Antipodes Baptise H20 Ultra-Hydrating Water Gel

Antipodes is one of those brands you didn't know you loved until you tried the Aura Manuka Honey Mask and then you need to try absolutely everything else is there is to offer. Pronounced An-Tip-oh-dees, the brand which hails all the way from New Zealand, its creator, Elizabeth Barbalich had a desire to create premium, scientifically validated, organic beauty products. She wanted them to be made from fully sustainable sources that could be used every day plus the packaging features fully recyclable bottles and aluminium tubes, and 100% biodegradable card from sustainable forests.

At the beginning of lockdown, I was sent this lovely packages from Antipodes which features their brand new Baptise H20 Ultra-Hydrating Water Gel which I will declare my love for now!

The Antipodes Baptise H20 Ultra-Hydrating Water Gel is described as being a weightless, intensive moisturiser that immerses thirsty skin in natural moisture without heaviness or oiliness.

Suitable for absolutely all skin types and once applied it absorbs so easily to hydrate the skin and it very much feels as though you have just had your face immersed in water only better. It glides onto the skin, it doesn't stick, it isn't tacky and I could bathe in it because it is just so refreshing.

If you are familiar with Antipodes, then you will know that their products have some amazing ingredients and this one is no different. Firstly we have Plant-originated hyaluronic acid which works with New Zealand manuka honey and harakeke gel to deeply hydrate skin.  Then we have Mamaku black fern which helps regenerate and foster healthy cells.  Finally, there is the addition of South Pacific hibiscus flower which gently exfoliates deadened skin cells to freshen your complexion. To make this product even more amazing, it has the most beautiful fresh rose scent, which doesn't actually linger on the skin at all.

If you are looking for a product to soothe and hydrate your skin, then Antipodes Baptise H20 Ultra-Hydrating Water Gel is definitely worth looking at. It can be found via Lookfantastic, Beauty Bay and Feelunique and is priced between £25 and £29.

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

Three Beauty Expert Must-have products

At Beauty Expert, there have been regular collections detailing some of the best the site has to offer, such as the Serenity Edit, which I featured on my blog just a few weeks ago.  More recently, I was kindly gifted some credit to spend on the website to buy and try some products from my wishlist.

As you can imagine, I had quite the wishlist of products that I want to try and I managed to narrow it down to three, which I had been wanting for quite some time.

The first product is from Peter Thomas Roth, a brand I have seen across many social media channels that I follow, yet a one I haven't tried. This Cucumber Gel Facemask is described as being a soothing face mask that is ideal for skin post peel, waxing, sun exposure or extractions. On the skin, this gel mask, with its gel formula, is really cooling and soothing on the skin

As the name suggests, this gel mask is enriched with Cucumber Extract and Aloe Vera, a blend of Papaya and Chamomile extracts which come together to comfort and soothe any irritation. Then we also have the inclusion of Pineapple, Sugarcane and Sugar Maple extracts which perform a visible brightening effect.  To use, the advice is to apply a generous amount to freshly cleansed skin and allow it to work for 10 minutes or for a more intensive treatment, it can be left on the face overnight.

I bought the sample size mask which comes perfectly packaged in a 14ml tube and is priced at just £6.72, a great idea for trying a product before purchasing a full-sized tub.

The second product is the Neom Organics Real Luxury Standard Scented Candle. I had intended to purchase a lipstick from Lipstick Queen, which is a brand I adore, but I got sidetracked by this candle. 

Described as being a refreshing, balancing aroma designed to relax, soothe it is perfect for those evenings and weekends when you just want to sit back and create an environment which just allows you to do just that. It uses a blend of 24 of the purest possible essential oils which includes lavender, Brazilian rosewood and jasmine with which not only smell wonderful but can help bring a feeling of calm.

This candle has been hand-poured using 100% natural wax and it has a burn time of up to 35 hours. It is priced at £36 for a single wick candle but there is the option of a 3 wick candle and even a travel edition.

The final item from my wishlist comes from ByTerry and it is the Beauty Essentials Kit, a collection of the brands iconic cult favourites housed inside a limited-edition pouch.

