My Clarins x ASOS Exclusive Skincare Kit

ASOS have some really good collaborations with brands when it comes to beauty boxes and the current offering comes from My Clarins.  This exclusive collaboration was priced at just £19 and is an absolute bargain.

My Clarins, which features fruit and plant-based ingredients in all their natural and nourishing glory is described as being the new gen-line for Clarins. This edit features five travel-size products which include:

• Clarins 01 Natural Lip Perfector: 5ml - This lip balm lip balm can be worn alone for a sheer, subtle tint, or over your favourite lip shade
• My Clarins RE-FRESH Hydrating Beauty Mist: 1.5ml - - This mist mist helps refresh dry, tired skin
• My Clarins RE-MOVE Purifying Cleansing Gel: 30ml - This foaming gel cleanser helps remove traces of makeup, while purifying and protecting skin
• My Clarins RE-BOOST Refreshing Hydrating Cream: 15ml - Described as being a lightweight, fast-absorbing moisturiser contains nourishing coconut water and detoxifying Alpenrose extract
• My Clarins RE-CHARGE Relaxing Sleep Mask: 15ml - This is a plant-based face mask contains acerola seed, fig and huang qi extracts to detoxify and hydrate skin

As well as all of these products, you also get the branded pink pouch which has the phrase "Well Done Nature" written on it.

This My Clarins x ASOS skincare kit has now sold out but it is always worth keeping an eye out for more.

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

Feelunque Iconic Makeup Beauty Bag - GWP

Who doesn't love a good old Gift With Purchase (GWP) offering? Right now on Feelunique, if you spend £100 or more across the site, then this Beauty Bag could be yours and it is worth over £100!

Inside you will find a whole host of products including everything from skincare, self-tanning and makeup and all from a range of brands.

Contents

• St Tropez Self Tan Purity Face Mist (80ml) - Infused with 100% natural tanning agents, this ultra-lightweight and vegan-friendly clear mist does not need to be rinsed off.
• Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch (15ml) - A magical melting, invisible texture which perfectly smooths the skin by leaving an imperceptible veil over its surface. 
• Anastasia Beverley Hills Brow Whiz Eyebrow Pencil - With 10 colours available, this is an award-winning ultra-slim, retractable pencil that creates precise, hair-like strokes.
• Lancôme Hypnôse Custom-Wear Mascara - The SoftSculpt ™ formula is enriched in ProVitamin B5 and leaves lashes feeling soft and supple.
• Perricone MD No Makeup Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF20 - a sheer coverage foundation that creates a more uniform complexion without masking the skin, it also offers luminous and dewy finish. 
• Barry M Glitter Bomb Glitter Eyeshadow - a 3D dazzling party for your eyes! Overflowing with lustrous, iridescent sparkle and shimmer using pearl and glitter flecks, each shade comes in a highly pigmented, light-weight cream formula that makes applying and blending a dream
• Smashbox Cosmetics Photo Finish Primerizer - delivers 24-hour hydration plus powerful primer benefits in the lightest possible texture.
• Givenchy Le Rouge Lipstick - a soft & lightweight texture that glides effortlessly on the lips, delivering an intense colour from the very first stroke.
• Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara Waterproof - One of the best mascaras I have ever used from a high street brand. It has a special conic shape of the fiber brush adds length and dramatic volume for an amazing false lash effect
• Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray - This All Nighter Setting Spray keeps makeup looking gorgeously just-applied for up to 16 hours—without melting, fading or settling into fine lines.

As well as all of these products, you also get the faux leather pink pouch to keep them all in!

This Iconic Makeup Beauty Bag from Feelunique is available right now here.

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

Vinyl flooring for all occasions

Your home is no doubt the centre of all the biggest life events that go on over the years. When special occasions arrive, all we want to do is celebrate, be with family and have fun. However, that can be a challenge if you find yourself constantly worrying about cleaning up after any big event. 

Photo by Jarek Ceborski on Unsplash

With the help of modern manufacturing technology, vinyl flooring can offer you peace of mind in this circumstance, so you can relax and treasure those special days.

Celebrations galore

In an economy where the price of a decent celebratory meal and drinks makes you think about taking out a loan, many people are opting to host their events at home. The problem is that fixtures and fittings can get damaged and sometimes that damage cannot be fixed. 

