Australian Bodycare Haul

A couple of weeks ago I was kindly sent a couple of products from Australian Bodycare to try out and review. 

Australian Bodycare is a beauty brand that uses Tea Tree Essential oil in its products with the goal of preventing and treating common skin problems while being gentle on the skin.

The products I selected are the Lemon Myrtle Face Cream, the Face Tonic and the Hair Loss Serum.

The Lemon Myrtle Face Cream is formulated to moisturise skin that is oily and prone to breakouts and acne. The cream smells amazing, featuring a fresh, lemony scent. It contains hydrating Glycerin and Saccharide Isomerate, plus nourishing Macadamia Seed and Argan Oil however, it does not feel heavy, in fact it was so easy to wash off the next morning it felt like I could have skipped using a cleanser. 

The Face Tonic is liquid alcohol-free toner that can be used daily. It deep cleanses the skin while adding moisture thanks to Glycerin and Saccharide Isomerate. It also contains brightening Kakadu Plum Extract, soothing Allantoin and vitamin E; and Tea Tree Oil which inhibits bacteria and reduces breakouts. This toner can be used on sensitive and dry skin and also skin that is prone to rosacea and acne. 

The Hair Loss Serum is designed to help achieve thicker and stronger hair. Ideally it should be used twice daily for best results however, I haven't been very consent with it so can't comment on results but I remain optimistic as it does contain Curcuma Longa Callus Conditioned Media or Turmeric Extract which can help prevent and reduce hair loss, achieving increased density by stimulating follicular activity. The serum also contains exfoliating Gluconolactone plus nourishing amino acids and Panthenol for softer hair. It comes in a pump bottle that makes it easy to apply and features an earthy scent, which I attribute to the Turmeric Extract.

If you are looking for products formulated with natural ingredients and Tea Tree Oil I would recommend checking out the Australian Bodycare website. My products arrived really quickly (within 2 days) and they have free standard shipping on orders over £35 and free express shipping on orders over £50. 

xo

YesStyle Haul 08

For my 8th YesStyle haul (which I received a couple of months ago and forgot to post about) I got:

• the SKIN HOUSE Vita Snail Cream: a brightening cream that helps boost elasticity. This one I won in a giveaway.
• Purito Unscented Centella Serum - a soothing serum to repair skin barrier.
• Benton Fermentation Eye Cream: an anti ageing cream with firming properties. It was the free gift of the day.
• NEOGEN Dermalogy V.Biome Advanced Eye Cream - a brightening and anti ageing cream which I selected as my sponsored product of the month. 

The total for my order was only $5.40 as the Purito Serum was on offer, and I used a discount code as well as some points I had.

xo

PS. Use code NAV2019 for money off your next YesStyle order and join their Influencer Program for free sponsored products.

Iunik Propolis Serum & Eye Cream

A while back I purchased a couple of Iunik products from YesStyle, including the Propolis Vitamin Synergy Serum and the Propolis Vitamin Eye Cream. 

The iUNIK Propolis Vitamin Synergy Serum contains 70% Propolis and 12% Sea Buckthorn extract to help brighten the skin, as well as soothe thanks to Rose Water, Allantoin plus Centella, Purslane, Witch Hazel and Ginkgo extracts. It also contains anti-ageing Niacinamide and Adenosine.

This serum has a faint scent that doesn't linger, it is very lightweight - almost watery - and absorbs quickly into the skin making it feel instantly hydrated due to the Glycerin, Beta Glucan and Hyaluronic Acid in the formula. I believe it gives the skin an immediate sun-kissed glow look and also reduces redness. 

I haven't completely made up my mind on whether I would repurchase it however, I will report back once I have finished the gigantic 50ml bottle.

The iUNIK Propolis Vitamin Eye Cream is formulated with 40.5% Propolis Extract and 9.2% Sea Buckthorn, as well as soothing Fermented extracts, Chamomile and Rosemary Leaf Extract. It also contains hydrating Hyaluronic Acid, Beta Glucan and Glycerin, anti ageing Idebenone, Niacinamide, Adenosine and a couple of peptides.

