Susanne Kaufmann Archives - Style&Minimalism

The Last Drop: No.1

I appreciate that lots of you are interested in finding out about the latest skincare products and whether they might be good for your skin. I’m lucky to be in a position in which I regularly try lots of different products. I avoid skincare products with known nasties, looking instead for those that are ethically and sustainably made, predominantly made with organic and/or natural ingredients. My approach is to use each product for at least a month before I share my experience here or on Instagram. After that initial trial period there are some that I continue to use every day or when appropriate, and others I give to friends and family. So, with that in mind, I thought it might be interesting for you to read about the products that are so good I’ve used every last drop, my latest empties. Below are the products I’ve just finished. They are all products I confidently recommend to friends and family, and feel confident recommending to you.

Balance Me Wonder Eye Cream

Even when I’m using another eye cream, I will almost certainly have a bottle of Balance Me Wonder Eye Cream* in my bathroom cabinet. It’s the one I rely on when my skin is feeling particularly sensitive. It contains a super fine low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, aloe vera and chamomile; meaning it’s great for dryness, puffiness, fine lines and sensitive skin. It’s also said to reduce dark circles thanks to witch hazel but I can’t speak from experience. The texture is more serum than cream, it spreads easily and is absorbed quickly. It’s great value and widely available.

BUY FROM BALANCE ME

AMLY Radiance Boost Face Mist

AMLY Radiance Boost Face Mist* didn’t last long in my bathroom, I found myself using it all the time – not just after cleansing but throughout the day to refresh my skin and give it a boost of moisture.

It is a light, refreshing mist that’s a bit of an all-rounder thanks to a great combination of ingredients. Among other things, it’s infused with the healing properties of silver, deeply moisturising hyaluronic acid and a probiotic lactobacillus ferment to feed the skin’s microbiome. I’m going to need a bigger bottle next time!

BUY FROM AMLY

Seed to Skin The Midnight Miracle

Since researching face oils and their benefits for a previous post, I’ve made them a consistent part of my regimen, both morning and night. Seed to Skin The Midnight Miracle Cell Recovery Night Oil* is one of the most visibly efficacious face oils I’ve used. When I woke after the first night I used it I could see that my skin appeared more even in tone, and it felt more supple and nourished.

It contains vitamins A and E which increase skin turnover and cell regeneration. 70% of the oil comes from three types of rose seed, which give support to the cells in all three layers of the skin; the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis.

BUY FROM LIBERTY

Volition Celery Green Cream

Volition Celery Green Cream* is more gel than cream. I first used it as a face cream, after applying my face oils but I quickly worked out that it was much more effective when used after my water-based serums and before face oils. It then became a bit of a game-changer, a serious moisture-booster.

The combination of celery seed extract and hyaluronic acid, along with cucumber and lavender extract makes for an incredibly refreshing, lightweight moisturiser; ideal for dry, sensitive skin.

BUY FROM CULT BEAUTY

Seed to Skin The Biom’Sphere

Another unbelievably good product from Seed to Skin, The Biom’Sphere* has been created to nourish the skin’s microbiome. It can become imbalanced due to frequent washing, pollution, preservatives from cosmetic products and strong sun irradiation; potentially causing the skin to become red, acne-prone, dry, excessively oily or itchy.

The Biom’Sphere contains pre-, pro- and post-biotics, black bee honey, pseudoalteromonas exopolysaccharides, hyaluronic acids of two different molecular weights and an oxygen complex.

BUY FROM LIBERTY

Susanne Kaufmann Oil Bath For The Senses

There’s always a bottle of Susanne Kaufmann Oil Bath For The Senses by my bath. It’s my favourite bath oil when I need to slow down and relax. The soothing scents of ylang-ylang, patchouli and lavender fill the air as you pour it into the water, creating just the right atmosphere. It doesn’t leave an oily residue on the skin but does leave it feeling soft and nourished. There’s also the added benefit of rosemary which promotes blood circulation and boosts the skin’s metabolism. Sugarcane bagasse and corncob hydrate the skin.

BUY FROM LIBERTY

I plan to make ‘The Last Drop’ a regular feature on Style&Minimalism. Please let me know via email or an Instagram DM if you found this article useful or if you have any questions about the latest empties I’ve featured.

