Stocking Filler Gift Guide for Christmas 2020 - Skincare

One of my absolute favourite things to shop for at Christmas time are gifts for stocking fillers. Having had Black Friday and an abundance of other sales and mega deals, there has been so many amazing gifts to grab and I have managed to get my hands on some amazing brands and products to share with you. 

Today is the turn of skincare, something you could say I am a fan of, if you read my blog regularly.  This skincare stocking filler guide features products which cost less than £25 and each and every one of them is amazing, whether or not your recipient or even you are a novice or an expert.

Starting with Dr Murad, who has some amazing gift sets for 2020, we have a 2-piece collection called You Dew You (£15 here). Inside are two of my favourite Murad products. 

Firstly is the AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser which is a brilliant exfoliator, one I have used time and time again when my skin feels dull and dry. It does an incredible job at just sloughing away at dead and dry skin, without being overly abrasive.  Paired with it is the Nutrient-Charged Water Gel (full review here) which is a water-light, oil-free gel moisturiser and its job is to hydrate, plump and lock that much needed moisture in to the skin.

From Ecooking is my favourite product from the range and one I have re-purchased many times over. The Multibalm (£23 here*)is was created to tackle a multitude of skin conditions and as well as being delicate enough for the face, it can also be used on elbows, hands, cuticles, knees and even your lips too. 

As with all Ecooking products (review here) this one contains a whole host of amazing ingredients which care for the skin. Included you will find Shea Butter, Vitamin E, Organic Argan and Olive Oils all of which hydrate and protects the skin. Delisens which reduces itching and inflammation and Xpertmoist which is a highly moisturising and regenerating ingredient. 

 

Normally you hear me professing my love for L'Occitane and the Almond Collection, but today, I am sharing my love for the Shea Butter Festive Bauble (£12 here*).

Packaged inside the cutest of decorative star-shaped tins, the contents inside are just divine. Firstly is the a 20ml Ultra Rich Body Lotion, followed by a 25g Shea Butter Milk Soap, before finally a 10ml Shea Butter Hand Cream. All of these products are designed to pamper, nourish, moisturise and protect the skin, plus it smells just incredible too.

The Body Shop is a brand I am really enjoying right now, I featured the new CBD range here just a few weeks ago and today it is the turn of the Winter Jasmine  Little Gift Box (£20 here*), a collection I have wanted to get my hands on since it was released.

Featuring four products, inside is the Winter Jasmine Shower Gel 250ml, Winter Jasmine Body Yogurt 200ml, Winter Jasmine Body Scrub 50ml and the Winter Jasmine Hand Cream 30ml. The collection features notes of orange flower, fresh jasmine and rose petals, so as you can imagine, it smells just absolutely delightful and I like it so much, I have ordered another set as a back up.

One brand which does the most amazing candles is Beatitude and having shared one of those candles in my candle gift guide, today I am back with the Joy Body Oil which comes wrapped inside the cutest of baubles (£10 here).

Referred to as 'Sunshine in a bottle', this Joy Body Oil is absolutely beautiful and just the kind of scent you need to have in your life if you need a bit of a pick me up. Made from 100% natural ingredients body oil is not only incredibly nourishing but it also provides goodness and hydration. It uses the oils of Oat, Camellia, Peach Kernel and Daikon Radish Seed which come together to provide a unique silky texture that is easily absorbed leaving beautiful soft, smooth skin without a greasy film.

One product I have really found amazing to use comes from Soap & Glory and it was quite by accident because I had thought I had picked up a tub of Righteous Cream but instead it was the Glow Your Mind Cleansing Balm.

As described this is a balm to milk nourishing formula and it has some amazing ingredients which includes vitamin C, marula oil, avocado oil, apricot oil and jojoba oil too. Together these ingredients come together to remove dirt, grime, makeup and it does a pretty good job at removing waterproof mascara, though I always ensure my eye makeup is removed prior to cleansing with a makeup remover, something I do out of habit. The formula, once it comes into contact with the warmth of your skin, quickly melts to a milky texture and I love the scent, very Soap & Glory. After using, yes it does leave your skin feeling smooth to the touch.

Finally from MOR is the Snowy Boxette Gift Set (£20 here*) and it is perfect for the times we are living in right now.

