PRODUCT REVIEW: MUSTELA SOOTHING SKINCARE FOR BABIES AND KIDS WITH VERY SENSITIVE SKIN

My two little boys are very blonde and fair, and have sadly both inherited their father’s dry and sensitive skin. But worst is our 3 year old. At one point he was admitted to the Children’s Hospital as he developed a bad rash all over his body. But thankfully it disappeared as quickly as it came, with no real explanation. We have however been told that his slightly rough and dry skin can be a result of his medical treatment, including all the chemo and steroids that he received in the lead up to his bone marrow transplant three years ago. And therefore, finding the correct skincare for both of them, but especially for the 3 year old is so important. We have tried a lot of different brands, and always make sure to select gentle, products, but what made a tremendous difference, was the day we started using the Mustela range for very sensitive skin. 

PRODUCT REVIEW: THE BASE COLLECTIVE WITH MAGNESIUM FOR SKIN, HEALTH AND AYURVEDIC BENEFITS

PRODUCT REVIEW: SAVE THE WATER WHILE USING ME

Today I'm going to introduce you to the coolest brand ever... Stop The Water While Using Me... 

Yes, that's their name, Stop The Water While Using Me. Why...Water is the essence of all life and we have to protect this precious resource. We need it, yet it gets wasted by those who have 'enough', while in other parts of the world there are water shortages and drought. So the brand has been named Stop The Water While Using Me, to essentially encourages people to use water more intelligently and sustainably. And who's not guilty of for instance letting the water run in the shower as we soap up or wait for the conditioner to work. I'm certainly guilty. Food for thought..

Stop The Water While Using Me has a range of 100% natural bathroom products made in Germany, with all products made to the highest of quality, without chemical nasties such as synthetic ingredients, silicones, paraffins or mineral oils, but using only the highest of standards for certified natural cosmetics. And using fully recyclable packaging too, along with a percentage of the revenue donated to water aid projects to help provide fresh and clean water to areas where its needed the most. Pretty amazing right!


But let's talk about the products I've put to the test... First up is the cutest little Stop The Water While Using Me Travel Kit, that comes in the coolest little paper cosmetic bag, containing; 

• All Natural Orange Wild Herbs Shower Gel, 60ml 
• All Natural Sesame Sage Body Lotion, 60ml 
• All Natural Lavender Sandalwood Regenerating Shampoo, 60ml 
• All Natural Lavender Sandalwood Regenerating Conditioner, 60ml 
• All Natural Cucumber Lime Hand Balm, 60ml 

The Stop The Water While Using Me Orange Wild Herbs Shower Gel has the most gorgeous sweet orange scent thanks to the added fragrant oil and organic orange blossom water, that helps give you a mild kick-start in the mornings. And the soft lather gently cleanses the skin, without drying it out, thanks to the added nourishing lipids. 

Following with the Stop The Water While Using Me Sesame Sage Body Lotion, this light lotion absorbs quick and easily into the skin, without any greasiness. It is made using healing sage and premium sesame oil combined with shea butter and organic jojoba and soya oils to add intense moisture to the skin, and leave it feeling soft and smooth. It has a slight spicy scent, which is a refreshing change from products which are often very sweet and girly, and that also makes it perfect for the man in the house too. 

Moving on to the Stop The Water While Using Me Lavender Sandalwood Regenerating Shampoo and Conditioner, which has a calming and relaxing effect thanks to the added lavender. It has a lovely warm scent from the lavender and sandal wood. It quickly and easily cleanses my hair without stripping it of its oils, while the conditioner is quickly absorbed into my long thick hair and once rinsed out, it is quick and easy to comb out and is left feeling so soft and looking shiny and healthy. 

Finally, there's the Stop The Water While Using Me Cucumber Lime Hand Balm, which is made using Vitamin-rich organic soybean oil and organic olive oil to leave hands soft, along with cucumber extract, rose flower water, shea butter and jojoba oil really moisturises the skin and strengthens its natural function. It has the most divine slightly sweet zesty lime scent which I really love, and it absorbs quickly and easily into the hands, immediately making them feel soft again. 

This is such a great travel kit, perfect weekend away, or to put into your gym bag, containing absolutely everything you'll need. 

In addition, I also put the Stop The Water While Using Me All Natural Lemon Honey Soap to the test, which is a fresh zesty hand soap, containing organic acacia honey contains enzymes and amino acids which strengthen and moisturise the skin, along with high vitamin C content and the fruit acid from the organically grown lemons to gently cleanse the hands and leave them feeling clean and soft, and gently scented. 

Overall, I have to say that I really enjoy using these products from Stop The Water While Using Me and the fact that they support such a great cause too. They are beautiful to use, smell gorgeous, and I love the fact that the products are all natural and contain no nasties either. And probably needless to say, but their black and white packaging and branding is not just simple, it is also super stylish and modern and definitely less is more. They'll look amazing in any bathroom.


Stop The Water While Using Me Travel kit - RRP: $65 / 5 products, 60ml each
Stop The Water While Using Me All Natural Lemon Honey Soap - RRP: $15.95 / 200ml

Available from Stop The Water While Using Me, Hard to Find, Neena and The Block Shop

* Some products may have been kindly provided for editorial consideration, and have been reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy, and reviews are 100% honest and based on personal opinion and experience. Note that The Beauty & Lifestyle Hunter is not a professional or expert, so please do not substitute these opinions as professional advice.

Remember that in between my blog posts you can always keep up with me on Twitter, Facebook, Bloglovin or Instagram

PRODUCT REVIEW: ZOELLA JELLY & GELATO

One of those brands I've seen and heard beauty bloggers and editors rave about for months and months now is Zoella Beauty. I am clearly way behind as I had not had a chance to try out any of the products, so when a parcel with some of the products from the newest range, Zoella Jelly & Gelato landed on my desk, I couldn't help but get very excited. Also as it was without a doubt the cutest PR delivery that I've received in a very long time... I mean, just how adorable is that little deck chair, and the card with the pop out ice cream van, and of course those adorable pasted coloured products! 

