Sunday, 1 November 2015

Foundation is a very difficult product to suit to your own skin. I rarely find a foundation that I love, which is a shame. I tend to love a product and then fall out of love with it. Of course, some have come close, but none have been perfect, or products that I would purchase over and over again. I have somewhat of a love-hate relationship with foundation. I mean, I can't possibly leave the house for a day without a full face on, but at the same time I just wish I could find a foundation that I had absolutely no faults for (dreaming away here, I know). I have read many reviews about this foundation before I decided to jump on the bandwagon myself. I have never actually heard a bad review of this foundation, and I have to say that I generally agree with those views.
I haven't had any really subsequent problems at all, and I have been really quite confident wearing this foundation. It has a rather high coverage, which is great because I tend to get quite bad discoloured and spotty areas. The only small problem I have found is that I don't think it is really that flattering for my skin type, although it does make me feel great. I feel as though it has quite a gleaming, healthy looking glow. Although this is what some people may be looking for in a foundation, it is not that flattering for my already super-oily skin. In no way does it ruin this foundation for me...I just dab on a bit of powder to control the oily areas and leave the other bits dewy where the sun naturally hits my cheeks. It's such an easy foundation to work with.
I use the vanilla shade in this foundation and I can honestly say that it suits my skin tone perfectly. It is super easy to blend too, which makes it easy to make discreet in a natural looking makeup look. You can build up the layers to make it have a higher or lower coverage. I tend to add a little more when I am wearing a dark lip (loving MAC's Dark Side at the moment). I have been using this foundation so much that it's already less than half used. But I will definitely repurchase this foundation...I love it! Have you tried this foundation? How did you find it?

Sunday, 4 October 2015

THIS IS A TEST POST

I expanded my collection of this range a few weeks back as I had seen brilliant changes since using the first two products I bought. This time I bought the Body Wash and the Skin Clearing Lotion. I decided upon these two products because I wanted to see if the Body Wash would help to clear some blemishes I have on other parts of my body and I wanted to try the Skin Clearing Lotion to attempt to get rid of scars and spots I have on my face. I have always had quite easily scarred skin which means that most spots I get turn into scars which does get me down quite a bit. However, it's nothing makeup can't cover up.

Since using this range, I have seen small changes in how many spots I get appearing on my face. I don't think it'll ever completely get rid of my spots as I am quite prone to them. But, being able to get rid of one or two spots using this range is amazing in itself. It means that I don't have to cover so many up with concealer all of the time. That's definitely a bonus.

My favourite product out of the four is the Skin Clearing Lotion, simply because it is a really smooth lotion which is so quick and easy to apply. It feels and smells really refreshing. The lotion soaks into the skin quite quickly, once applied, which makes it brilliant for applying before makeup or any other product. I use this mainly on my spots but it's brilliant because it doesn't require a lot of rubbing in or time to dry. It is a really quick and convenient product.

Although, I do adore all four of these products, I do find that they leave my skin quite dry after using them. I have to add a little bit of moisturiser onto my face after using them, and I find that helps to re-hydrate my skin. These products have without a doubt improved my skin a lot, so I don't feel as though that makes me feel at all negative towards them.

Personally, I found that these products cleared up my skin in just over a week. I use them on a daily basis (I used the foam cleanser morning and night) to help to keep my skin clean and looked after. If you are looking for products to cleanse your face and clear up spots, I would highly recommend this range. There are many products within this one range, you'll almost definitely find something you like.

THE BODY SHOP VITAMIN E RANGE REVIEW

I always find my new obsessions and they usually tend to get replaced by new favourites after a few months. However, the vitamin E range is definitely one of those ranges that is irreplaceable. I can't say that I love every product, but there is a lot that I would definitely repurchase.

Nourishing night Cream - without a doubt, my favourite product from this range. I use it every night, after removing my makeup. It is a god-sent. I have quite greasy skin in places, but this cream helps to control it. It gives the perfect balance between dry, tight skin and oily, gleaming skin. It is also quite a thick formula and so it lasts quite a while. I have had it for a few months now and it looks like I have only just started it. I will definitely be repurchasing this product.