This eye cream feels very nourishing on the skin but never heavy, despite containing Olive Oil. It has a nice citrus scent which I really like. 

Like the serum, it also comes in a generous size for an eye cream (30 ml), however, this multitasking product can be used all over the face. 

While I haven't seen any massive changes on my undereye area, I do enjoy using this eye cream and also think it has helped strengthen my eye lashes. Even though I don't use a big amount (I do use it twice a day) I feel like it hasn't lasted me that long - only started using it in April and have almost finished it. Despite that, the Propolis Vitamin Eye Cream is very affordable and will probably repurchase it. 

Have you tried any Iunik products?

xo

PS. Use code NAV2019 for money off your next YesStyle order and join their Influencer Program for free sponsored products every month.

The Body Shop Vitamin C Glow Revealing Serum

A couple of weeks ago I was contacted by the Body Shop and they invited me to join their Affiliate Influencer program, as well as their latest campaign for their new Vitamin C Range, which is now made with at least 90% natural-origin ingredients.

The Body Shop kindly provided me with some store credit so I could select something from the new Vitamin C range and I chose the Vitamin C Glow Revealing Serum, which I have been using for the last week. 

The Vitamin C Glow Revealing Serum is designed for dull, tired skin and helps improve radiance while reducing the appearance of uneven skin tone. It is made with 10% natural origin vitamin C plus Bakuchiol, which has similar activity on skin to retinol and helps improve texture.

This serum uses 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid, which is a more stable form of Vitamin C so it won't oxidise as easily as pure L-ascorbic acid. It also contain alcohol and fragrance, however it is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive. 

The Vitamin C Glow Revealing Serum has a completely clear appearance and slight viscosity so it's not too runny, and upon application it makes skin feel silky soft and hydrated, giving it an instant glow.

I have noticed that my skin feels smoother and after just a week of using it there has also been some improvement in hyperpigmentation marks that I've had on my cheekbone for years (achieving what other products have taken months to do), so I will definitely continue to use it in the hopes of completely vanishing said marks.

If you are looking for a Vitamin C serum with natural ingredients to help smooth and brighten your complexion I would recommend trying the The Body Shop Vitamin C Glow Revealing Serum.

xo

PS. The Body Shop also provided me with a 20% discount code which can be used online or in store: 21758. It is valid on all full priced items until September 17, 2022. 

#GlowWithTBS #TheBodyShopPartner

Sweet Lolita Dresses at Lolitaknot

*This is a sponsored post.

If you have ever read or heard about Lolita fashion you may have been mesmerised by the ruffles and lace on the beautifully designed dresses. It is actually a fashion style that I was very interested in when I was younger, especially the Gothic Lolita style. 

At Lolitaknot they have an immense variety of Lolita dresses in different styles: Gothic, Sweet, Punk, Classic, Princess, Ouji, Princess, Qi, Wa, Sailor, and Casual, each one with their own very individual aesthetic.

From the wide range of items at Lolitaknot I have selected a couple of my favourites: the Sweet Lolita Dress on the left is the Alice Strawberry OP Winter Dress and Hat. I know we are currently in the middle of summer but I just love anything Alice in Wonderland inspired and this dress has some adorable details like the contrasting red stitching, buttons, ribbon and polka dot heart applique patches in red. The white faux fur material will be so cosy come colder weather. I also love the ruffled lace detailing on the skirt and the balloon sleeves (puff sleeves is something I'm currently obsessed with!). The dress also features a double collar of shirt and bib styles with rabbit ears at the back, plus white pom poms on the front, reminiscent of a rabbit's tail.

On the right, from Lolitaknot's classic Lolita dress section we have the Sweet Classic Lolita OP Dress plus decorated matching Headwear, which I like as it also reminds me of Alice in Wonderland with its pastel blue and ivory white colourway. Featuring a longer midi and layered style skirt with a tulle detail for added volume, a Peter Pan collar and short puff sleeves, this is a great choice for summertime.

