Dec 19 2014

A treat for hardworking hands this Christmas from Jurlique #12DaysofGlow

Posted on December 19, 2014 by admin

I’m chuffed to bits to have been picked by one of my favourite brands to take part in their 12 days of Christmas campaign this year! Jurlique’s #12DaysofGlow has showcased some of their most loved products and treated some of their blogger fans to some much needed Christmas pampering. Given I’ve done a great job of impersonating Bambi this month with several dizzy spells and falls landing me in A&E, this simply couldn’t have come at a better time! Thanks so much Jurlique - I owe you my sanity this December!

Content @MyMillsBaby V2 A treat for hardworking hands this Christmas from Jurlique #12DaysofGlow

Being a busy mummy my hands take a real battering throughout the day. If I’m not slopping Sudocrem on the children’s unmentionables, I’m washing up baby bottles, mashing up purees, whipping bath water into a frenzy for the kiddos or stopping Dexter from rendering his baby sister unconscious - he loves her so much, but he can be a little boisterous!

All this means I don’t have time for manicures and I’ve all but given up on nail varnish. I used to have trademark red nails every single day before becoming a mummy, but like so many things, this has now fallen by the wayside. Nowadays a day where I manage a shower before 9am, my hair sees a hairbrush and my face gets a slathering of BB cream is a good (and all too rare) one.

109 A treat for hardworking hands this Christmas from Jurlique #12DaysofGlow

So Jurlique have treated me to something truly indulgent for my knackered old paws - a signature hand cream collection that smells just heavenly and delivers intensive moisturisation to keep them looking young and well, glowy!

Jurlique Hand Cream Collection A treat for hardworking hands this Christmas from Jurlique #12DaysofGlow

Who are Jurlique?

Our vision was to formulate and manufacture the purest skin care products available based on the healing properties of nature and to inspire people to health and wellbeing… Jurlique was driven by this vision. We did not follow a trend, we were trendsetters. Ulrike Klein

They develop bio dynamic skin care products bursting with potent ingredients. With a botanist at the helm they grow and harvest many of the ingredients themselves and maximise their potency to produce pure and highly effective skincare.

Beautiful hands

hands A treat for hardworking hands this Christmas from Jurlique #12DaysofGlow

First things first, if my mum taught me one thing (sadly she didn’t teach she many!) it was to keep all my perfums and lotions in their boxes to preserve their freshness. And this isn’t difficult when you consider how pretty Jurlique’s boxes are. With wooden-effect trinket boxes like these they’re the perfect teaser to the treasure that lays beyond. The tubes themselves are more understated and made with softened collapsible aluminum to keep your creams fresh.

Jurlique Hand Creams A treat for hardworking hands this Christmas from Jurlique #12DaysofGlow

By far the most amazing thing about all of Jurlique’s products are the long-lasting fragrances that simply don’t quit delivering throughout the day. These hand creams are no exception with powerful blends of the finest essential oils to really invigorate your senses. The citrus lotion pops with zesty lemon and mandarin, whilst the calming scent of lavender lingers on your clothes, your bedspread and anything else you’ll touch throughout the day.

Lavender A treat for hardworking hands this Christmas from Jurlique #12DaysofGlow

All of these creams are intensively nourishing and non-greasy. Hands are left feeling soft with no visible sheen. They also massage into cuticles perfectly which is key in achieving healthy, strong and long nails with zero bending or cracking.

Jasmine Hand Cream A treat for hardworking hands this Christmas from Jurlique #12DaysofGlow

Bursting with natural ingredients, each of the baseline fragrances have additional homeopathic qualities. Lavender will calm and relax irritated skin, has a natural sedative effect to relieve nervous tension, and antiseptic and antifungal properties which can speed up healing. Jasmine will nourish skin and improve its elasticity, protect it from damage and premature aging and has an uplifting scent historically used to fight depression. Citrus is unsurprisingly renowned for its revitalizing properties yet also has toning, antiseptic and deodorising effects. Finally, rose has long been regarded for its ability to fight inflammation, restore skin texture and treat minor irritations.

Rose Hand cream A treat for hardworking hands this Christmas from Jurlique #12DaysofGlow

In truth, these hand creams have been just as much of a hit with my Craig. As a courier he spends the majority of his day in an air conditioned van. He has real working mans hands which I simply adore; rugged and worn. He always has a tube of something in his van to take the edge off when the chapping gets too much, and although I won’t let my prized creams into his Vauxhall Combo, he will head straight for them after a day’s work.