This Beauty Essentials Kit contains three products:

• Hyaluronic Hydra-Powder (1.5g) - Described as being an ultra-lightweight and completely invisible powder which controls shine without leaving skin looking dry or chalky. This loose powder contains whipped Hyaluronic Acid Microspheres that are designed to 'fill in' pores as well as to blur imperfections, leaving the skin looking and feeling smooth and more even-toned and it comes with the cutest mini sponge I have ever seen! I had been wanting to try this powder since it was released and now I have, I have already ordered a full size.
• Mascara Terrybly (4g) - I am a huge fan of mascara and am always wanting to try new ones. Included in this Essentials Kit is the Mascara Terrybly in Black Parti-Pris. This mascara is enriched with what is referred too as ‘Lumicoat Care Technology’ – a cocktail of glycoproteins, collagen and hyaluronic acid which conditions and promoted thickness of the lashes.  I really like the formula which isn't too wet when applied to the lashes, the wand grips and separates each individual lash without flaking, smudging and there is no sign of clumping either.
• Baume De Rose Le Soin Lèvres (2.3g) - One of the first products I ever used from the brand was the Baume de Rose Lip Balm. Infused with Shea Butter, Rose Flower Essential Wax and antioxidant Vitamin E, this balm softens and moisturises lips, whilst delivering subtle, non-sticky shine and promoting a plump appearance. This multi-purpose balm can also be used as an overnight lip treatment or it can also be applied on the nails and cuticles to nourish, fortify and protect from dryness. This balm is ideal for travelling, carrying in your handbag or placing on your bedside table.

These three products are packaged inside the most beautiful purple pouch which features the ByTerry logo and it is worth £45 but is priced at just £25 which is an absolute bargain.

As you can see, I chose three products which are all sold at incredible prices and right now, if you spend £60, Beauty Expert has an offering od saving 15% or 20% when using the code SPEND.

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

'How Best To Deal With The Extreme Heat This Summer'

Photo by Johnny Cohen on Unsplash

In recent weeks, we’ve had to deal with some of the most beautiful weather. In the UK, we don’t really get to enjoy extended periods of sunshine and humidity. We might get a few hours of sun, but then the clouds come back, and it becomes nearly freezing cold again. Sure, that will probably happen again soon enough, but right now, we’re in the midst of some pretty decent days! Summer is only just beginning, so you can expect this kind of climate to continue for at least a couple of months if you’re a UK resident! Good for you!

As someone that isn’t used to amazing weather in their home country, you might not be completely aware of how to take care of yourself and make the most of extremely hot temperatures. You probably know the basics, but, like most people, you probably still commit a few errors resulting in burning or some form of discomfort. We all get a little carried away when the lovely weather shows its face, so it’s nothing to be ashamed of – we’re all flawed humans, after all. 

So what can you do in order to keep safe and to deal with the most extreme days this year will have to offer? Fortunately, there’s no tough and ultra-secret formula to it – it’s actually just a case of repeatedly doing a few simple things. Here are seven points for you to heed:

Be Sure To Use Lots Of Sun Cream 

This absolutely goes without saying, but many people just don’t like the idea of doing it. They either dislike the process or the feeling, or they’ll be too lazy in the wonderful sun to take a couple of minutes out of their sunbathing. When you apply sun cream (or sunscreen), you’re quite literally saving yourself from both short-term and long-term health issues. We all know about the sunburn that the rays can give you, but we tend to neglect the idea that skin cancer and other serious skin conditions are prevalent in our species. Don’t be silly – cover up properly.

Drink Lots Of Water 

When you spend lots of time in the sun, you become very dehydrated, and your energy gets zapped from your systems. That’s why you need to make sure you keep yourself topped up with enough water. This is a basic task you need to do regardless of the weather, but it’s especially imperative during the really hot days. It may not seem like an important thing to do at first, but it becomes increasingly more obvious as the day gets on that you need fluids. It’s also wise to come prepared with some ibuprofen tablets or similar just in case you receive any outrageously bad headaches. Water is pretty boring, and lots of people can’t be bothered to drink it a lot of the time, but we’re made up of the stuff, so we need to keep refilling ourselves. 

Keep Your Pet(s) Safe

It’s not just you and your friends/family that have to deal with the heat; your furry friends also have to deal with it. Sure, some animals are completely fine in these kinds of climates, but many domestic pets struggle just as much as we do. Make sure you’re keeping them nice and cool during this entire summer – don’t neglect them for a second. Keep an eye on what they do. And, for goodness sake, do NOT leave them in your car while you run errands!

Eat Enough, Too!

You will obviously need to drink lots, but eating enough is also high on your list of priorities. You need to make sure you have all the energy in the world during these times – one moment, you could be fine; the next, you could be completely drained. It’s funny how your body tricks you like that. 

Do It With Friends!

This is a more light-hearted point, but still, one that should be said. When you’re around your friends and/or family, you’re in a much better headspace. When you’re in a better headspace, you tend to make better decisions – you also tend to have a better day overall. When you’re sitting on your own – even in the loveliest weather – it’s not quite the same. If you have the chance to be around your favourites, then take it – life is much better when you’re social. 

Take Appropriate Breaks! 

It’s tempting to stay out all day and get the best tan while enjoying the sun’s rays. If you have the endurance to do so, then, by all means, go right ahead. If you feel as though you need to go back indoors or sit in the shade for a little, then that’s also the right thing to do. You can’t be expected to immediately acclimatise to the new weather.

