture level in your skin being affected, your pH levels dropping and of course, those pesky dark circles appear.

The Absolute Ultimate Sleep Cream is quite the cult product. When it launched it had rave review after rave review, it sold out everywhere and had a massive waiting list of people wanting to get their hands on this cream. It is described as being supercharged with anti-wrinkle peptides, moisturising hyaluronic acid and skin-brightening actives as well as shea butter, marula oil, kukui oil and Vitamin E. 

The cream which smells just divines is not too thick a texture but it is incredibly rich in feel.  You literally need just a small amount of this cream to cover your face and neck and once it is applied, it doesn't sit on the surface of your skin, so it isn't going to ruin your pillowcase. The following morning, there is a slight chance that there will be some residue of the cream left which will need to be removed, but as I double cleanse anyway, so I would always ensure I did wash my face (ewww) the following morning.  That said, I am yet to find any of this cream not used on my skin. 

What I do love about this Sleep Cream is how my skin does feel after using.  I find that my skin goes through cycles of feeling dry and in need of moisture despite using face oils and masks, this is where this cream comes in really useful because it literally does leave my skin feeling softer and smoother to the touch, my lacklustre skin suddenly looks plump and radiant and just this week someone asked me what I was using to make my skin glow.

At £22 (here) it is amazing value for money and it gives some other well-known brands a real run for their money.  If you need a new night cream, then this is not one I would overlook, infact having used it, I am now keen to try even more from the range.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

Benefit Cosmetics: BAD Gal Bang Mascara

I am sure everyone has heard of, come across, read about and in some cases tried the NEW Bad Gal Bang Mascara from the babes at Benefit Cosmetics by now and it is seemingly a product which has a lot of people sat on the fence as to whether or not it is any good. I have had this product in my possession for a good few months now, I decided not to rush a review out to give a half-hearted insight into what I think.  Mascara for me is the one item in my makeup bag that I never leave the house without, it is the one item I obsess over and the one product I want to try, especially if it is new or I have never tried it before.

One of my favourite mascaras from Benefit is Rollerlash but I like to use the wand with the formula from They're Real if I really want to make my eyelashes stand out. I have fairly long lashes, so I need a formula that isn't too wet or I will have spatters of mascara around my eyes and on my cheeks. I also don't want a formula which is too dry because I cannot stand that caked on, crusty eyelash look. BAD Gal Bang:

BADgal BANG! 36-HOUR* FULL-BLAST volumising mascara creates MASSIVE volume without weighing down lashes. The gravity-defying formula contains aero-particles, one of the lightest known materials, derived from space technology. This innovative intense pitch-black mascara layers easily for bigger & BIGGER impact.

That is quite the description from the Benebabes as to what their new mascara is and does.  Firstly it contains what is referred to as gravity-defying aero-particles, described as being one of the lightest known materials derived from space technology, which I personally think is quite amazing and intriguing all at the same time, who even thought to include such a thing in a mascara?. Anything, aero-particle inclusion is said to ensure that the mascara formula can be layered up for the maximum impact such as adding volume, length and curl without clumps or weighing lashes down.

The packaging is something I really like, the space age handle with the lumps and bumps making it easy to grip onto. The streamlined brush referred to as 'Slimpact' has been designed so that it coats every lash evenly and the formula is described as being both smudge-proof and water-resistant.  Firstly the formula - it is quite wet initially and it is also a very dark intense black but after using it daily for 3-4 weeks I did start to notice a change. I won't lie, I hated the formula after using it for a few days, but it is a mascara and it is Benefit and I wasn't ready to give up on it just yet, so I continued to use it, persevering and finally that formula did dry slightly making the application less clumpy, but again depending on how many applications you apply, depends on how clumpy it is.  For me, no more than two applications and I am happy with my lashes, anything more and the clumps start to appear.

