Living Proof Triple Bond Complex

It has been years since I played with my hair colour, in time I've gone from having highlights and lowlights to balayage and the odd bit of bleach in my hair, I use straighteners and hairdryers, all of which can cause damage.  So, I have always been conscious of looking after my locks, especially after having Covid which saw my hair fall out more rapidly than I would ever like.  I was kindly sent the new Living Proof Triple Bond Complex to try and there is yet to be a product from this brand that I don't like, so I was excited to see what all the hype is about.

As with all Living Proof hair care products, there is a point to this one. Designed to be used weekly as part of your post-shower routine, the Living Proof Triple Bond Complex works to deliver protective and nourishing properties to all hair types. It is formulated with what is referred to as being 3D Fortifying Technology, a patent-pending complex which works to intensely nourish dry and brittle strands which in turn works to promote a smoother-looking appearance. There is also the inclusion of a rich blend of peptides and lipids which help to instantly condition and soften the hair to encourage effortless and comfortable styling, plus, this leave-in treatment is engineered to offer lasting protection with a glossy, mirror-like shine.

KEY BENEFITS

• Helps to reduce split ends
• Protects against mechanical, chemical, thermal and environmental damage
• Promotes healthy, stronger hair
• Encourages smoother softer, more manageable hair
• Free from parabens, silicones, phthalate and sulphates
• Cruelty-free

What I have enjoyed about using this Triple Bond Complex is not just the difference it has made to my hair, but how easily it has been to add it into my hair care routine. After washing your hair, all you need is 1-2 pumps which you massage through the lengths of your hair and then leave it for around 10 minutes, without rinsing it out, then you dry your hair,. What this treatment does is work to construct brand new bonds within the hair which help to deliver immediate strength as well as long-lasting protection for hair which is said to be eight times stronger with no signs of split ends, added to that this treatment also delivers protective hair care against mechanical, chemical, thermal, up to 232˚C and environmental damage, leaving your hair feeling more conditioned, it promotes softer, smoother and more manageable locks with a healthy shine.

The first few times I used this treatment, admittedly I saw no difference in my hair, I didn't get that glass shine I had expected to see but I persevered with using it and gradually my hair stopped falling out in the clumps it had been, this was the first thing I noticed and then, my hair was suddenly feeling thicker and my hair just looks so much healthier, a comment made by a stylist at a hair salon I have been to in recent months.

So is it worthy of the £42 price tag? For me it absolutely is and I am already on my second bottle, but if you are unsure, there is a 15ml tube which is priced at £19 and that alone would give you 3-4 uses so you can see for yourself.

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

Hair Syrup - The brand taking Social Media by Storm

Hair Syrup is a dreamy pre-wash treatment brand that will make the perfect gift or stocking filler this Christmas and it should absolutely be on your wishlist! 

Described as being a brand which went Viral on TikTok, Hair Syrup features everything from growth remedies to pre-wash treatments that will make your hair thick and glossy, Hair Syrup is a unique brand that’s taking social media by storm and better still, they are UK based.

One of the newest additions to make its way onto the Hair Syrup website is the Hair Syrup Grows-Mary (£15.50). 

This rosemary-infused hair oil treatment is described as being perfect for thin, falling out hair that is in need of a re-growth acceleration. So that already ticks boxes for me, since Covid19, my hair has been through a cycle of falling out and being genuinely unhappy, so trying products such as this ticks boxes for me.

This syrup contains Rosemary Essential Oil which is proven to be as effective as 2.5% minoxidil in reducing hair loss and encouraging re-growth. You will also find a combination of grape seed oil, sweet almond oil, peach kernal oil, avocado oil and olive oil to name a few of the ingredients.  Each ingredient promoting moisture, strength and shine alongside the inclusion of Rosemary.

As this is a pre-wash serum, it is ideal to be applied to dry hair and then worked through the lengths and ends as well as massaging into your scalp and letting it work its magic for at least an hour before washing it out.  I have just started to use this as a weekly treatment as suggested, so will update this post in a few weeks time.

The second  Hair Syrup I have to share is called Lemon Aid  and it has been designed use on hair which oily, lack-lustre and limp hair. 

