Cosmic Bronze Eyeshadow Quad by Fleur de Force

When it was announced Fleur was releasing a makeup range I was really excited - she was the first beauty blogger I started following and I always turn to her when I'm looking for a review of a product as I find she's almost always right and has brilliant taste in makeup. I knew her makeup line would be special, because I couldn't imagine her releasing something she wasn't 100% happy with. It's taken me a little while to get my hands on her products, but better late than never!

Origins Night-A-Mins Moisturiser - Review

Over the last couple of years that I've got into skincare I've tried out different cleansers, exfoliators and serums but night creams are something I've not focused on much. I've always just gone with a standard moisturiser, and never spent too much. However, recently I was browsing good old eBay and came across a 30ml sample of Origins Night-A-Mins, which is a night moisturiser I've heard rave reviews about but is quite pricey so I've never taken the plunge. A sample seemed like the perfect option, and I'm now considering splurging on the full sized product.

Origins Night-A-Minds is a night cream that's focussed on reduced the dullness of skin, and leave your face feeling refreshed, radiant and moisturised. It's enriched with vitamins C, E and H and has a slightly orangey scent which I really like. I find it isn't too thick nor is it greasy, but it still feels so nourishing and rich on the skin which is perfect for bedtime.
After about a month of use everyday (in conduction with my beloved hydraluron) I've noticed quite a difference in my skin! My skin feels soft and definitely looks more radiant, I've definitely noticed a difference in 'imperfections' as well; I've mentioned before that when I get spots they take a long time to completely fade, but I feel like this moisturiser has really sped up that process and my skin is looking clearer than ever….*touch wood*.
The full size product is £34.50 for 50ml which definitely puts it in the luxury product range, but I do reckon the pot would last you a while and as I always say 'you only get one face, look after it'. If you want to try it out before paying the larger sum of money there are several sample's for sale on eBay, which you can find here.

What's your current night cream?

Do you think it's worth spending more on 

luxury skincare products?

x

Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm - Review

I'm a bit of a skincare fiend, I love trying new products and I'm not really loyal to any part of my skincare routine as I like to test different things. I recently ran out of my Body Shop Camomile cleansing oil (which was actually a repurchase) and decided I wanted something new. Armed with a £5 off Feel Unique voucher I browsed the site looking for a new addition to my skincare regime, and I came across the Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm…which I'd heard a lot of good things about and it sounded dreamy, so I made the order. 

Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm (£22) is a lightweight cleansing balm that looks solid when you open the pot, but once you scoop the tiniest amount out (which is all you need) and rub it between your fingers it melts into an oil which you massage into your face. The oil is unscented, which is brilliant for those with sensitive skin, but feels luxurious, calming and really cleansing. 

The oil, although lightweight and not greasy, removes even stubborn eye makeup which I was rather pleased about. My skin is left feeling super clean, moisturised and fresh after using this cleanser.

Although it may be a little on the pricey side at £22 I think it's well worth the money, the 125ml pot will last you ages as you only need the smallest amount of product to cover your entire face, it has fantastic ingredients that won't do any damage or dry your skin out and I always think it's worth paying a bit more for good skincare, because hey…you only get one face, look after it!

5 Countries I'd Love To Visit

Over the last few months I've had a serious case of 'wanderlust'. I think about different places I want to travel to and explore constantly, I read travel blog posts and endlessly search on pinterest. I think it's so important to see as much of the world as possible, to experience different cultures, breath different air, meet new people and see the best the world has to offer.
I'm hoping soon I'll be able to see more of the world, once I've saved up some money, but for now I thought I'd share with you a few countries I'd love to visit. They're not necessarily all my top 5 countries, but they're definitely all in my top 10 places to visit, and they'll probably be yours too after you see the photographs...

Italy
I think Italy looks absolutely beautiful and fascinating. I can't pinpoint one specific place I want to go because I want to see it all! I think Rome is top of my list though; the Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps and Palatine Hill look amazing. I'm also dying to visit Pompeii, Venice and Tuscany.

