PIXI SKINCARE STAPLES*

How is it November? I swear it was only yesterday I opened my weekly planner at January 1st. Every year around this time my skin can become very dry and difficult to work with, slacking on skincare is definitely not an option. In ways I enjoy dedicating more time to looking after my skin, I can definitely see the benefits and it makes me feel all snug in the cold winter evenings.

Over the past month I have been trialing some new skincare products which have left my skin unrecognisable. I have always had weird skin that does not work well with foundation and tends to look problematic 99% of the time, however I have been so happy with my skin over the past month and it's all down to 3 skincare saviours.

I love Pixi, their products always impress and the branding is beautiful, blush pinks, greens and gold. I love products that perform well and look pretty on my desk - it sound's mad but it just makes me happy! I was so excited to receive some Pixi goods in the mail last month and have been resisting the urge to write this post earlier - I wanted to get a month of use first. I was going to write a separate review of each product but I feel that they work so well together it would be better to write one big review. Each product has it's own merits but together they are the dream team. 

Firstly I want to talk about the Pixi Cleansing Balm. I have used cleansing balms in the past, in fact, they are my favourite type of product to remove makeup and cleanse the skin. This product smells absolutely amazing, think of the most relaxing and luxurious scent, this is it, very fresh and light. On first use, the first thing I noticed was the consistency of the product, very silky and more of an oil texture than previously trialled cleansing balms. The product is thin despite the chunky look and melts into your skin beautifully, I could spend hours massaging this into my face. I honestly feel like a goddess when using this product, it's so calming and enjoyable. Once I've persuaded myself to stop massaging this product into my face, I dampen some cotton pads in warm water and wipe away the product. I have found the cleanser to be very effective at removing all traces of makeup, leaving my skin feeling fresh and clean. I love that it doesn't strip my skin, there's a really nice residue left which makes my skin look so dewy and supple.

After cleansing I let my skin relax for about 15 minutes before I go in with the Pixi Glow Tonic. I have raved about this product in the past after receiving it as a christmas gift, it is an amazing product. I have realised that all Pixi products smell gorgeously fresh and the Glow Tonic doesn't fall short, it has a very distinct smell. I apply the product to a cotton pad and sweep it across my face and neck, it leaves my skin looking very even and calm. Since using the product I have seen my skin texture improve so much, I think this is down to the subtle exfoliation that the tonic provides. I would definitely suggest trying this out if you maybe suffer from difficult skin that prevents your makeup applying how you'd like, my pores and skin texture are much smoother looking than ever before. 

To finish off, I apply the Pixi Rose Oil Blend. This is my favourite step in my skincare routine, it's such a relaxing product to use. Since using the Rose Oil Blend my skin has been so clear, next to no blemishes have popped up! After applying to my face I get a very even skin tone with a hint of rosie cheeks, it's so calming and leaves my skin looking so healthy. The product comes in a beautiful bottle with a beautiful gold pipette - so pretty. The product is perfect when applied before makeup and sometimes I mix a few drops into my foundation for a flawless application. I would definitely suggest this product if you are looking to increase skin hydration and overall skin health - mine hasn't looked better. 

I would 100% reccomend these products for those who is looking to add some high performing skincare staples to their collection. The products are brilliant, my skin is cooperating with me and i'm seeing improvements daily which is so lovely! I keep waking up and feeling my skin in the morning and it's such an amazing feeling after having acne for years on end! I have used all three products religiously both morning and night and shall continue to do so, the difference I have seen in a months use is so impressive.

Let me know if you've tried any of these products, I would love to know your thoughts!

*This product was sent to me for reviewing purposes, all opinions remain my own regardless.

RIMMEL SCANDALEYES RELOADED MASCARA & EYELINER

RIMMEL LONDON SCANDAL EYES PRECISION MICRO EYE LINER | £5.49

RIMMEL LONDON SCANDALEYES RELOADED MASCARA | £4.99

I have been a long term fan of Rimmel eyeliners, they just work so well and last all day long, it's my top priority when it comes to my makeup. I have tried so many eyeliners and mascaras in the past and I love to find products that give me precision, pigment and long-lasting results. 

The ScandalEyes Reloaded Mascara claims to be sweat-proof, smudge-proof & humidity proof. It is also said to be easy to remove with warm water and provides extreme volume and wear. This is exactly what you want from a mascara, it sounds perfect. The Precision Micro Eyeliner promises ultimate control with super-high concentration of intense pigments for an ultra-black, tattoo-like line which dries in seconds and resists just about anything for 24 hours. What more could you want?

I firstly chose to try the eyeliner out because, well, it's eyeliner and I never leave the house without it. The first thing I noticed was the precision I was able to achieve, slick, sharp and fierce wings with little effort. I love the pigmentation of this product, it's so black and consistent, no fading or going back over lines to gain more defined line. I find that the pen fits perfectly in my hand and let's me manoeuvre the tip very easily. I have very small eyelids and so my eyeliner has to be shaped a certain way, I had no problem doing this with the ScandalEyes eyeliner and felt it was easier to do so than when using previous Rimmel eyeliners. This product is better than higher end alternatives that I've tried, I can't get enough of it. 

