Elemis Pro-Collagen Hydra-Gel Eye Masks - Review

A little sachet popped through my door last week and it was this from Elemis - A pack of two Pro Collagen Hydra Gel Eye Masks. 

Elemis say 

These clinically proven hydra-gel eye masks are formulated to instantly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

• Potent plankton extract, combined with the power of Padina Pavonica and chlorella, provides an instant skin-tightening effect, whilst hyaluronic acid hydrates the fragile eye area. Eye contours are left looking visibly smoother and feeling intensely moisturised.
• Clinically proven to instantly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Potent plankton extract stretched the collagen network providing an instant tensing effect.
• Skin around the eye is intensely moisturised and instantly hydrated
• Hydra-gel concept assists with the absorption of actives
• Results can be seen for up to 6 hours
• Use in combination with other Elemis eye products for optimum results

My thoughts 

You have to apply these masks to the under eye area and leave them on for 20 minutes. They are a little fiddly to apply (sticky side down) as they are squidgy wet and wriggly but once applied they stay in place. In hindsight I would have placed them a little higher, especially once I saw the results.

Once you remove the eye masks the eye area is plumped and smooth. The area feels so hydrated and the eye area looks instantly more youthful. For a quick fix these are absolutely fabulous.

The results last a good few hours and there is no pain involved. Such a great idea!

This is the eye equivalent of a body wrap to get into that occasion dress. I would save them/use them for when off to a special event or evening out and I wanted to look amazing... perhaps the school reunion ;-)

Elemis Pro-Collagen Hydra Gel Eye Masks cost £46 for 6 Sachets 

Max Factor Face Finity All Day Primer - Review

Ooh I love a good primer, I don't know if it is an age thing (those ever increasing pores) or I am more aware of how much better my foundation can look thing but I wear a primer most days now.. so when a new primer landed on my desk I of course had to put it to the test.

Max Factor Face Finity All Day Primer SPF20 

Max Factor say

The Secret to one of our best-selling foundations is now a product in its own right. Simply apply Facefinity Primer under your favourite foundation to prime, mattify and hold your flawless beauty look in place for longer.

Mattifies skin
Contains Micro Correctors to banish excess oils
Uses Flexi-hold Technology
Contains SPF 20

My thoughts 

It comes in a pump bottle. I do appreciate the pump.

This is a super light primer, feels almost lotion like and not thick like some primers can be. If you are looking for a product to hide the pores and even skin tone then this is probably not for you. However, if you want an excellent basic product that preps your skin with a smooth base before applying your foundation and then ensures it stays in place all day than you are looking at that product.

Face Finity All Day Primer mattifies the skin and keeps foundation in place. I would go so far as to say it keeps everything in place, even my blusher was as fresh as the morning that I had applied it.

I would say that this product will work best on combination/oily skin. I found it felt a little dry for me - normal/combination skin but it does a great job of keeping shine at bay.

Final thoughts - A great value product that does exactly what it claims to do.

Max Factor Face Finity All day Primer 30ml £10.99

*PR Sample

Jurlique Intense Recovery Mask

I was lucky enough to win a photo competition run by Jurlique which meant that I was sent a box of lovely goodies from them. Needless to say I set to work trying out the products almost instantly but it will take me time to work through all of them.

However, the first product I picked up was the Jurlique Intense Recovery Mask ( my goodies arrived on a Friday and for me Friday is face mask day!) and it was love at first try.

Jurlique say 

A natural clay revitalising and restorative treatment mask with antioxidant ingredients to remove skin impurities to help soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while protecting against environmental damage.

The Benefits
Moisturises and hydrates to revitalise and rebalance the skin
Helps provide protection from environmental aggressors.
Helps absorb skin impurities to help purify and balance the skin.
Helps soften the appearance of fine lines.

Key IngredientsGreen Clay helps absorb impurities and rebalance oiliness.
Green Tea, Grape Seed, Turmeric and Ascorbic Acid are rich in antioxidants helping to protect skin from environmental aggressors.
Aloe Vera, Carrot Root Extract and Rose Hip Oil hydrates skin to help rebalance dryness.
Vitamin E (Tocopherol) and Retinyl A Palmitate help reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles.