Switzerland
This doesn't seem to be a popular choice when it comes to people going travelling but I really want to visit Switzerland one day. It looks peaceful, calm, beautiful and almost magical.
Lake Geneva is one of the largest lakes in Europe, surrounded by mountains, a hilly plain and the alps with elegant towns and cities too.
 Bern looks utterly picturesque. It's a medieval city which dates back to the 12th century. There's an ancient clock tower with moving puppets, a Gothic cathedral and market stalls.

Vietnam
Ever since I saw the Top Gear special in Vietnam I've had an urge to go there, which has since been cemented in more by EmTalks blogposts on her trip there, which she called life changing.
It looks like such an incredible country with so many different things to see. Ha Long Bay is my number 1 place to visit, with it's aqua-green water and cluster of rocky outcrops rising from the water it looks like something from a fantasy story. It features over 2,000 jungle-covered Islands with caves and grottoes…get me there! The old city of Hoi An is on my list too, for it's historic architecture and traditional culture. It's full of tiny pathways, traditional wooden houses and little shops.

Greece
Greece isn't somewhere I've really wanted to visit before, but after seeing some gorgeous photos and hearing travel bloggers talk about the country I'd love to visit. Namely the Greek Islands Corfu and Santorini (the latter being top of my wish list…I'd give a lot to go there!); they look breathtakingly stunning. But I'd also love to see the mainland, Hyrda is a small town that's arty and pretty.

The USA
Huge country, and so much of it I want to see. New York city is somewhere I've been longing to go for ages, to walk through central park, see the Empire State Building and explore. Then I'd want to go to the Grand Canyon, LA, visit Texas - especially San Antonio, and walk through the cobbled streets of Savannah.

There's so many more places I feel I need to see. Bali, Cuba, Brazil, more of France and Australia is definitely very high on my list; the only reason it isn't in my top 5 is because I think I might do a separate post on Australia…there's a lot of things I want to see in that country.

If you could go anywhere in the world, 

where would you go?

Ultimate Christmas Wish List | 2014

Happy December! The countdown to Christmas has begun. 

It's tradition for bloggers to do Christmas wish list posts, right?! So, here's mine for 2014.

As always I'd like to clarify that I don't expect any of these, it's simply a fun post to do at Christmas time and it might give you a couple of ideas if you're looking to get people gifts, or you may even see something you'd like yourself.

Bag
I quite desperately need a new bag. The one I currently have is one I love, but the zips broken and it's falling to pieces really. I've never bought a Zara bag before, but I know they're brilliant quality and I love the look of this one. But a cheaper, and lovely looking other one is this from H&M.

NARS Sheer Glow 
Have I mentioned this enough? I tried a sample of this foundation in the shade Mont Blanc and I fell in love.

Clarins Exfoliating Toner  
I'm ashamed to admit I don't currently have a toner…and I exfoliate my face less than I should. Every review I've read about this product has been outstanding, and it sounds perfect for me.

YSL Black Opium 
It was love at first sniff. This perfume is gorgeous!

Soap and Glory stuff 
A classic. I've run out of all my Soap & Glory products, I'd love some more of their body butter and body wash…their scrubs are pretty fab too. The 'smoothie' scent is amazing.

Hair Straighteners 
I always curl my hair with a waving wa
nd, but because I have layers I get the inevitable flicks which I have to tame with straighteners. I currently have to steal my sisters….sorry Maddie.

Dressing Gown 
Who doesn't want a snuggly, cosy dressing gown for the cold months?!

Purse 
My current purse has been with me for years…it's a bit battered. Any simple, nice, chunky, quite plain purse with plenty of space for money and masses of cards would be great.

MAC Lipstick - Creme In Your Coffee
I really want a MAC lipstick that's an everyday shade. Creme in your Coffee is a gorgeous pinky brown shade that would be ideal. Who doesn't love a MAC lipstick?!


The Mystery Of Mercy Close 
I always like to get a new book for Christmas, and this one by Marian Keyes is on my wishlist.

Topshop Jumper
I need more snuggly jumpers, and I love the colour of this…surprise, surprise…it's grey.

Yoga Mat 
I took up yoga earlier this year and I've become addicted to it. The benefits are get from doing it are amazing, but I need a mat! A towel doesn't really cut it. They do some good ones at TK MAXX.

