However, I wasn’t always a find, to be completely honest. I always felt like they were a little stiff and never really stuck properly to my face, but after having tested lots (and I do mean LOTS) of different sheet masks, I’ve finally found myself a few favourite ones that I wanted to share with you.

The best thing about sheet masks? No mess & super easy to travel with. Win/win, right?

Let’s get into a few favourites below:

STARSKIN – VIP Crème de la Crème

The inner layer is coated with a remarkable 18g of super-concentrated, luxurious cream while the outer protective layer functions as a shield. This delivery system allows you to force-feed dry and depleted skin with almost half a jar of cream in just one treatment to ensure ultimate nourishment and absorption, and spectacular results.

GO TO – Transformazing

The blend of natural botanicals such as kakadu plum, finger lime tasmanian pepper leaf work together, and in just 10 minutes leave the skin plumper and brighter. The skin tone is left more even, whilst the addition of niacinamide and hyadisine leave the skin plumper, hydrated and ready for any event with this sheet mask.

WEI – Mung Bean Sprout Stress Relieving Soothing Mask

Mung Bean has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine to help nurture the body while calming and cooling the skin. This purifying sheet mask floats in 45ml essence of detoxifying Mung Bean Sprout to help to clear imbalanced or blemished skin. A ten-minute application exfoliates dull skin and removes skin-damaging pollutants and impurities from pores while restoring healthy sebum levels for a calm, flawless complexion. Mung Bean Sprout offers powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties while supplying protein-rich moisture to the skin, Chinese Licorice Root helps heal skin ailments and blemishes while Cucumber extract soothes and hydrates.

A’kin – Australian Tea Tree Oil Detoxifying Sheet Mask

This bio-degradable, lightweight and soft sheet mask is infused with Australian Tea Tree Oil which helps to keep skin clear and blemish free. Organic Green Tea, a potent antioxidant, works to protect skin against environmental toxins, helps to control excess oil production, and provides a clarifying boost to your skin. Tea Tree Oil, Lavender and Orange Blossom essential oils combine to provide a truly botanical experience that will leave skin feeling hydrated, relaxed and refreshed.

Neutrogena – Purifying Hydrogel Mask

This unique hydrogel mask is formulated with Moringa pterygosperma, a seed extract as well as a seaweed extract, known to purify skin for a healthy-looking complexion. This is no ordinary sheet mask. It is made of 100% hydrogel material which contours to your skin, sealing in the formula for optimal absorption and is clinically proven to hydrate.

The Body Shop – Seaweed Balance Sheet Mask

Mattify and hydrate oily and combination skin in just 15 minutes with our vegan Seaweed Balance Sheet Mask. Enriched with cucumber extract, mineral-rich seaweed and Community Trade organic aloe vera, this mask locks in 24hr hydration and leaves skin feeling instantly refreshed and mattified.

Ella Baché – Charcoal Foaming Mask

An innovative cellulose sheet mask rich in Activated Charcoal for deep cleansing and detoxifying. Anti-pollution agents help to oxygenate the skin while fruit-derived AHAs and Glycolic Acid refine and soften texture and tone. Aloe Vera calms and soothes while providing the necessary hydration that all skin types require

The post The Best Sheet Masks For Glowing Skin appeared first on Anna Høgh Groth.

Luckily, it’s a little bit easier with The Beauty Chef Glow Powder as I’ve taken this for over 2 years now, and I’m utterly obsessed with it because I can see it truly does make a difference in my skin and overall glow. It’s one of those things that I notice goes away after a week or two, if I stop taking this beauty supplement.

Let’s dive into a bit of a review since I’m partnering with The Beauty Chef for the month of September for their #30daystoglow challenge which is all about kickstarting your inner beauty journey towards a healthier, happier gut and gorgeous, glowing skin!

Even though we’re into September already, you can still join us on a journey to radiant skin – simply take 1 teaspoon of GLOW Inner Beauty Powder every day for one month – that’s it!

What is GLOW Powder & what does it do?

GLOW Inner Beauty Essential is developed in order to, not only support gut health, but also collagen synthesis, and beautiful skin, hair and nails, thanks to the presence of more than 20 bio-fermented, whole food ingredients including zinc and vitamin C which support skin health.

GLOW has been developed with The Beauty Chef’s exclusive Flora Culture fermentation process which helps to increase the bioavailability of the formula and create a live, broad-spectrum probiotic for a healthy & functioning gut.

It actually tastes GOOD – the berry-flavoured formula also contains prebiotics and is packed with easily digested, supercharged nutrients that are absorbed quickly and effectively by your cells and vitamin C to continuously support collagen synthesis and healthy skin.

What are the KEY benefits?

• Rich in vitamins and minerals: GLOW is a bio-fermented blend of easily absorbed Certified Organic superfoods, vitamin C and zinc, essential fatty acids and phytonutrients.

• Supports healthy skin: Antioxidant-rich ingredients such as Dunaliella salina, maqui berry, queen garnet plum as well as vitamin C and zinc support healthy skin, helping to reduce inflammation, calm skin irritation and sensitivity.

• Assists collagen production: Contains vitamin C which supports collagen synthesis, resulting in healthier skin.

• Feeds your microbiome and supports gut health: Contains prebiotics to feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut. Our exclusive Flora Culture fermentation process also creates a live, broad-spectrum probiotic to support digestive health.

• Supports skin function: Zinc is important for supporting healthy skin, hair and nails.

• Certified Organic: GLOW is Certified Organic, which means the ingredients used in this formula are grown organically without any herbicides or pesticides

Can anyone take it? 

Yes, it’s suitable for everyone, however pregnant women should always consult a medical practitioner.
It’s also 100% free from; GMO, Gluten, Dairy, Soy, Eggs, and Artificial Ingredients (preservatives, sweeteners & flavours).

How do you feel on it?

In my personal experience, I feel great on it. As you know I’ve had a long gut-health journey that is far from over (when is it ever really?), so I speak from 1st hand experience – I’ve never had any trouble with taking GLOW Inner Beauty Powder from The Beauty Chef even when my gut was at its most sensitive stage. It didn’t bloat me, didn’t create heartburn or reflux or any other pain.

