With the countdown to my holiday in full swing I have been getting in the mood with these two gorgeously Mediterranean scented items.
Di Palomo Orange Blossom with Wild Honey and Olive Moisturising Body Wash £9 for 250ml
Di Palomo say
A rich, luxuriant Body Wash formulated using the finest ingredients. Contains natural extracts of orange blossom, honey & olive, known for their soothing & nourishing properties, plus added moisturisers including Pro-Vitamin B5 to help keep your skin smooth & supple.
My thoughts
This feels really luxurious, thick and creamy in texture. It is heavily scented so steer clear if strong scents are not your thing. When I use this in the bath I feel like I am sat in a big tub in the med, it is just gorgeous and leaves my skin incredibly soft and smooth, while the sweet scent of orange blossom delights my senses. The scent also lasts a long time after bathing but is not overpowering.
Di Palomo Orange Blossom with Wild Honey and Olive Enriching Hand & Nail Cream £7 for 75ml
Di Palomo say
An enriching and luxurious Hand and Nail Cream blended with olive oil, honey and orange blossom extract which are known for their soothing and nourishing properties. Also rich in Grapeseed Oil to leave your hands soft, smooth and nourished.
My thoughts
This has the same delicious scent as the body wash, it is a nice lotion consistency, absorbs fast and is non greasy. Leaves my hands feeling beautifully soft. Pretty packaging too.
For more details and their other ranges check out the website - Di Palomo
*PR Samples
Giveaways
▼
Friday, 31 August 2012
Good Things Face The Day Moisturiser SPF15 - Review
I came across Good Things skincare when I was looking for a new face mask and purchased the 5 minute facial mask, the review of which you can read here. As I mentioned then, the range is designed for young skin so not technically for me..!
However, I was recently sent the new Face The Day Moisturiser SPF15 and before I got a chance to give it to someone more suitable to try, found I had run short of my own moisturiser and thought there was no harm in giving it a go.
Face The Day Moisturiser SPF15 contains superfruit extracts, Goji Berry and Papaya.
Good Things say
This light, hydrating lotion is easily absorbed and has SPF 15 to help protect the skin from damaging UVB rays. Anti-oxidant goji berry extract helps to soothe skin while papaya improves skin radiance.
My thoughts
I like the young, fresh looking designed packaging. It looks great in the bathroom and the flip top lid makes it easy to dispense.
The product is seriously berry fruity scented, I found this a little off putting at first and whilst I liked it for my face mask wasn't sure I was going to like it as a facial moisturiser. It doesn't last which for me personally is a good thing!
The moisturiser is of a runny lotion consistency which can mean that sometimes I have a tendency to squeeze out a little too much for my needs. Once applied it dries quickly but it does feel sticky and tightens my face as it dries. Just 5-10 mins later and the sticky feeling disappears and I am left with super soft feeling skin which remains all day.
This is a really nice budget moisturiser which leaves my skin feeling super soft and hydrated until my night cream and it has the bonus of having an SPF15. It comes in a generous 100ml tube which will last a decent amount of time.
If you are looking for a budget moisturiser with no nasties, this is definitely worth taking a look at.
The Good Things range is free from parabens, sodium laureth sulphate and mineral oil.
Good Things Face The Day Moisturiser SPF15 costs £7.99 for 100ml
Thursday, 30 August 2012
Five Facial Washes Speed Reviewed! Clean & Clear,Witch,Neutrogena & Dead Sea Spa Magik
For this post on facial washes I am handing over to my guest reviewer, my good friend Victoria. I am not a huge fan of facial washes and having found myself awash with the items I thought I would pass them on to someone who does use them.
I use facial washes every day as I find they’re not as harsh as soap and water plus they usually have better scents! For reference my skin type is sensitive and can be dry.
Neutrogena Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Daily Scrub £4.49 for 150ml - With powerful MicroClear technology, exfoliating micro-beads and refreshing pink grapefruit.
I loved the colour of this scrub, I do like products that look good on the bathroom shelf. I really liked the smell of this facial scrub and it gently exfoliated, leaving my skin feeling very fresh afterwards.
