Wednesday, 7 November 2018

Introducing ECooking - The New Danish Skincare Brand

From its minimalist packaging to its origins in a Danish beauty fiend’s kitchen, Ecooking is a new brand immediately brings to mind all things Scandi and if the word Hygge is within your vocabulary, then to me, it starts right here. Starting out by hand-mixing raw ingredients at her kitchen table to create skin care for herself, founder Tina Søgaard produced results so noticeable that all of her family and friends were desperate to get their hands on her homemade concoctions. 
Ecooking Danish Skincare Products
Perfecting all of the formulas, ECooking which stands for Eco and Cooking was born. Eco referring to ecological and organic and Cooking refers to the fact that everything has been developed at home in the kitchen. Putting all of this together there is now a complete line of versatile products, which utilise organic and natural super-ingredients to bring miraculous results to your skin.

I was kindly sent a whole host of products from the range some time ago and I decided that it would only be fair to try them properly and for decent time periods.  The first thing to note is just how wonderful the packaging is, it looks as inviting as it is homely and I love that there is nothing manufactured looking about the range. With a series of skin, hair and body care products, everything within the ECooking range is not only handmade and hand filled, but the products are also:
  • 100% pure organic and natural oils are used
  • 100% essential oils and extracts are used
  • 100% vegan (but there is natural beeswax within the multi balm and lip balm)
  • There is a whole host of vitamins and minerals
  • They contain antioxidants
  • They are free from parabens.
As well as some of the products being multi-use, it is also worth noting that some of the products are also edible! If you like a morning smoothie, then the Multi Oil can be added to it!

The first product I couldn't wait to try was the Multi Balm. I am pretty obsessed with anything that has more than one use and this particular balm is for dry and damaged skin. Right now, with this bitterly cold win, I am really feeling my skin taking a bit of a battering, so I am all for using absolutely anything that moisturises and soothes. This Balm 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. 

Why is this balm so good? Well, it contains a whole host of amazing ingredients which care for the skin - Shea Butter, Vitamin E, Organic Argan and Olive Oils all of which hydrate and protects the skin.  Delisens which reduces itching and inflammation, Xpertmoist which is a highly moisturising and regenerating ingredient.  
ECooking Multipurpose Balm
To use, again it has multiple uses and dependant upon your issue you can apply a thing to dry areas, you can leave it on overnight and if it is to be applied to the hands or feet then smother them in the balm and wear socks/gloves to help seal in the moisture.

The second product out of the box was the Peeling Mask and admittedly it was the name which drew me in. Described as being an Acid based peel, this mask contains quite the combination of exfoliating, debris-dissolving alpha hydroxy acids – including lactic, salicylic and glycolic acids which means that not only does your skin get a deep pore cleanse, but this mask also removes dead and dulling skin cells and leaves the skin feeling so soft and smooth to the touch.
ECooking Peel Mask

This is quite a potent mask and the directions state that you should leave it on for 4-6 minutes and then over time work it up to 10-12minutes once you feel you have got used to using it.  Redness after use is absolutely normal and it does subside after a few hours but the one thing you do need to be warned about is that it does tingle when on the skin, much more so than any other mask I have used, that said, it isn't uncomfortable in any way it just means the active ingredients are working.

Sticking with masks there are two more within my arsenal of goodies from E-Cooking and the next one is the Moisturising Mask which is described as being the 'Ultimate Moisture Boost' it uses Shea Butter alongside Macadamia, Sunflower and Rose Oils as well as Hyaluronic Acid.  
ECooking Moisture Mask

Simply put, if your skin is in need of moisture then this is the one you need to pick up and it is perfect for using after the Peeling Mask to soothe.  The directions are to apply the mask onto clean cleansed skin and leave on for 10 minutes before removing with lukewarm water and a cloth, or you can leave it on overnight for an extra treat.

The third mask is the Clay Mask and it is described as being Ecooking’s anti-inflammatory clay mask which contains iris extract, zinc salt and vitamin A to cleanse, refresh and reboot the skin.  Using a combination of active ingredients help to not only reduce redness, but also excess sebum which is often the issue for those who have over oily skin.  For me, having combination skin which means to the oily side, a mask such as this is an absolute dream to use.  Alongside the active ingredients, there is also an extract from Antarctic Mud known as Antarcticine which is a peptide known for its ability to regenerate and protect as well as improve hydration.
ECooking Clay Mask

I have always been nervous of using clay masks after one bad experience which burnt my skin, but I am chuffed to report that this mask is an absolute delight to use and it leaves my skin feeling so soft and smooth after using. 

