Grace & Stella Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Skin Hydration.

Easily boost the skins hydration levels when applying the Grace & Stella Hyaluronic Acid Serum to your skin morning and night. Serums are an essential skincare product to use to be able to deliver specific ingredients into the skin to treat specific skin concerns depending on what the formulation contains. I came across grace & stella on amazon (uk) site and was impressed of their ethos of being vegan-friendly, sulfate and paraben free, whilst only testing their products on humans because their products are designed for humans. Read on to discover more about this skincare product, disclaimer: the links highlighted are not affiliated and are only used for you to discover the product quicker.

Presented in eye-appealing packaging that sets itself apart from the other serums on the market, the pump dispenser dispenses the perfect amount to use for application. The directions state 2-3 drops are to be applied onto cleansed skin and i found this to be perfect amount to use because the hyaluronic acid serum spreads and glides easily with application over the face and neck. The full ingredients are as follows:

WATER/EAU/AQUA - Solvent used to dissolve ingredients and to form emulsions such as oil-in-water or water-in-oil.

SODIUM HYALURONATE - The sodium salt of hyaluronic acid that helps restore the skin's moisture content by being able to easily penetrate to the deepest layers of the skin (low molecular weight). 

SODIUM HYALURONATE CROSSPOLYMER - A modified hyaluronic acid attached to a polymer structure that holds it in the upper layers of the skin longer for skin-replenishing hydration. 

PANTHENOL - Provitamin B5 is helpful for many skin concerns because it enables moisture retaining by being a humectant, helps to defend the skin from external stressors, whilst also helping the skin heal. 

AHNFELTIA CONCINNA EXTRACT - Red Marine Algae that is nutrient rich to help hyaluronic acid penetrate deeper, stimulate and boost circulation, whilst also acting as a skin protectant. 

GLYCERIN - Emollient that helps keep the skin soft and supple whilst also attracting moisture to the skin by acting as a humectant. 

PENTYLENE GLYCOL - Humectant that helps the skin retain moisture whilst also having anti microbial effects to preserve the shelf-life of the product. 

PROPANEDIOL - Known as a "glycol" that enhances other ingredients to penetrate and absorb better, it also functions as an emollient and humectant whilst forming a film on top of the skin to stop moisture loss. 

POLYACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER-6 - Stabilizes and thickens formulations to give "slip" to product on application with a non-sticky finish after application.

HEXYLENE GLYCOL - Functions as a solvent and viscosity agent that helps spreadability of a product whilst also acting as an emulsifier to produce a stable emulsion of water and oil ingredients.

CAPRYLYL GLYCOL - A fatty acid alcohol that acts as a humectant to help the skin retain essential moisture, skin-conditioning for better texture, and also boosts other preservatives in a formulation. 

PPG-26-BUTETH-26 - Restores suppleness and reduces flakiness of the skin, is known as an emulsifying agent with conditioning properties.

PEG-40 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL - Creates a protective hydrating layer over the skin to stop moisture loss, whilst helping a formulation with water-in-oil or oil-in-water to be dispersed and applied better. 

TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE - A chelating agent that boosts antioxidants and preservatives to work effectively whilst bringing stability and efficacy to a products formulation.

CITRIC ACID - Used to adjust the pH of a formulation but can also exfoliate the skin for a brighter and smoother complexion depending on its concentration. 

ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN - Preservative that is an alternative to using parabens, boosts other preservatives in a formulation, and respects the skins natural flora whilst having skin-conditioning benefits.

CHLORPHENESIN - Prevents the growth of microorganisms in a formulation to help keep your product from spoiling.

HYALURONIC ACID - Humectant that draws moisture to the skin to boost hydration whilst keeping skin renewed, stable, without overloading the skin of too much water.

ETHOXYDIGLYCOL - Helps efficacy of active ingredients to penetrate better whilst also acting as a humectant that draws moisture from your surroundings to improve dry skin, fine lines, and wrinkles.

