Christmas Countdown: Last Minute Gift Dash at Sakare

If you haven't completed your Christmas shopping (or even started it yet) don't stress out too much. There is still time to pack in a few last minute dashes to the shops, you just have to know what it is you're looking for. Luckily Sakare always have a great selection of products that are just perfect for Christmas gifts.

If you want to get someone something special but don't have time to come up with the most original idea ever then head over to Sakare. Avoid being one of those helpless souls wandering around Oxford Street with no idea what they are looking for by following my last minute gift guide:

Top 3 Sakare Products That Make Perfect Gifts For Every Woman

1. Luxuriating Body Butter

Because who lives without body butter? A classic bathroom staple that won't go out of fashion and is suitable for all ages and all skin types. Not to mention that Sakare's version is renowned for being top level quality with its unique mineral rich formula. Will impress even the highest level skincare connoisseur.  

2. Hydrating Hand Cream

During the winter months hand cream will most certainly not go amiss. Appealing for both the beauty obsessed and practical types alike, therefore you really can't go wrong with this one. This amazingly easily absorbed formula is full of Vitamin E to soothe even severely dry, irritated skin and buying it won't do serious damage to your bank account (which is always a plus this time of year).

 

3. Soothing Shower Oil

Even if you have no idea how beauty concerned the person you are buying for is you can't go wrong with this one. Not everyone is into taking long pampering baths but even quick morning shower people will love this product. Turn your practical shower into something more luxurious with this amazingly hydrating body wash. No need to use additional body moisturisers afterwards, this product is the ultimate 2-in-1 for busy people with busy lives.

Trust me on this one...stick to this gift guide for the women in your life and you will see some happy faces when it comes to Xmas day! 

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all. Wishing you a magical time and all the best for the new year to come.

Emma :)

In-Shower Body Conditioners From Lush & Sakare

Ro's Argan Body Conditioner is a great way to get super soft skin all over without adding on another phase to your beauty routine and without having to wait for your moisturiser to be absorbed before getting dressed.

When we condition our hair we apply an intensive moisturiser, let it soak in and then wash away. We're left with hair that feels clean, washed and soft but not greasy. When we apply body moisturiser most of the time it leaves you feeling greasy and is then rubbed off when you put clothes on. What if we could recreate that sultry soft feeling for our bodies as well as our hair?

Lush have come up with an answer by creating a body lotion that can be applied in the shower just as we would use a hair conditioner. Ro's Argan Body Conditioner is rich in cocoa butter, cupuacu butter, almond oil, and the featured ingredient, argan oil, to intensely hydrate your skin. Apply all over after you have used your favourite body wash, leave for a few minutes and then rinse off. Pat yourself dry once out of the shower to make sure that all the moisture is locked in and be careful not to rub it off.

Simple as that! Save time and effort by moisturising in the shower. Once you get out you can dress immediately and get on with your day. You may be questioning whether the results are as good as using a normal body lotion after the shower but for me there is no doubt that the body conditioner leaves your skin just as smooth and hydrated as traditional methods. The rose fragrance of this particular product is rather overpowering and so not for everyone. Personally I am a fan although I know that a large amount of people nowadays prefer fragrance free beauty products.

**If you are looking for an in-shower body conditioner WITHOUT fragrance then try this:

Sakare Enriching Shea Butter is a great, completely natural and fragrance free solution for an in-shower body lotion. If you have sensitive skin or allergies I would advise to stay away from Lush products as they tend to be heavily fragranced. Sakare Shea Butter can be applied in the shower and washed off to reveal beautifully soft skin, even though Sakare advise for it to be applied to dry skin only.

Personally I like to use both of them depending on my mood or where I am going. Sakare is a great everyday cream that can be used for beauty and practical purposes whereas Lush is for when you want to smell extra nice. One thing's for sure though...I'm a converted shower body conditioner now...quick and easy with the same results!

