THE BODY SHOP VITAMIN C GLOW RANGE REVIEW

 

It's my daughters birthday next week and she will be 19.  As a single mumma money has always been tight but I do like to splash out a little on birthdays. When I asked her what she would like for her birthday she said 'mum I really don't need anything but I absolutely loved that Body Shop Vitamin C cream you gave me months ago'. Now my daughter often benefits well from the fact I write reviews, she gets her pick of the most expensive creams, but the one she utterly loves is The Body Shops Vitamin C range.  She seems to have good taste, as it was in 2011 that I clearly remember it was one of Kylie Minogue's favourite products too. I am a huge fan of Kylie so these little snippets of information stick in my brain, and after a quick Google search there was the article on her skincare regime at that time and The Body Shop Vitamin C was mentioned!

Luckily for me, (and for my daughter as she's about to get gifted for her birthday), The Body Shop have brought out their latest Vitamin C products in the 'Glow' range. Having a box of products that were waiting in line to be reviewed, I've had to crack on so I can give these to my eldest for her birthday in a few days! So they've jumped the queue!

The Body Shop Vitamin C Daily Glow Cleansing Polish 100ml £12

This facial polish is the perfect antidote to dull, dehydrated and skin that is in need of a good cleanse. The microfine scrub really delivers into buffing and cleansing the skin so that it's left feeling really clean and radiant. Ingredients include:-

• Coco-Glucoside - the base that is derived from coconuts ensures gently cleansing without stripping the skin.
• Cocamidopropyl Betaine - again derived from coconuts, this hydrating ingredient is ideal for sensitive skin, it helps remove impurities and is ideal for those who suffer with eczema.
• Perlite - an ingredient that is mattifying and has tiny spheres that help unblock clogged pores and eliminates bacteria.
• Jojoba Esters - aids in reducing dryness and flaky skin, is anti-aging and helps plump up the skin.
• Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate - derived from vitamin C, this helps give skin radiance and treats dull skin. It's skin brightening properties are ideal for tired and dehydrated skin conditions.
• Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder - calming, anti-inflammatory, this ingredient is ideal if you have been in too much sun. 
• Myrciaria Dubia Fruit Extract - aka Camu Camu Fruit Extract, rich in vitamin C and full of anti-oxidants that protect the skin from environmental pollutions.

The gentle gel formula feels rich and luxurious upon first application, and thus stops the fine exfoliation beads from being too intense on the skin. After massaging on to dry skin (for the sake of the photo I tested on the back of my hand), I applied a little water and it emulsified into a light lather, that left the skin feeling fresh and deeply cleansed. Without any other moisturiser my skin at this point was glowing. 

The Body Shop Vitamin C Glow Revealing Serum 30ml £26

My daughter's going to love this part of her birthday present. Whenever I get asked the question 'where should I spend my pennies on skincare'? I always recommend on serums. Serums are packed full of active ingredients. One of the reasons why they often come in dark bottles, is to protect the ingredients from the sunlight to keep ingredients at their optimum. This serum is an absolute must for anyone who suffers with dull, tired skin that needs a good injection of radiance.

The light, delicate serum comes in dropper format, which is essential as you only need a couple of drops pressed into your face. Key ingredients include:-

• 3-0-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid - vitamin C, the key ingredient in a high quality and quantity that gives an immediate beneficial dose to the skin. Ideal for UV damaged skin, dull, dehydrated skin, dark spots, hyperpigmentation. Over time skin just doesn't look more even toned and radiant, but it gives the skin the defence it needs to ward off fine lines and wrinkles. 
• Propylene Carbonate - nourishing, excellent if you have dry, flaky skin, this ingredient delivers hydration and ensures skin looks and feels smooth. 
• Palmaria Palmata Extract - an algae that helps tone the skin and creates a micro-fine barrier to protect the skin and keep it hydrated.
• Bakuchiol - this potent anti-oxidant is derived from the Psoralea Corylifolia plant. It helps protect the skin from external aggressors such as the sun, pollution and exposure. It can also help prevent the signs of aging such as fine lines. 

