My summer essentials!

It's summer, it's summer! It's been sweltering over here in the UK and around London this past week or so. Whilst my dad complains about the heat and my mum goes into hibernation, I can't help but take in the sunshine and embrace the happiness that it brings to everyone! Everyone just seems to be in a good mood when the sun is out and since I'm a summer baby, it's when I feel most calm, free and motivated! I also have a holiday to Greece planned at the end of this month so this is when the preparation gets started - over packing, thinking of every possible scenario and occasion to dress for, and buying too many bikinis when realistically I'll only wear one or two. I just love it. 

Here are a few bits I've accumulated over the past couple of weeks and over my birthday that I will certainly be taking with me, or I'll keep by my side throughout this gorgeous British weather! 

(The Virgin Mojito Happy Hour Collection - comes with a Mojito Body Butter, scrub, shower gel and Mini Green bath Lily)

The launch of The Body Shop's new Virgin Mojito range has had everybody talking this season and I was lucky enough to receive pretty much the whole range for my birthday to try out. I was obsessed with the Fuji Green Tea range earlier this year and I just know I'm going to be obsessed with this one too *she says sniffing away at the body scrub like no tomorrow*. I've been trying so hard to keep my mitts off all the products because I really want this to be my holiday scent this year - but I don't know how long I can last! It's super fresh and sweet with bursts of lime and mint extract. I basically smell like my favourite drink, and I have this incredible image of myself laying on a beach in Greece, smelling like a Mojito whilst drinking a Mojito.. urm YES.

The Body Splash product is a lovely addition to the range. A light splash of this stuff after a cool shower on a hot summers day would be so refreshing and gorgeous. A worker in my local store said a Coconut base (i.e. a body butter, lotion or spray) would enhance the scent and make it last longer. I haven't tried this yet but let me know your thoughts!

This is the Organix Coconut Water weightless hydration oil and to say I love it is an understatement. For so long I've been using my coconut Ultimate Blends oil, but I've recently been finding it too heavy for my hair this summer. Since my hairs had the chop (I will be writing a post on this soon), I have been embracing its natural thickness; I finally have no more split ends and I really want to start looking after my hair - it has been prone to breakages, damage and dryness in the past. This oil gives my hair hydration that feels weightless whilst smelling a-m-a-zing. If ya love the smell of coconut, give this a sniff! It's like summer in a bottle.

I've spoken about these two babies before but they're my go to drugstore products for when I'm in need of a pop of natural colour. The Max Factor Creamy Blusher in 14 Soft Pink gives the cheeks a gorgeous natural flush and it's creamy consistency makes it look really pretty and dewy on the skin.
This goes perfectly with my old faithful and much loved Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet in 09 Happy Nude Year. It's a fuss free, matte pinky nude that lasts all day on the lips - no need for top ups whilst you're enjoying the sunshine!

Who doesn't love flowers in their hair?! I've been embracing my inner hippy recently and at the moment they seem to be a festival season statement that anyone can get their hands on. I picked up this pretty floral headband from Primark for just £3/4 - absolute bargain! You'll definitely see me sporting this at Brownstock this month! (another hint at posts to come in the next couple of weeks) : - )

And last but not least, who can go through summer without an ott beach bag? Not me. My lovely mum got me this for my birthday from Accessorize and it's so gorgeous. Covered in vibrant neon elephants, Aztec stitching and A BIG TASSEL. Anyone who knows me would know that tassel's are my thang!

I'm loving all the summer posts right now on everybody's blogs, leave links below so I can see yours and let me know one of your summer essentials this year! Over and out : - )

Lets talk acne: My favourite foundation!

*Sorry for the messy eyebrows guys.. growing-out-my-eyebrows-to reshape-them problems*

Why Estee Lauder?

I’ve always had a thing for Estee Lauder. I don’t know whether it’s because I’ve seen my mum use the products religiously since I was a dot, or because Kendall Jenner is the face of the brand - either way, it’s a brand I’ve dabbled in here and there. I even worked on counter for some weeks before my hectic university timetable wouldn’t allow me to carry on. So, it’s fair to say I’ve got a little soft spot for the products that I spent much of my time learning about.

