Travel Treats

Here are my top travel picks: 

From Maddi Alexander we have the clever Love Swimwear Naturally Beautiful Swimwear Wash* (£10) which has an uplifting citrus scent. It's perfect to clean and protect your swimwear from chlorine, salts and sunscreen and is in a travel friendly 100ml size.  I also love their Naturally Beautiful Travel Laundry Wash* (£10) which is scented with rose geranium and lavender essential oils. It will gently clean clothes and underwear leaving them fresh and delicately scented (a must-have for holidays!)

I'm also packing two travel sizes from bodhi & birch - their new Desert Rose Facial Oil (£12 for 5ml). See my review here and Botanical Dew Hand & Body Wash (£5.50 for 50ml) which can also be used as a hand wash. See my review here.

From Awake Organics a travel size of their fabulous Aura Clean Natural Deodorant* (£4.50 for 10g) is a must. It keeps you feeling fresh all day long! See my review HERE.

The tiny heart shaped travel soaps from Bloomtown are perfect for travel as well as being super sweet.

My final pick is a mini sample candle from Zing Organics with invigorating May Chang & Geranium (with every £30 spend Zing will send you a freebie). You can see the full range in the SHOP.

Are any of these in your travel bag?

*complimentary

Maddi Alexander: Serene Body Wash & Body Lotion

As you'll probably know I'm a huge Maddi Alexander fan having first tried the brand way back in 2012 when I picked up their Serene Bath Soak (see HERE).

I've been testing out the Serene Body Wash and Body Lotion (both 250ml - £18 each)*. The luxe packaging makes the products ideal for gifting or as a treat just for you.

The Serene scent is Lavender and Geranium, a delicious blend which is calming and sedative (lavender) while (geranium) is aromatic and balancing. It really is a gorgeous blend.

The body wash is creamy, nourishing and it deeply cleanses while gently caring for the skin. It's great to use at the end of the day to de-stressing and calm the mind and body and the duo help to ensure a perfect sleep.

The body lotion absorbs almost instantly leaving the skin nourished and delicately scented.

Maddi Alexander uses the best ethically sourced ingredients from organically grown fairtrade cooperatives. There are no petrochemicals, SLS, SLES, parabens, sulphates and synthetic perfumes used in formulation.

Have you used any products by Maddi Alexander, if so what are your favourites?

*complimentary

January: Lately I've been Loving

Here's the things I've been loving in January:

I'm absolutely obsessed with Clipper's Organic Indian Chai Tea. I like it with a splash of milk. A spicy, aromatic and warming drink.

Staying on the tea front I stocked up on the best green tea I've found - Sencha Green from Bellevue Tea. See my review HERE. It was nice also to get a few samples to try - I may find another favourite!

I picked this Aromatherapy Associates set up in the 50% off sale. Huge fan of these lovely bath and shower oils.  Love the cute packaging too!

I've been enjoying Maddi Alexander's Mistletoe Kisses diffuser*. It's really gorgeous. See my review HERE. I'd definitely be tempted to pick a few up for presents as it's absolutely exquisite. You can also buy Serene Floral Diffuser - see HERE which has notes of Lavender and Geranium and I think there may be a rose one for Valentines Day.

I know I'm on a diet but these biscuits and sweets from Crabtree & Evelyn are just divine! The biscuits are lightly dusted with crystalised rose petals - yum!

Glasgow based Mobros, a living wage employer makes gorgeous soya wax candles in delicious scents. I'm currently loving Black Pomegranate and Black Raspberry and Vanilla.

My pal Julie gave me this lush Oskia Renaissance Hand Cream (which I've lusted after for ages) for Christmas. It's really luxurious and scented with rose. It keeps my my hands supersoft and nourished.

My Honey Tree Publishing The Stationery Lovers Box arrived at the beginning of the week and it's stuffed full of wonderful things which are beautiful as well as useful.

The Holborn magazine which celebrates a well made life which I came across via twitter - I picked up issue 1 and issue 4 - from these I loved - issue 1 (High Holborn Pub Stroll, The Jim Dandy cocktail recipe, The Art of Writing and Ten Lessons from a Maker).