You only need a small amount daily to get maximum benefits. It immediately sinks into the skin and leaves it feeling soft, glowing without any sticky residue. The active vitamin C is such a high quality/quantity you will notice results immediately, and from the evident rave reviews on the internet, will notice longer term results after a couple of weeks. 

The Body Shop Vitamin C Glow Boosting Moisturiser 50ml £20

The product my daughter 'can not live without'. This has been amazing for her acne prone, teenage hormonal skin. She swears by it, and I've seen such a huge difference that she has gotten the confidence to finally be makeup free for work, and not cover her face with foundation! I wish I had before and after photos from when I gifted her this a few months back, but it really has made that much of a difference. She works hard on a pittance of an apprenticeship wage (under £4.50)! and this is the one product she spends her literally, very hard earned money on!

So what makes this moisturiser so amazing? Well key benefits are similar to the serum, it treats dull, dehydrated skin and gives skin that much needed glowing boost. It's ideal if you work long hours, work in polluted areas and yet is very gentle on all skin types including acne prone like my daughters. It's excellent if you suffer with hormonal breakouts and have oily skin as it comes in a light, gel format. It's moisturising without being heavy, so is ideal if you feel like your makeup can sometimes slide of your face. It is also a good formula to use in warm, humid weather conditions. 

Again you only need a small amount as it spreads thinly onto the face, but doesn't leave it feeling tight, just fresh and nourished. Ingredients are similar to the serum but also include:-

• Sodium Hyaluronate - this has a smaller molecule than the often talked about 'hyaluronic acid' so penetrates the skin even more. Skin is left hydrated for up to 24 hours and thus reduces flakiness and dry patches, leaving the skin feeling comfortable all day. 
• Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate - vitamin C, as above skin brightening and also helps stimulate collagen production. In this form skin is left looking brighter and more clarified. 
• Malic Acid - ideal for sensitive skin, this ingredient helps unclog pores, keeps bacteria at bay and acts as a gentle exfoliant.

As with all the products above they come in fully recyclable packaging, yes even the glass! Vegan and of course never tested on animals. I would urge you to look at their website - something I always think people should do to make their own mind up. I'm sent samples and have always written in an honest approach, but one persons opinion may differ from another. You will see that this range has a huge fan base! I'm off to wrap these up for my daughters birthday and will leave you to have a browse here www.thebodyshop.com

THE BODY SHOP AVOCADO CREAM BODY SCRUB 250ML RRP £18 SAMPLE REVIEW

 

I couldn't think of a better prop to photo this product, that is akin to how my skin is feeling from many weeks walking my dog (also in the background), in the heat. My skin is thirsty, parched, crocodile doesn't even cover it, just like the dried up piece of timber, it is simply very dehydrated.

I love a decent body scrub, one that is really gritty, does the job and where you notice an immediate effect and get instant results. The Body Shop Avocado Cream Body Scrub does just that. Some cream body scrubs can bit a bit mediocre, the granules are too gentle, or they come in a jelly that simply doesn't do anything. Not this one - this actually has plentiful of grit to make the difference without being scratchy or harsh, plus it's incredibly moisturising.

There are several ingredients that make up this super, creamy, whippable texture a pleasure to use, that not only ensures an enriching shower experience,  but that actually leaves the skin feeling soft, supple and incredible smooth. Some of these ingredients are:-

• Butyrospermum Parkii Butter/Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter - contains fatty acids to ensure optimum moisturising and hydration. Vitamins that are healing and anti-inflammatory.
• Perlite - helps reduce the look of oily skin without dehydrating the skin. It's a mattifier so ideal if you suffer with excess oil on your back. It also has tiny spheres that add to the exfoliation process.
• Helianthus Annuus Seed oiol/Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil - non pore clogging, contains vitamin E an anti-oxidant that helps protect the skin from the suns UV rays and pollution such as smoke.
• Cetearyl Olivate - derived from the fatty acids of olive oil, this oil is non-irritating and nourishing.
• Juglans Regia Shell Powder/Juglans Regia (Walnut) Shell Powder - finely ground walnut powder is the prime ingredient to help slough away dead skin cells, and give skin a smoother and silkier finish. Helps brighten the skin and remove dullness.
• Persea Gratissima oil/Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil - rich in many vitamins and minerals, avocado is healing, nourishing and protects the skin.