Have you got any tips on how to deal with the heat during the Summer?

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

GA-DE Cosmetics - An Introduction

GA-DE Cosmetics is a brand you might have seen all over your social media feed, not only because they have launched here in the UK but also because they are such a beautiful brand that looks just as amazing on screen as they do in your hand and on your skin.

If you didn't know, GA-DE is actually pronounced Jade and it is an award-winning cosmetics, skincare and perfumery company which hails all the way from Israel. They were founded in 1985 but didn't sell their products on the international markets until 1990. GA-DE has a whole range of products which they proudly tell you are designed to suit all skin types, and if that isn't enough the makeup range is described as being practical, wearable and timeless for an effortless and elegant look –or to put it more simply

 "GA-DE is your everyday makeup that enhances your own beauty, rather than altering it.”

Whether you want something for your cheeks, lips, eyes or complexion, GA-DE has a whole host of products that you will struggle to choose from. I was very kindly gifted a few products from the range and for the whole of lockdown, I've enjoyed playing with each and every one of these products.

First off can we just swoon over this Velveteen Eyeshadow Palette, which is just beautiful. Called Fall-Oh-Me, it is one of five available and whether you like a palette full of nude shades or something a little more experimental, GA-DE has a lot of choices.

Each palette features 9 different shades, starting on the top line with the lighter shades and as you work your way through the shades become a little deeper. The Palette features a mirror which fills the entire top half and with a magnetic close, your palette remains safe and secure, even if like me you drop it!

Enriched with Almond Oil to help protect the eye area, each one of these 9 shades has a variety of finishes which include matte, satiny, metallic, silky and shimmery. They also have a super soft formulation which makes them really easy to apply and blend.

The swatches shown above are not edited in any way, they are as you get them from the palette and I am showing a mixture of textures and shades.  Each palette from the collection is priced at just £22.

I am not usually a blusher kind of girl, then I was introduced to Velveteen Rose and Glow, a Blush and Shimmer Duet and it is just stunning.

Described as being a two-in-one blush duo that is a travel-ready compact of blush and shimmer for a healthy glow and radiant luminosity. The range has 4 different options depending on your preference and the one I have is Rose and Glow.

I love the detail offered on both the blush and the shimmer with the embossed brand name. Again it is enriched with sweet almond oil to protect and soften the skin.

Again, the swatches shown above are not edited in any way, they are as you get them from the palette. I adore the shimmer and it is something I have used quite a lot, it makes for quite a lovely highlight across the cheekbones, looking more natural than as tough you have dipped your face in metallic paint (it's not a look for me) and both colours apply to the skin like an absolute dream. This product is priced at £24.50.

The product most people seem interested in is the Everglow Hydrating Illuminator which I have to admit, I absolutely do adore.

If you hadn't guessed already, then this is a liquid highlighter presented in innovative packaging, with a cushion applicator wand. The applicator itself, which is a really soft sponge and it really helps with the application to the skin. What I love is that you can control just how much highlight you want to add to your skin and then because of the shape of the sponge, it makes adding to cheeks or even the brow incredibly easy.

The Illuminator is available in two shades - Gilded and Beam and the shade I have is Beam and it is just a stunning shade that would suit all skin tones. The formula, which features plant-derived squalane, so as well as giving your skin the most wonderful glow, it is also a hydrating formula which replenishes the skin with a burst of skincare actives for an instantly refreshed look.

Again, this swatch isn't edited and what you can see is one swipe of the wand and you can see, even on my pale skin, just how pigmented it is.  Priced at just £18.50.

Staying with highlighters, which of course you can never have too many of, I also have had the joy of using the GA-DE Velveteen Highlighting Powder and it is as every bit as stunning as it looks.

This highlighter is described as being an illuminating powder that captures and reflects light and it is formulated with prismatic pearls which gives the skin the most wonderful glow, which is buildable, can be applied using your fingers, a makeup brush or a sponge. Alongside the prismatic pearls, the formula is enriched with jojoba oil to protect and soften skin.

The swatch is again unedited and is shown as seen, but what I love is just how reflective of the light it is without having to apply too much pressure or swipe the brush across the palette to get a good colour payoff.  This Velveteen Highlight Powder is available in four shades, I have Pearl Drop and I just adore the shade.  It comes packaged inside a beautiful compact which also features a mirror, so you can 'glow on the go' and it costs just £23.

The final product within my mini collection is the GA-DE Velveteen Brow Builder Duo and despite being in lockdown, I have used this a lot! Described as being a long wearing brow building pencil, this double-ended multitasking pen features an angled brown crayon on one end which gives you that ultra-precise filling and definition, so perfect for creating those brow hairs to give the look of a fuller brow and then on the other end, you will find a powder filler for soft colour release and blending on the other end.