The first thing I noticed about the mascara was the thickness of the brush, it's a fuller brush than i'm used to and so I was intrigued to see how it would perform. The colour pay off is really nice, super black and very dramatic. I always curl my lashes before applying mascara so I can't comment on it's performance without curling, however, I liked how defined my lashes looked and they were visibly more volumised. The product does indeed come off easily with warm water and there is no need for tugging at your lashes to remove every trace. I wore the product all day and found no smudging which is perfect when you've got a busy schedule (grabbing hot chocolates and looking busy on my laptop when in reality I'm watching YouTube). 

I have enjoyed using both products, they live up to their promises and they are super affordable. I have especially fallen in love with the eyeliner, good eyeliners are difficult to come across and when I find one that works I couldn't be happier. Let me know if you've tried anything from the new ScandalEyes Reloaded collection, I would love to know your thoughts!

CURRENT BASE STAPLES FT. RIMMEL

RIMMEL CLEAR COMPLEXION TRANSPARENT POWDER £3.99 

RIMMEL LASTING 25HOUR FOUNDATION £7.99

Let's face it, finding a foundation that works for you is a rare occurrence. If the shades right, the finish isn't. If it lasts all day it probably costs more than you can afford. I have spent years searching for the perfect foundation and due to my pale acne prone skin, this task has definitely not been very easy. 

I recently ran out of my Laura Mercier setting powder and I just couldn't bring myself to repurchase with the high end price tag. I decided to go with the Rimmel Clear Complexion Transparent Powder for £3.99 which is an absolute bargain when compared to my previously priced £29 powder. I really love this powder, it doesn't clog up my skin and feels very light. The finish is very natural and leaves the my skin looking and feeling very silky and fresh. I find that using this product allows me to gain a longer wear out of my makeup and also prevents my skin becoming oily throughout the day, I always carry it incase I need a touch up. I apply with a large Real Techniques powder brush and it only takes a few seconds, I love it. I think I prefer this product to the Laura Mercier which is amazing and also great for my purse. 

I also ran out of my foundation last month and so I carefully tiptoed into my Mums room and borrowed hers. She has used the Rimmel Lasting Foundation for months if not years and her skin always looks perfect, she has the skin of a baby it's not aged one bit. During that day I received two comments about how nice my skin looked and so I head to the shops and purchased my own bottle. I love everything about this foundation, the colour makes me look healthy and it leaves my skin looking smooth and dewy. I apply this once in the morning and it lasts all day long, it's brilliant. I apply with a beauty blender and sometimes with a brush and it looks lovely either way, very easy to blend and also perfect if you want to layer for fuller coverage. I really like that it's not cakey and sets the perfect base for whatever I am wearing that day. 

I think that with everyday products such as foundations and powders, it is nice to find something affordable that can be replaced with no problem. I love that these two work perfectly together and leave me feeling confident and ready for the day. 

Let me know if you have tried any of these, I would love to know your thoughts!

TOP 3 PRODUCTS FOR BLEMISHES

Finding a product to reduce blemishes can leave you feeling like you're on a never ending roundabout. I often get so excited about using a new skincare product before feeling the all to familiar disappointment when it doesn't work. If you've been reading my blog for a while you'll know about my acne journey, I am always looking to share the best products to improve acne/blemish prone skin. I thought I would round up my top 3 products that have worked wonders on my skin and have reduced my blemishes like magic.

TRILOGY CERTIFIED ORGANIC ROSEHIP OIL £19.50

This facial oil is literally liquid gold - it's amazing. I use this every morning and every evening  without fail and my skin is left both dewy and soft. I have owned this little bottle for months and it has still got a good few months left in it, so value for money is definitely a pro. A few months back my skin broke out with tiny little lumps and within a few days of grabbing this off the shelf, it was back to normal. I have come to realise that this product is a daily must that continues to improve my skin daily, I really do love using it.

ORIGINS SUPER SPOT REMOVER BLEMISH TREATMENT GEL £15

I decided to purchase this little beauty after reading the many positive reviews left on the Origins website. It may look small but it has magical powers, i'm not kidding. I am being 100% serious when I say that it clears up blemishes over night - I have been blown away with the ability of this tiny little pot of life saving gel. After my acne cleared I was left with some pretty persistent spots - they wouldn't clear and I was becoming very frustrated with both the redness and pain. After a few days of using this product my skin was flat, clear and even and I couldn't be happier - please give this a try if you're struggling because I swear by it.

KIEHLS ULTRA FACIAL CREAM £24

I love moisturiser, it's definitely something I look forward to applying daily. I had seen this product recommended by Kate La Vie on her Roaccutane blog series and thought I would give it a whirl. I really love the way it keeps my skin hydrated all day and this is key to keeping your skin clear - if you don't hydrate you may find your skin producing more oil to keep it moisturised. The price may seem steep for a moisturiser but I only use the tiniest bit and it goes a long way. I would love to try more of the kiehls skincare range because I've definitely been won over by this little wonder.