Again, perfect for use on all hair types, but ideally for those like me with an oily scalp, this hair syrup, as the name suggests has been enriched with purifying cold-pressed lemon oil, a mild antiseptic that re-balances natural oils and refreshes hair from root to tip, it also helps to remove any buildup and as it is one of the mildest of exfoliants it also buffs away impurities and any unwanted excess sebum.

As with Grows-Mary above, Lemon Aid is a pre-wash treatment and is designed to be applied to dry hair and then worked through the lengths and ends as well as massaging into your scalp and letting it work for at least an hour before washing it out. 

Hair Syrup also offers other pre-wash syrups such as Rapunzel (for hair refusing to grow), and Mint Condition, for those suffering from a dry, itchy scalp. Both retail at £13.95 and are available from BeautyBay as well as Hair Syrup directly. This wonderful brand also offers a range of accessories.

Finally, if you can’t decide on which syrup to go for, Hair Syrup offers a handy quiz on its website to help you. Simply go through the quiz to get your result and enjoy a new lease of life with your brilliant new syrup.

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

Selfridges The Smooth Operator Hair Care Gift Set Box 2022

Selfridges has launched two new hair care boxes, one is called the xx and this one is the The Smooth Operator hair care gift set.

Priced at just £85, the products within this box are said to be suitable for all hair types and are said to help deal with your frizz or fuzz and turn your hair into a sleek, shiny and manageable mane.

Frizz or fuzz, whatever word you use to describe your untamed locks, you can forget it. Why? Because our Smooth Operator hair bundle is set to calm your tresses and leave them sleek, shiny, and manageable. Packaged inside this set you'll find all the ingredients you need for an anti-frizz feast. Wash your mane in the Living Proof No Frizz shampoo to reduce static, dry with the Aquis Rapid Dry Hair Turban to prevent breakage, and finish with Ouai's leave-in conditioner to ensure each strand stays in place throughout the day.

I will forever rave about how amazing an Aquis Hair Turban is and am delighted to see one in this box!

Contents

• Living Proof No Frizz Shampoo 236ml
• Living Proof No Friss Conditioner 236ml
• Moroccanoil Treatment Oil 25ml
• Aquis Rapid Dry Hair Turban
• Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray 200ml
• Ouai Leave In Conditioner 45ml
• Philip Kingsley Elasticizer 75ml
• Virtue Un-Frizz Cream 60ml
• Oribe Gold Lust Transformative Masque 14ml

Priced at just £85, this box is on sale now, but if this box hasn't quite caught your attention, then there is another option - Selfridges Thick And Thriving hair care kit 2022 and it is right here

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

Selfridges Thick And Thriving hair care kit 2022

Hair care is one of those subjects that is important to me, finding the right products for your hair and scalp is as important as those for your face and body - in my view. Newly launched from Selfridges is two hair care boxes, the first is the Selfridges Thick And Thriving hair care kit 2022 and then there is also The Smooth Operator Hair Care Box.

The Thick and Thriving Hair Care Kit features 10 products designed to give your locks the appearance of that thicker, fuller luck.

If you spend your evenings wishing for thicker hair or more voluminous locks, you're in luck. Why? We've crafted the Thick and Thriving hair care kit to create the appearance of extra strands within your mane. Repair broken hairs in the shower with OLAPLEX's N°3 Hair Perfector. Then achieve more volume with your blow-dry thanks to Sachajuan's Volume Cream. And before you head out the door, dose up on OUAI's Thick & Full supplements to increase the natural thickness of tresses.

Priced at just £85, this box is on sale now and if you want to see what is inside, then the contents are listed below.

Contents

• R+Co Television Perfect Hair Shampoo 251ml
• R+Co Television Perfect Hair Conditioner 50ml
• The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum For Hair Density 60ml
• Ouai Thick & Full Supplements 30 capsules
• Aveda Invati Advanced Intensive Hair And Scalp Masque 40ml
• Living Proof Scalp Care Revitalizing Treatment 73ml
• Sachajuan Volume Cream 125ml
• Olaplex N 3 Hair Perfector 20ml
• Fable & Mane Holiroots Hair Oil 14ML
• Sachajuan Scalp Brush

Priced at just £85, this box is on sale now, but if this box hasn't quite caught your attention, then there is another option - The Smooth Operator Hair Care Box and it is right here.