The Nourishing Benefits of Face Oils

I use face oils throughout the year but I think they are essential during the colder months because of their deeply nourishing and protective properties. When skin is exposed to central heating and/or the wind it can lose the protective layer of oils and lipids it makes naturally, that form part of the skin’s barrier. (It’s important to note that some cleansers also strip away this layer of oils and lipids.) Without this protective layer the skin is open to water loss and can become dry and fragile. As we age, our skin naturally produces less of these oils and lipids. Face oils help to replenish them and protect the skin.

Face oils give skin a smoother texture, plumping it up and making it feel more supple and elastic. The outer layer of the epidermis, called the stratum corneum, is made up of corneocytes (mostly keratin) and an intercellular lipid matrix of ceramides, fatty acids and sterols. The lipid matrix forms a barrier to keep out bacteria and toxins, and prevents water loss. Face oils contain lots of fatty acids which support the lipid matrix; boosting the naturally occurring ceramides, fatty acids and sterols with additional plant-based ones; some also contain beneficial tocopherols (vitamin E), phenols, carotenes, squalane, vitamin A, vitamin C, folic acid, B vitamins, and flavonoids. The best oils are those that are extracted in a gentle manner, therefore retaining many of the beneficial compounds they contain; cold-pressing is one of the best known techniques.

Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil*

Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum*

You might think that face oils are only suitable for those with dry or dehydrated skin but all skin types can benefit. Face oils have different properties depending on what they contain. Natural face oils contain fixed ( AKA carrier) oils, often combined with essential oils and/or oil-soluble herbal extracts. The combination and quantity of each fixed oil greatly affects the properties of the face oil. Different types of fatty acid within plant-based oils have different properties; some are moisturising, whilst others are considered non-drying, semi-drying or drying. When skin becomes oily or dry it is because it is out of balance.

Oils rich in linoleic acid are good for oily and acne-prone skin types. Oils containing high levels of linoleic acid include: argan oil, borage seed oil, black currant seed oil, cranberry seed oil, evening primrose oil, hemp seed oil, grape seed oil, pumpkin seed oil, raspberry seed oil, rosehip seed oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, and sweet almond oil.

Oils rich in oleic acid are good for dry or ageing skin. Oils containing high levels of oleic acid include: apricot kernel oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, moringa oil, olive oil, palm kernel oil, sea buckthorn oil, shea butter, and tamanu oil.

The size of the molecules in the oil, their molecular weight, affect how deeply they penetrate the skin. On the whole, the smaller the molecule size the deeper they go. These smaller molecules don’t clog pores but quickly sink into the skin.

Henua Organics Miracle Vitamin Oil*, REN Rose O12 Moisture Defence Oil*, Balance Me Radiance Face Oil*

Essential oils and oil-soluble herbal extracts bring additional benefits to face oils. For example, Anthemis Nobilis (Roman Chamomile) flower oil is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, good for calming acne. Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) leaf extract has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Calendula Officinalis (Marigold) flower extract has anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Taraxacum Officinale (Dandelion) leaf extract is rich in antioxidants and prevents UVB damage. Some essential oils may cause irritation, if you have a reaction to a face oil it’s best to stop using it.

The main function of a face oil is to help the skin retain hydration (rather than provide it) and they are, therefore, best used in combination with a humectant (that draws in water) like hyaluronic acid. This is why it’s important to use face oils after water-based mists and serums (to help seal in their beneficial properties). Place a few drops of oil in the palm of your hand, gently rub your palms together to warm the oil, then pat and push the oil into your skin.

I suggest looking for natural, plant-based, cold-pressed oils; with a low comedogenic rating (meaning they don’t clog pores), especially if you suffer from acne. Cosmetic grade mineral oil has been found to be non-comedogenic but it is not sustainable since it is made from highly refined and processed petroleum. Dark glass bottles are best for storing oils as exposure to light and heat will damage the oil.

Nourishing Natural Face Oils

I have been using these ten natural plant-based face oils over the last couple of months. None have caused me any irritation and all of them have had a positive effect on my skin.

