Holland & Barrett – Sustainable Favourites

We were recently invited to the Holland And Barrett Summer Showcase which allowed us to try and test some of the best new products they have in store for us, or coming to a store near you. Here is our round up of some of our favourite sustainable  and Mixed Zero Waste products which we have been putting to the test. 

Live Coco – Recyclable Electric Toothbrush heads

Compatible with any Oral – B Electric Toothbrush, these fantastic toothbrush heads are infused with Charcoal which removes impurities from your mouth. The charcoal also helps to absorb and remove chlorine from tap water. What’s more, if you send them back once you’re done Live Coco will recycle them for you. 

RRP: £9.99 pack of 2

Holland & Barrett – Thin Cotton Pads

Fed up of make-up wipes, these re-usable cotton pads are just the answer. Available in a pack of six, that’s almost one for every day of the week, these pads are designed to be used with micellar water and come in a handy drawstring bag to collect them up in and throw in the wash after use. They are available in a thick or thinner cotton which is completely organic

RRP: £8 pack of 6

Patch – Aloe Vera Bamboo Plasters

Made from 100% natural bamboo fibre, these plasters are 100% compostable, hypoallergenic and enriched with Aloe Vera to help soothe and repair burns, blisters and minor abrasions. They are completely chemical free and are available to buy now in Holland & Barrett in a pack of 25. 

RRP: £6.99 pack of 25

Flux Undies – Period Proof Underwear

There are currently quite a few of period proof undies on the market at the moment but we simply love Flux, not only because they have just been released in Holland & Barrett stores, but because they are designed to last around three years, they are made sustainably, and hold up to 4 regular tampons’/pads worth. The proof is in the testimonials of many happy customers claiming that they have not worn disposables since. Not only that, Flux employ the ‘By You, For Her’ scheme which ensures every pair of Flux undies bought will allow a girl in need to receive a reusable, menstrual cloth pad. 

RRP: £27.99 each

Beauty Kitchen – Seahorse Plankton Beauty Boost BB Cream

In fact we simply love the entire Beauty Kitchen range who design their entire range with sustainability in mind. From their packaging which you can send back to be recycled or refilled, to their 100% natural ingredients. The new Seahorse Plankton range promises not to contain any seahorses, but does contain blue chamomile and sustainably grown microalgae which is scientifically proven to boost and brighten. After using this for two weeks now, the first thing I noticed was the creams ability to blend in with all skin tones. This really leaves your skin feeling radiant and smelling like you’ve stepped out of a day spa. 

RRP: £15 for 30ml

As well as this… Holland & Barrett are launching their very own vegetarian and vegan meal deal. Priced at just £3.99 customers will be able to choose from a range of plant-based sandwiches, wraps and salads and indulge in tasty treats from brands such as Deliciously Ella and Hippeas. The meal deal will be available 

initially in six London flagship stores. 

For more information on any of the products or to order, visit 

www.hollandandbarrett.com

Frost Supplement Special

Nature’s Plus Ageloss Rejuvabolic Total Body Oxidative Protection

Nature's Plus Ageloss Rejuvabolic Total Body Oxidative Protectionreview

These have high class antioxidant nutrition. They have more than 12,000 Total ORAC from the world’s richest sources of natural antioxidant phytonutrients. Our reviewer had improved skin and really felt they made a difference.

Resveratrol, most commonly found in red grape skin, has been shown to improve eye health, but if you want to receive the benefits of resveratrol without resorting to a few glasses of red, why not try Nature’s Plus AgeLoss Rejuvabolic. Packed with a unique blend of nutrients and antioxidants including grape seed, bilberry and blueberry, each serving provides the body with the trans-resveratrol benefits of 365 glasses of red wine. Now you can enjoy the health benefits of the glass of red without the hangover! Nature’s Plus AgeLoss Rejuvabolic Liquid is available from the Nutri Centre www.nutricentre.com and heath food shops. RRP £37.95

For a Flat Stomach OptiBac Probiotics

optibac probiotics

These really work. We had two writers try them and they really flatten your stomach.