What are you hoping will be under your

tree this Christmas?

x

MAC Lipstick in Fanfare

Everyone raves about MAC lipsticks, and for good reason. There are certain shades that get a hell of a lot of attention, but Fanfare is one that I think is overlooked.

MAC Fanfare (£15) is described as a 'mid-toned yellow pink' on the MAC website. I'd agree with that, but the description does it no justice. It's such a gorgeous mid toned pink that isn't at all dull, not blue-toned, it's bright, cheerful and just so pretty.
Fanfare is a cremesheen formula, this means it's a creamy formulation with mid level colour payoff and a slightly glossy finish. Cremesheen lipsticks give a gorgeous look on the lips, they're really soft (keep out of the sun!) and they're not at all drying. As they are quite creamy they aren't the longest wearing, but for me this lasts a good 3 hours, minimum, which I think is pretty damn good.
I absolutely love this lipstick; it feels so luxurious, both because of the branding and the formulation and the shade is stunning. It looks great when my skin is more tanned, but looks equally nice when I'm on the paler side. Fanfare is a winner!

What's your favourite MAC lipstick?

x

My All Time Favourite Lipgloss

I've always very much been a lipstick over lipgloss type of gal. I'm not one for constant reapplication, I don't enjoy the sticky feeling, and I certainly don't appreciate the inevitable hair stuck to lips situation, however the NARS lipgloss in Stolen Kisses* (£18.50) (one of their new ones!) has got me reaching for it ever so often.

So, what's so great about  this lipgloss? Well, it's just miles better in every possible way to anything I've tried…(I mean, it really should be considering the price).
The packaging is classic NARS, very simple yet it feels classy and expensive, and you do get a fair amount of product.
Now, the gloss itself is extremely pigmenting, and the colour payoff is stunning. Stolen Kisses is a very natural shade, almost 'my lips but better' but darker and much prettier with a slight hint of shimmer…that to be honest is barely noticeable, but I like that. The colour goes well with any makeup look, I've worn it with a smokey eye and with a 'no-makeup' look and both look pretty gorgeous. I do get complimented when I wear it as well…always a bonus.
The texture is spot on, it's not thick and gloopy nor is it running, and it ranks very low on the stickiness scale; meaning it's extremely comfortable to wear and it doesn't feel like my lips are being glued together.
When it comes down to how long the lipgloss actually stays on the lips I was highly impressed, without eating or drink the shade was still there a good 3 or 4 hours later, obviously it fades over time but nowhere near as much as I had expected from a gloss…I was really surprised!
So, NARS, I applaud you!

Fashion Wish List - September 2014

A new season is just around the corner, which means all the shops are getting new stock in, which results in me endlessly pining over new clothes, shoes and accessories.

I went into New Look the other day and saw this top and this jacket put together and the combination made me turn into that love heart emoji. The two colours go together so nicely - the crepe blazer style jacket (£24.99) is a light grey and the top with scallop hem (£12.99) is a dusky pink, both items of clothing are simple yet really pretty, and I really do need some new short sleeve shirts. Also, both the jacket and the top are under £25, New Look is great for bargains.

I have got an obsession with checked shirts. I only own one but I adore it and I always see others I want, this white one (£17.99) from New Look is really nice and inexpensive, I love that it would go with any colour jeans too.
I also saw these shoes (£14.99), which I'm sure will be a love/hate item, but I like them and I reckon they'd be super comfortable, a great style for going from Summer to Autumn and would go with more or less every outfit.

Urban Outfitters jewellery is my favourite, can I have it all? These are the pieces I'm currently dreaming of. Two necklaces - one has a double chain with a circle and triangle pendant (£12), and the other is a shorter necklace with a crystal and a coin on it (£14). This geometric bracelet with black drawstring fastening (£6) is the sort of style I'm drawn to a lot at the moment.

ASOS is a dream, isn't it? I daren't spent too long on the site or I'll end up with 200 items in my wish-list, at the least. But I did find these two items which I adore. The first is a stripy top (£12), such a staple piece that I need in my wardrobe. The second is another checked shirt (£28), surprise surprise, I like this one a lot..the colours are right up my street, I love the oversized style and the fabric looks so soft.

