LoveLula Beauty Box May 2022

The last ‘rolling subscription’ box from LoveLula has arrived but that doesn't mean the end, the good news is that the lovelula beauty box will continue in a different form. It will now be available to purchase on their store individually as opposed to being subscription-based and the future Beauty Boxes will be curated with a more defined theme or purpose in mind. Lets take a look at what products featured in the LoveLula Beauty Box May 2022, disclaimer - the links in blue are not affiliated and are placed for you to discover the products. I did receive the beauty box free to review but this does not change my honest opinion about the products.

The balm balm little miracle rosehip serum features a blend of rosehip, jojoba and borage oils that all have emollient properties with skin nourishing fatty acids. The formula does contain essential oils which are frankincense, rose geranium, palmarosa, juniper and mandarin which have antioxidant and antimicrobial components, but also fragrant constituents that are not ideal for sensitive skin. I was pleasantly surprised with how quickly this lightweight oil absorbs to leave the skin feeling perfectly nourished and soft to the touch while it works perfectly under any moisturiser and sunscreen during the day. A lovely lightweight oil that absorbs quickly to provide emollience benefits either during the day or when applied at night to nourish and nurture the skin,

The ooh oils of heaven argan oil is cold pressed from the argan kernels and appears as a gold coloured oil which is why it has been named as the "liquid gold of morocco". The rich content contains unsaturated fatty acids which are oleic, linoleic and palmitic which all help to nourish and moisturise the skin while also supporting the barrier function. It also contains antioxidants of vitamin e, caffeic acid, ferulic acid and epicatechin to defend the skin from free radicals while also providing anti-inflammatory benefits from the rare sterols it provides. I like to apply a few drops over a water-based serum or moisturiser to help seal over these products because this will help to stop transepidermal water-loss from the skin when applied either in the morning or evening. 

The phb ethical beauty balance moisturiser is ideal for people who are an oiler skin type whilst also suitable for those who have breakouts and acne. The daily moisturiser features rebalancing lavender oil that also calms and clears impurities with its antimicrobial properties while geranium and sea buckthorn regulate oil production and aid in skin repair. Applying to clean skin or after toning, the moisturiser glides over the skin easily, before absorbing quickly, to leave the skin feeling nourished from its light texture, It does contain essential oils with fragrant constituents so if you don't like skincare products with essential oils than this wont be suited to you but if you do, then this light moisturiser nourishes without being too rich and leaves the skin feeling supported throughout the day and night. Suitable for all genders & ages 13+ while being safe to use during months 3 to 9 of pregnancy. 

The inika matte perfection primer is a silicone-free formula that has oil-absorbing properties but still provides long-term hydration for the skin. Dispensing 1-2 pumps on to the skin after your chosen SPF, the lightweight primer instantly absorbs to leave skin perfectly prepped for your foundation, BB or CC cream. The alcohol-free formula combines hydrators, emollients and skin-conditioners that nurture the skin without clogging the pores but the primer does contain essential oils which also add to the fragrance of the product. It is tinted when dispensing but this soon disappears when applying with fingers or a brush to leave the skin feeling velvety and not looking overly super matte, just enhancing your natural beauty while absorbing a little oil. 

Samples are a great addition for you to try a product before purchasing the full sized version, the dr jacksons is a new range to LoveLula. The "everyday oil" is a soothing moisturising oil that can be applied to the face, body, hair and even the nails. Featuring a host of emollient fatty acid oils but does contain fragrant constituents which are not great for sensitive skin, the lightweight oil does absorb quickly to leave the skin feeling nurtured and comforted especially when applying to the body after a bath or shower. The "night cream" also featured is rich in texture to deeply moisturise the skin overnight thanks to the high emollience of the butters and oils it contains but does contain fragrant constituents (limonene and linalool) which naturally occur in essential oils, but are not ideal for sensitive skin. The cream does absorb well on application to leave the skin feeling comforted and nurtured throughout the night for a well-rested complexion that will greet you in the morning. 

Stay up to date with the new format of the LoveLula beauty boxes that will be available to purchase individually as opposed to being subscription-based here: lovelula beauty box may 2022 x Neil.

Théa Pharmaceuticals Limited Support Ophthalmic Care And Good Eye Health.