Not heard of Zoella before, don't worry, it took me a while to catch you too. But in short, she's considered internet royalty as a UK beauty blogger having over 11 million subscribers on her YouTube channel, and so popular that she apparently has been named the most powerful beauty vlogger by Forbes Magazine!! In addition, she has also written several books, has a lifestyle range and a beauty range... Oh, and her very own waxwork in Madame Tussauds. Her newest range is called Jelly and Gelato, and these are the products I've been putting to the test; 

• Zoella Shower Sauce Body Wash 
• Zoella Shower Shake Moisturising Body Wash 
• Zoella Pink Bath Wafers Moisturising Bath Fizzer 
• Zoella Gelat'Eau Body Mist 

But I didn't even need to open the products to smell their gorgeous scent, as their fresh fruity and slightly sweet scent immediately filled my whole family room. The range features notes of elderflower, pomegranate and double cream. Just divine, and along with the cute pastel pink, and retro looking packaging, these products really are super cute and girlie, and also the perfect products to give you that summery feel.

The Zoella Shower Sauce Body Wash that has a slightly runny jelly consistency, in a transparent pink colour. You're are to drizzle it over your body, like you would drizzle sauce over your ice cream and gelato, and lather it up, before rinsing it up. It has a lovely soft lather and gently cleanses the skin without drying it out, leaving it soft and with the gorgeous scent lingering behind. It does not appear to have any additional moistursing benefits, and I do feel I need to apply a moisturiser afterwards on my winter dry skin.

But my favourite scented body wash would have to be the Zoella Shower Shake Moisturising Body Wash, which has the same scent, but which is a creamy moisturising wash. It lathers up to a soft foam and smells just gorgeous, and leaves the skin feeling soft and with beautiful scent lingering on the skin. And you of course cannot help by fall in love with the cute which is made to look like a glass of milkshake complete with a straw. Just too gorgeous. 

Then there's the Zoella Pink Bath Wafers Moisturising Bath Fizzer, which I have to be honest and admit that I am yet to try, basically as I simply have not had the time with two sick little kids to take a bath! But these are like a moisturising bath bomb, only they are designed to look like a cute ice cream wafer, and rumour has it that they turn your bath water a gorgeous pink colour and makes it smell so divine. I so need to find time for a bath, pronto!

Finally, there's the Zoella Gelat'Eau Body Mist, which comes in such a beautiful bottle with its pastel coloured design. Like the rest of the range, it has notes of elderflower and fruity pomegranate, and it is just such as fresh and fruity and slightly sweet scent that is absolutely perfect for spring and summer, yet without being too sweet or overpowering. Just the perfect scent to use as an everyday scent. It is a body mist, which tends to meant that it wears off rather quickly, but surprisingly this one seems to last for quite a while on the skin. The perfect scent if you'd like to wear a perfume, but still want something subtle, I therefore also feel that its perfectly suited to younger teenagers. Oh and cute is the name, Gelat'Eau, such a clever play on words.


Zoella Shower Sauce Body Wash - RRP: $11.99 / 160ml
Zoella Shower Shake Moisturising Body Wash - RRP: $8.99 / 250ml
Zoella Pink Bath Wafers Moisturising Bath Fizzer - RRP: $9.99 / 200g
Zoella Gelat'Eau Body Mist - RRP: $19.99 / 45ml

Available from Target 

* Some products may have been kindly provided for editorial consideration, and have been reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy, and reviews are 100% honest and based on personal opinion and experience. Note that The Beauty & Lifestyle Hunter is not a professional or expert, so please do not substitute these opinions as professional advice.

Remember that in between my blog posts you can always keep up with me on Twitter, Facebook, Bloglovin or Instagram

PRODUCT REVIEW: SUNESCAPE SELF TAN AND ILLUMINATING BODY TINT

Where did summer go. I cannot believe that it I almost winter here, and how fast temperatures are dropping. The lovely warm summer sun seems but a faint memory ago, - and my gorgeous summer tan is long gone, and my skin is looking pale and pasty. Nothing wrong with that, nothing at all actually - but if you're anything like me, I certainly feel I look better and healthier when I've got a just a slight tan. And that's where Sunescape comes in handy… 

Sunescape is an Australian brand, developed in the world-famous Bondi. And to create and maintain a beautiful tan, you just cannot go past Sunescape’s best value ‘Take Home Gift Box’ includes; 

• Sunescape Self Tanning Mouse - Available in two colour options, Week in Fiji, or Month in Maui
• Sunescape Hydrating Body Butter 
• Sunescape Hydrating Shower Gel 
• Sunescape Self-Tan Applicator Mitt 

The Sunescape Instant Self Tan Mousse, which is a lightweight, mousse that instantly give your skin a radiant bronzed look. It contains among others macadamia nut, coconut and avocado oils to keep the skin soft and hydrated, while the antioxidants from the added green tea, kakadu plum, grape seed extract and vitamin E help nourish and protect the skin. And while this mousse instantly gives your skin colour- which by the way, also helps make it easier to apply evenly as you can see where you've already applied it - the full tan takes 4-5 hours to fully develop. The mouse is very light, and absorbs quickly into the skin, but to avoid colour transfer onto your clothes, it is recommended that you want about 5-10 minutes getting dressed after you've applied it. 

To make application even easier and completely streakfree too, the kit also comes with an application mitt that you can use again and again - and it really is brilliant, and not to mention, saves you getting self-tanner under your nails and staining them! And as promised, after about four hours, your skin has the most beautiful glowing tan, that is not looking orange or fake, but rather healthy and natural. As if you've just spent the day at a tropical island.

One of the things I often don't like about self-tanners, and the reason I don't use them as often as I probably should, is that I generally just don't like the smell as they develop, but I have to say that I am beyond impressed with Sunescape. Yes, there is a scent, but compared to others that I've previously tried, this actually smells nice! I also like that once it fades, it does so evenly, like any normal tan would.

So after the 4 or so hours, you can have a quick rinse, but just a quick one as you do not want to wash everything off - but you don't have to, and if you don't the colour will continue to develop further. And for this shower, the Sunescape Hydrating Shower Gel is the perfect body wash. It contains among others kiwi, avocado, and passionflower and has been designed to extend the life of your tan. The shower gel is free from sulfates and soaps so it doesn't dry out the skin, but rather the added extracts from the tropical flowers along with the coconut oil, not only makes this smell incredible, it also gently cleanses the skin, keeping it soft and hydrated. 

