Prada Candy 50ml EDP & 75ml Lotion, was £55.00, now £36.67 and Jean Paul Gaultier-The Gaultier Gallery 4x 3.5ml, was £39.00, now £26.00
For Boyfriends
Dolce and Gabbana The One For Men 50ml EDT & 75ml Lotion, was £48.00, now £32.00 and James Bond 007 50ml EDT & 50ml Shower Gel, was £25.00, now £16.67
For Mums
Issey Miyake L’Eau D’Issey 50ml EDT, 75ml Shower Cream & 30ml Lotion, was £50.00, now £33.33 and Gucci Rush 30ml EDT & 50ml Body Lotion, was £40.00, now £26.67
For Dads
Jean Paul Gaultier Le Male 75ml EDT & 75ml Shower Gel, was £45.00, now £30.00 and Hugo Boss Signature 100ml EDT, 75ml Aftershave Balm & 75ml Shower Gel, was £55.00, now £36.67
For Grandmothers
Dolce and Gabbana Pour Femme 50ml EDP & 100ml Lotion, was £58.00, now £38.67
For Grandfathers
Paco Rabane Pour Homme 100ml EDT & 150ml Deodorant Spray, was £47.00, now £31.33
For Teenagers
One Direction You & I 50ml EDP & 150ml Lotion, was £29.00, now £19.33 and Candy Kitten 6 Piece Set, was £24.99, now £16.66
For Kids
Disney Princess 4x9ml EDT, was £12.00, now £8.00 and Spongebob Square Pants 100ml EDT & 200ml Body Wash, was £15.00, now £10.00
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| Nathalie Eleni, Facialist |
Nathalie Eleni is THE go-to skin guru to the stars. Her clientele include the gorgeous Carey Mulligan, Natalie Portman and Sandra Bullock.
A new mum herself to Louis, 2, she knows just how to cheat a full night's sleep by using a trick or two.
We press the beautiful facialist for all her insider knowledge exclusively for babyurbeautiful readers...
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| Bottles & Beauty |
N: Dry, flakey skin and Rosacea are very common skin concerns during the colder months.
Dry and sensitised skin can be caused from extreme temperature changes, being out in the freezing cold then coming inside warm central heating (which has an extreme drying effect).
Simple things like driving when you have the heat blasting out can affect skin massively. The dry, hot air can aggravate dehydrated skin further by disturbing the skins natural barrier, more moisture escapes and it causes parched and inflamed skin.
Keep a humidifier on during the night, it will add moisture to the air to help rehydrate whilst you sleep, as well as helping with sinus congestion from a winter cold that can sit under the eyes and over the cheek area giving your face a unflattering puffy look.
Bubs: But, what if it's really cold and you can't help whacking the heating on (brrr!)
N: When you're in the car make sure you don't point the heating towards your face as the heat will aggravate chapped winter skin, and protect your skins moisture levels with a face balm that is packed with Vitamin E that should protect from both hot and cold temperatures.
Bubs: Any overnight treats that will cheat a full nights sleep?
N: Yes! For a great night-time skin pick-me-up, place your favourite facial oil in your Avent baby heater and warm it up gently for a luxurious facial treatment. When applied to your face the heat will help the oil absorb for beautifully nourished skin by the morning.
If you are on a budget, make your own oil by adding 3 drops of Lavender essential oil to 5ml of Almond oil (dry skin) or Grapeseed (blemished skin) and place in the heater before massaging into your skin.
Bubs: Any other cheats to conceal that standard mummy sallow skin?
N: Facial massage is really beneficial in winter months when your circulation can be come sluggish. Start from the chin and working from the centre outwards use gently circular massage
movements. Use pressure points from either side of the nose pressing out under the cheekbone to remove toxins and help remove puffiness caused by sinus build up from winter colds. This will instantly brighten your complexion.
Try some muscle stretching along and between the eye brows and pressing your middle finger on to your brow then firmly lifting upwards, this will help to lift and open tired eyes, press outwards along the orbital with an eye gel to flush out toxins and to give a more refreshed look to eyes. A cheap and easy way to bring life back into your skin.
Bubs: We've been a little lazy of late, are using your baby's wipes to remove make-up, really that bad?
N: Yes! Everyone needs a quick-fix at times, but buy some Rose Water from a health shop and some cotton wool and keep it by your bed for when you are really tired.
Instead of reaching for the baby wipes, saturate a cotton-pad and wipe over your face several times until it's clean, it will take a minute, and is much better for your skin.
If you are going to use wipes, either Neals Yard or Yes to Carrots organic wipes are best - but not the cheapest.
Bubs: If you're time pressed, but your skin looks lacklustre, what top tips do you swear by?
N: Use a cleansing brush such as Braun Face to deeply clean pores, remove dead skin build up and enhance circulation in your skin for a brighter tone. They're the next big thing.
Add an illuminator to your moisturiser for added glow.
A pop of Rose pink cream blush to the apples of your cheeks and patted into your lips can give the impression of a good 8-hour kip
A highlighting under eye concealer in the inner corners will wake up and refresh, in the outer - it can sit and make lines look worse.
Dehydration lines are so ageing, and a good hydrating face serum with hyaluronic acid will help to fill them out.
Bubs: We've run out of SMP, do you have any budget-busting kitchen cupboard type tips?
N: Oh yes, natural yogurt is a great skin brightener as it contains lactic acid which eats away at the dead dulling cells. Apply to clean skin and leave for 10 mins before rinsing and applying a Vitamin E cream.
