So it's summer and even though British weather can be unreliable, us girls always have to be prepared.
For my skin I have always relied on the Garnier Body range- pocket friendly and does the job brilliantly! Being a bit of a tan-a-holic I have spent so much time and money finding the right gradual tan for me and the Garnier Summer Body moisturising lotion is the only one that has fit my criteria- and my budget.
Yes, you will still wake up smelling like biscuits but I guess every tan on the shelves at the moment will leave you smelling like a tasty snack (although I'm planning on trying the new L'Oreal Sublime Bronze Elixir which promises to have no self-tan smell and last two weeks!- if anybody has tried it please let me know what you think!) However, I love the natural glow it gives me rather than the typical blast of tangerine and when applying, it smells all summery and apricoty.. (if that's even a word). Streakiness can be avoided by applying with a tanning mitt and the glow can last up to a week if looked after properly! If you want a natural looking tan without splashing the cash, this is definitely the one for you!
To look after my tan and avoid streaks, I love using Garnier Intensive 7 Days Ultra-Replenishing Lotion with Shea Butter. Not only does it smell fresh, but it really does fulfil its 7 day promise- although I have recently been using it more than once a week, so my skin has been feeling amazing! It's important to moisturise skin before applying any form of tan because streaks are usually caused by the product clinging to dry skin; it's best to moisturise 24hrs before otherwise your tan will not develop!
I've only been using this product for about two weeks but I'm loving the results! My skin feels nourished and has a glow that lasts for days!
Exfoliators are also crucial for glowing summer skin and can keep a tan looking even and natural. I recently found this Clarins Soothing Body Scrub For a New Skin in my draw (along with plenty of other beauty products I never knew I had) and I thought I'd give it a try.
I'm pretty lazy when it comes to looking after my body so I thought I'd see what all the fuss was about. After the first use, my skin felt instantly smoother and when teamed with the Garnier Ultra- Replenshing Lotion, I literally wanted to show off my summer skin to the world- very rare considering an over sized baseball top is my best friend. It's also very rich and luxurious so I wouldn't use it regularly, I'm thinking I need to search for a Soap & Glory scrub for a summery treat and for more regular use!
Another reliable Clarins beauty product that I always carry in my purse is Beauty Flash Balm. It's a must have for any time of the year, but particularly when on holiday for a fresh faced, natural look. It can be used as an intensive moisturiser when skin needs a splash of hydration and it's a perfect base before applying makeup. A must have for tightening and brightening, buy and try for yourself!
Before completely my uni exams last week, I felt really nervous and apprehensive so my lovely mum went into town and purchased these beauties for me to cheer me up! I was soooo excited to use them because Benefit is my favourite beauty brand and even better- it's for tan-a-holics like me!
This really cute 'totally tantalising' kit came with Benefits oh so famous Hoola bronzer and Bene Tint, my new favourites as they add a tropical holiday vibe to any look.
They say to sweep Hoola bronzer across chin, cheeks and forehead for a natural looking tan, but I just go crazy… I mean crazy. I also sweep it across my neck, chest or maybe even to highlight non-existent abs (don't judge me) for when my bikini makes an appearance.
It's a new and permanent addition to my makeup bag and I can't wait to take it on holiday! Even though I won't be wearing much makeup, I can still achieve a glowing summer look.
The Bene Tint is lush- a very much needed change after overusing my Sleek powder blush for so long. The girly posy pink compliments Hoola perfectly and they are quite the pair; particularly for a fresh faced look with minimal makeup; the liquid tint adds a pop of colour.
However, for those girls who like to spend a long time on their makeup, you'd be surprised by how speedy you need to be to apply this product. If it isn't blended seconds after it's applied, then you may have to sport two clown-like circles of unblendable blush- not a good look and a lesson I have sadly learnt.
However, I love the results and this kit is definitely a must have for this summer; a brilliant way to try both products in one go!
If you have any summer favourites or newly discovered must haves then let me know!