My thoughts 

Easily squeezed out of the tube, the product comes out as a murky, sludgy green shade. It is so smooth to apply it feels like silk on the skin. It soothes and calms with its scent, a beautiful and relaxing scent that is a treat for the senses and just reinforces the feeling that this mask is doing good things. I also find it to be cooling to my skin.

To use - Apply an even layer and sit and relax for 10 minutes (well that is what I do..)

It dries to a muddy shade, but doesn't feel overly tight. Remove with warm, damp pads.

Afterwards skin looks smoothed and calmed, fine lines are blurred. Skin feels super soft and skin is bright.

I don't find anything at all to dislike about this mask. This will be a weekly treat.

*At the moment I have psoriasis on my face and this does not irritate it in the slightest.

Jurlique Intense Recovery Mask 100ml £49.99 

The Fragrance Shop Discovery Club Spring 2014 Edition

Perfume lovers will delight in this concept from The Fragrance Shop - Similar to the idea of the ever popular beauty boxes that allow you to try before you buy comes this sweet smelling box  for fragrance fiends.

Pay £5 a quarter to receive the latest up to the minute perfume samples (vial size) direct to your door. Usually you will get sent 5 but this edition contains 7 - 5 female and 2 male. In addition you will receive a booklet describing the scents and £5 off vouchers for each of the fragrances, although in this Spring edition there is a featured fragrance that you can get £10 off of the purchase price. The only thing to bear in mind is that the vouchers expiry date is quite short so if you want to take advantage of any of the offers, you need to move fast. You are not tied to any contract and you can cancel at anytime.

I had great fun trying out the samples in my own time and spent a week each day trying something new.. so which fragrances were featured in the box?

The five fragrances for women would definitely have something to appeal to everyone - there is a mix of floral, sensual, evening, fruity and youthful.

Guerlain La Petite Robe Noire Couture - Eau De Parfum £43.50 30ml

Described as a woody floral scent fit for the red carpet, perfect for when a splash of luxury is needed. This is the third fragrance to join the La Petite Robe Collection.

Top notes - Bergamot & Raspberry
Heart note - Rose
Base notes - Patchouli, Vetiver, Moss & Tonka Bean

My thoughts 

I am a fan of the original and this is once again equally gorgeous. this has the unmistakable fruity scent of sparkling raspberry with a delicious rose heart. Dry down brings more earthier tones but its warmth never leaves.

Givenchy Very Irresistible L'Eau en Rose - Eau De Toilette £51.00 50ml

It has been 10 years since the launch of the original Very Irresistible and to celebrate that fact Givenchy has released L'Eau en Rose. It pays homage to the rose in a simple and elegant manner with just a few ingredients.

Top note - Blackberries 
Heart note - Rose sorbet
Base note - Soft Musk

My thoughts 

With a fleetingly burst of berries, this scent moves swiftly on to the fresh Rose and then the musk and rose blend to impart a gentle and powdery rose fragrance that lingers. Delicate, this is not your typical rose scent. Not too dissimilar from Love Chloe.

Lacoste Eau de Lacoste Sensuelle - Eau de Parfum £32.50 30ml 

Where the original daytime Eau de Lacoste Parfum is sweet, in the new launch the gourmand nougatine, offers a more sensual scent for the night.

Top notes - Pink Pepper & Blackcurrant Tart
Heart notes - Turkish Rose, Sweet Pea & Gladiolus flower
Base notes - Soft Nougatine & Amber 

My thoughts 

For me this is definitely an evening scent. I liked it a lot and couldn't stop myself from sniffing my clothes once I had sprayed it. Fruity and sweet but not cloying the blackcurrant and pink pepper shine through. As time passes the amber and sweet nougatine provide the warmth and the sensual aspect of the fragrance. This is a wonderful gourmand (food inspired) fragrance. Sophisticated and delectable.

