Latest news with #YasminHarisha
The Irish Sun
4 days ago
- Health
- The Irish Sun
Elemis' £49 spa cleansing balm has thousands of 5-star reviews – I compared it to Boots £7.50 dupe everyone raves about
AS a dedicated skincare enthusiast, I'm always on the lookout for that perfect balance where effectiveness meets affordability. For what feels like an age, the beauty world has been abuzz with endless praise for the Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, a product often dubbed a 'spa-worthy' luxury cleanser. 4 Yasmin Harisha puts to cleansing balms to the test Credit: Stewart Williams - The Sun 4 Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm jar Credit: Elemis 4 HABI Moisture Melt Cleansing Balm has been compared to being a good alternative to the Elemis cleansing balm Credit: HABI And, I won't deny it - it truly is a delight to use. The experience of the Elemis balm is truly an undeniable one. It begins as a rich, solid balm, melting seamlessly into a sumptuous oil as it warms on the skin, before finally evolving into a delicate, hydrating milk upon contact with water. And there's no denying that it dissolves every trace of makeup, daily grime and impurities. READ MORE ON CHEAP SKINCARE It certainly leaves my skin feeling soft, nourished, and pampered. The formula itself is a boasts exceptional ingredients such as Elderberry and Padina Pavonica, complemented by a meticulously crafted essential oil blend that elevates the cleansing process into a truly indulgent evening ritual. However, with a price tag of £49.00, from Boots for a modest 100g jar, it's undeniably a splurge - one that, for many, myself included, simply isn't sustainable for day-to-day use. This led me to a recent discovery that has completely shifted my perspective and won my heart: the Boots HABI Moisture Melt Cleansing Balm. Most read in Fabulous Beauty fans have taken to internet to praise it for being a "dupe" to the Elemis product, and a "great alternative." 'Keeps skin super glowy' beauty buffs rave about new Primark face cream that's £5 dupe for viral £195 'magic cream' At an astonishing £7.50 for a generous 100g pot, the HABI Moisture Melt Cleansing Balm offers everything I desire in a cleansing balm, without the hefty price tag. And like the Elemis cleansing balm, it's nothing short of a revelation. Even the design of the pot is something else. You can twist the lid for it to come out bit by bit, or use the provide spoon to scoop it out onto your hands. From the moment I scoop out a small amount, I'm greeted with a smooth, gel-like balm that feels wonderfully indulgent. As I dot it onto my dry face and gently massage it in, the texture transforms beautifully. I've come to realise that these extras, while lovely, aren't strictly necessary for achieving a great cleanse Yasmin Harisha Under the warmth of my fingertips, it melts into a silky, lightweight oil that glides effortlessly across the skin. This transformation is key - the oil works its magic, dissolving even the most stubborn waterproof mascara and lifting away the day's build-up of dirt and pollutants. Like the Elemis product it turns into a milky texture after water is applied to it. Once I felt I had immulsified it enough on my face, I grabbed a soaked flannel and wipe it off. After rinsing, my skin feels immaculately clean, soft, and comfortably refreshed, with no tightness, greasiness, or unpleasant residue. It delivers a thorough and satisfying cleanse every time - exactly what I look for in a cleansing balm. 4 HABI Moisture Melt Cleansing Balm jar Credit: Habi While the Elemis balm does offer a more aromatic experience and a slightly more intricate texture transition, I've come to realise that these extras, while lovely, aren't strictly necessary for achieving a great cleanse. Especially when the price difference is so stark. The HABI balm proves, without question, that you don't need to spend a small fortune to achieve beautifully clean, happy skin. It's straightforward, exceptionally effective, and wonderfully affordable, making it a true unsung hero of skincare - perfect for daily use. For me, the Boots HABI Moisture Melt Cleansing Balm is the undisputed winner. It excels in its primary purpose - cleansing - and does so at a price point that's accessible to all. Why spend nearly seven times more for a few extra essential oils when HABI delivers impeccable results for just £7.50? It's now my absolute go-to cleansing balm, and I genuinely cannot recommend it highly enough. If you're searching for a budget-friendly skincare gem that doesn't compromise on performance, HABI is the answer. Biggest skincare trends for 2025 1. Exosomes Exosomes are the buzzword for 2025, taking advanced skin regeneration to new heights. These micro-messengers signal skin cells to repair damage, boost collagen, and accelerate recovery, and they're a gamechanger for targeting ageing. 