Bubs: Is it bad to go to sleep with your makeup on, and why? I keep nodding off...
N: Of course! It will clog pores, which can lead to the appearance of enlarged pores. Also your eyes can become puffy and irritated as some of the mascara can get into your eyes when you are sleeping.
Bubs: Damn! What trends would you say are big this winter? What looks do you love and think would be easy for mums to recreate?
N: A tinted moisturiser to multi-task, a swirl of bronzer to add warmth, a slick of mascara and a deep plum or blackberry matte lipstick like M.A.C in 'Media' for the ultimate glamour and sophistication this winter.
Left to right: plum bright, prince noir, runaway red, media
LN x
Now this post isn't directly about beauty or babies, it's about being savvy and getting things put right when they're wrong, which is particularly helpful if you're a mum trying to be careful with the pennies.
We all hate it when things break or don't go to plan, whether it be a new product you've purchased, or an existing one going wrong, or if you're so busy you forget to get things done in time. I'm one of those people, I plan to be super organised, not waste money or miss chances to collect points, I write lists, notes and reminders but somehow, quite often, all my good intentions fail.
My family and friends think I'm the ultimate complainer. If they need to return a problem item to the shops, they ask me to do it, or if they've bought something they're not happy with, they ask me what to do. I'm no expert, but I think we are all trying to spend wisely these days, and we choose our purchases with care - so if something doesn't do what it's meant to we should get our money back or a replacement...no need to be a nasty complainer, just politely get things rectified and more often than not, companies want our custom and are only too happy to oblige.
And I don't stop at shop bought products. If there's a service I'm not happy with, I tell them. I don't do it on purpose to gain money or credit etc, I just believe that you should get the service or product you pay for. I want to inspire you all so here are some of my recent examples: (I've had a bad few months)
{Faulty product}
I bought a lovely happy sunny yellow K-mix toaster from Tesco. It cost me fifty quid! For a toaster! It is gorgeous, it brightens my kitchen and toasts my bagels to perfection. To my horror one Monday (of all the days) it decided to only work if I held the button down. Never before did I realise how long it takes to toast a piece of bread. I'd had the toaster almost a year, no packaging, no receipt – but I did buy it online from Tesco Direct. So off I toddled down to the local branch with my k-mix wrapped up in a plastic bag complete with breadcrumbs. The man at customer service checked my online account to see proof of purchase, apologied for the inconvenience and gave me a brand new replacement there and then, along with another 1 year warranty. Breakfast disaster averted! Even though it was a Kenwood product, I had to take it to Tesco as that's where I bought it, they are the merchandiser, so it's their responsibility to fix the problem, not Kenwood. (This goes for any faulty product, you return it to where you purchased, not to the brand directly as your contract is with the shop.)
{Wrong description}
I was trying to be clever and save a little cash earlier this year by buying my little girl a pricey but cute wooly romper in the spring sale, ahead for this winter. The tag said age 12-18 months so I snapped up the deal and packed it away in her special drawer. When I decided to delve into her treasure chest of new clothes I was really annoyed to discover that whilst the tag said 12-18, the garment label was actually 6-12!! Waaaaaa!! What on earth could I possibly do? I'd paid good money for something that now would only fit her for a month or two. My friend said to just give it to charity and not get hung up on it – but I thought it was worth taking into the store (Baby Gap) and explaining the situation? I had no receipt but the Manager could clearly see it was their error, and whilst he couldn't offer me a refund as I had no proof of purchase, he said I could take a look around and if there was anything I wanted to buy, he would give me a 40% discount! I would've been happy with a £5 giftcard! My husband wasn't too impressed when I came home with two large Gap bags, but who could resist such an offer?
{Mis-sold}
More than ever I am trying to grab every opportunity to collect points and save money. My purse is bulging not with money but with loyalty cards. Starbucks give you a free drink for every 15 purchases with their loyalty card and as I don't go there all that often it's taken me quite a few months to even get halfway to seven. You can imagine then that I wasn't thrilled to find out that you can't actually collect points officially unless you've registered online – the lady in the shop told me I could! Now I know we are only talking about a coffee here, and it certainly wouldn't be worth the effort of a formal letter of complaint but it turned out worthwhile to mention it to the store manager. Not only did she rectify my card error and give me a free drink (yes, ahem, I always order venti caramel lattes with extra cream) she also apologised again on my next visit that weekend and gave me a voucher for yet another drink! So it turns out, I now go to Starbucks quite a lot :(
{Expired giftcard}
One of my best friends gave me and my husband a wonderful anniversary present, a giftcard for a fancy London hotel with the idea of indulging in some cocktails or going to their private cinema. As it was such a special gift we wanted to save it for a special night out...and you guessed it, pregnancy came, and out went my organised self and in came chaos and baby brain. A year later I was feeling really regretful about missing out, so following my own mantra "don't ask, don't get" I figured it was worth a try. I emailed the hotel and explained the situation and gave the giftcard number. I sat and waited a week, then chased them again. I thought oh well, it was worth a try. Over a year out of date, they must be thinking I'm being a bit cheeky? But no! To my surprise they emailed and said 'of course it's no problem' and they look forward to welcoming us soon! Yum yum, hello passionfruit mojito with a twist.
