Clinique has launched a yummy light version of its Happy fragrance. Happy in Bloom is a lighter, floral version of the bestselling scent and could be just the thing to boost your mood in time for spring. It also comes in a pretty funky bottle.

This cold weather is taking its toll on my skin, particularly when I’m out a couple of hours a day, every day, mucking out and caring for my horse. Runny noses and icy feet are par for the course but I’ve received information about a product that could turn out to be a favourite – it helps prevent chapped lips and red cheeks.

Calendula Weather Protection Cream by Weleda is actually formulated for babies but works just as well on adults apparently. It is quickly absorbed, gel-like, full of natural ingredients including organic sweet almond oil and of course calendula. It is also suitable for vegetarians and is free from synthetic perfumes, colours and ingredients.

I haven’t tried it yet but if it’s anything like Weleda’s calendula nappy cream then it promises to be great. I can speak with authority about that product – when my daughter was little it was the only cream that worked for her, as a barrier cream and for preventing nappy rash. The fact it contains only natural ingredients was another great attraction for me and we got through tubes of the stuff. Loved it.

This is my first find of the new year and something that’s very exciting in that I’m sure it’s making me look younger – it’s certainly making my skin softer and smoother, (I know, I know, it can’t really make me younger). It’s having an effect though and one I like. I haven’t tried the other products in the range, just the serum, and as it costs around £33 on one website I’ve seen, I don’t know when I will be using it again. While I have it though I’m going to enjoy it.

Just thought, I wonder how many people use a serum under their moisturiser or instead of it? I fall into the latter group at the moment and it hasn’t had a negative effect that I can see or feel, but does it reduce the efficacy of the products? One to ponder and research further perhaps.

I was at a launch today, a skincare product that comes with a set of facial exercises. Now I know we all think of exercising our bodies but our faces… not really thought about that one before. The products seem lovely, and I tried the exercises – I could feel the muscles aching afterwards (think The Scream). But definitely, definitely, not something to do while you’re travelling on the tube!