I don't have a favourite side of this Brow Duo, I use and really like both of them equally. The Crayon side of the duo is brilliant for filling in gaps, something I suffer with due to over-tweezing as a teen. 

The pen with the powder gives the brow a really nice finish and depending on whether you like a soft brow or a bold brow, you can achieve either look depending on how much pressure you apply. Whether you are a brow queen or a not so good at the brow thing, this product is really easy to use.

The GA-De Velveteen Brow Building Duo is available in three shades and I have Taupe which is incredibly close to my own brow colour.  Priced at £15, it is an absolute bargain.

If you are yet to have a look at GA-De Cosmetics or have seen some products you like the look of, you can find them all here plus more - I'm talking lipsticks, mascaras, eyeliners, more eyeshadow palettes, concealers, primers, shimmers, setting powder and even more highlighers if you please!   I can also offer you a 20% off discount code which is GADICONBQ20 which you just add at the check out!

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

Skincare Glow Beauty Box Summer 2020 - By Boots

When this beauty dropped into my inbox today, I thought it was too good not to share and it is a really good deal too.  The Skincare Glow Beauty Box Summer 2020 from Boots is just £25 and the contents are worth £60 (it is here*).

Described as being a luxury filled box, it is has been created with both full-sized and mini make-up and skin treats to take your glow-game from AM to PM.

Each box contains:

• Garnier Rose Mini Micellar 100ml – Worth £2.50
• L'Oreal Paris Pure Clay Glow Mask- Worth £7.99
• Soap & Glory Bright & Pearly- Worth £14
• Burts Bee's Lip Balm- Worth £3.99
• No7 Early Defence Glow Activating serum- Worth £25.00
• Face Halo Make-up Remover Pad - Original - Single Pack- Worth £7

What I really like about this box, which is winging its way to me as I have bought one already, is that there is a great mix of products you can find in Boots - with their very own No.7 range, right through to Burt's Bees and Face Halo, which I also happen to love.

It is on sale right now and can be purchased from Boots here*.

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

Erborian Milk & Peel Mask

I am a huge fan of the brand Erborian and have featured them here on my blog many times, especially with the Ginseng range which I adore. Today it is the turn of the Milk & Peel Mask (priced at £34*) and from the description, I knew it was going to be something I really liked.

The Milk & Peel Mask is described as being a "new skin" effect and a brighter complexion in just 5 minutes! The 'just 5 minutes' definitely capturing my attention. There are times when I don't have that spare hour to have a proper pampering session and there are times when I just want a quick fix, so I was intrigued to see just how well this worked.

Developed with nurturing plant-based ingredients, it is formulated using sesame milk which is known to visibly smooth skin's surface texture. There is also the inclusion of exfoliating enzymes which help to lift impurities away from the skin and rich hydrating fatty acids which leave the skin feeling soft and supple.

The mask is quite highly concentrated, so when using, you only need to apply a thin layer to the skin, avoiding both the lips and the eye area. Once on the skin, leave it for 5 minutes, which is ample time to make a cup of coffee and check your emails, once that time is up, the directions are to massage the face using wet hands and then in circular movements, then rinse off with water. One of the ingredients is Kaolin, so as the mask settles on the skin, it does have that clay-like feel to it, only not as hard owing to the sesame oil.  My skin reacts to most clay masks, so I wasn't too sure it would like this at all, but surprisingly, I had no flare-up, no itching and no redness at all.  

With all Erborian products, you have a whole list of ingredients which are amazing and the Milk & Peel Mask is no different. Alongside the 7 Herbs Complex, a regular feature in Erborian products which are known for their soothing properties and include the likes of Tiger Grass Extract, Green Tea Leaf Extract and Japanese Knotweed Extract, you will also find:

• Sesame milk - Visibly smooth the skin and improve the quality of the skin texture, Improve the hydrated aspect of the skin
• Sesame oil - Helps to nourish and soften the skin
• Exfoliating enzyme - Resurfacing effect, Smooth the microrelief of the skin and Improve the skin’s texture

After using this mask there is a huge difference in the skin's texture. I was pleasantly surprised as to how smooth my skin was to the touch, especially on my cheeks which is where I suffer from some dryness and flaking skin.

At £34 it is on the expensive, but absolutely worth every penny and it is a lovely treat for just 5 minutes of your time and you only need to use it once, possibly twice a week!

Available to purchase via SpaceNK, Erborian and FeelUnique

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

Omorovicza Scalp Reviver

Omorovicza is one of those brands I just absolutely love. I am never without The Queen of Hungary Mist on my bedside table and there is usually a bottle on my desk too. As much as I love the brand for their skincare, I also adore their haircare and not too recently I reviewed the Revitalising Scalp Mask, which works to detoxify and revitalise the scalp whilst at the same time helping to promote healthier hair.  Newly added into the haircare section is the Scalp Reviver (£65 via Cult Beauty) and I have been using it for the past few months.