So it does give those lashes a coating of very dark mascara, the formulation for me needs a good few weeks to settle and become usable and it is also a case of less is more for my lashes. It doesn't smudge one iota once applied and given the weather we have had of late, it is waterproof, windproof and even snow proof! When it comes to the removal it does come off the lashes with incredible ease, there is no need to over rub your eyes to remove every single last trace, I find my eye makeup remover does the job pretty well and there is no need to buy a special remover (I am looking at you They're Real).

Overall, I don't think this is a bad mascara, it pretty much does do what it promises to do, albeit I've not tested the 36-hour theory. I like it, I just don't love it as much as Rollerlash.

Priced at £21.50 (here) you can find this Mascara at all Benefit counters and online too.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

Makeup Revolution 24K Gold Eyeshadow Palette

Whenever Makeup Revolution or Revolution as they are now called release a new eyeshadow palette nine times out of ten I want it.  In my time of using eyeshadow palettes from Makeup Revolution (Or Revolution as they are now called) I am yet to find one which I haven't liked or loved.  In fact my most used palette is Fortune Favours The Brave.

When I saw that there had been some new releases, one I clearly missed featuring the 24k Gold Eyeshadow Palette, I wanted to give it a try. Priced at £8.99 from TAM Beauty but not currently available from Superdrug, this palette is described as being a "special edition palette is packed with 16 shadows in rich, warm tones. Alongside six matte shades, this palette contains a range of shimmering golds with undertones of peach, yellow and bronze for endless, gleaming looks". Like other palettes from Revolution, this one comes complete with a mirror which fits the entire top half of the palette.

Looking like the chocolate bar design we have all come to know and love, this one differs slightly in looks due to the 'unwrapped chocolate bar' being gold dripped and shiny, similar to that of the Rose Gold Bar, which I also love.  Inside the palette, you will find that the 24K Gold Palette contains 16 eyeshadows alongside a double ended sponge tip applicator, which I think is better made for this bar than some of the previous ones I have had and used.   

The shadows, again, I think are much better in this palette than some of the previous ones and the selection of shades includes:

• Bling – a light golden shimmer. 
• Lustre – a matte cream and one of the few shades I hadn't expected to be a cream. 
• Spirit – a mauve brown matte. 
• Spice – a beautiful chocolate brown matte. 
• Gilded – a light warm brown matte. 
• Flare – a chocolate brown matte which has some copper shimmer particles. 
• Stun – a warm orangey gold shimmer. 
• Real – a rosy brown shimmer and one of my favourite shades 
• Moonlit – a lovely light peach shimmer. 
• Glacier – an olive green foil which has a golden tone to it, almost duo-chrome. 
• Solitaire – a stunning golden brown foil 
• Rock – a copper shimmer. 
• Stone – a peachy brown matte. 
• Crown – a warm chocolate brown matte. 
• Satellite – an intense matte black. 
• Gem – a light champagne shimmer.

As I have said, for me this is one of the better chocolate palettes from Makeup Revolution and the quality of the shadows are simply amazing for the price.  I have eyeshadow palettes which have cost me more than double the price that are not as good as this one. This is a great palette for those who love their nude/neutral shades but with a little something extra thrown in.  My favourite shades from the palette are Crown, Flare and Gem but they are all beautiful shades and they all work amazingly well on their own or together.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

Christian Breton Skincare

A brand I have really enjoyed getting to know is Christian Breton and I have enjoyed using both the Delicious Face Oil (review here) and some products from the Eye Priority Range (review here) I have since added two further products from the skincare range to my stash.

The Christian Breton Exfoliating Lotion Eclat Jeunesse Lotion is described as being a gentle yet effective exfoliating toner that revives a dull complexion. Suitable for all skin types, it contains very gentle fruit acids and is gentle enough to be used as part of both your morning and evening skincare regime.  

What I love about this lotion is just how kind it is to the skin rather than being harsh and this is because of the ingredients used:

• Glycolic acid: helps to eliminate dead cells, tone and firm the skin
• Fruit Acid: Thanks to its "peeling" effect and its action on cell renewal, it helps to smooth wrinkles, to blur the pigmentary spots and irregularities of the skin

Perfect for use both in the morning and in the evening, I love how soft and smooth my skin feels after using this. 