PHENOXYETHANOL - Preservative that prevents fungi, bacteria, and yeast in a product formulation and also helps prolong the shelf life of a product. 

POTASSIUM SORBATE - Preservative that is an alternative to using parabens that helps stop the growth of microorganisms and protects the product from spoiling.

Testing and introducing any new product into my skincare routine i always perform a patch test just to air on the side of caution, but i experienced no adverse reactions. I love how this clear coloured and fragrance free serum instantly refreshes whilst absorbing quickly to leave the skin feeling smooth and comfortable. Texturally light but packs a hydration hit for the skin, it also plays well with other products without piling or flaking off making it a must-have serum for any morning or night skincare routine. Apply on its own or over any active skincare product such as a vitamin c or retinol to say "hi" to skin hydration from grace & stella, x Neil. 

PediCare +K Technology Cracked Heel Repair Cream.

Improve the appearance of dry and cracked heels when applying daily the PediCare Cracked Heel Repair Cream to the feet. The skin around the heels becomes cracked and split due to a mixture of lost moisture which leads to extreme dryness and then the added pressure we put on our feet from standing and walking. The other factors that contribute are health related issues such as diabetes, poor fitting shoes, and foot disorders such as athletes foot, psoriasis, and eczema. Read on to discover more about this heel repair cream and how it can improve your feet.

The clinically tested PediCare cracked heel repair cream is presented in a squeezable tube for easy dispensing and you receive 80ml of product inside. The interesting factor of this product is that not only can you use it on your feet, you can also use it on dry elbows and knees though a patch test is always recommended. The benefits it states are:

48HR Active Skin Repair.

Clinically Tested.

Relieves Dryness.

Uses Keratin Technology.

Fragrance Free.

Ideal For General & Diabetic Feet.

The formulation utilises urea and pure keratin which is sourced from a keratin technology group based in the United States that helps support the body's repair process whilst preventing infection when applied. The other ingredients featured also contribute in helping and to improve the dry skin condition by helping hydration and moisture levels, the full ingredients are as follows:

Aqua - Used as a solvent in cosmetics to contribute in making a formulation of ingredients.

Urea - Helps skin retain moisture whilst also removing dead skin cells for improved texture.

Glycerin - Humectant that draws moisture to the skin to keep it hydrated. 

Dimethicone - Improves a products texture whilst also being an excellent skin barrier to reduce moisture loss from the skin. 

Stearic Acid - Improves and protects the skins surface from moisture loss whilst supporting the skins barrier function. 

Cetearyl Alcohol - Emollient that soothes and heals dry rough skin.

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract - Antiseptic and moisturiser that helps heal and soothe the skin.

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride - Helps make a product slippery without greasiness whilst creating a barrier over the skin to help stop moisture loss and improve dry skin. 

Keratin - A protein found in the skin that helps reinforce the skins barrier function and improve elasticity and moisture. 

Hydrolysed Keratin - Protects the skin from further damage and restores suppleness and softness with skin-conditioning benefits. 

Theobroma Cacao Seed Butter - Forms a barrier to stop moisture loss whilst improving dry and cracked skin conditions. 

Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil - Supports skin-repair and has anti-inflammatory properties to reduce drying, chapping, or chaffing. 

Panthenol - Helps skin to retain moisture and become softer whilst also reducing itchiness with its anti-inflammatory benefit. 

Phenoxyethanol - Preservative that prevents bacteria and helps prolong shelf life of the product.

Triethanolamine - Emulsifier that helps spreadable application of a product and also balance the pH of a product.

Carbomer - Thickening agent that helps control the viscosity and flow of cosmetic products whilst helping to stop liquids and oils separating in the formulation.

Piroctone Olamine - Antifungal and antimicrobial used to treat fungal infections of the skin and can be found in a popular anti-dandruff shampoo for controlling scalp issues. 