2. Streamlined Skincare The age of 12-step routines is fading as consumers shift to more intentional, multi-functional products. Streamlining skincare not only saves time but also reduces the risk of overloading your skin. In 2025, we'll see a rise in hybrid products that combine active ingredients for simplified, effective results. 3. Vegan Collagen Plant-based collagen will dominate the skincare world this year, providing a sustainable, ethical alternative to traditional animal-derived collagen. Expect vegan collagen in everything from moisturisers to serums. 4. The Rise Of AI AI is revolutionising the beauty landscape, making it possible for consumers to get truly personalised skincare solutions. In 2025, we predict a dramatic shift towards AI-powered tools that help people understand their skin on a deeper level. 5. Hair Loss Solutions - Hair loss is an issue that affects more men than we often realise, and it's no longer just something we're talking about behind closed doors. This year, expect to see a continued rise in demand for treatments that not only tackle hair loss but also nurture overall scalp health.
Scottish Sun
4 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Scottish Sun
Elemis' £49 spa cleansing balm has thousands of 5-star reviews – I compared it to Boots £7.50 dupe everyone raves about
Here, Yasmin Harisha puts Boots latest cleansing balm to the test as beauty fans praise it for being a "dupe" of a more expensive brand BALMY! Elemis' £49 spa cleansing balm has thousands of 5-star reviews – I compared it to Boots £7.50 dupe everyone raves about Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) AS a dedicated skincare enthusiast, I'm always on the lookout for that perfect balance where effectiveness meets affordability. For what feels like an age, the beauty world has been abuzz with endless praise for the Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, a product often dubbed a 'spa-worthy' luxury cleanser. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 Yasmin Harisha puts to cleansing balms to the test Credit: Stewart Williams - The Sun 4 Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm jar Credit: Elemis 4 HABI Moisture Melt Cleansing Balm has been compared to being a good alternative to the Elemis cleansing balm Credit: HABI And, I won't deny it - it truly is a delight to use. The experience of the Elemis balm is truly an undeniable one. It begins as a rich, solid balm, melting seamlessly into a sumptuous oil as it warms on the skin, before finally evolving into a delicate, hydrating milk upon contact with water. And there's no denying that it dissolves every trace of makeup, daily grime and impurities. It certainly leaves my skin feeling soft, nourished, and pampered. The formula itself is a boasts exceptional ingredients such as Elderberry and Padina Pavonica, complemented by a meticulously crafted essential oil blend that elevates the cleansing process into a truly indulgent evening ritual. However, with a price tag of £49.00, from Boots for a modest 100g jar, it's undeniably a splurge - one that, for many, myself included, simply isn't sustainable for day-to-day use. This led me to a recent discovery that has completely shifted my perspective and won my heart: the Boots HABI Moisture Melt Cleansing Balm. Beauty fans have taken to internet to praise it for being a "dupe" to the Elemis product, and a "great alternative." 