Described as being a 'treatment meets dry shampoo' this is a product like nothing I have ever seen before. I have combination hair, like my skin it has both oily and dry parts - greasy roots and dry ends being the best way to describe my hair. What we have from Omorovicza is an innovative new scalp treatment which has been designed to revive and refresh your scalp in-between washes.

I love a good dry shampoo, there are days when I just cannot be bothered to wash my hair, I openly admit to that, but what I find is that if I overuse dry shampoo my scalp has a complete meltdown about it and sulks, leaving me with an irritation I can do without. So, Scalp Reviver works as an innovative leave-in treatment and its job is to equalise imbalance and restore some ‘oomph’ to those oily roots.

Using a complex blend of amino acids, natural emollients and humectants which work alongside salicylic acid which works to remove dead cells as well as to purify your pores. There is then the inclusion of invigorating camphor and scalp-stimulating oils of lavender and lemon peel.

The Scalp Reviver comes packaged in a silver bottle and uses a pipette for distribution, which I really like and to use, you simply apply it to the areas of your scalp which are flaky and dry or even itchy and then once on the scalp, use your fingertips to disperse the product.

What I have found is that it acts as an almost instant calming tonic, the itchiness stops pretty quickly after application and it doesn't lead to any build-up like some dry shampoos do. It is non-sticky and it really does help to absorb that excess oil, so for me, having those extra 48 hours between washing is a godsend and the best part is you don't have to rinse it out!

You can grab the Scalp Reviver for Cult Beauty and also via Omorovicza directly.

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

Essence What The Fake Mascara

One of my favourite high street brand of cosmetics has to Essence, my local Wilko isn't the best advertisement for the brand as the stand always looks as though it has been ransacked and it never has any products that haven't been opened and swatched, for you to purchase.  However, there are plenty of places online, such as Feelunique, to get your hands on the brand - thankfully.

Lash Princess is possibly one of the most talked-about products from Essence, but today I am talking about What The Fake! Volumizing and Lengthening Mascara which retails for just £3.49 and it is an absolute steal. I am so picky when it comes to using mascara, I do have fairly long eyelashes and I wear glasses, so I find that any mascara which has an overly wet formula is simply not going to work for me as I always feel as though my lashes are being dragged down. So, formula aside, I am also picky when it comes to the mascara wand because I don't want a wand that is too thick, I just cannot work with them and find they aid clumping. 

What The Fake! is described as being a mascara that 'reaches all eyelashes in just two strokes thanks to its almond-shaped, ergonomic brush' Well the wand I actually really do like, the shape just works really well with my lashes, it doesn't overload the product and it is easy enough to wiggle through your lashes, even those tiny ones in the corners. The formula uses special nylon fibres which provide the lashes with that look of being lengthened and given volume, for me, what makes this mascara different to others which use fibres, is that again, the formula isn't weighted down with them, which then transfers to the lashes making you blink excessively, which is really annoying.

I have just come to the end of this mascara, even though I am working from home, I do still wear mascara, it is almost like a habit to just apply it when I get dressed and do my skincare, the tube lasts really well, doesn't dry out before you need to dispose of it and because it actually coats all the lashes, rather than most of them, for £3.49 from Feelunique it is one I would purchase again!

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

IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Oil-Free Matte with SPF 40

A brand I see on my social feed all the time is IT Cosmetics, people raving about the CC Cream and the Bye Bye Under Eye Cream. Until now, it isn't a brand that I knew a lot about, but the opportunity to be colour matched was too good a chance to miss and a chat with one of the girls from the brand who could recommend some products just for me.

I have combination oily skin, so it was suggested that I opt for the Your Skin But Better CC+ Oil-Free Matte which also has an SPF 40 and I wasn't surprised to find that I was one of the lightest shades available - fair light.

This multitasking, complexion-perfecting foundation instantly reduces the appearance of skin imperfections including redness, and reduces the appearance of pores without creasing or cracking, helping to reduce shine and control oil.

I really don't like the feel of thick heavy foundation coverage, it makes me feel a little suffocated if truth be told and also, my skin doesn't need it, I am lucky enough that my only issue, apart from the slight reddening of one cheek (why!) when I am stressed, is combination-oily skin which leaves me with dry patches and an afternoon shine most days. So for me, this CC cream is ticking a lot of boxes from the description alone.