If you are thinking of getting a new Lolita Dress or a top, coat, footwear and even accessories, take a look on the Lolitaknot website. xo

Puff Sleeves & Lilac Bag

H&M Linen Top // Levis Jeans // Primark Bag // Next Shoes

(Similar: Linen Puff Sleeve Top, Lilac Bag, Block Heel Shoes) 

This outfit is from our anniversary day last year. With a newfound fascination for puff sleeves, I got this linen blouse from the last H&M sale before it closed down in my town :'( The bag and shoes were a birthday gift and the necklace was an anniversary gift, all from Dot.

Today I (finally) watched The Virgin Suicides and became obsessed with the song Playground Love from the original motion picture score.

xo

Dear, Klairs All-day Airy Sunscreen

Recently I was sent the Dear, Klairs All-day Airy Sunscreen to review.

This sunscreen has a rating of SPF50+ PA ++++ so it is extremely effective against UVA and UVB. 

It features a water based gel texture and it can be used on both face and body. It has no sticky residue or white cast as it is an organic (or chemical) sunscreen. 

Some notable ingredients in the Dear, Klairs All-day Airy Sunscreen include Glycerin, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Allantoin, Adenosine plus several soothing and brightening natural extracts of Portulaca Oleracea, Aloe Leaf, Dioscorea Japonica Root, Laminaria Japonica, Viola Mandshurica Flower, Ulmus Davidiana Root, Licorice, Lepidium Meyenii Root, Lycium Chinense Fruit, Strawberry, Berberis Vulgaris Root and Blackberry.

This formula is also free from essential oils so it will be suitable for sensitive skin.

Find the Dear, Klairs All-day Airy Sunscreen on YesStyle.

xo

PS. Use code NAV2019 for money off your next YesStyle order and join the Influencer program to receive free sponsored products.

All Used Up #15

Welcome to a new instalment of the All Used Up series, where I share my final thoughts on finished products!

Today we have mostly skincare (as usual) and a couple of hair-related products:

Viviscal Hair Growth Programme*: I took part in a testing panel for the Viviscal supplements. They definitely helped reduce hair fall immensely, with the results lasting for up to a couple of weeks after I finished taking them. Would highly recommend if you suffer from hair loss. Full review here.

Hask Keratin Protein Leave-In Spray: a lightweight mist that softness hair without weighing it down so it is ideal for fine hair. Also provides heat protection but it's not great for detangling. Smells sweet and fruity, like strawberries. Would probably buy again. Full review here.

Me+ Hyaluronic Acid Cleanser: this CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser dupe is a very gentle, non foaming creamy cleanser with niacinamide and ceramides that is great for cold weather or drier skin types. I would probably repurchase. Full review here.

Olay Complete Sensitive Day Lotion: this lightweight, unscented lotion is moisturising and provides SPF 15 protection, so it is great for darker days or when staying indoors. Very affordable and usually on offer, it is a product I've repurchased many times and will buy again (after I use up a few of my other sunscreens!) Full review here.

Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV*: this Japanese sunscreen was kindly sent to me by YesStyle. I love the light gel texture and how it does not leave a white cast. It has a mattifying effect that lasts all day, which I like. Would have it again. View video review here and use code NAV2019 to get money off your next YesStyle order.

xo

Get £10 off any Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Capsule Serums

 Until 31 July you can get £10 off any Ceramide Capsule Serums at Elizabeth Arden!

Just enter the code

Lush's New Self-Preserving Skincare Collection

Ten days ago I received some products kindly sent to me by Lush: a set of their new Self-Preserving Skincare Collection. 

Preoccupied about the bacterial microflora that inhabits and protects the skin, Helen Ambrosen, Lush Co-Founder and Product Inventor, has created self-preserving versions of best selling products in order to protect the skin microbiome after finding that products with high levels of synthetic ingredients in modern cosmetics may alter or reduce the skin microbiome diversity. (Be aware that this study was made for a particular brand).

The new Self-Preserving Skincare Collection is comprised of Cleansers, Face Masks, Scrubs, Moisturisers and more. The products I was gifted include:

Ultrabland Cleanser: this rich cleansing balm contains Almond Oil and Beeswax, plus Fresh Iris Extracted in Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Glycerine, to cleanse and nourish the skin, while Rose Water soothes. Ideal for colder weather or dry skin as it is very rich and slightly occlusive.