My skin

I have oily to combination skin, which at times can be a little unruly. It goes through stages – mainly for hormonal reasons – and sometimes it’s clear whilst other times I have crazy breakouts. I wish I was one of those people who only gets a spot or two but no, when I break out, I really break out. And it was on one of those bad skin days that I decided to go on the hunt for a foundation that doesn’t feel like an oily layer on my skin or clog pores, whilst lasting a long time.

The down low on Double Wear Light

Double Wear Light is pretty self-explanatory for already avid users of the original Double Wear. It’s a much lighter formula for people looking for sheer-to-medium coverage; it still carries elements of the original formula that so many women love, and it lasts all day!

I’ve used Double Wear before, but full cover in a foundation isn’t a desirable quality for me anymore. A lot of the time my face feels cakey and uncomfortable – I hate it! However, Double Wear Light allows me to start off with sheer everyday coverage that can be built up without feeling thick and oily on the skin; it’s perfect for those looking for a fuss-free foundation that gives a beautiful finish.

But most importantly, for those who suffer with acne like myself this lightweight foundation is non-acnegenic (products that are formulated to not clog the pores) and oil-free just like the original Double Wear, which is so useful for oily skin types that are prone to breakouts.

The lightweight formula is perfect for summer, and along with SPF 10, it really takes care of your skin all year round.

Why have I chosen Double Wear Light instead of the original?

I’ve recently taken a different approach to my skincare and makeup and I think this is important for all acne sufferers who are conscious of their skin. It’s so important to be patient with yourself and your skin during a breakout and I’ve come to realise that no amount of makeup caked on my face will make me feel any more comfortable with my spots. So instead, I think it’s time we embrace the lumps and bumps. Our skin goes through so many changes throughout our lives and the naturally ‘airbrushed’ look is almost impossible without Photoshop.

Instead, I’ve been using lighter products to cover up redness and just accepting that today, this is how my skin has decided to be and I think we all should. After all, I can guarantee that the only person looking at your spots is you – give people a pretty smile to look at instead!

What makeup or skincare products are you loving for acne-prone skin this Summer? : - )

Summer Skin Saviours!

As the British summer cranks up the heat, we need to turn up our skincare game. Naturally the condition of our skin can change with the seasons so its important to make sure we maintain its healthiness whilst striving for that beach girl glow. Whether your skin becomes more dry or oily in the heat, these products will kit you out for the months ahead! : -) 

Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish (hot cloth cleanser)

You know what’s coming. I’ve mentioned this product on here quite a few times now and I have to say, judging by the amount of empty tubes I’ve hoarded over the past year, it’s become a holy grail of mine! For anyone who hasn’t jumped on the Liz Earle bandwagon yet, hop on RIGHT NOW although I don’t think it’s going anywhere anytime soon!

I’ve tried other cleansers but I can’t help but come back to this one. It’s so gentle on the skin and the beautiful mix of naturally active ingredients always leaves my face feeling smooth and fresh - compared to other cleansers anyway, it’s the only one that leaves my face feeling squeaky-clean. Either way, I don’t think this baby is going anywhere out of my skincare routine and in case you’re wandering, it’s for all skin types so suitable all year round!

Liz Earle Superskin Concentrate Facial Oil

This is a product I’ve had my eye on for aaaaaaages since developing my loyalties to Liz Earle as a brand but I have always assumed that having oily skin meant that introducing facial oils into my skincare routine would make the situation worse. However this particular oil is suitable for all skin types and has in fact counteracted the excess oil that I’m constantly trying to battle.

Firstly, the scent is overwhelmingly soothing and I can’t pump a drop without someone commenting on the aromatic waft! It’s quite a rich oil so can only be used at night but I really prefer this because our skin is continuously regenerating and repairing every night so it’s important to find the best product to enhance this process.

However, when applied at night (I like to take some time to massage the product onto the face) the oil doesn’t sink in straight away but continues to sink in throughout the night, allowing me to wake up feeling fresh; my skin always feels smoother and plumper the next morning! Give it a whirl if you’re looking for a boost of radiance this summer! : - )

No.7 Purifying Exfoliator

Everybody needs an exfoliator! It’s so important to get rid of all those dead skin cells to avoid congestion and potential breakouts and I’ve recently taken a liking to this No.7 exfoliator in particular. Since clawing my way through university exams, my skin has been all over the place and it feels like the dead skin is making a come back every night! So although it’s not the best for dry skin types, this more abrasive exfoliator has been doing the trick.