Aids in absorption of minerals/vitamins in food through restoring the balance of bacteria in the digestive tract. Besides eradicating bloating these vitamins and minerals in turn reach the skin and improves overall skin health keeping the skin looking beautiful.

‘For a flat stomach’ is a 7 day course of probiotics which has been clinically trialled, highly researched and will stop bloating. The benefits are immense. From Superdrug

Visioberry

Visioberry

Available in a tablet and syrup form, Visioberry contains a unique blend of natural ingredients that work together to promote good eye health. Vitamin B2 contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress whilst Resveratrol acts as a potent anti-oxidant, promoting normal vision and combatting free radicals. Ginko Biloba – known for its powerful anti-oxidant and anti-ageing properties helps to protect against peripheral arterial occlusive diseases and Lutein (only in the tablets) – a carotenoid that has been linked with improving vision – protects against age related macular degeneration. Visioberry is available exclusively in Boots stores nationwide. RRP £20 for 30 capsules and £14 for 200ml liquid.


Liquid Sunshine Vitamin D Liquid Drops

Liquid Sunshine Vitamin D Liquid Drops

Very handy and tastes great. Has a good dose of vitamin D and convenience in equal measures. From Amazon UK

Immune System Biotix

Immune System Biotix

Good probiotics that will help top up your good bacteria, aid your digestive health and support your immune system.

Sharon Morey, Nutritionist from Quest Vitamins says ‘Our numbers of ‘friendly’ bacteria in the gut can be reduced for many reasons, including poor diet, use of antibiotics, and one-off infections such as gastroenteritis. A ‘top-up’ can therefore be helpful to support our immune system as well as our digestive health.’ Immune System Biotix contains 20 billion lactobacilli or good bacteria, an excellent level that is higher than many individual probiotic supplements on the market!

Immune System Biotix is £15.83 (for a month’s supply) available from all good health stores and www.questexcellence.com

E’lifexir Flat Tummy plus

E’lifexir Flat Tummy plus

This handy prebiotic contains fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), which are soluble fibres naturally found in fruits, vegetables and cereals. The FOS are not absorbed by the body and therefore reach the intestines unchanged. Here they are fermented by the good bacteria in the gut, which then multiply and flourish to help ease bloatedness and a bulging belly. The addition of peppermint oil will also leave breath smelling fresh, allowing you to look, feel and smell great. They are very handy.

E’lifexir Flat Tummy plus® costs £9.99 for a month’s supply, and is available in UK and Ireland from Holland & Barrett nationwide and www.hollandandbarrett.com.

 

 

Manuka Doctor ApiClear Blemish Cream Review

Mille Mackintosh

Everyone has the occasional break out no matter how good their skin is. I am no exception. The last spot cream I used seemed to take the occasional spot I got and multiply it so my usually clear skin had a bit of a freak out. Enter Manuka Doctor ApiClear Blemish Cream. I had high hopes for this as I have previously reviewed their face mask. It also has Made In Chelsea star Millie Mackintosh as a fan.

Millie Says, I won’t be going to anywhere this year without Manuka Doctor’s ApiClear Blemish Cream. Breakouts often occur during festivals and holidays and so having this to instantly soothe my skin is a lifesaver! It is so easy to use – I just pop it in my bag and know that my skin will stay blemish free.

The cream has UMF 18+ Manuka Honey, witch hazel, vitamin E and Propolis. It is calm and cooling and non greasy. It doesn’t have any nasty parabens or SLS.

I use it on the occasional pimple and it does speed up the healing process. My skin looks a lot better. Considering how inexpensive it is (£5.99 from Holland & Barrett) I will be buying this when it runs out. A great little cream that helps clear up spots quickly.

Top marks.

