Skinsense Christmas Gifting 2023

Skinsense is a brand which is described as being a modern, effective and logical skincare and it is the brainchild of beauty expert Abi Cleeve, a name you might be more familiar with when it comes to the sun protection brand Ultrasun. For Christmas, I am sharing two beautiful gift sets in this post and they feature everything you need for a pamper session.

Starting with the skinSense Advanced Restore Collection (£45) which is packaged inside an unmissable bright pink package. This collection is said to be or those with more mature skin that has begun to show signs of ageing, so it offers targeted, highly potent ingredients to tackle common skin concerns such as pigmentation, loss of firmness and fine lines.

Inside this collection there is a total of 4 products, all of which work together to create a nice, easy to follow routine.

• Advanced Lifting Day Cream 50ml - Newly formulated, this cream contains skinSense's trio of proven ingredients to tackle fine lines and pigmentation: Linefill™, Hexylresorcinol and Liquorice Extract and alongside it is a unique lifting complex, a skin pro-biotic derived from the bark of a Sequoia tree which helps creates a balanced healthy skin microbiome.
• Restorative Eye Cream 15ml - This cream contains clever light-reflecting formula which helps camouflage dark shadows and the appearance of fine lines, whilst silk tree extract tackles inflammation and puffiness. The delicate texture is able to treat the entire eye area with a gentle lifting effect, which creates a more refreshed appearance.
• Reinforcing Vitamin Complex 15ml - Described as having a formula which is supercharged with fruit and plant extracts that are rich in vitamins A, B and C to deliver powerful brightening benefits to skin in need of a boost. There is also the inclusion of Vitamin C derivatives and Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate which work to reverse free radical damage including stubborn hyper-pigmentation caused by UV exposure. Then finally Turmeric, passion fruit and ginger root extracts which work to further improve the clarity, tone, and texture of the skin to achieve and overall brighter, clearer and more even appearance.
• Overnight Leave-On Mask 100ml - If your skin can be described as dull and lacklustre and indeed of hydration, then this is the mask you need. Alongside Hyaluronic Acid, Lactic acid diminishes the signs of premature ageing, by brightening and improving skin tone and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Copper peptides improve skin elasticity, firmness and hyperpigmentation.  Perfect for use once or twice a week.

This is a lovely set of skincare for anyone who loves looking after their skin but needs something a little more.  RRP £120 but on sale here for just £45

The second gift set I have to share is the Ceramide24 Luxe Barrier Repair Collection and it comes presented in a sparkly gold cosmetic bag

Inside this gold case is a collection of four products to leave you with nourished and healthy skin and again all of these products work together to create a nice, easy to follow routine.

• Ceramide24 Pro-Resilience Day Cream 50ml - Described as being a highly compatible ceramide lipid complex, it provides intense moisture to replenish and hydrate dry, stressed-out skin. Using nourishing fatty acids provide essential recovery and support to a compromised skin barrier, soothing discomfort and fighting the dehydration caused by environmental stress.
• Ceramide24 Recovery Support Night Cream 50ml - A deeply nourishing night cream which plumps and firms the skin, it is packed with Sweet Almond oil to ensure noticeable moisture is restored and then skin's barrier against environmental stress is reinforced.
• Ceramide24 Comforting Eye Cream 15ml - This cream contains what is called Shadownyl™ and it is an innovative ingredient that is derived from marine algae. This delicate eye cream visibly brightens dark circles and smooths fine lines and wrinkles thanks to the inclusion of essential fatty acids and a unique ceramide lipid complex which delivers moisture and hydration, leaving a comforted and hydrated feeling to the skin.
• Ceramide24 Ceramide Complex Serum 30ml - Possibly my favourite skinSense product, this serum contains a highly compatible ceramide lipid complex and it helps to restore elasticity, tone and radiance to mature skin. The skin's moisture barrier is strengthened as elasticity and firmness is restored to the skin, resulting in a healthier, younger looking complexion.

The Ceramide24 Luxe Barrier Repair Collection £56.00 but is worth £144, so it is an absolute bargain, you can find this gift set here.

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

6 Ways To Boost Your Self-Confidence This Winter

Winter, with its chilly winds and shorter days, often brings a sense of melancholy and introspection. It’s a season that can sometimes dampen our spirits and, subsequently, our self-confidence. However, it’s crucial to maintain a positive self-image and assurance during these colder months, allowing us to face the world with a resilient and buoyant spirit. In this article, we will explore various strategies to enhance self-confidence, focusing on practical and attainable goals.