Super Seed Facial Oil, Votary*
Key Ingredients:
Grape seed oil, pumpkin seed oil, cranberry seed oil, meadowfoam seed oil, chia seed oil, hemp seed oil, camellia seed oil, strawberry seed oil, black cumin seed oil, poppy seed oil, tomato seed oil, flax seed oil, pomegranate seed oil, blueberry seed oil, sunflower seed oil, borage seed oil, broccoli seed oil, melon seed oil, sour cherry seed oil, rosehip fruit oil, raspberry seed oil, marigold flower extract, passion fruit seed oil.
Key Benefits:
Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, moisturising, regenerative.
Active Botanical Serum, Vintner’s Daughter*
Key Ingredients:
Alfalfa leaf extract, avocado seed oil, bergamot peel oil, calendula flower extract, carrot seed oil, cypress leaf oil, dandelion leaf extract, evening primrose seed oil, frankincense resin, grape seed oil, hazelnut oil, jasmine flower extract, lavender flower oil, lemon peel oil, neroli flower oil, nettle leaf extract, rose flower oil, rosehip seed oil, rosemary leaf extract, sea buckthorn oil, tamanu oil, turmeric root oil.
Key Benefits:
Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, moisturising, regenerative.
Radiance Face Oil, Balance Me*
Key Ingredients:
Sweet almond oil, grape seed oil, kukui seed oil, jojoba seed oil, rosehip fruit oil, camelia seed oil, buriti fruit oil, moringa seed oil, yarrow leaf oil, benzoin resin, Roman chamomile flower oil, vitamin E, rosemary leaf oil, sunflower seed oil.
Key Benefits:
Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, moisturising, regenerative.

Day Light Radiance Face Oil, AMLY*
Key Ingredients:
Abyssinian oil, meadowfoam oil, buriti fruit oil, prickly pear seed oil, raspberry seed oil, pomegranate oil, rose otto essential oil, jasmine essential oil, organic fireweed extract, ginger root extract.
Key Benefits:
Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, moisturising, regenerative.
Rose O¹² Moisture Defense Oil, REN*
Key Ingredients:
Jojoba seed oil, rice bran oil, rice germ oil, camellia seed oil, soybean oil, macademia seed oil, dog rose fruit oil, Ximenia Americana seed oil, soybean lipid, sea buckthorn oil, cranberry seed oil, safflower oil / palm oil aminopropanediol esters, tocopherol, palmarose oil, geranium flower oil, damask rose flower oil, sunflower seed oil, rosemary leaf extract.
Key Benefits:
Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, firming, moisturising, regenerative, smoothing, soothing.
Miracle Vitamin Oil, Henua Organics*
Key Ingredients:
Argan seed oil, jojoba seed oil, sunflower seed oil, sweet almond oil, rosehip seed oil, evening primrose oil, avocado oil, oat kernel oil, lingonberry seed oil, sea buckthorn seed oil, rosemary leaf extract, tocopherol.
Key Benefits:
Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, moisturising, reduces pigmentation, regenerative.

Face Oil Line F, Susanne Kaufmann*
Key Ingredients:
Broccoli seed oil, sunflower seed oil, argan oil, apricot kernel oil, tocopheryl, corn germ oil, purple viper’s-bugloss seed oil, sesame seed oil, tocopherol, macadamia seed oil, olive fruit oil, pomegranate seed oil, balloon vine extract, carrot root extract.
Key Benefits:
Antioxidant, firming, moisturising, regenerative, smoothing.
Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil, Biossance*
Key Ingredients:
Squalane, damask rose flower extract, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, geraniol.
Key Benefits:
Antioxidant, brightening, firming, moisturising, regenerative, smoothing.
The Midnight Miracle, Seed to Skin*
Key Ingredients:
Rambling rose seed oil, dog rose fruit oil, sweet-brier seed oil, meadowfoam seed oil, squalane, jojoba oil/macadamia seed oil esters, sodium hyaluronate, glucomannan, sandalwood oil, squalene, damask rose flower extract, trihydroxystearin ethylhexyl palmitate, tocopheryl acetate, phytosterols, lavender oil, geranium flower oil, tocopherol.
Key Benefits:
Antioxidant, moisturising, regenerative, smoothing.

10.

Vine[Activ] Overnight Detox Oil, Caudalíe
Key Ingredients:
Grape seed oil, sweet almond oil, dog rose fruit oil, bitter orange leaf/twig oil, carrot seed oil, sandalwood oil, sunflower oil, bitter orange flower oil, lavender oil, rosemary leaf extract, neroli essential oil, musk rose oil.
Key Benefits:
Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, moisturising, regenerative.

