Dr Organic Organic Manuka Honey Rescue Cream

Dr Organic Organic Manuka Honey Rescue Cream

Free from petrochemicals, additives and artificial preservatives that strip the skin of valuable moisture causing long-term damage, Dr Organic Organic Manuka Honey Rescue Cream is a rich cream which rescues the skin in emergency conditions. Containing manuka, the healing honey of New Zealand and the Maori people, it is a hypoallergenic (tested against allergies), moisturising, nourishing, rejuvenating and soothing cream which can be used on dry skin, sun exposed skin, sensitive skin, irritated skin and allergic skin. It is, I found, particularly effective as an under eye moisturiser, an eye cream.

As a rescue cream, it repairs, restores and hydrates dry, cracked and damaged skin, enhancing natural cell regeneration and improving skin tone. Additionally, it contains Sweet Almond Oil, Beeswax, Zinc Oxide, Liquorice Root and the essential skin nutrient Vitamin E. Dr Organic Organic Manuka Honey Rescue Cream is a treasure of a product. 50ml for the incredibly reasonable price of £8.69. The Dr Organic range is stocked exclusively at Holland and Barrett stores in the UK. Available also to buy online. See the Dr Organic range at www.drorganic.co.uk

Boots No7 Poppy King Lipstick

  

Number Three Glamour
No7 Poppy King

Boots own brand No7 Poppy King Lipstick is a collaboration with Australian lipstick entrepreneur Poppy King. Producing an exclusive range of lipsticks intended to change women’s views of lip colour forever, this line involves the expertise of a woman whose other inventions include the invisible lip liner. 

Each shade in the No7 Poppy King Lipstick range is given a name and an idea by the designer - History, Power, Glamour, Seduction, Intrigue, Confidence, Allure. The colour I tested was Number Three Glamour, a dark pink in a highly covetable small, signed silver tube in a beautiful green polka dot and red box. Apply No7 Poppy King Lipstick straight from the tube, blot to set and then apply another coat. Build colour by dabbing on using feather strokes. These sheer, highly moisturizing colours are trans-seasonal, transferring from Winter to Summer easily unlike most.

Available from Boots nationwide. £12 for a 4g tube. View the range of colours at  www.boots.com

JAPONESQUE Artisan Tweezer

  

Designed with ease of use in mind so that it fits comfortably in the hand and feels like an extension of your fingers, the JAPONESQUE Artisan (‘skilled’) Tweezer is an essential beauty tool for precision grooming. Crafted for perfect balance and alignment, this stainless steel tweezer is finished with a deep, rich enamel coating for a weighty in-hand feel. Constructed with a hand-filed precision tip, it is designed for flawless extraction and expert hair removal. Invading territory previously occupied by the mighty  ‘Tweezerman’ only and aiming high aesthetically, the enamel coating comes in a range of exceptionally covetable patterns and colours. Some of the best include the Starry Dreams Artisan, Cheetah Pattern Artisan, Summer Stripe Artisan, Jigsaw Patterned Tweezer, Artisan Slant Tip – Pink.  

Based in California and founded over 20 years ago, JAPONESQUE the brand has supplied precision instruments and makeup brushes to the beauty industry, providing the tools necessary to create new looks backstage, for example, at the international runway shows and in fashion magazines. As beauty tools become more refined, the beauty industry’s approach to the beauty ideal or aesthetics develops also. Beauty is filtered through to the consumer when the product becomes available. Used extensively by beauty professionals worldwide, exceptional materials, superior craftsmanship and uncompromising standards guarantee the most versatile, inventive and distinctive makeup brushes and beauty tools are made by JAPONESQUE. 

I cannot recommend the name more highly. The JAPONESQUE Artisan Tweezer is available to buy from selected John Lewis department stores in the UK or at www.japonesque.com $20.00. JAPONESQUE beauty tools tutorials are available to view online. Note: JAPONESQUE Tweezer Reconditioning Program - should your tweezers ever loose their edge, simply send the tweezers to be reconditioned for free. Details online. 

Lush Ultrabland Cleanser

Lush Ultrabland Cleanser

Named Ultrabland, because its ingredients are simply formulated to cause minimal irritation, the Lush Ultrabland Cleanser is a rich, soft, oily face cream that cleanses the skin including the delicate area around the eye to effectively remove even waterproof mascara. It is intended to treat every type of skin without causing reaction or puffiness. Recommended also for people with problem skin, if you use nothing but Ultrabland for one month, it brings the skin back into balance whilst thoroughly cleansing it. 

Based on an ancient beeswax and vegetable oil formula from the times of Galen, the Greek physician and philosopher, Lush Ultrabland Cleanser lifts dirt, grease and make up without stripping away your skin's natural defenses. To use, warm and melt with the fingertips and massage lightly onto the skin. Almond oil and beeswax combine to bind grease and dirt, eradicating it efficiently with the use of a damp cotton pad or muslin cloth soaked in lukewarm water. Rose water and rose absolute (rosa damascena) reduce redness and balance and calm the skin. Honey soothes, moisturises and is an antiseptic. Fresh irises steeped in the almond oil are an ancient skin beautifying added ingredient. 

