Sunday 29 September 2019

Speed Review: John Masters Organics Repair Hair Mask with Honey and Hibiscus

john masters organics repair hair mask with honey and hibiscus review

I haven't tried many products from the John Masters Organics range but have liked those which I have tried so was excited to try their new Repair Hair Mask with Honey and Hibiscus.

John Masters Organics describe the recently launched product as "a rich and decadent, silicone-free hair mask that puts hair into rehab. This weekly rescue for extremely dry, damaged hair restores hair structure, locks in moisture and protects hair from further damage. A fusion of organic honey and organic hibiscus work together to restore shine, moisture and manageability, while conditioning bacuri butter and mongogo oil replenish strands. Hair is left stronger, softer and healthier."

Unusually for a hair mask, it's presented in a plastic bottle with a pump. Whilst this might make it harder to identify on a shop shelf, I liked that it's a little different. The brown colour of the plastic bottle isn't the most appealing but I like the overall brand ethos of John Masters Organics so for that reason, I was happy to have it on display in my bathroom. Of course, I'd have preferred if the bottle were transparent to be able to see how much product was remaining- I always do. The directions were clear and easy to follow and I appreciated that the mask gets to work in just 3-5 minutes.

I was initially worried that the pump dispenser wouldn't be suited to the mask formula but I was wrong. The mask has a lightweight cream texture which I found easy to dispense using the pump and actually found that this helped to control how much product I was using, avoiding wastage. That said, I did need quite a few pumps in order to release sufficient product for my long hair. I found the texture easy to work through my hair.

My main recollection, based on the products I've previously tried from John Masters Organics, is of the amazing, natural fragrances and the Repair Hair Mask with Honey and Hibiscus didn't disappoint. It has an incredible botanical fragrance which reiterated the natural branding and added to the sense of indulgence during use. I also noticed that it lingered in my hair following use.

I found the mask relatively easy to rinse out of my hair. I did feel as though there was some residue but it didn't feel uncomfortable or unpleasant- I'd describe it as feeling as though it was adding something to my hair to lock in moisture and protect (in any case, I really like the inclusion of heat protecting ingredients within the formula).

Whilst I describe my fine hair as being in average condition (I don't colour treat it, I heat style approximately once or twice a week and I'm pretty good at keeping up with my treatment regime), i.e. it's not the dry, damaged hair which this mask is meant to target, I nonetheless enjoyed using John Masters Organics Repair Hair Mask with Honey and Hibiscus. It left my hair feeling touchably soft, looking smoothed and shiny and it felt wonderfully conditioned, whilst also being manageable. I'd agree that it lives up to the claims.

At £39 for 125g product, John Masters Organics Repair Hair Mask with Honey and Hibiscus is undeniably expensive. That said, I feel that it's a quality product and as aforementioned, it delivers results. Furthermore, it ticks the "free from" boxes and has a natural ethos so if all of these factors are important to you, I'd say it's definitely worth checking out.


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Tuesday 24 September 2019

Speed Review: Maui Moisture Frangipani Body Wash



I don't know much about the brand, Maui Moisture but believe they are typically associated with hair care products. As such, it may be surprising that the first product I decided to try from the range is a body wash. The body washes are, in fact, a new addition to the line up (along with the introduction of scrubs and lotions). I picked this up when it was on offer in Boots recently- the "Frangipani" name appealed to me as I love this tropical flower, which reminds me of holidays. It's a relatively unusual ingredient within beauty products although Elemis' ever-popular Exotic range has products based around it.

Maui Moisture describe the product as, "Fragrant frangipani is infused into this gentle body wash, blended with exotic orchid extract and bright cypress oil. This formula helps soothe and nourish your skin to get back a healthy looking glow. Unlike some other body products that start with deionized water, Maui Moisture starts with a unique blend with aloe vera and is infused with coconut water. The results? Moisturised skin and a healthy-looking glow with every use!"

To me, the packaging has a very American feel in terms of the branding. It's a big plastic, squared bottle at over 500ml. Whilst the packaging clearly communicates the key ingredients of frangipani, orchid extract and cypress oil, along with the fact that the Body Wash is sulphate free, the packaging doesn't particularly highlight the aloe vera base which is surprising given the emphasis that the brand seems to place on this, e.g. on their website. I appreciated that the bottle wasn't opaque so that I could tell how much product was remaining as I used it.

