Beauty Empties | Products I've Used Up

Another month has flown by which means it's time yet again for another Beauty Empties round-up! This is something of a bumper collection as I've been on a bit of a No-Buy challenge recently so I've finished up quite a lot of products. Grab a cuppa and let's get stuck in.

Naobay Hyaluronic & Hemp Recharge Splash Facial Mist* (travel size)

I really enjoyed using this - it was super light and refreshing and also doubled up nicely as a setting spray too. Repurchase? I've gone back to using the Evolve Daily Defence Moisture Mist, but I would be happy to buy this again in the future.

Balance Me BHA Exfoliating Concentrate (travel size)

If you have oily/combination skin that's prone to blemishes and breakouts, then I highly recommend this liquid exfoliant. It's brilliant for unclogging pores and getting rid of dead skin/congestion. Repurchase? Yes.

Nourish London Probiotic Multi-Mineral Repair Mask* (reviewed here)

This is one of the best face masks that I've ever tried for helping to repair the skin barrier. It has so many beneficial ingredients like Magnesium and Zinc in it that you really do see a noticeable difference in your skin after the first use. Genius stuff. Repurchase? Already have :)

This Works Morning Expert Hyaluronic Serum* (reviewed here)

A hugely popular serum for a reason, this one combines Hyaluronic Acid with Vitamin C in a slow-release formula to really plump up and brighten your complexion. Very impressed by this and will be most definitely cutting open the tube to get the last bits out! Repurchase? Yes.

Bloomtown The Rose Garden Salt Soak* (reviewed here)

I recently featured this in my top four relaxing bath salts post so it should come as no surprise to see it here. These are gorgeous, fresh rose-scented Himalayan salts that are very relaxing and spa-like. Repurchase? Yes. 

Puur Ingrid Ultra Body Oil* (featured here)

This is a luxury Canadian natural brand that I was introduced to when I was judging the Cert Clean Beauty Awards. A delightfully silky body oil with a heavenly scent of Lavender, Eucalyptus, and Bergamot. Repurchase? I'm not sure if they have a UK stockist but I'll certainly be checking!

Greenfrog Botanic Shampoo Bar Argan & Rose Oil*

One of my favourite shampoo bars as it produces a nice thick lather and feels very hydrating. Vegan and SLS-free, these bars last forever, I'm sure I've been using it for at least 3 months. Repurchase? Yes.

Dr. Pawpaw Shea Butter Balm* (reviewed here)

Another product that's lasted for a long time has been this tube of Dr. Pawpaw Shea Butter Balm which I'm sure I opened around Christmas time to put it into perspective! Amazing for any dry skin bits like lips and cuticles, it's fragrance-free so ideal for sensitive skin. Repurchase? Definitely.

Organii Almond & Avocado Cream Soap* (reviewed here)

If you have dry hands, you must try these Organii Cream Soaps. Not only are they packed full of natural moisturising ingredients like Shea Butter and Avocado Oil, but they're an absolute steal at only £3.50. I like to use them mainly as hand soaps to cut down on my plastic waste, though they are brilliant to use in the bath and shower as well as they retain their shape and don't go mushy.

This Works In Transit Camera Close-Up (travel size)

One of the best multi-purpose beauty products to throw into your travel bag. This little gem triples up as a hydrating face mask, everyday moisturiser, and makeup primer. I particularly like it using it as a primer as it completely smooths out my face in prep for makeup and keeps everything looking fresh. Repurchase? Yes.

Fruu Watermelon Lip Balm*

Can you tell I'm getting better at using up my never-ending stash of lip balms?! I'm a huge fan of these Fruu ones which come in a range of different flavours - Watermelon is so fruity and delicious. The hydration that these lip balms offer and the curved end make me keep buying them over and over. Repurchase? Definitely. 

Vapour Mesmerize Mascara (reviewed here)

It was certainly bittersweet to finish off this mascara as Vapour Beauty is sadly no more and I'll miss several of their products including this as it was a bloody good mascara. Repurchase? Discontinued :(

Alexandra Kay Time To Relax Essential Oil* (reviewed here)

I've used this for about 2-3 years now and still love it; I'm not sure why, but it's one of the most relaxing essential oil blends that I've come across. Repurchase? Yes.

Alteya Organics Eucalyptus Essential Oil*

When it comes to single essential oils, you can't go wrong with the purity and quality of Alteya Organics. I use Eucalutpus a lot throughout winter to help with itchy scalps/dandruff (add a drop or two to your shampoo), and clearing blocked sinuses when I've had a cold (great for water steam inhalation). Repurchase? Most definitely!