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

Aldi Lacura Perfect Proof Extreme Clean Dry Shampoo

In recent weeks, Aldi Lacura launched its Bonded Haircare range and one of those products is the Perfect Proof Extreme Clean Dry Shampoo.  I absolutely love Dry Shampoo and couldn't wait to give it a try and of course, see if what some magazines claimed was a dupe for Living Proof!

In recent weeks, the Aldi Lacura range has outdone itself with some amazing products - Microblade Effect Pen, Flawless Veil Translucent Powder and alongside some new fragrance releases, there was the much hyped Bobbi Brown Dupe, the Vitabase Moisturising Primer.  So, could the new hair care range, especially this dry shampoo live up to the hype? 

Priced at just £2.99, the Perfect Proof Extreme Clean Dry Shampoo is a fraction of the price of my beloved Living Proof Dry Shampoo, a product I cannot live without, it is simply amazing.  Like all dry shampoo, the Aldi Perfect Proof is designed to rid your roots of oiliness and impart clean, shiny hair instead, all without the telltale signs you have used dry shampoo at all. 

Perfect Proof does have a really light formulation when sprayed onto your hair. As I would do with Living Proof, I always section my hair and spray towards the roots, which after not washing my hair for 2 days represents an oil slick.  Described as being a dry shampoo that banishes oily roots, while adding body and texture to revitalise between washes, this everyday essential mimics the effects of freshly washed hair in just a few sprays.  So, the reason why I adore Living Proof so much is because of how light the formulation is, it doesn't feel or smell as though I have used a dry shampoo (think Batiste, everyone knows the scent) and there is no tell-tale white talc residue lingering on the hair, I don't have clothes covered in white marks from where the shampoo has done its job and departed and of course my hair always looks as though I have freshly washed it.  When it comes to Perfect Proof from Aldi, the formulation is lightweight but, I have found you need to hold the can a little more further back from your hair than Living Proof, otherwise you will get that white talc-like residue, that said, it works pretty well.

Now you cannot help but notice the Aldi Lacura Perfect Proof Canister is slightly similar to Living Proof, but only if you are familiar with that brand.  Having shared a photo of the Aldi Perfect Proof with friends, not one of them could tell me what it might have been a dupe for, even when I shared both products.  But to me, I found it immediately obvious as to what or who it was.  

Then we come to the ingredients list where there is some commonality, for example both products do share 

• Rice starch - is known to improve hair growth and keeps it shiny and smooth. It is rich in amino acids, which strengthens hair roots.
• Disteardimonium Hectorite - A white clay-like substance that helps lift dirt and oil away from the scalp
• Magnesium Stearate - an anti-clumping ingredient
• Cetrimonium chloride -  smoothens the hair cuticles by softening them, allowing them to be easily detangled
• Alcohol Denat which is said to help key ingredients dissolve and provide a light texture

That is where the similarities end, or at least the ones I can detect.  Further ingredients within Perfect Proof from Aldi Lacura includes:

• Argania spinosa shell powder - which helps soften the hair and can be used as an exfoliant. 
• Tetraselmis Suecicia Extract - Appears in Living Proof's Perfect Day Advanced Dry Shampoo, and is described as being a microalgae from the Mediterranean Sea known to reduce scalp sebum and protect the hair fibre
• Mannitol - helps to regulate scalp desquamation.

So some similarities and some differences, but both make it quite hard, especially Living Proof, to break down the jargon to find out what is included and why.

So which Dry Shampoo performs the best?  

For me, it is Living Proof without question, a better formula on my hair, does give me that freshly washed feeling without those tell-tale white residue marks and longer lasting on the hair.  However, again Aldi has produced a great product, it does everything it claims it will do - refreshes the hair, removed excess oil , removes odour and leaves the hair feeling clean but definitely not softer or shinier than it would be if you washed it.  What you absolutely cannot argue about is the price - £2.99 v £20 is a really big saving right now and it is a product you should try, if dry shampoo is for you.

How about the ultimate hair fix or hair transformation in the north? Then we recommend you visit Boombae in Manchester for the ultimate hair pick-me-up!

