Fjor Hydrolytic® Serum 30ml RRP £97

I like to review products spanning a variety of price ranges, as often I do like to compare ingredients especially when the product is of the higher end of the market price. It seems nowadays that we are obsessed with ‘dupes’ and yes, I’ve been there and done that with features. However, often what we find with dupes, is that whilst the packaging is the same, the product may feel the same, that in actual fact the ingredients are certainly not the same. So is it worth investing in a product such as the Fjor Hydrolytic® Serum at £97!

Before I even tested the serum, I knew the answer was a re-soundable yes. Firstly there is not a huge amount of ingredients listed, which means that the quality and quantity of such ingredients is high volume. Secondly, it’s made in Sweden and they have some of the best skin scientists and brands in the world (they also invented FOREO). Looking at some of these ingredients:-

• Glycerin - a humectant that draws water/moisture to the skin, leaving it feeling hydrated. 
• Pentylene Glycol - used as a moisturising agent but is also antimicrobial and helps ward off bacteria, ideal if you have acne. 
• Sodium Hyaluronate - again holds moisture to the skin, leaving skin feeling soft and supple. It helps increase skin hydration and is therefore anti-aging. 
• Mannose - a natural sugar (monosaccharide) that helps soothe irritated skin types and reduces inflammation. 
• Collagen - a protein that helps skin retain its elasticity and youthfulness. With regular use skin looks firmer and plumper, and is an ideal ingredient to help prevent sagging and wrinkles.
• Carpylyl Glycol - found naturally in coconut oil, again this humectant helps moisturise skin. It is also antibacterial, antifungal and helps reduce inflammatory conditions such as eczema. 
• Protease - a type of enzyme that helps protect the skin from environmental aggressors such as sun and pollution. It strengthens the skins barrier and helps with cell turnover, as has a mild exfoliating effect. 
• M-Prolyl Palmitoyl Tripeptide-56 Acetate - this peptide is wondrous for boosting collagen production. It helps repair and rebuild the skin structure that has been damaged from UV sun exposure. 

The delivery system is by pipette formula that gives precision on application. You only need a couple of drops massaged into your face. Use it morning and evening before moisturiser. 

As a 52 year old post menopausal, stressed out mum of 2 teens, my skin is dehydrated (from medications), tired (from lack of sleep) and gets irritated easily (from hormonal sensitivity).

This feels absolutely amazing on my skin. It’s not tacky but it is heavy enough to make it feel incredibly moisturised (I actually didn’t need a moisturiser after, albeit I should use an SPF). It feels luxurious, and I look forward to seeing results long term.

Dermatologically tested, they offer a 100% money back guarantee on your first order! You can check out the amazing reviews and  purchase the product by clicking their website link HERE

Elegant Touch Salon Spring/Summer Nail Review prices from £5

 

I have regularly reviewed the Elegant Touch however, I always love to receive their latest collections. Many moons ago, I did go through a phase of having acrylic nails, until I realised the damage they cause. I was dubious with the quality back then of fake nails, until I tried this range and then I was converted.

The nails do not budge (see my TikTok video @askmollybeauty). They literally stay put until you soak and ease the off, and they look just like your regular acrylic or gel nail, you cannot tell the difference.

Simply choose the correct size for your nail, add a drop of glue to the centre of your nail and then press the false nail to your natural nail and hold for 5 seconds. The glue applicator is very precise, which is a good thing as it bonds in seconds (do not get on your skin or near your eyes)!

You get 24 nails in each pack with the glue, so there is a size for every nail. You can also choose your preferred shape when purchasing from ‘Stiletto’ which is more pointy, to a variety of ‘Square’ shapes, as well as various lengths.

I have always been super impressed by the final finish. Ideal for weddings, christenings, birthdays, holidays and especially ideal if you cannot afford the upkeep of salon nails. 

The ‘French Tip’ come in sheer, natural, neutral colours some with different degrees of thicker tips, you can be sure to find something that is your personal style. 

They also have a variety of natural coloured nails from Ballerina Pink, a gentle, sheer tint pink to Molten Metallics, a neutral pink with silver squiggle designs. If you prefer to paint your own nails, then they also have clear.