Maui Moisture Frangipani Body Wash has a thick jelly texture and I felt that this reiterated the message about the base ingredient being aloe vera. I found the flip top lid on the packaging wasn't best suited to the texture (a tube presentation might be better) as it was a little difficult to control how much product was dispensed and I felt like I was wasting some of the product. That said, I was able to work the jelly into a generous lather so for that reason a little goes a long way. I found this to be particularly impressive given that the product is sulphate free. The Body Wash has a fresh, floral scent and I found it very pleasant to use. That said, the scent didn't linger on my skin following use.

Following use, my skin felt fresh, clean and hydrated (although not to the extent that I could forgo body moisturiser). I enjoyed using Maui Moisture Frangipani Body Wash and would be keen to check out more from the range in future- perhaps the dry body oil from the same range next.

Maui Moisture Frangipani Body Wash costs £8.99 for 577ml.
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Thursday 19 September 2019

Speed Review: Elemental Herbology Watermelon & Cucumber Body Moisturiser


I'm a big fan of Elemental Herbology but must confess to being most familiar with their skincare, and less so with the body care range.

I was recently sent Elemental Herbology Watermelon & Cucumber Body Moisturiser. The brand say, "this high-performance body moisturiser helps optimise the life of your tan whilst soothing and cooling the skin. Light and non-greasy, this moisturiser contains cooling and nourishing botanicals, ideal for the summer months."

On first impressions, I liked the packaging which is a plastic bottle with functional pump dispenser. It's in keeping with the branding of Elemental Herbology and looks effortlessly chic- I was happy to have it on display in my bathroom. What's more, I appreciated that the bottle is sufficiently transparent so as to be able to see how much product was remaining. I found the directions clear and also liked the explanation of the key ingredients.

Aside from the brand's description, the Watermelon & Cucumber name gave me the impression that this would be soothing & cooling on the skin, with a fresh scent. Whilst it is indeed soothing and cooling on the skin (and yes, it's perfect for summer use but I'd actually say that it would work well year-round, e.g. to soothe central-heating parched winter skin), the scent wasn't the fresh, fruity (& perhaps sickly) fragrance which I was expecting. Instead, it's a grown-up, spa-like botanical fragrance which I found really indulgent and added to my enjoyment whilst using the product. Following use, I noticed that the scent lingered delicately on my skin.

The pump is well suited to the texture of the product, which is lightweight and easily absorbed into the skin. I'd say that it's akin to a body lotion (so perhaps those who prefer a richer cream in the winter months might enjoy this more as a summer product). There was absolutely no greasy residue left on my skin following use but my skin was left feeling wonderfully hydrated and conditioned.

At £22 for 290ml, Elemental Herbology Watermelon & Cucumber Body Moisturiser isn't a cheap product but I feel that the price reflects the quality of the ingredients and the indulgence factor of the finished product. It would make a lovely gift- or treat to self!
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Tuesday 17 September 2019

Speed Review: Superdrug Naturally Radiant 2-In-1 Moisturiser and Serum



I've previously tried a couple of products from Superdrug's Naturally Radiant range, namely the Hot Cloth Cleanser and Brightening Renewal Face Mask, both of which I quite liked. As such, when I was browsing the shelves of Superdrug recently, I decided to try out another product from the range and opted for the 2-In-1 Moisturiser and Serum.

Superdrug Naturally Radiant 2-In-1 Moisturiser and Serum is described by the brand as being formulated with a unique energising complex and infused with kiwi fruit & mulberry extracts to help even out skin tone. They state that it is enriched with nourishing fruit acids and that it has a rich, velvety formula to deliver long-lasting moisturisation, whilst also helping to refine skin texture & clarify, for a smoother & more radiant complexion.

I feel that Superdrug have been quite clever in the naming of this range- after all, who doesn't want naturally radiant skin?! The range has gained something of a following within the blogging community and it is certainly the range which I always have a glance at in Superdrug, in case there's anything new which jumps out to me.

