5 Products To Try This Month #JanuaryEdit

 

Want to add some new products to your daily routine, but don't know where to start? My January Edit is here to help! From a 100% natural multi-purpose balm to eco-friendly biodegradable face sponges, here are 5 products to try this month.

1 - Dr. Pawpaw Shea Butter Balm* (from £3.95, link)

I'm never far away from a high-quality multi-purpose balm and you'll always find one (or two) in every handbag, desk drawer, and suitcase. A must-have for all those tricky dry skin areas like lips, cuticles, heels, elbows, etc, I'm a huge fan of Dr. Pawpaw Shea Butter Balm which is 100% natural, vegan-friendly, and fragrance-free so can be used by pretty much everyone. 

Apply a tiny amount as and when needed to areas that need some extra TLC and don't forget that this can also be used to soothe sensitive irritated skin, insect bites, and minor abrasions. You can pick up travel-size tubes for under £4 from places like Superdrug, or stock up on a bigger tube for the whole family.

2 - Nourish London Ceramide Moisture Boost Essence* (100ml, £25, link)

Released towards the end of last year, I've been enjoying using this newbie from one of my favourite British natural skincare brands, Nourish London. Their Ceramide Moisture Boost Essence is a lightweight, but ultra-hydrating essence that's suitable for all skin types to use. Packed full of ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, Trehalose, Kale Sprout Extract, and Probiotic Minerals, the essence rapidly absorbs into the skin, feeding it with nutrients and delivering an essential boost of moisture. The end result is beautifully plumped up, nourished, and happy skin!

If you're wondering how to add an essence to your evening skincare routine, I apply a few drops onto my fingertips and massage it into my skin after cleansing and toning. Let it absorb for about 5 minutes or so, then I'll follow up with my regular serum and moisturiser/facial oil.

3 - Emma Hardie Brilliance Facial Oil* (30ml, £39, link)

With its ability to increase moisture levels and improve elasticity whilst boosting radiance and balancing the skin, it's no wonder that Emma Hardie Brilliance Facial Oil is a bestseller! I absolutely adore the blend of natural plant oils such as Sweet Almond Oil, Blackcurrant Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil, and Camelina Sativa Seed Oil that work so well for my skin, and this multi-rich complex is the perfect partner for evening facial massages. 

As with all facial oils, a little goes a long way and you only need to use 2-3 drops each time. It makes my skin feel much smoother and adds a protective layer that strengthens the skin's natural barrier as you sleep. Brilliant stuff indeed, plus it smells lovely.

4 - One Pure World LUFO Eco Face Sponge Kit* (Kickstarter campaign link)

If one of your New Year resolutions is to make 2023 the year that you make more eco-friendly consumer decisions, a great place to start is at One Pure World. The online retailer not only stocks a range of zero-waste everyday products but has also launched a Kickstarter campaign for their LUFO Face Sponges which has already raised €10,218! I was very kindly sent one of these brand new LUFO Eco Face Sponge Kits to help raise awareness of their campaign which you can directly support by clicking the link above. 

The LUFO Sponge is made from 100% biodegradable and compostable compressed cellulose (wood pulp) which expands like magic when you add water to it. Before that, they look like thin discs as you can see above which makes them ideal for traveling with. This kit contains the classic LUFO Sponge with the black sponges; the latter are infused with Activated Charcoal for a really deep cleanse that helps to unclog pores and remove impurities from the skin. Also in the kit is a sponge-drying tray which is made from Diatomite (fossilized algae) - this natural material instantly absorbs water and dries the sponge between uses - pretty neat, huh?

These sponges are a great way to say goodbye to single-use plastic products and are so soft to use every day with your favourite cleanser for a little natural exfoliation.

5 - Fushi Gurmar Leaf Supplements* (60 capsules, £10, link)

My last pick for January are Fushi Gurmar Leaf Supplements and I highly recommend these if you are looking to cut down on your sugar intake. Gurmar Leaf is a natural extract that's well known in Ayurvedic medicine and is nicknamed 'the sugar destroyer'. It's been traditionally used for centuries to help people deal with their sugar cravings and each capsule features 340mg of 100% pure Gurmar Leaf. As they're from Fushi, these are high-quality, all-natural supplements that are certified organic by the Soil Association, are free from any nasties, and come packaged in a glass bottle.