This wish-list was cut down by quite a few items, but still ended up being long….so I do hope you enjoy long blog posts! I'd love to know what piece of fashion you are looking to buy for the new season. 

xxx

Sheer Red For Summer

Revlon Lip Butters are on of my all time favourite lip products, and definitely my favourite for Summer time. They're moisturising, not heavy, have a good colour pay off and the range of shades is fantastic.
For my birthday, back in March, I got the shade Wild Watermelon, which I've wanted for such a long time.

Sheer swatch
Built up swatch

Wild Watermelon is going to be my must have lip product for Summer, it's a beautiful bright red with pink undertones, it can be sheered out or built up to look rather intense. I quite like wearing it sheered out slightly, just so it's not so full on for an everyday look. However, I am going on holiday to Menorca in just over 2 weeks (eeeeek, prepare for an envy filling blogpost when I get back) and I reckon this shade will look oh so beautiful with a tan, especially when it's built up to a gorgeously bold colour.

When the weather is hot I really don't like wearing 'proper' lipsticks, you know the heavy ones, that can be quite matte, or have a thick constancy. They feel too much like they're suffocating my lips and I always have the urge to get a tissue and get rid! I always opt for the sheerer or more creamy products. Revlon Lip Butters fit the bill perfectly!

Summer Holiday Reads

Long time no speak, I know. I'm sorry! There are a few reasons why I've been very inactive in the blogging world recently, but I won't bore you with them, just know that I'm back and very happy about it.

As we're now in a Summer month and I'm sure a lot of you are going away on holiday soon I thought I'd do a bit of a different post, but one that's been requested quite a lot.
I love a good 'chick-lit', an easy read, a book that I can relate too, that'll make me laugh and warm my heart on holiday - in my opinion they're the best to read whilst laying by the pool or at the beach. I've read quite a few over the years, so I thought I'd share some of my favourites so you can go and grab them before you jet off to somewhere hot.

1. Remember Me? By Sophie Kinsella. If you haven't read any of Sophie's books you're seriously missing out, they're my absolute favourite. Her style of writing is brilliant, very witty, funny, clever and easy to digest. Remember Me? is probably my favourite of hers, it's about a woman called Lexi who wakes up in a hospital, thinking she's 25 with crooked teeth, bad hair and a disastrous love life. But actually it's 3 years later than she thought - she's 28 years old, got an amazing figure, great teeth, a brilliant job and she's married to a millionaire. The story is about her getting to know her life again after her accident, and realising it's not as perfect as it first seemed.
It's very funny, interesting, the character's are easy to relate to and you really get to know them. You become very invested in the story and it's definitely one I couldn't put down.

2. The Wish List by Jane Costello. This is a book I only read recently, and it was the first book of Jane's I've read…I adore it. The Wish List is about a woman called Emma who's only got 6 months left of her 20's - she finds a list her and her friends wrote when they were 15 years old of things they wanted to achieve before they were 30. Emma realises she's hardly done any of them, so she sets out to achieve them all before she hits the big 3 0. She wants to sleep under the stars, jump out of a plane, see the northern lights, snog someone famous, and even find the man she's going to marry. Her mission to complete the list is trickier than she thought! This book actually made me laugh out loud, it made me go 'awww' and it made me cringe of embarrassment for Emma. I can't wait to read more Jane Costello books!

3. Me Before You by Jojo Moyes. This book is definitely a heavier read, but it's utterly brilliant. The story is of Lou Clark, a young woman who's been stuck living in her little town, she was working in a local tea shop, living at home with her parents, wears quite out there clothes, and has a boyfriend she's not sure if she loves. But one day she loses her job, which sees her having to apply to be the care assistant for Will Traynor. Will is young man who had everything to live for - the great job, beautiful girlfriend, adventurous lifestyle, before he was involved in a motorbike accident which took away his desire to live. Lou bursts into Will's life and they both change each other forever.
This book is heartbreaking, emotional, beautiful, funny, compelling and really is one you won't be able to put down - you'll be too interested in what happens next.