The best vinyl flooring will offer you multiple defence properties such as Scratch Guard technology and moisture resistance. Meaning that if your celebrations are likely to leave behind a mess of spilled food and drink, your flooring is the best place it could land. No liquids can seep into vinyl flooring and no marks from broken glass or crockery will be made. Breathe a sigh of relief and know that your flooring will be safe from your party guests.

Winding down

Another great use for vinyl flooring is to when you want to create a specific feng sui. For example, the bathroom can be made into your own Thai spa thanks to the luxurious vinyl textures of stone and wood, which when installed in a neutral colour will help to calm and soothe you at the end of a long hard day.

Family get togethers

During seasons such as Christmas, a cosier and more warming environment is more appealing that large open spaces. Luckily, vinyl flooring has plenty of oak vinyl planks which can immediately offer your space a feeling of togetherness. For the best way to make large spaces feel quainter, try oak in burgundy, mahogany, or a wine-red shade, all which will look brilliant under a Christmas tree or fairy lights.

What is even better is that if you have your family staying over the festive seasons, don’t worry about a noisy house because the layers of vinyl flooring work to soften the sound of the contact between the flooring and soles of shoes, so you can still enjoy a good night’s sleep after full day of company.

Make vinyl flooring a permanent guest in your home

As you can see vinyl flooring has a lot to offer, and it offers next to nothing in return. It’s cheaper than authentic woods, slate or stone and only needs a simple brush and mop to keep it looking brand new. The only problematic thing is where to start looking?

Amtico offers a fabulous selection of vinyl flooring which contains all the great features we have just explored. Signature Woods, Spacia and Abstract show true diversity in styling patterns and domestic flooring capabilities. Luvanto can deliver you the option to uniquely design your flooring using style patterns through their Parquet, Endure Pro and Click and Herringbone ranges.

From wedding receptions to a night in with your other half, vinyl flooring can set the mood for you and give you more time to enjoy the moment.

*this post contains paid for Links - you can learn more on my Disclaimer page.

Bodhi & Birch Tomato Seed Cleansing Oil

Anyone who knows me will know just how much I adore tomatoes, for me, the scent of them growing is one of life's pleasures and there isn't a year that goes by that I don't grow my own, in fact, this year, we have managed to plant a whole host of veggies, but perhaps that is for a different blog post.  The fabulous Elijah, from Bodhi & Birch, who make some of the most amazing products, kindly sent me the Tomato Seed Cleansing Oil and wow!

As with all products from Bodhi & Birch, they look just stunning and I so luxurious when sitting on your shelf, though admittedly, this beauty has not been sitting still for that long! The Tomato Seed Cleansing Oil is part of the Superfoods Series which makes them mixable, multi-use, essential oil-free skincare featuring potent superfood ingredients and pure natural minerals.

This Cleansing Oil is described as being a gentle cleanser that is packed with a whole list of incredible ingredients. For me, the joy of using a product is understanding what ingredients it uses and why they are used - whether it is an essential oil, Hyaluronic Acid or even a Retinol, I want to know what its purpose is and why I should be using it on my skin. It will come as no surprise that making an appearance within this oil is Organic Tomato Seed Oil. Tomato Seed Oil is packed with Vitamin E, antioxidants, minerals and phytosterols. On the skin, these all help to smooth out fine lines and diminish age spots to give the skin that fresh glow. However, it also helps to promote the quick healing of scars. Further ingredients within this cleansing oil include:

• Organic Plum Kernel Oil - This is so incredibly nourishing and rich in oleic acid, linoleic acid vitamin E, B and pro-vitamin B5. With its ability to also moisturise, protect and support the health of your skin, Plum Kernal Oil has a scent you might not be expecting to find associated with it and that an almond marzipan scent, which whilst I hate Marzipan as food (it is vile so don't @ me), I absolutely adore its scent.
• Organic Rosehip Oil - One of my favourite oils to use on my skin and it is which is known for its skin regenerative, softening and moisturising properties. It is also said that Rosehip Oil helps and is proven to decrease signs of premature skin ageing and thanks to its broad spectrum of essential fatty acids and vitamins help the skin against surface blemishes, skin pigmentation and it also helps with restoring the skin back to its radiant youthful glow.
• Organic Pomegranate Seed Oil - Helps to fight free radicals as well to add protection against sun damage. Used because it helps to fend off free radicals to keep skin ageing at bay as well as providing protection against sun damage. This oil also contains punicic acid which is a unique omega 5 fatty acid which acts as an anti-inflammatory. This oil also has the ability to stimulate the production of keratin which in turn strengthens the skin.
• Organic Cranberry Seed Oil - High in the Vitamins of A, C, E and K which together work to improve the firmness and elasticity of the skin. Powerful antioxidants and phytosterols work to protect the skin from free radical damage,, before Omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids help keep skin feeling hydrated.
• Organic Camellia Oil - This is a cold-pressed oil from the seeds of the tea plant and in turn is a rich source of Omega 3, 6 and 9 which along with Vitamin E works to deeply moisturise the skin to leave it feeling soft, smooth and looking radiant.

What I love, despite all of these oils playing their part within the cleanser, is that on the skin, you don't have a heavy product, it is much more lightweight than you expect, but still does an amazing job at cleaning the skin.

As you can see, the cleansing oil is bright tomato orange and on the skin, it actually doesn't turn you into an Oompa Loompa, but, I would advise you to use a darker cloth to wipe your face with because it does stain white muslin cloths. That aside, my skin absolutely loves this cleanser, it is calming and soothing and does an incredible job at removing pretty much everything in its path and for those of you, like me who love to double cleanse, then this is a great product to start with.

When I apply this oil, I do so using my hands by warming, as advised, 4 to 6 pumps between palms and then gently massage into skin.  As I massage the oil onto my skin, my cloth to remove is sitting in a sink of hot water and then, using the steamy cloth, I place it over my face for a minute or two before gently removing the cleansing oil. It is such a treat every time I use the cleansing oil because the scent is one that I can identify with reference to freshly growing tomatoes in the greenhouse, so with it comes that earthy scent that I just adore and there is just a slight hint of fruitiness, which is unsurprising given the other oils that are used.

I was also kindly gifted a Bodhi & Birch Cleansing Cloth with this oil (£15) and it is described as being a luxuriously soft organic cotton cleansing cloth specifically designed for use in the Superfoods Series cleansing ritual.

What makes this cloth all the more special is that they have been crocheted by hand and it is so soft and smooth and just an absolute delight to use. It also works really well with the oil and it doesn't show any of the stains that I found on my white muslin cloths.  I have also washed this cloth 5-6 times now and as you can see, it looks just as good above as it does when it first arrived (first pic) because I have followed the washing instructions by Bodhi and Birch.

You can find out more about the Bodhi & Birch Superfood series online and see what other products are within the series, for me, this Cleansing Oil has been an absolute delight to use and I love, having now read further about the range, that it can be used with others in the collection.

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

Marks & Spencer Summer Beauty bag

Marks & Spencer has really upped their Beauty game over the last few years, with new products such as their Apothecary range and some big brands such as Pixi and Emma Hardie now shoppable, my nearest Beauty Hall is a dream to wander around and browse. Right now, M&S has launched their Summer Beauty Bag and with contents worth over £110 it is worth having a look at.

Priced at £15, you get 11 products but as always there is a slight catch - you do need to spend £25 across clothing, home and beauty to get it. Now that is really easy to do and a great treat when you stock up on some favourites.

Inside the bag you will find:

• Nuxe Sun Melting Cream SPF50 30ml - A high-protection fondant cream with anti-ageing cellular protection. It helps limit the appearance of dark spots, too – perfect for fair skin and sensitive areas.
• REN Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic 50ml - An effective skin-resurfacing toner to exfoliate and brighten your complexion, gentle enough for daily use. I have a full review of this product on my blog.
• Full Size Pure Super Hydrate Day Cream SPF15 - A lightweight day cream that moisturises for 12 hours thanks to its nourishing natural ingredients. Made in the UK, it’s non-greasy, hydrating and helps protect your skin from the sun’s rays
• Full Size Sun Smart After Sun Face Mask - Hydrate and nourish sun-exposed skin, leaving it feeling soft, supple and smooth. Formulated to deliver instant benefits, such as peeling prevention and a prolongued tan
• Color Wow Color Security Conditioner Mini 75ml - The ideal partner to Color Security Shampoo – smoothes, detangles and hydrates colour-treated hair
• Color Wow Color Security Conditioner Mini 75ml - The ideal partner to Color Security Shampoo – smoothes, detangles and hydrates colour-treated hair
• Full Size Pixi Endless Silky Eye Pen - An incredibly long-wearing gel eye pencil that glides on and stays in place all day long. I have a full review of this product here on my blog.
• Full Size Autograph Colour Shine Lip Lacquer - An ultra-shine formula with cushioning technology to make lips appear fuller
• Seasalt & Freesia Perfume 10ml - Wonderfully refreshing, this sea salt & freesia eau de toilette has a lovely citrus and floral scent