At the moment my skin is clear and flat which is absolutely amazing - I have suffered with acne for years and finally I can appreciate makeup and skincare without lot's of bumps and pain all over my skin. Hang in there, it get's better. Let me know what your top blemish preventing products are - I'd love to know!

AUTUMN LIP MENU

I don't know how many times I've said this in the past two weeks but I love autumnal shades. I was recently applying my favourite plum lipstick and thought admirably about my collection of A/W shades. I have recently become slightly obsessed with swatching makeup, theres something so satisfying about seeing all the colours lined up all neat and pretty. 

I tend to wear nude shades all year round, I'm not much of a bright summer girl and so I usually keep it simple. As autumn approaches I tend to find myself steering towards more dusky pinks and plums with the occasional red lip if I'm going out somewhere extra special. I always go for matte lipsticks, I just find they look best on me and I don't really like sheens or glosses on my lip shape. 

LIPSTICKS LEFT TO RIGHT

1. Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet lipstick | 07 Nude-ist | £8.99
2. Primark Matte Long Lasting Lipstick | No Shade! | £1.50
3. Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet lipstick | 08 Grand Cru | £8.99
4. Gerard Cosmetics Hydra Matte Liquid Lipstick | Invasion | £10.50
5. MUA Lipstick | Shade 11 | £1
6. MAC Matte Lipstick | Diva | £15.50
7. Collection Cream Puff Lip Cream | Angel Delight | £2.99
8. NYX Lip Lingerie | 01 Corset | £6.50

I absolutely love both the NYX Lip Lingerie and the Gerard Cosmetics Hydra Matte Liquid Lipstick - both are amazing and they last for hours without budging. I love how quickly they dry and the definition you can achieve with them is unbeatable. Surprisingly, the Primark Matte Long Lasting Lipstick is one of my favourites and I find myself grabbing it most days, it's a lovely shade and it's so affordable! 

Let me know if you have a favourite autumn shade, I am always on the look out to add to my collection!

GOODBYE OIL - THE TONER WE'VE BEEN SEARCHING FOR

ZERO OIL™ PORE PURIFYING TONER WITH SAW PALMETTO & MINT | £16.50

To me, toner is one of those products that I put on the "meh, I don't need it" shelf. I was very wrong about this and have discovered so after using the Origins Zero Oil Pore Purifying Toner with Saw Palmetto & Mint. The product retails at £16.50 which is not too bad considering the brand have a wide range of variously priced products.

I began using this product both in the morning and at night time between cleansing and moisturising. I saw my first initial improvement after the second day of using whereby I began to notice my makeup was staying put and skin was less oily during the day - a miracle. I apply the product with a cotton pad and brush it over my skin with a slight pressure, it's so refreshing and the smell is lovely.

I have noticed a number of changes in my skin since using the product over the past few months. Firstly, my skin is less oily and there is definitely less of an oily sheen. This means my makeup applies much better and stays put for longer which is convenient during a long day. Secondly, I have noticed my skin tone has become more even and my blemishes have been  much less aggressive and painful, my face feels cleaner when using the product and gives me faith that it's working wonders. Lastly, I have seen my skin become brighter and more healthier looking which is always a bonus, especially when the months are becoming colder and skin is becoming drier.

If you're looking for a product to reduce oil and boost the feel and look of your skin, this ones for you. I really have enjoyed using the product and will definitely be repurchasing once it becomes low. Let me know if you have tried it, i'd love to know what you think about it!

THE ONLY PALETTE YOU NEED THIS AUTUMN

|| AMARETTO || SALTED CARAMEL || CRÈME BRULEE || CHERRY CORDIAL ||

|| MILK CHOCOLATE || GLIDED GANACHE || WHITE CHOCOLATE ||

We all love the dark rouges and deep purples of autumn, it's a love that I believe all bloggers have been born with - seriously someone needs to research this stuff. I always love doing a smokey eye with dar, warm colours, it makes me feel all autumnal and cosy, I feel it also suits me better than any other look.

The Too Faced Chocolate Bar Palette is one of my go to palettes, it's wonderful and of course you can't resist the smell of chocolate when you open it up. I received this palette as a gift last year for christmas and it has served me well, the colour pay off and longevity is so impressive, seriously, I had to scrub to remove these swatches from my arm!

There's such a lovely range of autumnal shades to choose from, browns, plums, pinks and reds. My go-to every day shade has to be Salted Caramel, most days I wear this in the crease with a winged liner and it looks so lovely and effortless whilst still giving me a hint of colour and contour. White Chocolate is the perfect base and all over lid shade, it is so smooth and pigmented, it has a somewhat vintage feel and makes your eye pop when contrasted with the darker shades. The palette consists of both shimmers and mattes so whether you want to create a glam night time look or a day to day casual look, this palette has it all. I swatched my favourite colours from the palette, these all work so well together and they really are beautiful in both texture and colour.