Thierry Mugler Alien Eau Extraordinaire - Eau de Toilette £49.50 60ml

A new chapter in the Alien story brings a message of joy charged with a positive energy. Containing a blend of notes known for their uplifting and energising powers that convey a feeling of happiness and serenity.

Top notes - Neroli & Bergamot Tea
Heart notes - Tiare Flower & Cashmeran Wood
Base notes - White Amber & Heliotrope

My thoughts 

I have to say I was most curious to try the Alien sample from the description. Out of all the female scents this was the freshest and most Springlike to me. I loved the fresh and floral Neroli and Bergamot Tea composition, the warmth came from the woods and Amber. Very nice indeed. I can see this being a very popular addition to the Alien story.

Elie Saab L'Eau Couture - Eau de Toilette £29.99 30ml

A new fresh and deliciously couture fragrance. Created to offer a taste of Spring.

Top notes - Fresh citrus notes with Calabrian Bergamot and Magnolia 
Heart note - Orange Blossom
Base notes - Green Almond & Vanilla Infusion

My thoughts 

This was the one I loved the best. L'Eau Couture kicks off with a blend of citrus and gorgeous floral Magnolia. So very nice. Leading to one of my favourite perfume notes - Orange Blossom (which is the signature ingredient of the Elie Saab Le Parfum collection). Dry down is simply exquisite, rather than going warm it remains fresh with the green almond and delicate and ever so slightly sweet vanilla. So feminine and supremely elegant this is a magnificent day fragrance.

Male fragrances

Valentino Uomo - Eau de Toilette £44.99 50ml

An aromatic, smooth and leathery fragrance. A modern classic. The scent has Italian style with notes composed to reflect an aristocratic Italian family lunch.

Top notes - Bergamot with Myrtle Liquor
Heart notes - Coffee Beans dipped in Praline 
Base notes - Cedar Woods & Leather

My thoughts 

Rich and sophisticated this oozes charm in abundance but I feel it would appeal to the slightly older and more discerning gentleman. I would choose this for my dad as opposed to my husband as the depth of scent is more traditional, a real classic with reassuring warmth.

Loewe Solo Sport - Eau de Toilette £59.99 75ml

*Exclusive to The Fragrance Shop outside of Harrods

Spanish Luxury brand Loewe introduce Loewe Solo Sport. Whilst retaining the bottle design and signature notes of the original Loewe Solo, this has added zest and energy and designed to encapsulate the spirit of sports.

Top notes -Mandarin & Pepper
Heart notes -Rosemary & Lavender
Base notes -Moss, Patchouli & Amber

My thoughts 

Youthful, fresh and fruity. This is the perfect Summer scent and my man loves it. I love the added peppery spice that adds a new dimension to its simple freshness. Makes you want to just get up and go, get active. Alluring and invigorating.

The Discovery Club, a great way to try out new fragrances.

*PR Sample

Smashbox Camera Ready CC Cream SPF 30 Dark Spot Correcting

Smashbox say 

A multi- benefit complexion correcting cream that reduces the appearance of dark spots and enhances the natural radiance of the skin. Developed to help you achieve a flawless, luminous and camera-ready complexion, this pioneering fusion of skincare and makeup represents the next level of treatment cosmetics.

Smashbox Camera Ready CC Cream SPF 30 Dark Spot Correcting goes beyond priming, perfecting, hydrating and controlling oil in a single step to reduce the appearance of dark spots and effectively improve the appearance of uneven skin tone. It also offers SPF protection against UVA/UVB rays and leaves the complexion glowing.

My thoughts 

I am wearing shade Light and it is a perfect match for me. I have normal/combination skin and once again I find it ideal for it. Smashbox say that it is suitable for all skin types. I find it similar in consistency to the Estee Lauder BB Glow, so relatively thick but light as a feather applied and virtually undetectable when blended (easily) into the skin. It smooths the skin beautifully, hiding imperfections and leaving a nice bright finish and it is long lasting.

If you do need extra coverage this works wonderfully as a skin primer, I wore it under a Lancome foundation and it was amazing just how flawless I looked. Unsurprisingly, the double layer worked wonders. However I would say that I do like to see my freckles and so I am pretty happy to wear this as it is.