And from bumper issue 4 (oh so many - The Duppy Share, A Pub Stroll: New York (there is a pub which only sells own brewed light or dark beer!), a cocktail using Gosnells Mead (which I sampled at Maltby St Market in October), Tinder is the Night, Hackney Downs Studios, The London Artisan Market, Trevor's Tale, The Scent of Floris, You got Any Pie On Ya? and Mast Brothers Chocolate Makers. Have loved reading these mags and know I'll go back to them again and again...and try out the cocktail recipes! I definitely think a subscription is on the cards.

What have you been loving this month?

*PR sample

Mistletoe Kisses Christmas Flower Diffuser & Bath Oil Crackers

Just this week I was sent Maddi Alexander's exquisite Mistletoe Kisses Christmas Flower Diffuser (£30)* along with 2 bath oil crackers (10ml) in Evocative and Serene (£10 each)* I reviewed the Serene Bath Soak HERE and a YOU Beauty Discovery Box (Limited Edition) Rose Box HERE.

The diffuser is simply gorgeous, indulgent and would make the perfect present. The scent starts to come through the delicate flower after a couple of hours or so and fills the room with a festive scent of orange, mandarin, bergamot, neroli, frankincense and Myrrh.

To use: remove the cap from the diffuser, place the silver cap over the glass bottle and insert the cotton flower stem. The fragrance will infuse through the flower.

The crackers are a lovely little treat and would make great table presents. They contain a 10ml bottle of bath oil. I've used these bath oils before and they are fab.

What's your favourite Maddi Alexander product?

*PR samples

November Empties

Organic Surge Tropical Bergamot Hand Wash 250ml* - this is a great hand wash in my favourite Organic Surge scent.  See my review here. I've already re-purchased.

Rosemira Organics See Me C Repair Serum sample vial* - this was simply lovely. See my thoughts here. Would happily use this again.

Rosemira Organics Divine Honey Rose Replenishing Cream sample pot* - I adored this deliciously scented hydrating cream.  Another one I'll pick up at some point. See my review here.

Neom Refresh Bath & Shower Oil 100ml - I received this as a present from hubby. Was lovely and would consider purchasing.  I don't think there has ever been a Neom product I've not loved.

Pai Rice Plant & Rosemary BioAffinity Skin Tonic 12ml - one of my favourite toners...ever.  See my review here. I'll definitely buy again.

G Baldwin & Co Harmonising Bath Oil 100ml - this was lovely and really reasonably priced. Sure to pick up again.  See my mini review here.

Rare El'ements Pure Shampoo 7ml sachets x 2, 1 x 7ml sachet Essential Conditioner, 1 x 7ml sachet Lite Conditioner - these were one of the most luxurious natural haircare products I've ever used. Full sizes on the wishlist!

Yes to Carrots Nourishing Gentle Cleansing Wipes x 10 wipes - I try not to use wipes too often. These were great. I'd definitely re-purchase. They were very gentle and great for using after a night out.

Lina Hanson Global Body Serum 100ml - I simply loved this body serum which I'd buy again.  See my review here.

Inner Soul Organics Scandinavian Angelica Refresh Bath & Shower Oil 30ml* - I loved this smokey scented product.  See my review here. I think it would also be the perfect scent for a reed diffuser!

EVOLVh Ultrashine Moisture Shampoo & Conditioner both 75ml* - I really liked these. They left the hair shiny and manageable. Would buy full size.

Bodhi Neroli Luce Face Oil mini - love this face oil.  Will buy again in Springtime.

Aurelia Cell Repair Night Oil sample - this was really lovely and one I'd buy.

Therapie Cherish Skin Repair Serum 30ml - a super luxe body serum which I'll definitely re-purchase at some point. This is my second mini size.

Maddi Alexander Rose Bath Oil 30ml - this came in the YOU Beauty Limited Edition box. I loved it and would buy again.

Grown Alchemist Body Cleanser Chamomile, Bergamot & Rosewood 50ml - this was nice to use but probably wouldn't buy as I didn't love it.