SheWolf Hydrating Collection

When you read that a brand has taken years to get their product just right, to look, feel and smell how the inventor wanted it to, that is quite impressive. Enter SheWolf, a hair care brand which is the brainchild of Mariano Ruiz and through rigorous testing, feedback and consultations, the brand was born and I have been lucky enough to give a few of them a try over the past few months.

For me, hair care is something I am very picky about.  I have what is best described as being combination hair - greasy roots, dry ends and if I am stressed, run down or not well then my scalp seems to give the tell tale signs of needing some TLC. To that end, I use a weekly mask, I exfoliate my scalp, I use leave in treatments, I don't over wash or condition my hair and I try as best as I can to not use too much heat. 

I was kindly sent the Inca-Oil Hydrating Shampoo, Conditioner, a mask and a hair oil to try and together they create quite the routine, especially if your hair does need a little bit of TLC.

The Apricot Butter pre-shampoo mask (£22) is the first product I started with, anything that is pre-shampoo usually get my attention and over the years, I have tried quite a few different branded products.

From SheWolf, the mask is described as being a weekly indulgent and luxurious deep conditioning treat that is perfect for hair that is tired-out and dried-out. Designed to be applied from the mid-roots to the ends of your hair, this mask is luxuriously thick and very smooth, it uses Apricot Butter for deep conditioning and with it is the scent of Fig and Tuberose, which if I am being honest is just delightful. Once on damp hair, you need to leave it to work its magic for up to 30 minutes, or it can be left on overnight, before washing out and continuing your routine of shampooing and so on.

The Inca Seed Oil Hydrating Shampoo (£18.50) is designed for weakened, dry hair and its job is to bring dry, stressed-looking hair back to life.

As a shampoo, the formula is really silky and not too thick, so you need a really small amount to apply to your hair.  My hair is shoulder length, so a walnut sized amount is more than enough for my hair.  Using Inca Seed Oil and Brazil Nut Oil blend to help lock in moisture, you will also find the very same scent of Fig and Tuberose, which for me is much more dominant within the shampoo than it was within the pre-shampoo mask.

Then we have the Inca Seed Oil Hydrating Conditioner (£18.50) and as well as complimenting the shampoo, this conditioner is designed to make dry, stressed hair look shiny and fabulous again.

Again, as with the shampoo, this conditioner has a lovely lightweight formula to it, instead of being thick and almost mask-like.  As I have greasy roots, I tend to use this conditioner twice a week and not when I am using the pre-shampoo mask, but it is delightful to use and once again it uses Inca Seed Oil and Brazil Nut Oil blend to help lock in moisture, you will also find the very same scent of Fig and Tuberose and again, it is most definitely noticeable within this conditioner and it really does linger on your hair for hours after using.

The final product within this little group is the Tsubaki Smoothing Hair Oil (£25) and this is my favourite product so far. Designed to turn frizzy, dull, dry hair into smooth, silky, luscious locks.

What I love about using this oil is that it isn't oily, an odd description to share I know, but it is similar to a serum in texture.  You will only need 1-2 pumps of this product I have found and you warm it between the palms of your hands and then apply to clean, dry hair just before styling, or you can add it afterwards if you wish.  The main ingredient within this Smoothing Hair Oil is Tsubaki Oil and it is said to be a much treasured beauty secret of Japanese women dating back many centuries. Tsubaki oil is created from the seeds of Japanese camellia and it works to smooth the hair without weighing it down whilst also restoring shine.  Also added to it is the signature scent of Fig and Tuberose.

I absolutely love this collection, it has worked wonders on my dry ends and I am delighted to say hasn't caused any issues with my scalp and my hair has been very receptive to the smoothing oil, which tames the frizz of new hair without leaving it feeling lank and greasy.  I should also mention that the scent of this collection is incredible, it is fresh and zingy whilst being relaxing, definitely something which should be bottled and sold as room or linen sprays and maybe even a candle!

Shewolf is on sale via both the brand website and Feelunique and alongside the Hydrating Collection, there is also Colour Protecting and Volumising product ranges too.  However, if you want to grab yourself an absolute steal, QUEEN20 gives 20% off on GlamourGenius!