'Keeps skin super glowy' beauty buffs rave about new Primark face cream that's £5 dupe for viral £195 'magic cream' At an astonishing £7.50 for a generous 100g pot, the HABI Moisture Melt Cleansing Balm offers everything I desire in a cleansing balm, without the hefty price tag. And like the Elemis cleansing balm, it's nothing short of a revelation. Even the design of the pot is something else. You can twist the lid for it to come out bit by bit, or use the provide spoon to scoop it out onto your hands. From the moment I scoop out a small amount, I'm greeted with a smooth, gel-like balm that feels wonderfully indulgent. As I dot it onto my dry face and gently massage it in, the texture transforms beautifully. I've come to realise that these extras, while lovely, aren't strictly necessary for achieving a great cleanse Yasmin Harisha Under the warmth of my fingertips, it melts into a silky, lightweight oil that glides effortlessly across the skin. This transformation is key - the oil works its magic, dissolving even the most stubborn waterproof mascara and lifting away the day's build-up of dirt and pollutants. Like the Elemis product it turns into a milky texture after water is applied to it. Once I felt I had immulsified it enough on my face, I grabbed a soaked flannel and wipe it off. After rinsing, my skin feels immaculately clean, soft, and comfortably refreshed, with no tightness, greasiness, or unpleasant residue. It delivers a thorough and satisfying cleanse every time - exactly what I look for in a cleansing balm. 4 HABI Moisture Melt Cleansing Balm jar Credit: Habi While the Elemis balm does offer a more aromatic experience and a slightly more intricate texture transition, I've come to realise that these extras, while lovely, aren't strictly necessary for achieving a great cleanse. Especially when the price difference is so stark. The HABI balm proves, without question, that you don't need to spend a small fortune to achieve beautifully clean, happy skin. It's straightforward, exceptionally effective, and wonderfully affordable, making it a true unsung hero of skincare - perfect for daily use. For me, the Boots HABI Moisture Melt Cleansing Balm is the undisputed winner. It excels in its primary purpose - cleansing - and does so at a price point that's accessible to all. Why spend nearly seven times more for a few extra essential oils when HABI delivers impeccable results for just £7.50? It's now my absolute go-to cleansing balm, and I genuinely cannot recommend it highly enough. If you're searching for a budget-friendly skincare gem that doesn't compromise on performance, HABI is the answer.
The Sun
22-06-2025
- Climate
- The Sun
The sex position & tips that will keep you cool whilst you're getting heated
WITH the temperatures climbing this week, it's no surprise if you're feeling a bit hot and bothered at home. Sure, cracking open the windows and cranking up the fans can help, but let's be honest - it might also have you scooting as far away from your partner as humanly possible. 5 And the last thing on your mind is getting heated in the sheets. But sexpert Annabelle Knight believes the hot weather shouldn't be affecting your sex life. She says: 'With another sizzling spell of sunshine heading our way, it's not just our factor fifty that'll be working overtime. 'When temperatures rise, so can passion, but getting steamy when there's soaring temperatures can be more sticky than sexy. 'But, you don't need to sacrifice pleasure just because the sun's out. 'With the right positions, props, and a bit of creativity, you can stay cool while still getting hot and heavy…' Here, she tells YASMIN HARISHA her top eight sex positions that'll save you from being a sweltering mess at home. The Lazy Spoon This is a super sensual low-effort, side-by-side position. It's ideal for conserving energy…as the receiving partner lies on their side the other partner can simply slip in from behind. Hailey and Justin Bieber's sex confessions from her threesome rules to favourite position It's gentle, intimate, and requires little movement - perfect for when temperatures soar. Edge of Glory One partner lies flat on the edge of the bed while the other person stands or kneels on the floor. Because only one person is on the mattress, there's less trapped body heat, meaning you'll stay cooler. Plus, this particular position allows for deep penetration without full-body contact. Shower Power Skip the bedroom entirely and take the fun to the bathroom. Water helps regulate body temperature and keeps things slippery in all the right ways. In my opinion it's best for standing positions like facing each other or from behind. Just be careful with your footing… non slip mats or suction cup shower handles are your friend here. Ice, Ice, Maybe Temperature play isn't just kinky… it's cooling, too. Gently run an ice cube along your partner's neck, inner thighs or lower back. This adds a shock of sensation and cools the skin at the same time. You can even incorporate chilled massage oils or edible lubes by keeping them in the fridge for a refreshing twist. Fan Club If you don't have air con, position a fan near the bed and