May Empties

Products marked * I've been kindly gifted for review. I'm not going to use anything else up this month so here are my May empties:

The little tube you can barely make out is a sample from Inika's newish skincare range in the form of their Phytofuse Renew Avocado Hand Cream 4ml which I picked up at Naturisimo. This was a lovely hand cream but full size is £35 (75ml) so I'm unlikely to buy. Nice to try though.

Another sample from Naturisimo in the form of Agent Nateur's very pricey Holi (Oil) Youth Serum (full size is 30ml - £113). Again, lovely to use with a rosey aroma (it actually reminded me of Ila Spa's Face Oil for Glowing Radiance!) Nice to try, unlikely to buy.

My friend Julie gifted me a set of Commodity Fragrances which used to be available at SpaceNK. They have a new owner and will ship to the UK (although they are currently closed due to the present climate). I'm working my way through the sample set and I fell totally head-over-heels for Bergamot.  It's one I'd love full size (maybe one day!)

I truly adore Kiss the Moon and loved their GLOW Bedtime Bath Salts 350g* which I was kindly gifted. They are a blend of Dead Sea Salts with detoxifying magnesium and scented with beautiful GLOW Blend (Orange, Litsea, Myrrh and Geranium). Perfect to use in your bath before bed for a soothing and calm night's sleep. Will definitely pick up again!

I'm a huge, huge fan of amazing award-winning Ecooking (in fact I've got some reviews upcoming!). I first tried their Cleansing Gel 50ml as a Latest in Beauty pick. Fell in love and stocked up each month until it went out of stock. See my review HERE. I've a couple of these left in my stash but I'll definitely buy full size when I use them up.

The Rituals The Ritual of Dao Night Balm for the Hands 10ml (now Rituals of Jing) was a Feel Unique Sample pick (oh how I miss pick 'n' mix and beauty kit). This is a really rich balm which was perfect to use before bed/after gardening. It has a gorgeous floral scent and it's one I'd buy full size when my hand cream stash reduces a bit.

I reviewed the Casa Mencarelli* range HERE. I loved their aromatic Sicilia Green Clay & Lemon Face Mask & Scrub 80g* which was presented in a huge pot. It made masking into a ritual and it's one I'll definitely buy in the future.

I adore Anita Grant's beautiful range. I first reviewed this mouthwatering Organic Vanilla Cocoa Body Butter 57g back in 2013 and then received the brand again in my April '18 Skin Organic Clean Beauty Box. Of course, I then had to go and buy full size again! And yes, I need that butter in my stash right now!

I love Connock London's beautiful ranges and adored their Manuka Honey Hand & Body Wash which I reviewed HERE. I'll definitely buy again when my stash reduces a bit.

The Nature Lab Volume Shampoo & Conditioner sachets both 7ml came with a recent Cult Beauty order. I didn't notice any extra volume. Nice enough to try but not sure I'm enticed to buy full size.

I enjoyed using Upcircle's Soap which is infused with repurposed Chai Spices (100g). Upcircle were I believe the first company to reuse coffee grounds in their products in the UK (formerly Optiat). See my review HERE. I'll definitely pick this up again at some point.

What have you been using up in May?

September Empties

Here's what I've been using up in September (a lot more than last month!)

*productsample I love NUXE's Nuxuriance Ultra Lux Body Cream 30ml which is a deeply nourishing treat for the body. See my review HERE. I've just opened a full size pot.

From No Secrets is their decadent Bath Jelly 15ml which came in my July Skin Organics Clean Beauty Box. I loved this delicious aromatherapy scented treat. Unsure if I'd buy as they are quite expensive - lovely to try though!

I've totally loved every Austin Austin product I've tried. I just loved their Neroli Petitgrain Body Cream 120ml which I reviewed HERE. Would definitely buy again when my stash reduces a bit.

I loved Evolve's Multi Peptide 360 Moisture Cream 60ml* which I reviewed HERE. Another one that's on the wishlist for when my stash reduces.

I also loved Casa Mencarelli's deliciously scented Acqua di Miele Honey & Orange Toner 100ml* which I reviewed HERE. It was gorgeous and one I'm also adding to my wishlist.

Zenon Kition's Floral Beauty Mist came in last July's Skin Organics Clean Beauty Box. It was a delight and I definitely need to explore the range more.

I'm currently using up the last of my Sisley samples when I subscribed to their monthly sample box. This Eye & Lip Make Up Remover (15ml) was nice to try but not one I'd buy.

From Madara is their Infusion Blanc Jasmine & Meadowsweet Soap which I loved. So much so I've picked up another bottle! It has a slightly floral scent and a rich creamy texture.

I loved these Phyto Color Shampoo & Mask sachets (both 10ml) which were from Feel Unique's pick n mix sample selection. I loved them so much I rushed out and bought full sizes. Also in sachet sample size is Antipodes Manuka Honey Skin Brightening Eye Cream 3ml which I really loved - the little sachet gave me numerous tries (and yes, it's one I'd love full size!) I've had a few of the Ayumi sachets and their Turmeric & Bergamot Face Wash (5ml) is one of my favourites from the range (I've since bought full size). The final sachet sample is by Lavera and their Re-energising Sleeping Cream 1ml which was too tiny a sample to get a real feel for the product.