The palette retails at £39, however, I have seen it discounted recently so make sure to grab it at it's lower price. You may feel that this is steep for eyeshadow yet at £2.44 per shade, it really is value for money and the product is well worth it - these shades do their job. I have used all of the shades which can be a rare sight with most palettes these days donning colours which nobody could wear in the light of day - I really love that nothing is wasted.

Let me know if you've tried this palette! I'm hoping to invest in some more Too Faced cosmetics over the coming months so please do leave your suggestions!

Did I mention it smells of chocolate?

BACK TO BASICS

I often get swirled up into the beauty blogger world, moving from product to product like there's no tomorrow. I love trying new things and experimenting with different routines, however, my skin just can't hack it at the moment. I have always treated my skin well, always taken makeup off and made sure to cleanse and moisturise morning and night. My acne has hit rock bottom again and so I have decided to take a step back from all expensive skincare and tens of products. 

I used to use simple skincare in high school, I think it was generally the go-to brand for teens and probably still is. I grew up and so grew out of it, I discovered expensive brands and luxury products and so Simple seemed to fade into the background. I recently thought about taking my skincare back to basics and so simple seemed a good bet for me, easy and gentle for my angry skin. My partner uses simple and he has amazing skin, it's godl-like, tanned and glows like he's applied the worlds best highlighter. Yes, I am extremely jealous. I decided to pick up makeup wipes to take off my mascara and most of my makeup on top of the skin, a cream cleanser to cleanse after the wet wipes have removed my makeup and also a face wash for night time. 

I have been using these three products together for about a month and a half now and it has been so gentle on my irritated skin. I really enjoy the calming results of the products and they remove makeup so quickly, it's a 5 minute job and allows me to jump straight onto the sofa after work, fresh faced for my date with Netflix. The wet wipes work really well as an initial makeup removal, I feel that it is important to cleanse twice at night time because you need to both remove makeup and cleanse your skin to make sure you don't miss anything and clog your pores up. I really like the cleansing cream as it applies nicely and is quite hydrating too, I apply it with cotton pads and it feels super dreamy and relaxing after a long day. On the other hand it is also lovely to use in the morning and allows me to feel very fresh, stoping my anxiety of bacteria on the skin or dirt. The facial wash is perfect for days when you've had heavier makeup on or just want a deeper cleanse, it again leaves your skin feeling and looking even and super clean. 

All products are affordable and so repurchasing doesn't break the bank. I like the thought that highstreet skin care can still perform as well as high end and so I feel my views on skincare have been altered since trailing these products. I feel like I was in a mind-frame where expensive was better, I was actually becoming somewhat of a skincare snob, oh dear! I am glad to have been rekindled with these three products and hope to carry on using them for the near future, they really are brilliant for removing makeup! 

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AUTUMN GOALS AND CHAI LATTES

I think its possible to say that everybody loves autumn - the 4 months starting from September are my favourite every year. I feel it's definitely acceptable to begin brewing large amounts of mulled wine and chai latte, both drinks I could honestly consume daily.  I thought I would start off autumn with a few goals and also include one of my favourite chai latte recipes from Alessandra over at The Foodie Teen. 

The past month has been a whirlwind and lot's of positive changes have been made. Firstly, my little stationery business, Efflorescent Ink, has been invited to join NotOnTheHighstreet.com which is absolutely amazing! I couldn't quite believe it when I received the invitation and of course I said yes 100 times over! My planners are now live on the site, you can see them by clicking here, I will be launching some new designs very soon which will feature blush pastels, stripes and gold foil!

I feel that I have grown a lot since leaving university, I have been given the time and space to pursue my creative side which had been minimised due to exams, coursework and other university commitments. I loved university, however, I can't help but wish I had pursued a graphic design degree. Never the less, I have been learning so much recently and have been growing my design skills whilst using amazing software such as Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign. I do feel there is a stigma towards the creative career routes, many think they are dead end roads and pursuing a more educational route is better. I wish someone would have told me to go for it in school because following my creative instinct has led me to wonderful opportunities. I feel so much more like myself when I am creating and designing, I love getting an idea and turning into a reality through art and design (although this usually takes place late at night with a cup of coffee and Gilmore Girls on Netflix). 

I have beent thinking of a number of goals I would like to achieve throughout the next few months and will hope to do a post reflecing on them in the New Year. Firstly, I would like to get into more of a routine when posting on my blog. The past few months have equated to little postings on the blog and this has been due to me having no time at all with my business and moving house and all that general life stuff. I have a number of posts ready to be written and so I feel confident that my posting will improve. 

I want to start sharing more cooking/food posts. I cook and bake so much, I also work in my boyfriends coffee shop once a week which as allowed me to develop some pretty latte art skills. I would love to share these passions on here along with photos and recipes, it also means I have a reason to  eat more cake, right? I am definitely going to be sharing more food related posts and in the run up to christmas, this means lot's of festive cakes and obviously lot's of chocolate orientated treats. 

I hope to finally get into a routine with my business and expand my range, I'm talking wall calendars, desk pads and wedding planners. I have so many ideas and lot's of motivation so I can't wait to put pen to paper once we have settled on NotOnTheHighstreet.com. I feel so excited at the prospect of new ideas and can't wait to see what everyone thinks of them! 

