Nu Skin Beauty Box Review

alongcamejay / / No Comments

With non-stop product launches and a never-ending stream of trends born on social media, the beauty industry thrives on newness. Skin care I admit can be a tricky to navigate sometimes buried in confusing pseudo-science and baffling beauty marketing.  I am however someone who does take an interest in the science of cosmetics because ultimately our skin is the largest barrier against infection that we have.

I recently spoke to a lovely Instagram friend of mine who knows a thing or two about beauty and she mentioned the Nu Skin Beauty Box.  Nu Skin is a major, if not one of the biggest, players in the multilevel marketing beauty space. Founded in 1984, Nu Skin began developing their personal care products in the Midwest US. Their product portfolio spans over 200 items all focused on anti-aging benefits and helping people look younger and feel more youthful.

I was eager to get my hands on this pre-assembled kit and was invited to an event in London where I got to see the products first hand. This September I will be 42 years old which isn’t old I know but I am looking for anti-ageing products that will help the health of my skin. I came away from the event eager to purchase and try them for myself so that’s what I did. The box arrived within the week and I started using the products straight away. I wanted to share my honest thoughts here. To start with you get seven products within the box which have been chosen due their popularity.

CURLING MASCARA
 I have been loyal to the wonderful Benefit Roller Lash for many years so I wasn’t sure whether this black mascara would come anywhere near it.  I can tell you that it does and the wand separates and lengthens lashes making them very noticeable.  I applied one coat and used the tip of the brush to add more to the corner lashes. I have sensitive eyes so I was a little nervous about how my eyes would react. I may not wear mascara daily but this is now my go to mascara and I love the formula which adds length and volume. My lashes do appear curled after application which is good as I’m not a fan of using an eye lash curler! Curled lashes opens up your eyes and make them appear more alert. It’s non clumpy formula means the mascara coats and thickens the lashes without clumping for a satisfying boost. The packaging is simple in its silver tube and I really think this is one to try if you are looking for a new reliable mascara.
AP-24 WHITENING FLUORIDE TOOTHPASTE
 

I’m a coffee and tea drinker so over the years I prefer to use whitening toothpastes.  I was genuinely impressed with this product which claims to brighten, remove stains and whiten teeth while fighting plaque formation. I started seeing noticeable results four days in and it really does give you a long lasting clean brushed feeling. As with any anything results will differ from person to person.  Most of the reviews I have seen on this have been positive and I can certainly vouch for that.  It doesn’t have the powdery taste like charcoal whitener or bicarbonate whitener would.  I was sceptical at first but really happy to see that my teeth were definitely whiter. I had been contemplating having a white teething procedure but have changed my mind since I started using AP-24 as I am happy with the whiteness so far. This gentle, vanilla mint formula freshens breath and provides that clean feeling. A fabulous discovery! Some feedback from Nu skin Customers like the following:


 

 TEGREEN CAPSULES

I think you either fall into the I love green tea or I loathe green team camp. A bit like marmite! I actually don’t mind it but I can think of better things to drink hence why the tegreen capsules suit my lifestyle as I can still enjoy the impressive benefits. One capsule per day each morning with food and you have the equivalent of six cups of green tea in you. There is so much research now available which shows how green tea extract is rich in antioxidants called catechins, which have been shown to increase antioxidant capacity and protect against oxidative stress. It is also known to boost metabolism with fat burning properties. I have been working on my health and personal fitness over the past year and these green powerful capsules are a  part of my daily lifestyle.