Superdrug Naturally Radiant 2-In-1 Moisturiser and Serum is packaged in a small plastic bottle with a pump and this is presented inside an outer box, which adds a little something extra considering it's an affordable brand. That said, I wouldn't say that there's anything luxurious about the packaging. The green colour and text isn't the most modern and it's obvious from the packaging that it's an affordable product. Whilst I appreciated the functionality of the pump dispenser, which lends itself well to the texture of the product and also helps to avoid wastage, I would have preferred if the bottle were transparent in some way so as to be able to tell how much product was remaining.

I found that 2 pumps provided sufficient product to cover my face and as such, it feels as though the bottle would last a while & provide good value for money. The texture is an opaque gel and during use, it reminded me more of a primer than a serum. Despite initially feeling as though it was merely sitting on my skin, I did find the product to be easily absorbed. It has a pleasant, fresh & fruity fragrance which I didn't find overpowering.

Personally, I don't think that this is a 2-In-1 moisturiser for all skin types. Certainly, I couldn't forgo moisturiser and still used it on top. That said, those who usually choose to skip this step or those with very oily skin might get on well with this product.

This isn't my favourite serum and whilst my skin was left feeling hydrated, it wasn't to the same extent as with other products I've used. I feel that the claims are rather over-enthusiastic and as a result, the product is a little disappointing because it fails to deliver on them in my opinion. That said, if you take the claims with a pinch of salt and want a simple product, this might be worth a look. It worked well under makeup but I wouldn't say that it particularly boosted my skin's radiance.

At £5.99 for 50ml, this is an affordable product but one which I personally wouldn't repurchase, simply because there are other serums which I prefer.
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Thursday 12 September 2019

Speed Review: Palmer's Coconut Oil Conditioning Shampoo

palmers coconut oil conditioning shampoo review


I recently reviewed Palmer's Coconut Oil Repairing Conditioner and following on from that, today's review is of the Palmer's Coconut Oil Conditioning Shampoo.

Palmer's Coconut Oil Conditioning Shampoo is described as a rich, creamy shampoo which gently cleanses and removes build-up without stripping hair or interrupting its delicate moisture balance. It contains ethically and sustainably sourced coconut oil and Tahitian Monoi, infused with Tiare flower petals.

On first impressions, I thought that the packaging looked cheap and a little dated. Whilst I appreciated the details of what the shampoo is "free from", I must confess to an eye roll when I noticed the gluten free claims- after all, I don't intend to eat my shampoo! I also found the name "Conditioning Shampoo" a little confusing and initially thought that it might be intended for use as a co-wash, however, the clear directions recommend that it be followed with a conditioner.

I liked that the plastic bottle is transparent, allowing me to see how much product was remaining. It features a flip top lid for dispensing the product.

Unsurprisingly, Palmer's Coconut Oil Conditioning Shampoo has a coconut fragrance which I personally didn't find very indulgent. I was, however, quite surprised at the texture of Palmer's Coconut Oil Conditioning Shampoo. Everything from the name to the appearance of the product through the plastic bottle made me expect a thick formula but its actually quite a liquid gel. Despite being sulphate free, it produced an impressive lather. As such, a little goes a long way and I feel that the 400ml bottle would last a long time. I really enjoyed the usage and in particular, the fact that the lather felt silky, suggestive of the natural oils within the formula. This added a more luxurious feel to the product and is the factor which made me most tempted to continue using the shampoo. The rinsability was average.

The first time I used Palmer's Coconut Oil Conditioning Shampoo, I hadn't read the instructions and so I did use it as a co-wash, forgoing a separate conditioner. Despite this not being its intended use, I was pleased with the results. That said, I only have fine hair and those whose hair tangles easily probably couldn't get away with skipping conditioner with this shampoo.

Following use, I could detect a very subtle scent of coconut in my hair. My hair was left feeling soft but I wouldn't say shine was particularly enhanced.

Unfortunately, I felt as though Palmer's Coconut Oil Conditioning Shampoo irritated my sensitive scalp. That said, whilst I had really expected to hate the shampoo, I actually really enjoyed the usage (as aforementioned) and even though I've decided to discontinue use on my hair, I'll be keeping hold of the bottle because I feel that it will be a good shampoo for cleaning my makeup brushes with.