Top Picks: The Two Hand Creams That You Can't Brave Winter Without

It's that time of year again...wrap up warm and make sure that your precious skin is protected from the harsh elements out there. While you can't simply avoid going outside for the whole winter season (I would if I could, trust me), you can take some measures to lessen the damage. Wearing gloves and protective clothing is a no-brainer, but it's not just the cold that is the culprit here. Heating systems can be particularly drying to the skin, especially when constantly changing environment going indoors and outdoors all the time. Like most smart women (and men) during wintertime I make sure to have a trusty hand cream with me at all times to protect against redness, blistering and flakiness.

If you're not sure which hand cream to invest in this year then look no further. These two are my ultimate faves and will not let you down this winter...

Ahava Mineral Hand Cream

Made with dead sea water and so is enriched with all the minerals and goodness that come from the natural wonder. Produced without any harsh ingredients which means that even sensitive hands can use it too. You only need a really small amount of this cream to make your skin all smooth and supple and applying once really will last you all day. Great for protecting against harsh climates but also perfect for repairing hands from the wear and tear of daily life. Subtle but noticeable fragrance.

Sakare Hydrating Hand Cream

What's great about this cream is that it is easily absorbed and non-greasy, so you are able to apply and straightaway continue on with life. Not only does this vitamin E enriched formulation hydrate skin but it actually works to reduce pigmentation. Very clever. Again a minimal amount is required to soften dry, weather cracked hands, meaning that one tube will see you through the winter easily. Definitely a worthwhile investment!

I find that hand cream makes for a great gift if you are unsure what to buy someone. Everyone needs it and it's something we often forget to pick up when shopping. Make sure you give them one of these brands and your present will be a sure success.

Best Product for Gentle Make-Up Removal (Sakare Calming Milk Cleanser)

The name says it all...Calming Milk Cleanser. And calming it certainly is.

If your nightly make-up removal ritual is to rub a cleansing wipe over your face until it feels clean and then head straight to bed then you should reconsider! Face wipes are not only full of chemicals and other nasty stuff that you don't want to be rubbing into your pores but are also extremely dehydrating. Studies have shown that they don't actually fully remove all traces of make up but just spread them all over your face. Sleeping with traces of make up on your face can lead to irritation, dehydration, and even blemish outbreaks. The rubbing action which is required when using these wipes for make up removal can also be damaging to skin, and even increase signs of ageing.

Many people underestimate the power of a good, gentle cleanser as they are caught up in more fancy products like serums and masks. The truth is that if you have a steady skincare regime in place with quality products you won't need anything else to make your skin look it's best.

Personally I follow the Sakare skincare regime of cleansing, toning and moisturising morning and night. If you don't wish to enter into a regime with 3 stages every morning and night please consider to adopt cleansing, even if just for the purpose of make up removal.

Sakare Calming Milk Cleanser is completely natural and so can be used by any skin type, no matter how sensitive. It's calming due to the unique combination of chamomile, rose water extract, and vitamin E, and will leave your skin feeling 100% clean and even moisturised.

To use simply massage all over your face and remove with a cotton pad or damp cloth. I like to repeat twice: once to remove my make up and a second just to pamper my skin. If you really wish to treat yourself then place a cloth in hot water, ring out the water then place it over your face. The steam will open up your pores and sweat impurities out.

Since using the Sakare cleanser I can't go back to face wipes as I now realise how damaging it is to your precious skin. You only get one face so treat it well and it will last you!

Beauty Product Reviews: Sakare Luxuriating Body Butter vs Tom Ford Private Blend Body Moisturiser

Two of the biggest names in the luxury beauty world right now: Tom Ford and Sakare. What happens when you take a similar product from each brand and compare them? Who do you think will come out on top? Read on to find out....

'Neroli Portofino' Private Blend Moisturiser from Tom Ford 

This fashion world giant is also making a huge impact on the beauty world. Everyone knows that they have the most amazing range of lipstick shades, but what about their other beauty products? I invested in their body moisturiser to find out.

Extremely creamy, this product will do what it sets out to do: moisturise your skin. The mixture of olive fruit oil, grapeseed oil and date seed extract soften the skin with a lasting effect. Not one for using in a hurry as the cream does take a while to be absorbed by the skin, but once it does you will feel a million dollars.