When it comes to Face Masks, I absolutely love a good sheet mask and these Charcoal Face Masks are described as being a multi-benefit mask which is described as being to visibly reduces the appearance of pores and deeply purify and detoxify the skin.

Its biggest advantage? For me it is how incredibly hydrating the masks are and how hydrated my skin feels after using them.  

There are four main ingredients which are worthy of a mention with these masks and one of them came as a bit of a surprise to me:

• Charcoal: used for centuries, charcoal has many purifying and detoxifying properties. It removes excess sebum, traces of pollution and impurities.
• Volcanic ash: this helps the skin to eliminate toxins. Pores are less visible and the skin is revitalized.
• Caviar: rich in vitamins, it slows down the skin’s ageing process. The skin is left smoother and firmer.  This was the surprise ingredient for me!
• Algae: deeply hydrates your skin whilst protecting it thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.

As with all masks, your skin needs to be thoroughly cleansed before using and where possible exfoliated.  Then all you need to do is apply the mask and in doing so, smooth out any air pockets which appear and  then leave it on for around 25 minutes.  This gives the mask time to work its magic and I always find there is very little serum left on my skin once I do remove everything, but for anything which is left, you simply pat it gently into the skin until it is absorbed.

These masks are designed to be used at leave once or twice a week and each box contains three masks.  A tip I read online when using these masks is to refrigerate the unopened sachet for 10 minutes before use to enhance the cooling effect, so this is something I am going to try as it sounds heavenly.

If I have tempted you to give Christian Breton a try, then both of these products can be found via Lookfantastic (here) and if you are quick, use the code LF15 at the checkout to get 15% off your order but as always read the small print first and all offers are subject to availability.

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

Newly Released Wishlist

I love procrastinating, I am either doing it on Pinterest or reading the 'New In' beauty pages of websites such as Selfridges, SpaceNK, Escentual, LookFantastic and even Superdrug to name a few. Not all of these products will be brand new as in straight off the production line, it could be that they are a new brand to the company and it might just be possible that I have missed the launch. From there, you can pretty much guarantee that there is a whole host of products which capture my attention. 

I am also a massive advocate for saving money where possible with beauty purchases, so I’d also recommend bookmarking dealsqueen and checking for promo codes before using any retailer to see if they have any live Dealsplanet.

Herbivore Calm Bath Salts (£16) - If ever there was a brand to be constantly tempting me on my Instagram feed, it is Herbivore.  New to SpaceNK (here) there is an incredible list of products I just want to try The Coconut Milk Bath Soak and these Salts being just a few.  One that really stands out is the Calm Bath Salts. Described as being a truly soothing and calming blend including floral Ylang Ylang, and natural Vanilla, to relax the mind and body; these salts also include lightly detoxifying and beautiful Himalayan Pink Salt crystals. I absolutely love washing the week away with a long hot bath and I very much like my bath salts.  These salts use some amazing ingredients such as Pacific Sea Salts, Ylang Ylang Essential Oil and Vanilla Oil all of which are said to come together to soothe the body in innumerable ways. 

Jo Malone Jasmine Sambac & Marigold Cologne Intense (£75 here)- This fragrance is one I haven't seen much about on my social feed, but I am drawn to it because I absolutely love the scent of Jasmine and it works well with my skin and I am intrigued as to how it will work with the Marigold.  I have one Jo Malone scent which is Rose Oud and Velvet (review here) and I get a lot of compliments when I wear it.  You can find this fragrance from all Jo Malone stores and my favourite place to visit John Lewis.

Damselfly Can't Adult Today Candle (£50) - I love my candles and this one made me cackle because it is a phrase I find myself saying pretty much every single day.  The brand was founded by Melbourne native Christianna Heideman and if you love a good tongue-in-cheek slogan, the Damselfly Collective is a must see. Described as being a scented Candle which is fresh, crisp inhales of apple, clove bud and anjou pear with a hint of white musk, vanilla bean and sweet citrus florals. Like a sunny afternoon for your senses.  Available, with quite a few more within the range from SpaceNK (here).