The eyes can easily become influenced and irritated by many factors such as dry eye disease that affects one in four people and occurs when the eyes do not make enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly. The other major factor is allergies such as hay fever in which the seasonal symptoms start from March to September, many people can suffer from itchy, red, sore and tired eyes. Seeking products to alleviate and relieve any discomfort has just got easier thanks to Thea Your Eye Health where u can find their extensive range of products that are free from preservatives to help manage Dry Eye Disease, along with a range of eye supplements to help maintain healthy vision. Utilising the best eye care solutions that won’t damage or irritate the eyes, you can even check out their free online eye symptom checker for reliable and excellent advice. Lets take a look at the products - Disclaimer: The links used are not affiliated and are placed for you to discover the products.  

Blepharitis which is inflammation of the eyelids can be caused by too much bacteria in this area or when the tiny oil glands near the base of the eyelashes become clogged, causing irritation and redness. Keeping this area clean on both eyes can be quite a task because applying any cleansing products to already compromised skin, will and can make it sting and hurt. The Blephaclean wipes can be your essential product to use to ensure a gentle cleanse of the eyelids and lashes to remove impurities, dust, pollution and pollen with its preservative, perfume and paraben free formulation. Clinically proven to relieve symptoms of blepharitis and gentle enough to even be used on children from 3 months old, the non-greasy and no-need to rinse product can be used wherever you are. Using a separate sterile wipe for the eyelids to avoid cross contamination between the two, the wipe easily cleans the upper eyelid and the base of the eyelashes before moving on to clean the edge of the lower eyelid. Great to use at home to manage any discomfort and keep the eye area clean whilst also keep in your bag to remove any pollen and relieve discomfort during the day. 

The meibomian glands which are situated in the edges of the upper and lower eyelids secrete an oily substance needed to lubricate and clean the front of the eye and allow the tear film to spread and perform effectively. In many circumstances the glands mentioned will not perform at their best and the oily substance will then turn to a thick grease resulting in the glands being clogged up and the eyes not being lubricated, but there is a solution. The Blepha EyeBag is a warming mask that Ophthalmologists recommend as the first step of an eyelid cleansing routine in cases of MGD, blepharitis and the related conditions such as dry eye, chalazion and stye. The Blepha EyeBag® is made of silver silk on one side  and black 100% cotton fabric on the other while it is filled with flax seeds (linseed) to not only conform well to the eye area shape but also retain the heat when warming in the microwave. Testing the heat on your wrist before applying the eyebag to the eye area, you can be assured there are NO aromatic or herb fragrances added which help reduce the risk of sensitivity or allergic irritation of the eyelids from scented volatile oils. I would suggest setting a timer for 10-15 minutes before placing it over your eyes but this natural method certainly helps to release the blocked lipids to allow them to spread across the surface of the eye which in turn reduces water evaporation and helps keep the eyes hydrated. 

Ideal for allergy sufferers, the Zaspray is a unique 3-in-1 solution specifically designed to deliver long-lasting relief from itchy, irritated dry eyes caused by allergies. Presented in a specialist bottle with Aptar® technology which has a seal mechanism and a special filter which prevents any bacterial contamination, the 100% preservative formula is ideal because avoiding preservatives is beneficial to the eyes surface long term and eliminates reactions amongst people who have sensitive eyes. Washing your hands and removing your contacts if you wear them before application, you can then proceed to hold the bottle 10 cm away from the eye, close your eye, and then press down on the nozzle to release one full dose of the spray. The formula contains 0.20% Hyaluronic Acid that acts as a soothing lubricant with 4.5% PER-LIP Complex which is made up of 4% Liposomes to deliver phospholipids to help repair the oily layer of the tear film to relieve discomfort while 0.5% Perilla Seed Extract is included to act as an antioxidant for the eyes surface. I was really impressed with the gentle fine mist this produces and it is perfect to use if you are not at home but need an on-the-go solution for when your eyes become irritated, it is also ideal for those who cannot use or struggle to use eye drops. It can be used up to 4 times a day while the 10ml Zaspray® bottle can provide 150 sprays and can be used up to 90 days after the first opening, though always refer to the expiry date on the box before using. 

Ideal for dry eye sufferers, the Thealoz Duo drops provide long-lasting symptom relief and protection for the surface of the eye. Presented in an easy to use bottle, the formula is 100% preservative free which is beneficial to the eyes surface long term and eliminates reactions amongst people who have sensitive eyes. The unique ABAK® multi-dose bottle delivers the drops through a specially designed filter which helps prevent any bacterial contamination while the formula combines 0.15% Sodium Hyaluronate that acts as a hydrating and soothing lubricant with 3% Trehalose which provides long-lasting protection. Applying 1 drop to each eye with maximum usage of 4=6 times daily, you can even add a drop to your contact lenses before placing them in your eyes. I have tried numerous eye drops but these seem to provide instant and long lasting relief especially when your eyes can become dry due to excessive screen time at a computer or having the air conditioning on, air conditioners reduce humidity and cause evaporative dry eye. The Thealoz® Duo can be used for 3 months after first opening but always refer to the expiry date which is marked on the bottle and on the outer box before using.