Prices start from just £5 and are available to buy from Superdrug, Amazon, Sainsbury’s, Boots or by clicking the link HERE

L’Occitane En Provence Almond Delicious Shower Cream 200ml RRP £17.50

 

Fans of the L’Occitane Almond range are going to be delighted with their latest launch this May. The Almond Delicious Shower Cream is simply divine and I’ve been raving about it to all my friends, especially those with dry skin types. It’s ideal for those who need a moisture injection into their body care. 

Not only does it smell utterly delectable, sweet, creamy and slightly nutty it has amazing ingredients to really hydrate and nourish dry skin types. Ingredients such as:-

• Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil - contains a high level of Vitamin E, that helps strengthen the skins barrier protecting it from environmental aggressors. Has high antioxidant properties, protects against UV rays and also helps with scarring. Sweet Almond Oil has a high concentration of fatty acids, so really nourishes dry, dehydrated skin types. 
• Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil - contains anti-fungal properties that help prevent skin infections. It also contains Oleic and linoleic acids, that help keep the skin firm and is also healing with inflammatory conditions. The high levels of omega-6 fatty acids are soothing and help eradicate redness. 
• Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter - as above, this ingredient soothes the skin, softens dry rough patches and leaves skin refined. It is also good for conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. 
• Sorbitol Olivate - keeps the skin supple. Sorbitol is a humectant that retains moisture so skin is more hydrated. Olivate (Olive Oil) has an abundance of fatty acids again that strengthens the skins barrier, protecting it from harsh weather elements and pollution.

You only need a small amount as it does emulsify well. It goes on like a thick, whipped cream, but once added with water, turns into a milky consistency before it then emulsifies into a gentle lather. 

The formula does not strip the skin of any oils, is non pore clogging and left my hands without the need for hand cream! 

You can check out the other products in the range and see for yourself the 5 star reviews from customers. Visit in-store or by clicking the link HERE

O.P.I Infinite Shine® Spring Nail Polish Review RRP £17.50

O.P.I is a well known trusted brand of nail varnish that gives the quality of a salon finish, it’s long been my favourite nail brand, indeed I bought Nail Envy when it first launched on QVC probably in the 90s! However, I am even more of a fan now they’ve launched their latest formula that includes ‘gel-like wear’ that lasts for up to 11 days. This gives the salon finish of a gel manicure without all the hassle of applying and removing. 

I have recently had major spinal surgery, and as soon as I could sit for 20 minutes (still struggling), I treated myself to a gel manicure at my house. I really wish I hadn’t! As the gel wore off and I, ignoring all the advice I give to others, picked the rest of it off I’ve been left with such damaged nails, that one of them is now glued as keeps splitting. All the drugs in hospital and the shock of the operation has had a huge knock on effect of my skin, nails and hair! So I was delighted to receive some of the latest colours in the new gel-like formula from O.P.I

A Sherbert Thing

A flattering soft, peachy tan shade that suits all skin tones, especially those with golden or warm undertones. It’s a universal colour and suitable for all occasions. 

Faux-Ever Yours

A beautiful opaque, dusty, pastel pink that looks gorgeous for brides, weddings and again a colour that suits all skin tones. It makes nails ‘pop’ if you have a tan but is also soft enough to wear for fair toned skin.

Ready, Sunset Glow

A soft, tangerine orange that is striking for your holiday. The colour immediately gives off vibes of summer, and makes a welcome change from all the dark, brooding colours of winter. It looks fantastic on dark skin tones and with a tan.

Strongevity

A true sky blue, that again will put you into that beach vibe mode. The stunning shade of blue is a show stopper for all skin tones, and a huge on trend for Spring Summer 24. It’s the perfect colour for your toes and looks amazing with white open toed sandals. 

Purple Reign

If you still love to have your darker, mysterious colours then this is a perfect upgrade for Spring. The pearlised amethyst shade is shot through with shimmering highlights of green and silver, and really catches in the sunlight. 