4. Billy & Me by Giovanna Fletcher. This was a much anticipated book for me, as I love reading Giovanna's blog and her tumblr posts. If any of you don't know she is married to Tom Fletcher from McFly, and she's a very lovely and talented lady. Billy & Me is her debut novel and it's about a girl called Sophie May who has a secret, which has made her give up all her dreams of travelling, going to university and living the life she would have liked to stay in her tiny village, working in the local teashop and living at home with her mum. One day a film crew come to the village, which causes a lot of hysteria, and Sophie meets the gorgeous Billy - a famous actor with high ambitions. They fall in love and Sophie is taken out of her comfort zone and into a world of glamour, showbiz and ruthlessness. Can Sophie handle being in the spotlight and the constant scrutiny that comes with being with Billy Buskin?
I feel like this book could appeal to so many people, it's romantic, funny, charming, heartwarming, heartbreaking, intriguing and has an emotional twist. It's also very honest, real and believable. I love it and I can't wait to read Giovanna's second book on my holiday next month!

There you go, 3 must-reads for this Summer! 

What's your favourite book?

x

NARS Lovin'

Makeup lovers everywhere love NARS, everyone loves NARS, right? Right. So, when NARS sent me a little message saying they'd like to send me some products for being a loyal 'NARSissit' I was over the moon!

Only 2 days later I received 3 full size products in the post, all wrapped up in gorgeous black tissue paper and a ribbon. I got a duo eyeshadow in Tropical Princess, one of their illuminators in 413 BLKR and a lipgloss in Stolen Kisses.

The Tropical Princess duo eyeshadow (limited edition) definitely isn't a product I would have personally picked out, I'm very much a neutrals girl, however after swatching them I think I can make them work! I can blend the purple shade into champagne eyeshadow which would look very pretty, and the green shadow will bring out my brown eyes. It's always good to try new things.
The 413 BLKR illuminator is actually a product I've wanted for a while. The only highlighters I own are powders, so I was excited to try one in a liquid form, especially as summer is coming up and it'll give that gorgeous dewy effect. I have tried this out and I totally adore it, I can tell I'm going to be using it a lot!
Last, but certainly not least is my favourite of the bunch - Stolen Kisses lipgloss (from their new collection). I'm not the biggest lipgloss wearer, as I find they don't last long on me and you have to keep reapplying which is a bit of a faff, but I have been converted by this! The colour is absolutely beautiful, a very natural 'my lips but better' shade with slight shimmer running through it, and oh how it really does make my lips look better. It's gorgeously glossy, well pigmented, non-sticky, and it actually lasts a very, very long time. I need more from this range!

I want to say a huge thankyou to NARS for being so kind and generous. They didn't ask me to write this post, sponsor me or anything like that. I think it's so lovely to see such a huge brand valuing their costumers. I now adore NARS even more!

Do you own any NARS products?

x

What's In My Work Bag?

I've just started doing some work at Kiss FM radio station in London, which is really exciting! I have to travel up from where I live near Brighton to Oxford Street in London. The things I carry in my bag are a bit different to what I carry day to day, so I thought I'd share the contents of my work bag with you.

My work bag itself is a cheapy, from Primark! I can't remember the exact price but it was no more than £12. It's a fantastic size and style for work, and has handy compartments inside.
Let's get the more boring things out the way first. An umbrella, I live in the UK so rain is to be expected and I don't want to be caught in a downpour. I always have paracetamol, Strepsils and plasters on me, because you never know when you might need them. When you're in London hand sanitizer is a must, especially as I have to get the tube, the one I have is just a simple Detol one, but it does the job.
I have a nail strengthening nail varnish, as I have unbelievably weak nails and I like to always make sure I have this varnish on as it helps a lot.
Chewing gum! Another must. I hate not having fresh breath, or having a funny taste in my mouth, so minty Extra gum is great for sorting that out. I always have a piece after my lunch.
Then we have my keys, my freelance pass so I can get into the building, and a very handy device - a portable iPhone charger. Any iPhone owner will know that these phones are great, but the battery life isn't very impressive. The Anker pink portable charger is a complete lifesaver. And of course, I always have my iPhone with me, as well as my iPod for music on the train.
A notebook and pen, part of my job is doing research for the radio shows so it's great to keep things jotted down.
My purse, which I've had for quite a while but I really like it. It's from Topshop, it's very simple but I like that's soft, not bulky and heavy but has enough compartments in it for all my cards (I have quite a few loyalty cards…they're the best).
My new sunglasses! It's May, so the sun is making an appearance more and more, and I have very sensitive eyes, these sunglasses from Warehouse are really gorgeous.

