Valentine's Day Lips

These are my picks for lips for Valentine's Day:

From Botanical Brands we have Living Nature's Lush Tinted Lip Hydrator* £15 which launched last Autumn. It give the lips a natural pop of nourishing colour. The shade is a subtle coral red and perfect for a natural make up look. Active Manuka Honey nourishes and hydrates, Vitamin E protects. The hydrator also contains Jojoba Ester, natural waxes, Cupuaca butter and Calendula oil.

Refillable compacts like this Lip Tint from KJAER WEIS is total luxury (I also love the refillable aspect which saves on waste and is more eco-friendly). This lip tint is in Passionate and is gorgeous. It gives the lips a glossy raspberry hue.

My final pick is Studio 78 Liquid Lipstick in Rose Wedding which is a very long lasting highly pigmented lippy in a bright pink shade.

What will you be wearing on your lips on today?

*complimentary

Botanical Brands: Living Nature Hydrating Gel Mask

I've been testing out Living Nature's fabulous Hydrating Gel Mask 50ml* (£28.50) which helps to brighten and revitalise the skin.

The gel mask is formulated with Active Manuka Honey which is a healing humectant which helps to maintain the skin's moisture levels and Harakeke Flax gel which soothes the skin. The mask does have quite a powerful herbal type scent which I think you'd either love or hate - luckily I love it!

To use: once or twice a week smoothing onto face and neck avoiding the eyes. Leave for 20 minutes (it sets on the skin but doesn't feel tight or uncomfortable) before rinsing with warm water. You can also massage the mask into the skin before wiping away the residue. Suitable for normal to dehydrated and mature skins.

My thoughts?

The mask is easy to use and it left my skin is left looking radiant, bright and hydrated. I think it would be the perfect face mask to use in summer for the added moisture boost.

Have you tried this mask before? What's your favourite Living Nature product?

*complimentary

Shopping my Stash #87

Here's what I've been reaching for this week:

From Botanical Brands Living Nature's gorgeous latest launch Bliss Rose Tinted Lip Hydrator** which is a "my lips but better" kind of shade. It deeply nourishes and leaves the lips with a pop of natural colour. Love!

I received the new Hurraw! Papaya Pineapple Lip Balm* in March's Love Lula Beauty Box. It's a totally tropical treat which nourishes and treats the lips.  I love lip balms and this one's a welcome addition to my stash.

I can't live without Urban Decay's Eyeshadow Primer Potion which keeps my eyeshadow on all day long. It'll be one I'll definitely be replenishing although this little tube has lasted ages.

Make Skincare has been one of my favourite recent tries. All their products are just totally exquisite. I reviewed Feet Revive** HERE. It's one of these must try brands as the scents and formulations are just dreamy.

I'm such a fan of the glorious Shay & Blue and I just love Blueberry Musk which I received from hubby at Christmas (after dropping a few unsubtle hints I must add haha). It's a beauty. It featured on Wishlist #2 in November. Just the other day their latest launch landed on my doorstep via Amazon birthday vouchers. And it's gorgeous!

On the wishlist (a long time) were Alexis Smart Healing Flower Remedies. When I spotted Naturisimo were stocking them I was absolutely over the moon! I'm currently trying Peaceful Worrier. It's early days so I've not really felt as if they are working for me yet - but I'll keep you posted!

What have you been reaching for lately?

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

**PR sample

March: Lately I've been Loving

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

I picked up a set of samples from Supernatural Beauty which are gorgeous! You've guessed it. I want them all full size. See my review of Redemption Face Oil HERE.

March has been a paperback month for me (with one exception). I just loved Truestory by Catherine Simpson (and I'm lucky enough to say I've met Catherine too!) See my review in my book round up later in the week. You can pick up a copy at Amazon.

A series which I've also started reading is the fabulous Mirabelle Bevan Mysteries by Sara Sheridan which are set in the 1950s. I've only read two of them so far (thanks again Sara for the copy of Brighton Belle!*) and have just ordered books 3 and 4 from Amazon. Happy days! 

Sara also has a great online store called Urban Reivers which sells the beautiful perfume Damn Rebel Bitches (which featured in my August favourites) along with accessories and homewares.

I bought a huge bottle of my favourite Diptyque Vetyverio EdT which is totally gorgeous. Check it out HERE.