Scent wise it smells a bit of suncream and I put this down to its welcome high SPF.

As to its claims of reducing dark spots, I haven't worn it long enough to find out but I like the product a lot, this will get used to the end.

Here I am wearing it

Smashbox Camera Ready CC Cream SPF 30 Dark Spot Correcting 30ml costs £29 and is available in 5 shades

*PR Sample

My Makeup Brushes - Powder, Bronze & Blush

Now there was a time when I just used the brush that came with my blusher ..However, the old pictures are testimony to the fact that that was clearly the wrong thing to do.  I have seen the error of my ways and seen the results of what great brushes can do and now I have quite a few brushes in my kit. Not a huge amount I will say but these do me just fine.

I have already told you about the fabulous 6 piece eye brush set from EcoTools and today I turn to the four trusty brushes that I use over and over again to powder, bronze, blush and highlight my face.

Clinique Bronzer Brush £23.50 

I bought this brush as part of my makeup kit when I was getting married and have used it pretty much daily ever since (7 years and it is still going strong). It is an all over face brush and it is incredibly soft. Perfect for applying my bronzer.

EcoTools Bamboo Blush Brush £7.99

I adore this blusher brush that I picked up in Boots about 3 years ago. It is made from sythnetic taklon and has a fabulous tapered shape and is so, so soft. It picks up product perfectly and evenly for flawless application. I love it.

*Cover FX Powder Brush £34

I use this brush to apply my contour blush. It is a fully rounded powder brush. I have used it to apply pressed and loose powder equally effectively but for now (and for the last year) I have used it just for contouring with a pressed powder. Can be used for all powder applications. Synthetic.

*Kiko Cosmetics Dark Heroine Face Brush (ltd edit) £15.90 

Annoyingly this is a ltd edit product that is no longer on sale which is a real pity as it is pretty damn perfect. This double sided brush contains on one side a kabuki style short and round/flat brush that is ideal for powders, I use it for my loose setting powder. The other side is a longer, thinner flatter, slanted style brush that is good for powder blushers and personally what I like to use it for.. is highlighting. This works a dream with my Laura Mercier Shimmer Mosaic Powder highlighter. Once again this is a synthetic brush and is beautifully soft.

*PR Samples

Shavata Brow Perfector Review

I have quite thick dark eyebrows and hance for many years I haven't felt the need to fill them in. However as time has gone on and I have inevitably got older I have noticed more recently that they could do with a bit of a boost as there are some strange empty patches and some random lighter hairs... oh the glamour!

I was recently sent the Shavator Brow Perfector to try out and I think you will see from the after pics that I was pretty pleased by the results.

Shavata say

3 crème shades that glide on like a powder and covers the hairs as well as skin, these can also be blended to get the perfect shade for you. Ideal for filling in sparse brows or for helping camouflage tell-tale grey hairs. Apply with the soft brush for a smooth and natural finish.

My thoughts 

I opted for the middle shade, applied product to the enclosed brush and set to work. It was as easy as that. Filled in eyebrows in seconds with a nice creamy formula. If only I had known it was that easy..  The only think I would do differently is perhaps brush my eyebrows before applying.

What do you think?

The results 

Shavata Brow Pefector £19.50 

*PR Sample

Fresh Therapies Natural Nail Polish Remover Review

Fresh Therapies Natural Nail Polish Remover is a Beauty Bible Award Winner under the Ultimate Natural category which is a pretty high accolade.

Fresh Therapies say 

This natural polish remover is not harmful to you or your nails in anyway.It will not damage the natural oil within your nails. Helping them to remain much more healthy.

Fresh Therapies Natural Nail Polish Remover works perfectly on all types of nail polish, but is not suitable for polish coating false nails. The natural polish remover is translucent with a fragrant smell which includes a hint of lime for freshness.

Free from any artificial acetones, ensures you won't be left with any lingering reminders of your nail polish remover.