What are your top products for January?

Read more

Feb & March Empties: Products I've Used Up (+ How To Recycle Your Beauty Empties)

Last month, I only had two empties so I've put them together for a better selection for you to read this time around! Here's everything that I've used up over the past two months and my thoughts about whether I'll be repurchasing them again or not.

Evolve Organic Beauty Radiant Glow Mask* (reviewed here)

This is a sticky and slightly messy face mask to use (the consistency and scent is similar to chocolate brownie batter!), but it does an amazing job of brightening and exfoliating my skin. You also get a lot more applications from the jar than you might imagine. Repurchase? On my list.

Antipodes Halo Skin-Brightening Facial Mud Mask* (reviewed here)

I've gone through at least three or four jars of this over the years and I still love it. If you're looking for a brightening clay-based face mask, definitely give it a go! Repurchase? Will do once I've used up some other masks.

Weleda Citrus Deodorant* (reviewed here)

As WFH life has continued, I've enjoyed using up another bottle of Weleda Citrus Deodorant to keep me smelling fresh and feeling uplifted. This isn't a heavy-duty natural deodorant so use something else if you're out and about doing your essential errands, but it's perfect for home use or layering with other deos. Repurchase? Yes.

Antipodes Apostle Skin-Brightening Serum* (reviewed here)

You can tell we're coming out of Winter with the number of brightening products I've been using in my skincare routine, can't you?! Antipodes Apostle Skin-Brightening Serum is suitable for all skin types and really helps my skin to look more alive again. Repurchase? Definitely.

Fushi BioVedic Radiance Face Oil* (reviewed here)

I'm pretty sure this is the third bottle I've used up and it just works so well over the top of any brand of serum to finish up my evening skincare. It's lightweight and easily absorbed so I imagine most people will love it as much as I do. I find that it worked particularly well when used in conjunction with the Antipodes Apostle Serum above. Repurchase? Will do once I've used up some other face oils.

Madara Infusion Vert Body Cream* (reviewed here)

My skin gets so dry during Winter so it's no surprise to see another tube of the amazing Infusion Vert Body Cream from Madara in my Empties round-up this month. It's a seriously luxurious and rich body moisturiser that keeps my skin wonderfully hydrated and it smells gorgeous too - what more could you ask for?!

P.S - How To Recycle Your Beauty Empties!

• All of the glass and easy-to-recycle plastic PET empties will be put into my council's blue bin kerbside recycling scheme, but for the harder-to-recycle stuff, I will be:-
• Recycling the pumps, lids and atomisers with Neal's Yard Remedies - more info at the bottom of their website here.
• Recycling any other products that my local council doesn't accept at The Body Shop, L'Occitane or with Garnier's Terracycle partnership - more info here.

What have you used up recently?

Follow me on: BlogLovin' | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

Read more

March Empties: Products I've Used Up

The days seem to be blurring into one another at the moment which made me completely forget about posting my monthly beauty empties! Fear not, March's round-up is below - here's what I've finished off recently and which products I'll be repurchasing again. 

Tropic Summer Skin Gradual Tanning Lotion* (reviewed here)

Tropic's Summer Skin lotion is one of my favourite gradual tanning products and I've lost count of how many tubes I've gone through of these over the past few years! It's a tinted body lotion so you can see where you're applying it and it soon disappears into the skin after you've rubbed it in. I find it very moisturising and within a couple of days of applying it, you'll start to see a gorgeous, natural-looking tan appear. Repurchase? Definitely.

Lyonsleaf Calendula Cream* (reviewed here)

Like virtually everyone else in the UK, my hands have become drier than the Sahara thanks to a more rigorous hand-washing routine, but luckily this award-winning pot of magic from Lyonsleaf has helped enormously to restore essential hydration. Calendula Cream is fantastic for eczema flareups too and a tiny amount goes a long, long way. Repurchase? Already have!

Fushi BioVedic Enzyme Face Wash* (reviewed here)

This is a light gel-based cleanser from Fushi which has tiny, natural exfoliating particles to gently buff away dead skin cells and leave your complexion looking clearer and brighter. Repurchase? Probably not as I kept using it on and off over the past year, and there are other similar products that I use more often.