Holland & Barrett Summer Survival Kit

miranda kerrFestival Favourites

 

 

Morning miracle: Vitamin C & Zinc Effervescent £3.35 for 20 tablets

Waking up in a tent isn’t ideal, particularly if the night before was a late one. If you have been partying hard and are feeling a little run down, reach for Holland & Barrett’s Vitamin C & Zinc Effervescent to help restore your immune system. Add one tablet to a bottle of water and you will feel refreshed and ready to take on what the day has to offer.

 

 

 

Hangover helper: Milk Thistle £21.99 for 200 capsules

Festivals are usually a celebration of music, friends and the summer season, which might lead to some over-indulgence! The liver is one of the body’s most important organs and works by neutralising chemical pollutants and alcohol so help maintain normal liver function with the natural herb Milk thistle. Take one capsule two to three times daily, preferably with meals.

 

 

 

Festival Fresh: Dr Organic Tea Tree Wipes £2.75 for 20

It’s no secret that festivals rank highly in the lack-of-cleanliness league table, so it’s important to find a convenient way to stay refreshed on the go! By packing Dr Organic Tea Tree Wipes, you will be able to freshen up in an instant. These wipes are free from any harsh chemicals, meaning they are revitalizing and offer antibacterial protection to keep you germ free. If you are prone to spots, particularly when you have to ditch your usual beauty regime, these wipes are particularly suitable for blemish prone skin, so you can use them to clean both your face and body.

 

 

Festival First Aid: Tea Tree Oil £3.99 for 10ml

If you are likely to get spots in the festival environment, or often find yourself with a bite or a sting, Holland & Barrett’s Tea Tree Oil is a must-have. Made from the Australian Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) this pure and natural oil has a spicy scent that is an essential for any festival wash bag. Known for its many topical uses, Tea Tree Oil can also be added to your post-festival bath water for its refreshing effects!

 

 

Easy Energisers: Mixed nuts & raisins £2.89 200g

Spending an excitable weekend away from your home comforts can take a toll on your body. Keep some tasty slow-release energy snacks in your backpack for a natural energy boost throughout the day, so you don’t miss out on any of the action. A delicious mix of Walnuts, Brazils, Almonds, Hazels, Peanuts, and Raisins, this go-anywhere pack is high in protein and makes a nutritious treat.

 

 

 

 

Caffeine Craving: Guarana Liquid £4.89 for 30ml

If snacks aren’t your thing, try adding Guarana Liquid to your refreshment of choice for a natural caffeine boost. Holland & Barrett’s Nutritionist Kate Butler BSC says: “Guarana naturally contains caffeine, which has a stimulatory effect that may help to support energy and alertness. Adding Guarana liquid to a beverage each day at the festival can be an easy way to boost your energy levels naturally.”

 

 

 

Beach Beauties

 

Summer scent: Pure Coconut Oil 453g Oil £14.99

The sweet aroma of coconut conjures up images of tropical holidays and relaxing on the beach. However, as well as being a tasty and nutritious ingredient and base for cooking, coconut oil can be used as an effective body moisturiser. This versatile oil is made from real coconuts and when applied, leaves the skin feeling soft and sweetly scented, perfect for getting in the mood for summer.

 

Within days of the 28 year old Victoria’s Secret model and wife of Orlando Bloom admitting she “cannot go a day without coconut oil”, sales at Holland & Barrett’s UK stores shot up by more than 50% on last year as customers clamoured for a slice of the supermodel’s secret. Miranda disclosed the information in interviews about how she has keeps fit and healthy following the birth of her son, stating “I personally take four tablespoons of coconut oil per day, either on my salads, in my cooking or in my cups of green tea.” Holland & Barrett’s Nutritionist Kate Butler said one of the reasons coconut oil was so popular was its multi-functional benefits when used on the skin, hair or eaten. “The small molecular structure of coconut oil allows for easy absorption through the skin, giving it a soft, smooth texture” said Kate. “This makes it an ideal ointment for the relief of dry, rough skin, and an effective after-sun lotion because it literally melts into your skin.  Coconut oil works wonderfully as a hair conditioner too as Miranda Kerr’s diet shows can be eaten on salads or used as a cooking oil”