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

3 Lesser-Known Causes Of Female Alopecia

According to a BBC news report, women aged sixty-five and above are more at risk of losing their hair, with 50% of this group experiencing female-pattern baldness. Alopecia areata is a type of hair loss that affects the scalp and other parts of the body and is more common than you probably thought. Apart from the genetic and hormonal factors, research has proven that other factors contribute to a woman's chances of experiencing alopecia, including the following.

1. Nutrition

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Nutritional deficiencies have vast repercussions that medical research continues to explore. However, what has been proven is its effects on hair growth. Poor nutrition, especially regarding iron and vitamin D deficiencies, is known to impact hair follicles. The human hair follicles process these two vitamins to support hair growth. Unfortunately, in their absence, the hair roots grow weaker and thinner. Due to zero stimulation of hair follicles, new and existing hair growth become stunted. The apparent lack of these vitamins over a long period finally takes a toll, especially in advanced years.

If the deficiency is extremely high, hair loss can begin as early as in your thirties or forties. People diagnosed with various forms of hair loss are prescribed vitamins D and iron. It is done with the hope that they will stimulate the follicles to begin a new hair growth cycle. Therefore, if your nutrition isn’t right, you may want to do something about it.

2. Over-processed hair and related matters

Over the years, there has been an intense need to process natural hair to make it look and feel a certain way. Additionally, more women dye their hair either for fashion or to change their appearance as often as desired. Although these things are not much of a problem when done moderately, the issue is with over-processing. For example, women of colour who braid their hair excessively are at an increased risk of developing a form of alopecia.

The scalp contains follicles that produce and act as the support for each strand of hair. However, when there’s excessive pressure over a long period, the result is an overburdened scalp. In the same vein, over-colouring with hair dyes can cause brittle strands. Eventually, they break off and, if left untreated, can lead to bald patches or premature alopecia. Remember that dyes and hair relaxers are chemicals that need to be used moderately. While there is the option to cover up balding patches with wigs and extensions, it is also crucial to take precautions. For example, you are better off finding professionals like Vixen & Blush Hair Technicians so that you don't make matters worse.

3. Thyroid issues

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The front part of the neck contains the thyroid gland, which controls several metabolic processes in the body. Therefore, women with underactive or overactive thyroids usually have an increased alopecia risk. When you notice excessive hair loss, you may have to see a physician to run tests to rule out any thyroid problems.

Alopecia is a medical condition, but the effects can impact people socially, emotionally, mentally, and even financially.

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

Cult Beauty Hair Care Boxes

Whilst debating whether or not I need to jump onto the Olaplex bandwagon, I came across four hair care beauty boxes on Cult Beauty that will soon launch - The Oil Control Edit, The Curl Edit, The Hydration Edit and the Thickening Edit!

These boxes are all amazing value for money, which is always the case with Cult Beauty boxes and depending on your hair issues, types or concerns then there should be one or more of these boxes that should work for you.

The Curl Edit which is worth over £190/€225 but will be on sale for just £45/€51.75, giving you a saving of over 75%.

The Curl Edit combines nine curly hair heroes in one star-studded line-up and they are:

• Briogeo Curl Charisma™ Rice Amino + Avocado Hydrating & Defining Hair Mask for Curly Hair (59ml); 
• a travel size Color Wow Dream Coat for Curly Hair (50ml);
• a full size goop Restore + Shine Hair Serum (30ml); 
• a full size Living Proof Curl Definer (190ml); 
• a travel size Naturally Drenched Rebalance (118ml); 
• a full size OLAPLEX No 3 Hair Perfector (100ml); 
• travel size Virtue Curl Shampoo (60ml) and Curl Conditioner (60ml); 
• a full size We are Paradoxx Superfuel Hair, Face + Body Oil (100ml). 

From those products there is a lot of brands and products, which has been designed to not only enhance and nourish your waves, curls or coils but to also introduce you to new Holy Grails.

You can find The Curl Edit right here 

The second box which is The Thickening Edit which is worth over £195/€215 but will be on sale for just £45/€51.75 giving you a saving of over 75%.

The Thickening Edit which has been curated to add some major volume to thinning tresses that are lacking in body or are in need of some strengthening. 