This list could go on and on, in the past year I've returned many things that just weren't right. Chicken that was off (but in date), a broken tap (brand new replaement and got plumbing cost reimbursed), beauty product that irritated my skin, baby thermometer that wasn't accurate, a jumper that bobbled after one wear, my buggy (wheels weren't turning properly, Mamas and Papas fitted new chassis and 4 new wheels) ....why should we put up with things that are wrong?
I want to encourage you all to seize the day, take the bull by the horns, and any other phrase that gets you to get things sorted - banish stress and annoyance from your life! You don't need to be an annoying complainer, just be polite and get what you pay for, it's worth mentioning if it's not right. If you don't ask, you don't get.
Let us know if you have any good results and inspiring stories.
CQx
Are you looking for a ingenious gift to give someone this year? And really torn with what on earth to buy (what with all the choice out there).
Gift buying is a very daunting task, especially if you don't have any children yourself.
The obvious choice is to waltz into Mothercare or Mamas and Papas and stock up on the assistants' first recommendation.
When you're ideally looking for a gift that definitely wont have been purchased on a ten times over by auntie, nanny etc....
Say hello to our little Trunki friends, who have created a 'Made for Me' service, aka a personalised Trunki travel case - which we think is just brilliant.
If you're not familiar with the Trunki, it's a nifty little case that has an 18 litre internal capacity, looks cool. It keeps the little ones entertained, while transporting any essentials like toys, clothes etc, AND it triples up as a ride-on toy. Absolutely essential for any budding Judith Chalmers.
With the personalised Made for Me service, there are a 100,000,000 combinations - that's ONE BILLION COMBOS (she says with little finger firmly placed to her mouth Dr Evil style).
As there are 9 different parts x 10 different colours, so that's 10 to the power of 9 combinations - (maths was never my strong point), but apparently this is a BILLION combinations - and I will take their word for it as I was lost at the 9 part.
From the colour of the nose, the straps, the stripes, the hub caps... YOU create the colourway for a little one to enjoy - and make holidays that little bit less stressful.
The Trunki is 3.8lbs, 46 x 20.5 x 31 with a 5 year guarantee, and this particular service will set you back a nice purse-friendly £39.99.
Now, don't be stealing my design prowess ideas... But here's the one I designed for my little man...
LN xx
Gift buying is a very daunting task, especially if you don't have any children yourself.
The obvious choice is to waltz into Mothercare or Mamas and Papas and stock up on the assistants' first recommendation.
When you're ideally looking for a gift that definitely wont have been purchased on a ten times over by auntie, nanny etc....
Say hello to our little Trunki friends, who have created a 'Made for Me' service, aka a personalised Trunki travel case - which we think is just brilliant.
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| Trunki for your little monkey |
If you're not familiar with the Trunki, it's a nifty little case that has an 18 litre internal capacity, looks cool. It keeps the little ones entertained, while transporting any essentials like toys, clothes etc, AND it triples up as a ride-on toy. Absolutely essential for any budding Judith Chalmers.
With the personalised Made for Me service, there are a 100,000,000 combinations - that's ONE BILLION COMBOS (she says with little finger firmly placed to her mouth Dr Evil style).
As there are 9 different parts x 10 different colours, so that's 10 to the power of 9 combinations - (maths was never my strong point), but apparently this is a BILLION combinations - and I will take their word for it as I was lost at the 9 part.
From the colour of the nose, the straps, the stripes, the hub caps... YOU create the colourway for a little one to enjoy - and make holidays that little bit less stressful.
The Trunki is 3.8lbs, 46 x 20.5 x 31 with a 5 year guarantee, and this particular service will set you back a nice purse-friendly £39.99.
Now, don't be stealing my design prowess ideas... But here's the one I designed for my little man...
LN xx
Bathtime Bubbles Whale - V Tech Bathtime Whale
Scrub a dub dub...it’s bubble time in the tub!
We just had to write and tell you about this bathtime beauty, now two of the team are happily enjoying their 'Whaley' good purchase, with one soon to follow...
It's really lovely seeing our little men mesmerised when bubbles are keeping them occupied in the bath, as the stacking cups are getting a bit old hat now (and since a poo scooping bath incident), it's kinda refreshing.
If you have a young baby it's excellent, as you can sit them up in their bath seat, like a safety first swivel bath seat, which allows you to be hands free.
This bubble producing, all singing and dancing flashing toy makes for a WHALE of a (bath) time for both mum and baby.
It's got a few calypso beats, so it's and good for mood enhancing. It even has a song which sounds suspiciously like Robbie Williams “Candy”, (wonder who's getting the royalties) but it’s not. Maybe the baby version!
It has got super strong suction to hold it in place and is completely waterproof. We're pleasantly surprised at how super easy to fit and use it is and it hasn't got mould or full of freezing cold water like most do.
It's great for making bathtime more interactive as baby gets older, and to keep usual gloopy bubbles low maintanance on the clear up side of things.
It's available for around £19.99 at most retailers, however Argos has 2 for 3 on all toys, so the cheapest is free - get involved!
Now that the sweet smelling Christmas cups are out in Starbucks and the weather's turned nippy, it's time to accept the fact that winter is well and truly here and Christmas is fast approaching! I love the excitement of shopping for gifts and of course buying new clothes for my 'winter wardrobe' (no, I don't have anything to wear from last year, new clothes needed.) But the seasonal item I didn't realise I needed until now, is in fact a new razor...?
Last week the Babyurbeautiful team were lucky enough to be invited to the exclusive launch of Gillette Venus ProSkin Sensitive razor - it was such a beautiful narnia-esque scene and really got us in the mood for winter!
