If there’s one thing I truly appreciate when it comes to body care, it’s products that bridge the gap between body and mind – or, on a slightly less profound level, products that provide a few minutes of solitude, allowing you to take a quick breather (and if they’re fun, sensory or aesthetically appealing, all the better).
One brand that does this well is Rituals Cosmetics. Founded in Amsterdam nearly 25 years ago, Rituals describes itself as “a beauty and wellness brand, blending ancient traditions with the future of beauty”.
If, like me, you enjoy a good in-person retail therapy session, you’ve probably noticed its products popping up in key shopping spots across the country. The brand has stores in Galway, Athlone, Wexford, Kilkenny, and Cork, as well as several in Dublin, with more on the way this year. Each is home to a variety of collections, including bath and body products, make-up, skincare, homeware and more.
One new collection joining the ranks this week, albeit on a limited-edition basis, is the Dream Collection. I’m almost certain it will sell out in record time, as it’s both ridiculously appealing and affordable – which is why I’m writing about it. It’s also really fun, which I feel we don’t see enough of these days.
According to Lot Van Rij, senior director of innovation at Rituals, the “fun” part is actually thanks to the fact that it’s limited edition.
[ Simone Gannon: My cut-out-and-keep guide to body care productsOpens in new window ]
“When a collection has a limited run, we can do a lot more things, experiment more, get a little crazy,” says Van Rij. “For example, we’re known for our shower foams, but we wanted to create something a bit more dreamy for this line. So, we made The Dream Collection Whipped Shower Foam (€10.90 from Rituals). You shake before using, and when it comes out of the can it looks and feels exactly like whipped cream.”
This is something I can personally attest to, as I’ve been (over) using it for the past few weeks. It’s absurdly appealing to use what’s essentially whipped cream as a shower foam, with the added bonus that it feels great on the skin and smells good too – a light floral, maybe a hint of spice. The downside, however, is that I get carried away and end up using way too much in one go.
Alongside the shower foam, there’s also a hand wash that deserves a mention, as it turns an often mundane task into something luxurious (and sparkly).
“Washing your hands isn’t generally exciting or sexy but The Dream Collection Hand Wash (€14.90) makes it sexy – and anything but boring,” says Van Rij. “There’s a soft shimmer in it that leaves a slight iridescent glow on your hands and in the sink. Plus, it comes in a lovely glass bottle.”
There are 13 products in the range, including the aforementioned whipped shower foam, body mousse and a body scrub to fragrance sticks, scented candles, perfume and even dream-themed iced herbal tea – which I’m not a fan of, I have to say. It’s designed to be drunk cold, and the flavour is somehow both bland and sickly sweet at the same time.
That aside, this range is sure to fly off shelves – not least because it launched just in time for Mother’s Day. It won’t break the bank either. The whipped shower foam is €10.90, the hand wash is €14.90 and there’s a comprehensive gift set that includes several products from the range for €59.90.
This week I’m loving ... CeraVe Intensive Moisturising Lotion
CeraVe has launched a more intense version of its already excellent everyday moisturiser, specifically designed for very dry or itchy skin. Intensive Moisturising Lotion (€17 from McCabes Pharmacy) has the same light, fast-absorbing formula as the original but with a clear difference in comfort and hydration. The upgraded formula has great ingredients: ceramides, shea butter, amino acids and a blend of natural moisturising factors and humectants – and, as ever, an affordable price point at €17 for a 236ml bottle.
