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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3 Of The Best Bubble Bars from Lush | Sleepy, Rainbow & Creamy Candy review #PlasticFree

Colourful, plastic-free, and zero waste, Lush's Bubble Bars may not be as famous as their bath bombs but they are a more affordable option for those fun, indulgent bathtimes. Don't tell anyone, but I actually prefer the bubble bars over the bath bombs... and here are three of my favourites!

What Is A Bubble Bar?

First things first though, if you're not a Lush addict (or a Lushie as the fans are fondly known), you may be thinking, what exactly is a bubble bar? Good question! A bubble bar is very similar to a bath bomb in that it's solid and concentrated, however, the main difference is that they've been designed to be easily broken off into pieces so that you can crumble a chunk at a time under a running tap. 

This is why they work out more cost-effective than a bath bomb; you can get several baths from one bubble bar, whereas most people will throw in a whole bath bomb into the tub (of course, there are some Lushies break up the bath bombs to get more uses out of them but I'm talking in general usage terms here).

Lush currently has around 20 different bubble bars in their range and in true Lush fashion, there are seasonal Limited Edition creations that pop up throughout the year. If you're new to Lush's bubble bars, here are three of my favourites which are available all year round.

Lush Sleepy Bubble Bar (200g, £6.50)

With my obsession for any kind of product that helps me to sleep, the aptly named Sleepy Bubble Bar was always going to be high up on my favourites list.  Sleepy is a beautiful cloud-shaped bubble bar with lots of purple and pink colours swirled together. It smells sweet and comforting thanks to Lavender essential oil and Tonka Absolute, with a little Ylang Ylang thrown in for good measure. When crumbled into your bath, the water will transform into a gorgeous pinky-purple shade with lots of bubbles. The perfect bubble bar to use before bedtime!

Lush Rainbow Bubble Bar (200g, £6.50)

If you want something more uplifting for a weekend morning bath, you can't go wrong with Rainbow. This substantially chunky bubble bar always cheers me up whenever I see it, although I will say that the rainbow colours don't always translate well in the bath water. By this I mean, you can sometimes get some interesting reds and oranges coming through, and other times they have merged together to result in an unappealing dark, muddy yellow shade - but don't let this put you off! The citrusy scent of Rainbow is what keeps me repurchasing this one and not that bath art, as I love the vibrant notes of fresh oranges and lemons.

Lush Creamy Candy Bubble Bar (100g, £4)

Although it may be one of the smaller bubble bars that Lush produces, Creamy Candy is a must-have for anyone who loves Lush's sweeter fragrances. I also find that it seems to be more concentrated than other bubble bars in the respect that a small amount produces a mountain of bubbles. The pretty pink bathwater feels oh-so silky like you're bathing in the softest candyfloss and you'll emerge smelling of vanilla, sugary almonds and a hint of bubblegum.

Shop the full range at lush.com

Have you tried Lush Bubble Bars?

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Valentine's Day Gift Guide 2023 featuring Avīela, Skin & Tonic, Nourish London & Charlarts Crafts

Valentine's Day is fast approaching so now's the time to make those last-minute online orders, and perhaps send a subtle hint to someone special *wink wink*. For this gift edit, I've focused on just British brands and small businesses to make your V-Day purchases more ethical and supportive this year. 

For Those Who Love A Massage: Avīela Pure Shea Butter* (180ml, £30, link)

Treat your loved one to a massage this Valentine's Day with Avīela Pure Shea Butter. As the name suggests, this thick and luxurious body butter is made simply with 100% pure unrefined shea butter of the highest grade, with no additional ingredients. Made in the UK, this Shea Butter is cruelty-free (Leaping Bunny approved) and certified by the Vegan Society, with a beautiful light and airy texture that sinks straight in once warmed in the palms of your hands.

Shea Butter is something of a hero ingredient for the skin as it's incredibly rich in natural fatty acids and has high levels of Vitamins A and E so it offers some serious hydration for dry skin. In addition to being used all over the body, you can also add a tiny amount as a leave-in conditioner to dry and damaged hair to restore moisture and shine. For those on a budget, or if you're putting together a beauty box/hamper package, a smaller 15ml jar is available for £14.    

For Those Who Love A Relaxing Bath: Skin & Tonic Slow Down Bath Soak* (100g, £18, link)

Whether your partner enjoys a bath solo or with you, give the gift of relaxation with one of my favourite products from British brand, Skin & Tonic. Their Slow Down Bath Soak is a bestseller thanks to a sublime infusion of Epsom Salts, CBD Oil, Cedarwood, Eucalyptus, and Rosemary essential oils.