To help you extend the life of your tan, the Sunescape hydrating Body Butter is perfect. This thick and rich body butter contains among others cocoa and shea butters, along with nut oils, mango fruit extracts and vitamin E to help nourish the skin, while also helping to reinvigorate and repair it. This body butter is thick, rich and creamy, and is so lovely on the skin. It does take a moment to absorb, but once it has, it leaves the skin feeling so soft and deeply nourished, and thus not only making your skin look healthier and younger, but also making your tan stay put for longer. It also has a divine coconut scent. 

In addition, I have also been loving the Sunescape Illuminating Body Tint, which is a wash-off instant tanner, that instantly gives your skin a beautiful radiant glow. This non-sticky body lotion contains among others a blend or argan, macadamia nut and coconut oils to hydrate and soothe the skin along with fruit extracts from guava and pomegranate to give it a lovely tropical scent. As the name suggests, it is slightly tinted, and is perfect to enhance your current tan, or use on its own of course, as it also helps smooth out uneven skin tones disguising smaller imperfections, and make the skin look more glowing and radiant thanks to containing just a touch of shimmer.

It is easy to apply evenly, though you do have to wait 10 or so minutes afterwards before getting dressed to avoid the colour transferring onto your clothes. And it quickly and easily washes off again with soap and water. 

Overall I have to say that I am beyond impressed with these products from Sunescape. The self tan is so super easy to use, and even a non-frequent user like me, managed to get a beautiful even and streak-free tan the very first time. Yes, the products do have a slight scent, but compared to most others, this is really so insignificant, that even I can put up with it.

You can naturally purchase all the products individually, but the Self-Tan Kit is perfect as it contains everything you need and even saves you a couple of dollars too. And the added Illuminating body tint, is such a great addition - perfect to give your skin an illuminated glow, so the ideal product to use on special occasion when you want to look even more radiant and healthy.

Yes, I would love nothing more than chilling a week in Fiji or even better a month in Maui, but that's not likely to happen anytime soon, but at least I can look forward to facing the first winter in a very long time with a beautiful healthy and natural looking tan, thanks to Sunescape.


Sunescape Self-Tan at Home Box, containing Instant Self Tan Mousse, 250ml, Hydrating Shower Gel, 200ml and Hydrating Body Butter, 250ml, Applicator Mitt - RRP: $79.80 (valued at $99.75)
Sunescape Illuminating Body Tint - RRP: $39.95 / 200ml

Available from Sunescape and select stockists

* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

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MOTHERS DAY GIFT IDEAS - PART TWO

The other day I started my series of gift ideas for Mother's Day, if you missed the first part, you see it here. Anyway, here's the second part with even more suggestions within electrics, beauty and lifestyle products, so there something for every budget and taste… 

She's sure to fall head of heels over this super cool and super girlie bright Oral-B PRO 500 Electric Toothbrush Pink Edition. The Oral-B PRO 500 electric toothbrush has been designed so it is on a slight angle for a better clean of each individual tooth. It has a 3D movement cleaning system that oscillates 7,600 times per minute and pulsates 20,000 times per minute, while it also rotates to break up and remove more plaque, and combined with the round CrossAction toothbrush head, which is inspired by professional cleaning tools, it delivers a clean that is so much better than using a regular manual toothbrush, as it helps lift and clean away more dental plaque as the round brush surrounds each tooth and deep cleanses between the teeth too. In fact, it promises to remove up to 100% more plaque than a regular manual toothbrush.

The toothbrush has a handy two-minute timer which buzzes every seconds so you know when it is time to move onto the next quadrant of your teeth, to ensure that all get a good clean. It also has a very long battery life, lasting up to 7 days on a full charge. It is super light in the hand, and so easy to use, and your teeth feel so clean after each use. It also comes with a charging station, and comes with a 2 year warranty.

Or perhaps you’d like to gift her something a little more intimate, such as these gorgeous bamboo Sensual Boy Leg knickers from Modibodi. They are incredibly soft thanks to the natural fibres, and they not only look very stylish and glamourous, they are so incredibly comfortable to wear that you actually almost forget you've got them on. But what's more, is that they are also very high-tech that they actually double as absorbent underwear too as they feature a 3mm inbuilt panty liner, that offers you better protection than any pair of regular undies and disposable sanitary products, so they help protect you from light bladder leakage, periods etc. this inbuilt panty liner uses moisture-wicking technology to draw sweat and discharge away from the skin, while being leak proof, antibacterial, breathable and stain resistant. And you simply wash them like any other underwear. So how good is that, stylish and comfortable underwear that makes you feel confident and give you peace of mind from leaks, periods, sweat and odour, while making you feel great about yourself too.


Want to give her something that's so practical that she'll absolutely love, then you cannot go past this Hair Towel Wrap from Freestyle. The Hair Towel Wrap, is made from super absorbent microfibre, that helps dry the hair so much faster, and with my very long and thick hair, I can really notice a difference. I also love that you can wrap your hair in the towel and safely secure it with the button - something I really love. I am so fed up trying to wrap my wet hair up in a normal towel while I do my makeup, as it always only stays put for a few moments, and I then end up giving up, and my hair is still dripping wet and subsequent drying takes so much longer. So this towel wrap is really a godsend. And you can simply pop it in the washing machine with the rest of your towels and use again and again. Seriously such a time-saver, and the lavender-pink shade is so gorgeous too. It is available in two sizes, a small for those with shorter hair styles, and large, if you like me have got a lot of hair!

Or what about a Freestyle Detangler Brush, which has flexible bristles that makes it so easy to comb out and detangle your hair whether it is wet or dry, as it glides through the hair smoothly and gently without pulling or dragging the hair, thanks to the epoxy tips, which also helps smooth down the hair and prevent frizz and flyaways. This hairbrush is super lightweight, and has an ergonomic handle too, so it is easy to hold, and it is also heat resistant so you can use it when heat styling it. And because it is so lightweight it is also perfect to pop into your handbag as it wont weigh it down either.

