Boots Valentines Day Beauty Boxes 2024

On sale now

Boots are set to launch two more beauty boxes in a few days time and these ones are Valentines Day themed. 

In recent months, Boots beauty boxes have sold out pretty quickly and as these two are amazing value for money, you will need to be quick.

The first box is the Boots Valentine’s Day Beauty Box Skincare Luxury Beauty. 

This box will be priced at just £25 and inside you can expect to find brands such as Kiehls and Elemis.

What’s inside:

• Benefit The Porefessional Get Unblocked Oil Cleanser 19ml
• Lancaster Invisible Face Fluid 3ml
• Kiehls Hydroplump Retexturising Serum 5ml
• Elemis Essence 28ml
• REN Clean Skincare Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask 15ml

This box will be on sale HERE from 1st February.

The second Boots Valentine’s Day Beauty Box is called Makeup Love Language - Here.

Again, it will be priced at just £25 and inside you will find brands such as Fenty and MAC Cosmetics.

What’s inside:

• Fenty Gloss Bomb Fenty Glow Deluxe 2ml
• Iconic Blush Kissed By The Sun 5g Full size
• Elemis Glow Priming Moisturizer 20ml
• MAC Stack Mascara 2.1ml
• Ghost Deep Night Mini 10ml

This box will be on sale HERE from 1st February.

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

The EDITED Skincare Boxes By Beauty Bay

Known for their amazing Mystery Boxes, BEAUTY BAY has launched not one but two Limited Edition Beauty Bay Edited Skincare Boxes 2024. 

Depending on what you feel your skin needs right now, there is a choice of The Breakout Box or The Hydration Box.

Starting with the BEAUTY BAY The Breakout Box which is said to be worth £236, it is on sale now price at just £40. 

Inside there is so many amazing brands such as Dr Jart+, Avene and The Inkey List to name a few.

Contents

• By BEAUTY BAY Breakout Clearing Serum
• By BEAUTY BAY 1% Salicylic Acid & Zinc PCA Cleansing Gel
• By BEAUTY BAY Glycolic Toner
• Aurelia Balancing Niacinamide Clay mask 20ml
• Dr. Jart Cicapair Tiger Grass Calming Gel Cream
• Bondi Sands SPF 50+ Fragrance Free Face Sunscreen 10ml
• Starface Hydro-Stars® Hydrocolloid Pimple Patches + Case
• Eucerin Dermopurifyer Triple Effect Serum
• Bubble Skincare Level Up Moisturiser 20ml
• DERMAdoctor Ain’t Misbehavin’ Medicated Acne Control Serum
• Avene Comedomed Localized Drying Emulsion
• Zitsticka CUSHION CLEANSE Balancing Facial Cleanser for Acne-prone Skin 140ml
• Clean Skin Club Clean Towels XL 10 Pieces
• Brushworks HD Blackhead & Blemish Remover Set
• The INKEY List Niacinamide Serum 30ml
• LastObject LastRound PRO

If you want to get your hands on The Breakout Box, you can find it here.

The second offering is the BEAUTY BAY The Hydration Box. This box is said to be worth £203 and it is also on sale now, priced at just £40.

Again, inside this box alongside some of Beauty Bays own branded products, you will find Laneige, Aurelia and Skin Gym being featured.

Contents

• By BEAUTY BAY Brighten + Hydrate Serum
• By BEAUTY BAY Chamomile & Oat Lipid Cleansing Balm
• By BEAUTY BAY Hyaluronic Acid + Sea Moss Face Mist
• Sunday Rain Rose Body Scrub
• florence by mills Surfing Under The Eyes Hydrating Under Eye Treatment Gel Pads
• Beauty Of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics 10ml
• Aurelia Cell Repair Night Oil
• The Nue Co Barrier Culture Cleanser 15ml
• Bubble Skincare Slam Dunk 20ml
• Laneige Cream Skin Cerapeptide Toner & Moisturizer
• Avene Hydration Boost Serum 10ml
• Clean Skin Club Clean Towels XL 10 Pieces
• Sol De Janeiro Bum Bum Cream 25ml
• Nimya by NikkieTutorials Where It All Starts Cream 45ml
• The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum 30ml
• Skin Gym Eye Fit Brightening Eye Serum
• LastObject LastRound PRO
• Origins Ginzing Ultra-Hydrating Energy Boosting Cream
• Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask
• Peter Thomas Roth FIRMx Peeling Gel
• Water Drench Hyaluronic Glow Serum

If you want to get your hands on The Hydration Box, you can find it here.

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

Ipsum Skin - An introduction

Let me intoduce you to an incredible brand I was very lucky to be introduced to in 2023 - Ipsum. You might have seen me rave about them, for good reasons, over on my Instagram, but honesty, it is such a beautiful brand.