This powerful, all-natural concoction of minerals and oils helps to restore the body and mind, so that you can properly unwind and destress after a long week; it's a brilliant self-care treat. Just two handfuls is all that's needed to be added to a hot bath.

For Those Who Love A Luxury Pampering Treat: Nourish London Bergamot & Cardamom Smoothing Body Cream* (100ml, £19, link)

You can't go wrong with a luxury body cream if your recipient loves their pampering products, and it can often be a safer bet than opting for skincare (which can be tricky to buy for someone else, especially if you don't know them that well). Instead, one of the new Body Creams from Nourish London is sure to please and I've been smitten with their Bergamot & Cardamon Smoothing Body Cream ever since it landed on my desk.

Suitable for all skin types, this cruelty-free, organic, and vegan-friendly Body Cream is ultra-rich so it's perfect for dry winter skin. It features nourishing Cocoa Butter, regenerating Aloe Vera and antioxidant-rich Brown Algae extract to leave the skin feeling velvety soft. I also absolutely adore the scent which is wonderfully fresh and very spa-like.

For Those Who Love A Good Smelling Home: Charlarts Crafts Valentines Wax Melt Gift Set* (£33.99, link)

Know someone who are house-proud and loves a good-smelling home? Soy wax melts are a fantastic gift that keeps on giving for months to come, especially with a large box like the one above from Charlarts Crafts! Specialising in a wide range of handmade wax melts, jewellery, and accessories, Charlarts Crafts' Valentines Wax Melt Gift Set consists of four packs of soy wax melts in a tempting range of scents. There are the Budding Roses melts which smell beautiful, and the Chocolate Milk scented heart melts which look so realistic, I did think they were chocolate at first!

My faves though are the Sex Bomb heart melts (I love this fragrance) and the Hot Night love token shaped melts. Also included are some yummy sweets and chocs, and the whole box is beautifully presented and wrapped up ready to gift.

Have you started your Valentine's Day gift shopping yet?

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Luxury Bathtime Treats from Neal's Yard Remedies: Beauty Sleep Foaming Bath & Geranium & Orange Bath Oil review

 

With temperatures dropping across the UK, now's the time to indulge in a long hot soak in the bath with a luxury treat from Neal's Yard Remedies. Glass of wine, optional of course.

I remember being a teenager when I first came across a Neal's Yard Remedies store on the high street and I adored the apothecary-style display of their iconic blue glass bottles in the window. Needless to say, Neal's Yard Remedies have been one of my favourite British organic cruelty-free and ethical brands for a long time, and I've always admired their strong and practical business sense which has kept the company trading in physical stores on the highstreet, when so many others have fallen by the wayside.

Indeed, a trip to a Neal's Yard Remedies shop is always a pleasure with their friendly educated staff and a wide range of skincare and body products to explore and play with. For your next shopping trip, consider adding these two bathtime bestsellers to your basket (physical or virtual - the choice is yours).

Neal's Yard Remedies Geranium & Orange Bath Oil (100ml, £19)

With 85% certified organic ingredients, Neal's Yard Remedies Geranium & Orange Bath Oil is actually a more affordable luxury option than several other brands of a similar quality and ethos, especially when you factor in that this is a large 100ml bottle. Bursting with bright and sunny Orange essential oil and revitalizing Bergamot essential oil, it's a firm favourite of mine to use during the dull and gloomy months to help banish those lingering post-January blues (when it feels like January stretches ever onwards until May!). I love the natural cheery fragrance so much and it makes my skin feel really soft and pampered afterward. As with all bath oils, a little goes a long way - you only need a tiny swirl added to a hot bath to get the full effects.

Neal's Yard Remedies Beauty Sleep Foaming Bath (200ml, £16)

For those who prefer their baths to be filled with bubbles, you absolutely can't go wrong with NYR's range of Foaming Baths, of which there is a Geranium & Orange version if you liked the sound of the above but don't like bath oils. I've had the pleasure of trying most of the Foaming Baths and Beauty Sleep is perhaps my personal favourite as I can never get enough of a product that's going to help me to get a good night's sleep. With an ultra-relaxing blend of organic Ylang Ylang, Clary Sage, and Patchouli essential oils, it smells exquisite and produces enough SLS-free bubbles to keep me in the tub for a good half hour's worth of me time.