MOISTURE MIST SPRAY
I’ve never really invested in a moisture spray product before so this was a first for me although I think I recall my wedding makeup being set with a mist style spray by my makeup artist. A quick spritz of enriched water can not only help calm and sooth irritated skin, but also gives it a boost of hydration for a naturally dewy look.  This is a refreshing spray which I felt plumped up the skin too. I have found this spray useful lately especially with the central heating on in the house drying the air. I find this definitely keeps my skin hydrated and I can see this being something I use regularly in the summer. If you haven’t tried a moisture mist spray I recommend it as you can use this on your hair and body too. The scent is subtle and it really does freshen and lift the skin during the day.
GLACIAL MARINE MUD MASK
I remember shaking the tube and hearing the liquid swishing around and wasn’t sure if that was right as I imagined the product would be thick and paste like. I was surprised to see it’s a liquid formula and I found it easier to use a brush and paint the product onto the skin.  Enriched with nourishing active ingredients, this mask deeply cleans your face and pores leaving your skin fresh, clean and glowing.  I had seen before and after pictures and was really keen to try it as I am a daily make up wearer and I want to make sure I treat the face to a mask that will  draw out impurities.  Although I have relatively clear skin it is prone to the odd spot or two and this mud clay is great as a treatment and also dries very quickly so you don’t have to keep it on for the full 15 minutes if you don’t want to.  You can visibly see the oil being pulled out. The great thing is this mask is suitable for all skins types. I even got Mr M to try it out and must admit I thought he looked slightly Hulk esque!  (I think I can get away with saying he is approaching his late forties). He too was impressed with how the skin looked fresher.  Once the mask was washed off he did have a little redness but it went away within 5-10 minutes.  I didn’t experience any redness and I have really sensitive skin.  The only downside is that I’m not too keen on the smell if I’m honest but I will forgo that as the skin definitely looks better after.
POLISHING PEEL SKIN REFINISHER
Exfoliating using beads or chemical peels is a go-to skincare strategy for sloughing off dead skin and revealing a smoother complexion underneath but it’s important to make sure you’re not aggravating your face in the process. This peel is a game changer for me.  It might not be to everyone’s liking but you actually see the dead skin cells coming off very much like a microdermabrasion.  Polishing Peel is an alternative to professional treatments, it delivers a fresh, healthy, complexion due to the pumpkin enzymes and bentonite clay working to remove toxins and slough off dull skin.  I was a little apprehensive at first putting this onto my face but I really shouldn’t have been as I can now see how important it is to use a peel from time to time. I know this step may see a but of a phaff to some but there is no point in putting on face creams if you still have a layer of dead skin for it to work through. This non-abrasive peel sweeps away the old, to make way for the new. While this non-abrasive exfoliant can help you attain smoother, more refined skin, it also means that subsequent skincare can be absorbed more easily. I don’t have time to go to salons for facials (sometimes I wish I did) but this used once or twice a week has helped improve my complexion and gives you professional results in the comfort of your own home.
 
CONTOURING LIP-GLOSS
Lip gloss is a product used primarily to give lips a glossy lustre, and sometimes to add a subtle colour. I am a huge fan of lip gloss I much prefer it to lipstick and personally like lips to appear fuller. This was actually the first product from the box I was eager to try and it did not disappoint.  The ultra shiny gloss is clinically proven to stimulate collagen production but this isn’t going to be an instant plumper. The oligopeptide formula builds over time and results are likely in 28 days. I have been wearing this gloss daily and there is definitely a tingle in the lips upon application but nothing uncomfortable. Wear this alone or over lipstick. The box has the clear  gloss but its all available in a subtle colour too. I will definitely be buying this one again.

If you are interested in purchasing the beauty box or would like to find out more about the products mentioned above please feel free to email me alongcamejay@gmail.com. I was so impressed with the products reviewed above, that not only did it prompt me to immediately jump over to the website to order some more items, but I decided to start out my own little ‘mini franchise’ with Nu Skin because I love what I have seen so far.

I’m excited to start working my way through the whole range and sharing my reviews with my lovely friends and followers.  Nu Skins tagline is ‘the difference demonstrated’ meaning that you will see an instant difference more or less straight away and from what I’ve seen thus far, you do.

As always though, I will NEVER recommend something that I don’t like or feel doesn’t work.  I hope that you will all support me in my new mini venture which I’ll run alongside my blogging and vlogging activities. Starting out something new can be quite nerve-wracking but I’m also very excited to see where it takes me.

Thanks for your continued support by reading my blog and supporting me on my social media platforms!