Created by Janet who has an incredible background and insight into beauty, Ipsum has been designed to offer luxurious, clean and pure skin care that will ensure you achieve your very best skin. Using only uses certified organic, pure and natural native plant oils, esters and waxes to protect the bio-diversity of the planet and to avoid introducing unnecessary chemicals into the skincare routine.

The brand has a catalogue of products for the face and body and depending on your want and need, everything is here.

The first product I tried was the award winning Ipsum Best Skin Cleansing Oil Balm, of course and it comes packaged in a squeezy recyclable tube.  I am a huge fan of cleansing balms, so you won't be surprised to learn this was the first product I chose to use.

This Cleansing Oil Balm, which is light and airy when used, is made with a delicate vegetable formulation to nourish your skin while lemon myrtle helps unclog and tighten pores. Then with the inclusion of Sandalwood, it helps heal and soothe the skin with its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties. What I like about this balm is how it manages to remove absolutely everything in its path and leaves my skin feeling soft and smooth to the touch.

The light and uplifting fragrance of both the lemon myrtle and sandalwood are really refreshing and invigorating.   

If you are a fan of facial oils, which I am, then Ipsum has some absolutely beautiful oils to choose from, three of them in fact - Nourishing, Intense Treatment and Enriching.

Starting with Ipsum Best Skin Nourishing Face Oil, the one I have taken to using most regularly, you get an oil which is made up of a nurturing and nourishing blend of 19 pure and organic plant oils, including Meadowfoam Seed, Raspberry Seed, Jobjoba and Carrot tissue with Australian grown and harvested oils including Macadamia Nut oil and Sandalwood. Together they offer a complex array of skin-boosting antioxidants and vitamins together with anti-inflammatory and moisturising properties to soothe, restore and help protect skin’s natural healthy glow.  

Again, it is the fragrance from Lavender, Sandalwood and Rose helps Nourishing Face Oil reduce feelings of fatigue and stress as it gently calms your skin.

Next comes the Ipsum Best Skin Face Oil Intense Treatment and this oil is described as being a luxurious, supercharged concentrate of 23 pure, organic native plant oils, rich in omega fatty acids, vitamins C, E, B6,1,3,2 and polyphenol antioxidants, for a rejuvenating, hydrating and skin-protecting intensive treatment. With this oil you have the deeply- nourishing and restorative power of plant oils including Buriti, Marula, Frankincense and Tomato Fruit extract with Australian grown and harvested botanicals. Then the inclusion of Lilly Pilly, a rich source of vitamin C and fruit acids with a high antioxidant content helps stimulate collagen production and brighten skin tone, Rosalina for its nurturing, soothing and healing properties which helps stimulate the immune system and finally Fragonia which offers powerful antibacterial and antimicrobial benefits to skin and to the respiratory system and helps maintain the body’s own melatonin production which regulates the circadian rhythm.

This oil is for use at night time and it works as you sleep to not only relax and rejuvenate but to also keep the skin supple, hydrated and protected.

The final facial oil is the Ipsum Best Skin Enriching Face Oil and this one is a nutrient-rich and powerful blend of 24 pure and organic plant oils that infuse skin with vital vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to rejuvenate, reignite and then maintain skin’s natural radiance. The formulation is super-powered by naturally- derived CoQ10 – essential for collagen production and to help maintain elasticity.  This oil uses a formulation of some incredible botanical oils which includes Olive Fruit, Hempseed, Rosehip, Apricot, Seabuckthorn and Pomegranate as well as Australian grown and harvested ingredients including Kakadu Plum Seed oil - the richest source of skin-loving and skin-brightening vitamin C and Macadamia Nut oil which is renowned for its super-moisturising and regenerative properties.  Perfect for skin that is both oily and dry skin types because it regulates natural lipid production and returns skin to its perfect balance.

Each one of these facial oils is incredible and whether you are a regular user of oils or are curious about how they work with your skin, one or all of these you will just love.

Moving onto the Ipsum Best Skin Body Oil Patchouli Rose, it is hard to not love this oil, if only for its wonderful warm earthy fragrance.

Again, this oil uses uses a warming and calming blend of 19 pure and organic plant oils, richly- scented with Patchouli and Rose, each carefully formulated to smooth and massage easily all over the body. As soon as the body oil comes into contact with your skin, it absorbs instantly leaving your skin dry to touch without any form of oily residue being left on your skin and impressively, there is no sit to sit around and wait for it to sink into the skin, you can apply, massage and dress immediately. This oil is perfect to use both day and night depending on your preference and the inclusion of nurturing botanical blend such as Avocado, Grapeseed, Argan and Jojoba oils plus Australian grown and harvested Davidson Plum Fruit extract are rich in skin-boosting antioxidants as well as Macadamia Nut oil which works to deeply nourish as you massage in.

