Lab by Natura Siberica Biome Hydrogel Eye Patch 60 pcs RRP £9.99

 

I was sent these a while back however, I wanted to save the review for the party season as they're an essential part of rehabilitation for the morning after, and certainly an essential treatment prior to the big event (be it Christmas party, having to get into work or just having to face the day)! 

There are a few different types of eye patches to choose from the Natura Siberica Biome range. They can be used to treat all types of eye ailments from dehydrated, tired, itchy, puffy, anti-aging, toning the list goes on. I was sent the Hyaluronic Eye Patch and the Refreshing and Smoothing Eye Patch. 

'The Biome Base: Postbiotic active 1%, Northern cloudberry and Wild raspberry fermented extracts help support your skin's microbiome, while maintaining  healthy skin and helping to keep your natural youthful looks'. 

Each pot contains 60 eye patches in your chosen serum. Simply take 2 out and press lightly under your eyes and leave for up to 15 minutes to allow the product to soak in. After removing and discarding, just tap lightly with your ring finger to press in any excess.

The Refreshing and Soothing Eye Patches are ideal after a heavy night, be it from partying, lack of sleep from menopause or being a new mum. The patches are formulated to specifically target puffy eyes, and include ingredients such as:-

• Rubus Chamaemorus Fruit Extract - Cloudberry - packed with vitamin C this wonder ingredient repairs the skin and helps calm puffy, irritated eyes with its anti-inflammatory properties. 
• Rubus Idaeus Fruit Extract - aka Raspberry fruit, high in anti-oxidants that help reduce the signs of aging, rejuvenate tired eyes and help protect the skin from UV rays. 
• Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract - soothing, cooling and toning ideal for tired eyes.
• Mentha Arvensis Leaf Extract - field mint, refreshing, cooling and firming. 

The Hyaluronic Patch has Hyaluronic Acid a substance that is a natural fluid found in our eyes and joints. In skincare it helps retain water, so wrinkles look diminished and skin will look and feel plumper. Panthenol is known for it's skin protecting properties and helps alleviate itchy, red skin around the eyes. It rapidly hydrates the skin so your eyes look fresher and more wide awake! The patches also contain Cloudberry and Raspberry along with many other active ingredients.

Here are the after results from using the patch on my left eye (in this photo facing it is the right eye). You can see there is a remarkable difference between the two as my wrinkles and dehydration lines have evidently diminished. Whilst I haven't tested for the long-term benefits, there is no doubt that for short term use these most definitely work! 

The award winning products are cruelty free and have only 5 star reviews on the website! You can purchase them here at Natura Siberica

Odylique by Essential Care Prebioitic Rich Hydration Cream 50g RRP £29

 

Given my platform of readers are mostly Essex and the South East, I'm guessing that you've all had some snow - indeed in Brentwood, we've had over 15cm and so I've not been outside much as its been incredibly icy.  That saying, I have managed to get out of my road in my car, and finally walk a very much sulking dog! 

In these extreme weather conditions where you get the weather elements of bitter, cold winds combined with the warm central heating (or not, I've taken to wearing a hat and coat in the house), the elements play havoc on our skin. Now is the time when we really need to ramp up our skin care and for most of us that means a richer, more hydrating cream and one that gives a barrier to protect against wintry conditions.

When looking for a winter skin cream, you need to be looking for one that ticks all the boxes, hydrating, protecting and one that aids skin health and conditions.  The Odylique Prebiotic Rich Hydration Cream is not only 100% of natural origin but is certified organic, vegan and PETA cruelty free. It has a cocktail of ingredients to ensure your skin gets the best protection, such as:-

• Persea Gratissima (Avocado Oil) - contains vitamins A, C, D and E so helps protect the skin from environmental aggressors, shields the skin from UV rays, nourishing and hydrating. 
• Ricinis Communis (Castor Oil) - rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, incredibly moisturising, helps with inflammation from pimples and is anti-microbial so helps ward off spots. 
• Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Seed Extract - enhances elasticity in the skin, giving a youthful appearance. Contains large amounts of vitamin C that gives radiance to dull complexions. 
• Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary Extract) - toning and helps tighten the skin, whilst warding off bacteria with its anti-bacterial properties.
• Lactic Acid - helps improve texture and is a natural exfoliant without stripping the skin.