What beauty products have you finished up lately?

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Health & Lifestyle | Cytoplan Vegan Beauty Bundle Supplements | Hair, Skin & Nails, Vitamin C and Vegan Collagen review

Give your skin (and health) a boost from the inside with Cytoplan's vegan-friendly Beauty Bundle of supplements. Expertly formulated, this nature-meets-science brand, has everything that you need to look and feel your best as we embrace the new season.

It should come as no surprise to learn that our diet and lifestyle plays an important factor in the overall health and appearance of our skin, and no amount of fancy expensive skincare products will be able to hide the damaging effects of negative lifestyle factors such as smoking and not getting enough sleep regularly. As they say, beauty is skin deep, and what's going on inside, is just as important (if not more so!), than what's happening on the outside.

This is where Cytoplan comes in with their bestselling Beauty Bundle to help to support and nourish skin, hair, and nails from within. Comprising of three carefully chosen premium supplements, this handy bundle covers all bases and offers excellent value for money at the same time. These supplements are free from GMOs, gluten, dairy, wheat, added sugar, flavourings, and colourings.

Cytoplan Hair, Skin & Nails (60 capsules)

First things first, let's start with the Hair, Skin & Nails supplement which is a well-rounded multi-nutrient, that works in synergy with an antioxidant complex. Here you can find the usual suspects of essential vitamins and minerals like Pantothenic Acid, Vitamin C, Biotin, Zinc, and Selenium that you expect to find in any Hair, Skin & Nails capsule. 

However, what sets this one apart is the addition of a wide range of skin-friendly ingredients with proven antioxidant and protective qualities. These include Cocoa Extract, MSM, Maritime Pine Bark Extract, Bilberry Extract, Lycopene, Lutein, and Astaxanthin; all expertly blended into a convenient one-a-day capsule. 

Cytoplan Vitamin C 1000mg (60 capsules)

We all know and love Vitamin C as a key ingredient in our skincare routines due to its amazing propensity to brighten the skin and boost radiance. In fact, a quick glance at some of my favourite everyday skincare products confirms this, and it's a particularly useful ingredient to have in your serum or moisturiser. So it makes perfect sense to take a Vitamin C supplement to get all the benefits from the inside out, plus if you're lacking certain fruit and veg in your diet, it can help to address any deficiencies there too to keep your immune system in better shape.

This one from Cytoplan provides a high potency dose of 1000mg in each daily capsule, alongside a 50mg boost of Bioflavonoids to protect against environmental aggressors that can cause premature skin aging. The latter naturally accompanies Vitamin C found in fruit and veg and helps to retain this essential nutrient in the body. 

Cytoplan Vegan Collagen (120 capsules)

Collagen supplements are everywhere and I'm pretty certain that there isn't a skincare guru/actress/celebrity on the planet that doesn't take one every day! Sadly though, the vast majority of collagen products are made from animal ingredients (usually bovine or marine), however, Cytoplan has recently launched their brand new Vegan Collagen supplements which will help to offer more choice to those seeking a cruelty-free alternative.

These new kids on the supplement block feature an entirely unique and innovative 100% plant-based 'Vollagen Complex' that's exclusive to Cytoplan, and two capsules a day yield 1000mg. This provides the same amino acids as human collagen in the exact desired ratio to help to support healthy skin, hair, nails, ligaments, and tendons in the body. 

Cytoplan Vegan Beauty Bundle* retails for £56.10 via cytoplan.co.uk

Do you take beauty supplements? 

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Trending | Waterless Beauty - 5 Products To Try #EcoFriendly

Waterless beauty is a trend that's been popular within green beauty circles for a long time, and it's one that has now firmly crossed over into the mainstream, as consumers shop more sustainably than they ever have before (yay!). If you haven't heard of the concept before, here's a quick post to get you up to speed and five tried and tested product recommendations to help you on your way.

What Is Waterless Beauty?

Waterless beauty are products that have been made without any water. So think of things like solid, concentrated, and powdered formulas like shampoo bars, exfoliating powders, multipurpose balms, eco-friendly deodorants, etc.  

Why Is Waterless Beauty Trending?

It can be difficult to think of water shortages in our everyday lives when you live in the UK, especially with heavy rain and flooding being so commonplace here, but for the rest of the world, water shortages are a massively growing problem due to climate change and overpopulation. Waterless beauty has become a topic of conversation because beauty is the second biggest industry globally that consumes the most water, after agriculture. This is largely because most beauty products contain water; have a look at the products that you use every day and you'll start to see the size of the problem, as 'aqua' is often the first ingredient that's listed.