On the skin, whilst I apply using a foundation brush and I really like how it feels on my skin, it isn't as thick I was expecting it to be having read quite a few reviews and nor is it gloopy so it doesn't feel as though it has been applied using a trowel. I found it easy to apply and blend, just as I had been shown in-store and for me, it gives medium coverage which is buildable. So to cover the redness on my cheek, if I feel the need to apply more CC Cream, then I can

This CC Creme is Infused with charcoal to detoxify, colloidal clay and Moroccan lava clay which are known for their oil-absorbing effects, tea tree extract, known to combat blemishes plus hydrolyzed collagen, peptides, niacin, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants and vitamins. All ingredients that my skin absolutely loves and reacts really well with. What drew me to this CC cream was the list of key benefits which include:

Key Benefits

• Your full-coverage matte foundation, it's hydrating, anti-ageing, and with SPF 40 - in one step!
• Delivers flawless looking coverage with a matte-looking finish - won't crease or crack
• Helps to reduce shine and control oil
• Works to improve the look of skin concerns include redness and dark circles

There is no doubt that I have become quite a big fan of this CC+ more so because it is oil-free and does have a really good SPF coverage, something you sometimes find amiss with brands and their face products. 

Priced at £32 via ItCosmetics, CultBeauty and Boots.

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

Summer Beauty Edit from QVC

The Summer Beauty Edit from QVC is on sale right now and it is one you do not want to miss because you can get your hands on it for one day only!  Packaged inside the most amazing two-tone purple bag you will find six full-sized products with a combined value of £221.50 but is on sale right now for less than £50!

Inside you will find a whole host of brands who have a home at QVC and some of them might be more familiar to you than others, but what you get is a brilliant cross-section of beauty products to try.

The Bag Contents

Now an edit from QVC would not be complete without the inclusion of one of my favourite brands - Alpha-H.  Included within the Summer Beauty Edit is the cult hero product from the brand which is Liquid Gold.

Liquid Gold is described as being a powerful firming serum, this works like an 'overnight facial' to tighten and revitalise tired, ageing skin and radically improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, open pores and acne prone skin conditions. Liquorice helps combat acne and hyper-pigmentation, whilst Glycolic Acid (derived from sugar cane), jump-starts the skin's metabolism - refining its texture by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells together, so they're sloughed away with your morning cleanse to reveal a more luminous, glowing complexion.

The second product inside the bag comes from Gatineau with the Perfection Ultime Retexturising Beauty Cream.

Described as being a lightweight daily moisturiser, it works to instantly hydrate and brighten the skin using Hyaluronic Acid and Cotton Extract, alongside protein-rich Caviar Extract and Tripeptide 1 which also work to restore skin health and luminosity. Then we have Geranium Oil which helps to protect the skin from free-radicals and finally, the complexion is smoothed and perfected with the use of Wheat and Soy Proteins.

The third product comes from Korres with the Pure Greek Olive Oil 3 in 1 Nourishing & Anti-Ageing Oil and I already love this product.

Described as being a silky silicone-free treatment that can be used all over the hair, face and body to promote the look of hydrated hair and skin. Using a blend of extra virgin olive oil, hemisqualane, crambe seed oil plus vitamins E, F and fatty acids. What I lvoe about this oil is that it is multi-use - it can be added to your moisturiser, applied to wet skin to add moisture and hydrate, you can use it on the ends of your hair and even on dry skin on the knees, elbows and heels!

Next we have a Powerful Eye Concentrate from SkinSense and as a brand, it is one I have come across, tried a few products from but wasn't wowed. So I am intrigued to see how this works.

Utilising lamellar technology which SkinSense described as being a way to lock ingredients into the skin so that they work longer and better. This formula is described as being unique. Not only does it help to deeply hydrate and nourish the complexion, due to luxuriously nourishing ingredients such as Sweet Almond Oil, Jojoba Oil, Inca Peanut Oil and Shea Butter.

Also in the Summer Beauty Edit is a brand I have never come across until now and that is the M. Asam Resveratrol Premium Essence Of Youth.

Described as being a powerful blend of resveratrol, paracress extract, vitamin E and precious oils, this intensive face serum helps you achieve younger-looking skin with a velvety soft feel. I really like that this doesn't have any strong scent to it and on the skin, it has the same texture as a serum and absorbs really quickly into the skin. So I am looking forward to using this a lot more.

The final product in this bag comes from Perricone MD with the High Potency Classics Nutritive Cleanser.

Described as being a gentle, hydrating facial wash that works to remove dirt, excess oil, makeup and environmental pollution without drying out the skin. it is formulated with alpha-lipoic acid, exfoliating alpha hydroxy acids as well as a unique firming and hydrating copper complex, so not only does this cleanser soften and condition dry, thirsty skin it does so without stripping it of any moisture and what I love is that it comes with a pump-action dispenser in the box to make using it even easier.

So there you have the entire contents of the Summer Beauty Edit from QVC with six full-sized bottles.  It is on sale right now on QVC for less than £50 which is a huge saving!  Have you grabbed one?