Inside this box you will find a mix of full size, deluxe and travel-sized goodies which includes:

• Briogeo Blossom & Bloom Ginseng + Biotin Hair Thickening + Volumizing Spray (147ml); 
• a deluxe dpHUEApple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse (59ml); 
• a full size goop Restore + Shine Hair Serum (30ml); 
• a travel size Hair Gain Nourishing Miracle Treatment Mask (50ml); 
• a Hello Klean Scalp Brush; 
• a full size HUM Nutrition Hair Sweet Hair (60 gummies); 
• a full size Living Proof Scalp Care Dry Scalp Treatment (100ml); 
• a travel size Virtue Flourish Shampoo For Thinning Hair (60ml) 
• A travel size Virtue Flourish Conditioner For Thinning Hair (60ml); 
• We are Paradoxx Volume Blow-Dry Spray (100ml).

As with The Curl Edit above, this is an amazing box full of brands that I adore, such as Living Proof with the most amazing scalp treatment.

Find The Thickening Edit here

The third box is The Hydration Edit and it is said to be worth over £185/€215 but will be on sale for just for just £45/€51.75 and that is another huge saving of 75%.

Inside this box there is 10 hair care heroes which are said to be here to flood thirsty tresses with moisture, simultaneously boosting manageability and adding enviable lustre. 

Inside this box you will again find a mix of full size, deluxe and travel-sized products which include:

• a full size Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair!™ Strengthening Treatment Oil (30ml); 
• a travel size Coco&Eve Super Nourishing Coconut and Fig Masque (60ml); 
• a deluxe dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse (59ml);
• a full size goop Restore + Shine Hair Serum (30ml);
• a full size Olaplex No 3 Hair Perfector (100ml);
• a full size Pacifica Scalp Love Rosemary Mint Serum (58ml); 
• a deluxe Philip Kingsley Elasticizer (40ml); 
• a travel size Virtue Recovery Shampoo (60ml)
• a travel size Virtue Recovery Conditioner (60ml); 
• a full size We are Paradoxx Repair 3-in-1 Conditioner (250ml).

So again, there is some really lovely products in this box and it would be one of two I am looking to get my hands on when they launch!

You can find The Hydration Edit here.

The final one is the one that I have my eye on and that is The Oil Control Edit and it is said to be over £195/€225 but will also be on sale for just £45/€51.75 and once again, it gives a saving of over 75%

The Oil Control Edit combines nine hair heroes who have been chosen to help clarify and balance your scalp, encouraging lustrous lengths that are shiny rather than greasy. So inside you will find:

• a full size amika Reset Exfoliating Jelly Shampoo (200ml); 
• a full size Briogeo Scalp Revival™ Charcoal + Tea Tree Cooling Hydration Mask for Dry, Itchy Scalp (177ml); 
• a deluxe dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse (59ml); 
• a full size goop Restore + Shine Hair Serum (30ml);
• a travel size Hair Gain Nourishing Miracle Treatment Mask (50ml); 
• a full size Innersense Refresh Dry Shampoo (70.1ml); 
• a travel size Virtue Full Shampoo (60ml) 
• a travel size Virtue Full Conditioner (60ml); 
• a full size We are Paradoxx Scalp Hair + Body Scrub (200g).

Again, as you can see, some amazing brands and I am intrigued by the amika Reset Exfoliating Jelly Shampoo!

You can find The Oil Control Edit here.

All four of these boxes are due to be released on 21st February on Cult Beauty and as always, there is a sign up option for each box to be alerted to it going on sale.

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

ghd Platinum+ Limited Edition - Hair Straightener in Warm Pewter

I am sure everyone remembers getting my first pair of ghd hair straighteners, I remember mind arriving when I was at University and I haven't looked back since. I don't even really know how I ever survived without them in my life. New to my collection is the ghd Platinum+ Limited Edition - Hair Straightener in Warm Pewter which I have been kindly gifted and I don't know what I love more, how easy to use the straighteners are or the box that they come packaged inside.

Over the years I have been using ghd's, my Rare's still being just about usable and then my second pair the Platinum+ Black having been my go to stylers until now.

Submit to your deepest desires with ghd’s Platinum+ Limited Edition Hair Straightener. Arriving in a new, warm pewter finish with an opulent vanity case, the styler has been upgraded with deep metallic accents – just in time for the festive season.