REN Evercalm Global Protection Day Cream*

I love REN's Evercalm range for sensitive skin and their Global Protection Day Cream is perfect for when my skin is playing up. It has a beautiful formula that sinks right in and gives me the hydration that I need without overloading my skin. Repurchase? Yes.

Antipodes Worship Superfruit Antioxidant Serum* (reviewed here)

Regular readers will know that I'm a big fan of Antipodes and regularly use several of their products often in my skincare routine. Worship is an amazing water-based serum which is ideal for those who are starting to see the first signs of ageing. Repurchase? Definitely.

Ogario Revive & Shine Shampoo*

Brilliant SLS-free shampoo from Ogario for hair that needs an added boost and some extra shine. Always delivers soft and glossy results so it does what it says on the label! I also found it to be a concentrated formula so this bottle lasted me a good while. Repurchase? I've recently switched to this plastic-free shampoo bar but I may consider buying it again in the future.

Botanicals Gentle Cleanse Melt* (reviewed here)

I really enjoyed using this balm cleanser from Botanicals. It has a thick and rich texture but easily melts into the skin for a good massage and proper deep cleanse. Removes all traces of makeup, sunscreen and daily grime/pollution with no greasy residue afterwards. Repurchase? Yes.

The Humble Co Natural Charcoal Toothpaste* 

Discovered this natural toothpaste in a beauty box and I absolutely love the ethics of this brand who donate dental products to less fortunate children all over the world. Results-wise, this SLS-free toothpaste did the job and the charcoal formula helps to remove everyday stains. Repurchase? I'm currently using this plastic-free alternative from Ben & Anna, but again, I may repurchase in the near future.

Bali Balm Cinnamon & Burnt Orange Lip Balm* (reviewed here)

I've used a few different flavours of Bali Balm and Cinnamon & Burnt Orange is a firm favourite. Lovely hydrating balm that keeps chapped lips at bay. Repurchase? Hopefully in the future when my lip balm stash has decreased a bit!

REN Moroccan Rose Otto Body Wash* 

A really luxurious body wash, I adore everything from REN's Moroccan Rose Otto range because it just smells incredible! Lathers up well for a relaxing spa-time feeling at home. Repurchase? Yes.

P.S - How To Recycle Your Beauty Empties!

All of the glass and easy-to-recycle plastic PET empties will be put into my council's blue bin kerbside recycling scheme, but for the harder-to-recycle stuff, I will be:-

• Recycling the pumps and atomisers with Neal's Yard Remedies - more info at the bottom of their website here.
• Recycling any other products that my local council doesn't accept, such as flexible plastic tubes at The Body Shop, L'Occitane or with Garnier's Terracycle partnership - more info here.

What have you used up recently?

Follow me on: BlogLovin' | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

Read more

Currently Loving: 3 Skincare Products To Try This Summer from Wooden Spoon, Fushi & Antipodes

Many people, including myself, like to switch up a couple of their skincare products in the Summer months to accommodate the (hopefully) warmer temperatures. But if you've already added sunscreen to your daily routine, what else can you do? Here are just three skincare products that you could try for a range of different skin types and conditions.

Try If You Have Oily & Acne Prone Skin: Wooden Spoon Organic Troubled Skin Serum* (30ml, £19.50, link)

Whilst some find that spending extra time in the sun helps to clear up their spots, others often report the exact opposite as excess sebum and sweat production in hotter climates can lead to clogged pores and breakouts.  If your skin has a tendency to freak out when the mercury rises, there are two things which you can do to help; firstly, make sure that you're cleansing your face properly in the evening/before going to bed to remove all traces of sunscreen, makeup and daily grime, and secondly, using a dedicated blemish-fighting serum once or twice a week should make a noticeable difference.

One of the latest serums that I've been testing out recently is Wooden Spoon Troubled Skin Serum which is a brilliant product for oily and acne-prone skin types. This all-natural serum is made from 95% certified organic ingredients and features Tamanu Oil as its main superstar. Tamanu has some interesting anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, anti-microbial and antibacterial properties, and it also helps to heal wounds and regenerate skin tissue, which makes it very useful for treating acne and its scars. 

In addition to the Tamanu Oil, there's also Marula Oil (high in Vitamin C, antioxidants and Oleic Acid), Vitamin E (an essential antioxidant for skin health), Rosemary Extract (helps to fight free radicals and promote collagen production) and Parsley Essential Oil (contains a strong antimicrobial and antiseptic agent). 