I am a huge fan of lip scrubs and ECooking has their very own which I have been using since this box arrived, it was the first item I saw and used in fact. Described as being a peeling sugar scrub for the lips, this scrub contains Vitamin E and apricot kernel oil that together works to nourish and heal dry, chapped and cracked lips. Then there is the inclusion of Shea Butter which helps with moisture and finally, the scrub part is Organic Cane Sugar which is mildly abrasive in so much as you can feel it but it doesn't scratch the skin.  
ECooking Lip Scrub

To use, I always wipe my lips with a wet flannel to ensure I have removed any excess lip balm or makeup, just as I would with any other skincare product I am using.  Then, using my ring finger, I dab the scrub onto my lips and then begin massaging from left to right in circular motions for a few minutes and then I remove, using a cloth and lukewarm water.  This scrub is really effective and it is so good at removing that horrid dry, flaky skin.

The one product I have always been told to apply whenever I use a lip scrub is a lip balm and yes, ECooking has their own collection of Lip Balms in Mint, Pomegranate and Natural. 
ECooking Lip Balm
I have Pomegranate and it is just divine to use. Described as being a nurturing balm with Vitamin E and Almond Oil, it is intensely moisturising, it isn't greasy or sticky and it makes a great base for applying lipstick too.

It is a known fact that our skin repairs itself whilst we sleep and for as long as I can remember, my evening skincare routine is just as intensive as my daytime routine. I always use a night cream and from E-Cooking, the offering is a product that is described as being hardworking and packed full of powerful ingredients. Lightweight yet rich, this cream contains which is called the hexapeptide Argireline, which means 6 natural amino acids work to minimise fine lines caused by over-stimulated facial muscles. It is said that Argireline works in the same way as Botox, meaning that it makes the muscles relax naturally. Then there is the inclusion of Trylagen a miracle moisturiser which boosts collagen to keep your complexion looking youthful and fresh. 

ECooking Night Cream
What I really like about this night cream is how it feels on the skin. It isn't heavy and doesn't feel as though it is going to just sit on the skin. It absorbs and leaves no trace other than your skin feeling smooth to the touch.

The final item in my little collection is the Neck & Décolletage Cream.  Did you know that the neck and décolletage areas are some of the first places on the body to show signs of ageing?. This cream from Ecooking has been specially developed for use on the neck, chest and décolletage and it is packed full of amazing ingredients.  

ECooking Neck and Decollete Cream
The first is  Hyadisine, a regenerative and protective bioactive ingredient that helps the skin retain moisture, heal wounds and increase its production of collagen and elastin.  Then we have Cellulobeads which are added to help the skin retain moisture, filling fine lines and wrinkles instantly for a softer, plumper surface. I am glad to see the inclusion of Niacinamide, a derivative of Vitamin B3 which inhibits melanin in reaching the surface of the skin, and protects from further UV damage. Melanin, a substance that occurs naturally in the body, is responsible for skin colour and the absorption of the sun’s UV rays; too much can result in age spots, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.  Putting all of this together and you have a cream that is rich in texture but lightweight.  It isn't heavy, greasy or tacky and what I really do like is how the ingredients are used to make something that is effective.

I have really enjoyed getting to know Ecooking and the products I am sharing with you today are just some of those that are available. Within the collection, you will also find a Cleansing Milk, Cleansing Gel, Day Creams, Face Mists, Eye Creams, Oils, Salt and soap to name just a few more. Ecooking is a cruelty-free brand; they do not test any of their products on animals. All products are natural, organic, paraben-free and vegan. This brand is now available from Cult Beauty and Feel Unique.