You only need a small amount to make a big difference. As you can see from the photo the walnut shell is very fine, so a table spoon is plentiful to do your whole body. It emulsifies gently into a light, creamy lather. I prefer to use when my skin is damp not wet, so I rinse under the shower, then step away and apply on my legs (concentrating on my knees and ankles), and also my elbows. It also makes for a wonderful foot treatment. Add a few drops of peppermint oil to a basin of water, then after soaking your feet, apply the scrub and massage in. Your feet will look like new! Oh and it smells like the grass from a summer meadow. 

As with all The Body Shop products, this scrub is cruelty free, 100% recyclable tub and 96% of the ingredients are from natural origins. You can read the amazing reviews from other customers - all 5 star here at www.thebodyshop.com

FUDGE CLEAN BLONDE DAMAGE REWIND SAMPLE REVIEW 250ML RRP SHAMPOO £14.95 / CONDITIONER £14

 

Last week my hairdresser Jen came over to do my roots. We've been battling with them for a while, as I am evidently and undeniably now grey. Up until a few years back I'd been able to get away with being balayage brown however, it's been harder to upkeep the darker roots as I simply don't have the time or money to spend on dying my hair.  Jen took one look at my roots and said 'Molly I think it's time to blend in the grey and make you ash blonde, you can't fight it any longer, you have to go with it'. Reluctantly I agreed and as she slathered on the bleach, I said goodbye to the last of my brunette youth.

I have been waiting for this day, and have in the past years gradually built up with more blonde pieces and, as anyone would know with naturally dark hair, getting that perfect ashy shade is incredibly difficult.  Friends are kind and tell me my hair looks caramel, but truth is it looks tinged with orange. It's not that classy blonde I yearn for. I have in my bathroom every purple shampoo on the market, from Fanola, L'Oreal to the new Olaplex, and when I mentioned this to Jen she said 'Molly noooo, you need to be using Fudge, it's by far the best'!  Thankfully I know the Fudge PR and she very kindly sent me some samples to test and review..... and here I am now!

I've taken 2 photos before the process, without any lighting or filters. You can see I have some large bleach pieces and still quite a bit of warmth running through. Before I go into the process, I had asked my hairdresser, what makes Fudge stand out'. She explained that unlike many toning shampoos, 'Fudge doesn't leave the hair feeling dry'. As I delved into the ingredients list, I found it actually treats and conditions the hair, improves hydration and  armours the hair with ingredients to help cope with chemical treatments such as bleaching. The shampoos don't contain any sulfate, an ingredient that in the long term is very drying to hair. The products are cruelty free. 

Fudge's 'unique Opti-PLEX­™ technology penetrates deep into the hair core to reconstruct bonds after chemical, style and environmental damage, as well as weightlessly smoothing the cuticle'.  Ingredients include:-

• Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein - moisturising, helps prevent split ends and nourishes dry, brittle hair. It's absorbed into each hair strand and strengthens to help protect against chemical damage.
• Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein - again moisturising and conditioning, helps protect hair against heat damage and environmental pollutions such as UV rays and smoke.
• Palmitamidoproplytrimonium Chloride - a long word, but simply this is an ingredient often used to help prevent hair from becoming static, it's smoothing and conditioning. 
• Guarana - contains caffeine that stimulates hair growth, and helps it grow stronger and faster. 
• Silicone Quaternium-22 helps protects hair fibres from pollutants, heat and chemical damage. A conditioning agent. 