Plus to keep everything in, you also get the Transparent pink cosmetic bag, which is described as being practical and pretty to carry your summer beauty essentials in style in this easy-to-clean pouch.

I would love to know what you think to this offer - it is 

available right now.

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

Laboratorio Olfattivo Nun Eau De Parfum

Working from home might mean I am not wearing office attire every single day, but I am still functioning as a human being and getting dressed as though I am going to work, even though that means moving from the bed to the sofa with my laptop.  One product I wear daily is perfume, it is almost a robotic action after getting dressed and completing my skincare routine.  New to my collection is a fragrance I had never come across until it was kindly sent to me and I absolutely adore it. Meet Laboratorio Olfattivo Nun.

Laboratorio Olfattivo was born in 2009 when Daniela Caon and Roberto Drago’s love for niche perfumes. Fast forward to 2020 and there is now a collection of Eau de Parfum, Room Fragrances, soaps, sample kits, toiletry collections and more besides.

Like all fragrances, they are created to tell a story, usually through their notes and brand history. This one is no different.  

By this palindrome word, the Ancient Egyptian meant the primordial water, in other words the God Nun. According to the legend, this water gave birth to the Lotus, a flower which was used to hide into the water during the night, to open up again at the sunshine. While blossoming out the flower revealed the Sun God Atum. Hence the symbolism of the Sun God, of rebirth.

This fragrance arises from the Nun and opens up at the sunshine, while its scented molecules spread out into the air. It’s a tribute to this iconic, symbolic flower.

Now if that isn't a story behind a fragrance then I don't know what is. It opens with a real burst of citrus notes - Pear, Bergamot, Lemon and Neroli which individually are quite dominant notes but together, the pear brings about sweetness and allows the heart notes of blossoming lotus, Jasmine and Ylang-Ylang to come into their own. I love a fragrance which has Jasmine as a note, I can guarantee that 90% of my perfume collection is jasmine based as it just works with my skin oils so well. The heart notes are floral notes, they don't allow the top notes to dominate and instead, as the fragrance settles, the base notes of Woods, Amber, and Musk give the fragrance a fresh earthy scent which is just beautiful.

On this skin, this is a fragrance which lasts all day, by that I mean I apply it around 8am and I can still catch its scent around 5pm, though not as strong as it was after application. If I was going out of an evening, then I would re-apply.

I love everything about this fragrance from the outer box packaging to the luxurious bottle with the stylish label to the actual scent itself. Perfect for these warmer days and a definite fragrance for uplifting the mood.

Priced at £90 for 100ml, you can find Laboratorio Olfattivo Nun Eau De Parfum 

at Liberty.

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

Typology Skincare - Vegan, Ethical and Effective

Popular French skincare brand Typology has just launched here in the UK and boy-oh-boy is it just stunning. Created by Made.com’s co-founder, Ning Li, you can see just how much of an eye for detail he has because what Typology is giving to you is luxurious skincare at affordable prices and I was sent a whole host of products to try.

The brand has seven ranges covering moisturisers, facial soaps, lip care, hair care and you will also find perfumes too, but despite the broad range of products available, each one, as mentioned is affordable, but what the brand really concentrates on is ingredients and sustainability - both of which are important in skincare. The formulas are referred to as minimalist and with everything superfluous having been removed and everything that has remained within the products is clearly explained.

Typology was born out of a mission: to demystify the skincare industry through a simple and honest approach. We make naturally active, effective and sustainable skincare in France.

For Typology staying true to their philosophy of simplicity and transparency means they intend to remain uncompromising in their mission to offer consumers a premium natural skincare alternative. More of this can be ready on the Typology website.