The cream is rich and you only need a small amount however, you can see from the photo (left is before) that there was a remarkable difference just with one application. Obviously this is superficial for the first use however, with continued use and the quality of ingredients I shall be interested in the long-term results. I loved how it immediately gave a plumping effect and my skin looked radiant. Often I gift samples once I have tested them however, this is staying with me throughout winter! You can purchase here at Odylique

Lotil Skincare Sample Review

 

Lotil is a brand that I have always recommended. Whilst it's marketed and sold on the shelves as a skincare brand, I often think that the line should be placed under the medical section as well as skincare, as the formula helps heal many conditions from chapped lips, dry patches, eczema etc, and it's non scented, basic formulas are suitable from birth to 99. A small tube should be in every medical household cabinet!

The British brand has a huge fan base from the moment it first launched 100 years ago and has become one of the top brands used by both men and women as a staple for moisturising dry, cracked skin. With prices starting at just £1.99 for the SPF30 lip care, not only is it rated 10/10 but also very cost effective.

The Lotil Foot Cream £5.92 114ml is a rich cream that is designed not only to lock in moisture but also contains Aloe Vera, known for its cooling and soothing properties. Ideal to use at night, simply massage into feet then for an extra treatment, apply cotton socks and in the morning, you'll wake up with super soft tootsies. The formula also contains Rosemary known to be antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral so will help keep fungal infections at bay. Ideal to use after swimming or on holiday, especially if you've been walking around barefoot!

The Original Cream £7 114ml (pictured above), comes in various sizes so you can pop one in your travel/handbag/nappy bag/desk etc. This rich cream sinks into the skin and doesn't leave any greasy residue. It's not only ideal for moisturising the body, but helps heal cracked cuticles and hands, especially in the colder, winter months. It can be used in the hot weather to help chafing legs and ideal to use in pregnancy to prevent stretch marks.  Key ingredients include: -

• Oleic Acid - hydrating and moisturising, helps keep skin nourished, soft and supple. Ideal for dehydrated, dry skin types.
• Glycerine - acts as a humectant, so allows the skin to hold in moisture. It helps protect the skin from environmental aggressors such as sun, wind, rain and extreme cold.

There is something for everyone in the range for Christmas, whether it's a mum to be, teacher, sportsperson. My 14yr son will love the lip balm, as it's non-scented and protects the lips from drying out and chapping as well as having the added SPF30 to protect against the suns UV rays. Whilst my 19yr daughter will grab the moisturiser, as the unscented base means she can have softer skin without the scent clashing with her body spray! You can check out the range here at Lotil

Wype Sample Review Christmas Mystery Gift Box RRP £20

 

I've not heard of the brand Wype before however, had I been sent this press release around 16 years ago I most certainly would've used the brand personally, as my children were toddlers and bio-degradable wipes, were not really common back then! 

Wype was founded by Giorgia Granata and Eli Khrapko who met whilst studying for an MBA. Their vision was to create a gel that would eliminate the way we use wet wipes, a gel that was natural, safe enough for babies and most importantly wouldn't clog up our seas. It was a task that would prove to be difficult, as not only did it have to be environmentally and skin friendly but also cost effective. However, with sheer determination within months Wype was born, and if you only look at the Trust Pilot reviews you will see it has a huge, loyal fan base.

This year to add even more fun to the brand, they've brought out an 'A**hole or Angel' Mystery Gift Box. The recipient won't know what they're getting, and you will not know what you are choosing - it will be left to the senders to decide, have you been 'naughty or good'. 

I was sent the 'A**hole' as Santa obviously thinks I've been naughty (for the record I'm a complete Angel)! Inside the box was a bundle of goodies that made up for a fun and novelty gift idea. 