Palmer's Coconut Oil Conditioning Shampoo costs £4.19 for 400ml.
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Tuesday 10 September 2019

Speed Review: OGX Coconut Milk Shampoo and Conditioner



Today's review is of OGX Coconut Milk Shampoo and Conditioner, which I was recently sent to try. I've tried a few products from OGX over the years but wasn't previously familiar with the Coconut Milk range.

In describing the range, which comprises the Shampoo & Conditioner (including travel sized versions) along with an oil mist and serum, OGX state, "Is your hair ready for a tropical holiday? Retreat to the islands. This exclusive blend with coconut milk, egg white proteins and coconut oils helps bring out your hair's natural strength, elasticity, hydration and balance- all with a shine inspired by the tropics."

On first impressions, I thought that the packaging was in keeping with the OGX branding and affordable price point. Personally, I'd have preferred if there was something other than the text on the plastic bottles to differentiate between the Shampoo & Conditioner for ease of use in the shower, although some customers may like that they match. Admittedly, the colour coding to reflect the key ingredient does make shopping the ranges (there's quite a few!) easier in store. Both bottles feature flip top lid dispensers and I found the directions to be clear and easy to follow.

Firstly, I tried the OGX Coconut Milk Shampoo which is described as a "deliciously creamy and nourishing blend... helps to strengthen and hydrate your hair, leaving it softly scented, super soft and glowing". The shampoo is a white gel and I found the flip top lid dispenser well suited to the texture of the product. I was able to work the shampoo into a generous lather, which rinsed away easily (as tends to be the case with shampoo).

Next up, the OGX Coconut Milk Conditioner. This is designed to leave hair with "more strength and elasticity, and a hint of the tropics that will float with you all day." Further to my earlier comments about wishing that the two products had different packaging, when I came to use the conditioner, I felt even more strongly about this. The conditioner is a thick white cream and whilst I found it was ok to dispense using the flip top lid dispenser at first, as more of the product was used, it was more of a struggle. I feel that the texture means that the conditioner would be better suited to packaging such as a tube. Packaging aside, I found the conditioner easy to work through my hair. When it came to rinsing, I'd say that the conditioner had average rinsability.

Both products have a sweet coconut fragrance which is an obvious choice to match the key ingredient. I found it to be reminiscent of holidays, as will be the case for many people. The scent lingered delicately in my hair once it was dried and styled.

Following use, my hair was left looking shiny and feeling very soft. I also noticed that tangles were noticeably reduced so the products might be worth a look if this is a concern for you. I was impressed that my sensitive scalp wasn't irritated but did find that my roots became greasy very quickly (which is unusual for me) so these products are probably best suited to someone with dry hair.

I wasn't "wowed" by OGX Coconut Milk Shampoo and Conditioner but they did the job and are fine as an affordable duo if you pick them up on offer. In my opinion, they aren't worth the £7 each (for 385ml) price tag.
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Tuesday 27 August 2019

Speed Review: Sampar Skin Quenching Mist


sampar skin quenching mist review

I was recently sent some products as an introduction to the brand, Sampar. I wasn't previously familiar with Sampar. It's described as an urban brand aimed at demanding women looking for smart products. There's a specific focus on anti-pollution and on optimising the effectiveness of active ingredients.

Given the time of year and recent hot weather, I decided to try the Skin Quenching Mist first. There are three ways in which I most commonly use a facial spritzer: as an additional hydrating step in between cleansing and applying my facial serum to help lock in moisture, during travel for a refreshing boost, or reaching for it on my desk for a quick pick-me-up during the working day (especially since giving up caffeine!).

Sampar Skin Quenching Mist is described by the brand as a moisturising face toner, suitable for all skin types and particularly sensitive skin. They state that it has a "barely-there" texture and that it locks in make-up and shields against outside irritants. It is designed to be used in the morning and/ or evening either alone or after cleansing, and to leave skin feeling soothed. It contains cornflower, lime blossom and orange blossom waters along with geranium essential oil.