The bright pink box, with a ribbon bow detail features two products inside, the first is a 50ml Snow Gardenia Hand cream. This cream is a non-greasy light formula which is enriched with nourishing Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter and other essential Vitamins which leave your hands feeling silky smooth and moisturised. The second product is a 60g Snow Gardenia Soapette which is a Triple-Milled Soapette made from a rich vegetable base. It also contains Shea Butter and Vitamin E which together work to create a decadent lather that leaves your skin luxuriously moisturised.

I would love to know if you ever buy people skincare gift sets for stocking fillers, or even for yourself and if so, do any of these catch you eye?

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

JimBag Grey Rolltop Bag

Living in London, moving around on public transport can often be a nightmare when you have luggage, particularly if you have somewhere to be in rush hour.  Both the mister and I often spend time away from home working and occasionally it is only for a few days, so a suitcase isn't needed, but something that is a between size.  When the guys over at JimBag got in touch to see if we wanted to give one of their products a try, we both loved the look of what was to offer and settled on the Grey Rolltop Bag.

This backpack is described as being for the trailblazers who prefer the more scenic route to work, gym and just about everywhere else. It is one of those bags that you can literally use for everything, its design giving a lot of thought to the kind of person who might be using it and for various reasons.  

It has what is referred to as duo front and back exterior zip compartments which allow for quick access to products you might need to access quicker than those at the bottom of your bag. It also has a lot of other uses and features which includes:

Features:

• Roll-top accessibility to open and close with an adjustable clip to securely fasten shut
• Dual front and back exterior zip compartments made especially for easier in and out accessibility for insert and removal of items
• The Back-exterior zip compartment reinforced with extra patting to protect sensitive items this is the preferred area of storing laptops and tablets
• Spacious main storage area capable of supporting the imaginable
• The maximum capacity is 33 litres and the standard size is 26.5 litres when rolled down
• Standard dimensions are 49cm x 30cm x 18 cm
• Laptop compartment fit 15 inch and under
• Waterproof inner-coating

This bag definitely has a lot more storage than any of the bags I have ever owned and whilst we only got to use it a few times before lockdown, the compartment which is the most useful for me is the laptop compartment, nicely hidden but secure in the bag and given the weather we have had recently, being waterproof is also a nice addition.

Given how spacious this JimBag Grey Rolltop Bag, it is lightweight, it doesn't feel uncomfortable when wearing and the best part is that it is currently on offer for just £49.99.

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

Selfridges x Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte’s Magic Icons Gift Set

Having just finished all of my Christmas shopping, Selfridges always catches my attention with their newly launched and exclusive ranges and today see the Selfridges x Charlotte Tilbury collections, the first of which is the Charlotte’s Magic Icons Gift Set.

The Magic Icons set is worth over £140, it is on sale for £97 here* and contains some of the brand's most iconic products - think Pillow Talk, one of the first lipsticks I saw everyone want to own, to wear and want to be part of the hype.

Charlotte Tilbury knows how to do a collection and a collaboration and if you missed out on her amazing Black Friday deals or the Mystery Box for £20, then this might just be the collection for you.

Contents

• Pillow Talk push-up mascara 10ml, 
• Pillow Talk Matte Revolution lipstick 3.5g, 
• Filmstar Bronze & Glow palette 12.5g, 
• Charlotte's Darling eye palette 5.4g

These four beauty products come packaged inside a Selfridges branded canvas drawstring bag and if you have ever orders products from Selfridges and had one of these bags, you’ll appreciate just how good an item it is to have. I still use mine 2 years on from when an order I made came packaged in one, it’s so handy for travelling with.

As I’ve mentioned, these products are worth over £140 but this collection is on sale now, here*  for just £97 which is an incredible saving over £45 and if you’re still gift shopping, could just solve a dilemma for you.

Grab it here whilst stocks last!

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

Christmas Gifting with Emma Hardie Skincare

Christmas with Emma Hardie is always amazing and 2020 is no exception. As you will see, some of the packaging is slightly different this year, in collaboration with the charity Look Good Feel Better.

Look Good Feel Better is a charity that helps boost the physical and emotional wellbeing of women, men and young adults undergoing cancer treatment.  Earlier this year, Emma Hardie set a challenge to raise £100k for LGFB during 2020.

The first product within their Christmas Collection is called Merrily Moringa. This Stocking filler gift, which is priced at just £10 here, is an amazing introduction to the brand if you are still yet to give them a try.