Further Reading
‘Skin Penetration Enhancement by Natural Oils for Dihydroquercetin Delivery‘, Molecules – Sep 22nd, 2017

Susanne Kaufmann Pollution Skin Defense System

**Susanne Kaufmann** Pollution Skin Defence System* | **MENU** Gridy Me Mirror in Natural Oak

Coinciding with the 15th Anniversary of Susanne Kaufmann (the beauty brand) they have released the Pollution Skin Defense System, a treatment that consists of 15 x 2ml ampules, to be used over 15 days. The system has been developed to combat skin against pollution. It is widely known that stressed skin ages prematurely, this can be caused by pollution from exhaust fumes; as well as short-wave, blue light from smartphones and computer screens.

There are three types of ampule within the system, each has been developed to improve the condition of pollution-effected skin using natural ingredients, whilst also stimulating the skin’s own mechanisms.

Before living in London I had clear skin; I believe pollution is a real issue for me and that my skin has suffered because of it. Over the last three weeks, I’ve given the Pollution Skin Defense System a try, to see if it will improve the condition my skin.

Ampules 1-5, Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of the most effective antioxidants. It’s oxidation that causes cells to breakdown, which occurs when free radicals in the environment attack the cells. Vitamin C counteracts this process by eliminating inflammatory processes. It stimulates the skin’s defense mechanism as well as freeing the skin’s detoxification pathways. The Vitamin C face serum contains three main active ingredients; URBALYS, Pentylene Glycol and 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid. URBALYS is a natural anti-pollution active ingredient, extracted from the red Schisandra berry. Pentylene Glycol is a natural ingredient derived from sugar can bagasse and corn; it binds water in the skin and inhibits the growth of microorganisms on the skin. 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid is modified vitamin C, as well as being an antioxidant, it prolongs the storage of moisture within the skin and has a lightening effect.

For the first five days I massaged the Vitamin C face serum into my skin every evening, after cleansing. After the first three nights I woke up with small clusters of tiny pimples around my mouth, chin and nose; I guess as a result of the detoxification pathways being opened up. My face was a little bumpy in texture and the tone appeared more uneven than usual but I persevered since something was clearly happening.

Ampules 6-10, Ectoin

Ectoin is a natural molecule derived from halophilic bacteria Halomonas elongata. It stabilises cell membranes and lipids, protecting against harmful environmental influences and prevents premature cell damage. It also increases the storage capacity of moisture within the skin. Alongside ectoin, the ampule also contains QT 40, a combination of glycerin, water and hydrolysed Sea Lettuce (Ulva Lactuca) Extract. The QT 40 stimulates the production of the skin substance as well as the synthesis of collagen and hyaluronic acid within the body. Magnolia Extract is the third active ingredient in the ampule, neutralising free radicals that have caused skin damage and reducing the inflammatory process in the skin.

After the first five days, I moved on to the second set of ampules, the Ectoin face serum. Again, I applied this serum after cleansing in the evening. My skin calmed down but it was hard to say if I noticed any other distinct changes from using this serum.

Ampules 11-15, Q10

The Q10 face serum has been developed to stimulate the skin’s cellular metabolism, prevent oxidative stress in cells, increase the skin’s moisture storage capacity and collagen production. Q10 is a naturally-occurring enzyme within the skin which due to stress and environmental influences is quickly depleted. The Q10 face serum ampule contains Q10 derived from fermented yeast, it’s an antioxidant and collagen booster; supported by Magnolia Extract, another antioxidant. In addition Lecithin, Sodium and Hyaluronate derived from a low molecular hyaluronic acid increase the skin’s moisture levels, compensating for water loss.

The third (and final) set of five ampules, the Q10 face serum, are for the last five days of the treatment. Again, I applied the serum after cleansing, each evening. My skin seemed to really love this serum, although it may have been the effect of all three. My skin appeared clearer, smoother and brighter.

Christmas Gift Guide 2018

As I’m a little short on blogging time these days I thought it best to combine my Christmas gift lists into one big Christmas gift guide this year, covering all the family. It’s much easier for me and, hopefully, easier for you if you’re able to see everything in one place.