The product is infused with the fragrance 'Neroli Portofino' which has notes of bergamont, lemon, mandarin, lavender, and rosemary. Personally I liked the fragrance but I'm not sure that it will be everyone's cup of tea, and it's not so discreet either. Sensitive skin sufferers might find the amount of fragrance irritating to the skin. One thing I loved about this lotion is the look of the bottle: sophisticated yet up to date like all Tom Ford products.

Sakare Luxuriating Body Butter

Sakare are another company which don't fail on the presentation front, all of their products reflect the quality and luxury of the ingredients themselves, especially this body butter. The gold and brown colours used on the labelling and packaging are the exact colours used to decorate the stores themselves, and there is a nice consistency to that.

Now for the product itself, arguably one of the Sakare best sellers it's not easy to surpass. The cream is extremely rich, full of minerals, anti-oxidants, and vitamins, you really feel that you are feeding your skin something healthy. And the results can be noticed straight away...I experienced a healthy glow that earned me a few compliments and prolonged my summer holiday tan.

The thing that I love most about this product is that it is absorbed into the skin much quicker than other lotions, enabling you to apply even in the morning before running out of the door. Very lightly fragranced and so is suitable for those with sensitive skin or people who are looking for something more subtle.  

Personal Verdict - It's difficult to choose between these two as they are both of such high quality from renowned luxury brands. Sakare is great for everyday use as it is absorbed quickly and has a subtle fragrance, whereas Tom Ford is more fitting for when you have time to spend getting ready for say an evening event and also want to make more of an impact with a stronger fragrance.

Who's your all-time favourite luxury beauty brand? What other high class body lotions would you recommend that I try? Have you tried these products and have something else to add? Would love to hear all feedback!!

Reveal an Amazing Complexion with this Peeling Mask from Sakare

I used to swear by Lancome's Hydra Intense Masque until I discovered this gem of a beauty treatment. I am not over exaggerating when I say that it can literally reveal a completely new complexion that you didn't even know you had.

Amazing cleansing properties will extract impurities and pore refining qualities will reveal a flawless complexion. It left my skin feeling extremely clean but not dry in any way, as a mixture of oils (kendi, grape-seed, and calendula) provide perfect hydration.

Great for young skin which needs balancing but also perfect for older skin as the Regenerating Peeling mask also possesses anti ageing properties! How can that be? You may ask. Well all these exclusive oils provide a firmness and elasticity boost to the skin, encouraging a youthful appearance.

Basically everything you could want from a mask: anti ageing, moisturising, and deep cleansing. Oh and it only takes 2 minutes to get to work before it needs to be washed off. Perfect for busy people who wish to give their complexion a boost now and then (I recommend using once-twice a week).

Rinse off with water to reveal your new, rejuvenated complexion that I promise will look just that bit younger, healthier, and happier :)

London Summer Day Trips and New Sakare Products!

The sun has kindly graced us with it's presence and in London this means only one thing...day trips! The British mentality of having stay out and squeeze every last drop of the pleasant weather never seems to wear off.

This weekend I spent all my time picnicing in the park, boozing in the beer garden, going on a long walk along the Southbank and of course shopping on Bond Street (mainly window shopping unfortunately).

The perfect end to a perfect weekend was taking home with me a new Sakare beauty product which I had not yet tried. After a few too many hours sunbathing without any sun protection (don't follow in my footsteps) I had a few red patches which were instantly noticeable to the sales assistant. She said that there is a good chance my skin will simply peel off and that I need something to help take care of the skin as much as possible. She gave me the ENRICHING SHEA BUTTER to try.

I'm not claiming that any product can reverse the harmful damage of the sun, and the sales assistant made sure to remind me of that, but she did say that this cream would moisturise and give a layer of protection to the skin, hopefully stopping it from peeling off.

I have to say that it definitely eased the stinging when I applied it that night but it was sightly difficult to rub in as it is so thick. This product is not watered down or filled with added perfume and chemicals. It's pure shea butter and so does wonders for the skin. 