Having used violet toning shampoos before, I know generally how to get the best from them. First of all don't be scared by the deep colour violet - this is used as it's the opposite colour to orange on the colour spectrum wheel. I also know that if you have very light blonde hair, then you only need to leave on for a minute. For the sake of this review I massaged on the shampoo liberally, and left for 4 minutes before shampooing out. 

Before starting damp your hair. I prefer to use it in the shower, then pile it on top of my head, whilst I shave, exfoliate etc and then wash off. As my hair had a lot of 'caramel' colour, I dampened my hair first then slathered on for a few minutes, before washing off in the shower. Now you can use gloves however, I found that it didn't stain my hands or bath unlike other toners do. I followed with a generous dollop of conditioner (probably too much you only need a teaspoon), and massaged this in mid lengths to ends, then simply rinsed out. 

You can see immediately how the roots look almost lighter, even when wet. 

The results speak for themselves and I was absolutely gobsmacked by what a huge difference it made - by far the best toning shampoo and conditioner I have used. My son walked into my room and said 'Mum you've gone all white...' (he's 14 he will say it as it is), my daughter came back from work and said 'Mum your hair looks lovely you've gone blonder'. After convincing her it was my shampoo she has now pinched it to tone down her highlights!

I don't use any filters and I've taken in the same place with as close as possible to the same lighting as the before photos. You can see the huge difference the shampoo and conditioner have made.  Not just to the colour, all yellow tones banished and in place streaks of beautiful icy white, but wow the shine is amazing - it felt like I'd had a salon deep heat conditioning treatment. 

I would recommend using the Fudge Clean Blonde Damage Rewind Shampoo and Conditioner, once a week. It's excellent if you've come back from holiday, been in the sun and a must if you like swimming! To keep the colour you've achieved then the Everyday Clean Blonde Damage Rewind Shampoo and Conditioner RRP £14 each is ideal. This duo will help keep the colour fresh and gently eliminate yellow/orange tones and product build up. Again it has similar ingredients to help keep the hair in good condition and improve hair health that may be damaged from bleaching etc. 

You can purchase from many stockists including www.amazon.com / www.lookfantastic.com / www.hqqhair.com /www.beautyexpert.com /www.mankind.co.uk / www.allbeauty.com / www.beautybay.com

I would also strongly suggest you go on to Fudge Professional www.fudgeprofessional.com so you read the five star reviews. I'm so chuffed with the results as not only does my hair look better, but it's also saved me money as often I would need a toner after a visit from Jen, and now I don't need one! Oooh and one final note - I did do an Instagram reel @askmollybeauty, so head over to have a look - please note as my daughter who has an A level in social media says 'I'm terribly embarrassing at reels', it's an age thing - but at least I try'! 

Elbow Grease® Washing Up Spray 500ml Sample Review RRP £1

 

Whilst I'm a 'Beauty & Lifestyle' Journalist, I do often get sent the odd product to test, that doesn't fall under the B&L umbrella and I think oh go on then why not. Those who know me well, know that had I not written about beauty etc, then I would certainly be reviewing cleaning products. I am admittedly a little OCD on cleaning, for example if I see sock fluff on the carpet it cannot stay there under any circumstances. If my granite has one smear then I have to clean the whole surface. So I was quite happy to give the Elbow Grease® Washing Up Spray a quick review!

The great thing about this product is you only need a tiny amount, and the concentrated nozzle spray means you don't end up wasting any product. First I tested on my coffee cup - I had purposely left the cup overnight so that it would need a small effort to get it clean. One spritz, no wait time and a little wipe and rinse and my cup was left gleaming. 

I did use with with the Elbow Grease® Scrubbing Pad as once wet it was easy to get right to the base of the cup. Combined both products made removing the stains very quick. Fragranced with a very light, lemon, refreshing scent, my cup was left sparkling white.

I then decided to give it a go on my very built up greasy oven door. You can leave the product for a minutes to let it work, but with me time is of the essence. I literally just sprayed, left for a few seconds and then again with minimal effort, and using the Scrubbing Pad, gave it a little 'massage' and wiped off. You can see for yourself the results - no it wasn't completely clean however, it certainly got rid of most the grease! 