Considered the Lush founders' number one Desert Island product, they’ve used it for almost 30 years themselves and cannot do without it. Similarly, I’ve used the Lush Ultrabland Cleanser for seven years and wouldn’t use any other cleanser on my skin.

 £6.45 for 45g. £10.25 for 100g from Lush stores in the UK or order online at 
www.lush.co.uk.

Jergens Naturals Skin Firming Body Moisturiser with Pomegranate Extract

Jergens Naturals

  

Jergens Naturals Skin Firming Body Moisturiser with Pomegranate Extract is one of the new, modern, natural and effective alternatives to synthetic body moisturisers. Made with 96% natural ingredients, as tried and tested, it visibly firms cellulite-prone skin after just two uses, an amazing, almost instant effect of its main ingredient Pomegranate. 

Pomegranate is a source of powerful antioxidants known to seek out and destroy free radicals which age the skin by decreasing its elasticity. Aloe, a great skin cooler, is renowned for its moisturizing and firming properties. White Tea is rich in powerful antioxidants known to help fight inflammation. This wonder cream for the body also contains Jojoba Seed, Soybeans, Cottonseed - which maintains moisture balance in the skin, Sunflower, Grape - which relieves distressed skin and boosts the skin’s moisture barrier, Green Tea Leaves and Dog Rose. Added caramel gives this lotion its pleasing colour naturally. 

As the most effective visible skin firming body moisturizing cream I have ever used, specifically on the upper thighs, stomach and the upper inner arm, I highly recommend Jergens  Naturals Skin Firming Body Moisturiser with Pomegranate Extract. Improves and maintains elasticity. Allergy-causing paraben free. 

Not tested on animals. Made in the UK. 200ml RRP £4.99. 350ml RRP £6.49. Available at most good supermarkets, Superdrug, Boots or at  www.jergens.co.uk

Neal's Yard Remedies Wild Rose Beauty Balm - my desert island product

Neal's Yard Remedies Wild Rose Beauty Balm

Neal’s Yard Remedies Wild Rose Beauty Balm is a cleansing, moisturising, refining treatment which is formulated to achieve smooth, radiant-looking skin. Containing vitamin-rich wild rosehip seed oil, this little miracle nourishes and revitalises skin in need of emergency conditioning. With its natural, delicate scent, it is rich in anti-aging antioxidants and essential fatty acids which help keep all skin types in complete optimum condition. 

The award-winning Wild Rose Beauty Balm is a three-way product which can be used as a gentle exfoliating cleanser, or as a balancing mask, or as a deeply nourishing and protecting balm for dry or dehydrated skin. The high levels of wild rosehip oil - proven to help repair, firm and smooth the skin, combine with geranium, starflower, hemp and rosemary seed oil to decongest (that is, swiftly rid the skin of white heads or dairy spots, for example) and enrich the skin, restoring its natural radiance within a week as tried and tested. An unbleached, organic muslin cloth included with the product should be dampened with warm water and used to remove the balm for gentle exfoliating and cleansing or deeply nourishing the skin if used overnight. Apply sparingly to clean, dry skin, paying particular attention to dry and dehydrated areas.

This superior beauty balm, the best I've ever used, also functions as a full facial treatment – see instructions enclosed with the product. To care for the accompanying muslin cloth, wash regularly with a mild detergent and allow to dry naturally. £37 for 50g. Made in England. 99% organic ingredients. 

Available to buy from Neal’s Yard Remedies stores nationwide as part of the complete Wild Rose skincare range or purchase online at www.nealsyardremedies.com. Neal’s Yard Remedies Wild Rose Beauty Balm is without doubt an essential part of your beauty routine.

Boots No7 Natural Blush

22 Candy Pink

No7 Natural Blush Cheek Colour Compact is an improved formula powder blusher from the Boots own brand range of cosmetics. Blended from micro fine powders, it can be applied smoothly, with or without foundation, if worn with a moisturiser. The colour I tested in 22 Candy Pink reflects current trends in cosmetics. It enhances a pale complexion, giving a fresh-faced look. Applied correctly with a blusher brush, its sheer formulation gives a luminous glow. The approved method of application suggests you smile, then lightly apply the colour to the apple of your cheek. Build colour gradually as it easier to add than to take away.

Other colours include Soft Damson, Honey and Coral Flush. £9.50 for a long-lasting 5g. Available at Boots stores nationwide. Hypo-allergenic (allergy tested) for sensitive skin. With added Vitamin E and Pro Vitamin B5 to care and condition.