• The 'Ring of Fire' Smokin' Ghost BBQ Sauce 100ml - this sauce has a heat level of 3 so perfect to add just a little tomato spice. The versatile sauce is vegan and vegetarian and can be used as a condiment to meat, fish, pasta etc. 
• Let it Burn Candle - this gorgeous candle smells utterly amazing, and has notes of tobacco and honey, making it the perfect unisex candle with smoky, woody undertones with a slight hint of sweetness.
• 3 x Wype Mini Natural Toilet Paper Gel - to use, simply add a pump of the gel to toilet paper and it instantly becomes a wet wipe. The 30ml size is ideal to take with you travelling, festivals or if using, in your nappy bag. It has extracts of Aloe Vera, known for healing and anti-inflammatory properties, Chamomile for soothing inflamed skin, vitamin E and moisturising coconut oil. The product is fragrance free, paraben free and pH balanced.

My only gripe with the set for the A**hole is the poem that came included. I would personally omit this, as it is rather 'harsh' and if you're sending this directly you won't know what gift they'll get.  Otherwise, if you know the recipient can take a joke, you have good banter or it's for your little brother who's constantly winding you up - then leave it in! 

You can purchase the Mystery Gift Sets for £20 here at Wype

Noble Isle 'The Greenhouse Sussex Country Garden' Sample Review

 

If you don't know about this brand, then I will begin by telling you it's quintessentially British, made in the UK, Vegan, Cruelty Free, Sustainable and uses extracts of flowers and plants, many of which are sourced as local as possible.

This year marks the brands 10th Year Anniversary, and I have been lucky enough to receive a sample of The Greenhouse Sussex Country Garden Candle and The Greenhouse Sussex Country Garden Bath & Shower Gel.

The fragrance is the epitome of an English garden and has at the base of its fragrance the scent of Sun Gold Tomato Leaf, sourced from the stunningly, beautiful Gravetye Manor. The Manor, based in the Sussex countryside is famous for its home grown produce, that is not just used in cooking but in fine fragrance. 

The Bath & Shower Gel 250ml RRP £22 turns a humdrum, basic wash, into a mesmeric spa ritual, one where your mind will be transported into an oasis of a walled garden, on a warm, summers day. With notes of bergamot, jasmine, honeysuckle, the floral sweetness is balanced by the grounding, gentle spicy notes of patchouli. Crispy, revitalising mint and cucumber add to this banquet of scents, giving that memorable and distinctive countryside freshness.

You only need a small amount under a running warm tap, to fill the bath with a delightful number of bubbles, or if you prefer a small amount onto a sponge, body puff to lather all over your body.  The Sungold Tomato Extract contains Lycopene an antioxidant that is known not just for anti-inflammatory, and skin balancing properties but also helps protect the skin from the sun's harmful UV rays, helping prevent sun damage. Skin is left feeling fresh, softly scented and nourished.

The Greenhouse Sussex Country Garden Candle RRP £42 has the same fragrance, and at 200g gives plenty of burning time. If I tell you that it gives off the crisp, floral scent by just being placed in the hallway without being lit, you may get an inkling of the quality of essences used. At that price, the quality of essential oils used mean that the fragrance is long lasting and will fill your house up with delicate fragrance.

These make amazing Christmas gifts; however, it would be very hard and tempting not to keep yourself. If you check out the website now, they have some amazing 'Black Friday' deals on although, you may find them being snapped up very quickly! You can view the whole range of different fragrances, home scents, body care here at Noble Isle

heaven® by Deborah Mitchell Mens Sample Range

 

I haven't tested the 'Mens' range on myself, as a mans skin is naturally denser and often oilier in texture however, I have been sent some of the products in the past and gifted to the men in my life to test. Here are some of the testimonies.

Firstly, my darling dear departed father - my mother used this when she used to shave him, and her words I remember clearly 'darling that shave cream that you asked me to test, could you get me some more please as I found it so easy to shave your father'. Sadly, he died last year but I remember very well her using the Sensitive Close Shave Cream, she always mentioned it!

My boyfriend last week 'Molly that heaven® range you let me test about 5 years ago, can you get me some more please for Christmas, it was brilliant'?

Then of course there are the 5-star reviews on the internet that you can do just a quick Google......

So, I was delighted to receive a few products from the 'Mens' range this year, knowing that my boyfriend will get this treat in his stocking. At the moment the products are on 'Black Friday' sale so it's an ideal time to get out there and purchase. 