Shop the full range at nealsyardremedies.com

What are your favourite products from Neal's Yard Remedies?

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Christmas Gift Guide 2022: Liz Earle Purify & Refresh Skincare Edit review (exclusive to Boots)

 

Looking for a luxury & cruelty-free skincare gift that delivers some serious savings? Liz Earle's Purify & Refresh Skincare Edit is a bargain at just £34 (worth £85!), and with a saving of £51, you might want to treat yourself to one at the same time as doing your Christmas shopping. We won't tell anyone...

Exclusive to Boots, this six-piece gift set is one of the best value-for-money offerings that I've seen this year from a major retailer. Not only does it contain nearly everything that you need for a full skincare routine (it's only missing a moisturiser), but if you're a Liz Earle devotee, then you can save yourself some cash by purchasing this set and stocking up on your skincare faves.

So what's inside the Liz Earle Purify & Refresh Skincare Edit? Here's a handy overview.

Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser & 2 Pure Cotton Cloths (full size)

The original hot cloth cleanser and still regarded as one of the best multi-purpose cleansers on the market, Cleanse & Polish is a thick and creamy number that removes all traces of daily dirt, impurities, and makeup including waterproof formulas and long-wearing foundations. I've used it on and off for many years and always like to have one in my skincare stash. 

Liz Earle Instant Boost Skin Tonic (full size) 

A brilliant alcohol-free toner, Instant Skin Tonic has a lovely gentle formula with extracts of Aloe Vera, Chamomile, Cucumber, Calendula and Vitamin E. It helps to soothe, hydrate, and brighten, so it's perfect for the colder winter months to keep your skin looking healthy and happy.

Liz Earle Gentle Face Exfoliator (travel size)

Use once or twice a week for smoother skin, the Gentle Face Exfoliator does what it says on the tube. I really like this for helping to unclog stubborn blackheads on my nose.

Liz Earle Eyebright Soothing Eye Lotion (travel size)

Typically, I personally only tend to use Eyebright during the summer when I have hay fever as it works so well at soothing my irritated eyes. However, it's also very useful for daily use to relieve tired eyes, particularly in the mornings if you have puffy eyes that need some TLC.

Liz Earle Deep Cleansing Clay Mask (full size)

Completing this edit is a full-size Deep Cleansing Clay Mask which is fantastic for oily and combination skin types like mine (but not suitable for sensitive skin). Featuring natural ingredients such as Manuka Honey, Green Clay, Propolis, and Aloe Vera, this thick clay mask draws out impurities within minutes, leaving your complexion looking clearer after just one use.

As an extra bonus, there's a voucher where you can get 750 Advantage Card Points when you spend £40 on Liz Earle at Boots. This is the equivalent of £7.50!

Liz Earle Purify & Refresh Skincare Edit retails for £34 and is exclusive to Boots whilst stocks last

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Introducing: Inclusev - Add Aqua Collection - Powdered Shampoo, Facewash, Bodywash & Handwash review #WaterlessBeauty

 

Waterless beauty has been a big trend this year and shows no signs of abating. These sustainable toiletries are the latest must-have for eco-conscious bathrooms and are fantastic for traveling with as they circumvent all of those tricky liquid rules.

Launched only in 2021, Inclusev is a new British brand to the eco-beauty market with all of its 100% natural, cruelty-free and vegan-friendly products made in London. With a company mission to change the beauty industry 'one product at a time', Inclusev has created an Add Aqua Collection of concentrated powder formulas that eliminate waste and use fewer emissions to ship due to their wonderfully lightweight nature. For example, just one 50g Inclusev bottle replaces four bottles of 50g liquid product, and with clean, natural and organic ingredients, you can be sure there are no nasties or toxins present.

How To Use

Using Inclusev's Add Aqua Collection couldn't be easier; simply wet your hands/face/body, sprinkle a little of the powder into your palm, massage into your skin for 30 seconds and then rinse and pat dry. The powder transforms into a light foam once in contact with water.

I've had the pleasure of testing out the collection over the past month and I'm so surprised by how much product I still have left in the bottles - they definitely do last a long time!

Inclusev Powdered Handwash* (25g, £11)

Available in two scents, I've been enjoying using the Coriander, Lemongrass & Tea Tree Oil Powdered Handwash as the natural fragrance is so uplifting and refreshing. Initially, I thought it would be a bit of a faff to use considering how often I wash my hands at home, but actually, it wasn't a bother at all. Shaking the powder into my palms and adding a little water, gave me the feeling that I was spending more time washing my hands than I normally would, and thus, I felt my hands were much cleaner as a result.

