Last Minute Ideas to Celebrate Romance

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner we thought you might appreciate our romantically themed idea’s list without the added Teddy Bears, chocolates or Champagne.

Novel Beauty-Clever Skincare and Cosmetics

This week, we had the pleasure of meeting the talented founder behind Novel Beauty. The idea behind Novel Beauty was to create skincare products for Men & Women which ‘reads you’. Nneka, the brains behind Novel Beauty explains she wanted to create a product which responded to each person individually and the way Novel Beauty have achieved this is by using active natural ingredients that respond to your body as an individual. In keeping with their brand message of letting their products read you, the luxurious, all-natural range are encased in a luxurious refillable book which are designed to fit in to anyones home proudly and elegantly.

With both gifts for Men and Women, Nneka herself recommends the romantically themed Poor Man’s Rose bath and body set;

Poor Man's Rose Bath & Body Set

This collection includes Stream of Consciousness, a raw sugar scrub which polishes and conditions the skin and Platonic Dialogue, a daylight cream with the vitamins of Aloe Vera, seaweed, sesame, apricot and the romantic geranium rose oil.

Novel Beauty is available through www.novelskincare.co.uk and through notonthehighstreet.com

The Bellavita Valentine’s Day Hamper

Because we all know the way to a loved one’s stomach is through food. Italian food heroes Bellavita are encouraging us to spend Valentine’s day the Italian way with a Valentine’s selection which is designed to bring a touch of Italian romance to your evening. Bellavita have designed their hamper with the idea of taking the stress out of creating a romantic meal for two. The ingredients, which are sourced from independent Italian producers are enough to prepare a three-course meal for two with a recipe card included. Ok so it wouldn’t really be a Valentine’s meal without the addition of bubble and chocolates but at £39 for the entire hamper, we think that we’ll skip the reservations and rustle up our own Italian feast courtesy of Bellavita.

Valentine's Hamper

The hampers can be purchased both online and in store:
Bellavita Shop, 11C Dock Street, London E1 8JN
www.bellavitashop.co.uk

Pamper yourself at Duck and Dry

If you’re planning on a night of romance, a night with your best friends or simply a night of beloved ‘me time’, Duck and Dry are here to make sure that whatever you do, you will leave feeling damn good. After successfully opening their first salon in Chelsea, Duck and Dry have opened their new flagship in London’s Oxford Circus and will be on hand to offer you a choice of 8 signature blow dries and 8 up-dos in their stylish and energetic salons. This unique and buzzy space is designed with YOU in mind and will not only leave you with luscious locks but also pampered and party prepped. Get your hair-styled in a styling pod, enjoy a drink at their Prosecco bar and for groups, you can even enjoy getting ready together at a group styling table. There is a fitted DJ station and the eclectic and vibrant decor all designed to make you feel good. So, whether you’re celebrating the day of romance or simply just celebrating being so fabulous, Duck and Dry are on hand with their superstar stylists…

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…for one day only, February 14th, make up brand Lin & Lo will be offering complimentary express make-up services with all blow dries at the new West End branch.

To learn more visit; Duck and Dry

And to book an appointment visit; https://www.duckanddry.com/booking

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.”

 

Sukin – Australian natural skincare

Sukin – Australian natural skincare

The Frost team like this skincare product:

formulated in Australia, Sukin is a natural beauty brand offering a range of luxurious yet affordable products crafted using ingredients that are the best nature has to offer.

Sukin focus on perfecting formulas that contain active botanicals and essential oils carefully selected to restore the natural vitality and radiance of the skin.

From foaming cleansers to antioxidant eye serums, moisture rich body creams to hydrating face oils, protein rich haircare to intense firming serums, Sukin has a range to suit your skin head to toe, whatever your age.

Give the gift of glowing skin this Christmas with the ‘Love Your Skin’ set from Sukin. Beautifully presented in an attractive gift box and featuring a 3 step face kit of hero products from the range, this is the perfect present for any natural skincare lover this Christmas.

RRP £19.99

Foaming Facial Cleanser (125ml)

A non-drying formula utilising the coveted calming extract of German chamomile, this cleanser enlists the help of soothing aloe vera, witch hazel and green tea to provide a deep, refreshing cleanse whilst purifying and balancing the skin.