All the products mentioned are great to use to help relieve dry eye symptoms and especially allergy related eye issues when the hay-fever season begins and throughout. Head on over to check out the full range of products that support ophthalmic care and good eye health here: Your Eye Health x Neil. 

Alchemy Oils Amla Hair Remedy

Treat your hair and scalp to the absolute best of ingredients when incorporating the Alchemy Oils amla hair remedy into your hair care routine. The stylist magazine award winner product features potent but natural ingredients to boost strength and shine to weak and dull hair strands whilst also nurturing the scalp. Featuring just five super oils in its formula, the amla hair remedy is also perfect for those who wish to not use silicones in their hair care products. In fact you wont find parabens, PEGS, phthalates, sulphates, mineral oil, glycols, DEA or TEA in any of the Alchemy Oils formulations. Disclaimer: The links used are not affiliated and are placed for you to discover the product.

Suitable for daily use, you can apply the amala hair remedy to suit your own specific needs whether that be a quick fix or a more longer treatment, this is how you can apply to get the best Indian Ayurvedic hair oiling experience at home: 

Apply the oil after you have washed and towel dried it by dispensing a few pumps and warm the oil up in your hands. Focus on the ends and work your way up to the roots and scalp, but if you are an oiler hair type then it is best to just concentrate on the ends for this technique. Dry and style as usual. 

Apply as a pre-treatment to unwashed hair by dispensing a few pumps to apply to the scalp and then work your way down to the ends. You can section the hair to work the hair remedy into the scalp while it is also ideal to use a brush or comb to ensure even coverage of every strand. Leave for 1-2 hours and then you can wash and condition the hair.  

Apply as an overnight treatment by dispensing the desired amount into a warm bowl of water to aid in absorption when applied to the hair and scalp. Section off the hair and apply all over making sure to use massaging movements on the scalp to promote circulation. Brush or comb the hair to ensure even coverage and then place a towel over your pillow or wear a sleep cap overnight. Wash and condition the hair the following morning. 

The Full Ingredients Of The Amla Hair Remedy:

Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil infused Emblica Officinalis Fruit Extract - (Amla Oil), 

Fractionated Coconut Oil,  Organic Avocado Oil,  Argan Oil,  Lemon Essential Oil.

The amla hair remedy is ideal for those that are looking to find a product that nurtures the scalp and hair at the same time. I have tried all the methods mentioned above and was amazed at the results which were a nourished scalp and nurtured hair that feels stronger and looks healthier. Alchemy Oils provide different plant-based oils that are naturally rich in antioxidants, minerals and vitamins in their nutrient rich elixirs, check out the full range to suit your specific hair care needs! The Amla Hair Remedy is priced at £26.00 for 15ml or £38.00 for 50ml and available here: Amla Hair Remedy x Neil. 

Trilogy Everything Balm

Instantly melting upon contact with the skin, the trilogy everything balm soothes and comforts with its pure plant oils, butters and waxes content. Cleverly including "Everything" in its named title informs the user that yes you can use this balm for pretty much anything and this why i think that this skincare product should be at least considered to be included in your arsenal of products. Presented beautifully in travel-friendly packaging, the preservative-free balm can be used on the face and body, for dry and chapped lips, cuticle care or even as a melting massage oil. Disclaimer: The links used are not affiliated and are placed for you to discover the product. 

Balms in general not only provide a nourishing treatment for the skin but they also act as an important barrier to help the skin retain moisture by shielding and stopping trans-epidermal water-loss. Typically thicker and more nourishing in texture than your standard moisturiser, they are an excellent choice to use for their healing and calming properties and can be used for daily care or to reach for when your needing an intensive treatment. Typically all balms are anhydrous which means they contain no water which is why i typically apply any balm over a water-based serum and moisturiser to not only seal these in but also the skin is then supplied with water (Hydration) and oil (Nourishment). 

The Full Ingredients Of The Trilogy Everything Balm.