Applying twice daily and gently massaging on the feet, this lightweight textured cream instantly absorbs and soothes the skin on application. The non-greasy texture is ideal because it doesn't make the feet slippery and u can also wear your socks and shoes without feeling uncomfortable. I was impressed on how quickly it improved the heels of my feet and makes the skin incredibly soft and smooth even after the first application. The PediCare +K Technology Cracked Heel Repair Cream is an essential product to use and especially for those summer months when u can wear open style footwear to show off your improved feet, instead of hiding them! Available from Asda, Trago Mills, Bodycare, Home Bargains, Poundworld and Rayburn in the UK. You can also purchase it online on Amazon, x Neil. 

skinChemists Advanced Caviar Day Moisturiser.

Facial moisturisers now offer much more than just providing hydration to the skin by the complex ingredients they can include to offer specific skincare benefits. The skinChemists advanced caviar day moisturiser aims to firm and nourish throughout the day whilst also offering some other benefits for the complexion. Skin chemists is an award-winning brand from London that are known for creating advanced skin treatments that deliver real results. Utilising the latest high quality active ingredients from all around the world, their many ranges and products cater to all specific skin types. Disclaimer: The links highlighted are not affiliated and are only used for you to discover the brand and product.

The skinChemists advanced caviar day moisturiser is nicely presented in a silver mirrored sphere that when unscrewed the moisturiser sits in the bottom half. Suitable for all skin types, the moisturiser aims to mattify, smooth, and protect the skin when applied in the morning after your current serum or on its own. I have applied this over hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and any other serum and it still applies perfectly without piling or flaking off and sits perfectly under any sunscreen. The day moisturiser contains the following:
Aqua (Water) - Used to mix formulations.

Glycerin - Humectant that draws moisture to the skin from your surroundings for hydration.

Glyceryl Stearate SE - Lubricates the skin for a soft and smooth feel whilst forming a barrier to stop moisture loss.

Cetearyl Alcohol - Fatty alcohol that provides emollience to the skin for soothing and healing dry skin types and conditions.

Stearic Acid - Emollient that helps stop moisture loss and support the skins barrier function.

Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil - Detoxifies the skin with its antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

Isoceteth-20 - Emulsifier or solubilizer to help oil-based ingredients in water-based products.

Phenoxyethanol - Preservative to limit bacteria growth.

Subtilisin - Bioactive micro-encapsulated enzyme that helps remove dead skin cells for smoother and brighter skin.

Benzyl Alcohol - Preservative that helps kill microbes and parasites to keep the product functioning at its best.

Carbomer - Function as thickening, dispersing, suspending and emulsifying agents in a formulation.

Polylactic Acid - Exfoliates the skin and enables proper renewal of the epidermis.

Hydrolyzed Caviar Extract - Antioxidant that protects the skin against damaging UVA and UVB rays though always apply a sunscreen!

Dehydroacetic Acid - Preservative that kills off and prevents the growth of microorganisms to keep your product functioning at its best.

Butylene Glycol - Conditioning agent that helps improve texture of the skin (softness) and also is a humectant.

Parfum (Fragrance) - Provides a scent to a product doesn't really have a any skincare benefits.

Polysorbate 20 - Acts as a surfactant, emulsifier, and fragrance ingredient whilst also having a soothing effect on the skin.

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder - Acts as a anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, humectant, and soothing properties.

Hydrolyzed Roe - Exfoliates dead skin cells without compromising the healthier skin cells.

Ascorbyl Glucoside - Converts into l-ascorbic acid to disrupt melanin (color) production for brighter and a more uniformed skin tone.

Rhododendron Ferrugineum Leaf Cell Culture Extract - Active that helps protect the vitality of epidermal stem cells which supports renewal and repair of the skin barrier for better functioning.

Ethylhexylglycerin - Functions as a preservative, a preservative enhancer, a surfactant, a deodorizer, and a skin-conditioning agent.

Hippophae Rhamnoides (Seabuckthorn) Fruit Oil - Provides skin hydration, elasticity, cell regeneration, and even helps treat and prevent acne with anti-inflammatory properties.

