Trying a bit of skincare!

As a teenager the only skincare routine I had was washing my face with soap and water and if I was feeling a bit fancy I might put a bit of moisturiser on. I am in my mid 40's now and up until recently nothing much had changed. I swipe at my face with a makeup wipe or slather on some random moisturiser when my skin felt particularly dry but a proper routine? Nope.

Fine lines have appeared, my complexion has more of a tired look than a natural glow and don’t even get me started on the random dry patches that have popped to taunt me. Clearly it was time to take action and just before Christmas I did just that adding some skincare bits to my Christmas list and this is what I have been using since Christmas day. Now I stand in front of my bathroom mirror with more bottles than a science lab, wondering if I accidentally became a chemist. lol

Cleansing!

I got a the Simple Refreshing Facial Wash that promised to wash away make up, dirt and other impurities without leaving your skin feeling tight or dry. I lathered up, rinsed off and was happy. My skin didn’t feel like silk, but it also didn’t feel like sandpaper so I counted it as a win! I still use the cheapo wipes from Primark for quickly washing off make up before I cleanse.

Moisturising!

This one felt easy. I’ve used moisturiser before how hard could it be? Except now there are moisturisers for day and night, ones with SPF, one's with hyaluronic acid and ones that cost as much as my weekly food shop. I picked a couple of night one's that were on offer in Poundland of all places.

The Biovene Vitamin C Night Boost is Anti-Aging and hydrates skin overnight with Vitamin C and Organic Mango for optimal age support to instantly moisturise skin, assist in recovery and introduce a beautiful glow for the next day.

The Biovene Retinol Night Lift is an tightening overnight moisturising cream with powerful Retinol and Organic Strawberry to help restore firmness and support in minimizing the appearance of fine lines.

I alternate these each night before I go to bed and I can say my face has been feeling smoother and looks better each morning. During the day I have been sticking with the Nivea Soft Moisturising Cream for Face, Hand and Body which I've been using for years and it's a brand that works for me or the Tesco Kind & Pure Fragrance Free SPF30 Moisturiser for a bit of protection from the sun if I am going out.

When I had covered the basics I went down a rabbit hole of reading about serums! Did I even need them? Apparently I do according to my youngest. She seems to know more about skincare than I do. Do I need vitamin C? Retinol? Niacinamide? (Niaci-what?!) I chose a few things.

The Aura Balancing Face Serum is packed with nourishing Jojoba Oil and Vitamin E, helps strengthen your skin's natural barrier for a happy, glowing you. I got this from Home Bargains and from Poundland I got the Body Stories Fresh N Dewy Face Serum which is infused with Vitamin C and Niacinamide to help give a beautiful and glowing complexion. I can't say I have noticed much difference during the day using these but I feel all boujee and good about myself so that's a bonus that I wasn't expecting.

As a bonus I got the Biovene Vitamin C Eye Boost! This is an age correcting eye boost moisturising day and night treatment for skin rejuvenation under the eyes with Vitamin C and organic mango that helps minimize the appearance of dark circles, fine lines and refresh tired looking skin.

It was just what I needed, I always look tired around my eyes and I don't even think it's an age thing, the dark circles have always been there. I think this is something which will take time to work but I am persevering. 

Starting a skincare routine after years of winging it is hard. For the first few days I felt like a self care goddess. I was cleansing, moisturising and putting serum on then life got in the way. One late night turned into me staring at my face wash thinking do I really need to wash my face or can I just skip it this one time? Spoiler: I skipped it. My new skincare routine hasn't really changed my life but it has changed how I think about taking care of myself. There’s something satisfying about taking five minutes to focus on me even if I’m fumbling my way through it. My routine isn’t perfect, but it’s mine. 

Do you have a skincare routine, what products would you recommend?

Share our Lives - Favourite Make up and Hair products.

I am not massively into make up and hair products and did think about skipping this month's Share Our Lives link up. It's not because I don't use make up and hair products but because mine are pretty basic and I don't spend a lot on them! There's nothing fancy here!

Dry shampoo!