The next morning I noticed that the redness had slightly been reduced and my skin was much less sensitive or stingy to the touch. The best thing was that the thickness of the cream had acted as a sort of barrier for my delicate skin overnight. If I hadn't applied the cream I firmly believe that my skin would have been peeling off due to damage and the wear and tear of rolling around in bed. Over the next few days I will continue use to see if my skin keeps up this speed of recovery.

Please be careful in the sun! Just because there is a product which acts as a sunburn remedy doesn't mean that it's ok to burn yourself! This product would  also be amazing for sufferers of dry skin and for those problem areas which everyone has (chapped heels, lips, elbows etc). Not so practical for full body usage, but great for a quick recovery when skin is in need!

How to Get Over Summer Holiday Nostalgia - Hint (Sakare Shopping Spree)!

So sadly summer (if you are in the UK) is already coming to an end and that nostalgia for our sunny overseas ventures is starting to creep in. I have discovered a great remedy for these depressive feelings...go shopping!

First stop I headed to my beloved Bond Street where I knew that there must be some product from Sakare that I hadn't tried yet. I asked the sales assistant to show me something impressive and unique to the Sakare brand and she pulled out the Botanox Face Mask.

I've heard a lot about the Botanox range and how amazing it is supposed to be for anti-ageing purposes although I've never tried it as I love the regular Sakare anti-ageing range. She explained to me that Botanox really is an alternative to surgery and that it's only for those who are serious about achieving a significantly more youthful appearance. Sounded a bit strange to me...how can anything that you rub into your skin get results which are comparable to actual surgery?

If there's any brand out there that I believe can do it it's Sakare. So I decided to give it a go.

After applying a smooth layer over my face I waited around five minutes until I could feel the warming sensation of the ingredients getting to work, before rinsing off with water. I have been using it once a week but you could use it more frequently if desired.

I'm literally stunned at the results...all wrinkles and lines have been significantly diminished, it's like 10 years has suddenly come off my face! Supple, smooth, and healthy...my complexion is more even and I simply look and feel more youthful.

What more could any woman possibly want? Seriously. This is a miracle mask that has some state of the art science behind it. The only anti ageing treatment I will use from now on.

It may be grey outside but I promise you will feel a bit better if you treat your skin to some top class products.

Hand Cream Comparison: Sakare vs Kiehl's

This week I decided to compare two top notch brands on a product that I won't go anywhere without: hand cream.

As a mother I find myself washing my hands all too often due to forever being on a clean up mission running after my two little ones. My hands take the brunt of this and so I've learned to always carry a bottle of my favourite hand cream with me everywhere I go.

Up until now my go-to hand cream of choice was always Kiehl's, but after being introduced to the Sakare product range I am on the fence. Here's what I think about each of them:

Kiehl's Ultimate Strength Hand Salve

For years this hand cream has been my life saver. It's not extra fragranced or luxurious it simply does it's job...moisturises and protects your hands from the stresses of every day life. Contains a mixture of oils and natural wax so is a highly concentrated mixture. Takes a while to rub into the skin fully although once absorbed you are protected for the whole day. The only downside that I found with this cream is that during the absorption process your hands are greasy which isn't always practical or a nice feeling.

Sakare Hydrating Hand Cream

I have recently been implementing this cream into my daily life and so far I love it. As a lighter formulation it is easily absorbed into the skin and doesn't leave your hands oily. Rich in vitamin E and includes UV protection this is no ordinary hand cream. Offers great moisturisation and protection against the elements whilst still embodying the Sakare benchmark of luxury. Smells beautiful without being too fragranced and leaves my hands silky smooth. I find myself applying a few times a day but just purely because I love the smell of it so much.

So it has to be said that yet again Sakare is my overall winner...the combination of high effectivity and pure luxury makes products that are practical and simply opulent. Kiehl's hand cream is perfect for those requiring something strong but not so practical for busy mums.

Which Sakare Mask is Best for your Skin?