Now let's be honest, a razor is probably not hot on your list of important things to buy this time of year; if you're anything like me, as soon as that frost comes it's black tights on, long pyjamas and not a bare leg in sight until March! Okay, maybe I'll shave if it's the Christmas party or if I get a spare moment of sanity and consciously think I better sort myself out (I'm not a beast, honestly).
Well, now my routine is about to change – the Venus ProSkin makes life so much easier; dermalogically tested, its five floating blades glide up the legs and the extra-rich protective ribbon of moisture lubricates and protects the skin – even the next morning my pins felt nourished and no sign of irritation. This is the key factor for me, because I hate it when I shave and get flaky, dry, bothersome skin the next day - our legs need extra help with the cold British winds! Even when lathering on the most enriching moisturiser, if the shave is no good, I get prickly, chapped, pensioner style legs (no offence Nan) and that's not a good look.
So it's out with the old and in with the new. I've binned my summer razor and replaced it with a gorgeous new turquoise one...now I just need some new skirts to motivate me to actually shave! As if hearing my thoughts (fears!), Gillette are asking us ladies to capture our winter bare legs in the name of fashion and beauty #whateverweather
RRP £9.99 but on offer for a devilish £6.66 at Boots right now
www.boots.com
CQx
Oh my wow! We are so excited. It's starting to feel a lot like Christmas...
Tesco have launched their first EVER beauty advent calendar.
Forget choccies and the calories, indulge in this beauty instead.
Bursting with brands like Korres, Katy Perry, Dr LeWinns, Candy Kittens, Eyelure - it's everything you need for party season and MORE.
From cosmetics to fragrance and shower gels, it'll feel like Christmas every day.
For only £50 instead of the actual retail value of a whopping £125, best tell daddy to treat a much deserving mummy ASAP!
Tesco have launched their first EVER beauty advent calendar.
Forget choccies and the calories, indulge in this beauty instead.
Bursting with brands like Korres, Katy Perry, Dr LeWinns, Candy Kittens, Eyelure - it's everything you need for party season and MORE.
From cosmetics to fragrance and shower gels, it'll feel like Christmas every day.
For only £50 instead of the actual retail value of a whopping £125, best tell daddy to treat a much deserving mummy ASAP!
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| Best go to Tesco Tesco Beauty Advent Calendar LN x |
Wow, we've finally found something that helps bedtime! Hallelujah!
The Slumber Buddy.
I purchased the cute elephant variety.
Due to me finding out I was preggers in Thailand, I then decided my son would then be obsessed with Elephants, natch. So there's why I went for 'Eddie the Elephant.'
The Slumber Buddy is in the form of a teddy (elephant) with a plastic shell on the top where a star a moon display projects around the room in a warming blue, green and amber, and is really rather cute with stars, moons etc.
It also works as a nightlight giving the room a warm glow so baby feels comforted.
There are 3 lullabies available, 2 nature sounds and a heart-beat (this is probably best for very young babies). Although when my son had a bad belly I found myself rocking him on the rocking chair, at 4am, listening to a repetitive heartbeat for half an hour!
The general lullabies and soothing music lulls your little ones to sleep, and the calming display catches their attention, soothes, calms and relaxes them.
I've also tried the slumber buddy at alternative times, I found that when my little one is having a meltdown at nappy change time I press the button and the music kicks in and actually shuts him up!
Although suitable from birth, we only found this 10 months in - if ONLY we had found it sooner.
Bedtimes are normally tears, tantrums and fighting and random giggles as he refuses to go down. As I type this post I can hear the lullaby tune playing softly in his room, with a 30 minute shut off time (also a 15 and 45), by the time he's in a deep, deep sleep it'll finish up.
If you're looking for a babyshower gift - this is your buddy.
Slumber Buddy Tesco
LN xx
The Slumber Buddy.
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| Slumber Buddy Elephant |
I purchased the cute elephant variety.
Due to me finding out I was preggers in Thailand, I then decided my son would then be obsessed with Elephants, natch. So there's why I went for 'Eddie the Elephant.'
The Slumber Buddy is in the form of a teddy (elephant) with a plastic shell on the top where a star a moon display projects around the room in a warming blue, green and amber, and is really rather cute with stars, moons etc.
It also works as a nightlight giving the room a warm glow so baby feels comforted.
There are 3 lullabies available, 2 nature sounds and a heart-beat (this is probably best for very young babies). Although when my son had a bad belly I found myself rocking him on the rocking chair, at 4am, listening to a repetitive heartbeat for half an hour!
The general lullabies and soothing music lulls your little ones to sleep, and the calming display catches their attention, soothes, calms and relaxes them.
I've also tried the slumber buddy at alternative times, I found that when my little one is having a meltdown at nappy change time I press the button and the music kicks in and actually shuts him up!
Although suitable from birth, we only found this 10 months in - if ONLY we had found it sooner.
Bedtimes are normally tears, tantrums and fighting and random giggles as he refuses to go down. As I type this post I can hear the lullaby tune playing softly in his room, with a 30 minute shut off time (also a 15 and 45), by the time he's in a deep, deep sleep it'll finish up.
If you're looking for a babyshower gift - this is your buddy.
Slumber Buddy Tesco
LN xx
As I pottered around Primark, I stumbled across one of those face masks you used to treat yourself to as a teen with your pocket money. You know the ones?