As promised, heres one of my favourite Chai Latte recipes from  Alessandra over at The Foodie Teen.  If you haven't tasted a Chai Latte before, it can only be described as autumn in a mug. It is a mix of lovely spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg, mixed together with lot's of tasty extras such as vanilla and maple syrup. It is perfect for cold days in a blanket, although, I will admit to drinking it throughout the year because it's too nice to ignore. If you can't be bothered with the recipe, I also use the Routin 1883 Chai Tea Syrup which is the best one I have found - it is not the same when using pre-made powders - trust me. 

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups (500ml) unsweetened almond milk or pecan milk

• 2 chai tea bags

• 2 tbsp maple syrup

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1 tsp ground cloves

• 1 tsp ground nutmeg

• coconut whipped cream, as topping

RECIPE

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the nut milk until it just starts to simmer, then immediately remove from heat.
2. Add the chai tea bags and leave to steep for 5 minutes. Remove and discard the tea bags, then add the rest of the ingredients and whisk well to combine. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice to your liking, then pop it back over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through. Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend for 20-30 seconds, until frothy, then transfer to mugs.
3. Serve warm with a dollop of coconut whipped cream if you wish

If you love this recipe just as much as I do, please go visit The Foodie Teen blog for more amazing recipes! Leave me a comment letting me know what goals you have for the next few months, I'd love to see what everyone is aiming to achieve over the autumnal seasons.

RIMMEL GLAM'EYES LIQUID LINER REVIEW

RIMMEL GLAM EYES LIQUID LINER | £5.29

If you know me, you'll know I don't leave the house without my cat eye flicks. I hate to sound pretentious, but it's true, they're a part of me now. I have always loved eyeliner and the way it can transform your tired morning eyes into elongated and elegant features. I honestly believe there is magic in eyeliner, it's definitely in my top 3 must have products.

I picked up the Rimmel London Glam'Eyes a few months back before my holiday on a whim, I had ran out of the Benefit They're Real! Push Up Liner. I hadn't used a brush applicator like this in so long and had forgotten how easy it is to apply with, I manage to get really fine detail at the end of my  flicks and can manipulate thickness really easily. I think the applicator is very comfortable and feels natural in my hand, It's the perfect shape and allows me to keep a steady hand.

The product lasts all day, it's really quite impressive. I have been using it for months and it's only now coming to its end, so the quality and longevity for the price is amazing. The colour payoff is really nice and it doesn't fade or become slightly opaque which is good for those who may not get a chance to touch up during the day. There is no smudging with this product, it does not budge until you want it to. I will definitely be giving up my higher end liners for this little beauty, you just can't beat the performance and price!

Let me know if you have tried this product, I've love to know what you think! I think I prefer working with a liquid rather than a gel such as the Benefit Liner, it just seems to glide on much better and seems easier to manoeuvre, what do you think?

You can find me over on Twitter and Instagram, I post daily and would love to chat!

Laura Mercier Loose Setting Powder

LAURA MERCIER LOOSE SETTING POWDER  | £29

I have avoided powder for years in fear that it would clog up my pores. I'm not sure if it is a general fear for those who suffer with acne, but for me, it's a daunting prospect and usually makes matters look and feel worse. My partners sister purchased the Laura Mercier Loose Setting Powder for me at Christmas which was a lovely surprise as I had never tried anything from the brand yet had been longing to for months. 

PACKAGING

The product comes loose within a very sturdy screw top container. I love the simplicity and elegance of the design, the silver accent font is a lovely touch. The utility of the product design is great as it means you don't get the bulk of the product out in the open, this puts me at ease as I am generally quite clumsy and would probably cry if I dropped it. The pot is large and you definitely get your moneys worth in terms of product size, I've used this daily and it's showing no signs of running out. There's something about Laura Mercier products that really sit's well with me aesthetically, the minimalist approach and brand colours are just so beautiful. 

THOUGHTS

As mentioned previously, I wear this powder daily. Unlike many powders, the product is very fine and applies flawlessly. I always apply highlighter and even when applying this product on top, I still get a glow - it doesn't dull anything down. The product sets makeup for the day and doesn't feel the slightest bit cakey, something which I'm sure we all want to avoid! Previous powders have made my blemishes look awful as they've clung to the dry areas, however, this product doesn't and that's why I find it unique. I love the feeling of the product, more of a light dusting rather that a heavy extra layer and to me that's key with powders, I don't feel like I'm clogging my pores. Once applied my makeup stays put and my skin feels so silky, it also looks very natural and even. I like the finish as it's not necessarily matte but more of a natural, toned down matte, it removes excess shine but doesn't leave you looking chalkey. 

I have definitely fallen in love with this powder and hope to try more from the brand, I would love to try the tinted moisturisers or their body scrubs! I received the Creme Brûlée Honey Bath for christmas which is also a beautiful product, Laura Mercier products really do feel so luxurious - I NEED TO TRY MORE!

