Tag Archives: beauty

10 Of The Best Things I’ve Tried From Beauty Pie So Far

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It’s been almost a year since I took the plunge and signed up to be a fully fledged Beauty Pie member. Initially it was more of an experiment than anything else, driven by the frequent questions and requests from my community as to my thoughts on the platform and the products it offered, but soon became something I genuinely enjoyed exploring. What’s unique about Beauty Pie is that there’s a real anticipation that accompanies that pink box delivery every month, a real moment of joy in the discovery of something new – even if it falls short of your expectations. Few other brands have managed to capture the emotional connection a community of women has to beauty in the same way, which is why it’s become so hugely popular amongst those that have fully committed to an ongoing membership.

With the sheer volume of products and constant new launches, it can be tricky to navigate and know where to start if you’re new to Beauty Pie. Which are the products really worth trying, and which are the ones you can leave lingering on the virtual shelf for another day? Where should you splurge on really great routine additions, and which affordable gems are really far superior to their price point? Over the last twelve months I’ve tried a plethora of different products from the skincare, makeup, body, hair and wellbeing categories; although I know I’ve yet to only scratch the surface of what’s available and have many more gems to discover, so far these are ten of the best Beauty Pie products I’ve tried…

How Beauty Pie Works, My Top Product Tips & If It's Worth Becoming A Member

SKINCARE

FeatherLight UVA/UVB SPF 50 Sunscreen Primer (£10.10)


SPF has long been part of my daily regime, no compromises, so I’m always on the hunt for new lightweight textures that are easy to layer over skincare and under makeup. This is a pretty good option, especially for the price point. Containing a ‘light-absorbing DNA shield’, Chromophores to help fight inflammation, Vitis Vita Grape Extract for skin detoxification and rehydration, plus Tomato Stem Cell Extract and Peptides to reduce ‘skin stress’ this is jam packed with goodness. It’s very lightweight, doesn’t have any white telltale residue when applied, isn’t sticky or gloopy and works well in my routine; it actually reminds me of a Murad one I’ve been using for years, but at a fraction of the price this is definitely a great every day option.

Pure Ceramides Elastic Boost Eye Moisture Serum (£7.04)


I can take or leave a lot of eye creams, but under the recommendation of Sascha from Beauty Geek I popped this in my basked and hoped for the best. From the first use I knew I was onto something good, thanks to the cooling metal rollerballs that help massage and cool puffy undereyes and the refreshing gel texture. It features 10% pure encapsulated Ceramides (found naturally in skin and essential for plumpness,) Phytosqualane from Olive Oil, NMF-boosting Biomimetic Moisturizing Molecules and Deep Water Brown Algae to ensure even skin tone and radiance.

Über Youth Super Elixir Microbiome Mist-on Serum (£17.43)


Mists always seemed like a bit of an unecessary add-on to my already expansive routine, but during lockdown I’ve had both the time and inclination to finish my daily skincare with a spritz. Although this is expensive in comparison to a lot of other Beauty Pie pieces, it contains a powerhouse of ingredients that’s akin to a serum-in-spray format: anti-wrinkle, anti-oxidant, anti-hyperpigmentation and anti-glycation collagen boosters, plus skin-barrier-supporting Defensil and dynamic probiotic Revivyl to help balance the microbiome to reduce inflammation.When used as a last step in my skincare regime, or added over makeup as a quick refresh, it helps to boost my skin in a multitude of ways. The only thing I don’t like is the spray nozzle, which leaves a slightly wet result rather than a delicate mist, but it’s something I can live with.

Fruitizyme Five Minute Facial (£10.12)


An absolute hero of the skincare range, this contains a potent mix of Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid and Pomegranate Enzymes alongside gentle Quartz and Bamboo scrub grains to slough away dead and dull skin cells from the surface in only a few minutes; it also includes anti-free-radical stem cells from Raspberries, helping to keep the skin protected and healthy looking. It’s the perfect combination of liquid and manual exfoliation, leaving my skin feeling much smoother, softer and clearer after every use. I’ve tried quite a few similar products over the years and this is really comparable to face masks three times it’s price, so it’s definitely a great investment.