Not only is the quantity of water used within the beauty industry a cause for concern, but there's also the packaging and transport of all of these products to factor in as well. A standard plastic bottle of shampoo uses a huge amount of water to manufacture than a plastic-free solid shampoo bar for example. This is why most waterless beauty products are packaged in an eco-friendly manner to reduce the need for water at every opportunity. For sustainable consumers, it makes sense because we can easily add water from our own taps to a product, so by purchasing waterless beauty products, you're generally cutting out all those extra CO2 emissions that come from transporting a heavy bottle of shampoo to the shop.

Waterless Beauty Means Less or No Preservatives

In addition, waterless formulas require little or no preservatives to be added. This is because you usually have to add some kind of preservative to a product if it contains water because bacteria grows so quickly in it.

Here are five water-free beauty product recommendations that I've tried out.

Swap One: Marley's Pure & Natural Shampoo with Eucalyptus & Green Clay* (50g, €11.25)

Shampoo bars are the obvious choice when it comes to swapping your regular bottle of shampoo for a waterless alternative, however, they don't always work for everyone and it can be a case of trial and error to find the one that does work for your hair type. Shampoo flakes, on the other hand, seem to be something that more people report having greater success with, and the best that I've tried is Marley's Pure & Natural Shampoo with Eucalyptus & Green Clay. Here you have a pouch of solid shampoo flakes which you add to hot water and then refrigerate overnight, before using as you would any other liquid shampoo - genius stuff! It's a Dutch brand but there are a fair few UK stockists knocking about - I pick it up from my local independent health store; one pouch replaces a large 400ml plastic bottle of shampoo.

Swap Two: Trilogy Everything Balm* (45ml, £15.50, link)

Regular readers know how much I love multi-purpose balms and in fact, I have a stash of them floating around somewhere, usually in every desk drawer, on every bedside table, and in every handbag. You could say I'm a bit obsessed! The Trilogy Everything Balm is one that I've been using for years and this large tin will last you absolutely ages. Packed with skin-quenching ingredients such as Sweet Almond Oil, Beeswax, Marula Seed Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, Coconut Oil, and Vitamin E, this hard-working skincare hero can be applied to dry lips, cracked cuticles, and anywhere else that requires some immediate soothing moisture. 

Swap Three: Beauty Pro Tumeric Infused Sheet Mask* (£5, link)

OK, so this one is a little controversial as it's a single-use product, but hear me out! I wanted to include it as an alternative option for those who still love using sheet masks (and I'm partial to using one myself every now and then, especially when traveling). Beauty Pro's Plant-Based Sheet Mask range ticks a lot of good boxes including being certified cruelty-free, vegan, and made from 100% plant origins. It's also water-free, and the sheet mask itself is plastic-free. Instead, it's made from biodegradable bamboo which is fully compostable in your garden waste bin. Pretty neat, huh? This Tumeric Infused mask is great for brightening the skin and gets to work in just 15 minutes.

Swap Four: Dust & Glow Powder-Based Bodywash in Coconut Ginger* (45g, link)

Powdered formulas are definitely on the rise and lots of brands are producing some amazing products in this area. I'm a big fan of powdered body washes because they are so easy to use; just sprinkle a small amount into wet hands and watch as it lathers up into a foam that you can then use all over your body in the shower. This means that the packaging is a much smaller bottle as the powder is concentrated, and being a powder, it's super lightweight which makes it brilliant for traveling with, especially if you just have a carry-on with you. Dust & Glow is a New Zealand brand (some London-based eco-shops stock them), but if you have trouble finding it, you can try the British brand Inclusev instead which has a great range of powder beauty products.

Swap Five: Elsa's Detox Natural Deodorant* (£14, link)
 

Mainstream deodorant sticks and roll-ons almost always contain water as their first ingredient so it makes sense to switch to a natural deodorant that's better for your body as well. There are lots to choose from as this sector of the beauty industry has had a massive boom in recent years so shoppers are truly spoilt for choice! One of my top picks would be Elsa's Detox Natural Deodorant which is something that I often recommend to those who are new to using a natural deodorant as it's a pretty strong and powerful formula and makes the switch less daunting! With ingredients such as Activated Charcoal, Bentonite Clay, and Magnesium, it's an easy natural way to keep body odour at bay.

Have you made any water-free swaps this year?

