GHOST Mystical Dream eau de Parfum 30ml RRP £29

 

I’ve recently reviewed quite a few Ghost fragrances and for the price and longevity have been pleasantly surprised. They make ideal Christmas presents and this one, I think is particularly suited to young adults, as quite lively and fruity. I also like that it’s recently launched (this year), and that it is sold exclusively to The Perfume Shop (see link below), so the scent is a little different from those stocked in major department stores. 

The Ghost Mystical Dream opens up with lively fruit notes of Blackcurrant and Sweet Orange, giving a sparkling, vibe that exudes feminine energy. Middle notes include Jasmine, Tuberose and Orange, again keeping the fragrance vivacious and juicy. However, base notes of Patchouli, Tonka Bean and Vanilla lend towards a nurturing, warm scent and whilst keeping the sweetness, softens the scent to stop it being over-powering. It’s marketed as a ‘sunset’ fragrance, and I can see how the warmth of the base notes does feel like the sun closing down on an Indian summers day. It’s the ideal transitional scent from summer into autumn. 

The perfume is Vegan and I rather like it for a teens - young adult fragrance, as it’s vibrant and bubbly, rather than overtly sensual. 

Of course with many, the bottle is everything and so just like the perfume, this berry, faceted bottle looks great on the dressing table and the 30ml size will easily go into a handbag. Whilst I’m more of a citrus and woody kind of wearer, my 20 year old daughter absolutely loves this and so I will be sneaking this into her Christmas stocking!

Sold exclusively at ThePerfumeShop.com or by clicking the link HERE

Earthy Nail Polish WonderFall Collection Sample Review RRP £24.95

 

With a new nail bar popping up in most towns yearly, if not more, it’s not hard to presume that nails and colour are a huge part of what we spend our money on. Most of my friends have worn gel nails and acrylics, some would not be without them. However, the truth is they can damage your nails by weakening and causing brittleness. I turned away from gels after I started getting vertical ridges down my nails and so for the last few years have stuck to polish. 

I have reviewed the Earthy brand before and put it in the press. At the time of writing for the regionals, I would be sent a lot of samples and so now I write freelance, I am more selective of what I put in (I don’t get paid for writing these reviews). Earthy is a brand I personally recommend as the colours treat your nails. This is not just a superficial nail colour, the VEGAN ingredients are free from 21 harmful chemicals. The formula contains both calcium and magnesium, ingredients that help fortify nails, strengthen and protect them from environmental damage. The magnesium helps prevents those vertical ridges and so encourages nail growth, whilst calcium helps support nail and bone health.

New for Autumn and Winter are the jewelled, rich earthy tones that compliment the seasons colour palette. This set has 4 colours each 11ml that will see you through your nail colour wardrobe until Spring next year.

 Cocoa Bean

This muted, caramel, chocolate brown has a luxury velvet feel. It’s smooth in texture think whipped caramel and is incredibly classy on both fingers and toes. It really enhances the remnants left of a summer tan, bringing out the warm hues in golden skin tones. 

Forever Green 

This Olive green again has muted undertones, that almost cross over to eggshell green. A soft green that has neutral undertones so ideal for any skin tone. It’s incredibly trendy and ideal for transitioning into Autumn, with its understated and delicate tones.

Celestial Blue

By contrast this navy blue, is clear, concise and sharp. It’s glossy, patent and looks incredible on the fingers and toes. An eye catching deep blue, that in itself dresses up an outfit. It’s high shine midnight colour, is ideal for the evening.

Bordeaux 

Aptly named this is like a glass of deep, fine red wine. It’s a smooth red with brown undertones so looks incredible on warm skin tones. Ideal for both day and night, this compliments other berry shades as well as pairing well with the autumnal olive shades.

The whole collection is cruelty free and as mentioned vegan. The bottle tops are made from sustainable bamboo. There is also a Recycle Reuse Programme to empties can be sent back.  You can check out more products by clicking the link HERE

Gold Collagen® Forte Plus / Hyaluronic Formula Supplement Review

I can remember when Gold Collagen® drinks first launched as I had put them in the press. They pioneered the beginning of collagen drinks, and whilst many other brands attempted to follow suit, there hasn’t been any other brand that, in my opinion, have gotten the same standards and quality ingredients as Gold Collagen®. So I was very excited to be sent the new Forte Plus, Extra Strength, Skin Health and Hair Growth. Also the new Hyaluronic Formula Tablets that are formulated with similar ingredients to combat the signs of aging, and aid skin health.

Forte Plus RRP £3.67 per bottle on a 30 day programme 

Having hit full on menopause over 5 years ago, and certainly seeing changes in my skin, hair and nail cell renewal, the new Forte Plus was something that I personally feel I could benefit from. Formulated for women over 40 who are showing signs of aging not only in their skin, but also thinning and fine hair, brittle and splitting nails, this supplement is loaded with vitamins and minerals to help combat those in peri-menopause and onwards. Not only is the drink formulated to help cell renewal but it also aids in supporting a healthy immune system and heart function.

