Balance Me Moisture Rich Face Cream AND Upcoming Beauty Events

Balance Me is a brand I hadn't tried until recently, but it's a brand I'd heard a lot about and was very excited to try. What really stands out to me is how great their ethos and aim behind the brand; Balance Me uses naturally active botanicals, hi-tech natural formulations and pure grade essential oils to deliver a skincare range that both has aromatherapy inspired aromas and beautiful textures that can be used across all skin types. Their philosophy is 'beauty that works naturally', and they want to restore balance in the skin. Pretty great huh?!

I tried their Moisture Rich Face Cream* (£15), which is targeting at normal to dry/sensitive skin - great for me, as my skin does get quite dry and is definitely sensitive.
My first impression of this product was a bit disheartening, the smell is really rather strong of roses. I tend to stay clear off scented products because they don't normally agree with me skin, and I find them a bit odd when they're very strong and linger. However, if you're into nicely scented face creams I'm sure you'd love it, and if not (like me) it isn't really a big deal.
The cream itself does feel rich, but it isn't at all heavy which I really liked. The texture is very smooth, silky and works into the skin really well. I do find that after applied it made my face feel quite stiff and tight, but that does go away after a little while…it is a bit annoying though.
Now, the big question, have I noticed a change in my skin since using this face cream? Yes, I have. Nothing ground-breaking, but my skin has felt soft, it's looked plumper and the moisturising claims are correct.
So, I was impressed with this moisturiser…I'm not sure it's going to be a holy-grail product for me, but I do like it and would recommend it. I'm excited to try more Balance Me products!


BALANCE ME, MARIE CLAIRE AND DEBENHAMS EVENTS
If you're a Balance Me fan, or would like to know more about the brand then this may interest you.
Balance Me are teaming up with Marie Claire and Debenhams to host 4 in-store events this September and October. Discover personalised skin, body and haircare, and refresh your beauty regime with 15% discount off Balance Me products. You can also talk to skincare experts about your individual needs or skin concerns, as well as getting a personal skin-reading session with Balance Me's mobile skin scanner. They'll be a free-prize draw for the chance to win a Balance Me hamper worth £150, AND you can chat with the members of the Marie Claire team for top beauty tips.
Tickets are £10, this includes a goodie bag worth £75!

All the information here!

30th September - Oxford Street
2nd October - Cardiff
8th October - Chester

Have fun!

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No.7 Pop & Glow Cream Blush Stick in Classic Rose | Review

I think I've mentioned before I don't often try cream blushes, I'm not sure why because the ones I do have I really like and I think they're particularly great for Spring and Summer but I always seem to opt for powder. However, I recently tried the new No.7 Pop & Glow Blush Stick in Classic Rose and it's pretty darn good.

Firstly, I really do adore the packaging of this blush, it's in a stick form (much like Nars multiples) so you can just twist it up, dab it onto your check, smudge with your fingers or a brush and you're good to go! The application of this product is really great, it's easy to get a sheer wash of colour when blended or you can build it up to a more intense look if you wish, which still would only take a couple of swipes as the colour payoff is outstanding (swatches above).
The shade I have is Classic Rose which is a gorgeous hot pink, I think this is beautiful for Spring and Summer! I had my doubts that the colour would suit me, but I find it warms up my complexion and gives me a healthy glow - the fact it has a sheen helps with that.
Often cream blushes can be very sticky, but this blush stick is far from it - it almost feels powder like once it's dried. It's creamy, easy to blend and sets into the skin really well. But as it's that cream formula it hasn't got the longest staying power  -  I'd say it lasted about 5 hours maximum before it faded on me, however if you put powder over the top it will make it last longer and you can always carry this around in your bag for touchups during the day!
Overall I would definitely recommend this chubby stick style blush if you're new to cream blushes, or perhaps you're not keen on them because of the stickiness or difficult application but like the look they give, this will ease you in. They do 2 more blush shades and 1 highlighter in the same packaging and formulation which I must pick up! The price (£9.95) is definitely a bit much for a high street brand, I would say it shouldn't be more than £7…but if you'd like to treat yourself it's worth it for a lovely product.

Have you tried this yet?

