Skinfix Hand Repair Cream & Hydrating Lotion | Stocking Filler Idea

skinfixreviewWe are all for good skincare at Frost and Skinfix have the stamp of approval from Kate Middleton.

Experts in specialised skincare, Skinfix are great for anyone with eczema, dermatitis or dry skin conditions. Their hand cream is perfect for winter, and so is the hydrating lotion. Their hydrating lotion for normal skin increases the fatty acids in skin by 196%. Giving glowing, plump and healthy skin. It is lightweight so it does’t suffocate the skin. Good stuff indeed.

Skinfix Hand Repair Cream is a game-changing natural hand cream that is steroid, fragrance, soy, paraben and phthalates free. Soothing botanicals, rich natural butters and emollient protectives oils make up this ultra-rich formula that offers lasting protection on hands, even though hand washing.

The last time Kate Middleton was in Canada she was personally gifted Skinfix’s award-winning Hand Repair cream by the Canadian Ambassador and took it home with her.

Available nationwide from Boots and boots.com at £15.99, it’s the perfect stocking filler.

Skinfix Hand Repair Cream 2 Ounces by Skinfix

MySign by Revolution New Make-up Inspired by Your Star Sign

mysignleomakeupAstrology is huge. In fact, I would guess it is a billion pound industry. I am a Leo and a lot of the Leo characteristics apply to me. I am sociable, outgoing and ambitious. I may also be introverted sometimes, but I generally do feel like a Leo. I don’t read my horoscope but I do believe there is something in it.

I got sent this gorgeous make-up from MySign by Revolution New. I have to say, it is very ‘me’. The colours are perfect and are what I would choose. The Compact Eye Wheel is a genius idea. It costs only £5 and includes an eye primer, highlighter, 2 shades of brow powder and 3 eye shadow shades, chosen especially for your sign to blend and customise your look.

For centuries,  psychics have been consulted by those seeking answers from the unseen realms. The Tarot has been credited for providing illuminating solutions for all their major dilemmas, and even guiding people so they avoid future misfortunes. Many still take the help of psychic reading to find the right path.

Inside every box is your own star sign’s 2017 forecast for the year ahead written by professional astrologer, Julia

Fisher. This is the first beauty range with an astrology theme. It takes the characteristics about your star sign along with the colours of your star sign, creating the ultimate in personalisation. The lip gloss is great too and it is a beautiful dark colour. The lip gloss is £3 and it is such a wearable nude.

MySign is the latest project from notable entrepreneur and one-to-watch Krista Madden.  I am definitely a fan.

Website www.mysigncollection.com

 

Share your star sign and make-up looks with us using #MYSIGN

Instagram @mysigncollection Twitter @mysignmakeup YouTube MYSIGN

Available to buy in selected Superdrug Stores www.superdrug.com & www.TAMBeauty.com

The MYSIGN collaboration with Makeup Revolution products for eyes and lips, offer amazing pigments both shimmery and matt that perform perfectly; use them to blend, line and define the eyes or wear as a pop of statement colour.

 

Andalou Naturals Cosmetics

andalounaturalcosmetics, andalou,natural,cosmeticsAndalou Naturals is the number 1 selling natural skin care brand in the US and Canada. I have never used any of their products before but I was very impressed by the literature: Key plant powered antioxidants and the best in Non-GMO, Cruelty-Free, Gluten-Free, Eco-Friendly, Certified Organic, Fair Trade, Vegetarian, Vegan, and Clinically Proven Ingredients. Sign me up. I love organic, fair-trade and natural products. The brand uses Fruit Stem Cell Science and has clinically proven results. I have used their products now and I really believe they work. There is nothing to not love about this brand. Consider me sold.

I particularly love the Moroccan Beauty Oil, A Path to Light Lime Blossom Hand Cream, 1000 Roses Body Lotion, BioActive 8 Berry Fruit Enzyme Mask and their fab Get Started Brightening Kit which has 5 skin care essentials for normal & combination skin. The Get Started Brightening Kit is a great introduction to the brand.

They say: At Andalou Naturals we believe that beauty is a choice; it’s about how you think, feel and behave. Not only is this true for individuals, it’s also true for companies. As an organization we want to create products that are in accordance with who we are and so we set out to not only commit to but to CHAMPION our beliefs and ultimately, lead the way for others to follow suit.