There's a whole range available and whilst, I've not had time to review all the products sent in, I shall certainly be putting them to the test over the next month. Whilst there is a product for every purpose, you can also use this around most washable surfaces of the house such as bathrooms. 

 I've also had a look at the Google reviews something I often do with products, as I like to get customers opinions - most are 4-5 star reviews! For just £1 you can't go wrong! You can purchase here www.bmstores.co.uk

Gold Collagen® Anti-Ageing Lip Volumiser RRP £20 Sample Review

 

Having reviewed the Gold Collagen® Sheet Masks before and absolutely loved them (I took them away with me on my recent holiday, and they kept my skin hydrated), I was looking forward to reviewing the Lip Volumiser. 

I've been blessed with full lips however, at the ripe age of 50 I know that prevention is paramount especially as I do like to get out in the sun. I've a few light lines developing and have noticed recently these are getting deeper, and thus it's time I introduced a regular lip conditioner into my skin routine .I  have always had a lip cream on the go, but often I find them messy and fussy to apply. I don't like ones that I have to apply with my finger, as I just don't like faffing about with the tubes. So I was delighted to see that the one sent to me was in a bullet lipstick form. 

Upon testing it was incredibly easy to apply, something as a busy single mum is a must. It meant I could easily apply in the car, on the train and it was of course mess free. Before I give my verdict on how it feels, here's a breakdown of some of the ingredients:-

• Hydrogenated Coconut Oil - nourishing, helps prevent chapped lips as contains fatty acids so is incredibly hydrating. 
• Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil - rich in ricinoleic acid, an acid that helps prevents water loss. 
• Cera Alba (Beeswax) - a natural emulsifier, beeswax is incredibly softening. 
• Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter - an emollient that is naturally nourishing and repairing.
• Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil - skin smoothing and again rich in fatty acids so helps prevent dry lips.
• Undeclenate Nacre (Mother of Pearl) Powder - this wonderful ingredient contains many repairing properties such as calcium, amino acids and is anti-inflammatory. It also contains anti-oxidants to help prevent damage to lips from the UV rays and pollution.
• Fish Collagen - helps firm and plump up lips, is skin healing and can help restore volume. 

So with a long list of active and nourishing ingredients, how did it actually feel? Well not sticky, more like a silky lip balm. However, what stood this out above all other lip conditioners was the beautiful, iridescent sheen it gave to my lips. This instantly made my lips look fuller and when applied over a neutral lip pencil it gave it a 3d shimmer. 

I've taken 2 photos both in different lights, using it without any other colour or pencil. You can see the natural highlights and the Mother of Pearl shimmering through, making this a multi-purpose product as it treats as well as gives that beautiful sheen. Usually when I test things I gift them out however, this one is staying put in my bag! You can purchase here at www.gold-collagen.com

GEOMAG™ Natural Glow In The Dark Magnetic Rods RRP £34.99

 

It's not often that I review toys, games etc however, often I often come across ones that are too good to not share especially when they cover the spectrum of 'Lifestyle', which I've always written about. 

Geomag™ are a magnetic construction company, and as on the box founded in 1998 and made in Switzerland. This particular set comprises of 20 'glow in the dark' plastic, magnetic rods, 20 metal spheres and 2 'platforms' to hold your designs. The plastic used is 100% recycled, and the company proudly hold a STEM.ORG Certified™ certification.

So why the fascination with reviewing this product? Firstly, whilst I'm a huge advocate of educational toys - and this most certainly is. I've also have first hand experience with autism and can certainly see how these could help with the imagination, whilst proving incredibly calming. Magnets are often used to help not only teach those with special needs, but also in preventing 'meltdowns' by giving a focus. In fact you will often find that both SEN teachers and Occupational Health often have magnets as tools to help children learn about shapes, feelings etc, as they can be easily constructed to suit a subject matter.