• Sensitive Close Shave Cream £9.50, RRP £19 - this isn't just a shaving cream, it acts as an exfoliator and moisturiser in 1. Containing Tea Tree, a natural antibacterial essential oil that helps ward off bacteria and prevents spots forming. It also contains Aloe Vera that helps reduce inflammation and calms skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
• M4M Anti-Ageing Moisturiser 4 Men £18.50 RRP £37 - contains vitamin A that helps reduce breakouts, is skin healing and naturally moisturises. Vitamin A contains antioxidants that help protect the skin against environmental aggressors such as pollution. The moisturiser also contains vitamin E, that helps reduce scarring and promotes even skin tone. 
• 02 Eye Cream £14 RRP £28 - giving long-lasting results this eye cream contains the famous ABEETOXIN® that 'natural Botox'. Derived from Bees, this patented ingredient helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles and gives almost a 'relaxant' effect.

The products are on sale right now here at heaven® Skincare however, be quick as I am not sure how long they're on sale for and will probably be snapped up very quickly by the thousands of loyal fans! 

EH® Emma Hardie Moringa Luxury Body Scrub Sample Review RRP £42 350g

 

There are body scrubs and then there are body scrub treatments. The difference being that body scrub treatments are a bath time ritual, not only do they give results such as smoother skin, but they take a boring bath, into a personal spa, whilst at the same time aiding skin health.  The EH® definitely gives that spa like treatment, and so deserves its 'luxury' branding. 

So, what makes this product stand out more than the others on the market, £42 is a lot of money to spend on a product, and so I always like to breakdown the ingredients so you can see that your money is not just going on packaging and marketing, but actually going into the product itself. 

Ingredients include:-

• Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil - helps aid skin health and improve conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis. The combination of fatty acids and vitamin E help repair sun damage. 
• Maris Sal (Sea Salt) - a natural exfoliant that also is anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory.
• Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil - high in omega fatty acids, this helps moisturise the skin and gives the skin its plumpness. It's good for oily skin as has high levels of anti-inflammatory properties. It's also known for being a powerful antioxidant and helps protect the skin from environmental aggressors such as pollution. 
• Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil - containing vitamin A, a natural ingredient that helps re-build collagen and helps firm the skin. 
• Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Seed Oil - high in vitamin C and omega fatty acids, this ingredient gives skin a natural radiance and helps smooth uneven skin tone. 
• Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil - a non-pore clogging moisturiser so ideal for oily skin types.
• Magnesium PCA - helps repair the skin barrier, promoting stronger more resilient skin.
• Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract - toning and tightening, helps ward off cellulite and increases circulation to problematic areas, where fat is naturally stored.

The consistency of the scrub is rich, creamy and packs a powerful punch in exfoliating salt, so only a small amount is needed to give incredibly smooth and radiant skin. It's ideal for pre-tanning, a must-have if you want smooth pins in that Christmas dress but also to give yourself baby soft skin. An ideal Christmas present for those who 'have it all' or need a little extra pampering this year. Cruelty Free using high quality ingredients - this is why it's most certainly a luxury item! You can purchase here at Emma Hardie

Germaine de Capuccini Sperience Ambience Candle Review RRP £31.60

 

I do love a candle, yet I am constantly on the search for the Holy Grail of candles, that give that immediate spa fragrance, one that isn't synthetic, doesn't give me a headache and most of all I can actually smell! I think I have finally found one that ticks all boxes!

Germaine de Capuccini is a brand that I more familiar with their skincare line. I have used the brand many moons ago in a local salon, and remember it being a luxury, high end salon brand that gave incredible results. I'm kind of wishing that I hadn't opened up the website, as back then it wasn't available to buy online, only in the salon itself. Today having looked at the website, I am feeling rather tempted, and as a single mother of 2, money is of course very tight. Nevertheless, my home is smelling utterly amazing!

The 'Ambience' Candle is all about relaxing. The notes are well known for their tranquil, shoulder-dropping, tension releasing benefits. Notes such as Lavender, Sandalwood, Patchouli, Voilet and Ylang-Ylang, that lend not just to a relaxing atmosphere but give warmth and nurturing to any home. 