This serum can be used morning or evening underneath your moisturiser or face oil to protect and treat your skin, and you can use it all over the face, but I tend to just dab a tiny bit directly onto any blemishes. Within 24 hours, it vastly reduces any irritation or redness and within a few days, most spots have been banished or have come to the surface where they are then easier to deal with. Make sure that you use less than you think as it has quite a thick serum/oil texture, so a little definitely goes a long way.

Try If You Want A Multi-Tasking Oil That All Skin Types Can Use: Fushi Organic Sea Buckthorn Oil* (50ml, £25, link)

You guys know how much I truly love a great multi-tasking product and this newbie from Fushi has been ticking all the right boxes. Their latest release is a 100% pure, virgin, organic and cold-pressed Sea Buckthorn Oil which is made from berries that have been sustainably grown in Germany. I've been a big fan of Sea Buckthorn as an ingredient in both skin and body care for a long time, and utilising this incredible natural berry is a common and popular practice throughout mainland Europe.

Sea Buckthorn Oil is one of the only plant-based sources that contains all four omegas (Omegas 3, 6, 7 and 9) which makes it beneficial in skincare due to their abilities to fight free radical damage. Omega 7 (also known as Palmitoleic Acid) is particularly revered as it helps to protect and heal damaged skin, whilst other nutrients in the oil such as Carotenoids, Lycopene, Vitamin C and Vitamin E all play their part to further nourish and hydrate the skin, whilst also promoting healthy collagen production. This makes it useful for all skin types, but especially sensitive, mature, and dry complexions will certainly appreciate it.

It's not just good for your skin - it can be applied to hair and scalp to add essential moisture, preventing brittleness and thinning, and you can also take this food-grade Sea Buckthorn Oil as a liquid supplement to internally benefit from its high levels from Vitamin C and abilities to reduce inflammation, support gut health and digestion, keep your skin and eyes healthy and boost your immunity at the same time. 

For skin use, I would recommend mixing a few drops with a carrier oil like Sweet Almond Oil (it has a bright orange colour which gives a very 'tanned' look to the skin, so diluting it will avoid this) and apply it 2-4 times a week, depending on how dry your skin is. For hair, just massage in a small amount directly onto the scalp, leave it on overnight and rinse with shampoo the following morning, and to use as a supplement, simply consume 1-2 teaspoons a day with food. A true multi-tasking oil!

Try If You Live/Work/Are Travelling In A City: Antipodes Blessing Anti-Pollution Light Face Serum* (30ml, £34.99, link)

Anti-Pollution has been a massive area of interest in skincare circles over the past couple of years, as more research is showing how pollution (such as diesel and petrol emissions from cars) accelerates the rate in which the skin ages, showing up as premature ageing that's visible through fine lines and wrinkles. So if you live or work in a city, or are planning a city break holiday, you may want to add a helping hand into your morning skincare routine.

This new product from Antipodes is called the Blessing Anti-Pollution Light Face Serum, and although it's oil-based, it has a surprisingly super lightweight texture that's more reminiscent of a regular water-based serum. Full of natural ingredients such as Kiwi Seed Oil, Vinanaza Grape, Asian Ginger, Jojoba Oil, Marshmallow Bloom, Avocado Oil and Licquorice Root, this serum packs a punch when it comes to its high antioxidant content to protect skin against the ageing effects of pollution and free radical damage. It also has a decent amount of natural Vitamin C to help brighten dull complexions which is a nice added bonus.

I would recommend applying Blessing first thing in the morning underneath your moisturiser as a protective layer against the elements of the city - it absorbs quickly, smells gorgeous and sits well underneath makeup. 100% natural and vegan-friendly, I'd say that this serum is suitable for all skin types, especially oilier skins who want something ultra-light and non-clogging.

Have you tried any of these?

Follow me on: BlogLovin' | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

Read more

New In Beauty: Fushi BioVedic Skincare - Enyzme Face Wash, Daily Face Cream, Radiance Face Oil + Pomegranate Oil 80%+ review

Launched last month, Fushi's new BioVedic skincare range has been helping my skin to transition to Spring with its formulas that are inspired by Ayurveda.

You may be more familiar with Fushi's organic food supplements (I reviewed their fantastic Aloe Vera Juice earlier in the year here), but the popular wellbeing brand also has a whole host of beauty products available and this brand new BioVedic skincare range are the latest additions. 