Children whether they have special needs or not often respond better to learning by pictures and practical examples. Not only can you build and learn shapes, but you can also use the rods to create animals, people, objects etc. It's incredibly fun, so fun that when I got them out my friend's son didn't want to put them away (he's 13) and it took him away from his PC game (quite an achievement in itself)!

However, not just for children or teens - I know of some people who keep them in their office, simply as a 'fidget toy' during stressful situations to help calm, or to simply wind down after work. They can be used as problem solvers, mathematical solvers as well as for imaginative play. Easily transportable so ideal for car journeys, and just to have a break as above from the computer screen!  They also look good on a nice glass coffee table, a waiting room, a reception area the list is endless.

Of course they also have the added benefit that they're 'glow in the dark' and so come evening, your shape will illuminate in a dark room. This makes bedtimes more exciting for those who refuse to go to bed, and for the insomniacs like me (menopausal) they're great to help wind down for some 'shut eye'. 

All in all this gets my absolute thumbs up - if it were Christmas I would be putting it as the Number 1 spot for my gift guide.

This set is fully compatible with other Geomag™ magnets, so you can build up your collection and go as big as you want to! You can purchase here at www.thetoyshop.com

Pixi Clarity Lotion RRP £24 50ml / Clarity Mist RRP £16 80ml Sample Review

 

Many people notice that their skin changes during the hot summer months, especially those with oilier skin types. It's typical that you may find your make-up sliding off your face more than normal, as excess oil production is more apparent due to humidity and rising temperatures. Even those with drier skin types may suddenly find themselves having to change their skin care routine due to over-active oil production.

Pixi's Clarity range is ideal for those suffering with such changes, be it weather related, hormone related or if you simply suffer with oily skin all year round. 

The Clarity Lotion contains an abundance of ingredients to help combat enlarged pores, shiny skin and breakouts, whilst at the same time providing hydration to keep skin feeling supple, moisturised and prevent aging.  Some of these ingredients include:-

🌿 Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water - helps prevent acne, anti-inflammatory and contains high levels  of vitamins A and C.

🌿 Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract - anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial, ideal for cleansing    pores and helps with skin irritation and sensitivity.

🌿 Arginine - anti-aging and helps plump up the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines.

🌿 Centaurea Cyanus Flower Extract - helps reduce puffy skin types, is soothing and calming.

🌿 Hyacinthus Orientalis (Hyacinth) Extract - anti-fungal and anti-bacterial, helps skin conditions   such as eczema.

🌿Charcoal Extract - purifying and draws out toxins, helps keeps blackheads at bay.

🌿 Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract - cooling, acts as an astringent and helps tone the         skin.

As you can see from the application, the lotion is incredibly light and takes minimal effort to massage in. Skin is left feeling soft, supple but without any greasy residue or stickiness. It's ideal for the hot months not just as a skin hydrator but to also wear as a make-up primer, whilst treating skin conditions with active ingredients.

The Clarity Mist is a must-have to keep next to you whilst working (it's stayed next to my computer all week)! It not only acts as a refreshing toner that can be spritzed to give skin a light glow, but it also can be used to set make-up, remove grime after a long day and is most definitely a must have when travelling, be it train journey to work or after you stepped off the plane!

The Clarity Mist is packed full of active ingredients, some of which include:-

💦Centella Asiatica Extract - anti-aging and provides hydration, also protects the skin from  environmental pollution.

💦Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract - calming, brightening and helps  bring radiance to dull skin types.

💦Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Leaf/Twig Extract - antiseptic, ideal for those who     suffer with acne and breakouts.

💦Vinegar Extract - anti-bacterial, helps prevent eczema and fungal infections.

💦Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Extract - anti-inflammatory, ideal for those who suffer with skin redness and painful spots.

💦Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract - excellent for those suffering conditions such as psoriasis, it's both healing and skin soothing.

This wonderful refreshing mist also contains Cica & Hyaluronic Complex that helps keep skin moisturised in the hot weather and provides hydration to parched, thirsty skin. Products can be viewed here at www.pixibeauty.co.uk