Tuesday 23 September 2014

PicStick - Photo magnets





So i was kindly contacted to try PicStick's service. Which offers to turn any photos, you wish into magnets. Its a great gift idea, with christmas coming these are perfect stocking fillers. 

How it works 
It all starts with choosing the 9 photos you want on your PicStick sheet. To make the process quick and easy, you can upload from your numerous computers and social media. Once you’ve made your selection, you simply save the PicSticks to your basket and checkout. 


Once you’ve placed your order, we create your photo magnets using state of the art digital printing equipment. On 200gsm art board to give them a high quality and durable finish. Each individual photo magnet is 50x65mm and 0.75mm thick.


PicSticks are tough and child-friendly. You can easily separate each sheet of 9 photo magnets, by tearing along the perforated edges or snapping them off.



So i placed my order and it took around 4-5 days to arrive. The magnets are well embossed and great quality. They are very durable if you want to order a set, yet worried they may ruin within a family enviroment. The photos came out with no blurring. This is due to the uploader telling you the optimum size, so they are the best they can be. 



The magnets are easy to seperate by bending back and forth. My husband used his fine tool knife to ensure the cut was clean. I did try but i would have had to pull, which i didnt want to try. So why potentially ruin amazing photos, for the sake of asking my husband to just help me. 



So overall i really enjoyed this service. I am giving a magnet to each member of the family. This will be a token trinket of loved ones together. If you would like to order a set for yourself, or even as christmas gifts. Then the kind staff at PicStick have given my lovely readers a code to use. Enjoy the ease of the site when uploading those memories. Then await the final product that you can enjoy for many years. 

  25% discount code (TARA25) to pass on to the readers of my blog.




Monday 22 September 2014

Dermalex - Psoriasis scalp repair




Now with it being national eczema awarness week, im going to be doing a mini series of things i find help my skin. Now whilst i dont have eczema, i do have a skin condition called psoriasis. I was kindly sent a sample, of Dermalex's new Repair scalp psoriasis treatment. The one thing that can be tricky with any skin condition, is the scalp area. 



Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune disease that appears on the skin. It occurs when the immune system sends out faulty signals that speed up the growth cycle of skin cells.

Common Symptoms ; 
Psoriasis appears as raised red patches covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells called scaling. Found predominantly on the scalp, face, back, elbows, palms, legs and knees. While the actual cause of psoriasis is unknown, it is believed to result from genetic's.

Dermalex : Repair Scalp Psoriasis, a new treatment for mild to moderate scalp psoriasis. Dermalex soothes :
~ itching
~ scaling & flaking
~ irritation & redness
~ fragrance & coal-tar free 

The non-greasy gel absorbs into the skin easily. It can be used on its own or with other treatment.


How to use :
Apply a small amount of Dermalex Repair Scalp Psoriasis,avoiding hair as much as possible. Apply to affected area, let the gel dry. Do not wash out until your next shower. Apply twice a day (morning and evening). Re-apply after hair is washed, or you've had a shower.


Now il give you a little insight into my psoriasis. My triggers tend to be stress, illness,allergies etc. Mine is genetically passed down, with my mother and father having the genes. My psoriasis can abate with sun exposure (always spf protected). 

I always use hydrating mists & creams, at times im prescribed steroid creams. I use exfoliation gloves or natural scrubs to remove dead skin. I do have to do quite a lengthy hair routine.


The one area that wont see much sun is my scalp, thats where Dermalex helps. It has a "funnel" attachment, for the tube of cream. To get the product as close to the scalp as possible. I apply in the morning (after washing) then leave till the second application in the evening. This allows the treatment to sink in fully, plus absorb past the dead layers. I only do this every other day, as i could ruin the hair i have. Which is frizzy enough. 

Its not been comfotable or easy with the heat. However my psoriasis is massively reduced and the symptoms are no more. I would advise fellow sufferers to try this treatment, as i have had less hair loss also. So i will ask my dermatology clinic, if this is available on prescription. Then the findings can be noted and hopefully help others. 

Thank you to Dermalex.


Thursday 18 September 2014

Nourish - Kale exfoliating cleanser



I love nourish as a brand and am so excited to trial the new Kale exfoliating cleanser. With it's 3 in 1 multi-function. 