Bodhi & Birch Lime Blossom Protecting Hand Serum 30ml* - so sad to finish this but...another bottle is now in my possession! I think I'll always have this amazing product in my stash!  See my review here.

Eminence Sweet Red Rose Cleanser 15ml - I really enjoyed using this cleanser and I'd maybe re-purchase.  See my review here.

Grown Alchemist Mandarin & Rosemary Leaf Body Cream 30ml - I loved this easily absorbing cream and would buy.  See my review here.

Mel Millis Organic Phytonutri Neroli & Baobab Re-Energising Face Oil 10ml - a gorgeous face oil.  See my review here.

RMS "un" powder 9g - simply love this light setting powder which absorbs oil leaving the skin perfectly matt. Already on my second pot and know I'll buy again and again.  This pot lasted just about 8 months making it excellent value for money. Would recommend.

What have you been using up this month?

*PR samples

Shopping my Stash #58

Here's what I've been reaching for lately:

Maddi Alexander Rose Beauty Balm 15ml - a super rich and deliciously scented multi-purpose balm which I've been using on dry elbows, knees, hands and to tame flyaways.  See my review here.

LJ's Natural Solutions Double Minty Organic Foot Lotion 50ml - this rich and easily absorbed foot lotion came in my Beauty Box.  It leaves the feet feeling moisturised, cared for and smelling minty.  Love!

Balm Balm Little Miracle Rosehip Serum 30ml - this came in Love Lula's amazing September Beauty Box. I simply adore this super luxe serum.  It smells gorgeous and leaves the skin looking radiant and rejuvenated. I'll buy when it runs out!

LJ's Natural Solutions Balancing Organic Face Moisturiser and Aloe Seaweed Eye Gel samples - again these two samples came in my beauty box in The Little Bag of Loveliness. The moisturiser is suitable for all skin types and smells gorgeous! It contains geranium & Roman chamomile essential oils and leaves the skin nourished and cared for. The eye gel is cooling and refreshing and helps to tend to tired and puffy eyes.

Dr Organic Manuka Honey Cuticle & Nail Solution 15ml - huge Dr Organic fan and this is lovely to use. Leaves the area around the cuticles deeply moisturised.

What products have you been reaching for lately?

YOU Beauty Discovery Maddi Alexander Rose Limited Edition Box

I knew I wouldn't be able to resist this Rose scented Limited Edition box! Pick it up at YOU Beauty Discovery for £16.95 plus P&P (free P&P if you buy the monthly box). The contents are worth over £70!

A blend of rose, cardamon and pink pepper it is a floral scent with a spicy edge. 

The Rose Soaking Salts (200g) are a luxurious blend of sea salt, epsom salt, rose petals along with chunks of shea butter - so looking forward trying it. The Rose Bath Oil (30ml) is packed full of nourishing oils. Having used some of the other bath oils before I know I'm going to love it. There is a Rose Natural Pillow Spray (50ml) which helps to relax and unwind and a Rose Beauty Balm (15ml) a lovely rich balm which is great for cuticles, elbows, heels and feet.  Added extras include a loofah, a do not disturb door sign and a short story "Moments with Rose".

Did you buy this too?  What are your thoughts?

June Empties

This is what I've been using up in June. My smallest amount of empties ever I think!

Argan Dew Miraculous Argan Oil 3.5ml* - a rich and luscious oil which leaves the hair smooth and shiny. I'd maybe purchase.

Jane Iredale Just Kissed Lip & Cheek Stain in Forever Pink - I simply love this moisturising tinted lip balm. I've already bought a replacement.

Jo Malone Lime, Basil & Mandarin Bath Oil 30ml - love this scent and this luxurious bath oil. I received this one as a gift but would definitely buy.

Aromatherapy Associates Breathe Bath & Shower Oil 3ml - this was ok. Not my favourite scent so wouldn't buy.

bodhi Neroli Luce Revitalising Face Oil 15ml - love, love, love this face oil. I've got a 5ml mini to use up. Will definitely re-purchase as I find its a great product to use in Spring and Summer.