I’d describe it as your everyday exfoliator that is an essential for any skin type – but sensitive and dry skin types only stick to once a week application! Any form of exfoliation will do but this is the one I’ve been trying to use up – plus I thought I’d include it in this post because the colour of the packaging matches the other products and looks cute in my perfectionist mind (please don’t say it’s just me who does that… hehe).

The Body Shop Fuji Green Tea Body Butter

In this case I really am saving the best till last. Believe the hype but until you have a sniff of the Body Shops green tea range, you’ll understand why everyone’s been raving about it. Obviously my favourite thing about this product is the scent – super super fresh, and most of all hydrating. I’ve always thought that the other body butters were overrated because apart from the potent scents, they weren’t actually that moisturing. However the consistency of this body butter is more of a light gel formula that sinks into the skin quicker leaving long-lasting, comfortable and non-sticky hydration.

I have yet to purchase the rest of the range but i’m sure I won’t be able to resist much longer!

P.S Does anyone know why the Fuji Green Tea body butter is a different formula to the other Body Shop butters? Is this a thing now? (pls)

Comment and let me know! : - )

Have a lovely day guys and I hope you’ve taken away some ideas to add a little sunshine to your skincare routine!

Get the hottest skincare trend with Clinique!

Spring is on the way and it's time to get this seasons hottest catwalk trend, the fresh faced, no makeup look. With a little prep of course, it's possible to achieve naturally clear and even looking skin with a full coverage but lightweight foundation - something that drugstore brands haven't quite achieved yet.

Clinique have recently launched their 'beyond coverage' two in one foundation that combines the colour correction of a foundation and the coverage of a concealer into one product. The formula is really creamy and lightweight which is surprising for a foundation combined with a heavy duty concealer, and is perfect for coverage as well as comfort. When applied, it doesn't sit on the skin - which can sometimes make it obvious that you're wearing makeup - instead, it LOOKS LIKE SKIN! This is something I've been looking for a while now. I used to be obsessed with Loreal True Match but after looking in a mirror that was a little too honest, I could see every little pore in my face which did not look attractive at all.

With Benefits Porefessional for prep, this foundation stayed on my face all day without any patchiness or slippage which is great for anyone with oily skin. Clinique also do a foundation in their anti-blemish range to target these problems but I find the formula harder to blend which can make my makeup look a bit unnatural. The 'beyond coverage' foundation is easily bendable with my Real Techniques expert face brush and keeps some of the dewiness, perfect for the healthy no-makeup glow.

Also, the doe foot applicator really deserves a mention. Hats off to whoever decided to incorporate this into the packaging because I haven't seen anything like it and it makes application soooo much easier. It prevents wastage, which I hate when you've spent a bit of money on the product, and it's loyal to the concealer aspect of the formula. Simply dot a little around the eyes or on any spots for coverage where you need it!

The Real Techniques expert face brush is perfect for blending and buffing foundation into the skin. It's the best brush I've ever used for foundation application and it has to be my favourite part of doing my makeup! It's also super soft and easy to clean which is an added bonus! There's nothing worse than a bristly brush that can be itchy and malts like no tomorrow!

Finally, the fresh faced catwalk look can only be achieved with clear skin. Like many people I'm sure, there is never a time when I don't have blemishes. This is when I reach for my anti-blemish solutions clinical clearing gel, something that I've been using on and off over the years as the beauty blogger inside always wants to try new products. It's a light gel with salicylic acid in the formula, that can be applied twice a day over cleansed skin and spot-applied for leave-on blemish treatment. It's perfect for those 'oops I left my makeup on' mornings when those blighters make an appearance!

Nip + Fab Glycolic Fix Serum

 Finally it's time to get our glycolic on with Nip + Fab! So it may not be as strong as celeb treatments but at a bargain budget, I ain't complaining! 

Nip and Fab's Glycolic Fix Serum has the famous red carpet facial ingredient; glycolic acid, the most common alpha hydroxy acid and has the reputation of being one of the safest forms of alpha hydroxy acid. The glycolic face peel is known for its deep exfoliation, safely removing dead skin cells to reveal fresh, clear skin underneath… sounds too good to be true, right? But of course, the powerful ingredient on its own cannot be handed out lightly for home use, so beauty brands like Nip + Fab simply add a little drop (in this case 4%) so we can incorporate the benefits into our everyday skin routine. 