They say ;
This truely multi-tasking treatment is a cleanser, mask and facial - all in one product. Kale Enzymatic Exfoliating Cleanser features pomegranate enzymes to gently exfoliate and reveal a smoother, healthier complexion while organic kale extract helps to increase suppleness. Healing probiotics oxygenate whilst griffonia extract provides a protective shield against daily environmental aggressors. Use in one of three ways, cleanser, mask or facial, to provide you with the optimum cleansing for your skin. 


 3 ways to use: 
Gentle Cleanser : Massage gently over wet skin. Rinse with cool water, pat dry
 Daily Exfoliating mask : Smooth over dry skin, leave for 2 minutes then rinse with cool water, pat dry Weekly revitalising facial : Apply as a mask. After 5 minutes, spritz with Toning Mist or water to soften, massage gently then rinse with cool water, pat dry.

Nourish Exfoliating cleansing 



Ive used the product as a gentle cleanser and also my facial exfoliant. However I do not exfoliate every day, as my skin would be non too happy (Just my skin personally) with me. So the smell of the Kale is very earthy but fresh and leaves you smelling lovely. It looks almost like puréed kale, but the consistancy is light. So the exfoliant is not harsh nor is it loaded into the product. It's a fair mix to make this a comfortable exfoliant to use. Not abrasive like salt or sugar scrubs. Thats not to say this wont exfoliate well, as far from it. This kale exfoliation cleanser was pure heaven.



I would love a body version, as I loved the results it has given on my face. I'm blown away and I even used the last portion in the shower. It made my body feel amazing. If you have dry skin then I would use this before any hydration or moisturiser, as this will help absorption. My skin going into winter always becomes more dry, so I can really recommend this to anyone with the same problem. It's reliable and just fantastic to use especially if you want naturally sourced products. I cant wait to order another one as its certainly a must have for anyone with dry skin. 


Give Nourish a go, they are worth the money. 







Monday 15 September 2014

Pink parcel - September edition 2014




Pink parcel is a subscription box with a difference. I was so intrigued and find it a really innovative box. As for women it's a monthly essential, then to team that with some treats. Makes the mundane become a time to indulge and give yourself some you time. 


They say
Pink Parcel is a subscription service for your monthly cycle. We send you what you need, right when you need it. Your first Pink Parcel is £5.95. After that, each parcel is £9.95.


The box comes with a pre filled (discrete) pouch of 5 tampons, labelled "for now". This is for you bag so your always ready. 

The 2 boxes labelled "for later" is your supply of tampons. 

The box then labelled "for you" is a box of surprise treats. 

For now 
We currently supply Tampax, Lil-Lets and U By Kotex. We will be introducing a number of new brands including sanitary towels. 


I recieved "U by Kotex" tampons in my box. I'm very happy to try new forms of female protection, as we are all different. Plus it doesn't hurt to give other brands a go. The sizes are colour coded to help you choose which size you will need, as your flow changes during the duration of your period. I did like the vivid colours and very discreet size of the tampon. 

For you 
In addition you’ll receive a variety of treats. These treats will change each month, so opening your box will always be a lovely surprise



Teapigs : Peppermint tea (1 bag) 
A herbal cup of peppermint tea to help calm and relieve period cramps. Well known for its properties, this one bag will see if you find it helpful.

Daisy and dom : Chocolate bar 
A girls best friend on the pj and hot water bottle days, this Daisy and Dom chocolate is a divine hug. Melt in the mouth chocolate which is a perfect size. I would buy a pack these sized bars, as the portion to me is perfect. I also shared with my husband so it really is exceptional quality. 


Elizabeth Arden : Mascara 
I am flabbergasted that one of my treats is a beautiful Elizabeth Arden mascara. I felt amazing when I saw this beautifully packaged mascara. I have used this mascara before and really enjoyed it. It's a luxury hug and I'm blown away. 
Garnier : Miracle blur 
I really wanted to try this product as we all know hormonal skin, doesn't play to the rules. So with the miracle blur you can help reduce noticabable facial problems. That can make you feel just down and generally horrible. As I know I feel like this, when my skin plague's me when I'm hormonal.


Witch naturally clear : Anti blemish
Again another amazing product to help with hormonal skin. Gentle and hydrating cream, which reduces redness and soothes skin. Nice to have when you get that pesky month, that hits your skin like a truck. Then your sitting there going "why", you have this product to help ease  your skin. 



Voucher for cafe rouge
A lovely treat for when you might be passing cafe rouge. Then pop in and have a lovely glass of bubbly on them as a treat. The ultimate treat when your having one if those days. 

For later 
Your parcel will arrive 3-5 days before your next period. Each month Pink Parcel sends 25 tampons. If this isn't enough, please let us know.