HAIR & BODY

Super Healthy Hair Coconut Water Heat Shield Styler (£7.84)


Coconut has to be one of my favourite ever scents, so anything with a sprinkling of the tropical stuff is something I’m willing to try. This hair-strengthening protein spray helps protect fine, weak or damaged hair from heat using ‘elasticity Peptides’, while coconut water helps to offer a hit of hydration. The spray is a very fine and manageable mist with just a hint of coconut fragrance, leaving my hair feeling less parched after use; it’s always hard to know if heat shield sprays are really doing anything, but I’m already onto my second bottle and I definitely feel like my hair is less damaged than it was a year ago.

Super Healthy Hair Shampoo & Conditioner (£6.04 & £5.80)


My hair is so easily affected when it comes to what shampoo and conditioner I use, so on the whole I stay clear of anything I think may overload it or dry it out. Chloe from Lady Writes recommended this as one of her current favourite combos, and I trust her opinion wholeheartedly, so I thought I’d take the plunge and try it for myself – and I’m so pleased that I did. The shampoo provides a gentle lather to thoroughly cleanse without stripping, while the conditioner adds much needed moisturising, colour protect and shine enhancing ingredients; it’s a great all-rounder, especially if your hair is fine like mine and prone to being overloaded with ingredients. It’s a fab daily duo that leaves my ‘do feeling great and easy to style, which is all you can really ask!

Soul Providers Dry Oil Scrub (£10.87)


First things first, this smells INCREDIBLE; a combination of Lemongrass, Black Pepper, Apricot and Evening Primrose Oil provides a refreshing but uplifting experience that I just adore. You do need to mix up the scrub before scooping up a handful and buffing it across your limbs, but the process is both enjoyable and effective – my skin is left feeling super smooth, softly hydrated and ready for either body lotion or a bit of tan. It also contains antioxidant Indian Gooseberry and detoxing Holy Basil Extracts, making this an absolute treat for your body. One of my all time favourite Beauty Pie discoveries.

MAKEUP

Superbrow Colour Pomade (£4.79)


The Anastasia Beverly Hills brow pomade is one of my all time heroes, and this is a great affordable alternative. Creamier and slightly lighter in texture, this delivers a decent amount of pigment and allows me the precision to create a statement brow; the more I use it the more I fall in love with it, to the point where over the last six months I’ve ditched my Anastasia altogether. The brow products are a real hero of Beauty Pie, and a great place to start if you’re dipping your foot into the pink waters; this is one of my top three finds to date.

Shine Up Lip Colour Balm Stick (£4.00)


Another gem of a find, this is pretty creamy and deposits a lovely slick of comfortable colour on the lips that’s easy to top-up on the go. Although I’d like it to be creamier and offer more of a moisturising balm-like texture, it’s a great alternative to some of the premium brand sticks that charge four times the price. For the price, you really can’t do better!

Shimmerbar (£8.75)


A blatant copy of the best selling Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick, this highlighter is pigmented and reflective without being super sparkly or shiny. Great for a quick flush of radiance, especially thanks to the complementary colours and finely milled powder formula, this layers beautifully over makeup and provides the perfect finishing touch to my look. There are many highlighters within the Beauty Pie collection and all have rave reviews, so if you don’t fancy this there’s a liquid version that may just tickle your fancy instead.


How Beauty Pie Works, My Top Product Tips & If It's Worth Becoming A Member

What are your favourite Beauty Pie finds if you’ve already signed up to be a member?

If you want to try out Beauty Pie for yourself, get your for your first month FREE by CLICKING HERE (and I get a little spending limit bonus.)

Want to understand more about how Beauty Pie works and what subscription level of Beauty Pie to opt for, read my comprehensive post HERE.