Clean & Clear’s Morning Energy Skin Brightening Daily Facial Scrub £3.99 for 150ml - with bursting beads and lemon & papaya extracts.
Clean & Clear’s Morning Energy Skin Brightening Daily Facial Scrub £3.99 for 150ml - with bursting beads and lemon & papaya extracts.
Another good colour for my bathroom! This smelt very summery and fruity, a bit like an ice lolly! It felt refreshing on my skin.
Clean & Clear Morning Energy Skin Energising Daily Facial Wash £3.99 for 150ml - with bursting beads and vitamin C & ginseng.
The Witch was ok, but didn't have much of a scent; I'm always drawn to strong fruity smells. It lathered quite well and exfoliated gently. Think it was perhaps a little too harsh for my skin though.
Clean & Clear Morning Energy Skin Energising Daily Facial Wash £3.99 for 150ml - with bursting beads and vitamin C & ginseng.
Once again, I liked the bright and cheery colour and it felt invigorating and refreshing with a pleasant kind of zingy smell.
Witch Naturally Clear Gentle Exfoliating Wash £3.99 for 150ml - Contains Witch hazel extract, Rice powder: natural exfoliating particles to deep cleanse pores, Willow bark extract. Product is SLS and SLES free.
Witch Naturally Clear Gentle Exfoliating Wash £3.99 for 150ml - Contains Witch hazel extract, Rice powder: natural exfoliating particles to deep cleanse pores, Willow bark extract. Product is SLS and SLES free.
I could tell that this was not a favourite for Victoria due to the initial feedback I received. This is designed for combination/oily skin so unsurprisingly was not a good match for her skin type.
Dead Sea Spa Magik Gentle Cleansing Facial Wash £8.80 for 150ml - Suitable for all skin types. Contains a special blend of natural ingredients to penetrate deep seated impurities.
This was my husband’s favourite. He was really impressed with how it got rid of the oiliness of his skin. I found it quite invigorating, but didn’t like the smell too much. I did like the creamy texture though.
As for my favourite, I really couldn’t choose between any of the first three – Neutrogena and the two from Clean & Clear. All of them were fairly similar in scent, texture and how they left my skin feeling. I’d buy all of these facial washes and scrubs again
Thanks so much Victoria for the reviews.. I am wondering have you tried other types of cleansers, in particular cream ones? They may be better if your skin has a tendency to dryness.
Do you have similar skin to Victoria? What cleansers work for you?
Paralympic Opening Ceremony (Enlightenment) London 2012 - I was there!
Last night with less than 2 hours to go I suddenly found myself in possession of a ticket for the Paralympic Opening Ceremony. Cue a crazy mad dash across London and back in rush hour to collect my son from my mother in law's and enlistment of no less than 3 other babysitter's (don't ask!) and a run to the tube station and we were on our way!
Once at Stratford the madness continued as we ran from the station to collect our tickets from a store (again, don't ask!) and then onto the Olympic Stadium. We made our seats with literally a second to spare and I have honestly no idea how we managed to get there in time...but we did.
The Opening Ceremony was entitled Enlightenment "a journey of discovery inspired by the wonder of science and its power to transform perceptions." For the next 3 and a half hours (and a bit more!) we were entertained, enthralled, moved, dazzled and inspired at the sights before us in this thought provoking spectacular.
We were treated to a show featuring Sir Ian Mckellen, Professor Stephen Hawking and a young actress playing Miranda, Shakespeare's heroine who discovers a brave new world.
The athletes coming out - 164 countries are taking part in the Games
The biggest cheer of the night was reserved for the home team - Great Britain - who came out to rapturous applause, a standing ovation and the booming sound of David Bowie's apt Heroes pumping through the stadium.
Once the athletes were in place blind soprano Denise Leigh sang 'Spirit in Motion' a tribute to the athletes
After inspirational and rousing speeches from Lord Sebastian Coe and the President of the International Paralympic Committee Sir Philip Craven, the Queen declared the Games open and fireworks exploded from the top of the Stadium.
Continuing with Miranda's journey
From a stadium bathed in gold to a captivating seascape the parlaympixels are used to incredible effect.
A young singer called Birdy plays the piano and sings Bird Gerhl. This is just beautiful. She has an amazing voice that transfixes everyone in the stadium. The imagery complements and enchants.