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Take care of your body

it’s the only place you have to live in
~Jim John
Thanks for reading
Bella
~X~
 

Leightons Eye OCT Scan Review

alongcamejay / / No Comments

I’ve spent most of the last year focusing on my health and fitness. Just like the rest of the body, eye health is impacted by your lifestyle, eating habits, exercise that kind of thing.  When your vision is not good it will affect your quality of life.  The eyes are the windows to the body or the gateway to our souls as I’ve heard people say many of times. They are the only place where the blood vessels can be viewed in their natural state without a surgical procedure.

I try not to take my sight for granted.  My brother Bakul had a cornea transplant in his late teens and this always made me wary of vision care and paying attention to any changes in my vision. I am now 41 and I know my sight has over the years deteriorated  mainly due to working in offices staring at screens and then screen time at home and lets not talk about the time spent looking at my iphone. Opticians recommend that most people have an eye test at least every 2 years or sooner if concerned about vision.

I was kindly invited by Leightons Opticians and Hearing Care  to have a revolutionary eye test which included retinal photography and an OCT scan. The scan provides 3D views of the retina and the ability to detect eye conditions up to five years earlier than a normal test offered by some opticians. It’s clear that Leightons are passionate about the care of their customers as an independent business which started in 1928 family-owned and family-run. The team I visited at the Sutton Branch in Surrey were very good at explaining the scan which is very much like how an MRI scan would work for the rest of the body. During an OCT scan nothing touches your eye and it is completely painless. The scan literally takes a few seconds and displays 3D scans of at least 6 layers of your retina. The detail is incredible viewing 3D high-definition scans of the front and back of your eyes, a definite first for me. This is one of my eye balls!

I was really impressed with the detail of the images which go far beneath the surface of the retina. The Optical Coherence Tomographer saves the images and these can be compared to future scans  to check if anything has changed. Thankfully my eyes are doing well and currently no concerns which is so reassuring. The 3D imagery that can be used to detect very small changes earlier than using a traditional ophthalmoscope or standard retinal photography.   These ultra-advanced methods of testing helps detect issues like glaucoma, macular degeneration and even diabetes up to 5 years before normal testing.

The OCT screening generates a series of 3D High Definition (HD) scans – just like mine below:

Leightons Opticians & Hearing Care offers a free hearing test at all its branches, I was also offered a test something I used to feel was not necessary as I am not in my later years! but hearing is just as valuable as sight and needs to be monitored even from a young age. Each branch at Leightons will also have a fully  trained Hearing Aid Audiologist which definitely is a good thing and after a short test I was happy to learn all was ok on that front too.

Self-care is so important to me.  I consider taking care of my vision, self-care.  Take the time to make sure you go for routine appointments and I highly recommend having an OCT scan alongside your regular eye test.  Leightons Ultimate Eye Examination costs £69.

I have to admit I wasn’t even aware that such cutting edge photography existed. The choices we make today about our eye care will definitely affect the way we live as we age. Once your vision is gone it is gone forever. Thank you to Polly at 3WhiteHats for arranging this for me and to Michael, Bablu, Julie and Suzanne at the friendly Sutton branch for your useful advice. I had such a lovely morning learning about eye health.

Thanks for reading

Bella

~X~

 

 

*I was invited to have the Leightons Ultimate Eye Examination free of charge for an honest review.

Nutribuddy Breakfast Shake Review

alongcamejay / / No Comments

 


I have spent the most part of a year really honing in on clean eating and fitness goals. I definitely feel much better than I did in my twenties and thirties so maintaining the motivation to keep up a healthy lifestyle is something I am keen to do. I’ve found that building in small key sustainable habits will help reap health benefits, things take time but it’s good to start the day right and that for me involves eating a good breakfast. It’s often described as the most important meal of the day, providing sustenance and energy. I genuinely love Breakfast time and one of my favourite things ever is hotel breakfasts when on holiday – I really need to book a holiday soon!


If you’re a parent like me you’ll know it’s incredibly tricky to sit down and eat when you have the demands of children to attend to. So many people skip or miss breakfast daily because we are in a rush too head out. Lately I have introduced a new product into my diet, something which has helped kick start my metabolism and gives me the energy I  need without feeling the dreaded bloat.