Mask of Magnaminty: this clay mask is infused with antibacterial Honey and hydrating Glycerin, plus oil-absorbing Kaolin and Talc. It also provides a light exfoliation thanks to Ground Organic Aduki Beans and Evening Primrose Seeds. It has a mattifying effect that will be appreciated by oily skin types.

Ocean Salt: a scrub that can be used on both face and body. It uses Hand Harvested Sea Salt to exfoliate, plus Organic Silken Tofu, Glycerine, Japan Wax, Mango Butter, Extra Virgin Coconut Oil and Avocado Butter to moisturise the skin. It has a fresh citrus scent which combines Grapefruit and Fresh Lime with a hint of alcohol due to the latter being extracted in vodka. The scrub dissolves as you massage it onto the skin and leaves it feeling soft and moisturised.

Vanishing Cream: this moisturiser nourishes the skin without feeling heavy or greasy and contains soothing Lavender Honey Water, plus Organic Cold Pressed Grapeseed Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil, Glycerine, Camellia Oil and Fair Trade Shea Butter. With Witch Hazel Extract and antibacterial Honey, this moisturiser lightly mattifies the complexion. Ideal for oily, combination and breakout prone skin. 

See the full range of Self-Preserving Skincare at Lush.

xo

PS. Follow me on Tiktok for skincare videos!

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum

Last week I received the SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum that I was sent to try out and review. 

The Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum provides SPF 50+ and PA++++ UV protection and is made with pure Centella from Madagascar. It is designed to provide moisture as well as protect from UV rays.

Notable ingredients in the formula include Niacinamide, Glycerin, Centella Asiatica Extract, plus extracts of Betula Japonica Bark, Ginko Biloba Leaf, Green Tea, Wheat Sprout, Alfalfa, Broccoli Sprout and Rocket Leaf; as well as 3 types of Hyaluronic Acid at 10, 1 and 0.01 ppm.

The outer box packaging consists of a sleek tall cardboard box with a flocking/velvety texture and features a picture of ocean waves in the background which gives it a very elegant look and refreshing feeling. The bottle has a handy pump action to help control the amount of product dispensed and an oval cap that locks in easily to prevent spilling. The white tube also has a slim profile and velvety texture with a glossy panel on the centre including the product's most important details such as UV protection rating, weight and star ingredients. 

What I like about the Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum is that it has a lightweight consistency, similar to a lotion, that gently moisturises the skin and is quickly absorbed without leaving a sticky residue or greasy feeling. The product is easy to dispense and apply, and layers well with other products applied before or after this sunscreen. 

This Sun Serum is an organic (or chemical) sunscreen and thus leaves no white cast, making it ideal for all skin tones. It is also low in hyaluronic acid so it doesn't leave my skin feeling tight.

I would recommend the SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum if you are looking for a fragrance free, lightweight moisturising sunscreen that offers high protection and is easy to use.

Find the  SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum at YesStyle and StyleVana.

xo

New In: June 2022

Last month Dot got me a vintage Mappin & Webb lizard bag and I was kindly sent the new Lush Life's What You Make It vinyl. 

Also got the Dr Pawpaw Lip Balm in red, and the Nails Inc polish came for free with a magazine. From Primark I got an oversized collar and from H&M a cute bralette. 

My newest obsession is tarot and oracle cards so I got 3 new tarot decks from Aliexpress. My YesStyle order arrived, where I ordered some makeup for a change (then won a very similar item a couple of weeks afterwards!) and I placed another order containing a sunscreen. 

Some free samples I got last month include Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Capsules (not pictured), Kiehls Ultra Facial Cream, Skinceuticals HA Intensifier, La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C 10 Serum and Viktor & Rolf Good Fortune EDP (review here).

Did you get anything nice last month?

xo

Viktor & Rolf Good Fortune Eau de Parfum

Just four days ago, on 1st July 2022, Viktor & Rolf launched their newest fragrance: Good Fortune, which is "designed like a magic potion". This new release is described as a captivating Eau de Parfum that allows you to create your own destiny. 