I love a good eye cream and there is always one within my routine, so I am delighted that Ipsum has their Best Skin Eye Oil Balm.

As this is a product for the skin around your eyes, it is really lightweight and melts on contact with the skin. As you might have guessed by now, this product also features a whole host of ingredients and they include a complex and concentrated blend of plant oils and esters, rich in potent polyphenols, antioxidants, peptides and skin-loving vitamins including A, C and E, to deeply nourish, smooth, de-stress, de-puff and brighten the delicate skin of the eye area. So we have Collagen-boosting, antioxidant-rich Bakuchiol which helps to refine and smooth skin texture, Australian Banksia which strengthens capillaries and reduces the appearance of dark circles and it  works with Cucumber extract which has been included to soothe and reduce puffiness. Squalane helps to calm, moisturise and rehydrate skin as Carrot Seed oil, Rosehip oil and Australian Macadamia Seed oil deeply nourish and fortify skin back to healthy radiance.

On the skin, this balm is really soothing and for anyone who finds eye creams can irritate their under-eye, this absolutely does not do that. For me, it leaves my eyes looking for wide-awake, refreshed and hydrated.

The final product I have to share is one of my favourites and that is the Ipsum Lip Oil Balm, another product I have shared on Instagram a few times.

Described as being luxuriously rich and conditioning blend of pure and organic native plant oils, esters and waxes to instantly soothe and smooth lips with long-lasting, intense nourishment. With a light scent of rose, this balm uses a unique blend of hydrating and moisturising plant oils including Tomato Fruit extract which has high levels of skin-nurturing vitamins, then we have antioxidant lycopene to protect skin, Pomegranate Seed oil to heal and regenerate skin and finally Australian grown and harvested Macadamia oil to deeply nourish, protect and repair. The overall aim being to leave the lips comforted, feeling soft and supple as well as looking smooth and hydrated.

As you can see, this balm is in a little pot, though it is also sold in a squeezy tube and I carry this pot in my bag so I have it with me and I also bought a second one to use on my lips at night.  

So that is an introduction to Ipsum Skincare, a brand I cannot rave about enough and one I know we will see big things from over the next year or two!

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

Liberty For the Love of Beauty Kit 2024

With Valentines Day on the horizon, there is going to b a lot of brands and beauty kits for sale and one that has just gone on sale comes from Liberty London.

The Liberty For the Love of Beauty Kit 2024 is said to be worth a whopping £293 but it is on sale at just £75 and it is full of amazing brands and their products, such as Hair by Sam McKnight and Verden to name a few, and they are all full sizes.

This specially curated kit features everything needed to bring an extra touch of romance to daily routines, with formulas from some of the best-loved brands from across the beauty hall – indulge in a moment of self care in the tub with VERDEN's luxury Bath Oil, prepare for date night with one of MZ Skin's rejuvenating face masks and enrich sensual moments with Agent Nateur's Intimate Oil.

So what is inside?

Contents

• VERDEN Bath Oil in Herbanum OR Aborealist OR D’Orangerie 100ml
• Agent Nateur H o l i (Sex) Intimate Oil 30ml
• MIRROR WATER RUB Solid Balm 50ml
• MZ Skin Hydra-Bright Gold Eye Mask 3g
• MZ Skin Hydra-Lift Gold Face Mask 25g
• Hair by Sam McKnight Deeper Love Intense Treatment Mask 200ml

Plus, as with all of the kits from Liberty, this one also comes with a very cute Love Links Liberty print wash bag.

On sale now here for just £75

You can also get 15% off your first order with code NEWCUSTOMER15 when you sign up or register for an account at The Liberty Collective.

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

What are the best sleeping pills?

Image credit

Introduction

Sleep is critical to your physical and mental health and essential for proper brain functioning. Poor or inadequate sleep leads to lower energy levels, poor focus, and irritability. People struggling with sleep use sleeping pills like Zolpidem in the UK so they can easily fall asleep or stay asleep.

Sleeping pills help treat restless sleep, insomnia, and other sleep issues.

Moreover, sleeping pills relieve anxiety and boost learning and memory. These medications increase GABA levels in the brain, a natural chemical causing sleepiness, to help people relax and sleep better.

What is Sleep disorder?

A sleep disorder affects overall health, quality of life, and even safety (extreme drowsiness during driving can be life-threatening). Sleep disorders affect the amount, quality, and timing of sleep at night.

Sleep disorders can affect your physical and mental health. You might be suffering from a sleep disorder if:

• You have trouble sleeping regularly.
• You have an irregular wake and sleep cycle.
• You are unable to perform daytime activities because of extreme drowsiness.
• You feel tired all day long despite sleeping for at least seven hours the previous night.

