CLARINS TONIC BODY BALM

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”Wake me up before you go go”!!! This Clarins body balm is invigorating and uplifting. This is my favorite scent out of the Clarins range, so much so that all my Clarins body products are ordered in this same scent to layer the fragrance. I even have the perfume!!!. Certain essential oils can either help you sleep or help you wake up and this for me is a perfect morning balm to liven the senses and help you wake. Smooth on after Tonic Bath & Shower Concentrate and your skin is left soft, toned and smelling delicious.

”Change your tone! This refreshing body balm treatment—with a firming blend of Ginseng and Apple Seed Oil—soothes dryness, improves vitality and promotes the appearance of toned, supple-looking skin. This soft body balm refreshes the senses with the aromatic essences of Geranium, Rosewood, Mint and Rosemary and the non-oily texture delivers a satin-fresh finish. Smooth on after Tonic Bath & Shower Concentrate and Tonic Body Treatment Oil for a professional, at-home spa treat.”

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Decléor 1000 Grain Body Exfoliator

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WOW, this morning I used this Decleor 1000 Grain Body Scrub and it was amazing!! Not all products make it on to the Tried and Tested Blog, only the best and this is another firm favorite of mine. It has the strangest consistency of a gel exfoliator  that melts into an oil and then turns into a milk and even though it is ”1000 grain”, was not abrasive at all. Decleor seem to have a knack of making me mesmerised with their consistency, feel and texture of their products. It has the most up lifting fragrance within the essential oils that had me energised and ready for the day ahead. Shaving after rinsing this exfoliator was a dream. Not sure if it was the oil, but the hubby’s razor (shhhh) just glided and I was left with a real smooth close shave. My skin felt and smelt amazing and was prepped and ready to lather in another amazing product …review to follow.

”This indulgent scrub helps provide skin a velvety-smooth finish, as if transformed. Enriched with Grapefruit Essential Oil, which gives it a sparkling, invigorating fragrance, and a combination of Pearl Sugar, Argan Shell and Orange Peel with Fruit Acids (Grape, Pineapple and Passion Fruit). Our innovative gel turns into an oil during massage for easy application, and then turns into a milk upon contact with water for quick rinsing. Skin is left feeling softer, smoother and refined.”

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Decléor Hydra Floral Hydrating Active Lotion

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Where do I start?. When I was introduced to this NEW moisturiser I was skeptical to say the least. A moisturiser that is the consistency of water…naaaa!!!! We all know the brand Decleor and we know they are a firm favorite in the skincare and spa industry but I wasn’t convinced with this new product. Now we all know I suffer from oily skin so I have to make sure skincare matches my skin type as anything too heavy just melts off and I end up looking like a wax work literally so sometimes I even avoid moisturiser when applying my foundation for a night out!!!. I never suffer from acne but I do suffer from open pores. The first time I picked this up to try  I nearly used it as a micellar water and had to remind myself that is is actually a moisturiser. I shook out a few drops on the palms of my hands, rubbed them together and patted into my face. Instantly on my hands you could feel this was not water. It was silky and light and smelt amazing as all Decleor products do. My skin drank it up with no residue left so my make up went on beautifully. My skin felt hydrated but without the moisturiser after feel but with a luminous glow. A big hit with Mrs T&T.

”Pollution and emotional stress can accentuate skin dehydration. Combining the freshness of a cosmetic water with the hydration power of a cream, this active lotion offers skin continuous hydration. Enriched with Moringa Olifeira extract providing protection against pollution particles, it reveals a beautiful skin texture. Skin feels plumped, with dehydration lines appearing smoothed. Skin glows and feels fresh.

Apply 2-3 drops into your hands (no cotton pad needed) and massage into a cleansed face and neck.Use as either a moisturiser after the Aromessence or as a moisture booster for your usual cream by using this beforehand.”

 

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Longlox Launch Gateshead

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I was invited along to the Longlox launch in Gateshead. Longlox is a new salon located opposite the Marriot hotel near the Metro Centre. No expense was spared for this launch. There were cupcakes, sparkle, makeovers, photo booths, goodie bags, media attention and celebrity appearances from Scotty T and Chantelle from good old Geordie Shore. There was a swarm of women. I kid you not, the queue was massive, full of glam women wanting a glimpse of this gorgeous new hair extension specialist salon. I was lucky enough to get in before the crowds to grab a few snaps of this impressive haven for beauty. I was greeted by two stunning girls who handed me a very generous goodie bag and I was left to have a mooch about with my sidekick Harley (my son). The first thing I noticed was all the immaculately turned out staff! I had proper hair envy, they all looked gorgeous. Then I spotted the cake, WOW, just wished I remembered to grab a cupcake as Harley said they were amazing. Harley also got a bag of sweets which was cute and kept him happy. It was very child friendly and they have a great kiddie area to entertain the little ones while you get pampered. I managed to get my eye make up done at the HD stand which was handy as I was going out that evening. We had some fun in the photo booth with Scotty and my friend Fran, I watched some demos and had a braid put in my hair. Longlox is a one stop shop for all you beauty needs but they specialise in hair extensions and offer every system going with a budget to suit. This was a well organised, great launch and I wish SammyJo every success. Please visit their website to find out more here.