Citrus Hand cream A treat for hardworking hands this Christmas from Jurlique #12DaysofGlow

At £41 for my set, this is a significant saving given prices for each hand cream start from £17, and a unique opportunity to own the complete collection of Jurlique’s award-winning hand care range in such a beautiful giftbox. To find out more head to Jurlique.co.uk or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or Pinterest for inspiration, promotions and further testimonials.

Finally - to win £371 worth of Jurlique products in a stunning multi-tiered presentation box get on over to Twitter today, and enter via the pinned tweet.

Jurlique Comp A treat for hardworking hands this Christmas from Jurlique #12DaysofGlow

Nov 14 2014

Hero Products from MyChelle: Advanced Argan Oil & Ultimate Lash and Brown Serum

Posted on November 14, 2014 by admin

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The onset of colder weather can play havoc with your skin. Central heating, wet and cold air, and switching your make-up from summer to winter products, can leave it dry, flaky, and feeling itchy. There are a whole host of products out there that claim to combat these problems, but none (in my opinion) are better than these revolutionary products from MyChelle Dermaceuticals.

Who are MyChelle Dermaceuticals?

MyChelle Hero Products Hero Products from MyChelle: Advanced Argan Oil & Ultimate Lash and Brown Serum

Admittedly MyChelle were new to me when I contacted them. I make a point of following skincare brands on Twitter (especially those with organic and natural claims) and decided to contact them after checking out their range online. I must have been hiding under a rock as these guy have built quite the reputation with beauty journos and insiders.

It’s worth saying I’ve never visited a website that has got me quite as excited as this one. Their stance on the environment and cruelty-free promise is one thing, their commitment to non-toxic 100% natural ingredients is another, but their ground-breaking products are on a whole new level altogether. Here is a range of skin care products designed to deliver visible results, target specific complaints as well as offering hero products that promise to boost your best bits. The premise just sat really well with me and I couldn’t wait to try them out.

MyChelle Dermaceuticals Advanced Argan Oil

0081 Hero Products from MyChelle: Advanced Argan Oil & Ultimate Lash and Brown Serum

Argan Oil isn’t a new phenomenon. It’s a plant oil produced from the kernels of the argan tree endemic to the semi-desert area of south western Morocco. It’s been used in the beauty rituals of Moroccan women since antiquity, and has been harnessed in a variety of high-end beauty and skincare products for some time now.

Made up of unsaturated fatty acids, Vitamin E/tocopherols, squalene and sterols, it offers a whole host of benefits. Advocated as a moisturising oil it also boasts antioxidant properties and helps with chronic inflammation, acne and sun damaged skin. It is also believed to boost the conditioning properties of hair care treatments.

MyChelle’s advanced argan oil is USDA Certified Organic. It’s also Baobab enhanced ( > a 100% natural, nutrient-dense raw wholefood rich in vitamin C, calcium, potassium and thiamin) bolstering the antioxidant properties of the argan oil.

My thoughts?

Natural sunlight / No foundation / No BB Creme

I LOVE IT. It is fabulous for my sensitive skin and has significantly improved the luminosity of my face. I actually have really great skin anyway but am knocking on for 35 and do have a few pigmentation marks, this has evened out my skin tone immeasurably. My skin also feels firmer, softer and less itchy. I’ve added drops of it into my BB Creme, body lotion, shampoo and conditioner and it’s boosted the performance of every single one. I’m now regularly going out without make-up as I’m so confident my skin is looking so perfect.

In terms of application, it’s completely non-greasy, sinks in well without leaving a high sheen, and delivers results after just one day’s use. The bottle dropper is great quality and allows you to use the oil sparingly, as well as helping you mix it into other beauty & skin care products easily. It’s largely scentless but there is a slightly nutty aroma (note: this doesn’t contain nuts so is completely fine to use if you have allergies).

Best bit, this is £16.95 for 30mls. If you’re just using this on your face, I’d estimate this being a good 3 month supply. I couldn’t live without this now and can honestly say it’s the best thing I’ve ever used on my face.

MyChelle Dermaceuticals Ultimate Lash and Brown Serum

MyChelle Lash and Brow Serum Hero Products from MyChelle: Advanced Argan Oil & Ultimate Lash and Brown Serum

As if the argan oil hadn’t gone down well enough, I was also sent this. With “unique, clinically proven breakthrough peptides and nourishing botanical conditioners“, Ultimate Lash and Brow Serum claims to naturally improve lash length, darkness and volume to make them noticeably longer and lusher. But it wasn’t this that got me excited. Nope, I was a teenager in the 90s where over-plucking eyebrows was the ‘done thing’. I now absolutely hate mine as they’re too sparse to thread and are somehow two shades lighter than my hair colour. I was hopeful this would thicken my brows and prepare them for treatment.

index Hero Products from MyChelle: Advanced Argan Oil & Ultimate Lash and Brown Serum

The serum contains MyChelle’s proprietary Myracle Peptide Complex, which is a culmination of peptide technology designed to stimulate the production of keratin. It also claims to have restorative, protective and moisturising properties. The idea is to promote healthy lash and brow formation, protect hair follicles and banish brittleness.