Featuring notes of velvety, solar jasmine flower infused in a rich vanilla bath, this fragrance is encased in a bottle shaped like a crystal ball with a stopper that resembles a faceted amethyst quartz. The violet hue is provided by the colour of the perfume inside the bottle.

Viktor & Rolf Good Fortune is a warm, long lasting fragrance that opens with Top notes of Fennel and Gentian Co-distillate, followed by a Heart of Jasmine Superinfusion, with a Base of Bourbon Vanilla Infusion.

The fragrance starts with a noticeably sweet note, which slowly turns into a warm floral and finishes with comforting, milky vanilla. I feel like it would make a great autumn/winter fragrance plus I love the playful bottle design and find it quite appealing as I have recently started reading Tarot and oracle cards.

Find Viktor & Rolf Good Fortune at Look Fantastic, Escentual, The Perfume Shop and John Lewis.

xo

I Tried Viviscal for 3 Months and This Happened to my Hair

A couple of months ago I was selected to take part in a trial of the Viviscal Hair Growth Programme and I was kindly sent a 3 month supply of the Viviscal Maximum Strength Hair Growth Supplement.

Viviscal is designed to help maintain normal healthy hair growth from within and is formulated with AminoMar C, a proprietary marine protein complex, plus Vitamin C, Niacin, Biotin, Iron, Zinc and extracts of Horsetail and Millet seed. 

The recommended daily intake is 2 tablets per day for a minimum of 3 to 6 months (1 in the morning and one in the evening with water and food) and after that it is recommended to take 1 to 2 tablets daily as required.

Before I started the Viviscal 3 month course my hair had been falling out a lot and felt like it was thinning. It could have been due to stress, nutrient deficiency or lack of vitamin D as I barely spent any time outside for the last couple of years. 

Within the first month there wasn't that much of a difference, however my nails did seem to become thicker or stronger. During the second month I started to notice a difference as hair loss diminished and by the third month there was barely any hair falling out when I brushed or washed it - I could count them on one hand whereas before there would be too many to even try to count. 

After finishing the 3 month course of Viviscal my hair feels stronger and I have noticed new hair growth as well. 

I would definitely recommend trying the Viviscal Hair Growth Programme if you are suffering with hair loss.

Find the Viviscal Hair Growth Programme at Feel Unique and Lloyds Pharmacy

xo

Join Pugona Rock Club for Monthly Giveaways

Pugona Rock Club is a membership club that conducts monthly giveaways, with the first giveaway set for 1st August. Each month up to 20-prizes will be given away to randomly selected club members. For the month of December, one lucky member will become the winner of Vinny The Pug's one of a kind 'Mood Bag'.  On its front, it features Vinny The Pug, and on the rear, Bleudreaux the New Orleans Crawfish. 

The prizes available include Coffee Mugs, Stickers, Patches and Collector's Pins featuring Vinny the Pug. The products that will be given away each month are exclusive and can't be bought anywhere else, with some items like the collector's Pin being Limited Edition. 

The first prize will be Vinny The Pug's First Limited Edition Collector's Pin. The first in a series, it is a 1.5 inch Raised Nickel Metal Pin which features 2 pins with butterfly clip backings for added stability. This pin was designed from a photograph taken of Vinny The Pug atop a boulder in Arizona's Sonoran Desert, at Papago West Park of Phoenix.

Who is Vinny the Pug?

Vinny was born in 2000 in Orlando, Florida, near Disneyworld. While he was still just a pup, he moved to Phoenix, Arizona where he learned how to climb a rock. After becoming proficient at climbing and posing atop that rock, he began learning how to climb other rocks and climbing quickly became his new hobby.  

By 2006, Vinny the Pug was known the world over after having embarked upon a canine Guinness World Record attempt. His challenge was to climb and pose at the top of 100 large boulders in the Sonoran Desert in one  hundred days. You can read more about Vinny the Pug's quest here. 

What is the Grand Prize? 

The Grand Prize for the last giveaway will be the Mood Bag, which is designed for the woman who reserves the right to change her mind. She flicks her wrist and gives birth to an entirely different mood. 

