Posts Tagged ‘Parent Pampering’
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By Sarah Kensington in Deals on
25 July, 2010 at 10:00 am
 Ooooh I do love 3 for 2 offers at Boots!
For those who want to know quickly which products are in this 3 for 2 Boots offer, here’s a list:
- Boots Extracts/Botanics
- Dead Sea Source
- Elle Macpherson
- FCUK
- Good Works
- Natural Collection
- Soap and Glory
- Ted Baker
- The Sanctuary
I don’t know much about how they others smell or what they’re like to use, but ever since a friend of mine gave me a tub of The Sanctuary ‘Mande Lular’ Body Souflee I’ve been utterly in love with it! If you know what ‘Dune’ by Christian Dior smells like then you’ll know what The Sanctuary ‘ Mande Lular’ products smell like, as they are almost identical.
If one of your favourites brands is included in the list of products included in the Boots 3 for 2 offer then this would be a good time to stock up, and if you’re an Advantage card holder then you’ll get points on all your purchases too.
If you’re looking for a pampering gift to give someone then there are various gift sets that are included in this offer too – a Sanctuary ‘Mande Lular’ treatment set is one of them *grin*
You can order online (don’t forget to add your Advantage card number to collect your points) and collect in store for free, standard delivery is £2.90 or free if you spend over £40.
Thanks to muppeto over at HUKD!
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By Sarah Kensington in Reviews on
2 July, 2010 at 1:00 pm
 Hair! The cause of many a depressed day when it refuses to do as it’s told; the cause of many a feel-like-a-film-star moment when it all goes right.
Unless you are blessed with wash-and -go hair, like my teenage daughter, then you’re going to need a little bit of extra help and lucky for us mere hair-mortals, those wonderful experts as Sassoon are continually developing products to make our lives and untamed locks a little easier to deal with.
When we casually mentioned to our panel of PlayPennies mums that we had a set of Sassoon Rapid Results ceramic hair straighteners to be reviewed, we were almost trampled in the mad rush to grab them out of our hands.
 Now, I hate to shatter any illusions you might have been harbouring, but for those of you who’ve never met me (and that’s everyone bar two of you, I think) and don’t know what I look like, I have to tell you that I don’t wake up with my hair all sleek, shiny and wonderful; sad, but true and it’s worse if I leave my hair to dry naturally – just think Wild Woman of Borneo or Diana Ross a’la the 1970s.
I was intrigued to see how our mums, Katrina and Helanie, got on with the Sasson Rapid Results straighteners as I’m a bit of a straightener-snob and connoiseur and swear by my GHDs. But they cost me an arm and a leg whereas the Sasson ones are a snip at £19.99 - what if they are just as good…?
Helanie won the toss to review the straighteners first and then she handed them over to Katrina – here’s what they had to say…
 “With two toddlers and a busy life I don’t have time to spend ages messing around trying to force my hair into straight submission, so most often just put it up in a ponytail and get on with my day,” Helanie told us, “I’m also reluctant to spend a lot of money on much more expensive irons, because if they dont’ live up the promises, then what?”
Katrina agreed, “With money becoming an increasingly precious commodity I need to try and find a balance between cost-effective and not ending up with lots of cheap things that don’t do what I need them to.”
The Sassoon straighteners have one inch ceramic coated plates that heat up to 210ºc in about 30 seconds; they also generate Infra Red heat which penetrates the hair follicles and warms your hair through from the inside out rather than roasting it from the outside in!
According to the bods at Sasson, ‘the hair is relaxed at these lower temperatures, allowing it to be easily managed and styled’ - which is great because that’s all we ask for.
“I loved the look and the feel of these straighteners,” commented Helanie, “they feel nicely balanced when you hold them and the ceramic plates slid nicely over my hair and left each section super-smooth. There was also no need to go over and over the same section either.”
Katrina has shorter finer hair, “People often assume that hair straighteners are just for people with long hair, but us shorter and more spikey-style people need help too. My hair’s quite fine too so I don’t always need massive amounts of heat, which is why I got quite so excited about the variable temperature function that these Sassoon Rapid Results straighteners have!”
She’s right, I must confess that when I think of straighteners I think long, thick hair that’s got a mind of its own and needs nothing short of inferno-like temperatures to control it.