I am not fussed about the brand but I do like to have some in the house for those days between washes when my hair needs a bit of a boost! I didn't use dry shampoo for years because I didn't think you could on coloured hair, I feel silly now. Dry shampoo has to be better for my hair than washing it an extra time in the week.

Willy Wonka Wonka Bar Eyeshadow Palette!

I got the Sheglam Willy Wonka Wonka Bar Eyeshadow Palette off Shein for my birthday late last year and I love the colours! They are all chocolate coloured and are chocolate scented too! They are my sort of colour.

PS. Vitamin Enriched Moisturising Primer - Primark - £4.50.

I have only just started using primer thanks to my youngest raving about it. This vitamin enriched primer does wonders for my skin with the help of vitamins E, C, and Niacinamide. Formulated to ensure my skin's moisture barrier is protected before I put make up on. It's key ingredients include oat oil and shea butter to ensure essential hydration is maintained all day long!

Eyebrow pencils.

When I was a teenager I overplucked my eyebrows and fashion and looks change and the pencil line thin eyebrow is not fashionable anymore and my poor eyebrows did suffer. They've never grown back properly and are thin in places and need filling in. I think I got my last one from the supermarket along with the food shop. 

NIVEA Double Effect Waterproof Eye Make-Up Remover.

I always used to be really bad at removing make up at the end of the day and struggled to get my eye make up off especially until I discovered this product. It is great for getting waterproof mascara off!

Directions Hair Colour!

I have blogged about Directions Hair Colour in the past, I do love their hair dyes. They have some amazing colours which really last and when applying don't stain your skin! My favourite colours are Pillarbox Red and Flamingo Pink. How my hair turns out is always a surprise, I do think it depends on how much of the old colour is left. 

Elvive Colour Protect shampoo and Conditioner.

With dying my hair I need a shampoo and conditioner to protect it and keep the colour from fading and at the moment this one is my favourite. I leaves my hair so soft and keeps the frizz to a minimum.

Lipstick.

I do love a bright lipstick which usually matches my hair so I have a lot of pink and red one's and most of those have came from the pound shops. With lipsticks costing just £1 I have never expected much but some of them really last well and don't leave my lips feeling dry!

What are your favourite beauty products?

I am linking up with:

 Adrienne from Mom Life with Adrienne.

Dara from Not In Jersey.

Jen from Show me & Sweet tea.

Joanne from Slices of Life.

Sarah from Toronto Sam.

Chilly days, cosy blankets, and unshaved legs.

 I love this time of year and over the winter when I can go weeks and maybe even more without shaving my legs. I'm all for self care and feeling confident in my skin but there's something about the whole shaving routine that just rubs me the wrong way (the pun is totally intended!) and it feels such a chore at this time of year. No one see's my legs apart from me and Stu and he doesn't really care, he can see past the hair.

Shaving our legs can feel like an Olympic sport. First, there's the preparation exfoliating, lathering up with some sort of shaving cream and making sure you have a sharp razor ready to go. Then comes the actual act of shaving, which requires contorting your body into all sorts of awkward positions to make sure you don't miss a spot. Let's not even mention the aftermath the inevitable nicks and cuts that turn the bathroom into a crime scene. Even using the crystal epilators that I use over the summer feels like a chore. It's a whole production and who has time for that? I sure don't and that's why over the colder months I just let things go. With the time that I am not shaving my legs I can have an extra 10 minutes in my cosy bed, enjoy a hot chocolate or just soak in the bath without the bother of having to shave.

Of course after the shaving there is the itchy regrowth phase which doesn't feel so bad in the summer when I'm wearing shorts or cropped trousers. It's a special kind of torture at this time of year when I have leggings or trousers on. I always have a few days when my legs feel like cacti and I find myself resisting the urge to scratch at them like a dog with fleas. 

Body hair is completely natural. It's not something we should be ashamed of or feel like we need constantly get rid of. Choosing not to shave during the colder months is about embracing the freedom to decide what feels right for my body. It's not a rejection of self care it's more a choice to prioritise comfort. Winter is known for drying out our skin so giving my legs a break from the shaving and lotions can only be a good thing.