A giant reproduction of sculpture Alison Lapper pregnant appears to take centre stage and then the Royal Marine Joe Townsend zip wires down with the Paralympic Flame, handing over to blind five-a-side footballer David Clarke. Incredibly it was then handed over to Margaret Maughan, Britain's first ever Paralympic gold medal winner! I found this so touching and the crowd went wild and once again we stood up as the cauldron was lit. Magical.
The night and ceremony ended with one of my favourite singers and quite possibly my favourite moment of the evening - Beverly Knight singing a moving and soulful version of 'I am what I am'. I believe this should be everyone's motto in life.
A spectacular firework display concluded the event with Beverly still singing.
This was a night to truly remember and treasure forever. As Lord Coe said "A new Games is about to begin and new role models and stories of heroism will emerge."
Good luck to all those taking part in the Paralympics London 2012.
Once at Stratford the madness continued as we ran from the station to collect our tickets from a store (again, don't ask!) and then onto the Olympic Stadium. We made our seats with literally a second to spare and I have honestly no idea how we managed to get there in time...but we did.
The Opening Ceremony was entitled Enlightenment "a journey of discovery inspired by the wonder of science and its power to transform perceptions." For the next 3 and a half hours (and a bit more!) we were entertained, enthralled, moved, dazzled and inspired at the sights before us in this thought provoking spectacular.
The opening with Rihanna's Umbrella |
We were treated to a show featuring Sir Ian Mckellen, Professor Stephen Hawking and a young actress playing Miranda, Shakespeare's heroine who discovers a brave new world.
The athletes coming out - 164 countries are taking part in the Games
Brazil |
Iran |
Team GB |
The biggest cheer of the night was reserved for the home team - Great Britain - who came out to rapturous applause, a standing ovation and the booming sound of David Bowie's apt Heroes pumping through the stadium.
Once the athletes were in place blind soprano Denise Leigh sang 'Spirit in Motion' a tribute to the athletes
After inspirational and rousing speeches from Lord Sebastian Coe and the President of the International Paralympic Committee Sir Philip Craven, the Queen declared the Games open and fireworks exploded from the top of the Stadium.
Continuing with Miranda's journey
Globe opening |
Six Paralympians bathed in gold take to the sky on wires; This is just stunning.
Golden Stadium |
Sea of Blue and the Whale |
From a stadium bathed in gold to a captivating seascape the parlaympixels are used to incredible effect.
A young singer called Birdy plays the piano and sings Bird Gerhl. This is just beautiful. She has an amazing voice that transfixes everyone in the stadium. The imagery complements and enchants.
This is followed by the Apple crunching moment as a giant golden apple arrives and Miranda bites into her apple. A stadium full of people crunching an apple :-) Well not me as I am allergic to them!
A giant reproduction of sculpture Alison Lapper pregnant appears to take centre stage and then the Royal Marine Joe Townsend zip wires down with the Paralympic Flame, handing over to blind five-a-side footballer David Clarke. Incredibly it was then handed over to Margaret Maughan, Britain's first ever Paralympic gold medal winner! I found this so touching and the crowd went wild and once again we stood up as the cauldron was lit. Magical.
The night and ceremony ended with one of my favourite singers and quite possibly my favourite moment of the evening - Beverly Knight singing a moving and soulful version of 'I am what I am'. I believe this should be everyone's motto in life.
A spectacular firework display concluded the event with Beverly still singing.
This was a night to truly remember and treasure forever. As Lord Coe said "A new Games is about to begin and new role models and stories of heroism will emerge."
Good luck to all those taking part in the Paralympics London 2012.
Wednesday, 29 August 2012
Paris Glam V Jungle Chic
September's Issue of iN Magazine is out now - pop over now and take a look at my feature on Autumn beauty trends. Paris Glam V Jungle Chic - Which one will you be this Autumn?
You can read the beauty feature by clicking this link - http://issuu.com/in-magazine.com/docs/inmagazinesept2012digi/29
Happy reading and let me know what you think :-)
Tuesday, 28 August 2012
My Hair Loves - L'Oreal Paris Hair Expertise EverSleek Absolute Smooth Intense Mask
This is the second of the My Hair Loves series of posts. You can read the first one here.