Neom Real Luxury Organic Bath Oil 5ml - this was lovely. Sure to pick it up again.

Lucy Annabella Organics Cloud Nine Bath Milk 125ml - I received this partly used from Sam at Honey Go-Lightly - thanks Sam! Was lovely to use but it is very expensive so unlikely to purchase.

Maddi Alexander Evocative Bath Oil 10ml - this was nice to use. Unsure if I'd purchase as there are other bath oils I prefer.

Mendill Eucalyptus Organic Towelette* - love these wipes sure to buy again.

Tata Harper Love Potion sample vial - this was nice enough but didn't love it enough to buy full size.

Bamford Geranium Bath Oil 30ml - love this! Just cracked open my last mini one. Will probably buy full size at some point.

Pure Thoughts Tangerine & Jojoba Whipped Shea Butter 10g - received this in the S/S Green Beauty Swap. This is one of my favourite Pure Thoughts products so sure to buy again.

Peppy Galore Diva Cleansing Oil 48g - love this vanilla scented oil.  See my review here. Will definitely buy when I reduce my cleanser stash a bit.

John Masters Organics Rose Foaming Face Wash 5ml - this was ok wouldn't buy full size.

Argan Dew Replenishing Hair Mask 10ml* - this left my hair looking great but didn't love the scent of the hair mask.

Bloom Remedies Sweet Orange & Cedarwood Shower Gel 50ml - received this from Ailsa in the S/S Green Beauty Swap. Loved it so much I bought full size!

Dr Bronner's Peppermint Pure Castile Soap 237ml - my favourite Dr Bronner's scent. Have already re-purchashed.

Apivita Body Euphoria Bath & Shower Gel with Jasmine & White Tea 300ml* - love this gorgeous scented shower gel. Sure I'll pick this up at some point.

*pr samples

Latest in Beauty & Love Lula Buys

I mentioned here that I'd had a small shop at Latest in Beauty and Love Lula. Unfortunately I missed the free P&P over Easter weekend with Latest in Beauty - boo!  My orders arrived on Tuesday and yesterday.

From Latest in Beauty I bought a 100g packet of the simply amazing Therapie Himalayan Detox Salts which are retailing for £4.00 - an absolute steal!  See my review here.

I also picked up a mini pamper me collection £8.00 which contains - Noble Isle Willow Song Bath & Shower Gel 75ml (already a huge fan of this brand also love their Summer Rising scent), Maddi Alexander Evocative Bath Oil 10ml (this smells gorgeous) and a selection of Caudalie samples (I love these try me sizes).

My Love Lula win-win Selection Box arrived yesterday (it was missing two of the Madara sachets but I've emailed Love Lula this).

This is a great little box (£9.95) and it contains:

Weleda Iris Hydration Facial Lotion 5ml - I've not tried much Weleda skincare so looking forward to trying this out.  This is a winner Best Ethical Range.

Green People Age Defy Soft Buff Exfoliator 10ml - again not tried much skincare from Green People. Again, a winner best anti-aging range.

Dr Bronner's Magic Peppermint Soap mini size - my favourite Dr Bronner's scent.  Looking forward to trying it out as a bar!

John Masters Organics 8 Piece Hair Collection - super happy with this addition to the box - I usually get at least two uses out each (10ml) sachet. A huge John Masters fan - contains Spearmint & Meadowsweet Scalp Stimulating Shampoo, Citrus & Neroli Detangler, Evening Primrose Shampoo for Dry Hair, Zinc & Sage Shampoo with Conditioner, Lavender & Avocado Intensive Conditioner, Honey & Hibiscus Hair Reconstructing Shampoo, Honey & Hibiscus Hair Reconstructor and Lavender Rosemary Shampoo for Normal Hair

Benecos Wild Orchid Nail Polish - this is a really pretty shade.

Madara Time Miracle 5 Piece Treatment Pack - as I said I'm missing a couple of the sachets but did receive Night Cream, Day Cream and Eye Cream.

Have you bought anything from Latest in Beauty or Love Lula recently? 