Sakare don't have the biggest range of products but what they do they do it well. With only the very best luxury ingredients in all of their cosmetics you can't really go that wrong. A place where people do struggle though, is knowing which face mask is best suited to their skin type. Find the right one and you will be friends for life...and be shocked at the amazing results that can be achieved. Here is my quick guide to help you navigate the Sakare face mask range:

The Regenerating Peeling Mask

The go-to mask for normal-combination skin types that just want to reveal a healthier, nourished skin tone. Features kendi, an organic eco-certified Indonesian nut oil which helps to restore moisture levels, no matter what state they were in before. A real deep cleanser -  your skin will not only feel soft but all impurities will be removed and pores will be visibly refined. Improves firmness and elasticity and so is also great as an anti-ageing treatment. The all rounder...no matter what your skin type you won't regret picking this one up.

24k Gold Mask

One for the luxury lovers. This mask actually has real flakes of gold in it for brightening skin tone. Ideal for those dull or dry skin sufferers that are looking to illuminate their skin tone for a natural, stunning glow. If uneven skin tone is the bane of your life then this is your solution.

Botanox Mask

This one sounds like it means business and it acts like it really means business too. An anti-ageing treatment that seriously rivals plastic surgery. State of the art formula with peptides and collagen, this mask will do some serious smoothing work on your wrinkles and fine lines. Borage oil helps to restore suppleness and elasticity, giving a more youthful appearance. If you look in the mirror and wish you could take back 10 years in a matter of minutes then Botanox is for you! The most noticeable results out of all the masks.

Sakare Product of the Month....Anti Wrinkle Eye Serum

This product has been raved about by many although I am yet to review it. In the past few years serums have been growing in popularity, especially those aimed at targeting problem areas around the eye. When Sakare released their Anti Wrinkle version the beauty world really started to listen to the potent power of serums.

Eyes are a delicate area in general and no matter how much we try to take care of them they cannot defy the signs of ageing that come to us all (sadly) at one point or another. Of course you can eat only the healthiest organic food, drink 2 litres of water a day and get at least 8 hours of sleep a night, but nature is cruel and you will still see those wrinkles creeping up on you eventually. Time for something stronger: in comes Sakare Anti Wrinkle Eye Serum.

Not just any old serum: this stuff means business 

When you invest in this serum you aren't being fobbed off with any old beauty product that might make your skin feel a bit more moisturised than usual. The active ingredients in this formulation are the latest and most effective economically-sourced elements from around the world that aren't being used by any other brands. You could go as far to say that it's an ultra-exclusive formula.

• Brich sap extract - Clinically proven to nourish and firm the delicate skin around the eye.
• Jojoba, argan & calendula oils - Unrivalled hydration and protect against further signs or ageing.
• Peptides & amino acids - Help to smooth out wrinkles, leaving a plump (but not puffy) youthful appearance.

Can't reverse the clock but this is the next best thing

Of course, removing all signs of ageing is impossible and no brand will claim to be able to achieve that, but if you are looking for the next best thing then this is definitely it. With so many different brands to choose from it's often very confusing what to believe and what to invest in. If you are looking to significantly reduce wrinkles and fine lines from your eye area then this product is for you. If you want to give yourself the best protection against developing these wrinkles in the first place then this is also the product for you!

Sakare 24k Gold Mask - Dosen't Get More Luxurious Than This

Probably the most luxurious product ever to have graced this earth. The Sakare 24k Gold Mask is for those serious skincare connoisseurs out there that expect only the best results.

By now you are probably thinking "can she talk about Sakare ANY more?" Well, the answer is, yes. I truly feel that they are the next luxury brand of the moment and that they are underestimated and not talked about enough! That's why I have taken it upon myself to talk and walk you through the whole range so you can discover it for yourself before investing...try before you buy as they say.

This product promises to give your very own high-level professional facial from the comfort of your own home in just 2 minutes. Infused with real gold, yes REAL GOLD, to give your complexion a complete re-vamp and renewal, you will see results after just one use.

Packed full of anti-ageing benefits such as Indonesian nyamplung oil and borage oil, this mask is a great fuss-free anti-ageing treatment. Just 2 minutes and skin elasticity will be improved, skin tone evened and brightened, and wrinkles significantly diminished.