Hydrating Mist Toner (125ml)

This multitasking product isn’t just an excellent addition to your daily skincare regime. Infused with rose & chamomile, and dispensed as a fine mist, this hydrating toner is the perfect handbag accessory for refreshing skin in air-conditioned environments and on hot days and long flights. Use to set make-up as well as under & over lotions, creams, gels and oils to soothe and cool.

Facial Moisturiser (125ml)

A daily use, deeply penetrating and rapidly absorbed moisturiser that naturally hydrates, softens and soothes skin, combining a winning infusion of aloe vera, horsetail, burdock and nettle to soothe, as well as skin healing rosehip oil, wheat germ, jojoba & avocado oil.

Sukin is available from Holland & Barrett, Alphega Pharmacies, Whole Foods, Planet Organic, Ocado, www.cressuk.comwww.feelunique.com and Independent Stockists nationwide.

 

 

Acquaint 100% Natural Sanitising Water Review

Aquaint UK Generic 50mlAcquaint was a huge hit with the parents at Frost. Having a baby means lots of sterilising and washing your hands. Babies immunes systems are weak and keeping them safe is a priority. Acquaint is a sanitising water that is 100% natural and can be used on babies from birth. They can even swallow it. Impressive indeed. We loved it and will be buying in bulk. A genius idea that makes parenting easier, and anything that makes parenting easier is a hit with us. Frost loves.

 

Acquaint is a sanitising water that mimics the body’s immune system by using water and Hypochlorous Acid (HCIO) to cleanse and kill bacteria from any part of the body, or on any equipment.   Hypochlorous acid is known as a biocide that we already have in our bodies, making it extremely safe.    Aquaint contains .003% of this acid, and nothing else, no additives at all, making it the safest sanitiser on the market today

 

How?

Stage 1, bacteria, viruses or other harmful pathogens get into our bodies and start to invade the human cells

Stage 2 Neutrophils, which are the most abundant white blood cells live in human blood vessels and detect the pathogens and travel to the infection site where they surround the pathogen

Stage 3 Once the pathogens are then surrounded it produces an oxidant called Hypochlorous Acid (HCIO)that kills the bacteria almost instantly

 

When Aquaint is sprayed onto anything, the Hypochlorous Acid or HCIO is used virtually instantly to kill the bacteria, and all that is left is the water.   Aquaint is a unique, revolutionary and multipurpose 100% NATURAL Sanitising Water that kills 99.9% of bacteria in seconds. The water provides the base for it to be highly effective as a cleanser, and its only other ingredient, a NATURAL ACID (Hypochlorous Acid) that is produced in the human body to fight bacteria and germs, provides its anti-bacterial properties. Aquaint is endorsed by Allergy UK as an ‘Allergy Friendly Product’ and has passed stringent UK drinking water tests, making it the safest sanitiser on the market.

 

 

Why is Aquaint Different?

ü  It does not contain alcohol, fragrances, preservatives or harmful chemicals

ü  It does not leave behind any chemical residues and therefore it does not need to be rinsed off

ü  It does not dry out or irritate the skin

ü  It is gentle, powerful and extremely safe

ü  It is harmless if swallowed and is as safe as drinking water

ü  It is suitable for repeated use

ü  It is suitable for use during pregnancy and on new-born skin

 

Where can Aquaint be used?

ü  It can be used to sanitise the hands and skin (from birth) and in the mouth

ü  It is also suitable for use on surfaces, even on food

ü  To clean and insert contact lenses

ü  On any equipment, toys, kitchen bathroom etc

ü  On any broken skin, cuts without stinging

ü  Can clear athletes foot

ü  Can clear cold sores, and quickly

ü  Can clear Blepharitis

ü  Can be used to sanitise and use around animals, including use on them if necessary, it does not harm them

ü  Suitable for sensitive and allergy prone skin

ü  Can be used for nappy changing

ü  Suitable for elderly skin

ü  Effective mouthwash

ü  Babies soothers

 

From ocado.com and jojomamanbebe.co.uk

 

 

 

Khadi Anti-Aging Ayurvedic Rejuvenating Oil Review

Khadi Anti-Aging Ayurvedic Rejuvenating Oil ReviewWe tried this natural product and loved it. It made a real difference to skin. It promises a lot and delivers. Recommended for hydrated, glowing skin.