Katrina went on to say, “They worked brilliantly for me! I loved the slim design as some bigger designs can make it quite tricky if you’ve got short hair. The variable temperature settings more than lived up to my expectations – I’m very happy with them!”
 The variable temperature bit is quite a revelation to me – I grew up with the old-skool monster straighteners from ancient times gone by, and it never occured that for the times when I just need a quick ‘re-straighten’, rather than full-blown taming, it would be kinder to my hair if I could just turn the temperature down a bit; very clever indeed!
So based on performance and price, would Helanie and Katrina recommend the Sassoon Rapid Results straighteners to other people?
“I’d absolutely recommend these straighteners to other people! For £19.99 you just can’t go wrong!” gushed Helanie.
“At last, sensibly-priced straighteners that do exactly what they promise to do and are easy to use if you’ve got short hair too – perfect, I love them!” enthused Katrina.
And finally…
As we leave Katrina and Helanie to play tug-of-war over the Sassoon Rapid Results ceramic hair straighteners, I think we can safely say that you won’t go wrong if you buy a set for yourself.
£19.99 for super-sleek and supermodel hair in super-fast time…? We LIKE the sound of that! And if you do too, then you can buy them from Sainsburys or our good friends Amazon
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By Tamsin Oxford in Reviews on
25 June, 2010 at 1:00 pm
The month of June is all about Dad here at PlayPennies and so we’ve been reviewing all sorts of fabulous goodies for him to enjoy. Aubrey Organics have just done a range of organic products for men called Men’s Stock which cover pretty much all the grooming basics.
These products are rather brilliant for Dads as they can even use them while bathing with their little ones without worrying about harmful chemicals or ingredients affecting the little one’s skin. So we sent these off to two of our PlayPennies Dad’s for review.
 This lightweight moisturiser includes ingredients like aloe vera, witch hazel, calendula oil and lemon peel (all organic, of course) and has been shown to reduce razor bumps if used twice a day. It costs £11.99 for 59ml.
“It’s incredibly runny and you must make sure you read the back of the container or be prepared to be covered in lotion!” said Mike, “The overall product does as it should, and moisturises well and only a small amount goes a really long way.”
Sean agreed, “I found that the product was very liquid which was initially a little disturbing, I’m used to thicker creams, but it definitely does the job well.”
Both of the men felt that the product worked well on their skin but sadly Mike wasn’t too impressed with the smell.
“I really didn’t like the smell, it’s really offputting for me,” he said, “And the consistency wasn’t something I really liked either.”
 Sean felt slightly differently, “I thought the smell was a bit odd but soon got used to it. Also, it rapidly disappeared once the product was rubbed into my skin and I liked the way my skin felt afterwards too.”
The final verdict from both Dads was that the product worked well and that only small amounts were needed to do the job, but that the smell and consistency didn’t appeal to them very much.
 This conditioner is designed to strengthen and mend damaged or thinning hair fibres and uses only natural ingredients such as Panaz Ginseng extract, Beta-Carotene and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice. Yes, you get leaf juice in your hair.
Sean found that this did wonderful things to his hair.
“I used this as well as my usual conditioner and found that my hair really did feel thicker and cleaner,” he said, “Like the moisturiser, only a small amount is needed each time so I can see this lasting me for ages.”
Mike remained ambivalent about the Mens’ Stock products.
“In the few weeks that I used this product, I didn’t see any change to what I use normally,” he said, “Aside from it being a little drying. I think you need a conditioner as well.”
However, in spite of this product not winning Mike over completely, he did agree that a little goes a long way and that the product would last for ages.
 Sean really liked the way the hair repair smelled too, “It’s got a strangely addictive smell,” he said.
The Ginseng Biotin Hair Repair costs £13.49 and the price did not get a thumbs up from our dads.
“I think the products are quite expensive,” said Mike, “However, they would last a long time so the cost would balance out over a period of time.”
And Finally
The Men’s Stock range hasn’t completely stunned and amazed our dads coming in at an average score of around five out of ten. This doesn’t mean that they are a complete dud, though. Sean rated them at six, while Mike had them at about four.
The range looks to be very much about personal taste so perhaps take Dad round to your local stockist before buying them for him. Overall, they did deliver on their promise and they worked well and the fact that they are entirely organic and environmentally friendly definitely adds to their allure.