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Foodie Friday | BRAVE Crunchy Peas | Great Taste Award Winning Healthy Vegan Snacks review

Say hello to the delicious, healthy, plant-based crunchy snack that you need to have in your bag or desk drawer. Meet BRAVE Crunchy Peas; my latest snack obsession to help beat those 3pm energy crashes.

Snacks are an essential part of my daily diet, so much so, that I love nothing more than discovering new snack options when I'm at the supermarket or health food store. Although not a new creation, BRAVE burst onto the healthy snacks market a couple of years ago and has been snapping up Great Taste Awards ever since, so I thought it was time to give them a go.

The overall aim of BRAVE is to promote healthy snacks as an alternative to the dreaded energy 'crash', This is where you're caught in a vicious cycle of craving unhealthy sugary snacks, end up eating said sugary or high carb snacks, suffer spikes in your blood sugar, and then miserably experience an energy/blood sugar levels crash until the craving/cycle begins again. Not only is this bad in the short term by leaving you feeling hungry and tired, but in the long term it can lead to weight gain and Type 2 Diabetes. It's not fun whichever way you look at it!

Help is on hand from BRAVE though as their snacks are formulated to be 'clean energy' for your body, so they won't make you crash and don't mess up your blood sugar levels. Instead, you can enjoy munching on healthy snacks that keep you fuller for longer, provide you with long-lasting energy and give you better mental focus and clarity. 

Each pack of BRAVE Crunchy Peas provides around 133 calories, 7g of plant-based protein to keep you satiated, and 7g of fiber for a happy gut. The tasty Yellow Split Peas are roasted so you get a really satisfying crunchy texture. With flavours such as Sea Salt & Vinegar, Paprika & Chilli and Sour Cream & Chive, you could easily swap these for your regular pack of crisps and not really miss out! For sweet tooth fans, they also have the super moreish Chocolate & Salted Caramel flavour which is definitely a must-try.

BRAVE Crunchy Peas* available from various stockists or shop online at bravefoods.co.uk

What are your favourite healthy snacks?

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Top 4 Bath Salts To Help You Relax & Sleep | featuring This Works, M&S Apothecary, Westlab & Bloomtown

Once only used by women of a 'certain age', bath salts are enjoying a long-awaited revival thanks to the self-care movement and I'm totally here for it! There are so many different blends and compositions to choose from these days that it can be a little overwhelming knowing what to buy. To point you in the right direction, I've put together my top four favourite bath salts post to help you to relax after a long day, and get a good night's sleep.

If You Love Floral Scents Try: Bloomtown Pink Himalayan Salt Soak in The Rose Garden* (285g, £10, link)

Most bath salt products on the market are generally made up of Epsom salts, Magnesium flakes, or Dead Sea salts (or even a mix of these), so I wanted to feature a Pink Himalayan Salt product as they are also becoming much more popular. Not only does it look pretty, but Pink Himalayan Salt is famed for containing over 80 trace minerals including magnesium, potassium, iron, and calcium. This gives the salt a unique composition which is great for drawing out toxins and rejuvenating the skin. Just make sure to really stir these salts around the bath as they are harder to fully dissolve if you don't.

I'm a big fan of the Bloomtown Pink Himalayan Salt Soak in The Rose Garden scent which smells incredible; if you love heady floral fragrances mixed with musk, this is the one for you. It's also a good alternative for those who aren't keen on lavender scents, but still want something that's relaxing.

If You Want A Good Night's Sleep Try: This Works Deep Sleep Bath Soak* (200g, £24, link)

For my fellow insomniacs, you must try This Works Deep Sleep Bath Soak. In fact, the entire Deep Sleep range is incredible for those of us who really struggle to get to sleep, however, the Bath Soak is something special. Infused with the brand's signature Deep Sleep natural fragrance, these sea salts are saturated with an expert and clinically proven mix of Lavender, Vetivert, Patchouli, Ho Wood, and Wild Chamomile essential oils. 

A truly relaxing and luxurious bath is sure to follow when these magical salts are added to the water and This Works recommend that you use them about two hours before you want to go to bed for the very best results. They are expensive, but it's worth pointing out that you only need to use a spoonful for each bath as they are so potent.

If You're On A Budget Try: Westlab Mindful Bath Salts with Frankincense, Bergamot & CBD* (1kg, £3.79, link)

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly alternative, you absolutely can't go wrong with anything from Westlab. I have used their products regularly for years, and the quality is always wonderfully consistent, with excellent results. It was difficult to choose just one product from them as they have such a good range, but their Mindful Bath Salts are brilliant and they're something that I've recommended countless times to family and friends.