If you do have a sensitive gut, I suggest trialling it out for a few days and noting down how you feel an hour or two after you’ve consumed this to be 100% sure.

How quickly do you see/feel results?

I’d say after a week or two on Glow Powder you will start to see a difference in your skin as well as feeling it in your stomach and overall body. It won’t take months before you get results, your body will notice it straight away and pick up on the goodness.

Remember though, that this isn’t a powder that will make you GLOW if your diet is made up of purely burgers, pizza and soft-drinks. But eating a well-balanced diet (including cake and chocolate, still) and drinking lots of water to help flush your system as well as moving your body most days, will give you the best results – physically and mentally.

If you have any other questions regarding the Glow Powder from The Beauty Chef please feel free to email me or find me on Instagram for a chat.

Anna xx

The post The Beauty Chef GLOW Powder REVIEW – 30 Days To Glow appeared first on Anna Høgh Groth.

Wow. November is almost over, and it’s the beginning of Christmas in T minus 3 days.. Are we all shaking a little bit by the thought of 2018 almost being over already? I sure am..

This year has been busy. Maybe that’s why I missed the October Beauty Wrap Up for you guys? Sorry! You can find the September Beauty Wrap Up here though, if you’re interested..

And if you’ve already read that one, and just want to get cracking on the products that I’ve been loving in November, then keep on reading below for my pick of the bunch.. Enjoy!

Golden Root Purifying Mud Mask from WEI @ Sephora:

I’m adding this mask to one of my favourite’s of the bunch when it comes to detoxifying masks that helps breakouts and acne-prone skin.

It’s really soothing, and slightly tingling, on your skin, and you truly feel so deeply-cleansed when you wash this mask off.

Golden Root is also known as one of the most potent herbs to restore youth. The mud mask deeply cleanses skin, purges toxins and impurities, and minimises the appearance of pores and blemishes. Extremely friendly to acne-prone skin, it can also be used as a spot treatment for blemishes – just pop it on the zit, and even sleep with the spot-treatment over night.
Golden Root counteracts the oxidative causes of cell damage, Pure China Clay absorbs toxins and removes dirt and dead skin cells while Jujube fruit extract reduces skin inflammation.

It even comes with a little brush so you can ‘paint’ the mask on yourself – makes it all the more fun to pamper yourself!

Hyaluronic Acid Serum from SKIN INC @ Sephora:

I’ve actually used this serum on and off for a few months now, and I always love coming back to it. So does my skin, when it’s dry and dull.

It feels super light on your face, and won’t clog your pores. It’s rich in hyaluronic acid to help replenish and retains skin’s moisture for long-lasting hydration. It contains hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid to ensure deeper absorption.

You can use it individually (before your moisturiser) or blend with your other favourite serums to provide optimal results and create a powerful, multipurpose product.

Lip Glow – Rockstar Pink – from Salt by Hendrix:

I got this little buddy in my gift-bag at a charity event for Pink Hope – a beautiful, amazing organisation that helps the prevention of womens cancers.

It’s been sitting in my bathroom cupboard ever since, and I use it daily on my lips. It’s just a cute little pinkish lib-balm without all the nasties and only pure goodies to help your lips look their absolute best! All natural, and I absolute love Salt by Hendrix’s products.

Try them if you haven’t before – I promise they won’t disappoint you.

Sheer Defence SPF50 from Invisible Zinc:

We’re coming into summer where the UV is at its absolute highest, and if you live in Australia, after my opinion, you should really be using a sunscreen daily, because of the sun-strength we have here all-year round.

However, none of us want to use sunscreens that feel heavy, sticky or clogging our pores, especially when we’re talking about a facial-sunscreen.

Invisible Zinc’s latest newcomer, Sheer Defence, has a high (SPF50) protection, but feels light on the skin. I break-out easily from sunscreens, however this sits well with me.

30,000 Feet Volume Powder Spray from IGK @ Sephora:

If you saw my Instagram post two or so weeks ago, you would’ve seen I’ve cut my hair short again.. YAY!

However, I’m still trying to get used to it, and I’,m the kind of person who likes (read; NEEDS) lots of volume, because my hair has absolutely zero and is very fine & thin.. Just gotta work with what you’ve got, I suppose!

That’s where this little buddy comes in; the Volume Powder Spray from IGK has literally saved my bad hair-days.

It’s an invisible powder which coat each strand of hair with Betonite Clay to weightlessly add density and grip without residue so that you can style your hair with loads of volume! Its pump applicator is easy to use, without wasting anything other than what goes in your hair.

You don’t need a lot, just use it sparingly.

HOW TO:

• Shake well.
• Part the hair in sections and spray the powder at the roots.
• Use your fingertips to massage the powder into the roots, applying more to achieve the desired volume.
• Spray sparingly through the mid–lengths and the ends for added fullness and control.

Damage Remedy Daily Hair Repair from Aveda:

WOWEE. Friends, if you have damaged, easily breakable, thin strands like me, then make this your nest best friend after each shower..

It’s a leave-in treatment that instantly repairs and protects from heat styling. It also detangles so it’s easier to comb-through (read: less breakage as hair breaks easier when wet) and helps protect from breakage and damage due to heat styling.

It’s also 97% natural which I love (of course!), the packaging is recyclable, it’s in-expensive at $49.95 because it’ll literally last you for months.

OSA Water Mist from BIOEFFECT:

I love a good mist, because they’re a quick and effective way to give your facial-skin a needed hydration-boost during the day, which, if we work in offices with air-condition in particular, we really need to be strong on the water-game front – that means on the inside and outside.

This mist refreshes, hydrates and rebalances the skin whilst it has a firming & mattyifying effect. Because it contains hyaluronic acid, it will lock in the moisture in your skin, keeping your skin hydrated for longer.

BIOEFFECT was actually founded by three geneticists who spent ten years developing a method for creating biorisk-free recombinant proteins in plants for use in medical research. They founded BIOEFFECT when they discovered a way to bio-engineer a plant-based replica of EGF, a naturally occurring human protein, in barley. How cool is that?

I love how natural, science and skincare is starting to come together in our world – the way it truly should be.

That’s it for my November beauty-wrap up, friends.

I’ll be back shortly with a December Beauty Wrap-Up but also with some gift-idea guides for Women & Men.