 

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Clinique Take The Day Off Makeup Remover For Lids, Lashes & Lips

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This Clinique makeup remover is the best I’ve tried. It removes every last trace of eye make up. It is also great as it removes lip make up too. It suits all skin types and was winner of the SHE Magazine Beauty Awards 2011 for Best Eye Makeup Remover. Can also be used with contacts. Honestly ladies this is a staple product in any makeup bag. Shake it up, apply to cotton wool, sweep over the eyes and watch the panda look be a thing of the past! …. thank me later xx

Pop into House of Fraser to purchase and get some free samples or buy online here  

 

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Clarins Tonic Bath & Shower Concentrate

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Love this bath tonic from Clarins. it really helps me unwind in the bath after a long day or use in the shower on a morning and its invigorating! Its so concentrated only a little is needed. The smell off the essential oils is out of this world, its like a spa in a bottle!! Top Tip: Hide from the kids and give them Mr Matey !!!

”This concentrated cleansing treatment activates with the heat of a warm bath or shower—releasing the invigorating, aromatic virtues of Rosemary, Mint and Geranium. Extracts of Gentian and Pine cleanse and refine. Lightweight lather is gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin.”

Pop into House of Fraser to buy and nab a few sample freebies or buy online here 

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CLARINS EXFOLIATING BODY SCRUB

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I have been using this body exfoliator for about a month now and I have to say I love it! It makes my skin feel so silky smooth and is not harsh. It Refines and softens body skin by removing impurities and dead surface skin cells. An essential first step in any successful body care programme because it helps facilitate product absorption thereby enhancing product performance. Skin is more resistant, firmer and soft to the touch. This combined with my Kiehls creme de corps makes my legs summer ready

”The essential first step to achieving a firm, youthful-looking body: the Exfoliating Body scrub. This refreshing, moisturising and exfoliating treatment (with smoothing Natural Bamboo Powders and a hint of ginger) ‘rubs away’ rough, flaky surface cells and impurities, giving skin a sleek new start. Also, prepares skin for the treatment that follows”.

Pop in to House of Fraser and see any of the girls who will be happy to give you a sample to try if you mention Tried and Tested

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CLINIQUE GIFT LAUNCH – HOUSE OF FRASER INTU METRO CENTRE

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What a great evening I had last night at the Clinique gift launch in House of Fraser Intu Metro Centre. There was gift bags, nibbles, sparkle and make – up demos. As you can see I stuck to water and I loved the branded bottles although I didn’t lay off the cakes and had far too many. Clinique is very well know for skin care but has really become a rival in the cosmetics now too. As you all know I am a huge fan of their beyond perfecting foundation and concealer  and their chubby highlighting stick . The girls are lovely and full of knowledge about the brand. Now is a great time to buy from Clinique as they are currently on ”gift” which means if you buy two or more products, one being skincare or foundation you get this pictured gift completely FREE. Included in the gift is a mixture of skincare and cosmetics, including a handbag size of my favorite foundation which will be matched to suit. What you waiting for girls, stock up on your favorite products or give Clinique a try!. I can recommend the girls in House of Fraser to help you find the perfect products to suit. Gift runs from 5/5/16 to 21/5/16.

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Murad Facial – House of Fraser Intu Metro Centre

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Today I was invited to try a Murad facial at its treatment room located in House Of Fraser, Intu Metro Centre, Gateshead.

Murad is an American skincare brand that was founded in 1989 by dermatologist Dr Howard Murad. The products are all based on using the best of science to get measurable results and there are prescriptive ranges designed for anti-ageing, blemish control, environmental protection, deeper wrinkles, discolouration and dark spots and a range specifically for men. I was particularly excited by the anti-aging blemish range because now at 35 I realise how important it is to look after your skin (better late than never I suppose).