I was recently sent the 3 hair masks in the L'Oreal Hair Expertise range of hair care. The range is sulfate free and features natural origin botanical oils and extracts.
Colouring and styling have taken a toll on my hair leaving it dry and frizzy so I need to treat my hair regularly with deep treatments and have really got into the habit of using masks. I am always on the look out for affordable treatments and this fits the bill nicely.
There are three programmes in the Hair Expertise range - EverPure for coloured hair, EverSleek for frizzy hair and EverStrong for fragile, brittle hair.
I have been using the EverSleek Mask as I felt my hair has been wild, frizzy and just harder to style. However, as I have just had my hair highlighted I am going to be switching to the EverPure one next.
EverSleek Absolute Smooth Intense Mask
L'Oreal says
For frizzy, overworked hair. Respects hair fibre. Controls Fizz. No Silicone. Smoothing and Nourishing. Contains Botanical Extract Sunflower.
My thoughts
The mask comes in screw top tub and scent wise is pleasant but reasonably strong.
To use - Apply a walnut sized amount to wet hair (concentrating on the ends) after shampooing, leave on for 3-5 mins and rinse off.
This feels rather luxurious to use, the consistency of the mask is thick like a body butter. Once I rinse it off my hair feels smooth and silky.It is easier to comb through and tangle free. After drying and styling it leaves my hair looking smooth, sleek and wonderfully shiny. Exactly how I like it.
This is one of my favourite hair masks as it restores life to my otherwise lifeless looking hair.
L'Oreal Hair Expertise EverSleek Absolute Smooth Intense Mask costs £6.99 for 200ml
Monday, 27 August 2012
My Hair Loves - Aussie Take The Heat 3 Minute Miracle - Review
I was first introduced to Aussie Take The Heat 3 Minute Miracle Deep Treatment for heat-damaged hair when I was given a sachet to try at the Aussie Christmas Blogger's Market. I was so impressed with the results I purchased a full size bottle and have made repeated purchases of this little gem ever since.
Aussie says
With Australian Jojoba -seed oil. It's the heat-protection miracle you've longed for. No need to pray anymore when using tongs or blow-driers. Side-effect: Fabulously fragrant hair.
My thoughts
Like most girls I like to use a hair dryer, straighteners and tongs to style my hair - all the things that over time will cause damage because of the level of heat used. My hair is particularly vulnerable as it is highlighted. My hair is thick, prone to frizz and of course what I want is smooth, sleek and glossy hair :-)
I pop Take The Heat 3 Minute Miracle Deep Treatment on after shampooing, leave for 3 minutes, rinse off and blow-dry my hair and then use a hair straightening tool.
The results
After rinsing, combing through is so much easier than if I don't use this. My hair is left smooth, sleek and shiny. It feels soft and is so healthy looking. The product smells nice and fruity (a bit of shame it doesn't smell like the other products in the 3 Minute Miracle range as I love that smell too) and texture wise is slightly thicker than a normal conditioner.
I use Take The Heat 3 Minute Miracle deep treatment regularly as it really does work, is an affordable treatment and is fast working - as the name suggests..
Which product in the 3 Minute Miracle range is your favourite?
Aussie Take The Heat 3 Minute Miracle costs £4.99 for 250ml
Max Factor Summer Rain Collection Giveaway! Winner Revealed
The lucky person will be sent the following make-up goodies
The Prize
NEW Max Factor 24 from False Lash Effect mascara - £11.99
NEW Max Factor Colour Xpert Waterproof Liner Anthracite - £6.99
Max Factor Smooth Effect Foundation - £7.99
Max Factor Lipfinity - £11.99
Courtney
Congratulations, can you please email me bettina@beautyswot.com so that I can arrange your prize.
Thursday, 23 August 2012
Perricone MD No Sun Tanner - Review
As I have mentioned many times, I don't like sitting in the Sun but I DO love my skin to have a lovely golden hue without the time taken to achieve this in the Sun, so will try anything to cheat this process! About a month ago an email came in asking me if I would like to review Perricone MD No Sun Tanner and I have been using this product off and on during this time.