On first impressions, I liked the packaging. The matte finish and simple design add a luxe feel, whilst the pale pink colour and line design of the Paris skyline give a cool girly vibe. A couple of downsides to note are that the bottle isn't transparent so I couldn't tell how much product was remaining. Also, it's a generous 200ml which means I'd have to discount this as an option for use during travel. The directions are simple yet clear.

The spritzer delivered a fine mist which I found worked well over makeup and as such, I'd be inclined to keep this on my desk at work. It instantly cooled and refreshed my skin. The pleasant, delicate & soft fragrance hints at the natural ingredients. I found it enjoyable to use. It left my skin feeling soft and hydrated.

I'd agree that Sampar Skin Quenching Mist would work well for any skin type. It costs £23 for 200ml.
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Thursday 22 August 2019

Speed Review: Noughty Detox Dynamo Clarifying Shampoo

Noughty Detox Dynamo Clarifying Shampoo Review

Noughty Haircare first captured my attention when I was searching for an affordable option which ticks plenty of "free from" boxes. This range certainly does that, along with being vegan friendly.

Noughty describe the creatively-named Detox Dynamo as helping to lift away build-up caused by urban pollution, hard water (interestingly!), chlorine & styling products thanks to the inclusion of detoxifying peppermint and sorrel leaf extracts. It's a 97% natural blend which is designed to gently cleanse & purify, leaving hair feeling fresh & clean.

The bold design of the packaging means that it's eye-catching on crowded shop shelves. It reflects the branding and clearly communicates what the product is, as well as what it's "free from". I found the directions easy to follow, noting that Detox Dynamo should be used "every third wash".

I appreciated the functionality of the tube packaging, which allows for controlled dispensing without wastage.

Noughty Detox Dynamo Clarifying Shampoo is what I'd describe as a "cloudy" gel, with a relatively liquid texture. I was impressed that it was easy to work into a generous lather, despite being sulphate free. It had a clean scent. As tends to be the case with shampoos, I found that it rinsed away effortlessly.

I feel that Noughty Detox Dynamo Clarifying Shampoo delivers on the claims of the company because my hair was left feeling thoroughly cleaned. My hair felt healthy and weightless, and I was impressed that it didn't irritate my sensitive scalp. I wouldn't say that I love it quite so much as clarifying shampoos I've tried from salon brands such as Clynol and Paul Mitchell but for an affordable option, I'd say it's hard to beat and at £6.99 for 250ml, I feel it represents good value. I'd consider repurchasing and would recommend checking it out.
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Tuesday 20 August 2019

Speed Review: Aroma Actives Perfecting Day Serum

aroma actives perfecting day serum review

Aroma Actives is a wallet friendly skincare line created by the late founder of one of my all-time favourite beauty brands, Aromatherapy Associates. Aromatherapy Associates is undeniably pricey but I feel that the prices are justified by the high quality ingredients and as such, I was intrigued as to how this could translate into a budget range. That said, I really trust Aromatherapy Associates and like the story behind this range. The subject of today's review is the Perfecting Day Serum from the range.

On first impressions, I loved everything about the packaging. The design is clean and minimal but clearly communicates the natural yet active message. It's very cleverly put together branding and I feel that the packaging looks more high end than the price tag suggests. In particular, I love the presentation of Perfecting Day Serum, which is a tube with a pump. Oh how I love a tube with a pump! I wish more skincare brands would present their products in this way.

Aroma Actives Perfecting Day Serum has a lightweight cream texture. 1-2 pumps of the tube gave sufficient product to cover my entire face and as such, I feel that the tube would last for some time. It's worth nothing that the tube provides 50ml of product- many serums I've tried are only 30ml.

The botanical scent reiterates the natural ingredients and makes for indulgent usage. It feels reminiscent of a spa brand and this really adds a sense of luxury.

I found the serum to be easily absorbed and despite the creamy texture, it felt lightweight on my skin, not greasy or heavy. It didn't interfere with the application of other products.

Following use, my skin felt soft, smooth and wonderfully hydrated.