The colour is easily removable with nail varnish remover (no need for filing down and using strong acetone). There’s a huge range of 70 colours to choose from, all the products are vegan and cruelty free. You can check out the range by clicking the link HERE or by visiting major branches of Boots online or in store.

L’Occitane En Provence Barbotine Eau de Parfum 50ml RRP £70

 

I love sourcing unusual fragrances and it’s the biggest compliment when someone asks you what scent you are wearing. However, I always feel a bit possessive when sharing my scent secrets, as I like it to be signature and personal to myself. Unfortunately when reviewing perfumes, I obviously can’t keep the scent to myself, and so I’m reluctantly letting you on to one of my favourite scents. Barbotine by L’Occitane En Provence.

This delicately scented fragrance, is green, crisp with light florals and ideal as we come into the spring and summer. Its aromatic notes give an uplifting and mood enhancing scent. Notes are:-

Top Notes

Bergamot, Mint Leaves, Lily of the Valley

Heart Notes

Golden Button, Chamomile, Ambergris Notes

Base Note

Cedar, Musk, Sandalwood

The refreshing notes come from the Mint Leaves, this definitely comes through even into the middle notes. I can almost detect spearmint that makes it reviving and ideal to wear when you need a pick-me-up. The aromatic note of Golden Button is also known as Cotula Coronopifolia, and has bright yellow flowers that when crushed give off notes similar to lemon verbena. With the Chamomile, this gives a clean, crisp scent that slowly melts into the Ambergris, Cedar, Musk leaving a grounding, earthy scent. Whilst this has a light floral from the Lily of the Valley, it goes marginally undetected, and so I would say it is certainly a scent for both men and women. It is herby, invigorating and try as I have, the only fragrances that I’ve found similar is Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Herba Fresca and Massimo Dutti Chamomile and Sandalwood. 

There is a whole wardrobe of products from this range, so you can layer the scent including Shower Gel £17.50, Body Lotion £26 and Soap £6. You can purchase it by clicking on the link HERE

SBC Skincare Hydra-Collagen Replenishing Cream Cleanser 300ml RRP £21

 

If anyone was to ask my favourite part of my skincare regime, it’s always cleansing. I think it’s due to the massaging technique and that, even when I am pushed for time (every day), there’s something about cleansing that makes me focus on the ritual and being in the moment. 

This is why I love a cream cleanser and why I especially love a cleanser that is multi-purpose such as the Hydra-Collagen Replenishing Cream Cleanser. Not only does this remove all traces of makeup, dirt and grime but it leaves dry skin, feeling incredibly nourished.  This is due to the amount of active ingredients such as:-

• Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter - nourishing and hydrating, Cocoa is rich in photochemical (plants) that help protect against environmental aggressors such as UV rays. 
• Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter - has a high concentration of fatty acids that protect the skin against pollution, as well as being anti-inflammatory so ideal for skin conditions such as eczema. 
• Soluble Collagen - helps improve elasticity in the skin, making it appear firmer. 
• Passiflora Incarnata (Passionflower) Seed Oil - has an abundance of lycopene that helps protect against UV rays, so is naturally anti-aging. 
• Tocopherol (Vitamin E) - hydrating and acts as an emollient so binds water to the skin, making it appear firmer and plumper. 
• Carica Papaya Seed Oil - has a high concentration of vitamin C and Citric acid, making it a great ingredient to help give radiance, and also stimulates collagen production. 
• Aleurites Moluccana (Kukui) Seed Oil - ideal for those who suffer with dry, itchy, irritated and inflamed skin conditions. It’s highly moisturising containing poly and monounsaturated fats as well as other vitamins. 

The cream itself is rich and feels luxurious to apply with its creamy whipped texture. Once massaged into dry skin simply remove with a cotton pad, or as I prefer a warm wash cloth. You can also rinse off with warm water.

It leaves skin feeling incredibly soft and supple. The huge 300ml (it’s available in other sizes), will last for months too.