March Empties

Here's my March empties:

Nourish Balance Essential Moisturiser sample - this was nice to use and had a great scent but quite a small sample so unsure if it's really suited to my skin. I'd maybe try and purchase a bigger size.

Aromatherapy Associates Inner Strength Bath & Shower Oil 7.5ml - simply adore this bath oil. Sure to buy it full size at some point.  See my review here.

Conscious Skincare Grapefruit & Cedarwood Body Wash 50ml - this was lovely and refreshing. I'm tempted to pick up full size.

Weleda Sea Buckthorn Body Lotion 20ml - my favourite Weleda scent. Sure to buy again.  See my review here.

Maddi Alexander Frivolous Bath Oil 10ml - this was lovely to use and scented with citrus and spice. Would buy again.

Revive Creme Visage SPF30 5ml - a real luxe face cream. Was nice to use but probably wouldn't purchase as it is super pricey.

bodhi Ylang Ylang Incensa Sensual Bath & Shower Therapy 50ml - one of my favourites. See my review here.

Urbanveda Daily Purifying Facial Wash 20ml - this was nice to use.  See my review here. I've got another stashed away to use.

Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation 30ml - one of my favourite foundations. Will repurchase.

Estee Lauder Daywear BB Creme 5ml - this was nice to use, a natural looking shade and one I'd consider purchasing.

Urbanveda Radiance Face Wash 20ml - again a nice product. Would perhaps purchase.

REN Moroccan Rose Otto Body Wash 100ml - huge fan of the bath oil. This is lovely too.  Got a few minis to use up.

Dr Organic Pomeganate Deodorant 50ml - love this deodorant. Already picked up another.

Dr Bronner Peppermint Magic Pure Castille Soap mini - my favourite Dr Bronner's scent. I have already re-purchased this.  Mainly use it to clean my make up brushes (or the bath!)

Aromatherapy Associates Revive Evening Bath & Shower Oil 7.5ml - nice enough to use but prefer Deep Relax or Inner Strength scents.

Omorovicza Gold Hydalift Mask 2ml - a gorgeous mask.  See my review here.

SKINLikes Natural Deodorant 70ml* - one of my favourite deodorants.  See my review here. Know I will buy this effective and nicely scented deodorant again.

kai shampoo 59ml, kai conditioner 59ml and kai perfume oil 3.6ml - absolutely love this scent and would repurchase all in a heartbeat.

Willow Organic Beauty Super Firming Serum 20ml* - loved this! See my review here.

*PR sample

A Pamper for Valentine's Day

I decided to have a little pamper last night in advance of Valentine's Day today! A nice soak in the bath with a beautiful candle lit is one of my favourite ways to relax and unwind.

My candle of choice was the very lovely Amorous Classic Candle* (220g - £28) from Maddi Alexander.  A natural soya wax candle with cotton wick it is scented with Cedarwood, Atlas, Bergamot and Clove and has a lovely warming woody scent.  It helps to relax and soothe the senses.

My soak of choice was The White Company White Lavender Bath Milk which is scented with Lavender, Basil, Sicilian Lemon and Vetivert with Vitamin E to moisture and soften the skin.

I used Giovanni Smooth as Silk Shampoo & Conditioner minis which I picked up recently from Lucy Rose.  I'm a huge fan of the brand and these clean, nourish, calm frizz and add shine.

To moisturise my body I used The Body Shop's best Seller Moringa Body Butter* (200ml - £13) a rich butter enriched with Community Fair Trade Shea Butter and scented with white flowers.  The scent is initially very strong but mellows fairly quickly and lasts all day.  The butter is easily absorbed and very nourishing.  There's something for everyone from the Body Butter Range. There are also some fab gifts ranges from The Body Shop to chose from.

My feet got pampered too!  I used a sample pot of Bloom Remedies Peppermint & Lemongrass Organic Footbalm* (full sizes - 50g - £8.50 and 100g - £13.50). This rich balm (which smells amazing) is packed with Organic butters and beeswax and pampers tired, dry and cracked heels moisturising them deeply as well as refreshing and reviving the feet. 

What products do you use to pamper? Have you tried any of these?