Jo Malone Addict? 8 Super Handy Ways To Re-Use Your Candle Jar

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As a teenager I was captivated by the magic of candlelight; I covered every surface in brightly coloured and sickly scented waxes I found on market stalls and from the ‘hippy shop’ that’s been in my hometown since the dawn of time. Even though my tastes have somewhat progressed since then, as an adult I find them a crucial part of every room and a little indulgence I don’t compromise on. Bringing a subtle flicker during a chilly evening, as well as a scent that either comforts or invigorates the mind, candles are definitely a modern phenomenon – especially the expensive ones. Millions of luxury jars are sold every year, with the UK being apparently the biggest consumer of them in Europe, and they’re proudly displayed on coffee tables until the very last burn.

8 Amazing Ways To Re-use Your Candle Jar (Jo Malone London)

I do love a luxe candle, with being one of my favourite brands (I do also love a classic Yankee Candle, Molton Brown for richness, Neom for calming moments and so many smaller and independant brands for something different.) But when you’re spending forty odd quid on a candle it’s almost painful to chuck away the glass jar when it’s finished – especially if it looks as pretty as the JML ones do. I’ve long been known to re-use candle jars as a way to make the most of the investment while bringing an unexpected twist to my home decor, and right now is the perfect time to ‘make do and mend’.

If you fancy re-using your candle jars, then the easiest way to clean them up after you can’t get any more burn is to pop them in the freezer; leaving them for 24hrs hardens the wax and allows you (with a firm tap) to release it from the bottom. Pop your jar either in the dishwasher or give it a good clean out with soapy water if there’s a label you don’t want to damage, and you’re good to go. And once you’ve done that, here are a handful of ways you can put those old candle pots to good use and re-use your candle jar in a creative and luxurious way…

8 Amazing Ways To Re-use Your Candle Jar (Jo Malone London)

1. Store your makeup brushes. The perfect way to tidy up your brushes while looking fabulous; the pot is just the right width and depth to hold pretty much my entire daily collection.

2. Pop in cotton pads, buds or contact lenses. It’s a pretty and more convenient way to store all those messy bits and bobs that are lingering in your bathroom or on your dressing table.

3. Use it as a bedside tidy. Keep all your bedside essentials in one place – ear plugs, lip balm, tablets and so on.

4. Decant your bath salts. If you’ve got massive bags of Epsom salts that take up too much space, decant a little into a candle jar and proudly have them on display.

5. Add some flowers. A makeshift vase for either freshly picked or fake flowers; such a simple but effective idea that can really lift a simple space.

6. Re-use it as a candle holder. Keeping it simple, why not add a tealight or pillar candle to breathe new life into your favourite jars once again.

7. Store matches or lighters. Rather than having them stuffed in a drawer or in tatty old boxes, decant your matches or pop your favourite lighters into a jar to keep them looking part of your candle display.

8. Use it as an accessories pot. Tidy up your most worn pieces of jewellery or accessories (I’m thinking hair clips and slides too) and put them in one place.

8 Amazing Ways To Re-use Your Candle Jar (Jo Malone London)

Have you ever re-used a pretty candle pot? Let me know if you’ve found any other genius ways to transform, upcycle or re-use your candle jar….

SHOP MY FAVE JO MALONE LONDON CANDLES

Read my post discussing whether spending £50 on a candle is a ridiculous over-indulgence here.

Jo Malone Addict? 8 Super Handy Ways To Re-Use Your Candle Jar

  , , , , , , , , , ,
Comments Off on Jo Malone Addict? 8 Super Handy Ways To Re-Use Your Candle Jar

As a teenager I was captivated by the magic of candlelight; I covered every surface in brightly coloured and sickly scented waxes I found on market stalls and from the ‘hippy shop’ that’s been in my hometown since the dawn of time. Even though my tastes have somewhat progressed since then, as an adult I find them a crucial part of every room and a little indulgence I don’t compromise on. Bringing a subtle flicker during a chilly evening, as well as a scent that either comforts or invigorates the mind, candles are definitely a modern phenomenon – especially the expensive ones. Millions of luxury jars are sold every year, with the UK being apparently the biggest consumer of them in Europe, and they’re proudly displayed on coffee tables until the very last burn.

