Body Butter Haul: Soap&Glory, Sakare, & Origins (Review)

My latest haul of beauty products was of body butters from three of the leading skincare names out there: Soap&Glory, Sakare, & Origins.

Although I'm a bit of a crazy Sakare fan (I probably have all of their products at home) I do like to shop around and keep on top of all the latest and best products on the market.

I decided to compare body butters as they are an everyday beauty staple for most women (and some men) and finding the right one can be tricky. Here's what I thought:

Soap&Glory - THE RIGHTEOUS BUTTER

A popular choice among younger girls due to the Original Pink fragrance that Soap&Glory are known for. Moisturising and not too difficult to rub in, this one is a foolproof choice. Price is very purse-friendly too. Does the job but don't expect anything more.

Sakare - ENRICHING SHEA BUTTER

If you suffer from dry skin then look no further, this is your remedy. This is the highest concentration of real butter extracted from the nut of the African Shea tree you will find in any body butter out there. Full of proteins to help nourish and repair damaged skin. Great alternative to medicated creams or for those problem areas that everyone suffers from. Not as easy on the purse-friendly aspect but you really do get what you pay for with this one...it's quality stuff.

Origins - GINGER SOUFFLE WHIPPED BODY CREAM

The mixture of oils involved in this product create a very creamy butter that is easy to apply and dries relatively quickly. Beautiful citrus scent that will wake you up in the morning no matter how early it is. Good for day to day moisturising but for those winter months or problem areas you may need something more concentrated.

Shopping Experience Comparison: L'Occitane vs Sakare

Today I am pitching Sakare (my new favourite beauty care brand) against L'Occitane (an old time favourite) in terms of shopping experience. I am taking into consideration speed and quality of service, layout of store and value for money. Check out my verdict:

Customer Service 

Sakare - As soon as you even walk past this store there are people outside welcoming you in and offering you demonstrations of the products. The staff are not simply trying to get you to spend a fortune in the store, they genuinely understand the customer and offer them products specifically. For example they know that as a beauty blogger, I am always looking to try the very top end range of anti-ageing products, but they realise that that isn't what everyone is looking for. All staff are highly trained on the ingredients and can offer expertise knowledge as to what will work best with your skin. I have never once walked into the shop and been ignored by the staff. They straight away welcome you and help you to find what you are looking for. Some people find this a bit overpowering but as a mystery shopper with years of experience I know that this is the benchmark for good customer service.

L'Occitane - While staff are not generally out in the street to engage customers, I have always been welcomed on entrance to L'Occitane. They pretty much operate with the same procedure as Sakare...asking how you are and how they can help. Staff are knowledgable about the products but sometimes if they don't have what I am looking for then they don't offer a similar product which is a bit frustrating.

Layout

Sakare - Window displays are always immaculate and representative of the brand...luxurious and opulent. Inside the products are displayed simply and in keeping with the style of the widow displays. There is a feel of 1940s cruise liner glamour that transports you to another world.

L'Occitane - As soon as you walk in you feel as if you are in a French beauty boutique of the finest handmade products. Countryside feel with a touch of luxury. Slight overload of products for the eye which I find very off-putting.

Value For Money

Sakare - No top end luxury brand with use of the latest research is going to be cheap. By taking a look at the website you could say that Sakare cosmetics are expensive, although the trick is to strike a deal with the staff as they are usually willing to do you a discount or special offer if you ask. Considering the quality of the products the prices are good value.

L'Occitane - French luxury and cheap will never be found in the same sentence together. If you decide you want a L'Occitane bathroom then it is going to cost you. Don't think of trying to strike a deal in this store as that just won't fly. Prices are not always readily displayed...'if you have to ask it's too expensive' comes to mind.

My Winner: Sakare - just shows that it is possible for new brands to break into the luxury beauty product market which is so often set in it's ways.

Regenerating Peeling Mask from Sakare – Amazing “Lifting” Effect

This mask will not let you down. Whether you wish to achieve a more youthful, firm complexion or simply want to rejuvenate your skin with a regenerating treatment that will leave it looking its best, you won’t be disappointed.

Often people head straight for the bestselling Intensive Nourishment Mud Mask from the Sakare range (no wonder – it’s really something) and always overlook this under-stated gem of a skin treatment.

How do you use it?

This mask takes just two minutes to get to work. Then simply rub it in circular motions into the skin before rinsing off with warm water. No fuss, no mess, you don’t even need to take more than 3 minutes out of your busy day to treat yourself to a high class product that will give you real results.