I prefer to order online as I’m not a fan of crowds or wet weather, and if you can have something delivered to your door then why wouldn’t you. I just hope that my orders arrive in minimal, recyclable packaging; nothing worse than a huge box with a tiny one inside, such a waste.

My preference is towards more unique gifts that are harder to find but worth trawling for. I love to support small shops and brands, so I hope you’ll find something unexpected and special in my Christmas gift ideas. You’ll also find a few well-made, timeless classics; good investment items that everyone can appreciate.

1. Study 34 Crew Neck Baby Alpaca Jumper in Grey | 2. Cox & Cox Drip Glazed Table Lamp | 3. Wood & Meadow Japanese Sentei Garden Scissors (use code welcome10 for 10% off) | 4. Architectmade BIRD | 5. Price & Kensington Teapot 1100ml in Grey | 6. Grainger & Jameson Children’s Bunny Stool (website closed)| 7. Tilly Sveas Small Gold T-Bar On Fine Gold Belcher Chain (sign-up to their newsletter for 10% off) | 8. Susanne Kaufmann Best of Body Limited Edition | 9. Allbirds Wool Runners in Kotare Jo | 10. Sunspel Woven Cashmere Scarf in Navy | 11. uki.be Toothbrush & Spoon | 12. Beatrice Felicki Nordic Light Print | 13. House Doctor Atmospheric Matter Wall Hanging Mobile | 14. Jono Smart Low Bowl in Textured Grey | 15. Laura Lombardi Curve Hoops | 16. Chemex 3-6 Cup Filter Drip Coffee Maker

I won’t go into detail about everything in my guide but I wanted to highlight a few of the brands so you understand a little more about why I’ve chosen to include them.

Study 34 is a wonderful, sustainable brand that uses baby alpaca in their knitwear; it’s very warm and incredibly soft. Everything is designed in Newcastle and made in Peru.

Allbirds are an environmentally-friendly footwear brand that use natural materials like merino wool, eucalyptus tree fibre and sugar cane to make their comfy, machine washable trainers.

uki.be specialise in teethers for babies that are BPA-free and made from food-grade rubber. They don’t look like your standard teethers either.

Beatrice Felicki‘s beautiful monochrome prints are atmospheric and eerily beautiful. (Thanks for the introduction Abi.)

Jono Smart makes his minimal ceramics in a studio in Glasgow. His timeless pottery always sells out fast so be quick. (Also check out his partner, Emily’s wood turned creations.)

Susanne Kaufmann Bespoke Rejuvenating Facial

This post was created in collaboration with Susanne Kaufmann.

Susanne Kaufmann is without question my favourite skincare brand, their natural products are gentle yet effective on my sensitive skin, whilst also sustainably made. Recently, I was invited to visit them at their Liberty London pop-up to experience their Bespoke Rejuvenating Facial. It’s a new treatment that incorporates a product they recently developed to coincide with their 15th anniversary, the Pollution Skin Defense System.

To help me relax Andrea (my skincare therapist) sprayed my pillow and the surrounding air with Pillow Spray Calming. It’s a lovely mist with a soothing scent containing lavender and orange oils. Lavender is well-known for its calming properties whilst orange oil supports the respiratory passages, ensuring you breath well throughout your treatment, important for deep relaxation.

The treatment started with a thorough double cleanse using their Cleansing Milk, the base of which is rose-hip seed oil, which is particularly good for dehydrated skin. It also contains a soothing herbal compound of chamomile, sage and St. John’s wort flowers. Andrea then applied Tonic Clarifying, a gentle tonic that contains the same herbal compound as the Cleansing Milk but with the addition of mallow. It doesn’t contain any alcohol so won’t strip the skin like some.

Once my face and décolletage were feeling lovely and clean, a double peel was applied. This consisted of their Enzyme Peel being applied all over the area, before being layered on top with their Facial Peel. The Enzyme Peel uses gentle fruit acids from apple, papaya and kiwi to remove dead skin cells without any abrasiveness (that can stress to the epidermis); it’s a chemical peel but the gentlest kind. It also contains ectoine, fenugreek and fermented white lupins, they help to regenerate skin cells, as well as having a revitalising and anti-inflammatory effect on the skin. In addition to that, aloe vera cools and soothes the skin. The Facial Peel is a physical peel which uses soft plant granules alongside a herbal compound of mallow, yarrow and St. John’s wort flowers to gently remove dead skin cells and impurities. The soft plant granules dissolve in the peeling process so they don’t irritate or scratch the skin.