What is your thoughts on cream blushes?

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My Favourite Powder

Whether you have oily skin or dry skin powdering your foundation is a good idea to set everything in place and to help it last all day.

I've used the Rimmel Stay Matte powder for years now, I've repurchased it countless times and will continue to because it's so brilliant and a bargain at only £3.99.
It's quite a light pressed powder that comes in 5 different shades, and transparent too (which is what I use) so whatever skin tone you have you can use it.
I love the transparent one because it won't give me more coverage but it helps to minimise pores, control any shine I may have, helps foundation to look even better and really does set everything in place well so your makeup lasts a lot longer.
The powder contains natural minerals, is free from fragrance, oils, parabens and talc so it won't clog your pores and it feels silky soft and natural on the skin.
Rimmel Stay Matte does everything I want in a powder, and it's great for my dry skin as it's not heavy and doesn't accentuate any patches.
The only gripe I have with this product is the packaging, I'd much prefer something with a flip up lid and mirror….but for the low price I suppose I can't really complain when the product inside is so good.

What powder do you use?

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NEW Garnier Micellar Water

I always use a proper cleanser in the mornings and evenings, but when it comes to removing makeup I like to use a cleansing water before. Garnier have recently brought out a micellar water, and I love it!

Micellar waters have been absolutely everywhere. So many bloggers rave about Bioderma, but it's pretty hard to get hold of in the UK and it's quite pricey, however a lot of brands have brought out their own versions, including L'Oreal and La Roche Posay but these can still not be the cheapest and do have their faults.
Garnier's offering is the best I have tried. Firstly, the product itself is great as it just feels like water on the skin (it's not greasy in the slightest) but it removes makeup so easily, even eye makeup which I sometimes find difficult to fully remove it gets rid of with ease. The water feels calming and refreshing on the skin and would definitely be suitable for any skin type. It doesn't contain any nasty and drying alcohol either! Secondly, the packaging is by a mile better than other brands. I know so many people complain about the L'Oreal micellar water going everywhere when you try and pour it onto a cotton pad but this doesn't happen at all with Garnier. The bottle is huge….much bigger than I was expecting, you get 400ml which the brand claim will last you 200 uses, I'm not so sure about 200 but it'll definitely last a while. My last point that makes it better than the rest is the price, at £4.99 it's an absolute bargain.

I would highly recommend the Garnier Micellar Cleansing water if you're looking for a Bioderma dupe or just a brilliant makeup remover to use pre-cleanser.

Clinique Chubby Stick Instense in Grandest Grape | REVIEW

If there's one makeup product I could buy endless amounts of it's definitely lipsticks or any lip product to be honest - I'm obsessed. From lipsticks, to lip glosses, to lip stains, to lip balms, I love them all…but one of my favourite type of lip product is definitely the crayon style ones. It seems more or less every makeup brand has jumped on Clinique's bandwagon and made their own (and some are damn good) but for Christmas I got a chubby stick by the lip crayon trendsetter - Clinique.

The colour I got was one that featured in one of my wish lists a few months back, it's called Grandest Grape. I'm quite big on bolder lip colours for Autumn and Winter, so the beautiful dark purple/dark pink/berry colour is right up my street!

swatch

The texture of this chubby stick is amazing, if you're someone who doesn't like lipstick to feel too heavy then this is for you! It glides on smoothly, and is so creamy it can be applied to the lips without any tugging, but at the same time it isn't so creamy that it'll slide around.
The finish is gorgeously glossy, and the product feels lovely and hydrating which is the biggest bonus when the weather isn't at its best.
The wear time for the chubby stick is good, I'd say about four hours if you're not eating or drinking, and it leaves behind a slight stain.

Clinique Chubby Stick Intense is priced at £17, which is more expensive than the alternatives out there, but having tried a few of them I'd say the original is the best. Chubby sticks feel more luxurious, they make my lips feel softer, and the colour payoff is better.
I'd definitely recommend this product, it'd make a lovely treat for yourself!

Have you tried this product?

Or do you want to?

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BARGAIN ALERT - Soap & Glory Yule Monty Gift Set!