I'm waving goodbye to the razor and saying hello to being natural, well over the Autumn and winter months anyway. 

Do you shave your legs less over the colder months?

Getting her ears pierced.

Since Ellie was about 6 years old, at least once a month she has asked for her ears pierced and I have always said no until a few weeks ago.

I wasn't just being mean saying Ellie couldn't have her ears pierced, the doctors advised against it when she was younger in case of getting an infection and it affecting her heart after having open heart surgery when she was a toddler for a hole in her heart and being left with a leaking valve. They said it was OK when she was older as long as she looked after them really well and kept them clean. Over the last year or so Ellie seems to have really matured and she is caring more about her appearance.

We were in Hull a few weeks ago and we were near H.Samuel, the jewellers who I knew did walk in ear piercings and I asked her if she wanted them done. She practically dragged me there, so the answer was obviously yes. I had a quick chat with her before we went in, telling her she has to keep them clean and follow all of the instructions and she agreed. 

You buy a pair of piercing earrings and get your ears pierced for free along with an aftercare kit to help with the healing of the new piercing. We chose the titanium studs for £19.99. There were cheaper one's but they were a little smaller and I thought they would be harder to turn.

The shop assistant was lovely and really put Ellie at ease. I singed the consent form and the assistant talked us through everything and of course cleaned her hands. Ellie had her ears cleaned, dots put on where the earrings would go and then the assistant got on with piercing her ears. Ellie didn't even flinch.

When we got home she tried to clean them herself but did need a little help from me as the dots were still there from the pen. Since then she has been brilliant at cleaning them and turning them. She has had them in for 4 weeks today and there has been no sign of infection or anything bad. Phew! Ellie has already picked about 50 sets of earrings that she wants in the future and is planning on getting her ears pierced at least once more and maybe up the top of her ear too but I said that might be hard with her wearing her hearing aids but we'll see how she gets on with this set first.

When I was 16 I got my ears pierced, it was a rebellious thing as my parents had always said no until I was 16 so as soon it was my birthday I got them done. They didn't last long. I was into horse riding back them and I was always catching them on the helmet/hard hat that I used to wear, especially on the straps. I don't think I even got to the 6 weeks where I could change them. lol I am sure Ellie will do better than me.

How old were you when you got your ears pierced?

A Crystal Epilator Hair Remover. - Review!

Last year I saw these crystal epilators on TikTok and of course had to buy one to give it a try. I did mean to blog about it and then when the weather turned colder I stopped removing the hair off my legs as much so forgot all about it until earlier this year when Ellie decided that she wanted to remove the hair off her legs. So far she's got away with having really fine, light hair which didn't show but now she's at that age where hair on your legs should not be seen so she started using it.

Crystal epilators are handheld hair removal devices that fit into your hand. The top is smooth and the bottom has a crystalline surface which is nice, less scary way to say etched glass.

If you lightly rub the crystal epilator on your skin in a circular motion the hair will clump together and come off. The result is similar to shaving as you’re removing the hair at the follicle opening not at the root like you do with waxing. The crystal epilator buff's the hair off your skin and exfoliates it too. According to the adverts it means you can say goodbye to strawberry legs, ingrown hairs, skin irritation and razor burn and hello to softer, smoother skin.

Like I said I have been using it off and on for a year and more recently Ellie has started using it so I decided to buy another one for each of us. With the previous one it had started to take longer and more rubbing to get the hair off, I have read they last between six months and a year so the first one did well.

It is painless and easy to use although does take a little longer than shaving but I like the fact that you can use it on dry skin without any shaving foam or lotion so that saves time and evens it out compared to shaving. It is very handy if you are in a rush and realise that your legs need a little de-fuzzing. I have found it leaves my legs smoother than if I use a razor.

I have tried to use it on my armpits before but it is awkward as it is used best on flat surfaces like arms and legs although it is great for going over your knees which I have always found quite tricky with a razor, ending up in little cuts.

I think these are fantastic for tweens or teens who are just starting to remove the hair from their legs when razors or waxing can seem very daunting. Ellie has got on well with it and can use it easily.