Inside this box, you will find a mini Moringa Cleansing Balm, which is a must-have item for me because it is amazing for travelling with, whether it is overnight or longer! I always have one in my travel bag. The Moringa Cleansing Balm, the product most known and talked about from Emma Hardie, is a purifying botanical cleansing balm that removes all traces of face and eye make-up, deeply cleanses the pores as well as balancing, hydrating and moisturising all skin types. This balm is packed full of amazing ingredients, you will find:

• Grape Seed Oil and Sweet Almond Oil rich in essential fatty acids help to plump and soften
• Moringa seed extract, Wild Sea Fennel and Vitamin E balance, purify and help to minimise the appearance of open pores
• Essential oils of Orange, Neroli and Mandarin rejuvenate and revitalise the skin whilst calming the senses
• Jasmine and Rose help to recondition dull, dry, dehydrated and mature skins

To work with your mini balm is the inclusion of one of Emma Hardie's Dual-action cloths and again, I have a stash of these because they are amazing to use. One side of the cloth is a gentle microfibre material for deep cleansing and removal whereas the other side is a muslin cloth for polishing the skin. 

Find this Merrily Moringa gift via Emma Hardie and Cult Beauty* for £10.

The second product in my trio is the Midas Touch Collection and if you or anyone you know is in need of a pamper session, then this cracker will be calling your name and it costs just £20.

The Midas Touch Collection offers three bestselling products in deluxe sizes and with them comes one of the incredible cleansing cloths.

Inside the cracker you will find a mini Moringa Cleansing Balm as shown above and honestly, I cannot rave about it enough! The second product is the Moringa Renewal Treatment Mask and which is described as being a rich, indulgent, high-performance cream based moisturising and exceptionally hydrating mask that instantly helps to give the appearance of a tighter and refreshed skin. The main the ingredient is Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, a staple ingredient within Emma Hardie and alongside this you will find:

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

The mask itself is luxuriously creamy without being too thick and it applies like an absolute dream to my skin.  The third product is the Midas Touch Revitalising Cream. I absolutely love just how luxurious the texture of this cream is and it absorbs incredibly quickly into the skin. Formulated with hyaluronic acid to banish signs of fatigue and stress as well as to hydrate and plump the skin. Other ingredients include a powerful blend of marine and botanical extracts such as antioxidant edelweiss stem cells which work to condition and tone while brightening properties are delivered by natural polymatrix algae film extract. Also found within this cream are the natural oils of Moringa, Primrose and Rosehip which work together to moisturise, nourish and soothe and it smells just incredible.

The Midas Touch Collection is on sale now for £20 via Emma Hardie and Cult Beauty*.

The final part of this collection is definitely one for the Emma Hardie fans or a gift for someone who definitely needs to become a fan. The Luxury Collection, which retails for £40 and it offers the chance to try three of the brands best-selling products, which come packaged inside an Emma Hardie branded pouch.

Alongside the Moringa Cleansing Balm, Dual Action Cloth and the Midas Touch Revitalising cream, all of which have been mentioned above, within this collection you get one of the best facial oils I have ever used and one which I have re-purchased more times than I can even remember.

The Brilliance Facial Oil is described as being a multi-active, lightweight, nourishing facial oil complex which includes nine essential oils -such as Palma Rose, Orange, Mint, Vanilla, Geranium, Camomile, Lemon, Rose and Lavender. These oils all come together to re-balance and replenish precious moisture to the skin while balancing sebum production. The oils work alongside Omega 3 which helps to restructure the skin and promote elasticity and Camelina 'Gold of Pleasure' oil which is known for its powerful antioxidant properties to protect the skin from environmental damage. This oil not only feels incredible on the skin, but I love that it is a non-greasy oil and my skin just drinks it as quick as I apply it.

You can find the Luxury Collection via the Emma Hardie website or via Cult Beauty* where it retails for £40.

As you can see, there is something for everyone within this Emma Hardie Skincare gift guide and whether you are a huge fan, new to the brand or yet to discover the brand, this is such a great introduction. You can find all of these gifts and more on the Emma Hardie website.

Do you have a favourite Emma Hardie product?

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

Christmas Gifting with Verdant Alchemy

I love being in the bath, I love being in or near to water -  as a water sign (Cancerian), if I am stressed, worn out, over tired, feeling unwell or anxious, water is something that instantly soothes and calms. Verdant Alchemy have some of the best bath salts I have used, I say it a lot, but bath salts are very much underrated and yet they do so much!