Pumice - Natural exfoliant that gently polishes the skin.

Isomalt - Humectant that attracts and retains moisture for the skin.

Benzyl Salicylate - Acts as a fragrance enhancer or fragrance fixative for a product.

Hydrolyzed Actin -  Provides skin-conditioning benefits.

Glucose - Functions as a humectant and has skin-conditioning benefits.

Hydrolyzed Pearl - Helps keep skin soft and smooth whilst being rich in nutrients calcium, magnesium and zinc for a healthier looking complexion.

Limonene - Scent ingredient.

Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil - Anti-inflammatory and anti-septic properties whilst being astringent to balance oily skin types and help to improve firmness of the skin.

Snail Secretion Filtrate - The name basically tells you (From Snails Secretion) that has hyaluronic acid, glycoprotein, proteoglycans, and antimicrobial and copper peptides all beneficial for the skin.

Hexyl Cinnamal - Fragrance Ingredient.

Citronellol - Provides a sweet, floral scent and used as a fragrance ingredient.

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Seedcake Extract - Forms a barrier on the skin to reduce moisture loss whilst providing skin-conditioning benefits.

Tocopheryl Acetate - Promotes healthier skin by moisturising and having antioxidant properties.

Geraniol - Fragrance ingredient.

Linalool - Fragrance ingredient.

Citrus Aurantium (Neroli) Flower Oil -  Antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory to help with redness, spots, and acne.

Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate - A synthetic neuro peptide that can easily penetrate the skin to relax facial muscles and provide skin-conditioning benefits for smoother skin.

Charcoal Powder - Draws bacteria and any impurities to the surface of the skin whilst absorbing excess oil.

Fucus Vesiculosus (Bladderwrack) Extract - Brown algae seaweed that has active ingredients that defend the skin from free radical damage whilst helping to improve hydration and skin elasticity, plus much more!

Disodium EDTA - Preservative that keeps the product from spoiling and changing.

Sodium Benzoate - Preservative that inhibits the growth of bacteria, fungus, and yeast to keep the product safe to use.

Propylene Glycol - Humectant that attracts water to the skin but also functions as a skin-conditioning agent, viscosity-decreasing agent, solvent, and fragrance ingredient.

Sodium Lactate - Found in the stratum corneum of the skin, it attracts water and keeps it there whilst promoting a smoother and glowing complexion.

Lecithin - Emollient that soothes and moisturises whilst restoring hydration.

Gardenia Tahitensis (Tiare Flower) Extract - Soothes and deeply hydrates without compromising the natural oil balance of the skin.

Lactic Acid - A gentle AHA that removes the surface layer of skin to reveal a brighter and smoother complexion.

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 - A skin restoring peptide that messages the skin to basically tell it to look better by helping with signs of sun damage, fine lines, and wrinkles.

Rosa Damascena Flower Oil - Hydrates whilst being astringent and antiseptic making it ideal for acne and spot prone skin types whilst having some anti-ageing benefits.

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 - A skin-restoring peptide that calms and helps to replenish the skins surface,

CI 17200 (Red 33) - A red dye used as a colorant in cosmetic products.

The light textured cream glides over the skin easily with a slight floral fragrance that soon fades upon application. Absorbing quickly to leave skin feeling smooth and hydrated, the cream does leave skin looking mattified with no shine or greasy feeling detected. I think this is a perfect moisturiser for oilier skin types because it will balance out any oily t-zones whilst also it being ideal for drier skin types because it provides enough hydration without over compensating to help skin feel comfortable.
The Skin Chemists Advanced Caviar Day Moisturiser is the perfect product to sit in the middle of your skincare products (after your serum, before your sunscreen) to help improve the condition and look of the skin and give a boost to your skincare routine, x Neil.

The Captain Thug Redux Retinol Serum.