Anna xx

The post NOVEMBER BEAUTY WRAP UP – TRIED & TESTED. appeared first on Anna Høgh Groth.

Ok, so I completely know we’re already in October, but September was just so darn busy that I didn’t get much time to sit down and write for my blog. But, now I’m back (promise!).

I’d always love to know what you want me to cover, so please feel free to email me and I’ll get back to you.

Right-o, back to what we’re all here for; BEAUTY WRAP UP for September. Again, I’ve dived deeper into some of these products I’ve received and picked a few of my favourites to feature below.

Ready, Set, Go..

Silk Pillowcase from slip:

I’ve actually been sleeping with this for about 2 months now, and I don’t know why it took me so long to get one – it’s absolutely changed my hair and life!

My hair has (a lot!) less breakage, it’s less frizzy & static AND my blowdry’s and hairstyles last for so much longer.

If you have fine & thin hair, in particular, this pillow-case will be your godsend. Any other types of hair will benefit from it as well. It’s also great for your skin to sleep on.

Banana Body Yogurt from The Body Shop:

This actually smells like fresh, ripe, exotic bananas, so if you’re a fan of bananas, then this body yogurt is for you!

It’s also super light, and it doesn’t leave that ‘hard to rub in’ consistency which a lot of creme’s and lotions have. I personally don’t like that, so I’ve really enjoyed this as it’s quick to rub all-over your skin after a shower. I’m all about speed these days.

It’s also 100% vegan and not tested on animals like the rest of The Body Shop’s Products.

Vitamin Nectar Vitamin C Glow Powder from FRESH:

OMG!

Talk about a quick-working mask, girls! If you’re a busy bee, always on the run and just want fast-working products that work then this is your new go-to.

It’s a 30-second foaming Vitamin-C Facial that helps add instant luminosity to your face along with a beautiful, bright glow and an in-depth pore-cleansing feel.

Just be careful around your lips – I find it dries out my lips if I apply it too close, because the skin is a lot finer & thinner around that area. Otherwise, you’re good to go!

Read here why you should add Vitamin C to your skincare-routine.

Anti Aging Cleansing Gel from Peter Thomas Roth:

I find it really hard to find quality cleansers – am I the only one? I often find they don’t do much, or help with any benefits other than just removing my makeup. But what I really want is something that removes my makeup, cleanses & add’s an extra something to my skincare. You know?

So, I was pleasantly surprised when I tried the Anti-Aging Cleansing Gel from Peter Thomas Roth at a recent Facial I had which was hosted by Sephora. 

This gel helps to clarify and brighten with glycolic acid, salicylic acid, extracts of peach, white oak bark, lemon, lime, linden, grapefruit, and arginine. It also helps to effectively detoxify the pores, dissolve makeup and improve skin texture.

It’s Ideal for all skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily, and acne prone skin. Just don’t use it if you have sensitive skin. It will be too harsh for you.

Hygge Hydraclay Detox Mask from Ole Henriksen:

You might heard me talking about this mask before, but I really love it, because it’s so gentle on the skin but it still produces results. It’s such a treat to use after a long day when you just want to kick back in a hot bath with a face mask.

It has a unique fusion of kaolin and five botanical oils that thoroughly purifies skin, all while replenishing essential moisture. With it’s calming oils and ingredients, it’s gentle enough for dry and sensitive skin. Even as it comforts and helps reduce the look of redness, this hardworking mask draws out dirt, oil, and impurities with a deep cleansing action, leaving your skin refreshed and pampered.

Eye Dew Plus from Arcona:

Okay, drop everything you have and run to your nearest Sephora to get this eye-treatment ASAP!

I use two eye-treatments; The Banan Bright Eye Creme from Ole Henriksen and then this bad-boy. And let me tell you something; it is life-changing for your eye-area!

Dobbed; Unicorn Tears – because of it’s light-reflecting & colour-changing rainbow’ish consistency and texture, it will wipe away wrinkles & lines in a matter of weeks, trust me! We all have them, however young or old. And it’ll keep that area nice, tight and moisturised & just brighten it up like a Christmas-light.

Yes it’s pretty pricey, but it’ll last you for a few months, and the results speak for themselves. I truly could not live without this product now!

Antioxidant Inner Beauty Boost from The Beauty Chef:

I’m a huge believer in that beauty starts from within, so we can buy as many creme’s, lotions and masks as we possibly can, but unless our foundation internally isn’t nourished, you’ll never get the skin you so badly want.

I love anything that I can add to my daily diet that’ll help me reach those *skin-goals* for real. Honestly; I’ll actually try almost anything!

And I’ve recently started adding this little elixir to my water a few times a week, that’s said to help protect skin from cellular ageing, boost the immune system and nourish the gut microbiome.

It’s rich in bio-fermented papaya to help combat free radical damage and boost gut health with natural digestive enzymes and probiotics.

Just keep it in the fridge and have a little bit every day.

Microdermabrasion at Laser Clinics Australia Bondi Junction:

I’m a huge fan of microdermabrasion, because I always feel like it helps my clogged pores and oily skin. If you’re anything like me, who suffers from severe acne, or even just a little, then this treatment will leave you feeling deeply-cleansed and smooth as a baby’s butt.

A Microdermabrasion treatment processes, exfoliates and removes the superficial layer of dry skin cells to improve the skin’s overall texture and quality.

Straight after microdermabrasion.

See you for the next wrap-up x

The post SEPTEMBER BEAUTY WRAP-UP appeared first on Anna Høgh Groth.

I can’t believe August is almost over, and Spring is on the horizon (yay!). That said, I do find that August is the worst of the Winter-months here in Australia as it tends to be cold, wet and windy. Which definitely shows in my skin.

So, with that said, this month I’ve focused on a few beauty-products that helped me get over the last month of winter and ready for spring – just like you can too.

As always, these products are tried & tested by myself.

GLOW CYCLE RETIN-ALT POWER SERUM FROM OLE HENRIKSEN:

Excited doesn’t even begin to describe how I’ve felt for the past few months, knowing this product was about to launch into the market and change the game.

Retin-alt is an alternative to Retinol which – if you use it – would know that it’s incredibly effective, but causes sensitive skin and can be too harsh for some people to use.