Another suggestion would be some body pampering products from Natural Instinct such as the Uplifting Body Wash with Lemon Grass and Ginko, and the Silky Hydrating Body Lotion with Triple Nourishing Complex. These products from Natural Instinct are not only made in Australia, but they are also made from natural plant ingredients and free from all the chemical nasties including petrochemicals, PEGs, mineral oils, sulphates, silicones, parabens, PABA, and artificial fragrances and colours, as well as they of course have not been tested on animals.

The Natural Instinct Uplifting Body Wash with Lemongrass and Ginseng is an invigorating shower gel. It has added ginko to help regenerate the skin and stimulate circulation breaking down lipids commonly associated with cellulite, while the Vitamin C helps smooth and even the skin tone with antioxidant properties leaving skin feeling soft, supple & youthful, and finally energising lemon grass which stimulates and helps tone the skin leaving it feeling smooth & revitalised. It is so gentle on the skin, leaving it clean without drying out the skin or making it itchy, and it has the most beautiful fresh and zesty scent thanks to the ginseng and the lemon grass, and it is hence the perfect soap to use in the morning when you need a bit of a kick start, and I love that this scent lingers in my bathroom after use, making it smell like a spa!

Pair that with the Natural Instinct Silky Hydrating Body Lotion which contains a triple nourishing complex boosted by among others sweet almond, rosehip and jojoba oils to add intense moisture and nourishment to the skin, leaving it so silky soft and supple. But the ingredients natural also have other purposes, and so the sweet almond oil also helps improve the skin's barrier function, the rosehip oil rich in fatty acids and vitamin c helps heal and has anti-ageing properties, while the jojoba oil has moisturising and protecting properties. In addition it also contains other nourishing ingredients including avocado oil and mango seed butter, as well as lavender oil and chamomile flower extract, which is likely contributing to its slightly floral scent. This body lotion leaves the skin silky soft and so smooth, and is perfect to combat dry winter skin too.

Or what about spoiling her to a few perfume such as the newly launched Calvin Klein Deep Euphoria Eau de Toilette. This perfume is a new version of the Euphoria scent which was launched some years ago. The Deep Euphoria contains among others cascalone, mandarin leaf and white pepper in the top notes, black rose, geranium and jasmine sambac in the middle notes, and in the base notes it has musk, pachouli and woody notes

Deep Euphoria is a fruity rose scent that dries down to a warm floral and very feminine scent. I am not a huge fan of rose scents on their own, finding them somewhat 'old-woman'ish", but that is far from the case with Deep Euphoria.

I find it such a gorgeous scent, as it is neither too spicy, or too sweet, but a beautiful sophisticated scent with just the rose scent lingering. It is 'just' an EDT, but still, I find that it lasts well on the skin, as if I put it on in the morning, I can still detect it at the end of the day, although if I do go out at night again, I do find that a refreshing top-up squirt is nice. It comes sin the most stunning deep dark pinky-purple bottle, which apart from the shade is like the original one, but although it was launched years ago, it is as modern and stunning now as it was then. For me Deep Euphoria is sure to be a autumn and winter favourite.

Regardless of what you decide to gift her, don't forget to include a handwritten personal note, such as in one of the gorgeous Hallmark's Signature Collection Cards, which she'll be sure to love and treasure.


Oral-B PRO 500 Electric Toothbrush Pink Edition - RRP: $99.00
Available from Priceline

Modibodi Sensual Boy Leg - RRP: $28.50 / each
Available from Modibodi

Freestyle Hair Towel Wrap, Large - RRP: $11.99, small - RRP: $8.99
Freestyle Detangler Brush - RRP $14.99 
Available from Priceline and Chemcorp

Natural Instinct Uplifting Body Wash - RRP: $11.95 / 500ml
Natural Instinct Silky Hydrating Body Lotion - RRP: $15.95 / 500ml
Available from Priceline and Natural Instinct Online

Calvin Klein Deep Euphoria EDT - RRP: $120 / 100ml
Available from select stockists. To enquire call; 1800 812 663

Hallmark's Signature Collection Cards - RRP: From $9.99
Available from Target, NewsXpress, The Lucky Charm and select independent retailers

* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


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PRODUCT REVIEW: TREACLEMOON BATH AND SHOWER GEL, HAND AND BODY LOTION AND BODY BUTTER

Today I'm going to talk about a UK brand, Treaclemoon, which has been around for a while, but has just arrived in Australia. Treaclemoon makes a beautiful selection of Bath, Shower and Body with delicious scents. 

The Treaclemoon Bath & Shower Gels come in a large selection of scents including Iced Strawberry Dream, The Raspberry Kiss, My Coconut Island, Dusted Cocoa Heaven, One Ginger Morning - and I tried the Those Lemonade Days, Warm Apple Pie Hugs, and That Vanilla Moment.

 

The shower gels come in a large 500ml clear bottles that show the brightly coloured shower gel. The bottles have a flip lid on them, and as the only negative, I would have loved to see them come with a pump, especially considering their large size. The bottles have quirky and funny texts on them, which I think is really cute - you find things like this on the Warm Apple Pie Hugs bottle "memories of a cozy kitchen where sunlight danced and played… it felt like the whole world was cocooned in glorious apple pie heavenliness".

 

The actual shower gel has a nice consistency, not so runny that you waste half as it runs out of your hands, and not so thick that it feels like a lump on your skin, but just right! They create a lovely soft lather, especially if used with a loofah, and the scents are just gorgeous and so fresh, and without being too overpowering or sickly sweet. They gently cleanse the skin, and without drying it out too, something fragranced shower gels often do. And I love how the scents continue to linger in both my bathroom and on my skin after each shower.

 

• The Warm Apple Pie Hugs is a peachy-pink bottle and it smells like fresh apples mixed with vanilla, just delish!
• The Vanilla Moment is a pale peach bottle and it smells like vanilla
• The Those Lemonade Days is a yellow bottle and it has a refreshing citrus scent

 

Of the three, my favourite is without a doubt the Those Lemonade Days, but only because I've got a thing for citrus scents, so it really hits the notes, but the other scents are lovely too.