Browsing on a popular retailers website in the UK i came across Captain Thug who present themselves as a reasonably priced natural skincare brand and offer products any skincare routine relies on. Currently in the range is a multi-active cleanser, a pore detoxifying clay mask, a body scrub and a de-tanning scrub, four beard oil conditioners, and four active serums to choose from. The natural skincare formulations contain proven ingredients that are known for benefits they provide to the skin and this is why i purchased one of the serums to discover how it performed. Disclaimer: The links highlighted are not affiliated and are there for you to discover the products quickier.

The Captain Thug Redux Retinol Serum is packaged in UV protective packaging with a pump dispenser which i found an added bonus because your not repeatingly opening the product exposing it to air like you have to with some pipette skincare products. Dispensing onto cleansed skin, the serum is clear in colour and quite thick in texture because its not overly watery, but glides over the skin really easy and absorbs quickly!  The ingredients do look promising but it does contain two essential oils which is entirely up to you where you stand on the love/hate relationship of them being used in skincare products, the full ingredients are:
Water - Used as a solvent to help ingredients mix.

Glycerin - Humectant that draws moisture from the air to keep skin hydrated.

Caprylic/Capric Glycerides - Polyethylene glycol that functions as an emollient to condition the skin.

Squalane - Found naturally in the skin, it helps stop moisture loss and has emollient and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Glycine Soja (Soybean) Extract - Multi-beneficial by offering emollient, skin-brightening, soothing, and protects the skin from free radicals by acting as an antioxidant.

Carbomer - Provides any skincare product with a smooth and silky texture.

Vitamin E - Antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radicals and has been shown to reduce UV damage, though always wear a sunscreen!

Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate - Retinoic acid ester that does not have to be converted like other retinoids and binds directly to the retinoid receptors within the skin to improve the skins structure.

Retinol - A form of vitamin A that helps cell turn-over, stimulate collagen, and overall improve the skins structure and health.

Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterol - Non-drying alcohol that helps to lubricate and have an emollient action.

Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate - A natural antimicrobial preservative to keep the formulation bacteria free whilst also providing moisturising and conditioning benefits.

Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil - Provides a natural moisturising layer over the skin to prevent moisture loss to keep skin hydrated.

Hyaluronic Acid - Retains moisture within the skin to plump fine lines and wrinkles by acting as an humectant that draws moisture from your surroundings.

Polysorbate 20 - A surfactant, emulsifier, and fragrance ingredient that has a soothing effect on the skin and can help mix oil and water in a formulation.

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 - Synthetic peptide (part of Matrixyl 3000) that restores and replenishes the skins surface, ideal for anti-aging benefits.

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 - Synthetic fatty acid-linked peptide that helps repair skin damage by signalling to the skin, ideal for anti-aging benefits.

Phenoxyethanol - Preservative to keep your product functioning at its best.

Rose Essential Oil - Emollient properties for drier skin types, whilst also being astringent for oilier and acne-prone skin.

Sandalwood Essential Oil - Antiseptic and astringent properties, this oil also gently exfoliates to improve skin tone and texture.

Applying retinol at night is essential to boost the skins cell-turnover (Exfoliates) whilst also it helps to boost collagen production because it can penetrate the many levels of the skin. Containing Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, this retinoic acid ester does not have to be converted like other retinoids before the skin is able to use it, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate binds directly to the retinoid receptors of the skin cells skipping the conversion method. Research is still needed on this new retinoid ingredient but combining it with retinol in the ingredients list is much more beneficial than if used on its own for now. The great thing i appreciate about this serum is that it can easily fit into your skincare routine because it works extremely well with other products when applying a gel, night moisturiser, or even an oil over the top of it. It does not leave the skin feeling tacky or slippery because it penetrates and dries down quickly, but if you are wanting a better hydration boost you can apply this over your current hydrating serum at night. Overall i really like how this helps support the skin overnight and improves skin tone and texture for a healthier complexion with continued use, checkout all the skincare products they have to offer on their website and available on amazon x Neil.

The Monthly Organic Beauty Box.