Now, enter Retin-alt which is actually Bakuchiol that is derived from the Ayuverdic babchi plant, a natural retinol alternative that helps even skin tone, smooth texture and target fine lines and wrinkles along with acne-scarring.

I’ve been using Retinol for a few years due to my uneven skin-texture fro my acne and scarring, but I’m so excited to have been testing this new, natural, buddy out.

It’s even got a beautiful, velvet smooth, lilac purple color that gives your skin a glow you won’t even believe before you try it.

Use it with the Goodnight Glow Retin-alt Sleeping Creme for max results.

Believe the HYPE people, this is a game-changer and I absolutely love it on my skin!

LA VIE EN ROSE FACIAL ROLLER FROM ANGELA CAGLIA:

I’m a big believer in crystals and stones for their healing & soothing properties in our lives. I keep quite a few different crystals on my bedside table and always (always!) travel with a rose quartz no matter where I go.

So, I was very excited to actually meet Angela Caglia in person and have a chat to her about her skincare range which she has developed herself after many years of treating A-list celebrities in Hollywood.

The one piece that stood out to me was her Rose Quartz Facial Roller that works to promote lymphatic drainage, improve circulation, boost elasticity and stimulate cell-turnover – something we can all use no matter what age we’re at.

I’ve especially noticed a difference on my jaw-line, as I clench and grind my teeth when I sleep causing my jaw to swell up and hold extra fluids a lot more. Using this rose-quartz roller in the morning and at night-time (with my favourite serum) before bed is really working wonders for my face.

UBER DARK SELF TANNING FOAM MARULA OIL FROM LE TAN:

This tan is absolutely stunning on the skin. It gives you a deep dark colour – that isn’t orange(!) – that resembles Mediterranean olive-skin – the skin-colour we all admire and lust for all through winter.

It glides on easily with a mitt and develops over just a few hours. It also doesn’t just sit on your skin but penetrates quickly and leaves your skin smooth and soft which happens from the Marula Oil that is uber hydrating.

I always get comments on my tan when I wear this – always!

SELF TANNING FOAM LIGHT TO MEDIUM FROM BONDI SANDS:

I had to mention this self-tanning foam as well, because it’s just so good, too. I’ve been using Bondi Sands for a few years, and they continue to develop new products that create better and healthier tans quicker. It’s also a hit amongst Hollywood-celebs and on the red-carpet, so they must be doing something right.

This foam is super lightweight and dries super quickly. It also doesn’t leave you those stripes and bad tanning-marks we all dread when we use fake tan. It leaves you with a really nice light to medium tan, so you can top up a few times with it without it leaving marks.

I also find that this one gives you a nice colour that isn’t orange like so many others do – trust me, I’ve been the oompa-loompa before!

DRY TEXTURIZING SPRAY FROM ORIBE:

If you don’t know about Oribe know is the time!

CACTUS TEXTURIZING SHAMPOO FROM R+CO:

It’s a whole new world when you actually realise that hair-styling begins in the shower as opposed to after it..

Well, this little hardworking fella is changing everything you ever thought to be true about shampoos not having a purpose.. besides from cleaning your hair and helping oily-roots be gone!

This Shampoo has a blend of texture-building particles that brings out hair’s natural wave and personality while providing grit and grip for an instantly more manageable, easy-to-style mane.

This doesn’t meant that you walk out with corkscrew curls, but it just means that your hair instantly has a bit more oomph and grit which especially helps us that doesn’t have much volume and deals with fine, thin hair.

Skip the conditioner if you want your hair to be even more gritty, or at least just use it in the very tip of the ends.

VANILLE 44 FROM LE LABO FRAGRANCES:

I absolutely love Le Labo Fragrances and the differentiation they bring to the fragrance-arena. Especially with their City Collection which this Vanille 44 is part of.

The City Collection Le Labo creates is only available to be sold in the city that the perfume is created for. How cool is that?!

Vanille 44 is exclusively sold in Paris – it cannot be purchased in any other city. And we all know that Paris is the city of love.

The Vanille 44 does not smell of just Vanilla. At least it doesn’t smell of vanilla straight away. You could say that this theme is a subtle ambery-incensy-woody-sexy note that will release the finest of vanilla bourbons that you’ve experienced. It’s vanilla disguised. And it’s bloody amazing!

Fun Fact: did you know that the number at the end of Le Labo Fragrances actually indicates how many ingredients are in the perfume?

BEACHY BROWS SOAP FROM INKED BY BEAUTY INK:

I don’t have that much brow-hair, but the ones that I do have seems to turn downwards, instead of upwards, meaning they in no-way resemble Bambi’s eyebrows (think big bushy brows)..

And even though I get them waxed (into shape) and tinted, I still need a bit of a setting-agent for them to keep their shape and lift throughout the day.

Enter; Beachy Brows Soap which is absolutely phenomenal.

Beachy Brows is a clear setting product that when brushed through the natural eyebrow adds thickness, volume and texture. It’s Vegan friendly, cruelty free and made in Australia

COOL WATERS WHIPPED SOAP FROM HIDEAWAY:

I spoke about these divine whipped soaps on my Instagram just the other day, because I’m obsessed with the feel and smell of these cute little fellas.

These whipped soaps are super moisturising, natural, vegan friendly and 100% safe for the skin. They are also made on the natural goodness of Organic Coconut Oil and whipped to a tee whilst infused with beautiful fragrances.

I’m a fan!

That’s all for August’s Beauty Edit. Hope to see you next month for September’s rundown.

Love always, Anna x

The post THE AUGUST BEAUTY EDIT – TRIED & TESTED. appeared first on Anna Høgh Groth.

I’m about to head on a 25-hour flight(s) to Denmark next week, so these are the 15 essentials I bring with me.

Have you thought about them all?

#1 – Neck Pillow:

A lot of you will think: ‘Isn’t this a given?!”. But, there are soooo many people who travel without one. And what if you end up in the mid-seat with no windows to lean up against and you’re fighting your neighbour for the armrest? My pointe exactly! Neck-pillow to the rescue.. Allow yourself to spend $40 on a neck-pillow and catch some ZzZ’s on the plane before your arrival. Sleeping on the plane will also help your jetlag when you arrive at your end destination.