I have admired the ethics of Fushi for a long time. Their commitment to supporting Fair Trade means that the brand will only purchase from suppliers that do not exploit indigenous populations, and they are proud members of the Ethical Company Organisation and the Good Shopping Guide so you can buy their products with a clear conscious. I also love the brand's Ayurvedic roots which regular readers will know that I'm fascinated with, and it's great to see traditional Ayurvedic herbs being used in more skincare these days.

The BioVedic skincare range features three effective products that make up a simple 3-step skincare routine which is based on formulas that contain the purest, freshly pressed oils and freshly ground herbs. There's a big emphasis on radiance and promoting a healthier, more glowy complexion so I'd recommend it for anyone who has dull skin in need of a boost.

The glass packaging and colourful labelling give the products an eco-friendly contemporary feel that stands out on your bathroom shelves and having used them for about a month now, I know that you'll definitely want to try them out for yourselves!

Fushi BioVedic Enzyme Face Wash* (150ml, £15, link)

Step one is, of course, a facial wash and this Enzyme Face Wash is a wonderfully light and refreshing gel-based cleanser with exfoliating properties. Packed full of revitalising herbs and oils that include Vanshlochan Stem extract, Rice Bran Oil, Bamboo Powder, Aloe Vera, Rose Otto, Kalahari Melon Seed Oil and Coconut Oil, it utilises plant-based enzymes to provide a gentle exfoliation to the skin which helps to boost cell renewal, leaving it looking brighter and more radiant than before. I've been using this just twice a week to combat any dullness and it's been working a treat, plus I find that it's blended seamlessly into my skincare routine with my other regular products.

Fushi BioVedic Radiance Face Cream* (50ml, £20, link)

If your skin is looking dull and feeling tired, the Radiance Face Cream is a brilliant product to try and offers a range of benefits including hydration, nourishment and overall brightening. Key ingredients include the revered Ayurvedic herb Manjisthta to promote long term radiance, Saffron to repair damaged skin, and Kalahari Melon Seed Oil which is rich in essential omegas to improve elasticity. This cream has a thicker than expected texture but once massaged in, it absorbs quickly, smells lovely and instantly hydrates the skin. I suspect that all skin types will like this, but do a patch test if yours is sensitive.

Fushi BioVedic Radiance Face Oil* (30ml, £22, link)

There are a plethora of facial oils in my skincare stash but I feel this Radiance Face Oil is an excellent all-rounder for many reasons. It's a good one to pick up if you're new to face oils in general and want to start using one in your daily routine. Formulated with a blend of five key nutrient dense oils which boasts Raspberry Seed to protect, Kalahari Melon Seed for anti-ageing properties, Rich Bran to brighten, Moringa to provide nourishment and Linseed to reduce inflammation, this Face Oil is lightweight and easy to use morning or night. Simply use a few drops directly onto the skin as the last step in your evening routine, or add to your AM moisturiser for a real brightening boost. 

Fushi Pomegranate Oil 80%+* (50ml, £20, link)

Last but not least, I wanted to include another new release from Fushi - their Pomegranate Oil 80%+. Pomegranate Oil contains Omega 5 (also known as Punicic Acid) which is a unique and beneficial fatty acid that's packed full of potent antioxidants, and Fushi's is considered to be the first Pomegranate Oil on the market that contains a guaranteed minimum content of 80%. Punicic Acid has a number of skin benefits and has been shown to be able to repair damaged skin, even out skin tone and pigmentation, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, so it's great for those who have dry, mature, sensitive and damaged skin. You can use it all over the face and body for softer, more toned and supple skin.

This Pomegranate Oil is also food grade which means that you can take it internally so it doubles up as a useful food supplement. Drizzle a little over salads and soups, or blend into juices and smoothies to reap the heart-healthy, anti-inflammatory rewards thanks to high levels of Vitamin C, Linoleic Acid and Oleic Acid. The taste is somewhat acquired (kinda earthy and nutty) but the benefits are worth it!

Shop the full range of Fushi wellbeing at fushi.co.uk

Do you use Ayurvedic skincare?