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

The Cult Beauty Starter Kit

On my blog yesterday, I shared the Cult Beauty Starter Kit for Men which would make a great gift for Father's Day this weekend (UK) and today see the return of the very popular Cult Beauty Start Kit which costs just £30 and contains some amazing products.

Cult Beauty state that this is an edit of bestsellers as well as the ideal introduction to some of their top-rated skin care and make up essentials. 

Contents of the Box

• A full size Benefit BADgal BANG Mascara (4g) grants massive volume without weighing lashes down – think: extreme volume, length and curl without clumps. 
• Charlotte Tilbury’s Collagen Lip Bath (7.9ml) in ‘Peachy Plump’ is enriched with firming marine collagen and acts as a treatment and a lip gloss, locking in moisture while imparting a light-reflecting sheen. 
• Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Colour (1g) boasts impressive staying power, high-impact colour payoff and effortless eyeshadow application. With a choice of four mesmer-eyes-ing shades – ‘Rose Gold’, ‘Amethyst’, ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Au Naturel’.
• Herbivore’s Lapis Balancing Facial Oil (8ml) hydrates without clogging pores and is designed to balance and decongest oily and blemish-prone skin,
• Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 30 (15ml) which provides unparalleled UV deflection without suffocating your skin, exacerbating congestion or leaving a greasy, white film.

The box itself has a combined value of over £95 so it is a huge saving on a box which is filled with some amazing products! 

Available to purchase now via Cult Beauty - Buy Here*

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

Too Faced Major Hangover Replenishing Face Primer

You can always count on Too Faced Cosmetics* to bring fun and laughter to your life with their products and today is the turn of the Too Faced Major Hangover Replenishing Face Primer*, a product that as far as I am concerned, you absolutely need to have and can never have too many of!

Described as being the product you need if you have gone a little overboard and your skin’s betraying tell-tale signs of one too many drinks and too many late nights! Thus claiming that Major Hangover Face Primer is the quick face fix with its ability to soothe, smooth and brighten, essentially meaning your skin will look fabulous, even if you don't feel it. Now you might be thinking "But don't Too Faced already have a primer?" well this is it, just supersized!

What I really like about this primer is its formula because it is so lightweight on the skin, it feels more like a serum than a primer.  Infused with coconut water which is incredibly hydrating, it also includes probiotics and skin revivers to rebalance moisture levels and boost skin’s radiance.  It is silicone free and of course Cruelty-free too.

It comes in a pump-action tube, which for me, one pump, as shown above, is more than enough for my face. When applying, you will notice a slight hint of coconut, a scent I am a huge fan of, but it isn't heavily scented, it is just noticeable.   As with most primers, this one can also be used alone or as a base for your makeup to create that seamless canvas and allow for a much easier and more even application too.

This huge tube can be purchased via the likes of Too Faced*, Cult Beauty and John Lewis where prices start from £34 per tube.  Have you tried this Primer?

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

Cult Beauty Starter Kit for Men

With Father's Day just around the corner, I was delighted to see the Cult Beauty Starter Kit for Men appear on my social media feed and for just £30 it is an absolute bargain.

The Men’s Cult Beauty Starter Kit is described as being a box which unites seven Holy Grail products which features everything from sweat-proof deodorants to soothing shampoos and balancing creams and they have been chosen to help to overhaul your skincare routine.

Box Contents

• Baxter of California Aluminium & Alcohol-Free Deodorant (34g) which promises to deliver long-lasting freshness while eradicating odour-causing bacteria leaving a subtle, herbal scent in its stead. 
• Philip Kingsley Flaky Itchy Scalp Shampoo (75ml) boasts an extremely gentle and soothing formula, specially designed to relieve and clear irritated scalps of flakes and build up. 
• MALIN + GOETZ - Grapefruit Face Cleanser (30ml). This gentle, multi-tasking cleanser infused with amino acids effectively purifies, soothes skin irritation and deeply hydrates for a happy face. 
• THE INKEY LIST Caffeine Eye Cream (15ml) is a morning coffee for your eyes. The caffeine-loaded serum helps calm puffiness, diminish dark circles and protects against free radicals.
• 111SKIN Anti Blemish Biocellulose Facial Mask is a targeted treatment that rebalances the skin while treating spots caused by diet, perspiration and environment for a clearer complexion. 
• BAD NORWEIGAN Shave Face (50ml) boasts a good-to-skin formula (made with only vegan, cruelty- free and natural ingredients) that helps blades run smoothly while maximising protection and reducing irritation. 
• Augustinus Bader The Cream (7ml) is an absolute game-changing cream that helps reduce the signs of ageing, leaving skin looking restored, regenerated and glowing. 