Free from 

Isopropyl
Alcohol
Glycerin
Benzophenone 1
Acetone
ButylAcetateToluene

My thoughts 

The polish remover feels quite oily to apply but it literally just melts nail polish clean off after held in place with a cotton wool pad for a couple of seconds. The nails and surrounding skin feel so soft and nourished afterwards from the product, they feel so good in fact. I am really impressed. It really feels like it is looking after the nails, conditioning as it is used. Scent wise this has a slight herbal smell with a nice citrus freshness to it.

If you prefer your products natural this is a great product for you and if you don't mind...this is still a great product!

Fresh Therapies Natural Nail Polish Remover 50ml £8.99

*PR Sample

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil Facial Cleanser

I am really liking oil based cleansing and this Deep Cleansing Oil from DHC is a firm favourite.

DHC say 

The ultimate makeup remover. This olive oil based formula completely dissolved away dirt, excess oil, makeup and even waterproof mascara, leaving your skin soft, fresh and never greasy.

My thoughts 

I know this may sound strange but I just got this cleanser out of the box and started using it without actually reading the info on the back. My first thoughts were ..ooh this smells just like olive oil, so of course everything fell into place when I finally read that it contained olive oil!

The scent took a little getting used to but after using it for so long (it really lasts) I don't even really notice it much now. One pump is all I need to cleanse my entire face and eyes.

How to use - dispense into dry hands, massage into dry face and then add water to rinse off.

Obviously it feels oily as you apply but once the water hits the oil it emulsifies to a milky liquid. Once all rinsed off, skin is left looking bright and feeling mega soft and not at all oily. So soft in fact, I can't help touching my face, naughty I know!

A super effective cleanser that leaves skin clean and incredibly soft.

Top marks.

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil 200ml £21.50 

*PR Sample

Metcalfe's Skinny Topcorn Reviews

Smiley Popcorn

I recently received a box of tasty popcorn treats from the lovely team at Metcalfe's Skinny Topcorn as part of being a member of the Topcorn Tribe. Naturally I have been working my way through the different flavour options, as you all know I am all for tasty but not so naughty treats!

So without further ado -

Metcalfe's Skinny Topcorn Wasabi Glaze Popcorn

Wasabi flavour popcorn 

I have to say straight off I am not a fan of hot/chill food but I was curious as to what this wasabi flavour tasted like. It nearly blew my head off, I found it really hot and mustardy so it wasn't for me. However, my husband absolutely loved it and was only too happy to polish the lot off. At only 118 calories this is a great low cal snack.

Metcalfe's Skinny Topcorn Sweet 'n Salt Popcorn

Sweet n' Salt flavour popcorn

Like both sweet and salty popcorn? Can't decide which to have, well you can enjoy both with this pack of Sweet and Salty. A big hit with all the family (me, the husband and the 6 yr old) for this one. Once again with just 115 calories, this is a great low cal treat.

Metcalfe's Charity Topcorn CLIC Sargent Salt Popcorn

Sea Salt flavoured popcorn 

Another huge hit with all the family, the sea salt gives a more intense flavour than traditional salt flavoured popcorn AND this super flavour raises money for the CLIC Sargent charity. You can't say fairer than that.

Metcalfe's Skinny Topcorn Heat 'n Sweet Popcorn

Sweet Chilli flavour popcorn

I was expecting a hot but bearably sweet sensation from the Heat n' Sweet flavour but unfortunately again this was just too hot for my delicate palate and yet again the husband didn't mind as it meant he could have the packet! One for those who like it spicy

Metcalfe's Skinny Topcorn Sweet Cinnamon Spice Popcorn

Sweet cinnamon flavour popcorn 

Now this was probably top of the favourites list for my 6 year old son and myself. So, so good! Unfortunately as it contains milk my husband wasn't able to try it. With just 117 calories this was a super after school treat. Yum!

Metcalfe's Skinny Topcorn Chocolate Crackle Popcorn

Popped corn with chocolate flavour toffee drizzle 

At over 200 calories (230 to be precise) this is a bit naughtier popcorn than the others but with the hard chocolate crackle this tastes very good and will satisfy those who like chocolate. It is pretty too, take a look!

