As we head full-steam into the hotter months, now is the time to start prepping yourself with the right beauty tools. There’s no turning back now that summer’s on the horizon, so arm yourself with the essentials: a miraculous recovery hair mask, one deeply moisturising skin super-booster, a one-step razor for velvety soft pins, and this limited edition brush for detangling your beach-babe strands. With all these weapons in your summer beauty arsenal, you’ll be sure to make it through unscathed.
bh’s Astrid
Even though it’s not technically summer yet, I’ve already spent far too much time in the sun and it’s taking a toll on my tresses. I had my hair dyed recently for the first time in five years, and if that wasn’t drying enough on my hair, the onslaught of salt, sun and general lack of care I’ve subjected it to has really upped the stakes. For someone who isn’t really into the whole ‘pampering’ thing, I love that I can treat my thirsty strands without too much hassle. For me, the simpler, the better! And that’s why I’m giving the John Frieda FRIZZ-EASE ® Miraculous Recovery Intensive Masque two thumbs up. You apply the masque just as you would a conditioner, then leave it for three to five minutes before rinsing out. I’ve got absolutely zero volume at my roots, so I’m really conscious of using anything too heavy that’s likely to weigh it down. This masque feels as thick in the hand as it does on the hair, so when I’ve used it, I’ve only applied it to the ends.
For me, it’s not a product I’d regularly keep in my arsenal. I think it’s better suited to someone with thicker hair or who uses heat tools quite regularly. But while the weather is hot and I’ll be spending most of my weekends swimming, I’ll be needing this little beauty to rehydrate my stressed out tresses.
bh’s Sam
I’m going to be honest, I did not like this razor at first. BUT once you change your technique a little bit, it is one of the best multi-tasking inventions ever. Basically, the big soapy head that surrounds the razor is a nourishment bar, which lathers and moisturises your skin as you shave. So you don’t need to use any body wash or shaving cream, just the razor and water. Genius right? But to get the best results, you will need to lessen your pressure a little bit so the head wears away evenly and glides more easily across the skin. It actually made me realise how much pressure I must have been applying with my old razor and the damage it would’ve been doing to my skin (eeeeek!). You should also take your time around your knees and your ankles, but the time you save from not having to lather and moisturise, means it’s still a speedy solution! It’s perfect for travelling too and has replaceable heads which are always handy.
bh’s Deb
Although I’m approaching my mid-30s, it’s only been in the last six months that I’ve really started noticing the beginnings of the ageing process in my skin. Nothing too major as yet (thankfully!) just fine lines, slightly enlarged pores and increasingly, a somewhat rougher texture to my skin that no amount of exfoliation or moisturiser seems to fix.
So needless to say I had no qualms in being the bh expert tester for Elizabeth Arden Superstart Skin Renewal Booster! I’ve been using the product for the last five – six weeks and have really noticed a difference in my skin. It looks and feels much smoother and softer to touch and no longer has that ‘roughness’ to it. My skin also seems a lot more hydrated, and because of that I think the appearance of my fine lines has minimised. They haven’t disappeared completely, but they’re definitely a lot less noticeable and my complexion seems to have a bit more ‘bounce’ to it. I think my skin actually looks healthier and more even-toned overall, which has made me feel more comfortable/confident going out without make-up.
I also loved that this booster was really lightweight, meaning I didn’t have to wait around for it to absorb into my skin. I could literally apply it and then progress to my next step, (usually a serum and then a moisturiser) straight afterwards. Even though it’s an added step in my skin care regimen, it didn’t feel like it was taking up any extra time. The fact that it can also be used in conjunction with any other brand is another real bonus for me, as it meant I didn’t have to change my entire routine/wait until my other products had finished to start using it.
And finally, I thought the design of the bottle was great – very sleek and so comfortable to hold. It dispenses the perfect amount and there’s also a little ‘lock’ button on the back, so you never have to worry about it compressing itself when it’s not supposed to.
Overall, I’ve been really happy with the results of this booster. I will continue to use it every day and would definitely recommend that others try it!
bh’s Vanessa
I’ve been using the Lady Jane Smooth & Knotless Brush for over two months now and I absolutely love it! Not only does it come in beautiful bright colours, but it also feels so soft and smooth on my hair. I can always rely on this brush to smooth out any kinks, and that’s really important to me as I have quite thick hair. It makes hair styling so much easier, and I love that I can brush it wet or dry and my hair still looks smooth and sleek!
Sometimes it’s hard to find a versatile brush, but I am so glad I was able to trial the Lady Jane Smooth & Knotless Brush. What’s even better is that I have all three colours, so I leave one at work, one at home and one in my gym bag.
Which one of these beauty products would you most like to try?