My hair, which is finally about to see the inside of a hair salon after almost 2 years, is naturally wavy and whilst everyone always tells me that I should make more of those waves (whatever that means) I actually like taking time out to straighten my hair, I find it oddly relaxing and ghd make it so simple and without stress.

The latest edition to the ghd range is the Platinum+ Hair Straightener in Warm Pewter and it is so sleek and shiny and definitely the most luxe pairs of straighteners I have ever used.  As with all ghd's, they can be used to curl and straighten your hair, depending on your style of choice and these are described as having advanced floating plates which have been precision milled to give that seamless glide through the hair without snagging or pulling.  Impressively they are ready to use within just 25 seconds, so no having to stand around waiting for them to get even remotely warm.

These straighteners also use 'Predictive ultra-zone technology and infinity sensors' which not only monitor the temperature, but cleverly they also adapt to your hair’s thickness and styling speed to give that more personalised experience, ensuring the heat is evenly distributed through your hair.  These straighteners also arrive with an optimum styling temperature of 185ºC and if you don't use them after 30 minutes, they enter into automatic sleep mode.  They also feature a unique wish-bone hinge and rounded barrel for snag-free, versatile styling which means no more tripping over wires as you style your hair - one of my bug bears!

I can't write a review about how amazing this styler is without mentioning the beautiful Vanity Case, the most stunning case I have ever seen for ghd's and I was pretty attached to my Leopard Print one.  Described as having an Emerald-Green Hue is a Velvety Hard Lizard effect vanity case which has a deep black interior to keep those ghd Straighteners safe and secure when they are not being used. They also come with a heat resistant protective plate guard which also means you safely take your ghd's with you wherever you want to go.

These ghd Platinum+ Limited Edition Hair Straightener in Warm Pewter are on sale now via ghd, Lookfantastic, John Lewis and Selfridges to name just a few places and they are priced around £199 but can be found with offers on!

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

The Limited Edition LOOKFANTASTIC Haircare Bundle

A new Beauty Box from Lookfantastic has just dropped online and it is the Limited Edition Lookfantastic Haircare Bundle and it has arrived at quite a good time!

In recent months, Lookfantastic has released the Festive Edit alongside an array of Gift Guide boxes too, all themed really well for this time of year, especially if you have frizzy, wavy or curly hair!

… let frizz and flyaways be a thing of the past, our haircare bundle is here! Shop 8 essential haircare products for curly hair in this essential haircare bundle worth over £81. This is the ultimate haircare box for those with frizzy, curly or wavy hair. Accentuate your natural style and embrace your new, healthier hair with these nourishing formulas.

This Haircare Bundle is on sale right now for just £30 which is a great saving considering the box is worth just over £80 and here is what you will find inside.

What’s in the box:

• Boucleme Curl Defining Gel 100ml – worth £8
• Colour WOW Dream Coat for Curly Hair 200ml – worth £25
• Bedhead Curls Rock Amplifier 150ml – worth £14.90
• Umberto Giannini Curl Scrunching Jelly 200ml – worth £7.25
• Imbue Curl Energising Hydration Serum 100ml – worth £7.99
• Kérastase Elixir Ultime Bain 50ml – worth £6.60
• Invisibobble Waver – worth £1.66
• Christophe Robin Regenerating Mask – worth £9.77

So this is quite the box, featuring everything from  serums and masks to a jelly and and gel!

If you are already subscribed to the monthly Lookfantastic Beauty Box, then you should have been sent an email with a code giving you access to grab this Haircare Bundle at a discounted price. If you have not yet subscribed, you can still Subscribe today and get £5 off when you use code HCBB

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

Object Beauty - An Introduction

Object Beauty is the brain child of Jack and Hugo who were sick of all the plastic waste filling their bathroom so they decided to look for an alternative. Searching high and low for brands and products that fitted the bill of being natural, ethical and plastic-free but also ones which looked the part.

I was kindly gifted the plastic free starter set which comes with a selection of bars and accessories and not only gives you an insight as to what the brand is about, but when you see everything together, it makes you wonder just how much plastic you have in your own bathroom and debate how easy it would be to make the switch. I have made a really effort to ditch a lot of plastic, I’ve moved to refills with a lot of the brands that I choose to use, but there is always a lot more we can do.