I was totally smitten with both the products (and packaging) of Rosalena BioActive Skincare. See my review HERE.

I picked up a Book Buddle from creator Jules which is a well made padded sleeve for your book which is available in a variety of gorgeous designs. Normally, I just shove my book in my bag but this cover keeps your book(s) in perfect condition and feeling loved. Jules also makes them for phones and kindles.

I'm loving Living Nature's Bliss Rose Tinted Lip Hydrator (£15)* which is in a "my lips but better" shade. It deeply nourishes while adding a pop of natural colour. Expect a fuller review shortly. I love it.

I never tire of spring flowers like daffodils. It's always a promise of better days to come and the end of winter. 

I'm starting a sample challenge to try and reduce the number of samples I have in my stash - and hopefully find some new products to love - any of these you can recommend?

What have you been loving this month?

*complimentary

January Empties

I'm not going to use anything else up this month so here's my January empties:

HealGel Eye 15ml* - I really liked this and would consider buying it in the future when I reduce my stash. See my review HERE.

Kai Body Wash 2oz* - I'm a huge fan of the kai perfume oil and this wash was lovely to use. See my review HERE. One I'd definitely consider treating myself to.

Weleda Arnica Muscle Soak 200ml - I reviewed this back in August*. Absolutely loved it and have since re-purchased it a couple of times. It was one of my favourite products last year.

Blue Labelle Body Oil with Ylang Ylang & Frankincense 100ml - again love this and will purchase when I reduce my stash a bit. See my review HERE.

Mio Liquid Yoga 53ml - this came in the M&S Advent Calendar. Really enjoyed using it. Would buy full size.

Just Be Happy Hand & Body Lotion 15ml* - really enjoyed using this. Full size is on the wishlist. See my review HERE.

Aromatherapy Associates Breathe Bath & Shower Oil 9ml - this worked wonders when I had the flu over New Year. Maybe not my favourite scent but it worked when I was feeling ill. 

Jane Iredale Smell the Roses Hydration Mist* - absolutely loved this and would buy. See my review HERE.

Dr Bronner 18-in-1 Peppermint Castile Soap 237ml - my favourite Dr Bronner's scent. I've already stocked up.

Living Nature Kelp Extract Nourishing Body Wash 200ml* - a gorgeous nourishing body wash which I'd definitely consider buying. It featured in Lately I've Been Loving in November.

Therapie Himalayan Detox Salts 100g - love these and have already stocked up. They just work!

Evolve Tropical Blossom Body Butter 30ml - I simply adored this gorgeous body butter. See my review here. Full size is on the want list!

Aromatherapy Associates Deep Relax Bath & Shower Oil 9ml - this is one of my favourite scents. I'd buy full size.

Korres Citrus Shower Gel 50ml - this came in the recent Bath & Unwind bag. I prefer the Guava and Mango scents. Probably wouldn't buy this.

Diptyque L'Eau de Tarocco cologne sample vial - I simply loved this fruity scent with orange, rose, cinnamon and saffron. I'm going to buy the scent for summer. It's just so lush!

Molton Brown Hand Wash with Frankincense & Allspice 100ml - this came in the YOU Beauty Advent Calendar. Loved it and will buy next Christmas.

Lucky Cloud Body Balm with Sweet Orange and Vanilla 60ml - loved this. See my review HERE. Will buy again.

Bodhi & Birch Mint Thé Bath & Shower Therapy 200ml - one of my favourite scents from the brand. Will definitely buy again once I use up some of my stash.

L'Occitane Verbana Shower Gel 75ml - this came in my M&S Advent Calendar. Was nice to use and refreshing. Would be good for holidays. Would maybe buy.

What have you been using up this month?

*PR samples

Natural Being Manuka Cleanser

Natural Being is an affordable range of skincare which is certified natural and made with active New Zealand Manuka Honey and Manuka Oil.

The range is made by Living Nature and are simple, effective, kind to the skin and contain no synthetics or chemicals.  

Products are BDIH certified, natural and authentic manuka honey and oil is used, are Halal approved, there is no animal testing, and packaging is recyclable. There are 9 products available and they help to balance the skin and help with first signs of ageing.

I've been testing out the Cleanser (£13 - 100ml)* which is suitable for normal/oily skins (there is also one available for normal/dry skins). Even though I am a bit older (the range is aimed at 30s and younger) I have found the cleanser really suits my combination skin.