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By Tamsin Oxford in Deals on
8 June, 2010 at 4:00 pm
T-Minus 12 days and counting. Yes, Father’s Day is looming and I’m back with some deals that may appeal to the men in your life. This deal is all about Wahanda. This is a health, beauty and wellness ecosystem (their words, not mine) where you can find treatments, classes and therapies to calm, beautify and relax you. The men too…
You can choose between stunning Father’s Day spa gifts, massages, fitness presents and more, all ranging in price to suit all types of budgets. The process is simple – you choose your pressie and your location and the off your man goes for some pampering and luxury.
Not many men are into this sort of thing, and most of them would never buy it for themselves, but once they’ve had their first Swedish massage or spa experience they’ll admit to loving every minute of it.
Some of the Father’s Day presents that appeal to the more moderate wallet include gift vouchers (so they can choose their luxury), an MOT Spa Day at Bannatynes (branches nationwide) and the special offer of 50% off the Men’s Reviver at The Spa Company in Manchester (was £80, now £40).
I hope you find something here for your special Dad, but if not, I shall return with more ideas anon!
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By Tamsin Oxford in Deals on
27 May, 2010 at 7:00 pm
Oh, oh, how utterly delicious and divine! A 30% off sale at The Body Shop makes me bounce with joy, especially when added to the 24 hour special of free delivery that’s currently running at the same time. Parents, it’s time to get ourselves a treat or two…
This promotion is valid from 26th May until 10am on Tuesday 01 June (can you believe it’s June already!) and will be shown automatically against the products on the site. Of course, the site is just packed with all sorts of delectable goodies so it’s going to be difficult deciding where to start.
If you’re busy pondering what to get the special men in your life for Father’s Day then why not take a look at some of the lotions and potions on offer for men. Your man may not be the grooming type but perhaps he would appreciate something for dry hands or feet, especially now they are in the sun all the time.
 For mums, this is your chance to get delicious products for your careworn hands and toes too. And if you’re stuck for ideas then check out their Top Ten Most Reviewed Products for some fabulous ideas. One of the most reviewed products happens to be the Hemp Hand Protector that now costs a mere £3.50.
Thanks to renrahs at HUKD!
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By Tamsin Oxford in Freebies on
21 May, 2010 at 4:00 pm
One of the difficulties of living in a cold climate with areas of hard water is the affect these have on your skin. Dry and wrinkly hands are horrible to have and often feel inevitable, especially when you’re washing them constantly with a new baby. So this fab freebie from Vaseline may well be the skin solution you’ve been looking for.
This cream is designed to increase the moisture levels in your skin instantly and is bound to be delicious on the olfactory sense too. I’ve always enjoyed Vaseline’s products, they always seem to be good value for money and good quality too. Hopefully this won’t be the exception to the rule.
To get your free sample you’ll have to enter a survey first but I don’t see this taking too long to do. It took me only five minutes to complete. The sachet will then be sent to your door so you can enjoy some moisture locking fun. Please note that this offer is only for those in the UK. Sorry to our far flung friends…
Thanks to BAZZAUK at HUKD!
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By Tamsin Oxford in Deals on
29 April, 2010 at 10:00 am
Calling all parents looking for a luxury spa day that will cost less than a take-out for one! From 10am today (Right now!) Lastminute.com are selling spa days and treatments for only £10. It’s cheap, it’s cheerful and you better hurry as there are a limited number of offers available.
You can nab some truly fantastic spa deals for a mere £10 in this deal but there are a bunch of others on offer too. You can get some two for one offers on spas as a part of their UK Spa Fortnight. Right, so what can you do for the £10 sale?
There is a Sensory Spa day at Bannatyne Spas at 29 locations nationwide. It includes a relaxing Swedish back, neck and shoulder massage and full use of the facilities. You can also attend the Dove Spas which are at 21 locations across the UK and their body indulgence package is all about soft body treatments and luxury.
Now, these are the deals they have on the site at the moment but they may change at 10am when the deal switches to the £10 price. If this is it, then there are only three deals and the third includes a spa day at the Aqua Sana Spas.
Thanks to millarcat at HUKD!
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By Sarah Kensington in Deals on
23 April, 2010 at 4:00 pm
Any busy mother will tell you that time is at a premium from the moment you wake up to the moment you go to bed, and sometimes there just isn’t time to go for the full make-up routine.
But you know, that doesn’t mean you have to give up looking and feeling luscious’ and lovely – just putting on a bit of a lip gloss can make you feel super sexy and glam’.