8 Amazing Ways To Re-use Your Candle Jar (Jo Malone London)

I do love a luxe candle, with being one of my favourite brands (I do also love a classic Yankee Candle, Molton Brown for richness, Neom for calming moments and so many smaller and independant brands for something different.) But when you’re spending forty odd quid on a candle it’s almost painful to chuck away the glass jar when it’s finished – especially if it looks as pretty as the JML ones do. I’ve long been known to re-use candle jars as a way to make the most of the investment while bringing an unexpected twist to my home decor, and right now is the perfect time to ‘make do and mend’.

If you fancy re-using your candle jars, then the easiest way to clean them up after you can’t get any more burn is to pop them in the freezer; leaving them for 24hrs hardens the wax and allows you (with a firm tap) to release it from the bottom. Pop your jar either in the dishwasher or give it a good clean out with soapy water if there’s a label you don’t want to damage, and you’re good to go. And once you’ve done that, here are a handful of ways you can put those old candle pots to good use and re-use your candle jar in a creative and luxurious way…

8 Amazing Ways To Re-use Your Candle Jar (Jo Malone London)

1. Store your makeup brushes. The perfect way to tidy up your brushes while looking fabulous; the pot is just the right width and depth to hold pretty much my entire daily collection.

2. Pop in cotton pads, buds or contact lenses. It’s a pretty and more convenient way to store all those messy bits and bobs that are lingering in your bathroom or on your dressing table.

3. Use it as a bedside tidy. Keep all your bedside essentials in one place – ear plugs, lip balm, tablets and so on.

4. Decant your bath salts. If you’ve got massive bags of Epsom salts that take up too much space, decant a little into a candle jar and proudly have them on display.

5. Add some flowers. A makeshift vase for either freshly picked or fake flowers; such a simple but effective idea that can really lift a simple space.

6. Re-use it as a candle holder. Keeping it simple, why not add a tealight or pillar candle to breathe new life into your favourite jars once again.

7. Store matches or lighters. Rather than having them stuffed in a drawer or in tatty old boxes, decant your matches or pop your favourite lighters into a jar to keep them looking part of your candle display.

8. Use it as an accessories pot. Tidy up your most worn pieces of jewellery or accessories (I’m thinking hair clips and slides too) and put them in one place.

8 Amazing Ways To Re-use Your Candle Jar (Jo Malone London)

Have you ever re-used a pretty candle pot? Let me know if you’ve found any other genius ways to transform, upcycle or re-use your candle jar….

SHOP MY FAVE JO MALONE LONDON CANDLES

Read my post discussing whether spending £50 on a candle is a ridiculous over-indulgence here.

7 Beauty Brands Doing Things A Little Differently In 2021: And You Need To Know About All Of Them

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One of the things I love most about the beauty industry is its ability to react, adapt and innovate. There’s always a new texture, technique or format to enjoy (or a new way of doing things altogether,) and our desire never wanes for something unexpected; the joy is undoubtedly in the discovery and in the moment you wonder ‘why has nobody ever thought of this before?’ After the absolute sh*t show of a year in 2020, there’s already so much to get excited about and look forward to in 2021 – and the beauty world is delivering in spades. With so many brands opting to do things a little differently and try something new, if there’s one thing the global pandemic has driven it’s undoubtedly risk taking and thinking outside the box; the result is a plethora of exciting additions to my beauty regime, and these seven are the ones I think you most need to know about as we step forward into the next decade…

THE INDIVIDUAL DOSE SKINCARE: Beauty Cubes (From £9.50)


‘Plastic free’ is definitely a buzz phrase right now, as consumers become increasingly conscious about the amount of packaging they’re disposing of on the daily. Our beauty regimes have definitely become the focus over the last 18 months, and more and more solid products are finding their way onto our bathroom shelves; Beauty Cubes offers solid beauty solutions with a difference, as every box contains tiny individual doses of product that can be mixed with water to release their full potential. Choose from shampoo, conditioner, body wash, facial cleanser, exfoliator and even a face mask – all perfectly sized in doses to reduce waste without compromising on experience. I haven’t tried everything in the range, but I do really like the cleanser which leaves my skin feeling thoroughly cleansed and nourished (thanks to the inclusion of ingredients such as Oat, White Willow Bark, Apricot Kernel Oil, Coconut Oil, Vitamin E and Vitamin C) without any tightness or dryness. Vegan, sulphate-free, palm-free and containing upcycled ingredients too, this is a brand that’s not afraid to break the mould and try something new.