The essential oils chosen are well known to aid mental health healing: -

• Lavender - calming, helps aid anxiety and rebalances the mind.
• Sandalwood - woody and sensual, helps promote concentration so ideal if you're working from home.
• Patchouli - aids stress, anxiety and helps relieve depression.
• Violet - this earthy, floral note is good for stability and feeling grounded.
• Ylang Ylang - helps reduce panic, calms the mind and helps with positive thinking

The candle runs for approximately 40 hours burning time, and is made from 100% essential oils. You can check out the 5-star reviews from customers here at Germaine-de-capuccini

heaven® by Deborah Mitchell The Christmas Pink Set Sample Review £55

 

Deborah Mitchell, I first met many years ago when working for the press. Her brand had been established for quite a few years and she was holding an event in a hotel near Regents Street. It was a plush affair with many celebrities attending some A list however, what stood out to me was Deborah's warmth and passion for her products. This passion has stood her well as Deborah's brand heaven® has gone from strength to strength being stocked world-wide not just in salons but 5-star hotels and airlines.

I have used the products before and as a Beauty Editor who has tested hundreds of brands can say, it gets results. I can remember testing the Bee Venom Mask and was excited as it had been hailed as 'Botox in a jar', well I can honestly say, it really does make an instant, remarkable difference. So, I was super excited to receive this gift set from the latest Christmas range to review.

The Christmas Pink Set RRP £55

This gift set is the perfect gift to introduce someone to heaven® skincare, as it suits all skin types especially mature. It contains generous travel sizes that will last a good couple of weeks, so you will be able to see the difference once used (often these sizes are too small to get the real benefits).

Included in the box is a 15ml Divine Cream, 45ml Cleanse & Foam, 30ml New Edition Cleanser and 30ml Orange Hydrogel - the box actually gives you £90 worth of product for just £55.

Some of the ingredients include:-

• Organic Mandarin & Orange - both of these contain vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin against environmental aggressors such as pollution, smoke and harmful sun rays. It also helps reduce pigmentation and gives the skin radiance.
• ABEETOXIN­® - this patented wonder ingredient is in the best-selling face masks as mentioned above and is the latest additional ingredient in the new cleanser. It gives an instant firming, effect so skin immediately looks more youthful and toned. 

 

The set is formulated to encourage users to 'double-cleanse' something that I've always been passionate about. Double cleansing ensures that skin is clear from all dust, pollution and grime and therefore prevents blackheads and spots from forming. The ingredients in the cleansers, also give your skin the best chance of being receptive to all active ingredients in the moisturisers. 

The Orange Flower Cell Renewal can be used to tone the skin, prime before make-up and to moisturise whilst, the Divine Cream sinks into dehydrated skin and can also be used as an eye-cream, to prevent fine lines and wrinkles occurring.

All of this is beautifully presented in delicate, pearl pink pump bottles, that lends itself to luxury and quality skincare. You can purchase here at heavenskincare

Kikkerland Cat Yoga Magnets RRP £13.50

 

I don't usually write up on gifts unless they fall under the umbrella of Beauty & Lifestyle however, when I was sent these fridge magnets to review, my hand hovered over the reply button on my email, a tad too long. A few days later and these very cute magnets were delivered.

It's also no coincidence that the stockist is Oliver Bonas, one of my favourite shops to browse in especially near Christmas. In fact, it was only last week that I had a quick browse in the Liverpool Street Station branch and saw these hanging up. I have far too many friends who are cat lovers, and I have already mentally made a note, to gift these out to one who's been helping me walk my dog (who is NOT a cat lover), since I broke my ankle.

Included in the pack are 5 cat magnets, all posing in their various yoga stances. So not only a great gift for cat lovers but also for those who love their yoga! The magnets are sturdy enough to hold a piece of paper to the fridge, so not just for decorative use! A great stocking filler or 'Secret Santa' you can purchase them here at Oliver Bonas

Kikkerland Galileo Thermometer RRP £17.87

 

Every year PR's start sending over their Christmas product ideas at the end of summer, often I only focus on beauty and lifestyle however, once in a blue moon something comes along, and I think actually that is different even if it has nothing to do with my usual area of writing. Last year I remember, including some fun items and I wanted to do the same this year. Especially as gifting can be so hard sometimes.

