This is likely to be my last post for 2021, but as we roll on into 2022 here’s something fresh and natural and lovely in the shape of Forest Essentials.
Forest Essentials is a luxury ayurvedic beauty brand that’s been around in its native India for over 20 years. It’s just been launched in the UK at Look Fantastic so expect to see more of it from here on in.
Ayurveda is the traditional Hindu system of medicine based on the idea of balance in bodily systems, using a combination of diet, herbal treatment, and yogic breathing.
The name Forest Essentials comes from the fact that the ingredients within all the products are sourced from the plants, trees and herbs that grow in the Himalayan forests. Products are handmade in India using traditional methods. The idea is that these are tried and tested ingredients, turned into products that are a pleasure to use. It’s ancient medicine, but it’s not like taking medicine IYSWIM.
I was sent a set of the Forest Essentials hero skincare and body care products to try out.
Soundarya Gift Box – what’s inside?
First up, as you can see from the packaging of this Soundarya Gift Box, it’s very much a luxury brand, with the pricing and presentation reflecting this. The keepsake box, which smells deliciously herbal the moment it’s opened, is adorned with radiant rays inspired by Lakshmi, the Hindu Goddess of wealth and purity.
I am 100% feeling the Laksmi energy with these products. From the packaging to the ingredients, it all feels very special and luxurious. A total Treat Yoself moment.
The Forest Essentials Soundarya Gift Box features a collection of five best-sellers from the brand’s Soundarya range. Each is infused with 24 karat gold (cos you’re worth it). This would be most suited for someone whose skin needs a bit more nourishment and lustre.
Soundarya Gift Box Set Contents:
Illuminating Body Oil 130ml
A sumptuous, rich body oil infused with cow’s milk, haritaki fruit extract, and jojoba seed oil to hydrate and nourish the skin. 24K gold is in there to boost radiance, whilst saffron and sandalwood leave a delicate yet long-lasting scent. It’s recommended that you use this once a week and massage it into the body for up to 30 minutes. I think most people would struggle with the practicality of that, so another way to use it is to massage into the skin before a bath or shower. Very lovely indeed.
Soundarya Moisture-Rich Body Milk with 24 Karat Gold 130ml
A radiance-enhancing body milk that works to hydrate and nourish skin, while supporting elasticity and firmness. Again we have 24 karat gold and antioxidant-rich desi ghee. This is more of a daily use product, in contrast to the oil which is more of a once a week treat.
Ayurvedic Soundarya Advanced Serum with 24 Karat Gold 30ml
Enriched with precious herbs and even more 24 karat gold, this night serum helps to improve skin texture, firmness and elasticity. It’s a very rich serum, and even a tiny drop brings a wonderful glow to the skin without being greasy.
Soundarya High Performance Cream with 24K Gold & SPF 30 30g
Precious herbs, 24 karat gold bhasma (an ancient Indian medicine), pure cow’s milk ghee and saffron make up this day cream which is designed to be nourishing and brightening. Plus, you’ve got SPF30 to keep skin protected. I love the combination of ingredients here.
This cream has got it all going on, especially if you’re looking to restore glow to the skin. I could see this being useful for changing seasons, say winter into spring, when you need a decent moisturiser but also protection from the sun.
Soundarya Madurai Silk Soap 100g
This beautiful bar is infused with Soundarya serum, blending 52 pure Ayurvedic herbs and cold-pressed oils and natural moisturisers, including 100% pure silk. I really love this soap. It’s incredibly soft with just enough texture to exfoliate and is a total treat to use. At £12 the soaps are a more affordable way into the brand and would make a lovely gift.
Product details
The Forest Essentials Soundarya Gift Box is available from Look Fantastic, RRP £180. To find out more about the brand, their website is here and the full range on Look Fantastic is here. LF has a few brand offers and gifts with purchase running at the moment.
*PR sample, contains affiliate links
More ayurvedic skincare reviews here