Half price perfumes have some fabulous lip gloss and lip stick deals at the moment and whether you’re a clear and natural gloss fan or a die-hard RED lipstick fan, I’m sure there’ll be something here to add to your make-up bag.
 Nab this fabulous Bobbi Brown lip gloss for a fraction of the rrp – usually £14.00 you can pick this up for just £6.99 AND delivery on this item is FREE! It’s scented with a hint of vanilla and has a whole host of botanical extracts in it to keep your lips soft, smooth and supple.
Add any of these other items to your basket you’ll be into delivery charge territory which is £3.95 for standard first class, £4.95 other courier or £6.00 for next day.
 If clear lip gloss is your thing (it’s mine) then you can pick up this brilliant Benefit ‘Crystal’ gloss for £4.99 instead of £14.00!
Maybe you want to buy a few shades for your money, in which case have a look at these Bourjois ‘La Creme’ glosses that work as a gloss, lip balm and offers the coverage of a lipstick in one. They’re going for a pound each instead of the usual £7.99 and you can order a maximum of three.
 Finally, as promised, here’s one for the die-hard red lippy girls – a Bourjois ‘So Rouge’ lipstick. It’s an unused tester so will come in a plain box marked ‘tester’ but other than that it’s exactly the same as the regular lipsticks, if you’re happy with that then you can grab one for £ instead of the usual £9.00; a bargain in my view as most of us just throw the packaging away!
So there you go PlayPennies mums – a little bit of parent pampering for you on this Friday afternoon. Enjoy!
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By Sarah Kensington in Deals on
27 March, 2010 at 9:00 am
 Ladies AND gents it’s time to get yourself out of parent mode and into PAMPERING mode!
Click HERE to go to HQHair.com
- Discount: 15%
- Minimum Spend: NONE! (Yippeeee)
- Promotional Code: BUNNY15
- Expires: Monday 29 March @ midnight
I dread to think how much money I’ve spent with hqhair.com in my time so when promotional codes are released my bank balance heaves a sigh of relief.
If you’ve not come across HQHair before then you’re in for a treat – they offer a huge range of products that span all of the major and professional hair care and beauty brands. They also have an impressive stock of fragrances, accessories, advice sections and a wish and gift list service.
Hair care names you’ll be familiar with include: Redken, Joico, Kerastase, Paul Mitchell, BedHead and Aveda.
For skincare and makeup your choices include: Benefit, Nars, Philosophy, Dermalogica, Mario Bedescu and lots more.
I buy some of my most favourite things from HQHair and their service has always been exceptional – I really can’t recommend them enough if you’re looking to buy top brand products online.
 One of my beauty essentials is Lip Venom by DuWop – it’s strange stuff but I LOVE IT! It tastes of cinnamon, stings the lips when you put it on and gives them a natural plump-up and bee-stung look.
Most things by Philosophy are also on my skincare hitlist: Hope in a jar SPF 20 is a must and worth every penny of its £38.40 price tag along with this microdelivery daily exfoliating wash
PlayPennies dads, there are lots of things for YOU too – why not go and have a mooch around and see if anything takes your fancy!
Delivery is £2.50 if you order just one item or £3.50 for unlimited items. If you need things pronto then you can add an extra £3.50 and get your goodies delivered the next day.
Happy pampering!
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By Tamsin Oxford in Deals on
26 February, 2010 at 5:00 pm
 Look, I know that this isn’t an incredibly cheap deal but the value it will give you in terms of sleep is unbeatable. It’s down from nearly £30 so you do save £3, and you get 104 Advantage Card points too.
It’s the one thing that most parents really dread. It’s the 5am call of “Mooommmeeeee,” that grows increasingly louder and distressed until you eventually fall out of bed and unwillingly face the day. Unless you’re one of those people who can bounce out of bed after only 4 hours sleep, this clock may well be your salvation.
The Gro-clock uses fun images of the moon and the sun to communicate with your child. If the moon is u p then it isn’t wake-up time yet! I haven’t tried this clock so there may well be a very good chance that kids just point, laugh and resume the cries. Still, it’s got to be worth a shot?
The screen glows and the stars around the moon go out one-by-one to show the passing of time. You can set the times yourself I think (doesn’t really say but makes sense that you can), adjust the screen brightness and it comes with a bedtime story book.
Thanks to DB2k at HUKD!
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