The Galileo Thermometer isn't just fun and ideal for all ages, men and women, kids, teens but it looks so stylish. It's such a universal product to gift. For instance, my teenage son, who's currently doing his science GCSE will love this - however, it won't be displayed in his room. No, it's going on the dining room shelf as it's a talking point and looks so expensive!

Then of course it is actually very useful, the balls rise and fall according to the current temperature. This thermometer works on the principle discovered by Galileo that the density of a liquid changes as temperature varies.  Each glass ball is weighted by partially filling the spheres with liquid.  When the temperature rises, the liquid in the glass cylinder becomes less dense, and the heavier balls sink slowly to the bottom. 

I think this is by far the most interesting gift, and ideal for someone who is hard to buy for. Its glass design is simple enough to fit in with most decors, and I rather like the fact it will fascinate my son rather than his XBox! You can purchase here www.amazon.co.uk

The Body Shop Box Of Wishes Advent Calendar RRP £55 worth £95.50

 

Once again, I've been lucky enough to receive The Body Shop Advent Calendar, and it's the only time my eldest actually shows interest in my reviews. In fact, she badgers me consistently as if I've been lucky enough to receive one, I always gift her as part of her main Christmas present. However, this year I can firmly hands down say we are sharing this!

There are 3 different calendars to choose from, ranging from £55, £95 to £145 and in the past, I have reviewed all the price brackets. All have astonishing savings and all of them have the delectable 'pop up' design that makes them so unique. The one I've reviewed today costs £55 and is worth £95.50, and I have to say, that I find it just as good as the one from last year (the £145), as it contains most of their best-selling items but in travel sizes (which I personally prefer, as I'm often too impatient to use a full size one)!

The box contains 2 neatly filled rows of smaller boxes, each tightly packed into the create a jigsaw of surprises.  Every box has an inspiring message, which makes the advent even more special. I also love the idea that you can gift the individual boxes, if you prefer to give away a product (although I would find these hard to part with). 

I don't wish to ruin the element of surprise, however, have opened a couple of the boxes so you can have a sneak peek at what's inside.

No 8 'Your nourishing Mango Body Butter is made with 96% ingredients of natural origin: sustainably sourced Community Fair Trade mango seed oil from India; handcrafted Community Fair Trade shea butter from Ghana; and Community Fair Trade Brazil nut oil from Peru. Rub in and enjoy its rich and creamy texture this Christmas'.  For those who have never tried the Body Butters, they are simply the best in leaving skin feeling, soft, supple and nourished. The 50ml size has enough to last at least a week as you only need a small amount. Use all over the body or as I do, and massage into your feet in the evening, pop cotton socks on and you'll have the softest feet in the morning. Delicately scented, these leave the skin smelling lightly of sweet mango.

No 1 'We are counting down to Christmas by sharing our wishes for a fairer, more wonderful world.  For the next 23 days, let's meet some of our Community Fair Trade partners and discover how this programme helps us to be a force for good. This box contains the fruity, fizzy and most scrumptious Strawberry Shower Gel that makes showering a lot of fun. The smell fills the bathroom with a sweet, berry fragrance and leaves skin feeling good enough to eat! Kids love this, adults love this - it really is a shower gel that brings a smile to your face.

Of course, on the back of the box is a full list of products so scroll on down if you don't wish to see!

The Body Shop pride themselves on leading the way in sustainability and sourcing ethically, as well as using recyclable materials. In this box you will find products made with mango seed oil, collected by the women mango collectors in Chhattisgarh, India. By purchasing this item, you help support them with their income. The products are of course cruelty free and many of them are vegan too. Check out the rest of the calendars here but be quick as they are selling very fast! www.thebodyshop.com

The Body Shop Christmas 2022 Gifting Review

 

Every year I am lucky enough to be sent some of The Body Shop Christmas gifting range. It is, in essence the highlight of my year, and one of the reasons why I do love writing even though I don't get paid. I often used to give centre stage to The Body Shop when writing for the press, as quite simply they do the best gifts for everyone. Every year when I think they can't beat the fragrance/formulas of previous years, they somehow come out with new combinations, and they surpass themselves. Of course, many of the products are so popular they just re-invent the packaging and pretty much sell out as soon as they hit the shelves. 