Made in the UK, the packaging is recyclable and cruelty free. To purchase and read the 51, 5 star reviews on this product click HERE

Salt Of The Earth Deodorant Review 75ml / 100ml Spray RRP £7.49

 

I have reviewed ‘natural’ deodorants in the past, and I do think that the market for these is becoming so much more popular, as we seek to become more in tune with what we put on our bodies. I, for one, am much more aware of how synthetics can affect our health. Only recently I applied a roll on deodorant from a main brand that I had actually used before, yet this time round it caused an awful reaction to my armpits.

However, what stands this brand out from many others is the formulation and that it’s geared towards menopause and hormonal sweating.  Again it’s no surprise that during menopause, many women suffer for years with excessive sweating and a more acidic odour, which leads to stinkier armpits. Unfortunately menopause also brings on sensitivity, and changes in our skin’s balance can create havoc with topical sprays/creams. Hence, my reaction to my usual deodorant that caused an awful rash to develop.

So how is the formulation different? In standard antiperspirants they’re designed to block the pores to reduce sweating. However, in these products they actually leave a very fine film of natural mineral salts on top of your pores, so do not block them. The ingredients have been carefully selected to work in harmony together to give optimum protection against body odour. 

These ingredients are 100% natural, vegan and also include Microbiome properties, which I’ve spoken about in the past, as they actively reduce bacterial that causes odour. Other ingredients include:-

• Potassium Alum - a natural alternative to harsher chemicals, this ingredient helps kill bacteria and forms a barrier that protects bacteria from multiplying. 
• Triethyl Citrate - 100% natural ingredient that inhibits sweat, it is suitable for all skin types including those who suffer with acne. 
• Sodium Lactate - is used as a moisturiser but also has antimicrobial properties, so helps prevent bacteria growth. 
• Magnesium Chloride - Magnesium is essential to help our nerve function and also helps regulate or PH levels in our body. We often lack magnesium especially when we sweat, and it plays a vital role in helping get rid of cramps, restless legs etc. It’s best applied topically as it’s transdermal so gets into the skin, and this is why it’s often found in bath salts etc.
• Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder - calming, soothing and helps those who might suffer from chapped skin, especially under the arms. 
• Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil - is anti-inflammatory and helps strengthen the skin’s barrier. It’s suitable for all skin types. 
• Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract - helps fight acne and ward off bacteria.

The ingredients slightly differ from the roll on to the spray however, both have Menthol, Clary Sage and Lavender, which gives a cooling and relaxing fragrance. Having tested it kept me completely fresh from 7.45am until bedtime, and that was having done a gym session! Oh and didn’t leave any white marks on my black gym top! Most importantly, the bottles are re-fillable so helps eliminate plastic waste. 

The brand is vegan, free from all chemical nasties including alcohol and are cruelty free. You can find out more about the brand, see the huge variety on offer or purchase by clicking the link HERE

Lab by Natura Siberica Biome Glow Booster Peel-Off Mask 75ml £12

 

I love a peel off mask but I am hoping as I’m testing this that it comes off in larger pieces, rather than those peel off masks that just flake, that’s just my personal preference.

Regardless as soon as I applied this it felt absolutely amazing. It’s cooling in texture (maybe as it does have alcohol), so you get a tight, toning effect immediately.

Before I show you the results, let’s have a delve into what is ‘Biome’. The skin is the largest organ on our body, and it’s filled with microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi etc - these are essentially your microbiome. Each person is different to what makes up their biome and will find that their bacteria lives in different places on their body next to someone else. The purpose of skin biome is to predominately fight infection.

So what does this mask contain, here’s just some of the ingredients:-

• Glycolic Acid - an exfoliator that comes from sugar cane, it works to remove the top layer of dead skin cells, leaving skin smooth.
• Maltodextrin - a plant based sugar often used in skin care as a binding agent. 
• Lactobacillus Ferment - helps prevent bacteria growth, is wound healing and protects against environmental aggressors. 
• Papain - a natural exfoliant that also helps prepare the skin by making skin more receptive to further topical products such as serums. It also helps reduce acne and keep blackheads at bay. 
• Salvia Officinalis Leaf Extract - aka Sage, which has a huge quantity of antioxidants. It strengthens the skins barrier and makes it less sensitive to environmental factors such as pollution. 
• Thymus Vulgaris Extract - another bacterial fighting ingredient that helps prevent infection, inflammation and so ideal for acne. 