What does it do?

So, what does it promise to achieve and what did I really see after using this mask once a week for a month? As expected I did see a firmness and lift that wasn’t previously there. I didn’t notice anything straightaway but after the four weeks I was getting comments from friends about looking “fresh” and that I must have been getting loads of sleep recently! I noticed the difference myself when I was applying make up and my skin didn’t seem crepe-y or too delicate. It appeared more elastic and strong but still soft. Literally a face-lift in a bottle! If you are considering any sort of surgery please try this first as I think you will be surprised at what a mask can achieve.

How does it work?

How is this amazing “lifting” effect achieved? It’s all down to Kendi – an organic, eco-certified Indonesian nut oil that so far has not been used widespread. It not only strengthens the skin with firmness and elasticity, but removes all impurities and refines pores for a flawless complexion.

 Who is it for?

Absolutely anyone and everyone! All skin types and ages will find the benefit in using this Sakare product now and then (once a week is ideal).

Great Gift Idea - Sakare Nail Treatment

Since discovering Sakare I waste no chance to introduce others to the products. Every time I need to buy someone a gift I look to Sakare first. Everyone can do with a bit more luxury in their lives and even though the range isn't huge, I feel that there is something for everyone (yes guys included).

Some of the products tend to be a bit more of a let's say...investment rather than a spontaneous purchase and so I realise that it's not such an accessible option for every occasion. Therefore I wanted to share with you my favourite go-to gift for those times when you are trying to hold onto those purse strings!

Sakare Nail Treatment

The complete nail kit is a great option as it includes everything needed for a home manicure. Isn't age sensitive...old and young alike will love it and it is assumable that most people take care of their hands and nails in some form or another. £45 is s pretty good deal considering that you get a nail file, buffer, full sized hand cream and the amazing cuticle oil.

If you are looking to spend less you can still treat that special person! 

A single bottle of hand cream is a great idea....needed all year round and will only cost you £15 for a full sized bottle! Choose from 3 different fragrances to suit the receiver.

The cuticle oil or nail buffer are also a great options for just £15 each and can be purchased separately. The buffer really does work magic and the shine it gives lasts for weeks. 

Sakare is a very affluent brand with high level products but that doesn't mean it's exclusive. They will even give you great deals when buying a few products at a time (don't say I told you so!) 

Everyone that I have treated to Sakare gifts have so far loved them. Don't be caught short again and don't panic buy the first thing you see! 

Sakare Botanox Serum...a Miracle in a Bottle

With all the serums and lotions available out there to combat the unfortunate effects of ageing it's no wonder we often get confused. Is it really going to work like it says it will? Is it really worth that much money? Am I barking up the wrong tree completely and just need to get surgery?

Don't despair! I always like to believe that there are alternatives to surgery no matter what your age and state of skin. Ageing is a natural, beautiful thing, but we do need little helping hand to ensure that it is a graceful process.

I recently discovered Sakare Botanox Serum, and I have decided to dub it 'my little miracle in a bottle'.  I am a huge fan of all the Sakare anti ageing products but I hadn't tried any of the Botanox range. To be honest I thought that it might be a gimmick and not worth the money but oh how I was wrong.

The ground breaking Botanox complex is full of peptides and collagen which penetrate deep into your skin to restore that youthful plumpness. Skin is hydrated and completely rejuvenated by minerals, aloe vera, jojoba seed extracts and bounds of vitamin E. The high concentration of anti-oxidants gives your skin that extra boost it needs to repair itself and defend against those approaching wrinkles.

I have noticed such a difference in my skin after just 2 weeks using this serum. Even my most pronounced wrinkles have evened out significantly and in general my complexion is more youthful. Dark circles are no longer bringing my confidence down as they have been lightened.

This serum is the best I have ever tried and I would go as far to say that it is the best anti ageing treatment out there. Yes you may want to hide the receipt from your husband but trust me that you won't regret investing in this miracle serum! If you are considering surgery then please try this first before you go under the knife...you will be surprised at how happy you will be with the results.

Top of my Christmas Wish List....Sakare

Just over a week to go people! I love Christmas. I wish this tree was mine but unfortunately it's not:

While I am always organised when it comes to Christmas (all of my presents are wrapped and all ready to go) I know a lot of you out there are last minute panic-ers. Let's face it, the Christmas-Eve-Rush isn't fun and can be the most stressful experience ever. If you do end up in that situation then make sure you shop smart! Impulse last minute buys can leave a deep hole in your pocket till next Christmas.