The Claims
No Sun Tanner is as multi-tasking all over body self-tanner with pro-Vitamin D that delivers the benefits of the sun without its harmful effects. It maximizes the skin's natural tanning ability, imparting a gradual sun-kissed tan that is even-toned and long lasting. It also provides a multitude of other benefits to the skin as it helps to firm and tighten the skin while delivering intense moisture and antioxidant protection.
No Sun Tanner customizes to your skin tone for a healthy, natural looking tan that reaches optimal colour in 7-14 days, depending on the depth of desired tan. No unpleasant odour. Does not streak, feel heavy or sticky.
My thoughts
I like the no nonsense medicinal design of the bottle and it comes with a pump for easy and non messy dispensing. The product has a lid and the pump came with it.
I have been applying this gradual tan after bathing in place of my usual moisturiser, it has a nice thick and creamy texture so it won't run. As it is thinner than a body butter, it is easy to apply and it absorbs instantly with no tacky residue. I have been able to dress almost immediately after application as it has felt dry. No Sun Tanner has a slight vanilla scent but this doesn't linger too long. It leaves my skin feeling gorgeously soft, smooth and moisturised well.
As this is a gradual tan I wasn't expecting much of a difference after the first application but actually I noticed a big difference after the very first application, overnight my skin had taken on a gorgeous honey colour and it it was just beautiful and looked so natural.
I have been very impressed with the No Sun Tanner, effortless to apply with, natural looking, gorgeous results that really last.
As this is a gradual tanner, moisturiser and toner in one, the only downside is the rather hefty price tag...
Perricone MD No Sun Tanner £54 for 118ml www.perriconemd..co.uk
Monday, 20 August 2012
Max Factor Summer Rain Collection Giveaway! *CLOSED*
This May - July were the wettest three months on record according to The Met Office... and August hasn't been much better!
However, there is no need to let the weather ruin your make up.. Caroline Barnes, Max Factor Make-up Artist has put together her ‘Summer Rain’ collection; a range of top performing weather proof make-up, that come rain or shine will last.
The lovely folk at Max Factor have given me the collection for one of my readers to win!
The Prize
NEW Max Factor 24 from False Lash Effect mascara - £11.99
NEW Max Factor Colour Xpert Waterproof Liner Anthracite - £6.99
Max Factor Smooth Effect Foundation - £7.99
Max Factor Lipfinity - £11.99
The Rules -
You MUST be a follower of this blog - please tell me in your comments how you follow and what you love best about the rain.. whether it is the romance or fab things to do in the rain..
One person will be selected at random using random.org and the giveaway will close at midnight Sunday 26th August.
Giveaway open to UK and Ireland residents only.
PLUS -
Follow Max Factor on twitter for trend news, tips and much more and one lucky follower will be picked to win a P&G goody bag (ends Wednesday 22nd August)
The P&G goody bag will include Olay, Pantene, Oral B and Max Factor, the choice of products will be at P&G’s discretion and may vary from products featured here. The giveaway is open to UK and Ireland residents only, to be in with a chance of winning you must become a follower of the Max Factor UK twitter page.
Friday, 17 August 2012
Nars Duo Eyeshadow Vent Glace - Autumn 2012 Collection
Nars Vent Glace Duo Eyeshadow is from the Autumn 2012 Collection.
The two shades in this Duo are described as platinum and silver smoke
With micro-fine powders that are crease resistant, Nars eyeshadow should stay all day long.
True color application
Can be applied dry or with a dampened brush for stronger intensity.
Multi-funtion use for shading, lining and highlighting the eyes
With flash |
Vent Glace swatch with flash |
As soon as I opened the lid I knew that I would like these shades, they are wearable and hugely flattering against my green eyes.
In just the same way as the Nars blushers are buildable for a more intense colour, the same is true of the eye shadow that I tried. Both are super smooth and not at all chalky almost silky in texture in application, blend easily and beautifully to leave a gorgeous finish.
The cool icy tones appeal to me and with the flash look almost metallic, with the platinum brightening the inner corner of the eyes nicely. Silver smoke is a smokey grey with a slight green tinge to it, nice and murky for a great smokey effect.