It's hard to believe that Aroma Actives Perfecting Day Serum is priced just £12.99 for 50ml. It represents incredibly good value for money and I'd highly recommend checking this product out.
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Thursday 15 August 2019

Speed Review: Dove Coconut Oil Shower and Shave Mousse


I quite like shower mousses as they work effectively to double up as a shaving foam. I believe Imperial Leather were the first to bring out such a product- it's certainly the brand which springs to mind when I think of a shower mousse and the one with which I'm most familiar. For that reason, much of today's review will be something of a comparison, as I found it hard to avoid doing so.

It seems as though I'm not alone in liking the concept of a shower mousse- that's if the current influx of brands recently adding a shower mousse to their range is anything to go by. Clarins, Dove, Nivea, Radox and Original Source all feature shower mousses in their line up now. I decided to try out the Dove Coconut Oil Shower and Shave Mousse as it was on introductory offer in Boots.

Interestingly, Dove actually promote the fact that the shower mousse doubles as a shave foam by incorporating a mention of this on the packaging & reflecting it in the official name on the website. The packaging is simple and in keeping with the Dove branding. I liked the inclusion of a "scratch and sniff" sticker which made choosing the scent in store easier- there's a choice of Argan Oil, Acai, Rose or Coconut Oil, which I opted for.

The aerosol pump makes for easy dispensing although it's a little difficult to tell how much product is remaining, owing to the can packaging (I don't know how else they could present it though).

Unlike Imperial Leather, which comes out as a gel before transforming to a foam (akin to a shaving gel), Dove Coconut Oil Shower and Shave Mousse was dispensed as a rich and creamy foam. A little goes a long way. I found it a little softer in texture than the Imperial Leather versions I've tried but agree that it works just as well to use when shaving legs.

Personally, I couldn't detect coconut in the scent during use. To me, it smelt sweet- more like vanilla than coconut- but it wasn't sickly. I could only detect the scent very subtly on my skin following use.

After use, my skin felt soft but not stripped or dry. That said, I still needed to moisturise.

I found Dove Coconut Oil Shower and Shave Mousse pleasant to use. Overall, I think I prefer the Imperial Leather versions but that may simply be because I'm more accustomed to using the brand. I probably wouldn't repurchase the Dove version at full price (£4.89 for 200ml) but might be inclined to try other scents from the Dove range, if on offer, in future.
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Tuesday 13 August 2019

Speed Review: Wella Enrich Moisturising Conditioner for Fine to Normal Hair

wella enrich moisturising conditioner for fine to normal hair

I originally decided to try Wella Enrich Moisturising Conditioner for Fine to Normal Hair based on a Twitter recommendation and, spoiler alert, I'm so pleased that I did!

On first impressions, the bright tube and minimalist design reflects the salon branding. It is clear which hair type it's aimed at (fine to normal, which is my hair type so appealed to me) and the directions are also easy to follow. I appreciated the functionality of the tube dispenser- it's generally my preference when it comes to conditioners as tubes allow for controlled dispensing without wastage.

Wella Enrich Moisturising Conditioner for Fine to Normal Hair has a lightweight cream texture which I found easy to work through my hair. It has a pleasant, fresh and fruity fragrance.

When it came to rinsing the conditioner away, I was able to do so with ease.

Following use, my hair felt wonderfully soft and well conditioned/ cared for. I could detect the scent ever-so-subtly. Whilst Wella Enrich Moisturising Conditioner for Fine to Normal Hair isn't the most smoothing I've tried (I still had some flyaways, but nothing that couldn't be tamed with a little dry oil spray), I was impressed that it didn't weigh down my fine hair and I feel that it delivers on the claims.

Overall, I found Wella Enrich Moisturising Conditioner for Fine to Normal Hair enjoyable to use and was impressed with the results. I'd definitely recommend checking it out if you have this hair type.
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Thursday 8 August 2019

Speed Review: Radical Skincare Instant Revitalizing Mask

radical skincare instant revitalizing mask

I've been impressed with the Radical Skincare products which I've tried previously so I was excited to try out their Instant Revitalizing Mask.

Described as a reinvigorating and rehydrating mask (who doesn't need such benefits?!), Radical Skincare claim that the Instant Revitalizing Mask gives skin everything it needs to be in perfect shape, providing optimum amounts of oxygen, hydration, vitamins and energy. Some bold claims right there!