This Works Evening Detox Spray On Exfoliant (£23.80 here) - I love overnight products for the skin and having attended many press days with skincare brands who tell you that as your skin repairs itself overnight, a product which works well for you is worth its weight in gold.  This Works Evening Detox Spray on Exfoliant is described as being An overnight skin brightening tonic to detoxify and defend skin from pollutants, city grime and environmental irritants. Wake to skin that looks and feels totally revitalised, rejuvenated and fortified. I have never tried an overnight exfoliant, but I live in London and my skin does often feel just vile, even after a double clease.  This product uses Salicylic Acid which works to resurface congested skin for a more even skintone while the antioxidants in witch hazel defend against free radicals from pollution particles and calm inflammation.

Fresh Beauty is a brand that I always see in John Lewis but I am always in such a rush ive never quite made it to the stand.  That said, the Besties Skincare Gift Set (£20) sounds like a perfect introduction to two products I see a lot of on my social media feed. Described as being a duo of complexion classics from Fresh includes the citrus-based Vitamin Nectar mask and Soy face cleanser to restore radiance and clarity to skin for a healthy complexion. The Soy Face Cleanser. which is suitable for all skin types is described as being an extra-gentle gel cleanser that instantly whisks away everyday impurities and makeup-even mascara-without stripping the skin of essential moisture. The Vitamin Nectar Vibrancy-Boosting Face Mask with a vitamin fruit complex features a concentrated citrus fruit blend of crushed oranges, lemons, and clementines that helps gently refine the appearance of the skin to soften, smooth, and improve clarity. Then we have the Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Facial Toner (£34) - Rose Deep Hydration Facial Toner softens the skin and refines the appearance of pores for a healthy-looking complexion. Infused with real rose petals, the gentle formula cleanses the skin, helping to clear it of surface debris, pollution particles, and residual impurities, while leaving it feeling refreshed and prepped to receive the full benefits of the skincare ritual to follow.  Fresh Skincare can be found online and from John Lewis (here).

Kiehls Instant Renewal Concentrate Mask (£44 here) - I love Kiehls as a brand and their night time range and travel sizes are amongst my favourites.  This Mask is described as being An advanced oil-infused hydrating sheet mask, formulated with cold-pressed Amazonian Oils, for skin that looks glowing and dewy.  What draws me to it is the fact it is an oil-infused sheet mask which is said to be incredibly hydrating, formulated with cold-pressed Amazonian Oils and is a 2-piece hydrogel mask.  Slightly on the expensive side, but it is Kiehls and I have never had any issue with using Kiehls products on my skin.

Aside from all of this I do of course have my eyes on a lot of other new products which ive seen on social media feeds but most of them are not even in any UK stores, so that will probably be another list to come!

I would love to know what products you have your eyes on right now!

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here;l'

REN Skincare - AHA Smart Renewal Body Serum

When REN Skincare announce they have a new launch, you know it is going to be an amazing product. One of the newest launches is the AHA-rich body serum and I have been lucky enough to have been using it for a good few weeks now and it is quite unlike anything else I have used.  With Spring having finally arrived and that yellow ball of delight becoming visible in the sky, for me it is time to ensure I am buffed and scrubbed anywhere that there is to be skin on show - those FitFlops will be coming out soon so my feet need to look as nice as feet possibly can and my legs probably need a good descaling, much like the kettle in the kitchen at work.

We have all probably used AHA's in facial skincare, but now having something for the body is a whole new ball game and here is the REN Skincare AHA Smart Renewal Body Serum.

Your NEW silky, AHA-rich body serum. What to expect? Improved skin texture by boosting the natural exfoliating process, deeply hydrated skin and a more perfected skin tone. Now you can get that insta-glow all over.