I have to say that the results are simply amazing and I've never used a product quite like it before! My skin feels great but it actually LOOKS great too. If I wake up extra tired I make sure to take a few minutes to use this mask and nobody can tell.

If you are serious in seeing results for a more youthful complexion I would advise you to invest in this Sakare marvel of a face mask.

Here Comes the Sun! Skin Care from Sakare

Sakare products can help you tackle the sun in a safe and healthy way.

Summer in the UK is just around the corner (we hope) and most of us have already got our holiday wardrobes sorted and flights booked to some sunny resort. This means that it's time to get the tan on and relax by the pool with a cosmopolitan (or two).

In 3 weeks I will be jetting off to Cyprus and I couldn't be more excited. With fair complexion and hair I know that my skin is very susceptible to sun damage and that I really shouldn't be lying in the rays at all. At the same time I am dying to get a sun-kissed glow that will be the envy of all my friends when I return.

Of course I will be packing that all important sun protection lotion, but I also wanted to share with you a product that is a must for sun exposure:

Sakare Hydrating Mineral Complex Moisturiser  

Why I love it:

- Carrot Seed Oil provides protection and conditions skin, restoring moisture after sun exposure

- Useful pre-sun treatment due to the light hydration (doesn't leave you sweaty or greasy)

- Great as an after sun treatment as it reduces redness and pigmentation

- Prevents against signs of ageing, especially those as a result of harmful rays

USAGE: Before and after a period of sun exposure - massage a small amount into skin. I recommend not wearing make up in order to maximise an equal tan. Mix in a small amount of high factor protection with the Sakare Moisturiser for ultimate protection.

Happy Holidays!

Best Facial Exfoliator from Sakare

Sakare are really top of their game when it comes to skincare. If you have used their products before you will know that they don't compromise on quality and make use of the latest technology.

My new Sakare product of the moment is the EXFOLIATING GEL for facial use. I spoke briefly before about this in my Sring Trends post, but it really deserves a post all to itself!

What's good about it?

Gentle but cleans deep into the skin to make you feel like you have just had a luxury spa facial. Such a satisfactory feeling getting rid of all that gunk and junk from your face. I just love it. Most strong facial products unfortunately also almost remove a layer of skin with that dirt. Not the healthiest and if you have skin that's in the slightest bit sensitive then you will be in for trouble. Refreshes the skin and reveals a more youthful, vibrant complexion.

What makes it so good? 

Now for the science-y part. This scrub is powered by super ingredient, Propanediol, a skin-friendly, irritation free emollient. Sounds unnatural but it's actually made from corn and is kind to skin. As this product is so gentle you can use it up to 3 times a week alongside your usual skincare regime.

Cool Fact:

There is a myth that using products such as these strip your skin from it's natural balance and oils. NOT TRUE! According to doctors Gina and Sid Dinesh, dermatologists in the USA, regular exfoliation actually helps the natural shredding process of the skin and boosts the renewal of the skin to a healthier, smoother, more even-toned version. Some other benefits include: acne prevention, pore reduction, wrinkle reduction, and even helps your skin to absorb moisturiser more effectively.

So in short: exfoliation is not a skincare stage that should be overlooked! It is important in assisting the skin in it's natural processes. It is also important that you choose the right product for your skin - with Sakare you have all the benefits of an exfoliator without the irritation.

Spring Beauty Trends and How to Achieve Them

Happy Easter everyone! Spring has finally arrived and the Easter bunny has brought us chocolate to get us out of that winter slump. Even the sun has reared it's head and made an appearance! It won't be long (hopefully) until the shorts and shades can come out and maybe the occasional ice cream can be enjoyed outside without getting hypothermia.

Seasons are changing and with it so are the latest trends. I took a look at the latest beauty forecast to predict what the hottest spring/summer looks are and how to achieve them.

Dewy Skin - Never fails to make an appearance at this time of year. A dewy glow if done right can takes years off your face and give you that healthy, radiant look that everyone wants for summer.