Looking forward to having a few plays with it to see how best to use this combination. Look out for some Eyes Of The Day Posts featuring Vent Glace.
Having seen the whole Nars collection for this Autumn, it has a real vibe of Narnia about it. Like it very much.
Available from www.hqhair.com priced £24
*PR Sample
Saturday, 11 August 2012
Liz Earle Special Offer - Everyday Favourites Kit!
Liz Earle fans will not want to miss this fab online only offer!
The Everyday Favourites kit features some of my favourite products - the Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser 200ml and two pure muslin cloths, Botanical Shine Shampoo 200ml and your choice of Botanical Shine Conditioner 200ml (choose between Normal, Dry or Damaged, or Fine or Oily), as well as your choice of either the Orange Flower Botanical Body Wash 200ml or Men's Face and Body Wash 200ml.
In addition, when purchasing this offer, you'll be entered into a prize draw for a chance to win a luxury family trip to the Isle of Wight.
This offer will be available for just seven days at a special price of £39.50 - that's a total saving of £14.50!
Offer available until 9am 20th August 2012
Friday, 10 August 2012
The Body Shop Skincare And Face Cream
It can be hard to know what skin care products you should be using – cleansers, toners, day creams, night creams…the list goes on! The most important thing however is to make sure you find something that is right for your skin type, to make sure your skin gets the care and attention it deserves!
Everyone looks for something different when it comes to face cream, and face creams can be difficult to choose. The skin on your face is incredibly delicate so you need to make sure you’re using something that is perfect for you. Whether you want anti-aging, firming cream or a cream to balance out your skin, there is a cream for you. The Body Shop has a fabulous range of face creams, including some from their Vitamin E range, which are great if you are looking to give your skin an extra glow, and some from their Wise Woman range, slightly richer, hydrating face creams which are ideal for more mature skin.
Cleansing, toning and moisturizing are the three basic skin care steps that should be an essential part of every skin care routine. This routine is great for your whole body, and is very important for your face. Cleansing is to remove the dirt and the build up of the day, and of course any make up that you’ve been wearing. Toning is the following step as this closes your pores, removes anything you might have missed whilst cleansing and prepares it for the next step. A moisturizing face cream is the final step, and this is the one that is most important to get right when it comes to your skin type, whether you have oily, normal or dry skin, choose a face cream accordingly.
The Body Shop have a lot of skin care products which are great for more specific parts of your skin care routine, such as a Vitamin C Skin Reviver, perfect for giving your skin a little glow and an extra boost, and the Tea Tree Facial Wash which is good for those of you who suffer from blemishes. The Body Shop also have a wide choice of body lotions which are great for your skin, especially when applied right, and can add a little bit of luxury to your skin care routine, and they’ll make you smell great too!
Day after day we put our skin through so much, so it’s incredibly important to make sure that you take great care of all your skin and give yourself the treatment you deserve!
*Sponsored Post
Pantene Pro V In Charity Partnership With Cancer Hair Care
Leading UK hair brand, Pantene Pro-V, is partnering up with Cancer Hair Care, a UK charity dedicated to helping women living with hair loss through cancer treatment. In addition to an initial charity donation, Pantene Pro-V is creating a limited edition pack across its Classic Care range to raise much needed funds.
Cancer Hair Care is dedicated to promoting and protecting the physical and mental health of women experiencing hair loss through cancer treatments. It provides support, education and practical advice for women, while also working to educating the public in all areas related to hair loss associated with cancer treatment. In addition, the charity works to provide education and training programs for hair professionals and healthcare workers.
The Pantene Pro-V Classic Care range will feature the Cancer Hair Care logo - Classic Care Shampoo, RRP £2.69, Classic Care Conditioner, RRP £2.69 available nationwide from August 2012. 5p from every sale will be donated to Cancer Hair Care.
For more information visit www.cancerhaircare.com.
I was staggered to learn that over 100,000+ women in the UK deal with hair loss issues following cancer treatment each year and with most people having been touched with cancer in some way, being directly or indirectly through having family or friends with it, I believe that this is a worthwhile service to support or bring awareness about to those who need it.