Inclusev Powdered Bodywash* (25g, £11)

Also available in two scents, the Powdered Bodywash in Lemon, Lime & Rosemary was a delight to use and provided a far more luxurious pampering experience than I had originally imagined it would. I think the ritual of adding water to the powder and then massaging it into your skin, gives off such strong feel-good vibes that you begin to appreciate your daily shower a lot more.

Inclusev Powdered Shampoo* (25g, £12)

If you've been struggling to find a natural shampoo that works for you, this Powdered Shampoo may be the answer you've been looking for. Featuring extracts of Amla and Nettle, this shampoo uses powdered Coconut Milk and Kaolin Clay to deep cleanse your hair, removing daily dirt and pollution. Willow Bark, Clove, Grapefruit, Orange, and Ylang Ylang are also added to further protect, nourish and balance the scalp, whilst the light foam texture is easy to rinse out. Highly recommended!

Inclusev Powdered Facewash* (25g, £12)

To round off the collection, there's a Powdered Facewash which is available in two scents; I tried out the Lemon & Spearmint one and felt that it suited my oily/combination skin pretty well. The powdered base of Coconut Milk and Kaolin Clay is infused with Rosehip, Orris Root, Hibiscus Flower, and Willow Bark, to gently cleanse and exfoliate without stripping the skin of its natural oils. I wouldn't personally use this as my everyday cleanser as it would be too much exfoliation for me, but I'd definitely include it in my skincare routine as a once-a-week treatment instead.

Shop the Add Aqua Collection at inclusevcosmetics.com

Have you tried any powdered/waterless beauty products?

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In My Bathroom: Dr. Hauschka Rose Nurturing Bath Essence review

 

Bath like Cleopatra with Dr. Hauschka's luxury Rose Nurturing Bath Essence; a real bath-time treat for dry skin!  

You guys know how much I love Dr. Hauschka and I honestly feel like their bath and body products are just not spoken about enough, despite the fact that they have so many hidden gems (check out their Lemongrass Vitalising Body Milk in my recent Empties post). 

If you love luxury bath products as much as I do, this is the blog post for you!

What Is It?

Dr. Hauschka Rose Nurturing Bath Essence is a luxurious, ready-to-use bath milk that aims to calm and harmonise the mind and the senses with its natural Rose fragrance, whilst delicately softening the skin.

What's In It?

Key ingredients include Rose Essential Oil, Rose Petal Extract, Rose Flower Water, Jojoba Oil, and Almond Oil. There is some Alcohol and Parfum in this formula, however, they are from natural origin sources as all of Dr. Hausckha's products are 100% certified natural. Vegan-friendly and cruelty-free. Free from synthetic ingredients, artificial fragrances, dyes, and preservatives. 

Who Is It For?

This bath essence is especially useful for those for have dry skin, though as always, if you have sensitive skin as well, be sure to do a patch test before using it in the bath.

How Do I Use It?

You can either pour a few capfuls under a running tap to infuse your bath, or simply drizzle some in. You know you've used enough when you can smell that beautiful rose scent which is a fragrance that quickly fills your whole bathroom.

Overall Thoughts

Dr. Hauschka's Rose Nurturing Bath Essence is one of those truly luxury bath time treats that you always want to have in your bathroom as soon as you try it for the first time. It's an easy product to fall in love with if you're a fellow rose fan, and this natural rose fragrance is just beautiful. It smells like freshly picked rose petals, rather than something powdery and old-fashioned that you might find in your grandmother's bathroom. Did I mention it makes your skin feel like silk afterward too? Add it to your Christmas wishlist now.

P.S - Please note this bottle is made from glass so be extra careful when using it in your bath.

Dr. Hauschka Rose Nurturing Bath Essence* (100ml, £19) available from various stockists including drhauschka.co.uk

Do you love rose scents?

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In My Bathroom: Absolute Aromas Soothe & Detox Epsom Salts + Lemon Myrtle Natural Room Spray review

 

Enjoying a long soak in the bath at the end of a busy week is one of life's small pleasures. The ritual of locking the door, turning on the tap, lighting a candle, and choosing to use one of your favourite bath products is something that I find so wonderfully relaxing.