In order to achieve Non-GMO Project Verified status, our Andalou Naturals team, in cooperation with manufacturers and suppliers, had to rigorously confirm that over 200 source ingredients, as well as the manufacturing process for each ingredient, did not include GMOs of any kind. In 2011, Andalou Naturals became the first personal care brand to achieve 100% Non-GMO Project Verification on every single product and today we are the #1 selling facial skin care brand in the natural channel (SPINS Oct, 2016).

We believe that GMOs, and the dependency on pesticides that they create, are in conflict with the wellbeing of the planet and the wellbeing of every single person. To fully protect our soil and our children, it’s not enough for companies to say they use Non-GMO ingredients, to truly stand up to the multinational corporations that are destroying our land and experimenting with our health, we need to verify it, label it and shop accordingly.

While the Non-GMO Project Verified process is a rigorous one—involving a huge commitment of time, capital and corporate transparency to segregate, trace, assess risk and continually test major GMO risk ingredients and their derivatives—it is a wholly worthy commitment and one that should be done.

We take a stand on issues that matter to us, regardless of cost; we always have, and we always will.

We CHAMPION: Cruelty Free, Eco-Friendly, Vegetarian and Vegan, Fair-Trade, Gluten-Free, Natural, Organic, and Non-GMO Project Verified ingredients.

http://andalou.com
Andalou Get Started Brightening Kit – 5 Pieces is available here.

What Skin Needs Hydrating Facial Serum + Trends in Green Beauty for 2017

hydratingfacialserumwhatskinneedsI am a huge fan of green beauty. Anything natural or organic usually gets my approval. I have been using What Skin Needs Hydrating Facial Serum for months now and I really love it. It has hydrating in the title, but that doesn’t necessarily mean anything. Plenty of beauty products don’t back up their promises. This serum however left my skin feeling so hydrated that I rarely used a moisturiser afterwards. It is not too greasy and it really sinks into the skin. It left my skin looking amazing. I cannot sing its praises enough. It is light and non-greasy, always a win. It has jojoba oil which improves skin tone, and it also contains Plantolin which has anti-inflammatory properties. Great for scarring, pigmentation, skin cell renewal, skin balancing and hydrating & nourishing skin. Great stuff.

 

Now here are some Trends in Green Beauty for 2017

Having flawless skin is like effortlessly having great style – It’s always on trend!

One of the easiest ways to achieve flawless skin is to use natural and organic products as many have multiple properties which can clean, clear and protect your skin.

We’ve rounded up the top 5 organic beauty trends to look out for next year:

 

SEAWEED

We all lust after thick and voluminous hair, and just like mermaids, one of the best ingredients for thicker hair and a healthier scalp is from the sea.

Absorbing all the nutrients from the ocean, seaweed has high levels of calcium, and omega 3 and 6. These essential fatty acids are great for stimulating hair follicles, promoting growth and hydrating your scalp and hair.

Just like a green juice for your hair, the marine extracts help hair to rebuild itself and grow stronger.

Including seaweed in your diet is also a great way to keep your thyroid gland healthy, which in turn can effect the health of your hair, Dr Marilyn Glenville, author of Natural Alternatives to Sugar (Amazon, £7.17) explains:

“The Japanese also eat good quantities of seaweed which contain important trace minerals like selenium and iodine for healthy thyroid function. A wealth of immune boosting minerals, vitamins and amino acids can be found in seaweed, so try adding a little to your soups or mix with mashed potato.”

JOJOBA 

There are hundreds of different oils in skincare ingredients but only a few have cult status.

This organic oil is known to be great for balancing oil production in the skin as it almost tricks the skin into believing it already has produced enough oil. Jojoba oil is a non-comedogenic, so it is perfect for all skin types including those with acne or sensitive skin.

Skincare expert at What Skin NeedsSonja Dymalovski, recommends using a skincare that includes natural oils such as jojoba oil, as they reduce the chance of breakouts.

“Natural oils tend to be much gentler on the skin which is why so many people favour organic skincare. Jojoba oil is easily absorbed into the skin, which is wonderful for people who might have drier skin. I would recommend using a organic serum like What Skin Needs Hydrating Facial Serum (£17.99, http://www.whatskinneeds.co.uk), as it also contains Plantolin which has anti-inflammatory properties.”

PROBIOTICS

Many celebrities use probiotics as an added extra in their beauty regime, Gwyneth Paltrow, Miranda Kerr and Halle Berry has all stressed the impact of a healthy gut in their skincare.