Toner - I don't use this product as often as I should do, mainly because I just don't like the feeling of the residue on my skin. It feels like a silky oily formula, and it just leaves my skin even more oily. I tend to use these products before bed, so the last thing I want is a super greasy face before getting into bed. However, this product does have the perks of being great at removing makeup (great for when you have run out of makeup remover).

Body butter - the body butter is slightly different from these other products, but nevertheless, still an amazing product. I tend to use this one after shaving, because you cannot beat the feeling of smooth and hairless legs. It also helps to bring my skin back to life, and to moisturise the top layers. Definitely would repurchase this product.

Overnight serum-in-oil - sadly, this is a product that I personally haven't developed much of a liking to. I just don't think it is helping my skin at all. It leaves it extremely oily, and once again, leaves a coat on top of my skin for quite a while. I think my skin is just extremely oily in some places as it is, adding more oil definitely isn't what it needs. Certainly won't be repurchasing this product again, not because it is a bad product, but just because it isn't suited to my skin. If you are looking for something to add moisture to your skin, this is definitely a product worth trying.

Cream exfoliator - before purchasing this product, I had never actually heard of a cream exfoliator. A moisturiser and exfoliator in one is definitely a genius idea. I use this product once or twice a week, to remove dead skin from my face. It leaves my skin feeling super soft and hydrated. Is it definitely quite an expensive product, but I think it is worth the price considering the benefits it has on my skin.

Moisture cream - I use this cream on my hands and face. I love the formula because my skin doesn't cope well with rich cream products, and I haven't had any trouble with this cream yet. I often use this product to moisturise just before I apply makeup; it gives a really smooth and even finish, ready to apply makeup on top, minutes after. It is absorbed really easily compared to other creams I have used, which means that I don't have an excessively oily complexion.

I would almost definitely repurchase the majority of these products. My two favourites must be the cream exfoliator and nourishing night cream, mainly because of their replenishing qualities. The Vitamin C range is always one I can rely on.

What is your favourite skincare range? Any holy grail products?



Sunday, 27 September 2015

SEVENTEEN CHEEK STAMP BLUSH REVIEW - THE CHEEK OF IT

I'm not really one to go for blushers, but I thought I would give this one a try. This was a free gift after spending £5 on the brand Seventeen, in Boots. So, why would I not try it out?

First thing I have to say is that this blusher is such a natural looking tone. The shade I have is called 'The Cheek Of It'. The main reason that I usually avoid blusher is because I don't really like the blushed cheeks look. I remember the disasters I had with them when I was younger. I thought I looked good, but realistically I looked like I was constantly over-heated or embarrassed. It just wasn't a good look, as you can imagine. I don't think you can go over-the-top as such with this blusher because it is so natural looking. I mean, of course you can add far too much on, but if you accidentally put slightly too much on, it's easy to blend in and it is not the end of the world. I think it is the perfect blusher because it comes with a stamp which you just stamp onto your cheek. It only applies a bit of blush powder per stamp, so you would have to continually stamp to add too much.

This is definitely going to be my go-to blusher for the Autumn. It has little bits of shimmery glitter that help to highlight the apples of my cheeks, which I love at the moment because I love the highlighted cheeks look. It is also extremely easy to apply as you just stamp it onto the apples of your cheeks and then blend with a brush. I especially love a highlighted look in Autumn when the days are getting cold and dull. Can't go wrong with a matte base and highlighted cheeks. This is the moment when I also recommend another product from Seventeen...their highlighter is flawless!