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Embrace a Healthy Lifestyle

A balanced and nutritious diet is the cornerstone of well-being. Consuming foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can significantly impact our mood and energy levels, fostering a sense of confidence. Incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into our daily meals can help in maintaining optimal health and well-being. It’s essential to stay hydrated and avoid excessive consumption of processed foods, alcohol, and caffeine, especially during the winter months when our bodies are more susceptible to illnesses.

Engaging in regular physical activity is another pivotal aspect of a healthy lifestyle. Exercise releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters, which can alleviate feelings of depression and anxiety, common during the winter. Whether it’s a brisk walk in the park, a yoga session, or a workout at the gym, staying active can significantly boost one’s self-esteem and body image. It’s important to find an activity that you enjoy and make it a consistent part of your routine, aiming for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

Cultivate a Positive Mindset

The power of positive thinking can’t be overstated. Regularly affirming one’s worth and capabilities can transform the mental landscape, fostering a more optimistic outlook. Start your day by looking in the mirror and telling yourself positive affirmations. These could be statements like, “I am capable,” or “I am worthy of respect and acceptance.” The repetition of such affirmations can rewire the brain to believe in these positive statements, eventually translating into increased self-confidence.

Gratitude is another powerful tool in cultivating a positive mindset. Regularly reflecting on and appreciating the good things in life can shift the focus from what’s lacking or negative to what’s abundant and positive. Keeping a gratitude journal and jotting down things you are thankful for daily can be a great way to start. This practice can enhance mood, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being, creating a more favourable environment for self-confidence to flourish.

Address Appearance Concerns

Taking time to maintain a well-groomed appearance can have a profound impact on self-confidence. Regular grooming, wearing clothes that make you feel good, and maintaining good posture can enhance your self-image. Addressing concerns like hair loss, which is quite common and can affect confidence levels, can also be beneficial. Exploring solutions such as Oxford Online Pharmacy’s hair loss treatments or changing hairstyles can make a significant difference in how you perceive yourself, subsequently boosting confidence.

Embracing your unique style and being comfortable in your skin is essential. It’s important to wear what makes you feel confident and happy. Experimenting with different styles and discovering what suits you best can be an exciting journey. Remember, confidence is about being content with who you are and not conforming to societal expectations or norms.

Develop New Skills

Winter is the perfect time to pick up a new hobby or learn a new skill. Whether it’s a CISMP Course, painting, cooking, or learning to play a musical instrument, acquiring new abilities can significantly boost self-esteem. It provides a sense of accomplishment and helps in breaking the monotony of daily routines. Moreover, hobbies offer an opportunity to unwind and relax, reducing stress and enhancing mental well-being.

For those who prefer a more professional approach, winter is an ideal time to enhance career-related skills. Participating in workshops, online courses, or reading books related to your field can contribute to personal development and career growth. Gaining more knowledge and becoming proficient in your field can elevate your confidence levels, making you feel more competent and prepared.

Strengthen Social Connections

Building and maintaining strong, supportive relationships can play a crucial role in boosting self-confidence. Engage in meaningful conversations with friends, family, or colleagues. Sharing experiences, thoughts, and feelings with others can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging. It’s also beneficial to be a good listener, showing empathy and understanding to others, which can strengthen bonds and improve interpersonal skills, contributing to enhanced self-esteem.

Even in the colder months, participating in social activities and community events can be invigorating. It provides opportunities to meet new people, form connections, and share common interests. Volunteering can be particularly rewarding, offering a sense of purpose and fulfilment. Being part of a community and contributing to the well-being of others can elevate mood and self-worth, creating a positive feedback loop of social engagement and increased confidence.

Set and Achieve Goals

Setting realistic and attainable goals can provide a sense of direction and purpose. Break your goals into smaller, manageable tasks and celebrate each achievement, no matter how small it may seem. This process can create a sense of accomplishment and progress, reinforcing self-belief and determination. Whether it’s related to personal development, career, or hobbies, achieving goals can instil a sense of pride and boost confidence.

Facing challenges and overcoming obstacles can be empowering. It provides an opportunity to learn, grow, and prove to oneself the ability to tackle difficulties. Embrace challenges with a positive attitude, view them as learning experiences, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Learning to cope with failures and setbacks is also crucial, as it builds resilience and enhances the ability to bounce back, fostering a stronger sense of self-confidence.