I adore the scent of Sol de Janeiro's Brazillian Bum Bum Cream 75ml so sure to pick it up again (I think I was gifted this one by a friend). It's got a delicious creamy vanilla scent and a buttery texture which melts instantly onto the skin.

I love Molton Brown's Festive Frankincense & Allspice Hand Wash 300ml which I stock up on in the sales (I've still got one to crack open from last year!) See my review HERE.

D'Alchemy Intense Skin Repair Oil 5ml* which I loved. I'm a huge fan of this brand and I'd definitely replenish this when my stash reduces a bit. See my review HERE.

I love beautiful Awake Organics and loved using these two beauties - Frankin-Sense Divine Face Serum* & Citrus+Hemp Clearing Face Serum* - see my reviews HERE. Again, these were really lovely to use and I'd buy when my serum stash reduces.

From bodhi & birch I used up two of their travel minis (which are perfect for holidays) - the Lemon Water Hydrosol Tonic (50ml) lasted over two weeks. See my review HERE. I've just cracked open a new one! I also loved beautiful Neroli Luce Face Oil mini (review to come).

What have you been using up this month?

Skin Organics Clean Beauty Box: Organic September: September 2019

The Skin Organics Clean Beauty Box has gone bi-monthly and it was a real treat to receive September's box on Monday which is entitled "Organic September" (£25 plus p&p). Sign up HERE. I love the new branded boxes too.

Inside this month are 5 product (3 I've tried before, with 2 new ones). Terre Verdi's FranchouliPom Nourishing Face Serum (30ml - £38) is an expertly formulated and blended treat for all skin types. See my review HERE. I finished this ages ago so it'll be nice to try it out again.

From Casa Mencarelli we have a (15ml - £15) pot of their Award Winning Crema Di Pomodoro Tomato Night Cream & Cleanser which I reviewed HERE.

The final item this month which I've tried before is Botanicals Hands & Nails Replenishing Oil (10ml - £14) which I reviewed HERE (I'm kind of pleased to have this back in my stash as it's been so long since I've used it!)

The final two items in the box are new to me brands - Lovegrove Essentials and Verdant Alchemy (both of which I'd previously been eyeing up!) From Lovegrove Essentials is a mini toning mist (£4) and from Verdant Alchemy a pack of glorious Drift Off Bath Salts (I actually fell asleep in the bath on Monday night!) which are packed with essential oils of lavender, mandarin, patchouli and vetiver. These are worth £12 (100g).

Are you a subscriber? What are your thoughts on the goodies inside which are certified by The Soil Association for Organic September?

October: Lately I've been Loving

Here's what I've been loving in October:

I picked up this gorgeous wee book by local artist Peter Jones. It may be a little book but it's the sweetest thing and perfect for any lover of Portobello.

I had the real pleasure of trying gorgeous Casa Mencarelli, a beautiful new skincare line. See my review HERE. The products are beautiful (I also love that you can buy trial sizes as well as full sizes).

I loved attending the 10th Portobello Book Festival - I normally go to a few things but only managed along to the fascinating discussion by Sara Sheridan and Alex Nye - "no place for a woman" and of course I had to get signed books. The Ice Maiden I'd already read and you can see my mini review in my July book round-up.

I'm testing out the latest launch from Dafna's Personal Skincare - Active Mist* which is incredible - expect a review on the blog soon!

Being a tester for Triyit - I was delighted to receive a box of wonderful new products* from Beauty Kitchen - I've already got some favourites - expect reviews up on the blog soon.

What have you been loving this month?

*complimentary

Review: Casa Mencarelli

I've had the real pleasure of trying Casa Mencarelli which is certified organic by the Soil Association. The range is created and formulated by founder Lucia. She personally developed multiple chemical sensitivity and started to make her own organic range.

Formulated with clean and organic ingredients the range will care for and nourish your skin leaving it looking glowy and healthy. Ingredients are inspired by the founder's childhood in Italy include Olive Oil, Tomato Seed Oil, Lemon, Sea Buckthorn Fruit Oil, Honey and Green Clay Powder to name a few. The products have a "natural" and "earthy" type scent.

SICILIA Lemon & Clay Face Mask & Scrub (12g - £8, 80g - £25)* the smaller of size of which came in my August Skin Organics Clean Beauty Box (it was my first try of this gorgeous brand). 

Formulated with pure Sicilian Green Clay and Lemon Peel Powder the mask/scrub will gently remove dead skin cells, impurities and leave your skin looking glowy and cared for.

To use: to activate the mask mix 1-2 tsp of powder with a teaspoon of mineral water or Honey & Orange Toner to make a paste. Apply to the skin leaving on for up to 10 minutes before rinsing.

