Palmer's Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion for Stretchmarks - £2.69
Ever since childhood, I've always used Palmer's Cocoa Butter in some form. From using the thick butter that came in a tub as a kid, to the concentrated tube form in my student days it's nice to be using a lighter paraben free formula without scrimping on the moisture. Plus, I've always loved the scent. Some stretch marks have faded over months of using this, but I do think they must be recent for this cream to make a real difference. Particularly after tanning and in the lead up to summer this became a godsend for me, I cannot rate it enough.
Antipodes Resurrect Facial Toner - £18.98
A good alternative to the Caudalie Beauty Elixir for those with more normal skin. Without a hint of alcohol this will hydrate and rebalance the skin with its impressive organic ingredient list (water, lavender and sage are the first three on the list). In the hot weather this has been very refreshing to use during the day, whilst using this after Clarins Exfoliating Toner works as a great combination every second night. Yes, I've been taking Caroline Hirons' advice on toner, and since then my skin looks clearer and not much makeup is needed during the day. Perfect.
Mitchum Advanced Control 48 Hour Deodorant - £2.89
I particularly despise using aerosols in any form, but many roll-on deodorants fall flat and I usually concede defeat around April time. I'd heard this brand mentioned on blogs, but I only saw it on the aisles of a massive Boots Store (Westfield if you were wondering) I probably shouldn't go on about a deodorant, but this doesn't leave white marks on dark clothes and allows you to wear light clothes without the fear of unsightly sweat patches.
Garnier Ambre Solaire Protection Lotion SPF30 -£6.14
Okay, I'll admit that I probably don't need SPF 30 but people of colour can still burn in the sun! In 2009 I went to see Blur's comeback gig in Hyde Park and stood in the crowd from about 1pm until 10pm. It wasn't until the next day when I saw the peeling skin on my shoulders and the redness on my back from wearing a cut-out dress. Never. Again.
This is one of the few body spfs that don't make me look ashy or leave a noticeable white cast after application, so I'm sticking to it. It protects from both UVA and UVB rays and I haven't been caught short since using it.
Anna Sui Flight of Fancy EDP 50ml -£22.95, get £12.50 for 30ml here
My signature scent, this just reminds me of summer. About 6/7 years ago I gave this to my mum for her birthday, and I loved it so much I ended up buying one for myself! Fresh and fruity, this has top notes of lemon and lychee whilst not smelling overtly feminine. On me, more of the musk and rose comes through making it much more alluring and subtle than the ostentatious bottle implies. An oldie but a goodie.
There are a few new discoveries that I still have to share, but it's only fair I sing the praises of these gems first, right? Stay tuned.