THE DEODORANT BALM: AKT (£18.00)


Seeing as the deodorant category is long overdue a makeover, there’s no surprise we’re finally seeing new formats and textures to replace the cans and sticks we’ve been putting up with for decades. AKT has a fascinating story that proves its efficacy, having been developed by two West End performers who were sick of their usual deodorants either not performing or leaving them smelling ‘like teenage boys’. AKT was developed from pure need (there’s nobody better to put a deodorant to the test than those spending all day in the studio or on stage!) and the result is a beautiful balm that’s applied from the tube with your fingers to wherever you need it. Completely plastic free, vegan, natural, cruelty-free, genderless and available in a trio of subtle and elegant scents, the formulas also contain Shea Butter and Calendula Oil to moisturise skin. I was truly surprised how much I loved this as soon as I tried it, the creamy balm drying down instantly to a velvety smooth finish that leaves skin feeling protected and fresh; it’s expensive, but as a natural alternative it’s far superior to the vast majority I’ve tried and absolutely worth the price point.

THE STACKABLE MAKEUP: Trinny London (From £16.00)


Although Trinny London has been knocking about since 2017, it’s only now that it’s gaining real traction and becoming a staple of makeup bags thanks to its paired back approach and effective formulas. The vast majority of the products come in little stackable pots that eliminate the clutter we all suffer when it comes to our beauty regimes, as well as offering up a simple daily routine; I love the fact you can even buy whole stacks if you’re after something like a smokey eye, simplifying the whole process and nodding to the fact the vast majority of beauty enthusiasts don’t have the time for 27 different products. Many are multifunctional too, while others (such as the Miracle Blur which immediately softens lines and pores to create a great base) just target a very specific issue or need. I really love the hard working concealer which doesn’t sit in my fine lines, as well as the Lip2Cheek colours which offer a beautiful flush when you want to look ready to face the day. And the added bonus is that because it’s been designed by a woman in her 50’s, everything has been created with older skin in mind – basically, I can’t fault it.

THE CUSTOM FOUNDATION: Dcypher (£40.00)


I’m sure we can all agree that finding our perfect foundation shade is up there on the holy grail list of beauty achievements we all wish to achieve by the time we die, but now more than ever it can be a struggle to find a base that works for you. How do you even begin when the only thing to go on is a computer generated swatch? Dcypher have nailed the solution by creating bespoke foundations not only work with your exact skin tone, but your desired texture and skin type too; all you have to do is take a photo via their website tool for a surprisingly accurate suggestion, order a sample to check it works and then if you like it take the plunge for the full size bottle. If you’ve been unable to find your perfect match, or are wary about buying anything without being able to test it at home first, this is the perfect solution – and a much more affordable one at that, seeing as other custom foundations can set you back three times the price. I’ve successfully found my perfect match and it’s one of the best foundations I’ve tried in a long time; the tone is absolutely spot on, a miracle considering it’s generated via a webcam, and the result is a flawless base that stays in place all day with ease.

THE SPRAY SANTIZER: Haze (£7.00)


Oh how the world has changed in the last twelve months, and how my collection of hand sanitizers has grown from a meagre one or two reserved for dog walks. It’s safe to say hand hygiene is going to be a big part of our lives for years to come, and Haze has managed to turn something rather practical and functional into something altogether more on-trend. Their super sleek packaging looks more like a perfume bottle than a hand sanitizer, spritzing a quick drying 75% alcohol formula to kill up to 99.9% of bacteria and viruses – while smelling good at the same time. Available in watermelon, lemon, lavender and aloe vera, the sprays are super convenient for slipping in your pocket but also way more useful for sanitizing things like keys or your steering wheel; I’m all for practicality with a splash of fun, and Haze ticks all those boxes and more. Rather importantly, it leaves my hands feeling soft rather than parched too.