The product itself is a gold, shimmering gel that glides onto the skin. You only need a thin layer to cover the face. 

It is now ready to come off and I’m very happy that it is indeed a decent and satisfying peel off mask (check out my live on TikTok @askmollybeauty). My skin was left feeling smooth and as you will see from the live video (if you have TikTok), my skin was left glowing!

Excuse the glamorous photo, but you can see without any other product my skin is literally glowing!

You can check out the full list of ingredients, reviews and purchase by clicking the link HERE

Living Proof® Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray RRP £37 355ml

I stupidly didn’t do a before and after for my blog whilst testing this however, if you go on to my TikTok @askmollybeauty you will see the before and after live. I don’t say much on there except wow! For the simple reason that this volume spray is amazing!

Yes it is expensive, but for 355ml bottle it will last ages. It’s a new product from Living Proof® and guarantees to give 48% more uses from their usual sized bottle. It works in several ways, by giving volume, adding texture, is long lasting and also protects the hair from heat appliances.

However, texturising sprays have a lot more uses than just adding volume. They’re also an essential part of hair transformations, especially for ‘up-dos’ and wedding hair. If you need volume and for your hair to stay in place all day, then this product works amazingly well. It also gives enough grip for Kirby grips to stay in place, and the more you back comb and build up, the better the ‘scaffolding’ so to speak.

My hair is porous, frizzy, flat and lifeless but just a few sprays (these are quite strong gusts so you only need a few), and my head thrown upside down and it really transformed it. 

Whilst my hair probably should have been washed (it hasn’t for 3 days), the difference was amazing! You can purchase by clicking the link HERE

Elemental Herbology Water Soothe Reed Diffuser 173ml £26.25 (usual price £35)

 

With less than a week until Easter, and having been pretty house bound following a spinal operation, I’ve left it a little late for Easter presents. Thankfully I’ve been sent a few products to review for Easter, and whilst I would ordinarily keep this for myself, I also think it makes a wonderful gift, especially if you are visiting family and friends over Easter.

Before I begin, this is not just a ‘reed diffuser’ that you would buy just anywhere. The reason it’s expensive is the quality of the oils and the beautiful glass bottle (display worthy in the lounge rather than the downstairs toilet)! 

It is made without any artificial colourings, mineral oils, sulphates, parabens and only uses high quality oils. This is reflected as soon as you open the bottle. Based on the 5 Chinese elements, Water epitomises stillness of a lake and returning our inner being to peace. 

The glass bottle comes with natural rattan reeds, to optimise the diffusing of the oils into the air. With notes of:-

• Bergamot, Bitter Orange, Red Fruits
• Jasmine, Neroli, Rose
• Sandalwood, Moss, Amber

This blend (I would like it in a perfume), is sophisticated, calming and evokes an instant shoulder drop of tension. Bergamot is an uplifting essential oil that induces positivity, whilst the woody fragrance of Sandalwood helps promote relaxation and reduces stress. 

The diffusers are cruelty free, currently reduced and you can purchase by clicking the link HERE

L’Occitane En Provence Shea Butter Beauty Easter Egg RRP £18.50

 

If you’ve recently been to the supermarkets or seen on social media, most Easter Eggs have gone up a whopping 50% this year. So this year I’ve decided to get a bit inventive with my Easter gifting, and thus made up paper bags, filled with some mini eggs and giving an Easter gift in each bag. 

The L’Occitane Easter gifting range is ideal to gift someone special. Especially for those who don’t actually eat chocolate, many of my friends follow a Keto diet, are lactose free and some, like me, only eat dark chocolate (where the eggs are super expensive).

These cardboard eggs are filled with best-sellers from the various ranges of L’Occitane. The Shea Butter Easter Egg comprises of travel sizes (more generous than sample sizes), that will last a long weekend. Inside you will find:-

    🐇 Shea Butter Hand Cream 30ml

    🐇 Shea Butter Ultra Rich Body Cream 20ml

    🐇 Shea Butter Shower Oil 75ml

As you would expect the products have high quantities of Shea Butter. An ingredient that is full of fatty acids that help nourish dry, dehydrated skin and leave it incredibly soft. It also contains anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe red, itchy and irritated skin types, making it ideal for those who suffer from skin conditions such as eczema. 

