Here at BrandAlley, we like to think that we practise what we preach. And, with so many unmissable brands and offers, we’re perhaps some of our own biggest customers.
Our beauty team are exceptionally passionate about what they do, which is why, this Wellness month, Charlie, our Beauty & Home Fragrance Buyer, and Honor, our Beauty Buying Assistant, are sharing the insider brands they use the most, as well as advice on how to use their dressing table essentials.
Charlie Loves…
Aromatherapy Associates
Moment of Recovery
What it does…
This triple threat of a de-stress muscle gel, bath and shower oil, as well as a muscle massage ball is the ultimate necessary indulgence after a long workout. To start, use the salt muscle melt (salt improves recovery and helps ease tension), and roll the ball across spots where you’re suffering.
The shower oil contains black pepper, lavender and rosemary, which you can smell as soon as you pour into your hands to warm the oil. Then, to finish, I apply the de stress muscle rub – perfect for aches and pains, which prepares my body to start another workout all over again the next day.
Why we love it…
An evening to myself wouldn’t be complete without Aromatherapy Associates Moment of Recovery, it’s the ultimate kit to aid my long list of fitness ambitions for 2021. With no events on the horizon, this set is my perfect Plus One for the year ahead.
This Works
Sleep Together Calming Spray
What it does…
Made with natural oils, the Sleep Together Calming Spray by This Works is sure to become your must-have sleep solution. Simply spray on your pillow before bed, and relax and unwind whilst taking in the fresh fragrances.
Insider tip: Spray on your pyjamas whilst getting ready for bed, it’ll help you to get into a relaxing frame of mind.
Why we love it…
This Works’ Calming Spray is a vital part of my bedtime routine – at this point, I’d struggle to fall asleep without it – which is why the larger version is a dream come true. I inhale the fragrant notes whilst listening to a Calm or Headspace meditation as my head hits the pillow, and soon fall into a deep, serene sleep, with no lullaby necessary…
Elemis
Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm
What it does…
Containing Elderberry oil, which firms and plumps the skin, Starflower oil, which helps maintains the skin moisture levels, and Optimega oil which aids hydration, this cleansing balm is the ultimate cult classic. The cleansing balm leaves the skin feeling soft and hydrated, whilst the fragrance of chamomile brings a calm soothing aroma.
Why we love it…
There will always be a spot in my toiletry bag for Elemis’ Pro-Collagen Cleansing balm. This second cleanser plumps and hydrates the skin, and, it’s the next best thing to a facial that I can get at the moment…
Honor Loves…
Psychic Sisters
Facial Roller & Gua Sha Tool Kit
What it does…
Using a facial roller and Gua Sha on your face helps to stimulate blood flow and aids lymphatic drainage, whilst absorbing your favourite skincare products to deeply penetrate the skin.
Use these tools after your serum or moisturiser step in the routine, and, if possible, keep in the fridge before use. I start with the small roller around my eyes to help with puffiness, as I move the roller outwards from the inside of the eye to the temple. Then I use the larger roller over the rest of my face (again, always working outwards), ensuring I’m working to the edge of my hairline, from chin to ear, and from neck to jaw.
In the evenings I like to use a Gua Sha tool with a face oil to work on my problem areas. I use the arch of the tool to pull up from chin to ear, and then with the bumpy end I focus on my eyes again, pulling from the corner of my eye outwards.
Why we love it…
If you want luxe for less, the Psychic Sisters facial roller is a must-have for your beauty drawer. To get the best results, take around five minutes of your day to work on the above routine, and keep your facial roller in the fridge before use. Just don’t mistake it for a midnight snack…
Philip Kingsley
Rose & Lychee Elasticizer
What it does…
It’s really important to take out some time each week to deep condition our hair. Even if you’re short on time, applying the elasticizer overnight before washing your hair in the morning can leave it salon-fresh soft. This particular fragrance blend from Philip Kingsley is based on Ayurvedic therapy – the worlds oldest holistic healing – with a balance of mind, body and soul. Rose and Lychee is combined in this elasticizer to calm and relax.
Why we love it…
With no idea as to when my next hair appointment will be, I’m finding it extra-important to maintain the quality of my locks. This home treatment emulates the salon experience, and, when left in overnight before a wash, makes my hair feel as soft as can be.
Words: Maria Loizou