After Andrea had removed all the dead skin cells and impurities from my skin, she started to give it some much needed revitalisation. Initially, she used the first ampule from the Pollution Skin Defense System, vitamin C. The vitamin C ampoule contains a serum that improves the skin’s own ability to fight against free radicals and at the same time detoxify the cells.

This is when things started to get really interesting. The massage techniques that they use at Susanne Kaufmann are just as important as the products they create. Their products are fantastic and I would wholly recommend using them at home but you will struggle to replicate their massage techniques. For this reason I would suggest you go in and experience a facial with them. The first massage I received was a fascia massage. It’s not the most gentle but the effect is a complete release of tension in the face muscles. Andrea then moved on to a lymphatic drainage massage, to increase the flow of lymph from the face and help remove toxins from the skin. She followed this with the ultimate scalp massage to further release any tension. This is a brilliant treatment for anyone looking for a relaxing facial treatment, not all leave you feeling as refreshed and tension-free as this one.

Andrea then applied the second ampule from the Pollution Skin Defense System, ectoin which stimulates cell regeneration and strengthens cell protection. This was followed by their Lifting Mask Line A which was worked deep into the skin with another gentle face massage. It’s one of their most active anti-ageing products, containing more ectoin, fermented white lupin blossom extract to firm up the tissue, pure bioflavonoids to fight free radicals, and argan oil as its base which has a strong antioxidant effect. This all results in a strong, smoothing and lifting effect.

After about 10 minutes the mask was removed and the the third ampule from the Pollution Skin Defense System was applied, the powerful Q10 serum which stimulates collagen production. This was followed with Day Cream Line A and Eye Cream Line A, both of which also contain ectoin, fermented white lupin blossom extract and pure bioflavonoids. The Day Cream Line A also contains silk proteins which provide the skin with a great deal of moisture and form a protective film. Whilst the Eye Cream Line A contains, in addition, elderberry extract to reduce swollen eyes. Unusually it can be used all over the eyelid (many aren’t). To encourage the absorption of the products, jade rollers were used across my face, neck and décolletage.

The next time Susanne Kaufmann are at Liberty London make sure you book a treatment, just please leave me a slot! They take place every two months, the next ones will be from 25^thNovember – 1^st December. Alternatively, if you happen to be taking your next holiday at the beautiful São Lourenço do Barrocal in Portugal they offer Susanne Kaufmann treatments. And, if you’re planning a retreat for the new year I’d recommend Hotel Post Bezau in Austria (where the Susanne Kaufmann brand began); you can incorporate a Bespoke Rejuvenating Facial into your experience. I’m hoping I’ll get the chance to visit and write about both in the coming year.

Time To Slow Down with C.P. Hart

This post was created in collaboration with C.P. Hart.

**The White Company** Wooden Bath Tidy | **Iris Hantverk** Bath Brush | **Meraki** Sponge | **Ex Nihilo** Ultra Rose Candle*

**C.P. Hart** Winchester Freestanding Cast Iron Bath

The latest addition to our house is a new roll top bath from C.P. Hart. We finally have a bath, it’s only taken us 7 years!

At the beginning of the year I wrote a post about my New Year Intentions, one of which was to slow down. Learning when to slow down (especially when you live in a city like London) is an important skill to hone, and one that often takes time to acquire. I’ve lived in London for around 12 years and it’s only now that I truly appreciate the need. Life can pass you by in a flash, so it’s important to take your time to appreciate the simple things. Whether that’s reading a book/magazine/newspaper whilst sitting in a favourite café and sipping on a freshly made coffee. Or taking a walk in a local park/favourite part of town/the countryside and enjoying taking everything in without an alternative agenda. Or (for me) slipping into a deep bath scented with my favourite bath oil (currently Olverum) whilst listening to calming music.