Nutritionist, Cassandra Barns, explains:

“The skin is also closely connected to the gut and supporting gut function can help to reduce skin outbreaks. There are a number of studies linking the use of probiotics to positive outcomes for eczema, acne, rosacea and anti-aging.”

Probiotics can have a calming effect on the skin by balancing the bacteria in your digestive system.

“To support your skin include fermented foods in your diet, such as kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi and miso soup. You can also take a supplement, such as Pro-Ven 25 Billion (Boots, £13.95)”

 

POMEGRANATE

We know we love eating them but what about in skincare.

A powerhouse antioxidant, anything with pomegranate listed in their ingredients is sure to have amazing anti aging properties, boost collagen levels, and can help to protect the skin from further damage.

New studies have proven the anti-aging powers of pomegranates, so try and get as much of them in you and on your face as possible.[1]

Shona Wilkinson, from Superfood UK, explains:

“Pomegranates are native to Iran and India, in Ayurveda they are a symbol of fertility and prosperity!  They are packed full of nutrients and contain high levels of vitamin C. Try tossing the pomegranate seeds on a salad for a brilliantly colourful, crunchy, and nutritious addition and add them to your smoothies for a great taste.”

GREEN TEA

Just another reason to go green; not only is green tea packed full of antioxidants and nutrients, great for brain function and a natural boost to your metabolic rate, it also has a wonderful effect on the skin.

The high concentration of catechins gives Green Tea its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-aging effect on the skin. Studies have shown it can also reduce the risk of sunburn![2]

Nutritionist and weight-loss expert, Lily Soutter, explains how green tea can also curb your hunger cravings:

“The catechins found in green tea also help balance blood sugar levels. An added bonus is that green tea can help to lower cholesterol and triglycerides, as the polyphenols can help the body both eliminate cholesterol and stop its absorption. Try having 2 to 3 cups daily, in between meals.”

 

Plump It: Volumising Lip Plumper – Review by Talia Lee-Skudder

 

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Plump it lip gloss is perfect for achieving that plumped up pout. Simply smooth it onto your lips and wear on its own or underneath your favourite lippie. Immediately on application, your lips will tingle for about thirty seconds. As this subsides you can visibly see your lips becoming fuller and plumper as the lip gloss gets to work. The Cupid’s bow noticeably gets more defined creating the illusion that your lips are bigger.

I have always been sceptical about lip plumping products, often finding that they do not actually work. However, after using Plump It, the change in the shape of my lips when wearing the product is obvious. Whilst my lips are not that thin to begin with, Plump It successfully fills them out and gives me a better shape – which is particularly noticeable when I am wearing a darker lipstick colour.

Plump It comes in a classic silver tube with a sponge tip and click applicator. The gloss consistency is lightweight and glides on easily with the sponge applicator. A great product that achieves a natural and full-looking pout.

For those of you who lust after a Kylie Jenner pout, then Plump it is the product for you. Transform your smile and rock your plumped up pout.  Plump it is available online for £19.99.

www.plump-it.com

The Luxury Christmas Gift List: The Best Gifts For The One You Love

Jo Malone London Pomegranate Noir Home Candle

jomalone jomalone1

This candle smelt so amazing the moment I opened the envelope it made me happy. Jo Malone is huge among celebrities, and this is one of those times when you really should believe the hype. Gorgeous. 200g £42.00

The Ultimate Christmas Cracker

The Jo Malone magnificent Christmas Cracker is back.
A statement of generosity and wit created in the Harlequin gold, cream and black
and tied with grosgrain.
Impactful and arresting, open it to discover an array of carefully curated Jo Malone London treats.
An extraordinary centre piece. A beautiful under-the-tree present. A lavish gift from Jo Malone London, the experts in gift-giving.
Exclusive to Selfridges.com and Brown Thomas
Available nationwide from December 2016
Ultimate Christmas Cracker
Cologne or Cologne Intense 100ml of your choice
Home Candle 200g of your choice
Body Crème or Cologne Intense Body Crème 175ml of your choice Body & Hand Wash 250ml of your choice
RRP £206-£245 / €261-€314
For stockist information, please visit jomalone.co.uk

Follow on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram @JoMaloneLondon #TheatreOfChristmas

 

Champagne Taittinger 

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Champagne Taittinger 

Taittinger Brut Prestige Rosé NV

RRP: £48.25

Stockists: Asda.com, Waitress com, Wine Rack, Majestic, JohnLewis.com, The Soho Wine Company, Amps Fine Wines, Vino Wines, The Oxford Wine Company, Jeroboams, Lea & Sanderman, Fortnum&Mason.com, www.champagnedirect.co.uk

45% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay, 25% Pinot Meunier

A vibrant rosé with a vivid aroma of red summer fruit, enticing wild strawberry and raspberry dominate the stylish and elegant palate.

