ESTÉE LAUDER DOUBLE WEAR FOUNDATION

The Estée Lauder Double Wear Foundation is something I have always longed to try, yet I wanted to wait until my skin was acne free and in a good condition. My skin has been extremely cooperative over the past few months and has been very, very smooth so I made a swift and long awaited purchase. 

I decided to go in-store and get my shade matched as this foundation definitely isn't on the cheap side. Retailing for £31 you get 30ml of product in a beautiful glass bottle with gold detailing. I'm a sucker for products that look good on your dressing table and this is definitely up there with the luxury-feel foundations. 

I feel like my expectations for this foundation were higher than usual due to the huge amount of hype around it in the blogging world. I have heard amazing things and was hoping to be just as impressed as everyone else who had recommended it. 

For me, the product will last until I get home with a small touch up midday. The coverage is light to medium and so I go in with my Nars Creamy Concealer to double up on any problem areas - both products work well together and give me a more even looking complexion. The finish is matte but due to my skin becoming more oily since my acne has calmed, I tend to see some shine as the day goes on. My favourite aspect about this product is the shade, it matches my skin perfectly which has proved difficult to achieve with most brands I have tried.

I apply the product with a beauty blender or a buffing brush, both work well. The product is thin and blends into your skin easily, it also has a lovely smell which is always a plus. I hate foundations that leave brush marks but I haven't experienced this problem whilst using Double Wear, it is very easy to work with.

Overall I am quite happy with the foundation, it has a very light weight feel which is nice when you have a 9-5 day - My skin looks even in complexion and I don't have to worry about it rubbing off throughout the day.

What are your thoughts?

Sophie Lauren

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?

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!

My Favourite Eyeshadow Palettes

Left: Fleur De Force Quad - Cosmic Bronze  | Right: Soap & Glory - Lid Stuff in What's Nude

Too Faced Chocolate Bar Palette

Collection Eyes Uncovered Palette in Nude Bronze

Everybody loves a good eye shadow palette - they're fairly addictive and I could possibly find a new one to buy each week. Although I'm always drooling over the latest release, I have a few palettes that I find myself going back to every time. My favourite palettes range in both price and size, some high-end and some high-street. I do feel that there are lot's of high-street options that work just as well as high-end, especially when you use the right primer. 

My ultimate favourite palette has to be the Too Faced Chocolate Bar Palette. This palette retails at £45 and is one of my only high-end palettes. I received this product for christmas as I had been lusting over it for weeks, it has definitely lived up to it's hype. The palette genuinely smells like chocolate, this is because each shadow is infused with cocoa. I love so many of the shades, theres both matte and shimmer so it's perfect for both day and night looks. The shadows have amazing lasting power and have a very pigmented colour pay off. 

When Fleur De Force announced that she was launching a beauty line, I was very excited. Fleur was one of the first YouTubers I ever watched, I specifically remember which video too! Click here to find out which one! I ordered both of Fleurs eye shadow quads on their release date and I was so happy to find that the quality was just as I'd anticipated. You can see that Fleur has a real passion for beauty, and to me, that's why the palettes have turned out so well. The four shadows work seamlessly together and create the perfect day time smokey eye. 

The Soap & Glory Lid Stuff Palette is so dreamy, I have hit pan because I use it so often. There are 4 shades, 3 matte and 1 shimmer. I love the cream shade as well as the muted pink shade, they both look so lovely together and work well for a very natural day to day look. If I want to add more depth to my eyes I use the matte brown too which creates more of a contour, it blends perfectly with the pink and cream shades. I get a twiggy vibe from this palette when I use the cream shade all over the lid, it's so pigmented and feels very 60's.

Lastly, I always find myself pulling out the Collection Eyes Uncovered Palette on special occasions. The shades are all shimmer and create a very elegant and glam look. I like the range of nude shades, they work well all through the year and allow you to choose whether you want a dark eye or a lighter eye. Because of the shimmer, the palette is perfect for summer or going abroad, it creates such a beautiful look when you have a tan! 