Another reason is that the gifts can be made personable. Choose from a variety of gift pouches, boxes and bags from £3 and fill to your hearts content. The packaging is recyclable and working with Teddy Exports, The Body Shop's first Community Trade Partner, they've designed and made the 100% natural jute pouches. 

I also have slight favouritism as I'm a huge advocate for products that are sustainable, ethically sourced and that give back to the community, something The Body Shop is known for and passionate about. Anyway, here's a look at what's in store this year. 

Unwind & Rest Sleep Intro Gift RRP £28

This is the perfect gift for anyone who is in need of sleep, rest and relaxation. Whilst I type this, I feel fluey, aching and have been resisting the painkillers, I don't have time to be unwell as I have school runs, and as a single parent I have 3 dependents (including the dog). This is the perfect gift set for anyone who just needs some nurturing.

It contains the heavenly Lavender & Vetiver Hair & Body Wash 200ml, Lavender & Vetiver Essential Oil 9ml and Lavender & Vetiver Bedtime Balm 30g. Lavender has long been used in aromatherapy to induce a feeling of well-being and a state of relaxation. Its calming fragrance has a sedative effect that has been used traditionally in alternative medicine world-wide to help with insomnia and sleep difficulties. Likewise, Vetiver has a deep, tranquil scent that can send you off into a deep slumber. 

The Hair & Body Wash is ideal for anyone, and as a 2 in 1 formula I find them ideal for children (especially after swimming, when most kids don't want a separate shampoo and body wash). It's also ideal for teenage boys who often want to wash and go (the fragrance isn't overtly powerful, so they won't smell like lavender)! 

The Essential Oil and the Bedtime Balm is a blend that is ideal to massage into temples before you hit the sack. Both can also be used warmed into the palms of your hands and pressed gently onto pulse points. With the Essential Oil, I have in the past mixed with water into a spray bottle and spritzed into the bedroom to give an ambience of calm. 

Fresh & Festive Edelweiss Skincare Duo RRP £38

I've written an 'essay' blog post on the new Edelweiss range (see previous month), such was my love for the newly adapted, what used to be the 'Drops of Youth' range. Edelweiss is the 'super-charged' version of 'Drops of Youth' and was re-branded earlier this year.

This set contains the best-selling Liquid Peel 100ml and Intense Smoothing Cream 50ml. The Liquid Peel is an exfoliator that once massaged onto skin, gathers into tiny beads that gently but thoroughly exfoliates the skin, leaving it incredibly smooth. Followed with the Intense Smoothing Cream, which contains Moringa seed oil from Rwanda and leaves skin feeling hydrated. The vegan set is ideal for anyone who works in the city, in polluted areas and who finds their skin looking dull and tired. 

Hugs & Kisses Avocado Hand & Lip Duo RRP £10

The perfect 'Secret Santa' gift this cracker contains Hand Balm 30ml and Lip Care Stick 4.2g in nourishing Avocado. Full of essential fatty acids including palmitoleic acid, this rich, creamy set is ideal for anyone with dry hands and dehydrated, cracked lips. The Avocado range is vegan and made using Hass avocado oil grown in South Africa, and like all The Body Shop ingredients is ethically sourced.

The Pine & Divine Wild Pine Essentials Gift Set RRP £23

I'm still using the Wild Pine Shower Gel having reviewed it only a month or so ago. It simply encapsulates Christmas with its subtle, fir pine scent and is one of my favourite scents for destressing.

Included in this scent is Wild Pine Shower Gel 250ml, Wild Pine Body Lotion-to-Oil 200ml and Wild Pine Hand Balm 30ml.  The Body Lotion-To-Oil is one of my favourite products, as it works by melting into the skin as a light body lotion but leaves a beautiful glow of oil without any sticky residue. It's perfect on pins for a night out and gives skin that almost filtered glow, whilst leaving it softly scented of sweet pine. The Hand Balm is a must for anyone with dried, cracked and splitting cuticles as it works to nourish and repair damaged nail beds, and restore dry hands.