THE NEW HAIR WASH: Hairstory (From £44.00)


Do you remember the cleansing conditioners we all went mad for back in 2014? Even then we understood that traditional shampoos could strip the hair of its natural oils and leave our ‘dos looking parched, so a cleansing conditioner offered the best of the nourishing benefits without the negative impact of the shampoo. Hairstory’s New Wash is that reinvented for 2021, offering an effective solution to help cleanse and condition in one step without the traditional sulphates or silicones that can leave hair looking a bit meh. It cleans using essential oils and fatty alcohols, all of which are naturally derived and biodegradable, while imparting conditioning elements onto the hair’s surface. It does take some getting used to as it doesn’t foam, but when thoroughly massaged into both the scalp and lengths of hair the result is swishy and soft; I definitely need fewer styling products when using this, and my ‘do seems to last longer between washes too. Although it’s a pricey alternative if you’re currently riding the Pantene train, you don’t need a huge amount to get the results you want and your hair will look and feel so much better for it.

THE SUSTAINABLE EXFOLIATOR: Nett Exfoliator (£25.00)


Sometimes the simplest solutions are some of the most effective, and with the launch of Nett it proves that beauty doesn’t have to be complicated to make a difference. In Ghana the ‘exfoliation sheet’ has been an essential part of the bathing culture for a very long time, and now it’s launched in the UK so we can harness the unique benefits too. Perfect for helping to maintain soft and smooth skin, the open weave sheet helps to buff away dryness and stimulate the blood flow that’s essential for a healthy glow; you can also add your usual body wash for a cleansing experience with a difference, getting into all those hard to reach areas with ease. Unlike many body puffs that lose their shape and substance within a few months, the Nett lasts up to two years: it dries quickly to avoid any bacteria growth, and can be thrown in the washing machine whenever it needs a refresh.

Which of these seven are you most excited and intrigued by?

Have you discovered any other innovative brands trying to do things differently in 2021?

AD: featured press samples sent with no obligation to feature.

Temple Spa My Kinda Skin Essentials

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Temple Spa My Kinda Skin Essentials

Temple Spa My Kinda Skin Essentials Review


If a little like myself you aren’t currently sure what day of the week it is, let alone what your skin really needs you may just find the new Temple Spa My Kinda Skin Essentials sets nothing short of miraculous. 

Prior to the pandemic my skin was certifiably oily and after close to a year of pretty much being house-bound, it is now closer to being combination and prone to dehydration. It’s been fun – pronounced taxing in this instance – re- learning what works for my complexion and what doesn’t.

If that sounds all too familiar, then the Temple Spa My Kinda Skin Essentials sets could be just what you are looking for; four curated kits that feature a cleanser, toner and moisturiser targeting specific skin concerns. Not only is each product full sized but the items come presented in a wash bag perfect for travel and in general storage.

Temple Spa My Kinda Skin Essentials Review

Temple Spa My Kinda Skin Essentials Review

As mentioned my skin is now combination and frankly a pain in the backside; my t-zone is very oily and the perimeter of my face is verging on dry but is probably best described as dehydrated, couple that with an eczema flair up and you have quite the party. What I have learnt over the years is that when my skin does have a meltdown, it is best to strip it back to the very basics and let it recuperate. With The Temple Spa My Kinda Skin Essentials I can do just that, the only additional products I’ll be relying on is an eye cream and SPF…I’ll add additional treatments and solutions as I see fit but for now this is a great base.

Temple Spa My Kinda Skin Essentials Review

Inside the Temple Spa My Kinda Skin Essentials for combination skin types you will find:

Temple Spa Dual Act Wet & Dry Cleansing Lotion, 150 ml/£21

Temple Spa Toning Essence Essential Mist Tonic Without the Alcohol, 150 ml/£16

Temple Spa Moisture to Go Balancing Moisturiser, 50 ml/£38

Temple Spa My Kinda Skin Essentials Review

The products within the Temple Spa My Kinda Skin Essentials combined would cost £75 but if you buy as a kit you save £10 and also gain the handy, travel/wash bag.

I think this is a great way to try Temple Spa skincare that is tailored to your specific complexion needs, not to mention it makes a great gift too.

Temple Spa My Kinda Skin Essentials kits £65 each – link.