A few week’s ago the fabulous team at Nutribuddy contacted me and kindly let me select a breakfast shake product from their popular range in return for an honest first impressions review.  I had read reviews and thought it was definitely something I wanted to try. The goods arrived in secure packaging, a glass jar, a shaker bottle and a scoop. As far as first impressions go, the moment I unwrapped the glass clip-top jar I was in love! it’s eye catching and I’m obviously a total sucker for packaging. I have no shame in saying that! I’ve had a few friends comment on what’s inside the jar and there begins my explanation.

 

I’ve been drinking the shake now for the past 14 days.  I opted for vanilla because I wanted something with a sweetness to it.  All the products are however gluten-free, sugar free and vegan.  The two other flavours available are Naked and Chocolate.

The Vanilla Shake includes:

Ingredients: Organic Gluten-Free Oats, Organic Flaxseeds, Organic Chia Seeds, Organic Desiccated Coconut, Stevia, Vanilla Flavouring

The blend of organic oats, seeds and coconut is really nutritious and is only 121 calories per serving so great for people who are also wanting to lose weight too.

  •  Suitable for vegetarians & vegans
  • Gluten-free
  • Lactose-free
  • Soy-free
  • Sugar-free

All you have to do is take 3 scoops of the blend and put into a Nutribuddy shaker.  Add 300-400ml of milk or a milk substitute.  I alternate and use almond milk on one day and then whole milk on another day and shake away.  Inside the bottle is a metal shaker ball to help the mixing process. The shakers are BPA free and dishwasher safe.  You can always add fruit so for example I’ve used my Nutribullet blender and added a few blueberries, raspberries to the mix. Basically anything to make the shake to your liking.  On the mornings that I have more time I pour into a bowl and top with fruit, nuts and seeds.

This is one healthy breakfast option which I genuinely feel will help a lot of people who really want to have something nutritious on the go and trust me it’s quick. Especially convenient for a mum like me as I find time is short in the morning trying to get Jay ready for Pre-school. I really don’t like leaving the house on an empty tummy.

A 14 day supply costs £14.99 and comes in that gorgeous glass jar.  Refill blend packs are available so that you don’t have to buy the jar each time. You also have the option to add a shaker with your order starting from £7.99, these come in pink, red or black. There are subscription deals worth considering if you become a fan of the product.

I do drink protein shakes but this is different of course and really quick to make.  It’s also good at helping to curb my sugar cravings (not to mention my tummy rumbling) so I will definitely be carrying on with using the shakes and very keen to try the other flavours too. A couple of times I’ve gone and had a shake in the evening because they taste really good. I have number of friends who are currently pregnant and also some that are breastfeeding so should mention that this shake is safe to drink as it’s high in fibre and nutrients. I didn’t think I would be into drinking shakes for breakfast but I have surprised myself and really wanted to share this with others in the hope that it will help you too.

Shake up your wake up – time to try something different?

Head over to my Instagram for an exclusive discount code.

Thanks for reading

Bella

~X~

 

*I was sent the Nutribuddy Breakfast shake and a shaker of my choice for review purposes. All thoughts and words are my own. Contains affiliate links.

 

 

 

Dinner at D.a.s.t.a.a.n

alongcamejay / / No Comments

 

Last summer Mr M mentioned he’d seen a small restaurant a short distance from us amongst the parade of small shops in Ewell. The restaurant being Dastaan which opened it’s doors towards the end of 2016 and after a bit of research we realised this relatively new establishment was a local gem that we had somehow missed on our restaurant radar.


I made a booking to celebrate our 7 year wedding anniversary (advisable to book early to avoid disappointment) and I am so glad we did. Ever since moving to Surrey in 2009 I have been a little disappointed with the indian restaurants in our locality that is until now of course. Dastaan is the joint venture for Sanjay Gour and Nand Kishor two internationally acclaimed Chefs who have in my opinion placed Epsom firmly on the map for fantastic cuisine.

Both have glittering CV’s in the culinary trade. Sanjay combines his expertise in desserts with a lighter version of indian sweets and all things spice working at events such as the BAFTA’s and GQ Awards. He worked with Angela Hartnett, as pastry chef at her restaurant, Michelin-starred Murano. Success continued as he worked as Head Chef at one of the most talked about Michelin star Indian restaurant of London Gymkhana. Chef Nand from Mumbai has extensive training in the mixing of spices working in different restaurants, going onto to open Trishna restaurant which received a Michelin star in 2012 and in 2014, and then onto the Gymkhana restaurant as Head Chef.