As a beauty blogger, I'm utterly privileged and spoilt to be able to pick and choose from an array of bath oils, salts, bubble bars and all sorts of magical potions to help me unwind, but I often come back time and time again to bath salts, and in particular, Epsom Salts.

I've written about Epsom Salts many times in the past as I love they're naturally rich in Magnesium which is an essential mineral that many of us are deficient in. Luckily, you can boost your magnesium intake easily by adding a handful or two of Epsom Salts to your bath as your body readily absorbs them through your skin. The health benefits are well worth it too as Magnesium can help to relieve all manner of aches and pains, as well as anxiety and fatigue.

Needless to say, I have generally have a lot of Epsom Salts in my beauty stash and I love these two from Absolute Aromas. As one of the UK's leading aromatherapy brands, they certainly know a thing or two when it comes to creating some blissful bath salts and all of their products are 100% natural, cruelty-free and free from parabens and sulphates.

Absolute Aromas Soothe Epsom Salts* (1kg, £9)

Epsom Salts are often sold in big bags which makes them more affordable and Absolute Aromas have 1kg bags for a bargain £9! You can choose from a range of different blends and I personally love this one called Soothe which features essential oils of Tangerine, Petitgrain and Neroli. As the name suggests, it really does help to soothe not only your mind, but also your skin, drawing out toxins and relaxing the nervous system. 

To get the best results, I'd recommend using around a quarter of the bag per bath and pouring it under running water so that it dissolves easily. Deeply breathe in that lovely essential oil blend and let all your worries disappear for at least an hour. Heaven!

Absolute Aromas Detox Epsom Salts* (300g, £4.50)

If you haven't tried Epsom Salts before or simply don't know which blend to opt for, I would suggest trying out some of the smaller tubs from Absolute Aromas so you can try the different ones that they make. These come in 300g tubs for £4.50 and are available across their range. 

I was curious to see what the Detox Epsom Salts were like as the essential oil blend that's used for these is quite an interesting mix as it features Grapefruit, Juniper, Geranium, Palmarosa, Cedarwood, and Vitamin E. It's a gorgeous uplifting natural fragrance that invigorates the senses and would be suited for those who enjoy a morning bath at the weekend. I really enjoyed this blend and would certainly be adding the full-size bag to my next order.

Absolute Aromas Lemon Myrtle Natural Room Spray* (30ml, £5)

There's a lot more to Absolute Aromas than just bath salts and a quick browse on their website will reveal a huge range of spa and massage products, skincare, aromatherapy oils, and much more! For some reason their Natural Room Sprays were calling to me so I tried out a mini bottle of their Lemon Myrtle blend which is incredibly zesty and uplifting - it instantly puts me in a good mood whenever I use it for a quick spritz around the bathroom!

Shop the full range at absolute-aromas.com

Have you tried anything from Absolute Aromas?

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Payday Treat: Tea & Tonic Bright Awakening Halen Môn Body Scrub review

Treat yourself to a gorgeous luxury body scrub from the esteemed British wellness brand, Tea & Tonic, and enjoy an awakening pampering experience in the comfort of your own home.

If you love your natural wellness brands, you'll no doubt already be firmly acquainted with Tea & Tonic. Based in the famous Surrey Hills in England, Tea & Tonic create their fresh luxury skincare in the grounds of Losely House, a converted barn house situated amongst beautiful walled gardens, wildlife, and nearby streams. It really doesn't get more British than that does it?!

They are a brand who have been on my radar for quite some time and I was delighted to have the opportunity recently to try out one of their award-winning bestsellers; the Bright Awakening Halen Môn Body Scrub.

Housed in a luxurious glass jar, Tea & Tonic's 100% natural and cruelty-free Bright Awakening Halen Môn Body Scrub has many beauty fans, especially after it was chosen by The Independent as one of its best Indy Buys for 2021. Primarily a salt-based scrub featuring the famed Halen Môn Salt (an extremely mineral and antioxidant-rich salt that is pure charcoal-filtered and hand-harvested from the Queen's coastline along Angelsey), this body treatment delivers a spa-like experience like no other. 

The salt is infused with the brand's invigorating Bright Awakening tonic, which contains an abundance of carefully chosen essential oils and wellness extracts. These include Lavender, Gotu Kola, White, Red & Siberian Ginseng, Holy Basil, Red Clover, Sweet Violet, Rosemary, Cypress, Bergamot, Yarrow, Marigold, and Schisandra Berry, to name but a few. In addition, sustainably sourced Beeswax and plant-based oils such as Hemp and Safflower are included for their rich, moisturising benefits for the skin. 