Here we have a mix of both Epsom and Himalayan mineral salts, along with the addition of CBD oil to promote a feeling of tranquility and essential oils of Cedarwood, Orange, Geranium, Frankincense, and Bergamot. You can pick up Westlab Bath Salts from a wide variety of stockists including many budget-friendly stores such as B&M and Saver's where you'll usually find a big 1kg bag for around £3.50 - £3.79, which is such a bargain!

If You Want Your Bathroom To Feel Like A Spa Try: M&S Apothecary Sleep Bath Salts* (300g, £7.50, link)

OK, so all of the bath salts in this post will make your bathroom smell amazing, but if you're looking for one that's going to go the extra mile and make it feel like a proper spa experience, M&S Apothecary is the range to look into. They have a couple of different blends available, and the Sleep Bath Salts are a clear winner in my humble opinion.

Housed in a beautiful smoked grey glass bottle with a classic apothecary style vibe, these sea salts instantly hit you with a really strong and heady fragrance of Lavender, Eucalyptus, Vetiver, and Jasmine. This fragrance will quickly fill your whole bathroom, evoking a sense of calm and relaxation. Best of all, you can purchase refills which not only help to cut down on your packaging waste, but also make these bath salts more affordable in the long run.

Are you a fan of bath salts?

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Health & Lifestyle | NEOM Wellbeing Pod Mini Essential Oil Diffuser review

Essential oil diffusers are one of the biggest must-have items for home offices, and it feels like every well-being brand on the planet has their own version that they are currently promoting. Prices can vary dramatically across the board, so I thought I'd feature one of the UK's bestsellers that is available for a more affordable price; the NEOM Wellbeing Pod Mini Essential Oil Diffuser.

Why Are Essential Oil Diffusers So Popular Right Now?

There are many reasons, but the main one appears to be that a lot of people who began working from home for the first time during Covid back in 2020 are still doing so. In fact, I've had countless conversations with brands and PRs that have discussed this huge lifestyle change that's occurred since the pandemic, and in fact, estate agents are also reporting that more people than ever are looking for an additional room in a potential new home that they can easily turn into an office space.

The rise of freelancers and side hustlers has boomed too as people seek new ways to increase their incomes, and thus products that help to boost productivity at home, or simply enhance our home working environment in some way, are selling incredibly well. So the Essential Oil Diffuser is definitely having its moment! 

What Do Essential Oil Diffusers Do?

It's all in the name; they diffuse essential oils into the air to fragrance your room, usually without the need for any water to be added. The latest models are all sleek, rechargeable, super easy to use, and have a simple on/off mechanism. 

NEOM Wellbeing Pod Mini Essential Oil Diffuser

The NEOM Wellbeing Pod Mini Essential Oil Diffuser ticks all of these boxes effortlessly and I absolutely love its minimal, elegant design. Perfect for smaller rooms such as home offices, bathrooms, etc, this diffuser can even be used in your car! It's beautifully travel-friendly too so if you're planning any weekends away, you can easily pop it into your luggage and you're good to go.

Using cold diffusion technology, the essential oils are converted into a micro fine vapour without using water or heat, so they can be released into the atmosphere for you to enjoy their benefits. Genius!

How To Use

Most essential oil diffusers are generally quite similar, but I'll give you a quick rundown on how the NEOM Wellbeing Pod Mini Essential Oil Diffuser works if this is the first time you've bought one.

First things first, charge your diffuser using the provided USB cable. I attach this to my wall plug phone charger as I find it charges faster than when plugged into your laptop. Let it fully charge up for 6 hours before using. 

Place it on a flat surface. As you can see above, there's an internal chamber that comes out of the diffuser and this is where you insert your chosen bottle of essential oil that you'd like to diffuse. The NEOM Pod Mini is so easy; you simply push in the button on the bottom and hey presto, the chamber pops up at the top for you to take out. Unscrew to attach the essential oil bottle and pop it back into the diffuser. NEOM has even included an essential oil opener in the box which makes the task even faster to do.

On the top of the diffuser, you'll find the on/off button to the right and to the left, there's a button where you can control the intensity with three bars next to it. Press it until you reach the desired intensity; one bar is the lowest and three bars is the highest. That's it! Sit back and enjoy the essential oil scent.