The texture of this serum is really light, much lighter than I had expected for a serum and for me, it is more like a cream but the texture is just so lovely to use.  The first thing I noticed when massaging into the skin is that it absorbs pretty much on contact, so you don't have to stand around for what feels like hours waiting for everything to disappear into the skin before you can get dressed. It also smells heavenly of a citrus scent and leaves your skin feeling so soft and smooth to the touch as well as looking rather fabulous too.

This moisturising body serum will gently resurface and re-energise your skin's natural radiance and it does so thanks to the inclusion of Lactic Acid which gently exfoliates, aiding skin's natural cell renewal process and helps to even out pigmentation and skin tone. It is also enriched with Pro-biotic Extract to help strengthen skin's barrier and prevent water loss and Xylitol which optimises water flow and boosts skin hydration.

The Benefits of using this serum? Well there are four which immediately spring to mind and they are that it: 

• Smoothens and softens the skin surface 
• Improves skin barrier 
• Deeply hydrates the skin 
• Improves skin healthy glow 

What I really love about this product is the fact I don't have to use anything overly abrasive to remove dead and dry skin cells because this one is doing it all for me whilst at the same time smelling delightful and hydrating my skin.

Priced at £35 for a 200ml tube you can find it via the REN skincare website (here) and also John Lewis (here).

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here

Cleansing with Caudalie

Caudalie is a brand that if you haven't tried, then you should.  Their story starts back in a French Vineyard in 1995 with Mathilde and Bertrand Thomas, a husband and wife. They believe the grapevine and grapes contain exceptional powers for the skin and they use the best ingredients to develop beauty products that are not only effective but also natural and luxurious. Over time I have used a lot of Caudalie products and absolutely adore the Divine Oil, a product most people seem familiar with because it is a great multi-use oil.

Over the past few weeks, I have been using some incredible products which you can mix and change to create your own tailored

Caudalie Micellar Cleansing Water - Described as being a bit of a cult product for Caudalie, this Cleansing Water is amazing at breaking down and removing the most stubborn of waterproof mascara (Benefit They're Real for example) without the need to over rub the eyes. Having been specially formulated with sensitive skin in mind, I love how incredibly well this micellar water effectively removes all traces of make-up and grime and it does so without leaving your skin feeling dry and taut after using. 

It does contain the signature grape extracts that you will find present in all of Caudalies products and it so it smells lovely when using. I have absolutely no complaints about using this Micellar Cleansing Water and as someone who in general hasn't been a fan of such products until very recently, this one definitely gets the thumbs up from me and it costs just £14 for 200ml.

Caudalie Cleansing Milk - If a Micellar Water isn't for you, then Caudalie have a cleansing milk too and whilst it naturally doesn't contain any milk, this has been a delight to use.  Perfect for using every day, the texture of this cleansing milk is just so soothing as it is applied to the skin.  An almost velvety soft texture which has been designed to again remove make up, dirt, oil and impurities from your pores and because it is formulated for those with normal to dry skin, it is enriched with grape extracts, cornflower and oat extract, all of which work to not only decongest the skin to leave it looking bright but it also works at protecting against free radical damage. 

For me, I use this as a morning cleanser because I didn't feel it was enough to remove all my makeup if I have a full face. If I am just wearing a non-waterproof mascara and a BB Cream, then I use it in an evening too. I love how my skin feels after using this cleanser and I love how gentle it is on my skin. Priced at £15 for 200ml.

Caudalie Instant Foaming Cleanser - I know a lot of people don't like foaming cleansers, but this one is just divine to use.  With a handy pump action spray, when used it does transform into a light and airy foam.  I have used a few foaming cleansers in the past and have quite liked how they work, this one is designed to gently yet effectively removes make up, dirt and oil from your skin, for a deep cleansing experience.

It is ideal for all skin types, even for those with the most sensitive skin.  Enriched with extracts of grape and chamomile which calms and soothes redness, there is also the use of Sage which as an astringent helps to combat oiliness as well as ward off free-radicals. I really like that this cleanser doesn't aggravate my skin and it works perfectly well alongside the Micellar Cleanser water if you are a fan, like me, of double cleansing. Priced at £15 for a 150ml bottle.

