181. Lush Toothy Tabs: An Alternative To Toothpaste?

I'm big on impulse buying. Now, I know that's not something to brag about but, sometimes - just sometimes, it means you stumble across some absolute gems. Things you would never have thought about, things you had no idea you needed (usually because you didn't) and things you've never even heard of. This is why I love it.

I headed into Lush recently when I was at the Metrocentre with a friend and, whilst queuing to pay for a Brightside bubble bar (review coming soon!), I spotted an intriguing display: Toothy Tabs. As this was something I'd never heard of before, I asked the sales assistant who kindly explained exactly what Toothy Tabs were to me. An alternative to toothpaste; environmentally friendly as they use recycled paper boxes (rather than the usual plastic or aluminium which would end up in a landfill) and, as always, cruelty free.

There were several different options to choose from but I went for Sparkle, promising 'gleamingly clean' teeth, which I thought sounded perfect as I'm conscious that my teeth aren't exactly as white as I'd like them to be. (I'm blaming years of drinking diet coke, smoking and having a penchant for curries and tomato-based sauces, which my dentist tells me aren't ideal if you want sparkling, white teeth.)

Now, the idea of using what is, at the end of the day, a weird little tablet to brush your teeth does take some getting used to and it took me a couple of attempts to actually perfect the method. But, once you've figured it out, it's pretty straight forward - you take one tab, put it between your teeth and gently crush it so that it forms a powder, then you just brush your teeth with a wet toothbrush as usual. The tabs quickly foam and your mouth is filled with a delicious, refreshing taste that reminds me of the paste that dentists use to clean your teeth. 

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The main ingredients in Sparkle Toothy Tabs are black pepper oil, lemon oil and powder and grapefruit oil. These ingredients combine to create a really pleasant, refreshing and warming flavour and sensation. I've seen a couple of reviews claiming that the peppery taste is far too strong and off-putting but I haven't found this to be the case whatsoever; it goes without saying that I am a chilli and pepper addict, but even so, I think it creates a lovely, warming sensation. 

I have to say that I haven't noticed a difference in the colour of my teeth or their general appearance but I've only been using the Toothy Tabs for a little over a week, so I guess I need to give them a little longer before I judge them on that. However, I do love the taste of them and they leave my teeth feeling incredibly clean and fresh, which is my main aim from a toothpaste or - in this case - 'toothy tab.'

At £2.50 for a 12g box of Toothy Tabs, they are a lot more expensive than regular toothpaste which I usually pick up in the supermarket for about £1, but they're almost an experience in themselves (if you're as sad as I am...) and they really do 'do the job' so I can't complain.

For some, they may be a novelty product and for just £2.50, you can't really go wrong, but if you're keen to find a cruelty free, environmentally friendly alternative to toothpaste, I'd definitely recommend you give Toothy Tabs a go. Check out the full range on the Lush website or find out more about "Why?" you should use Toothy Tabs here.

100. Lifestyle // Payday Wishlist

As I'm trying to pay off my debts this year, I'm toning down my spending and I think that this months payday wishlist reflects that with just a few small yet luxurious dream buys. 

1. First of all, I spotted this gorgeous lion print dress whilst browswing ASOS Curve (one of my favourite pastimes) and, although it's so different to my usual floral dress or patterned skirts with a plain vest style, I really like it. I think it'd look great with a nice waist belt and could be worn with bare legs for a summer feel, or with opaque tights and chunky boots in winter. (£28)

2. I've long been lusting after a soy candle from Northumbrian Candleworks, which is situated less than twenty minutes away from me, but for some reason I've just never got round to purchasing one! I came across this delicious sounding Honeysuckle Jasmine candle on their website and the scent sounds incredible; so fresh, clean and perfect for Spring, plus the candle lasts 30 hours and costs less than a tenner! Bargain. (£9.50 large tin, £5.50 small tin)

3. Heeled boots have also been on my 'must have' list for quite some time too, but I've never found a pair that really stand out. I thought I'd have a look at New Look's wide fit selection as I've got the widest feet imaginable, and I stumbled across these beauties. I feel they'd be perfect for work, with thick, black tights and a skater dress, or even for a night, with some jeans and a nice top - at least they'd be more comfortable than a pair of stilettos, and they're in the sale from £59.99 down to just £30!

4. Lush is so popular with beauty bloggers, yet I haven't purchased anything in years! After reading a couple of reviews about their lip scrubs, I thought I'd have a look for myself and I fell in love with the sound of Mint Julips. Mint, chocolate and vanilla?! What's not to love. I've been suffering from really dry lips recently due to the weather and my poor health, so this would be a lovely - and practical - treat for me. (£5.50/25g)