How To - The trick to dewy skin is all about finding the right base. I love Sakare Hydrating Mineral Complex Moisturiser because it gives you just the right amount of moisture to achieve this look. It is also great at reducing redness and evening out skin tone so you won't need to clog up your skin with so much foundation. Switch your powder for a subtle bronzing powder to finish off this look. Pale, shiny skin tends to make you look a bit unwell so be careful.

Fresh Faced - I love this trend because it is all about the no make up look which I think is the most flattering to women of all ages.

How To - It doesn't mean that you literally have to be so fresh faced and make up free. The trick is getting the right shades that are a real match for your skin tone. I recommend going to your favourite make up counter and asking for help with this. What you can do at home...make sure your skin is spotless and refined by using a gentle scrub such as Sakare Exfoliating Gel at least once a week. It will promote a vibrant, clear complexion, enabling you to avoid the 'caked-on' look.

Nude Nails - Neatly manicured nails with muted pale shades in nudes and pinks have been spotted all over the catwalks recently.

How To - Pale shades show up imperfections more such as bumps and chips and so preparation needs to be done before the varnish goes on. As I previously mentioned the Sakare Nail Kit will have you sorted with it's high quality nail buffer, nail file, cuticle oil and hand cream. As for colours I love Essie's Ballet Slippers.

Trends really do go round in circles and it seems like the natural look is up again. Make up can help but the real beauty comes from a good skin care regime and of course...a healthy lifestyle!

Everything You Want And Need From A Nail Kit...Thanks Sakare

I'm a sucker for a professional manicure. You get to sit there and feel pampered and leave with beautiful nails. If I ever tried at home it always ended up looking as if my 5 year old niece did it for me and I love taking half an hour out of my week to treat myself and simply switch off from the world. When I saw that Sakare have their own nail kit I decided it was about time to dust off my polishes at home and give it a go.

The kit includes a nail file, buffer, cuticle oil and Indulging Hand And Body Lotion, with the choice of 3 different scents. I started off by filing my nails and then following with the buffer. It's almost like magic! It makes your nails unbelievably smooth and shiny. I almost didn't want to paint them afterwards. I then used just a small drop of the cuticle oil on each of my cuticles. This essentially hydrates the cuticle and stops it from becoming dry, flaky, and unsightly. The oil was absorbed quickly and I could apply the varnish immediately after. I now had a smooth, even and primed area to paint, making it easier to achieve a better job.

It has to be admitted that Julia, my manicurist, definitely does a better job at applying the varnish than me, but I was impressed with the results. The kit was easy to use and effective...there was no faffing around with different creams and lotions or cutting of the cuticle. Sakare gives you exactly the right high quality products that you need to achieve a professional style manicure at home. Very reasonable price considering how much I usually pay for salon treatment.

To finish off I applied a small amount of the Indulging Hand And Body Lotion and rubbed in thoroughly. A really luxurious lotion that isn't too greasy but at the same time provides all the moisture necessary.

I am very happy with my purchase of the Sakare Exquisite Nails Case...although I can't say that I won't have to head back to the salon now and then to fix up my dodgy paint job!

Facial Serum...A Fad Or Worthwhile Investment??

So your beauty routine already consists of cleansing, toning, moisturising, the occasional exfoliation and even rarer face mask and now people are telling you to add yet another stage. Not only that but serums tend to be on the rather pricey side. You would be forgiven for thinking that this new trend of facial serums is just that...a pointless trend that will die out over time. At first I was skeptical and wasn't one of the first to run out to the shops and buy into the mania, but recently I decided it was about time that I give them a go.

I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised and the serum trend has earned some credit from me and also a small place in my heart. Depending on the brand, it is advised that you rub in gently one or two pumps of serum up to twice a week. I recommend using after your usual skin care regime before bed, letting the ingredients get to work while your skin is naturally repairing itself. Many serums promise amazing anti ageing benefits, although the thing that I feel grants them a place on the beauty shelf their ability to penetrate the skin. Serums sink down much deeper than say regular moisturisers, enabling the rehabilitation and hydration to take place not just on a superficial level. This ensures long-term results that just can't be achieved any other way. Even if anti ageing doesn't interest you it's worthwhile to invest in a serum as they aid natural rejuvenation, helping your skin to be in top shape and naturally look it's best at all times.