Volume Colourist Mascara

RIMMEL LONDON VOLUME COLOURIST MASCARA | £7.99

This mascara really sung to me, I really liked the idea of a mascara that tints your lashes over time. I have very light lashes but very dark brows and so I couldn't pick this product up fast enough. Rimmel claim that after 2 weeks of regular use, your lashes should be darker root to tip and progressively blacken the more you use it. There is also a promise of longer and fuller lashes which is what I look for in a mascara.

PACKAGING

The product design is nice, I love the colour scheme - the black and bronze/rosey gold is really pretty. It fits nicely in your hand and is very light so it's easy to manoeuvre when applying. The wand is quite chunky for me, I'm used to using a flat plastic applicator whereas this product has a round brush. The hand held part of the mascara is swirled into a more square shape so don't worry about the product rolling off the table - a small but irritating occurrence when using rounded products. 

THOUGHTS

I have mixed feelings about the performance of this mascara, I'll start with the positive. I really do feel like it darkens lashes, mine look more defined and this means I can look less mole-like without mascara! I like the concept of a gradual lash tint and hope that more mascaras take this on in their products, it's a fab idea. The product achieves a very black finish and applies very smoothly, however it is very wet and so over dipping the wand results in heavy, undefined lashes. Unfortunately, I feel the consistency just doesn't work with my lashes and I feel that there was no change in the volume or length of my lashes. I have very short lashes and most mascaras do elongate them, but I didn't experience this when using the mascara. During the day the mascara tended to smudge under my eyes and I would return home with a slight panda feel to my makeup look, not ideal. 

I really wanted to like this mascara but I don't feel like I can wear it due to the smudging, it just makes me look awful. I feel there are better performers out there which achieve more for the same price. Let me know if your thoughts, it just didn't cut it for me. 

Nip + Fab Kale Fix Clay Mask

NIP + FAB KALE FIX CLAY MASK | £6-12

Now I will be the first to put my hands up and say I should probably eat more greens, however, I feel I should at least get some credit for using a kale face mask. (I am aware of how embarrassing that opening line was but I still enjoy the slight awful humour of it). In all seriousness, this face mask sounded too good to ignore, I needed a skin saviour asap. I was away from home for a few nights and realised I had not brought along my face mask, my skin was beginning to feel dry and needed a little TLC. I dashed into super drug and scoured the shelves until my eye was caught by the NIP + FAB Kale Fix Clay Mask, I love their brand and I find their products work well with my skin. 

THOUGHTS

I really, really enjoyed this mask. The consistency is very silky and smooth, not like most clay masks which are quite thick in consistency. I applied a thin layer of the product after cleansing and left it on for 30 minutes, this is longer than suggested but I love face masks so i'm going to drag it out as long as possible. The mask instantly calmed my skin and felt very soothing whilst applied, I like how it didn't leave my skin feeling tight like most clay masks. To wash the mask off you simply massage your face with luke warm water which turns the mask into a silky cleanser like consistency. The following day my skin felt moisturised and restored, any blemishes I had also felt less irritated. I love products that restore hydration and the NIP + FAB Kale Fix Mask definitely does this, I feel like it also gave my skin a nice glow which is always a plus. I can definitely see myself reaching for this mask on days where my skin needs an extra bit of love, and for the price it's definitely a winner. 

Let me know if you have tried this mask, I love the benefits of the clay without the stiff and tight feeling during application, it's refreshing and a lovely product to use during a pamper day.

Benefit Goof Proof Brow Pencil

BENEFIT GOOF PROOF BROW PENCIL | £18.50

I'm not sure about you, but Benefit have had me so excited over the new brow product launches. I was over the moon to find that by purchasing Elle magazine you could get a freebie of the Goof Proof Brow Pencil. I sadly found myself pushing the product unto the magazine plastic packaging, trying to get a glimpse of the shade that was inside. Luckily I had picked up a shade 6 which was perfect for me (my brows are quite dark). 

PACKAGING

I have to say, Benefit have always wowed me with their packaging and marketing. I remember on my 16th birthday my Nan took me to purchase a bag of new makeup and I knew I wanted Benefit due to their amazing design and fun products. The Goof Proof Brow Pencil is encased in a silver geometric shell, it looks so modern but also has a vintage feel to it. The product is sturdy and feels sufficient in your hand, it's not too bulky and doesn't slip. The product works with a twist cap whereby twisting gives you more product and vice versa. I like that the cap is not round and therefore sits still on a table instead of rolling onto the floor. These little things matter. 

THOUGHTS

I am used to using the Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Definer and Goof Proof is very similar. This allowed me to start using the product with ease, understanding the various thickness and angles. I remember when I first used the ABH Brow definer it took a few goes to get used to it, so those who haven't used a similar product before may find they need to play around with it to get comfortable.  