Foam Travel Neck Pillow from Cotton On

#2 – Fuzzy Socks:

How many times have you been on a flight and you’re freezing (to death!)? If your feet are cold, it won’t matter how much you try to heat up the rest of your body, it just won’t work. Bring a pair of fuzzy socks from home that you can slip on to keep you warm. Bonus points if you also bring a pair of compression-socks to wear underneath them to help DVT – no matter what age you are!

Fuzzy Socks from Rubi Shoes

#3 – Good Headphones:

I see so many travellers always relying on the little earphones that the airlines hand out on the flights. Most of the time, though, people have too small ears for the ear-phone to fit into, and they’re of such poor quality that you don’t block any of the noise out from the aircraft, leaving you with having to listen on the highest sound-level resulting in a splitting headache.

I always bring a pair of Head Phones and the cable – which means they both work with bluetooth (off the plane) and on the plane. Normally the airlines has a splitter so you can insert it into the screen, but you might want to bring one just in case.

My favourites I’ve had for years are the Beats Solo by Dr. Dre as they collapse together to take up minimal space in your carry-on.

Beats Solo 3 by Dr. Dre

#4 – Facial Wipes:

The first thing I do when I get on a long-haul flight, is to take off all my makeup so my skin can breathe. The air is very different on a flight, so you want to give your skin the best chance to stay healthy whilst you’re travelling.

They also double up as serviets after you’ve eaten on the plane.

3 in 1 Micellar Wipes from Burt’s Bees

#5 – Face Oil:

The air on a flight is a lot dryer with not much moisture which means your skin will dry out a lot quicker than when on land. Simply bringing a face oil to apply (after you’ve removed makeup – remember face wipes) eliminates that problem quickly and efficiently.

I use an oil like Jojoba from The Jojoba Company because it doubles up as a cuticle-oil and hand-creme for me and I also use it on my dry hair-ends and as a makeup remover. Products that double up are great for travelling because it means more space in your suitcase for other things (read: shopping!).

Pure Jojoba Oil from The Jojoba Company

#6 – Under Eye Masks:

I don’t know about you, but after a 25-hour flight, I look pretty darn tired and puffy, even if I’ve gotten some sleep, my eye-area just still won’t settle.

I’ve started bringing little single-pack’s of eye masks on a flight to boost hydration and help with dark circles and puffiness underneath my eyes, when I fly. You feel (& look!) a lot fresher when stepping of that plane.

Pack Your Bags Undereye Patches from Tarte @ Sephora

#7 – Silk Sleep Eye Mask:

.. and to help you shut out the light, tv-screens and other distractions, bring a silk sleep mask – silk, because it’s gentle on your skin and won’t promote wrinkles – on your flight to feel comfortable and help you catch some better ZzZ’s without disturbances.. Plus, you’ll look chick AF.

Slip Sleep Eye Mask from Slip @ Sephora:

#8 – Water Bottle:

It’s so important to stay hydrated, but even more so when you’re flying. You don’t want to constantly be asking the cabin-crew for a paper-cup of water-refills. It takes too long, and the staff will be tired of you before the flight is over.. Instead, bring a large water bottle they can top up for you once in a while, and it will remind you to drink more as well.

Rose Quartz Crystal Infusion Water Bottle from Maaemo

#9 – Large Scarf:

You won’t just look über chick as you arrive in the airport and board the plane, the scar will also double up as a blanket if you get cold on the plane, or extra cushioning for your head if you get the window-seat and want to sleep up against the wall.

Printed Soft-Feel Scarf from Zara

#10 – Glasses & Contacts

If you’re like me who uses daily contact-lenses, it’s a good idea to bring your glasses on the plane to give your eyes a break from contacts. Also, as I’ve mentioned a few times above, the air on flights are incredibly dry and can cause real dryness in your eyes if you keep drifting in and out of sleep as well.

Bring a pair of specs and ditch the contact-lenses once you’re on the flight. Just keep a spare pair of contacts in your carry-on and you can pop a pair in before you land.

Harper Frames from Bailey Nelson

#11 – Essential Oils & Crystals:

If you’re anything like me, and get a bit of anxiety and stress when you’re stuck in small places (hello economy class!), then stock up on a few essential oils and crystals that helps with stress and anxiety and promotes peace, calm and tranquility.

Essentials oils that are good for anxiety includes:

• Lavender
• Chamomile
• Bergamot
• Rose
• Vetiver
• Ylang Ylang

Crystals can also help to calm your senses and breathing so that you can better settle in.

Crystals that are helpful for promoting peace & calm includes:

• Clear Quartz
• Rose Quartz
• Amethyst
• Black Tourmaline
• Lepidolite

Lavender Pure Essential Oil from In Essence

Zen Rok from Hart Roks

#12 – Fragrance:

As you can’t bring liquids over 100ml on international flights, it’s a good idea to get your favourite perfume in a travel-size. This also means you don’t have to bring the whole bottle, as you probably won’t use all of it during the time you’re away either way.

Santal 33 from Le Labo

#13 – Snacks:

For heavens sake, please bring snacks onboard. Sometimes, I feel like I might’ve starved (ok, over-dramatising but you get it) if I didn’t have my pre-packed snacks for my flights. There are times where I don’t find the food too enticing onboard flights, and there are other times where the meals just simply don’t fill me up or I’m peckish outside of meal-hours and I don’t want to eat candy-bars and pretzels.

Grab a few snacks to bring onboard like fresh fruit, protein-bars, pre-made salads and nuts so you at least have a backup plan when you’re stuck on a long-haul flight.

Choc Coconut Fudge Snack Bar from The Daily Bar 

#14 – Notebook & Pen:

Spend your time in the air to journal and scribble down your thoughts and feelings. It could be about anything that has no importance, or it would be a project or dream you’re working on. You’re in an (almost) undisturbed space, so utilising that time to turn inwards, could be incredibly beneficial.

.. and, having a pen on you always helps when you have to fill in arrival-forms etc.

Pale Pink A6 Notebook Set from The Daily Edited.

#15 – Audiobooks & Podcasts

Why not take the (flight)-time to learn something new? Whether it’s learning about your self through a self-help audiobook, studying a language or listening to your spiritual practice, audiobooks and podcasts are a great way to spend your time usefully whilst being on a flight.