**House Doctor** Large Rustic Bowl | **House Doctor** Pure Nature Stool | **Iris Hantverk** Body Brush | **Meraki** Nail Brush* | **Meraki** Pumice Stone* | **Pai Skincare** Rosehip BioRegenerate Rapid Radiance Mask* | **Olverum** Bath Oil

Pregnancy really forced me to slow down, I would get tired after the least taxing of activities and, as the months wore on, I got more and more achey as my ligaments softened. Getting our new bath from C.P. Hart was an absolute game-changer. Barely a day went by when I was pregnant that I didn’t take a dip in it, whether that was to soothe my aches and pains or to chill out from the insane heatwave. There’s nowhere I felt more relaxed and would happily wallow away an hour.

There’s not a lot of time for me to wallow these days but I still grab a bath whenever I can, the pregnancy aches have been replaced by back and shoulder aches from carrying my gorgeous little girl around (she’s now 6.5kg). Little Isabelle, on the other hand, uses it daily as part of her bedtime routine.

**Balance Me** Super Moisturising Body Wash* | **Immunocologie** Cleansing Lotion* | **Immunocologie** Exfoliator Lotion* | **Susanne Kaufmann** Witch Hazel Bath

You might be wondering why it took us 7 years to get a bath. When we bought our house we completely gutted the kitchen and bathroom, removing the floor in-between and the ceiling above. This hadn’t been our plan but that’s what you get when you buy an old Victorian cottage with character. This, sadly, used up our budget and we just couldn’t afford the dreamy cast iron roll top bath I had planned for. Fast-forward 7 years and it’s been worth the wait, I couldn’t be happier with our beautiful bath, it’s just the right size and fits in perfectly, bringing together the old character of our Victorian house with my minimal style.

Just before the bump got too big I was on my hands and knees priming and painting the bath, a week later and the bump was too big and I wouldn’t have been able to. I used Johnstone’s Anti-Rust Metal Primer in Red Oxide and Farrow & Ball Estate Eggshell in Off-Black No.57. I used two coats of the primer and then two coats of the top coat. The 750ml pots of each were more than enough.

C.P. Hart were the obvious choice for me, they’ve been around for over 75 years, are well known for producing high quality products and work with some incredible designers (including Alessi and Philippe Starck). I can’t fault them on quality, our bath has been very well made and will be here for many years, long after we’ve moved on. It’s given our bathroom a stunning focal-point and finally it feels complete.

Effective Pregnancy Body Care Essentials

When I found out I was pregnant it became more important to me to find good quality products to use on my body that were made with natural ingredients. I wanted to give myself the best chance of being able to spring back to shape (I know in reality it will never be quite the same) whilst also thinking about what my body would be absorbing and could potentially be entering my blood stream and my growing baby’s. Below are the products I have loved using and would absolutely recommend whether you’re pregnant, or not.

**Elemis** Dry Body Brush | **Susanne Kaufmann** Stretch Mark Oil* | **Immunocologie** Body Serum* | **ARKET** Rectangular Serving Plate

DRY BODY BRUSH

As I noticed my body really begin to change shape in my second trimester I decided to make dry body brushing a daily ritual. I’ve had my Elemis Dry Body Brush for years, and used it on and off, but over the last few months I’ve managed to make it a permanent part of my morning routine. Dry body brushing stimulates the lymphatic system, the system responsible for moving waste around the body. It’s also a brilliant way to boost your circulation in general, get rid of dead skin cells and encourage the production of new ones.

Cellulite and varicose veins are common side effects of pregnancy, dry body brushing is one way I’ve tried to help reduce the chances of getting either. Remember to always brush towards your heart, using long, firm strokes.

BUY IT HERE

SUSANNE KAUFMANN STRETCH MARK OIL

Susanne Kaufmann Stretch Mark Oil is a medium-weight oil that contains almond, wheat germ and jojoba oils, along with arnica flower extract. The almond oil smoothes the skin, whilst the wheat germ oil (which is high in vitamin E) and jojoba oil moisturise and help improve the elasticity of the skin. The arnica flower extract helps reduce water retention, another side effect of pregnancy.

I started using this oil pretty early on in my pregnancy, as I wanted to give myself the best chance of avoiding any new stretch marks. Genetics pay a huge part in whether or not we get them but I wasn’t taking any risks.

BUY IT HERE

IMMUNOCOLOGIE BODY SERUM

The Immunocologie Body Serum is a light-weight dry oil that comes in an easy-to-use spray. It’s made with sunflower seed, desert date seed and rosemary leaf oils. Sunflower seed oil contains omegas 3, 6 and 9 which help improve moisture levels in the skin as well as helping it to retain moisture which leads to improved elasticity. Desert date seed oil is deeply nourishing and penetrates the skin quickly so it’s not left feeling greasy. Rosemary leaf oil is rich in vitamins and minerals which lift and firm skin.