I have read that some people do get some irritation from using a crystal epilator as they have sensitive skin but we have been fine. Ellie did get a little redness the first time she used the crystal epilator but that was because she was pressing too hard and she soon realised that she didn't have to be so forceful.

Not only are these a faff free way of removing hair, using them does a bit for our planet too as they are reusable and there is no waste from them for at least a year and you don't even have to run any water.

Last year when I bought one and they were all hyped up I paid around £9.99 but this time they cost just over £4 off Ebay with free delivery but they are also sold on Amazon and other websites which sell beauty products. I think paying under £5 for something that lasts a year is great value for money.

Have you used one of these Crystal Epilator Hair Remover's before? How did you get on with it?

(Ad - Gifted) After the Rain Bath Salts from ARRAN Sense of Scotland!

I love nothing more than a soak in the bath after a busy day, usually I just have bubbles in the bath or sometimes a bath bomb but bath salts is something I rarely use for no reason apart from I have never found any that I love until now! Recently I was sent some to try from ARRAN Sense of Scotland.

Boutique bath, body and home care brand ARRAN Sense of Scotland has just launched a new addition to its iconic After the Rain collection, the After the Rain Bath Salts.

After the Rain is a timeless floral and citrus fragrance containing a burst of lime, a hint of rose and warming notes of sandalwood along with greenery, herbal shrubs, cedar wood and moss. Crafted by the brand’s expert perfumers to emulate the unique fragrance of an Arran garden after a rain shower.

A carefully crafted blend of natural sea salt and magnesium rich Epsom salt, After the Rain Bath Salts are also rich in potassium, iron and calcium to support skin health.

Add 1 or 2 handfuls of bath salts to your bath while the hot water is running and soak for at least 20 minutes to allow the mineral formulation to soothe your muscles whilst the fragrance washes over you to relax your mind.

Up until now I hadn't found any bath salts which I liked, some would never dissolve properly or the scent just wouldn't be right but the After the Rain bath salts are just fantastic. Getting in a bath including them is like stepping into a little bit of luxury. Soaking in them makes me body feel relaxed and rejuvenated and they smell just amazing, the mixture of floral and citrus scents go so well together. The whole bathroom smelled so good after I had a soak in the bath and my skin felt so soft.

With Mother's Day coming up next month these bath salts might be something to think about. The After the Rain Bath Salts cost £16.00 which might seem a little on the steep side but I would say they are well worth the money for a little bit of luxury. 

Do you like to use bath salts?

I was sent the After the Rain Bath Salts from ARRAN Sense of Scotland free of charge in exchange for this blog post.

My favourite Halloween things from Lush! #Blogtober22

I am taking part in Blogtober 2022 and will be writing posts with various themes/prompts throughout October. Today's prompt is: Autumn Winter skincare!

I love a soak in the bath especially at this time of year when it's cold out. There's nothing better than a warm up in the tub. getting out and putting my fleecy pj's on. A bubble bath is nice but you can always make it nicer.

I am a big fan of Lush products especially at this time of year with all of the seasonal stuff, the Halloween and Christmas things. I only ever buy products from Lush when I visit Hull and that is maybe a few times a year. I know they're expensive but they are such a nice treat.

Punkin Pumpkin - Bath Bomb - £5.00

Set your Halloween spirit free with vibrant orange water and pumpkin powder to leave your skin feeling soft and supple.

How to use:

Run a bath, hop in and release your fiend!

Cyclops - Bubble Bar - £5.00

Watch out for zingy citrus foam atop vibrant pink water that will keep you alert and bright.

How to use:

Crumble under running water. Halloween bubble baths have got their eye on you!

Blood Orange - Shower Gel - From £7.00

Packed with orange ingredients, this Halloween shower gel will bring the whole family back to life.

How to use:

Step into the shower and pour out the rich, intensely fruity gel and lather all over. Rinse it off! Easy peasy orange squeezy! 

I Want My Mummy - Bath Bomb - £3.50

Halloween got you tied in knots? Feel yourself unwind in the softening, milky, caramel scented water

How to use:

Run a bath and drop in to wrap yourself up in a cupuaçu buttery bath.