Lastly, the thing I think you'll be interested in the most, my makeup bag. I don't take many things with
me for work, but just a few in case I need to top up during the day. I know the day I don't take it will be the day I need something in it! Garnier hand cream - I hate having dry hands, and this one is non-sticky and quick drying - winner. Nars Luguna Bronzer, I actually carry this more for the mirror instead as it's a great size. Rimmel Stay Matte Powder - my favourite! Real Techniques Blush Brush, it's a great multi-tasker. Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer, just for some touch ups. Rimmel Eyebrow pencil. Burt's Bees Mango Lip Balm, because who likes chapped lips?! And, of course, I have a couple of lip product choices, always. These ones are Rimmel Kate Moss lipstick in 19, and Revlon Lip Butter in Berry Smoothie.

What's the number one thing you have to carry in your

handbag?

x

P.S The Cosmopolitan Blog Awards are coming up! I'd be so happy if you could nominate me for 'Best New Beauty Blog' http://www.cosmopolitan.co.uk/campus/cash-and-careers/student-careers/enter  :)

Garnier Oil Beauty Nourishing Lotion | Review

I'm always after really moisturising body lotions, moisturisers or body butters. I absolutely love the Soap & Glory butter butters, the scents are incredible and they make my skin so soft, but they can be a bit pricey. Recently I've been using this Garnier Oil-Infused Nourishing Body Lotion and I adore it.

This is an oil infused body lotion, that contains 4 nourishing and beautifying oils - argon, macadamia, almond and rose, all of which are amazing for the skin. The consistency of the product is lovely, it's not watery but it's not really thick, it glides so smoothly onto the skin and almost feels like it's really melting in and working it's magic to make the skin hydrated. The smell of the lotion is amazing, I can really pick up the oil scents and it reminds of holidays - I always just want to sniff my arms after applying it because it's so good. Not only does it apply nicely but it's non-sticky, non-greasy and quick drying…hurrah! My skin feels ultra soft after using this product and that smoothness really lasts a long time, not just a few hours like some body moisturisers. I feel like this lotion is actually doing my skin good, nourishing it and making it appear more radiant.
The Garnier Oil Beauty Lotion retails for £4.99 for 250ml, and it is a definite winner in my book!

What's your favourite body moisturiser? 

OH and have a wonderful 4 day weekend!

Happy Easter 

x

Maybelline Color Show Nail Polish | Review

I don't often buy nail varnish, and when I do I almost always go for Rimmel because they're cheap, but brilliant quality with the best brush ever. However, I was in Boots looking for some neutral shades and none from the Rimmel line took my fancy, so I went over to the Maybelline stand after hearing good things about their nail varnishes and I picked up two shades from the Color Show collection.
I'm quite fussy with nail varnish, there's lots of things I look for as I'm impatient waiting for them to dry (anyone else always suddenly find loads of things to do just as they finish painting their nails?!), the formulation has to be the perfect consistency i.e. not runny but not gloopy, and the brush can't be too thin. So, does Maybelline Color Show get the thumbs up from me?

The shades I chose were Love This Sweater, which is a pink/mauve nude shade and Cool touch which is a bluey grey. I thought these shades would be really lovely for Spring time, and they'd go with almost anything.
I really like the packaging…it's simple but there's something about it that makes it feel nice, and not cheap. I prefer it to Rimmel, but the preferences don't extend any more than that.
The brush is quite thin, it's not the thinnest I've seen but not so thick you can do your nail with 1 or 2 swipes, which is annoying.
The formulation is fairly watery, by no means do I like gloopy nail varnish but I do like it thick enough that I could get away with doing one coat if I'm in a hurry. With Maybelline I need at least two coats, but I normally opt for three, otherwise the colour looks too sheer.
Drying time, which is another thing I find important, is not terrible but not anything amazing either. I left it about 3-4 minutes between coats, and that was long enough.
The wear is better than expected considering the fairly thin consistency, normally nail varnish chips within a couple of days on me, this one lasted about 3 or 4…that's with a base coat but no top coat.