The Mineral Bath Salts Collection, described as being the gift of calm and relaxation this Christmas, features three of the brands favourite potent bath salts. These mineral bath salts are specifically formulated to bring balance to busy lives and create a calm sanctuary at home. Given the year we have all had for 2020, I think we could all do with some of this in our lives.

Verdant Alchemy bath salts are rooted in aromatherapy, and each fragrance has a functional purpose of helping elevate your well-being. Whether it is to help you breathe easy, drift off, or ascent to a higher place- our bath salts will nourish your mind, body and soul.

Inside the box are three sachets of the bath salts in Ascent, Yoga Om and Breathe in. If you chose to add to your gift collection, there are further offerings of Deep Drift, Drift Off and Detox, to complete the entire set.

I have used all three of these varieties of bath salts so far and each one has its own purpose depending on your mood. Each Bath Salt has a purpose and a reason which I really like and with it comes the addition of essential oils.

Ascent with Himalayan Bath Salts are designed to be energising and uplifting making them perfect if you are feeling quite low in energy and need a pick-me-up. Using a natural blend of 84 precious minerals which includes Iodine, Phosphorus, Chromium, Vanadium, Magnesium and Iron which all control your body’s ability to generate and transport energy, plus you will find Copper, Chromium, Cobalt and of course Sodium which all contribute to your metabolism and help maintain and support healthy blood flow. 

Added to the minerals is rose geranium and ho-leaf oils which promote mental wellbeing and are also known for their uplifting properties. Then we have lavender oil soothes and calms the soul. 

Yoga Om Bath Salts, known as the recovery bath salts are designed to aid recovery, reduce inflammation and are perfect for achy joints and sore muscles. The perfect post yoga treat, these salts are inspired by the tropical scents of Bali yoga retreats. Warm baths are brilliant at promoting blood flow to help improve recovery, and magnesium baths help reduce inflammation via a process called osmotherapy. As I have an ankle injury, I've been told to bathe as much as I can with a magnesium based product to help with the inflammation. 

Added to these salts is a blend of lemongrass, basil & grapefruit oils which smell delightful and are there for their uplifting properties that boosts energy when you are feeling drained.

Breathe In, known as the powerful decongestant and immunity booster, these salts are the ones you need if you are feeling under the weather, have a cold or just feel as though illness is on its way.  Using a host of minerals, which I've mentioned in the two previous options such as Iron and Zinc, which in the Dead Sea salt helps to facilitate the carrying of oxygen in the blood, boosting health and speeding up recovery. As you can see, they are designed to help you relax which in turns helps the body to heal, perfect for when you are feeling under the weather.

These salts use a blend of eucalyptus, lemon and bergamot oils which work to soothe airways and they have been paired with the aromatic and woody blend of thyme and cedarwood. There is also a blend of powerful antioxidants, vitamin C and anti-microbial properties which are said to harness the power of nature to boost your immune system. 

To use these salts, all you need to do is ensure that there is a few inches of water in the bath and then pour in a few handfuls of the salts into the water, the rule being, the more salts you use, the more potent it is.  Once they're within the water, simply give them a few minutes to dissolve and then lie back and relax.

This set is on sale right now for just £32 and there is also a lot of other options available too, some of which include a bath oil and I have to say are very very tempting!

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

Seoulista Beauty Two to Twinkle Cleanse and Hydrate Christmas Pack

The multi award-winning beauty brand Seoulista Beauty has launched some amazing gift sets for Christmas and I have kindly sent one to share with you. The Two to Twinkle Cleanse & Hydrate Skincare System, which is described as being your ultimate saviour for dry and dehydrated skin is an amazing gift to give and the perfect sized stocking filler, whether the recipient is a skincare fanatic or not.

If you have never come across the Seoulista Beauty brand before then you are in for a treat because they have some of the best face masks I have used. Inspired by the flawless, glass skin of South Korean women, Seoulista Beauty develops innovative skincare in Seoul, which for many is widely regarded as the epicentre of beauty. Created and tested by dermatologists, each treatment from the brand is formulated with targeted ingredients for every skin type. It’s boasts salon-grade skincare that delivers professional results for the face and body and given that they are an award-winning brand, they clearly have got something right.

The Seoulista Beauty Two to Twinkle Cleanse & Hydrate Skincare System, which comes packaged ready to gift, is said to combine powerful, effective cleansing using the one-step Super Hydration Instant Facial™. This unique duo works hard to ensure you have a plumped and hydrated party-perfect complexion. 