 

Give your skin a new lease on life with the Khadi Anti-Ageing Face and Body Oil. Formulated according to the ancient principles of Ayurveda, this natural and organic wonder oil protects the skin against free radicals, boosts cell growth and repairs damaged cells, whilst improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

 

In addition, it also minimises pigmentation spots, leaving the skin clearer and more rejuvenated. The khadi Anti-Ageing Face and Body Oil costs just £11.90 and is available from selected health stores and independent pharmacies across the UK and Ireland, as well as online at www.khadihair.co.uk.

 

Containing pure Ayurvedic herbal infusions that have been prepared and blended by Ayurvedic experts in India, this unique facial oil is rich in essential oils, herbs and flowers that have proven complexion boosting benefits.

Ayurveda is an ancient system of natural healing that promotes a holistic view of beauty and wellness, which is key to the khadi brand: the aim to promote a beauty routine that incorporates the healing powers of herbs, oils and plants to achieve a more beautiful body.

 

 

This wonderful anti-ageing formula is packed full of beneficial natural ingredients:

  • Organic sesame oil helps nourish the skin. The fatty acids contained in the oil, such as oleic, palmitic, stearic and linoleic acid, are effective moisturisers that keep skin supple and soft
  • Almond Oil traps moisture in the skin, keeping it hydrated and nourished
  • Organic rose softens the skinand helps to delay the signs of ageing. Rose contains high amounts of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that protects skin cells from damage. It also locks moisture into the skin, preventing it from becoming dull and dry.
  • Essential oilsof patchouli, myrrh, lavender and vanilla soothes the skin and calms the mind.

The Khadi Anti-Aging Face and Body Oil absorbs quickly in to the skin, leaving a subtle and refreshing aroma.

 

How to use:        
Can be used in the morning and evenings, apply to damp skin and gently massage using a circular motion. It can also be used as a body oil and massage oil

 

 

 

Ermana Natural Skincare… Preservative-Free Beauty

Ermana-Natural-Skincare-announces-launch-1024x819Natural skincare brand Ermana Natural Skincare has launched its range of all natural and botanical products.

The Ermana range is free from parabens and sulphates, with no artificial fragrances or colourings.

Formulated without artificial preservatives, Ermana products instead use natural preservative vitamin E. Ermana oils and balms are a blend of botanical oils and waxes with natural vitamins, minerals, anti-oxidants, omega oils and fatty acids to keep the skin hydrated.

With products for both women,  men and expectant mothers, the range includes:

Renew Face Oil with neroli and ylang ylang

Fresh Foot Balm with patchouli and peppermint

Nurture Body Oil with neroli, petitgrain and ylang ylang

Refresh Lip Balm with grapefruit

Endure Men’s Face Oil with vetiver and cedarwood

Tone Muscle Balm with rosemary, eucalyptus and marjoram

Revive Face Oil with lavender and frankincense

Refine Body oil with grapefruit and bergamot.

www.ermana.co.uk
@ermanaskincare

Purepotions Scar Oil Review

scars, stretchmarks, beauty, review, rosehip, oil, miranda Kerr, Rosehip oil has been known to heal scars and stretchmarks for a long time now. Its celebrity fans include Gwyneth Paltrow, Victoria Beckham and Rosie Huntington-Whitely. Supermodel Miranda Kerr says: “Rosehip is full of antioxidants and really works to rejuvenate the skin.”  She is not wrong. With that in mine we tried Scar Oil with Rosehip 50ml, £18.99 from Purepotions. 

 

The oil is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C and the essential fatty acids omega-3 and omega-6. Vitamin A is known to promote healthy skin cell rejuvenation, so it’s great for skin damaged by scarring. The Vitamin C in rosehip oil reduces the appearance of dark spots and aging spots. The powerful moisturising effects of the oil are ideal for dry or mature skin, which can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

 

Purepotions is made from 100% natural and organic ingredients to help soothe and repair skin in a completely natural way, with no parabens or perfumes.   The original skin salvation intensive moisturising ointment is suitable for people prone to eczema, dry itchy skin, psoriasis, dermatitis or for any little skin emergency.

 

The original Skin Salvation was first developed in Natalie Balmond’s kitchen 12 years ago, after she found that absolutely nothing would help her daughter’s eczema. She started to read up on herbs and traditional remedies to help with skin problems, and with much determination and experimentation, she developed a natural salve.

 

Made with oils, herbs and essential oils, it became an overnight sensation with people in the UK and around the world inundating her with emails and letters saying how effective it has been.

 

What did we think? We were very impressed. It does fade scars and stretchmarks. Add in the fact it is handmade and 100% natural and we really are fans. Frost loves….