Within my lovely box of products, I have no less than 8 products and they have been sent to be after a brief conversation with the lovely Marie about my skincare, my routine and what I want to achieve from the products I use. This kind of conversation with brands is too rare for me, very few do it and it is important.  Within my box of products, I also have six sample vials of fragrances to try and they will appear in a separate post.

The first product I tried was the Plantes 1002 Solidy Purifying Cleansing Bar (£11.80) also known as the Purifying cleansing bar with nettle and it can be used on both the face and the body. This purifying face and body cleanser is suitable for all skin types, especially combination to oily skin that's prone to blemishes. 

It uses three purifying actives and four botanical butters and oils, so you will find Organic eucalyptus globulus essential oil which helps to reduce the size of the sebaceous glands and regulates sebum production, Nettle Powder which is rich in mineral salts and helps to rebalance oily skin and Organic olive oil which calms skin prone to redness. This Cleansing Bar lathers like a dream, it smells absolutely incredible and during this hot and sticky weather we have enjoyed recently, it brings about a coolness to the skin, which I really enjoyed.

I am a huge fan of Cleansing oils, so was delighted to see the Ten 2002 Cleansing Oil (£14.80). Designed to remove your make-up, this oil is fragrance-free and non-greasy, so when applied to the skin, either by hands or with a cotton pad, it doesn't leave a film after use. 

Made using over 7 ingredients, you will find the likes of Sweet almond oil which nourishes and improves the elasticity of the skin, as well as hosting soothing properties which calm the skin and reduce tightness. Then there is Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate which is an emulsifier derived from coconut and it makes the job of rinsing the make-up remover oil off the skin straightforward.

A product I have never quite been excited about is a Micellar Water, I've tried quite a few and I have liked them, but I've not been excited by them. Now this one changes everything for me and that is quite a huge statement. The Ten 2001 Micellar Water (£11.80) has been developed using only the most essential ingredients and in this case - just 7! 

Suitable for all skin types, you apply the Micellar Water to your cotton wool pad, hopefully, a reusable one, and wipe away the day. Alongside Purified Water you will also find Glycerin which moisturises the superficial layers of the skin and Poloxamer 184 which is described as being a surfactant that removes make-up particles from the entire face.

One product I am never without is a lip balm and from Typology I have been using the Ten 1004 Lip Balm (£9.80). Described as being a minimalist fragrance-free formula which nourishes the lips to reduce tightness and dryness. 

Like other products within the range, this Lip Balm has been made using essential ingredients and within this balm, there are just 9. Some of the ingredients within this balm include Shea Butter which offers anti-inflammatory and nourishing properties and protects the lips from feeling dry, Lemon Extract which offers a cooling, refreshing effect while applying. Plus Sunflower seed oil which is rich in antioxidants and protects the lips against free radicals while nourishing and softening.

Within my collection are two serums, the Lab 1006 Niacinamide 12% (£11.80) and the Lab 1008 Glycolic Acid 10%, both of which I was delighted to see.  Firstly with the Niacinamide, it is an ingredient my skin just loves and it is used to help reduce redness caused by skin inflammation as well as helping to diminish the appearance of pimples and blemishes, whilst at the same time working to smooth and refine the texture of the skin. This serum is really easy to apply, all you need is 3 to 4 drops to your clean and dry skin in circular motions and you can use it every morning and evening. 

I suffer from redness to my skin whenever I am stressed or feeling run down, so I am delighted to have discovered Niacinamide as an ingredient as it does go some way to calming and soothing for me.

Then we have Glycolic Acid (£11.80) an ingredient which is known for its exfoliating properties on the skin as well as its ability in reducing the presence of blackheads, caused by the accumulation of sebum in the pores.  This Glycolic Acid also features Chamomile Extract which is known for its soothing and repairing properties, plus mastic pistachio extract which tightens pores, reduces shine and helps to reduce the appearance of blackheads.

As with the Niacinamide, you need 3-4 drops of the serum, but this is only to be used of an evening and if you do use it, SPF is an absolute must the following day, though you should be applying it anyway. Once on the skin, it is usual to feel a slight tingling and even experience some redness. After using, my skin feels incredibly soft and smooth to the touch and because I have combination oily skin, it does go some way to helping to reduce that shine.