The scent of Tea & Tonic's Bright Awakening Halen Môn Body Scrub is like no other. It's intensely fresh, uplifting, calming, soothing and of course, awakening, and is best enjoyed at the start of the day to really invigorate the senses. A must-try!

I was also treated to a sample set of Tea & Tonic's Wellness Teas and these are highly recommended, so if you're placing an online order, do add them to your basket. My personal favourites are the Golden Milk for a sleepy bedtime drink, Ginger Turmeric for when you're feeling run-down and in need of an energy boost, and White Mint as an everyday tonic to de-stress and support a healthy immune system.

Shop the full range at teaandtonic.co.uk

What are your favourite natural wellness brands?

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Currently Loving: Good Bubble Bubble Baths for Families & Sensitive Skin

 

Who doesn't love a bubble bath? Whether you're a baby or a grandmother, everyone in the family can enjoy Good Bubble's range of affordable, skin-friendly Bubble Baths!

Good Bubble is a Dragon's Den success story when founder Amy Wordsworth appeared on the popular TV show to secure £60,000 of funding to make her business become a reality. Fast forward to the present day and Good Bubble is bigger and better than ever, yet her bubble baths have remained the same thanks to their skin-friendly formulations which are developed by industry experts to be kind and gentle on newborn and sensitive skin.

Naturally derived, vegan-friendly and cruelty-free, Good Bubble's products feature fruit extracts with mild allergen-free fragrances for a fresh and fun bathtime experience. Their 'no tears, no nasties' resonates with many who only want the best for the family, at an affordable price. 

It's safe to say that I've been a fan of Good Bubble for a very long time, so it was high time that I shared some of my favourites from their Bubble Bath range with you all.

Good Bubble Bubbly Gruffalo Bath with Prickly Pear*

There's nothing prickly about this gorgeous fruity scent that has a cool and crisp fragrance. Made with Prickly Pear extract to help maintain the natural moisture levels of young and sensitive skin, this bubble bath delivers a lot of sulfate-free bubbles with just a squeeze under a running tap. 

Good Bubble The Snail & The Whale Lotus Flower & Sea Minerals Bubble Bath*

If you love classic fresh and clean scents, you can't go wrong with this one featuring the children's book illustration from The Snail & The Whale. Bursting with breezy Sea Minerals and the delightfully heady and floral aroma of Lotus Flower, it's one that adults will love just as much as the little ones.

Good Bubble Super Bubbly Bubble Bath with Dragon Fruit*

A tried and tested bestseller for a reason, this Dragon Fruit version is hugely popular with its subtle fresh and floral fragrance. Ideal for those who don't like overpowering scents such as babies and young kids, it's a real crowdpleaser in the tub.

Good Bubble Super Bubbly Bubble Bath with Cloudberry*

My last choice is quite similar to the Dragon Fruit in that it's more of a milder, subtle scent, but still wonderfully fresh and of course very bubbly! Cloudberry has more of a fruity berries aroma and it's great for sensitive skin.

Shop the full range at Lovelula.com

Have you tried anything from Good Bubble?

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October Empties: Products I've Used Up

 

Better late than never as always! Here are my recent beauty Empties; all the products that I've managed to use up last month - do you spot any of your own faves in this round-up?

Ben & Anna Natural Deodorant in Persian Lime* (reviewed here)

Featured in my Plastic Free July post earlier this year, I've thoroughly enjoyed using this zesty and uplifting natural deodorant in Persian Lime from Ben & Anna. It kept me smelling lovely and fresh all day long and comes packaged in a recyclable card tube. Repurchase? Yes.

Dr. Konopka's Multi Purpose Cream* (reviewed here)

I've used up a couple of these over the years and still love it - a gentle but effective cream that you can use everywhere and anywhere to instantly soothe, soften, and moisturise dry skin. Particularly useful for hands and feet, and has a fruity pleasant fragrance. Repurchase? Will do once I've used up some similar products first.

Antipodes Culture Probiotic Night Recovery Water Cream* (reviewed here)

One of my favourite new skincare releases of 2021, this night cream is perfect for virtually all skin types and has a beautiful light gel-cream texture that sinks in straight away. Packed full of probiotics and Hyaluronic Acid to nourish without any greasy/sticky feeling afterwards. Repurchase? Definitely.