Follow me on: BlogLovin' | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

Read more

Health & Lifestyle: 5 Reasons Why You Should Add Aloe Vera Juice To Your Morning Routine

Aloe Vera isn't just a trendy house plant that's loved by millennials the world over - this super succulent has been highly revered for its many health benefits for hundreds of years, and one of the easiest ways to reap its rewards is by drinking its juice. 

I was lucky enough to never suffer from sunburn as a child (my mother was always extra vigilant when it came to the importance of sunscreen, to the point where I rarely stepped outside without being covered head to toe in the stuff), but I remember being at a young friend's birthday party during a particularly hot Summer one year and seeing a fellow playmate's skin go bright red in the sun. He screamed a lot and my friend's grandmother came out with this most unusual spikey looking green plant. She cut one of the spikes off, sliced it open, rubbed it onto the boy and much to my amazement, he immediately stopped crying. I remember thinking that it must have been made of magic!

Aloe Vera, of course, has been used to treat sunburns and skin irritations for a very long time and this widely available medicinal plant has no ends to its countless benefits, with more research in progress all the time. In recent years, Aloe Vera Juice has really hit it off as a health drink in the West, and if you've been curious as to why, here are just 5 ways that you can benefit from adding a little to your morning routine.

1. Helps With Promoting Good Digestion

Gut health is currently in the news and for good reason, as a healthy gut can protect against numerous illnesses and diseases. Aloe Vera Juice can help to promote good digestion thanks to its natural anti-microbial properties which aid waste secretion and has an alkalising effect on the body. It basically gets you 'going' and cleanses the delicate digestive tract at the same time. This makes it particularly useful for those who suffer from IBS or constipation problems. A small word of warning though - make sure that you stick to the amounts on the bottle and don't overdo it as Aloe Vera Juice can cause laxative effects in some people.

2. Lowers Blood Sugar Levels

New research has started to show positive links between consuming Aloe Vera Juice and its ability to regulate and in some cases, actually lower blood sugar levels in the body which can prevent Type 2 Diabetes. Tests on both animals and humans have shown scientists that there are specific compounds in Aloe Vera which help the body to stabilise insulin production.

3. Boosts Natural Immunity and Circulation

If you're feeling run down or having a particularly busy week, drinking a shot of Aloe Vera Juice in the morning can give your immune system a helping hand due to its vitamin-rich profile and polysaccharides content. These enable the body to better fight off things like common colds and infections and also helps to boost your blood circulation.

4. Relieves Heartburn

Eaten too much or something that didn't quite agree with you? You can soothe some of the painful symptoms of heartburn by consuming a tablespoon of pure Aloe Vera Juice after a big meal. Researchers believe this is because of Aloe Vera's calming and alkaline effect on the stomach and digestive tract, which prevents the muscles connecting the oesophagus and stomach from contracting.

5. Soothes Eczema, Psoriasis and Skin Irritations

As I mentioned earlier, you can apply Aloe Vera topically to the skin and it'll soothe away any skin irritation from sunburn to psoriasis and eczema flare-ups. You can choose to use a dedicated topical gel or if you already have a bottle of pure Aloe Vera Juice in your fridge, you can pour some onto a cotton pad and press it directly onto any irritated areas for instant relief. 

Choose Certified Organic and Cold-Pressed

Due to the growing consumer demand for Aloe Vera Juice, you really need to choose your product carefully as some juices on the market contain as little as 1-5% Aloe Vera, so make sure that you read the label properly before buying. I always recommend looking out for certified organic produce when it comes to any health products/supplements that you're ingesting, and would highly recommend Fushi Pure Aloe Vera Juice which is 100% pure, organic, cold-pressed and unfiltered for the most natural and potent end result. 

This juice is hand selected from mature, organically grown Aloe Vera plants, and extracted only from the inner leaf where the most nutrients are found, which ensures that it has a minimum content of 1700mg/ltr polysaccharides. Free from preservatives, it comes packaged in a recyclable glass bottle (yay no plastic!) and should be stored in the fridge after opening where it'll keep for up to three weeks. It has a much cleaner and fresher flavour than other brands that I've tried in the past, though Aloe Vera Juice can be something of an acquired taste so if you're not keen, it's easy to pop into your morning green juice or smoothie instead!

Fushi Pure Aloe Vera Juice Organic* (500ml, £11) is available from fushi.co.uk

Do you take Aloe Vera Juice?