*PR samples

A Closer Look: Bath Oils, Salts & Bubbles

Last week I showed you my Serums & Face Oils - see here.  Today I'm sharing my bath products. I adore a soak in the bath and try to do this most days.

Bath Oils

Dr Organic Rose Otto Bath Oil 100ml - I simply love this rose scented bath oil. It's a good dupe (and a lot cheaper) than my all time favourite by REN (which I've also got in my collection thanks to hubby at Xmas and a very generous PR gift).

Neom Refresh Organic Bath Oil 100ml - a refreshing and uplifting bath oil with notes of Sicilian Lemon and fresh Basil.

Lubatti Wild Violet Bath Oil 200ml and Rose Bath Oil 200ml - received these as gifts. Makes for a lightly scented indulgent bath.

Quintessentially English English Rose Bath Oil Elixir 50ml - I received this in a beautiful set at Christmas from Nardine. You can see I love rose scents!  This is a lovely bath oil. 

G Baldwin & Co Harmonising Bath Oil 100ml - with essential oils of Lavender, Marjoram and Geranium it makes for a relaxing bath.  See my mini review here.

Jo Malone Grapefruit Bath Oil 250ml - this was another pressie from hubby. Total luxury like all Jo Malone products. 

REN Moroccan Rose Otto Bath Oil 110ml - my favourite bath oil...ever! See my review here.

I've got a few Aromatherapy Associates Bath & Shower Oils - Inner Strength 7.5ml (love the spicy cardamon notes), Revive Evening 7.5ml, 2 x Revive Morning 3ml.  These smell gorgeous and make for a great soak. I reviewed the Serene Bath Soak here.

Maddi Alexander Frivolous (Sicilian Lemon, Bergamot, Sweet Orange, Ginger, Clove) and Evocative (Mexican Lime, Ginger, Cinnamon, Mandarin) bath oil minis.  These are lovely. I reviewed the Serene Bath Soak here.

Salts and Soaks:

Charlotte Hilton Rose Otto Sweet and Seductive Rosebud Milk Bath 225g - this makes for a truly pampering bath. It contains mini rosebuds - simply gorgeous. See my review here.

Therapie Himalayan Detox Salts 400g - the most amazing salts. Soak in these and then have the perfect night's sleep.  See my review here.

Bubbles and Milks:

Elemis Quiet Mind Relaxing Bath Elixir 300ml - makes lots of bubbles. Great for use before bed.

The White Company White Lavender Bath Milk 200ml - another pressie. Not tried this yet!

Time Bomb Rescue Mission Miracle Mineral Bath 500ml* - great for soothing tired muscles. Helps with stress and helps to relax the mind and body.

bodhi Ylang Ylang Incensa Bath & Shower Therapy 50ml - the last of my bodhi minis. This is gorgeous.  See my review here.

Apivita Body Euphoria Jasmine & White Tea Bath & Shower Gel 300ml* - the scent of this is so uplifting. Review to follow.

I forgot these which are stored in a different place in the bathroom!

Ancienne Ambiance Rosa & Lavendula Salts samples* - You can see my review of the lovely Rosa Salts here.

Marble & Milkweed Rose & Cardamon Bathing Salts 10oz* - love these gorgeous scented salts.  See my review here.

inner-soul organics Scandinavian Angelica Refresh Bath & Shower Oil 30ml - this oil has a smokey scent and contains Thistle, Arctic Cranberry and Birch.  Full review will be up shortly. I received this in the prize I won from Fi at The Beauty Shortlist at Christmas.

Do you like a long soak in the bath?  What's your favourite product to use?

*PR samples

Pampering #3

I do so love a little pampering. Here's what I've been using:

Melvita Milky Cleansing Oil 145ml* - this is a gorgeous rich cleansing oil scented with Damask rose essence. It easily whisks away all make up and daily grime. Massage into the skin and then add a little water which turns the cleanser milky. Remove with a warmed damp muslin cloth. Leaves the skin feeling clean and moisturised.

Freyaluna Skin Support Facial Tonic sample - this came in my recent Souk Souk box. A simply lovely toner which balances and tones the skin. It contains rosewater and a blend of essential oils.  Already a huge Freyaluna fan.  See my post on the Selection Box here.