Fight break outs with bareMinerals Blemish Remedy!

I'm always on the look out for blemish busting remedies to give me clear summer skin; bareMinerals blemish remedy caught my eye instantly- a concealing powder and break out preventer? Sounds like the perfect combination!

The Body Shop Seaweed Skincare

Hello my lovelies! Hope you are all enjoying the sun- sorry if it's not sunny where you are, it's rare for the sun to be shining over Essex! But I just wanted to do a quick post on my new The Body Shop purchases which I love love love at the moment.

The natural properties of the bladderwrack seaweed extracts balances excess oils and is an excellent treatment for oily to combination skin. My temperamental skin can be a pain sometimes, especially when I wake up with lots of shine and oil around my t-zone. Since using the Seaweed Clarifying Night Treatment it has balanced my oily skin fabulously whilst keeping it hydrated and moisturised.

When used after applying Tea Tree Skin Clearing Lotion- also from The Body Shop, it creates a thick serum which I love using because the mixture of seaweed and tea tree acts as the perfect acne treatment.; not too strong that it dries the skin but strong enough to feel the products soaking deep into the skin and clearing imperfections! I'll do a separate post soon on the Tea Tree Clearing Lotion; I wanted to focus on the seaweed range this time round!

Secondly, the best thing I have done for my skincare routine is swap my Simple toner for the Seaweed Clarifying Toner! If you have acne prone skin like I do, I would recommend finding a range of skincare products that target your skin type/problem i.e. The Body Shops seaweed or tea tree range. I love the clarifying toner; it refreshes, refines pores and removes impurities and yet again is another product that you can FEEL working into the skin. It slightly stings once applied after thoroughly cleansing, but that is just because the product is working into the skin and getting deep into the pores to remove impurities.

However, naturally, the seaweed extracts dries the skin and tackles oil so apply a reliable moisturiser or serum straight after to maintain skin hydration.

I'm loving The Body Shop at the moment and I had no idea they now do student discounts; get down to your nearest store and get your discount card and many other bonuses!

If you've tried these products or try them after reading this then let me know what cha think my lovelies! 

Get summer body ready!

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! 

BRAND NEW: CLINIQUE ANTI-BLEMISH SOLUTIONS: CLINICAL CLEARING GEL

Clinique has always been a little god send for me. When my skin was really bad a couple of years ago, I used most of the anti-blemish range; my skin magically cleared within weeks. So whenever my skin starts to misbehave again and no cheaper products do the trick, I always end up running back to Clinique; almost like a lovesick relationship- I can't help myself!
When I found out that Clinique had a new clinical clearing gel, I just had to try it! Launched exclusively in all Boots stores from 28th February and nationwide from the 21st of March, the new gel promises to clear and prevent blemishes with its innovated oil controlling, non-irritating formula.
It may be a budget blasting £14 for 15ml and £20 for 30ml (for a student anyway) but it does the job and gets rid of all those pesky blemishes that like to make an appearance when you least expect it.

The 15ml works for me because my skin is fairly clear but- annoyingly- I never don't have a blemish here and there, so this size allows me to dab a little on at night without using it all up in a week. The new formula also helps to look after my skin, balancing its moisture without making it oily- unlike Quinoderm that burns and dries the skin like mad.
It's also really light so I sometimes like to dab a little on any blemishes before applying my makeup; say hello to a spot prone solution that works all day and night!

Well done Clinique, you've done it again ol' friend!

A ROUND OF A PORES FOR ORIGINS!

'Hello good skin day!' I said to myself as I looked into my bathroom mirror; flipping my hair in every way possible and practising my smile- as many self confessed divas do these days. For once, my skin had been relatively spot free; I could leave my house without worrying about those dreaded 'zits' that I would have to cover up with (what seemed like) layers of concealer. But as I looked closer: bumps, blemishes and black heads seemed to have a life of their own. And so the never-ending cycle of spot solution had begun again.

From that moment, I made it my mission to find the ultimate blemish blaster, and thanks to Origins, my mission was over before it even began!