The element of surprise each month is welcomed by natural beauty lovers in the UK and international, when receiving the monthly organic beauty box full with goodies. The monthly beauty box features exciting brands and their products that are available from the easy-to navigate LoveLula website, whilst also introducing products to you that you may not be aware of to purchase. The selection of products you receive each month are varied, while there are many subscription plans available for you to choose from to enjoy your delivered beauty box. Disclaimer: I received the beauty box free as part of the LoveLula accredited blogger program, this does not influence or change my honest opinions expressed in my blog posts. The links in black are not affiliated and are only used for you to find the products quicker.

Love your hair and the planet when receiving the Biovène Barcelona shampoo and conditioner bars from their extensive range. The innovative products lasts as long as your current bottles of shampoo and conditioner whilst being pH balanced and kind to your hair and scalp. Wetting your hair and the bar, slide the bar down your hair upto six times and then build the sulphate free lather with your hands to thoroughly cleanse the scalp. I received the "citrus dream" which clarifies the hair from product build-up but still feels hydrating enough for any hair type whilst the conditioner provides essential moisture without weighing the hair down, The products are great for travelling to save space in your bag and are a great plastic-free alternative to use in your hair care routine. 

Indulge your mind and skin when applying the Kathleen Natural sensual rose body and massage oil when u need it. Featuring orange, rose, and nutmeg essential oils that are known for their influencing aromas that subtly stimulate your wellbeing for a natural alternative. Applying after a shower or bath to wet skin, use circular motions to stimulate blood flow and lymphatic drainage, but remember to take a deep breathe to take advantage of those present essential oils. The skin feels comforted and smooth because of the sweet almond, sunflower, argan, and rosehip oils featured in this oil. Applying lightly, don't be afraid if you apply too much as you can blot off the excess, just remember to enjoy this at-home spa like treatment for yourself or your partner. 

Purifying the skin from toxins and bacteria as well as products u have applied is essential for maintaining a healthier looking complexion. The Madara purifying foam is one of those products to reach for when you feel you want your skin to breathe when all products are removed. Suitable to be used around the eyes, it easily breaks down makeup and heavy sunscreens without overstripping the skin of its natural oils. I usually do not use any foam cleansers because my experience with some is that they work too much to leave my skin feeling taut and overly dry, i did not experience that same feeling with this one. The foam and cleansing agent is from the sodium cocoamphoacetate ingredient which are coconut fatty acids that are known to be mild and non-irritating, whilst the cleanser also features glycerin, lactic acid, and achillea millefolium yarrow extract that balances and calms the complexion!

Supporting the skins natural defences is easily achieved when applying the FOM London anti-pollution glow serum to your face. Hydration is supported by hyaluronic acid and the humectants sorbitol and glycerin, along with the beneficial water-binding SACCHARIDE ISOMERATE that contains natural carbohydrates found in the stratum corneum of human skin. Green tea, beta-glucan, panthenol (VITAMIN B5) and hydrolyzed silk protein all play a role to maintain a smoother and healthier complexion. Applying to cleansed skin because any serum should be the first product to be applied for it to be accepted and absorbed easily, i cover the whole of my face using 2-3 drops dispensed from the dropper tool supplied. I was impressed by how quickly the serum absorbs to leave the skin feeling smooth and soft whilst a soft glow is achieved without looking shiny by the mica mineral ingredient included. A lovely serum to add into your skincare if you are wanting to boost hydration whilst supporting and protecting the skin's defences from pollution.

The LoveLula March beauty box arrives in secure recyclable packaging and each product inside is protected by the recyclable filling to keep your products in tip-top condition. The printed card inside details all the products included whilst also including a voucher code that can be redeemed if you would like to purchase any products from the brands included, the total value of this months beauty box is £75.00. Enjoy the selection of products for yourself, or buy as a gift for someone else to enjoy, when purchasing or subscribing to receive a beauty box to your door. I wonder what the April beauty box will contain and what will be featured for you to discover products you may not be aware of to purchase? xNeil.