The moment we walked into the restaurant we could see and feel the ambience, the tables were busy with families, friends couples, a real mix of guests. I liked the warm welcome and we didn’t have to wait long before our drinks arrived. I went for wine. He went for beer. Fortunately my parents came to stay so that we were able to head out sans child. Also managed to get the Taxi of Dad booked for later that evening.

The tables are pretty closely arranged together which I don’t mind as the restaurant isn’t huge, the staff were friendly and were great in advising us about the dishes. I like the fact that the menu wasn’t overwhelmed with dishes. I think sometimes in life we are presented with too much choice and it complicates things!

We went for the following with rice and naan breads.

STARTERS

PaniPuri 

Beetroot Tikki with Tadka Yogurt

Samosa Chaat

MAINS

Methi Chicken Fresh Fenugreek

Pork Vindaloo with Goan Spices


We were sadly too full to order desserts and it was a shame as we were both looking forward to the Pistachio Kulfi.  Something to correct the next time we visit! The standard of food here is exceptionally tasty, non greasy and filling.  I generally can’t  believe our luck having the restaurant on our doorstep. It does get busy and it’s clear to see why as the food really is outstanding. I’ve read reviews comparing this restaurant to Michelin star Jamavar in Mayfair London so you know you won’t be disappointed.

I really hope to return soon for another magnificent feast. There is also a Take away service available which makes this even more of a win win for me. But I’m not the only one winning as Michelin has also included Dastaan in their Bib Gourmands guide to Great Britain and Ireland 2018. It’s one of 27 restaurants to win the accolade which recognises simple yet skillful cooking at a reasonable price.  Congratulations to the team!

Twitter | Facebook |Instagram

Dastaan, 447 Kingston Rd, Epsom, KT19 0DB

e: info@dastaan.co.uk  

 

Thanks for reading

Bella

~X~

 

Hot Wheels Track Builder Stunt Bridge Review

alongcamejay / / No Comments



The new Hot Wheels Track Builder Stunt Bridge kit has been released just in time for Christmas and as usual the Hot Wheels fans at Along Came Jay HQ were eager to review.  Although the actual track and bridge sections are straightforward, this set has a number of bricks that look like lego pieces that does require a bit of concentration to put together. Luckily Jay had mummy to help and we went through the contents of the box and were soon set up and ready.

Unlike the Hot Wheels Roto Revolution which we recently reviewed this set does take up a lot of floor space when fully assembled with over 70 pieces it can be customised to be built in three different ways and we were able to change the configuration easily. It’s fully compatible with other Hot Wheels play sets so it has been great to add to the existing track and add another level of excitement.


Two ‘D’ size batteries and a cross-hair screwdriver is required for the motorised bridge to come alive.  To launch the cars you have to hit the lever at the start of the track.  I noticed that you do have to hit this lever quite hard for the cars to gain enough speed to crosse the bridge but this also brings in an element of competitive fun. I think this toy definitely gets you to focus on timing skills.  Jay’s favourite part of the toy is the motorised bridge arm which forms part of the half bridge that rises up.

 

Construction is something he is really enjoying at the moment and the bricks  that come with the set has been a welcome addition as he enjoys adding them to the bridge creating mini blockades and seeing whether he can successfully get the car across without crashing into them. There are additional cardboard cut out mini trolls for imaginative play which can be placed around the track. As I write this post Jay is lining up a number of cars to launch and I’m certain this set will keep him entertained for quite a while.

My only negative is that I feel this set should possible have two cars instead of the one.  It wasn’t that much of a problem as we were able to use existing hot wheels cars from his growing collection!  The Hot Wheels Track Builder Stunt Bridge Kit is newly launched and would make a great gift this Christmas. It’s suitable for ages 5 and over and priced at £49.99.  It is available from all good toy shops. Another great play set for hot wheels fans young and old!

Thanks for reading

Bella

~X~