My thoughts?

Although I can appreciate that the peptide mix above does boast several of the properties naturally found within lashes and brows, whether simply applying a small layer to this area would actually enhance lashes and brows is another thing entirely. I was naturally dubious but absolutely hopeful. My brows are a cause of major anxiety for me as I think it makes my nose look bigger.

Application was simple. The brush is like a thin paint brush, you simply brush it over your eyebrows and where your eyelid meet your lashes (top only) as though you would liquid eyeliner. There’s no sticky or greasy residue, and you can simply carry out with your normal make-up routine afterwards if you so choose (Note: I apply mine before bed so my face is free of make-up). There was no irritation or itchiness.

Results-wise… well amazingly it works. I’ve applied this daily for some 3 weeks and my eye lashes are definitely fuller than before. I don’t believe I have new hairs forming, rather each lash is fatter and plumper. It’s not enough of a difference to prompt comments from others, or something that could replace any lash cosmetics, but there’s no denying they are thicker.

As for my eyebrows, the same applies. As they’ve plumped, they’ve gone slightly darker and look much better. It’s definitely boosted my confidence and I’m hopeful I can get myself down a beautician’s soon for a thread and tint; I’m chuffed to bits with it.

This costs £39 so isn’t cheap, but if you have genuine anxieties or are approaching skincare from an anti-aging perspective, I would definitely recommend it.

More information

To experience the range for yourself, go to mychelleuk.com or check them out on Facebook, Twitter, Youtube or Instagram.

Even better news!

I have a discount code entitling my readers to 30% off both of the products above until the 28/11/2014 - just enter MILLS30 at the checkout

Oct 22 2014

For Mum & Baby: Thea Skincare Baby Naturals Review

Posted on October 22, 2014 by admin

I take my family’s skincare regime seriously and love reviewing nutrient-rich organic skincare for my Superbabies. Yet my quest continues for something truly amazing for Dex. His skin doesn’t require the same level of care as his baby sister’s (hers is prone to hypersensitivity and eczema), yet it is still some way from structural maturity. Like all toddlers, at age 2 he has a high turnover rate of skin cells compared to adult skin, and the ability to shed and renew dead skin cells quickly. His skin is also two-thirds thinner than ours leaving it susceptible to allergens, UV and other unwanted external influences.

I’m looking for something really nourishing and crammed full of nutrients that will simulate the role of collagen in mature skin. In other words, something that will keep him hydrated, even oily to touch, and act as an buffer whilst his skin is building up a resistance to the world.

So when Thea Skincare asked if I wanted to review a selection of their products, I did my research. I regularly turn down reviews when they don’t offer something new, and skincare is something I’m traditionally very fussy with. But I was intrigued by the fact Thea are 2 time winners of The Green Parent Beauty Awards and also have a Skinmatters Gold Award in their trophy cabinet. I wanted to know what all the fuss was about.

Who are they?

Thea Skincare is the eponymous range of natural and organic skincare products created by Althea Giscombe. Science graduate and former Avon Cosmetics Manager she had something of an epiphany when traveling in Africa in 2008. Whilst visiting a village on the Lake Malawi, she observed the locals using the natural resources around them as part of their beauty regime; using grains of salt that lined the banks to exfoliate their skin, and the rocks and stones to remove hard skin off of their feet.

A passion for ‘hard performing natural ingredients’ grew and at age 50, Althea funneled all her pension into creating and developing her range. Launched in 2011 it’s quickly gained momentum and a cult following of beauty pundits.

In order to reflect her core values all Thea products are free from sulphates, parabens, artificial fragrances, are cruelty-free and suitable for vegans.

What did I receive?

I received four samples in a dinky hessian travel bag (an early hint as to their eco credentials); Aloe & Rosehip 2 in 1 Calming Bath & Baby Wash, Jojoba & Chamomile 2 in 1 Baby Shampoo, Coconut and Lavender Soothing Top to Toe Baby Lotion and a treat for mummy, the rather blandly named Cellulite Body Butter. There was also a letter from Thea outlining the history of the brand and Thea’s charitable aspirations. It’s difficult not to fall in love with a brand with such demonstrable values and certainly makes you feel less guilty when you whip out the credit card.

What did I make of it?