Overall I don't think I would repurchase this brand of nail varnish again…I'm glad I bought the two polishes because I really do like the shades, but the formulation doesn't cut it, however for the price of £2.99 I didn't expect anything outstanding.

What's your favourite brand of nail polish?

x

Merumaya Cleansing Balm | Review

I think we probably all know I'm quite big on skincare. If you have good skin then your makeup will look a million times better, you'll feel more confident and it's just generally good to look after your skin for all sorts of reasons, therefore using quality skincare that works for you is very important.
I do like to change up my skincare products, unless I find a complete 'holy grail' product. New cleansers I particularly like to try out, I've never really found one that I completely love, so my latest purchase (after hearing so many rave reviews) was the Merumaya Cleansing Balm.

I'd wanted to try a cleansing balm for ages, the Emma Hardie one was top of my wish list but with the £36 price tag I didn't dare buy it, but then I came across the Merumaya Cleansing Balm at £14.50 for 100ml I thought I'd give it a go.
Cleansing balms are oil based products that are particularly good at removing all makeup and dirt from the face. They're marketed at all skin types, even oily, but I feel dry skin would benefit the most, if you're someone looking for anti-aging properties cleansing balms are the best option also. You warm the product in your hands, then massage it gently all over your dry face and then remove with a warm, damp muslin cloth or flannel.
I can't speak for all cleansing balms, but the Merumaya Cleansing Balm leaves my face feeling more cleansed than any other product I have used before. The balm glides so smoothly onto my skin, it smells quite herbal which I love, it feels soothing and once removed my skin feels refreshed, soft, hydrated and more healthy than it did before.
I've been using this cleansing balm for over a month now and I have noticed a considerable difference in the dryness of my skin - it doesn't feel so tight now and dry patches have almost vanished. Before, I was using Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish which I did like, but all it was doing really was cleaning my skin, rather than improving the condition of it or hydrating it, the Merumaya product is different to this as the hydration in my skin has increased and although I haven't noticed a massive difference in any breakouts I may get I do feel my complexion has brightened and looks healthier.
The packaging of this product is a squeezy tube, which I really like as you can easily control how much of the balm you use (yay, no waste!), which FYI isn't much at all…a little goes a long way!
The only thing I don't like about this product is it stings when it goes in my eyes, it's not horrific but it's not comfortable. I remove my makeup with a micellar water before properly cleansing though, so I'm not too fussed!

I do love this cleanser a lot, and I'd highly recommend it, but it's important to remember everyone's skin is different. I personally think this cleanser would be amazing for pretty much everyone though - if you have dry skin it'll bring you some of that hydration you want, if you have blemishes it will sooth them, if you have oily skin the oils in the cleansing balm will help to balance things out.
The Merumaya Cleansing Balm will definitely be something I'll be repurchasing!

Have you tried cleansing balms?

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The Benefits Of Lemon

Recently I've started putting slices of lemon in my water, to make it a bit more tasty and also because there are so many health benefits. I already knew a few of them but after doing some research I found a load more, and I have come to the conclusion that lemon is a magical fruit.

1. Helps keep your skin looking clear. Lemon juice contains antioxidants which will help to clear up blemishes and also keep you looking younger. Lemon juice can be applied straight to the face as well, apply it to problem areas (as long as they're not open wounds, or severe acne), leave the juice on for half an hour and rinse. Lemon juice will also make you look more radiant, as it's detoxifying your blood.

2. Boosts your immune system. If you're someone who gets ill a lot, especially if you get colds, (thankfully I'm not like that) then drinking lemon water is a good idea! Lemon juice contains loads of vitamin C, which helps protect and keep cells healthy, maintains the body tissue around your organs and helps wounds to heal.

3. Helps with digestion. Lemon juice will aid your body with digestion and relieve heartburn, indigestion or bloating.

4. Balances your pH levels. Having a good pH balance in your body is important - if unbalanced it can cause problems with the digestive system, immune system, respiratory system, nervous system, muscular system, and many more. Although on their own lemons are acidic once they're inside the body they are one of the most alkalising foods. Drinking lemon water regularly will help reduce the acidity in your body, which could have been caused by a high-fat diet, airway conditions like asthma, drinking too much alcohol, obesity, etc.