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

Tuesday, 6 November 2018

ESSENCE FACE & EYE PALETTES

Essence is a brand I am just getting to know and so far, I am really impressed. Just a few weeks ago I showcased Insta Matte Perfect (here) and today it is the turn of four brand new Face and Eyeshadow palettes that I have been lucky enough to play with for the last few weeks.
ESSENCE FACE & EYE PALETTES
ESSENCE FACE & EYE PALETTE Shades
The first thing people mention whenever I say 'Essence Cosmetics' is just how amazing the mascaras are. I haven't yet tried them, though I do have one to try at some stage.  For me, what stands out is the affordability and availability because if you have a local Wilko, then that is where you will find them. Essence is one of my favourite affordable brands and it's always the first place I visit whenever I'm in Wilko! These are four of the newest launches from Essence and I have fallen in love with two of them specially. I can't believe just how affordable these palettes are.

On each of these four Face and Eye Palettes, you get nine shades in different sized pans and they are made up of eyeshadows, highlighters and blushes but, what I think is really clever is that you can mix and match these shades to use them however you like and there is something for everyone within each of them.

The first palette is Born Awesome and it is easily recognisable by its bright orange, almost psychedelic packaging. 
Essence Born Awesome palette
This palette is definitely more of a warm toned palette and it features some beautiful nude and orange shades with a blue thrown in for good measure.

The second palette is titled The Future Is Me and again, the packaging fits right in with the name of the palette. 
Essence The Future is me Palette
Featuring a mirror which runs the length of the top half, the second has shades which can best be described as coll tones and shimmery with a few matte shades thrown in.  If you like a blue eyeshadow, then this palette has your name on it.

The aptly named Too Glam to Give a Damn palette is my second favourite of the four. I love the floralness of the outer packaging which really stands out and again, as well as having a mirror which runs the entire length of the top, there are some pretty shades.
Essence Too Glam to Give A Damn Palette
Packed full of glamorous metallic shades including a beautiful purple and yellow, this palette is for the more adventurous than myself but it does have some shades I am loving wearing.

The final palette - Not Your Princess is adorned with bright graphics of birds, hearts and has a few nautical-themed pictures too. Again, the mirror which has featured on the previous three palettes is also evident.
Essence Not Your Princess Palette
The shades on this palette are much more pink in shade and there are a few grey shimmers thrown in. I quite like grey and pink together. On this palette, I do really like the nude shades, especially the taupe.


For me, these palettes are as fun as they are vibrant and I really like that each one is absolutely different. They can be used alongside one another or on their own, so you can mix and match and work across each palette. When it comes to pigmentation, I was really surprised at the quality. Much less fall out than I have had with other palettes from high street brands and the shimmers really do shimmer whereas the matte shades are exactly that, matte without being chalky.


The Essence Face & Eye Palettes are available for £7 at Wilko - HERE.





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

Monday, 5 November 2018

Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Universe + Giveaway

Beauty Advent Calendars are still exciting to me, I love waiting to see who will be the first to release one, which brands appear with their very first one and to add to all the fun, see the look on peoples faces as they start to arrive as the contents are released. One Advent that is always incredible swooned over comes from Charlotte Tilbury and it isn't too hard to see why. This year, for 2018, Charlotte Tilbury’s advent box, aptly named Beauty Universe, is described as being like a miniature version of her personal makeup kit - not just any kit, but the one she uses on celebrities such as Amal Clooney, Kate Moss and Cara Delevingne that we see on social media. 
Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Universe 2018
Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Universe Advent Calendar
Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Universe is one of the reasons Beauty Advent Calendars still excite me, this calendar has all the glitz and glam for any beauty lover but it is also an incredible gift and I am giving one away to one of you lovely lot. Hidden behind 12 glittery doors, you will find products that are perfect for day-to-day products, as well as some of the most loved, yearned for and wanted and here is what you will find inside.
  • Take It All Off Genius Eye Make-up Remover - Said to eliminate even the most stubborn mascara and shadow in one easy swipe. Described as being an oil-rich, two-toned cleanser, enriched with soothing organic cornflower water and regenerating Veronica Extract.
  • Hollywood Lips Matte Contour Liquid Lipstick -  The shade is Screen Siren and it is said to be the perfect shade of ruby-red. Enriched with moisturizing Beeswax and Sea Lavender Extract that gives it a creamy feel. 
  • Eyes To Mesmerise - I have been wanting to try these eyeshadows for some time and inside this calendar is champagne-pink Jean which not only pays homage to Marilyn Monroe but is enriched with Vitamin E and has a brightening, illuminating effect on every skin tone or eye colour.
  • Rock 'N' Kohl Liquid Eye Pencil - This pencil is described as having the silky smooth glide of a liquid liner with the soft, sooty, pigment-rich result of a kohl.
  • Colour Chameleon - The bronze tone of 'Colour Chameleon' in Amber Haze is said to beautifully complement brown eyes
  • Wonder Glow Instant Soft-Focus Beauty Flash -  A product that can be worn under or over foundation, or even on its own, for "lit-from-within luminosity".
  • Goddess Skin Clay Mask - The nutrient-rich formula is packed with Spanish Clay to absorb oil and draw out impurities and Essential Oils to hydrate. It instantly moisturizes and tightens pores leaving you with a dewy, glowing complexion.   
  • Supermodel Body - Described as being like shapewear Lingerie for the skin, this is a firming and illuminating formula that gives limbs a radiant glow, making them appear leaner and longer
  • Multi-Miracle Glow Cleanser, Mask & Balm - Designed to be used as a wrinkle-defying softening cleanser, or as an emergency treatment on dry, cracked skin, it is enriched with firming and nourishing ingredients.
  • Charlotte's Magic Cream - One of the more famous products in Charlotte Tilbury's arsenal, this cream is said to instantly rehydrate dull and stressed complextions. It is enriched with nourishing ingredients and also has an SPF15.
  • Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk - If there is one shade that is forever selling out, it is this one!  Said to enhance the natural hue of lips, making them appear fuller and wider. Enriched with Papaya and Orchid Extracts, this incredibly hydrating formula glides on effortlessly and dries to a soft matte finish. 
  • Full Fat Lashes 5 Star Mascara - Described as being a 5-in-1 multitasking mascara, Full Fat lashes not only curls, separates, boosts volume it also lengthens for maximum drama.