Every year Soap & Glory bring out the best range of gift sets, with prices ranging from brilliantly affordable to a bit more expensive. One of their more expensive gift sets - The Yule Monty Gift Set - is being reduced from £60 to only £27 tomorrow (Friday 13th December)!

This limited edition gift set has 9 full sized Soap & Glory products in it, and is packaged in a beautiful zip up toiltery bag designed by Jonathan Saunders.
The products are -
• Hand Food hand cream
• Sugar Crush body wash
• The Righteous Body Butter
• Peaches and Clean face cleanser
• Heel Genius foot cream
• Butter Yourself lotion
• The Scrub Of Your Life body buffer
• Thick and Fast mascara
• Sexy Mother Pucker XL Lip Plumping Gloss in Pink Out Loud

This would be an ultimate Christmas gift for someone, or treat for yourself! But I imagine they'll sell out VERY quickly as the price is so low for all the products you get.

This deal is EXCLUSIVELY at BOOTS from tomorrow!

Will you be picking 

one up?

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Under £15 Christmas Gift Guide!

Buying Christmas presents is something I love doing, I enjoy thinking of thoughtful gifts that I know people will like. But it doesn't come without expense, and it's sometimes tricky to think of presents for everyone. So I have put together this gift guide for girls and all the items are under £15.

For any candle lovers like myself the Cranberry Ice candle from Yankee Candle would be a great choice, lovely fruity scent and nice and festive - £12.75.
Winter months are the time for lots of hot drinks, so a pretty mug would go down well - the one pictured is from Cath Kidson and it's the Provence Rose Crush mug - £6.50.
Nearly all girls love bath stuff, and Soap & Glory has to be one of the best brands for that. The item pictured is a set of shower gel, body cream, body butter and hand cream, and trust me, this stuff smells amazing - £10.
This charm bracelet from Urban Outfitters is so pretty, I've actually fallen in love with it myself - £6.
No-one likes cold feet in the winter, and slipper boots are a brilliant invention, so cosy and snug. The pair pictured are from New Look and they have little owls on them! - £12.99.
The next gift idea is for book lovers. I love a good chick-lit book and my favourite author for those is Sophie Kinsella…I've read quite a few of her books and my personal favourite is Remember Me? Synopsis all available in the link given. - £3.85.
This Barry M Natural Glow Eyeshadow and Face Blusher palette has 6 gorgeous eyeshadows in it, as well as a pretty blusher - £6.49.
Winter is the season to wrap up warm, and tartan is very 'in' at the moment, so a tartan scarf is a lovely gift. I have one myself and love it! Not sure where the one pictured came from (oops) but the one linked is also lovely. - £14.
Last but not least is the Snow Fairy Box from Lush, lovely bath goodies packaged in a pretty box - £12.50.

I hope this post gave you ideas

on what to get people for

Christmas!

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Rimmel Glam Eyes HD 5-Colour Eye Shadow in Brixton Brown

It's no secret that I'm a huge Rimmel fan. They're my favourite highstreet makeup brand, their lipsticks are my favourite, as are their foundations.
I was in Boots the other day and I saw this eyeshadow palette, the Glam Eyes HD 5 Colour Eyeshadow palette in Brixton Brown. I hadn't seen it before (it launched early October) and I thought the colours looked right up my street and super Autumnal, so I bought it.

In this 5 shadow palette you got a very dark shimmery grey, a super shimmery champagne colour, a dark brown that looks ever so slightly purply, a soft earthy green that is matte, and in the middle is a gorgeous coppery red with not too much shimmer. Beautiful.

What I love about this palette is you can create a really subtle daytime look with it, but also a super smoky nighttime look, and that red in the middle makes it perfect for this season.

The colours are well pigmented…not amazing, but good for the price, apart from the green which is shockingly badly pigmented, I can't seem to even see it once applied and is quite chalky..but the other 4 are great.

They also surprisingly didn't crease on my eyes! I wore the copper/red all over my lid and the dark grey just on the outer part of my eye for about 6 hours with no primer and they hadn't creased at all. 

L-R Top 2 shades and middle shade

Bottom 2 shades

This palette is £6.99 and there are 3 different ones in the collection.