Hurraw! Pitta Lip Balm* (reviewed here)

I discovered this in a LoveLula Beauty Box, and despite having used many Hurraw! Lip Balms in the past, I wasn't previously aware of their Ayurvedic inspired range. Pitta is a mix of Coconut, Mint and Lemongrass so it's a good one to try for Summer as it's cooling and refreshing. Repurchase? I have a million lip balms to use up but I'm sure I will come back to this range at some point!

Dafna's Purify Cleanser* (reviewed here)

Another skincare favourite that I've used on/off over the years is Dafna's amazing Purify Cleanser. If my skin is feeling oily and congested, this is the cleanser that I'll often reach for to help balance it out. It's quite pricey but luckily a little goes a long way. Repurchase? Will do next Summer.

Mádara Hyaluronic Collagen Booster Ampoules* (reviewed here)

Every now and then, my skin goes through a really rough dry patch which is usually linked to the change of season so I like to add a course of these booster ampoules into my evening routine. They specifically target dryness and irritation and they get to work instantly so you'll see results immediately - ideal if you have a big event coming up. Repurchase? I'm torn about whether I should repurchase these because they're single-use plastic, but they work SO well and I only use a pack once or twice a year. I'll have to think about it!

Isla Apothecary Renewing Foot Treatment*

My last empty is a luxury treat for your feet from Isla Apothecary. This is a proper pampering product that's made from a blend of Epsom Salts, Coconut Oil and the most gorgeous selection of uplifting essential oils. Amazing for restoring tired feet and perfect for a little 'me time' at the end of a busy week. Repurchase? On my Christmas list ;)

What beauty products have you finished up lately?

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New In Beauty: Beauty Cleanse Nearly Everything Powder Mask, Samaya Rejuvenating Eye Cream Kapha & Antipodes Glow Ritual Vitamin C Serum review

 

Time for shiny newness in the green beauty world with these amazing new kids on the block from Beauty Cleanse, Samaya and Antipodes. Let's go!

The New Multi-Tasker: Beauty Cleanse Nearly Everything Powder Mask* (45g, £27, link)

Designed to declutter and simplify your skincare routine, Beauty Cleanse's new Nearly Everything Powder Mask is a true multi-tasking genius that will transform how you view your beauty products. As the name suggests, this is a 'do it all powder mask', which will help all skin types and concerns and is made from 100% natural ingredients such as Liquorice Root extract, Rice extract, Organic Aloe Vera extract, Vitamin C powder, Charcoal powder and Orange Turmeric extract. 

As it's waterless (which is better for the environment and your wallet as you get twice as much product), you simply mix a teaspoon of powder with a 1/3 of a teaspoon of water to create a smooth paste that you apply directly to clean skin. Leave for around 20 minutes and then rinse away with warm water. You can also use it as dedicated spot treatment, applying where it's needed, as well as a hand and foot mask too.

Thanks to the clever combination of ingredients, the Nearly Everything Powder Mask is brilliant for a deep cleanse to remove impurities and unclog pores, and it's amazing for giving the complexion a brightening and revitalised boost. A winner all round!

The New Luxury Eye Cream: Samaya Rejuvenating Eye Cream Kapha* (15ml, £59, link)

Fans of luxury ayurvedic skincare are going to fall in love with the new range of eye creams from Samaya. When I originally tried out Samaya a few years ago, I thought it would be a good idea for them to bring out an eye cream to compliment their cleansers and moisturisers, so it's fantastic to finally see this come to life and the wait has definitely been worth it!

Mixing together clinically proven plant-actives such as Probiotics, Caffeine and Green Tea, with specially selected potent Ayurvedic botanicals like Ashwagandha, Sandalwood, Vetivert and Gotu Kola, Samaya have created eye creams for each dosha type and I've been trialling the Kapha one with excellent results. Since using it over a month ago, my undereyes feel much smoother and my eyes look brighther overall. I'm also intrigued by the anti-pollution and photo-protection properties against different light forms such as UV and blue light to see what the long term results will be like.

The New Vitamin C Serum: Antipodes Glow Ritual Vitamin C Serum* (30ml, £35, link)

The last product that I wanted to mention in this New In Beauty round-up is the latest release by New Zealand brand Antipodes, who you all know I'm incredibly fond of and have used a lot of over the years. Again, I was very excited to see this newbie come onto the market as Antipodes are famed for their serums and I've always felt like they've been missing a Vitamin C based one - lo and behold, the Glow Ritual Vitamin C Serum has been born!