Biotherm Skin Vivo Uniformity

Biotherm Skin Vivo Uniformity

In formulating Biotherm Skin Vivo Uniformity, an anti-aging texture and tone reversive day cream, scientists at Biotherm have combined their knowledge of both the clinical signs of aging and genomics (the study of genetics and DNA) to identify and target five key irregularities involved in the loss of skin condition – hyperpigmentation or uneven dark patches, redness, dull tone, roughness and loss of elasticity. Whatever the season, climate or altitude, Ultra Violet or sun exposure remains the primary cause of premature aging of the skin. Skin Vivo Uniformity, the latest in Biotherm’s advanced anti-aging range of face creams, is scientifically proven to help visibly rejuvenate and protect the skin’s appearance by returning a more uniform-looking complexion.

Formulated with five active ingredients combined with UVA/UVB Sun Protection Factor 15, Biotherm Skin Vivo Uniformity contains Saccharomyces Cerevisiae, derived from a micro-organism chosen for its action on dermal proteins. Vitamin CG, a derivative of Vitamin C chosen for its anti-aging, exfoliating and anti-pigmentation properties. ER 195, derivative of salicyclic acid chosen for its micro-exfoliating effect to remove excess dead skin cells that can dull the complexion. Reverserol SV, Senna alata leaf extract chosen for its self-protecting properties. Pure Thermal Plantkon, chosen for its skin-smoothing properties.

This product is recommended for normal and combination skin and with regard to skin tone, I found it delivered a decrease in the appearance of pigmentation imperfection, a decrease in the appearance of redness and an increase in skin luminosity. Skin texture feels refined. There are fewer visible pores. Skin feels more supple. Skin Vivo Uniformity by Biotherm is in fact a supercream. You can feel its potency immediately. Apply once daily and again at night. £59.00 for 50ml. Available at selected Boots or on Amazon or locate a store at  www.biotherm.co.uk

Kiehl's Panthenol Protein Moisturizing Face Cream with Vitamin E and Beta Carotene

Kiehl's Panthenol Protein Moisturizing Face Cream

Kiehl's, the skincare brand, was founded as an apothecary in New York's East Village over 150 years ago. As a full-service pharmacy, it offered customers homeopathic and herbal remedies, essential oils, over-the-counter drugs, and the first Kiehl's own brand name products. Kiehl's extensive experience has resulted in a specialist cosmetic, pharmaceutical, herbal and medicinal knowledge refined over generations. 

Containing minimal allergy-causing preservatives and enriched with nourishing Vitamin E and Beta Carotene, the Kiehl's Panthenol Protein Moisturizing Face Cream is the one Winter moisturiser I always use. In the most effective way, it combats both the harsh weather conditions outside, and the in-home extremely drying effects of Winter heating on the skin. This face cream’s key ingredient Panthenol is a penetrating, naturally-derived plant protein which absorbs into the skin and is converted into Pantothenic Acid, a B complex vitamin which maintains healthy skin and hair also. It assists skin care products in retaining water and absorbs water from the air, aiding in skin moisturization. The Kiehl's Panthenol Protein Moisturizing Face Cream also contains olive fruit oil, sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil and avocado oil. To eradicate dryness and for optimal overall skin maintenance, use as a day cream or at night. £35.00 for a generous 125ml. Not tested on animals. Available from Kiehl's stores nationwide.

Revlon Grow Luscious Lash Liner

Revlon Grow Luscious Lash Liner in Emerald

The Revlon Grow Luscious Lash Liner comes in Onyx (black), Emerald (green) and Espresso (brown). A revolutionary pencil, it contains a botanical and vitamin rich formula which nourishes and supports healthy eye lashes. In just one stroke, the Onyx I tested delivered an ultra-smooth, intense jet black lick of colour to the lash line. Glide along lashes from inner to outer corner, keeping close to the lash line itself. Non-irritating to wear, intense stayability, waterproof. £6.29. Available to buy at Boots and Superdrug. Locate a store at www.revlon.co.uk. A perfect accompanying product to the Revlon Grow Luscious Plumping Mascara in Blackest Black.

Topshop Lip Marker

Topshop Lip Marker
in Popsicle

  

The Topshop Lip Marker in Popsicle or bright pink, matches the pink in a marker pen set. A felt-tip pen for the lips, it is available also in Hotshot or bright coral. As an alternative to lip stick and lip gloss, the Topshop Lip Marker is a long lasting lip stain designed in a marker pen format for colour you can apply on the run without looking if you obey the lip line. Otherwise, as directed, apply to the lips, outlining first and then filling in. Wear alone for a matte look or layer with a lip glaze for a high shine finish. Wear with lip salve or lip moisturiser to hydrate the lips as the Lip Marker by Topshop is a dry, felt-tip and feels like ink. Stayability is a feature of the pen’s success as is the vibrancy of the colours Popsicle and Hotshot. 

£8.00 at Topshop.1.6g – 0.056oz. The Topshop Lip Marker is made in Italy, suggesting quality.