Just remember to download them before you take off, if you have no wifi onboard.

A Course In Miracles from Audible

Last but not least; ENJOY your flight. It’s time to yourself and the outside world, and it can actually be incredibly amazing – even if you DO travel on Economy-class ;)

Anna xx

The post 15 ITEMS TO BRING IN YOUR CARRY-ON ON A LONG FLIGHT appeared first on Anna Høgh Groth.

Thanks for stopping by to read another one of my Tried & Tested Beauty Edit that I’ve started doing monthly. You can read a few of them here, here & here.

Now, to the REAL reason you’re here; you want more news on what to use toe be the best & healthiest version of yourself from the inside and out, and these little beauty-helpers can certainly make a difference to that.

Keep on reading for my June Beauty Edit:

Luna Play by Foreo:

I actually received this as a gift by Foreo way last year, and didn’t actually try it up until a few months ago, and boy am I kicking myself for not doing so sooner!

Basically, it’s a little mini cleanser that will cleanse your skin even deeper than if you only used your skin cleanser alone by using micro-vibrations with  2-zone brush to gently and thoroughly clean your skin to leave it glowing and gorgeous. It only takes a 1 minute, twice a day (day and night).

How easy is that? I’m seriously addicted. And I use mine in the shower! Just use it with your favourite cleanser, and you’re set!

Patch Gel Liftant from La Biosthetique:

I’m a huge fan of under-eye patches. I never used to be, admittedly, however over the past few months I’ve really seen a huge difference when focusing and treating my eye-area correctly and with some TLC. Maybe it’s because I’m getting older or maybe it’s just because I’m not sleeping as much as I used to, but by all means, these patches are working!

I keep mine in the fridge to add to the coolness that’ll help puffy eyes and dark under-eye circles to get the blood pumping, and these ones from La Biosthetique are easy to put on, STAYS on and leaves your eye-area refreshed with plump and nourished skin, so you look like you’ve had at least 4 hours more sleep than what you actually did.

Phyto cell extracts support the formation of new parent cells, delay the aging process and combat the formation of new and the worsening of existing wrinkles whilst glyco cell extracts activate collagen synthesis, strengthen connective tissue, calm the skin and protect against glycation.

Wild Orange & Desert Rose Hand Lotion from Mukti Organics:

Winter has definitely arrived in Australia, and especially if you’re in Sydney, Melbourne or any other the other more southernly cities. Brrrr..

With winter, especially for me, comes cracked and dry skin on my hands, in particular.

I’m keeping this little buddy next to my sink so that I can moisturise after every wash. A little goes a long way which means it cost down on the cost, too. It smells delightfully of wild orange & the sweetest roses and leaves my hand moisturised without being greasy and sticky.

It is completely organic and fully vegan.

In-between Clean from Clean Projects Co:

If you have a scalp that hates perfumed products, this might be your saving grace when it comes to shampoos.

This little hard-worker is perfect for those of you who has real scalp-issues, including dermatitis, eczema, dry scalp or just are super sensitive to hair-products with too many nasties in it.

The shampoo is a foaming shampoo, that is super light and fragrance free including free from Sulphates, Parabens and has no harsh preservatives to irritate your scalp and skin.

Try it out, and help a local little Bondi startup grow some roots and do better in this world – for yourself but also for the environment around you.

LED Light Therapy at Laser Clinics Australia Bondi Junction:

I absolutely love and adore this treatment. It’s so quick, but gives you great results!

There are two types of light; Yellow or Blue.

Yellow is for wound healing or skin rejuvenation (makes you GLOW girl!) and the blue light is for subsiding active acne – so, perfect if you have breakouts or feeling some coming on.

It only takes about 14 minutes, it’s non-invasive and you walk out of the clinic feeling a million-bucks.

I try to do this type of light once every week.

Vital All-In-One from Vital:

We all know, that beauty originates from the inside, and no matter how much we may try to fix the outside, the foundation for good health and skin, starts on the inside.

One of the supplements I’ve started adding to my regime is Vital All-In-One – I either mix it with water or add it to my smoothies.

Just two teaspoons daily of Vital All-In-One delivers 78 vital ingredients that are loaded with probiotics, prebiotics, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, essential fatty acids, fibre and a unique high alkalising pea protein.

Greens, vegetables and high nutrients fruits contain antioxidants which protect cells against free radical damage caused by pollutants, radiation, stress, pesticides and junk food. Improvements in acid-alkaline balance can boost vitality & wellbeing & help relieve pain. Real Natural foods support cleansing & provide essential nutrients for optimal energy & vitality.

Hope you enjoyed the little round-up. Hope to see you back here again next month for more beauty-edits.

Anna x

The post The June Beauty Edit – Tried & Tested. appeared first on Anna Høgh Groth.

However, that’s also when most people start seeing a change in their skin. Going from sunshine and cold(er) temperatures outside, to a dry and warm house as most of us will have the heaters going by now, can really confuse our skin and result in everything from dry cracked skin to acne and breakouts.

To give your skin the best chance to shine this winter, I’ve upped the focus on cell-turnover products and those favourite which will make you feel like summer is still hanging on through winter.

Keep reading for my favourite – tried & tested – beauty products of May:

Microneedle Derma Roller from Mukti Organics:

I’m a big fan of microneedling, and I often get it done at Laser Clinic Australia Bondi Junction however, this derma roller is perfect for using at home 2-3 times a week. It has much smaller size needles than the ones being used professionally so that you won’t damage your skin at home.

The needle itself create very small micro channels on the surface of the skin enhancing the overall efficacy and results by aiding the passage through to the outer dermal layer and allow the active ingredients to penetrate and reach their targeted areas.

Rolling the device over the face as directed can improve collagen production, rejuvenate the skin and create a more vibrant complexion. It’s also proven to be effective for uneven skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles.

I use mine after I’ve cleansed my skin (very important!) and I’ll use it with my serum which I will apply to my skin first, and then use the derma roller to really get it to penetrate into the deeper layers of my skin.

PS: DO NOT use it on active breakouts!

PREVAGE Anti-aging Daily Serum from Elizabeth Arden:

Although I’m (only) about to turn 29 later this year, I can definitely see that my facial-skin is not as strong as it used to be when I was a teenager. I’ve started getting fine lines around my eyes (I’ve lived) and my skin needs a lot more moisture as opposed to when I was breaking out and oil was my worst enemy.