Follow me on: BlogLovin' | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

Read more

November Beauty Favourites

Happy 1st of December everyone! Before I dive into the Christmas Gift Guides (these are coming up next week!), it's time for a quick recap of my November Beauty Favourites.

 Botanicals Hands & Nails Replenishing Serum* (10ml, £14, link)

I haven't been using this product for very long, but after testing it out every day for just under two weeks, I'm already smitten with it. I usually am with anything from Botanicals, and this Replenishing Serum for Hands & Nails is no exception! Made from an exquisite blend of cold-pressed organic oils, this serum has been specially formulated to give your hands and nails a seriously good rejuvenating treatment. It tones, gently tightens, reduces the appearance of micro-wrinkles, and helps to soften dry cuticles. I also find it very relaxing and therapeutic to massage a few drops of it in - a perfect self-care product to add to your me-time routine.

 DHC Beauty Lift Eye Care Essence Roll On* (6ml, £24, link)

If you're looking for a great anti-ageing eye treatment, this new one from DHC has been keeping my peepers happy this month. Their Eye Care Essence Roll On is the latest addition to their popular Beauty Lift range, and is packed full of peptides and beta-glucans to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and crow's feet. The treatment is packaged in a convenient clicky pen that dispenses a little of the essence through the top where three massaging beads are, and these feel lovely and cooling on the skin. It hydrates my dry undereye without overloading it and smoothes out fine lines so that my eyes look brighter and younger. Perfect to use first thing in the morning before applying concealer.

 Vee Beauty LDN Lash & Brow Serum* (10ml, £10.95, link)

Vee Beauty LDN are a new natural and cruelty-free British brand that I came across on Instagram recently, and I was curious to try out their Lash & Brow Serum. Made from 100% natural ingredients, it uses a blend of oils which have been revered for their natural nourishing properties that help to promote hair growth naturally; Castor Oil, Avocado Oil, Argan Oil, Olive Oil and Vitamin E (sourced from Wheatgerm Oil). I've been using this on my lashes and brows every night for about a month now and I've started to see some differences, mainly in that my lashes feel stronger and more resilient (I'm not getting the odd one on my cheek that comes out after I take my mascara off anymore), and my brows are starting to look a little fuller than they were before. I'm hoping that with continued use I'll see even more results, but I'm loving it so far!

 Fushi 100% Pure Organic Shea Butter* (300ml, £11, link)

Shea Butter is one of my go-to multi-purpose products in the Winter months and this stuff is literally magical at saving dry skin. I always recommend buying unrefined, pure and organic shea butter wherever possible because a lot of products on the market that are labelled as 'shea butter' often only contain 5 or 10% (usually in a cheap mineral oil base - no thanks!), so I was very happy to stumble across this one from Fushi. 

Not only does it tick all of those boxes, but this shea butter has also been ethically sourced from the Yumzaa Women's Association which is a community based cooperative in Ghana. In addition, Fushi donates 50p from the sale of every jar to Tree Aid, which goes towards the Women's Enterprise Group that helps teach local women how to use the nuts from the shea trees, to make and sell products like soaps and butters. This means they can make their own livelihoods, support their families and further their education and independence. A brilliant initiative that results in a brilliant product! 

Aveda Pramāsana Exfoliating Scalp Brush* (£16.50, link)

Earlier this year, I wrote about Aveda's new Pramāsana range (full post here) which is a dedicated range for 'scalp-care'. If you have an itchy, dry or flaky scalp, using exfoliating products and properly massaging it, can really make a big difference and I've had a lot of success with changing one or two things around in my own haircare routine to accommodate a few extra massaging steps. I recently managed to get my hands on the Exfoliating Scalp Brush from this range and I love it. The brush is so lightweight and features soft, looped bristles which gently massage your scalp to loosen dirt and dead skin, plus it helps to increase microcirculation for a healthy scalp that leads to happy hair days - win win!

What are your beauty faves this month?

Follow me on: BlogLovin' | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

Read more

April Empties: Products I've Used Up

It's that time of the month again where I share with you all of the beauty products that I've managed to use up recently, and my thoughts about whether I would repurchase them again or not. Here are my April Empties!

Aveda Dry Remedy Moisturizing Masque

This is one of my favourite hair masks that I often recommend to anyone who has very dry and/or damaged hair. It's on the pricey side, but you don't need to use a huge amount of it each time, so I find that these tubes last me a few months as I only need to use it once a week or fortnight depending on how dry my hair is feeling. Works a treat and is something that I'll always go back to. Repurchase? Yes.