 

Then there's the Treaclemoon The Raspberry Kiss Hand & Body Lotion, which is a also a clear bottle, showing the pink body lotion. The lotion has a light consistency and absorbs quickly and easily into the skin without greasiness, and does leave the skin feeling soft and smooth, and with the scent lingering behind. This works great for my normal skin, and also throughout the day on my hands, although if my hands are dry, I do find I need something richer. I like that this comes in a pump bottle as it makes so much easier to use.

 

And when you do need something Treaclemoon Body Butter is perfect. I also tried it in the Raspberry Kiss, which only has an every so faint pink colour. The scent is the same as the Hand & Body Lotion, though I don't find it quite as strong, which I actually prefer. It comes in a tub with a pink label, and the actual moisturiser is thick and creamy, and really good for those dry legs. Considering its thicker consistency, it absorbs surprisingly quickly into the skin without any greasiness or tackiness. I've personally like using the Body lotion on my upper body, and the Body Butter on my legs, as they seem a little more moisture.

  

The products are also very well priced, and even more so when you consider the super-sized bottles, and the bright colours look great in the bathroom too.

And actually the shower gels have won awards overseas for best budget shower gels, which goes to show how lovely they are!!

So overall these are really lovely products, and I love their fresh scents - though again my fave without a doubt was the Those Lemonade Days, simply due to its zesty and uplifting scent - but that said the other scents were lovely too, and with so many different scents, there's something for everyone and every preference. I certainly can certainly see myself purchasing the Lemonade Shower Gel and a few other products in that range, as well as I wouldn’t mind putting a few more different scents to the test as well..

 

 

Treaclemoon Bath & Shower Gel - RRP: $12.95 / 500ml each

Treaclemoon Hand & Body Lotion - RRP: $14.95 / 350ml each

Treaclemoon Body Butter - RRP: $14.95 / 250ml each 

 

Available from iglamour

 

* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

 

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XMAS GIFT IDEAS FROM OLIVE SKINCARE

Today I'm going to share with you some gorgeous gift sets from Olive. 

If you're not familiar with the brand Olive, they are make natural skincare and originates from the Simunovich Olive Estate in Bombay Hills in New Zealand. The products contain natural active and botanical ingredients and are all free from parabens, mineral oils, colourants, artificial fragrances and silicones, and have of course not been tested on animals. 

The Olive Hands Gift Set contains a Pomegranate Hand & Nail Cream (50ml) as well as a Blackcurrant Hand & Nail Cream (50ml). Inside the purple gift box you'll find the two tubes of hand and nail cream, the purple Blackcurrant and the Pink Pomegranate one, and I really love these brightly coloured tubes. Each of the creams have the most gorgeous fresh and natural fruity scents, with my personal favourite being the Pomegranate as it is slightly fresher. The cream has a lovely consistency and absorbs quickly and easily into my dry hands, leaving them silky soft and smooth, without any stickiness and with the gorgeous scent lingering for quite some time. The long skinny tubes are very handy to pop into the handbag too without taking up too much room.

 

Next up is the Olive Daily Gift Set which contains a Hands Moisturising Cream (75ml), which is a thick, yet non greasy cream loaded with plant extracts including extra virgin olive oil and spring water from the Olive estate. Again this cream absorbs quickly and easier, but does feel very intensely moisturising, and even after hours of working in the garden left my hands dry, this cream nourished them back in no time thanks to the added shea butter. While I do love a nice fragranced hand cream, I do admit that I also love the more subtle scent. The yellow gift box also contains a 100% Natural Lip Balm (10ml), which is loaded with plant extracts and extra virgin olive oil to help restore dry lips, all while keeping them soft and smooth, and well protected from the weather too. I love the fact that it has next to no scent, so it's perfect for applying at night time before, and the fact that it is a multi-tasker too as it can also be used to keep dry cuticles nourished and healthy. Finally, the gift set also contains a Pomegranate Body Lotion (50ml), and as above, I really love fresh fruity scent of this cream. The body lotion is quite lightweight, yet clearly very moisturising as it adds sufficient moisture to keep my dry elbows, knees and chins soft and smooth all day long, all while that gorgeous scent continues to linger on my skin.
 

Then there's the Olive Original Body Gift Set which contains products from the original range, including the Hand Moisturising Cream (75ml), (same as above), the Hydrating Shower Gel (30ml), which contains plant extracts, extra virgin olive oil and demineralised spring water, and it cleans the skin very gently, leaving it very soft and smooth. I love that it has a very subtle and gentle scent, and that it's another multi-tasking product that can also be used to assist shaving. The green gift box also contains a Body Moisture Milk (250ml), which contains extra virgin olive oil, olive leaf extract and grape seed oil, and it is packed with minerals and vitamins. The gentle scented Body Milk has a light consistency, but don’t be fooled, as it still provides intense moisture and care to your skin.
 

Finally, the Olive Pomegranate Body Gift Set, which is probably my personal favourite - and again, that is down to the fresh fruity scent of the pomegranate, so if you prefer something more subtle, you'd probably prefer the original range. This pink gift box contains the Pomegranate Hand & Nail Cream (50ml) (same as above), a Pomegranate Body Wash (200ml), which is loaded with the usual Olive plant extracts, as well as pomegranate fruit extracts to add vitamins and antioxidants to the skin, and it gently cleanses the skin, without drying it out. Again, this is another multi-tasker that can also be used while shaving. The gift set also contains the Pomegranate Body Lotion (50ml) ( same as above), and after using the Body Wash and the Body Lotion, let me tell you, my bathroom smells divine, and so does my skin! Finally, it also includes a Pomegranate Lip Balm (10ml), which feels so lovely and non-sticky on the lips.