Do you like Lush products?

(Ad - Gifted) The Pharmaceris S Safe Protective Face Cream - Review!

I shouldn't have to tell you that we all need to look after our skin, especially in the summer but sometimes we need reminding. I always put sun cream on my arms, legs, back and shoulders if they are out in the sun but I often forget about my face and that is out in the sun all of the time. Recently I was sent some of the Pharmaceris S Safe Protective Face Cream SPF50+ to try out.

The Pharmaceris S Safe Protective Face Cream is recommended for daily protection of the particularly delicate skin of children and babies from the 1st day of life against intense sunlight and environmental aggressors (cold, wind). 

Although it’s specially formulated for the delicate skin of children, it can also be used by adults who experience hypersensitivity from the sun. It’s particularly good for adults with atopic skin which often struggle with adverse and/or allergic reactions to the sun’s rays and chemical filter sun lotions.

This sunscreen creates a very high protection sun shield against the damaging rays of the sun. It does this using a 100% mineral filter formula, which creates a physical screen on the skin to reflect and diffuse UV rays. It also fends off environmental aggressors, such as the cold and the wind, as well as significantly neutralising free radicals responsible for photoallergic reactions. The lightweight lotion reduces the risk of sun induced eczema, allergies, irritation and itching, and keeps skin comfortable thanks to the inclusion of hygroscopic molecules, which enhance the regeneration of the skin to diminish dryness.

I tested the sunscreen on my hand to see what it felt like and after rubbing it in it felt like there was nothing there but I knew I was protected by the sun. There was no sticky residue that you get with some sun creams and there was no real smell to it. I could smell it a little but it wasn't unpleasant or overly scented.

It is advised to use the Pharmaceris S Safe Protective Face Cream everyday and to reapply every two hours or after swimming or bathing. The 50ml tube has a recommended retail price of £15.50 and will last a while, a little goes a long way. 

Do you always remember to put sunscreen on your face?

I was sent the The Pharmaceris S Safe Protective Face Cream free of charge in exchange for this blog post.

(Ad - Gifted) Hydrosil HydroBrow! A treatment for itchy, flaky brows!

 I go through phases of having dry skin, usually in the winter and now, in the height of summer. It is always my forehead and the skin under my brows which suffer. Flaky and itchy brows are a common problem typically caused by underlying dry skin conditions such as eczema or contact dermatitis, chemicals in skin care products or from brow waxing, plucking, dying or microblading. I don't think I have any serious skin conditions, just seasonal one's which are irritated by the make up that I wear.

There are virtually no over the counter treatments for itchy flaky brows and no prescription treatments either so that's where Hydrosil HydroBrow comes in, it is one of the first dedicated treatments for itchy flaky brows.

Repair brow barrier function, reduce flaking, increase brow hydration and bring immediate relief to itchy, red and flaky brows with the transparent brow serum containing natural patented complexes.

Hydrosil HydroBrow is a natural brow gel containing three proven ingredients to help relieve itching, redness and flaking of the eyebrows.

Passion Fruit Seed Extract

Extract of passion fruit seed has been incorporated into a patented active complex with proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. The passion fruit seeds used in this product have been upcycled from the normal processing of the passion fruit for human consumption.

Chicory Root Extract

An extract from chicory root has been incorporated into a prebiotic complex that’s proven to repair and strengthen brow barrier function by encouraging the growth of good brow microbiota while inhibiting the growth of bad brow bacteria that can lead to itching, redness and flaking.

Australian Tea Tree

A patented extract of Australian tea tree with proven antimicrobial action to help inhibit the growth of bad brow bacteria that can lead to irritation, dryness and flaking.

To use it you simply apply liberally to entire length of brow twice a day. I have tried it on and it obviously feels wet putting it on but after a few minutes it dries out and there is no sticky or bitty feeling left, in fact my eyebrows feel softer than usual.

It's not just for us ladies, Hydrosil HydroBrow is unisex so the men can use it too. Stu suffers with itchy, flaky eyebrows, especially in the winter so I think I will be buying more for him later on in the year.