The triangular shape of the product allows you to gain various thicknesses when applying which is perfect for every part of your brow, it's almost like a 3 in 1. The product is a really nice consistency and applies in a way that you get realistic hair like strokes, it's soft enough to apply but structured/hard enough to gain precise lines. Goof Proof gives me a full brow look and does so very quickly, the product is brilliant for those who want to achieve perfect brows in limited amount of time. My brows stay put all day apart from the odd smudge towards the end, I do find this doesn't occur as often if I powder my brows before application. 

Overall I would say i'm definitely impressed, but I didn't expect anything less from Benefit! I love the design and the performance definitely matches, it gives you thick brows within a matter of minutes. Did you pick up Elle Magazine this month? I am definitely happy to have grabbed this freebie and can't wait to try the rest of the collection! Let me know what you'd recommend! 

Favourite Facial Oils

I discovered facial oils earlier this year after avoiding them due to fear of the unknown. In my mind, putting oil on my skin was only going to end in blemishes and oily skin. I was pleasantly surprised that using these facial oils significantly increased the condition of my skin. There are two oils that I find myself reaching for every day, both tackling different skin problems.

I have reviewed and declared my love for trilogy in the past, they are an amazing brand. I love the design and vibe of the company, they are invested in natural skincare and that is so rare in mainstream brands. I love the simplicity of the packaging and the elegance it has, they don't need anything fancy because their product really is a brilliant performer. I love the Trilogy Rosehip Oil for it's ability to reduce scarring, it really does calm my skin and leave it looking much more even.

A recent facial oil I have discovered is by The Hero Project. Glow Drops is a facial oil that I love due to it's ability to give me such a dewy complexion. I love glowing skin (as do most) and this product makes that goal so much more achievable! I apply this product just before I apply my makeup or sometimes mix it in with foundation - it works a treat. I also love this product for the hydration it gives me, my skin always feels so moisturised once I've used it.

I use facial oils in a number of steps during my skincare routine. I usually always apply one in the morning after I've cleansed and during the evening after I've cleansed - I find this works best. After applying I then finish with a moisturiser to make sure my skin stays hydrated. On the odd occasion I will mix an oil into my foundation which helps create a glowing and flawless finish - the product glides on and is perfect for summertime.

I am definitely glad to have tried facial oils, they have impacted my skin in such a positive way. If you're feeling anxious about whether your skin would work well with facial oils, don't be afraid to message a brand to find out what would work best with your skin. There are so many to choose from, but these have to be my favourite yet - I love the natural aspect of them. Please let me know if you have any suggestions, I'd love to know what you're loving!

Collection Highlighting Blusher

Collection Gorgeous Glow Block | £4.19

Now before I begin raving about this blusher, I must point out that this has been rebranded - however, it still has the same look but with an extra shade. I love collection as a brand, their products are very affordable and work really well - the lasting perfection concealer is a must have. I have been using this product daily over the past two months after finding it stored away in my makeup collection. I'm not one for a matte blush so the convenience of having a highlighter and blush in one product sits very well with me! 

I find it hard to match a blusher up with my pale skin but this product has managed to hit the nail on the head, it's perfect. I like that you can swipe the whole range of shades or simply choose to exclude the ones you don't want, depending on your look. I have also used this product as an eyeshadow which works surprisingly well. There are 4 shades (5 in the latest release) so you have a smokey eye right there, it's very shimmery and looks amazing in summer! I love the highlight that this product gives, it's very natural and makes your skin look so healthy and glowing!

I love rediscovering products, it reminds me of when my partner and I first went on holiday, I remember repurchasing at least twice! I also have the bronze version for when I have a bit more of a tan, both the blush and bronze shades are lovely to use during the summer. I will definitely have to try the newest collection blusher, I hope it looks and performs just as well! 

June: Beauty Empties

I don't think I have ever done an empties post in all the years I have been blogging, and so I feel it's about time! I have been using some amazing products recently, both skincare and makeup. I have 6 products that I have been reaching for so much over the past month, they've really stood out. So without further ado, here's what I've used up this month!

Eau Thermale Avène Hydrance Optimale Rich
I have been addicted to this moisturiser, it's amazing. I suffer with patches of extremely dry skin along with an awful texture, this product has seen me through the worst and tackles it every time. I really love the smell too, it's very spa like and not too overwhelming!  I have fallen in love with Avène and hope to try more from the brand along with a repurchase.

Mitchum Advanced Women 48HR Protection Powder Fresh Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant
I have used this deodorant for months now and have to say it far out-performs any alternative I have tried. The product is everything you could want from an anti-perspirant and smells so fresh, It's definitely worth the extra money as it last forever and is very durable on hot days!

Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Anti Chip Top Coat
After opting for some acrylic nails a few months back I have found my nails to be more prone to chipping and peeling in the after math. I decided to pick up the Sally Hansen Insta-Dri and it is probably the best nail product in the world. It dries nail polish within a minute and works brilliantly as a top coat, it's definitely a manicure essential.

L'Oreal Paris False Lash Sculpt Mascara
I am obsessed with this mascara, it's amazing. I love the sculpt range, but the mascara is definitely my favourite! My lashes look so long, black and curled when using it, I haven't experienced these effects to the same extent with any other mascara, it's fab.