Common Sleep Disorders

Some of the most common sleep disorders are:

• Insomnia: A person has difficulty sleeping or staying asleep throughout the night.
• Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorder: The internal clock is disturbed, and a person has trouble falling asleep and waking up on time.
• Narcolepsy: A person suffers from extreme daytime drowsiness during the day and can suddenly fall asleep during the day.
• Parasomnias: In this condition, verbal expressions and physical actions occur, such as eating, walking, and talking.
• Restless Leg Syndrome: RLS is a type of sleep movement disorder. It is also called Willis-Ekbom disease, which triggers an uncomfortable sensation with an urge to move the legs while trying to fall asleep.
• Sleep Apnea: A person suffers from abnormal breathing patterns while sleeping. Sleep apnea has numerous types.

How do you detect sleep disorders?

Polysmonography, also called sleep study, is a test to diagnose sleep disorders. It monitors sleep cycles and stages. Moreover, it can identify when and why your sleep patterns get disrupted.

The most common types of sleep studies monitor and record data about the body during the night when you have full sleep.

Polysomnography records:

• Brain waves
• Breathing rate
• Blood pressure
• Eye and leg movements
• Heart rate and its electrical activity
• Oxygen level in your blood
• Types of sleeping pills
• Different types of sleeping pills are available. There are three main types:
• Prescription Sleeping Pills
• Over-the-counter Sleeping Medication
• Herbal and Traditional Medicines

Some medicines make the user sleepy as a side effect even though they are not sleeping pills. Physicians also prescribe antidepressants to people to treat their depression.

They impact the neurotransmitters in the central nervous system to reduce anxiety, boost relaxation, and stimulate sleep.

Prescription Sleeping Pills

Benzodiazepine

The most common prescription sleeping pills are benzodiazepines. Doctors prescribe sleeping pills for short-term use. Benzodiazepines increase the strength of the brain’s sleep signals so the body gets notified that it is time to relax, relieve anxiety, and fall asleep. Some examples of prescription sleeping pills are:

• Alprazolam
• Clonazepam
• Diazepam
• Lorazepam
• Temazepam
• Non-benzodiazepine or Z-drugs

Z-drugs are quick-action sleeping pills that help users sleep within 30 minutes of taking them. The non-benzodiazepines stimulate drowsiness and promote sound sleep while making you relaxed. They have minimal side effects, and doctors prescribe them frequently due to lower risk for drug tolerance. Some examples of non-benzodiazepine drugs are:

• Ambien
• Zolpidem
• Zopiclone

Over-the-Counter Sleeping Medication

These medicines are non-prescription medicines and supplements. Some examples are:

• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
• Doxylamine (Unisom)
• Melatonin supplements

Doctors prescribe melatonin supplements to those who have trouble sleeping or elderly who suffer from insomnia. It is a natural hormone that regulates our sleep and waking cycle.

Melatonin decreases with age. Melatonin supplements improve both sleep quality and morning alertness.

Herbal or Traditional Medicines

Using herbal and traditional medicines can be beneficial for treating insomnia. There is no proof that they are helpful in sleep, but the most popular remedies are:

• Chamomile
• Passionflower
• St. John’s Wort

It is important to remember that all medicines are not safe for everyone. You must consult your physician or doctor to know if these medications will help you have a restful sleep based on any existing or previous illnesses or any current medications you are on.

Factors influencing the effectiveness of sleeping pills

There are different elements that impact the performance of sleeping pills. One should be careful about the following when taking sleeping pills:

• Do not use alcohol while taking sleeping pills.
• Do not take opiates or antidepressants with sleeping pills. Avoid combining two or more drugs, which slow down the central nervous system as it can slow down breathing and even cause death.
• Grapefruit increases the amount of drug your bloodstream absorbs and the duration it stays in the body. Therefore, it is said to avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice when you are on sleeping pills.

Is it safe to use sleeping pills for an extended period?

Sleeping pills for the short term are acceptable, but using them for an extended period is not healthy. It affects brain function, alters sleep structure, and leads to dependency on the pills.

Using sleeping pills for longer duration has adverse side effects such as:

• Brain degeneration
• Dizziness
• Depression
• Poor memory
• Respiratory depression
• Risk of accidental falls
• Risk of dementia in older people
• Sexual dysfunction

Potential risks involved

As mentioned above, there are various risks associated with the long-term use of sleeping pills:

• Dependency
• Rebound Insomnia
• Poor Motor Skills & Coordination
• Grogginess
• Doing Things While Asleep (eating, talking, driving, etc., and no memory of it later).

Side effects to consider

The initial side effects one might experience with sleeping pills go away with time as the body gets accustomed to it.