Makeup Removing Cleanser Oil - I am quite picky with cleansing oils, I really like using them as long as they are not too greasy and don't leave a tacky feeling on the skin.  Caudalie formulate their Cleansing oil using 100% natural ingredients which includes both Sunflower and Castor Oil, they come together to dissolve every little bit of makeup on your face as well as any surface dirt and grime.

If you love the scent of almonds then you will love this oil.  You only need at most 3 drops onto the palm of your hand to gently massage onto your skin and when needed, a few drops of water to emulsify and wipe anyway the excess when you have finished.  As expected there is no greasy film on the skin after using and it does remove absolutely everything in its path, even waterproof mascara.  Priced at £18 for 150ml.

So once the cleansing products have been used, there is a whole host of skincare to discover and again, I am sharing three of the products I was kindly sent.

Caudalie Moisturising Toner - Using a toner is something I have done on and off for years. I go through a routine of liking them or hating them. Caudalie's moisturising toner is designed to improve the condition of your skin as well as brighten and boost the effectiveness of your skincare routine.

Enriched with Vinolevure, Caudalie's exclusive ingredient which is extracted from wine yeast, it is said to not only brighten the skin but also leave you with a more radiant complexion, as well as deeply hydrating your skin. I absolutely love the scent of this with its 

scent of citrus flower, orange tree leaves as well as that of watermelon and crushed mint. Coming together, I find the toner is as soothing as it is moisturising and it completes the cleansing routine you follow really nicely too. At £15 for 200ml, this is a toner I will gladly purchase when I run out.

Caudalie Glycolic Peel Mask (£22) - Described as being a gentle resurfacing treatment, this is a mask which exfoliates and refines the skins texture and as you might have guessed, it uses glycolic acid and papaya enzymes to dissolve the bonds which bind dulling dead cells to skin’s surface.  The non-irritating formula also uses viniferine, which is packed with antioxidants, to reduce dark spots and improve pigmentation.

You only need to use this mask twice a week at the most and in doing so, a thick layer should be applied after cleansing and then left for up to ten minutes before rinsing with warm water, this isn't a mask which dries hard on your skin and because you only need to leave it on for just 10 minutes, it also means it is great for on the go. What I really like about this mask, is that it deals so effectively with the dryness I get on my cheeks thanks to having combination skin.  I have found no redness, no irritation and no reaction having used this mask.  Priced at £22 for a 75ml tube.

The final product in my Caudalie package is the VineActiv Overnight Detox Oil . Described as being a rich all-natural oil, it is packed full of hydrating and anti-ageing ingredients.  I love how lightweight the formula is especially given that it is an oil and it is designed to deeply absorb itself into your skin to enhance what is referred to as your cells’ repair processes so that it can ‘reverse’ the day’s damage. 

it is not only rich in Omega 6 and Vitamin E but you will also find the essential oils of lavender, neroli, carrot and white sandalwood which come together to regenerate, detoxify, hydrate and soothe the skin as well as to eliminate toxins and speed up cell renewal so you’ll wake up with a glowing, renewed complexion.  I love products which can be applied to the skin and left to work their magic overnight, it is almost like having a lazy skincare routine.  All you need is between 4 and 6 drops of this oil warmed between the palms of your hands and then massaged onto clean skin.  Priced at £30 for 30ml.

So, there you have an arsenal of products to Pick n Mix your very own cleansing routine.  Whether you have sensitive, dry, combination or even normal skin, there is something for everyone.  As for me, I adore the Cleansing Milk and the Oil as well as the Toner and overnight Oil but equally and depending on my mood, I like the Micellar Water used alongside the Instant Foaming Cleanser too.

All of these products from Caudalie are available instore and online at places such as Lookfantastic, John Lewis, Feelunique, SpaceNK and Cult Beauty.  

Have you seen any products you like the look of?

*this post contains PR samples and/or Affiliate Links unless indicated otherwise - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page here