Overall Thoughts

The NEOM Wellbeing Pod Mini Essential Oil Diffuser is a small, but mighty modern device that requires no water to be added; just put in your chosen essential oil blend, switch it on and relax. The sleek design is very chic (the shade pictured is called Nude) and the rechargeable aspect allows the device to be placed anywhere without the need for any messy cables. Once fully charged, the Pod Mini is good to go for up to 50 hours and covers up to 60 square meters. I'm really happy with its performance and would definitely recommend it for small rooms and spaces.

P.S: Do I Have To Use NEOM Essential Oils?

NEOM recommend that you only use their essential oils (of course), however, I have tested this diffuser with a variety of other brands' oils and the results are the same. Though it's always good to point out that if you use another brand's essential oils, you risk invalidating your warranty should anything go awry, so I'll leave this up to you to decide!

NEOM Wellbeing Pod Mini Essential Oil Diffuser* retails for £55 - neomorganics.com

Have you bought an essential oil diffuser?

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Foodie Friday | Jamu Wild Water review | Sparkling Natural Water Drinks

Natural, zero sugar, and ultra-refreshing, sparkling water soft drinks are definitely having a moment right now. Jamu Wild Water is one such brand that's leading the way and is helping kids to reconnect with nature at the same time.

Whilst I'm an avid tea and general still water fan, there's something about a healthy fizzy drink that often hits the spot. I love kombucha and all the gut-friendly sodas out there, but I decided to try something different recently when I spotted Jamu Wild Water at my local health food store.

Frustrated by the lack of properly healthy soft drinks that are aimed at young people, husband and wife team Patrick and Tahi decided to create Jamu Wild Water. The idea was to create a drink that the whole family could enjoy that was entirely free from sugar, artificial colours, preservatives, and sweeteners. 

Infused with British-grown botanicals, added vitamins and minerals, plus prebiotic fiber for a healthy gut, Jamu Wild Water is also on a mission to help reconnect young people with nature, something that many feel has been lost over the past generation due to the growth of tech products and a lack of access to green spaces. To help to fix this problem, Jamu gives 10% of its sales to rewilding projects through its Wild Kids schemes which aims to promote an eco-friendly movement to actively encourage families to connect with and protect nature by spending more time outdoors. You can find out more here.

So what does Jamu Wild Water taste like? There are currently three flavours to choose from and of course, I had to try them all!

Natural Sparkling Lemon is a 2022 award-winner and this one is a super easy switch for kids who love their lemonade drinks. It has all the vibrancy and zest of a high quality lemonade but without all the sugar. Instead, there's a little natural sweetener from Stevia and Erythritol included, and each can provides 38% RDA of Vitamin C and Zinc, alongside extracts of Dandelion and Nettle.

Natural Sparkling Raspberry is another award-winner with extracts of Elderberry and Marshmallow. It shares the same natural sweeteners and Vitamin C and Zinc quantities, plus the prebiotic fiber which is found in all the Jamu drinks. Very fruity and refreshing.

Natural Sparkling Blood Orange is my personal favourite and this one is particularly juicy and bursting with summery citrus vibes! Again it has the same natural sweetners etc, but is boosted by the superstar immune helper Echinacea so it's a great one to try if you have a cold or are feeling under the weather.

Subscribe & save at jamuwildwater.co.uk

Have you tried Jamu Wild Water?

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Luxury Mother's Day Gift Idea: Elemis Pro-Collagen Rose Hydro Mist & Rose Cleansing Balm review

Need a last-minute gift for Mother's Day? Elemis is always a surefire winner with their Pro-Collagen Rose collection being a bestselling range for many years. Maybe your mum already has some in her bathroom cabinet and would appreciate a top-up?

Elemis feels like one of those luxury British brands that have been around forever as it's become such a well-loved part of the beauty community, particularly with older women. Launched back in 1990 by Noella Gabriel, Elemis has gone from strength to strength, and was one of the first true 'skin wellness' brands, marrying together a love of nature, science, and aromatherapy. 

I've tried quite a few products from Elemis over the years and particularly love their body care range, as well as their bestselling Pro-Collagen Rose collection, which my skin is enjoying now it's nearer 40, than 30!

Here are two products that I'd highly recommend picking up; the Pro-Collagen Rose Hydro Mist and the Pro-Collagen Rose Cleansing Balm. These would be perfect to add to a DIY pamper basket for your mum, along with a lovely candle, flowers, and some of her favourite foodie treats.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Rose Hydro Mist* (50ml, £46)

A mist doesn't sound very exciting but this is no ordinary mist. Oh no! This is a super hydrating serum-in-a-mist which is actually pretty interesting concept wise and works beautifully for more mature, dull and dehydrated skin types. Dubbed as a 'high-performance anti-wrinkle serum-in-a-mist', this clever multi-purpose skincare gem has an incredibly soothing effect on the skin, leaving it smooth, softened, and hydrated for 24 hours.