It comes boxed in a tube with a screw on lid. My only slight negative is I'd have preferred a pump bottle or flip top lid for using in the shower but this is not really an issue it would just make it easier to use.

The herbal honey scented cleansing gel gently cleanses the skin while purifying pores and blemishes.  After use the skin feels clean, balanced and soft. It's my current favourite morning time cleanser.

Also in the range: Toning Gel 100ml (£13), Day Cream for normal/dry and normal/oily 50ml (£14) and Night Cream (both skin types) 50ml (£14), Eye Cream 10ml (£12) and Hand & Body Cream 100ml (£13.50)

I think it's a great value and very effective range.  Have you tried anything from Natural Being before?

*PR sample

My top 15 products of 2015

I was trying to limit to 10 again this year but found I just couldn't. These aren't in any order they are just my top products. I have divided them up into product types.

Skincare:

Lulu & Boo Chocolate Orange Cleansing Oil* (100ml) - this cleansing oil is a recent favourite. I reviewed it in November and I can honestly say it is one of the nicest and most effective cleansers I've used this year.

Skin &Tonic STEAM CLEAN (50g) - I'm a huge fan of Skin & Tonic's STEAM CLEAN. The minty balm cleanser uplifts the senses while cleansing the skin of daily grime and make up. I've gone through several pots of it this year and will keep on buying it as it works (I love it too).

Holistic Green Beauty Rose Radiance Toning Mist* (100ml) - another new launch this year. See my review HERE. An amazing toner which hydrates, tones and plumps the skin. Love!

Living Nature Radiance Night Oil* (10ml) - this rose scented oil is one of the most luxurious I've ever used. See my review HERE. I don't currently have this in my stash but plan to buy it again soon.

de Mamiel Seasonal Facial Oils (20ml) - I've tried and reviewed Spring, Summer and Autumn. I know I'll keep on buying these exquisite oils as my skin loves them.

A.S Apothecary* - This is cheating a little bit as it's two products! The very fabulous Cleansing Oil #5* (review) and new product Mineral Powder #2* mix a small amount of the powder in a bowl with a few drops of Cleansing Oil to form a paste before applying to the skin as an exfoliator (full review to follow shortly). Amanda has created an amazing range of products. I also love her range for Harris Distillery.

Bee Good Honey & Camelina Facial Exfoliator (50ml)* - one of my favourite Bee Good products. See my review HERE. 

Bath & Body:

Weleda Arnica Muscle Soak (200ml) - this is my favourite new bath product this year. See my review HERE. I've already got back-ups of my back up!

Odylique Rose Velvet Body Lotion (100ml) - which is another new (Limited Edition) launch this year. A rich lotion which is scented with roses. See my review HERE.

Beatitude Joy Body Oil* - an uplifting and rich body serum which is a joy to use! See my review HERE.

Therapie Himalayan Detox Salts - I buy these again and again as they just work. See my review HERE. If I could only use one bath product it would be these.

Bodhi & Birch Mint Thé Bath & Shower Therapy - my favourite Bodhi & Birch scent. Invigorating and refreshing. See my review HERE.

Perfume:

Shay & Blue - I've got huge love for this beautiful brand. The perfumes are different and very wearable. I'm looking forward to their new launch next year too! See my reviews - Atropa Belladonna, Watermelons*, Framboise Noir* and Salt Caramel.

Bloom Perfumery Yearly Sample Pack Subscription - is one of the most exciting subscription launches this year. I've tried some amazing perfumes and added lots to the wishlist! See my reviews for each month here July, August, September, October and November.

Make up:

Lippy Girl Rosie Posie Lipstick - I read Hephzibah's blog post on this lipstick and it was a severe case of "the blogger made me buy it". Such a pretty and wearable shade I'm hardly without it!

What products have been top for you this year?

*PR samples

Lately I've been Loving: November

So many loves in November..

Emily at Fleurelle Illustrations made me this gorgeous little painting of my favourite things and I got it framed locally.

Included there is strawberries, Lippy Girl lipstick, Diet Coke, hearts, Bite Beauty Gloss, St Eval's Sea Salt Candle, Bodhi & Birch Mint Thé Bath & Shower Therapy, Beatitude Joy Body Oil, sunflowers, Tom Ford Santal Blush EDP, a macaron, skinny latte in my favourite mug, de Mamiel Seasonal Facial Oil, Shay & Blue, Birch & Brook Library Scented Candle, Tom Ford lipstick, a glass of fizz, Fortnum & Mason Rose & Violet chocolate, books, summer espadrilles, heart shaped earrings from a friend, garden fork, croissant and a copy of the Scented letter.