So the 2 "for later" boxes contain your supply of tampons for the month. 


So overall I am amazed by this service and the contents of the treats box. I feel it really understands a woman's needs for the month. Both mentally and physically this box provides comfort. It is discreetly packaged when posted, it also supplies what you need. Whilst still ensuring you have choice. I will not hesitate to sign up for this monthly subscription service. I think this box is amazing.



Sunday 14 September 2014

Memebox - Coffee break with Dani (Limited edition)



So my second Memebox arrived and by no means did it disappoint. I'm loving each Memebox that arrives at my door. This box was another collaboration and I'm thrilled with the products. 


The box includes : 
- Prori : aroma gel mist 
- Dewytree : Ginsing mask
- Golden glove : 1pair exfoliating gloves
- Miguhara : B.P cream
- Nuganic : Sunblock 50spf
- Handskin : Bio origin BB ampoule
- Kocostar : Nail therapy 
- Chamos acaci : Snail eye cream


So above is a picture of the contents, it's full to the brim. Amazing box with a majority of full sized products. This ensures you can make a proper evaluation of a product, to see if it suits your needs. By far a better quality of beauty box. 


- Hanskin - Bio origin BB ampoule
This BB ampoule is a dainty size (4.5ml), only needing a drop of product too meet your needs. Packed with royal jelly extracts, makes for easier application of the product. This product claims that it will help leave a visibly silkier and brighter complexion. 

You can also use this product to areas you wish to cover up.  I cannot wait to use this product, as it sounds like it will be an amazing for winter. With the royal jelly for nutrients and hydration, perfect for dry skin. 


- Miguara B.P can serve as a BB cream or primer. It's oil free formula helps control excessive oil production. Keeping skin silky and even's skin tones. Applied over skin like a primer plus helps visible pores. I can't wait to try this product. Although I think it's more suited to summer for my skin type, as that's when my skin can be oily in the T-zone. I will be using more hydration as the weather becomes colder.

- Nuganic Sun block looks to be great for sensitive skins within summer. So I will keep this for my husband as he does burn easy. However in the UK we have sporadic summer's and I think this missed the season. Great product to have as an essential. 


- Prori gel mist is in the scent of lavender and a beautiful product. Enriched with bee venom and roots from many plants. This gel mist helps with blemishes and a multitude of other needs. Infused with lavender essential oil, this creates a calming gentle mist. 

- Chamos acaci's snail eye cream is said to help improve fine lines, dark circles etc around the eyes. Help's to moisturise the skin plus infuse with collagen, which help's accelerate the production of new tissue. Can be applied after basic makeup is set, which perks up the eyes. Refreshing your appearance when tapped lightly for better absorption.


- Nail therapy a first for me as I've never tried a nail mask, so this will be a new experience. One i hopefully will see marked improvements to my nails and damaged cuticles.

- Ginsing face mask I've heard this mask is amazing for skin, infused with many great ingredients. I tend to use masks in the winter when the cold is not being to kind to my skin. Maybe i should make a point of using facial masks again.


- 1 pair of exfoliation gloves these may not look like much, but if you have dry skin then they are just a pair of heaven. Much more efficient then any exfoliating product I've seen, its gentler then a loofah and more precise. These really are fantastic for dry skin. 


I loved my Coffee break with dani box, i cannot await my next box to be shipped on the 19th Sept and hope you all are as excited to see whats due to be arriving. 





Thursday 11 September 2014

Printrbook Instagram - Create your own book of memories




I was kindly contacted by Printrbook via Instagram. I was then sent information on this unique and innovative product. Perfect for a gift and an amazing quality to print your photos from instagram. Thank you Printrbook. 

They say : 
Printrbook is the simplest way to print beautiful photobooks of your Instagram photos. Although we completely love Instagram to bits, we believe locking up your photos in the cloud isn't ideal - how do you pass them from generation to generation? Remember how great it was to leaf through shoeboxes full of old printed family photos? Well - we want to make that possible with your Instagram photos by turning them into books that you can keep forever and easily pass down through the generations.


Just select the photos you want to add to your book. We'll automatically put your photos in chronological order. Once you've previewed your book (we'll make you a PDF so you can see what it'll look like), just check out with a payment card or your PayPal account. We ship worldwide too. So wherever you are on the globe, rest assured we'll get your book to you as fast as we can.