Coconut and Lavender Soothing Top to Toe Baby Lotion (200mls / £8.95)

Immediately you’re struck by the lavender scent making it perfect for bedtime massages (especially if bath times are part of your little ones night time ritual). The scent lasts for a good hour too so will promote a restful and prolonged sleep.

In fact, massage is the key here. The trick to using a lotion (as opposed to a cream; heavier and will give deeper hydration over an extended period) is to apply liberally whilst the skin is still wet, then quickly dress baby to lock in the moisture. Don’t be tempted to wait for the lotion to dry before dressing. This little lotion packs a punch - having used this for over a week now, Dexter’s skin is still moist in the morning. Perfect.

Part of it’s staying power lies in its viscosity - once warmed this baby lotion takes on the consistency of massage oil making it easy to apply and enabling it to deliver more intensive moisturisation.

I would definitely buy this for Dexie, but would be hesitant to use it on Heidi, or any other newborn. At 78% organic and heavily scented (albeit naturally), I would more inclined opt for a fragrance-free lotion for tiny ones.

Aloe & Rosehip 2 in 1 Calming Bath & Baby Wash (200mls /£8.95)

The calming tag is spot on. The rosehip and essential oils really shine through especially with the natural steam from the bath water. If your child has been hit hard this cold and flu season, this will help unblock their airways and give them some respite.

Meanwhile nutrients are delivered to baby’s skin via Vitamins B5 & E. It feels like you’re giving a wet massage when you rub it in; very oily so a little goes a long way. It does lather although takes some working up in your hands, but foaming action is overrated in my opinion; I’d much rather his skin gets a thorough cleanse yet isn’t stripped of its natural oil & sebum.

This also works fabulously as a bath oil and leaves your baby’s skin nice and hydrated post-bath. Dexter smelt divine after his bath and ready for a relaxing massage with the accompanying lotion.

Jojoba & Chamomile 2 in 1 Baby Shampoo (200mls / £8.95)

This lathers up surprisingly well and Dexter’s hair still smells heavenly the next day. It’s tough enough to wash away all the tomato sauce, gravy, melted chocolate and other unpleasantness your toddler has taken it upon himself to ‘save for later’, yet mild enough not to cause itching. Dexter sweats a great deal in the night as he suffers from night terrors so I needed a shampoo that is gentle enough to deal with excess sebum without causing greasiness- this definitely fits the bill.

I can’t comment as to it’s efficiency of soothing away cradle cap as Dexie is a fully fledged toddler now, but once again, I’d be cautious about popping anything too heavily scented on early skin.

Once again, this definitely passes the sniff test too - there’s still a pleasant lavender scent from the blend of essentials oils making it a great product for night time bathing.

Cellulite Body Butter (200mls / £8.95)

I was always going to struggle to review this one as I’ve already found the best stretchmark butter on the planet. However I should flag up that this is one of the best firming creams I’ve used in a long time. It sinks in immediately and your skin feels visibly tighter after just one application.

Perfect for hips, bums, arms and breasts, this has slotted neatly into my beauty regime given I’m currently losing weight. The essential oils blend of Neroli, Rose, Jasmine, Geranium, Sandalwood, Chamomile, Fennel, Carrot Seed, Lemon, Lavender & Frankincense Essential Oils invigorate and increase circulation, and elasticity is improved via a combination of 4 rich butters (Organic Shea, Cocoa, Kokum & Mango Butter).

The scent of this one is far more subtle with the butters drowning out the essential oils. As it sinks in so quickly it’s perfect for a nighttime treat before diving under the covers.

The consistency of typical of body butters and you end up prodding it without actually getting any on your fingers. Best advice is to delves in as £24.95 is a bargain for 200mls.

Additional thoughts…

Don’t expect to be seduced by the packaging. Whilst mine are samples, the full sized bottles are no sexier. But then looks aren’t everything, for all we know Brad Pitt could be a real pain to live with.

Whilst reading other reviews I was a little taken aback to see so many people balking at the prices. I pay anywhere between £8 and £25 for Dexter & Heidi’s basic essentials (shampoo, body wash and body lotion) so at £8.95 for a healthy 200mls, these products seem bang on the money.

Finally, I suspect Thea Skincare will be jostling for position among the big boys in organic baby skincare (Lasinoh’s Earth Friendly Babies, The Green People’s Organic Babies, Burt’s Bees, … and newbies Cowshed’s Cow Baby, Lulu & Boo, Odylique, and Miamoo… I could go on). Yet parents have really embraced organic skincare for their little people and there is plenty of room for everyone (and plenty of space left on my bathroom shelf!). I’ll be watching this brand with interest to see where they go next.

To check out this fab range for yourself (including their brightening and anti-aging formulations), head to TheaSkincare.com. You can also stay in touch via Twitter and Facebook.