Hero ingredients in this innovative formula are Padina Pavonica (a clinically proven seaweed extract that boosts collagen production), Microalgae extracts (to freshen and hydrate), and Organic Rose Hydrolat (famed for its natural moisturising properties). Use it after cleansing, and it also doubles up as a fantastic makeup setting spray.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Rose Cleansing Balm* (prices start from £13 for 20g)

Based on its famous big sister, the original Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm (one of which is sold every 13 seconds in the UK!), this Rose version has become equally as popular thanks to its delicate fresh floral fragrance. Infused with Rose and Mimosa waxes with Elderberry, Starflower, and Elemis' trademarked blend of Optimega Oils, this mineral oil-free balm is just so beautiful and luxurious to use. The texture is rich and effortlessly massages into the skin to remove all traces of dirt and impurities - you can see why it's used in the Elemis spas from the minute that you try it.

Super nourishing for the delicate skin barrier, the balm emulsifies into a hydrating milk when water is added, leaving skin soft, clean, and properly feeling pampered and nourished. A tiny amount goes a long way as expected and it can also be used to remove makeup, as well as a weekly hydrating facial mask for dry skin.

Shop the full range at uk.elemis.com

What are your favourite Elemis products?

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Bring Sunshine To Your Bathroom with Sol de Janeiro | Bom Dia Bright, Brazillian 4-Play & Coco Cabana Body Washes review

The weather may be horrible outside, but you can beat the winter blues with these sunny delights from Sol de Janeiro. Bursting with summery, uplifting fragrances, you can daydream of your next holiday in the sunshine whilst you're in the shower!

Everywhere I look on my socials, there's always someone mentioning Sol de Janeiro lately, and truth be told, I hadn't really explored much from the brand until now. I've used their bestselling Brazillian Bum Bum Cream on and off for years and have enjoyed that gorgeous signature scent (which you really must try if you haven't already) so it was definitely time to see what else was on offer.

Although Sol de Janeiro isn't an entirely natural brand, they are cruelty-free, vegan-friendly, and have a transparent 'clean philosophy' which means that they have banned over 100 'nasties' from all of its formulas. These include parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, phthalates, microplastics, aluminum salts, talc, and oxybenzone to name just a few. 

In addition, all of their sunscreens are certified reef safe, they don't use cyclic silicones (the ones linked to buildup on the hair and in our water systems), and the preservative phenoxyethanol is only present in clinically safe amounts (less than 1% of total formula). You can read more about their clean philosophy here.

With this in mind, I was keen to try some of their bestselling Body Washes which a friend recently raved about to me, and with their delicious summery scents, I couldn't say no. I picked up the smaller travel-size bottles as they were on offer when I was in Boots but larger sizes are available. They are pricey but mighty!

Sol de Janeiro Bom Dia Bright Clarifying AHA BHA Body Wash

Bom Dia Bright is a newbie to the Sol de Janeiro range and is a clarifying Coconut based sulfate-free body wash that's packed full of fruit-derived AHAs, vegan Lactic Acid, and Salicyclic Acid. This combination packs a punch when it comes to gently exfoliating your body, visibly brightening and smoothing it. If you suffer from ingrown hairs, this is perfect as it'll get rid of any congested lumps and bumps. Bom Dia Bright is delicately scented with the sunny Cheirosa 40 fragrance which is wonderfully warm, energizing, and floral. Best used 2-3 times a week.

Sol de Janeiro Brazillian 4-Play Moisturising Shower Cream-Gel

If you love the scent of Sol's bestselling Brazillian Bum Bum Cream, then you'll automatically love this cheekily named Brazillian 4-Play Shower Cream as it has the same iconic fragrance with notes of Pistachio, Jasmine, and Salted Caramel. The product itself has an interesting shower cream-gel texture which lathers up beautifully and feels so silky and rich on the skin thanks to moisturising ingredients such Coconut Oil, Cupuaçu Butter, and Açaí Oil. 