The Set Contains:

Seoulista Super Hydration Instant Facial® (25ml) x 2 

The Super Hydration Instant Facial is made from natural ingredients and by a team of Dermatologists. The natural coconut gel-like mask is infused with hyaluronic acid which provides intense hydration, moisture and it also conditions the skin. Also included in an infusion of vitamins which work to hydrate the complexion for visibly smoother, supple and plump skin after just 20 minutes.

This Super Hydration Instant Facial is said to be suitable for all types of skin and is perfect for a using as a part of your daily skin prep routine before applying makeup or popping on in the evening after a day exposed to the harsh elements. Free from parabens, mineral oil, sulphates and artificial colours. This mask is also biodegradable, vegan and cruelty free.

Seoulista Beauty® Magic Cleanse™ x 1

Designed as a sustainable cleansing solution, the dual sided disc helps to lift and remove dirt, oil and makeup to leave you with clean and clear skin, just by adding water.  One side of the disc is designed to gently buff the skin as it is slightly textured, meaning it works easy to dislodge and remove dirt, grime and other impurities.  Once you have cleansed your face with one side, turn it over to reveal a much softer and fluffy side to wipe away any excess dirt, oil and makeup that is sitting on the skins surface.

This kit is currently on sale, via Lookfantastic for just £12.80* which is an absolute bargain because bought separately, the cost would be close to £21, so it is an amazing saving and as I have said already, a great gift for someone, even yourself for that time out, me time. 

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

Christmas Candles Gift Guide

So, today I am sharing with you some of the candles that I have for the Christmas season, by season I mean from now until at least Epiphany. Away go the uplifting and citrusy scents and out come the ones featured within this post.

I am a huge fan of candles, they are items that I am never without, there is always one burning in whichever room I choose to be in and they are part of my relaxation and wind down sessions.  For me, watching that wick flicker once it is a lit is quite mesmerising and I tend to choose the scent of my candle based on my mood.  When it comes to Christmas, with all the festivities, I want something that reminds me of those hours making Gingerbread houses, the spice and fruitiness of making a Christmas Cake and homemade Mince Pies, the scent of Mulled Wine as it wafts through the house and not forgetting a blast of cinnamon.

First we have Ark Skincare, a brand I have shared many times on my blog, because they are just a brilliant brand.  When it comes to Christmas, I am lucky enough to have the Nutmeg, Cinnamon & Clove Luxury Home Candle (£27 here) and it is just divine.

Described as being Christmas in a jar! This luxury home candle is everything I have mentioned above when it comes to scents. It is warm and spicy as it is scented with a beautiful scent of Nutmeg, Cinnamon & Clove.   This candle is hand-poured right here in the UK and it has a burn time of around 50 hours which is amazing value for money.

The second candle I am sharing is from Ambiance London (£44 here) another brand I adore for their unique fragrances and luxe packaging.  Alteeneh is a scent which sits firmly within the Woody/Sweet family and it is a scent which you can detect before anything is unwrapped, removed from packaging or lit.

Alteeneh is the candle that you can snuggle under a blanket with on a rainy day, you can have it alight in an evening during dinner and it is smells divine. The notes of figs brings about that sweetness and woodiness aroma, which, if you have cooked a fig, you will know that exact scent.  This candle hand-poured in the UK using traditional techniques, special slow burning wax blend and lead-free wick. At the base of each candle you’ll find a fragrance heritage story detailing its ancient roots, along with candle burning tips.

From Beatitude, I was kindly sent the Winter Comfort Candle (£30 here) and stunning, that is the first word that springs to mind.  Again, it is a candle you can detect before you open it and because it is an Aromatherapy candle, it has that wow factor too.

Packed with a seasonal blend of essential oils - think of those uplifting citrus scents of mandarin, bergamot and clementine which work beautifully with the herbal aroma of lavender and eucalyptus, both of which I adore, then to really make its mark, come those warming, spicy notes of clove and cinnamon. This is one of those candles that when you need to be shaken out of a foul mood and given a reason to breathe in, relax and forget what irritated you, this is that candle in a nutshell. It creates the most wonderful ambience.

Now Floral Street (£28) have some of the most amazing fragrances that I have within my collection, but did you know they also had some amazing candles too? Fireplace, which is the name of this candle, is one I have purchased time and time again, much like their Electric Rhubarb Fragrance. 

Think of a wood fire crackling away, the scent it emits, a childhood memory for me. With that come notes of  Tuscan Leather, Birch Leaf, and a touch of raspberry. What you get is a candle which just makes you feel warm. It warms the entire room you are in and creates a snug environment and is just absolutely delightful.