I have fallen in love with Origins Clear Improvement Active charcoal mask. I'd heard great things about the brand and wanted to see what all the fuss was about, so I jumped on the Origins bandwagon- how typically beauty bloggerish of me. But despite being in the £20 range, it's been worth every penny. After all, who can put a price on clear skin!

Once applied, it instantly tightens and you can feel the mask working into your pores. I usually leave it to set for about ten minutes, or you can follow my (as I like to call it) 'professional' face mask test- when you can no longer smile naturally, look like you're in pain or have the appearance of being stuck in a wind tunnel… remove the mask with warm water.

I don't know about you, but I was rather baffled when I discovered that charcoal could be used for anything other than art or keeping a fire burning, but for beauty benefits also. The active charcoal ingredients "acts like a magnet", drawing out deep dwelling pore cloggers whilst White China Clay absorbs toxins and Lecithin dissolves impurities. As I like to call the BIG THREE, the three active ingredients work together perfectly to leave a fresher, tighter, and clearer appearance. 

I've always wanted to have that flawless celeb appearance to my skin, and after using for a couple of weeks, the mask starts to blur pores and imperfections- hello flawless! My spots also seemed to disappear and unlike many tedious spot treatments, it provides a long-term blemish solution. 

Whether you have oily to sensitive skin, Origins Clear Improvement mask can work miracles for you as it has for myself. Shhh… don't tell anyone, but giving the appearance of a cheeky- but affordable face lift, the tightening effect is a god send and reminds me of my other favourite Beauty Flash Balm by Clarins.

The upcoming beauty brand also had their brain caps on when they decided to let you have TWO product samples of your choice when ordering anything from the Origins website- a cheap and easy way to experiment with other products that Origins have to offer. I tried a serum and it has also worked miracles so look out for a future post when my poor bank account splashes out on a serum that I don't necessarily need. But every girl has to treat themselves… right? 

Let me know if you have tried this miracle mask or have any other blemish blasting secrets!

How to survive the winter months with Elizabeth Arden- My new found love!

E l i z a b e t h   A r d e n 

Oh winter, why do you dry out our skin so much? My skin has taken a battering this winter; cold chills drying it out and having to sport the flaky look.. I'm sure I haven't been the only one. Lips, skin, hands- the list is never ending but so many brands promise to solve this dilemma. Being blessed with combination skin means I never know how my skin is going to react to moisturisers, but this Eight Hour Cream set has shined a light on my little dilemma. Thanks to my lovely nanny (the most fabulous Nan in the world may I add) introducing me to this set, dry skin no longer has to be a problem for us ladies!

Firstly, it was the packaging that caught my eye. It seems to differ from Elizabeth Ardens usual look; goodbye chic and hello preppy. I love how the brand have tried to reach out to the younger consumers by tweaking the look of the packaging. The preppy look is relaxed, quick but fresh and this is parallel to the purpose of the products- a quick touch up that will prepare you to face the nippy, winter day.

Lip Protectant Stick SPF 15 

Lips always need seasonal hydration, especially during the winter when chapping becomes a common friend. This is why I love the Lip Protectant Stick, a clear balm that hydrates for supposedly up to 8 HOURS. Wear on its own for a beautiful natural shine, or on top of your favourite lipstick to add a glamorous shimmer. I found that the balm fulfilled its 'long lasting' promise but 8 hours is another story- there's nothing wrong with a little touch up here and there!

As many of you probably already know, Vaseline is my best friend and favourite form of lip hydration. But I have to admit that the Lip Protectant Stick has given it a substantial run for its money. It gives me long lasting lip hydration and after a couple of days left my lips feeling silky smooth! Although the shine doesn't last 8 hours, the hydration and protection aspect does. A well deserved candidate for my favourite lip care products. Sorry, my loyal friend Vaseline but you have been replaced by a better model!

Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant 

When I first tried this product, I thought it was going to be your usual creamy moisturiser that does the same old job. But as I squeezed out the contents for the first time, a thick golden balm came out. Feeling a little reluctant- because my skin doesn't usually work well with balms- I tried it anyway and applied it liberally all over my face. Elizabeth Arden wasn't lying when they insisted on 8 HOUR skin protection. Lets just say that I applied this balm 6 hours ago and as I'm sitting here now, my skin is still just as soft and glowing as when I first applied it.. woah!