Suitable for vegans, this serum is described as 'golden hour in a bottle' and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and dull ones. The key superstar ingredient in this is called Kakadu Plum which contains 100x more Vitamin C than oranges. It's also rich in Bakuchiol and plant-based Hyaluronic Acid to plump skin, boost collagen and protect against free radicals that cause premature ageing. The brightening effects can be seen within less than four weeks of regular daily use, so get a head start on your glowing Christmas selfies and add this to your skincare routine now.

What's new on your beauty shelf?

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Introducing: Florena Fermented Skincare - Anti-Wrinkle Day Cream, Antioxidant Night Cream, Regenerating Facial Oil & Firming Face Mask review

Last month, I had the pleasure of being introduced to a new-to-me natural skincare brand called Florena. They specialise in vegan-friendly and sustainable skincare, with everything they produce being certified by COSMOS Natural. 

What really sets Florena apart from many similar brands is that they are the first company who are dedicated to the fermentation of flowers and oil - an intriguing area of protective and regenerative skincare that boasts many benefits for all skin types.

The fermentation process begins by carefully selecting plant-based oils and flowers to extract their key components and then natural fermenting agents are added. After fermenting for a period of time, the solution is filtered so that only the fermented actives are retained for their use in the skincare formulas.

I was kindly sent a package of Florena skincare to try out and all of the below are from their anti-aging range. For those who haven't come across Florena before, they are an affiliate of the German beauty giant Beiersdorf and are cruelty-free.

Florena Anti-Wrinkle Day Cream* (50ml, £24.99, link) & Antioxidant Night Cream* (50ml, £24.99, link)

If you only try one product from Florena, I'd recommend either their Day or Night Creams so let's start there! I've been most impressed by both of these. The Anti-Wrinkle Day Cream is a beautiful concoction that's made from 99.47% natural ingredients and enriched with fermented Honeysuckle, Hyaluronic Acid, and fermented Olive Oil. Due to the fermented Olive Oil content, this moisturiser boasts 50 times more Omega 6 and Omega 9 fatty acids than non-fermented Olive Oil so it's great for hydrating dry skin, smoothing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and protecting against everyday free radical damage. I love the texture of this as it just sinks into the skin immediately, yet feels instantly nourishing and hydrating.

For your evening routine, the Antioxidant Night Cream is packed full of those essential Omega 6 and Omega 9 Fatty Acids, with Vitamin E and fermented Portulaca and Lactobacillus. It will give your skin a big drink of moisture to enjoy overnight, whilst boosting the level of antioxidants to repair and protect the skin's natural barrier against the elements. As you'd expect from a night cream, this is a little more richer and thicker than the Day Cream so a little goes a long way, but it absorbs easily without any greasiness. 

A note about the packaging: these moisturisers come in jars which are made from 97.5% recycled plastic and thus it's more lightweight to help reduce the CO2 impact and the amount of plastic needed overall. The content is still the same as a full-size 50ml moisturiser, it's just that the packaging is more compact. I thought I'd point this out as many customers on the Boots website appeared to be moaning about the jars being so small!

Florena Regenerating Facial Oil* (30ml, £24.99, link)

You guys know how much I love using facial oils so of course I was excited to try this out. Florena's Regenerating Facial Oil does not disappoint; it's a powerful elixir made from 100% natural ingredients that includes fermented White Helichrysum, Argan Oil, Almond Oil, Coconut Oil, Passionfruit Seed Oil, and Safflower Oil. Like the moisturisers above, it's high in essential fatty acids Omega 6 and 9 to feed and nourish the skin, whilst the silky texture of the oil gives the skin an instant boost after a glorious pampering facial massage with it. This feels like a real treat for your skin!

Florena Firming Face Mask* (8ml, £5.99, link)

For a quick and easy skincare treatment, Florena's Face Masks get to work in just 5 minutes and there are currently two types available; a Hydrating and a Firming solution. Described as a weekly anti-ageing treatment, I tried the Firming Face Mask which has 99.47% natural ingredients and features fermented Honeysuckle and Hyaluronic Acid to deliver a firming, plumping, and revitalising result to tired, older skin in need of a pick-me-up. I thoroughly enjoyed using this cream mask, though my main criticism is that it comes in single-use packaging, when a much easier to recycle jar seems more appropriate these days. One to save for traveling perhaps?

Florena Fermented Skincare is available from Florena.co.uk

Have you tried fermented skincare before?

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