Hydrosil HydroBrow is vegan and free from SLS, sulphate, parabens and perfumes. It is available to buy from the Skin Shop website and costs £8.50 for a 7ml tube which I think is a fair price.

Do you suffer from itchy, flaky brows?

I was sent the Hydrosil HydroBrow serum free of charge in exchange for this blog post. 

(Ad - Gifted) The Gillette Labs Exfoliating Razor with Magnetic Stand!

 Father's day is next month and it's time to start thinking about gifts for those special men in our lives. I know anything shaving or beard related is always a hit with the dad's especially around Father's Day.

If the man in your life prefers the clear shaven look the latest drop from Gillette Labs, the Gillette Labs Exfoliating Razor will make morning routines more effortless with the first ever built in exfoliation bar, accompanied with a lifetime warranty!

The Gillette Labs with Exfoliating Bar is the world’s first razor with exfoliating technology built into the cartridge. This means that it is designed for a quick and easy shave that is no longer a chore but something to be enjoyed. The exfoliation bar removes dirt and debris, such as dead skin cells, before the blades pass, thereby allowing for a close and accurate shave.

What's more, the 2D FlexDisc technology used will move according to the contours of your face to help ensure comfort and close contact is maintained with every stroke of your razor.

This razor is designed to be used with Gillette Labs razor blade refills which are also compatible with the Gillette Labs Heated Razor.

This men's razor has a durable handle that can easily last for up to five years. It's metal handle comes with a premium magnetic stand so you can store your razor and handle conveniently after each use. 

This is available to buy from the Gillette website for £22.49 but I suggest you do shop around as supermarkets are also selling it for a lower price. It is a fantastic set and looks so fancy,  stylish and is a great addition to any bathroom.

As well as the Exfoliating Razor with Magnetic Stand you could pair it with the Gillette Rapid Foaming Shave Gel. This shaving gel rapidly foams and easily rinses off, leaving no sticky residue. It ensures seamless razor glide and helps protect your skin from shaving irritation. It cools and sooths the skin and is made with sea kelp and without any alcohol or dyes. It has a light and refreshing fragrance of cedar wood and orange peel which when combined creates a sophisticated and masculine scent.

Are these the type of gifts a man in your life would appreciate?

We were sent the The Gillette Labs Exfoliating Razor with Magnetic Stand & Gillette Rapid Foaming Shave Gel free of charge in exchange for this blog post.

(Ad - Gifted) Treat Mum to the Scents of ARRAN this Mother’s Day!

 This Mother's Day, treat the most important person in your life to the exquisite, evocative scents of ARRAN Sense of Scotland. From the stunning signature scent, After the Rain, to the refreshing citrus fragrance of Glenashdale to the fruity, floral freshness of Glen Rosa.

ARRAN, the family run firm has been creating vibrant, evocative scents that are proudly manufactured on and inspired by the breath taking surroundings of the Isle of Arran for three decades. There's a gift for everyone from candles and aromas to opulent gift bundles.

You may remember last year I tried out the Just Grapefruit Room Spray from ARRAN Sense of Scotland and I loved the scent that much when I was asked if I would like to try another product out I went straight for the Glenashdale Discovery Gift Set.

Introduce loved ones or yourself to the citrus notes of Glenashdale with the Glenashdale Discovery Set. An awakening blend of grapefruit and green leaf. 

This invigorating fragrance is a zesty blend of freshly rasped lemons and essential oil of grapefruit and finished with the clean, crisp lift of bergamot.

Each Set includes a 30ml Bath & Shower Gel, Shampoo, Body Lotion and Soap. They really do smell amazing and I have been using them very sparingly as I want them to last as they are so nice. 

The new and improved branded gift packaging is fully recyclable and more compact to reduce waste. Now contains 100% PCR bottles as they continue their commitment to being 100% PCR by 2022. (The post-consumer resin (PCR) bottles are made from recycled plastic made from discarded items such as plastic milk and drinks bottles.)

This gift sets costs just £10.00 and I think it is a great price for something which seems so luxurious. It would make a lovely treat for any woman in your life and with Mother's Day coming up it is something to think about! 