BE WARNED: This product is every thick and rich; if you have oily skin, applying it may not be a good idea because oily skin types do not need extra hydration! However, I prefer to carefully dab some tissue over the applied areas, to soak up any excess product that might take longer to absorb.

I love products that promise numerous benefits and have multiple uses- nothing wrong with wanting more for our money girls! 

There are 8 great ways to use Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant: 

1) Skin saver: long lasting hydration for dry skin

2) Shine factor: adds shine to eyelids, cheeks, lips and legs- an all-in-one beauty product found in many professional makeup artists beauty bags!

3) Eye opener: only a dab smooths the eyebrows and perfectly defined arch that stays in place all day.

4) Cuticle conditioner: keeps dry cuticles soft and hydrated for supple and beautifully manicured nails.

5) Treat for feet: softens soles for barefoot beauty in every season.

6) After-sun soother: relieves minor sunburn and dry, irritated skin. 

7) Flight tool: Keep in your bag for intense hydration, perfect for travelling and applying on the go.

8) Leg wear: helps reduce redness after shaving and waxing, leaving legs feeling silky smooth. 

If you can find a product that can be used for as many purposes as this one, then tell me!… AMAZING

Wear underneath makeup or on its own, it creates a beautiful natural glow that I simply can't get enough of! Say goodbye to dry skin this winter… Thank you Lizzy Arden!

Eight Hour Cream Intensive Moisturising Hand Treatment

Yes I'm guilty, I don't use hand moisturises to be honest. They're the type of product I receive for birthdays or Christmas and they're left untouched in my makeup draws. 

However, after spending the majority of winter in London, my hands have suffered from the stupid amount of alcohol gel I have to use after jumping on the tubes- if you haven't been to London before or having a fly in visit, then take my advise, bring some alcohol gel or antibacterial gel!  Amazingly beautiful city, but germs.. everywhere. 

This hand cream has changed my mind, I have discovered that taking care of your hands is very very important after seeing and feeling the effects of Elizabeth Ardens hand cream. It smells luxurious and leaves my hands feeling silky smooth with long lasting hydration.. perfect! I'm not an expert when it comes to 'hand moisture' or whatever you call it, but this product does the job brilliantly and is simply a luxurious treat! 

I'm so impressed with this set and can't wait to carry on using it. I would definitely recommend purchasing it; the ultimate beauty set to help you survive the long treacherous winter months! Let me know how you get on! 

So it's winter and your makeup routine doesn't seem to help your dry, flaky skin. Want a quick and cheap way to make your foundation last longer whilst keeping hydrated at the same time?  Thanks to my lovely nanny, this tip has helped me to do so. It's so simple its unbelievable and you can save so much money when buying high priced tinted moisturisers. Simply combine your favourite moisturiser and foundation together to create your own ultra hydrating product. It will leave your skin feeling extra smooth and hydrated- its now easier to create a flawless look whilst looking after your skin. Even better, apply your foundation with the Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant to create a beautiful shine alongside maintaing professional skin care. Shhhh.. don't tell anyone! 

12 Days of Beauty- Day 1

Clarins- Beauty Flash Balm  

Hello sweetness! Now I know I've mentioned Beauty Flash Balm before, but it has to be my favourite skin care product out there at the moment and it's the perfect beauty item to have on your Christmas list. My mum swears by it and after trying it, I can't get enough!

You can use it as a moisturiser before applying makeup or it's perfect for those lazy days when you give your skin a break. Believe it or not, from first application, your skin is brought to life leaving a beautiful, natural glow whilst instantly rejuvenating; say goodbye to dull and tired skin! However, it can also be luxuriously lathered on with a thick layer for 10-15 minutes which intensely hydrates, brightens, tightens and stimulates a fresh, natural appearance- treat yourself girlies!

Recommended by ELLE and many celebrities, the magazine insists "when applied in a thin, consistent layer with no rubbing" it is "excellent at lifting and tightening skin,". Who needs to break the bank with high end beauty treatments when Clarins Beauty Flash Balm does it all for you?!

 An indulging treat for yourself or a perfect gift for someone you love, whats better than the gift of beautiful skin?