Here are some of the short-term side effects of sleeping pills:

• Confusion
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Indigestion or distension
• Muscle weakness
• Slow brain processing and decision-making
• Squeamish
• Sleepiness
• Tiredness

Consult with the healthcare provider

Those who suffer from sleep issues daily, like being unable to sleep for hours or getting up frequently, should consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Sleep deprivation has damaging consequences for the body and mind. Do not self-medicate and start taking sleeping pills. Consult your physician so they can determine the best course of treatment.

They will identify the causes of your sleep disorders and decide if you should go for sleeping pills or other methods that can bring you relief. Or they might opt for a combination treatment to resolve your sleep issues.

Lifestyle changes that can improve sleep quality

To help you sleep better, your doctor will require changes to your sleep routine and hygiene. Sleep hygiene includes changes in your bedtime routine for optimal sleeping environment and experience.

• Make a Sleep Schedule: Stick to the same bedtime and wake-up time.
• Create habits before bed. Indulge in a calming activity like music, reading in soft light, and avoid screens to unwind
• Exercise daily
• Avoid taking naps after 3 pm. Read about how you should take power naps for better health.
• Minimize stress
• Avoid taking caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, and heavy meals in the evening
• Relaxation exercises or meditation
• Make your bedroom quiet, dark, and cool. Use a supportive pillow and mattress.

Conclusion

Sleep disorders disrupt your sleep cycle and affect your quality of life. They prevent you from getting the restful sleep you need to function properly. While using sleeping pills may have its perks, there are

always the risks of tolerance and addiction.

See your doctor immediately if you are struggling with your sleep. Your health depends on good sleep. Practice simple sleep hygiene habits, along with your doctor’s instructions to get your sleep cycle back on track.

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

An introduction to AIVA skincare

Meet Aiva Skincare, a brand that is said to bring you the effortlessly simple and minimalist beauty secrets of Finland, infused with love.  I was kindly sent 'The Duo' and Aiva Sun SPF20.

Aiva and their skincare is all about ease and simplicity, they love their multi-use products that honour your skin's natural functions and take into account the fact we all know our own skin and its needs, so creating products that are designed to support your skin's natural barrier, they have everything you might need when it comes to moisturising, nourishing, and maintaining balance.

The first product within 'The Duo' is The Oil and with this, not only can you cleanse and moisturise, you can also use it for massages too. 

Described as being a luxurious, supple multi use organic care oil, it is one which absorbs effortlessly to leave the skin feeling nourished with a soothing, protected layer.  It is non-greasy and leaves behind no residue and is packed full of amazing ingredients which includes: 

Hero Ingredients

• Organic cold-pressed Northern Bilberry Seed (Nordic Wild Blueberry) Oil - said to be one of the most powerful natural antioxidants. It contains vitamins and flavonoids which work to protect the skin from the damaging effects of environmental pollution, oxidation, and premature cell ageing. plus the omega fatty acids and phytotensins work to nourish, moisturise and soothe the skin, helping to relieve inflammation while keeping the skin supple, supporting the skin's collagen.
• Organic Northern Sea Buckthorn Oil -  helps to protect the skin and promote its regeneration, thanks in part to the Provitamin A it contains.
• Organic cold-pressed virgin Jojoba Oil - helps to moisturise without making skin oily. The composition of Jojoba Oil is similar to that of the skin’s sebum, which helps the skin stay balanced.
• Organic cold-pressed Olive Oil  - contains several effective antioxidants such as Vitamin E, polyphenols and phytosterols. Moisturises and smoothes the skin. Vitamin E supports the skin as it matures.
• Organic cold pressed Apricot Kernel Oil - a deeply nourishing, luxurious, lightweight, non-irritating and soothing oil that moisturise and smooth out dryness. Excellent omega fatty acid ratio that suits even acne-prone skin. It’s Vitamins A, E and C helps to clarify the skin’s tone and complexion, promoting a natural glow.

As well as The Oil being used to cleanse, moisturise, nourish and protect you can also mix it with The Cream to make both face and body masks too.  What I love about this oil is that it doesn't feel like an oil on the skin, it reminds me of a serum as it absorbs into the skin and it leaves no trace behind that it was on your skin, but notably after using there is an instant softness to the touch.

The second product within 'The Duo' is The Cream and it is described as being a protective, nourishing and balancing antioxidant cream that leaves your skin feeling well, good and hydrated. 

As with the oil, this is a multi-functional use cream and it not only is it perfect for being used under makeup but because it is so lightweight and absorbs really quickly, it can be mixed with the oil to act as a face mask or body lotion and it is suitable for those with even the most sensitive of skin.  Again, as with the oil, this cream is infused with a whole host of hero ingredients which includes:

Hero Ingredients

• Organic Northern Sea Buckthorn Extract  - this helps to protect the skin and promote its regeneration, thanks in part to the Provitamin A it contains. 
• Organic cold-pressed virgin Jojoba Oil  - this helps to moisturise without making skin oily. The composition of Jojoba Oil is similar to that of the skin’s sebum, which helps the skin stay balanced.
• Organic antioxidant Black Tea  - this helps protect and soothe the skin, reducing impurities and inflammation. The polyphenols contained in tea are effective antioxidants that help prevent the damage caused by environmental pollution including UV light. Its caffeine content revives the skin and acts as natural astringent.
• Vanillin - used for its pleasant aroma which helps keep the composition aromatically soothing.