The Pantene Pro-V Classic Care range will feature the Cancer Hair Care logo - Classic Care Shampoo, RRP £2.69, Classic Care Conditioner, RRP £2.69 available nationwide from August 2012. 5p from every sale will be donated to Cancer Hair Care.
Thursday, 9 August 2012
Benefit They're Real! Mascara Anniversary Set - Review
It is hard to believe that Benefit They're Real! Mascara is just a year old, such is its status and popularity in the beauty world (UK's no1 best selling mascara!) that it feels like it has been around for years. To celebrate the one year anniversary Benefit have released a limited edition set which features the full size mascara (8g) and a bonus deluxe mini size mascara (4g) for the same price as the usual mascara. The mini will come in very handy for travel!
Benefit say
they're real! lengthens, curls, volumises, lifts & separates. Our jet black, long-wearing formula won’t smudge or dry out. A specially designed brush reveals lashes you never knew you had!
My thoughts
Wow, just wow! This mascara is fantastic, 2 coats and I look like I have sexy, flutterworthy lashes that are so long they look false and can be seen from afar... I found the mascara to completely live up to the hype, it didn't clump, smudge or flake. Impressive.
The mascara is neither too wet or dry, just perfect and a nice, deep black shade.
Thanks to the design of the brush you can really coat each and every lash if you want to, I just prefer not to get too close to my inner eyes..
Of course a mascara review is nothing without before and after pics! What do you think?
Before
After
Benefit They're Real! Mascara Anniversary Set costs £18.50 and is available nationwide from the 18th August.
*PR Sample
YSL Le Teint Touche Éclat Foundation Review
YSL Le Teint Touche Éclat Foundation had to be the most anticipated launch of 2012. All the magic and benefits of the iconic Touch Éclat Highlighter popped into a foundation. Of course I had to try it!
What YSL say
Promising to be an illuminating foundation with dimensional radiance all in a weightless foundation - a tall order?
My thoughts
I was sent Shade BD20 which is perfect for my light-medium yellow toned skin
I am not going to beat about the bush here, this is my Summer foundation. I must admit to being a little concerned that this was a light to medium coverage foundation but as it is buildable I find that it is fine and doesn't look too heavy when I apply more to any areas I may need it.
It covers my redness, it covers my pores well and the odd hormonal spot. I haven't actually had to use a separate concealer yet.. it provides beautiful, even coverage and leaves the skin looking radiant and bright with absolutely no cakiness.
I have worn Le Teint Touche Éclat Foundation with and without a primer and find that it looks equally good both ways, if anything I prefer it without! Duration wise I get between 6-7 hours before I get a shiny t-zone but this is fine for most activities.
BD20 |
BD20 blended |
I really like the gel textured formula, the foundation blends so well that it is seamless and literally melts into the skin to leave a very natural finish. I have to mention the comment that my mother in law made.. she saw me wearing just this foundation and told me that I had such good skin. Now doesn't that make this bottle worth investing in?
If you want to see me wearing the foundation, you can click on this link - FOTD post
If you want to see me wearing the foundation, you can click on this link - FOTD post
Le Teint Touche Éclat Foundation comes in 22 shades with 3 different tone groups and costs £28 for 30mls.
*PR Sample
*PR Sample
Monday, 6 August 2012
Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Eau De Parfum Review
Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Eau De Parfum is my all time favourite perfume. One spray of this and I feel like a million dollars. I always, always ensure I have a bottle of this on my bathroom shelf. The bottle is a simple rectangle but classy in gold and white. It is Chanel after all.
Description
Oriental-fresh, a floral jasmine-rose accord, as light as a petal.
With Top Notes of Orange, Bergamot, Grapefruit. Middle Notes of Rose, Italian Jasmine and Litchi. Base Notes of Bourbon Vanilla, White Musk, Haitian Vetiver and Indonesian Patchouli.
Grown up, feminine and chic this is one scent that recalls memories and creates new ones.Truly beautiful and different from anything else I am drawn to. I love it.
Grown up, feminine and chic this is one scent that recalls memories and creates new ones.Truly beautiful and different from anything else I am drawn to. I love it.
Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Eau De Parfum 35ml costs £46