 
Olive Hands Gift Set - RRP: $19.95
Olive Daily Gift Set - RRP: $24.95
Olive Original Body Gift Set - RRP: $29.95
Olive Pomegranate Body Gift Set - RRP: $34.95

Olive Skincare is available from Olive Online and select pharmacies 
* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


 

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PRODUCT REVIEW: LITTLE INNOSCENTS ORGANIC BABY SKINCARE

I've always been vary of what skincare products I use on my two boys skin. They are both very blonde and fair, and while they do not specifically suffer from dermatitis or any other skin concerns, they do seem to have very sensitive skin. So I was naturally excited when I was introduced to the Little Innoscents Organic Baby Skincare range.

 

The Little Innoscents Organic Baby Skincare range is an Australian made and owned range, and all the products contain nothing but effective natural ingredients.

Let's start with the Little Innoscents Baby Wipes. These wipes have been infused with aloe vera and vitamin E, and they are PH balanced and super gentle and suitable for even the most sensitive baby skin. I love that they are so thick that they can handle even a very 'messy' bum! I also love that they are free from chemicals so they are also safe to use to wipe down faces and sticky fingers. When our youngest was new born, he had a little bit of nappy rash, that flared up each time we used wipes, so eventually we resorted to using just water and cotton balls for a while, which was naturally difficult when we were out and about, so these wipes would have been so handy to have then as they would without a doubt have made a difference.

The Hair & Body Wash is an all-in-one product that is loaded with natural plant extracts including spearmint, sweet orange, and it has the most gorgeous fresh fruity scent. The gel is free from sulphates, yet it still foams up well, and gently cleanses both hair and body, and while I did intend for this to be used on my two little boys only, I have to admit to having used it too as a shower gel, as I simply couldn't resist it with the beautiful sent.

Then there's the Intensive Soothing Cream, which is an organic healing cream packed with shea butter, rosewood, lavender and avocado oils, and calendula extract, and since we've been using it on our little boys bottoms at every nappy change, they've not had one red bum, even the usual nasty teething periods that has always left both my boys with sore bottoms leaves, we've gotten over with a hitch, thanks to this cream. And I love that it can also be used on other rashes and dermatitis to help heal and soothe the skin.

The Winter Blues Balm, which is also called Baby Vapour Rub Balm, we got a the perfect time, as our 3.5 year old got hit with a bad cold, his first cold in about 1.5 years.

The balm contains medicinal essential oils including wintergreen and eucalyptus, as well as lemon, peppermint, and rosemary and beeswax, and it helps the baby breathe a little easier and avid nasal congestion and stuffy noses. And it is still so gentle, that it is even suitable to use on newborns! So when our boy was struggling to breathe at night, because he was so snotty, a little of this fresh and zesty smelling balm rubbed into his chest and feet, and it clearly helped him relax and breathe better in no time.

Finally, there's the Hair Fudge, and having a 3.5yo that is more or less refusing to leave the house unless his hair is waxed or gelled up, I was excited putting this one to the test - especially as he at times complains that his head is itch at the end of the day, after we've used certain gels or waxes in his hair. This hair fudge contains no alcohol, parabens or SLS, and with all its natural ingredients including rosewood and orange essential oils, it is also very gentle. It promises to give the hair a strong hold, but without any white flakes or residue on the hair or scalp, and it can be used in both wet or dry hair. Our little boy, being so blonde, also has very fine hair, and sadly, this fudge just didn't hold his hair in place, yes, it did tame it and control the flyaways, but unfortunately it just didn't have sufficient hold for his messy or 'spiky hair-do. But it works perfectly on little brother's baby hairs that are still a bit wild as they are still growing out, and again, I love that the fudge is so natural, that I can use this on him, without any concerns.

So there you go, a selection of Little Innoscents Organic Baby Skincare products. I've enjoyed using all on my little boys, and particularly fallen for the wipes, hair & body wash, the soothing cream and the sun lotion, and I'm very keen on putting other products from the range to the test too, including the Moisture Rich Body Lotion, the Paw Paw Balm, as well as some of the Himalayan Bath Salts and Home Cleaning Products.


Little Innoscents Baby Wipes - RRP: $6.50 / 80 wipes
Little Innoscents Hair & Body Wash - RRP: $12.95 / 250ml
Little Innoscents Intensive Soothing Cream - RRP: $10.99 / 75ml
Little Innoscents Winter Blues Balm - RRP: $10.99 / 75ml
Little Innoscents Sun Lotion SPF30 - $19.99 / 100ml
Little Innoscents Hair Fudge - RRP: $10.99 / 75ml

Available from select pharmacies, Baby Goods Stores, and health food stores.

Or for more information visit Little Innoscents Online

* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


 

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PRODUCT REVIEW: THE GOAT SKINCARE

Today I'd like to share with you a new brand that I've just come across, The Goat Skincare.. 

It has been known for years, - in actual fact, Cleopatra was said to bathe in goats milk - for the pure reason that goats milk has a PH level very close to that of the human skin, and consequently it is super gentle, as well as it helps provide skin with natural moisture and hydration, which in turn may relieve your skin from from dryness, itchiness or irritations caused by sensitive skin conditions.

In addition, goats milk is also naturally enriched with lactic acid, which can help gently exfoliate the skin by breaking down dead skin cells, as well as contains higher levels of natural vitamins, minerals and proteins than in cows milk.

The products from The Goat Skincare further more guarantee that there are no parabens, sulphates or harsh chemicals in their products, which are made from pure and natural ingredients, sustainable palm oil and fresh, permeate free ethically farmed goats milk, from Victoria, Australia. Gotta love local companies too!

As the products are so gentle, it also means that they are suitable for everyone, including including newborns and pregnant women, and those with very sensitive skin types. I don't particularly have dry or sensitive skin, but my two boys do - so I've been using these products on our 3 year old, with great success.

The Goat Skincare Moisturising Wash comes in a huge 500ml pump bottle and the soap is perfect for gently cleansing his skin and hair, without any skin irritations. He loves that it lathers up into a gentle foam that he can then play with in the bathtub afterwards.

Also available from the range is soap bars in several varieties. We tried out The Goat Skincare Soap Bar with Chia Seed Oil and the one with Chamomile, and have been using them for his bath too. And while again, the soft foam gently cleanses his skin, in general I just find that soap bars are so messy, so much prefer the liquid variety these days.