I was sent the Glenashdale Discovery Gift Set free of charge in exchange for this blog post. 

(Ad - Gifted) OR, je vis - The Ultimate Care Gel Cream!

When I was younger I didn't really look after my skin it's only since I turned 40 a couple of years ago I thought I should be looking after it more, especially on my face. I actually have a cleansing routine now, saying that makes me feel like such a grown up but I think the older I get the more I am taking time for a bit of self care.

Recently I was sent a gorgeous, luxurious beauty treat to try out. OR, je vis - The Ultimate Care Gel Cream from Odile Paris.

OR, je vis has a lightweight gel formula composed of high performance molecules of anti-ageing ingredients which stimulate the natural defences of the skin. With continued use, the skin regains it's balance, its comfort and its luminosity.

Arriving in such a pretty box I was excited to open it and I wasn't disappointed. It looked so fancy and couldn't wait to get it on my face.

The key ingredient to OR, je vis is Abyssine657 - a molecule that provides stimulation of the skin’s natural defences. Discovered in the abyss of the sea, the ingredient is synthesised by a microorganism, which enables its survival in an incredibly hostile environment. Biotechnological research has shown that Abyssine657 reinforces the skin’s natural defences and strengthens its ability to withstand exterior aggressions such as wind, pollution, lack of sleep, or stress.

It's the little things like a spatula being included which make me happy. You take the necessary amount with the spatula and apply it daily to clean skin. Focusing on sensitive areas, gently pat the treatment onto the face and allow it to penetrate the skin.

OR, je vis goes on like a dream, it isn't sticky and soaks into your skin easily. I have been using it for a week and can already see and feel the difference in my skin. It might look like the container is small and you don't get much of the gel but it's one of those things where a little goes a long way.

The Ultimate Care Gel Cream OR, je vis, 50ml, is available for £125 from the Odile website. Yes it is expensive but as a luxury treat for yourself I think it's worth it. It would also make such a wonderful gift for any lady in your life.

I was sent the OR, je vis - The Ultimate Care Gel Cream free of charge in exchange for this blog post.

(Ad - Gifted) The In Full Bloom Range from Mad Beauty!

We have tried a few things from Mad Beauty in the past. I think the products that they sell are a lot of fun as well as cute and certainly not overpriced. In the past had fun with the The Disney Princess Face Mask Collection and have since gone on to buy them as a gift for someone and when our hands were suffering with all of the hand washing we tried out the All-Hands collection including hand wash and soap sticks.

Recently we were sent some of the products from the Full Bloom range to have a look at. With it almost being March we can almost start to think about warmer weather coming.

Live life in full bloom with our delightful, giftable floral bath and body range, capturing the essence of an English country garden on a summer’s day. How cute are these! They make me feel warmer just looking at them.

MAD Beauty Full Bloom Lip Balm Duo - £7.99

Two handy floral lip balm tins in cherry and vanilla fragrances, in a garden inspired pop up gift box.

MAD Beauty In Full Bloom Melting Bath Petals - £10.99.

MAD Beauty In Full Bloom Bath Salts - £3.50

A floral bath salts bouquet to brighten up bathroom shelves with the fresh and uplifting fragrance of tuberose.

MAD Beauty In Full Bloom Hand Care Set - £4.99

The perfect gift for hardworking hands. Includes a shea butter infused tuberose fragranced hand cream and a pretty floral nail file.

MAD Beauty In Full Bloom Fizzer Trio - £7.99

Inspired by an English country garden, this trio of fizzers is a delight for the senses, with the sweet floral aroma of tuberose.

MAD Beauty In Full Bloom Watering Can Gift Set - £13.99

The perfect gift for the green fingered! A tuberose body wash and sweet pea body lotion presented in a real usable mini watering can.

I think these are all great gifts and are great prices too. With Mother's day coming up at the end of next month they are something to think about. As a mum I would certainly be happy with any of these things. 

What is your favourite item from the In Full Bloom Range from Mad Beauty?

I was sent a these products from Mad Beauty free of charge in exchange for this blog post.