I’ve been using this Anti-aging Daily Serum from Elizabeth Arden for a few weeks now, and I absolutely love how hydrating it is on my skin. It’s got a pale yellow colour and feels like a light lotion – this also means it will be good for people who have a tendency to get breakouts or clogged up pores as it’s not heavy.

Here are a few of the things the serum promises to deliver after studies & research:

• Fine lines, wrinkles, age spots and discolourations appear reduced.
• Redness and minor scars and existing sun damage look minimized.
• Skin looks firmer and more radiant.

Drink of H2O Hydrating Boost Moisturiser from Tarte:

I’ve found that this moisturiser is perfect for my winter-skin. It’s light and gel-like which means that it won’t clog up my pores causing me to breakout, as even though I’ve got drier skin now, it doesn’t mean I don’t break out if I use too heavy skincare that won’t allow my skin to breathe.

Powered by hyaluronic acid, Tarte’s exclusive Rainforest of the Sea antioxidant complex  and powerful marine antioxidants help skin defend itself against everyday aggressors like pollution, sun exposure and cold weather while skin-balancing properties help boost the firmness, tone, and vitality.

PS: this moisturiser is completely vegan

Halo Skin Brightening Facial Mud Mask from Antipodes:

Another certified vegan helper this time from New Zealand born skincare brand Antipodes. This is a newly launched product, and I just tested it out the other night.

I applied a thick layer of this creamy mask over my (twice) cleansed face and neck. I left it on for about 15 minutes, and rinsed away thoroughly with warm water afterwards. My skin felt really hydrated, but really clean deep through the pores.

I often find that mud-masks will dry out my skin because they ‘suck out’ too much of the good oils, however this one seemed to keep my hydration at bay. It also smelled really beautifully of vanilla, raspberry & musk which made the experience even more enjoyable.

Rose Blossom Hydrating Mist Toner from Mukti Organics:

I love a good mist and I love the smell of roses so this is an absolutely brilliant product which I love to use from Mukti Organics.

I use it after I’ve cleansed my skin especially, but I also use it throughout the day as a little ‘pick me up’ and to hydrate my skin, especially if I’ve been working indoors all day long. It’s also wonderfully calming on the senses (trust me) and could be using across your pillow before you turn off for the day.

It’s certified organic and completely vegan.

PURE Vapour Balm from Pure Papaya:

This has actually been such a lifesaver here in winter for both Pash and I. We’ve used it under our runny noses to clear our airways, I’ve used it on my sore neck and shoulder-muscles as I suffer terribly from knots in my back and tight muscles on a daily basis.

I love that this product is completely natural and so affordable. It really is a game-changer. And the smell is just divine – eucalyptus and lemon myrtle. It still contains Paw Paw which means it’ll keep your skin hydrated as well.

Pure Papaya uses no petroleum in their skincare-products which means they are easily absorbed by the skin and penetrates deep into your dermis (the layer of skin underneath your top-layer of skin)

Skin Relief Moisturising Lotion from Aveeno:

The skin on my body really goes dry and itchy in winter. It just seems like my body can’t cope with lower temperatures at all. It means I both have cracked skin but also get a mild form of eczema on my hands and arms in particular which is just really itchy and annoying to be frank. It also doesn’t look very nice with all those little red bumps.

Using products, especially with oats, I’ve found are really helpful and soothing on my skin.

I’ve used this little fella from Aveeno for a few weeks now, and it’s really help to calm my skin and make it flexible again. As it says, it’s a lotion and not a creme, which means my skin can still breathe but it still feels cooling and soothing on my eczema and skin. It’s a very affordable solution to add to your bathroom and can be used by the entire family.

I hope you love these little suggestions to kick off the Winter combat properly.

Anna xx

The post Clever Little Skin Beauty Helpers To Combat Winter – May Edition. appeared first on Anna Høgh Groth.

But what has collagen got to do with this? Well, a lot more than you probably knew or ever thought about.

What is Collagen?

Endogenous collagen is natural collagen, synthesised by the body. Exogenous collagen is synthetic which means it comes from an outside source, such as supplements.

These collagen fibres along with elastic fibres in the deep layers of your skin allow you to contract your muscles and ligaments, and help the skin to bounce back. The decline in collagen and elastin in your skin results in the skin sagging and becoming looser while losing the ability to contract back as it used to.

However, for the body to use the endogenous collagen we’re ‘feeding’ it, it has to be taken with the vitamin C for it to be used by our bodies the way we want it to.

This also goes for the gut, as all good gut-health starts with good bacteria, a good working digestion and enzymes that can break down the collagen to help build up the gut-lining and further portray itself throughout our bodies.

Remember the gut-lining is made-up of soft tissue that can easily break-down if we don’t nourish it with what it needs e.g. collagen, vitamins and minerals, so it’s important for us to strengthen it however we can.

What does Collagen do?

From the mid 20’s, the body’s own natural collagen production starts to decline at a rate of 1.0% – 1.7% per year and is not replenished. There is an even more pronounced decline in collagen production around the age of menopause due to the drop in oestrogen. Oestrogen levels are directly correlated with collagen formation.

Over time this diminishing supply of collagen causes the skin to lose its’ suppleness and in turn your skin can begin to wrinkle and sag, hence why we want to feed our bodies with collagen through supplements & good whole foods.

A good Collagen Supplement like Inessa Collagen+ Beauty Boost will help with vision, skin health, cardiovascular health, bone & joint health and so much more. In particular, if you have wrinkles, dull skin, tummy issues, leaky gut or even acne-scarring, collagen can help you significantly.

Especially, if your diet is more plant-based, collagen supplements can really help you take your game up a notch.

What & how should I take Collagen?

One thing is for sure; the skincare products like lotions and creme’s that contains collagen and promises you less wrinkles, more plump skin and much more, isn’t true; it’s simply impossible to absorb collagen molecules through the skin as they are too large to be absorbed that way.

I’ve trialled Inessa Collagen+ Beauty Boost for a few weeks, and I’ve noticed a difference in my joints especially, as I get very tight hip-flexors and back muscles from sitting down for long periods of time to work. People have also been commenting further on my skin, and it’s been a great addition to my skincare and also whole foods diet.