The main ingredient as the name suggests is collagen. So what is collagen. Collagen is a protein that the body makes. It not only supports the structure and function of our skin, but also our cartilage, bones and connective tissue, such as tendons and ligaments. Specifically for skin it’s what gives us that youthfulness and stops our skin from looking saggy and drawn. It is made up of 4 amino acids Glycine, Proline, Hydroxyproline and Arginine. As we age we lose collagen naturally however, other factors such as sugar, smoking and sunbathing can also decrease collagen.

The drinks are made up of an abundance of ingredients with collagen being one of the main ingredients. Some of the other super ingredients are:-

• Acai Berry - rich in fatty acids to help keep skin supple.
• Biotin - a B vitamin that helps with hair growth, as well as boosting skin firmness.
• Zinc - helps protect the skin from environmental pollution such as smoke, smog etc. Also gives natural protection to UV rays. 
• Black Pepper - helps prevent pigmentation and is anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and a good source of antioxidants. It also helps boost the other active ingredients by up to 60%, so your body absorbs more of the ingredients. 
• Borage Oil - helps calm irritated and inflamed skin. It also prevents moisture loss so skin is kept hydrated. 
• Copper - anti-inflammatory and again helps with dark, age spots and pigmentation. It also helps soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Folic Acid - helps stimulate collagen production and also gives protection to UV rays. 
• Rocket Extract - helps keep hair looking thick and aids hair health. Ideal if you are suffering with thinning hair.
• Vitamin B3 (Niacin) - helps smooth the skin and reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s also helps stabilise oil production, and is ideal if you suffer with acne or oily skin. 
• Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) - very hydrating, keeps skin soft and moisturised.
• Vitamin C - brightens the skin and gives skin radiance.
• Hyaluronic Acid - helps maintain hydration as prevents moisture loss.

The drink itself can be drunk straight from the bottle. For the sake of showing readers I’ve poured and drunk from the glass. It’s only a small amount and is quite a fruity taste (peach and lychee) with a peppery base note. You can mix into a smoothie or drink by itself. 

There are allergens to be aware of which are printed in bold, such as fish, soybean, soy and you must consult your doctor before using if you are breastfeeding or pregnant. It is also not suitable for under the age of 18. It contains sweetener from the Stevia plant. 

I have been sent a 3 week supply however, you can purchase from Boots in a 10 days supply and it’s worth checking out the Boots website as they can be on offer. I have only just started testing these and so will revert and add a paragraph to this once I have finished the course.

Gold Collagen Hyaluronic Formula 90 one a day tablets RRP £36

These tablets are the ‘gold’ standard supplements to ward off aging and to give skin a super boost of radiance, glow and well-being. Again, as like the drinks they also contain collagen to give good hair, skin and nail health however, the key ingredient here is Hyaluronic Acid. This molecule is naturally found in the skin that helps prevent moisture loss and keep skin flexible, thus resulting in less wrinkles! It’s the natural alternative to anti-wrinkle injections and is used in many skincare creams worldwide.

With a similar cocktail of ingredients to the drink, these supplements are ideal for travelling and if you find it easier taking a tablet rather than juice form. They contain no sweeteners, preservatives or colourants and are free from lactose, gluten or GMO. 

I have yet to trial the tablets, as whilst you can take them together to really give your skin, hair and nails a super-boost of health, for the sake of reviews I prefer to take them separately. Again I will update here in a couple of months time. 

You can purchase these supplements alongside skincare products by clicking the link HERE

Erborian Skin Therapy Multi-Perfecting Night Oil 30ml RRP £52

 

I always find it’s worth splashing out on a decent night oil. This is when our skin cells regenerate, repair and renew, so it makes sense when deciding on a skin care regime, to buy the best night cream or oil you can afford. 

The latest launch from Korean Skin brand Erborian is the 17 Super Ingredients Multi-Perfecting Night Oil. Yes this really does have 17 plant extracts that help repair, strengthen and give elasticity to the skin. Working hard overnight, the light oil holds strong claims that after the 1st night you will notice a change in your complexion. Whilst continuous use has a positive anti-aging effect, reducing the look of fine lines and wrinkles. 