From Marks & Spencer, who have an incredible range of candles this year, comes Bah Humbug and as soon as I smelt it in the store, I wasn't leaving it behind and it is only costs £9.50 here*.

Christmas inspired, this candle is described as being a sweet-smelling candle which features warm notes of ginger, clove and biscuit. What this candle does is create an atmosphere which reminds me of freshly baked Gingerbread ready to make a gingerbread house, something I absolutely love to do.  Impressively, it has a burn time of 55 hours and burns evenly without tunnelling.

Finally within my collection is the Bath and Body Works Fresh Balsam candles and I adore BBW candles and only wish I could get to a store to stock up on some of my favourites.

Described as being the definition of 'The Great Outdoors', with the scent think Woods and Cool with a bit of Earthiness thrown in. That scent you get when your Christmas Tree arrives at the door, ready to be put into its base before decoration can begin. Its fragrance notes are Woodland Balsam, Crisp Eucalyptus, Fir Branches and Cedarwood with Essential Oils. Truly delightful and a very fresh Christmas fragrance.

So there you have my Christmas Candle Collection, a complete array of scent descriptions, brands, feelings they evoke and moods they create. For me, candles will always make a great gift and there is plenty to choose from here!

What kind of candle do you use for the festive season?

 

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

Lavera Sweet Moments Gift Set

Lavera gift sets are really good value for money and perfect for those who like to gift something that is considered natural and organic.  I was kindly gifted the Lavera Sweet Moments Gift Set (£15.95) and it is just divine.

Lavera, if you have never come across the brand, was founded by Thomas Haase, who had suffered from a skincare condition that was not well-known, neurodermatitis. Having used a whole lot of creams, lotions and treatments, in his teens, Thomas became interested in alternative skin-care preparations. In the summer of 1975, Thomas created his first lip balm and then by 1987 after more than 10 years in research and cosmetic development laverana GmbH was born. The name lavera - a name carefully chosen for its meaning: in Latin lavera means "the truth" is the name of the brand I am sharing today and it is one which uses raw plant materials, as much as possible from certified organic agriculture, all the products are 100% free from synthetic perfumes, colourants and preservatives.

The Lavera Sweet Moments gift set contains two full-sized body products - a Body Wash and Body Lotion. 

They come packaged inside a really pretty winter scene themed box making that gift all the more special at this time of year.

The body Wash which has a delicious fragrance of warming vanilla and plum, is so gently on the skin that it cleanses your skin having created a really soft foaming lather. Designed to remove the days dirt and environmental pollution from your skin, it leaves the skin feeling silky soft to the touch.

Then the second product which is the body lotion, is really silky smooth on the skin when applied.  As it features that same sweet warming fragrance of vanilla and plum it brings the whole scent to life when layered and it is a scent which is just divine and really delightful on the skin.  A must for those who love the ability to use two products together to compliment one another.

If this sounds like a duo you would love, then you can find the Lavera Sweet Moments Set right here.

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

Cult Beauty Merry & Bright Beauty Edit 2020

Over the last few months, Cult Beauty have had some amazing beauty boxes, they’ve had Hair Heroes, The Skincare Saviours, The Self Care Edit, The Makeup Edit, The Men’s Edit and many more besides. The latest edition is The Merry & Bright Edit.*

In keeping with the design of the other boxes and that of the Advent Calendar, these products also come house is a bright red, orange and pink box, definitely one that stands about to grab your attention.

The Merry & Bright Edit is all about the inclusion of what are referred to as “potent, results-driven must-haves” and it includes everything from a fan favourite toner to an A-List-approved mask and the box is priced at just £95 here*.

Contents

• Pixi Glow Tonic – FULL SIZE
• Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum – FULL SIZE
• Wishful Thirst Trap Mask – FULL SIZE
• Yu Ling Rollers Rose Quartz Facial Roller Double – FULL SIZE
• Summer Fridays Jumbo Jet Lag Mask – SUPER SIZE

As you can see, this box features a little bit of everything to give you that wind down pamper session and ensure your skin gets that much needed TLC and love from some amazing products and given everything included is full size, the price of the box is even more impressive!

You can find this box right here* and if you are looking for a treat for yourself, a loved one or your best friend, then this is an amazing box!