The cream is a delight to use, either on its own or mixed with the oil, the latter being my favourite way to use it.  On the skin, the cream is one of the lightest I have used in a very long time.

The Oil and The Cream are available together as a set, The Duo, for £59.

The final product I have to share is The Sun SPF 20, which also comes as an SPF, if you prefer. Described as being a high-quality discreet sunscreen for face and body and it delivers  100% natural physical, reflective protection, no chemical preservatives or nanoparticles.  

The unique Borealis Beauty Sun Blend composition is a mixture of natural and organic ingredients alongside mineral filters, which are scientifically proven to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. The sea buckthorn extract, vitamins C and E contained in the cream help to keep the skin in good condition when exposed to sunlight and prevent the skin from drying out.  It is very lightly perfumed (vanilla extract) but will not cause photo-sensitivity and is extremely safe and suitable for use on sensitive skins and impressively safe for use from the age of 3.

What I am enjoying about using this SPF is aside from not leaving a white cast on the skin, it absorbs really easily and does work quite well as a base product for makeup!

AIVA Skincare is such a lovely brand to get to know and I am already looking forward to seeing what comes next!

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

Retinal ReSculpt™ Overnight Treatment - Murad

Retinoids is an ingredient that many of us are familiar with and it is one which has become a really popular skincare ingredient especially in serums and eye creams. It is said the benefits of retinoids include improving the appearance of pigmentation, increasing skin cell turnover as well as helping with the skin’s overall texture - all of which we look for when purchasing products. From Murad, the Retinal ReSculpt™ Overnight Treatment claims to help smooth wrinkles and improve elasticity and I could not wait to try it.

I am already a fan of the Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Range, so I really could't wait to try this product, which has rave reviews everywhere.  Retinal, a form of retinoid that's considered to be more potent than traditional retinol, works to enhance skin's firmness, texture, and overall radiance. Packaged inside a green glass bottle with a silver pump applicator, this is a product that you use as part of your night time routine, after cleansing.  On the skin, the serum has a really lovely, soft silky smooth feel to it and it absorbs really quickly when applied.  

There is so tingling or stinging when it is applied and there is no oily residue left on the skin, that said, if you are thinking about trying a product like this for the first time, it is always wise to patch test and gradually build up your usage.

As always with Murad products, there is an impressive list of key ingredients alongside the retinal which includes blemish-balancing oat lipids, moisture promoting alpha glucan and calming olive leaf extract, which also work to counter dryness and irritation.

Now this is an expensive product priced at £105 but my gosh it is so so good and it leaves my skin feeling so soft and hydrated with no drying, itching or tingling. The results speak for themselves and whilst I don't have deep set wrinkles, I am keen to keep them at bay for what is as long as possible.

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

Boots Self Care Pamper Treats Beauty Box 2024

On sale now 

The Boots Beauty boxes are incredible value for money and usually sell out really quickly! So launching tomorrow is the Boots Self Care Pamper Treats Beauty Box 2024 .

Launching tomorrow, the Boots Self Care Pamper Treats Beauty Box 2024 is said be worth a massive £182 but it will go on sale priced at just £38 - here.  It features a total of 15 products, of those 9 are full-sized and you can expect to see brands such as Sol de Janeiro, Benefit, Elemis and Liz Earle to name a few.

What’s inside:

• Arkive All Day Extra Shampoo 60ml
• Arkive All Day Extra Conditioner 60ml
• Sol De Janeiro Bum Bum Cream 75ml (full size)
• Benefit Porecare mask 10ml (full size)
• Patchology FlashPatch Restoring Night Eye Gel Single (full size)
• Frank Body OG Coffee Scrub 200g (full size)
• Liz Earle Brightening Eye Cream 15ml (full size)
• Seoulista Correct & Calm Instant Facials Mask 25ml (full size)
• ELEMIS Balancing Lavender Toner 200ml (full size)
• Emma Hardie brilliance oil 5ml
• Ole henriksen Eye Cream 3m
• Yankee Candle Filled Votive Lemon Lavender 37g
• Erborian CC Red Correct Cream SPF25 Anti-Redness Colour Corrector 15ml (full size)
• Coco&Eve Microfibre towel wrap (full size)

Definitely one to look out for tomorrow as soon as it goes on sale right here! 