Often pink or green in colour, muds, peel-off, heat-up, little bit dated in packaging, a glam model oh the front resplendent in pink goo with strategically placed fruit on her eyes (and often in her gob).
Those ones.
And whist they look a little bit crud, at a purse-friendly £1, they're not to be sniffed at.
Most of 'em will give you a good two masques at least.
Most of 'em will give you a good two masques at least.
So, as I've been one of the lucky ladies to be wiped out with flu, as well as my little one. Cue whining, and snotty messes pour deux, my skin has gone to POT!
Red raw nose, rash around my mouth, spots I never had. Attractive.
Red raw nose, rash around my mouth, spots I never had. Attractive.
In my desperation I grabbed the first thing to hand - the aforementioned mask:
Montagne Jeunesse Blemish Mud Mask between £1-1.49 depending on the retailer.
Tingly on application, and taut as Tom Daly's abs the masque set to work and hardened within minutes.
To the point I couldn't smile or speak (probably a good thing).
With a mud blend of aloe vera, willow, rosemary and tingly spot-attacking witch hazel, the mask left my skin refreshed, to say the least.
I can't promise it'll get rid of acne, but it certainly calmed my red-raw skin.
For a quick-fix and a nice treat while you bathe - I'd certainly recommend a go.
LN x
To the point I couldn't smile or speak (probably a good thing).
With a mud blend of aloe vera, willow, rosemary and tingly spot-attacking witch hazel, the mask left my skin refreshed, to say the least.
I can't promise it'll get rid of acne, but it certainly calmed my red-raw skin.
For a quick-fix and a nice treat while you bathe - I'd certainly recommend a go.
LN x
As you may have guessed, I love to try out new beauty products, however I do have a few loyal items that I couldn't be without. One of which is very crucial to me now that winter is fast approaching and my skin is no longer protected by the sun's spot clearing magic :(
Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Cleansing Bar for Face and Body. I've been using this miracle bar for about 7 years; it used to be called "Acne Solutions.." and it still is in the U.S. but obviously Clinique deemed this scary word 'Acne' too much for the U.K. Well let me tell you, it's not blemishes I have, it's full on pimples/spots/acne and even sometimes to my horror, cysts. Big horrible acne cysts. When I get a breakout, nine times out of ten it's because I realise that I haven't been using my soap properly. It sounds crazy, but for me, it really works and I'm afraid to stop using it. Now I am in my thirties, my skin isn't so bad that makeup can't cover most problems, and I really sympathise for those people out there who suffer with acne, I was one of them when I was younger so I know how it feels.
One of the reasons I love this little bar of soap is that you can use it all over your body, so if you're spot prone on your chest or back, lather it up there as well. Surprisingly for a 'blemish' soap it lathers up nice and foamy and also gives you a love/hate squeaky sound when you rinse off; you literally feel squeaky clean.
It retails for approx £16.00 so not cheap, but as it's in a traditional bar format rather than liquid, it lasts for ages so you certainly get your money's worth. It comes in a fairly decent soap box so can be easily transported on weekends away, or as in my case, from bath tub to sink windowsill.
You can also use this soap as part of Clinique's 3-step skincare routine but you can equally just use the soap along with your normal products so don't let the white coated sales assistants tempt you if you're already happy with your moisturiser etc. Do let us know if you use this and if you love it like I do...
Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Cleansing Bar for Face and Body, £16.00
www.clinique.co.uk
CQ x
P.S. Which beauty product are you most loyal to? Comment below or tweet us!
It's hard to know what products to use on the sensitive skin of your newborn, or in fact any age baby; many of our favourite lotions and potions contain ingredients that we can't even pronounce, let alone know what they are.
The products are just as lovely as their original ones but with the added knowledge and reassurance that they are designed and formulated especially for newborns. What I especially love is the way Johnson's have really thought about the packaging. The moisturising lotion has an easy-to-hold bottle with nice big chunky flip-top lid, yet has a tiny nozzle - perfect as little newborn babies only need a teeny squirt, not a big splodge. The barrier cream comes in a tube rather than a tub so it's great for your changing bag, and (hopefully) less chance of leaking by the lid coming off. The cream has a clay-like consistency but at the same time it's not too thick - just right for rubbing into the skin.
The product that has me intrigued the most are the wipes. I am yet to get my hands on some but I will certainly be tracking down a pack in the next few days - they are described "As safe as cotton wool and water". When I was in hospital after just having my little girl, the midwife repeatedly told me to use just cotton wool and water. It worked fine at first, but after a few weeks, (and then months) my little one kept getting a red bum and preparing warm water and cotton wool in the night (with the dimmest lightbulb ever) wasn't the easiest thing. I didn't want to use any products but the cotton wool and water method just wasn't practical. Moving to wipes made my life SO much easier and she hasn't had a sore bum since - but it would be great to have the best of both worlds. Tomorrow I will be off to Tesco to hunt down some wipes...(exciting times!)
Prices from £2.49
Currently on offer at Tesco, save £3 when you spend £12 or more on Johnsons Baby toiletries/wipes
CQ x
Nestled in bustling Kensington, West London, and a stones throw from Shepherds Bush station, (although according to my incompetent iPhone – up, down and round and round in circles). The K Spa and Hotel is the perfect retreat for those wishing to remove themselves from the hustle and bustle of daily life - even if for just a few hours.
After my excruciating journey from Essex, mainly due to the latter part of getting lost, it is in fact, just three minutes max from the station. The K Spa could not have been any more perfect in timing, as a new mum... I'm exhausted.