The Typology Raw Collection is one that absolutely fascinates me. Directly extracted from plants, these botanical oils are 100% pure, natural, and almost entirely sourced from organic farming and they are ideal for every part of the skin, these oils can be applied daily to the face, body or hair. From the collection, I the organic Hazelnut Oil.

The Hazelnut Oil (£11.80) is something I had never used anything like before and was really intrigued by it. Described as being the product to regulate sebum production and soften the skin and is therefore ideal for combination or oily skin. It is non-greasy, it doesn't strip the skin and it is ideal for applying before you go to bed, as advised to do so.  

The final product I have to share is the Orange Blossom Hydrolate (£8.80) is one of my favourite products from this entire collection. As well as being refreshing and soothing, this product is also said to offer noticeable radiance to the complexion while regenerating the skin. In aromatherapy, orange blossom hydrolate is one which, thanks to its properties, is known to calm nerves, promote self-confidence, and create comfort, so in a product like this, because it can be used morning and evening, it is one of those oils in which you should give yourself time to use and really take in the scent, because it is just beautiful and a definite in times of stress and need.

If it isn't already obvious, I absolutely love this brand. I love the concept, the story, the use of ingredients and better still, there is still so many products that I really want to try from the brand! I am really excited to see where this brand will be in the next few weeks, months and year! Have any of these products caught your eye?

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

The Perfume Shop’s new range, ME

A few months ago I was invited along to the launch of “ME” the new range of fragrances from The Perfume Shop.  

Me consists of a new range of perfumes, home fragrances and body care products that through the power of fragrance helps you feel Tranquil, Invigorated and Empowered.

“Today we hear a lot about improving ourselves, being the best we can be, and optimising every element of our life. That’s all great, but what if we wanted to take a little time out and ask isn’t it time we were all #HappyBeingMe”

The campaign and the timely launch of these products are all about celebrating the way you feel and your moods. The range is vegan, cruelty-free and is presented in completely recyclable packaging.

Of the three ranges available, I was given a mixture of the fragrances and products. Each of the scents for each range is said to distinctive and individual and within each range, you can find - an Eau de Parfum, Body Lotion, Hand Lotion, Hand Wash, candle, reed diffuser and a shower gel. 

From the Tranquil range, I have the EDP, a unisex fragrance which comes packaged in a hefty weighted clear glass bottle with the name Granquil written clearly in the mint green colour matching the box and it features a wooden lid. 

Tranquil as a range asks you to find peace and serenity with the fresh, green scent.

“The perfect spring floral green scent with a basil top note, a middle note of neroli and base notes of Vetiver and white musk”

As soon as the scent is spritzed they earthiness of the basil top note is immediately recognisable as it settles and it works well with Vetiver but the scent of Neroli which is a citrusy orange fragrance gives this EDP a kick. Priced at £14.99 for 100ml this makes a really good gift.

From the Invigorated range I have the Reed Diffuser and the body lotion and both products are simply divine.

The Invigorated range is described as being on which helps you feel awake and energised with the fresh and floral scents.

“A fresh, fruity-floral scent with a distinctive top note of blackberry, middle notes of bay leaves and a base note of cedarwood”

Looking at the notes for this range it definitely reminds me of Jo Malone and the scent itself is not too dissimilar, for me, it is slightly stronger on the blackberry note but with the inclusion of cedarwood which has a Woody tone to it, it gives the fragrance a more balanced scent.

The reed diffuser is quite potent, I have mine in the hallway and it is a scent you notice as soon as you enter the house. The body lotion is lightweight on the skin but it is also hydrating without being tacky or greasy when applied. 

Finally from the Empowered range, I have the fragranced candle and the soap.

Empowered is described as helping you to conquer the day with its revitalising blend of zesty citrus and aromatic notes:

“A citrus aromatic scent with top notes of lime, mandarin, orange and bergamot. Middle notes of basil, lilac, iris and thyme with base notes of Vetiver and amber wood.

This is my favourite scent of the three and there is something unique about it. I love the sharpness of the citrus notes which are not too strong but definitely noticeable against the earthy tones of the basil, Vetiver and to some extent amber wood. 

The entire ME range is on sale via The Perfume Shop with prices starting at £5.99 right up to the £14.99 price of the Eau de Parfum. 