I have been dropping loads of hints to my boyfriend this year for him to buy me the Indulgence Case from Sakare. We will have to wait and see if they were picked up on!

HINT TO GUYS: don't leave her disappointed....get something she is bound to love. Head down to Sakare on Bond Street. Quality products that will make her feel at her best and completely pampered.

FOOL PROOF: Don't know what she needs/likes/wants? Make sure your choice is fool proof. I recommend the Indulgence Case in Pure Passion (contains body scrub, body butter & nail kit) or the Hydrating Mineral Complex Moisturizer. Every girl needs these things time to time and when she sees the high level of the products she will think that you gave it loads of thought and searched around the market. Winning!

Perfect way to get in your mother in law's good books this year!

WRAPPING TIPS: While Sakare does have really beautiful packaging it's important to make the effort to wrap it! Plain paper is the most sophisticated and adding a ribbon or bow really says "I made effort".

Let this year be a success...even if it's all done last minute.
Merry Christmas everyone!!!

The Luxury Brand That Actually Cares About Your Skin - Sakare

Making sure that your skin is effectively cleansed and exfoliated whilst taking care not to damage it can be tricky. Our skin (especially on our face) is so gentle and sometimes temperamental, although at the same time an amazing entity with such strength and resistance. Constantly renewing, changing, adapting to what we put it through every day. After pollution, free radicals, bacteria, rain, sun, snow, smiling, frowning, tugging & pulling, the daily wear and tear on our skin starts to show. The last thing it needs is for us to rub in harsh skincare products, with the vigour of thinking we are doing something right.

So how do we know what is doing us harm and what isn't? With all the media coverage and beautiful celebrities endorsing all these 'wonder' products how are we supposed to make an informed decision about the care of our skin....something that we are responsible for for the rest of our lives.

This is where Sakare comes in...the luxury brand that actually cares about your skin:

• All of the ingredients are sourced ethically from across the globe and include the finest natural plants, sea algae and minerals. 
• No harsh chemicals or overly perfumed/coloured products. Sakare products work in tandem with your skin's natural facilitations to aid and encourage the body's natural way of working. The results are more than just visible...you can feel them. 
• The products are gentle enough to be used for all skin types and they really achieve what they say they will.

My experience so far has been with the Anti-Wrinkle Cream which I now swear by. Recently I bought the Exfoliating Facial Gel as I wanted something that would work alongside the cream but give my skin a bit of a deeper clean now and then. This exfoliator is perfect as it isn't abrasive, it's actually very moisturising and leaves my skin feeling refreshed and completely cleansed. Gentle enough to use up to 3 times a week, this irritation-free formula is a real 'wonder' product. Perfect for all skin types...even the most sensitive.

Let your skin do it's thing...it knows what to do. Just give it a natural helping hand from Sakare.

Sakare Gift Sets Make Great Christmas Presents

The Christmas season is upon us! Did I really just say that when it's only October? Yes I did because this year I have decided to be extremely organised and avoid any last minute stresses or sporadic impulse buying which will leave me hating myself once January comes around. With only 9 more weeks to go and so much shopping to do there really isn't that much time! I decided to pop down to my favourite shop of late...Sakare (just in case you haven't seen my other posts) and take a look at what they have on offer in the gift stakes.

Nail Kit - Includes a nail file, nail buffer, indulging hand and body lotion, and cuticle oil. Great quality products and everything you need to achieve a home manicure on a professional level. The sales assistant demonstrated the nail buffer on me and it gave a beautiful shine which has lasted and lasted. An ideal gift for young and old alike. Inexpensive but still has the high level of quality and luxury that this brand are known for. I'll be keeping a few of these in stock just in case I forget someone on the gift list.


Radiant Eyes Case - Includes Anti-Wrinkle Eye Serum and Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream. These two work together in perfect alliance to do some serious anti-ageing treatment around the eye area. Be careful who you give this to! You don't want to offend anyone by insinuating that they have badly aged skin. A little bit higher on the price scale and so ideal for people who you are closer to. I will be giving this to my mother as she has trouble with crow's feet wrinkles (where I get them from) and I have already witnessed the wonders that this Anti-Ageing range can do. I will be her favourite child this year :) 

Luxuriating Body Butter Case - Includes a trio of body butters. One of each scent (passion, ocean & patchouli). This is really a great gift for anyone...who doesn't love to pamper themselves after a bath with this luxurious cream? Comes in 3 scents so you don't even need to waste time guessing which one they will like best! I will be giving this gift set to my mother-in-law this year. She will definitely love it and will be so happy that I introduced her to the luxuriousness of this product. 