 

Perfect Pins: Dr Organic – Royal Jelly Cellulite Cream 200ml Cream £9.29
This summer, it’s time to minimise that orange peel bottom and those wobbly thighs with a little help from the doctor! Dr Organic has a revolutionary cellulite cream which utilises unique properties found in the incredibly active ingredient and is formulated using researched and tested anti-cellulite extracts. The cream is designed to be massaged regularly into the affected area, supporting circulation and penetrating through subcutaneous fat cells trapped in the collagen and elastin fibres to give you luscious summer legs.

 

 

 

 

Enhance that sun kissed glow: Tan Tablets £5.99 for 60 capsules

Everyone loves returning to the office to an array of compliments about their sun kissed glow, so for a naturally longer lasting tan this summer try Holland & Barrett Tan Tablets. Containing key vitamins that are needed to achieve a deeper tan, PABA, L-Tyrosine and Copper, Tan Tablets can help you to develop a sun kissed look with a reduced amount of time in the sun. Kate Butler says “It’s well known that some sun exposure is good for us. It helps our bodies produce Vitamin D which in turn helps us absorb calcium, regulate blood pressure and even improve mood,  yet too much sun can harm the skin, with damage occurring in just minutes. Used responsibly with a little sun exposure, Tan Tablets provide the body with the nutrients it needs to help enhance a natural tan.”

 

 

 

Lose those extra pounds: African Mango capsules £9.99 for 60 capsules

As the dreaded bikini season draws ever closer try taking a slimming supplement such as African Mango alongside a healthy diet to help you feel confident when baring all. African Mango is thought to act as a natural appetite suppressant, supporting weight loss when used alongside a healthy diet. Studies have shown that seeds from the fruit cause significant weight loss and improve blood sugar levels. Trials carried out in 2005 and 2009; published in the Journal of Lipids in Health[i], found that participants taking an African Mango supplement before meals, three times a day, lost 5.3% of their body weight, compared to 1.3% of those taking a placebo. Holland & Barrett’s Nutritionist Kate Butler advises, “Initial clinical studies have shown that significant improvements in body weight and body fat, as well as in cholesterol and blood glucose levels, have been observed in individuals supplementing with African Mango.  Initial results appear promising and have set the precedence for further research.”

 

 

Soothe your skin: Aloe Vera Gel £3.49 for 100ml

The sun can be stronger than it often feels and after hours of basking in the heat, skin may become pink in colour.  To ease the sting of sun burn try rubbing some Aloe Vera Gel on to the sore areas. The cooling gel soothes the pain and also helps to speed up the healing process. As well as aiding with sunburn, Aloe Vera gel can help soothe the irritation of insect bites and heat rash which can be a common irritation in warmer climates.

Celebrity fan Jemma Kidd uses Aloe Vera Gel after being out in the sun to sooth and heal the skin: She says: ‘I religiously put it on when I’ve been in the sun. It’s so soothing and healing. We have hundreds of aloe plants in our garden and when we’re burnt we pick a leaf.’  

 

Holland and Barrett

MILLIE AND MANUKA DOCTOR

Made in Chelsea star Millie Mackintosh is supporting Manuka Doctor, innovators of the UK’s first ever Purified Bee Venom skincare collection, on their stand at this year’s Vitality Show.

On Saturday 24th March between 10am and 1pm Millie will be offering skincare advice to show visitors in support of her favourite skincare range.

Millie, brand ambassador for Manuka Doctor and a huge fan of natural beauty, suffered with acne in her teens and knows what it feels like to still get the occasional breakout. The heavy make-up required for filming and constant parties and events, means Millie needs something highly effective in cleaning the skin. Being a make-up artist she also understands how hard it is to keep skin looking clear and healthy.