Maddi Alexander Frivolous Bath & Body Oil 10ml - this came in my YOU Beauty Box. A beautiful oil which contains African baobab oil, Kalahari melon and sweet almond oils and scented with Sicilian lemon, bergamot, sweet orange, ginger and clove.  I tried the Serene Bath Soak a while ago - see here. 

Apivita Face Scrub with Olive 40ml* - a fine grained scrub which removes dead skin cells and cleanses the pores. It leaves the skin feeling revitalised, soft and renewed. 

ila spa Face Mask for Revitalising Skin sample pot* - a mineral rich green clay mask which adds radiance and revitalises the skin. See my review here.

Yarok Feed Your Youth Hair & Scalp Serum 1oz* - Simply love this pre-shampoo serum. I also sometimes put a couple of drops in my conditioner before rinsing.  See my full review here.

Laidbare butter me up body butter 250ml - a rich jasmine scented body cream which melts into the skin. Love the scent and the moisturising qualities. Quite simply a lovely product to use.  See my review here.

Have you used any of these products?

*PR samples

YOU Beauty Discovery Box: November

What an amazing choice available for the November YOU Beauty Discovery Box (£6.95 including P&P) this month. My box arrived on Thursday and I picked NeoStem Serum (30ml - worth £59!) and Maddi Alexander Frivolous Bath & Body Oil (10ml - worth £10). I've used Maddi Alexander Bath Soak before - see my review here.

YOU add two product - this month a sample of Montagne Jennesse Body Smoothie and a sample of Lizi's granola. I got Belgian Chocolate flavour.

Other choices include Moa Balm, Percy & Reed Hairspray, Oriflame Mascara, Nailberry polish, Face Stockholm Lipstick and Murad Tonic - see here.

Did you get this month's box? What are your thoughts? 

Maddi Alexander Serene Bath Soak

Natural Health magazine this month has a Beauty Awards 2012 supplement.  Makes for interesting and enjoyable reading. I've been marking off all the things I want to try!  

I came across the brand Maddi Alexander which is based in North Shields, Tyne & Wear. Their Serene Bath Soak received a Highly Commended award.

Natural Health say "for dedicated bath enthusiasts, this concoction of rose petals, lavender, soap with oatmeal, cornflour, sea salt, orange peel and shea butter is to die for".

Maddi Alexander uses ethically sourced organic ingredients, natural and sustainable production and fair trade.  Free from animal products, synthetics, parabens, petrochemicals, SLS, sulphates, toxins and paraffin wax.

There are six fragrances to choose from and a variety of products.

Eccentric - with oils of patchouli, ylang-ylang, vetivert, cedarwood, orange, coriander and ginger.  A candle is available in this scent.

Serene - with oils of geranium and lavender - the full range is available in this scent - candle, bath & body oil, body butter, bath soak and soaking salts.

Evocative - with oils of lime, ginger, cinamon and mandarin - available are candle, bath & body oil and body butter.

Amorous - with cedarwood, atlas, bergamot and clove - a candle is available. 

Frivolous - with lemon, bergamot, sweet orange. ginger and clove - available as a candle, bath & body oil, bath soak and soaking salts.

Revive - with grapefruit, orange, lemon and bergamot - available as a candle.

I love rose and lavender scents (and baths) so opted to buy the Serene Bath Soak which retails at £22 for 200g (plus £3.95 P&P).  Packaged in a square glass pot with black lid. Beautifully presented in a black bag and a gift bag with tissue is also included - a nice touch.

It's absolutely filled up to the brim! To use, sprinkle some grains into a warm bath.  The soak is gorgeous, really relaxing and moisturising, it smells amazing as well as making the skin feel so soft. (My only negatives are it is quite difficult to get out of the jar as its packed in tight - I needed a spoon to scrape it out and you need to give the bath a good clean afterwards due to the rose petals and shea butter).  Would also make a fab gift.  I am now wanting to try the bath & body oil and the body butter.  Have you tried anything from this brand?