The swatch - you can see the shimmer and the neutral blush shade (I could have blended better)


I find that packaging and appearance is also very important for this product. I absolutely love the sponge stamp applicator that it comes with; it is the perfect size for the apples of my cheeks. I also love the mirror on top of the pot. A mirror always comes in handy. Even the little box it comes in is very pretty and I can't bring myself to throw it away. I think I will just use it as a 'protector' (don't make me throw it away). The actual blusher pot is plastic but it doesn't feel 'tacky' at all; it is brilliant quality! To close it you just have to push it together (it has a springy feel) and then twist it to secure it. The blusher is at the top of the pot (beneath the mirror) so when you twist it to close or open it, it picks up the perfect amount of blusher. Such a convenient product and the perfect hand bag size.

Overall, I would definitely recommend this product. I wasn't that keen on the other shades they had because they were a lot more extreme (bright pinks, pale pinks and browns), but this shade is perfect. I was quite lucky to get mine actually. There was only a few pots left in stock and I managed to get an unopened one which was the perfect shade.

What is your favourite blusher?

Sunday, 20 September 2015

AUTUMN WISH LIST 2015


When it comes to fashion, my favourite time of the year is autumn. The colours are so warm, and the clothes are so comfortable and cosy. I love being able to layer clothes, as you can add your own spin on fashion, and most of all, I love to see what everyone else is wearing. I just love the different styles in autumn. I am definitely a bit of a people-watcher - we all do it, right? I always find myself walking around, watching people walk past me in really warm-looking layers. I always get inspiration from what other people wear, especially those who are a bit more extravagant? I guess that's a way to put it.

As always, I have been constantly looking around in the shops for things I want to buy and I save the web pages to my bookmarks page ready for a wish list. So here are a few bits I have collected in my wish list.

Dorothy Perkins Metallic Stripe Roll Neck Jersey Top
I have found a new love for roll neck tops. They are so comfortable and I absolutely love pairing them with an up-do hairstyle and a sophisticated looking coat. I love the casual but sophisticated look. Add a red lip and you've got a look everyone will associate with autumn.

Dorothy Perkins Tan Faux Suede Bonded Biker Jacket
I absolutely adore this jacket and I'm having to persuade myself to not buy it, everyday. The fact I can get 20% off isn't helping me to be good! It looks so soft and cosy, and of course it's the perfect shade for autumn. It would go so well with everything on this wish list too, I'll cave soon I am sure. 


Dorothy Perkins Stripe Rib Top
Another top I have fallen in love with. It's such a simple design and pattern but I can picture it going perfectly with the faux suede coat. I really like simple patterns in the autumn because you can use a scarf and a jacket to add extra detailing. I really like wearing long, simple necklaces in the autumn too, they just add that little bit more to the outfit. 

Topshop Chelsea Boots
Aren't these beautiful? I absolutely adore the deep brown shade. I only have one pair of chelsea boots and they have quite a heel on them so I don't really tend to wear them causally. I've been looking for a flat pair of boots for a while and these are just the perfect autumn boot. I'm sure these will be off my wish list soon too. 

Topshop Cord Button Front A-line Skirt 
I know, I know, I'm very late hopping on the band wagon with this one. I don't usually follow the trends as soon as they come out because I like to think that I make my own fashion. Realistically, I'm probably just extremely behind trend. Anyway, I have grown to liking these types of skirts now, especially this burgundy-red shade one, once again, perfect for the autumn fashion. 

Topshop Black Denim Dungarees
Dungarees with roll neck tops and some elegant little booties are my favourite things at the moment. So of course, when I saw these dungarees on the Topshop website, I just had to save them. Perfect for those autumn days when it's still quite humid, but not warm enough to go without sleeves and long trousers.

Miss Selfridge Red Check Fringed Scarf
Scarfs are a thing that I don't have many of. I only have one and it's a pinky-bluey shade, which I don't feel is that well suited to autumn. I'm definitely going to have to change up my style with this red checked scarf. Once again, it would go perfectly with the faux suede jacket, you and I both know I'm going to have to get the jacket, and possibly the scarf...and the rest of it maybe! If only I could afford it all! 

Do you have any clothing items on your autumn wish list? 