“As a make-up artist I come across so many products and brands – I also get sent a lot of products to try – my absolute favourite at the moment is Manuka Doctor. I really like their ApiClear range. The Foaming Cleanser, Skin Treatment Serum and Moisturising Lotion are all really good for balancing troubled skin.” Millie Mackintosh

Millie’s not alone, since Manuka Doctor’s launch at the end of last year, hero products from the range have completely sold out through Holland & Barrett stores nationwide. Other celebrity bee venom fans include Kate Middleton, Victoria Beckham, Kylie and Dannii Minogue and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall.

Manuka Doctor’s ApiClear range is specifically designed to help balance troubled skin. Purified Bee Venom (PBV™) works alongside New Zealand Manuka Honey, known for its anti-bacterial qualities, and Propolis, to help eliminate the causes of blemishes, nurture cell regeneration and renew damaged skin cells.

A recent trial into the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects of Purified Bee Venom against acne inducing bacteria, conducted by Dr SangMi Han and published in the Journal of Medicinal Plant Research[i] (2010), proved Bee Venom to be an effective alternative treatment for antibiotic therapy for acne. Try the ApiClear Treatment Serum (£18.99 for 30ml) to provide an antiseptic solution for inflamed troubled skin.

Manuka Doctor’s Purified Bee Venom is the result of a unique patented purification process that removes any unwanted particles after it’s been collected from the bees. The venom is extracted using a safe process that ensures that the bee’s lifespan, well being and performance are not affected.

The Manuka Doctor range of Purified Bee Venom products is sold exclusively through Holland & Barrett stores nationwide and online at www.hollandandbarrett.com.

Prices range from £3.49 to £49.99.

Frost's Winter Health Challenge

Winter can be hard on health and beauty. Skin tends to dry out and constant flues and colds are abound.

Frost has tested some health products to help you survive winter as well as possible.

Moa – The Green Balm is a wonder balm that you can use for anything from dry or chapped hands, to bites and bruises, lip salve, blemishes and can mixed with hot water as a sore throat-soothing drink. It smells good and has a good consistency. It works very well as a moisturiser and is a great thing to have around the house. It really is a do-it-all balm, and it is completely natural. I really liked it and I used it as a lip balm and on my hands. (£4.99 from all good health stores or www.thegreenbalm.co.uk)

Eating well in winter can be hard. The temptation to eat stodgy food and hibernate can be strong, and, lack of sun means that you won’t be getting enough Vitamin D. I started taking 5 Lifestream Chorella tablets a day and felt that I had a lot more energy. My skin looks nice and bright and my hair looks good. I go up to 10 a day and I even lose a few pounds. I feel like I’m been given a good health boost. Chlorella is filled with the immune-boosting vitamins and minerals you need to stay healthy. Lifestream Chlorella (£15.29 for 300 tablets from all good health stores or www.grumpygorilla.co.uk). Renowned as nature’s won multivitamin, chlorella is packed with more than 20 vitamins, minerals and amino acids and vitamin D.

Those suffering with seasonal joint pain or arthritis could benefit from a daily dose of apple cider vinegar and honey such as Honegar (£4.69 for 500ml from Holland & Barrett and all good health food stores) mixed with warm or cold water. Ranulph Fiennes is a fan. I start drinking it and although I don’t have arthritis I find I feel more cleansed and have more energy. I also have not had a cold or any flu. It doesn’t taste bad either.

I also try out Plj Lemon Juice. It is nice as a refreshing drink, as an ingredient when cooking or mixed with Manuka honey and warm water to soothe and calm an inflamed throat. It is a good thing to drink if you are trying to detox, not only does it cleanse but it is quite sweet so can take the edge off any cravings.

PLj Lemon Juice (£2.29 from Tesco, Sainsbury’s and all good health food stores)

All of the products I decided to try are natural and as green as possible.

What do you do to help you get through the winter?