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

NEW - Urban Decay Naked Ultraviolet Eyeshadow Palette

I am a huge fan of Urban Decay Palettes, so much so I have every single one of the Naked Palettes including the petite versions, finally grabbing the original before it disappeared off the shelves, but hopefully not forever! New to the family, which I saw on Temptalia, is the new Naked Ultraviolet Eyeshadow Palette and I already love it. On sale now!

Photo via Temptalia

"Purple has been Urban Decay’s signature since day one, so we’re bringing you wildly wearable shades with the new Naked Ultraviolet Eyeshadow Palette. Our supercharged lineup is designed to look good on everyone – these 12 intensely pigmented mattes, metallics, and holographic shimmers are a lucid dream come to life. Add a versatile pop of purple to every eyeshadow look, from soft to bold. It’s time to experiment with this futuristic mix of peachy neutrals, trippy lilacs, magnetic violets and blacklight purples.”

The palette features 12 intensely pigmented mattes, metallics, and holographic shimmers and those shades, moving from left to right across the palette are called:

• Trippin’
• Mind Slip
• Dazed
• Hacked
• VR
• Lucid
• Optimized
• Warning
• Cyber Punk
• Euphoric
• Purple Dust
• Digital

I already have my eye on the likes of VR and Dazed as well as Digital and I love that there is a mixture of neutrals and deeper shades.  I love that Urban Decay has kept this palette in the exact same format of the previous palettes and it launches this Summer, though the exact date and price are yet to be announced, I am hoping it comes with an entire wardrobe of lipsticks, purple mascaras and perhaps a new All Night Setting Spray, but until then... has Naked Ultraviolet caught your attention?

Available now in the UK and US

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

Post Treatment Laser Tips, To Keep Your Skin Smooth And Healthy

Laser hair removal is one of the most successful aesthetic treatments opted by millions today because of its efficiency and remarkable outcomes. Preparing yourself after the treatment is as important as doing it before you get yourself treated with a laser. Usually, the skin turns red, swollen, and becomes sensitive after that treatment and the areas around the hair follicles may also seem to be raised.

Photo by Mel Poole on Unsplash

But these normal side effects disappear in 24 hours after the laser hair removal*. If it is your first session, all these side effects will be even more obvious as the hair will be thick and coarse during that time. But in the later sessions, as the hair will thin out, the side effects will also reduce. It is advisable to give sufficient care for your skin even after your Laser sessions as follows:

1.  Take care of the initial uneasiness

Right after your laser session, you will see your skin turning red and you will experience a burning sensation like that of mild sunburn causing slight uneasiness. The treated area will also get swollen. So it is better to wear loose clothes to and fro the laser appointment to avoid such discomfort and pain.

This initial uneasiness can be treated by using ice packs (3 times a day for 10 minutes), aloe Vera gel (use it 3 – 4 times a day and refrigerate the gel for better results), and finally pain killers (if ice packs and aloe Vera remedies are not effective). If the pain persists for more than 24 hours it is better to call your doctor.

2.     Protect your skin

As the skin will already be sensitive after the treatment, exposing yourself to direct sunlight will cause more irritation, swelling, reddishness, and discomfort. It is advisable to keep away from direct sunlight for almost 2-4 weeks. Always use a sunscreen with SPF 30 when you go out and keep reapplying it when your skin wets or sweats.

 As the laser works with heat, exposing your skin to more heat can cause adverse effects. Stay away from hot water, saunas, and steam rooms for almost 48 hours after the treatment. The treated area will heal quickly when you bathe in cold or warm water. Also, avoid excessive exercise for 48 hours.

3.     Select the right post-treatment products

It is good to keep the skin always clean and so use mild cleansers that are designed only for sensitive skin. It doesn’t matter for how long you shower but keep the water temperature cool. Wash the treated areas only 1-2 times a day. Frequent washing will again aggravate the treated skin.

As the skin heals, your skin will feel dry. Applying a moisturizer that is specially designed for sensitive skin will be good. Gently apply it 3-4 times a day and avoid irritating your skin by rubbing forcefully. Avoid using makeup or any cosmetic products as it will worsen your skin again. Keep it simple and use the right products for your sensitive skin.