Bursting out of the elevator, My best friend and I were greeted by a brightly lit reception, laden with products, which then led us into a waiting room with cosy leather beds, lunch menus, delicately flavoured water, magazines - everything to take your mind off of poos, teething and tantrums.One of the biggest buzz ingredients in beauty right now is Baobab, one of Africas best kept secrets.
The green fruit delicately hangs from the African Baobab tree, and the white flesh resembles fluffy marshmallows; high in antioxidants, vitamin C, calcium and potassium. It is natures own Berocca.Usually served in powder form, and in K Spa's case, a scrub, oil and delicious smoothie, the fruit has now become part of one of their signature treatments: The Feel Good Baobab Treatment costs £110 for 70 minutes. £2 of your purchase will be donated to the Aduna Foundation.
As a very stressed mum (mainly due to partner, not baby), I had high hopes the treatment would deliver escapism, and perhaps a little soujourn to the Sahara. The treatment uses Germaine De Cappucini 'Perfect Forms' products throughout. The Oil Tonic Scrub for starters, Firm & Tonic Oil, then the Dreamy Legs cooling gel. The piece de resistance (or Baobab) is a delicious smoothie, made with Aduna's Baobab Superfruit Powder.
First, I was gently eased onto a warm, heated bed. The start of the treatment was a scrub, which I usually find painful as the seeds or kernels attack my crocodile-like skin. However, the scrub was very delicate, in scent, and delivery, and as I've neglected my body for so long, it was such a treat to be pampered, yet at the same time receive a targeted treatment. I felt the dry skin melt away with each and every stroke and felt really relaxed. The scrub also works to remove impurities and aims to leave skin as soft as my baby's bottom. Beautiful!
As the therapist set to work, when it came to removing the scrub, it was a delightful yet different experience. Using a soft rocking motion with a towel to improve energy flow and also remove the debris, It was deftly whipped off. Despite the fact I was being covered in an abrasive scrub, I still felt the urge to nod off, and in my dreamy state I kept wishing my little tootsies would be included too, my poor, weary feet, but more of that later...
As I was gently rolled over onto my front, the Germaine de Cappuccini Baobab unctuous oil was applied bountifully. Now, if you think you're booking in for a massage, this it is not. There's no petrissage (deep tissue), nor Swedish techniques. It's African, don't you know! The technique they use is actually long, sweeping movements, sometimes a little eye-wincingly painful, but designed to improve energy flow and remove blockages. And this old gal, will have very little of the former. The 3-in-1 treatment (scrub, massage, pressure points) is a great way to ease yourself back into the world of pampering. Who would want to be pummelled and sore after a massage, anyway? As the skilled therapist applied more oil, I got a distinct whiff of menthol, one of the key ingredients in the product, which will help tired and weary limbs. And also a nasty cold, that seems to be going around right now. As I subconsciously willed the therapist to release the tension in my poor, neglected feet - she did! Remember, positive thinking, ladies.
Whether it was part of the treatment, or not. My throbbing feet were enveloped in the sweetly-scented products and left satisfied and relieved (as far as tired feet go).The therapist continued the sweeping massage strokes - which help the lymphatic and circulatory systems relieve tension and completely relax you (even if you are still worrying about that washing that needs rescuing from the washing machine....)
If I'm very honest, when I was gently placed on my front, it was game over. My body completely gave in, and I found myself in a dreamy state. Wandering along the Sahara with a soft, white sand blanket sifting between my toes. It was only when a heated towel was placed under my neck and used to lift my head up slightly and roll it from side to side. As my stiff tension-filled neck cracked with the movement, it awoke me from my pleasant daydream. This was the most painful part, mainly as it's where you hold the most tension, but not at any point was it not enjoyable. It was bliss.
For the final stage of the treatment, the therapist finds the pressure points on my face and scalp. Never something I've found relaxing due to sinus problems, and I always feel the point between the eyebrows a little tender. Then comes the baobab super charged smoothie. I could detect banana, and possibly papaya or mango, I'm not sure, but it was so tasty, and I was gasping after my trip to the desert, so I downed it in one - probably not the best move. Delicious as it was, it sat on my chest for a good hour after!After your treatment, and dreamy state, there's the opportunity to visit the spas' wet room, literally the most heavenly spa I've seen. And I've seen a lot.
We gasped as we walked into the cleanest, whitest of white room, with a smattering of brown and gold, twinkly lights and the most inviting aura. There are foot baths, sauna and steam room, snow room (yes!), and huge jacuzzi-pool big enough for 10! It's worth popping along just for some time out here. It's really, really peaceful and stunning. Therapists float in and out to ensure it's spotless and serene.
This is a great treatment if you are feeling de-energised and run-down – or if you want to indulge in a long and blissful massage that will scrub new life into your skin.K Spa gets a big four star 'mums' up.
LN x
After my excruciating journey from Essex, mainly due to the latter part of getting lost, it is in fact, just three minutes max from the station. The K Spa could not have been any more perfect in timing, as a new mum... I'm exhausted.
Bursting out of the elevator, My best friend and I were greeted by a brightly lit reception, laden with products, which then led us into a waiting room with cosy leather beds, lunch menus, delicately flavoured water, magazines - everything to take your mind off of poos, teething and tantrums.One of the biggest buzz ingredients in beauty right now is Baobab, one of Africas best kept secrets.