5. Stops you overeating. If you're trying to lose weight, or simply by healthier by not snacking so much then the pectin fibre in lemon juice will assist in fighting those cravings.

6. Helps reduce feelings of anxiety or depression. I didn't really believe this one, but lemon juice is supposed to be very calming, even the smell of it can really help.

7. Cleanses your body. Lemon juice helps to flush out any toxins from your body. The juice will help maximise enzyme function, which stimulates the liver and aids in detoxification. It will also help loosen toxins in the digestive tract, due to the high number of minerals and vitamins in the lemon.

8.  Keeps your breath fresh. No-one likes smelly breath! Lemon juice will keep your breath much fresher.

9. Energises you. Lemon juice contains more negatively charged ions, which react with your body and provide you with more energy.

10. Great source of potassium. Potassium is really good for heart health, and also the brain and nerve functions.

So now you see what I mean, lemon is magical.

Try putting it in your water!

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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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How To Clean Your Makeup Brushes…The Right Way!

Washing makeup brushes is one of the most mundane things, but it's very important.

Why is it important to clean makeup brushes?

Not only do brushes apply products to your skin but they also pick up any oils, dead skin cells or dirt that might be on your face, so when you go to reapply makeup with the brush that bacteria will be transferred back onto your face….yucky! If you get acne or suffer from spots washing your makeup brushes regularly should make a difference. 

Keeping your brushes in good condition will make them last longer! Cleaning them regularly will keep the bristles soft, prevent them from drying out, caking together or falling apart. 

Clean makeup brushes will also apply makeup a lot better!

How should I clean my makeup brushes?

You can buy shop-bought brush cleanser from places like MAC but that can be expensive, these products can often contain alcohol as well which will make the bristles dry out. Using baby shampoo is the best option, I use Johnson's. It's nice and gentle and will do the job well. 

Firstly put the brush under warm running water, then remove it and massage some of the baby shampoo into the bristles gently, and rinse in CLEAN water! I usually repeat this twice to make sure all the product is off the brushes. Afterwards squeeze the excess water out, and place them somewhere to dry.  

This bit is important - make sure your brushes are NOT standing upright when they're drying, the water could go right into the brush and cause it to rot inside. Stand them upside down, a good way to do that is in one of the Real Techniques brush stands that come with their collections of brushes (pictured).

How often should I clean my makeup brushes?

Once a week is ideal, especially if you're using them every single day. I'd say try not to go over 2 weeks without washing your brushes. 

Extra tips

Using olive oil on your brushes before the baby shampoo will give them a deeper clean. So if they're looking extra dirty or you've used a thicker product on them this is a great thing to do. Tea tree oil is also good for this.

Reshape your brushes while they're still wet, you don't want them trying in a weird way and then you're unable to use them properly. 

Make sure your brushes are completely dry before using them again.

I hope you found this helpful!

Also, I announced the winner of my giveaway! To find out if you won 

click this link!

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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.

What's On My Face Today

This is quickly becoming my go-to everyday makeup look for Spring. It's natural, quick, easy, fresh and just makes me feel awake and ready for Spring.

I've really been enjoying Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation (£9.99), I got this recently after seeing practically every blogger rave about it and it's definitely worth the hype. Full review to come!
The golden shade (first top row) in the Sleek Storm palette is so gorgeous, and I've been pairing that with a little bit of Rimmel Sable  Brown eyeliner on the outer top lash line for more definition.
Revlon Lip Butter in Juicy Papaya is one of my all time favourite lip colours for the warmer months, it's such a gorgeous orangy coral that's not 'in your face'.

BASE
Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation in Light Vanilla /// Maybelline Fit Me concealer in 15 /// Rimmel Stay Matte Powder in Transparent

CHEEKS
NYX Blush in Peach /// MAC Mineralize Skinfinsh in Soft & Gentle

EYES 
Sleek Storm Palette (first, top row) /// Rimmel Eyeliner in Sable Brown /// Maybelline The Flasies Mascara 

LIPS
Revlon Lip Butter in Juicy Papaya