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

Lookfantastic x Drunk Elephant Edit 2024

If you are curious about the brand Drunk Elephant and have wanted to try it, now could be that time because Lookfantastic has released the Lookfantastic x Drunk Elephant Edit 2024.

Over the past few years, Lookfantastic have released some amazing collaboration boxes and this one is simply superb too.

From the ceremide-rich Lala RetroTM Whipped Cream and bestselling B-GoldiTM Bright Drops to the fan-favourite BesteTM No. 9 Jelly Cleanser, discover everything you need for a long-lasting relationship with radiance, the Lookfantastic x Drunk Elephant Edit (worth over £111), is on sale priced at just £75 and with it comes Free Drunk Elephant’s minis.

What’s inside:

• Drunk Elephant Lala Retro™ Whipped Cream Midi 30ml (travel size)— worth over £30
• Drunk Elephant Beste™ No.9 Jelly Cleanser Midi 60ml (travel size) — worth over £15
• Drunk Elephant B-Goldi™ Bright Drops 5ml (deluxe size) — worth over £5.50
• Drunk Elephant A-Gloei™ Maretinol Oil Midi 15ml (travel size) — worth over £36
• Drunk Elephant TLC Sukari Babyfacial™ Midi 15ml (travel size) — worth over £25

If you subscribe to The Box today, you can also get an exclusive £10 discount on the LOOKFANTASTIC x Drunk Elephant Edit!

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

Aldi launches new Almond Coconut Honey Bath Nectar

If you are a fan of the Aldi Lacura Vanilla Honey Golden Bath Nectar, which I am, then you will be as excited as I am to learn that there is to be a new launch within this range.

Aldi’s health & beauty brand, Lacura, is to welcome the NEW Almond Coconut Honey Bath Nectar (£5.99, 300ml) to its dermatologically tested and cruelty-free range ahead of Valentine’s Day.  You might say it has been inspired by another brand, but again there are similarities and differences between the two.

The Aldi Almond Coconut Honey Bath Nectar will be available in stores from January, 25th and this luxurious nectar elixir is specially formulated with a comforting blend of sweet almond oil, honey, hydrolyzed wheat protein and provitamin B5 to help protect the skin’s moisture barrier.  Plus, it will also come complete with a wooden honey dipper.

The Aldi Lacura Almond Coconut Honey Bath Nectar will priced at just £5.99 each, which if you are a fan of Laura Mercier's Almond Coconut Honey Bath (£39), will give you a price saving of 87%.

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

Cult Beauty The Skin Care Edits 2024

If you have over-done it this Christmas and you need some skin-loving TLC brands to help kick-start 2024, then Cult Beauty are releasing the Cult Beauty Skin Care Edits 2024 and it consists of two beauty boxes you will struggle to choose between them from the contents.

Launching the Skin Enhancer Edit and the Skin Essentials Edit, each box features a plethora of products to pamper and look after your skin and the waiting list is open.

On sale here

Over the past year, Cult Beauty has released so many amazing beauty edits that these two really kick off the new year with a bang, so what can you expect to find?

The Skin Care Essentials Edit - HERE £45

Whether you describe yourself as a skincare newbie or a skincare obsessive, the Skin Essentials Edit is described as being the box to help you reset your AM and PM routine with the 6 products that have been included and they are:

Contents:

• Glow Recipe Guava Vitamin C + Ferulic Dark Spot Serum
• Dr Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Acid Serum
• Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm
• Cult Beauty Dual Sided Face Cloth
• REN Clean Skincare Perfect Canvas Smooth, Prep and Plump Essence
• Sunday Riley ICE Ceramide Moisturising Cream
• Allies of Skin Peptides & Antioxidants Firming Daily Treatment

The Skin Enhancer Edit - on sale HERE £45

This box is designed to elevate your complexion to sparkling new heights and is a specially curated 6-piece skintellectual box of goodies that come highly recommended ans they include:

Contents

• Kopari Beauty Moisturizing Lip Glossy with Shea Butter, Coconut Oil and Squalene
• Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser 200ml
• Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 25% AHA and 2% BHA Exfoliant Peel
• True Botanicals Calm Pure Radiance Oil
• Thank You Farmer Sun Project Water Sun Cream SPF50+
• Medik8 Crystal Skin Retinal 

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

L'Occitane Almond and Flowers Collection

The L'Occitane Almond Collection is the best ever collection and anyone who reads my blog will know tht I adore it.  In recent weeks there have been a few new launches to L'Occitane which I have shared and am sharing. The Shea Sparking Leaves Collection, I have raved about in this post and today is another new launch and it is the L'Occitane Almond and Flowers Collection.

Described as being a mouth-watering fragrance where the subtle scent of almond is intertwined with olive blossom and citrus scents, the L'Occitane Almond and Flowers Collection is simply beautiful. Made up of a Shower Oil, Bath Cube, Hand Cream and Milk Concentrate the packaging is as stunning as the products themselves.