I love rosé champagne and this is one of the best. Just divine. 

Taittinger Prélude Grands Crus NV

RRP: £50.30

Stockists: Majestic, Harrods.com, JohnLewis.com, The Soho Wine Company, Hedonism, Hailsham Cellars, Amps Fine Wines, www.champagnedirect.co.uk

50% Chardonnay, 50% Pinot Noir

Grand Cru Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes from great vineyards with 4 years ageing in Taittinger’s cellars make this great Champagne rich, round and elegant.

This champagne is my favourite champagne. I love it beyond words. I want to become rich so I can drink it every single day. Buy this for your loved ones, but, mostly, for yourself. 

 

Maui Jim Koki Beach Sunglasses
mauijim

Maui Jim’s are one of the best sunglasses on the market. These Koki Beach glasses are pure glamour. £175

 

Maimie Silk Trousers

re_dusk_3 maimesilkpajamas

Maimie Silk Trousers are the most luxurious trousers you can buy. Beloved of celebrities, they feel just as good as they look. The ultimate Christmas present for a loved one. From £240.

 

Godiva Advent Calendar

godiva

The Godiva Advent Calendar: £23

These were devoured sharpish at Frost HQ. Luxurious, delicious chocolate that comes in a gorgeous advent calendar.

Bring a little magic into every day of December with the delectable taste of premium Belgian chocolate.

The Calendar is adorned with scenes from the timeless Christmas Classic ‘The Nutcracker’ and filled with a selection of Godiva masterpieces and this year’s seasonal collection.

From all Godiva stores and at www.godivachocolates.co.uk

The Perfume Studio – Review by Talia Lee-Skudder

 

the_perfume_studio

If you’re looking for a unique and fun Christmas gift idea then the Perfume Studio masterclass should be at the top of your list.

The Perfume Studio invites you to spend a day learning about the art of perfumery and creating your own unique and bespoke scent. I attended their masterclass in Manchester last Saturday, and was enrolled on the Platinum Experience which meant I got to walk away with a 20ml bottle filled with my own signature scent.

 

Guests were welcomed with a glass of fizz, or orange juice for those who weren’t quite ready to start drinking at 11 am on a Saturday morning. Once everyone had settled at their tables, the perfume stylist, Freda Rogers, gave an insight into the world of perfumery. Freda provided a brief overview of the business that has been running for more than ten years, and that has brought with it the opportunity for many to blend their own fragrances and learn about the art of perfumery.

the-perfume_studio4

After a brief introduction in which we were told we would be following in the footsteps of countless celebrities who have gone through a similar experience in the creation of their own fragrances, we started the process of choosing our own scents. Individual scent cards were handed out whilst Freda described the key notes in each sample. She informed us that fragrances consist of top note scents, middle notes and base notes and the importance of each category.

Starting with the base note, this range of blends ensure the longevity of your scent and it is these notes that last on your clothes. The blends include musk, woody and balsamic to name a few. We were then introduced to samples of the middle note which set the tone of the whole fragrance and include a number of floral based scents. Finally, we sampled the top scent. This is the blend that makes your perfume instantly recognisable; although it does not have the same longevity of the base note it is this blend that is most memorable.

the-perfume_studio1

We each collected our favourite blends and decided what worked well together. It is important to remember however, that creating a fragrance is subjective – so resist the urge to be tempted by what others around you like and dislike. After much deliberation, I finally decided on what blend of scents I wanted and my bespoke fragrance included woody, musk, neroli, gentle floral and fruity. The perfume stylists create your fragrance while you wait or have your afternoon tea. The 20ml bottle of your perfume comes in a cream box emblazoned with the Perfume Studio logo, a lovely keepsake from a brilliant experience.

the-perfume-studio2

 

You can attend the Perfume Studio masterclasses nationwide as well as at the flagship events held in London and Manchester. These are group experiences. However, private consultations and events are also offered. You can find more details at The Perfume Studio