Purchase here.

What's your favourite shade out of the 5?

Soap & Glory The Daily Smooth Body Butter | REVIEW

I would like to introduce you to my absolute favourite ever body butter/body moisturiser - Soap & Glory's The Daily Smooth Body Butter!

I have tried rather a lot of body butters, body moisturisers, body creams, etc, I hate having dry skin and I always feel a million times better after moisturising, but I'm also very fussy when it comes to finding a product I actually like but Soap & Glory have won me over again with this!

Firstly it smells AMAZING, like vanilla, cocoa butter and ever so slightly florally (but only the tiniest bit), it's also quite musky - I adore it. It's not over powering either, I don't like it when body products smell too strongly so you feel you can't wear perfume. 

As it's a body butter it is quite thick, which is why I was surprised at how quickly it sinks into the skin - there's none of that waiting around for ages, unable to move, and then when it does sink in your skin is left feeling super soft. I have used moisturisers purposely for dry skin and they don't even compare to how this leaves me - and it lasts ages as well - it's not like "oooh my skin is so soft" and then a few hours later it's dry again.

As you can see from the photos this product has been well loved; I am having to squeeze the tube so much now to get anything to come out of it but I will definitely be repurchasing.

This amazing body butter retails for £9, which I thing is perfectly reasonable when you take into consideration how wonderful it smells, how great it works and also how long it lasts - I have had this for about 9 months and it's only just running out now, a little bit really goes a long way!

BUY IT HERE!

What's your favourite Soap & Glory product?

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Michael Todd Blue Green Algae Toner | REVIEW

I have been hearing a buzz online about a skincare company called Michael Todd, and I needed a new toner, so I decided to treat myself to one from them…what a brilliant decision that was!

I opted for the Blue Green Algae toner, because I'd heard amazing things about it and also because if the things it promised were true I knew I would truly love it. And I wasn't disappointed.

Michael Todd's Blue Green Algae toner is full of nutrients, it contains blue green algae (obviously) and organic kelp in a base of aloe vera juice, which is so soothing on the skin. It also contains hyaluronic acid, amino acids, tea tree oil and black willow tree extract. All these things in combination with each other help eliminate toxins from the skin, speed up cellar renewal, and naturally nourish and replenish the skin. This toner is aimed at removing bacteria from the skin for a clearer complexion so it has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It cleans the skin and maintains the skins pH balance, and as it does not contain alcohol it isn't harsh or drying on the skin (massive bonus).

This toner claims to be moisturising, I wouldn't say it actually brought any moisture to my skin but it definitely didn't dry it out at all. 

I definitely don't have problem skin, like this is meant for; I get the occasional break out like everyone else, but not all the time. However, when I purchased this I was going through a phase where my skin was not as clear as usual and using this toner helped SO much. I am not exaggerating when I say literally over night I saw a difference. I used this the morning I got it and then in the evening before bed, I just applied some of the product to a cotton pad and swept it over by face, and by the morning the 'problem areas' had cleared up a lot and were less red. I also noticed my complexion was brighter and my skin just looked a lot healthier. 

Normally I am not one for toners, I find they never do anything, dry out my skin, smell chemically, and are just a waste of time. But this is so different. 

It feels so refreshing and soothing when applied to the skin, it actually feels like it's doing something, it isn't at all drying because of the no alcohol, it smells really nice - like a mixture of tea tree, lavender, and birch wood, and it's become a vital part of my daily skincare routine. 

One of the massive bonuses I found with this is it's 97% organic, a lot of companies claim to be organic but then when you look they're only like 15% organic or something pathetic, but Michael Todd is not like that. 97% organic is brilliant, I love that. 

The packaging is fab too!

This toner retails for $18 which converts to about £11 for 230ml of product (yes it's an American brand and can only be bought online unfortunately), but Michael Todd is brilliant, if you sign up you get 10% off your first order and they constantly have deals on - I actually got this toner with 25% off!

You can buy it here! 

I'm now a massive Michael Todd fan, this toner has become by absolute favourite skincare product, just overtaken my Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish, and I will definitely be trying out more from their range.

Have you tried this toner?

What's your favourite toner?

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