The Shower Oil has a high concentration of Grape Seed Oil, high in linoleic acid which helps to strengthen the skin’s barrier which in turn protects the skin from environmental pollution. It also contains vitamin E, known to aid in the healing of acne scars and sunspots.

The Ultra Rich Body Cream also has Sunflower Seed Oil, an oil that is non-comedogenic (doesn’t block pores) and its rich concentration of Shea Butter makes it ideal of the mos sensitive of skin types.

The Easter Eggs are recycled and recyclable and all the products included are vegan. You can purchase and view the Easter gifting range by clicking the link HERE

Elemental Herbology Harmony Bath & Body Oil 145ml RRP £33

 

I have a huge love of multi use products, as not only does it save on time but it also saves on money. I also have a huge love on good quality essential oil products, ones where the essential oils and oil blends are not artificial, and actually have an impact on the body and mind. The Elemental Herbology Harmony Bath & Body Oil ticks all the boxes.

Of course, the oil is not just skin healing and conditioning, but it’s main purpose is to soothe, calm and restore those who suffer with anxiety, tension, an over-active mind and create a sense of well-being.

Not only can the oil be used in the bath (just put a couple of pumps under running water), but can also be applied massaged into the body before showering. Upon impact with the warm water, the oils penetrate into the skin and really nourish the body leaving it feeling silky soft. You can also apply to the skin after showering or bathing which, makes the skin smell and feel amazing. Since receiving this, I’ve kept it next to my bed and massaged into my skin to help wind down my overactive mind!

So what are the active ingredients that make this stand out from the rest of the oils on the market.

• Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride - derived from coconut oil and glycerine this is non pore clogging, so ideal for all skin types including those with oily skin. It’s anti-inflammatory and helps replenish dry skin types.
• Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil - rich in many vitamins including A and E. Protects against pollution, dust and grime as well as UV rays. 
• Prunus Persica (Peach) Kernel Oil - contains an abundance of fatty acids that really help to nourish dry skin types, as well as being anti-inflammatory so ideal for those who suffer with redness and irritation. 
• Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil - helps improve the skins elasticity, so ideal for sagging skin. It’s very similar to sebum, the skins natural oil and so aids in nourishing and preventing stretch marks. 
• Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil - helps reduce oily skin and acne, as it’s antibacterial and helps prevent breakouts. In aromatherapy, Mandarin Oil is used for uplifting and calming an overworked mind. 
• Cedrus Atlantica Wood Oil - Cedar Oil is used in body oils to help reduce bacteria that again, can cause breakouts. It also has antimicrobial properties so protects against fungal infections. 
• Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil - full of vitamin C, that helps give skin radiance. It’s an uplifting oil that gives clarity and positivity. 
• Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil - Geranium Oil, helps stabilise skin that is over reactive to dry or oily skin conditions. It’s balancing and often used in aromatherapy to balance hormones.
• Pogostemon Cablin Leaf Oil - Patchouli Oil, skin smoothing and adds radiance to dull, dehydrated skin types. It also helps with sensitive skin as contains anti-inflammatory properties. The essential oil leaves the mind feeling centred with a sense of calm and well being. 
• Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil - antiseptic and antimicrobial, again this prevents fungal infections, can help prevent bacterial infections and also has a deodorising effect on the skin. It is soothing to the mind and can help release serotonin in the brain.
• Boswellia Carterii Oil - otherwise known as Frankincense, this therapeutic oil helps repair the skin, and is good for inflammation, as well as releasing muscle tension.

The Oils come in a variety of formulas and are based on the 5 elements of Traditional Chinese Medicine: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. This Oil is based on ‘Earth’, that represents stability, the home, love and being nurtured. It represents balance. 

The Oil will help clear your mind however, it CANNOT be used in pregnancy. Also caution must be taken when using in the bath due to the high concentration of oils that can make the bath slippery.

You can purchase by clicking the link HERE