experiment with airflow. Try angling it so it hits your bodies directly, or place a damp towel in front for a DIY cooling effect. Sensation-wise, the breeze heightens touch and makes everything feel just a little more sensitive as it encourages more awareness of your body as the breeze hits you. Flat Out Lying flat on your backs side-by-side allows for mutual masturbation without touching. This helps to keep the intimacy high and is also a great way to explore fantasies, talk dirty or try toys together without the full body contact making you too hot. If you're stuck for ideas, try a little erotic fiction as inspiration, such as Fifty Shades of Grey, Tell Me To Stop, or my novel, The Endless Autumn, would all be great picks. Cool Down Quickies When it's hot, long sessions can feel more like a workout than a romp. 5 Instead, enjoy shorter, more intense encounters rather than marathon sex sessions. A study by The Conversation reported an average median time of 5.4 minutes for couples, so don't be afraid to embrace the quickie. Chill Out Aftercare The post-sex glow can easily become a post-sex sweat in summer. Keep a cold flannel, cooling body mist and a glass of ice water by the bed to freshen up afterwards. It'll help you feel refreshed, reconnected and ready to go again… once you've cooled off of course. What your sexual fantasies say about you By Emma Kenny, a TV presenter and psychologist Raucous Role Play: If your partner enjoys dressing up for fun, it shows creativity and a desire to keep things exciting. However, it might signal that he struggles with responsibility. Multi-Partner Fantasies: Craving variety doesn't always mean he wants to cheat. However, it could indicate deeper feelings of unfulfillment. Power & Control: A little dominance is normal, but if it's always about control, it may hide insecurities. Adventure: Men seeking thrills may push boundaries, so be sure your comfort zone is respected. Passion: If he's romantic, he's emotionally tuned in—though occasionally avoiding tough conversations. Flexibility: Openness to new experiences is great, but constant novelty-seeking could mean avoiding emotional connection. Red Flag: If control is his ultimate fantasy, it may signal a deeper struggle with power dynamics.
The Sun
23-05-2025
- General
- The Sun
I've tried 6 viral popular stain remover hacks that claim to be ‘the best ever' – most effective was a bargain
A POWERFUL stain remover is a household essential – especially with kids in the mix. From tomato sauce to mystery smudges of make-up, keeping your whites crisp can feel like a constant battle. 7 Stain removers have come a long way in recent years, with some not even needing a washing machine any more. And they are going viral on TikTok. But which ones actually work – and which are just hype? Yasmin Harisha sees if the most popular online picks have what it takes. Here, she puts them to the test versus grass stains, foundation, red wine, coffee, oil, sunscreen, tomato sauce and even marker pen. Tide To Go stain pen, £12.49 for three, Amazon PERFECT for your handbag or toiletry kit, this stain remover pen is a lifesaver for quick clean-ups before stains set. Just shake, uncap, press on to the mark and rub back and forth — and the stain disappears fast. It worked brilliantly on every stain I tested, but it is definitely best for smaller spots. Larger stains are trickier, you will either spend a lot of time scrubbing or end up using multiple pens, which is not exactly budget-friendly. Still, for everyday mishaps such as make-up smudges or food splashes, it is a handy, travel-friendly option that delivers quick results when you need them. Best at banishing: Coffee. As long as it is a small amount. I've tried 6 viral TikTok stain remover hacks that claim to be 'the best ever' Worst at tackling: Foundation. It ended up smudging the stain into the fabric. Rating: 2.5/5 Bicarbonate soda, fairy liquid & hydrogen peroxide, £1, any supermarket WHEN it comes to viral DIY hacks, this one is a classic — and it actually works. Bicarbonate of soda has been a cleaning staple for years. If you are on a budget and don't mind a little DIY, it is just as effective as shop-bought options. I mixed 1 tbsp of bicarb, 1 tbsp of washing-up liquid and 2 tbsp of hydrogen peroxide into a smooth paste. I applied to the stain then let it sit for 15 minutes (longer for tougher stains), then gently scrubbed with a soft brush, rinsed, and washed. It works but I prefer something ready-made and less