Spiced Orange Body Butter 200ml RRP £18

Ahh the famous Body Butters, that paved the way for many copycats yet not one brand has managed to get that perfect formula founded by The Body Shop. They've led the way in the market and whilst many may try and follow, they simply haven't got that perfect recipe. 

This year's Body Butter is a mixture of scrumptious orange, vanilla and cinnamon. It is undeniably festive, citrus, nurturing and spicy the perfect combination that encapsulates the winter months. It's light in fragrance, almost aromatic and as such is a Body Butter that would suit everyone. Rich in Shea Butter it works to retain moisture, gives a barrier to protect against harsh elements and trust me, your skin will be looking tip top after using this. Whilst The Body Shop have a foot range, this also is a lovely treat to massage into tired tootsies at the end of a long night. 

Slather & Glow Face Mask Gift RRP £23

I think out of all the gift sets this is possibly my favourite, albeit it's tough to choose. I love the way it opens like 2 drawers to reveal not just 4 facemasks but a great headband too. I also love the choice of facemasks as they suit all skin types from oily to dry. There really is something in here for every skin type so this makes it an easy choice for when gifting someone, especially if you don't know their skin type.  

Included are 4 15ml facemasks: -

• Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask - ideal for those who work in heavily polluted areas and needs a deep cleansing mask. Ideal for those whose skin suffers from a build-up of dirt, dust and grime. 
• British Rose Fresh Plumping Mask - idea for mature skin types, dehydrated and those that need to pep up tired skin.
• Japanese Matcha Tea Pollution Clearing Mask - another mask that is good for those who work in harsh elements and that have also been under the weather. 
• Nicaraguan Coffee Intense Awakening Mask - a must have to give you that wide awake look, especially for that morning after a heavy night. This tightening, toning mask will help you look as if you've had a few more hours sleep.

All the masks include sustainably sourced Community Fair Trade tea tree oil from Kenya that helps support small-scale farmers. 

Wild Pine Body Butter 200ml RRP £18 / Wild Pine Sugar Body Scrub 250ml RRP £18

Limited edition these products are already getting 5-star reviews on the website, and they've only just come out. Vegan and smelling heavenly they're sure to be sold out before Christmas.

Start with applying the Sugar Scrub on to dry elbows, knees whilst standing in the shower or bath. I prefer to apply directly to my dry skin and then, sink into the bath and let the essential oils transport me to a wooded pine forest. Alternatively apply onto damp skin under the shower (although I usually step away from the running water as I massage in). The Sugar Scrub gives a thorough exfoliation without being harsh so ideal for sensitive skins. It's a must before baring legs in Christmas frocks and will leave your skin feeling smooth and renewed. 

The Body Butter is infused with Pine, Mint and Sandalwood and gives a whopping 96-hour hydration to the skin. The consistency, as with all the Body Butters is a rich, creamy texture that glides onto the skin with ease. The uplifting scent is an instant shoulder drop and whilst massaging in, you can feel the tension just leaving your body. Breathing in deeply and exhaling slowly, whilst applying makes this more of a medicinal ritual than just a skincare product. The fragrance itself, like the Orange is aromatic, woody and can be used by both men and women. 

Finally, before I finish this review. I am a huge advocate for refugee children, a close friend of mine fosters refugee children and I have heard first hand of the nightmare journeys they've had to undertake to simply get to a safer life. 

This year 'The Body Shop launched its activism campaign, Be Seen. Be Heard, to amplify young voices in the halls of power. That's why each purchase of our beautifully crafted giftsets will help The Body Shop donate to Children on the Edge, who create safe spaces where refugee children can learn, play and thrive. 

'We hope to reach £100,000 to fund over 195,000 days of education for refugee children across Uganda, Bangladesh and Lebanon so they can build brighter futures for themselves and their families. 5p from every pre-filled giftset purchased in store, online or from The Body Shop At Home ™ between 4th October to 31st December 2022 will be donated to Children on the Edge up to the value of £100,000. Registered charity no. 1101441

I absolutely love the range this year, it's got such a good Christmas seasonal fragrance that I can't wait to share it with you. Please check out the rest of the range here but warning - these will sell out quickly!

www.thebodyshop.com