I arrived at the Murad counter and was greeted by Sarah who asked me to fill in a medical form. I already knew I was having the AHA Rapid Exfoliator Anti-Ageing Facial which is a glycolic peel which gives incredible anti-ageing results, for healthier and younger-looking skin.

Sarah led me to the treatment room which presents itself with dark walls and dim lighting, giving me an instant relaxed feel. I removed my top, took down my bra straps and got comfy under the thick quilt on the bed.

After cleansing my skin, Sarah then prepped my skin with salicylic acid and then applied a glycolic peel along with a lip balm to protect the lips. She warned me that it may tingle and checked to make sure my skin felt OK while the active ingredients started work. Different people’s skin reacts in different ways; on a scale of 1 to 10 from normal to painful I was at a 1, there was virtually no tingle even. While the peel was working I was treated to a arm and hand massage.

After removing the peel, next up was the clarifying mask. It was very cool and calming. The mask was left for around 5 minutes. After Sarah removed the mask she applied a top layer of cream and my treatment was complete.

Murad is a prescription facial prescribed to treat a number of different skin problems. Please don’t book in with Murad if you are wanting a full on relaxing facial. Murad facials are done with the consultant wearing gloves to protect their hands as they do numerous facials per day and the acid would not be kind to their skin if they were to expose their hands to every treatment. Murad also don’t use the hot towels etc you would come to expect from a relaxing facial either. Do not let this put you off, I was actually relaxed and the thought of having prescription skincare working on my skin to help claw back the years filled me with glee.

Check out the other facial treatments Murad offer also!!!

My first visit to Murad, where I discovered the youth cam can be found here

To book this facial call 0191 4938869

Facial Cost : £55

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VITAMIN INFUSION DRIP – CENTRAL HEALTHCARE NEWCASTLE

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After a really hectic week last week working, recording chatty lasses and winning my award, I just knew I was going to crash and burn this week!. During a heavy week I tend to run on adrenaline and I always come down from my high with a bang once i’m back to my usual lifestyle. I usually end up poorly and exhausted but this time  I was ready !!! Nurse Gill had me armed with her secret weapon, the ”Vitamin Infusion” IV drip!!!

”YOUR BEST JUST GOT BETTER” Enhanced intravenous hydration for the nation ( hell yeah )

How does it work?

Vitamin infusion is a scientifically formulated intravenous rehydration solution for the effective treatment of moderate to severe dehydration.

 Vitamin infusion works by replacing fluid, electrolytes and vitamins lost due to heavy sweating, heat illness, vomiting, diarrhea, excess alcohol consumption and more.

 Vitamin infusion products are widely used in hospitals and by healthcare professionals worldwide.

I visited Central Healthcare in Newcastle which is very easy to get to and very close to the centre for life. I had the ”fitamin” drip, this is the most common drip for a ”pick me up”. There are other drips that help with different symptoms but nurse Gill can help you decide which is best. The drip is priced at £227.00 per infusion. Frequency of infusion varies per person, some have monthly or 3 monthly. Others just have now and then for a boost like me. This treatment is common for people with an illness or who are going through gastric bypass surgery.

The treatment took around an hour but it was very relaxing. I am fine with needles so I was not worried. Firstly nurse Gill went through all the consent forms with me and explained the procedure. Then I was made comfortable on the bed and the needle was inserted into the vein, very gently might I add. I was given fluids first to hydrate me and then the bag was changed to the actual vitamin drip. It had a strong smell, medicine like. It felt cold going in but was never once uncomfortable in any way. Nurse Gill and I chatted, she is a lovely lady who really puts you at ease. I took a few selfies as you do and caught up on my blog while the bright yellow vitamin filled cocktail went through my veins.

That afternoon/evening I felt tired but that was to be expected. The next day I had a hugely intense training session at work and all my ”cheeky” staff commented on how they were going to have a whip round every month and buy me a vitamin infusion because I was really ”happy” today . I’m sure I am happy everyday but apparently not ha ha. I did feel more energised, less sluggish and ready to take on the world but this was nothing compared to the following day. Wednesday, 2 days after my drip I was awake and up at 6am, which was not intentional and un heard of in my house. I did try to fight it and sleep in longer but my body had other ideas. I went to work and after work had two really important meetings back to back. I did not finish and get back home until 9.30pm that evening. Id been on the go for over 15 hrs but still felt full of fuel. I can only put this down to the drip as like I said earlier, I literally crash and burn. I would highly recommend this treatment if you too feel you need a boost, maybe you have a physical challenge coming up or maybe you have been poorly.

To book this treatment or to find out more you can call: 0191 222 0100 or visit www.centralhealthcare.co.uk

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