labour intensive. Best at banishing: Sunscreen. You could see it working instantly. Worst at tackling: Marker pen. It needed to be soaked still. Rating: 3.5/5 Stain-removing wipes, £1.25, Marks & Spencer IF you need a quick, on-the-go fix, this stain remover is a game-changer. The wipes come in a compact, sleek packet that slips easily into your handbag, perfect for tackling fresh stains in a pinch. From tomato sauce and oil to a splash of red wine or a smudge of blusher, it is your go-to solution. Parents who usually reach for baby wipes might find this a serious upgrade — and it is affordable, too. However, there is one caveat. For larger or older stains that have set in, you will likely need something a bit more heavy duty. Best at banishing: Oil but you need to act quickly. Worst at tackling: Grass stains. This took some elbow grease. Napisan non bio stain remover powder, £4.50, Morrisons A LONG-TIME parenting staple, this germ-killing powder (99.9 per cent of germs, to be exact) has recently become a hit for stains on socks and trainers. It works best when you soak laundry in warm water mixed with the powder before tossing it in the washing machine. Personally, I wasn't impressed. It didn't do much for foundation stains while other marks left behind faint traces. Grass stains were barely touched. It has a lovely, fresh scent but its stain-fighting power felt average. Great for general freshness, just don't expect miracles on tougher stains. Best at banishing: Oil, but be sure to soak it. Worst at tackling: Grass stains. WINNER: Wipe Out stain remover spray £5.50, Homecare Essentials THIS spray is the gold standard of stain removers. It doesn't just lift stains from clothes, it doubles as a powerful multi-surface cleaner. While it didn't completely erase an extra-dark foundation mark, it made serious progress and I'm sure a second go would do the trick. The best part? It is super affordable. Just a few spritzes, wait 30 seconds and you are set. It tackles everything from grease and grime to biro, coffee and even blood. Plus, it works on almost anything — fabric, wood, metal, glass, stone, vinyl, ceramics, you name it. Worst at tackling: Wine. It needed to be put in the washing machine for it to vanish completely. Scrubology stain remover soap, £7.99, I HAD high hopes for this stain remover after TikTok kept serving it up, with cleaning fans calling it the 'best ever'. You are meant to wet the stain, wet the bar, scrub until it foams, then soak the item by hand or pop it in the wash. But for me, it wasn't that simple. Despite plenty of elbow grease, it barely foamed. It felt like nothing was really happening. Honestly, I think a regular bar of soap might have done a better job. This one just did not live up to the hype. Best at banishing: Tomato sauce but only if it was a tiny splatter. Worst at tackling: Foundation. It was the toughest stain across the board, but this soap didn't even make a dent. Rating: 1/5 Can a mini washing machine save you cash? OFTEN spotted on social media, the intriguing Taylor & Brown portable washing machine (£29.99, Amazon/B&Q) was a bit of a puzzle to figure out. Mums online are praising it as the perfect solution for family holidays and the convenience of quickly cleaning the kids' clothes without needing to run a full load. It uses just one-twentieth of the water required by a standard washing machine and, according to Precision Appliance Leasing, a portable washing machine typically uses between 0.2 to 1 kWh per load, whereas traditional machines can consume 1 to 2 kWh or more. With energy costs soaring, this machine sounds a smart, choice. That said, the instructions left a lot to be desired as they were poorly translated and missing key details. You fill it with water, though there's no clear fill line so it is a bit of guessing game, then add detergent and clothes. It doesn't heat the water, so best to add warm water from the tap. Its compact size limits it to one or two tops or smaller items such as underwear – I found overfilling causes spillage and bouncing. It has a touch screen and offers a ten-minute cycle, a two-minute cycle, or just a spin option. But clothes come out soaking wet and could take days to dry. Plus I found it frustrating that the clothes don't come out properly washed and I often put them into a regular washing machine afterwards, which defeats the purpose entirely. It could be handy for washing underwear while camping. But, for me, it wasn't worth the money saved.