Sol de Janeiro Coco Cabana Moisturising Body Cream-Cleanser

For an even more moisturising shower experience, dry skin will drink up the delectable Coco Cabana Moisturising Body Cream-Cleanser. Super luxurious and even richer in texture than the Brazillian 4-Play, Coco Cabana shares many of the same skin-friendly ingredients as the above but is enriched further with a unique CocoSugar blend of nourishing Coconut Oil and fermented Sugar that helps to draw more moisture to your skin. And the scent of course is coconut heaven! Think juicy, creamy young Coconuts mixed with tropical Orchids and toasted Praline; a pure sunny paradise fragrance.

Sol de Janeiro Body Washes come in various sizes with refills available for the bigger bottles. Travel sizes, 90ml, are around £10 each. Available from various stockists including Boots and Look Fantastic.

Which one sounds the best to you?

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My Top 5 Favourite Scents From Aromatherapy Associates

When it comes to luxury aromatherapy products, British brand Aromatherapy Associates is one name that always comes highly recommended within the industry and is loved by influencers and celebrities alike. 

A cruelty-free and certified B Corporation, I love the wide range of essential oil blends that Aromatherapy Associates are famous for. From their iconic Bath & Shower Oils that will turn every bathroom into its own home spa, to their addictive Rollerballs which can be conveniently popped into every handbag and desk drawer for an immediate moment of calm, it's clear why so many adore their Aromatherapy Associates products.

But where to start if you're new to the brand? Here are my top five favourite AA scents to get you going.

Aromatherapy Associates Morning Bath & Shower Oil in Revive (55ml, £55)

Revive is Aromatherapy Associates' bestselling, award-winning morning bath & shower oil and it's a product that I have personally dubbed a hangover cure. That's right; if you've been out celebrating and partying until the small hours and wake up feeling like death (as you do when you hit your 30's), this is the awakening remedy that you need in your bathroom the next morning.

This energising blend boasts essential oils of Grapefruit, Rosemary, and Juniper Berry which all work together to magically uplift and refresh your weary mind and body. Citrusy and woody, Revive always hits the spot when I need it the most.

The ritual - how to use: warm one capful in your hands and breathe in deeply. Massage into the body before stepping into a bath or shower. You'll get about 20 or so 'well-being moments' from each full-size Bath & Shower Oil which works out at around £2.75 per bath/shower experience.  

Aromatherapy Associates Muscle Bath & Shower Oil in De-Stress (9ml, £12)

Next up, we have De-Stress from the popular Muscle range. Comprising of Lavender, Rosemary, Ginger and Black Pepper, it mixes these warming and energising essential oils together to help your tired muscles recover. I particularly enjoy using De-Stress after doing exercise and it's great for things like soothing sore muscles after pilates and yoga. These smaller 9ml travel-size minis are also brilliant for discovering your favourite fragrance blend before splashing out on the bigger bottle, and you'll get around 3-4 baths from each mini as these formulas are so potent.

Aromatherapy Associates Bath & Shower Oil in Support Equilibrium (9ml, £12)

Support Equilibrium is a relatively new-to-me fragrance from Aromatherapy Associates and I decided to give it a try after a friend recommended it to me. It also popped up in the recent Naturisimo Go Love Yourself Discovery Box so you can tell it's a popular choice with natural beauty fans! Described as one of the brand's hidden gems, Support Equilibrium is bursting with uplifting Rose, balancing Geranium, and mind-focusing Frankincense essential oils to bring some balance and harmony to your day.

Aromatherapy Associates Rollerball in Support Breathe (10ml, £25)

If you're not a fan of bath & shower oils or prefer something that you can use at your desk or whilst on your commute, the Rollerballs are a fantastic alternative and come in the same fragrance blends. For those times when I'm feeling run down with a cold or suffering from allergies, I like to have Support Breathe in my handbag as this contains Tea Tree, Pine, and Eucalyptus essential oils, AKA all the amazing natural ones that help to decongest and clear your sinuses! Also comes in handy for plane journeys and anywhere where there's a lot of recycled air conditioning like stuffy office spaces.

Aromatherapy Associates Rollerball in Deep Relax (10ml, £25)   

Another favourite for travel is Deep Relax and this blend is really interesting as it was born out of Aromatherapy Associates' co-founder Geraldine Howard's studies in aromatherapy and sleep. Featuring a blend of Chamomile, Sandalwood, and Vetivert, it has a classic tried and tested sleep-inducing formula to help calm, ground and relax you, wherever you are. I personally find it very useful for times when I'm feeling anxious as there's something quite comforting about this scent. 

The ritual - how to use: apply directly to your pulse points such as your wrists, close your eyes, and breathe in deeply. Apply as often as needed.

Shop the full range at aromatherapyassociates.com

What are your favourite essential oils?

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