I just love it!

I've been testing out Living Nature's kelp extract Nourishing Body Wash (200ml - £19.75)*. I've been really impressed with this lush body wash which leaves the skin feeling comfortable and clean.

Cult Beauty's recent GWP was a cracker! Really looking forward to trying everything out. I'm already in love with Oskia's new face cream which launches next year.  The only disappointing thing is the Becca product - I was expecting a compact but received the fluid (which is way too dark for me).

Hugely excited with my Stationery Lover's Box (November) from Honey Tree Post. Everything is so pretty and useful!

Staying with stationery LAYOUTLINES offer a fab range of cards, bookmarks, prints and bags. See more details here.

Just loving my quirky little Christmas jumpers necklace from Claire Barclay Draws - it's just super cute and makes me smile.

I've been enjoying testing out some sample perfumes from Pell Wall Perfumes - expect a review soon! Get 5 samples for £5 with free UK P&P.

Hanging my little The Spoilt Sparrow Vintage Tea Cup and Saucer up at the Allotment!

What have you been loving this month?

*PR samples

Christmas Gift Ideas

Here are some of my top picks:

Ancienne Ambiance Colonia Collection Gift Set £60* this trio is just perfect for any perfume lover. See my review HERE.

Shay & Blue Precious Miniatures £65 - inside is 5 x 10ml spray - the perfect try me size. I've tried all of these - Atropa Belladonna (review), Blood Oranges, Salt Caramel (link), Watermelons* (review) and Framboise Noire* (review). This is a gift I'd love to receive! Since joining Instagram I've become aware that there will be a new launch next Spring (English Cherry Blossoms) which sounds lush!

Being a huge fan of 001 Skincare I'd be happy to have any of their gorgeous gift sets under my tree! The one above 001 Rose Performance (£59) contains Rosa Damascena Essence Mist (100ml), Intensive Elixir (10ml) (review), 15 disposable wash cloths and a sequined clutch.

Living Nature Pure Radiance Duo (£38) - this kit it truly bargainous as the beautiful Radiance Night Oil costs £48 on it's own! (review) Also included in the set is a lip hydrator.

Just Be Aromatherapy Chocolate Collection (6 x 50g - £15) - is the perfect stocking filler. The chocolate is delicious and I'd love to find them in my stocking! See my review HERE.

Joy Gift Set - Bodhi & Birch and Heartwood Candle Company have collaborated (with a little help from Ana) to create a range of stunning gifts. Inside each one is a Bodhi & Birch Bath and Shower Therapy and a candle (£38). Inside Joy is Siam Ginger Shower Gel (mini review) and a Sweet Orange and Cardamon Candle. Check out the others available HERE.

What's on your Christmas wish list?

*PR samples

September Empties

Here's what I've been using up in September:

Saach Organics Green Tea & Aloe Vera Shower Gel 200ml* - this was a real pleasure to use and I loved the scent. Will definitely buy again. See my review HERE.

Ruth Romano Lemongrass Organic Hand Wash 250ml* - I really liked this refreshing and effective hand wash. See my review HERE. Will definitely buy next time I'm needing hand wash as it was lovely.

Dr Bronner's Rose Pure Castle Soap mini bottle - I love the Peppermint & Lavender scents but didn't really enjoy the rose one so wouldn't buy again.

Korres Watermelon Body Scrub 150ml - this scrub smells just like watermelons making it fresh and delicious. The scrubby beads are made with bamboo and jojoba. I'd buy again.

TARDES by Carner EdP sample - this came in my July Yearly Sample Pack from Bloom Perfumery. I reviewed it HERE. Full size is firmly on the wishlist.

Bodhi & Birch Mint The Bath & Shower Therapy 200ml - one of my favourites from Bodhi & Birch. Will definitely buy again.

ESPA Naturally Radiant Tinted Moisturiser SPF15 03 Almond 7ml - this was a perfect shade for me with a bit of a tan. I loved everything about it. Super moisturising and a great colour. Would buy full size.