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

Lotil Christmas Giftbox

Stocking Filler gift buying can be as much fun as shopping for regular presents and from Lotil, I have this very cute blue Lotil Christmas Giftbox.

If you have never come across Lotil before, it might shock you to learn that not only is it made here in the UK, but the hero product, the Lotil cream has been tried and tested for over 100 years and I was first introduced to it a few years ago and it is very much a cupboard staple.

Inside this cute little gift box you will find two items, a 114ml tub of the Lotil moisturising Cream and a Lotil Lip Care Balm.

The Lotil moisturising cream is a product recommended for use on all dry skin that you feel needs extreme repair and moisture.

With its thick, rich non-greasy texture, it contains powerful emollients that work to rapidly rehydrate the skin and soften chapped and cracked skin. As the texture is quite thick, the advice is less is more and better still, it can be used on hands, wrists, elbows, knees, body and even on the face.

The Lotil Lip Care Balm is the second product inside this box and it is described as being an effective treatment for dry lips.

The balm, as with the cream, contains all the skin moisturising and other benefits of Lotil Cream which help to combat sore, chapped and cracked lips. Impressively this balm also has an added SPF 30 for extra protection for your lips.

This Lotil Christmas Giftbox is priced at just £6.61 and alongside it there is also a Christmas Cracker or you could go all out and get the Large Christmas Gift Box which features a whole lot more.  Whichever gift you decide, Lotil is a great brand and it is really competitively priced. Available in Boots, Amazon and Lloyds Pharmacies.

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

Stocking Filler Gifts with Feather & Down

Giving the gift of sleep this Christmas is something so thoughtful, especially if you know someone (like me) who doesn't get on well with catching the Zzzz. Thankfully, Feather & Down, the UK's No.1 Sleep Brand has a host of amazing gifts that won't break the bank, and I am sharing some with you today.

This Christmas, the Feather & Down curated gift sets are designed to help you to relax, unwind and enter the world of Sweet Dreams.  With everything from Bath Salts, Bath Soaks, Mists and much more.

Starting with Tranquil Sleep (£8) a duo of products which is a way to treat yourself or someone you love to a moment of tranquillity and let the feeling of calm wash over you with the brands multi-award-winning pillow spray and nourishing bath soak set.

The Sweet Dreams Nourishing Bath Soak (review here) has been created to nourish, soothe and promote a restful nights sleep. The nourishing formula is Evening Primrose Oil which is a highly emollient and nutritious oil which helps to soften and smooth the skin and reduce inflammation and alongside the Chamomile and Lavender you have an incredible recipe to promote relaxation.  Then we have the brands most iconic product with the Sweet Dreams Pillow Spray, using the infusion of both Lavender and Chamomile essential oils, which are for known for their relaxation properties, it is designed and to use as a spray on your pillows and bed linen around half an hour before getting into bed.

The second product is one of my favourite bath salts to use when I need to relax, unwind and chill out - The Sweet Dreams Magnesium Sleep Salts (£8).

Designed to help relieve stress and tension, these bath salts also help to encourage a restful night’s sleep. Infused with lavender and chamomile essential oils, you need just a few hands of these salts into your bath once there is a few inches of water, then allow to work their magic as you immerse yourself into the warm water, those essential oils work their magic.

The final gift set is the Sleep Spray Trio Gift Set (£8.50) and the name suggests, it features a trip of Sleep Sprays.

Within this trio you get Sweet Dreams Pillow Spray, Breathe Well Pillow Spray and the Calming Sleep Mist which are all 50ml.  The Sweet Dreams Pillow Spray I have already shared above with the first gift set and again, it is an absolute gem.  The second Spray is the Calming Sleep Mist for the Face and Body and again, it features an infusion of lavender and chamomile essential oils, spray over your face and body to hydrate and encourage calm, tranquillity and a restful night's sleep, perfect for using after that bath before getting into to bed.  The final mist is Breathe Well Pillow Spray and this one features an infusion of eucalyptus, peppermint and tea tree essential oils blended with Lavender and Chamomile to help aid a restful night's sleep. Perfect for those times when you feel a little under the weather, have a cold or just getting over a cold - magic in a bottle!

Once again this year,  there is so much choice with Feather & Down and every single one of the products within the Sweet Dreams Collection will make such a nice gift, whether you buy a ready-made gift or decide to make your own.  It is also worth noting that a lot of Feather & Down products are on offer at Boots on a 3 for 2 offer, so well worth stocking up!

Have you tried Feather & Down before?

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