The green fruit delicately hangs from the African Baobab tree, and the white flesh resembles fluffy marshmallows; high in antioxidants, vitamin C, calcium and potassium. It is natures own Berocca.Usually served in powder form, and in K Spa's case, a scrub, oil and delicious smoothie, the fruit has now become part of one of their signature treatments: The Feel Good Baobab Treatment costs £110 for 70 minutes. £2 of your purchase will be donated to the Aduna Foundation.
As a very stressed mum (mainly due to partner, not baby), I had high hopes the treatment would deliver escapism, and perhaps a little soujourn to the Sahara. The treatment uses Germaine De Cappucini 'Perfect Forms' products throughout. The Oil Tonic Scrub for starters, Firm & Tonic Oil, then the Dreamy Legs cooling gel. The piece de resistance (or Baobab) is a delicious smoothie, made with Aduna's Baobab Superfruit Powder.
First, I was gently eased onto a warm, heated bed. The start of the treatment was a scrub, which I usually find painful as the seeds or kernels attack my crocodile-like skin. However, the scrub was very delicate, in scent, and delivery, and as I've neglected my body for so long, it was such a treat to be pampered, yet at the same time receive a targeted treatment. I felt the dry skin melt away with each and every stroke and felt really relaxed. The scrub also works to remove impurities and aims to leave skin as soft as my baby's bottom. Beautiful!
As the therapist set to work, when it came to removing the scrub, it was a delightful yet different experience. Using a soft rocking motion with a towel to improve energy flow and also remove the debris, It was deftly whipped off. Despite the fact I was being covered in an abrasive scrub, I still felt the urge to nod off, and in my dreamy state I kept wishing my little tootsies would be included too, my poor, weary feet, but more of that later...
As I was gently rolled over onto my front, the Germaine de Cappuccini Baobab unctuous oil was applied bountifully. Now, if you think you're booking in for a massage, this it is not. There's no petrissage (deep tissue), nor Swedish techniques. It's African, don't you know! The technique they use is actually long, sweeping movements, sometimes a little eye-wincingly painful, but designed to improve energy flow and remove blockages. And this old gal, will have very little of the former. The 3-in-1 treatment (scrub, massage, pressure points) is a great way to ease yourself back into the world of pampering. Who would want to be pummelled and sore after a massage, anyway? As the skilled therapist applied more oil, I got a distinct whiff of menthol, one of the key ingredients in the product, which will help tired and weary limbs. And also a nasty cold, that seems to be going around right now. As I subconsciously willed the therapist to release the tension in my poor, neglected feet - she did! Remember, positive thinking, ladies.
Whether it was part of the treatment, or not. My throbbing feet were enveloped in the sweetly-scented products and left satisfied and relieved (as far as tired feet go).The therapist continued the sweeping massage strokes - which help the lymphatic and circulatory systems relieve tension and completely relax you (even if you are still worrying about that washing that needs rescuing from the washing machine....)
If I'm very honest, when I was gently placed on my front, it was game over. My body completely gave in, and I found myself in a dreamy state. Wandering along the Sahara with a soft, white sand blanket sifting between my toes. It was only when a heated towel was placed under my neck and used to lift my head up slightly and roll it from side to side. As my stiff tension-filled neck cracked with the movement, it awoke me from my pleasant daydream. This was the most painful part, mainly as it's where you hold the most tension, but not at any point was it not enjoyable. It was bliss.
For the final stage of the treatment, the therapist finds the pressure points on my face and scalp. Never something I've found relaxing due to sinus problems, and I always feel the point between the eyebrows a little tender. Then comes the baobab super charged smoothie. I could detect banana, and possibly papaya or mango, I'm not sure, but it was so tasty, and I was gasping after my trip to the desert, so I downed it in one - probably not the best move. Delicious as it was, it sat on my chest for a good hour after!After your treatment, and dreamy state, there's the opportunity to visit the spas' wet room, literally the most heavenly spa I've seen. And I've seen a lot.
We gasped as we walked into the cleanest, whitest of white room, with a smattering of brown and gold, twinkly lights and the most inviting aura. There are foot baths, sauna and steam room, snow room (yes!), and huge jacuzzi-pool big enough for 10! It's worth popping along just for some time out here. It's really, really peaceful and stunning. Therapists float in and out to ensure it's spotless and serene.
This is a great treatment if you are feeling de-energised and run-down – or if you want to indulge in a long and blissful massage that will scrub new life into your skin.K Spa gets a big four star 'mums' up.
LN x
As parents, there's nothing in the world more rewarding and heartwarming than experiencing your baby's first milestones.
Some of the most endearing and magical moments, belong to those first ones you share together. That first little gurgle, the first precarious steps, even the first bear hug - they're moments you can't possibly beat, and ones you'll never want to miss.
Which is why, here at Babyurbeautiful we are proud to be supporting this incredibly worthwhile Pampers campaign to help more babies around the world experience their firsts.
For the 9th year, Pampers have joined with UNICEF to support the '1 pack = 1 vaccine' annual campaign and really need our support. Since 2006, the campaign has funded an incredible 300 million vaccines for fatal newborn tetanus, eliminating the disease in 15 countries. But there are still babies in 24 of the world's poorest countries at risk and we want YOU to help us out here.
All you need to do is simply watch this video, then pampers will donate the cost of 3 vaccines to UNICEF.
It will take less than a minute of your day to make such a difference to such precious young lives. So please click on the video here:
Some of the most endearing and magical moments, belong to those first ones you share together. That first little gurgle, the first precarious steps, even the first bear hug - they're moments you can't possibly beat, and ones you'll never want to miss.