Prunus amygdalus dulcis (sweet almond) oil, Cera alba (beeswax), Parfum (fragrance), Sclerocarya birrea (marula) seed oil, Oenothera biennis (evening primrose) oil, Rosa canina (rosehip) seed oil, Triticum vulgare (wheat) germ oil, Calendula officinalis flower extract, Glycine soja (soybean) oil, Echinacea purpurea root extract, Cocos nucifera (coconut) oil, Tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E), Simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) seed oil, Olea europaea (olive) fruit oil, Carica papaya (papaya) fruit extract, Mel (honey), citral*, citronellol*, farnesol*, geraniol*, limonene*, linalool*

*Components of natural essential oils.

100% of total ingredients are from natural origin. No synthetic fragrances and colours. No genetically modified ingredients. No petroleum derived products. No silicone oils and derivatives. No animal testing.

The trilogy everything balm is a great product to include to get damaged skin back on track while also preventing and protecting against elements that can wick moisture away. Warming in your hands or fingertips, the balm melts instantly while quickly absorbing into the area without feeling sticky, heavy or greasy on the skin. It can be used as a lip balm, intensive treatment for dry hands, shaving nicks or razor burn, cracked heels, cuticle care, shape the eyebrows and even apply as the last step in your skincare routine overnight for a boost of emollience nourishment. I am sure it will help your specific need when applying this multitasking and brilliant balm, priced at £14.50 and available here: Trilogy Everything Balm x Neil. 

LUSH Scented Candles

Credit: Lush Scented Candles

Lush has recently launched three new scented candles online and in shops nationwide due to the high demand of Lush’s limited edition Snow Fairy candle in 2021. The new Lush scents of Orange Blossom, The Olive Branch, and Sleepy (£12.00 /€15.00, 75g each) will be available permanently and are poured into frosted glass jars with a burn time of approximately 12-15hrs. The candle base is made up of rapeseed wax, coconut oil, coconut wax, and castor wax and remains palm, paraffin, soy-free, and 100% vegan while infused with high-quality and ethically-sourced essential oils. Modifying the Lush fragrance from perfume and bath bombs to create the perfect candle, they are ideal to accompany your favourite bath time products and bathing ritual whilst also influencing your wellbeing. The practice of candle gazing also known as Trataka entails a fixed gaze on a lit small candle to help you focus on the present moment that promotes inner peace and clarity of the mind, not to mention the added influence of the scent from the essential oils the candle contains. Disclaimer: The links used are not affiliated and are placed for you to discover the products, 

The Lush candles contain specific high-quality essential oils that are known for and are able to influence your wellbeing, the three choices are:

Credit: Lush Orange Blossom Scented Candle

Orange Blossom: Featuring light florals and citrus oils, Zesty bergamot works to clear the mind while neroli encourages a sense of inner peace and cheerfulness by reducing stress and anxiety,. The Orange flower absolute is also included to evoke an uplift in mood while also calming any overactive mind to enhance mental relaxation. Purchase here: Orange Blossom Scented Candle 

Credit: Lush The Olive Branch Scented Candle

The Olive Branch: Comforting citrusy woody notes are of galbanum oil with its refreshingly green top note with bergamot and orange flower that help to increase a positive mood. The Oakmoss also included helps to ground yourself by balancing your physical, emotional, mental and energy state while Rosemary can help relieve stress and anxiety. Purchase here: The Olive Branch Scented Candle

Credit: Lush Sleepy Scented Candle

Sleepy: Relax and calm down any busy mind when lighting the sleepy candle that features lavender oil that helps promote relaxation while also relieving anxiety, worries and depression. The ylang ylang oil also featured eases symptoms of stress and anxiety but when the two high-quality essential oils are combined they create a heady and sweet fragrance. Purchase here: Sleepy Scented Candle

Lush Sleepy Candle

All the lush candles perfectly contribute to the environment you wish to create for yourself and this why i love the sleepy candle. I tend to burn the candle in the evening to take advantage of those specific essential oils it contains which help to calm and relax while also it works in harmony with other lush products such as the sleepy dust dusting powder or the CBD massage bar. It is important to remember to NEVER leave a burning candle unattended and after 4 hours the wick will need trimming to approx 5mm when the candle has cooled. Check out the full range that will be expanding to include new scented candles here: Lush scented candles  

Lush has launched its first Delivery Pass in the UK and Germany, allowing customers to have unlimited standard delivery for 12 months for £15. Lush hopes the Delivery Pass will deliver convenience as well as help with rising delivery and Royal Mail stamp charges, supported by a Fair Use Policy which encourages considered use of the pass and its impact on the planet. Details here: Lush Delivery Pass x Neil.