*PR Samples

Childs Farm Caked In Mud! Hair & Body Wash & Hand Wash For Mucky Mitts - Review

I don't know about your child(ren) but my six year old boy is an absolute nightmare to get in the bath or to get him to wash his hands. It wasn't always this way, when he was younger he loved it but now I guess he would be much rather doing other things. However this aversion is ironic considering he now gets muckier than ever...

I have always used paraben free and SLS free bath products for my boy ever since he was born, however I must admit I relaxed with the hand wash once he was old enough to use it.  Inside however I wished that I knew of a product that was SLS free because I prefer not to use it where possible.

Enter two fabulous products from Childs Farm which has made my life so much easier and made washing his hands and bath time generally more fun..no more resistance. Which from my point of view is ace.

First up is Childs Farm Hand Wash For Mucky Mitts

Childs Farm say 

Childs Farm hand wash contains grapefruit and organic tea tree essential oil to cut through grime and gently moisturise.

- Suitable for eczema prone skin
- For newborns & upwards
- Dermatologically tested and approved.
- Paediatrician approved.
- Over 98% natural ingredients
- NO parabens
- NO SLS’s
- NO mineral oils
- NO artificial colours
- Contains organic essential oils
- Tested on children

My thoughts 

I read out the description 'for mucky mitts' and this put a smile on his face. I told him that this hand wash was just for him and he asked to smell it. Mmmm he said. Since then he has taken himself happily off to the bathroom and washes his hands all by himself. It has a delicious and refreshing grapefruit scent which I adore too and secretly I want to use it too!

No more nagging needed. He loves that the hand wash is especially for him. I love the fact that it contains no nasties.

Win.Win.

*Childs Farm Hand Wash For Mucky Mitts 250ml £4.69

Childs Farm Caked In Mud! Hair and Body Wash For Dirty Rascals 

Childs Farm say 

Childs Farm hair & body wash contains organic sweet orange essential oil & Argan oil to cut through grime and gently moisturise. Suitable for eczema prone skin.

For newborns & upwards

- Dermatologically tested and approved.
- Paediatrician approved.
- Over 98% natural ingredients
- NO parabens
- NO SLS’s
- NO mineral oils
- NO artificial colours
- Contains Argan (Moroccan) oil
- Contains organic essential oils
- Tested on children

My thoughts 

Aaron loved looking at the drawing on the bottle and laughed when I read out the product's name. He really, really loved the scent and wanted to jump in the bath immediately to try it!

The scent is a really lovely orange smell and the body wash left his skin nice and soft. As it was quite warm that day I left his hair to dry naturally and it looked smooth, silky and shiny. It does say that if it gets into eyes their won't be tears.. and there wasn't. Love at first use.

A firm favourite in this house, he now asks to have baths!

*Childs Farm Caked In Mud! Hair and Body Wash For Dirty Rascals 250ml £4.69

Childs Farm products are available from John Lewis and Ocado 

*PR Samples

Pudology Dairy & Gluten Free Desserts Review

I won some Pudology dairy and gluten free puds recently and naturally I thought I would share my thoughts with you on them.

Unfortunately there was a bit of a delay in their arrival (apparently the original delivery van broke down) which meant that ice bag keeping them cool had melted and so the outer packaging was soggy. No matter though, it did not affect the contents which is the most important thing.

All the Pudology products are

Dairy Free
Gluten Free
Wheat Free
Vegan
Coeliac

I was sent 3 varieties to devour...

Chocolate Pud 

Deeply decadent & irresistibly smooth chocolate ganache with Madagascan vanilla.

My thoughts 

The first thing to mention is that it contains coconut milk as the replacement for dairy, so it does taste like it although I found that as I ate on, the taste of coconut subsided and delicious chocolate was more prevalent. I thought this was going to be rich and dense but happily the ganache melted in my mouth, much lighter than I expected. Very nice indeed. 

Chocolate Orange Pud 

Seriously smooth chocolate and orange ganache with Brazilian orange oil.

My thoughts

Now it has to be said I adore chocolate orange so I was excited to try this and it smells and tastes exquisite. Similar in texture to the Chocolate Pud, this is once again light and smooth. 