After his bath, I've always made sure to add some additional moisture into his skin, following with The Goat Skincare Moisturising Lotion. This lotion also comes in a huge 500ml convenient pump bottle, and the actual lotion is very light in consistency, and absorbs quickly into the skin without any greasiness, leaving the skin very soft and with a velvety feel, and I can tell that the moisture is long-lasting as I don't feel the need to re-moisturise his skin again later in the day. The lotion leaves behind a gentle milky fragrance lingering on the skin, which is lovely and quite subtle, and also perfectly suitable for a little toddler - however, if I would ideally have seen the products also be fragrance free, and any added fragrance be from natural essential oils in stead.

The products are all well priced, and also feature the cutest drawing of a goat, which looks adorable in the kids bathroom too! There are several other products available in the range, including massive 1 litre bottles, shampoo and conditioner, as well as products with manuka honey and lemon myrtle, however, unfortunately, while the company website does provide detailed descriptions of ingredients of all products, it does not provide any details of benefits of the various products. 

That said, I have enjoyed using the products on my little boy, and can see myself repurchasing both the Moisturising Wash and Moisturising Lotion for him again in the future.

The Goat Skincare Moisturising Wash - RRP: $9.95 / 500ml
The Goat Skincare Moisturising Lotion - RRP: $14.95 / 500ml
The Goat Skincare Soap Bar with Chamomile - RRP: $3.60 / 100g
The Goat Skincare Soap Bar with Chia Seed Oil - RRP: $3.60 / 100g

Available from The Goat Skincare, Priceline and select Pharmacies 

* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


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PRODUCT REVIEW: LUST HAVE IT JUNE 2016

The June Lust Have It Box arrived yesterday, well and truly on time, which is fantastic. Here's what was inside and my thoughts...

As per the last many many months, this month's contents arrived in a pink mesh bag, and as I've said a few times now, - and with the fear of sounding a little repetitive, please think of a new solution Lust Have It - these bags are great, until you have so many that they are starting to pile up and eventually they are thrown away - at this point I'd rather the products come plainly wrapped in bubble wrap, and receive an additional sample in lieu of the bag!!

Well, now on to the contents..

Edgy Tempting Cosmetics Eyeliner Pen - Full Size (RRP: $15)

Never heard of this brand, so that's exciting for starters - especially seeing it, like me come from Denmark! Must be a new brand seeing I've not seen it when I've been there. I'll definitely be checking out the rest of their range. Anyway, at $15 this is a mid-priced eyeliner, so I do expect the quality to be high, but unfortunately I got the shade Gold, which I am not really sure I'd ever wear...Bummer!

Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes - Deluxe Sample/7 wipes (RRP: $12.99)

I am one of those preferring to splash my face with water so much preferring a face wash over wipes, so I very rarely use them - unless I am travelling in which case I always have a pack in my hand luggage, but sadly not planning any trips overseas in the near future. Guess they will also be handy when swatching products for the blog!

Neutrogena Deep Clean Gentle Scrub - 15ml (RRP: $12.99/125ml)

I have actually already previously purchased a full sized tube of this one and really liked it - it is a scrub which also contains beta hydroxy to give the skin a good clean deep down every pore.


Sasy N Savy Peppermint N Rosemary Revive Bath & Shower Gel, 30ml ($35/250ml)

This peppermint and rosemary shower gel smells so refreshing, so it will be perfect to use in the shower in the mornings for a good kick start. I've previously tried some products from Sasy N Savy, and enjoyed them, so look forward to trying this one out too.


Paula's Choice Intensive Wrinkle Repair Retinol Serum - Deluxe sample, 7ml

This item is classified as a mystery item - and yet is the one I am the most excited about - I have actually received the same item in a previous month, but really like it, so don't mind a backup! The serum contains retinol and claims to help repair wrinkles and sun damage, firm the skin and reduce dark spots, so its right up my alley!


So there you go, this month's contents! Unfortunately I am just not wow'ed this month. Nothing really jumps out of the bag in any way. The Neutrogena products, while I love the brand, are 'basic'' and known to me, so no new discovery there and the Paula's Choice is a repeat. I am grateful for discovering a new Danish brand, although sadly not the right shade for me, and yes, the shower gel from Sasy N Savy smells beautiful, and I do look forward to using it. So all in all, while most products will get used, so as such, there is nothing wasted, unfortunately I just don't feel that this month's box offers value for money.
 
About Lust Have It - Lust Have It boxes regularly contains products worth $60+ for only $19.95/month! Monthly box filled with 5 to 6 premium beauty samples. Delivered to your home or work each month for you to try.

Lust Have It Box (monthly) RRP: $19.95, Eco Box (quarterly) RRP: $29.95 – but if you use my unique code LIFESTYLE at the checkout on the Lush Have It website, you are eligible for $10 off your first box from Lust Have It, - so you essentially will be able to get your first box for just $9.95! Bargain. When using this code, you’ll also be supporting Beauty & Lifestyle Hunter, as I will get a few dollars too if someone subscribes using this code.

Available from Lust Have It

* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
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PRODUCT REVIEW: L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE AROMACHOLOGIE COLLECTION

As you are probably aware if you regularly tune into my blog, I love the products from L'Occitane, so I always get very excited when I hear of new product launches. One of the most recent ones is the L'Occitane Aromachologie Collection.

The L'Occitane Aromachologie range has been developed to awaken the senses, restore balance and bring well-being and harmony to the body of the mind.

Today I'd like to talk about a few of the products from the range, the Rebalancing Exfoliating Shower Gel, The Rebalancing Black Soap and the Rebalancing Infusions for Bath.

Starting with the L'Occitane Aromachologie Rebalancing Shower Gel, this shower gel is made with purifying essential oils including thyme, cypress, juniper and eucalyptus to help review the skin. It also contains particles of olive and lemon to gently scrub away dead skin cells and impurities from the skin to leave it soft, clean and smooth, as well as re-oxygenated. The actual scrubbing particles are very small, so it is very gentle, yet still very efficient. And as it is also foaming cleanser, it is a great option for daily use to give your kick start in the mornings.