Burt's Bees Almond & Milk Hand Cream 7g - I loved this rich marzipan scented cream which left my hands deeply nourished. Will add to the ever expanding wishlist and buy when I need a hand cream (probably never!)

Yarok Feed Your Youth Hair & Scalp Serum 1oz* - this is another product I'm gutted to have finished as this makes my hair look nourished, glossy and cared for. See my review HERE. Again, being added to the wishlist and a must buy after my spending ban.

Dr Organic Pomegrante Deodorant 50ml - a staple which I buy again and again as it works.

Caudalie Premier Cru L'Elixir 10ml* - huge Caudalie fan and this oil/serum is fantastic. It absorbs instantly and leaves the skin looking healthy and radiant. See my review HERE. It's one I'll definitely consider buying once my stash reduces!

Juliette has a Gun Lady Vengence EDP vial - this came to me via one of the Perfume Society boxes. A heady scent with top notes of Bergamot and Lavender, heart notes of Bulgarian rose, Moroccan rose absolute and Patchouli with a base of Vanilla, musks and woods.  Full size is on the wishlist!

Living Nature Radiance Night Oil 10ml*  - I simply loved this rose scented super luxe oil and it's on the wishlist for sure. See my review HERE.

Living Nature Sensitive Cleanser* & Day Cream* (sachets) - these were nice to use. I especially liked the cleanser. See my review HERE.

AromaWorks samples - Body Finish Cream*, Purity Eye Cleanser* and Rejuvenate Face Serum Oil* - I really liked these. See my review HERE. I especially loved the Body Finish Cream.

Therapie Protect Bath & Body Oil 100ml* - this was gorgeous to use and perfect to use before bed for a restful night's sleep. See my review HERE. It's one I'll definitely pick up.

Skin & Tonic STEAM CLEAN 15ml - I simply love this minty deep cleanser and have a couple more in my stash. One of my favourite cleansers ever.

Indie Lee Squalane Facial Oil 1oz* - loved this facial oil. It was the first I tried that used Olive Squalane. Love it and got another one ready to crack open. See my review HERE.

AEOS Beauty Body Shower 10ml* and Beauty Body Lotion 10ml* - these came in the travel/try me kit I reviewed last week (link). I especially liked the shower gel so it's being added to the ever expanding wishlist.

What have you been using up this month?

*PR samples

Living Nature Sensitive Skincare

I've been sampling the new range by Living Nature* which is has been formulated for sensitive skin types.

The products are made with Harakeke, the New Zealand flax plant and Organic Virgin Coconut oil which soothe, cool and hydrate sensitive skin.  Products are non-irritating, hypoallergenic, gentle, PH balanced, fragrance free and use the purest Certified Organic Ingredients.

Living Nature Sensitive Cleanser (£21 - 100ml) - A mild soap free cleanser which is super-gentle and easily removes make up and daily grime. This is my favourite from the trio.

Living Nature Sensitive Hydrating Toner (£21 - 100ml) - this is one of the most gentle toners I've ever used (it has a lotion like texture) and I think it would be perfect for sensitive skin.  It doesn't suit my skin type but it would be great for skin which needs more gentle toning.

Living Nature Sensitive Day Moisture Cream (£26.50 - 50ml) - this is a gentle daytime moisturiser which nourishes, softens, soothes and rejuvenates the skin. This is really lovely to use and absorbs instantly.

You can also pick up samples at Naturisimo - see here and here (which you can buy with your purchase).

What's your favourite Living Nature product?

*PR sample

Living Nature Radiance Night Oil

Living Nature's Radiance Night Oil (10ml - £48)* is simply gorgeous. It is scented deeply of roses - what's not to love!  I first mentioned it current favourites: face oils and serums post.

It's truly one of the most luxurious and effective face oils I've ever used and it's up there in my top 5.  Pick yours up HERE.

The oil contains rose oil which is made of thousands of perfect rosebuds and is a "gift of love for your skin".  Also in there is rosehip oil, calendula, carrot, jojoba, frankincense and Vitamin E.

It is a great anti-ageing oil, it helps promote collagen and elastin production as well as refining and restoring while you sleep.

To use: apply a few drops over your face and neck before bed. The oil is easily absorbed and is a lovely night time ritual.  You can also apply in the morning to dry skin or mix a couple of drops with your day cream, face mask or hand cream making it a great multi-purpose product.

Have you tried this night oil? What's your favourite Living Nature product?

*PR sample