Which is why, here at Babyurbeautiful we are proud to be supporting this incredibly worthwhile Pampers campaign to help more babies around the world experience their firsts.
For the 9th year, Pampers have joined with UNICEF to support the '1 pack = 1 vaccine' annual campaign and really need our support. Since 2006, the campaign has funded an incredible 300 million vaccines for fatal newborn tetanus, eliminating the disease in 15 countries. But there are still babies in 24 of the world's poorest countries at risk and we want YOU to help us out here.
All you need to do is simply watch this video, then pampers will donate the cost of 3 vaccines to UNICEF.
It will take less than a minute of your day to make such a difference to such precious young lives. So please click on the video here:
We've already told you about Treacle Moon Dusted 'Cocoa Dreams' bath and shower gel, so i'll keep this short but sweet... I couldn't not tell you about Treacle Moon 'Warm Apple Pie Hugs' and 'Sweet Sugared Almond' bath and shower gel (available exclusively at Tesco).
I love all things sweet so this lovely range of bath products suit me perfectly. To be honest I lathered it on thinking it was apple, then as the sweet aroma filled my bathroom, I thought to myself mmmm this smells like cake? Pastry? What is it? Then I realised - Apple Pie! It was exactly warm apple pie! Perfect for a cosy autumn evening of indulgence.
Sweet Sugared Almond is part of the Candy Jar collection and is equally scrumptious, in fact either of these would be great Christmas gifts or even a wedding favour, the packaging is gorgeous and includes a cute little poem.
Treacle Moon, currently on offer at Tesco, until 3rd November, just £1.99 (normally £2.99) for 500ml so stock up the stockings now
I love using my ghd's but I do worry about the damage that I'm causing to my hair; of course I use all kinds of heat protecting sprays, shampoos and strengthening conditioners but the real damage is obviously done from applying burning hot plates at over 200 degrees to my (already brittle, coloured and dry) locks. That's where the Braun Sensocare ST780 Straightener is different — it claims to give damage free styling. The built-in sensors detect moisture levels of each strand of hair and automatically adjust the temperature as it glides from root to tip.
It looks just like any other straightener, the plates are only a tiny bit wider than my ghds, its got a nice feel to it (not clunky and cumbersome like some) so creating curls and waves with its curved edge is pretty easy. Sounds good so far? Just wait. The thing I love that I've not come across before on this kind of device, is the intuative LCD screen. It actually gives you feedback! Isn't it bad enough that we get feedback at work, annual appraisals etc without having a styling test every time we do our hair? At first I was wondering how to turn it off, but when it told me I was going too slow I realised that this is the brilliance of the product. I was going too fast, and therefore had to keep going over each section, potentially damaging my hair further. It also warns you if your hair is damp – my bed head hair didn't have this problem but good to know.
If that wasn't enough to rave about, there's still one more fantastic feature. As with most new technology, it's all about the 'profiles'. In this case, you can programme in three of them; enough for your mum/sister/flatmate, or as in my house, my huband! You have to tell it your hair thickness, length and if it's coloured so then along with the moisture level detection, it can adjust the temperature as it sweeps down your hair...of course it's hard to say if it actually changes as you go from root to tip, I guess we just have to trust Braun on that.
If this all sounds a bit too much, there is the option to turn it onto manual, so you can adjust the temperature yourself from 160-200 degrees. This would be a great gift for a styling novice, but equally good for straightening addicts who have hair in need TLC.
RRP 89.99 but available currently on amazon for just £59.99.
CQx
Love us or loathe us, the full team can hold their hands up and exclaim we're stretch mark free.
We all used varying methods to maintain a smooth belly, and each and every one obviously worked. Unless it was a fluke? My tip was eat lots of cake prior so you have a little leeway before baby fills the gap!
Many mums say 'it's genetic, if my mum had them, it's inevitable I will too'. WRONG.
My lovely mum has terrible silver and pink stretch marks scars, it could have been she was so young, or the fact she absolutely ballooned, but I don't have one. (Aside from the time my arse expanded, then shrunk dramatically - so I've got some there).
This month we've been trying out Bepanthen stretch mark cream, designed to reduce the development of said marks and nourish very dry skin after birth.
The cream has Centella Asiatica, a tropical plant known to help reduce stretch marks by stimulating collagen production. It also has olive oil, vitamin B5 and glycerin to reinforce elasticity.
We've all had the renowned Bepanthen nappy cream in our baby bag, so we were expecting big things. And it didn't disappoint.
It sinks in effortlessly to the skin, and has a lovely soft scent. It's free of preservatives and colours and it's hypoallergenic.
Obviously the consistency is nothing like the unctuous nappy cream, it's actually very light. And the packaging is sturdy, with a pump dispenser to save any mess and spillages. The only downfall? The price point: £24.99.
Now, prior to birth, and SMP, I guess this is ok, but after, big splurges are a no go (especially if daddy is anything to do with it!). I'm not speaking on behalf of everyone, I would happily part with the cash, I guess it's all subjective, and dependant whether you're a fan of a cream, an oil, or a butter. Used morning and night you'd get through 3 generous pumps per bump (each time). I'd say through pregnancy to post partum it would take two of the 150ml bottles.
But for efficacy, this has got to be up the top.
The cream de la cream!
Have you tried this? Are you a fan and a success story? We'd absolutely love to know.
Watch this space to win one....
