Everyone’s new year’s resolutions involve dieting, exercise or learning something new. And kudos to those who accomplish any or all of those things. But how many people resolve to make small changes in order to make their lives a little more special? My new year’s resolution is to develop new, positive addictions by surrounding myself with little things I love – life’s too short not to! Onto my first addiction: something I love, love to learn about, and love to share.
Portugal is known for its wines, shoes and cork. But soap? Less so. Whilst soaps aren’t a product most people associate with Portugal, skin and beauty experts know better. I’ve recently become really interested in this subject and wanted to explore it in greater depth. So here are three different soaps that I’m really excited to share with you:
Phillippe by Almada – Donkey milk cream soap. Intriguing, right? According to tests carried out on Phillippe by Almada’s products, they achieved extraordinary results on anti-wrinkle, anti-stretch/firming, HRIPT (hypoallergenic and non-sensitizing), acute hydration, cutaneous repairing and surfactant effects. The high percentage of donkey milk (with its proteins and minerals) in this soap equates to a daily hydration reinforcement of 41%, as well as keeping your skin hydrated and soft. If you’re an animal lover like me (and I have a huge soft spot for donkeys), don’t worry: the products aren’t tested on animals, nor are they harmful to the animals – the animals’ well-being is guaranteed. Verdict: I absolutely love how this soap makes my skin feel super soft! It also has a lovely, subtle scent and lathers very nicely. The shape is very functional and it’s a pleasure to use. Now all I need is their body milk and face cream, to firm up my skin and fight those unwanted wrinkles.
Claus Porto/Ach. Brito Sabonete Grapefruit Fig – Firstly, let’s start off with the gorgeous vintage packaging of the entire Fantasia collection (to which my soap belongs). They all reveal glimpses of times gone by. It makes such a charming gift! What makes the Fantasia soap collection unique is its special ingredient: mango butter. And whilst that sounds delicious, I decided it would be better to use it topically for its moisturizing qualities. Claus Porto has been making soaps for over 120 years and it’s considered one of the most prestigious brands in the world. Again, it’s not tested on animals. Verdict: It’s no surprise that these soaps are one of Oprah’s “favorite things”. Their milling process ensures that the soap is so dense it doesn’t crack and that the fragrance lasts until the very end. I love the look of soap: it’s so classy and looks expensive. The soap rinses off your hands nicely and has a subtle, fruity aroma. Must try more scents!
Claus Porto 15 Guest Soap Pastilles – I’m moving to a new house soon and I can’t wait to have guests come to stay. My lucky guests can now expect to find a fragrant, high-end soap in their bathroom. This fun gift box contains 15 guest pastilles in the following scents: Tobacco, Vanilla, Honeysuckle, Tuberose and Almond. You can get these gift sets in other scents as well. Verdict: Even though I believe positive addictions should be shared with loved ones, the temptation to use this soap myself instead of saving it for guests is almost too great. They smell delicious! I can’t wait to share these pastilles with my friends and family.
If you crave a little luxury in your daily bath or shower ritual, try all these soaps. We all know how important a role the sense of smell plays in stimulating the brain and changing your mood. Why not start your day off right with a fragrant morning shower? Or relax you after a long day at work? And why shouldn’t your hard-working hands get treated to a moisturizing soap? I’ve been a liquid soap and shower gel aficionado for many years, but I won’t be looking back. 2016 is the year of the bar soap.
Carol Taaffe says
I intend to make this my New Year Addiction!
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aportugueseaffair says
You really should! It’s so important to take care of yourself in lots of little ways 🙂
thehomemakerslife says
It looks lovely!:)
aportugueseaffair says
It really is! Such a treat! 🙂