Banoffee Pud 

Layers of biscuit, dairy-free toffee, banana & chocolate – the ultimate indulgence!

My thoughts 

I do love a good banoffee pie and this is not a disappointment. In fact this was a highlight. 

Sweet but not overly so, light crumbly biscuit, smooth toffee and banana that is refreshingly cool topped with chocolate. Best eaten with every spoonful containing each layer. My favourite.

Delicious puds, dairy and gluten free that satisfy a sweet tooth. You cannot ask for much more..

Elemis Treat Your Feet Foot Cream Review - Summer Feet

With Summer well and truly arriving at the weekend (well it may not last but hey you will be prepared!) it is time to get feet out on display, personally I have been maintaining my feet all year round as you just never know when you will get a chance to break out the Sandals and flash those feet.

Well as the temperatures rose, I was ready with the Sandals and all that was needed was a quick application, and I really mean a super quick, of Pedi fabulous Rimmel London's 60 Seconds in Coralicious. Just one application is needed for a full opacity sunny Coral shade that has you good to go..

My current foot cream love is Elemis Treat Your Feet Foot Cream from the Sp@ Home Body Soothing Range which I apply to my feet every evening, just before bed.

Elemis say 

Rich in conditioning shea butter and jojoba oil, this intensely moisturising foot cream melts beautifully into the skin, smoothing and hydrating rough dry areas. Infused with a blend of aromatic patchouli, eucalyptus, and lemon oils to help soothe and comfort.

My thoughts 

This rich cream has a lovely texture that absorbs fast leaving feet feeling conditioned, moisturised and silky soft and smooth. Although I apply all over my feet, I take particular care to apply more to the areas that need it most like the heels. As it smells so good and calming I like to apply it at night and inhale the soothing scent coming from my feet.

So good! Elemis certainly put the 'treat' into treatment.

Elemis Treat Your Feet Foot Cream 75ml £19

*PR Sample

Lanolips Lip Ointment With Colour SPF - Apples

For a pop of colour with the added benefit of SPF you cannot go wrong with Lanolips Lip Ointment With Colour SPF15 

I like Apples -  a scary bright red in the tube but on the lips provides a subtle brightness, a bit like I imagine how Snow White's lips would look like stained with apple...

Mirror Mirror on the wall...

Lanolips Lip Ointment with Colour contains Ultra Pure Grade Lanolin, Pure Pigment and SPF. It gives glossy shine and hydration without feeling sticky and the SPF is ideal over the Summer months..days just like this in fact.

Lanolips Lip Ointment With Colour SPF is available in 5 shades 

Piz Buin Ultra Light Dry Touch Sun Fluid SPF30 & SPF15 Review

The sun has finally emerged this year, the temperature is rising (for now anyway!) and now is the time to break out the Sun Protection and slap it on. Hello Summer!

I have been trialling the new range from one of my favourite and most reliable Sun Care brands Piz Buin and it is a real treat.

Piz Buin Ultra Light Dry Touch Sun Fluid in SPF15 and SPF30 

Piz Buin say 

This sun fluid combines immediate and effective UVA/UVB protection with an ultra light formula that dries instantly. The hydrating fluid spreads easily over your skin for a weightless dry touch feel. The non sticky and non greasy formula absorbs instantly without leaving white marks for skin that feels silky and smooth. Enriched with an anti-oxidant* Vitamin E derivative, it helps to prevent sun induced premature skin ageing.

PIZ BUIN® Ultra Light Sun Fluid is sweat and water resistant.

Benefits 

Has an instant dry touch 

Feels ultra light on application

Formulated with special powders to give a unique dry touch feel 

Oil free formula which leaves a non greasy finish, skin feels silky smooth 

My thoughts 

Ultra Light Dry Touch Sun Fluid is a revelation. The packaging has a twist nozzle for easy and non messy application (product does come in a spray formula if you prefer). The fluid is incredibly light and absorbs/dries instantly without leaving any trace of product or skin feeling sticky or tacky which is just marvellous for city dwellers as it can be worn daily without a second thought.