Klorane Extra Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk

As I have a sensitive scalp, I have to be quite careful with the dry shampoos that I use, as some can really irritate me. I've been using this Oat Milk infused one from Klorane for a while now, and I really love it. It's one of the best that I've tried for absorbing excess oil and dirt, and it leaves my hair feeling super fresh and clean afterwards. Repurchase? Yes.

Pinks Boutique Anti-Ageing Deep Cleanse Melt

If you enjoy using balm cleansers as much as I do, you need to try this one! This is my second tub and I absolutely love it. I use it in the evenings after I've removed my makeup (you can use this to remove your makeup as well, but I feel like I'm wasting it if I do that!), and it's so good for doing a proper deep cleanse/facial massage with as you can really work it into the skin. Afterwards, my skin is as soft as a baby's bum and feels wonderfully clean and hydrated. A little goes a very long way as well! Repurchase? Yes, will do once I've used up a few other cleansers first.

Masque Bar Hydro Gel Eye Patches*

I like to use eye patches during pampering sessions, before special occasions, or when my eyes are feeling particularly puffy, so I've had this tub on the go for a while now as you get 30 pairs in there. These hydrogel eye patches are blissfully cooling on puffy or dry eyes (great for hayfever), and they help your eyes look brighter and much more awake. A great cheeky quick fix to have in your skincare stash! Repurchase? I'm trying out some other brands at the moment, but I would definitely buy these again in the future.

Angela Langford Clean Sweep Softening & Smoothing Cleansing Balm*

Does exactly what it promises to do and does it very well! It destroys makeup within seconds of massaging a small amount onto a dry face, and always leaves my skin feeling smooth and soft once I've washed everything off. Angela Langford has some wonderful gems in her skincare range and this cleansing balm is certainly one of them. Repurchase? Will do when I've used up some other cleansers first.

Fushi Organic Hydrating Lip Balm

Although I've finished it up, I wasn't overly impressed with this lip balm as it didn't feel as moisturising as I wanted it to be and I know that there are so many other lip balms out there that I love more. It's not terrible, but it's not great either. Repurchase? No.

Madara Brightening AHA Peel Mask

A fantastic face mask that uses natural fruit acids to gently exfoliate and brighten the skin. I've gone through several of these travel size samples now and I was over the moon when LoveLula included a full-size tube in April's Beauty Box! Highly recommended - a must try for anyone who has dull skin or an uneven skin tone or texture. Repurchase? Already have ;) 

Earth Kiss Million Year Clay Facial Revitalise Bamboo Sheet Mask

Another product that I've used a couple of times in the past are these clay based sheet masks from Earth Kiss. I picked up a bunch of them the last time that they were on offer in Holland & Barrett (I think they were half price so around 99p each - bargain!), and I particularly like this Revitalise one that contains Rhassoul Clay and Juniper extract. I haven't come across many clay based sheet masks before, but these ones are brilliant. Repurchase? I still have some left to use.

Weleda Evening Primrose Age Revitalizing Body Oil*

This little sachet sample was tucked away in Love Me Beauty's makeup bag so I forgot to photograph it with those contents, but I believe it was added as an extra freebie anyway. I currently have the Body Wash from this same range from Weleda in my bathroom, and the Body Oil is just as lovely. Very pampering and moisturising, with a lovely subtle natural fragrance. Repurchase? Would definitely consider buying a full-size bottle at some point. 

What beauty products have you used up recently?

Follow me on: BlogLovin' | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

Read more

Tried & Tested: Fushi Beauty Totale Supplements for Radiant Skin, Beautiful Hair & Strong Nails review

For the past month, I've been trialling the best-selling Beauty Totale supplements from Fushi.  With promises of radiant skin, beautiful hair and strong nails, I was eager to see if I would notice a difference or not.

Read more

Review: Naturisimo Spring Wellness Discovery Box

Naturisimo is one of my favourite places to shop online for green / natural / organic beauty and lifestyle products.  They stock a huge range of brands so I can always find what I'm looking for (and then some!). They've recently released a new Spring Wellness Discovery Box which will appeal to anyone who wants to feel better inside and out.

Read more