I’ve not just grown a bump over the last 9 months but gotten a little larger all over. Mainly this is due to the increased levels of estrogen in my body, so pretty unavoidable. Thankfully one of my friends warned me in advance and told me to regularly moisturise the whole of my body. This body serum was my favourite to use all over as it’s not heavy (great, given the heat this summer) and doesn’t leave the skin feeling greasy.

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Clean Sunscreens

I’ve chosen to use clean sunscreens since discovering that conventional sunscreens contain chemicals that irritate our skin (this causes inflammation which then leads to ageing), effect our endocrine systems and are damaging to sea life. This doesn’t mean we should avoid sunscreen, just that we should be picky about which ones we choose to use. Two chemicals that you should make sure you avoid are Oxybenzone and Octinoxate (AKA Octylmethoxycinnamate) which are known to have an effect on hormones and cause skin allergies.

It is estimated by scientists that sun damage is responsible for 90% of premature skin ageing. It was once thought that UVB radiation alone was responsible for this but it’s now been found that the heat from UVA rays can contribute to the loss of skin elasticity, firmness and the appearance of premature wrinkles. This is why it’s important to use sun protection products that protect you against both.

The main products I used whilst I was on holiday in Greece were from the Susanne Kaufmann Sun Care Trio; which includes Face Broad Spectrum Protection Sunscreen SPF 30, Body Protection Sunscreen SPF 25 and After Sun Gel. Not only do these products offer protection against the sun but they also offer hydration, regeneration and anti-ageing benefits; just like a good skincare regimen. They were made and formulated in the Austrian Alps from the finest natural and botanical ingredients. They all smell incredible, a little bit like melon and the application is better than anything I’ve used before. They’re waterproof but you should reapply them after swimming. They’re also gentle enough for sensitive skin and children of 6 months and older.

Both the face and body products are hybrid formulas that combine mineral and botanical ingredients. On the mineral side there’s Zano^® a patented mineral UV filter derived from Zinc Oxide that is non-irritating and mild on the skin. On the botanical side there’s Elix-IR™, formulated from Knotgrass Extract, a flavonoid-rich ingredient that protects the dermis fibres against sun damage. They also contain Ectoin, a natural cell protectant and powerful anti-ageing ingredient.

I used Sensai Silky Bronze Cellular Protective Cream For Face SPF 50 as I like to use a higher SPF on my face and my chest, as it can burn quite easily. I’m pleased to say it didn’t this time. It’s another product that has a lovely smooth application and smells likes peaches. Sensai have developed ADVAN, an advanced cellular protector to drastically reduce UV radiation and avoid deep level skin damage whilst giving hydration. Sansho (Zanthoxylum Piperitum) Extract effectively and immediately protects skin cells on a DNA level from UV rays. Koishimaru Silk stimulates the production of hyaluronic acid within the skin’s dermal and epidermal cells, keeping it well moisturised and CPX Vital Extract moisturises, firms and minimises fine lines.

**Susanne Kaufmann** Face Broad Spectrum Protection Sunscreen SPF 30* | **Susanne Kaufmann** Sun Cream Cell Protection SPF 25* | **Susanne Kaufmann** After Sun Gel* | **Sensai** Silky Bronze Cellular Protective Cream For Face SPF 50* | **La Roche-Posay** Anthelios Body Milk SPF 50+* | **La Roche-Posay** Anthelios Anti-Shine SPF 50+*

For the first few days I used La Roche-Posay Anthelios Body Milk SPF 50+ on my body and La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine SPF 50+ on my chest, just whilst my pale skin adjusted to the sun and began to tan. The body milk has been designed for sensitive and sun-allergic skin and the anti-shine gel-cream is specifically designed for blemish-prone skin or those that suffers from prickly-heat. It’s great for the chest and it doesn’t feel greasy or sweaty after a few minutes in the sun.

Whether you’re having a staycation or heading off somewhere hotter it’s equally important to protect your skin from the sun’s UV rays. Have a wonderful time whatever you do this summer.