Let me know what your favourite palettes are, I think it's obvious that I love a good brown smokey eye! I use the Soap & Glory Lid Stuff most often due to it's lasting power and every day shade range, it's a fab product. I really want to try some Zoeva palettes next so please suggest what I should go for! 

NYX CONCEALER + EYE SHADOW PRIMER REVIEW

Proof it! waterproof eye shadow primer £5.50  |  Concealer Jar in Orange

I love NYX, I've said it before, but they're just so affordable and their products perform so well. I was recently at Boots when I noticed a very tempting NYX display. As expected, I indulged in a few new products. Two of the products I picked up were eye concentrated products. Firstly I decided on picking up an eye shadow primer as I've never tried one before, I also picked up an orange concealer to try and combat my blue-toned under eye area.

PACKAGING
The Proof It! primer comes in a nicely designed box with information concerning application, including a picture style tutorial. I really appreciated this as it makes the product look much more eye-catching and allows you to know exactly how to use it. The applicator is sufficient enough, it isn't really used for much apart from applying the product before you blend in using your finger. The concealer comes as is, within a glass jar that's not too heavy. I love that the glass jar is transparent as the orange shade is really pretty when contrasted against the black lid.

PROOF IT! WATERPROOF EYE SHADOW PRIMER
I wear eyeshadow most days, usually opting for a two shade smokey eye and finishing with a black eyeliner flick. I must stress that you only need a little bit of this product, using too much leaves the product tacky and/or prone to creasing/dry patches. When the right amount is applied, the finish is very smooth and creates the perfect base for shadow. When applying shadow, the primer really grabs onto the product and gives a much more vibrant pay off. I definitely feel like my shadow lasts much longer, my smokey eye barely budges during the day. The product actually has a very good waterproof ability which I think hugely contributes to the increase in the lasting power of my shadows. Despite the waterproof element, my eye makeup still removes easily at night and I don't need to scrub in order to budge it.

ORANGE CONCEALER JAR
I have a very blue-toned under-eye area and so I knew I wanted an orange concealer to neutralise it. I like the texture of the product as it's a nice consistency, it glides on nicely under the eye without having to pull the delicate skin. I apply it with the Zoeva concealer brush in a triangle shape, it blends out well and has a lighter, peachier colour than you can see in the jar. Once I am happy with the coverage, I apply my regular shade of concealer and watch my dark circles disappear! I definitely look more awake when using the orange concealer - the area is generally more flawless and less puffy looking. I was initially scared that the orange tone would show through but after applying my foundation/concealer, it's completely unnoticeable.

I have definitely been impressed by these two NYX products - the quality and finish is amazing for the price. The amount of product is brilliant when you realise how much they actually cost, they perform very much like high end products. I think I may try a green concealer next to tackle some of my red patches/blemishes. Let me know if you have tried these products and if you have any recommendations for my next NYX haul!

BODY SHOP SHADE ADJUSTING DROPS

Okay so this post has been sat in my drafts for the longest time. I had forgotten to publish which is insane - because it's a brilliant product. I have always used a white Illamasqua foundation to lighten up all of the darker shades I have in my makeup collection. As a pale girl, highstreet foundations just to do the job, they're far to orange, and if not orange, pink. I saw these Lightening Drops online and thought they sounded amazing! and so, the next day I headed to the body shop to pick up a bottle to try. 

Firstly, I love the packaging, very elegant and minimal. The dropper style application of the product is fab and makes this process really easy and controllable. I am really happy with the amount of product you receive because you only use a few drops at a time, meaning it's great for longitivtiy. I apply a drop of my foundation along with a drop of the lightening product. Mixing together on the back of my hand, I am really impressed with the finish. You would never tell that you are using two different products mixed together. The consistency of the foundation remains the same and the lightening drops don't reduce wearing time or finish. I'm pretty sure they offer a darkening drop as well so if you have the opposite problem to me, it's cool, you can darken foundation too! 

This product is an absolute must if you are forever trying to find the right foundation shade. I really love the simplicity of it. In the long run - this will save you buying multiple different products, simply pop a few drops in your foundation and you've got the perfect match. Definitely won't be letting this one go!