The L'Occitane Aromachologie Rebalancing Black Soap is a not your usual soap, rather it is a thick olive oil based gel soap that comes in a plastic tub, however, you still use it as you would your normal body wash, although it is only recommended to use it once or twice a week. It is best used after a warm shower or bath when the skin pores are open, as it thereby the soft lather helps to cleanse the skin and clear it from impurities, refine it's texture and leave it feeling silky soft and smooth, while the delicate herbal scent fills your bathroom and leaves the skin smelling beautiful too. 

Finally, the L'Occitane Aromachologie Rebalancing Infusions Bath Soaks, which is a pack of five individual sachets filled with bath revitalising bath salts with citrus fruit peel to gently exfoliate the skin and reinvigorate the mind. I don't often have, or take the time for a bath, but have to say that these not only very luxurious to use, but smell do divine too that it makes me want to work a little harder to get that much needed time to take a good relaxing soak.


L'Occitane Aromachologie Rebalancing Exfoliating Shower Gel - RRP: $29 / 250ml
L'Occitane Aromachologie Rebalancing Black Soap - RRP: $28 / 170g
L'Occitane Aromachologie Rebalancing Infusions For Bath - RRP: $26 / 5 x 20g

Available from L'Occitane en Provence

* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

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PRODUCT REVIEW: L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE AROMACHOLOGIE COLLECTION

As you are probably aware if you regularly tune into my blog, I love the products from L'Occitane, so I always get very excited when I hear of new product launches. One of the most recent ones is the L'Occitane Aromachologie Collection. This range has been developed to awaken the senses, restore balance and bring well-being and harmony to the body of the mind.

Today I'd like to talk about a few of the products from the range, the Rebalancing Exfoliating Shower Gel, The Rebalancing Black Soap and the Rebalancing Infusions for Bath.

Starting with the Rebalancing Shower Gel. This shower gel is made with purifying essential oils including thyme, cypress, juniper and eucalyptus to help review the skin. It also contains particles of olive and lemon to gently scrub away dead skin cells and impurities from the skin to leave it soft, clean and smooth, as well as re-oxygenated. The actual scrubbing particles are very small, so it is very gentle, yet still very efficient. And as it is also foaming cleanser, it is a great option for daily use to give your kick start in the mornings.

The Rebalancing Black Soap is a not your usual soap, rather it is a thick olive oil based gel soap that comes in a plastic tub, however, you still use it as you would your normal body wash, although it is only recommended to use it once or twice a week. It is best used after a warm shower or bath when the skin pores are open, as it thereby the soft lather helps to cleanse the skin and clear it from impurities, refine it's texture and leave it feeling silky soft and smooth, while the delicate herbal scent fills your bathroom and leaves the skin smelling beautiful too. 

Finally, the L'Occitane Rebalancing Infusions Bath Soaks, which is a pack of five individual sachets filled with bath revitalising bath salts with citrus fruit peel to gently exfoliate the skin and reinvigorate the mind. I don't often have, or take the time for a bath, but have to say that these not only very luxurious to use, but smell do divine too that it makes me want to work a little harder to get that much needed time to take a good relaxing soak.


L'Occitane Aromachologie Rebalancing Exfoliating Shower Gel - RRP: $29 / 250ml
L'Occitane Aromachologie Rebalancing Black Soap - RRP: $28 / 170g
L'Occitane Aromachologie Rebalancing Infusions For Bath - RRP: $26 / 5 x 20g

Available from L'Occitane en Provence

* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

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MOTHER'S DAY GIFT IDEAS FROM LUSH

Next in line of Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day is a selection of products from Lush;

 Yummy Mummy Body Conditioner

This body conditioner is intended to be used in the shower after using shower gel. You simply smooth it over your body, and then rinse off, and afterwards you are left with the softest smoothest skin. The Body Conditioner contains blended fresh strawberry juice with murumuru and Fair Trade Organic cocoa butter to leave the skin deeply nourished. Personally I find it has a slightly odd scent, and I’d like it to smell a little more of strawberries, however, the results are well worth it, and it’s the perfect product when you are in a hurry, as it saves you having to apply body lotion once out of the shower.

RRP: $32.50 (250ml) – Available from Lush


Mother Superior Bubble Bar

This bubble bar is has been designed with the cutest little face that is so hard not to smile at. The body bar has been scented with Cherry Blossoms and smells divine. You simply crumble the body bar under the running water, and you are left with lots of beautifully scented bubbles, that will not only gently cleanse your skin, but leave it feeling soft and smooth too!

RRP: $9.95 (180g) – Available from Lush


Rose Bombshell Bath Bomb

This bath bomb is shaped like a round ball, and is full of rose petals, as well as it contains orange flower absolute, rosewood and Turkish rose oils and soya milk powder, and consequently smells like, well roses. The scent any mother will love! And the soya milk means that the bath will not only be a beautiful scented experience, it will also pamper the skin, leaving it incredibly soft and smooth.

RRP: $6.25 (165g) – Available from Lush



Yummy Mummy Shower Gel

This Yummy Mummy Shower Gel has got a lovely lilac colour that makes me think of a paint pot!!! The shower gel, which can actually also be used as a shampoo has been scented with lilac and orange oil, which gives it a very sweet smelling scent. It also contains seaweed to leave the skin extra soft, and also contains tiny shimmer particles that give your skin (and hair!) and nice radiant glow

RRP: $9.95 (100g) – Available from Lush


Love You Mum Soap

The soap bar is designed as a red flower and it is scented beautifully with mimosa, jasmine absolutes and bergamot oil, so it not only smells absolutely divine with its floral scent, it looks absolutely gorgeous too, almost too pretty to use!
Note that this floral shape is a special PR sample, and that the Love You Mummy Soap soap you can purchase instore and online has a full floral pattern, whilst still being the same soap!

RRP: $6.95 (100g) – Available from Lush

So there you go, a selection of beautifully scented pampering products from Lush that any Mum will love and adore. My personal picks of the bunch would have to be the Mother Superior Bubble Bar, The Rose Bath Bomb and the Love You Mum Soap, simply because I prefer the scents of these products!!

*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

Do you use Lush products? Any recommendations?

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