All of these products nestled inside the trademark Burgundy and Gold Charlotte Tilberry Packaging with added glitter for the wow factor, Beauty Universe is an absolute must for any Charlotte Tilbury fan and even more of a treat for anyone who has yet to step into this world and try any products, because here, you have absolutely everything you need!

The lovely people over at Charlotte Tilbury have given me one of these advent calendars to give away to one of you and the rules are simple.  
1 - You need to be aged 18 or over to enter, or have parental permission because I will need your home address.
2 - There is no cash alternative
3 - The winner will be chosen at random and you must have followed the mandatory rules on the widget below or your entry will be null and void.
4 - You need to live in the UK






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

Sunday, 4 November 2018

Sanctuary Spa Signature Candle

I am sure most of you are familiar with Sanctuary Spa and have tried more than one of their products. For me, the Luxury Bath Float has been a favourite for some time, but there are just so many amazing scented products to choose from.

With Autumn having well and truly arrived, you wake up in a morning and it is as dark as it was when you went to bed.  You leave work and the nights are drawing in and everything about you is changing and getting ready for winter.  As soon as I get home, I love to close the curtains, light some candles and relax.  But... imagine if your favourite Sanctuary Spa product scent had been replicated and was now a candle or a Reed Diffuser!
Sanctuary-Spa-Scented-Candle
Sanctuary Spa Signature Scent Candle
Sanctuary Spa Candle with Signature Scent
If you have been into your local Boots store, you might have noticed one or two Sanctuary Spa Candles in a beautiful presentation box but there is more to come.  With six different candles to choose from, there is quite a choice when it comes to selecting your scent - Pink Grapefruit & Neroli, Fig & Black Amber, White Jasmine & Myrrh, Driftwood & Sea Spray, Luxury Oud and of course the Signature Sanctuary Spa Scent - which is the one I have.
Cocoon yourself in our unique, classic Sanctuary Spa fragrance. A stunning combination of sparkling citrus notes, bergamot & jasmine, blended with a sensuous warming fusion of vanilla, patchouli & sandalwood. Truly an aroma to wrap yourself up in.

Packaged inside a beautifully decorated tin, these 200g candles would make a wonderful gift. As I mentioned, my favourite Sanctuary Spa product is the Luxury Bath Float and that is exactly what scent this candle has.  It becomes noticeable as soon as the lid is removed and it remains for a good while after the flame has been extinguished.  

Priced at just £12.50 with a burn time of 45 hours, they are well worthy of purchasing, as long as you can decide on which scent is the stand out for you, otherwise, you might need them all! Find them here at Boots.






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