10 Things I'm really loving | September 22

Given the grey skies and dip in temperatures, I’m putting my money on the fact that autumn is finally here. So this makes it a great time to reminisce on the products I’ve loved this summer and the ones giving cozy vibes for a new season. Here goes…

Run backwards upside down through a hedge is never a good look, especially when it leaves your wig  looking like a frizzy mess. Living Proof Instant De-Frizzer has entered the chat and it’s so easy to use - quick spray down the length of your hair and then smooth with your hands or a comb. Instantly tidy!

Necessaire The Body Serum, yes it’s an extra layer of product to apply but if you regularly shave or wax, this is amazing at soothing the skin and relieving dryness. It’s gently to enough to use after intimate waxing as well, to bring down that sensitivity. The core ingredients are hyaluronic acid and ceramides, the things you want when you need to shush skin complaints.

Not the biggest fan of face oils, but Aesop Fabulous Face Oil is earning its keep. I had a double whammy micro needling and chemical peel session which left me a little parched (totally normal). I was using this over moisturiser to stop my skin losing moisture. A couple of drops was sufficient, its a lightweight dry feeling oil and smells divine with Jasmine and Ylang Ylang.

Most people now have some sort of exfoliative acids like glycolic and lactic acid in their skincare routine, but not everyone finds it easy to use them or some have such sensitive skin that it’s impossible to use, so its great to see Dermatica Azelaic Acid 20% Cream as an alternative option. And and excellent one too! It’s suitable for all skin types including acne and/or rosacea prone, its brightens, fades and has antioxidant properties.

Jasmine will always be my jam and whilst we’re on the theme of oils, the Jasmine and Neroli Luxury Body Oil - a love child birthed from a partnership between Jo Malone and Rodin is in one word - sensual! It’s giving grown folk, sumptuous and exquisite sensorial experience. Apply straight after a shower whilst your skin is still warm and damp. This is for you if you enjoy deep sexy scents.

We had dinner at NOLA inspired restaurant Louie the other night. I can see why Rihanna celebrated her birthday there. The food is eye closed-dance-fork-in-the-air-in-your-seat delicious. Start with fresh oysters, seafood gumbo with crab rice (proper creole styled)  AND the New York strip steak for mains, followed by southern pecan pie AND strawberry tartlette. They have real bartenders who are great at making cocktails based on your preferences, so make friends with them.

Something for the kids - Hello Kids Unicorn Sparkle Fluoride Toothpaste. My two are actually running to the sink to brush their teeth and I’m not mad at that! Lol! The sparkles and bubblegum flavour are fun, but it does everything you want a children’s toothpaste to do - cleans and  strengthens teeth, prevents cavities and gives them a good shine. It’s also low foaming, so mess is reduced. Also reduces my shouting and blood pressure!

As we go back into tights, socks and boots it’s inevitable that crusty feet will also return. Because I know summer feet are actually made in the winter and not on the first day warm sunny day, I’ve gone back to including Flexitol Foot Cream and Heel Balm in my routine. Key ingredient in both is Urea - a natural moisturising substance that we already have in our skin (but depletes). This helps to keep skin intensely hydrated. Within a few days of consecutive use, my feet always look like softer and smoother.

Tatcha came to collect our money on its second UK coming and Liquid Silk Canvas Primer Make Up Primer is the BEST I’ve ever used. It’s lightweight, applies well, reduces the look of lines, blurs the skin and majorly holds back oil from giving you a greasy look under your make up. At this rate, I just need to take my monthly pay check and deposit into their bank account.

Finally because I am summer child, I will always try to hold on to summer vibes as long as I can. This combination is helping me keep the spirit - Garnier Summer Body Dark Gradual Tan Moisturiser makes my skin look healthy and naturally bronzed. It’s also made for darker skin tones, so no weird streaks either. I add Aveeno Skin Relief Body Oil Spray for extra softeners, moisture boost and juicy glow. It’s a basic combination, but it works!