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

Christmas Gifting with Temple Spa

This Christmas, Temple Spa have a whole host of amazing products and gift sets on offer for treating that loved one in your life, be it a member of your family, your best friend, a work colleague or even yourself - 2020 has been quite the year and one for which we all deserve some treats.  I was kindly sent a selection of products to share on my blog.

Into the Woods is the theme for 2020 with Temple Spa and the gift collection represents layers of knowledge and wisdom built over time, like trees, years of growing into something beautiful.

To capture the real beauty of trees, we collaborated with Dr Gabriel Hemery; a renowned British author, tree photographer and forest scientist. His passion comes through his spectacular photography, full of colours, shapes and textures making it the perfect partnership.

What I love about the offering from Temple Spa is the range of products available for differing budgets you might have.

The first product I have to share is the And Relax! Restoring Bath Salts (£28 here*) and as someone, who like me, loves bath salts, I was excited to try these. Described as being refreshing and restoring mineral-rich bath salts that will leave you feeling relaxed.  

Within the salts are three main ingredients which are:

• Laminaria Extract - Laminaria is a type of seaweed containing iodine, an element that the body needs to make thyroid hormones. It is also a rich source of iron and potassium.
• Grapefruit - Grapefruit has so many good reasons for being within these salts. Firstly the uplifting scent which is a definite mood changer, but also because it is a natural source of acid, it works to exfoliate skin, removing dead dull skin cells to reveal a radiant, even toned complexion. It also possesses anti-inflammatory and cooling properties so can be used to treat congested and oily skin as well reducing swelling, redness and hyperpigmentation.
• Rosemary - Rosemary has soothing and softening qualities and can help treat eczema and other skin irritations, it also has antiseptic and astringent properties which help treat acne and oily skin problems. Rosemary also encourages cell regeneration which repairs skin and encourages the production of healthy skin while reducing the appearance of spots, wrinkles, bags and puffiness. Plus, it also improves circulation, flushing out toxins and reducing the appearance of cellulite.

Alongside those you will find the inclusion of Bergamot, Thyme and Eucalyptus which together create the most wonderful scent. You only need to use a handful of these salts in your bath water, ideally once there is a few inches of warm water already in the bath, then, as they break down into the water, you end up with a beautifully blue bath to lie back in and enjoy.

The second gift set is the To The Rescue Skin Soother (£45 here*) Presented in a luxurious keepsake box, the supercharged To The Rescue gift set is described as being a powerful duo enriched with a combination of superfoods for the skin.

This super-hero duo work together to press the reset button for skin which is stressed, fragile or frazzled as well as achy muscles and tired minds. Both of these products contain a broad-spectrum CBD and hemp oil complex which is described as being like an all-over calming blanket and wellness prescription for wherever and whenever your skin needs a hug and you some light relief.

• LIGHT RELIEF CBD Skin Booster Oil | 10 ml - This Booster is enriched with hemp, CBD and green mandarin oils alongside a soothing blend of coconut and olive oils. Light-weight in texture, this superfood oil is designed to support the recovery process and bring comfort to stressed out, fragile, dry or dehydrated, skin. It also works to calm down signs of redness and irritation plus it works to alleviate blemishes.  
• STRESS NOT All-over CBD Balm | 50 ml - This is a multi-purpose CBD-infused balm which is said to have 2 missions. The first to bring comfort to stressed out, dry and dehydrated skin and the second is to bring anti-inflammatory relief to aches and pains, ease overworked muscles and settle a frayed mind. This Balm is enriched with a deeply soothing blend of shea butter, vitamin E which work alongside 9 powerful and nourishing superfood oils such as hemp, canola, rice bran and apricot.

I have absolutely loved using the balm, which out of the two I have been using a lot. It feels amazing smooth on the skin without being greasy or tacky.

Finally we have the Truffle Glow (£45 here*) which is also known as The Body Radiance Collection Giftset and it features two products which are designed to keep your skin velvety soft and intensely nourished.

Beautifully packaged and ready for gifting, inside the box you will find two products - Truffletini body polish and the Body Truffle moisturiser. Both products are said to boast the label's signature Truffle mix of ingredients to gift skin with a velvety soft feel, delivering intense nourishment and a luminous glow.