SOLE E MARE Sea Buckthorn Serum (15ml - £18, 100ml - £65)* and is one of my favourites from the range.  The serum is very rich in anti-oxidants such as Beta Carotene, Vitamin E and Essential Fatty Acids Omegas 3, 5, 6, 7 and 9 which help to repair and regenerate.

Deeply nourishing the serum hydrates, plumps out fine lines and wrinkles and increases collagen production. Soothing and repairing it will help to restore suppleness and radiance.

To use: rub a pump between your palms before pressing it onto your face and neck.

ACQUA DI MIELE Honey & Orange Toner (15ml - £8, 100ml - £30)* which instantly refreshes the skin. Formulated with Organic Orange Blossom hydrosol and fine Italian Organic honey. It has a sweet floral scent.

To use: apply to a cotton pad, sweeping over the face and neck (avoiding the eye area).

CREMA DI POMODORO Nourishing Tomato Night Cream & Cleanser (15ml - £15, 60ml - £45)* as you'll know I love a multi-purpose product and this one can be used as a night cream or cleanser.  It'll hydrate, protect and nourish. Rich in anti-oxidants, essential fatty acids, vitamins and carotenes, lycopene and phytosterols. 

To use: as a cream cleanser with a warmed wet cloth to remove make up and daily grime or as a rich and nourishing night cream. 

It has a fruity, earthy and herbal aroma. Wake up with beautiful soft skin!

The final item in the range I've been trying out is their BELLISSIMA BALM Sea Buckthorn Balm (15ml - £15, 60ml - £45) which is perfect if your skin needs a little bit more nourishment. Ideal for dry, mature and sensitive skin types (it's also great for knees, elbows and feet). It's packed full of good things for the skin making it ideal if your skin needs some TLC.

To use: apply a small amount to cleansed face and neck. Can also be used for other dry skin areas, as a lip balm or moisturising mask.

I love that the whole range is available is smaller sizes which are great for try me or for holidays. Pick yours up HERE. I've been so impressed with this beautiful new brand.  Have your  tried any products from Casa Mencarelli? If so, what are your favourites?

*complimentary

September: Lately I've been Loving

So many September loves...

Nothing I like more than homemades. This jam is one of many things I've made with the glut of plums from my plum tree at the allotment. Delicious!

This Oblepikha hair mask* by Natura Siberica is just amazing. See my review HERE - it's one of my favourite hair care products this year.

My fav breakfast ever - avo on toast with poached eggs (with feta & chilli too). Delicious.

I've just started testing out the beautiful range of products** by new Glasgow based brand Casa Mencarelli, who are also Formula Botanica graduates. Expect reviews soon! Thanks to Paula for including a trial size from the brand in August's Skin Organics Clean Beauty Box. It really is a gorgeous and very luxurious range.

I picked up this delicious duo by aye pickled at our local monthly market. The strawberries are seriously yummy! 

This gorgeous calming NYC CALM candle from Wildheart Organics which I picked up in the summer in North Berwick is glorious. I've been having some stressful days at work so I've been lighting this in the evenings to de-stress and relax. It has notes of Lavender, Mandarin and Sandalwood. The candle is handcrafted using soy wax and pure essential oils and is one of the nicest candles I've used for a while.

Being invited again this year to be a Beauty Shortlist Judge for the 2019 Awards is an absolute honour and I'm absolutely thrilled. I'm currently putting some amazing products through their paces. Brands can sign up until Friday 2nd November - see more information HERE.

What have you been loving this month?

*sent to me as part of the Love Lula Accredited Blogger Program

**complimentary - sent for review

Skin Organics Clean Beauty Box: August: Refresh

August's Skin Organics Clean Beauty Box's theme is Refresh and inside are five gorgeous products (and four new to me brands - amazing!) Full reviews will follow.

OMG I'm so excited to delve in..

And for a closer look..

From new to me brand Eden Days is a 60ml pot of their Hawaiian Haven Whipped Body Butter (£6.50) which smells gorgeous. It's a blend of organic green tea, ylang ylang, neroli, lavender and geranium essential oils along with quality natural oils. I'm looking forward to trying this! I love too that it's housed in a reusable/recyclable tin. 

And another new to me brand (such joy) is Butter Bar Soapery and inside this month is an exclusive product from the brand (it's not yet available to buy online). This mouthwatering Revive Body Polish (200g - £15) is almost good enough to eat. 

From Delune is their Coconut+Rose Facial Mist (100ml - £18) which smells glorious. I'm looking forward to trying this hydrating, delicately scented treat! 

I love how Paula finds these artisan small brands. From new-to-me Casa Mencarelli is a 12g pot (£8) of their Lemon & Clay Face Mask & Scrub which is made with pure Sicilian Green Clay and Lemon Peel Powder. Simply mix with water, honey or hydrosol to activate the mask. 

From BAO Skincare, a brand I very recently discovered (I'm currently trying their sample sets) is their Apricot Rose Face Polish (50ml - £14) which gently polishes the skin.

As ever some of the brands have offered generous discount codes. I'm absolutely thrilled with my box - 4 new to me brands - this is what a beauty box should be about. Absolutely love it.