If you’ve followed me for a while, you’d also know that I am a big on gut-health and anything I can do to repair and strengthen my own, I’m on board with! My tummy has been feeling great on these tablets, it’s been by no means irritated or given me reflux, meaning they are very gentle on the system.

Inessa Beauty Boost and the entire collagen-range was developed understanding that the superior way to enhance collagen production is to provide the body with the nutrients it needs to create its own natural collagen and support the body with with all other necessary supplements.

The entire range is also TGA approved which is a huge bonus, meaning it’s ingredients are proven to work and the claims they are making are actually factual and proven.

All you need is 2 x tablets with food in the morning and evening. Easy peasy!

The post Why you need COLLAGEN for your skin & gut-health. appeared first on Anna Høgh Groth.

We’re about to head into Winter here in Australia, so my skincare routine in particular, will start to change slightly over the coming few weeks and months to adjust to the temperature drop. I get incredibly dry skin – both on face and body – during winter, so using heavier creams, oil and upping my intake of water/tea is important to me.

Keep reading on below for my favourite pick of the mix and what made it onto my list this month:

Un-wrinkle Eye from Peter Thomas Roth:

I’ve mentioned this before, but it seems to be a debate between people whether to use eye-cream or not. Does it actually work? Does it make a difference? Well, the skin beneath and around our eyes are 40% thinner than the rest of our face, so it makes sense to use an eye-concentrate that is lighter than the standard face-cream. Heavy creams and oils – meant for the face itself – isn’t absorbed properly around the eyes, and can sometimes leave you swollen and puffy.

Enter; eye-cream. Use your ring-finger to tap the cream on with a light touch – don’t get too close to your eye, just around the highest cheekbone, brow-bone and below where the ‘eye-bag’ itself begins.

I’ve been testing this eye-cream out from Peter Thomas Roth and I can notice a difference in the tightness of my skin around my eyes, and my smiling-wrinkles looks more plump and fine as to before where they seemed more dehydrated and lacklustre. It’s super light and you don’t need a lot – just the size of a rice-grain for both eyes – so this will last you for a while!

Platinum Hair Styler from GHD:

The last time I bought a ghd Hair Styler was when I was a teenager.. It was the talk-of-the-town and a MUST HAVE in any teen-girls life, where dead-straight hair was the hottest thing since warm milk.

Fast forward 13 years, and ghd is still holding it’s prime position as one of the TOP brands in the world, when it comes to styling tools and products, that will give you your best hair of a lifetime!

However, if you think this hair straightener (I get it, the word says it) is only for straightening hair, you’re very wrong! I use mine for cute, soft curls and fall in my hair, along with beach waves on days where my hair is not tied up in a top-bun.

Because of the intelligent tri-zone® technology this styler has, it uses three sensors in each plate, ensuring the optimum temperature for styling hair is consistently maintained across the entire plate from root to tip, reducing hair breakage by over 50% and increasing shine by 20%. ghd platinum® is also proven to be kinder to your hair colour, making it last longer!

Everyone needs one of these in their tool-box. It will last for years!

Botanique Lotion from Mukti Organics:

If you’ve been following my monthly blog-posts about my favourite beauty-products, you’ll know that I’ve been a longtime fan of the Certified Organic brand Mukti Organics and the products they create.

This month I tried their Botanique Body Lotion which is just oh-so-yummy!

It has a unique combination of native Australian extracts including Kakadu plum which is blended with desert lime and lemon verbena – if you love botanicals, herbs and fragrant oils – these products are for you!

The mix is put together in order to deeply hydrate and beautify the skin, keeping you away from dry and lifeless body-skin we all suffer from at times!

PS: Completely VEGAN*

Light The Way Candle from Aveda:

Last week I went to an Aveda event for Earth Day which was on 22nd April.

Aveda’s aim is to help fund clean water for more people around the world. Lack of clean water is a threat for more than 700 million people around the world every single day. 

To help raise funds for this cause, Aveda donates 100% of the purchase price (based on RRP $18) of the limited-edition light the way candle to WaterAid for water-related projects.

The candle itself – I have it at home – smells deliciously woody and eucalyptus’ly. It has aroma of certified organic vetiver from Haiti, patchouli, oregano, marjoram, cedarwood and other pure flower and plant essences.

Help make a difference by purchasing the Aveda Light The Way Candle here.

Book of Sun (Chapter 1) by Smith & Cult:

Equal parts bronzer and blush, this little GEM gives your skin radiance and luminance in the 1000’s.

The perfect way to add warmth to your complexion without sun exposure, this multitasking duo leaves face and cheeks glowing with vibrancy and a silky matte-satin finish that lasts all day.

I’ve especially been going at it with the blush on my little cheeks for a soft, warm glow.

Now I can’t live without it! 10/10!

Ultiboost Vitamin C + Manuka Honey from Swisse:

These past few weeks I’ve really been dealing with a bit of flu, but also a bad cold that just didn’t seem to want to leave my body at all! Frustrating, as I’m all go-go-go, but the ‘hard-to-breathe’ airways and stuffy nose has left me feeling tired, sooky and a bit winy..

Enter; all the supplements, vitamins and tonics I can possibly get a hold of! And so, this is where my meeting with Swisse’s Vitamin C + Manuka Honey started – and it certainly helped relieve my cold in just a few days!

It containts vitamin C and New Zealand Manuka honey to help reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms, support immune health and maintain healthy antioxidant activity meaning this will be an ongoing thing, because as we all (should) know – prevention is always the key!

And; good news for all of those who doesn’t like to swallow tablets (including me!); these are for chewing. YAY!

Liquid Mineral Concealer from Nude by Nature:

Hardly a new kid on the block, however I’ve been absolutely swearing by this concealer which I use for under my eyes and on my little spots.

It’s super, duper creamy and moist which means it won’t flake under your eyes or on your skin. It stays this way all day long, without ever drying out. It gives you that glowing, plump look which is what natural, healthy skin looks like.

I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT IT!

Remember to visit back here for next months update.

Anna X

The post Tried & Tested Beauty Products of April appeared first on Anna Høgh Groth.