• TRUFFLETINI | 100g - This illuminating body polish is a delight to use on the skin. Luxuriously rich without being overly abrasive. Designed to be used on either dry or dampened skin, the idea is to apply it in circular movements to get the best out of the product and give your skin a really good massage too. Ingredients again, within this body polish are quite something with the inclusion of AHAs such as Citric, Glycolic and Lactic Acids which gently exfoliate the uppermost layers of the skin to make it smoother, softer and more refined. Then there is the inclusion of Olive, Sunflower and Grape Seed oils which nourish and moisturise the skin.
• BODY TRUFFLE | 50 ml -.A rich, luxury body moisturiser for smooth, nourished and radiant. It is packed full of amazing ingredients which includes black winter truffles, cocoa, shea butter, champagne, silk and gold extracts, kombuchka and it also has the nourishing benefits of cashmere. The aromatics of mimosa, honey, vetiver, cedar and sandalwood will delicately fragrance your skin as the inclusion of Rose Quartz which has light reflective properties that illuminate the skin.

As a duo, these two work incredibly well together. A luxurious treat for that pampering hour on a Sunday afternoon when time out is needed to relax and unwind.

So there you have my gift guide for Christmas with Temple Spa and as you can see, there is something for everyone here as well as a lot more choice from their website and as the products are sold at Harrods too*, there is a lot of choice there.

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

LookFantastic x Jo Malone Beauty Box Full Content Reveal

If you love Jo Malone and are a fan of her products then you will adore this box that Lookfantastic will release next week! If you signed up for pre-sale* you can grab it right now!

Say hello to the LOOKFANTASTIC x Jo Malone London Limited Edition Beauty Box.

Indulge your senses with a curated selection of six Jo Malone London iconic fragrances – a collection of coveted Colognes, Bath & Body delights and a luxury scent for the Home.

It’s the perfect festive gift for yourself or a loved one and if you signed up for the pre-sale, you can get your hands on it now for £207, otherwise it goes on sale on December 15th right here*.

If you don’t want to know what is inside, then don’t scroll down because I have listed the contents! What I will say is that the contents are incredible! 

What’s inside?

• English Pear & Freesia Cologne (30ml)
• Pomegranate Noir Cologne (30ml)
• Pomegranate Noir Home Candle (200g)
• Lime Basil & Mandarin Body & Hand Wash (100ml)
• English Pear & Freesia Bath Oil (30ml)
• Peony & Blush Suede Body Crème (50ml)

I am sure you will agree that this really is an incredible looking box and one that, as Lookfantastic say is one to “Celebrate the #SeasonOfScent with LOOKFANTASTIC and Jo Malone London”.

Sign up for this box right here.

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

Skin Alchemist - Dark Matter Artisan Soap

It isn't very often that you will hear me raving about a soap, but as soon as I opened the box containing this Skin Alchemist Dark Matter Soap, I became obsessed with it. 

Skin Alchemist, if you have never come across them are a natural and organic skincare company whose roots are set in the power of plant medicine, it stems from a deeply rooted heritage and childhood experiences by the founder who celebrates enhancing natural beauty through luxurious plant based skincare. Each product is a treat and one which you on what is hoped to be a journey to a more holistic lifestyle and a revival of ancient practices, that as you use these products, they will transport you to a time when skincare was whole and natural, not made in massive factories and cold laboratories, not harmful to nature and animals.

This Dark Matter Soap, which smells just incredible, is described as being a potent detoxifying bar which is packed with ingredients such as natural glycerine and other skin loving inclusions such as extra virgin olive and coconut oils, African Shea Butter and to make it all the more incredible, you will also find Dead Sea Mud, Aloe Vera Gel, Sea Moss, Spearmint, Tea Tree, Eucalyptus and so much more.  The dominant scent is the Spearmint, it is wonderfully fresh and cooling.

To use the soap, allow it to soak under some warm water to create a gentle lather and then use on your body, to cleanse and clean the skin.  For me, I love how the Spearmint scent comes alive when it comes into contact with the water, the lather is rich and soft, it feel like a luxury to use and the scent of the oils transfer to the skin, giving it that lovely hint of mint.

Each artisan soap bar comes in a recyclable paper box made from FSC approved card stock, and is free from synthetic dyes, fragrances and palm oil. They are all made using a traditional cold process manufacturing method which involves hand pouring and curing and because all of the soap bars are individually hand cut and trimmed, the off cuts and the shavings from trimming gets re-used in making confetti soap.

Priced at £10, there are eight other soaps within the Artisan soap collection to work your way through.  A lovely little extra gift for someone who loves their skincare products and as well as soap, Skin Alchemist have a whole host of wonderfully moreish sounds products such as the chocolate cove, which I have my eye on.

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