This one of a kind bag is a Vinny the Pug collaboration with Bleudreaux, the blue crawfish created by the famous New Orleans artist, LUIS COLMENARES. The Mood Bag is ideal for a very serious collector because it is the only one of its design. The picture below shows Mood Bag's front featuring Vinny the Pug and rear showing Bleudreaux. An interview with Luis Colmenares. 

Join Pugona Rock Club to be in the chance of winning unique Limited Edition and Collector's items. 

xo

Stripes & Florals

Top 6 Summer Must Haves

Summer has officially started and here is my top 6 must have items of the season:

1. Paul & Joe Dress: an airy dress with puff sleeves for summer frolicking in the sun.
2. Naturally Radiant Glow Tonic: A gentle exfoliating toner that won't over-dry skin now the temperatures are rising. 
3. Marine Hyaluronics: A hydrating serum without hyaluronic acid (which actually dehydrates my skin).
4. Fresh Sugar Icon Red Tinted Lip Balm: to look instantly put together with minimal effort. 
5. Hotter Sandals: on too hot for closed toe shoe days, a pair of mules or sandals in a nude shade will be ideal.
6. Radley Vale Close: a stylish but timeless bag in a neutral colour. Can't decide between the croc off-white or the tan version, though.

What are your spring/summer must haves this year?

xo

New in: April & May 2022

Unleashia Glitterpedia Eye Palette

As part of the YesStyle Influencer program I received the Unleashia Glitterpedia Eye Palette in N°1 All of Glitter. 

The Unleashia Glitterpedia Eye Palette is available in 6 shades and comes in the cutest book-shaped box packaging to resemble a mini encyclopedia. Inside the cover it features a diagram naming the shades in the palette, plus 3 different looks to try. The palette is embedded on the right side of the book. 

The clear plastic packaging is very sturdy and the shades featured inside the Eye Palette in N°1 All of Glitter are soft peachy and pink shades, neutral browns, plus a champagne shade and frosty white. Some shades have a shimmery finish while others contain a chunky glitter for added texture and dimension.

The eyeshadows look very pigmented when swatched however, as they are applied the base colour looks more sheer. The shadows are also very shimmery and easy to apply and layer together. I love the holographic sparkle they create as they catch the light.

If you are looking for a new addition to your makeup wardrobe the Unleashia Glitterpedia Eye Palette in N°1 All of Glitter is a great option to create whimsical spring and summer looks.

xo

PS. Join the YesStyle Influencer program to receive sponsored products each month.

Thinking Cap Collection

If you have been watching the latest season of Stranger Things you may have noticed that Dustin's must have accessory collection keeps on growing as he has now been wearing a cap with the words Thinking Cap in primary colour gradients. 

I have recreated this design and it is now available to buy in my shop in the form of caps, mugs, homeware, apparel and accessories.

Find the new Thinking Cap design at my Redbubble shop.

xo

Paul & Joe x Uniqlo

Cotton Dress £40 // Stole £20 // T-shirt £15 // Briefs £8

Uniqlo has recently released a third collaboration with Paul & Joe, the French brand known for its feminine style and floral prints. 

This collection features cropped tops, tee shirts, camisoles, skirts, dresses, scarves, bags and underwear. Pictured above are my favourite pieces. 

Will you be purchasing anything from the Uniqlo x Paul & Joe collaboration?

xo

Father's Day Gifts at Trendhim

Father's Day is fast approaching but thankfully I have teamed up with Trendhim again, who have kindly provided me with some great gift ideas in case you are still in need of a gift for that special father figure in your life.

Trendhim is an online destination for men's accessories including bags, cufflinks, watches, hats, scarves, jewellery, cardholders and wallets with classic designs and crafted using great quality materials for a gift that will pass the test of time. 

Above you can see the Laris Tan Wallet which comes in buttery soft leather and several card compartments to keep you organised; the Evershade Retro Sunglasses, which are polarised to protect the eyes from glares now that the sun is starting to shine, and the Collapsible Glasses Case, which lays completely flat to save space when not in use. 

Any of these would make a great gift for Father's Day, however there are plenty more options on the Trendhim website.

xo