I am converted, however it has one downside. The incredible and distinctive Piz Buin scent that reminds me of my holidays..which leaves skin smelling so good means that I would much rather be at the beach than in London town.. if only I could be transported.

PIZ BUIN® Ultra Light Sun Fluid in SPF15 & SPF30 RRP £16.99 for 150ml

*PR Samples

Orla Kiely Earl Grey Diffuser

I am loving this super stylish Orla Kiely Earl Grey scented Diffuser.  The glass bottle print is a pretty accessory for the living room and it smells wonderful to boot. The Earl Grey scent is slightly citrusy and fresh with the inclusion of bergamot but is also blended with more earthy, smoky black tea notes that are neither overtly masculine or too feminine. I love that my passion for tea can be included in accessories for the the home :)

Orla Kiely Earl Grey Reed Diffuser costs £25 and is available from John Lewis and Fenwicks

*PR Sample

Elemis Total Glow Bronzing Moisturiser & Body Lotion Review

A sun kissed glow all year round? I have to be honest and say this would be my preferred option and if there was an easy way to achieve it at home I would do it.. luckily I have found the perfect thing!

The new Elemis Total Glow Bronzing Gradual Tan range for Face and Body

Elemis Total Glow Bronzing Moisturiser For Face - Gradual Tan Moisturiser

Elemis say 

This luxurious, gradual tan day cream instantly moisturises the skin and enhances the complexion, whilst Vegetan™, naturally derived from wheat, subtly builds an even, natural looking tan in 2-3 days. Specially formulated with anti-oxidant rich Green Tea and Ginger Water for a more even skin tone, whilst Evodia Fruit Extract improves luminosity. Enriched with nourishing Rice Bran Oil, skin is left feeling soft and velvety smooth with a beautiful golden glow that creates the perfect base for make-up. Beautiful aromatics of peach, bergamot and orange oil combined with rose and ylang ylang leave skin delicately scented.

Skincare Benefits 

Improves skin tone and texture
Instantly moisturises
Perfect base for make-up
Improves skin luminosity
Gradually builds an even, natural looking tan

My thoughts 

Day 3 of Elemis Total Glow Bronzing Moisturiser

I am a huge fan of Elemis products, they always come with smart packaging that has the all important bathroom shelf appeal and they deliver, with the new Total Glow range there is no exception. This light textured facial moisturiser absorbs fast and gives a lovely, natural golden glow to the skin which I love. It smells incredible too, like berries but the scent is subtle so it doesn't over power, just makes the morning routine super nice. I completely agree that it provides a great base for make-up application. My skin looks so good I need just a smidge of foundation to conceal light imperfections (the rosacea on the cheeks) and I am good to go.

I absolutely love it.

Elemis Total Glow Bronzing Body Lotion - Gradual Tan Body Moisturiser

Day 2 of Elemis Total Glow Bronzing Lotion

Elemis say 

This luxurious, gradual tan body lotion instantly moisturises the skin, whilst Vegetan™, naturally derived from Wheat, subtly builds an even, natural looking tan in 2-3 days. Specially formulated with anti-oxidant rich Green Tea for a more even skin tone and Red Algae Extract to help ensure long-lasting hydration. Enriched with exquisite Abyssinian and Elderberry Seed Oils to nourish and condition, skin is left feeling soft, velvety smooth and with a beautiful golden glow.

My thoughts 

Moisturising, hydrating and imparting a beautiful and natural golden bronze colour to the skin, I couldn't ask for any more. This gradual tan does it all AND it smells amazing too, rather than that tell tale biscuit scent that is present in many gradual tans. The scent stays on the skin for a good few hours and to me it smells like wonderful Jasmine, it contains delicate floral notes, lemon and patchouli. 

It is wonderfully light and dries fast. Fool proof, easy application and the tan is natural looking and non streaky. Ideal for me.

As with all gradual tans, wash hands after application

Elemis Total Glow Bronzing Moisturiser 50ml costs £29.50
Elemis Total Glow Bronzing Body Lotion 200ml costs £34.50

*PR Samples