The outer box is in keeping with Radical Skincare's branding and inside there is a sleek bottle with a lid which is twisted to reveal a convenient pump dispenser. It's just the sort of packaging that I love. I would prefer if the packaging were transparent to be able to see how much product was remaining. Interestingly, the directions on the outer box aren't particularly clear (especially in terms of how long to leave the mask on skin) but they are reprinted directly onto the bottle and it's these directions which I found clear and easy to follow. Simply apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin and after 3-5 minutes, rinse thoroughly.

The mask itself is a lightweight gel cream texture which works well with the pump dispenser, allowing for controlled delivery of product without wastage. It has a pale yellow colour with a gold shimmer which adds a sense of luxury. I did feel that I needed to use quite a lot of the product in order to cover my entire face with a thin, even layer of the mask. The mask has a pleasant fruity fragrance.

As Radical Skincare Instant Revitalizing Mask gets to work, it transforms into a creamy, bubbling foam and I noticed a cooling sensation on my skin. This is quite fun and also gives the impression that the mask is doing something! The mask didn't set on my skin and when 5 minutes was up, I found it easy to remove.

My skin was left feeling clean and felt softened. I noticed a slight tightening of the skin too. Otherwise, I wouldn't say that this mask provides particularly dramatic results. Maybe my expectations were set too high after reading the claims or perhaps I wanted more given the high price tag of £42 for 30ml. I enjoyed using this mask but don't feel that the high price is justified based on the results and therefore, wouldn't repurchase.
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Tuesday 6 August 2019

Speed Review: Elemis Nourishing Omega-Rich Cleansing Oil



Regular readers will know that cleansing oils are my preferred method of cleansing my face. I like them because they're generally easy to use, gentle on the skin and have a balancing effect. Whilst my favourite (& the one I come back to time & time again) is the DHC Deep Cleansing Oil, I do like to try the offerings from other brands with the latest being the Elemis Nourishing Omega-Rich Cleansing Oil.

Elemis describe Nourishing Omega-Rich Cleansing Oil as being ideally suited to oily skin and great for removing waterproof makeup. They state that it's blended with over 90% natural oils to cleanse, soothe & soften skin and lift impurities whilst maintaining the skin's natural barrier.

On first impressions, I felt that the packaging is on brand. Presented in an outer box with a plastic bottle inside, it's sleek & minimalist in design. I was happy to have it on display in my bathroom. From a functionality point of view, I appreciated the pump dispenser and also the transparency of the bottle, which meant that I could easily see how much product was remaining.

Although Elemis recommend this for oily skin types, I feel that the texture lends itself well to a range of skin types. It's average in terms of the oil texture- not as lightweight as The Body Shop Camomile Silky Cleansing Oil but nor was it as rich as some others I've tried. Two to three pumps was sufficient to cover my entire face.

Elemis Nourishing Omega-Rich Cleansing Oil has a luxurious botanical scent which reiterates the brand's spa heritage and adds to a sense of indulgence during use. As an oil, it is inherently well suited to facial massage.

Upon contact with water, the oil easily transformed into a lightweight milk and rinsed away effortlessly, leaving no greasiness.

I felt that this cleansing oil worked effectively to cleanse my skin, although I did need to use a separate eye makeup remover to thoroughly remove all traces of mascara, etc.. on days when I was wearing a heavier eye look.

At £32.50 for 195ml, Elemis Nourishing Omega-Rich Cleansing Oil is a pricey option but if you're looking for added indulgence factor then this is worth a look.
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Thursday 1 August 2019

Speed Review: The Body Shop Cactus Blossom Shower Gel

the body shop cactus blossom shower gel

I recently had a voucher for The Body Shop and upon browsing the shelves of my local shop, decided to use it to buy The Body Shop Cactus Blossom Shower Gel. I like The Body Shop shower gels (although would prefer if they didn't contain SLS) & was immediately drawn to this area of the shop. The "newness" of the Cactus Blossom scent together with the eye-catching design of the bottle & unusual name caught my attention and when I smelt the tester, it sealed the deal.