Sunday, 13 September 2015

THE AUTUMN BERRY LIP

As much as we all wish summer wasn't disappearing so fast, I think we are all secretly excited about autumn. For anyone like me, being able to pull out my dark berry lipsticks is something I have been waiting for for a long time. I love a berry lip in the autumn, but it is definitely a seasonal thing, it doesn't work in the summer.





My favourite autumn berry lipstick is MAC's Rebel. It is a slightly more pinky purple once applied to the lips. I absolutely adore the colour because it goes so well with my skin tone and goes really well with the majority of the eye shadows that I have in my autumn collection. I also find that it lasts a whole lot longer than the majority of my other lipsticks. This is definitely because it leaves a stain, which some people hate and some people don't mind (like me).

I must admit that dark lipsticks do slightly scare me. We have all seen that dreadful smudged dark lipstick look, and it isn't a good one. I always use a lip liner to somewhat try to combat that fear because I always find that using a lip liner makes a better application than just using the lip stick. But undoubtedly, I still manage to mess it up quite often and I end up having to start again. The liner that I use is KIKO's precision lip pencil in the shade 308 Bordeaux, which I love. The formula is really creamy and it is super pigmented, which is so important for a lip liner.

I am definitely considering investing in another berry lipstick in a slightly more burgundy/darker shade, like the Charlotte Tilbury Glastonberry. It is such a popular autumn lip shade and I absolutely adore it.

Are there any autumn lipsticks that you are currently craving? What is in your collection? 

Sunday, 6 September 2015

THE BODY SHOP TEA TREE RANGE

The Tea Tree range has become a very popular range in The Body Shop recently. I bought my first Tea Tree products (the mask and face wash) due to recommendation from a member of staff at The Body Shop. I requested a product to help with spot prone and blemished skin, and she immediately recommended the Tea Tree range to me. I am so glad she did because the Tea Tree aroma is so refreshing and the products are amazing. I picked up those two products primarily because I knew I would use them whether I actually saw benefits from them or not. I use face wash and masks on a daily and weekly basis.


I expanded my collection of this range a few weeks back as I had seen brilliant changes since using the first two products I bought. This time I bought the Body Wash and the Skin Clearing Lotion. I decided upon these two products because I wanted to see if the Body Wash would help to clear some blemishes I have on other parts of my body and I wanted to try the Skin Clearing Lotion to attempt to get rid of scars and spots I have on my face. I have always had quite easily scarred skin which means that most spots I get turn into scars which does get me down quite a bit. However, it's nothing makeup can't cover up.


Since using this range, I have seen small changes in how many spots I get appearing on my face. I don't think it'll ever completely get rid of my spots as I am quite prone to them. But, being able to get rid of one or two spots using this range is amazing in itself. It means that I don't have to cover so many up with concealer all of the time. That's definitely a bonus.

My favourite product out of the four is the Skin Clearing Lotion, simply because it is a really smooth lotion which is so quick and easy to apply. It feels and smells really refreshing. The lotion soaks into the skin quite quickly, once applied, which makes it brilliant for applying before makeup or any other product. I use this mainly on my spots but it's brilliant because it doesn't require a lot of rubbing in or time to dry. It is a really quick and convenient product.

Although, I do adore all four of these products, I do find that they leave my skin quite dry after using them. I have to add a little bit of moisturiser onto my face after using them, and I find that helps to re-hydrate my skin. These products have without a doubt improved my skin a lot, so I don't feel as though that makes me feel at all negative towards them.

Personally, I found that these products cleared up my skin in just over a week. I use them on a daily basis (I used the foam cleanser morning and night) to help to keep my skin clean and looked after. If you are looking for products to cleanse your face and clear up spots, I would highly recommend this range. There are many products within this one range, you'll almost definitely find something you like.

Just a little note: the Tea Tree products are also great at removing bacteria and dirt from makeup brushes. So, if you are struggling to get rid of all of the makeup left-overs and bacteria on your brushes, try some of the cleansers and they'll work like a treat.

Have you tried the Tea Tree range?