The ingredients are 90% of  natural origins. So lets look at some these ingredients:-

• Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower Seed Oil) - a good source of vitamin E, that helps protect the skin from environmental aggressors such as UV rays. 
• Phyllostachys Bambusoides Extract - otherwise known as Bamboo, this is used in skincare as has brightening properties and ideal for dull, lacklustre skin. 
• Citrus Junos Fruit Extract - contains an abundance of vitamin C that helps brighten, firm and nourish the skin. 
• Panax Ginseng Root Extract - helps smooth uneven skin tone, gives radiance and helps diminish wrinkles and fine lines. 
• Ophiopogon Japonicus Root Extract - ideal for inflammation, used in traditional Chinese medicine this wonder plant is ideal for those who suffer with eczema and dermatitis. 
• Polygonatum Officinale Rhizome/Root Extract - a powerful antioxidant that combats dark spots, pigmentation and protects the skin from pollution. 
• Scrophularia Nodosa Extract - alleviates skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and soothes red, irritated skin types. 
• Centella Asiatica Extract - not only treats acne, it helps combat oily skin, is anti-bacterial whilst also moisturising. 
• Capsicum Annuum Fruit Extract - a powerful antioxidant that is skin repairing and healing. 
• Dioscorea Villosa (Wild Yam) Root Extract - makes skin feel supple and is deeply moisturising. With continued use skin feels plumper and fine lines are diminished.
• Kigella Africana Fruit Extract - improves elasticity of the skin, makes skin feel firmer and therefore look more youthful. 
• Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract - is purifying, toning and has excellent antioxidant properties. It helps control oil production, so prevents acne from forming. 

These are just some of the ingredients, there’s a lot more actives but you can see it’s an excellent all-rounder for all skin types. The packaging of the dark bottle is designed to keep the actives fresh for 6 months once opened and to prevent oxidation. 

Delivery of the oil is in a two-phase system, so you need to shake the bottle before applying a couple of drops to the palms of your hands. Then simply press in to your face and neck before or instead of applying your night cream. It sinks in immediately, doesn’t leave any greasy residue and so you don’t have to worry about any ending up on your pillows. I shall look forward to using this at night, I’ve only just started to test it however, looking at the ingredients I’m confident that it will give me that 8 hours sleep look that I desperately need!

To purchase click on the following links Space NK, Look Fantastic or Boots

L’Occitane En Provence Immortelle Karite Pro-Youth Neck Care 50ml RRP £52 Sample Review

 

I rather like reviewing the Immortelle range from L’Occitane. Firstly, it has always given great results but also I like the fact I have a ‘Helichrysum, aka Curry Plant’ in my garden. Helichrysum is also known as Immortelle or ‘Everlasting Flower’, and so I have a little bit of L’Occitane in my small courtyard! 

Moving on from plants, L’Occitane’s latest launch targets the neck, and one question as a Beauty Editor I was always asked, ‘is it important to have a separate cream for the neck’? Well yes, if you have the cash to spare. Simply because our neck ages differently from our face as the skin is so delicate, has fewer oil glands and so more prone to the ‘crepey effect’ that comes from dehydration. 

Also it has to be said that many women are seemingly choosing anti-wrinkle injections and often end up with a smooth face however, forget about caring for their neck, which is a huge give away as often have the dreaded ‘turkey neck’.  It’s a dead giveaway when your neck has many lines but your face doesn’t, and often the only solution for a sagging, lined neck is to go down the surgery route.

So prevention is the best treatment and this is where the latest launch from L’Occitane comes in to help. 

Ingredients include:-

• Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter - loaded with antioxidants and being anti-inflammatory, it helps keep the skin nourished and moisturised, thus preventing sagging. 
• Helichrysum Italicum Flower Oil - helps protect the skin’s collagen and helps the skin retain its elasticity. The wonder plant is often used in skincare to help keep skin firm, and with added antibacterial properties protects the skin clear environmental stressors. 
• Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernal Extract - helps diminish pores and adds radiance to dull, dehydrated skin. 
• Myrtis Communis Oil - is ideal for those who may suffer with acne or inflammation, as the tannins in the oil act as an astringent and so soak up excess oil.
• Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil - high in vitamin E, this aids in nourishing and keeping the skin supple.  Also creates a barrier protecting against the damaging UV rays from the sun. The linoleic acid contained in the oil helps repair damaged skin. 
• Hyaluronic Acid - rejuvenates dull, dry skin and keeps the skin smooth and supple. It’s well known in the skincare industry for being the wonder ingredient that ‘holds over 1000 times its weight in water’, so aids the skin in locking in moisture.

You only need a pea sized amount morning and night after cleansing, simply pat in from your neck to jawline (although I have used it from my décolletage). As it’s a ‘Serum-In-Cream’ a little, goes a long way. I tried it on my neck however, for the photos I used on the back of my hand as you can see more clearly that it gives a light, dewy glow. It sinks in immediately and doesn’t leave any greasy residue. 

After testing on 30 women over a period of 56 days, ‘skin is 21% more elastic to the touch and appeared 13% more nourished. Instrumental measure ‘Firmness increased by 42%’. 

You can check out the rest of the range of purchase by clicking the link HERE