Rejuvenating Body Scrub Case - Includes a trio of body scrubs. One of each scent (passion, ocean & patchouli) just like the body butter case. Again this set is ideal for everyone. This 3 set will last forever and the recipient will love the rich revitalisation and intense hydration which this product ensures. I will be teaming this with the body butter case for my best friend, Angela.

Pure Passion Indulgence Case - Includes Rejuvenating Body Scrub, Luxuriating Body Butter and Nail Kit. Such a great price for so many items, I will be buying this for my sister...and secretly hoping she will buy it for me too! Also available in Passion and Patchouli fragrances.



Sakare has Christmas covered! If you aren't able to head down to their store on Bond Street then you check out their online store.

Sakare Mud Mask Review

As promised I am back again with another review and yes it is another product from the range at Sakare! After being extremely satisfied with my last purchase (anti-wrinkle cream) I had to go back to try something else from the luxury brand.

This time I decided to try the Intensive Nourishment Mud Mask which is suitable for all skin types. Again this is another anti-ageing product which has properties of Indonesian nyamplung oil and borage oil, rare natural ingredients which I was told are known to get results. As I mentioned before, I am constantly looking for anti-ageing products which actually work because my skin has pronounced wrinkles, making it look older than it's years. All the products I invest in turn out to be gimmicky and not worthwhile.

One of the best-selling masks in the range, I was excited to try it out. As soon as the kids were off to bed it was me time. Glass of wine and the Sakare mud mask....heaven! It smelled and felt amazing on my skin. A true moment of luxury and self-pampering (something we sometimes forget the importance of!) But let's cut to the chase and talk about what is really important...the results.

I can honestly say that after just one use my skin has a youthful radiance that wasn't there before. Skin tone is evened out and my skin is wonderfully hydrated, reducing the appearance of my fine-lines and wrinkles. An intensive treatment, I was advised to use once a week, although I would recommend to also use before an event where you would like your skin to look particularly radiant. The intensive nourishment mask is a great anti-ageing treatment, and also a great detox for skin that constantly faces the pollution and environment of daily life.

Recommended for anyone who wants to give their skin a nourished and youthful new lease of life. Also a great gift idea as it is suitable for any complexion...will be stocking up before christmas!

Sakare London Experience

Hi everyone,

I'm Isabella and I'd like to share some of my tips, tricks, insights and observations with you. As a mother of 2, (both under 5) and a certified shopaholic I will be discussing parenting, products and more!

Life as a mother can be stressful and sometimes you are left with no time at the end of the day for yourself. I make it a priority to set aside a few hours here and there to browse the shops and seek out the newest and best products. Last week I took a wander down Bond Street and discovered the beautiful Sakare cosmetics store.

                                                        Sakare at 93 New Bond Street

As I had never noticed or heard of this store before I just had to go in. The staff very very friendly and straight away noticed that I was new to the products and so explained to me a little bit about the range. I loved the way the store was set out...with vintage style booths neatly displaying creams and lotions. I didn't feel overloaded and so was able to look and really take in what was on offer. One thing caught my eye straight away...the anti-wrinkle eye cream. Even though I am still under 35 I suffer from pronounced crow's feet wrinkles around my eyes. Having tried many creams and serums over the years I still haven't been able to find a product that I am happy with. The sales-woman suggested I try it which I did. I have to say that it felt great on my skin and the eye area did seem brighter and smoother, although I have also felt this way with other products that I have gone on to see no real results. At £124.99 this wasn't a cheap product, but the sales-woman reassured me that I will start to see evident results after only one week, and that if I am not happy I should come back. Shockingly, I have spent way more than this on other 'anti-ageing' products and so was really hoping this would be the answer to my prayers.

I have been using the Sakare anti-wrinkle eye cream for just over a week now and I am really pleased with the results! The skin around my eyes is visibly smoother and the wrinkles are definitely less pronounced. The cream is easily absorbed and feels beautifully soft on my skin. Also a great base for eye make-up.  Not the cheapest option out there but definitely a good investment if you are looking for tangible results. For sure I will be returning to Sakare on my next trip to take a look at their other products. Keep an eye out for more reviews!!