The Perfume Studio masterclass is the ideal Christmas gift. It’s a great experience for you and a friend or even to do on your own. Not only is it fun and a fab insight into the world of perfumery, but you also get to create your own bespoke perfume blend. A definite must for your Christmas lists.

www.theperfumestudio.com

Great Christmas Gifts For The Fitness Fanatic

Go Fit Cross Extreme Ab Wheel

abwheel gofitabwheelcrossfit

The GoFit Ab Wheel is an excellent way to obtain a more defined toned set of abs. The rolling action of the Ab Wheel trains both the upper and lower abdominal walls. The Ab Wheel has dual wheels and non-slip foam grip handles.

  • Excellent to obtain more defined toned set of abs
  • Trains both upper and lower abdominal wall
  • Dual wheels
  • Non-slip foam grip handles
  • Combine with cardio program for washboard abs

I loved this. I do a lot of HIIT and this great workout tool takes your work out to a whole new level. 

From bodybuilding.com

 

ProSource Total Upper Body Conditioning Multi-Grip Pull Up Bar

pullupbar

Finally, The heavy duty Multi-Grip Pull-Up Bar is made with high grade steel for a sturdy design that’s built to last. The multiple grip positions allow you to perform wide, hammer, and close-grip pull-ups and chin-ups, and hanging abdominal exercises. You can also place on the floor to use for push-ups or triceps dips. It slips easily onto any standard doorframe and can hold up to 300 lb. Convenient for at-home workouts, it’s easy to assemble and built to last – a perfect workout accessory to strengthen your entire upper body in the comfort of your own home.

Features

  • Ideal for pull-ups, sit-ups, push-ups, dips and leg raises
  • 12 cushioned foam grips
  • Work muscles from a variety of angles
  • Fits onto standard door frames 24”-36” wide or can be wall-mounted
  • Portable design that is quick and easy to assemble

 

A great bar to reach your peak fitness. It brings the gym into your home.  A great tool that lets you train like a pro at home. Highly recommended. A great gift. 

From bodybuilding.com

 

Polk Boom Bit Wearable Speaker 

polkboombitwearablespeaker

Polk BOOM have launched this truly wearable ‘Ready for Anything’ Bluetooth Speaker. Combining music listening and hands-free phone convenience in a ruggedized enclosure that is sweat, dirt, sand and shockproof, BIT is the perfect accessory for anyone who lives an active lifestyle. Measuring only 7 cm x 3 cm, BIT’s robust clip can be secured to any item of clothing, backpack or cycle helmet, whilst its three-hour play time is ample for even the most ardent of commutes, rides or workouts.

 The Polk BOOM BIT is available in Black, Sport Blue, Volt Yellow, Lava Red and a two-toned Grey/Mint

Griffin Survivor Adventure 3 cases in 1

griffinsurvivoradventurephonecase

A fantastic phone case which fits the iPhone 7 and the iPhone 6 and 6s. Survives an 8ft drop on concrete. Is a thin case with 2 extra backs. A great case that protects your phone while you get fit.

Griffin Survivor Adventure Case for iPhone 7/6S/6 is available here.

 

Arnicare Bath & Massage Balm

arnicare

For those who like nothing more than to relax and unwind after a busy day, Nelsons arnicare arnica Bath & Massage Balm, is a dual purpose balm enriched with Evening Primrose and rich Sweet Almond oil to naturally hydrate the skin. Designed for massaging into tired muscles or for use in a relaxing bath following a hectic day, the natural properties of Arnica Montana extract and sweet scents of Lavender and Grapefruit essential oils help calm senses and relax the mind.

Great for a post-workout bath or massage. Helps with muscle aches. Stick it in a stocking as it is great stuff. 

From boots.com and hollandandbarrett.com

 

Arnicare Cooling Gel

arnicacoolingelarnicare

With more people than ever now interested in health and fitness, and with such a variety of exercise classes on the market, we all know someone who really works hard when it comes to training. Nelsons arnicare arnica Cooling Gel is ideal for massaging into tired and over-worked legs, to help cool and revive them. Combining the natural benefits of arnica with the refreshing sensation of grapefruit oil and menthol, it could even be the gym bag essential for those fitness resolutions in the New Year.

Really helps when muscles are aching. If you buy this for a fitness-obsessed friend they will be very grateful. 

From boots.com and hollandandbarrett.com