Starting with the Almond and Flowers Shower Oil (£19.50), which as you can expect is designed to help hydrate and nourish the skin all day long. As with its sister oil, when this shower oil comes into contact with water, it transforms from an oil into a sheer milky lotion to gently cleanse the body. Enriched in almond and olive oil,not only does it help to keep skin moisturised it also leaves behind the most subtle floral scent, where the notes of almond intertwine with the fresh notes of olive blossom and citruses such as Neroli.

The second product is the Almond and Flowers Milk Concentrate (£44) and one body care product I am guaranteed to use is a L'Occitane body product, they're somewhat addictive and I make my way through a lot of refills.

This Milk Concentrate has a luxuriously rich texture and is just a delight to use. Again it is enriched in the same softening and moisturising almond and olive oil. Its job is to deliver long-lasting hydration to the skin as well as to improve suppleness, and smooth the skin. On conact with the skin, it absorbs quickly and leaves behind a slightly stronger scent that the Shower Oil gives, and again it is that comforting notes of almond alongside those fresh notes of olive blossom and citruses.

Then finally I have the Almond and Flowers Delicious Hands (£9) and it is described as being a light hand cream that has a delicately perfumed floral gourmand scent.

No L'Occitane collection is complete without a hand cream and this one is beautiful to use. It is described as being a hand cream which embellishes the skin and softens the cuticles, whilst at the same time enveloping them with a floral gourmand scent. Again, those same fragrance notes which are present in the Milk Concentrate and the Shower Oil are present in the hand cream, so you get the notes of almond intertwined with the fresh notes of olive blossom and citruses.  On the hands, the silky smooth texture is fast absorbing and non-greasy or tacky, it leaves behind a wonderful lingering scent on the skin.

This collection is on sale now with L'Occitane and it is, as you would expect to find Vegan-friendly and made as sustainably as possible.

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

Wild Body Wash + Discount

If you hadn't yet come across or seen Wild deodorant, you need too because it is the world-first, plastic-free and sustainable natural deodorant that loudly shouts it is here to change the planet, and our way of thinking. However, recently added to their line-up is the Wild Body Wash.

As with the Deodorant, the Body Wash (350ml) features a 100% plastic-free, compostable refill and those refills are also biodegradable, in fact we are told it will biodegrade faster than a banana skin, and of course the stylish aluminium case is designed to last a lifetime.

There is a choice of two different cases - Aqua or Pink and then, as this is also a subscription service, but does allow a one-off purchase, you get to make a choice as to which body wash scent you want, from 5 different ones to try from a choice of:

• Orange Blossom - Citrus & Floral. Combines sun-kissed oranges with the delicate floral aroma of blossoms in full bloom.
• Coconut & Vanilla  - Sweet & Tropical. A delightful fusion of sweetness and tropical bliss.
• Fresh Cotton and Sea Salt - Energising & clean. Infuse your shower with a sense of purity and invigoration.
• Mint & Aloe - Cool & Refreshing. The perfect start to your day with an invigorating blend of fresh mint and calming aloe vera.
• Jasmine & Mandarin Blossom - Floral & sophisticated. A captivating blend of delicate florals and zesty citrus.

Each refill of the body wash is 350ml and is designed to last at least a month, but this is dependent on how often you shower and use it.

On choosing your scent/or scents your box arrives and you will need to follow the instructions printed on the box to connect the refillable bottle into the aluminium case, which thankfully is a 2 second job and then it is ready to be used.

The product, as you can see is dispensed by pump and when used, it comes out as a silky smooth clear liquid which quickly forms to a lather when it comes into contact with water. I have the Jasmine and Mandarin Blossom scent and it is just divine. Jasmine is one of my favourite perfume notes, so alongside the Mandarin Blossom, you definitely that a zesty floral uplifting scent that fills the entire bathroom and lingers on the skin after using. I have found that two pumps of this body wash was more than enough to cover my whole body and the formula is not harsh or abrasive but does leave your skin feeling clean yet moisturised.

The Subscription

• The price of this is dependent on how you choose to try the Wild Body Wash. If you choose a one off try then the Aluminium Case is priced at £9 and three re-fills are £21 which costs £30 in total.
• The subscription service offers you the choice of buying your Alumium Case and your first refill for £15 or you can opt for the Flexi-Subscription and this gives you the Aluminium Case and the price of the refills will be £6 instead of £7 and you get 3 refills every 2, 3 or 4 months

Plus you can skip, pause or cancel at any time.

Discount Code

If I have persuaded you and you want to try Wild Bodywash for yourself, my code Beautyqueen will give you 20% off a one-time only purchase or for your subscription, in the same way it does for the Wild Deodorant.

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