  • 25 or 50 Instagram photos per book
  • Choice of cover page styles
  • Optional photo captions
  • Optional date & time on each photo
  • Perfect binding
  • Secure payment 
  • Worldwide shipping
  • Printbook blog
My Printrbook experience


So I was kindly contacted by Printrbook, whom use Instagram pictures to make the books. Now the process is too pick 25 or 50 photos from your Instagram, via there site. You can customise the name of your book, also write a insert to make this the perfect personalised gift. 



If you would like the text to be present or date you uploaded the picture. These services are available to you. I had left mine empty, which leaves space below to self-customise. 



 I was amazed by the quality, as most photo sites need a certain level to print. 
The pictures especially considering they are from Instagram, are flawless. I would happily recommend this as a personal prints to keep, or gift to someone special. 



I wouldn't hesitate to order again for myself or as a gift. At £12 per book of 50 bound pictures, this is very affordable. Plus discount coupons being emailed, if you sign up for newsletters. This can give you a great saving. 

I was kindly given a code for my readers to use. The code 'tara10' will give 10% off your own Instagram photo book (valid for 1000 readers until 13th November).


Wednesday 10 September 2014

Nivea - New cleansing wipes




Nivea is another well known brand, that offers skincare for all skin types. I was kindly given the opportunity to review the new wipes being released. There is 4 types which are based on your skin's needs.

They say :

When NIVEA Creme was first introduced to the world in December of 1911, our goal was one thing: better skincare for everyone. 100 years later, our goal hasn’t changed. Throughout the decades, we have introduced you to many innovative skincare products – from deodorant to sun protection – and we’re always looking for new ways to improve our existing products. 



We work with some 50 institutes, in places as far flung as Brazil, India, China and South Africa, to test all of our products and ensure that they are suitable for your skin. Today, we offer a wide range of moisturisers, body creams, deodorants, cleansers and sun protection products. Committed NIVEA researchers studied these individualities and, thanks to their discoveries, people all over the world were able to find the answer to skincare needs related to their culture, gender and age.

Refreshing facial cleansing wipes 


They say :

The NIVEA Daily Essentials Refreshing Facial Cleansing Wipes, thorough cleansing of normal and combination skin, also provides refreshing hydration. 

So the refreshing cleansing wipes, are large pads that are soaked with cleanser. I was very impressed with these wipes. They were refreshing in the morning to wake up too. Also the bag is seal does stick down multiple times, with no loss of adhesive. So they don't dry out. I really enjoyed these wipes. Especially during the hot days, it certainly helped. 

Pure & Natural cleansing wipes


They say :

NIVEA pure and natural refreshing cleansing wipes are for all skin types. Infused with Bio Argan Oil and Bio Aloe Vera, they are free of parabens, mineral oils, silicones, artificial colorants and alcohol. They gently cleanse, remove make-up and refresh the skin - all in one step.

The pure and natural wipes smell lovely and I loved using them, my skin was soft after using them. I 
used them daily and again the pad was large. It's large enough to only need one to remove my makeup. That's what I love about all 4 types of wipes. 

Gentle facial cleansing wipes


They say :
Daily Essentials Gentle Facial Cleansing Wipes enriched with natural Almond Oil & Hydra IQ. Gently cleanse, removing make-up and waterproof mascara leaving skin feeling hydrated.  The formula with Almond Oil is mild and caring and is suitable for dry and sensitive skin. Your skin is completely cleansed, toned and hydrated, leaving your skin feeling soft and soothed all day long. 
These are my favourite wipes of the three as they are perfect for dry skin. They are super cleansing and leave a hydrating balm. They feel like the Nivea almond oil lotion I use, so the descriptive is very true. I Definatly would buy multipacks of these.

Sensitive cleansing wipes


They say :

NIVEA® Daily Essentials Sensitive Cleansing Wipes enriched with Vitamin E and Provitamin B5. Cleanses effectively, removing make-up and even waterproof mascara. Refreshes and leaves the skin feeling moisturised. See and Feel Healthy Looking Skin The skin is effectively cleansed and refreshed, looking healthy and beautiful.

These are amazing wipes that have been perfect for the morning. You want something caring before your routine starts, these are perfect.  I've enjoyed all 4 wipes, with the sensitive and gentle being the two I've enjoyed most. They fit my skincare regime perfectly. So thank you Nivea for allowing me to test for you. 






Where have i been ?

Many of us use makeup as we have a passion or or it is nessesity of our daily life. For me it is a mixture of things. It is one of those ...