Confused where to start? Here are my top picks in the serum stakes:

1. Sakare Fortifying Facial Serum
Obviously this one would make the list. I'm just in love with the whole Sakare range. But that aside this product is a real winner that you won't go wrong with. Strong natural ingredients such as birch sap extract for anti ageing repair and Omega 3 oils for anti oxidant repair get to work gently with your skin for optimal results.

2. Shiseido's While Lucent Intensive Spot Targeting Serum
Unsightly dark spots? This one is for you. Yomogi and angelica root extracts help clear pigmentation and even the texture of the skin. A real investment but you will see results with this intensive treatment.

3. First Aid Beauty's Anti-Redness Serum
This one speaks for itself...if you are a red complexion sufferer then this is your saviour. Don't waste time trying to cover up blotchiness with make up, it simply won't work. Use this instead.Caffeine, ginger and aloe work together to shrink the blood vessels, reducing inflammation right there on the spot and also prevents it from flaring up in the first place.

Hottest Product of the Moment - Sakare Rejuvenating Shower Scrub

Why have I only just discovered this product?! It's a marvel in a bottle and will make your life so much easier.

In the era of the here and the now we want everything to happen straightaway and immediately be able to see results. The generation where 2 year olds learn how to use tablets and iphones before toys has become extremely impatient (call me old). We may think this just affects the technology we use but actually it has a real impact on all aspects of our lives. At the same time our standards are higher than ever and we all want to be pampered by the best products first, wear the latest trends before they are out, be on the latest social network before everyone else. If you are an avid trend follower then you need to get onto this one: wash and exfoliate at the same time with Sakare Rejuvenating Shower Scrub!

A daily shower wash which is really a 3 in 1...wash, scrub and moisturiser. Enriched with minerals and vitamin E this concoction helps your skin to renew itself...leaving a rejuvenated and youthful appearance every day. No mess, no fuss, no faffing around with creams and lotions and not being able to get dressed. 

Zero compromise on quality! Traditionally products which claim to do more than one thing at a time are viewed as untrustworthy and a waste of time. Not with this brand. The people at Sakare really know what they are doing. They have nailed the super-speed trend while still managing to uphold the high standards of luxury their products are renowned for.

If you are a bit impatient and always like to know the latest trend like me then trying this shower scrub is a must! 

Goodies, Goodies, Goodies!

Ok so I was a very lucky girl over the Christmas period. Not only did I get surprised to a trip to BARBADOS with my boyfriend, I received a whole load of goodies from the latest brand I am obsessed about....SAKARE.

So my new products that I have been playing with over the past week are the Exfoliating Facial Gel and the Anti Wrinkle Eye Cream.

• I'm not old but I will definitely be using this cream to fend off the wrinkles from trying to appear in the first place! I have to admit that anti wrinkle cream wasn't really top of my list this year but after using this product just for a short while I am noticing a youthfulness that just wasn't there before. Small fine lines I had are basically undetectable now. I have a feeling if I keep using this I'm going to be 60 and almost completely wrinkle free. This light but potent formulation is extremely effective from the get-go. It gives your skin the exact amount of moisture that it needs, with primrose oil extract to work on those nasty black circles. 

• This exfoliating gel is gentle enough to use even on sensitive skin! As you may have read before in my past blog posts, I struggle with sensitive skin. Having such fair skin often makes this so much more noticeable and embarrassing. These products so far have all worked fine with my skin, causing no irritation, but I expected their exfoliating gel to cause a bit of a ruckus. Nope. No red outbursts or anything. It's gentle enough to use more than once a week although I would recommend to do it only once every two weeks. If your skin gets used to being stripped back that regularly it will start to produce oil much more quickly.

I always say it's never the wrong time to treat yourself. So if you didn't get any Sakare under the tree this year you can always get yourself down there! 

Happy 2015....let's make this one a year for really great skin :)