I am pretty impressed with the size of each product included within the box, plus it is a great way to introduce that man in your life to some new brands and of course give some of them a try for yourself - the Inkey List Caffeine Eye Cream, for example, is a wonderful product!

This Starter Kit for Men is on sale now for just £30 via Cult Beauty

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

Father's Day Gift Guide

I won't get to see my own Dad for Father's Day this year owing to the Pandemic, but it doesn't mean he won't get anything from me. I am lucky my Dad is quite easy to buy for, the usual response to 'is there anything you would like?' is met with 'I don't need anything' as a response, thankfully I know him well enough to know there are two things he loves - Fishing and Whisky.

The adverts and emails for Father's Day gifts have been a little quiet this year, usually, they start really early and panic sets in as to what to Dad. If you haven't got it sorted, then I have a few suggestions for you:

The Gruff Stuff is a vegan, cruelty-free brand that is made in the UK and was created to be suitable for all men, and all skin types. All dermatologically tested, the brand uses ingredients which are ethically and responsibly sourced and you will find the likes of Australian Plums, Aloe Vera and Vitamin E.  The limited noir Father's Day Edition is a great little gift for any man in your life and obviously a nice little treat.

Priced at £42 you will find two products within the box. The first is the Spray On Moisturiser which really caught my attention. Described as being innovative, it uses a fuss-free spray application which works to give a quick and powerful boost of hydration. A refreshing formula which works to restore the natural moisture barrier and balance oil production levels making it ideal for helping to reduce redness, stress and irritation.  Then we have the Eye Balm which is described as being a gentle, yet powerful hydrating eye balm which combats the entire orbital area. Using a combination of potent ingredients such as Matcha Green Tea extracts, it helps to fade dark circles, reduce puffiness and firm.

If the man in your life loves his aftershaves as both my Dad and Hubby do, then I have two to share with you.

The first fragrance is called Neroli Woods by Banana Republic and it is a really beautiful fragrance. For me, it sits firmly in the Citrus Aromative family and it has some amazing notes.

Starting with the top notes which is made up of mandarin leaf, neroli and coconut nectar, the first whiff you get upon spritzing is very sharp and citrus lead but as it settles the middle notes of peony, orange blossom, frangipani really help to bring about that citrus zest whilst the floral notes stop it from being too sharp. The base notes are ebony, amber, sandalwood and cedar and as the fragrance settles the earthy green notes make this a stunning fragrance and it is one which lingers for hours after application. Priced at £55 via Debenhams and also here with Walmart.

The second fragrance is Kierin NYC Santal Sky and it sits within the Woody Spicy family and it has quite a uniqueness to it.

The key notes within this fragrance include Cardamon, Sandalwood, Vetiver and Saffron and what you get is a scent that is warm and woody. Sandalwood is by far the most dominant of notes but hidden within that you get a hint of Vetiver, which I absolutely love.  On the skin, it is long-lasting and one which you can't help but love more as it settles. Priced at £52 via Feelunique and ASOS too.

Fishing, as in the sport, is huge in my family. I grew up with it and the husband very much enjoys it, so gifts for Father's Day, birthdays and Christmas all revolve around the sport.

This year I've gone for amusing but practical with this hoodie (£25 Amazon) which is a play on the word Godfather and a fisherman. It is really soft material, but warm and true to size. I have found that with anything fishing related, size up so layers can be added underneath.

I am personally a huge fan of Foreo devices and have quite the collection, infact I think I have every single one except the latest UFO2, but I have the original. One of my favourite devices is the Issa Toothbrush, which I have had and used for over a year now. The Foreo Issa 2, the perfect gadget for a Trekkie because it was recently featured on Star Trek Discovery (episode 5) which got my Dad's attention!

The ISSA 2 combines a sleek, waterproof design which now has improved sonic-pulse technology and a combination brush head. By blending durable PBT polymer and ultra-soft silicone into a state-of-the-art toothbrush that lasts full 365 days on a full charge. What I love about my Issa Toothbrush is that it really does keep your mouth feeling clean, it isn't abrasive, it doesn't hurt your gums and because of the natural properties of silicone and PBT polymer harbor less bacteria for more hygienic brush heads and overall better oral health. Priced at £149 via Feelunique replacement heads cost just £17. It is hands down the best toothbrush I have ever used!

Then finally, books. I love to find things that are different but definitely attention-worthy and from Lars Mytting we have Norwegian Wood: The internationally bestselling guide to chopping and storing firewood (£13.99 from Amazon). 

As a book, as well as being factual, it is quirky and humourous and it has been constantly recommended as book that you need to read and need to encourage other people to read and this is what I have done because it is strangely unputdownable!

So there you have my 2020 Father's Day guide which features something for everyone regardless of age and all of them are pocket friendly so you don't break the bank. 

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