The flip top packaging is functional and is well suited to the texture of the shower gel, which is a fairly liquid clear gel with a very subtle green tint. I appreciated that the bottle was transparent, allowing me to see how much product was remaining.

When I smelt the shower gel in the bottle, I thought that it had quite a fruity fragrance, however, during use, I found it to be a little different and I'd best describe the scent as "fresh & green"- very pleasant nonetheless! That said, I couldn't detect the scent on my skin following use.

I was easily able to work the shower gel into a generous lather and of course, a bath puff would help this even more so, allowing the bottle to last even longer.

The Body Shop Cactus Blossom Shower Gel does the job and left my skin feeling clean and refreshed. I'd say that it's perfect for summer and worth checking out next time you're visiting The Body Shop.
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Saturday 13 July 2019

Speed Review: Palmer's Coconut Oil Repairing Conditioner

Palmer's coconut oil repairing conditioner review

I decided to try Palmer's Coconut Oil Repairing Conditioner after seeing a recommendation for it on Twitter. Otherwise, I probably wouldn't have even considered haircare from Palmer's, a brand which I associate first & foremost with cocoa butter body products.

On first impressions, the packaging clearly communicates what the product is and the key ingredient of coconut oil. The style of the packaging is in keeping with the affordable price point of the brand and whilst it doesn't look luxurious or aspirational, it is functional- the tube lends itself well to the rich formula of the conditioner during use. The directions are clear and the packaging text makes reference to various "free from" claims which I usually appreciate, although I did eyeroll at the gluten free claim- after all, I don't know about you, but I don't tend to eat my beauty products!

As aforementioned, the conditioner has a rich texture. It's a thick cream with a rather alarming yellow colour (reminiscent of '80s hair products!) but nonetheless, it was easy to work through my hair. A little goes a long way. During use, I was surprised that it didn't have a particularly notable coconut scent but was instead sweet and synthetic smelling. Rinsability was average. Overall, I found the usage reminiscent of rather dated products.

I never notice or particularly look out for de-tangling benefits but I did notice that it was effortless to comb through my hair when wet, following my shower. I noticed this much more so than with other products so it might be worth looking out for if you do need de-tangling products.

Following use, my hair was left feeling super soft and looking smooth and shiny, but not weighed down. There was no overpowering scent once my hair was dried and styled.

At £4.19 for 250ml, Palmer's Coconut Oil Repairing Conditioner is an affordable hair product but one which I wouldn't repurchase, simply because I personally didn't enjoy the usage.

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Tuesday 23 April 2019

Speed Review: Argan Plus Moroccan Mint Invigorating Body Wash


Apologies readers, it's been a while since I last logged on and shared a review. It's been hectic and with one thing & another, blogging has had to take a back seat. In light of this busy time, the Argan Plus Moroccan Mint Invigorating Body Wash appealed to me- after all, I've needed all the help I can get in the invigorating and energising department!

I picked this up on offer as the green tube, which clearly communicates the key ingredient, appealed to me when I saw it on the shop shelf. I like to have a separate morning and evening (for those post-gym nights) body wash to suit the mood of the time of day and the invigorating promises of this captured my attention, not least because I'm far from a morning person! When it came to usage, the tube proved functional and I liked that it allowed for easy control when dispensing the product.

Argan Plus Moroccan Mint Invigorating Body Wash has a relatively thick, pearlised gel texture. I must confess to not liking pearlised gel formats as I tend to think of them as cheap and poor quality. That said, this was easy to work into a fairly generous lather, perhaps unsurprising given the inclusion of SLS. A bath puff would make it go even further.

As the name suggests, Argan Plus Moroccan Mint Invigorating Body Wash has a refreshing scent which I found to be reminiscent of fresh Moroccan Mint tea. I couldn't detect the scent on my skin following use. I liked the Moroccan link, tying together the scent with the brand's key message (Argan Oil tends to be from the Country).

Following use, my skin felt fresh and clean but a little dry so I couldn't forgo moisturiser. It worked as an affordable body wash which did the job but I'd be unlikely to repurchase as for me, it lacked that indulgence factor which I love to incorporate. Argan Plus Moroccan Mint Invigorating Body Wash costs £4.15 for 200ml.
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