Body Shop Shade Adjusting Drops
I have reviewed this product before, but it just keeps impressing. I always keep this product on hand and this month ran out - it's essential for those of us who struggle to find a shade that matches. I will definitely be repurchasing asap as it plays a vital part in my daily makeup routine. I may also purchase the darker drops too for days where I decide to fake tan - I feel both the dark and light shades would be very handy!

Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Definer
I purchased the brow definer after falling in love with the brow wiz. I love the longevity of this product and how amazing it makes my brows look. The shade range is amazing and it does not budge - It's also amazingly easy to apply! I haven't seen my brows look the same without this product so it definitely is unique, the consistency is perfect and allows you to gain the desired look within minutes.

Let me know what your empties are this month - I need to repurchase asap because these products have wowed me time and time again!

Collection Speedy Highlighter

COLLECTION SPEEDY HIGHLIGHTER | PEARL SHEEN | £3.99 

Finding a highlighter for my skin is a hit and miss, they're often too dark and more like a bronzer on my pale complexion. I had seen the Collection Speedy Highlighter and thought that the product looked different to my usual powdered compact highlighters, I felt it was time to try something different and so I went ahead and purchased it.

PACKAGING
I really like the packaging of this product, it's so easy to use and absolutely mess free. I like that you can pop the lid off and swipe it over the areas you want to bring out and brighten. I usually use a powdered highlighter which requires a brush, however, this doesn't and so I really do like the design and usability of the product. There is a twisting section at the bottom of the highlighter to push more product up, similar to a lipstick. The product is made well and is very study, the lid is also very secure so don't worry about it falling off and smudging all over your makeup bag!

THOUGHTS
I love the glow this product gives, it's very subtle and gives you a healthy, dewy glow. I like the consistency and the ease of blending it out, it's very thin and not cakey at all. I was initially worried that the product wouldn't sit well once I had powdered my face, however, it was fine and everything looked seamless. I think it's easier to get precision when applying to your nose when using this highlighter, as opposed to using a brush with powder. The shade is perfect and doesn't have any glitter in, it's a very natural, dewy finish. It lasts really well, I have worn it 9-5 and I didn't feel like a reapplication was necessary, this is amazing because it's so inexpensive.

I definitely think this highlighter has given me the perfect summer glow, It's perfect for day time and easily buildable for nighttime or special occasions! Let me know if you have tried it - I am glad have found it just in time for summer!

Cleansing Makeup Brushes

PRO STUDIO SOLID BRUSH CLEANSER | £7

For a long time I washed my makeup brushes with shampoo, there's nothing wrong with this as it works, but sometimes there are ingredients in shampoo that you want to avoid. Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) and other sulphates are known to irritate skin and these are included in a lot of shampoo products. I have been told in the past that sulphates can irritate acne and make it worse, and so I stopped using shampoo to cleanse my brushes straight away. I also felt that my brushes quickly became dry and rough when using shampoo so I needed something much more conditioning. Of course I could use conditioner, but this is way too much hassle for me and I would rather one product to do both jobs! I came across the Pro Studio Solid Brush Cleanser by Freedom Cosmetics, a brand which I had never heard of before. I decided to pick it up and try it on my brush collection!

PACKAGING

The product comes in a sturdy, plastic tub with a screw top. The branding is very minimal and features a holographic/mirror style label. I love the look of this product, it's very sleek and although it was a pain to photograph (lighting and all), it looks pretty in my white room.  The product is easily picked up and holds 100ml of solid cleanser, it also lasts up to 12 months which is fab! The product describes that the cleanser should sanitise, condition and cleanse brushes along with simple to follow instructions.

HOW TO USE

When you open up the tub, you're met with a solid soap which to me, smells really refreshing and clean. As instructed, I wet my brush and swirled it around in the jar until it began to lather. Once my brush started to lather, I then transferred it to the palm of my hand where I worked the product into the bristles. I found that using a circular motion really cleansed the brush well without needing hard pressure or rough scrubbing. The soap in your palm will start to colour itself using the pigments from your dirty brushes, once I see this has happened, I rinse the brush and repeat if the brush is not fully clean. I also give the pot a quick wash with water to remove any makeup/dirt that may have contaminated the product. 

THOUGHTS

I really like this product, it works so brilliantly well. I had never put much thought into cleaning my brushes as it was just one of those jobs that had to be done, I now really enjoy the process. It's almost theraputic because the product is so lovely to work with, I love the smell and the feel of it. I think the process of using the product is so easy and much more effective than any shampoo I have used in the past, my brushes are far more conditioned and return to their pre-makeup form. I love that my brushes look new again once I've washed them, the cleanser does a brilliant job of maintaining them and keeping them soft to use. You only need a tiny bit of product which is great, I used to have to use so much shampoo and now I only use a small swirl of the brush. 

I would definitely recommend this product to anyone who wants clean, sanitised and conditioned brushes, it works a treat and lasts for ages. I love the easy of opening the pot, swirling my brush and seeing the makeup and dirt dissolve away.