Described as being the perfect bundle to get you started on your plastic free journey. This bundle is made up of Objects best selling cleansing bar, a conditioner bar and there is also your choice of one of the brands award winning object shampoo bars, of which there is one for every hair type. But that isn’t all, you will also get a concrete shower dish and two travel tins.

In my bundle I have the Cleansing Body Bar which is described as being extra moisturising and is designed to nourish your skin and protect it from the free radicals you’re exposed to every day. Made from highly effective but gentle plant-based cleansers which are combined with nourishing oat extract, avocado and jojoba oil.

What sells this cleansing bar to me is that it is scented with natural essential oils with aromatherapeutic properties. It is a known fact that I absolutely love my essential oils and this cleanser ticks boxes for me. With its combination of woody, herbal and citrus fragrance notes not only will you feel revitalised and centred, but my skin soft and smooth to the touch.

Over the past few years, I’ve made a big effort in an attempt to switch to Shampoo bars and I use them now more than I ever have, though that switch is still to become permanent as I’m mindful of my scalp when I am stressed.

The Shampoo bar in this bundle is the Moisturising Shampoo Bar and Object claim that this one bar is the equivalent of up to three bottles of liquid shampoo which really makes you think! 

It is, as you might expect packed with the best natural ingredients including nourishing moringa, jojoba and argan oils and soothing coconut milk which is an incredible combination, especially for anyone with dry hair, as this shampoo bar is perfect for that.  Worth noting that Object shampoo bars are also scented with natural essential oils with aromatherapeutic properties such as ylang ylang, cedarwood, citronella and lavandin - it smells absolutely incredible.

When using, the issue I have often found with shampoo bars, is that despite instruction that you mimic the use of hand soap and turn it over and over in the palms of your hands to eventually get some form of lather, with this one, it takes less time and you get more lather, so applying to your hair and scalp is less of a chore.  The lather that is created is so gentle, it doesn't irritate the scalp and it does smell absolutely lovely, a scent which lingers long after my hair has dried.

To accompany the Shampoo Bar, I also have the Nourishing Conditioner Bar and when you haven't had anyone trim or cut your hair since long before lockdown, like me, your hair needs all the love and care it can get.

Once again, the equivalent to three bottles of conditioner, this conditioner bar has been formulated by experts in an effort to help nourish, detangle and protect your hair. My hair has become very tangled after washing lately and I know it needs a really good cut, just need to find the time and a salon to book in to as my local one is no longer in operation. With this Conditioner Bar, again, it is packed with the best natural ingredients including an oil rich blend of macadamia, moringa and argan which work alongside black pepper, peppermint, lime and mandarin to give it a really lovely zesty and uplifting scent.

Once again, easy to use, there isn't as much lather created with the Conditioner as there is with the Shampoo but you can feel a difference in your hair as soon as you apply it to your hair before rinsing out.  For me, I am not a fan of overly heavy and thick conditioners, I prefer to use a hair mask for those textures, with this conditioner, what you get is soft, smooth hair with minimal frizz. 

Now I have my three beauty bars, keeping them dry between use is paramount or they just turn to mush.  So as I mentioned, within my bundle I was kindly given three accessories to ensure I do just that.  The first is a pink concrete shower dish which sits really well in the corner of my bath/shower out of the way of running water until I need to use my Cleansing Bar.  

Then there is two tins which are available in small or large sizes. These tins are super light and are made from rust-proof aluminium. Perfect for use when going on holidays, to the gym and even for those weekends away, just add the tin to your makeup bag and your product is dry, protected and easy to use time and time again.

As you can see, I am really impressed with the products I have tried from Object Beauty and since this package arrived, I have gone on to order the Re-balancing Shampoo Bar which is said to be ideal for greasy hair, perfect for me as I suffer with greasy roots and dry ends, so I can now use both products to see what results I get.

If you have been thinking of switching from plastic bottled shampoo, to something like a shampoo bar, then Object Beauty is definitely the brand you want to try, I expect the range will be expanded within the next year to include more products, but the catalogue as they have it now is impressive!

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