Give enough care for your smooth and sensitive skin after every laser session to keep it healthy.

*this post was written by Austin K

Alpha-H Vitamin Skin Serums

Bespoke skincare shouldn't be as difficult as it sounds and the team over at Alpha-H have created an entire range of products to make finding your perfect skincare a dream. With an updated packaging for their Vitamin wardrobe, the new colour-coded design makes them much easier to identify. If, like me, you love Liquid Gold, use a cleanser and a daily SPF, the option to amplify and personalise my skincare routine with a daily dose of Vitamin is a step I am willing to take - more so when they look this pretty!

Alpha-H has four vitamins within their collection - A, B, C and E and they are described as being more than single-ingredient serums but are instead one that has been paired with complementary ingredients which enhance their effect and boost your overall results.

As well as looking pretty in their pastel colour-coded boxes and bottles, each Vitamin serum used a pipette dropper system to dispense and you only need 3-4 drops of your chosen serum, which should be applied to clean, dry skin and then using circular motions, massage over the face, neck and decolletage.  So here are the Vitamins.

Working from left to right we have Vitamin A, B, C and then E and as you can see, they look just absolutely stunning.

Starting with Vitamin A which is for Authentic Ageing and lives in the pastel green bottle - This Vitamin is suitable for skin that is showing signs of ageing. Vitamin A Serum has been formulated with 0.5% Retinolin a really hydrating formula.  Retinol can assist to fight the first signs of ageing such as fine line, wrinkles, uneven tone and loss of firmness.  Alongside the Retinol, you will find Evening Primrose, Macadamia Seed Oil and Squalane. What I love about this product is that it is one for night time and it is great for using on those alternative evenings to Liquid Gold, if like me, you are a huge fan of that cult hero. Priced at £39 for 25ml.

Next, we have Vitamin B which is for Building Moisture and it is has the pastel blue bottle. This is the one I wanted to use right away, designed for skin that is showing signs of dehydration, so using a formula which incorporates Niacinamide and Copper Tripeptides. My skin absolutely loves Niacinamide and its job is to regulate sebaceous glands as well as to enhance the skin's barrier function and if that isn't enough if also works to reduce the signs of uneven skin texture and tone. The Copper Tripeptides work to firm and smooth the complexion making it the perfect partner to the Niacinamide. We also see the inclusion of Panthenol, Hyaluronic Acid and Chia Seeds which work together to assist with plumping and hydrating the skin.  This Vitamin B can be used in the morning or as with Vitamin A, an alternative to Liquid Gold in an evening. Priced at £39 for 25ml.

The pastel orange coloured bottle contains Vitamin C and it is for Collagen and Clarity.  Said to be suitable for skin that has dullness and pigmentation, this serum has been formulated using a stable form of Vitamin C in a lightweight and hydrating formula. The Vitamin C works to brighten, rejuvenate and protect the skin, so it helps to fight back against free radicals and reduces the appearance of sun damage and premature ageing. The additions within this serum are Licorice and Grape Seed Extracts which are designed to further help protect the skin. Used daily, Vitamin C serum can work in synergy with your SPF to defend your skin from the damaging and visible effects of UV exposure.  Priced at £39 for 25ml.

Finally, we have Vitamin E, which is found in the pastel pink bottle and is referred to as 'Emergency Repair'. Suitable for most skin types, Vitamin E serum has been formulated to not only nurture and protect but to also hydrate the skin. This antioxidant-rich serum also contains Macadamia Seed and Evening Primrose Oil which work to enhance the skin's natural barrier. The use of Vitamin E is important because not only has it been shown to aid in the reparative process, improving the appearance of acne scarring, sunburn and rosacea. As with the other products within this collection, Vitamin E can be used in the mornings or on those alternative evenings to Liquid Gold.

What I love about these Vitamin Serums is that they so easily fit into your routine and if you are still unsure as to which one you need, then Alpha-H has a quiz which helps you choose.  As things stand, I have been using Vitamin B in the morning and then on those alternative evenings to Liquid Gold, as advised I am using Vitamin A, though I can swap the A over for E if my skin is feeling a little dry.

You can purchase these Alpha-H Serums via Cult Beauty where they will be available separately or directly from Alpha-H who are offering all four serums (15ml sized) in one kit or £55.

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